So I was just reading this article about an algae bloom off the coast of China, in waters intended for Olympic events this July, and I can't help but notice another reference to the extreme pollution in China, and the problems this is creating for the upcoming Summer Olympics. I also heard a little while ago that Olympic runners have been training for these Olympics by running behind buses, to inhale gas fumes, to better prepare themselves for the air condition.
Here's a thought... did anyone, at any point, say "Hmm.... Beijing, eh? Maybe not such a good idea for the most prestigious and challenging sporting event in the world?"
Nope. It would appear no one said this. (Nor did anyone say,
Hmm China, helping to keep millions of people dying in Darfur every day.)
Because who doesn't love inhaling exhaust fumes.
Monday, June 30, 2008
Friday, June 27, 2008
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Free Association
Friends.
Countrymen.
Romans.
What's up? I am braindead. Seriously. I have nothing of any interest or relevance or worthiness to share. Nothing. As I type I am trying to think of things... hmmm... nope, no nothing.
Okay free association...
I want to throw a party for myself. Yes, I am self-involved. No but really. It's fun to throw parties for yourself. You get to control the when, the where, and most importantly--the who (or in my case I tend to invite everyone I know). And if it works, it's just oh so wonderful. I just need an occasion...
It's funny I was just thinking about all the informal meetings and various interviews I have been on during my time in LA, or while I've been in the real world. I think the only time I have ever worn a suit on an interview was actually when I was still in college and I was applying to a very large PR agency. That's something that I have always marveled at with LA. Every interview I have ever been on, I've almost always been more dressed up then the person interviewing me. I love that about this city. New Yokers--take note. Things are better when it's business casual (I should needle point that onto a pillow).
When I was studying abroad in Switzerland, all over the country, no matter what city you were in, you could always find a fountain in the middle of the street with potable water. And it was the freshest, coldest, most naturally delicious water. I miss waiting for the train to head to school and filling up my water bottle at the station near my house. I love fresh, cold water. Well, duh, who doesn't... but there is something remarkable about spring water. And I am probably romanticizing fountains in Switzerland. I mean life is pretty damn fantastic when you are studying abroad.
After this weekend I better understood why so many Los Angelenos spend their weekends hanging out by pools and not at the beach. Sure the beaches here are vast and huge and you can almost always spot some dolphins swimming, but they are also riddled with pollution. Santa Monica Bay is especially disgusting. And it's a ridiculous trek to the water's edge. Like, really, must the sand extend for that many feet until it meets the ocean? I feel like someone told me that the beaches are partially artificial and someone dumped a lot of that sand there. In my opinion, terrible idea.
The new Coldplay album is currently on repeat in my brain. Yes, I listen to Coldplay and I love it and all those snobs who think if you like Coldplay you are gay (per The 40 Year Virgin) can just shut up because, admit it, everyone likes Coldplay.
This time next week I will be in Martha's Vineyard. California, I love you, but my oh my I have missed the East Coast and it will be a long overdue homecoming.
All I got for now. It's been a long week.
Countrymen.
Romans.
What's up? I am braindead. Seriously. I have nothing of any interest or relevance or worthiness to share. Nothing. As I type I am trying to think of things... hmmm... nope, no nothing.
Okay free association...
I want to throw a party for myself. Yes, I am self-involved. No but really. It's fun to throw parties for yourself. You get to control the when, the where, and most importantly--the who (or in my case I tend to invite everyone I know). And if it works, it's just oh so wonderful. I just need an occasion...
It's funny I was just thinking about all the informal meetings and various interviews I have been on during my time in LA, or while I've been in the real world. I think the only time I have ever worn a suit on an interview was actually when I was still in college and I was applying to a very large PR agency. That's something that I have always marveled at with LA. Every interview I have ever been on, I've almost always been more dressed up then the person interviewing me. I love that about this city. New Yokers--take note. Things are better when it's business casual (I should needle point that onto a pillow).
When I was studying abroad in Switzerland, all over the country, no matter what city you were in, you could always find a fountain in the middle of the street with potable water. And it was the freshest, coldest, most naturally delicious water. I miss waiting for the train to head to school and filling up my water bottle at the station near my house. I love fresh, cold water. Well, duh, who doesn't... but there is something remarkable about spring water. And I am probably romanticizing fountains in Switzerland. I mean life is pretty damn fantastic when you are studying abroad.
After this weekend I better understood why so many Los Angelenos spend their weekends hanging out by pools and not at the beach. Sure the beaches here are vast and huge and you can almost always spot some dolphins swimming, but they are also riddled with pollution. Santa Monica Bay is especially disgusting. And it's a ridiculous trek to the water's edge. Like, really, must the sand extend for that many feet until it meets the ocean? I feel like someone told me that the beaches are partially artificial and someone dumped a lot of that sand there. In my opinion, terrible idea.
The new Coldplay album is currently on repeat in my brain. Yes, I listen to Coldplay and I love it and all those snobs who think if you like Coldplay you are gay (per The 40 Year Virgin) can just shut up because, admit it, everyone likes Coldplay.
This time next week I will be in Martha's Vineyard. California, I love you, but my oh my I have missed the East Coast and it will be a long overdue homecoming.
All I got for now. It's been a long week.
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Politics + Alcohol = George W. Bush?
Looking for an outlet to combine a love for alcoholic beverages and the oratory stylings of Barack Obama? Look no further! Here's the perfect solution.
Single Tear
I'm shedding a tear right now. Yes, just one. I only have one for this. I missed the premiere of I Survived a Japanese Gameshow. This is upsetting, and warrants that small drip of saline from my inner eye. I had finally found a ridiculously stupid reality show I was looking forward to, and gosh darnit I missed it! As I mentioned in another post, I love stupid humor, and stupid things--they can be funny! Stupid things make me laugh! Because they are oh so stupid and yet oh so funny. Especially stupid Japanese games and stupid Americans. What a combo!
I guess I'll be able to watch next week? Nope, I'll be on a plane. Thank goodness for the internet.
I guess I'll be able to watch next week? Nope, I'll be on a plane. Thank goodness for the internet.
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Dandelion!
A friend just sent me the link to this innovative website, where you can blow on a dandelion. I realize that sounds very odd, but just do it.
Strangely, when I first clicked on the site, I had that lovely childlike sensation one gets when blowing on the fragile fuzzies of a dandelion. Weird, because it was all virtual. But it was still exciting.
And then I remembered I am sitting at a cubicle in an office where I cannot see out a window, and wouldn't it be nice to blow on a real dandelion? Hey, that's what weekends are for!
No for SERIOUS people... God bless the internet and for smart people and all those interwebs technologies for bringing me things like a whimsical virtual dandelion.
And MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!
(I don't know, I'm in an odd mood at the moment...)
Strangely, when I first clicked on the site, I had that lovely childlike sensation one gets when blowing on the fragile fuzzies of a dandelion. Weird, because it was all virtual. But it was still exciting.
And then I remembered I am sitting at a cubicle in an office where I cannot see out a window, and wouldn't it be nice to blow on a real dandelion? Hey, that's what weekends are for!
No for SERIOUS people... God bless the internet and for smart people and all those interwebs technologies for bringing me things like a whimsical virtual dandelion.
And MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!
(I don't know, I'm in an odd mood at the moment...)
Say It Ain't So
Could it be true? Is an Arrested Development movie in the works?
I just blue myself.
P.S. As much as I love IMDB, I'll believe it when I read it in Variety. Or some other reputable source. Until then it's probably just wishful thinking. Maeby? Definitely.
Update
Defamer is reporting that Michael Bluth himself has confirmed the movie. By GOB, it's true!
I just blue myself.
P.S. As much as I love IMDB, I'll believe it when I read it in Variety. Or some other reputable source. Until then it's probably just wishful thinking. Maeby? Definitely.
Update
Defamer is reporting that Michael Bluth himself has confirmed the movie. By GOB, it's true!
Monday, June 23, 2008
The Truth Is Out There (In 5 Weeks)
Okay so you know how I always talk about how I am a huge geek and a loser and a tool and love sci-fi and fantasy, etc etc etc? Well, last night I was safely reassured I am far, (we're talking miles) from being a true fangirl geek. You know what, it feels pretty great to suddenly know that I am an obsessed fan, but I'm not one of those fans. (See photo below). I mean, I'm pretty normal as far as the normal scale goes, like to think I am up on the trends, and what it is the cool kids are into these days, and I just happen to become obsessed with various things on the side. I mean, I' m no hot Hollywood insider, and I'm by no means a hipster, even though I will wear a belt around a big tee shirt and call it a dress.
Where was I? RIGHT, last night. Last night I dragged my brother with me to the LA Film Festival's "Sneak Peak, The X-Files: I Want to Believe" at the lovely Majestic Crest theater in Westwood. We got to the theater a little under an hour early, thinking we would hang in Borders or something until we'd go in. Well we get there and the line is around the corner. As we approach the throng of people, I start noticing all the X-Files t-shirts and hear snippets of conversation like "hey did you see that girl we met in San Diego [insert--at Comic Con] was at the front of the line?" or "Chris Carter should be in politics he's so good at evading questions." Let me tell you something, those long lingering X-Files fanatics are a bunch of eager beavers. A lot of women too. They all love that David Duchovny.
Ah yes, David Duchovny--the man, the myth, the monotone. I am not going to lie, he's fantastic. Very funny, smart, entertaining. Totally worth dealing with the crazy fans to watch him and writer/director/creator Chris Carter interact and talk about shooting the film.
Anyway, we watched two clips from the film that revealed slim to nothing about the plot, and then listened to Carter and Producer Frank Spotnitz avoid answering any questions that gave anything away. They are really crazy about keeping this movie under wraps. I respect that, but at the same time, I can't help but wonder, who else besides longtime fans are going to go see the new film? I guess because it's being pegged as a stand-alone thriller movie, it could appeal to a lot of people. It doesn't sound like there's much nostalgia in it either. In any case, it's about five weeks until the movie is out and it's doubtful that any juicy information will leak before then.
In sum, it was fun and my brother was a trooper for coming with me. We both suffered a lot of second-hand embarrassment during the whole Q & A section (X-Files fans lack social awareness, which should come as no surprise) and couldn't take the over-eager female fans much longer, but it was interesting and entertaining, and as I said--very reassuring. I am nowhere near the loser I was concerned I might be (no offense to all those fans, I respect your level of commitment!). I also realized I could never last a day at Comic Con, at least not as fan. I just wouldn't belong. Last night I had a lot of trouble not laughing in people's faces. Especially the chick with the Yoda backpack. Here's the thing--I might be a huge dork, but I'm totally self-aware, and as much as I think I am fully embracing my geek side, it will never be the extent of any of those other crazies in the crowd last night. God bless 'em.
Oh and this guy was standing in front of me in line:
Where was I? RIGHT, last night. Last night I dragged my brother with me to the LA Film Festival's "Sneak Peak, The X-Files: I Want to Believe" at the lovely Majestic Crest theater in Westwood. We got to the theater a little under an hour early, thinking we would hang in Borders or something until we'd go in. Well we get there and the line is around the corner. As we approach the throng of people, I start noticing all the X-Files t-shirts and hear snippets of conversation like "hey did you see that girl we met in San Diego [insert--at Comic Con] was at the front of the line?" or "Chris Carter should be in politics he's so good at evading questions." Let me tell you something, those long lingering X-Files fanatics are a bunch of eager beavers. A lot of women too. They all love that David Duchovny.
Ah yes, David Duchovny--the man, the myth, the monotone. I am not going to lie, he's fantastic. Very funny, smart, entertaining. Totally worth dealing with the crazy fans to watch him and writer/director/creator Chris Carter interact and talk about shooting the film.
Anyway, we watched two clips from the film that revealed slim to nothing about the plot, and then listened to Carter and Producer Frank Spotnitz avoid answering any questions that gave anything away. They are really crazy about keeping this movie under wraps. I respect that, but at the same time, I can't help but wonder, who else besides longtime fans are going to go see the new film? I guess because it's being pegged as a stand-alone thriller movie, it could appeal to a lot of people. It doesn't sound like there's much nostalgia in it either. In any case, it's about five weeks until the movie is out and it's doubtful that any juicy information will leak before then.
In sum, it was fun and my brother was a trooper for coming with me. We both suffered a lot of second-hand embarrassment during the whole Q & A section (X-Files fans lack social awareness, which should come as no surprise) and couldn't take the over-eager female fans much longer, but it was interesting and entertaining, and as I said--very reassuring. I am nowhere near the loser I was concerned I might be (no offense to all those fans, I respect your level of commitment!). I also realized I could never last a day at Comic Con, at least not as fan. I just wouldn't belong. Last night I had a lot of trouble not laughing in people's faces. Especially the chick with the Yoda backpack. Here's the thing--I might be a huge dork, but I'm totally self-aware, and as much as I think I am fully embracing my geek side, it will never be the extent of any of those other crazies in the crowd last night. God bless 'em.
Oh and this guy was standing in front of me in line:
Goals
Good morning dudes and dudettes, I've got a new goal to share with you all. This one is especially California of me:
Learn how to surf.
Yesterday, for the first time in my life I got on a surf board. It was fun. Really fun. So much fun, in fact, that I never actually stood up (or came all that close to standing up) but holy smokes did I enjoy myself. My brother's a surfer and while I was out frolicking in the big waves at the beach yesterday he let me get on the board and started to teach me a little bit about how to surf. So now I'm hooked. That's going to be my little summer activity... surfing.
Learn how to surf.
Yesterday, for the first time in my life I got on a surf board. It was fun. Really fun. So much fun, in fact, that I never actually stood up (or came all that close to standing up) but holy smokes did I enjoy myself. My brother's a surfer and while I was out frolicking in the big waves at the beach yesterday he let me get on the board and started to teach me a little bit about how to surf. So now I'm hooked. That's going to be my little summer activity... surfing.
Friday, June 20, 2008
Family Guy Friday
Because I am feeling in the mood for a whole lot of Peter Griffin (and who doesn't love a mustache?), here's my favorite Family Guy episode of late. Also, after seeing Helen Hunt in person, she's actually pretty fantastic (but Peter's rejection is hilarious... "No. Nooooooooooo. Nooooo."
Can I be your nanny?
This morning while stopping at the Brentwood Country Mart for a cup of coffee, I decided to forgo the usual Starbucks or its neighbor Le Pain Quotidien (that's Han Solo's coffee shop du jour) and try out the City Bakery, which is in institution back in New York (especially for it's magically rich hot chocolate). While walking in I notice a very pretty mom getting her adorable daughter of the car, not giving the pair much further thought while I wandered into the restaurant/shop. I browsed some of the juice selections then made my way over to the counter to order and notice this adorable mom was actually Helen Hunt and her daughter. They were the most precious little duo ever. The daughter was a peach, full of energy and really excited about her morning pastry. Ms. Hunt seemed really nice and normal and on my way out I passed them sitting on a picnic table outside and it was honestly the perfect portrait of a mother and a daughter. I really wanted to walk up to them and say, "Hi. Can I get in on this happy bubble? Do you need a nanny? Because I make squatters at my current job and could use a burst of whatever sort of happy juice you folks are drinking." But nope, didn't say any of that. Kind of like the time I imagined I accidentally hit Harrison Ford's car and while crying and telling him I was REALLY stressed he offered me a really high-paying job with some great hours and benefits. See the one I should really hope I get a random job offer from is Spielberg... maybe next time.
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Huh?
I might have been imagining it but the entire drive to work this morning I was trailing a woman in a fuschia windbreaker vest driving a turquoise Vespa. She was wearing white pants and white slip-on sneakers and a pink helmet that strangely clashed with the vest. The entire time she was in front of me her left blinker remained on yet she never moved into the left lane.
It was odd.
It was odd.
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Something Delicious For Under $1!
Hey friends, are you strapped for cash like me? Last night, whilst I pumped gas to a total fee of $56 I was happy. Yes, happy. Why? Because in my hand was a lovely McDonald's Ice Cream Cone, Chocolate Dipped, that I had just purchased for a mere 96 cents.
That's right, I eat at McDonald's. For the occasional treat--I will stop at this fast food behemoth and splurge (but not with my wallet) on a milkshake or vanilla cone. It's delectable, delicious, yes--it's delovely. The milkshakes sometimes make me feel sick and the syrup in the hot fudge sundaes can be chemically sweet, but the vanilla cone is just right. Last night I discovered the chocolate dip which is a lot like that Magic Shell stuff you can by in the store (only better). It totally satisfied my dessert craving, was a nice smaller size, and was less than $1. Nice to know that these days you can still find good stuff for under $1. Yes, at McDonald's you get the bang for your buck. And that makes me happy.
That's right, I eat at McDonald's. For the occasional treat--I will stop at this fast food behemoth and splurge (but not with my wallet) on a milkshake or vanilla cone. It's delectable, delicious, yes--it's delovely. The milkshakes sometimes make me feel sick and the syrup in the hot fudge sundaes can be chemically sweet, but the vanilla cone is just right. Last night I discovered the chocolate dip which is a lot like that Magic Shell stuff you can by in the store (only better). It totally satisfied my dessert craving, was a nice smaller size, and was less than $1. Nice to know that these days you can still find good stuff for under $1. Yes, at McDonald's you get the bang for your buck. And that makes me happy.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Big Tee or Dress Gone Global
I like to think I started the Big Tee/Dress trend, but I have a feeling that we must give credit to some lazy schlub who just didn't feel like putting on pants or a more form-fitting dress back in 1982 or something. (Let's be honest, I am not that original. I am lazy.) Anyway, Rachel Bilson is totally cramping my style. As my friend who found this photo for me said, "bitch is stealing [my] signature move." So true.
Re: Katherine Heigl
New York Magazine agrees. She sucks.
However, I did love 27 Dresses. I'm such a sucker for a crappy rom com.
However, I did love 27 Dresses. I'm such a sucker for a crappy rom com.
Weeds and why YOU should be watching
Weeds, on Showtime, falls into my highly esteemed category of television shows called The Best Show on TV. Yes, I realize I pluralized "show" but as I have a tendency to deliver this title to a select few (others include Battlestar Galactica and Friday Night Lights are the other two that come to mind) I am okay with keeping it singular.
I've watched Weeds since the first season. I remember spending Sundays my senior year of college plowing through a full season in one sitting. It's one of those shows I can watch over and over again, never tiring of subplot, and always surprised by its ingenuity. The writing is especially brilliant on the show, and paired with a perfect cast (Justin Kirk and Kevin Nealon are my favorites) it all feels so fluid, and organic. The fact that it's still strong into its fourth season, even with so many character and plot changes, is further evidence of the high quality of the show. And it's about marijuana. That's kind of awesome. Not awesome in the "duuuuuude, pot" way, but in the way that under a conservative government, and polarizing times, a show about a suburban housewife turned pot dealer has not only survived the airwaves, but has been critically acclaimed and publicly adored.
I'm looking forward to the new season. Last night's premiere was great, one of those moments were you feel like an old friend has come back into town, and wow does it feel nice. I think this season is going to be taking viewers in a new direction, and I have a feeling it's going to get political, with our beloved Nancy Botwin working in drug trafficking along the Mexico border (I guess when those desperate housewives fall, they fall hard). I sense debates about immigration and drug use in the future. And probably some more gems like Andy's season two diatribe on masturbation, which was a brilliantly executed monologue (seriously, go out and rent the DVDs, this is a show you can't miss). And yes, I just applauded a monologue on masturbation.
I've watched Weeds since the first season. I remember spending Sundays my senior year of college plowing through a full season in one sitting. It's one of those shows I can watch over and over again, never tiring of subplot, and always surprised by its ingenuity. The writing is especially brilliant on the show, and paired with a perfect cast (Justin Kirk and Kevin Nealon are my favorites) it all feels so fluid, and organic. The fact that it's still strong into its fourth season, even with so many character and plot changes, is further evidence of the high quality of the show. And it's about marijuana. That's kind of awesome. Not awesome in the "duuuuuude, pot" way, but in the way that under a conservative government, and polarizing times, a show about a suburban housewife turned pot dealer has not only survived the airwaves, but has been critically acclaimed and publicly adored.
I'm looking forward to the new season. Last night's premiere was great, one of those moments were you feel like an old friend has come back into town, and wow does it feel nice. I think this season is going to be taking viewers in a new direction, and I have a feeling it's going to get political, with our beloved Nancy Botwin working in drug trafficking along the Mexico border (I guess when those desperate housewives fall, they fall hard). I sense debates about immigration and drug use in the future. And probably some more gems like Andy's season two diatribe on masturbation, which was a brilliantly executed monologue (seriously, go out and rent the DVDs, this is a show you can't miss). And yes, I just applauded a monologue on masturbation.
Monday, June 16, 2008
Welcome to the Company
A quick one because it's an unexpectedly busy Monday morning...
1. I am awkwardly sunburned. One of the partners told me I either look like I got too much sun or drank too much. Ahh, yes, the beer tan. Hmm... after the game last night maybe it is a little bit of a combo of the two.
2. Our first summer intern has arrived! Training interns BLOWS but holy moly how happy am I? The massive pile of files might go down finally. Of course it is pure chaos when the poor thing gets here. We are talking people screaming, a phone being thrown against a wall, doors slamming. Welcome to the company...
3. Is it really mid-June? Incredible. Time flies... not necessarily when you are having fun, but when you are working a lot, sure.
4. I tried to watch an episode of that show Burn Notice last night, thanks to a screener package sent to work. Pretty meh. Bruce Campbell alert though! I sure love those B-movie sci-fi actors.
5. Booo Lakers.
1. I am awkwardly sunburned. One of the partners told me I either look like I got too much sun or drank too much. Ahh, yes, the beer tan. Hmm... after the game last night maybe it is a little bit of a combo of the two.
2. Our first summer intern has arrived! Training interns BLOWS but holy moly how happy am I? The massive pile of files might go down finally. Of course it is pure chaos when the poor thing gets here. We are talking people screaming, a phone being thrown against a wall, doors slamming. Welcome to the company...
3. Is it really mid-June? Incredible. Time flies... not necessarily when you are having fun, but when you are working a lot, sure.
4. I tried to watch an episode of that show Burn Notice last night, thanks to a screener package sent to work. Pretty meh. Bruce Campbell alert though! I sure love those B-movie sci-fi actors.
5. Booo Lakers.
Saturday, June 14, 2008
Letterman Takes on Speidi
David Letterman is the man.
Spencer is a huge douche.
Watch this hilarious interview.
Spencer is a huge douche.
Watch this hilarious interview.
Friday, June 13, 2008
FOX vs. Obama
Looking for evidence that FOX News is biased? You're stupid. No, sorry, that was rude. But really... just watch a few seconds and you won't be disappointed. They wear their opinions front and center--the news at FOX is less news and more... propaganda.
For example, recently referring to Michelle Obama as Barack's "Baby Mama?" REALLY? Because that doesn't further perpetuate any stereotypes.
Gawker did a lovely exploration of some other FOX News vs. Obama moments. Take a look.
Yes I realize, I am biased... but I don't profess to give you the news, just my arrogant opinions.
For example, recently referring to Michelle Obama as Barack's "Baby Mama?" REALLY? Because that doesn't further perpetuate any stereotypes.
Gawker did a lovely exploration of some other FOX News vs. Obama moments. Take a look.
Yes I realize, I am biased... but I don't profess to give you the news, just my arrogant opinions.
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Thoughts
1. Lakers suck
2. I realize that I never explained why I actually had my jaw wired shut (actually I didn't even have it wired shut, nowadays they use extremely tight rubber bands over the surgical hooks attached to the orthodontics for the procedure) and it was after I had maxillofacial surgery to correct a Class C underbite... or something.
3. I have a problem of staring at people driving the cars on my morning commute. Like every car I pass I will turn to stare at the driver. Creepy or just taking advantage of any people watching I can get?
4. I saw Harrison Ford again this morning and for an older dude, I am not a fan of his earring.
5. I forget what it's like to be in the hot, humid, sticky New York City weather... that's such a great thing. No complaints here.
6. The Sex and the City movie was completely overrated. They should have ended it at the TV show.
7. The best part about working in an office is the water cooler. I LOVE THE WATER COOLER. I want to get one at home. I mean, it's brilliant. For example this morning I was like, "huh, I want to drink some Emergen-C--oh cold water" and then I thought "hmm I could go for some oatmeal right now" and BAM hot water! IT'S GENIUS.
8. Thursday is such a tease...
2. I realize that I never explained why I actually had my jaw wired shut (actually I didn't even have it wired shut, nowadays they use extremely tight rubber bands over the surgical hooks attached to the orthodontics for the procedure) and it was after I had maxillofacial surgery to correct a Class C underbite... or something.
3. I have a problem of staring at people driving the cars on my morning commute. Like every car I pass I will turn to stare at the driver. Creepy or just taking advantage of any people watching I can get?
4. I saw Harrison Ford again this morning and for an older dude, I am not a fan of his earring.
5. I forget what it's like to be in the hot, humid, sticky New York City weather... that's such a great thing. No complaints here.
6. The Sex and the City movie was completely overrated. They should have ended it at the TV show.
7. The best part about working in an office is the water cooler. I LOVE THE WATER COOLER. I want to get one at home. I mean, it's brilliant. For example this morning I was like, "huh, I want to drink some Emergen-C--oh cold water" and then I thought "hmm I could go for some oatmeal right now" and BAM hot water! IT'S GENIUS.
8. Thursday is such a tease...
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Maxillofacial Surgery: All your questions answered, at last!
I've got this nifty thing called a Stat Counter attached to my blog that tells me some very interesting details about the people reading.
The most interesting thing about reading my stats is that I can see what people search for that leads them to the blog. Not surprisingly, the majority of searches revolve around having your jaw wired shut, and because I appear to be misleading people with my blog's title and subsequent content, I think it's time I answer some of those queries. After all, I am speaking from experience. I had my jaw wired shut.
So let's address all your surgical inquiries!
1. "kissing with my jaw wired"
This will be difficult. During the surgery, many of the nerves in your lower face will be cut, and while the regeneration (regrowth?) time is relatively quick, it does take a while and require some physical therapy (although you may never regain full feeling -- I've got a little numb spot on my chin that I sometimes stroke as though it were a beard or something). Some exercises that speed along the recuperation process are to "pucker" and "smile" which is much more difficult than you might expect. Puckering is especially tough, hence the primary obstacle in any attempt to kiss. I would not recommend trying to kiss anyone if you have your jaw wired shut. Also, anyone you might want to kiss will probably be grossed out by the fact that your face is swollen to the point where you resemble a volleyball and your cheeks are bruised a weird yellow color.
2. "can you talk with your jaw wired shut"
Somewhat. The first few days, especially when I was still in the hospital, I wrote a lot of what I wanted to say in a little notepad. The doctors don't want you to do that, because the sooner you attempt to use your facial muscles the quicker your recovery. However when you are all hopped up on drugs and feel like there's a shard of glass going through your mouth one minute, and that you are floating on a cloud of angel wings the next, talking seems like the last thing in the world you'd want to do. Later on it gets easier to talk, although not everyone can understand you. My dad found it incredibly difficult to figure out what I was saying while some of my friends had no problem (they were already used to hearing me mumble when drunk).
3. "vegan food jaw wired shut"
I recommend against. Look, when you can't open your mouth for two months and are on a liquid diet (and I am talking liquid -- the first month I couldn't even have a Jamba Juice smoothie because it was too thick) with a restriction like being vegan limiting what you can eat on top of your already impaired food intake, getting all the calories and protein you need could prove to be way too difficult, and probably unhealthy. Then again, I did live off of finely strained vegetable soups and vegetable juices, as well as a few protein shakes a day -- I'd say vegetarian is doable, but not vegan. Also, you are going to experience some crazy cravings. One night near the end of the two month liquid diet all I wanted was cheese. The solution? A giant bowl of finely whipped cheesy mashed potatoes. Delicious. It was also during this time that I discovered my deep love for pizza. There was perhaps no other food item I desired more.
4. "wired jaw smoking"
Uh, no? Are people still smoking cigarettes? You can't even use a straw so good luck trying to get a cigarette in between those lips. I am pretty sure that smoking after major reconstructive facial surgery is a very bad idea. Unless you're smoking weed. I still think you're gonna have trouble smoking anything with your mouth all jacked up.
5. "sleeping jaws wired shut"
Yeah, this sucks too. You have to sleep with a few pillows so you can stay propped up... anything to make breathing easier and help decrease the swelling. Thanks to the drugs I slept really weird hours too. This meant a lot of 4 am Oprah viewings which is okay as it's the only time I seem to be able to tolerate Oprah.
6. "dog jaw wired shut"
Huh? Why would you have your dog's jaw wired shut? This makes no sense.
7. "jaw wired avoid panic"
Ahh yes, I recall the severe panic I underwent the last days leading up to my surgery. You'll be fine. It might one of the worst experiences of your life, but it gets better. It's character building! And they give you drugs. Lots of them. All of the drugs.
8. "jaw feels heavy pops shakiness"
Get that shit checked out.
9. "products for jaw wired shut"
Hmm. Morphine, codeine, oxycodone, vicodin... there were more I don't remember the grocery list. Oh and the classic Ibuprofen of course. All in liquid form, taken with a syringe, so you feel extra sketchy about it. They taste nasty so I mixed everything with fruit juice. Although the morphine made me feel sick (which is odd, because I always had imagined I would have a wonderful relationship with opiates) so I only had that in the hospital via IV drip. The codeine was interesting. I built a weird sleep dependency on it so it caused crazy dreams and my arms would lose feeling in the middle of the night. Very, very strange. But some interesting products, sure. Lots of products.
10. "jaw wiring laguna"
That makes no sense. I suggest redefining your search terms.
Well, for all you "jaw wired shut" searchers, I hope this helps. It's been exactly a year and a half since my surgery, but in a way feels like decades ago. So nice to have that over with. The worst part of the whole thing might the braces. Because no one wants to relive the agony of their puberty years in their twenties. I did that for three years. Terrible. But character building.
The most interesting thing about reading my stats is that I can see what people search for that leads them to the blog. Not surprisingly, the majority of searches revolve around having your jaw wired shut, and because I appear to be misleading people with my blog's title and subsequent content, I think it's time I answer some of those queries. After all, I am speaking from experience. I had my jaw wired shut.
So let's address all your surgical inquiries!
1. "kissing with my jaw wired"
This will be difficult. During the surgery, many of the nerves in your lower face will be cut, and while the regeneration (regrowth?) time is relatively quick, it does take a while and require some physical therapy (although you may never regain full feeling -- I've got a little numb spot on my chin that I sometimes stroke as though it were a beard or something). Some exercises that speed along the recuperation process are to "pucker" and "smile" which is much more difficult than you might expect. Puckering is especially tough, hence the primary obstacle in any attempt to kiss. I would not recommend trying to kiss anyone if you have your jaw wired shut. Also, anyone you might want to kiss will probably be grossed out by the fact that your face is swollen to the point where you resemble a volleyball and your cheeks are bruised a weird yellow color.
2. "can you talk with your jaw wired shut"
Somewhat. The first few days, especially when I was still in the hospital, I wrote a lot of what I wanted to say in a little notepad. The doctors don't want you to do that, because the sooner you attempt to use your facial muscles the quicker your recovery. However when you are all hopped up on drugs and feel like there's a shard of glass going through your mouth one minute, and that you are floating on a cloud of angel wings the next, talking seems like the last thing in the world you'd want to do. Later on it gets easier to talk, although not everyone can understand you. My dad found it incredibly difficult to figure out what I was saying while some of my friends had no problem (they were already used to hearing me mumble when drunk).
3. "vegan food jaw wired shut"
I recommend against. Look, when you can't open your mouth for two months and are on a liquid diet (and I am talking liquid -- the first month I couldn't even have a Jamba Juice smoothie because it was too thick) with a restriction like being vegan limiting what you can eat on top of your already impaired food intake, getting all the calories and protein you need could prove to be way too difficult, and probably unhealthy. Then again, I did live off of finely strained vegetable soups and vegetable juices, as well as a few protein shakes a day -- I'd say vegetarian is doable, but not vegan. Also, you are going to experience some crazy cravings. One night near the end of the two month liquid diet all I wanted was cheese. The solution? A giant bowl of finely whipped cheesy mashed potatoes. Delicious. It was also during this time that I discovered my deep love for pizza. There was perhaps no other food item I desired more.
4. "wired jaw smoking"
Uh, no? Are people still smoking cigarettes? You can't even use a straw so good luck trying to get a cigarette in between those lips. I am pretty sure that smoking after major reconstructive facial surgery is a very bad idea. Unless you're smoking weed. I still think you're gonna have trouble smoking anything with your mouth all jacked up.
5. "sleeping jaws wired shut"
Yeah, this sucks too. You have to sleep with a few pillows so you can stay propped up... anything to make breathing easier and help decrease the swelling. Thanks to the drugs I slept really weird hours too. This meant a lot of 4 am Oprah viewings which is okay as it's the only time I seem to be able to tolerate Oprah.
6. "dog jaw wired shut"
Huh? Why would you have your dog's jaw wired shut? This makes no sense.
7. "jaw wired avoid panic"
Ahh yes, I recall the severe panic I underwent the last days leading up to my surgery. You'll be fine. It might one of the worst experiences of your life, but it gets better. It's character building! And they give you drugs. Lots of them. All of the drugs.
8. "jaw feels heavy pops shakiness"
Get that shit checked out.
9. "products for jaw wired shut"
Hmm. Morphine, codeine, oxycodone, vicodin... there were more I don't remember the grocery list. Oh and the classic Ibuprofen of course. All in liquid form, taken with a syringe, so you feel extra sketchy about it. They taste nasty so I mixed everything with fruit juice. Although the morphine made me feel sick (which is odd, because I always had imagined I would have a wonderful relationship with opiates) so I only had that in the hospital via IV drip. The codeine was interesting. I built a weird sleep dependency on it so it caused crazy dreams and my arms would lose feeling in the middle of the night. Very, very strange. But some interesting products, sure. Lots of products.
10. "jaw wiring laguna"
That makes no sense. I suggest redefining your search terms.
Well, for all you "jaw wired shut" searchers, I hope this helps. It's been exactly a year and a half since my surgery, but in a way feels like decades ago. So nice to have that over with. The worst part of the whole thing might the braces. Because no one wants to relive the agony of their puberty years in their twenties. I did that for three years. Terrible. But character building.
Things I've Learned About Hollywood
Today's Lesson:
All assistants do essentially the same thing: they spend 30% of the day working, and 70% balancing multiple conversations on IM and gchat. And yet the balance of Hollywood lies in their quick-typing hands.
All assistants do essentially the same thing: they spend 30% of the day working, and 70% balancing multiple conversations on IM and gchat. And yet the balance of Hollywood lies in their quick-typing hands.
Iron Man + The Hulk = BADASS
Has anyone not seen Iron Man yet? And if you said yes, drop what you are doing and go watch it (you are also one of maybe 5 people who hasn't seen it so, uh, what's wrong with you?)Iron Man is without a doubt, a fantastic movie, and my favorite movie so far this summer. (Is it summer yet? What officially determines summer? Is there a summer animal akin to a groundhog or something? And no I haven't yet seen Sex and the City and I am okay with that.)
It should come as no surprise that I love comic book movies. Not so much actual comic books (I find them difficult to read--they seem to lack logical order) but I adore the movies. From Batman to X-Men (all three), and yes, even Daredevil, I've seen the majority of comic book movies that have been released in the past 20 years. This summer, we've got two more to look forward to: The Hulk and the next Batman installment, The Dark Knight. I saw previews for both, and both look great. I am especially interested in The Hulk, if not for the mere fact that it looks like it will be a lot better than Ang Lee's 2003 attempt, but for the Robert Downey Jr. aka Tony Stark aka Iron Man cameo. What else do I love besides comic book movies? Crossovers. That's a geek dream come true.
It should come as no surprise that I love comic book movies. Not so much actual comic books (I find them difficult to read--they seem to lack logical order) but I adore the movies. From Batman to X-Men (all three), and yes, even Daredevil, I've seen the majority of comic book movies that have been released in the past 20 years. This summer, we've got two more to look forward to: The Hulk and the next Batman installment, The Dark Knight. I saw previews for both, and both look great. I am especially interested in The Hulk, if not for the mere fact that it looks like it will be a lot better than Ang Lee's 2003 attempt, but for the Robert Downey Jr. aka Tony Stark aka Iron Man cameo. What else do I love besides comic book movies? Crossovers. That's a geek dream come true.
Monday, June 09, 2008
Update
I've been informed the monkey-owner's name was Coco and he once suffered from throat cancer, but he prayed, and then healed.
Karaoke Sundays are the new Karaoke Tuesdays.
Karaoke Sundays are the new Karaoke Tuesdays.
Amagi Karaoke and the Bizarro World of Gower Gulch
Last night was a scene out of a movie. That scene in which four people find themselves in a Chevy Aveo at 9:30 pm on a Sunday night, after watching a charity concert of B-list TV actresses singing A-list Broadway duets in downtown Los Angeles, and these four people suddenly decide that a karaoke bar would be the best possible option at that moment in time.
Flash forward to the perfect karaoke bar... A Japanese restaurant (Amagi Sushi) located at the Gower Gulch (aka a strip mall at the corner of Gower and Sunset, in the bowels of Hollywood, with an Old Western theme, of course) where the crowd is sparse and the restaurant interior carries a scent that could only be described as the inside of a Ramen noodles bowl.
The cast of characters was... interesting... in addition to our four protagonists, there was the exotic yet trashy looking bartender, the old man in a gray suit, his grayer hair pushed back in a long ponytail, who when we arrived was in the middle of belting out a great 80s tune; next up, the man with all the power--the karaoke DJ, another septuagenarian, who singed songs in the key of Frank Sinatra when he wasn't handling the music selections of the crowd. The awkward fellow in the army pants and red shirt--Dale--sang a few numbers, doing the best he could, but clearly karaoke wasn't his strength; just a passion. My favorite would have been the man in the Hawaiian shirt and crochet skull cap, with a monkey clinging to his shoulder. The monkey was a girl and he named her Gizmo. When he sang "Superstition" (originally by Stevie Wonder) Gizmo was crawling all over him, like a 4-year old at a playground. Cutest little monkey I've ever seen in a karaoke bar.
It was us, and them, and we joked it was that scene where it's awkward and quiet and then a QUICK CUT to four hours later and the place is packed and everyone's singing "We Are the World."
Well, midnight rolls around, and after our crew had cruised through our collection (hits including "Bridge Over Troubled Water," "La Isla Bonita," and the incredible "Bang Bang" by Cher) the place was packed, the crowd was rowdy. No group sing-alongs, but the perfect showing otherwise. Other highlights included a young couple on the Best Date Ever (they sang "A Whole New World" from Aladdin) and the Asian line dancing we discovered on our way out the door.
Yes, this in fact, how I spent my Sunday night. This story is 100% true. (Although in my screenplay it will be a Silverback gorilla climbing on his shoulder, for drama's sake, bien sur.)
Flash forward to the perfect karaoke bar... A Japanese restaurant (Amagi Sushi) located at the Gower Gulch (aka a strip mall at the corner of Gower and Sunset, in the bowels of Hollywood, with an Old Western theme, of course) where the crowd is sparse and the restaurant interior carries a scent that could only be described as the inside of a Ramen noodles bowl.
The cast of characters was... interesting... in addition to our four protagonists, there was the exotic yet trashy looking bartender, the old man in a gray suit, his grayer hair pushed back in a long ponytail, who when we arrived was in the middle of belting out a great 80s tune; next up, the man with all the power--the karaoke DJ, another septuagenarian, who singed songs in the key of Frank Sinatra when he wasn't handling the music selections of the crowd. The awkward fellow in the army pants and red shirt--Dale--sang a few numbers, doing the best he could, but clearly karaoke wasn't his strength; just a passion. My favorite would have been the man in the Hawaiian shirt and crochet skull cap, with a monkey clinging to his shoulder. The monkey was a girl and he named her Gizmo. When he sang "Superstition" (originally by Stevie Wonder) Gizmo was crawling all over him, like a 4-year old at a playground. Cutest little monkey I've ever seen in a karaoke bar.
It was us, and them, and we joked it was that scene where it's awkward and quiet and then a QUICK CUT to four hours later and the place is packed and everyone's singing "We Are the World."
Well, midnight rolls around, and after our crew had cruised through our collection (hits including "Bridge Over Troubled Water," "La Isla Bonita," and the incredible "Bang Bang" by Cher) the place was packed, the crowd was rowdy. No group sing-alongs, but the perfect showing otherwise. Other highlights included a young couple on the Best Date Ever (they sang "A Whole New World" from Aladdin) and the Asian line dancing we discovered on our way out the door.
Yes, this in fact, how I spent my Sunday night. This story is 100% true. (Although in my screenplay it will be a Silverback gorilla climbing on his shoulder, for drama's sake, bien sur.)
Friday, June 06, 2008
I Love this Jam!
Remember way back when I posted that cool ad for Sony Bravia? Well, the song playing was "Heartbeats" by Jose Gonzalez. Here is a completely different version of "Heartbeats" by The Knife (thanks to my friend Annie for getting me into this jam) and the sweet video to go with it. Enjoy!
Gas prices lead to nervous breakdowns?
For a recent graduate trying to make her way in the world, at a job with no overtime where I'm already getting paid a miserably low sum (thus is the plight of the Hollywood Assistant), I am a little freaked out by the sharp increase in gas prices over the past few days. LA sucks because you have to drive everywhere. I love the commute and the self-sufficiency, as well as not having to deal with annoying people and smelly public transportation, however the hours on the road every morning equal money money money.
Thanks to my intrepid search of a low priced gas station on my work route, I was able to fill up for prices that usually hovered just under $4. In fact, at this lovely BP on San Vicente and Barrington, I've never seen prices for regular unleaded exceed the $4 cutoff. Until yesterday when they were at $4.29. And then today at $4.39. It's nice to know that while one of my paycheck's doesn't even cover my rent, oh and then tack on that extra $200 a month (and rising) I am spending on gas. I either need a hybrid or I need to work closer to home or I need to become a skilled bicyclist, because at the rate gas prices are moving, and the status quo of my income--all spells potential disaster or nervous breakdown.
Lovely.
Thanks to my intrepid search of a low priced gas station on my work route, I was able to fill up for prices that usually hovered just under $4. In fact, at this lovely BP on San Vicente and Barrington, I've never seen prices for regular unleaded exceed the $4 cutoff. Until yesterday when they were at $4.29. And then today at $4.39. It's nice to know that while one of my paycheck's doesn't even cover my rent, oh and then tack on that extra $200 a month (and rising) I am spending on gas. I either need a hybrid or I need to work closer to home or I need to become a skilled bicyclist, because at the rate gas prices are moving, and the status quo of my income--all spells potential disaster or nervous breakdown.
Lovely.
Thursday, June 05, 2008
The Hills Meets NYC
You know what I haven't done in a while? Talk about The Hills. Well good news Hills lovers (comme moi). The most realistic of all these gals, Lauren's Teen Vogue co-worker Whitney Port, is getting her own spin-off. Even better (and a very, very smart move on MTV's part) joining Miz Whitney as she makes her way in the New York City fashion world is socialite/blogger/feuder Olivia Palermo. Even better than The Hills crew are real New York socialites. I am not talking about Paris Hilton, the faux-socialites of Gossip Girl, or Ivanka Trump (although she fits the bill a little better than the others). I am talking about Tinsley Mortimer, Lydia Hearst (who did make a Gossip cameo), and sure, Olivia Palermo. And who else is excited to see a California girl, such as Miss Port, try to make her way in the big city? I sure am. I can always use a little more Hills in my life. The Hills + NYC = Guilty Pleasure Galore.
Hey Oprah, I too am doing the happy dance!
Hey everyone did you hear? Oprah is "euphoric" and currently doing "the happy dance!" Why, you ask? Why would Oprah do something that might make her look so foolish? (Actually I'd like some video proof of said happy dance... I envision something along the lines of Cuba Gooding Jr. after scoring that touchdown in Jerry Maguire. Maybe not the one-armed hand stand though.)
Well folks, if you haven't heard (which means you live underground with the rat people or something), Barack Obama is the presumptive Democratic nominee for president. I say presumptive because I saw it on CNN. Everything I know I learned from the internet.
BARACK OBAMA 2008!!!!! I don't have to write in Ralph Nader anymore!
I am going to go Happy Dance for a little while. Mine looks a lot like Elaine on Seinfeld, but I always incorporate the Robot into all dancing opportunities.
Yes I stole the photo from Us Weekly. No original material here, folks.
Well folks, if you haven't heard (which means you live underground with the rat people or something), Barack Obama is the presumptive Democratic nominee for president. I say presumptive because I saw it on CNN. Everything I know I learned from the internet.
BARACK OBAMA 2008!!!!! I don't have to write in Ralph Nader anymore!
I am going to go Happy Dance for a little while. Mine looks a lot like Elaine on Seinfeld, but I always incorporate the Robot into all dancing opportunities.
Yes I stole the photo from Us Weekly. No original material here, folks.
Things I've Learned About Hollywood
Today's Lesson:
In this town, it's not lying, it's "how you conduct your business." Ambiguity intentional.
In this town, it's not lying, it's "how you conduct your business." Ambiguity intentional.
I Love Interns
I think I am annoying. Recent posts are incredibly self-involved and existential... so let's talk about something wonderful. Something interesting. Something UTTERLY FANTASTIC!
INTERNS!
Everyone loves interns. In the work place, interns are the BEST. I think I've discovered my newfound love for interns because for once, I am not one of them! In college I had three serious internships. One was at Us Weekly in New York City (big surprise, right? Celebrity obsessed girl works at celebrity obsessed magazine--they were a little shocked when I could recall covers from three years prior, and I was pretty disgusted with myself when I realized I could recognize celebrity children), then I followed with an internship at W Magazine and Women's Wear Daily while I studied in Paris (this sounds a lot more glamorous than it was. I wrote obituaries for fashion designers who hadn't croaked yet, cleaned the fashion closet, stuffed envelopes, and had to terrifyingly sit at the reception desk and in answer the phones... in French) and lastly I worked at Weber Shandwick as a PR intern. The Weber internship was the closest to a real job (in some ways more realistic than my job now... hmm...) and I was treated a little more like a team member than my days at Us or WWD (I even had my own email... with my own name! My current job's email doesn't even contain my own name! I've digressed, hurrah!)
The common thread about being an intern is this--you are often times treated like crap, relegated menial tasks, and ignored by most. However, an internship is not permanent, and therefore job performance doesn't mean as much. For example, near the end of my days at Weber I was sure that a career in PR wasn't for me. So I did what I had to do but was okay with not loving my job. I knew that come August, I was a goner. Internships are a nice glimpse into the working world but are never permanent. Imagine if your current job was done in three months! What an incredibly liberating thought.
The major downside to being an intern (besides when I worked at Us and was forced to wander into Times Square in the middle of the hot, humid, smelly summer and ask annoying tourists whose child was cuter, Angelina Jolie's or Madonna's? Oh the shame!) and the real bummer about your temporary career would be the little pay, or lack of compensation altogether. Ah but life is easy as college student, when the internship is more about the experience and the extra padding to your resume.
Let's be honest though. I didn't love being an intern. Interns have to do all the crap that no one else wants to do. Now, however, I love interns. Love, love, love. I don't feel like filing? Make the intern do it! I don't want to reorganize the script library... that's okay, I don't have to--that's what interns are for! Scan a 400 page book? Call the intern! Even better than semester interns are summer interns. They are ripe, fresh, and ready to kick ass so they can get a good recommendation out of you for their first real job (at least that's what I was like). And they are plentiful. Ready, willing, and able to do the stupidest shit. Interns are the best.
Please keep in mind that as I write this we don't have any interns. So I am the one doing all that menial crap right now. Ooooh but in just a few weeks this place will be TEEMING with them. I can't wait! The stacks of files on my desk are just overflowing in intern anticipation. Oh what fun we'll have.
Let's be honest... another reason I love interns? It's fun to know that when you are at the bottom of the totem pole, there's always someone lower. Interns, I walk all over you, and I love doing it.
INTERNS!
Everyone loves interns. In the work place, interns are the BEST. I think I've discovered my newfound love for interns because for once, I am not one of them! In college I had three serious internships. One was at Us Weekly in New York City (big surprise, right? Celebrity obsessed girl works at celebrity obsessed magazine--they were a little shocked when I could recall covers from three years prior, and I was pretty disgusted with myself when I realized I could recognize celebrity children), then I followed with an internship at W Magazine and Women's Wear Daily while I studied in Paris (this sounds a lot more glamorous than it was. I wrote obituaries for fashion designers who hadn't croaked yet, cleaned the fashion closet, stuffed envelopes, and had to terrifyingly sit at the reception desk and in answer the phones... in French) and lastly I worked at Weber Shandwick as a PR intern. The Weber internship was the closest to a real job (in some ways more realistic than my job now... hmm...) and I was treated a little more like a team member than my days at Us or WWD (I even had my own email... with my own name! My current job's email doesn't even contain my own name! I've digressed, hurrah!)
The common thread about being an intern is this--you are often times treated like crap, relegated menial tasks, and ignored by most. However, an internship is not permanent, and therefore job performance doesn't mean as much. For example, near the end of my days at Weber I was sure that a career in PR wasn't for me. So I did what I had to do but was okay with not loving my job. I knew that come August, I was a goner. Internships are a nice glimpse into the working world but are never permanent. Imagine if your current job was done in three months! What an incredibly liberating thought.
The major downside to being an intern (besides when I worked at Us and was forced to wander into Times Square in the middle of the hot, humid, smelly summer and ask annoying tourists whose child was cuter, Angelina Jolie's or Madonna's? Oh the shame!) and the real bummer about your temporary career would be the little pay, or lack of compensation altogether. Ah but life is easy as college student, when the internship is more about the experience and the extra padding to your resume.
Let's be honest though. I didn't love being an intern. Interns have to do all the crap that no one else wants to do. Now, however, I love interns. Love, love, love. I don't feel like filing? Make the intern do it! I don't want to reorganize the script library... that's okay, I don't have to--that's what interns are for! Scan a 400 page book? Call the intern! Even better than semester interns are summer interns. They are ripe, fresh, and ready to kick ass so they can get a good recommendation out of you for their first real job (at least that's what I was like). And they are plentiful. Ready, willing, and able to do the stupidest shit. Interns are the best.
Please keep in mind that as I write this we don't have any interns. So I am the one doing all that menial crap right now. Ooooh but in just a few weeks this place will be TEEMING with them. I can't wait! The stacks of files on my desk are just overflowing in intern anticipation. Oh what fun we'll have.
Let's be honest... another reason I love interns? It's fun to know that when you are at the bottom of the totem pole, there's always someone lower. Interns, I walk all over you, and I love doing it.
Starbucks, Spielberg, and other random thoughts
I saw Steven Spielberg again this morning. I am not stalking him (I swear) but apparently we both enjoy the same Starbucks. It was an LA cliche, however, as I was sitting at a table editing my writing (did I mention I'm taking a UCLA writing class? Is it noticeable in my blog entries? What no? Still an average of 20 typos per post? Great) and I paused to look up, in deep thought, and there he was again Mr. Spielberg.
I want to be Steven Spielberg. I don't. Well I do... well I just want to some day look back at my many accomplishments and think, well shit, that was all pretty great. The man is a filmmaking genius. I know little to nothing about filmmaking. I know more than I did when I was living in New York, but in the grand scheme of things--not a whole lot. (Perhaps this has something to do with the amount of time I spend at work blogging? Nah, that's what keeps me sane).
I am dangerously close to turning this into another existential crisis rant so maybe I should quit now and actually get some work done.
Or, I can comment on the fact that it's Thursday, I just had a delicious grapefruit, and despite my morning coffee, I am, as always... tired. The weekend can never come soon enough. I bought a CD at Starbucks this morning. I am easily sick of my music. But buying new tunes at a coffee chain? I'm totally caught up in the system. It's a good CD though, Duffy, who's an Amy Winehouse type minus the drug addictions, beehive and incarcerated boyfriend. Good stuff.
Apologies for the stream of consciousness. I am all over the place right now.
I want to be Steven Spielberg. I don't. Well I do... well I just want to some day look back at my many accomplishments and think, well shit, that was all pretty great. The man is a filmmaking genius. I know little to nothing about filmmaking. I know more than I did when I was living in New York, but in the grand scheme of things--not a whole lot. (Perhaps this has something to do with the amount of time I spend at work blogging? Nah, that's what keeps me sane).
I am dangerously close to turning this into another existential crisis rant so maybe I should quit now and actually get some work done.
Or, I can comment on the fact that it's Thursday, I just had a delicious grapefruit, and despite my morning coffee, I am, as always... tired. The weekend can never come soon enough. I bought a CD at Starbucks this morning. I am easily sick of my music. But buying new tunes at a coffee chain? I'm totally caught up in the system. It's a good CD though, Duffy, who's an Amy Winehouse type minus the drug addictions, beehive and incarcerated boyfriend. Good stuff.
Apologies for the stream of consciousness. I am all over the place right now.
Wednesday, June 04, 2008
Some Wednesday Nostalgia
Thank God we had PBS growing up, because even without the cable, PBS was a saving grace. I especially loved Faerie Tale Theater. We recorded many of the episodes and I even recall receiving some of my favorites for Christmas. Favorite ever? That would be a tie between "The Princess and the Pea", starring Liza Minelli and a hilarious Tom Conti, and "Aladdin", starring Valerie Bertinelli, James Earle Jones, and directed by Tim Burton. So good. Clips below.
Aladdin (very Burtonesque with those odd geometric lines and bizarre shapes)
The Princess and the Pea (with Shelly Duvall's intro)
And yes, just a few weeks ago I sat with two friends and watched "The Twelve Dancing Princesses." That episode is just plain old weird. Nostalgic, sure... but very odd.
Aladdin (very Burtonesque with those odd geometric lines and bizarre shapes)
The Princess and the Pea (with Shelly Duvall's intro)
And yes, just a few weeks ago I sat with two friends and watched "The Twelve Dancing Princesses." That episode is just plain old weird. Nostalgic, sure... but very odd.
Tuesday, June 03, 2008
The nerdy little sister, aka ME
Speaking of geek, the following is an email I wrote to my brother last night. He's currently traveling through Thailand or somewhere exotic after spending several months in Russia. I would like to follow it with some self-deprecating commentary but I think the email itself speaks volumes.
It's okay, I'm embarrassed for me too.
hey Joshie,
Dad mentioned something to me about you maybe coming to LA earlier because of a hernia or something? what's going on? I hope everything is okay... and of course come to LA whenever... just let me know when you think you might get in. If you happen to come earlier (I think Dad mentioned the 16th?) I REALLY hope you are here June 22nd. Why? I just bought 2 tickets to a special event at the LA Film Festival... It is Entertainment Weekly's special sneak peak at the new X-Files movie with Director Chris Carter and David Duchovny. That last sentence made my brain explode. EW... X-Files... Duchovny. OMG. Hahaha. So anyway I bought 2 tickets, and of course if you are around, you are my first choice for accompaniment so I hope you come to LA sooner!
Anyways, keep me posted and let me know how everything is. I miss you so much and think of you all the time! I keep thinking how fun it would be if you lived here... or things keep happening and I am like "oh man I wish I could call Josh right now!" Haha this applies to one day when I blew the BEST snot rocket and said to my friends, "I wish my brother was here he would really appreciate that one" and they looked at me with very shocked expressions.
I LOVE YOU! TALK TO YOU SOON!
It's okay, I'm embarrassed for me too.
Celebrity Spotting (In the Geek World)
I saw Steven Spielberg this morning. It was awesome. He looks like any regular Joe Schmo. Good for him. Interestingly, I saw him at the same Starbucks where I saw Harrison Ford. Who will it be next? George Lucas? DARTH VADER? An Ewok? (They are so cute). OMG my little geek heart can't take it!
(Work is busy, hence the slow posting. Booooo work.)
(Work is busy, hence the slow posting. Booooo work.)
Monday, June 02, 2008
Goals
This isn't an update on previous goals of getting some face time with John Stamos or going to The X-Files premiere (no progress made on either front), but in fact to announce a new goal.
I hate the Lakers. I love the Celtics. I want to go to the playoffs, or at least one of the early games here in Los Angeles. I am fully prepared to be one of a few Celtics fans, among the mass of purple and gold. I will wear my green shirts proudly and trash talk as much as possible without getting myself thrown out. So, who do I have to sleep with to get tickets? No seriously, does anyone have a hook up? Or work for a company where they get lots of tickets to give away? Anyone? Anyone? Who wants to help my dreams come true?
Doctor Doctor
Prior to my life as a career girl (ew), I did not enjoy doctor's appointments. They were always a nuisance, an imposition, or an unwanted yet necessary event. However, these days I love going to the doctor. Let's be honest, anything that gets me out of work for a little while is fine by me. Especially for the doctor, an appointment your boss cannot contest. Recently, due to being sick and because it's that time of year I get a physical, I feel as though I've been going more frequently. Hey, I'll take it. I get to sleep in a little and after seeing the doc (which is conveniently located three blocks down the street) I can walk around to pick up a coffee or some breakfast and actually enjoy the morning. It's quite lovely. This morning I was watching all the people who sit in Starbucks and lazily sip their beverages while typing away on their computers, and I have to say--I am envious. What a nice life to be a writer, and to be able to spend days in coffee shops to do your work, rather than an over air conditioned office.
Then again, I've been there--during those days of unemployment, I spent far too much time sitting on the sofa with my computer, permanently dressed in workout clothes, (whether or not I was actually headed to the gym) just trying to "network" aka send mass quantities of emails to all my fabulous "connections." In retrospect, I should have spent that time writing like all the other pretentious LA writers. It could have been fun. I could have started wearing glasses and scarves and skinny jeans and talked about existential crises... wait a minute... I do all of those things... well, I wear sunglasses... and I don't seem to ever do all these at once... Hmm......
Anyway, LA's a great city to have a job that doesn't have conventional hours or locale. A job that I don't have... Woe is me. Onto existential crisis #2 of the morning... Dammit Mondays, why do you put me in this funk?
I have some more appointment's to schedule... I am using "slightly elevated levels in cholesterol" as an excuse to see some more docs... maybe a nutritionist... acupuncturist... chiropractor... herbalist...
Then again, I've been there--during those days of unemployment, I spent far too much time sitting on the sofa with my computer, permanently dressed in workout clothes, (whether or not I was actually headed to the gym) just trying to "network" aka send mass quantities of emails to all my fabulous "connections." In retrospect, I should have spent that time writing like all the other pretentious LA writers. It could have been fun. I could have started wearing glasses and scarves and skinny jeans and talked about existential crises... wait a minute... I do all of those things... well, I wear sunglasses... and I don't seem to ever do all these at once... Hmm......
Anyway, LA's a great city to have a job that doesn't have conventional hours or locale. A job that I don't have... Woe is me. Onto existential crisis #2 of the morning... Dammit Mondays, why do you put me in this funk?
I have some more appointment's to schedule... I am using "slightly elevated levels in cholesterol" as an excuse to see some more docs... maybe a nutritionist... acupuncturist... chiropractor... herbalist...
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