It Isn't Just Talk

Moving to Madison

2009-06-02T12:08:00.003-04:00

I'm wearing this today:
(in long sleeve though I rolled them up).

I haven't written here in ages, but decisions have been made and my future is lined up. I am moving to Madison, Wisconsin to attend the University of Wisconsin at Madison. It's free. I almost went to Carnegie Mellon, but it wasn't worth to $50k to attend.

I'm going to San Francisco at the end of July (quitting my job in the middle of July).

It's pretty exciting and I am vacillating between being incredible scared and incredibly excited. Right now, I am just feeling a little sick to my stomach which could be either joy or fear.

This isn't school-related:

2008-09-23T21:35:00.002-04:00

Well it is. I am planning (hoping) to visit one of the schools I am applying to. One of the most prestigious ones. I was imagining what they would ask me during my interview. And books came up because my life would be perfect if people interviewing me would just talk about literature.

Favorites:
Fiction book: The Corrections (Jonathan Franzen)
Non-fiction book: Teachers Have it Easy (Dave Eggers) and Arc of Justice (Kevin Boyle)
Play: Waiting for Godot (Samuel Beckett)
Short story: Araby (James Joyce)
Poem: The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock (T.S. Eliot)

Okay, so one of those was an Oprah Bookclub book, but suck it up. It is still a good book.

Big Time Update

2008-09-21T18:51:00.002-04:00

I changed my final recommender. I ran into someone from my last job and I asked him and he was very willing to write a letter for me. Only one school requests two academic and one professional and it is the one I am most likely to get in to. I might ask for one from another professor just to be sure, but if he says he rather not, then I won't be concerned.

I feel bad that one of my recommenders has been bumped. She was neither academic nor professional really, but she's a nice person and I really like her. I think I am going to ask her to write a letter to every school that lets you submit four letters. I almost have packets put together for each one telling them what I need and when, my SOP, my resume, and what each school says they are looking for in a rec letter (if they give guidance).

Basically, everything is complete. I need to upload some documents and I want to fiddle with some of my essay, but I am pretty much ready to send everything in and pay my fees.

I am pretty excited.

Moving Forward

2008-08-28T13:29:00.002-04:00

Sent an email to a professor at #5.

Next week I am going to try to schedule a meeting with my potential final recommender. I hope all goes well, but who knows if he'll even really remember me.

I have like seven drafts of my statement of purpose. They all say basically the same thing in varying degrees of earnestness. All my applications are started except two. One opens Monday and one the following Monday. I think once they're all open and worked on, I will be able to focus on my SOP and what I really want from it.

I feel like I should be nervous but I'm not yet. I'm sure I will be when I push that submit button.

Graduate Schools Update

2008-08-25T11:28:00.003-04:00

I am dropping #4 and adding another Northeast school in its place. The school rank is much higher and I figure if I am going to do this, I should do it right.

I took some time off work and really focused on the necessary writing. I wrote the analytical essay for #1 (in California) and got my boyfriend and a friend to read through it. I am sending it to someone else today for an opinion and then I will hold for a week, reread, and then submit to the student readers the school offers.

I am working on the four-page policy memo for the newest addition (new #4). It is a little short right now, but I am just adding ideas as I find them and find time to write.

My general statement of purpose is basically done. I just need to tailor it to the schools. My resume is looking good. My Personal History Essay for #1 is decent. I don't know how long it needs to be or anything, so I just wrote and then stopped when I reached the present.

My big problem is that my writing style, while technically correct is very bland. I have a decent vocabulary but it isn't extraordinary. I don't know what to do to pep up my writing some and make it really impressive.

Recommendation letters and online applications

2008-08-04T09:27:00.002-04:00

As of today, I have arranged meetings and recommendation letters from everyone I plan to ask (two academic, one non-academic which is ideal). I also began the online applications for every school that has them available (#2, #3, and #6). The other two won't be available until September. I hope to have my applications done and sent by November 1.

I am determined to work on my SOP this week. I want a solid draft by mid-August so when I go requesting letters in September, I have something decent to show them. I have already worked on my resume, but I feel like it is lacking.

Here it is with personal information removed:

Education

University , - December 2006
Bachelors of Arts in English, magna cum laude
Minor: Mass Communications

Relevant Coursework

US government, international relations, microeconomics, macroeconomics, precalculus and trigonometry, survey of calculus, elementary statistics, technical writing

Relevant Experience

Research secretary and grant coordinator, ****************, *********, ** 2008-present
• Conducted database search for articles, reviewed academic literature
• Edited, formatted, and submitted manuscripts to leading pharmacy journals
• Reviewed, edited and submitted grant applications/proposals, renewals, and revisions to the National Institutes of Health
• Plan, organize and execute department seminar series – coordinating travel, lodging, and payment for visiting speakers, as well as promoting each session within the university

Peer Leader and Peer Leader Mentor, ***********, *******, ** 2004 and 2006
• Taught introductory class for new students alongside ** staff members
• Organized large community service project
• Led lecture of the important of community involvement
• Mentored other peer leaders during my second term of service

America Reads Tutor, **************, ********** 2005-2006
• Worked with minority and other underserved students in ****** County elementary schools, middle schools, and community centers to help them improve reading ability and comprehension
• Collaborated with other tutors to create a dynamic teaching environment utilizing the limited space provided
• Tailored program to meet school and community center needs while still meeting the goals and requirement of the America Reads program

Skills
Apple OSX, Microsoft Word, graphic presentations (PowerPoint), Excel. Dreamweaver. Adobe Suite (Designer, Acrobat, Photoshop). Strong analytical skills. Experience with scientific research and methodology.

Relevant Honors

Dean’s List 2004-2006
President’s Honor Roll – 2006
*********Scholarship for Academic Excellence – 2006
Magna Cum Laude honors including senior thesis – 2006
******* Member (Classics honor society)
***** Institute for Leadership Development – 2006

Recommendation Letters and Contacts

2008-07-29T16:21:00.003-04:00

I had a great 24 hours. The professor I was working with here referred me to a couple people at the schools I want to apply to. I also mentioned to him that I am planning to apply to the Maryland school so maybe he'll know someone there too.

I downloaded articles from the people he mentioned and put in requests for their books. I hope to contact them in mid-August. I will also contact people I found on my own, since his contacts did not cover everywhere I want to apply.

I also contacted my potential recommenders today which was really awkward as they all have English degrees and I am looking for something entirely different, but I played it as best I could (asking for any help they could give) and one got back to me right away saying he doesn't know much about policy but would gladly write me a recommendation which is fantastic. I could not have hoped for a better or easier response. I was told that teachers know what you want when you contact them like that, but it is nice to have that taken care of. I still am waiting to hear from another professor and I hope I hear soon. I will have to contact a professor who doesn't know me and just beg for a recommendation if this guy doesn't come through. I am not above that though. My first two letters will be good. If I have one "she took my class, got an A" letter, I should still be okay overall.

I really need to get working on my statement of purpose though. It really needs to shine in light of my awful analytical writing score. I plan to have everyone I can find read it before I turn it in.

I am thinking about dropping my safety school off the list. What is the point if I have a shot to get into a better school in the future? I am sad I wasted a free GRE score report on them, but it was a $20 mistake. Better then wasting a bunch of time and money on completing the application.

Updates

2008-07-28T14:51:00.003-04:00

I add another mid-Atlantic school to my list, #6 Maryland. I also received my official GRE score report that confirmed my score (I had myself convinced I was wrong about it) and I got my writing score which was really disappointing. I got a 4.5 (or the 58 percentile). My verbal score was in the 96th percentile and my quantitative in the 79th. It doesn't seem right, but hopefully, I can offset it with my statement of purpose.

We'll see. I'm going to start contact professors at the institutions soon.

Contact from Professor

2008-07-16T09:42:00.002-04:00

The professor at my current school that went to school #2 emailed me back and was very positive. I emailed him more details and I am excited about him getting back to me. I didn't think it would go this smoothly. I honestly thought it would be very awkward (the only awkward moment was me noticing I used a homophone of a word instead of the correct one, but he overlooked it!).

What I said basically, is:
Dr. His Name

I was looking through the public policy website here and noticed your name. I am planning to apply to [your alma mater] and I was wondering if you could sit down with me to discuss the school.

I saw on the faculty biography page that you are interested in [stuff] and I am too. Have you seen [tv show relating to stuff]? It is excellent.

Worked very well. And he offered to put me in contact with people at every school I am applying to (if he knows someone). So I emailed him back more information, honed in on my interests, and am waiting on another response. All in all, a success!

I also emailed a former supervisor, caught her up on my plans, and asked if she will write me a recommendation letter. I am planning to use her as a 4th letter. All the schools require three, but I will send four in case someone flakes. At some schools, it could hurt me because you need two academic references and neither that I asked so far is academic, but I would at least like to get three letters there, you know? Maybe they won't notice they are not academic since they all work for my university.

Also, I can just see 10 months from now posting that I got in nowhere. VERY POSSIBLE. But if so, I will tell you why so you can avoid my mistakes.

Graduate School

2008-07-14T08:01:00.003-04:00

I am in the process of applying for graduate school (specifically a master's in public policy) for the Fall of 2009. I will be using this here blog to keep track of what I have to do, when I have to do it, and how it went. It is July 14 and I am submitting all my applications by the earliest deadline which is December 1. That is 140 days from now.

Stats:
UG GPA: 3.69
Major GPA: 3.91
Upper Division: 3.89
GRE: 690V/730Q, 4.5 AW
Recommenders: No one you've ever heard of.
Resume: Pretty awesome, but also kind of lacking
SOP: It will kick ass
Other: We'll see what comes up.
Costs: INSANE! So far $140 on the GRE.
Schools to which I am applying: I am keeping it a secret but #1 is in California, #2 is in Pennsylvania, #3 is in Wisconsin, ~~#4 is in Oregon, and~~ #5 is in Massachusetts, and #6 is in Maryland.

So far I have identified people I would like to work with at schools #1, #2, and #5. I am planning to rework my resume today (I have been applying for jobs, so it needs to be tailored for schools). I am meeting with one potential recommender for lunch (we're friends). I am contacting a professor at my school who went to school #2 who I hope will be willing to sit down with me and tell me all about policy programs and the school. I have a rough draft of my statement of purpose (SOP). I also work with someone that went to school #2 so I am going to chat her up some.

Applications don't become available until September so I am kind of spinning my wheels, but I am trying to get done what I can.

Hesitating Only Hurts

2007-09-26T08:30:00.000-04:00

This could be a really emo post about how I missed out on the love of my life, by hesitating, but really, I am just saddened that Nordstrom sold out of - or I can't find it anyway - that sweater I liked. Luckily, UO has a very similar one (that costs a little more), so I won't have to go without. But guess what! Today is deals day part deux. $30 and under:

Urban Outfitters
There are a lot of tunics on sale, but since I am not really sure how to wear them, I didn't pick one. I think they are the things that girls wear with tights and look stupid in, so going with that assumption, we are skipping tunics. I was going to go with the wrap dress since I watched Weeds last night and saw MLP sexily peel off a wrap dress and I want everyone to try that sometime, but they only had small and extra small, so I went with someone that has more variety (of size and color).
Lux Tank Dress - $24.99

Old Navy
I went to Old Navy the other day and got the cutest shirt for $5 (!), but a lot of the stuff was ugly, so I am on a quest to find you something cute and cheap so you don't have to waste your time. Okay. I know everyone loves the new sweater collection, but I think it is ugly. But I did manage to find two, matching, cute items for less than $30. It will be chilly at night soon and imagine how cute you'll look sipping your hot chocolate.
Top - $14.50
Bottoms - $14.50

Nordstrom
I loved so much stuff on here that picking one thing became really difficult, but I picked the cutest with the widest availability (as usual). This dress is so cute, so cheap, and can certainly be transitioned into the coming months. Tights and sweaters are all you need to make the cutest summer clothes fall and winter ready. Seriously.
Frenchi Knit Babydoll Dress - $13.90

Anthropologie
Now watch me solve your problems. Cute. Cheap. You can buy 2! I really could have probably made this like $25 and under. Maybe I will find something awesome for $29.99 before we finish. But seriously, tights. I have 3 pair (black, blue, gray) and I plan to grab another pair or two (brown and something else). I am desperate to wear my tights. Every day I think about it, but it takes forever to get cold in Florida.
Color Palette Tights - $11

Bus Stop Shop
I am still madly in love with this place. I think since Nordstrom doesn't have my sweater, I'm just going to buy myself the dress and sweater from here. They are, of course, too much for this list, but I did find something I love (and that there are a lot of sizes left in). I love Nick & Mo clothing.
Long Sleeve Barb Henley - $25

Stars and Infinite Darkness
You must get yourself a cute wallet with a bike on it. You must. I don't even ride a bike and I know bikes are cute as all get out.
randL: The O.G. - $26

American Eagle
I hate that AE, like Abercrombie, puts their logo on everything. There are a lot of cute hoodies and such that say "AE" on them and thus make me not want them. I do like some stuff from these (I buy almost all my jeans there) and I think these shoes are kind of cute, but I'd probably look at them in person before buying.
AE Slingback Flat - $14.95

Active Endeavors
Man, I know this place is like hyper-fashionable (OMG Cory Kennedy links to it), but most of it is relatively unattractive and really expensive. I keep looking because I am in love with some of those dresses and I swear when they are less than $100, I will buy one. Some of the coats are cute too. But for today, I am breaking my rule and showing you a cute, basic, reasonably priced shirt, but it is only available in large.
2nd Skin 3/4 Skin Scoop - $22

A few notes: Nordstrom always does $5 flat shipping, but this week Urban Outfitters is going $6 flat rate so take advantage if there is something you have been wanting to buy (for example sexy as hell black lace flats or the cutest fucking wall hanging in the world).

How would it be if I did a weekly round-up of sales at select stores? Not like every sale item, but whatever special there is (free shipping, $10 off $75, etc)? I think it would be awesome just for my own use, but I worry that this will become solely a fashion blog and I love music and movies and books too!

As always, which I often forget to mention, all the pictures belong to the sites I link to.

Deals of the Weekend - $20 and under

2007-09-23T19:49:00.000-04:00

I am stuck inside watching football with my boyfriend so I am shopping online and finding some kickass deals:

JCrew
Final sale item. No returns. No exchanges so pick the size wisely. You can always give them to someone you love as a gift. I absolutely love these. You cannot beat the price and they are long enough to not look really youthful or skanky. It is on its way to being too cold for these, but they are timeless so you can wear them next year!
5" Chino Shorts - $14.99

Bus Stop Shop
Only medium size left. I know, I know. It isn't tank top time, but really you need to think about layering. Layers look so nice especially compared to a bulky jacket. And the length and design of this will look great under all the cute stuff you will buy in the coming months. Also, it is just really cute.
Minx Tank - $19

Stars and Infinite Darkness Thanks for nothing. Stars and Infinite Darkness gave me quick the task finding somehting under $20. There was another tee but it was ugly, plus I liked this one. I think it is a nice, comfortable and affordable shirt and everyone needs some of those. Plus, it is classy. There is Spanish on it! Nothing is classier than Spanish, except maybe French.
"Gracias Por Nada" T-shirt - $20

American Eagle
Multiple colors. This, again, will look so cute layered. Plus, I really like lace. And if you pair it with some of the cute lace panties from the Gap Body collection, you can seduce the man (or woman) of your dreams because you will look sexy and innocent in that outfit. Seriously.
Lacy Tank - $14.95

Active Endeavors
Only Medium left. Down from $48. Listen, it was hard to find anything that was reasonably priced on that website. I thought this seemed like a good price for a tank in general, not just from this place. And since it was originally $48, it should be one high quality tank.
Generra Rib Tank - $14

Urban Outfitters
Multiple sizes and colors and it just a cute looking dress. I think it is just adorable. The red is definitely my favorite. It would look so cute with some tights and one of the cute, nicely cut jackets that are so popular right now.
Lux Tieback Strappy Dress - $19.99

Anthropologie
Sizes 8-14 available. I know it is after Labor Day and white is a no-no, but I have been actively ignoring that rule my entire life. Plus, this is an adorable skirt, it is from Anthropologie AND it is a cut that will be flatterint to almost anyone.
Daylily Skirt - $19.95

Nordstrom
I figured I should include some shoes and these are so cute. I know they are really summer-y and next year the shoe styles might not be the same, but of man, the polka dots and the bow just drove me crazy. They are so freaking cute. I say grab them, wear them for the next month (or more if you live in Florida) and then hide them in the closet and hope they are cool next year. If not, they were less than $20.
Volatile "Hotspot" Espadrille - $19.90

I hate when sites do $20 and under and then everything is close to $20, but I realized it is hard to find stuff lower. And like I would see tanks for $9, but then I would see something away better for $19 and I would pick that thing that was the better deal. Rumor has it that markdown day is Wednesday so Wednesday I will post another list (probably $30 and under) and then Friday (pay day!) I will do $50 and under.

I would also like to throw out there that Rack Room Shoes is doing buy one get one 50% off and since I am not a Jimmy Choo kind of girl, I took advantage and got knee high boots (brown) for $40 and then with the deal, I got cute red flats for $10. I am pretty happy. Plus, if I ruin them I won't be sad.

I've been shopping

2007-09-23T10:32:00.000-04:00

This morning, in my mind, I spend $300 on clothes. Luckily, I have not yet done it in real life. What I want:

Nordstrom: I feel like I could find shoes I like more for less money. I love the skirt and top though, but there is only one color of skirt left and only two sizes so shouldn't it be one sale? I am going to check in over the next few days and hope there is a price drop.

Bus Stop Shop: I love both these items. I found this site kind of randomly, but I like it. The cardigan is $74 which I am finding is within the price range of cardigans that I would want. It seems expensive, but I don't think it is. The dress on the other hand is just adorable and under $50 and on sale. I don't know what to do. I don't have any money and I can't really justify the expense. I spent $250 at Anthropologie like a month ago.

Books! Books!

2007-09-21T13:13:00.000-04:00

So far this week, I have finished 3 books. They were all very good, but very different.

I finally finished Saboteurs: The Nazi Raid on America by Michael Dobbs. I heard about the book from an episode of This American Life and the book combined two of my greatest interests: Nazi and the death penalty. The book started off kind of weak and honestly, if I hadn't already heard the story on TAL, I probably would have quit reading it, but I am so glad I didn't. The book turned out so well. The amount of research Dobbs must have done for this book absolutely blew my mind. The end, even though I knew what was coming, still made me really sad.

The second I finished that book I started The Whore's Child and Other Stories by Richard Russo. The first story in the book, The Whore's Child, made me enormously sad. This on top of the ending of the Nazi book were just too much and put me in quite the mood for the rest of the day. The story was fantastic and the best in the collection, but all the stories were good and you can really see how his novels incorporated the short stories.

Just about an hour ago, I finished Manic Magee by Jerry Spinelli. It is a Newberry award winning book, but I had never read it before. I absolutely loved it sometimes and other times I didn't like it at all. His writing style was amazing and engaging and varied and I really appreciated that from young adult literature, but sometimes I felt almost manipulated and the story felt too contrived. Those moments were few and far between and since the book is less than 200 pages it wasn't so bad. The ending was perfect. Probably one of the best book endings I have ever read. I honestly don't know if this book would have meant as much to be had I read it when I was at that reading level.
I am starting No One Belongs Here More than You by Miranda July and I have been anxiously awaiting this book for what seems like forever.

Follow Up #2

2007-09-20T08:05:00.000-04:00

The people protesting the UPD in support of Andrew Meyer were annoying but relatively innocuous. I thought they were being stupid, but to each his own. Until this morning. The Alligator led with this story. This angered me so much that I would be willing to inflict physical harm on the people that did it. That officer was hit by a drunk driver while protected students celebrating a national championship victory. And no one will claim that the UPD (and GPD) didn't do a great job during those celebration. There were very few arrest and mainly they spent their time making sure drunk people didn't get themselves killed by falling off things. The UPD (and GPD) really shined during all three of those celebrations. When Officer Dahlem was killed, the entire university felt terrible. Defacing his memorial was sick and disgusting.

**GPD added since Officer Dahlem was a GPD officer, not a UPD officer thus making the graffiti even crueler.

Follow Up

2007-09-18T23:12:00.000-04:00

This event has led me to write a letter, something I never do:
I am a UF alum and current staff member. When I originally saw the video of what happened to Mr. Meyer, I was aghast. Looking further into the incident, I felt that mistakes were made on both sides. Meyer shouldn't have resisted arrest and the officer shouldn't have used the Taser on him. After spending the day learning more and more about the incident and listening to people's outlandish reactions, I have come to believe that the UPD was, while not entirely correct, trying to handle the situation appropriately. I do not think the entire department should have to endure anger and harassment from the community because of the overreaction of one officer. I am very liberal and a strong supporter of free speech, but I don't see this as even a remotely political issue and I am sorry to see this devolve into such a debate. If someone is flailing while running at a sitting US Senator, then he should be removed and possibly detained. I would just like to say that I hope the charges are not dropped against Meyer as he clearly broke the law and his action was premeditated.

The Darjeeling Limited trailer

2007-09-18T15:28:00.001-04:00

I am very much looking forward to this movie.

News News

2007-09-18T11:24:00.000-04:00

A student was Tased by University Police officers at a John Kerry event last night. The video is all over the place. People at my job (the admissions office) are getting calls and being yelled at over this incident.

The video of course is too short to show the whole story which includes that he was told previously not to cause a disturbance or he would be asked to leave. He was told no more questions then allowed one question. Not only did he ask more than one question, but he didn't ask in a calm respectful manner. He tried to start problems and he was escorted out. Then he resisted arrest.
In my opinion, I don't think he should have been Tased, but he isn't some innocent guy. He has been in trouble before. He was warned. He was clearly trying to make a scene. I don't think the cops were right, but everyone is jumping on his side and even protesting to get the officers in trouble and Tasers banned from campus (which clearly isn't thought through. What do they want then? Billy clubs and mace?).
Something Awful has a thread about it which is where I first heard (last night). I think it is good to read because it gives you a number of viewpoints and more of the story.
It is some crazy shit and I hope it blows over because I am sick of looking like a fascist for not immediately jumping on the side of the student. I feel really fucking bad for him. I felt physically ill when I heard him cry out. I really did. But I try not to let momentary emotions cloud my judgment. Bad things happen when you do that. The officer overreacted, but overreacting in response does not make it equal.
My favorite post from the SA thread:
" Name which right of his was being violated at this private function that he was trespassing.

Excuse me but I think you're forgetting about the "right to resist arrest if you don't agree with the reason you are being arrested." I think that's either the 3rd or 4th amendment. One of the low ones."
Edit:
His blog: http://www.theandrewmeyer.com/

I'm Still Not Caught Up

2007-09-13T20:36:00.001-04:00

This is just the cutest thing in the world.

Since everyone else is doing it

2007-09-11T07:59:00.000-04:00

It is the six year anniversary of Sept. 11th. I have a lot of political opinions about the whole situation (from the US response to New York's handling of ground zero), but that isn't for here. A lot of great fictions has come out of the events and since I love books, it is what is being addressed today.
The Zero by Jess Walters. I already talked about this book because it is so good and so engrossing that thinking about anything else while you are reading it is impossible. It is entirely disjointed. Reading the book makes you feel like I imagine you would have felt had you been at the World Trade Center that day. It is unclear who is a hero and who is a coward, who is lying and who is trustworthy, what is going on and why. The book is just amazing and deeply effective.
Falling Man by Don Delillo. To be fair, I haven't read this book, but I plan to and it is going to be fantastic. Not only is Delillo incredibly talented, but he has an astounding grasp of the human condition.
I was going to post the image of the Falling Man, but I can't bring myself to, as I still find the picture overwhelming and I don't think it is fair to surprise people with it.
And to end on a cheery note:
Knock Knock
Who's there?
Sept. 11th
Sept. 11th who?
You said you'd never forget!

Have a good Patriot Day. Be nice to people.

[image from Amazon.com]

Mc Chris

2007-09-10T15:56:00.000-04:00

1) is coming to Gainesville in November. I will be there. No joke. Not like this Andrew Bird crap.
2) said this:
"last night i watched the vma's and i was so bored, i flew through it on my tivo. if i was reading they'd call it skimming. i dunno. everyone looked fat and rich and boring. nothing awesome and desperate, hungry about it. no connection to the people. it's my belief that the people in the club arent the people. the people like they say in it's a wonderful life, do the living and dying, salt of the earth, blue collar whatever you wanna call it. i think of pissed off surbanite teens as the people, the hobo kids, the squatters, the msi goths. i dont know where this club that mtv thinks we all wanna be in is. dancing with a mixed drink in one hand, placed strategically in the audience like a town hall meeting with the president. it all seemed played out and stupid. next. maybe be[ing] famous isnt cool anymore."
And maybe it isn't.

Football Kickoff Weekend

2007-09-10T14:27:00.000-04:00

I had a really good time watching football this weekend. I never really like Pro Football before, but with a fantasy team, I am now pretty into it. I changed some stuff around. I picked up Ronald Curry (of Oakland) and Indy defense (TWENTY fantasy points) to compliment Seattle (which did a very good job with 16 points). Calvin Johnson will certainly be playing for me next week.
I also found out I can't go to Andrew Bird (in ATL) on Thursday ~~so I am trying to sell my tickets if you want to buy them!~~

September Outfits from Anthropologie

2007-09-06T19:18:00.000-04:00

I got an email today from Anthropologie telling me to check out the September outfits, and since I do whatever my email tells me, I went right over.
My favorites:

From this outfit:
I loved this one right away. I mean, look how sweet that model looks. She is just so pretty. But I love the way that jacket fits and I really like that it is shorter and the sleeves of the dress peek out. I'm not totally sure about the boots, but I adore the scarf. I don't usually like things like that (and I can never wear one, living in Florida). It is just well-executed. I wonder though how it would look without the jacket or with the jacket unbuttoned. I feel like it would lose the nice shape. That dress seems like it would just hang down shapelessly without the jacket. I do like the navy coat and black shoes. I am always nervous about doing that, but she looks great.
AND

From this outfit:
I love the blazer/hoodie thing. It is casual and comfortable looking while still being dressy and nice. I also think the skirt is really cute. I HATE the shoes, but otherwise it is very nice.

I meant to post this the other day

2007-09-05T19:54:00.000-04:00

I thought maybe it would alienate people, but if you are as in love with Richard Feynman as the rest of the science-loving world is, then you will find this to be awesomely amusing. If you don't know him, I have a book you should read.

Oh. My. God.

2007-09-05T19:12:00.000-04:00

Please buy me one. They are all so cute.

Count Your Sheep is staying cute

2007-09-04T13:57:00.000-04:00

It is making me really happy. I love the mom so much. (Laurie, I think? I am terrible with even fictional names)

I hear tell

2007-09-04T09:59:00.000-04:00

that skinny jeans are out.

Let's celebrate the end of girls looking like shit in unflattering pants.

Day off= SA Day

2007-09-03T21:58:00.000-04:00

= funny shit I find posted there reposted here

Bella

2007-09-01T20:27:00.000-04:00

Awhile back I recommended "No One Will Know" by Bella. They have now put it up in their Myspace. Have a listen. I'm still very much enjoying the song.

I love Fall

2007-09-01T15:03:00.000-04:00

With the month of September comes show premiers (though I am unsure what to watch this season) and college football (Gators!) and pro football, something I don't usually follow BUT this year I am playing fantasy football with James and his co-worker and his worker's friends (so loads of people I don't know). The draft was today and I don't mind saying that I kicked ass.

I'm also looking forward to the cooler weather and cute clothes.
But yeah, feel free to comment on how fucking awesome my fantasy team is. Is that Frank Gore? Why, yes! Yes, it is. Oh and I have another defense. It is pending or some shit (I know none of the terminology) but soon the Vikings will be my other defense.

Look!

2007-08-31T19:20:00.001-04:00

I made myself as a Gwen Stefani paper doll thing. I would wear a school girl outfit every day if possible. Cute skirts, sweaters, and collared shirts. Gorgeous. I'm not a big fan of plaid though.

Troubled Hubble - Nancy

2007-08-31T15:19:00.001-04:00

This band was fucking fantastic. Sadly, they are no longer a band. Luckily, I got to see them TWICE before the broke up. Once at the Heatwave in Tampa and again at the now closed Infinity Room in Ybor City. Both shows were just amazing.

Webcomics

2007-08-30T09:39:00.000-04:00

I love finding a new, really good blog. I just discovered (how is has this existed without my knowledge?) Fleen and I am absolutely loving it. I have a lot of back reading to do. And all the webcomics it has introduced me to! I am going to be so busy the next few weeks.
The list of what I am beginning to read (in the order I will read them):
Pictures for Sad Children
Count Your Sheep
Minimalist Stick Figure Theater
High Maintenance Machine
Sheldon Comics
Cat and Girl
Gunnerkrigg Court

Oh my god. Count Your Sheep is the CUTEST. COMIC. EVER.

By the way, did I mention that I SAW SCOTT MCCLOUD?!?! It was part of his Fifty States Tour (that wraps up Saturday). He was so smart and funny and approachable. I absolutely adored him. His family is just the cutest too! I cannot believe they spent almost a year together on tour. And they all still love each other.

Picture Brush Rat posted on the McCloud livejournal.

Things a girl needs:

2007-08-29T20:07:00.000-04:00

Female roommates. Seriously. I am trying to put together a work appropriate outfit with my gorgeous new dress and I can't tell if it is school teacher innocent or idiotic looking.
I bought an awesome pair of Steve Madden peep-toe pumps. I got them from Dillard's (a store a very rarely go in) and they were only $20! Hopefully, they last longer than my other ones, which were good shoes but couldn't handle the tumble I took down the stairs at work last week (It was less of a tumble. More of a fall).
I cannot wait for cold weather and all the cute clothes that I get to wear when it comes. I don't like warm weather clothes with all their skin showing and bright colors.
Girls also need football. I am excited for this weekend!

Plans

2007-08-29T08:14:00.000-04:00

I have been excited about September since June probably. So many good things are coming in the next few weeks. I am so poor, but that will not stop me from having fun. Hello debt!
8/31 - The Ten opens in Gainesville. I want to do dinner and a movie. The drive will be long from Blue Highway to the movie theater, but whatever. It will be awesome. You must come. Kim is going.
9/13 - Andrew Bird. I asked for the time off work and my boss hasn't okay'd it yet, but I will remind her Monday if she still hasn't.
9/25 - DO MAKE SAY THINK. I am so fucking excited about this. I saw them with/as Broken Social Scene in November and it was the best show ever.
9/29 - Rilo Kiley - Maybe. In Atlanta. We'll see.
10/4 - Okkervil River. If James can get off work.

Picture from Andrew Bird's myspace.

Sylvia Recommends

2007-08-27T18:50:00.000-04:00

Ginger Ale in the can
Pilates with Jillian
Anthropologie clothing (I bought the above dress)
Great telling of true stories
Picnics and adventures at lunch time
True love
New jobs

More Books

2007-08-25T09:27:00.000-04:00

I just finished The Zero by Jess Walters and it was fucking fantastic. I can't remember the last time I tore through a book like I did this one.

I also finished Straight Man by Richard Russo while I was in California. I have one more book that I decided to check out from the library off the McSweeney's Recommends list and I am looking forward to reading it. Also, I need to go back through that list and read everything ever recommended because these books have been that good.
I would like to point out the McSweeney's Recommends The Wire. It is the best show on television, seriously. Even if you don't like TV, it is worth watching. You know how you can tell it's good? No award nominations. Seriously.

I am home

2007-08-22T12:53:00.000-04:00

San Francisco was great.

THEY CAME OUT WITH NEW ROOMBAS!

Entirely new. I think someone is going to get a used Roomba from me for Christmas so I can buy myself a new one. Oh baby. They are gorgeous. I need one so badly.

SF Day 5

2007-08-18T17:45:00.000-04:00

Today James and I went into San Anselmo and walked around. I had Chinese chicken salad from Comforts and James had a bagel. I had forgotten how good bagels can be. Bagels in Gainesville are terrible. Cream cheese in Gainesville is also bad.
We stopped at all the cute little shops, but we are way too poor to buy anything. Also, I have no money. The hotel room hasn't been charged yet and that makes me nervous. When we checked out the woman barely said anything to us and just waved us away. I am hoping that somehow they magically never charge us. I could use the extra $150.
I feel like we are wasting our day, but I don't know what to do. It is impractical to drive into the city and we are going back to Berkeley tomorrow. I wouldn't mind finding something for the afternoon though.
I don't want to ever leave, but with money running out, I am kind of happy we are leaving soon.

This is so long

2007-08-17T23:35:00.000-04:00

We are still in California. Let's play catch up.
Wednesday, we ate brunch at Mama’s. It was good though I don’t know if it was worth the wait. I should have gotten pancakes and fruit, the ultimate test of quality.
We checking into our hotel room, at Hotel Metropolis. It was on the border of a shady-ish neighborhood, but the hotel itself was wonderful. There was a mix-up with my reservation but everything turned out okay (though slightly more than I expected).

We shopped. I spent way too much money at Anthropologie, but I got a beautiful dress and a very pretty skirt and a shirt that I am still nervous about, though it looks nice on me so I think I am happy. I also bought a kick ass pair of red Nike’s from Urban Outfitters. They are a boy’s size six and they were the display shoes so they were half off and then UO was having a sale (probably online too) that gave half off anything on sale which brought the $80 shoes down to $20. They were also a million times better for walking around than my beat-up old Asics.

We walked around the city a bunch and shopped more and ate at Blondie’s (I am officially a bigger fan of Fat Slice) before heading back to our room and hanging out before we went to our show. It was at the Great American Music Hall (a beautiful venue), which is on O’Farrell St. O’Farrell scared me very much (mostly all the homeless) and I felt guilty about being afraid, but in my defense, the Florida homeless don’t wear large coats (because it is a million degrees) and the San Francisco homeless do, so they look bigger and more menacing.

-The weather has been beautiful-
The show! It was so awesome. The crowd was very cool, very indie, but not like pretentious indie. Everyone was a lot of fun and really seemed to enjoy themselves. The first act was Ingrid Michaelson. She was amazing. I had no idea who she was or what to expect, but she had a beautiful voice and a charming personality and I just adored her. She played with Ally Ross who I developed a crush on during the show, so much so that when she waved to the audience I WAVED BACK. I felt like such a nerd, but man, she was lovely. They were so good and the crowd for them was small but adoring. I felt so bad for the people that showed up late and missed them. Had they been it, it still would have been worth the $15 ticket. BUT then, The Little Ones performed. I had also never heard of them and AGAIN I was amazed by the quality. They were so good and energetic. They were quite a bit different than Ingrid Michaelson, but I was able to dance to them and the songs were so catchy and fun. Again, the show was only $15! It was so good. Finally (though it didn’t take long really) The Magic Numbers performed and I almost died a little. They are larger than life in so many senses (including the fact that they are all a bit overweight). Their set was amazing and even the lesser songs from the albums were good live. They didn’t perform one song I wanted to hear, but everything sounded so good that I was okay with it. I stood right in front of Angela which was a good place to be as she was the most adorable of the bunch. After their set ended, I asked one of the staff members from GAMH for the set list when he got back onstage. Not only did he give it to me, but he said “Only for you, darling,” which, of course, I adored.
The next day we went to Specialty’s for breakfast (I love Specialty’s) and cookies and the cookies were amazing, as usual.

We then headed to Chinatown, through North Beach, to Pier 39 (for In-N-Out) and then back up through North Beach to Union Square where I got See’s Candy and some lipgloss from Sephora (I didn’t have much time there),
We took the ferry home and I took a million pictures of everything, including San Quentin, because I am obsessed with prisons. I also got some beautiful shots of the city.

Today, we went to Berkeley and had a wonderful time. I got a Cal t-shirt, a beautiful vintage skirt, a Criterion, some comics/graphic novels/zines, books, and more In-N-Out (though in Mill Valley, there isn’t one in Berkeley). We went to all the best places: Rasputin’s (the other one), Amoeba (the other one), Mars (thrift shop), Crossroads (thrift shop), the campus bookstore (lame), Comic Relief (HUGE comic shop), Half Priced Books (bookstore), and Tully’s (coffee shop with good tea). The Berkeley campus was beautiful and the weather was perfect. It was a little warm in Berkeley, it got all the way up to 75. I have enjoyed driving the Infiniti we are borrowing from James’ family It drives really fun. Plus, driving in California is kickass. People aren’t slow and meek like in Florida.
I miss Gator Dawgs and the people, but other than that I would love to never leave. Tomorrow, we are headed to San Anselmo. And tonight, we are going to Fairfax (we hate Fairfax) to see Superbad.

SF Day 1

2007-08-14T20:23:00.000-04:00

I am in San Francisco for a week with my boyfriend, James.
Our flight arrived early so we grabbed our bags and called our ride and headed into the city. We decided to do The Haight today because it is the opposite direction of everything else we want to do this week. We ate lunch at Fat Slice (which was better than I remember. I got a veggie slice and it was far better than the cheese). We went to Amoeba and marveled at their DVDs (all fairly priced meaning no purchasing. We only buy DVDs that are good deals) and noticed that we own a few off their rare/collectable wall, including the Old Boy tin.
We went to Booksmith and got some cute little books and looked for signed copies of things we wanted but we had less luck this time than last.
I went to a couple boutiques and tried on some dresses but it was mostly unflattering babydoll dresses so I didn’t buy any clothes.
We then walked from Haight and Ashbury to the Powell St. BART station, which was fun. We overheard a conversation in which one man was explaining that he needed to get off the “stuff” but there was no way he was doing methadone treatment. We saw another man speaking softly to his cocaine as he cut it on the windowsill of a convenience store. I had never seen cocaine in person before (I live a very sheltered life) so it was an exciting experience.
We took the Golden Gate Ferry back home. The ride was lovely, though very cold and wet. We sat outside so we could see the city and it was beautiful. The fog never lifted today so as we sailed away, we could see the Golden Gate Bridge peaking out of the fog. Now I am relaxing in Marin County, known for its wealth, specifically BMWs and cocaine use. It is beautiful, the weather is perfect and I never want to leave.
We took a car, a boat, a plane and a train today! I am so nerdy excited about that.

2007-08-13T15:33:00.000-04:00

NBC is simultaneously the best and worst network on television. I was just thinking last night that NBC is the only network with an evening of shows that I enjoy watching. With the exception of 30 Rock, Thursdays are fantastic. I love Scrubs and this last season wasn't great, but it is still an enjoyable show. My Name is Earl always makes me laugh. Jason Lee is a Scientologist, but he is really fucking funny, so I can get past that. The Office is one of the best comedies on television and probably the best show on network television. Those three shows alone are enough for me to proclaim NBC the best network. No other network can even come up with a decent show and have instead resorted to formulaic medical and crime dramas that are as interesting as they are intellectually stimulating. There are other good shows, House and Lost, but neither are good enough to get me to watch every week like NBC does.
However, NBC is also the network behind To Catch a Predator. TCAP is by far the worst show on television. Not only is it fear mongering and disturbing, but possibly unlawful. Esquire (the only commercial magazine I read) has a very good piece this month entitled "Tonight on Dateline This Man Will Die." Chris Hansen is horrible and the show certainly doesn't abide by the innocent until proven guilty ideal. Dateline and their partner in this Perverted Justice disgust me regardless of whether their claims that their actions are lawful are true. Clearly, I think child sexual assault is wrong, but I think luring a criminal to a location, interviewing them on film, and then turning them over to the police is a violation of their civil rights. People should not be treated like that. Teach your kids to behave online and not to meet strangers. Be responsible on your own. Don't count on some shitty, possible illegal television show to protect you. The whole world doesn't need to revolve around keeping your kid safe. Keep your own child safe. You also don't need signs put on the lawns of people convicted of sex crimes. It is called personal responsibility. And if you are really concerned about keeping sexual predators away from children, don't send them to prison, send them to therapy. Teach these people to stay away from children, don't send them to jail for uncontrollable sexual urges. People need to be more proactive. At very least, don't delude yourself into thinking that shows like To Catch a Predator are going to save you or your family or by watching that show you are helping in any way. The only thing you are helping is the degradation of people's rights. So way to go NBC (and all you people that watch that horrible show).

Jokes and Jokes and Jokes

2007-08-11T11:40:00.001-04:00

Actually, just one joke:

How many Radical Feminists does it take to change a light bulb?

None. Radical Feminists can’t change anything.

HA.

This is the kind of feminist I guess I am.

Hanners is back on QC

2007-08-09T10:31:00.001-04:00

I love this new Hanners arc. I absolutely adore her. Check out Questionable Content everyday!

I didn't see that he hosts the comics so I saved it and am uploading it which I hate doing for so many reasons, but this one is just wonderful.

Victory Records

2007-08-09T08:28:00.001-04:00

A number of people are pushing this Victory Records story. And claiming it is huge news suppressed by whomever it is the suppresses such things. I will admit that the article is really fucking long and I lost interest about a page and a half in. It wasn't very well-written. Now I think that record companies should act right, all record labels. And I don't think this company should receive more flack because they are an "indie label." And maybe I would care more if I liked any of the band on the label. But I figured I will share the story. If you care, then good. Don't buy their records. I already don't. But this is like all things, I don't think it will make a difference.
Suicide Girls and American Apparel are frequently attacked for management's practices. But that doesn't stop indie people from purchasing what they're selling. I will honestly admit that I like Suicide Girls (I talk occasionally with Morgan) and I own American Apparel clothing. I hear you should actually buy from Alternative Apparel, but there is an American Apparel around here and I know what size I wear so it is easy. And that is the thing, people are going to do what is easiest. That is why everyone knows Wal-Mart is horrible, but shops their anyway. I don't shop at Wal-Mart for a myriad of reasons, including the corporate reputation. I do shop at American Apparel because I don't care that the founder is a pervert and that the ads are borderline pornography. I know that sounds bad, but I really don't. I think that if the girls feel exploited, they should do something about it (and be supported in doing so), but I also think that American society is so puritanical that we need more ads promoting sex. People need to be desensitized. It's just sex. People are desensitized to violence, which is far worse in my opinion. I would love opinions on this and if I am wrong or taking something too lightly, tell me. My opinions are not steadfast. So let me know, send me links, let's be friends.

Haha They're SO Fun!

2007-08-08T14:34:00.000-04:00

I love love love Bella! I wish them all the luck in the world with their new album. Notice I didn't call them cute? Reason:

I read an old New York Times article about cuteness. I think I read it when it originally ran, but I didn't have anywhere to write about it. It made me really rethink my use of the word cute and my desire to be cute. As the article puts it: "Cute cues are those that indicate extreme youth, vulnerability, harmlessness and need." The idea that anyone would strive for those things is ridiculous and kind of disgusting. Who would want to be extremely young (though I do concede my desire to look youthful, I don't think I take it to an extreme) and vulnerable? At times, I think vulnerability is important. No one should force themselves to be guarded all the time. It isn't something you should work at being (unless, of course, you are unapproachable). Harmlessness is okay though still not an admirable trait. And outside of childhood, neediness is just sad. Learn to take care of yourself! There is very little a person CANNOT do for themselves. Not that I am the fully free from wishing to be any of those things, but I am going to work on not aiming for that and not calling people cute as a compliment unless they are children.

One Week Countdown

2007-08-07T08:07:00.001-04:00

I would just like to say that as much as I love the sun and rain of Florida, I am very much looking forward to San Francisco weather. I mean, Gainesville is nice and all, but August is total shit.

Just a reminder:

2007-08-06T09:29:00.000-04:00

I called this. This, of course, being the goodness that is Los Campesinos! I want to see them live so badly. Look how cute they are! I love bands with cute female members.
Speaking of bands with cute female members, I would like to remind you that I am predicting Bella's album No One Will Know is coming out and I am predicting quality. Let's just say that from everything I have heard, this band is exploding with heartfelt cuteness and I absolutely adore them.

Picture belongs to Pitchfork.

Food

2007-08-06T08:59:00.000-04:00

One of my favorite things about the Bay Area is the AMAZING food. Not only is there a wide variety, but competition keeps the food astounding. So I have a huge list of places I plan to eat while I am there. HUGE. I am going to go for walks and eat healthy all the week to make up for the fact that for 7 days, I am going to eat everything I see.

Pizza:
Blondie's: Blondie's has really good, big, delicious slices of pizza. It is NY style.
Gioia: Gioia sells the best pizza I have ever had. Hands down. No question. I will not leave Berkeley until I get a slice of that pizza.
Fat Slice: I always get Fat Slice when I go out, but it isn't my favorite and is the one I will pass on if I am short on time/stomach space.

Mexican:
Taqueria San Jose: It is a bit out of our way, but the look of that burrito (see above) pretty much means I have to eat there. How could I not? I have never seen food that looks better than that.
Taqueria Mi Pueblo: I ate here a number of times the last time we were out. The servings are huge and so tasty. I even ate reheated nachos from there, they were so good. I am really looking forward to going back there.

Other:
In-N-Out: No trip to California can be complete without a trip to In-N-Out. I get a grilled cheese, those delicious fries, and a milk shake. It is the best fast food I have ever had. Someone claimed that Five Guys Burgers and Fries was better. They are wrong.
Comforts: Comforts is the cutest little place in San Anselmo. I love getting lunch to go there. They put it all together for you and it is so good AND cute. What more could you ask for? The staff could be nicer, but the food is good enough to make up for it. I am so excited, so so excited, for their Chinese Chicken Salad. I actually dream about it.
Mama's on Washington Square: Every time we go out, we say we are going to go to Mama's and we have yet to. I have heard nothing but rave reviews of the place. Since we will be in the city breakfast time this time, I think I am going to make the trip. The food looks amazingly good.

I am sure there are more, but those are all I can come up with right now.

Picture is from RoadFood, one of the best sites on the internet.

I just finished reading:

2007-08-05T08:28:00.000-04:00

Flatland by Edwin A. Abbott. The book is short and just fantastic. It reads as if it were contemporary (it was written in 1884). Some of the ideas presented are at the base for contemporary scientific theory, like String Theory. Not only that, but Flatland is a social satire and many parts of the novella are quite funny and poignant. In one of the introductions in the copy I read (Oxford English), the idea of collection consciousness was proposed and that is an idea that I am quite interested in, even though it being true is as unlikely as there being a God.

I am in the process of reading:
Saboteurs: The Nazi Raid on America by Michael Dobbs
Straight Man by Richard Russo
and, the book I'll never finish,
What is Marriage For? by E.J. Graff

Paprika trailer

2007-08-04T23:38:00.001-04:00

I watched this movie Friday night. It was fantastic.
Look how good it looks! It is a truly beautiful movie.

Clothes/Fashion/Buying Things

2007-08-03T17:48:00.000-04:00

One of my absolute favorite blogs, Coquette, does a Web Snob Weekly Roundup that I adore. I just wanted to give it a plug.

Oh Noes

2007-08-03T09:54:00.000-04:00

I am back in BYOB on Something Awful, so I will probably be MIA for awhile or posting really stupid shit that I think is funny.
Oh, if you're in Gainesville, may I suggest MAMAW MENAGERIE? Hopefully, fun will be had by all. We'll seeee.

11 days until San Francisco and then you and I can be friends again, my poor blog. I will post pictures of my trip in my photo blog which I will link to as soon as I remember the address.

Shopping

2007-08-02T09:48:00.001-04:00

I am saving because I am going shopping in San Francisco but that has not even slowed my looking a little bit.
If you really want to prove your love, I made an Anthropologie Wish List. I want cute, more adult clothes for work. Sadly, I don't really make enough money to buy that stuff. I really love the Wildflower Cardigan, so I think I am going to get that regardless.
Anthropologie put up their August Outfits. I adore this one:

I don't think I could pull it off. I'm short and even in those heels, I don't think I would look decent in it.

I want to dye my hair or do something different. I don't know. We'll see...

NEWS DAY

2007-07-31T13:06:00.000-04:00

Chief Justice Roberts had a seizure. I really feel for him. I imagine having a seizure would be pretty terrible.

But, good news, The FBI searched Sen. Ted Stevens (R-AK) as part of a corruption case. I hate Sen. Stevens with a passion. He is horrible for the environment and for every decent thing he does, he pushes forward something (ANYTHING) to get more money for Alaskan projects that need oversight and planning, not more money. He is the genius that said the internet was a series of tubes. Now, granted, he is really old and my boyfriend's grandmother (who is younger than him) once told me to email a place to order something for my boyfriend and then, very proud of her understanding of the internet, gave me a URL. Clearly, keeping up on such things is hard when you are older. BUT she, I'd like to point out, is not a senator. So yeah, Sen. Stevens is an old man. I don't care if he serves time, I just want him thrown out of office and made an example of. It disgusts me that Sen. Strom Thurmond is so idealized by some and it is too late to fix that. But in hopes of saving the world from canonizing another failure of a human being, I want it made clear that Sen. Stevens is a horrible, corrupt man so people in the future don't admire him.

I lost my weekend to SA

2007-07-30T15:12:00.000-04:00

I spent the last 24 hours or so looking at Photo-A-Day threads (July and now June). Some of the pictures are absolutely amazing, but I would feel bad linking them without express permission. I can direct you to the threads though.

June
July

You should take the time to really look through them. Some of the pictures are perfect. On page 11 (I think) of July, there is one of the prettiest girls I have ever seen.

I signed up for a Photoblog. I am planning on investing a lot (for me, not for people who really take pictures) on a camera and doing a Project365-type deal. I would like a watermark for my photos though (in case I am magically super talented). I don't know how one would go about doing that.

Wheeeeeee

2007-07-27T19:59:00.000-04:00

My friend posted this to her blog, so I thought I would share. It is Harry Potter related but not a single spoiler is contained.

It was supposed to be McSweeney's Monday

2007-07-27T08:58:00.000-04:00

But it is Friday. Oh well.
My favorites so you don't have to go find them yourself:

Lists:
Things I Have Learned From Ex-Boyfriends.

BY MEGAN ROBIN

- - - -

It is impossible to compel someone to speak to you.

Sid Vicious was a member of the Sex Pistols.

Past and Future Magazine Titles That Map Our Intellectual Decline.

BY ANDREW DEPASQUALE

- - - -

Cosmopolitan

People

InStyle

InTouch

Us

Star

OK!

Shiny!

ROTFLMAO

Long Slide Into Atrophic Dementia Weekly

Which Side of These Pants Is the Front?

Uhh

Soft Gurgling Noise

Lies Printed on My Waffle Iron.

BY ANNIE MACKEY

- - - -

Magic

Easy Clean

Unlikely Disasters.

BY GABE KOPLOWITZ

- - - -

Sun and moon collision

All eyeballs turn to wood

Tornado made of fire

Sea mammals attack world's financial centers

Mountains leave

Colin Firthquake

Review of New Food:
General Foods International Suisse Mocha

Submitted by Sara Sligar

Suisse Mocha comes in a small tin whose color I always think of as red, although only about 10 percent of the surface area is actually red. The rest is covered with pictures of European-looking chocolate beverages and an "International Recipe" that involves the phrases "flavor destination" and "indulgent recipe." I will translate this quintessentially European text into American for you: "Mix with hot water."

Over winter break, aided by my mother and her MasterCard, I procured several tins of this magic stuff, intending to carry them back to my dorm room once school resumed. And carry them back I did. Traveling from the wild plains of the Midwest on the wild planes of American Airlines, I spirited my bounty back to New England. Ecstatically, I cleaned a mug. Breathlessly, I heated water. Filled with incandescent hope, I drank. And it was magnificent.

Nothing can equal the delicious blend of coffee and hot chocolate that is Suisse Mocha. Staring out my window at the winter-stripped tree branches and the icy ground, I mentally relocated myself to a chic Parisian café. My life was suddenly amazing. Colors were brighter. Sounds were stronger. Every day since then has been an unstoppable dream.

One day, a couple weeks ago, I went to the hot-chocolate machine in the dining hall and saw the other spigot, which spurts out a coffee drink that I have heard colloquially referred to as "the most disgusting sludge ever." The less refined have called it "shit." Curious, I looked closer, to see what terrible beverage could have elicited such a response from my peers, who, in my experience, seem willing to imbibe essentially any liquid created.

The label said: "General Foods International Suisse Mocha."

According to Wikipedia, mocha is "an American invention" that is "mostly unknown in Italy and other continental European countries."

Sugar Daddies

Submitted by Leigh Duffy

I love these caramel pops. When I was little, I would eat these on long family trips to pull my baby teeth out. Worked every time—although, if I had one tooth I initially planned on losing, the thick, unforgiving caramel would inevitably rip out two others as well. It was a satisfying pain, made tasty by the delectable combination of sugary sweetness and blood pooling in my mouth. For this reason, I recommend Sugar Daddies to all families with young children.

Virb has really blossomed

2007-07-26T09:00:00.000-04:00

I am very impressed with the goodness of this site. Like this video is from Virb:

There are so many groups and people I want to befriend. There are some really great photos and videos. And since it is so new, I can just friend everyone without having to check them out like on myspace. I hate myspace.

ADD ME AS YOUR FRIEND ON VIRB!

News

2007-07-26T08:16:00.001-04:00

Goddamn. Both these news stories made me REALLY angry.

First, Iraq won a semi-final in the Asian Cup. That is fantastic. No country needed something like that more. These people are in constant pain and fear and moments are joy are sorely needed. And I hate the people that took that away from them. That is truly unfair and just disgusting.

Second, Kaiser Permanente was fined AGAIN by the state of California. Anyone that saw Sicko (a very enjoyable film, even if it isn't total honest) or lives in California knows that Kaiser treats patients terribly. These fines are far too small and too easily forgiven. If heath insurance companies were doing their jobs properly, they wouldn't be seeing record profits. That isn't how it works. And I doubt some of the stuff said in Sicko, but I don't doubt that these companies go out of their way to deny care to those that need it. And the "you're not denying care, you're denying payment" line is total bullshit. I pay $54/month in health insurance. If I need care, I better fucking get it. Otherwise, I can drop $54/month into a savings account and pay for my own care when I need it. The problem with that, of course, is that you lose the discount for services that health insurance providers negotiate. There needs to be complete overhaul.

Sorry. Shit like that just makes me so angry.

VICTORY!

2007-07-26T08:04:00.000-04:00

I totally forgot to mention, the Los Campesinos! EP came out and Pitchfork gave it a good review. I'd say 8.4 is pretty solid.
"Silly names aside, Los Campesinos! play superbly crafted indie pop that bounces off walls like Love Is All, grins with the childlike exuberance of Bis, and throws the toy chest into its arrangements like Architecture in Helsinki. Glockenspiels and pizzicato violin veer into reckless guitar riffs and full-bodied handclaps-- or fizz over, like Mentos and Coke, into happy-stupid crescendos."

It is love. I absolutely adore them.

Dave Eggers Rules My World

2007-07-25T20:46:00.000-04:00

He puts together the best books I have ever read. Awhile back, I read What is the What and it was fantastic, just amazing. Today I finished Surviving Justice: America's Wrongfully Convicted and Exonerated.

The book is engaging and broken up into short segments so it is a great book to carry with you and read when you get a chance. It really makes you think about the penal system. Some of these people were on death row. They were supposed to be executed for a crime they didn't commit. And it isn't like the West Memphis Three, where everyone knows they didn't do it. There people's families turned on them. It is so heartbreaking. I really think it is important that people read books like this. I agree with Adam Carolla and his idea that "juror" should be a paid government job, like a cop. These people should need degrees and accurately represent the area population. They should know about law. I can convince someone who knows nothing about something to believe anything and that is what happened in a lot of these cases. I would also strongly recommend watching The Wire on HBO. Other than the fact the Omar is a total badass, the show gives you a really good look at what life is really like for criminals and cops. I found myself unsurprised by some of the things I read because I knew from The Wire that is was happening. Also, The Wire is clever, engaging, well-directed, well-shot, and well-written. It is literally the BEST television show I have ever seen and I watch a lot of TV.
But back to the book, I hope to find a signed copy while I am in San Francisco. The one I read is from the library and I am devastated I have to give it back. It is that good.

Kate Nash - Foundations

2007-07-24T16:11:00.001-04:00

I'm still not sure if I like this song or just love the cuteness of this girl/video. But either way, it is enjoyable to watch. I have been in a weird place lately, but I am feeling good today.
Kate Nash eating lemons is absolutely adorable.

Make-up

2007-07-24T09:21:00.000-04:00

I want this. But the plan is to wait until I go to Sephora in San Francisco, so I will wait.
I need a new moisturizer. The one I use is okay, but I know there must be better stuff out there.
I am tired today. More exciting things are to come.

First things first

2007-07-23T07:04:00.000-04:00

I added 2 really good albums to my library yesterday. The entire new Bella album (mentioned in the previous post) and "You Think It's Like This But Really It's Like This" by Mirah.
And speaking of that album, I really enjoy "Sweepstakes Prize" as it makes me think of my wonderful, loving boyfriend. It also just so happens to be our 4 year and 8 month anniversary (yes, we still celebrate months...sometimes), also known as our 56th month anniversary. Thus, today's link is for him. Give it a listen. It is a really good song.

"You know all of my secret ideas
The ones I'm giving up on and the ones I'll keep
And everybody sees a funny look in our eyes
'Cause we know that we already won the sweepstakes prize"

New Music

2007-07-22T07:58:00.000-04:00

Bella has a new album out Sept. 18th. I certainly recommend you look around for the song "No One Will Know" (also the album title). I have been enjoying the song enormously.
They're adorable.

"Don't be shy
You doing what I like
You're not the lonely one
Come on come over
Half of all of this is true
The rest is me not you
and I both know better"

As is always the case, imagine copyright someone else. I just lifted it from the band's myspace.

Speaking of cute indie pop, I am going to see the Starlight Mints tonight. No one I asked knew who they were, so maybe the teen indie idiots will stay away and I can enjoy myself. I hope it isn't too empty though or it'll be awkward.

LOL CATS

2007-07-20T16:36:00.001-04:00

Your Score: 7331 Cat

48% Affectionate, 56% Excitable, 55% Hungry

Lolzergs have nothing on you. You are swift and ruthless, cutting down whatever and whomever necessary in order to obtain the foodz. As one of the first lolcat known to man, your ancient skills in location-declaration and object-verbing have been passed down several generations, keeping the spirit of felinity alive.

To see all possible results, checka dis.

Link: The Which Lolcat Are You? Test written by GumOtaku on OkCupid, home of the The Dating Persona Test

This is me.

2007-07-20T08:21:00.001-04:00

I am weird.

I really want to start taking pictures. I am going to buy a camera when I get back from San Fran. I know which one I want. I love it already and I have never seen it. I think I am going to do a Project365 thing, where you take at least one picture every day. I hear it is amazing to look over after some time. Because of the memories of small things you wouldn't remember otherwise that come back. I imagine I will take a lot of pictures of rain and of people I see doing things that I find humorous. I am really excited about the idea and I already see things and think "That would be my picture of the day today." Clearly, I am really excited. I want to buy the camera now, but then I couldn't pay my credit card bill.
I am going to become a weirdo that asks people to take pictures with me or let me take pictures of them, but I don't care.

I'm going to stop, I swear.

Word of the Day

2007-07-19T08:38:00.001-04:00

Word of the Day for Thursday, July 19, 2007

tortuous \TOR-choo-us\, adjective:

1. Marked by repeated turns and bends; as, "a tortuous road up the mountain."
2. Not straightforward; devious; as, "his tortuous reasoning."
3. Highly involved or intricate; as, "tortuous legal procedures."

Thanks, Doctor Dictionary. That is basically how it is.

Kurt Halsey is a God

2007-07-18T21:16:00.001-04:00

This is what I strive for in every relationship and Halsey's work embraces it perfectly.

I wish I could be her. That is what I am striving for. Perfectly adorable.

I rarely say things are the CUTEST thing I've ever seen, but this is the cutest, saddest thing I've ever seen.

This would be my ideal existence. Rainy and warm.

This is so sweet and loving. It is intimate and cute and lovely.

Here is Kurt Halsey's Wikipedia page and his website. This is some of the most amazing work I have ever seen. I love it like I love Craig Thompson.

Just in case you haven't noticed

2007-07-18T16:36:00.001-04:00

I still love QC, but right now my interest lie with xkcd.

Art!

2007-07-18T11:07:00.000-04:00

This is from http://www.misakorocks.com/. You have probably seen it already, he does art for The Onion, but I thought I'd link because I liked that image so much.

EEEEE!!!!!!

2007-07-17T22:12:00.000-04:00

I love this site! Skirt Spot. SKIRTS! I love the A-line and some are on sale, very cheaply. I NEED skirts.

This is an excellent film

2007-07-16T22:05:00.001-04:00

Rilo Kiley - A Better Son/Daughter

2007-07-14T21:48:00.001-04:00

I know this is off an older album, but I had a fairly limited collection of Rilo Kiley music until recently. This is my new favorite song. It may not be better than "Glendora," but right now, it is perfect.

I'm so slow with things

2007-07-12T10:07:00.000-04:00

I just found Stars and Infinite Darkness, but I absolutely adore it. There is such a wide variety of clothes and designers and the prices are quite reasonable and in some cases, downright cheap. This is going to be picture rich as I breakdown everything that I want right now.
All pictures are from the Stars and Infinite Darkness website.

I absolutely adore this wallet. And I already have a pretty awesome wallet. This is just amazing. I literally said that out loud at work and got made fun of. But it is amazing.

I really need a new bag. This one is cute, but my least favorite of the ones I likes. It is cheaper than the others though. The one I use is cute, but I use it all the time and it is getting worn. A bag is on my list of things to buy in San Francisco.

I made a mistake. This bag is actually cheaper than the other one. I like the plain exterior.

This bag costs the most, but is by far my favorite. It manages to be huge (I carry a lot of books) and cute. I like how nice it looks slung over her shoulder.

Apparently, this top is their best selling item and for good reason. It is very cute. I wish they had a small. My upper half is pretty tiny.

I like this shirt. I have enough green shirts, but the white one isn't as cute. None of my other green shirts have hearts on them though, so that justifies getting another one, right?

I love this top and not just because I think the model is really cute. It is so versatile and the amount of money I can spend on clothes is limited so I like to get things that are cute and wearable. It is $80 though, which is a lot for me to spend on a shirt. My total outfit right now cost less than $80 (hurray for sales!). But that top is cuter than my whole outfit.

There is nothing I don't love about this outfit. The skirt is pretty and cheap. I have spent more on uglier skirts. And the top goes so perfectly with it (on sale!). That whole outfit only costs a little more than the shirt I like. I think I may actually order that. But it would cut into vacation money so I don't know.

I don't even want this really, but it is a cute idea and it is so cheap. If I were ordering something, which I might, I would get it. Because why not? It is sexy and practical.

I recommend checking their stock list before ordering. Or just ordering and waiting, I guess. I will order something soon and report the results.

Purchasing everything on this page would be $552, which really isn't bad considering how much you'd get. And that includes 3 bags, which I probably wouldn't order.

Music Roundup

2007-07-11T11:40:00.000-04:00

Slate made a video thing about how YouTube is ruining rap. It is pretty interesting.
I also like this tee from Karmaloop.
I probably shouldn't post this, but Esquire did. I didn't check it out as I am at work and can't, but I will say that I have considered Gmail, especially with the higher attachment size allowance, a possible source for sharing large files, such as music. Not that I would ever do that.

The Streets - Never Went To Church

2007-07-10T07:13:00.001-04:00

Speaking of buying things

2007-07-09T14:34:00.000-04:00

I was reading about people buying odd things to freak out the cashiers, so I wanted to tell a funny story. The first 100 or so (not that many) condoms I used, I got for free from the health care center. The first time I bought condoms, I was really embarrassed (and incredulous. They seemed so expensive!) so I bought them along with birthday present stuff for my friend, Mike. At the time, I thought I was being clever and that the cashier would just thing I was giving someone a joke gift of condoms, but in actuality, I probably looked insane. I bought a birthday card, a gift bag, tissue paper, and condoms. I wish I still had that receipt.

I want to buy things so badly

2007-07-09T08:10:00.000-04:00

I am saving for San Francisco where I am planning to buy everything in the world. I am debating whether to go to Sephora or MAC. I am using up the last of my make-up. The only thing I won't consider buying is mascara, because the kind that I have is awesome and it is the only one that I have never had a bad reaction to. Oh Almay. And it is only like $4.
I can't wait to go to Berkeley and shop at all the cute little shops and buy the cutest things in the world. Though, let's be honest, we all know all my money is going to spent at Cody's, Booksmith, and Rasputin's.
Finally, I am considering getting an account at PersonalCloset.com. It seems like a neat idea and a good way to get designer clothing cheaper. The problem is, of course, that I was raised to believe that only the truly shallow think about things like fashion and the comfort is the most important thing. Whatever. I had hippie parents.
Also, there is this: Prickie. Everyone knows the buttons/pins bought from street vendors are cooler and generally more interesting, but some of the ones on there are really cute. I just don't know what I'd do with them.

I got Skitch

2007-07-07T18:43:00.000-04:00

It is awesome, but I am looking for more ways to use it. I made this emo piece of shit. I captured the hearts off a blog I read. I'm going to claim the half border is there to represent something, but really, I forgot the border was there and didn't notice that only half of it appeared until it was already uploaded.

Genius.

Skitch can do cooler things. I promise.

Sixteen Military Wives - The Decemberists

2007-07-06T07:37:00.001-04:00

Best video ever.

Post #101

2007-07-04T13:17:00.000-04:00

I want to buy this house. Please donate to the down payment fund.

Thanks.

The Avalanches - Since I Left You

2007-07-03T14:38:00.001-04:00

Man, I loved this song for a long time. I'd never seen this video.

There is so much going on

2007-07-03T09:16:00.001-04:00

And I am missing all of it. Let's play catch up:
1) Someone needs to make a Flirt Divert for the US. I was going to say "for me" but no one flirts with me and if they did, I am a decent enough person to explain I am unavailable. Unless you're really cute, in which case, I have a boyfriend and if you can get past that, then I am totally available.
2) Maybe I just don't get it, I mean the video is well made (though I haven't seen it before, they can't be the first to say Internet Killed the Video Star) and fun to watch, but the music isn't very good. We'll see. Maybe it'll grow on my like Daft Punk never did.
3) Esquire (the only magazine other than The Believer that I have a subscription to) is the best magazine. Nothing else is ever so consistently and unself-consciously pretentious. It exists in a realm that I couldn't even begin to enter. Anyway, right now, they are doing The Napkin Fiction Project. It is turning out very well. My favorites so far:
Jonathan Ames
Julianna Baggott
Andrew Sean Greer
Millard Kaufman
Joey Goebel

I stole all of this from Fimoculous and just expanded on it.

Los Campesinos - You! Me! Dancing!

2007-06-30T19:33:00.001-04:00

Make sure you watch past the first minute that is when the song gets good.
"It is sad that you think that we're all just scenesters, but even if we were it's not the scene you're thinking."

I love new music

2007-06-27T07:30:00.001-04:00

I love Arts and Crafts
I love the new band signed by Arts and Crafts
Los Campesinos!

I want this

2007-06-26T20:54:00.000-04:00

It is on sale!

Neutral Milk Hotel - In the Aeroplane over the Sea

2007-06-26T07:35:00.001-04:00

I will have Noah Baumbach's babies

2007-06-25T20:35:00.002-04:00

That is saying a lot considering I don't want kids. He is genius and so fucking cute.

Margot at the Wedding Trailer

2007-06-25T20:35:00.001-04:00

I am so excited for this. ! love Noah Baumbach.

Brief Review

2007-06-24T18:30:00.000-04:00

I just finished The Brief and Frightening Reign of Phil by George Saunders. The book is brief and easy to read but moving and complex. I would recommend it to anyone. Not only is it good, but reading it will make you feel smarter.

Breakfast at Tiffany's Trailer

2007-06-23T22:05:00.001-04:00

I like the pronunciation of Capote's name. And Audry Hepburn is certainly beautiful but poor George Peppard is not even touching her league.

Look at my internet power!

2007-06-22T10:58:00.000-04:00

OH YES!. This is making me so happy.

Thank you to everyone who is helping out!

I wasn't going to post today

2007-06-21T15:34:00.000-04:00

But then someone kindly brought this. Click on the valley images. They are NWS, but they are amazing. I saw this exhibit at the Museum of Modern Art in San Francisco and it cemented my love of pornography forever. It is so amazing and interesting and beautiful. I would love to go in to photography just to document things like this.

The Magic Numbers - Take A Chance

2007-06-20T16:50:00.001-04:00

I might have posted this already, but I love this song.

New Game

2007-06-20T15:45:00.000-04:00

Please bid.

Books I'm Reading Right Now

2007-06-19T16:42:00.000-04:00

The Brief and Frightening Reign of Phil by George Saunders
Molloy by Samuel Beckett
Getting Even: Why Women Don't Get Paid Like Men--and What to Do About It by Evelyn Murphy and E.J. Graff
The Corner by David Simon and Edward Burns
What is Marriage For? by E.J. Graff

Things I Want:

2007-06-19T10:40:00.000-04:00

Much like things I love only less passion, more desire.

1.

This watch is beautiful.

2.

This bike with a rear basket and other goodies.

3. This guy's whole life. That would be amazing. Not only would I be good looking and smart, but talented, employed, and living in San Francisco. What more could a girl want?

I need something

2007-06-18T13:56:00.000-04:00

I would love to link from my blog directly to songs (just audio). Is there a way to do this? I want the people to be able to actually hear it, not just link them to iTunes or something else where they will have to purchase it.

Thanks.