Apologies for the lack of posting today... I have no creative juices. None. The only interesting things I can share are that it finally hit me how little money I am making at this job and that pad thai is much too heavy for a lunch choice. Also--waking up at 5 am to drive a friend to the airport and then going right to the gym before work is not at all a good idea. Yes, I was that girl sleeping in her car in the Equinox parking lot. I needed a ten minute nap, okay? Thank goodness this day is almost over... sadly, I couldn't tell you one thing I've accomplished besides sending an Evite and working on my virtual bookshelf on Facebook. Wow.
I need my bed, stat.
Monday, March 31, 2008
Friday, March 28, 2008
I Want Candy!
I am eating Fun Dip right now. What a nice throw back to my days hanging out by the Little League fields. That didn't sound right. What I mean to say, is I remember the Little League fields--where I attempted to use anything that resembled skill at playing softball--as being the cool candy Mecca. The snack shack seemed to constantly overflow with Big League Chew, Ring Pops, Nerds, Pop Rocks, Pixie Sticks, and yes, Fun Dip.
Fun Dip--what an invention! The crystal sugar goes down so easy, and what a nice bright pink color! Actually, I think the best part is the edible "stick" with which one eats the sugar. The stick has a strange chalk-like flavor--somewhere between a Tums and, well, a stick of chalk. Mmm, delicious. The sugar high that follows is also quite a trip (not looking forward to the subsequent low).
The only thing that could complete this trip down Little League Nostalgia Lane would be some Ellio's Microwave Pizza.
Fun Dip--what an invention! The crystal sugar goes down so easy, and what a nice bright pink color! Actually, I think the best part is the edible "stick" with which one eats the sugar. The stick has a strange chalk-like flavor--somewhere between a Tums and, well, a stick of chalk. Mmm, delicious. The sugar high that follows is also quite a trip (not looking forward to the subsequent low).
The only thing that could complete this trip down Little League Nostalgia Lane would be some Ellio's Microwave Pizza.
Collegiate Sports Reach a New Low
I am relieved I do not know a single person in this video, but I have to admit I am actually embarrassed to share their alma mater.
At least we beat Princeton.
At least we beat Princeton.
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Still on the whole milkshake thing...
I keep forgetting to mention that for a belated birthday present my lovely Roommie #1 gave me a bad ass t-shirt, exhibiting the following image:
It's AWESOME.
It's AWESOME.
Geeking Out
I am a geek. It's been well-established at this point so let's not beat around the bush. I might dress the part of a normal young professional woman with a good East Coast education and a love for skiing, sailing, and reading Jane Austen novels, but in all reality, there's a dark underbelly to that pink and green side of me, and that dark underbelly is the serious fangirl within. (Less dark, more murky and awkward.)
Let's explore the evidence of my geekdom for a moment. In my birth announcement that ran in a Maine newspaper back in 1984, there is a picture of my brother holding baby Me, with the underlying quote reading "I can't wait until she's old enough to play Princess Leia." Obi Wan, you're my only hope--I'm a geek since the womb. I was raised on the Star Wars movies, and descended from a grandfather obsessed with Star Trek, Isaac Asimov novels, and tinkering with various appliances around the house. The first books I read and loved were Susan Cooper's The Dark is Rising series, A Wrinkle in Time, Redwall, The Chronicles of Narnia, Enders's Game, the entire David Eddings Belgariad collection, and my favorite (which I still re-read about once a year,) Watership Down. When I was a little older I started reading The Hobbit and all of The Lord of the Rings, and I think my heart skipped a beat when I fell in love with The Golden Compass and the entire His Dark Materials trilogy by Philip Pullman. I was a huge bookworm as a kid (clearly), in the science fiction and fantasy genres only (clearly), and this was really just a precursor to all the television I would ultimately fall in love and become obsessed with.
Nowadays, I walk into a bookstore and always wander over to the Sci Fi/Fantasy section, as well as Young Adult. I might look creepy, but that's were the good stuff is. Old habits stick with me, even though I've moved onto reading "normal" fare. I get so excited every time I glance over a book I loved as a kid. Thing is, I don't think anything makes me "geek out" quite like The X-Files.
And with that smooth and well-planned segue, I am going to tie this whole rambling post about my weirdness together... and yes, it's about The X-Files. The thing is, I came into work this morning, picked up the trades and saw on the cover of The Hollywood Reporter a little blurb about The X-Files at the Paley Fest last night. I rushed to my computer and checked out my favorite website for X-Files news (true sign of a dork--reads fan forums and knows all the best websites for up to the minute spoilers and gossip). There I found it--what appears to be the official trailer for the new X-Files movie, as well as a nice retrospective video commemorating the brilliant show. Ahh, serenity!
As a side note, I would like to encourage all those who can relate to my nerdiness to embrace it. Go find whatever it is your a huge fan over--be it comic books, the Monkees, or Han Solo--and go ahead, geek out!
Let's explore the evidence of my geekdom for a moment. In my birth announcement that ran in a Maine newspaper back in 1984, there is a picture of my brother holding baby Me, with the underlying quote reading "I can't wait until she's old enough to play Princess Leia." Obi Wan, you're my only hope--I'm a geek since the womb. I was raised on the Star Wars movies, and descended from a grandfather obsessed with Star Trek, Isaac Asimov novels, and tinkering with various appliances around the house. The first books I read and loved were Susan Cooper's The Dark is Rising series, A Wrinkle in Time, Redwall, The Chronicles of Narnia, Enders's Game, the entire David Eddings Belgariad collection, and my favorite (which I still re-read about once a year,) Watership Down. When I was a little older I started reading The Hobbit and all of The Lord of the Rings, and I think my heart skipped a beat when I fell in love with The Golden Compass and the entire His Dark Materials trilogy by Philip Pullman. I was a huge bookworm as a kid (clearly), in the science fiction and fantasy genres only (clearly), and this was really just a precursor to all the television I would ultimately fall in love and become obsessed with.
Nowadays, I walk into a bookstore and always wander over to the Sci Fi/Fantasy section, as well as Young Adult. I might look creepy, but that's were the good stuff is. Old habits stick with me, even though I've moved onto reading "normal" fare. I get so excited every time I glance over a book I loved as a kid. Thing is, I don't think anything makes me "geek out" quite like The X-Files.
And with that smooth and well-planned segue, I am going to tie this whole rambling post about my weirdness together... and yes, it's about The X-Files. The thing is, I came into work this morning, picked up the trades and saw on the cover of The Hollywood Reporter a little blurb about The X-Files at the Paley Fest last night. I rushed to my computer and checked out my favorite website for X-Files news (true sign of a dork--reads fan forums and knows all the best websites for up to the minute spoilers and gossip). There I found it--what appears to be the official trailer for the new X-Files movie, as well as a nice retrospective video commemorating the brilliant show. Ahh, serenity!
As a side note, I would like to encourage all those who can relate to my nerdiness to embrace it. Go find whatever it is your a huge fan over--be it comic books, the Monkees, or Han Solo--and go ahead, geek out!
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Conspiracy Theory: Nielsen Ratings
So over the weekend I was having various conversations with friends about watching television shows, and specifically, about Nielsen ratings. I think this was in reference to Friday Night Lights, which has recently been renewed by NBC but will also be airing on DirectTV. To gain more viewers I had a friend point out that we should all watch the show on different televisions. Another friend pointed out (or it might have been me, I was several glasses of wine in at this point) that this would have absolutely no weight on the ratings whatsoever--none of us have Nielsen boxes and therefore the high quality television programming we choose to support is probably not being watched by poorly educated overweight people in middle America whose tv choices actually make a difference. (Harsh, I know, but think of it as a dramatic attempt to emphasize my point).
Anyhoo, here is my new theory: the Nielsen Media Research program doesn't exist! It's a hoax! It's just a bunch of staged numbers given out by the moguls and conglomerates who own the companies that sell things like washing machines AND camcorders (actually, do people own camcorders anymore?), and yes that was a thinly veiled jab at NBC-Universal-General Electric-Darth Vader.
Does anyone actually know anyone who has a Nielsen box on their television? Think about it, do you? I certainly don't! THAT'S BECAUSE THEY DON'T EXIST. I know that some people might claim they do, but how can I get one? Hmm? HMMMMMMM???? Man I would kill to get my hands on one of those things!
I would also like to rule the world and ban Britney Spears from the United States. And I would like to be two inches taller. I would also like to have an unlimited gift certificate to J. Crew. And a yellow lab who would always stay a cute little puppy. And maybe my own country. Just a few requests while we're at it.
Anyhoo, here is my new theory: the Nielsen Media Research program doesn't exist! It's a hoax! It's just a bunch of staged numbers given out by the moguls and conglomerates who own the companies that sell things like washing machines AND camcorders (actually, do people own camcorders anymore?), and yes that was a thinly veiled jab at NBC-Universal-General Electric-Darth Vader.
Does anyone actually know anyone who has a Nielsen box on their television? Think about it, do you? I certainly don't! THAT'S BECAUSE THEY DON'T EXIST. I know that some people might claim they do, but how can I get one? Hmm? HMMMMMMM???? Man I would kill to get my hands on one of those things!
I would also like to rule the world and ban Britney Spears from the United States. And I would like to be two inches taller. I would also like to have an unlimited gift certificate to J. Crew. And a yellow lab who would always stay a cute little puppy. And maybe my own country. Just a few requests while we're at it.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Some Tuesday Nostalgia
In today's nostalgia moment, I am going to run another set of opening credits, this time from PBS's Square One, another show I remember fondly. Being one of the three channels our pre-cable television received, I find it strangely ironic that watching Square One was probably the one time in my life I enjoyed math. (Point being I haven't taken a math class since high school and the last one I took was pre-Calculus.) "Mathnet" is second, also part of Square One and responsible for introducing "fib" into my vocabulary.
The opening credits (excuse the poor quality):
MATHNET! The story you are about to see is a fib, but it's short, the names have been made up but the problems are real...
The opening credits (excuse the poor quality):
MATHNET! The story you are about to see is a fib, but it's short, the names have been made up but the problems are real...
Monday, March 24, 2008
The Hills, or, That Hour of My Life I'll Never Get Back
With the sweet strains of Mariah Carey's overused voice slowly permeating from my roommate's wall, the memories of the hour I just spent watching MTV's cash cow The Hills linger anew. As I've previously mentioned, The Hills is one of the two reality shows I watch. After tonight's premiere, I am not sure I can stick it out.
If you're reading this post you need to have watched the show to understand. There is no way I can exert the energy required to rehash the "plot."
I experienced a vast range of emotions while suffering through the episode, disgust being the most prevalent. The first half was especially bad--forced and uncomfortable, with a several blatant voice overs to urge on plot development regarding Lauren and Brody. I'm sorry, what plot? What development? However, the worst would be the Heidi and Spencer interludes. Heidi has become a shell of her former self--physically it's noticeable in her Barbie-doll looks; the bleached hair, the swollen lips, the large chest and tiny west. She looks like a wax caricature. Spencer is little better, frighteningly wooden in his motions and flat in his speech. Watching the two of them bicker feels awkwardly forced, and sometimes a strange wall seems to deteriorate and a creepy, almost real Spencer emerges, as his stares and tone become maniacal and abrasive. If I hadn't been watching in real time I am not sure I could have endured these scenes (note to self, watch on delay next time, if only for the fast forward option). The Heidi/Spencer moments are the most manufactured--so uncomfortably fake it is as though the exist in some alternate universe--I can hardly watch.
Let's take a brief moment to explore the contrived nature of the entire production. Even the commercials were staged and awkward. What was that odd sketch with Alicia Keys? I thought we were watching a condom commercial, and then it was a never ending advertisement for deodorant... or something.
But I digress. Ultimately the plot did improve, if only briefly. The perfection in casting Lauren as our heroine is that the girl is a complete dimwit. She's endearing, certainly, but is perfectly stupid. Take the incident with the Alberta Ferretti dress and the curling iron. Her reaction to her grave error seemed genuine, although the disaster did not. It was interesting to watch Whitney, the most underrated cast member, go into crisis mode, perhaps further emphasizing Lauren's incompetence. In any case, crisis averted as all was returned to perfect with a new $2,000 dress. Ah, the trials and tribulations of young girls living out their lives on "reality" tv.
A fun twist to the show was that this wasn't The Hills at all--this was Paris and Crested Butte, two locations that couldn't be more different, yet both stunning in their extreme forms of beauty. (I still find it interesting that a small ski town in Colorado is where Heidi calls home, as she seems to have been formulated in an LA gene factory.) I wish there had been more scenes of Lauren and Whitney in Paris, more interaction with the people of that alluring city. Audrina was noticeably absent, popping up just once to inform Lauren of Brody's love life. I can't say her presence was missing.
The show was capped off with some bits from the awkward after-party, including the aforementioned Mariah Carey performance. (Is it just me or is Mariah losing her voice chops? Her legs look great, as usual). Now I am sitting here with conflicted thoughts. The entire hour I spent watching I wanted nothing more than to not watch. Yet I couldn't bring myself to turn off the television. I had to step out at one point when the Heidi/Spencer subplot became too painful to sit through, however, I easily returned, unable to be distracted. All the while, I was hating every minute of it, and I think if I never saw another episode of this drivel again, my life might be better for it.
Here's the thing--in spite of my utter dislike, I am stuck, I am in it for good--hook, line, and sinker. I am going to have to endure this nauseating crap every Monday at 10 pm for the next eight weeks, and then for the next season, whenever that starts. The Hills may be a mindless crapfest but it has become a part of our social psyche, and is a guilty pleasure turned into a necessary evil. The Hills is the flawless love child of the current generation, reveling in its glory and narcissism, propelled by adoration and obsession, its followers helpless to watch anything else. I've been swept up into the movement, like a good portion of my friends. There's no turning back now...
If you're reading this post you need to have watched the show to understand. There is no way I can exert the energy required to rehash the "plot."
I experienced a vast range of emotions while suffering through the episode, disgust being the most prevalent. The first half was especially bad--forced and uncomfortable, with a several blatant voice overs to urge on plot development regarding Lauren and Brody. I'm sorry, what plot? What development? However, the worst would be the Heidi and Spencer interludes. Heidi has become a shell of her former self--physically it's noticeable in her Barbie-doll looks; the bleached hair, the swollen lips, the large chest and tiny west. She looks like a wax caricature. Spencer is little better, frighteningly wooden in his motions and flat in his speech. Watching the two of them bicker feels awkwardly forced, and sometimes a strange wall seems to deteriorate and a creepy, almost real Spencer emerges, as his stares and tone become maniacal and abrasive. If I hadn't been watching in real time I am not sure I could have endured these scenes (note to self, watch on delay next time, if only for the fast forward option). The Heidi/Spencer moments are the most manufactured--so uncomfortably fake it is as though the exist in some alternate universe--I can hardly watch.
Let's take a brief moment to explore the contrived nature of the entire production. Even the commercials were staged and awkward. What was that odd sketch with Alicia Keys? I thought we were watching a condom commercial, and then it was a never ending advertisement for deodorant... or something.
But I digress. Ultimately the plot did improve, if only briefly. The perfection in casting Lauren as our heroine is that the girl is a complete dimwit. She's endearing, certainly, but is perfectly stupid. Take the incident with the Alberta Ferretti dress and the curling iron. Her reaction to her grave error seemed genuine, although the disaster did not. It was interesting to watch Whitney, the most underrated cast member, go into crisis mode, perhaps further emphasizing Lauren's incompetence. In any case, crisis averted as all was returned to perfect with a new $2,000 dress. Ah, the trials and tribulations of young girls living out their lives on "reality" tv.
A fun twist to the show was that this wasn't The Hills at all--this was Paris and Crested Butte, two locations that couldn't be more different, yet both stunning in their extreme forms of beauty. (I still find it interesting that a small ski town in Colorado is where Heidi calls home, as she seems to have been formulated in an LA gene factory.) I wish there had been more scenes of Lauren and Whitney in Paris, more interaction with the people of that alluring city. Audrina was noticeably absent, popping up just once to inform Lauren of Brody's love life. I can't say her presence was missing.
The show was capped off with some bits from the awkward after-party, including the aforementioned Mariah Carey performance. (Is it just me or is Mariah losing her voice chops? Her legs look great, as usual). Now I am sitting here with conflicted thoughts. The entire hour I spent watching I wanted nothing more than to not watch. Yet I couldn't bring myself to turn off the television. I had to step out at one point when the Heidi/Spencer subplot became too painful to sit through, however, I easily returned, unable to be distracted. All the while, I was hating every minute of it, and I think if I never saw another episode of this drivel again, my life might be better for it.
Here's the thing--in spite of my utter dislike, I am stuck, I am in it for good--hook, line, and sinker. I am going to have to endure this nauseating crap every Monday at 10 pm for the next eight weeks, and then for the next season, whenever that starts. The Hills may be a mindless crapfest but it has become a part of our social psyche, and is a guilty pleasure turned into a necessary evil. The Hills is the flawless love child of the current generation, reveling in its glory and narcissism, propelled by adoration and obsession, its followers helpless to watch anything else. I've been swept up into the movement, like a good portion of my friends. There's no turning back now...
Viewer's ADD
Last night I had a serious case of Viewer's ADD. I've experienced Song ADD in the past, and I certainly can spend hours channel surfing, but last night was unprecedented.
I started out watching Lipstick Jungle, that crappy show on NBC based on the Candace Bushnell (of Sex and the City) novel. Why I watch it? No clue, but I guess as I have a season pass for it on my DVR--why not.
My fave Roommie #1 returned and next up was an episode of Planet Earth, the episode "Shallow Seas." The music alone for that program gets me every time. I also like to sing along to the choral movements--very dramatic. I think we got about fifteen minutes in, when we paused to just listen to some music and watch some music videos. Which music videos, you ask? Why Celine Dion, bien sur, followed by Huey Lewis. Halfway through "I Want A New Drug" we switched over to watching The Great Muppet Caper, aka the best of all the Muppet movies. I think we made it an hour into this movie before we had to stop--both for sanity and for the pizza delivery. Our pizza was enjoyed first with a different episode of Planet Earth, "Fresh Water" then after about 15 minutes, with a Family Guy accompaniment--first one sitting on the DVR, which we got about 20 minutes into, then the episode on at the moment--a special clip episode. We didn't finish watching either one.
The evening capped off with The Fifth Element, during which #1 fell asleep, and I half-watched while simultaneously emailing. And no surprise here--we didn't finish.
I guess the point of all this is, what in the world is the connection between all these random movie/tv watching selections and my incapacity to watch anyone of them to the end? (If you know me, this shouldn't be too difficult to figure out.)
Oh and I know what you're thinking--pizza? That doesn't sound very vegan, mon amie. You're right--it's not. I took the weekend off. But it's soy pizza for lunch!
I started out watching Lipstick Jungle, that crappy show on NBC based on the Candace Bushnell (of Sex and the City) novel. Why I watch it? No clue, but I guess as I have a season pass for it on my DVR--why not.
My fave Roommie #1 returned and next up was an episode of Planet Earth, the episode "Shallow Seas." The music alone for that program gets me every time. I also like to sing along to the choral movements--very dramatic. I think we got about fifteen minutes in, when we paused to just listen to some music and watch some music videos. Which music videos, you ask? Why Celine Dion, bien sur, followed by Huey Lewis. Halfway through "I Want A New Drug" we switched over to watching The Great Muppet Caper, aka the best of all the Muppet movies. I think we made it an hour into this movie before we had to stop--both for sanity and for the pizza delivery. Our pizza was enjoyed first with a different episode of Planet Earth, "Fresh Water" then after about 15 minutes, with a Family Guy accompaniment--first one sitting on the DVR, which we got about 20 minutes into, then the episode on at the moment--a special clip episode. We didn't finish watching either one.
The evening capped off with The Fifth Element, during which #1 fell asleep, and I half-watched while simultaneously emailing. And no surprise here--we didn't finish.
I guess the point of all this is, what in the world is the connection between all these random movie/tv watching selections and my incapacity to watch anyone of them to the end? (If you know me, this shouldn't be too difficult to figure out.)
Oh and I know what you're thinking--pizza? That doesn't sound very vegan, mon amie. You're right--it's not. I took the weekend off. But it's soy pizza for lunch!
Friday, March 21, 2008
Today has turned out to be even better than I initially thought...
1. Left work at 1:30 pm
2. Did not run out of gas as was deemed likely.
3. Lunch with boss's former assistant was both enlightening and encouraging.
4. When getting an eyebrow wax in Santa Monica I saw Kimora Lee Simmons with her daughters and current beau, actor Djimon Hounsou.
5. I got a SWEET parking space outside of the building.
6. The weather is BEAUTIFUL.
7. I just downloaded a kickass José Gonzalez song on iTunes and am listening on repeat.
8. I am doing laundry now which is oh so wonderful to get it out of the way.
9. I made friends with a neighbor while doing laundry.
10. Said neighbor works for Anheuser Busch and just dropped off two cases of Bud Light.
It certainly is Good Friday...
2. Did not run out of gas as was deemed likely.
3. Lunch with boss's former assistant was both enlightening and encouraging.
4. When getting an eyebrow wax in Santa Monica I saw Kimora Lee Simmons with her daughters and current beau, actor Djimon Hounsou.
5. I got a SWEET parking space outside of the building.
6. The weather is BEAUTIFUL.
7. I just downloaded a kickass José Gonzalez song on iTunes and am listening on repeat.
8. I am doing laundry now which is oh so wonderful to get it out of the way.
9. I made friends with a neighbor while doing laundry.
10. Said neighbor works for Anheuser Busch and just dropped off two cases of Bud Light.
It certainly is Good Friday...
Reasons Today is AWESOME
1. It's Friday.
2. It's GOOD Friday... both religiously and generally.
3. Hollywood is quite liberal in celebrating holidays... which means today is a half day.
4. I am leaving in less than an hour.
5. My boss is out of town and I haven't seen him since Wednesday and won't see him again until Monday.
6. Lack of supervision at work is fantastic.
7. ABC.com has the best live streaming player.
8. Dark chocolate is not vegan, unless specified.
9. I don't care... so maybe I'm cheating a bit here and there.
10. Did I mention it's Friday and it's a half day? Yeah.
2. It's GOOD Friday... both religiously and generally.
3. Hollywood is quite liberal in celebrating holidays... which means today is a half day.
4. I am leaving in less than an hour.
5. My boss is out of town and I haven't seen him since Wednesday and won't see him again until Monday.
6. Lack of supervision at work is fantastic.
7. ABC.com has the best live streaming player.
8. Dark chocolate is not vegan, unless specified.
9. I don't care... so maybe I'm cheating a bit here and there.
10. Did I mention it's Friday and it's a half day? Yeah.
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Single girl seeking churchgoing companion..... er, nevermind.
I enjoy going to church. I do. Think what you want about organized religion, but for me, the churchgoing experience is often quite lovely. I am Episcopalian and usually only frequent Episcopal churches, but from time to time have gone elsewhere. My dad's side of the family is Jewish, so I've dabbled in Judaism a bit, a trip to temple here, a bar mitzvah there, opening the door for Elijah everywhere... Anyways, I value going to church, especially during Advent, and this time of year, during Lent, and then for Palm Sunday and Easter. I actually haven't gone since Christmas (and no I am not one of those C & E churchgoers, I will make sporadic appearances throughout the year) so I am looking forward to celebrating Easter this upcoming Sunday.
Here's the thing, I have no one to go with. Now I certainly don't mind going to church alone (usually, those random Sundays when I go, I will go by myself--I don't know, it's a personal thing), however there is something about a holiday that makes me want to go with others. Sure we might be celebrating Jesus' death (say what?) but there is something really nice in the tradition of going to church and then out for a nice Easter brunch.
Apparently, none of my friends share this sentiment. (Okay so maybe, it's less about the religion and more about tradition and sitting in a big, cold room in anticipation for a yummy feast to come, but honestly!) A gaggle of friends intend to bar hop and drink all day (it's one of their birthdays) and I guess morning church doesn't fit into the scheduled alcohol related activities (what about Communion?). Then I have one friend who is in Aspen or Telluride or some sweet town in Colorado skiing, another who has a relative's birthday that day and wont be around, and everyone else seems to be Jewish or apathetic.
It's not like I am some crazy Jesus freak, but I appreciate tradition, and humility and Episcopalians are Catholic-lite (no guilt) and pretty friendly--so I am looking forward to that hour and a half of prayer and reflection. And any excuse to wear a spring dress is great in my book. Okay, any excuse to wear a Lilly Pullitzer, my go-to Easter attire, is what I am really trying to say. Call it sacrilege if you want.
Anyways, Happy (almost) Easter, and if anyone in the Greater Los Angeles area would like to accompany me to church on Sunday, followed by brunch, and followed by... day drinking... let me know.
Here's the thing, I have no one to go with. Now I certainly don't mind going to church alone (usually, those random Sundays when I go, I will go by myself--I don't know, it's a personal thing), however there is something about a holiday that makes me want to go with others. Sure we might be celebrating Jesus' death (say what?) but there is something really nice in the tradition of going to church and then out for a nice Easter brunch.
Apparently, none of my friends share this sentiment. (Okay so maybe, it's less about the religion and more about tradition and sitting in a big, cold room in anticipation for a yummy feast to come, but honestly!) A gaggle of friends intend to bar hop and drink all day (it's one of their birthdays) and I guess morning church doesn't fit into the scheduled alcohol related activities (what about Communion?). Then I have one friend who is in Aspen or Telluride or some sweet town in Colorado skiing, another who has a relative's birthday that day and wont be around, and everyone else seems to be Jewish or apathetic.
It's not like I am some crazy Jesus freak, but I appreciate tradition, and humility and Episcopalians are Catholic-lite (no guilt) and pretty friendly--so I am looking forward to that hour and a half of prayer and reflection. And any excuse to wear a spring dress is great in my book. Okay, any excuse to wear a Lilly Pullitzer, my go-to Easter attire, is what I am really trying to say. Call it sacrilege if you want.
Anyways, Happy (almost) Easter, and if anyone in the Greater Los Angeles area would like to accompany me to church on Sunday, followed by brunch, and followed by... day drinking... let me know.
Beautiful Advertising
I subscribe to "Very Short List," a daily email containing interesting web-related items everyday. I recommend subscribing. However, today's VSL was so beautiful, I had to share.
Watching this reminded me of an ad for the Sony Bravia that my Dad showed me last year, and has stuck with me since... Also beautiful and groundbreaking, in my opinion (unfortunately not the best quality):
I recommend going on YouTube and just typing in Sony Bravia, because the entire ad campaign is stunning.
Watching this reminded me of an ad for the Sony Bravia that my Dad showed me last year, and has stuck with me since... Also beautiful and groundbreaking, in my opinion (unfortunately not the best quality):
I recommend going on YouTube and just typing in Sony Bravia, because the entire ad campaign is stunning.
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Some Wednesday Nostalgia
This show consumed my Saturday mornings as a child. It aired on one of the three television channels we had and my brother and I were obsessed. Just seeing the intro again makes me happy.
Is there something in the water?
Okay this week I've been having some serious celebrity sightings. Well, not all of them have been serious, but they've been decent.
Monday morning driving to work (after my Jamba Juice run), I saw Lori Loughlin which has now become pretty ordinary (beat that Jon Stamos). After work I was driving to the gym and notice a Smart Car next to me. I don't think I've seen a Smart Car since I was in Europe so I was certainly intrigued, especially as this one had the darkest tinted windows I have ever seen, maybe in any vehicle. Well, sure enough this car is on its way to Equinox as well, and who does it end up being but none other than Malcom himself, the miniature Frankie Muniz.
I get into the gym, and after throwing my stuff in a locker and changing I head out to the main cardio floor and step onto a treadmill. Walking on the treadmill to my immediately left is Drew Barrymore. Drew Barrymore! She was miniature and cute as a button, wearing some big headphones while she exercised. About four minutes into my run and Drew-discovery, her much-gossiped about boyfriend Justin Long walks over and the two start chatting away about working out and shooting some movie and something else I don't remember. (Yes, I pressed pause on my ipod so I could eavesdrop--sue me). Drew finished her workout and moments later I saw her and Justin walk out of the gym, arm in arm--so cute it made me want to vomit.
Anyways, when I was on my way out I spotted a great t-shirt that said "Wax Bush" and realized the owner of said shirt was Sanjay from Weeds, or Jonathan from 30 Rock, or Maulik Pancholy, as he is known in real life. I guess all established actors go to the gym at 7 pm on a Monday night.
Last night (Tuesday) I went with Roomie #1 to a reading of a fantastic play called Three Days of Rain, which starred three experienced thespians, one of them being Justin Kirk (also of Weeds), who is in my opinion one of the most talented actors working today. This man is seriously brilliant. His performance was perfectly nuanced, and every word was spoken with a sincere physicality to it that seemed to express a distinct purpose behind each movement. Kirk has an uncanny capacity to perfectly embody the characters he plays. I love him best as Andy on Weeds, but seeing him in the flesh, in a black box theater, and maybe just 10 feet away, showed his pure genius as an actor. Also--the play itself was fantastic. It was a really cool experience, to say the least.
This morning on my drive to work I saw Chris O'Donnell on his way to the gym (same one as Lori Loughlin, same place I saw him as before), and I've become really interested in what exactly this gym is. It's called Burn 60 and apparently it is some sort of total body workout in 60 minutes. So not really a gym, per se, but rather fitness classes.
Anyways, this has to be some kind of record for me. I used to see people in New York a lot, but never this frequently. While I never actually go up to an actor, and usually try to not acknowledge them anymore than I would anyone else, I will say that I don't know if I will every quite get over seeing a movie or tv star in the flesh.
Monday morning driving to work (after my Jamba Juice run), I saw Lori Loughlin which has now become pretty ordinary (beat that Jon Stamos). After work I was driving to the gym and notice a Smart Car next to me. I don't think I've seen a Smart Car since I was in Europe so I was certainly intrigued, especially as this one had the darkest tinted windows I have ever seen, maybe in any vehicle. Well, sure enough this car is on its way to Equinox as well, and who does it end up being but none other than Malcom himself, the miniature Frankie Muniz.
I get into the gym, and after throwing my stuff in a locker and changing I head out to the main cardio floor and step onto a treadmill. Walking on the treadmill to my immediately left is Drew Barrymore. Drew Barrymore! She was miniature and cute as a button, wearing some big headphones while she exercised. About four minutes into my run and Drew-discovery, her much-gossiped about boyfriend Justin Long walks over and the two start chatting away about working out and shooting some movie and something else I don't remember. (Yes, I pressed pause on my ipod so I could eavesdrop--sue me). Drew finished her workout and moments later I saw her and Justin walk out of the gym, arm in arm--so cute it made me want to vomit.
Anyways, when I was on my way out I spotted a great t-shirt that said "Wax Bush" and realized the owner of said shirt was Sanjay from Weeds, or Jonathan from 30 Rock, or Maulik Pancholy, as he is known in real life. I guess all established actors go to the gym at 7 pm on a Monday night.
Last night (Tuesday) I went with Roomie #1 to a reading of a fantastic play called Three Days of Rain, which starred three experienced thespians, one of them being Justin Kirk (also of Weeds), who is in my opinion one of the most talented actors working today. This man is seriously brilliant. His performance was perfectly nuanced, and every word was spoken with a sincere physicality to it that seemed to express a distinct purpose behind each movement. Kirk has an uncanny capacity to perfectly embody the characters he plays. I love him best as Andy on Weeds, but seeing him in the flesh, in a black box theater, and maybe just 10 feet away, showed his pure genius as an actor. Also--the play itself was fantastic. It was a really cool experience, to say the least.
This morning on my drive to work I saw Chris O'Donnell on his way to the gym (same one as Lori Loughlin, same place I saw him as before), and I've become really interested in what exactly this gym is. It's called Burn 60 and apparently it is some sort of total body workout in 60 minutes. So not really a gym, per se, but rather fitness classes.
Anyways, this has to be some kind of record for me. I used to see people in New York a lot, but never this frequently. While I never actually go up to an actor, and usually try to not acknowledge them anymore than I would anyone else, I will say that I don't know if I will every quite get over seeing a movie or tv star in the flesh.
9021Okay!
(I promise to stop with the puns after this one... it's just so easy!)
New info has surfaced about the upcoming Beverly Hills 90210 spin off, actually my co-worker and I were first talking about the casting breakdowns at the beginning of the week, and today articles in both Variety and The Hollywood Reporter go into more detail about what we can expect for the new show. Apparently diversity is one of those things, as well as two kids mysteriously having the last name "Silver" (um, duh, like David Silver aka Brian Austin Green's character from the original?). Anyways, despite my initial repulsion to the idea of re-make, I am becoming increasingly excited for this re-do. Now I am wondering if they are casting unknowns or established actors. If only my brother weren't in Russia, because despite being in his late 20s I think he could easily still pass for a high schooler, both physically and behaviorally (just kidding Joshie, I love you!). Anyways, I've already got a crappy new teen drama to become addicted to new fall. I can't wait!
New info has surfaced about the upcoming Beverly Hills 90210 spin off, actually my co-worker and I were first talking about the casting breakdowns at the beginning of the week, and today articles in both Variety and The Hollywood Reporter go into more detail about what we can expect for the new show. Apparently diversity is one of those things, as well as two kids mysteriously having the last name "Silver" (um, duh, like David Silver aka Brian Austin Green's character from the original?). Anyways, despite my initial repulsion to the idea of re-make, I am becoming increasingly excited for this re-do. Now I am wondering if they are casting unknowns or established actors. If only my brother weren't in Russia, because despite being in his late 20s I think he could easily still pass for a high schooler, both physically and behaviorally (just kidding Joshie, I love you!). Anyways, I've already got a crappy new teen drama to become addicted to new fall. I can't wait!
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Pet Peeve in Focus: Reality TV
I'd like to take a moment to talk about reality television. I once claimed I didn't watch any reality television and I hated it, but was soon proven a liar, when a good friend pointed out I am a faithful viewer of The Hills (and all the Laguna Beach seasons that preceded it), and I will reluctantly admit I recently watched every episode of the most recent Project Runway.
Otherwise, the closest I come to reality tv is Iron Chef or Shark Week. Last night at the gym, the premiere of the newest season of Dancing With The Stars was playing on one of the TVs and I thought to myself, sure why not--people love this crap, let's give it a try.
About five minutes into Steve Guttenberg's overeager fancy footwork I had to put my ipod back on. I don't get it. I just don't understand why this show is so loved. This coming from a girl who used to worship Kristi Yamaguchi! I just can't handle the forced drama, the faux European judges, the sequins, the music--the whole thing is painful.
Even worse is American Idol. I refuse to watch that show. I may have once or twice watched a few snippets of it, but I am proud to say I have never in my life sat through an entire episode. American Idol infuriates me. I hate how it is everywhere. Every publication, website, radio station, news magazine show--they all are American Idol crazy. I couldn't care less. And what snippets I have heard of the show this season (thanks, Roomie #1) I can say it just sounds like a bunch of people destined to star in the next Off-Broadway rock musical.
Furthermore, I blame the deterioration of the modern American sitcom on reality TV. Name a show today that pleases audiences the way Seinfeld, Friends, Murphy Brown, and Family Matters used to. Now it's Survivor 35: An Island You've Never Heard of in an Ocean You've Never Heard Of or America's Next Top Hand and/or Foot Model. Apparently these are crowd pleasers as well, but I just don't understand why the American people choose to submit themselves to watching over dramatized endless tests of supposed "real" people to find the champion. Is it self projection? The hope that anyone can can succeed in something and through this victory be revered, respected, and rewarded for their efforts? While this is an optimistic attempt to explain the general public's obsession with voyeurism, I think what it boils down to is that as Americans we are getting lazier and lazier, and reality television is just easy. Easy to formulate, easy to mimic, easy to pull off.
The first scripted television show I watched and loved was The X-Files. Since then, I've found scripted tv, both comedies and dramas, to be like a good book. I become invested in characters, subplots, conflicts, resolutions. When shows go on for multiple seasons it's like having the Harry Potter series play out on screen. And it's never ending. Scripted television, when it's done right, is in my opinion the finest display of true talent--from the actors to the writers to the directors. To keep a good show good for any extended length of time is an impressive feat. Even more impressive is when a viewer, such as myself, no longer has an awareness of the mechanics of the show and remains truly engaged, suspending disbelief and surrendering to the program.
I miss shows like The West Wing, Sex and the City, and Alias. Thanks to the invention of TV on DVD (fun fact: The X-Files was the first show to go to a DVD format, hence the $90 price tag), it is always possible to discover new shows, like my recent Veronica Mars binge. I can't imagine anyone wanting to watch 22 episodes of Survivor in a row. Do people do that? Are there Survivor fanatics who would subject themselves to that?
Anyways, this whole diatribe was really a case for why reality television is terrible and why more people should watch scripted tv, and why those in Hollywood should encourage writers to continue to find refreshing and innovative ways to entertain viewers. And even though I am reluctant for this 90210 Redux, after some more thought, I am pretty excited for a new show to get caught up in, with or without Brandon Walsh.
Otherwise, the closest I come to reality tv is Iron Chef or Shark Week. Last night at the gym, the premiere of the newest season of Dancing With The Stars was playing on one of the TVs and I thought to myself, sure why not--people love this crap, let's give it a try.
About five minutes into Steve Guttenberg's overeager fancy footwork I had to put my ipod back on. I don't get it. I just don't understand why this show is so loved. This coming from a girl who used to worship Kristi Yamaguchi! I just can't handle the forced drama, the faux European judges, the sequins, the music--the whole thing is painful.
Even worse is American Idol. I refuse to watch that show. I may have once or twice watched a few snippets of it, but I am proud to say I have never in my life sat through an entire episode. American Idol infuriates me. I hate how it is everywhere. Every publication, website, radio station, news magazine show--they all are American Idol crazy. I couldn't care less. And what snippets I have heard of the show this season (thanks, Roomie #1) I can say it just sounds like a bunch of people destined to star in the next Off-Broadway rock musical.
Furthermore, I blame the deterioration of the modern American sitcom on reality TV. Name a show today that pleases audiences the way Seinfeld, Friends, Murphy Brown, and Family Matters used to. Now it's Survivor 35: An Island You've Never Heard of in an Ocean You've Never Heard Of or America's Next Top Hand and/or Foot Model. Apparently these are crowd pleasers as well, but I just don't understand why the American people choose to submit themselves to watching over dramatized endless tests of supposed "real" people to find the champion. Is it self projection? The hope that anyone can can succeed in something and through this victory be revered, respected, and rewarded for their efforts? While this is an optimistic attempt to explain the general public's obsession with voyeurism, I think what it boils down to is that as Americans we are getting lazier and lazier, and reality television is just easy. Easy to formulate, easy to mimic, easy to pull off.
The first scripted television show I watched and loved was The X-Files. Since then, I've found scripted tv, both comedies and dramas, to be like a good book. I become invested in characters, subplots, conflicts, resolutions. When shows go on for multiple seasons it's like having the Harry Potter series play out on screen. And it's never ending. Scripted television, when it's done right, is in my opinion the finest display of true talent--from the actors to the writers to the directors. To keep a good show good for any extended length of time is an impressive feat. Even more impressive is when a viewer, such as myself, no longer has an awareness of the mechanics of the show and remains truly engaged, suspending disbelief and surrendering to the program.
I miss shows like The West Wing, Sex and the City, and Alias. Thanks to the invention of TV on DVD (fun fact: The X-Files was the first show to go to a DVD format, hence the $90 price tag), it is always possible to discover new shows, like my recent Veronica Mars binge. I can't imagine anyone wanting to watch 22 episodes of Survivor in a row. Do people do that? Are there Survivor fanatics who would subject themselves to that?
Anyways, this whole diatribe was really a case for why reality television is terrible and why more people should watch scripted tv, and why those in Hollywood should encourage writers to continue to find refreshing and innovative ways to entertain viewers. And even though I am reluctant for this 90210 Redux, after some more thought, I am pretty excited for a new show to get caught up in, with or without Brandon Walsh.
Monday, March 17, 2008
Who else is excited for July 25th?
Me, me, me!
Despite the poor quality, this is exciting for me, and all other nerds of the world:
Despite the poor quality, this is exciting for me, and all other nerds of the world:
THIS WHEAT GRASS TASTES DELICIOUS!
To quote from Oklahoma, "Oh what a beautiful morning, oh what a beautiful day, I've got a beautiful feeling, everything's going my way!" (Okay so maybe I've never actually seen all of Oklahoma because the last time I attempted to watch was when I was in fifth grade with my mom and my best friend and both my mom and I feel asleep leaving my poor friend feeling really uncomfortable watching such a boring musical, but I digress...)
I am off the Cleanse, and oh my goodness gracious, I feel FANTASTIC. So fantastic that I plan to often capitalize words, to emphasize that when speaking these words I might be enthusiastically screaming them! Which brings me to my next point, WHEAT GRASS IS DELICIOUS.
I know, I know--you are thinking, once again, my goodness Stamos you've become so LA it's laughable... skateboards, cleanses, wheatgrass? Well let me say this: skateboarding is NOT as easy as it looks, the cleanse has NOTHING to do with living in Los Angeles, and WHEAT GRASS IS DELICIOUS and I will drink it whenever and wherever.
My first post-cleanse, non "lemonade" substance was a 2 oz. wheat grass shot from Jamba Juice. It was delightful, refreshing, EUPHORIC I might say! Even better was the FRESH SQUEEZED ORANGE JUICE that followed. DIVINE INSPIRATION! This foray into food took place yesterday afternoon, when I had decided the tongue was pink enough and I had reach Day 10. I proceeded to drink the "lemonade" for the rest of the day but then in a moment of effortless motivation I compiled a long shopping list and drove off to Whole Foods to stock up on delicious VEGETABLES and other FUN VEGAN FOODS for the week. Walking into Whole Foods was like walking into paradise. Parsley, thyme, tomatoes, onions, leeks, KALE! FAKE CHICKEN NUGGETS! SOY YOGURT! VEGETABLE JUICE! STEVEN WEBER!
Wait, what? Steven Weber? Of Wings, and most recently Brothers & Sisters? Yes, Steven Weber, Brian Hackett himself! Right there in the cereal aisle! And let me say, for a 47 year old man, he was ATTRACTIVE. (While this could be the post-cleanse euphoria talking, he really was a looker). Anyways, nothing better than a little celeb spotting to really top off the beautiful grocery shopping experience!
Back home I went to begin preparing the vegetable soup of all vegetable soups, summoning forth cooking skills I didn't know I had. Iron Chef, here I come because I am a PHENOMENAL cook! The kitchen smelled so savory I thought I might have concocted my own heaven simply through sauteeing some onions and herbs. I didn't eat any last night because it was still a detox day pour moi, but I am so EXCITED to taste my creation today.
I slept like a baby last night, especially with the knowledge that today a whole world of food awaits. Birds were singing when I woke up! It's St. Patrick's Day! Why not wear my favorite BRIGHT GREEN big tee/dress! My hair looks fantastic! My skin is GLOWING! My tongue is (almost) completely PINK!
And at 7:55 am this morning, there it was; my Mecca, my promised land of milk and honey--my Jamba Juice on San Vicente in Brentwood, with wheat grass and orange juice waiting for me. And as the smell of a freshly cut lawn filled my nostrils, I threw back my head and sipped mightily, taking in the shot, thinking once again, THIS WHEAT GRASS IS DELICIOUS!
The end.
I am off the Cleanse, and oh my goodness gracious, I feel FANTASTIC. So fantastic that I plan to often capitalize words, to emphasize that when speaking these words I might be enthusiastically screaming them! Which brings me to my next point, WHEAT GRASS IS DELICIOUS.
I know, I know--you are thinking, once again, my goodness Stamos you've become so LA it's laughable... skateboards, cleanses, wheatgrass? Well let me say this: skateboarding is NOT as easy as it looks, the cleanse has NOTHING to do with living in Los Angeles, and WHEAT GRASS IS DELICIOUS and I will drink it whenever and wherever.
My first post-cleanse, non "lemonade" substance was a 2 oz. wheat grass shot from Jamba Juice. It was delightful, refreshing, EUPHORIC I might say! Even better was the FRESH SQUEEZED ORANGE JUICE that followed. DIVINE INSPIRATION! This foray into food took place yesterday afternoon, when I had decided the tongue was pink enough and I had reach Day 10. I proceeded to drink the "lemonade" for the rest of the day but then in a moment of effortless motivation I compiled a long shopping list and drove off to Whole Foods to stock up on delicious VEGETABLES and other FUN VEGAN FOODS for the week. Walking into Whole Foods was like walking into paradise. Parsley, thyme, tomatoes, onions, leeks, KALE! FAKE CHICKEN NUGGETS! SOY YOGURT! VEGETABLE JUICE! STEVEN WEBER!
Wait, what? Steven Weber? Of Wings, and most recently Brothers & Sisters? Yes, Steven Weber, Brian Hackett himself! Right there in the cereal aisle! And let me say, for a 47 year old man, he was ATTRACTIVE. (While this could be the post-cleanse euphoria talking, he really was a looker). Anyways, nothing better than a little celeb spotting to really top off the beautiful grocery shopping experience!
Back home I went to begin preparing the vegetable soup of all vegetable soups, summoning forth cooking skills I didn't know I had. Iron Chef, here I come because I am a PHENOMENAL cook! The kitchen smelled so savory I thought I might have concocted my own heaven simply through sauteeing some onions and herbs. I didn't eat any last night because it was still a detox day pour moi, but I am so EXCITED to taste my creation today.
I slept like a baby last night, especially with the knowledge that today a whole world of food awaits. Birds were singing when I woke up! It's St. Patrick's Day! Why not wear my favorite BRIGHT GREEN big tee/dress! My hair looks fantastic! My skin is GLOWING! My tongue is (almost) completely PINK!
And at 7:55 am this morning, there it was; my Mecca, my promised land of milk and honey--my Jamba Juice on San Vicente in Brentwood, with wheat grass and orange juice waiting for me. And as the smell of a freshly cut lawn filled my nostrils, I threw back my head and sipped mightily, taking in the shot, thinking once again, THIS WHEAT GRASS IS DELICIOUS!
The end.
Friday, March 14, 2008
Tom Cruise Celebrates Himself
I dislike Tom Cruise. Immensely. I do enjoy many of the movies he is in, but as a public figure, I can't stand him. I love watching how crazy he is in real life. For example, the videos of him accepting an honor at Scientology event that were circling the interwebs a few months ago. Now comes a new video, courtesy of Gawker, where we get another glimpse at the pyscho Scientologist and his six figure birthday party on the Scientology cruise ship "Freewinds" from 2004. Watch and behold the maniac that is Cruise.
Please forgive the poor quality, I yanked it from Gawker--theirs might be better.
Please forgive the poor quality, I yanked it from Gawker--theirs might be better.
Master Cleanse, Day 8
Well it's been over a week now that I've only been drinking the "lemonade" as part of the Master Cleanse. I am so ready for this thing to be over. Here's the hitch--a key sign in when you are fully detoxified is when your tongue turns pink. I know you're thinking, wait a minute, my tongue is always pink. Well, on the cleanse, your tongue becomes very white as a sign that the toxins are leaving the body (there's a much more scientific way of putting that--it's in the book) and my tongue has been scary white since Tuesday. It's been clearing up slowly but I am at the point where I just want to wake up one morning to find a beautiful pink tongue and feel a general sense of euphoria. Right now all I feel is a little annoyed and a little like I wish they wouldn't crank the AC so high in this building and inspire feelings of the need for a down comforter all the time.
Anyways, I am so glad this week is just about over. In retrospect, it's pretty nuts that I went this entire work week on the cleanse, having to suffer while my co-workers picked out their delicious lunches from the plethora of menus we have. Twice I had to order for my boss. Twice I had to present him with his tasty looking food (and I don't even like tuna!) Yesterday when boxes and boxes of girl scout cookies were delivered I had to witness my colleagues shoving the delectable Tagalongs and Thin Mints into their mouths. It became so torturous that at one point I asked to smell a Samoa.
Okay wait a minute. Is that what anorexics do? Smell other people's food and pretend they are okay not eating it? What kind of wayward path have I stumbled into?
While I contemplate whether or not I am due for counseling and a nutritionist, I have to remind myself that by no means here am I starving myself. The only thing I am not getting from the "lemonade" is protein. I get tons of vitamins and important nutrients from the lemons and syrup, including well over 1000 calories. (FYI, maple syrup has a LOT of calories). Furthermore, one of the benefits of the cayenne pepper is that it keeps your metabolism moving fast. Besides, I know that one side effect of the cleanse is not really being hungry, but missing food--I can definitely relate to that. It's a feeling I know all too well thanks to my post-surgery liquid diet. Actually, doing the cleanse now makes me look back on my time with the closed jaw and the constant protein shakes as an impressive 2 month physical and mental challenge. I remember reaching for a grape once without thinking, and remembering I couldn't eat. Or the other time when I figured because I could open my mouth enough to fit in a straw maybe I could get in a Hershey kiss. The chocolate got stuck and I realized that I wouldn't last a day at fat camp. Now, however, I physically can eat but have chosen to cleanse and detoxify my system. What it comes down to is that I have got mad self control.
Anyways, the tongue better clear up by Sunday because I don't know if I am all that interested in doing this past 10 days. Then comes the tricky part of breaking the fast, which has to be done very sensitively. I am going to ease back into solid foods, and do the first two weeks on a vegan diet.
Veganism. This brings me to my next point. Apparently LA is rubbing off on me. Not only am I on the cleanse (which I guess is a very LA thing to do), but last night I bought a skateboard. Considering I've never set foot on one before, it should be an interesting new venture. Fingers crossed I don't break a leg my first day on it, or even worse--my jaw. I am just hoping I get good enough to be able to skateboard to the gym or the Farmer's Market on a Saturday morning. Don't worry, despite my new affinity for crazy health kicks and skateboarding, today I am wearing my standard Vineyard Vines polo and cable knit sweater--some things will never change... me. I'll be the girl in her Lilly Pullitzer dress, skateboarding.
Anyways, I am so glad this week is just about over. In retrospect, it's pretty nuts that I went this entire work week on the cleanse, having to suffer while my co-workers picked out their delicious lunches from the plethora of menus we have. Twice I had to order for my boss. Twice I had to present him with his tasty looking food (and I don't even like tuna!) Yesterday when boxes and boxes of girl scout cookies were delivered I had to witness my colleagues shoving the delectable Tagalongs and Thin Mints into their mouths. It became so torturous that at one point I asked to smell a Samoa.
Okay wait a minute. Is that what anorexics do? Smell other people's food and pretend they are okay not eating it? What kind of wayward path have I stumbled into?
While I contemplate whether or not I am due for counseling and a nutritionist, I have to remind myself that by no means here am I starving myself. The only thing I am not getting from the "lemonade" is protein. I get tons of vitamins and important nutrients from the lemons and syrup, including well over 1000 calories. (FYI, maple syrup has a LOT of calories). Furthermore, one of the benefits of the cayenne pepper is that it keeps your metabolism moving fast. Besides, I know that one side effect of the cleanse is not really being hungry, but missing food--I can definitely relate to that. It's a feeling I know all too well thanks to my post-surgery liquid diet. Actually, doing the cleanse now makes me look back on my time with the closed jaw and the constant protein shakes as an impressive 2 month physical and mental challenge. I remember reaching for a grape once without thinking, and remembering I couldn't eat. Or the other time when I figured because I could open my mouth enough to fit in a straw maybe I could get in a Hershey kiss. The chocolate got stuck and I realized that I wouldn't last a day at fat camp. Now, however, I physically can eat but have chosen to cleanse and detoxify my system. What it comes down to is that I have got mad self control.
Anyways, the tongue better clear up by Sunday because I don't know if I am all that interested in doing this past 10 days. Then comes the tricky part of breaking the fast, which has to be done very sensitively. I am going to ease back into solid foods, and do the first two weeks on a vegan diet.
Veganism. This brings me to my next point. Apparently LA is rubbing off on me. Not only am I on the cleanse (which I guess is a very LA thing to do), but last night I bought a skateboard. Considering I've never set foot on one before, it should be an interesting new venture. Fingers crossed I don't break a leg my first day on it, or even worse--my jaw. I am just hoping I get good enough to be able to skateboard to the gym or the Farmer's Market on a Saturday morning. Don't worry, despite my new affinity for crazy health kicks and skateboarding, today I am wearing my standard Vineyard Vines polo and cable knit sweater--some things will never change... me. I'll be the girl in her Lilly Pullitzer dress, skateboarding.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Spin-Off: 9021NO!
(Can we pause for a moment and rejoice at that perfect pun of a post title? I'm so witty and clever.)
Okay, so Hollywood and the interwebs are abuzz with this morning's announcement that Beverly Hills 90210 is going to get a spin-off to air on the CW, spearheaded by Veronica Mars helmer Rob Thomas (not to be confused with Matchbox 20's Rob Thomas--I've done that).
Does no one have any fresh ideas anymore? Shame on you Rob Thomas! You, man who so cleverly created the brilliant Veronica Mars, you can do better! Don't get me wrong, I love, love ,love Beverly Hills. When I was younger and didn't have cable (shocking, sad truth my friends--didn't have cable until I was a sophomore in high school) I remember the summer my older cousin Joel lived on our third floor and for some reason, the black and white TV up there had an antenna long enough to pick up FOX, and every Wednesday night I would sneak up and watch as Brandon, Brenda, Dylan and the whole gang showed me a world so foreign to my own existence in coastal Maine. When I finally did get cable, I am pretty sure I caught up on any 90210 episodes I might have missed. My last few years in high school I spent Wednesday nights with friends watching Party of Five and 90210. It's safe to say that I still hold a soft spot in my heart for Steve Sanders.
Anyways, I can't imagine why on earth this series is being resurrected. I have faith in Rob Thomas, but I am not sure that this is the right direction for him right now. Give us a show that is as fun, offbeat, and smart as Veronica Mars was. Leave 90210 alone, because without that Spelling touch (and that doesn't mean Tori can make a guest star appearance--she's the last alum I would want to see) I am just think this is only proving that Hollywood's creative juices are turning more and more sour (much like the taste in my mouth after a week on the cleanse).
Okay, so Hollywood and the interwebs are abuzz with this morning's announcement that Beverly Hills 90210 is going to get a spin-off to air on the CW, spearheaded by Veronica Mars helmer Rob Thomas (not to be confused with Matchbox 20's Rob Thomas--I've done that).
Does no one have any fresh ideas anymore? Shame on you Rob Thomas! You, man who so cleverly created the brilliant Veronica Mars, you can do better! Don't get me wrong, I love, love ,love Beverly Hills. When I was younger and didn't have cable (shocking, sad truth my friends--didn't have cable until I was a sophomore in high school) I remember the summer my older cousin Joel lived on our third floor and for some reason, the black and white TV up there had an antenna long enough to pick up FOX, and every Wednesday night I would sneak up and watch as Brandon, Brenda, Dylan and the whole gang showed me a world so foreign to my own existence in coastal Maine. When I finally did get cable, I am pretty sure I caught up on any 90210 episodes I might have missed. My last few years in high school I spent Wednesday nights with friends watching Party of Five and 90210. It's safe to say that I still hold a soft spot in my heart for Steve Sanders.
Anyways, I can't imagine why on earth this series is being resurrected. I have faith in Rob Thomas, but I am not sure that this is the right direction for him right now. Give us a show that is as fun, offbeat, and smart as Veronica Mars was. Leave 90210 alone, because without that Spelling touch (and that doesn't mean Tori can make a guest star appearance--she's the last alum I would want to see) I am just think this is only proving that Hollywood's creative juices are turning more and more sour (much like the taste in my mouth after a week on the cleanse).
Next week on Grey's Anatomy... Woman Stuck to Toilet!
This article on CNN.com's front page today is a cross between the pathetic, the disgusting, and the shocking. Apparently some woman sat on a toilet for two years, to the point where her skin was stuck to the seat. Her boyfriend noted that he should have helped her sooner (ya think)? The story is perfect for an episode of House or Grey's Anatomy. Especially with the whole bit about how the couple pretty much conducted their relationship as normal... but in the bathroom.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Mmmm Music
Recently at work, as the day winds down I've started listening to music to keep me in a good mood. I don't have iTunes so my player of choice is indubitably (totally unnecessary use of that word, but it's fun) Pandora Radio. I love, love, love Pandora. Here's the deal: you type in the name of a band or a song you like and then a whole radio station is generated based on finding similar artists and songs--it totally works with your mood. Right now I am listening to a station generated around The Police. In the past week I've used Steel Pulse, Bela Fleck and Missy Higgins all as starting points and have been listening to some sweet jams. I first starting using Pandora when I was in Switzerland and had a lot of time to kill to find new music to download. Now, it's the perfect way to cap off a stressful day at work--I highly recommend.
Some thoughts (plastic surgery edition)...
Continuing on yesterday's botox theme, I have a few thoughts on plastic surgery that I feel is my duty to share with the world (not really but I am going to share anyways). Being one who's experienced a degree of this (after my jaw surgery they had to move my chin for cosmetic purposes--or so the insurance companies determined... otherwise I would look like I was punched in the lower face) I know I can say with confidence that going under the knife is not a pleasant experience. So I am constantly amazed by how many people voluntarily do so. Furthermore, it is shocking how many women in Los Angeles walk around with that look that just screams "I love Botox!"
Last night I was watching some episodes of Veronica Mars (a great show I am just now discovering) that Lisa Rinna guest starred in and holy crap that woman is freaky looking. Her lips are so full of collagen I don't even know how she can open her mouth, much less move it to talk. Her face is so tight and sculpted she looks like an unnerving wax figure, and in some scenes she even resembles a younger Tammy Faye. Today as I was perusing my daily blogs I saw that Rinna popped up at the LA fashion show for Lauren Conrad last night. The photo of her could have been from the same episode of Veronica Mars I was watching--from four years ago.
My third day in LA I went to a yoga class at a studio on Fairfax and Santa Monica Blvd and I remember a woman walked in with that very obvious plastic surgery face. It was my first real encounter with the look that is surprisingly common in this city and a moment I don't think I'm soon to forget. That day was also the day I realized that no one in Hollywood walks anywhere. No one who is white at least. I got a lot of unfriendly stares. Fortunately Santa Monica has quite a different vibe...
Last night I was watching some episodes of Veronica Mars (a great show I am just now discovering) that Lisa Rinna guest starred in and holy crap that woman is freaky looking. Her lips are so full of collagen I don't even know how she can open her mouth, much less move it to talk. Her face is so tight and sculpted she looks like an unnerving wax figure, and in some scenes she even resembles a younger Tammy Faye. Today as I was perusing my daily blogs I saw that Rinna popped up at the LA fashion show for Lauren Conrad last night. The photo of her could have been from the same episode of Veronica Mars I was watching--from four years ago.
My third day in LA I went to a yoga class at a studio on Fairfax and Santa Monica Blvd and I remember a woman walked in with that very obvious plastic surgery face. It was my first real encounter with the look that is surprisingly common in this city and a moment I don't think I'm soon to forget. That day was also the day I realized that no one in Hollywood walks anywhere. No one who is white at least. I got a lot of unfriendly stares. Fortunately Santa Monica has quite a different vibe...
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Some Tuesday Nostalgia
I love watching old clips from Sesame Street. This one is great--a predecessor to the Blue Man Group? (And doesn't one of them look like Tobias Funke?) It makes me all warm inside watching these clips.
Here is another great one, and with... animation! I love that Sesame Street was badass enough to score Phillip Glass for a composer. Although this bit makes me wonder what kind of drugs they were on...
And to finish off, a purely silly clip in which the Yip Yips discover the Radio!
Here is another great one, and with... animation! I love that Sesame Street was badass enough to score Phillip Glass for a composer. Although this bit makes me wonder what kind of drugs they were on...
And to finish off, a purely silly clip in which the Yip Yips discover the Radio!
Morning Botox
I'm sure you are wondering why I am displaying a photo of Janice Dickinson, in all her terrifying botox glory. Well, I had a bizarre experience this morning that involves Janice Dickinson.
First of all, I don't know how thrilled I am that I even know how Janice is. I've never actually watched a full episode of America's Next Top Model, but I read enough pop culture fare to know who she is. Actually, I just know that she is apparently crazy and her face doesn't move. Anyways, I guess since her reinvigorated fame after ANTM, she's moved onto a reality show of her own and often makes appearances on shows on E! or VH1 as a commentator.
This morning I was at the gym and switching channels between The Daily Show with Jon Stewart on Comedy Central, Desperately Seeking Susan on VH1, and some crappy show about celebrity break-ups on E!. At one point, while watching E! Janice Dickinson pops up to talk about making out with male models and chemistry on set (in an attempt to comment on Jennifer Garner's previous relationships) and I am thinking to myself, this woman is gross. I go back to watching the always incredibly Jon Stewart, eventually finish my workout and head into the locker room. I am rounding the corner to get my stuff out of my locker when this tall, skinny, scary woman walks into my little locker area. Sure enough, it was Janice Dickinson. And let me say this... if I thought she was terrifying looking on TV, you should see her in person. Holy Crap. Talk about a face lift. It was one of those unsettling moments where you've just seen someone on tv and then immediately afterwards in person. It was weird.
How wonderful that I work out at the same gym as Janice Dickinson and Fabio. I wonder when David Hasselhoff will stop by. Now that would be a good one...
Monday, March 10, 2008
Cleanse Day 4: Do I really have to drink this shit for another week?
It's Monday, my friends. Monday's are no fun, as I often suggest, and this Monday is, in ways, especially grim. I am on my fourth day of Master Cleansing, and I have to say, this lemon-syrup-cayenne concoction is really starting to make my tongue curl. On the bright side, I had a cup of peppermint tea this morning, which is permissible once daily, and tastes like thin mints and sunshine and unicorns in one precious cup. I am already looking forward to drinking the tea tomorrow.
It was an interesting weekend, not eating and all. Fortunately I had bucketloads of reading to tackle for work and could divert my attention in that direction. Saturday night I went with friends to a concert of indie bands (aka everyone who has played on an episode of Grey's Anatomy) at the House of Blues in Anaheim. Not eating or drinking at a concert was quite an experience. The back pain from standing for three hours was much more vivid, due to lack of chemical distraction. An interesting side effect of the cleanse is that during night time I suddenly am a terrible driver. Now I am no perfect chauffeur normally, but I think I am good enough (when not distracted) and the cleanse has me all loopy when it gets to be night time.
Beyond that I am feeling good, feeling as though those toxins are seeping out and in just a week (less than that actually) I can eat delicious food again. Oh my god I can't wait. Until then, it's laxative tea and salt water enemas to look forward too. Mmmmm. More cayenne!
Please note: While cleansing I seem to have lost some of my creative juices (hence the irrelevant post today). Here's hoping that some bright ideas will come back with the toxins.
It was an interesting weekend, not eating and all. Fortunately I had bucketloads of reading to tackle for work and could divert my attention in that direction. Saturday night I went with friends to a concert of indie bands (aka everyone who has played on an episode of Grey's Anatomy) at the House of Blues in Anaheim. Not eating or drinking at a concert was quite an experience. The back pain from standing for three hours was much more vivid, due to lack of chemical distraction. An interesting side effect of the cleanse is that during night time I suddenly am a terrible driver. Now I am no perfect chauffeur normally, but I think I am good enough (when not distracted) and the cleanse has me all loopy when it gets to be night time.
Beyond that I am feeling good, feeling as though those toxins are seeping out and in just a week (less than that actually) I can eat delicious food again. Oh my god I can't wait. Until then, it's laxative tea and salt water enemas to look forward too. Mmmmm. More cayenne!
Please note: While cleansing I seem to have lost some of my creative juices (hence the irrelevant post today). Here's hoping that some bright ideas will come back with the toxins.
Friday, March 07, 2008
Assistant Uprising! Hollywood in Chaos!
Okay so that headline isn't accurate at all, but this article courtesy of Defamer, and detailing a story of assistants at UTA saving themselves from losing email addresses with their own names, reminded me that I, am one of those nameless. My email address, much like the assistants at William Morris, is made of my boss's initials, the word "assist" and then, at our company. I have no identity. I am simply a working drone, without whom my boss couldn't function.
Fun fact--Defamer loves to rip on CAA, with a recurring joke about how they devour babies as protocol in their giant evil empire of running Hollywood, but apparently (and yes this comes per some CAA assistants I had drinks with) Defamer is in fact represented by UTA. It's all coming together now! Based on some calls I've listened to with my boss and CAA agents, they seem reasonable enough people. Actually, who am I kidding--what agent in this town is sane?
Anyways, for those who have absolutely no clue as to what I am talking about... you're not missing much. Just go watch an episode of Entourage and the character Ari Gold very, very closely. And Lloyd? That's me (despite the whole gay, Asain man part).
Fun fact--Defamer loves to rip on CAA, with a recurring joke about how they devour babies as protocol in their giant evil empire of running Hollywood, but apparently (and yes this comes per some CAA assistants I had drinks with) Defamer is in fact represented by UTA. It's all coming together now! Based on some calls I've listened to with my boss and CAA agents, they seem reasonable enough people. Actually, who am I kidding--what agent in this town is sane?
Anyways, for those who have absolutely no clue as to what I am talking about... you're not missing much. Just go watch an episode of Entourage and the character Ari Gold very, very closely. And Lloyd? That's me (despite the whole gay, Asain man part).
Cleansing
So I have two friends (one being Roomie #1) who are doing the Master Cleanse at the moment. If you've never heard of it, the cleanse is a fast or diet for 10 days when you only drink a "lemonade" mixture of fresh squeezed lemon juice, maple syrup, cayenne pepper. In addition, you drink laxative tea every day and use a natural enema, in this case a salt water flush. It's quite fascinating actually. The point is to detoxify. Not like I am eating fast food every day or putting drugs up nose, but I am definitely feeling the need to do something kind of radical to get a sort of jump start or fresh slate. Also, some added benefits of the cleanse are mental clarity, heightened sense of awareness, and a whole lot of energy. Physically, it is a complete cleanse of your colon and all that stuff on the inside where all the crud from the food we eat builds up over the years. So pretty much you crap your brains out. Paaaaaaaarty.
Anyways, after talking to my friends in length, and becoming somewhat obsessive about learning more, I have embarked upon this 10 day liquid diet. After all, I did already experience an 8 week period of no solid foods after my surgery (jaw wired shut... get it?) so I figure this should be a walk in the park. I will say that waking up at 4 in the morning to drink a quart of salt water is awful. The gag reflex really kicked in. Oh but now I understand why as children we were always instructed to never swallow salt water--it makes you poop... excessively. (This post is really going in a lovely direction, huh?)
So expect some interesting blog posts over the next 10 days. Hopefully I won't go crazy. I remember some times after my surgery when I would reach for food without even thinking. This might be worse because I can physically open my jaw. In any case, it's sure to be an adventure.
Anyways, after talking to my friends in length, and becoming somewhat obsessive about learning more, I have embarked upon this 10 day liquid diet. After all, I did already experience an 8 week period of no solid foods after my surgery (jaw wired shut... get it?) so I figure this should be a walk in the park. I will say that waking up at 4 in the morning to drink a quart of salt water is awful. The gag reflex really kicked in. Oh but now I understand why as children we were always instructed to never swallow salt water--it makes you poop... excessively. (This post is really going in a lovely direction, huh?)
So expect some interesting blog posts over the next 10 days. Hopefully I won't go crazy. I remember some times after my surgery when I would reach for food without even thinking. This might be worse because I can physically open my jaw. In any case, it's sure to be an adventure.
Thursday, March 06, 2008
Goals
Here's the deal. I live in Los Angeles, city of Hollywood dreams--so why not set forth some industry-related goals of my own? And I am not referring to becoming a top executive or an Oscar winning writer (although that would be nice). No, my Hollywood dreams of late are a little more... weird.
Goal #1
Meet John Stamos. I need to meet John Stamos and take a picture with him, merely for the opportunity to take a picture with him and then make it my Facebook profile picture. That may be pathetic and/or lame... or is it really, really cool. Because then I could tell him that I respond to the following names, all because of him, Stamos, John, Uncle Jesse. And I could also tell him I currently winning an online competition that he is unaware of. And then I would probably receive a restraining order.
Goal #2
Go to the new X-Files movie premiere. Strangely, I think this goal might be attainable, more so than the above. And I don't mean I want to hang out with the weird fans who scream and cry as they mob the red carpet, but I want to actually go to the actual premiere--on a list or as a guest. I will have to start working some connections for this one. Fortunately, our company represents a director who worked on well over 50 episodes of the show, so maybe I can angle myself in that way, somehow...
Anyways, those are my new Hollywood goals. I'll give progress reports every now and then. Wait a minute... what if I could meet John Stamos AT the X-Files premiere! I think my little heart my explode!
Goal #1
Meet John Stamos. I need to meet John Stamos and take a picture with him, merely for the opportunity to take a picture with him and then make it my Facebook profile picture. That may be pathetic and/or lame... or is it really, really cool. Because then I could tell him that I respond to the following names, all because of him, Stamos, John, Uncle Jesse. And I could also tell him I currently winning an online competition that he is unaware of. And then I would probably receive a restraining order.
Goal #2
Go to the new X-Files movie premiere. Strangely, I think this goal might be attainable, more so than the above. And I don't mean I want to hang out with the weird fans who scream and cry as they mob the red carpet, but I want to actually go to the actual premiere--on a list or as a guest. I will have to start working some connections for this one. Fortunately, our company represents a director who worked on well over 50 episodes of the show, so maybe I can angle myself in that way, somehow...
Anyways, those are my new Hollywood goals. I'll give progress reports every now and then. Wait a minute... what if I could meet John Stamos AT the X-Files premiere! I think my little heart my explode!
Dog/Rat/Pig Hybrids, at last!
This photo has not been doctored in any way. At least to the best of my knowledge. As my friend said when viewing these strange mini pigs, "they're sort of adorable...in an ugly duckling, even freaks should be loved kind of way." For more, click here.
Wednesday, March 05, 2008
Stamos vs. Stamos
Another entry in the me vs. John Stamos series. This time around it's regarding a very important person in both of our lives... Lori Loughlin aka Aunt Becky from Full House.
I know what you are thinking: you are thinking He-Stamos has it in a lock because not only was Stamos her TV-husband, but he spent about eight years on that show with her, and they must be pretty close. However, here is the competition:
Who has seen Lori Loughlin most recently?
I win.
Surely you think I am crazy but it's true. Granted, I don't know the full details of He-Stamos's every waking hour, but I am pretty sure I win this one. For the past three mornings in a row I have seen Lori Loughlin in her Mercedes SUV driving to the same gym in Brentwood, as I drive past her going the other direction (please note this is also where I saw Chris O'Donnell so methinks I have found some sort of special gym. I think it is called Burn 60 or something. I wonder if that is 60 pounds or 60 minutes...). Anyways, my morning drive by with Aunt Becky has become pretty regular. So not only have I seen her more recently but more frequently. HAH!
Stamos 0
Stamos 2
Best Crazy Email Chain Ever (But I Am Thrilled I Don't Live There)
So I open my email this morning with an odd request from a friend to post an email chain with her roommates, in an effort to prove that one of these girls she is dealing with is a complete psycho. I did read, have to agree, and recommend you also read (scroll down to the bottom and work your way up). You can't make this shit up. It plays like an episode of Gossip Girl gone terribly, terribly wrong. And, not only is it a fine study in crazy people, but it only furthers my theory that if everyone did yoga all the time, everyone would be happy.
I also think it is important to post the below in case Crazy Lady really does make some dramatic statement aka burning their home.
Names have not been changed. You email me something, it has a chance of winding up on the blog.
You know you love me,
XOXO,
Gossip Girl
I also think it is important to post the below in case Crazy Lady really does make some dramatic statement aka burning their home.
Names have not been changed. You email me something, it has a chance of winding up on the blog.
You know you love me,
XOXO,
Gossip Girl
please read (start at the bottom email and move your way up), then post on your blog. in the event that this girl ends up burning my house down I would like concrete, public evidence that she is batshitcrazy.
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Maria
Date: Mar 3, 2008 9:38 AM
Subject: Fwd: Party Last Night
To: Mark
i just spoke to lani and megan...they may call u later cuz they cant get to me...read this email leila sent last night...then apparently she kept talking really loudly about meg with her door open...then started yelling cunt cunt cunt...im scared babe...im writing back to her separately to see if maybe i can remedy this...meg and lani are SOOOOO terrified--they left last night to lani's parents house at 1am cuz leila would stop...we're all going to die babe.
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Leila
Date: Mar 3, 2008 12:34 AM
Subject: Re: Party Last Night
To: Megan Palame
Cc: Maria, Marissa, Lani, cyounghyman
if you were going to cry over my email i can ONLY IMAGINE how you would
have dealt with this guy embarrassing you in front of THE ENTIRE PARTY..
hahahahah cunt cunt cunt.. now how about i left your skirt up infront
of everyone?? yeah saying the word cunt and grabbing someones ass is
pretty equal.. actually you are right the word cunt is worse... so
maybe to NOT OFFEND YOU i should use the word bitch, douche, or
asshole, ... do you have a preference? cause you know the word cunt is
the same as DISRESPECTING someone in their own house..
hahaha me and sean are the only ones to react that way? hey maybe i
should have bowed down and kissed this guys ass? or maybe i should have
just giggled and acted cute? is that how you and lani handled it when
he touched you? wellll i guess maybe i am the weird one for having
respect for myself. no offense. i guess it was wrong to even want to
ask this guy to leave? you are right megan we are really weird people.
what should he have done, miss know it all? you are completely right we
should have just ignored it.
if you were upstairs how can you claim to know what chloe did and did
not do. i will call her a cunt whenever i see fit, so mind your own
business. i call it how i see it.. confidence doesnt mean laugh in your
roommates face when YOUR friend assaults her.. that email wasnt about
hating chloe if i wanted to write an email about that i could have done
it months ago.. that email was about ME.. the guy left cause he was
planning to leave why do you think he did it..
how do you know how they were? you didnt hear what they said to us. god
i know you have to get your point across all the time, hey but maybe
this isnt about you knowing everything for once, its about being a half
decent person.
we scare you? oh jesus, maybe you should seek counseling.. hahah ... we
arent friends? that hurts, considering you talked so much smack about
chloe and now you guys are best buddies hahaha .. you dont care about
my life? fine, dont listen to me and seans aggressive ways and go run
for your life haha
byeeeeee
if you want to say anything else you know where i live... but maybe you
shouldnt considering how violent we are. (note the sarcasm)
Quoting Megan:
> Hey leila and roommates, I am gonna respond to this email kind of line by
> line so its easier for you to follow what I am about to write. and although
> what i am writing might be better with talking, i don't think i would be
> able to get it all out without crying or shaking. and i believe this is a
> roommate matter and it is impossible to get everyone together.
>
> Last night was ridiculous. What happened with Chloe's friend lifting up
>> my skirt, grabbing my ass and untying my shirt in the middle of the
>> house in front of everyone was completely disrespectful, uncalled for,
>> and a complete shock to me.
>
>
> YES THIS WAS DISRESPECTFUL. THE GUY ACTUALLY WAS DOING THAT TO ME EARLIER,
> STROKING MY LEGS AND ARMS AND GRABBING ME, AND LANI TOLD ME HE KEPT BRUSHING
> UP AGAINST HER CHEST ON PURPOSE. SO IT WAS NOT A SHOCK TO ME THAT HE DID
> THAT TO YOU. I TOLD HIM TO STOP, AND HE STOPPED.
>
> What was an even bigger shock to me was the
>> reaction of my roommates who I thought would have stood behind me a
>> little bit more. Chloe, you came up to me laughing asking what was
>> wrong, already aware of what had happened.
>
>
> I AM SURE CHLOE DID NOT MEAN TO LAUGH IF SHE DID, HONESTLY WHEN ANYTHING
> WEIRD AND AWKWARD HAPPENS WHEN I AM DRUNK I LAUGH BECAUSE I AM NERVOUS IF
> ANYTHING. I WOULD NOT TAKE OFFENSE TO THAT. VERBAL FIGHTS ARE CRAZY.
>
>> Lani, you kept telling me to
>> calm down and to relax. Relax? Would you have been able to be calm and
>> relaxed if that would have happened to you? Meg, you just stood there.
>
>
> ACTUALLY, YOU ARE MISTAKEN, I DID NOT JUST STAND THERE, BECAUSE DURING THIS
> QUARREL I WAS IN MY ROOM WITH MY FRIEND THAT JUST CAME IN THE DOOR. WHEN I
> CAME DOWN, EVERYONE WAS STANDING FAR FROM THE BAR AND LANI TOLD ME WHAT HAD
> HAPPENED, THAT THINGS GOT OUT OF HAND BUT THE GUY HAD ALREADY LEFT WHICH WAS
> GOOD. I HAD NO REASON TO SAY ANYTHING TO YOU GUYS, FIRST BECAUSE I DIDN'T
> WITNESS THE CONFRONTATION AND YOU AND SEAN WERE PRETTY HEATED UP, BUT IT IS
> SAD YOU FELT I JUST STOOD THERE.
>
>>
>> Lani and Meg, I understand that you might have been shocked and not
>> known what to do, but anyone of my friends from home would have been
>> there to at least ask me what happened and have the guy leave and not
>> look at me like I was insane for getting upset.
>
>
> ONCE AGAIN, I AM GLAD THE GUY DID LEAVE, FROM MY UNDERSTANDING EVERYONE
> (INCLUDING CHLOE) WANTED HIM TO LEAVE BECAUSE OF HOW YOU FELT, AND HE LEFT
> PRETTY QUICKLY FROM WHAT I WAS TOLD! SO I DON'T KNOW WHY THERE WERE PROBLEMS
> BEYOND THAT.
>
>
>> Chloe, I am fairly sure
>> you had somewhat of a part in it judging by how hilarious you thought
>> it was.
>
>
> I AM REALLY CONFUSED AS TO WHY YOU THINK CHLOE HAD A PART IN THIS. WHY WOULD
> SHE TELL SOMEONE TO GRAB YOUR ASS. HE WAS GRABBING EVERYONE. HONESTLY AS
> MUCH AS CHLOE IS A CONFIDENT PERSON, I BELIEVE THERE IS A BIT OF FEAR WITH
> HER AND YOU BECAUSE YOU CLEARLY HATE HER FOR ANYTHING SHE SAYS OR DOES. WE
> ALL HAVE PARTS THAT ARE ANNOYING TO EVERYONE BUT ITS NO REASON TO FIND FAULT
> IN EVERYTHING.
>
>
>> If the situation was reversed and it was my friend that did
>> that to you, I would have made them leave right away. Instead, the only
>> person who was there to stand up for me was Sean. And you really should
>> all thank Sean for not fighting that guy and making the party even
>> worse than what it was, even as Chloe's friends were telling him that
>> her friends are the kind of guys "who smash bottles on people's heads
>> when they're not looking"? are these really the kind of people we want
>> in our house?
>>
>
> FROM THE SOUND OF IT I THINK SEAN IS ALLOWED TO STICK UP FOR YOU, BUT I
> THINK IT CAN BE DONE WITHOUT SO MUCH ANGER, VOLUME, AND VULGARITY.
>
>>
>> I am sure that if this happened to any of you, and if you had a
>> boyfriend that was there, he would have reacted in the same way if not
>> worse.
>>
>
> I HONESTLY HAVE NEVER MET ANYONE EXCEPT FOR THE TWO OF YOU WHO WOULD REACT
> IN THAT WAY. YOU SEEM TO THINK THIS IS NORMAL. I FIND IT MORE FRIGHTENING
> THAN SOMEONE GRABBING MY ASS.
>
> This was a blatant attempt to start a fight it is not
>> acceptable.
>
>
> WHY WOULD ANYONE WANT TO START A FIGHT. THEY WERE JUST THERE TO HAVE FUN.
> THEY ARE ALL ACTUALLY REALLY FUNNY GUYS, AND THIS GUY JUST HAPPENED TO MAKE
> SOME DUMB CHOICES, I DON'T KNOW HOW HE REACTED TO YOU WHEN YOU ASKED HIM TO
> LEAVE.
>
> I do not want people like this in my house as I do not feel
>> safe and when these people are threatening my boyfriend, I left to
>> prevent any further problems because Chloe's friends would not stop
>> harassing me or Sean.
>
>
> I THINK THEIR FRIENDS WERE OK WITH HIM LEAVING, THEY UNDERSTOOD. THEY DIDN'T
> WANT TO START TROUBLE.
>
>
>> Furthermore when these guys are looking to start
>> trouble and show up in massive groups as Chloe's friends were
>> yesterday, I can only imagine what could happen to the house or any of
>> us for that matter. It was clear that there is an obvious lack of
>> respect for women as nobody in the house seemed to think what happened
>> was wrong, with the exception of Bui and Mark.
>
>
> A LACK OF RESPECT FOR WOMEN??????? ARE YOU KIDDING ME LEILA, DO YOU THINK WE
> HAVE A LACK OF RESPECT FOR WOMEN, THAT GUY DID!!! AND WHAT REALLY OFFENDS ME
> IS, FROM WHAT I HEAR, IS THAT YOU CALLED CHLOE A CUNT WHEN YOU WERE YELLING
> AT HER LAST NIGHT. I OFTEN HEAR YOU USE THAT WORD, AS WELL AS SEAN, AND I
> FIND THAT DISRESPECTFUL AND NAUSEATING.
>
>
>> If this were to happen
>> again, and I had guys show up in massive groups, drunk, aggressive and
>> looking to start fights it would not be acceptable or a good scene. I
>> don't want insincere apologies or excuses because what's done is done,
>> and I see where we stand as friends and roommates.
>
>
> I HAVE NO APOLOGIES FOR THE WAY THINGS HAPPENED, NOT ONLY BECAUSE I HAD NO
> RIGHT TO BE INVOLVED AT THE TIME, BUT BECAUSE I DON'T EVEN UNDERSTAND WHERE
> WE STAND AS ROOMMATES TO BEGIN WITH. WE DON'T HANG OUT, AND I DON'T THINK
> YOU SINCERELY CARE ABOUT WHATS GOING ON IN MY LIFE, JUST AS I AT THIS POINT
> DON'T REALLY CARE ABOUT WHATS GOING ON WITH YOUR LIFE.
>
> This is an attempt
>> to show you how angry I am over this situation and I will not be
>> dealing with this anymore and will take whatever steps I need to ensure
>> that this or anything like it never happens again.
>
>
> I AM CONFUSED AS TO WHAT STEPS YOU NEED TO TAKE. I FIND YOUR BEHAVIOR, AS
> WELL AS SEANS, MORE AGRESSIVE AND THREATENING ON A DAY TO DAY BASIS THAN
> WHAT HAPPENED LAST NIGHT. BUT I BELIEVE I TOLD THAT TO YOU A WHILE BACK WHEN
> YOU CONFRONTED ME ABOUT A NOTE ABOUT CLEANING DISHES. I TOLD YOU THAT THE
> WAY YOU TALK (WITH SEAN, AND THE WAY HE TALKS TO YOU) IS SCARY. I HOPE THAT
> IT DOES NOT HAVE TO BE DIFFICULT TO LIVE WITH YOU, AND FOR YOU WITH ME,
> UNTIL YOU MOVE OUT AND WE GO OUR SEPARATE WAYS, THESE LIVING SITUATIONS ARE
> NEVER PERFECT AND I AM FINE WITH BEING CORDIAL TO YOU, WHICH I ALWAYS HAVE
> BEEN. BUT WE ARE NOT FRIENDS.
>
> -MEGAN
>
> On Sun, Mar 2, 2008 at 6:11 PM, Leila wrote:
>
>> Last night was ridiculous. What happened with Chloe's friend lifting up
>> my skirt, grabbing my ass and untying my shirt in the middle of the
>> house in front of everyone was completely disrespectful, uncalled for,
>> and a complete shock to me. What was an even bigger shock to me was the
>> reaction of my roommates who I thought would have stood behind me a
>> little bit more. Chloe, you came up to me laughing asking what was
>> wrong, already aware of what had happened. Lani, you kept telling me to
>> calm down and to relax. Relax? Would you have been able to be calm and
>> relaxed if that would have happened to you? Meg, you just stood there.
>> Lani and Meg, I understand that you might have been shocked and not
>> known what to do, but anyone of my friends from home would have been
>> there to at least ask me what happened and have the guy leave and not
>> look at me like I was insane for getting upset. Chloe, I am fairly sure
>> you had somewhat of a part in it judging by how hilarious you thought
>> it was. If the situation was reversed and it was my friend that did
>> that to you, I would have made them leave right away. Instead, the only
>> person who was there to stand up for me was Sean. And you really should
>> all thank Sean for not fighting that guy and making the party even
>> worse than what it was, even as Chloe's friends were telling him that
>> her friends are the kind of guys "who smash bottles on people's heads
>> when they're not looking"? are these really the kind of people we want
>> in our house?
>>
>> I am sure that if this happened to any of you, and if you had a
>> boyfriend that was there, he would have reacted in the same way if not
>> worse. This was a blatant attempt to start a fight it is not
>> acceptable. I do not want people like this in my house as I do not feel
>> safe and when these people are threatening my boyfriend, I left to
>> prevent any further problems because Chloe's friends would not stop
>> harassing me or Sean. Furthermore when these guys are looking to start
>> trouble and show up in massive groups as Chloe's friends were
>> yesterday, I can only imagine what could happen to the house or any of
>> us for that matter. It was clear that there is an obvious lack of
>> respect for women as nobody in the house seemed to think what happened
>> was wrong, with the exception of Bui and Mark. If this were to happen
>> again, and I had guys show up in massive groups, drunk, aggressive and
>> looking to start fights it would not be acceptable or a good scene. I
>> don't want insincere apologies or excuses because what's done is done,
>> and I see where we stand as friends and roommates. This is an attempt
>> to show you how angry I am over this situation and I will not be
>> dealing with this anymore and will take whatever steps I need to ensure
>> that this or anything like it never happens again.
>>
Tuesday, March 04, 2008
Other Careers Worth Pursuing
Today was one of those days at work... the one where you suffer some sort of mental breakdown and have the urge to shove a variety of office supplies in your eyeball. I am currently reevaluating my strengths in an attempt to consider some of the following other career options.
1. Motivational Speaker. I am incredibly motivational. (Most School Spirit, Falmouth High School class of 2002). Just ask Roomie #1, currently on the master cleanse and getting some serious pep talks every day.
2. Self Help Book writer. I love to play shrink. This is also heavily connected to be motivational. Maybe I can combine the two fields and become some motivating therapist guru for the people.
3. Blogger. Already do that--not making any money. (Hint, hint: tell people you know in positions of wealth to read the blog and find friends to invest in the blog and then give me money for the blog). You know, if this became successful then I could be like all the other pretentious writers in LA and sit at a coffee shop down the street (Coffee Bean over Starbucks, bien sur) with my Apple MacBook (obv) and tip tap away while listening to bands you've never heard of from places like Norway or Detroit.
4. Yoga Instructor. I've noticed that yoga teachers often don't actually do yoga while teaching. It's a lot of speaking with a calm voice and talking about finding the union between the mind and body and all sorts of zen bullshit.
5. Exotic Dancer.
6. Waitress. As tempting as it is to return to the industry where every night at any restaurant would make for a great reality television show--gossip, alcohol, drugs, hook ups, and mutiny included--it's probably not the best idea for me. I lasted about a month at my last waitressing job and took a ten day vacation in the middle of that to go to Bonnaroo. You can definitely make some serious cash in this job, sadly more than I make now probably, but the skills gained aren't so worthwhile (besides learning how to carry three plates on one hand, which I actually did earlier today).
7. Drug Dealer. I don't really have any great leads on how to make this happen, and the only prescriptions I have to share are Zyrtec or Orthotricylcin. So unless people are really itching for some allergy relief or can't enough of that pregnancy-stopping stuff, I got nothing.
8. Dog walker. I would love to walk dogs for a living. How great would that be! Actually I think it would be terribly heart-wrenching when at the end of each day I would be reminded that I do not own any dogs and am solely responsible for exercising their legs and cleaning up their poo in public places.
9. Ski bum. At the moment, this seems like the only feasible choice. Despite the fact that I would probably get sucked into years of only caring about how many inches of snow fell the previous night or which lodge is better to eat lunch at to avoid the midday crowds, chances are high I would be happy and have some incredibly strong leg muscles and a high tolerance for cold weather. Not a week goes by that I don't longingly think about how sweet life would be if I just skiied all the time. Unrealistic and ultimately unfulfilling, I will just have to settle on infrequent ski vacations for now.
10. Assistant to a Hollywood Agent. Oh wait, I already do this. No comment.
1. Motivational Speaker. I am incredibly motivational. (Most School Spirit, Falmouth High School class of 2002). Just ask Roomie #1, currently on the master cleanse and getting some serious pep talks every day.
2. Self Help Book writer. I love to play shrink. This is also heavily connected to be motivational. Maybe I can combine the two fields and become some motivating therapist guru for the people.
3. Blogger. Already do that--not making any money. (Hint, hint: tell people you know in positions of wealth to read the blog and find friends to invest in the blog and then give me money for the blog). You know, if this became successful then I could be like all the other pretentious writers in LA and sit at a coffee shop down the street (Coffee Bean over Starbucks, bien sur) with my Apple MacBook (obv) and tip tap away while listening to bands you've never heard of from places like Norway or Detroit.
4. Yoga Instructor. I've noticed that yoga teachers often don't actually do yoga while teaching. It's a lot of speaking with a calm voice and talking about finding the union between the mind and body and all sorts of zen bullshit.
5. Exotic Dancer.
6. Waitress. As tempting as it is to return to the industry where every night at any restaurant would make for a great reality television show--gossip, alcohol, drugs, hook ups, and mutiny included--it's probably not the best idea for me. I lasted about a month at my last waitressing job and took a ten day vacation in the middle of that to go to Bonnaroo. You can definitely make some serious cash in this job, sadly more than I make now probably, but the skills gained aren't so worthwhile (besides learning how to carry three plates on one hand, which I actually did earlier today).
7. Drug Dealer. I don't really have any great leads on how to make this happen, and the only prescriptions I have to share are Zyrtec or Orthotricylcin. So unless people are really itching for some allergy relief or can't enough of that pregnancy-stopping stuff, I got nothing.
8. Dog walker. I would love to walk dogs for a living. How great would that be! Actually I think it would be terribly heart-wrenching when at the end of each day I would be reminded that I do not own any dogs and am solely responsible for exercising their legs and cleaning up their poo in public places.
9. Ski bum. At the moment, this seems like the only feasible choice. Despite the fact that I would probably get sucked into years of only caring about how many inches of snow fell the previous night or which lodge is better to eat lunch at to avoid the midday crowds, chances are high I would be happy and have some incredibly strong leg muscles and a high tolerance for cold weather. Not a week goes by that I don't longingly think about how sweet life would be if I just skiied all the time. Unrealistic and ultimately unfulfilling, I will just have to settle on infrequent ski vacations for now.
10. Assistant to a Hollywood Agent. Oh wait, I already do this. No comment.
Monday, March 03, 2008
Fanaticism at its finest...
Rather than give my own rundown on the Grey's Anatomy/Private Practice concert benefit I went to on Friday (where the casts of both shows performed a musical review to benefit crew members affected by the strike), I am going to direct you to a full, dead-on synopsis courtesy of Entertainment Weekly. (I'm lazy).
Instead, my recap of the night is going to fully exploit my dear friend and roommate... That's right, Roomie #1. (Apologies in advance).
I've mentioned #1's love for Grey's before, and this evening with the case certainly displayed the extent of her fanaticism. We went with two of our other friends, and found out that contrary to what we'd previously assumed, the seating was not general admission. Well that didn't matter for #1 because she was sitting in the front row. She was so close to that stage that after the show she was able to disclose who had good skin (most everyone) and who didn't (Ellen Pompeo, apparently). It would appear that #1 was the very first person to purchase a ticket for the event because she literally was in the first seat. Or, as it eventually became, she was seated in the Grey's Anatomy Outreach for Mentally Challenged people seat(s). The other three of us, ignored our given seat assignments and found a chunk of seats just far enough behind #1 that we could keep our distance in preparation for the inevitable freak out.
And that freak-out came. During intermission, Roomie #1 walks over to us and I swear to God, the girl had lost her shit. Was completely bonkers and happy and blabbering away like a fool, telling everyone how thrilled she was, mentioned sweating at one point, and the fact that she just couldn't stop talking (at a mile a minute, too). The best part was that we were several seats into the row and she was screaming over a small gaggle of folks to share this information, including Kristin Dos Santos of E! who was having a conversation with my other friend about the campaign to save Friday Night Lights. At one point #1 started talking about how this was SUCH a natural high and how OH HOW could she feel this way again (I thought about recommending drugs, but decided against it, considering her current state)!!!! I held onto her hand at one point to discover she was in fact shaking. Shaking with excitement and complete fan-happy tears! It was brilliant! The lights blinked and she calmed down enough to deliriously make her way back to her seat for the second act.
When the performance was over and the lights were up, we slowly made our way out of the theater, and Roomie #1 was keeping it cool... or cooler at least, although I could tell she was close to bursting yet again. Sure enough we get into the car and she starts screaming at the top of her lungs. She isn't just screaming your standard squeal of AHH, oh no, it was much, much better.
I SHIT MYSELF! I SHIT MYSELF!
Of course, she didn't actually shit herself, but apparently this was the only expression of words to truly convey her feelings.
In all, the show was great and I definitely enjoyed getting to do something like that, it really was a one-time thing. The best part of the evening was watching my roommate freak out however. I probably would have paid some good money just to see her do that for 2 hours.
As an addendum, today the company that sold the tickets for the event sent out a survey asking how we would rate the performance. In my opinion, it should have read as follows:
Instead, my recap of the night is going to fully exploit my dear friend and roommate... That's right, Roomie #1. (Apologies in advance).
I've mentioned #1's love for Grey's before, and this evening with the case certainly displayed the extent of her fanaticism. We went with two of our other friends, and found out that contrary to what we'd previously assumed, the seating was not general admission. Well that didn't matter for #1 because she was sitting in the front row. She was so close to that stage that after the show she was able to disclose who had good skin (most everyone) and who didn't (Ellen Pompeo, apparently). It would appear that #1 was the very first person to purchase a ticket for the event because she literally was in the first seat. Or, as it eventually became, she was seated in the Grey's Anatomy Outreach for Mentally Challenged people seat(s). The other three of us, ignored our given seat assignments and found a chunk of seats just far enough behind #1 that we could keep our distance in preparation for the inevitable freak out.
And that freak-out came. During intermission, Roomie #1 walks over to us and I swear to God, the girl had lost her shit. Was completely bonkers and happy and blabbering away like a fool, telling everyone how thrilled she was, mentioned sweating at one point, and the fact that she just couldn't stop talking (at a mile a minute, too). The best part was that we were several seats into the row and she was screaming over a small gaggle of folks to share this information, including Kristin Dos Santos of E! who was having a conversation with my other friend about the campaign to save Friday Night Lights. At one point #1 started talking about how this was SUCH a natural high and how OH HOW could she feel this way again (I thought about recommending drugs, but decided against it, considering her current state)!!!! I held onto her hand at one point to discover she was in fact shaking. Shaking with excitement and complete fan-happy tears! It was brilliant! The lights blinked and she calmed down enough to deliriously make her way back to her seat for the second act.
When the performance was over and the lights were up, we slowly made our way out of the theater, and Roomie #1 was keeping it cool... or cooler at least, although I could tell she was close to bursting yet again. Sure enough we get into the car and she starts screaming at the top of her lungs. She isn't just screaming your standard squeal of AHH, oh no, it was much, much better.
I SHIT MYSELF! I SHIT MYSELF!
Of course, she didn't actually shit herself, but apparently this was the only expression of words to truly convey her feelings.
In all, the show was great and I definitely enjoyed getting to do something like that, it really was a one-time thing. The best part of the evening was watching my roommate freak out however. I probably would have paid some good money just to see her do that for 2 hours.
As an addendum, today the company that sold the tickets for the event sent out a survey asking how we would rate the performance. In my opinion, it should have read as follows:
Did you enjoy Good Medicine? Please rate your experience on a scale of one to five:
(1) I shit myself
(2) I pissed myself
(3) I blacked out
(4) I think I've been drugged
(5) I was distracted by Katherine Heigl's teeth
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