~Bad Kitty~

The Case for Natural Beauty

2010-05-11T10:19:00.013-04:00

I was scrolling through MSNBC the other day and came across three articles criticizing the now-standardized, yet artificial kind of beauty.

The first was about how Hollywood casting agents are rejecting more young actresses who have had “work” done, and how older actresses are also turning away from their not-so-natural assets.

"Television executives… say they have begun recruiting more natural looking actors from Australia and Britain because the amply endowed, freakishly young-looking crowd that shows up for auditions in Los Angeles suffers from too much sameness…Sharon Osborne recently told Matt Lauer on TODAY that she was going to have her breast implants removed this summer and give them to her husband as paperweights. Lisa Kudrow, in a recent interview with New York magazine, seemed happy to own up to the fact that the face viewers saw on an episode of “Cougar Town” was hers, age lines and all.”

The second article was about Jessica Simpson’s cover photo shoot with Marie Claire magazine, where she poses without make up and natural, air-dried hair. In the Marie Claire article, she talks about the criticism she endured while not living up to typical beauty standards and discusses frankly how much faking went into her Daisy Duke look.

I have to admit – I spent my college years ogling and envying Jessica’s toned and tan body, luscious long blonde hair, and perfect glowing skin, and of course have tried only semi-successfully to emulate it via spray tans, cleavage cupcakes, and hair extensions. So, her au naturel photos in Marie Claire were startling. I had to stop myself from gasping "she's not that hot!" And yet, as unfamiliar as she looked, the photos were oddly refreshing.

It is becoming more apparent that the Hollywood stars and supermodels have their own tricks and secrets to showcasing a misleading look that is not naturally attainable. Photos of stars without make-up, Botox, add-ons, and digital edits certainly help ease the pressure. It makes me (plus millions of other insecure women around the world) feel a little bit less homely. Even beauty pageants don't adhere to natural beauty standards anymore. There is plenty of surgery and faking in that mix as well.

I love the Dove's ad Campaign for Natural Beauty, and the videos that demonstrate how much work goes into making a model Billboard-ready. I also notice more natural-looking, imperfect stars coming into the picture, like Amanda Seyfried, Blake Lively, and that girl in the Alice in Wonderland movie.

I do feel like a hypocrite though, because I buy into the faking myself, and many of my peers have freely ventured into cosmetic surgery territory (and I want to myself!) What I gravitate towards in terms of viewing myself and others as attractive is unfortunately very based on features that are often not real.

Another article sums it up with, "Looking at less-than-perfect pics of celebs makes their status "not that unattainable to those who view them...We internalize the idea that beautiful people are better in every way... and then we are told by society that we don't measure up."

The culture’s (and my) definition of “hot” and “sexy” has definitely been more Maxim/Playboy/Victoria’s Secret-influenced in my generation, but hopefully this new media push will ease us out of such a compartmentalized view, and bring us to embrace natural beauty as well.

If nothing else, it would help save my budget. Spray tans are freaking expensive!!

The articles in full are below :)

http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/36697416/ns/today-today_fashion_and_beauty/
http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/36276868/ns/today-entertainment/
http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/36807988/ns/today-the_new_york_times/

Getting "Old"

2010-03-24T10:10:00.007-04:00

This weekend, I was out with the girls at the W Hotel rooftop bar, celebrating my friend’s 25th birthday. It was nothing intense - just light cocktails and strawberries, lounging at a private table overlooking the DC panorama. By 12 AM, at least 4 of us (myself included) were ready to call it quits and go home.

Now, if any of my older co-workers, family, or less socially-inclined acquaintances were to read this, they would see no problem with a 12 AM closing time. The thought of it would, in fact, exhaust them. But for a party girl like me, and for a party group like us, shutting it down at 12 AM could only mean one thing – we are getting old.

Since a lot of us reached the 25-year milestone in life recently, and as the rest of us rapidly approach it, there has been an increasingly common refrain: “I just can’t do the heavy drinking, the 4 am bedtimes, and high energy club dancing anymore!” Suddenly, we can no longer bounce back from a morning hangover with a heavy breakfast and a few extra strength Tylenols. The birthday girl herself said “It takes me 2 days now to recover from a night of drinking and dancing.”

Once in a while it still happens, but overall, I can’t party and drink like I used to. The mere thought of a shot makes my stomach turn. The highlight of the night is getting dolled up to Britney music, slipping a sip of wine in between applying strokes of eyeliner. And then… I’m tired! W…T…F.

Age... Suddenly, I have to go to bed early. Suddenly, cosmetics professionals are recommending anti-aging moisturizers. Suddenly, my dentist is warning me of root canals and enamel damage. Suddenly, wearing 4-inch stilettos for 6 hours really hurts my feet.

My dad always joked that when I turned 25, my brain would “mature” and I would no longer do the hard partying thing. I will never admit he was right… I can still work a room! But, given that so many of my friends are experiencing this around the same time, he might… be on to something?

Cleo, the breakup kitten

2010-02-01T13:42:00.012-05:00

An article about a jaded woman who learns about love after adopting a kitten.

I love it... for all kinds of reasons. Here's the last (and most interesting) half!

"... The first few weeks and months with Cleo were ... exciting to say the least. There was the time when I walked out of the kitchen and discovered Cleo rolling on the keyboard of my computer. On the screen, I saw an e-mail window. I rushed towards her, but the window vanished and these words appeared: "Your email has been sent."

I opened the sent mail box to figure out what had just happened. My little kitten had sent an email to a very important editor, one I'd been trying to convince to run one of my stories for six months. Here is what the email said: "jjjjjjjjjjjjjjjj';;;;;;;;;;;;;'nnnnnnnnnn=====?" (ANNIE!!)

Worried this editor would think I was a nutcase, I wrote him quickly. "So sorry, my new cat somehow managed to send you a rogue email. I think you know what she means."

He didn't seem amused. I never heard from him again. Also, the "L" key on my computer had gone missing....

... But even though she drove me crazy on a regular basis, Cleo helped me navigate the rush of negative emotions that come with the dissolving of a long-term relationship. When I woke up in the middle of the night and felt disoriented in bed alone, I'd feel Cleo jump onto the mattress and walk towards me, purring maniacally.

And when I spent the walk to my apartment thinking that I was unwanted and unneeded, when Cleo heard my key in the lock, she would come prancing towards the door, meowing loudly, as if to say that all was right in the world now that I was home.

It's amazing how much Cleo has taught me about love in 2 ½ years. Even in those moments when she is driving me insane ... it's never once occurred to me that maybe Cleo isn't the cat for me, that maybe she doesn't respect my space, or that maybe we just don't have enough in common for this to work.

These thoughts have all run through my head with significant others, as if my brain is a CNN ticker tape of maybes, questions, and doubts. With Cleo there is no "Are we meant to be together?" There is only that I need her, and she needs me.

It's always baffled me how two people realize that they can spend their lives together. Happy couples, especially those of the married variety, have this annoying habit of saying, "You just know." You just know? The phrase always made me want to grab them by the shoulders, shake them, and yell, "Please, for the love of God, can you be a little more specific?"

But now that I have Cleo, I think I finally understand. It's not that you get hit with a magic lightning bolt of knowledge -- it's that you just stop questioning. The analytical part of your brain shuts off and allows you to just exist. There is no "Do we have a future together?" Because you just do.

Cleo, my breakup kitten, has seen me through another breakup and there's a good chance she will witness many more. But now I know that when I meet someone whom I can build a life with, I'll at least be able to recognize it.

I won't ask myself if he's too quiet/loud, short/tall, introverted/extroverted, needy/detached -- whatever combination he may be (unless, of course, we're talking something really serious), I'll be able to put up with it. Because, hey, I've actually come to love Cleo's quirks.

All I can say for sure is that, whoever this mysterious guy may be, he better not be allergic to cats."

:) :)

(Full article)

My Politics in a Nutshell

2010-01-20T09:54:00.004-05:00

While my feelings on individual issues may lean one way or another, this quote by John Avlon, author of "Independent Nation: How Centrists Can Change American Politics" (stolen from a CNN article about the Democratic loss in Massachusetts) speaks to me!

"Independents like the checks and balances of divided government. They dislike the ideological arrogance and legislative overreach that comes when one party
controls both the White House and Congress. That's what you're seeing."

Seriously, it's all about balance. One party in complete control is never a good thing.

Years in Review: Some Highlights

2010-01-13T15:20:00.005-05:00

Okay... I swear this will be the last feel-good, it's-a-new-year entry of 2010... but a new Facebook application inspired me to write this. The application creates a collage of your Facebook statuses from the past year, and it was really amusing/nostalgic to re-read what I'd posted--quotes, thoughts, experiences, frustrations. But, it also reminded me how interesting, busy, and fun 2009 really was! When I get bored with my life, I'm going to come back to this entry and make myself stop b*tching. Working backwards:

2009: the Highlights (in random order)

*My first Caps game *Summer trip to NYC *Weekend at Chincoteague Island *Tried out for Redskins and Wizards cheerleaders *USMC Ball in Richmond *Gold Cup races *Work at the Pentagon *Christmas cruise to Cozumel *Girls trip to Las Vegas *Chuck *Britney Spears concert *Went platinum blonde, then brunette *Weekend at OBX *Jackie, Mel, and Kat got married
*Weekend at National Harbor *Moved to Arlington

2008: the Highlights (in random order)

*Girls trip to Miami *Playboy Mansion/LA *Beth visits from London *Halloween Monster Bash
*Wendy's b-day in NYC *W&M Homecoming

2007: the Highlights (in random order)

*Graduating W&M *My own apartment (ish) *Spring break cruise to Key West/Mexico *Holidays and New Years in NYC *Summer weekend in NYC

Looks like my years keep getting awesomer! Or maybe my memory is getting awesomer. Or maybe I just updated my statuses more in 2009, and make everything a big deal by sharing them with the world ...

2010: The Plan

2010-01-08T11:30:00.003-05:00

Now that the year has come to a close, let’s see how I did on my Resolutions for 2009.

Hit the gym 3-5 times per week. FAIL. Major fail.

Move to Arlington.... with a stranger. DONE. I did this one quickly too. As of mid-February ’09, I was living in an apartment in exciting little Clarendon with a random roommate I met on Craig’s List. It couldn’t be going better!

Daily vitamins. Quasi-victory. I do take vitamins more regularly—a multi for women, and a Vitamin C tablet on occasion, but usually when I am vulnerable to getting sick. Hey… it’s a start.

Drink less alcohol. Quasi-victory! I’m proud of this one. I really do drink less heavily than I used to. And it has made a difference.

Bedtimes. Massive FAIL.

No more eyeliner except when I go out or I’m trying to impress. Win!! I have dramatically cut back on my every-day eyeliner useage.

Febreze and Lysol spray my bed. Almost every day, baby.

Get off of Facebook. Quasi-victory. The details of this resolution involved more than just Facebook—it mentioned other highly addictive sites as well. Perez Hilton and Myspace are dunzo… but Facebook? Well, I’m still working on that…

Protein, Zinc. FAIL. Even though I found out I’m slightly anemic and could benefit from protein and iron supplements, I got tired of taking so many pills, and noticed no significant difference in my energy levels anyway. I’m not all that sad to see this one go.

The Secret. Semi-WIN! I learned all about the Secret, and definitely use it. I’m not super good at it though, except when it comes to Health. I am a pro at the Secret to Health… I’ve been sick this year only a fraction the number of times I was sick years previous! I owe it all to the Secret (and maybe some to my Vitamins and reduced alcohol intake…)

So, what do I have in store for 2010? Nothing quite so regimented, but I have broad things I want to accomplish.

*Getting in shape is a big one, and clichéd, obviously. But I’m not going to kid myself anymore about going to the gym—I signed up for dance classes instead :) It’ll be pricey but well worth it.

*Feeling productive at work is an ongoing challenge, and I’m resuming that mission with renewed energy this year. I’m still stuck and trying to figure out what’s right for me. This is going to be my biggest challenge, without a doubt. But it’s got to dawn on me eventually, right?

*The rest of my resolutions are lifestyle/hobby oriented. I want to learn to knit. Build/improve the relationships in my life. Brush up on my French. Party less. Save money, spend money. Go to the spa. (Yes, pampering myself at a spa is a resolution of mine!)

All in all, I want to take care of myself better. Physically, mentally, financially, and socially. I am bored with my life, so I need to find ways to spruce it back up again. So…for those of you who are interested-- I’ll keep you posted :)

Winter Wonderland?

2009-12-07T09:13:00.005-05:00

Things I hate about winter:

Dry, brittle, static-y hair
Exposing yourself to cold air and cold floors as soon as you get out of your warm bed
Snow
The flu (or any other virus for that matter)
De-icing my car
Messing up my shoes in the ice and slush
Goosebumps
Feeling sad/guilty about all the poor homeless animals (ok and people too)
Going to work and leaving work in darkness
Dry/cracked hands
Grayness, dampness, and COLD COLD COLD!!!

Things I like about winter:

The holidays—Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years… and all the fun food, decorations, music, parties, and new dresses that come with them
Snow
Cute jackets, scarves, and boots
Seeing my breath outside
Warm PJ bottoms
Not having to maintain my tan so rigorously
Snuggly blankets/beds/fireplaces
Pumpkin Spice Lattes!

But, Christmas and New Years are both squeezed into December, so most of the winter is holiday-free. I don’t even have a fireplace, and there is nothing worse than static-y hair, being sick, and being cold.

So, summer still wins. I hate winter!

Happy Thanksgiving - Remembering What I Have, Instead of What I Don't

2009-11-29T22:24:00.002-05:00

I woke up Thanksgiving Day in a fantastic mood. I was really well-rested, “The Parent Trap” was on Disney, and I could finally blast the Christmas tunes! But more importantly, I woke up knowing that I have so much to be thankful for.

I have all of my basic needs—a roof over my head, more food than most in this world will ever see in a lifetime, and access to clean water.

I have all of my not-as-basic needs—higher education, access to healthcare, and full-time, salaried employment with a thriving company. Even here in the United States, with the recession and high unemployment rate, I am particularly blessed to have all of these things.

I am thankful for the security and freedom I take for granted every day, and for the people who sacrifice their personal comfort and security to provide that for me. I am grateful for a healthy body (which I don’t take care of like I should lol), and I am lucky to be basically debt-free at 24.

Not to mention, I have all the material things a girl could want—my own car (which I’m about to pay off!), plenty of fun clothes and shoes and make-up, my own apartment, a Mac laptop, and a Pinkberry Curve!

I’ve been fortunate enough to travel and see different places, whether it was moving around the country as a Marine brat, or winning fellowships to study and work in Oxford and London.

As dysfunctional as we are, I’m grateful to have family nearby, and I love them. I have awesome fun friends and a full social life, a boy I love and who loves me, and the absolute best cat in the world (the Crazy Cat Lady in me never will die…)

Finally, I thank the brave turkey who gave his life this week so I could eat him…

Despite all my whining and complaining, God has been good to me!

Happy Thanksgiving everyone :)

My Strategic Plan

2009-11-24T15:40:00.003-05:00

This past Saturday, I volunteered as a mediator for Booz Allen’s Strategic Career Planning program for Marshall High School students. Minus the fact that I had to be up at 6 am on a Saturday morning to participate, it was a really fun and rewarding experience. I was impressed with the motivation and focus of the students. When I was in high school, I didn’t know what Booz Allen was, let alone what goes into planning a career in consulting or business (and I was a pretty motivated high-schooler!)

One girl determined to flaunt the tradition of her traditional roots by resisting arranged marriage so that she could pursue economic development in India from the ground up--without relying on NGOs. One boy learned the importance of being a role model in all he does after his baby sister was born, while another admitted that financial compensation is what motivates his hard work. Yet another girl confessed her preference to do things herself, as well as her tendency to quickly judge others, which fueled her desire to start her own company and become self-reliant. They were very self-aware, admitting their strengths, weaknesses, and personal challenges without inhibition, and were eager to hear my meager advice about career, family, college, and grad school.

The program also reminded me that you need a strategic plan at all ages! Even though life never goes according to plan (and I emphasized this in my session with them), it still helps to have one in place. These kids had a plan--down to when to start a family, where they wanted to travel, and what kind of degrees they wanted under their belts. They made me feel behind, even though I knew their priorities would change over time.

So, I’m going to write a strategic plan of my own—or maybe more of a to-do list. :) Life is short! And I'm a little tired of floating around and taking what comes my way.

I Finally Did It!

2009-07-22T23:14:00.005-04:00

I've been talking for years about getting a tattoo, and on Monday night, I finally got one! And in case you were wondering... this is NOT an ode to Lady Gaga.

... I was saying this long before she was around ;)

Girls vs. Girls

2009-06-30T13:13:00.008-04:00

Kate: Oh. You're the other Tucker?
Scott: What is that? Is that like "the loser Tucker"?
Kate: Oh, no, no. That's not what I meant. You just don't look...
Scott: Hot, buff, or capable of inciting an all-girl smackdown? No, you're right. Naw, it's-it's cool. I'll let you in on a secret, though. My mom says I'm special on the inside.

Why is it that when girls hate each other, some lame guy is at the center of it all? I did not enjoy the movie “John Tucker Must Die”, but it did make one super fabulous point: “This guy is cheating on all of you, and instead of taking it out on him, you’re beating the sh*t out of each other?!”

I’m not saying girls are never at fault, but 99% of every “incident” among my female acquaintances comes down to some playboy (or attention from a variety of playboys) whose ego is getting further inflated by the fact that girls are fighting over him. Loyalties are split, feelings are hurt, and stress is created. Not so fun!

I decided girls are dumb, but the reason we are dumb is because boys are shady, so I can't decide who is worse--girls or boys. This is why I stick with cats.

Where Were You When... ? R.I.P. MJ

2009-06-26T14:12:00.003-04:00

What a sad day. First Farrah Fawcett, then Michael Jackson, kick the bucket. I know millions of people all over the world die every day, under tragic circumstances, and I know we have not necessarily lost amazing role models (the latter in particular), so I feel a little silly contributing to the disproportiante despondence over these people. BUT it is equally silly to deny the huge impact that they've had on our culture, especially Michael Jackson. Sad end, to a sad life.

It's ironic, because when I first found out that Michael Jackson died, I was on my way to a dance class with an instructor who used to choreograph for MJ, and who first got me in to that style of dancing. "Thriller" and "Smooth Criminal" were two of the first songs I ever danced to in the Syndicate (W&M's hip-hop dance group, and my best college memory!) As the DJ played a megamix of his many hits, which included my dance favorites and many other memorable tunes, I actually started getting emotional... and I never even followed MJ much!

Like my sister said, everyone has an MJ memory. Hopefully he is happier now, wherever he is.

Bad Kitty Goes to NYC...

2009-06-24T23:45:00.007-04:00

... and gets more than she bargained for.

Kitties don't look good in latex!!!

Why I Gave Up Perez Hilton

2009-06-11T15:50:00.006-04:00

I obsessively perused Perez’s infamous blog for years, but always harbored some form of guilt for it for a variety of reasons.

1) It’s offensively crass. I still don’t really see the humor in drawing penises, cocaine dust, and cum dribbles on random celebrities, including underage ones.

2) Perez is MEAN. For all his do-gooder, charity talk, there is really no reason to ruthlessly bash, degrade, and sexualize people (especially teenaged girls!) for the entertainment of millions. Reasons range from looks, to politics, to lifestyle choices. That’s just socially irresponsible, especially given how “Influential” he is.

3) His political/liberal agenda is so blatant and targeted and usually POORLY INFORMED to the point that he embarrasses me on behalf of liberals everywhere. Do liberals a favor, Perez, and STFU already!!!

4) Perez is a hypocrite and an ass-kisser and listening to him talk has become increasingly annoying (especially now that he has those videos!)

5) Two words: Carrie Prejean… the straw that broke the camel’s back for me. Perez, your lewd temper tantrums made her a superstar! Way to go ;)

Not that I judge anyone for reading it. I obviously did. It's like crack. It has lots of entertainment value and I miss that about it. But I started to realize how much his site was impacting the way I think, the way I talk... whether it was the way I view certain celebrities or politicians,or whether it was terminology I'd adapted. What goes in really does come out.

It kept pissing me off and frustrating me and his ever-growing popularity/ influence disturbed me. That success is directly provided by people like me. So, I stopped contributing to his success.

I haven’t visited his site in weeks. (Months?) Yay me!

The Recession Might Be My Fault...

2009-04-20T23:12:00.001-04:00

... I haven't been shopping in months! MONTHS!!!!

Girls, Our Standards Are Too Low

2009-03-23T12:07:00.006-04:00

Comedian Steve Harvey has a best-selling book called "Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man", and is getting all sorts of hype from the likes of Oprah. I read about it on CNN and some of it is so dead-on that I just have to share... although some of it was still shady to me.

Here are some of the more interesting excerpts from his interview with Oprah, and my thoughts on the matter... since of course I'm a dating expert and you'd love to know (riiiighhhttt.)

*Man with a plan*

Every man has a plan. "Men don't come up to you to just talk. We come up to you with a plan," he says. "We're looking across the room at you, and we don't care about your hopes and dreams. We don't care about what your future holds. We saw something we wanted."

When a man approaches a woman, Harvey says, he already knows what we wants from her, but he doesn't know what it will cost. "How much time do you want from me? What your standards? What are your requirements? Because we'll rise to the occasion no matter how high you set the bar if we want to," he says. "The problem is, women have stopped setting the bar high.

I agree women have stopped setting the bar high... but do men really not care about our hopes, dreams, and future? Just the visual? That's normal when hitting on someone in a bar, but in the context of establishing a relationship (as this book is intended to help with), that is lame!! This basically admits they'll sacrifice the "cost" of appreciating your hopes and dreams just to bed you.

PLUS... the reason women have lowered their standards is because many guys won't stick around to meet them, because there's ALWAYS some other girl who will give away the popsicles for cheaper... always.

*The Cookie*

Though a woman might want many things from a man, Harvey says men only need three things: support, loyalty and sex. Or as Harvey calls it, "the cookie." "We've got to have your support. Whatever adventure we're out on, whatever pursuit in life, we need your support. Then we need your loyalty. That's your love. We've got to know that you belong to us," he says. "And we've got to have a cookie. Everybody likes cookies. That's the thing about a cookie. I like oatmeal raisin...but if you've got vanilla cream, I'll eat that too."

I'd like to think that men look for more than those 3 things in a wife... but who knows, maybe he's right.

*Gone fishin'*

Harvey says men are like fishermen -- but women are actually the ones looking for a good catch. You won't be able to find one, though, until you up your standards. "You've got sports fishermen, and you've got guys out there fishing to eat. You've got guys that are fishing to keep the fish, and you've got guys that are fishing to catch them, unhook them and throw them back," Harvey says. "You've got to determine along the way which one of the fish you're going to be."

Without ironclad standards, Harvey says you'll always end up back in the dating pool. "You've got to quit lowering your standards," he says. "Set your requirements up front so when a guy hooks you, he has to know this is business."

And don't let the man set the pace of the relationship -- Harvey says it's always the woman who has total control. "With all that power, why do you suddenly relinquish this power just because you want a guy to accept you? That's stupid," he says. "Say: 'Look, if you want to be with me, this is what you got to do. This is what it takes to get to me.'"

*When should you sleep with your new boyfriend?*

As an auto plant worker, Harvey says he had to wait 90 days to receive benefits -- and says the same probation period should apply to dating. "In 90 days they checked me out. They determined if I was easy to work with, if I got along well with others, if I showed up when I said I was going to show up, if I was worthy."

Women, Harvey says, hold the greatest benefit of all -- the cookie -- so there's no reason to give it away until you know your man deserves it. "Slow down, ladies," Harvey says. "Look, you cannot run us off."

So what if you don't want to wait 90 days? Harvey says if you change the probation period, you do so at your own risk. "You all keep changing the rules. And men are aware of the fact that you are changing the rules. We're aware of the fact that you act desperate. We're aware of the fact that you think there's a shortage of good men out there," he says.

"We play on all of that. ... We created the term 'gold digger' so you won't ask us for nothing. We created the term 'nagging' so you can quit badgering us. These are terms that we created so you can require less of us."

My FAVORITE part is right there in pink. It's SO TRUE!!!!

*Turn off the text*

Social networking Web sites and text messages can be a great way to keep in touch with friends, but Harvey says it's not the best way to date. "You have nothing if you're texting a guy in a relationship," he says. "We can text six women a minute. We can text it and push 'reply all.' I mean, since we're lying, we might as well lie to everybody."

If you want the relationship to be more, take it face-to-face. "Women talk about [how] chivalry's dead. Chivalry's not dead -- it's just not required anymore," he says. "You've got to get a guy in your face. Look in his eyes. ... God has given you all this incredible thing called intuition. You've got to use that."

*Safety first*

You know you've got a keeper when your man wants to make sure you're always safe, Harvey says. Every man wants to protect his woman, and Harvey says this instinct kicks in when his wife, Marjorie, scuba dives. "I can't go home without her. We've got seven kids between us," Harvey says. "They need their mother. I'm not a good mother at all."

I kind of disagree with this one... I know a lot of "protective" boyfriends who are still totally shitty. Guys like to feel manly and possessive so I'm not sure that's an indication of how great a guy he is. But that's just my 2 cents :)

You can find the whole article here!

* DROOL *

2009-03-19T11:20:00.003-04:00

The shoes from the Lady Gaga "Eh Eh" video! $700... sigh. Someday.

Dumb & Dumber

2009-03-18T15:16:00.009-04:00

I feel like the longer I've been out of school, the dumber I get. This sucks, because I really like knowing stuff.

Last month I volunteered to judge the Chantilly High School Science Fair and was blown away by what those kids know. What blew me away even more was the realization that, once upon a time, I too knew physics, calculus, and trigonometry.

How did I get to a point where all day long I stare at a computer screen like a zombie?! Reading lists of acronyms?! Entering edits into a spreadsheet???? I don't use any of the skills I used in school, and while my people, computer, and social skills are exponentially growing as I get older, my intellect is shrinking. I feel I reached my peak in 10th grade (when I read through encyclopedias for fun) and it's been downhill ever since. Now it's not even forced down my throat, like in college :)

It makes me annoyed that I slacked off so much in college... but even with that, I still got some brain exercise. I analyzed (even if it was last minute at 2 o'clock in the morning.) I read books with deep meanings and hard words. I gave presentations on tough issues and scientific phenomena.

I am getting frustrated with my lack of intellectual stimulation. Maybe I should learn a foreign language (or brush up on the ones I already supposedly know.) Read some Shakespeare. Study some economic theories. Watch those dorky Western Civ DVDs my dad bought. Buy a map and learn the world capitals... and an interesting fact about each.

Any other suggestions on how to expand my mind and get some brain juices flowing??

Happy St. Paddy's Day!

2009-03-17T16:12:00.007-04:00

Sometimes I wonder where our holidays actually come from. They get so modified over the ages from the integration of cultures, that we lose their original meaning and context (HELLOOOO Christmas...Easter!)

I had no idea who St. Patrick really was, so I updated my Facebook status to find out (and of course did a little research on my own.) Basically, we don't know much about him... he was a very successful missionary who converted the pagan Irish to Christianity. I've known a few missionaries. Will they all get their own holiday too?

Either way, THIS was by far my favorite explanation, brought to us by a gracious and good-humored Facebook friend of mine...

P.S. I totally forgot to wear green :(

Happy 50th Birthday to Barbie!!

2009-03-16T16:02:00.006-04:00

Yayyyy happy 50th to my favorite fashion icon!!

Barbie Through the Ages: History and Fun Facts

Pink Piglette Has Changed Her Name!!

2009-03-16T15:32:00.002-04:00

Inspired by my favorite pair of underwear... and a tee shirt I found in Vegas... I think the Bad Kitty might be my spirit animal!

Plus, I was getting tired of my piggy-pepto-bismol pink layout and needed to reinvent myself. ;)

But don't worry.. I am still the Pink Piglette at heart <3

Parties Across the Country

2009-03-14T19:22:00.019-04:00

I just got back from a fabulous 3-day trip to Las Vegas, and now I can safely say I've visited most major/interesting party spots in the country! (Plus London...hehe.)

My favorites? Hard to say!

Miami because of the gorgeous beaches and general beach culture... Los Angeles because of the phenomenal weather and friendly people. NYC has the hottest guys, and Vegas has the most glitz and scandal. DC is nice and intimate...and comparatively cheaper. London just rained, but I probably got the most attention there (nice teeth will really make you stand out across the pond...HA!)

Now to begin the abroad experience!!

A Closer Look

2009-02-23T16:44:00.001-05:00

This past weekend made me realize a few things. One, that drama really is stupid and I'm way too old for it; two, that most relationships are based in immaturity and insecurity; and three, that some of the relationships I have in my life are indeed toxic themselves. Sooo over it.

Moving on!

F-U-C-K me??

2009-01-31T14:25:00.003-05:00

THIS cracks me up!

Of all the morally offensive and vulgar music playing on our radio stations, this is what people are getting all huffy about?

I don't know about you, but I didn't pick up on the hidden meaning 'til I read it online...

Oh Brit Brit.

A New Leaf for a Happier and Healthier 2009

2009-01-11T14:23:00.006-05:00

My New Leaf!

~Hit the gym 3-5 times per week.

I've been blessed (or cursed, depending on how you look at it) with a lightening-speed metabolism and a petite bone structure, which keeps my weight from being an issue. But of course, good exercise has more benefits than a svelte figure, so working out is a huge part of my New Leaf. I have never been this enthused. Not only will I look fantastic and toned for my upcoming trip to Vegas, but I will have more energy, sleep better, get sick less often (according to my doctor), and hopefully not get winded when I talk on the phone!

~Move to Arlington.... with a stranger.

Closer to friends and my favorite activities. Plus, it will be my first opportunity since college to do something completely on my own. I feel very dependent, depended on, and thus confused and unfocused right now. It will be a growing experience I think I really need!

~Daily vitamins.

I've already started this section of the Leaf, and am already reaping the benefits. I take a Multi-Vitamin for Women at every lunch, and a Vitamin C at every dinner. My illnesses are now less frequent and more short-lived!

~Drink less alcohol.

I go out a lot, and binge drinking is a little more frequent than it should be. I want to switch out the vodka shots for Rockstar. And the cocktails for water. I don't need to drink a lot to have a good time... and it would be nice to do other things on Saturday and Sunday than recover.

***This rule is null and void when I go to Vegas in March... just sayin'!***

~Bedtimes.

I haven't done this since I was eight years old... but I am establishing a weeknight bedtime for between 10 and 11 pm. So please, no one IM me at 10:15 unless you can keep it down to 10 minutes or so... and unless you are having a freak out and really need to talk. ;)

~ No more eyeliner unless I'm going out or trying to impress.

This is simple and silly, and of course eyeliner isn't unhealthy or bad, but for me it goes back to the principle of not trying so hard, looking natural, and just reducing the daily maintenance process. I don't need seductive cat-eyes for work. I may expand this effort into other arenas at any given time... like letting my hair air-dry, and pulling it back more (so I mess with it less).

~Febreze and Lysol spray my bed.

Yeah.... I guess you shouldn't ask.

~Get off of Facebook.

I spend entirely too much time on the computer. Between work, checking the news, chatting, Perez Hilton, Myspace, and Facebook, it's a wonder I don't have a hunchback and a severe case of carpel tunnel. The most consuming and least productive of these online indulgences is Facebook--it's almost constantly open. So, my goal is to keep it closed unless I'm updating, uploading, or actually communicating. Stalking and boredom is not a good reason to log-on.

~Protein and Zinc.

I work with this adorable former pilot named Gina, who is always worried about my health and my body temperature. She was a lot like me at my age, really thin and quick to get sick. She constantly references her flight surgeon, and all the advice she received from him on how to stay healthy. Protein bars... and zinc!!!

~THE SECRET

Okay, I'm a little tiny bit embarrassed to include this in my Leaf, but I have enough interest in it to give it a shot. A crazy co-worker back in my Vidal Sassoon days told me about it (the Law of Attraction), and some of her insights and anecdotes were so dead-on that I decided to overlook the crazy and just check it out. I ordered the book and the video off Amazon and will approach it with an open mind, viewing it not as a magical fix-all, but as an outlook and philosophy to apply to my own life. Hey, positive thinking never hurt anyone! I'll keep you posted on what I think of it.

I have a few other silly little ideas that I'm going to experiment with, and see how they work. I just know I've been bogged down for so long and I was trying to fix it the wrong way. Here's to a happier and healthier 2009!

My Beef With Chick Flicks

2009-01-10T20:00:00.007-05:00

Okay... I don't mean to overanalyze books and movies designed primarily for laughs... and I totally have no problem watching one from time to time.. .but I really need to get something off my chest.

I just saw Bride Wars, the new Kate Hudson/Anne Hathaway movie that can join the other pile of chick crap that gets me all flustered sitting in the theater. It had a few LOL moments, but in general--what a waste. I expected it to some degree, but honestly, if I see one more movie that highlights and perpetuates negative female stereotypes, I'm enrolling in film school and making my own.

Bride Wars portrays women as desperate, catty shrews who will kick their best friends to the curb for the sake of clothes, jewelry, status, and men. Sure, the two protagonists kiss and make up in the end, but not after entertaining throngs of moviegoers with plenty of immature bitchiness and psychotic episodes.

Almost every female character in the movie represented a different stereotype, from the woman who hated the fact that her friend would have a "better" wedding than her, to the woman counting on future divorces for more money, to the woman who really DID care that her best friend got the proposal first ("Oh no, seriously I am so happy for you, I'm not upset!" *gulps two pints of Ben & Jerry's.*) Even Kate Hudson's character has to stalk her boyfriend at the office and beg him to propose. These are ADULT women still reveling in middle/high school style drama.

If women are like that in real life (which I assume they are, since something inspires this crap and magazines like Cosmo even write about it), then we need some serious help. The desperation in every character made me paranoid (just for a second) that if I'm not settled and married before age 30, it's all over for me and I will die miserable, ugly, and alone. The only characters I could stand in the whole movie were the men, as they helplessly watched their fiancees lose it while they prepared to pledge their lives to each other.

I don't know why people so enjoy story lines that pit women against each other, but that seems to be the hot commodity these days. Movies like Bride Wars, Clueless, and Sex and the City, reality shows like Top Model and Rock of Love, chick-lit like Shopaholic (sorry Wendz!) and Bergdorf Blondes, and even songs like Beyonce's "Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)" reduce women to fashion, cat fights, and/or men.

And THEN we wonder why men don't respect us! I certainly don't want a man to reduce me to shoes and a clicking biological clock.

Can't we get some female role models who emphasize something other than Prada and Prince Charming? Women who won't go to extreme lengths to get the bag or the man? Women who develop character, intellect, career, family, and actual mature relationships? Fashion and (unfortunately) petty drama is a part of life too, but the role it has taken in our culture and daily lives concerns me, especially as it weaves its way through popular entertainment, ripe for the next generation of women to emulate.

We need more movies like "Little Women," "Anna and the King", "Contact," or even "Devil Wears Prada." But I guess a strong, smart woman isn't as entertaining as a cat fight between two glamazons.

New Music for a New Year!!

2009-01-07T16:37:00.007-05:00

LADY GAGA

Oh my gosh... my new fave. How do I even begin to explain Lady GaGa? Perez has been hyping her for a while, but I never actually listen to his suggestions because he loves those Euro beats a little too much. After hearing "Just Dance" in the clubs however, I started wondering who she was... then stole her entire album from Wendi... then fell in love. She is fun, loud, crazy, unique, and bringing back pop, baby! (THANK GOD.)

NE-YO

I never really listened to Ne-Yo, but now I'm loving him, and I can't get "Miss Independent" out of my head. I think I have a crush on him because he's a hip-hop artist who refuses to demean women in his music, and is outspoken against the tendency to do so in his genre. How refreshing!

BLACKMORE'S NIGHT

Okay, so most of you might find this one weird... but I LOVE all the music I've heard from them so far! I discovered them on Pandora Christmas station and loved their rendition of "Ding Dong Merrily on High" so much that I tracked them down on Myspace to hear more. They are a mix of celtic, folk, Renaissance, and rock that is either beautiful, haunting, relaxing, or lighthearted at any given time. I love music that mixes genres. I also love traditional/cultural music with a modern edge!

KEVIN RUDOLF

So, I've only heard one song, but if the rest of his work is anything like "Let it Rock," then Kevin is most definitely going to be a new addition to my iPod.

BRITNEY'S CIRCUS!!!!

Ha, okay... so Britney isn't a new fave... she's my true love. BUT she still gets a spot in this blog because "Circus" is amazing and I can't stop listening to it. Can't wait for her concert in March!!

CONGRATULATIONS TO JACKIE!!!!!

2008-12-30T13:02:00.004-05:00

On her recent engagement to Stephen... on a walk... at night... on the beach... in Cancun... SIGH.

Love you Twin!!

This Makes Me Smile

2008-12-17T00:10:00.002-05:00

' "Well," said Pooh, "what I like best," and then he had to stop and think. Because although Eating Honey was a very good thing to do, there was a moment just before you began to eat it which was better than when you were, but he didn't know what it was called...'

Bahh, Humbug!!!

2008-12-12T16:01:00.006-05:00

I canNOT get into holiday spirit this year. I have no idea why, either--I have relatively less family drama than usual, a delightfully brimming social calendar, friends, and a fabulous Pandora Christmas station playing at work. I've even caught all the classic holiday TV specials I usually miss due to final exams, and will finally see The Nutcracker at Warner Theater next week after years of missing it. But, I still am feeling kinda sad and dull and even decided to cancel my upcoming birthday bash.

Why am I being such a Scrooooogeeee?

Blonde Addiction

2008-11-08T23:03:00.006-05:00

I have come to the realization that I... am addicted to Blonde.

I was born a blonde, have always been a blonde, and although it's darkened considerably over the years, I have maintained a delightfully sunny shade thanks to the magical peroxides used in foil highlights ("Enhanced Blonde," as I call it.)

I had a brief respite during my junior year of college, when I thoughtlessly volunteered for a hair show and dyed my locks an alarming black and white (the Cruella de Vil jokes were endless). I then had it emergency modified to an ultra-cropped, dark brown 'do.

After this unfortunate misadventure, I swore I would never abandon my Goldilocks ever again. And the more I highlighted, the lighter I wanted it. It was truly addicting.

But lately, I've had a hankerin' for brunette... and even for redhead... and a couple of weeks ago I opted for some "beige" lowlights... and then added a few more gold ones.

My hair is definitely still blonde. But to me, it seems SO dark. I wanted dark, and I thought I wanted darkER. Brunette is so pretty. Brunette would look healthier--flatter my complexion better--make my eyes pop more. But I can't get over the fact that it's not bombshell blonde anymore.

I've always been the Token Blonde. It's always been my ticket. My biggest attention-getter. My excuse for the occasional not-so-bright moment. It's probably become far more a part of my identity than it should... but I feel I'll lose a part of Nikki if I go brunette.

Ahhh why does it matter?! It's just HAIR for goodness sake.

Wayyy addicted to blonde :(

Post-Election Thoughts

2008-11-06T14:57:00.011-05:00

We finally wrapped up one of the most exciting elections in American history yesterday. By "exciting," I mean tumultuous and divided, but also very progressive--given that both black and female individuals were among the candidates, opening a whole new socio-cultural dimension to further explore.

Americans elected our first African-American president, an enormously symbolic step in the assertion that all men (and women) ARE created equal and can achieve anything in this great country. I did not vote for Obama for a number of reasons, but I have to say I have not seen Americans (not to mention the whole world) so mobilized, inspired, and hopeful since September 11th... and that was unification over tragedy. So this is pretty damn exciting, no matter where you fall on the political spectrum. It is refreshing to see patriotism and positive energy fill our citizens again. It is also apparent we are about to enter a new era--both domestically and internationally. The impact is truly global, and I am inspired and proud to be an American too! I wish I did trust and agree with Obama more, because I like the way he talks :)

That being said, I am a little put off by two things.

The over-emphasis on race ("Don't worry McPalinites, at least he's half-white," "Finally, a BLACK president!", "Proud of my country for the first time in a long time, my president is black!", "McCain followers = Lynch Mob 2008" etc. etc).

I don't think I need to tell my particular audience here that my not voting for Obama had NOTHING to do with him being black. I also don't need to tell anyone how incredibly significant this event is, in a historical and cultural context. However, I feel that some of the hype is actually distracting from what's important...like... ummm... the issues? Obama as a leader? Because seriously, in the big scheme of things, who cares? It's not the color of the skin that matters, or your religion, or your middle name... it's the mind and the spirit! It's your agenda. It's your plan. The focus on race actually detracts from why I personally believe (or at least hope) that Obama won: he inspired a new hope in the American people with promise of a new direction. The old direction turned us sour. Obama has promised us a solution.

One commentator on the omnipresent discussion forum that is Facebook posed the interesting question: "How much different would a presidential race be if you never saw the candidates on TV before the election, but you just heard their issues?

The insinuation that those who did not vote for Obama are upset because there is a black man in the White House is just ludicrous. (I mean, I know they are out there, but odds are most of your Facebook friends reading your attacks are not those people.)

Troubling topic 2:

The near deification of Obama, and the certainty that he will "save" the country from the "dark era" of the Bush Administration.

Now, I'm all about giving the man a chance. I don't agree with many of his policies or feel comforted by his background, but I'm more than willing to support him as our Commander in Chief and see what he can do. I know he will do both good and bad things, just like all the other Presidents. They are human and do the best they can with what they've got--a complex and diverse superpower to run, with an even more complex world to somehow fit into and often take care of.

But the level of adoration makes me a little nervous. I mean, let's be honest here... he hasn't even DONE anything yet. His previous political record is too new to really show much. I feel we may be getting ahead of ourselves. Overconfidence is as dangerous as excessive cynicism; giving too much credit is as bad as casting all the blame on one person. I'm not sure how he handles the pressure! He's got a lot of people counting on him to fix things.

Let's hope this "new era" is a good one, and extends beyond the rush everyone is experiencing right now.

Anyhoo, those are just my random reactions. Definitely an exciting race, full of fascinating and frank discussions, crazy feuds, and intellectual musing. Gotta love being in a country where you can do that though, right? :)

Yayy USA!

Yayy President Obama!

My Economic Crisis... Federal Bailout, Please!

2008-10-08T23:28:00.003-04:00

During my entire time of unemployment, I have managed to keep my checking account stable and relatively full.

But in a VERY poorly timed moment of weakness (rent, car payment, and other bills just officially deducted from my account), I allowed myself to enter a shopping mall... and the rest is history. I almost overdrew my account.

In an even worse timed moment of weakness, I opted to take 66 home instead of 495, and walked right into a 2nd offense HOV violation ticket. The cop was just chillin' there at the exit, waiting for us poor unsuspecting fools. Ugh. I call it entrapment.

So now, I have a really expensive ticket, an almost-empty account, and only 2 paychecks coming my way before a five week period of no income (before my new job kicks in). I am now faced with returning all the delightful things I just bought (most of which WERE necessary, I might add.)

I am in the depths of despair.

I Got a Job!!!

2008-10-07T11:06:00.001-04:00

Booz Allen Hamilton offered me a very well-paid position and I couldn't be more relieved! Finallyyyy a job offer!

I'm waiting on one more potential offer from a law firm, then I'll make the decision in the next couple of days. My plebe days are numbered! :)

California Girl at Heart

2008-09-18T02:00:00.014-04:00

It has always been one of my life goals to live in several places before I settle/start a family. I wanted to follow that mantra: "Live once in New York, but leave before it makes you hard. Live in California once, but leave before it makes you soft."

Now, having visited both places, I decided that I only want to live in California, and I don't care if it makes me soft!

One of my best friends lives in NYC, so I get to visit basically whenever I want (thanks Wendz!) Thus, I feel I've gotten a taste of the New York experience, and I can safely say I won't be disappointed if I never get to live there. It's a fun and exciting place for sure, but generally too noisy, smelly, financial, and chaotic for my taste. Plus, everyone wears black and eats bran, and I just can't handle that.

I also recently visited Miami, and had an unforgettably amazing time. I initially added it to my list of places to live one day, but then snapped back to reality and realized it's too trendy, muggy, and even pretentious for me to like in real life.

But THENNNN... I visited Los Angeles.... and completely fell in love <3.

First off, the weather is absolutely perfect, but that is no secret. Warm, dry, breezy, sunny. They even party outside. Partying outside is now my new favorite thing. And where else can you do it, practically year 'round?

Secondly, I have honestly never felt so comfortable in a "strange" place. I was there for only 2 and a half days, but I made friends that I am still in touch with, and would actually call up if I need a place to stay or someone to hang out with. And the best part of it all is that they were all completely different people. Almost everywhere else I've been has had strict divides between social groups... certain groups of people just don't hang out with other groups of people. I know I have a certain stereotypical image, and that drives some people away. I hate that, because like all kinds of people and want to be friends with everyone. DC's culture is particularly political and judgmental. In LA, however, people who normally would never be friendly to me would talk to me like we'd been friends all along. Girls who you'd think would be competitive and bitchy were super sweet... and hey, maybe it was superficial, but they did a great job of acting the part, and I can appreciate at least that much. :)

Thirdly, Rodeo Drive > 5th Avenue.

Fourthly, the guys are confident, beautiful, and comparatively less predatorial. They are confident enough to approach you and talk to you, but down to earth and chill enough to set you at ease, give you some space, and not give you the creeps. They play fewer games and are considerably more straightforward. I never meet normal boys in DC. During my weekend in LA, I met at least 5 that I would have gone out with in a heartbeat.

Fifthly, you can't beat California style! I love the loose fitting clothes, the denim, the flip flops, the wavy loose hair or the messy ponytails... everything is just so much less..stuffy.

Sixthly, everyone is SO relaxed. Even rush hour had fewer honkers.

Finally, everyone is happy to call LA home... and it shows. :)

The only downsides... It is definitely a place where people go to make it big and make connections. This of course is partially where my Perk #2-- Friendly People-- likely comes from (in addition to the constant sunshine). But it could also get really exhausting in the long run... and perhaps even more damaging in terms of friendships (where almost everyone has an agenda!)

Plus, LAX security lines are a b*tch. But hey, if you are only there for a year or two, who cares!

So, who wants to go with me?!

Poor Britney

2008-09-18T02:00:00.003-04:00

Has Lynne Spears learned nothing?! Why is she STILL selling out her kids with that ridiculous new book? If my mom wrote a book about me and told everyone my secrets, I'd be so upset. Seriously, who tells the world when their daughter lost their virginity? Ewww.

I Knew This Would Happen!!!

2008-09-02T23:40:00.005-04:00

I'm about to get on my feminist soap box again, folks.

John McCain recently selected his VP running mate, Alaska governor Sarah Palin, a woman who (despite your political leanings, you must admit) has accomplished a great deal and established herself in the political community (my sister even studied her in her left-leaning Psych of Women class.)

And yet, already, Sarah has been plastered all over tabloid magazines and trashy blogs as if she was Lindsay or Britney. I know that all the candidates have made appearances in these publications, but to my knowledge, few have been accompanied by such cheap sensational headlines like "Mother of Five: New Embarrassing Surprises," or "Sarah Palin: Babies, Lies, and Scandal." Not to mention the casual and lascivious remarks about her boobs, her "sexy" factor in general, or even the college photos of her looking like "white trash." (She looks like a normal college kid in a tee shirt to me!!!) The news about her daughter's teen pregnancy, and now her own apparent shotgun wedding, are more expected in a presidential race of course, but nevertheless still loaded with sexist implications.

First, this proves the point that attractive women will never be taken seriously and viewed as human, rather than a sex symbol, a bitch, or a trainwreck. Hillary Clinton knew this enough to minimize her own femininity, even going so far as to turn down a cover shot for the classy and iconic Vogue Magazine in an effort to distance herself from anything typically feminine. Palin was a smiley beauty queen. Let's face it... she's doomed.

Second, anything from a woman's past WILL haunt her more than anything from a man's past. People are scandalized by pictures of Palin basically wearing jammies in her college dorm room... wait till they find a picture of her in her swimsuit on spring break... OMG!!! I have a hard time thinking of any intelligent, upstanding girl from my generation who will successfully run for president unless she has avoided ever being photographed in a bikini, or even, say, a pink sundress. Why does a female leader have to look and act like a man?

Not to mention, premarital affairs and pregnancy are death sentences, making a woman "trashy" and "loose." But of course, our male presidents and wannabe-presidents never had such indiscretions *insert sarcasm here*. And if they did, luckily for them they didn't have uteruses to broadcast this to the world. Women always bear the brunt and win the "slut" title, even though it takes two to tango. It's a shame that women have to de-feminize in order to keep a man respecting her... and to help him keep his pants on.

I think the fact that Palin has accomplished so much without the privilege of having done everything perfectly, without the elitism and the wealth, and with the burdens of young pregnancy, disabled children, etc, makes her even more impressive. The fact that she also practices what she preaches and actually lives by her standards instead of just forcing them on everyone else (whether you agree with her beliefs or not), is a positive attribute I can give to very few politicians at all. She doesn't even try to cover it up. (And I give Obama, who was the product of a teen pregnancy himself, major props for standing up for her and her family, and for pointing out that those types of issues do not reflect your parenting or presidential capability.)

Sadly, many men and women still associate females with sex, emotion, vulnerability, and scandal. And they usually pay the higher price for all of the above than men do, whether it's reputation, babies, career--you name it. CNN recently published an article about the culture's obsession with female "trainwrecks," and how we love to watch women go down... especially publicly. Unfortunately, I feed into it too, reading the blogs and magazines that make their money off of women in trouble. But all it does is keep us in this rut where we will never be taken seriously as leaders, as professionals, or even as mothers. Everyone is seriously waiting for these women to fail, and hoping it happens in the most titillating way possible.

So far, it seems that Sarah Palin is their next victim.

My Life = ADHD

2008-08-26T01:06:00.004-04:00

I am so frustrated with myself! I am in this awful funk where I can't focus on anything, and all I want to do is either sleep, eat junk food, or play on the computer. I have so much to do, and so many things to think about, but I keep pushing them aside to fret about but not actually deal with.

I used to be so motivated and focused and energetic! I've lost it for a while now, yet I am so restless and antsy and distracted. How do I get it back?! :( :(

This Will Be Annie...

2008-08-20T22:33:00.004-04:00

... when I finally bring a boy home.

Better view here

Just My Luck

2008-07-26T02:01:00.006-04:00

I have had the worst luck this year. I don't know what it is, but something whack is always happening to me. In less than a year, the following have managed to occur:

~ My 3-month old, $2,000 Mac computer's hard drive crashes and I lose thousands of pictures, music files, and documents.

~ I get into 2 car accidents, both my fault.

~My camera gets stolen in LA.

~ I get my first traffic ticket EVER, a stupid HOV violation, since 66 is HOV only during rush hour. Stupid stupid stupid... and $250.

~ My car's emissions equipment (O2 sensor, air flow thingie... ugh don't even ask me because I don't know...) totally break and cost me $1,261.

~My bag of personal items (toothbrush, CHANEL body wash, shampoo, etc) gets stolen in Miami.

~My camera breaks one day before going on vacay in Miami.

~ My purse gets stolen and I lose my cell phone, driver's license, keys, credit card... and I'm stranded in the middle of the city, with an appointment the next morning.

~ My car gets towed out of my own neighborhood.

~ I delay one hour to buy a flight ticket and the price goes up $100.

Not to mention the times I got sick while in between jobs with no insurance. Not to mention the fact that my mom's dog chose to have accidents on my bedroom carpet only. That's not even all of it. I need something lucky to happen, dammit!!!

ADDENDUM: Please add that I spent 130 dollars on a fabulous portable dance pole that is apparently 4 inches too short for my ceiling. Add that I can't get a refund because it qualifies as an "adult item."

Also add that a big fat bitchy SUV shoved me into a corner of my parking garage at work and now I have big white paint marks and scratches on my right door.

So, my luck is not getting any better :(

An Ode to Lacey

2008-07-10T10:49:00.010-04:00

"You want Number 3?" the breeder asked incredulously, as we stood over the litter of animated, rolly-polly golden retriever puppies. "She is a pistol!" Number 3 trotted over with her tail wagging high, three nail polish marks on her rump. My mom picked her up one more time and set the wriggling ball of fluff with dewy chocolate eyes in the yard, where Number 3 promptly found a stick three times her size and trotted proudly towards a hill where she could chew her prize in private.

"Yes!" we squealed. "We're sure." Dad signed the papers, and we spent the weeks leading to Pistol's ready-date deciding on names. Her fancy pedigree puppy name just wasn't going to work.

Two weeks later, Countrylane Cornucopia (I kid you not...she was born on Thanksgiving Day) became Lacey Delilah, and we drove home with a vivacious ball of joy, ears freshly tattooed with her name and ID number to prevent theft, green ink residue staining her silky little ears. Ever since, Lacey has been a ray of sunshine that I think I can safely say is one of the best companions to have ever walked the planet. I realize I may be slightly biased, but I have never known an entire neighborhood to be in tears over the loss of a dog. This unfortunately happened in our lives on Wednesday, July 2nd, when Lacey died at 14 years old.

Lacey lived up to her Pistol namesake, whether she was playfully harrassing the cat, or chewing up red pens and dying our carpet, or bolting for murky black swamps for a swim, or begging shamelessly for our dinner. But every ounce of her boundless energy was worth it. Lacey was the kind of dog that every person should aspire to be. She always had a smile and was everybody's friend. She wagged her tail so enthusiastically I thought it would break, even if she was tired or sick.

Kids who grew up in intense fear of dogs were found using Lacey as a pillow in the front yard on a warm summer day. Lonely neighbors found their days a little brighter when Lacey made a daily ritual out of running to greet them as they checked their mail. Lacey would bound up to greet babies in particular--Lacey loved babies. But when they cried in alarm over the big furry cream ball bounding towards them, Lacey softened with concern and learned to approach gently, and lick their hands, not their faces. Instead of crying, they laughed with delight.

Lacey was the kind of dog to play with a gopher, then drop it apologetically when it squealed with fear. She was the kind of dog to whimper and cry when we brought out a fly swatter, prancing around and wagging her tail in an effort to change our mind and spare the fly's life. She was the neighborhood catalyst--kids who refused to be seen with each other suddenly became friends, because no one could resist afternoons in the park with Lacey. Even cats loved Lacey. (They wouldn't often admit it, but I caught my cats inching closer to her on more than one occasion...)

Lacey would cry when we cried, and set a loving paw on our arm when things were bad. If someone fought, she would bark and whimper and sometimes move in between. She couldn't stand to see anyone unhappy or distraught, and would do everything in her power to make them feel better.

Even her death brought people together. A pair of feuding best friends in the neighborhood were reunited by their distress over the loss of Lacey, and they attribute their reconciliation to her.

Everyone should be like pretty, sweet Lacey. It's surreal not having her around anymore, but if dogs do go to Heaven--and I choose to believe that they do-- I have absolutely no doubt that Lacey is their #1 angel. If any dog had a pure soul, it was her.

Plus, she could "praise the Lord" on command... just one of her many fabulous tricks :)

R.I.P. Lacey. We will never forget you!!!

*5 kisses on the snout*

Love,

Everyone,

but especially Dad, Mom, me, and your chew toy Bonni

*Lacey* November 23, 1994 ~ July 2nd, 2008

Sex Just Keeps Getting Better... for MEN

2008-07-10T10:22:00.007-04:00

I was watching the news today, and there is this new study that says if men have lots of sex, they have a lower risk of erectile dysfunction and other ailments in old age.

Am I the only one noticing that all the benefits from sex in these studies are for men and not for women?! What the heck... men who masturbate more reduce their risk of this... men who have sex frequently have a lower risk of that... blah blah blah.

I hope I'm just missing all the reports that say women who have lots of sex will live longer, too. Because now allll these guys are having more and more excuses to get more sex.

"C'mon honey, if we do this I won't get prostrate cancer and I'll live to be a hundred!!!"

Grrr. What's in it for us?!

Obama Love

2008-05-29T18:06:00.004-04:00

Hrrmmm...

Fidel Castro hearts Obama

Hamas hearts Obama

Louis Farrakhan hearts Obama

Hugo Chavez hearts Obama

Mahmoud Ahmadinejad sorta hearts Obama

Looks like worldwide positive opinion of U.S. leadership may go up if Obama is elected! But, I might be a little more nervous taking public transportation, or flying near large important buildings...

The Beautiful and the Damned

2008-05-27T10:06:00.020-04:00

This morning, Fox News discussed a new study stating that girls who are pretty are more likely to be "bullied," or treated unfairly, by adults (teachers) as well as peers. On the other hand, attractive guys are supposedly less likely to be bullied by both peers and adults.

A not-so-subtle detail is that these were guys and girls who perceived themselves as attractive. I'm not sure how much that actually matters, but I'm going to assume they actually were attractive, and that they are confident rather than cocky. (For a little perspective: when I say "pretty" or "attractive" in this post, I mean well above average!)

Anyway, the whole thing got me thinking back to the story about those college girls who got kicked off a Florida flight for some altercation with another passenger, who was not kicked off the flight. They argued this disciplinary inequity was because they were "too pretty," and that the flight crew discriminated against them because of this fact.

While I thought that was amusingly unlikely (they looked like the obnoxious type), I do know there are plenty of cases where individuals will automatically respect pretty girls less, and thus treat them unfairly as a result. I see that as more likely with female teachers, peers, etc, than males. I can also see female teachers, peers, etc treating an attractive male better. So, it may all go back to the jealous-stereotyping approaches that many women (and some men) take towards attractive women.

Men look at them and think sex. Women look at them and think "bimbitch." (Bimbo + bitch, and yes, I made that up.)

I don't know... I'm not sure I will ever believe it is tougher being the pretty girl in school than being the chubby, frumpy girl in school... but does being too pretty have risks of its own? Ugly girls get taunted and rejected, and pretty girls may never be accepted for more than just that. Beautiful people are often misunderstood, I know that much: bitchy, dumb, conceited, shallow...

Maybe being average is the best way to go. Maybe then, people can't really hate you, hurt you, use you, or even accept you due to assumptions based solely on looks (whether good or bad.) You can't be hated or loved for all the wrong reasons. I read somewhere that pretty people have a higher risk of long term unhappiness, though they may be "happier" in the short run---basically, while their beauty lasts. Like fame and riches, is beauty falsely equated with happiness?

Thoughts???

A Love Explained

2008-05-08T16:50:00.013-04:00

There are CATS in every variation I can find of my family crest/coat of arms. My cat obsession is clearly in my blood. No wonder!!! And who knew there were leopards in Europe? :P

(Of course... this is assuming I am a noble Taylor... which is actually pretty inprobable, but still... UNcanny!!)

TEAM BARBIE!!!!

2008-04-27T21:49:00.012-04:00

I was watching the news the other day, and apparently Barbie doll sales are on the decline, thanks to the rise of a new fashion doll: the seriously unfortunate and trashy looking Bratz dolls.

I am well aware that Barbie has had her own share of controversy--unrealistic body proportions and whatnot--but seriously, get a grip people. Bratz dolls actually look like skanked out teenagers, sporting micro- mini skirts and obnoxiously huge lips. The barely-legal looking dolls look like they are about to hit the club and snort some coke. They look like inflatable sex dolls with seriously bad attitudes. Even the name--"Bratz"--is not a term I would want my daughters associating with something cool or fashionable.

Barbie, on the other hand, is a classic fashion icon that goes back generations. She has evolved with the culture and spends a large portion of her free time outside the club. Barbie goes to the beach. She plays tennis and walks her dogs with her younger sisters, Skipper and Stacie. She has a diverse group of friends and has picnics with her boyfriend, Ken. She is a doctor, a teacher, an astronaut, a ballerina. She embraces all cultures and has even spent time being Italian, Chinese, or Native American. Barbie cruises town in a hot pink corvette and lives in a luxurious mansion, both of which she presumably paid for herself. She represents fashion on all levels--cute to sexy to trendy to haute couture. What a travesty that parents are choosing Bratz over Barbie.

And on a more superficial note, Bratz dolls have to be about the ugliest toy I have ever seen (aside from Cabbage Patch.) There really is no comparison--the pictures below explain it all.

VS.

For further Barbie browsing, visit http://angelicdreamz.com/store/barbie.html and http://www.barbiecollector.com/. They sell so many of the vintage, special edition, and designer Barbies, and there are plenty of pictures!

This is why I'm single

2008-04-08T20:13:00.001-04:00

*This is actually a post I started back in November, that I just found saved in my drafts section. I am publishing it now because it is HI-LARIOUS in hindsight.*

11/14/07

So today, I walk into the hotel for this conference I have to help run for work, and immediately this GORGEOUS guy starts eyeing me. Dark hair, bright blue eyes, Air Force uniform, Air force body...HOT. And he is like, glancing up and smiling at me every time we pass each other.

Then my bosses are like, "Okay, you can go home now, Nikki." So I go to the bathroom to pee one more time before my long metro ride back home, and on my way back, he catches up with me and starts talking to me. He is even more gorgeous up close, and his name is Trent. We are chit-chatting: "Where are you from? What do you do? Etc, etc." And then he's like, "So what is fun to do in DC?" After I give him some ideas, he says, "Too bad you're leaving... do you think you would want to come out tonight? Dinner or a drink or something? I need a guide in DC!"

I immediately get all shy and flustered, and for some ridiculous reason I say no! "I have to go back home actually...I'm having dinner with my sister."

LAME. Such a lie. A lame lie. The poor thing had a hard time asking me in the first place. I kept telling myself that saying yes would be dumb, because what if he's some charming serial killer just in town to do his work and then jet back to Boston? I should have at least asked for his number so that I could call him if I changed my mind--once I stopped being shy. Ugh. I'm so sad. I suck. I fail. I can't even accept dates from guys I'm actually attracted to.

And this is why I am single.

Olympics in China ...?

2008-04-08T18:11:00.011-04:00

Everyone is all aflutter because of the upcoming Olympic games in Beijing, and with good reason, thanks to China's vile human rights record.

Some individuals, including presidential hopeful Hillary Clinton, are calling on the President to boycott the opening ceremonies, and others are even urging Americans to boycott the games altogether as a sign of of solidarity against Chinese policies. I'm not so sure that's a great idea. Why would we shun our very own hard-working athletes like that, at a world-recognized event that supposedly transcends politics? We showed up for the 1936 games in Nazi Germany, and again for the 1980 games in Soviet Moscow, and kicked some serious ass both times. Let's do it again! Somehow I doubt that China gives a flip if Dubya shows up anyway.

AND... if we really want to send the world a message and take a stand against China's horrific record, maybe we shouldn't be carrying out such extensive economic business with them, right...? What about THAT, Miz Clinton?!

**CORRECTION** Woops... Apparently we DID boycott the 1980 Olympics... my bad.

My Big Secret

2008-01-09T09:55:00.000-05:00

...

I HATE SHOPPING!!!!

I don't mind browsing... and of course I love having new things. But the actual process of trying things on, finding things to match, deciding what is affordable/practical/good quality/etc. is absolutely exhausting and stressful and I hate it. It doesn't help that the air is always so dry and my vision blurs, or that the automatic toilet flushers in all the restrooms have have the worst timing ever. Then I get even crankier. Ugh.

My other secret, on a sidenote: Spice World and My Little Pony are quite possibly the best movies ever made.

Resolutions for the New Year

2008-01-02T15:04:00.000-05:00

I usually don't do the New Year's Resolutions thing... but this year I'm feelin' the need for some change. ;) Let's see how long I can keep these!

~ No more personality wear till summer. And even in the summer... mega moderation! I need to maturize and wholesomize my image--and get back in touch with my inner good girl... just a little! ;)

~ 2 drinks max per outing. Two will get me pleasantly tipsy. More than that will have me falling over/doing splits/lap dancing/pretending I'm a Rockette/flashing my Bad Kitty panties/thoroughly embarrassing myself. Not to mention I look uglier. Special occasions may call for exceptions. :P

~ Find a good church. I tried going once last year but the pastor basically wanted to have sex with me. But that was just once. I need to try again and get in touch with my spiritual side.

~ Focus more on being productive at work, and finding what I really want to do. Right now I'm basically all over the place, distracted, and have no direction. And that in and of itself is exhausting.

~ Find a way to get some exercise!!! My life is becoming more and more sedentary, but I hate the gym. Bad combination. I don't really want much muscle or lose weight... but a healthy heart could be good!

~ Tan less, embrace my pallor more. I need to kick this expensive insecurity in the ass!!! Especially since it's winter for goodness sake.

~ Get involved in the community. Do more outdoorsy things, or basically anything other than just big city style partying. I need to broaden my horizons. Life needs to be more than working and partying and sleeping. I need some unique experiences, and I need to meet more people.

~ Be more open minded about dating. HAHA. I'm 23 years old and don't know how to date. Sigh.

~ Be nicer. I have released my inner b*tch this year. Not out of control, but enough to make people go "NIKKI! YOU just said that?!". And I don't want people to think I'm a mean girl. ;)

~ Start saving money. Reality hits... :(

~ Stop acting naive/oblivious and punch guys in the face when they get sketchy! Flirting is fun, but certain things should never be said or done.

Ok that's it. Let's see how it goes!

ADDENDUM: Get on a normal sleeping schedule!!! 11 p.m. on weeknights. And no more sleeping till noon on weekends!

HELLO 2008!

2008-01-02T14:19:00.000-05:00

Words can't describe how phenomenal New Year's Eve in NYC was. Can it get any better than partying with your favorite people in the world, who love you no matter what, with limitless cocktails, delicious hors d'oeuvres, party horns, chocolate covered strawberries, scandalous dancing (and dance-offs), kisses galore, and and a swanky Manhattan lounge? I think not. Great way to close out an even greater year. On to a bigger and better 2008!

I love you guys!! :)

My Weird Dream

2007-12-14T13:04:00.000-05:00

Last night I had the most entertaining dream ever.

I was at a New Year's party in New York City, and the countdown to January 1, 2008 had just begun. I was actually with a boy and we were getting ready to kiss at the stroke of midnight. But as it went to "3...2...1..." things got really hazy and SUDDENLY I got spiraled/time warped back to 1008, instead of 2008.

I popped up in Middle Age England, luckily discovered by an aristocratic woman. I was cold and shivering in the brush (it was January in ENGLAND!) To make matters worse, I was still wearing my NYE outfit... a bright red sequinned mini-dress, over black tights and FMBs, with big hair and heavy dark eye make-up. The lady was speaking in some old English I guess, which of course I couldn't understand, and I was really worried she'd think I was some sort of witch and burn me at the stake. She took me to a castle and introduced me to her husband, some lord or king or whatever, who didn't look nearly as sympathetic as the woman did. Scaryyy.

I tried to explain who I was, and eventually had to draw a picture of England, the Atlantic, and North America... but then I remembered American hadn't QUITE been discovered yet. Crap.

I'll never know what happened. That phase of my dream ended with the utmost confusion and switched scenes to something entirely different... my birthday party. So I guess somehow, I made it back to 2008?

The Battle of the Sexes.... Part 1

2007-12-10T13:21:00.000-05:00

One particularly slow day at work, my co-workers and I gathered in Meagan and Steve's office to shoot the breeze and generally goof off. We used the colorful markers to spice up their white board... a Winter Heat Countdown, snowflakes, Top Five Movies You'd Have to Have if Stranded on a Desert Island, etc etc.

But it was the Top Ten Albums You'd Have to Have if Stranded on a Desert Island list that really got interesting. Not because of the list itself, but because of the crazy chauvinistic comments that my male co-workers (sorry guys...I love you anyway!) made afterward. While reviewing a Rolling Stone magazine list of the top 500 greatest albums of all time, Steve noted that "when it comes to producing great music, the majority of good/memorable artists are male" and "of this list, I'd say less than 10% of the greatest albums are from female artists." The other guys nodded and threw in their own misguided observations about how women aren't up to par in musical talent.

Ummm... WHAT?! Meagan was too livid to comment. I just kept writing the lists on the white board and decided to save my soapbox rant for this blog post. :) So here goes.

FIRST off, if you are defining great music as rock/metal bands, then yeah, there aren't many female rockers. But that's an awfully narrow way to look at good music.

SECONDLY, it has only recently been appropriate for women to enter the entertainment industry. As in many other career fields, women are susceptible to the cultural pressure (or personal desire, of course), to fill stereotypically feminine roles--teacher, nurse, secretary. I can't see parents in the 1950s and 1960s allowing their daughters to grunge down their look and bang cymbals in the garage quite as readily as they would let their sons.

Not to mention, it's kind of hard to rock out when you have babies--unless you want the entire world to call you a bad mother. It's funny how lots of male rockers are fathers but no one questions their parenting ability, or chastises their lack of presence in the home. Women would not so easily get away with this.

THIRDLY, it is a sad shame that many talented female artists have to sexualize their image in order to sell and get noticed. It's true--sex sells--but the unfortunate consequence is that once they get there, they are no longer taken seriously as an artist, but viewed as a sex object instead. Christina Aguilera has a phenomenal voice, writes many of her songs, and is a great performer in general, and she has even managed to break away from the sexy teeny bopper image she once exemplified so strongly. It's too bad she will likely be more remembered as a pop tart rather than a powerful female musical artist.

FOURTHLY... I just checked, and the majority of the Rolling Stone staff is MALE. Men like to listen to rock. The whole magazine has more of a rock focus. Great music shouldn't be defined by genre, but how it reaches people, which can be evaluated based on sales and their influence on our culture (whether you like it or not.)

Maybe a less biased look would come from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) or Billboard.

And finally, the comments are just wrong for the long, top-selling, influential list of reasons below:

Celine Dion
Enya
Whitney Houston
Gloria Estefan
Cher
Barbara Streisand
Alanis Morrissette
Aretha Franklin
Carole King
Shania Twain
Stevie Nicks
Vanessa Carlton
Joan Jett
Paula Abdul
Mariah Carey
Pat Benetar
Sarah McLachlan
Janet Jackson
Jennifer Lopez
Mary J. Blige
Diana Ross
Janis Joplin
Alicia Keys
Madonna
Nelly Furtado
Amy Lee
Cyndi Lauper
Amy Winehouse
Tori Amos
Courtney Love
Billie Holiday
Gwen Stefani
Belinda Carlisle
Missy Elliot
Christina Aguilera
Sheryl Crow
Olivia Newton John
Rihanna
Dixie Chicks
Julie Andrews
Gladys Knight
Spice Girls
Tracy Chapman
TLC
Wilson Phillips
Kylie Minogue
Bangles
Ani Defranco
Ella Fitzgerald
Teagan & Sara
Blondie
Go-Go's
Mya
Marie Osmond
Dolly Parton
Britney Spears (like it or not)
Etta James
Charlotte Church
Joni Mitchell
Pink
Faith Hill
Wynonna Judd
Ciara
Shakira
Patti LaBelle
JoJo
Donna Summer
Leann Rimes
Reba MacIntire
Carrie Underwood
Kelly Clarkson
Fergie
Lily Allen
Toni Braxton
Lauryn Hill
Amy Grant
Bonnie Raitt
Norah Jones
Fiona Apple
Karen Carpenter
Ruth Brown
Tina Turner
Patti Smith
Annie Lennox
Bette Midler
Carly Simon
Melissa Etheridge
The Pointer Sisters
Erykah Badu
Indigo Girls
Liz Phair
Nico
Michelle Branch
Jewel
Grace Slick
Chaka Khan
Bjork
Judy Collins

& more can be found at 100 Greatest Female Artists & Greatest Female Artist Albums if you care to argue with me even more :P

My First New Year's Resolution

2007-12-06T15:36:00.000-05:00

It's not necessarily how much I spend, but what I spend my money on. No matter how many times I say I will stop buying party clothes, or how badly I need grown-up, classy clothes, I ALWAYS end up buying yet one more party girl outfit that I DON'T need.

December is the month of parties... holiday parties, New Year's parties, birthday parties... So naturally, I used this as an excuse to buy a new outfit for each...and for one party, I couldn't make up my mind so I actually bought two. And with each new outfit comes new shoes and accessories. I'm not the only one who likes to avoid recycling old party wear. Because of course, we cannot be photographed in the same outfit twice! (Common exclamation in my particular social group:"What?! I can't wear THAT! It's been done! It is on Facebook!")

But now that we have actual bills to pay, and life is no longer a party... IS THIS REALLY NECESSARY?! Now I have almost no money for the normal clothes that I need hardcore.

So now I'm making my first New Years resolution: from now until summer, no more cheap slutty clothes! I may only purchase things that I can wear to work, out to dinner, shopping, etc. Things I can get a lot of wear out of! Things I can wear both professionally and socially. So bye-bye to the LVL X's and Wet Seals of the world. And HELLO to the Banana Republic's and Ann Taylor's!

*shudder*

Hold me to it ya'll!!!

"On this Winter's Night With You"

2007-12-03T23:33:00.000-05:00

I was enjoying some quiet time tonight after a hot shower, laying beneath my newly decorated, fresh Christmas tree by my "fireplace" with Annie, listening to soft holiday music and soaking up the joy of the season. I was thinking how much I love Christmastime, what it means, being all serene and contemplative and such.

Then a Sarah McLachlan Christmas song comes on and, looking at Annie, I immediately think of her ASPCA commercial, which is heartbreaking, and I worry about all the poor little animals out in shelters--or worse--with no one to love them. I squeeze Annie tighter, which only serves to annoy her. But she goes along with it so well, like the good kitty she is! :)

And then I think of all the people out there who don't have anyone to love them. No quiet time. No Christmas trees. No pretty music. No serenity. So yeah... What started out as a nice night ultimately made me majorly depress myself. =P I'm leaving Sarah off the playlist next time.

Monica comes to visit!

2007-11-19T15:56:00.000-05:00

Saturday night was another fabulous girls' night out (despite a rocky yet amusing start) with Kat, my new friend Krista, and my Latina amiga Monica who drove herself up to NoVa like a big girl!

The girls

I turned in my trademark long fluffy sex hair for a new and trendy 'do a la Monica!

Role reversal! My new fave pic of me and Moni

Awww <3>

The last pic we took while we still looked cute...

Don't get jealous Wendi! We <3 you!!

Professional Popcorn Scooping

2007-11-10T00:07:00.001-05:00

I didn't hear the whole report, but the radio show this morning was going over the the top ten worst jobs. Coming in at #2 was working at a movie theater! They said that working concession, box office, etc. just means long lines, cranky customers, weird hours, and barely minimum wage. The host even went so far as to say working at a movie theater = suicide. "Don't ever work at a movie theater!"

HAHA. Soooo been there. But I kind of hearted my professional popcorn scooping days...

Dog vs. Soulja Boy!

2007-11-07T11:27:00.000-05:00

**Touchy material ahead**

Today I was listening to the Kane Morning Show on Hot 99.5, and I noted how the discussion of Dog the Bounty Hunter's despicable use of the N-word immediately followed the spinning of Soulja Boy's mega-hit "Crank Dat," which repeatedly refers to demeaning and explicit sexual acts against "ho's" in almost every line.

I have no idea who Dog the Bounty Hunter even is, except for the fact that he's an ignorant bigot who is getting a ton of well-deserved media backlash for his use of racial slurs.

But the situation also got me thinking about the blatant double standards we have in this country concerning derogatory language, and its varying levels of acceptance in our culture.

First off, if black people are going to take offense to the use of the N-word (as they should), they need to step up and be the first to STOP using it. They are the ones re-introducing it into our pop culture, and it's not okay. (And I'm not just saying that because I'm a white girl who can't sing along to the offensive lyrics, while my black counterparts can.) It's a derogatory term and no one, regardless of race, should say it.

Second, I am bothered by the fact that the only derogatory terms we vilify are racial in nature. It is a huge problem that gender/sexual slurs--b*tch, ho, slut, etc--are becoming increasingly mainstream, and that they are not such a big deal to people...but the N word still is. I hear them on daytime TV. In music. My friends use them. I use them. And no matter how we slice it, these terms are degrading, and only succeed in perpetuating the negative stereotypes our society unfortunately already has...of women, of blacks, of homosexuals, of boys with popped collars or girls with blonde hair, you name it!

I am aware of the argument that states that terms of hate and derision could be manipulated to become terms of empowerment (I read an article recently on how some feminist groups wish to make c**t a term of empowerment for women.) They say that after all, it is society that gives meaning to a word, so let's take a stand--as a society--and change the meaning of it! Maybe they are right, and everyone should just be less touchy. They are just words, right?

But this would take generations to take hold, IF enough people chose to change their view in the first place. And it needs to include ALL slurs, not just one. If it's not okay for an individual to reference a black person as "that n****", then it shouldn't be okay to reference that woman as "that ho." [Weird that I have to bleep out one, but not the other.]

Furthermore, even if black people are trying to use the N-word amongst each other as a term of brotherhood, they need to be open to the fact that white/Hispanic/Asian people are probably going to pick up on it too, especially the young ones. And with the way pop media is these days, their use of the term may legitimately not be intended as racist. I can see white kids getting slammed for greeting their black friends with the N-word, and then going to their parents, asking what they did wrong. How are we going to explain it to them--that some kids can say that, but others can't, depending on the color of your skin? What kind of message is that? A divisive and racist one, if you ask me.

So, slurs either need to become acceptable across the board, or not at all. And given the history of these terms, I would vote for not at all.

FAIL!

2007-11-06T14:05:00.000-05:00

My beautiful red Acura just failed its safety inspection. It has a big, ugly sticker on it that says REJECTION. I am so sad. :(

W&M Homecoming

2007-11-05T15:26:00.000-05:00

When I graduated W&M, I couldn't have been more ready. I needed a change of scenery, and I was certainly sick of school in general. No more tests! No more papers! A PAYCHECK!!! Don't get me wrong, I had a phenomenal four years in the 'burg, but it was definitely time to go. I loaded my car, took one last look around, cried for ten minutes as I took a minute to think about all the great memories I'd made and lessons I'd learned, then sped off to NoVa, without looking back. I didn't think about it again, and looked forward to my next big adventure. The whole summer, I didn't miss it.

But once fall came around, and everyone else started to head back to school, the nostalgia REALLY began to set in. The reality of the post-graduate world wasn't as glamorous and charmed as I had hoped (at least not in full). It hit that I actually would never be a college student again, and that made me very sad. So, Homecoming weekend provided the perfect opportunity to go back and re-live some of the best days of my life, with some of the coolest people ever! And better yet, I got to re-live it WITHOUT the tests and the papers!

I drove down to Williamsburg with Alisa, and we checked into a hotel room at the Days Inn. It was a whopping $259 for two nights, but it was a better alternative than our original plan, which was to stay with Orange Fanta Liz, who contracted the MRSA staph infection the day before (she is okay now!!) It felt so good to be back! Even the rain made me nostalgic.

We spent that night at the good ol' Ho House, where we sang some karaoke ("I Love Rock n' Roll"!) and danced the night away with some of my faves--Wendi, Rex, Margarita, Hillary, Monica, Amanda, Alisa! I even managed to get a few free drinks out of the deal... YAY for working there and knowing the staff! Afterwards, we went for a traditional Wawa run (mmmm chicken salad subs w/ extra oregano!) and then chilled with some boys at the King & Queens apartments, where a window broke over our heads. Good times.

I spent Saturday tailgating on campus, where I ran into Cory, Ashley, my old track team roommates, and a gazillion frat boys and sorority girls. A Capella was a huge part of my time at W&M, so I stopped by the Stairwells concert in the Wren Chapel, and the Intonations concert at the Crim Dell amphitheater. Then I had a delicious dinner at Aromas with Hillary & co., where I OD'ed on a scrumptious caramel Aromachino. Totally worth it though! Hillary comforted me at the Inn while I curled in a ball and tried to digest that thing, all the while reminiscing about our (my) sketchy days as W&M party girls (I STILL can't drink tequila...or peppermint patty shots. They are synonymous with next-morning mortification.) After my recovery, I went out for round 2, and re-visited the Griff and frat row... throwbacks to sophomore year.

Sunday I had to deal with my flat tire before heading back to the real world. It sucked. I got it towed to Walmart and spent $118 on a new tire. Turns out, everyone has a spare in their trunk! Who knew?! Does anyone have a "Cars for Dummies" that I can borrow??

Unexpectedly expensive weekend... but a fabulous one. There were still a lot of people I didn't get to see, and places I didn't get to visit, but that is extra incentive to visit again. I MISS YOU W&M!!!!!

BLACKOUT

2007-11-05T00:18:00.001-05:00

In case anyone was wondering, Britney's new album is PHENOMENAL! That is, if you like synthesized beats and a considerable amount of computerized vocals. Which, obviously I do...

I can't stop listening to it! :)

The most wonderful time of the year... already?!

2007-11-04T23:19:00.000-05:00

So the malls have Christmas stuff already... and I love Christmas as much as anyone... but COME ON!!!! Unacceptable! They do this every year. Christmas is far too special to have 2 months out of the year.

...It really should be illegal to start Christmas time before Thanksgiving...

See, I like dogs too! :)

2007-10-22T10:42:00.000-04:00

In honor of my Lacey coming to stay with me for a week... This is precious:

A Dog's Purpose

Being a veterinarian, I had been called to examine a ten-year-old Irish Wolfhound named Belker. The dog's owners, Ron, his wife, Lisa, and their little boy, Shane, were all very attached to Belker, and they were hoping for a miracle.

I examined Belker and found he was dying of cancer. I told the family we couldn't do anything for Belker, and offered to perform the euthanasia procedure for the old dog in their home.

As we made arrangements, Ron and Lisa told me they thought it would be good for six-year-old Shane to observe the procedure. They felt as though Shane might learn something from the experience

The next day, I felt the familiar catch in my throat as Belker's family surrounded him. Shane seemed so calm, petting the old dog for the last time, that I wondered if he understood what was going on. Within a few minutes, Belker slipped peacefully away.

The little boy seemed to accept Belker's transition without any difficulty or confusion. We sat together for a while after Belker's death, wondering aloud about the sad fact that animal lives are shorter than human lives. Shane, who had been listening quietly, piped up, "I know why."

Startled, we all turned to him. What came out of his mouth next stunned me. I'd never heard a more comforting explanation.

He said, "People are born so that they can learn how to live a good life -- like loving everybody all the time and being nice, right? Well, dogs already know how to do that, so they don't have to stay as long."

Live simply.
Love generously.
Care deeply.
Speak kindly.

Remember, if a dog was the teacher you would learn things like:

When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.

Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride.

Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure ecstasy.

Take naps.

Stretch before rising.

Run, romp, and play daily.

Thrive on attention and let people touch you.

Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.

On warm days, stop to lie on your back on the grass.

On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree.

When you're happy, dance around and wag your entire body.

Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.

Eat with gusto and enthusiasm. Stop when you have had enough.

Be loyal. Never pretend to be something you're not.

If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.

When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by and nuzzle them gently.

Be always grateful for each new day.

Fall is Here

2007-10-16T16:56:00.000-04:00

This past weekend, I took some time off from the party thing (haha) to enjoy some quality autumn time with my sister & co. I'm not a HUGE fall/winter kinda person but I love the holidays more than anything! Halloween and Christmas are my two favorite holidays ever, and I'm so in the spirit!!! New Years makes for a close third favorite, though I've never done much for it. But after that... it's all down hill until spring.

So I started off the season at Pumpkinville in Leesburg, where we looked at pumpkins (obvi), drank cider, pet baby goats, ate popcorn and fresh apples, played in haystacks, and enjoyed the beautiful, crisp weather! And took lots of pictures, of course...

Yayyyyyyy Halloweeen!!!!!

I make a difference! Or something like that...

2007-10-16T14:23:00.000-04:00

This month is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which is all fine and dandy, but it means LOTS of donation requests. I'm normally good at avoiding those pesky salespeople who won't give me my purchase until they've given their schpiel: "Would you please donate $5 to help underprivileged/chronically ill/orphaned children today? Your donation could save a life!" I feel a slight twinge of guilt, but convince myself that the majority of my $5 will go to the company, not the poor orphan. I smile and say "Not today, thanks!" as graciously as possible, and then make my exit.

But, a couple of weeks ago, I gave my $5 to Macy's, in the hope of finding the cure for breast cancer. It wasn't because I'm generous and philanthropic, though. It was because Macy's promised me a $10 off coupon for my next purchase of $35 or more plus a 20% discount on some other purchase. I tilted my head and thought for a second, then said "Sure, I'd love to donate $5 to breast cancer research!"

So there I was, feeling all good about myself, when I realized that I only gave because they gave me something in return. What kind of charity is that?! What kind of a horrible person am I?! Sadness... I suck!!!!

For the rest of the month, I have been giving to breast cancer every time they ask. AND I haven't been getting anything in return! Well, except for that box of chocolate cookies with the pink ribbon from Safeway...

But for reals people, here's a way to help in the fight against cancer/poverty/the Amazon/puppies/You-name-it without spending a penny! Hooray!!! :)

thebreastcancersite.com
thehungersite.com
thechildhealthsite.com
theanimalrescuesite.com
theliteracysite.com
therainforestsite.com

You're nobody... until you're talked about.

2007-10-11T16:21:00.000-04:00

It's a little sad how obsessed I am with the CW's latest guilty pleasure, "Gossip Girl," which is basically about f*cked up rich beautiful people. It's probably even sadder that Wendi and I have a running commentary on AIM while we're watching it. But it makes Wednesday nights so much more exciting!

BTW, Dan Humphrey = my future husband.

It's Britney, bitch!

2007-10-05T10:00:00.000-04:00

New Britney song a "smash" hit!

NEW YORK (AP) -- Britney Spears is finally catching a break.

Britney Spears' new song, "Gimme More," is at No. 3 on Billboard's Hot 100, the nation's primary pop chart.

Her new song, "Gimme More," is now a success on the music charts -- despite the pop star's turbulent personal life and the humiliation of her much-panned performance at MTV's Video Music Awards.

This week, "Gimme More" -- released to radio stations in August -- topped Billboard's Hot Digital Songs chart at No. 1 with 179,000 downloads, and jumped from No. 68 to No. 3 on Billboard's Hot 100.

The song is the first single from her new album, set for release November 13.

Hooray!!! Britney, come back!!! I miss you!!! =)

Paris Hilton isn't SO dumb...

2007-10-04T23:18:00.001-04:00

I posted this on Myspace a while ago, but I think it deserves a spot here too. Some real pearls of wisdom! ;) Gotta love Paris Hilton!

On illusion:

~Act ditzy. Lose things. It throws people off and makes them think you're "adorable," and less together than you really are.

On your wardrobe:

~If you're happy, wear pink. If you're depressed, wear black.

On proper sleep habits:

~Never, ever wake up before ten; never go to bed before three. Normal hours are for normal people. You never want to be normal. Anyone can be normal. How boring. I'm yawning.

On healthy eating:

~Never go on the Atkins diet. Or the South Beach Diet. Even if you are in South Beach. Especially if you are in South Beach. If you are in South Beach, eat more.

On fear:

~Fear nothing...except insects.

On your image:

~There's a big difference between being fun and provocative and being totally over-the-top and gross. Know how to tread that fine line...in stilettos.

On sin & happiness:

~Eat as much chocolate as you can. Chocolate seems sinful, and therefore makes you happy.

On making sure people notice you:

~The way I keep people wondering about me is to smile all the time and say as little as possible. Smile beautifully, smile big, smile confidently, and everyone thinks you've got all kinds of secret things going on. And that keeps them wanting more. And when they want more, you are automatically interesting.

aaaaaand Life's Ultimate Advice:

~If all else fails, act bored. Not boring. There's a huge difference...

Let's laser some corneas!

2007-10-03T13:50:00.001-04:00

*Addendum to previous post*

I had an eye doctor's appointment the other day, and it was a truly enlightening experience. I've been to the eye doctor yearly since I was like, 8, but for some reason, this visit really intrigued me...

...which brought me to my latest whim: OPTOMETRY!!!

The doctor told me that the little black specks I sometimes see in my peripheral vision are little bits of eye jelly, and if I see too many of them too often, it means my retina is detaching! FASCINATING. And here I thought all along that I was just hallucinating. I'M HOOKED!

Talk about a cool job. You don't have to sit at a desk all day. And you get to meet all sorts of people...and give them the gift of vision! How noble! And how cool would it be to laser someone's cornea?! Plus, eyes are pretty.

One downside: ophthalmology = med school = $$$ = majorly hard work = UGH. But to laser corneas... maybe it's worth it?! Or maybe I'll just settle for optometry. Decisions, decisions...

Career Woes

2007-10-03T11:26:00.000-04:00

There seems to be a sense of job discontent in the air. I always said I wanted a job I was excited to wake up for every morning, but it seems like all I can do every day is sit on g-chat and complain with my friends about how bored we are. Don't get me wrong--we are all very gainfully employed and we appreciate the pay check! But we often wonder if *insert respective career field here* is really what we want to pursue for the rest of our lives.

This is especially important to me because--let's be honest here--the trophy wife option is an increasingly distant possibility, due to my stubborn resistance to falling in love...HA. So, I need to find something that will motivate me and excite me. Like politics, entertainment/fashion, talking, being on camera, and interacting with people!

Here are some ideas I've been mulling about for some time, and the *dream positions* within each field that I fantasize about :)

~ Broadcast journalism

*Anchor or correspondent for a major news network. Enough with the grumpy old men telling us what's going on in the world!
*Correspondent or host for E! Entertainment. Guiliana's going down!
*The next Kelly Ripa
*White House Press Secretary

~ Public Relations/Affairs
*Either in politics, fashion, or entertainment. Ideally, something controversial ;)

~ Government
*Foreign policy... National Security Advisor! (Watch out!!!)
*Intelligence analyst
*Emergency response

~ Magazine Editor/Contributor
*Washingtonian. Allure. Newsweek. National Geographic!

~ Event Planner
*Samantha on Sex and the City (isn't that what she does?)
*Event photographer!

And of course, there's always the running away to LA and become an A-list movie star option. Thoughts???

Should I get this tattoo?

2007-10-02T16:14:00.001-04:00

Just a rough sketch, of course. :) Thanks Ali!

Food for Thought

2007-10-02T15:47:00.000-04:00

"One's life, viewed as a whole, is always the answer to the most important questions. Along the way, does it matter what one says, what words and principles one chooses to justify oneself? At the very end, one's answers to the questions the world has posted...are to be found in the facts of one's life.

Who are you? What did you actually want? What could you actually achieve? At what points were you loyal or disloyal or brave or a coward? And one answers as best one can...but that's not so important. What's important is that finally one answers with one's life."

~Embers, Sandor Marai

Cats > Dogs

2007-10-01T15:21:00.000-04:00

It's no secret that I am a feline enthusiast. I actually love all animals (well, all of the cute fuzzy ones), but I've always had a particular affinity for cats. And there is NOTHING in the world more precious than a kitten. Sometimes I worry that my interest in cats borders on obsession. But I never worry for long =)
I think this is because I want to be like a cat, which is funny, because I've always had more of a puppy personality. Dogs need constant attention, lots of food, and they make you clean up the sh*t they leave exposed all over your back yard. Dogs whine. They yap. They cling. They drool. They GROVEL. You have to wake up at 6 in the morning to let them out.

CATS, on the other hand, don't really need anybody. They give affection on their own terms, on their own time. Cats are independent and clever, and they keep themselves clean and pretty. They never over-do anything, and when they get sleepy, they simply curl up in one of the cozy spots they've sealed off for themselves, and snooze in sunbeams for hours on end. Conversely, a cat is adventurous and loves to explore. It can entertain itself indefinitely, finding amusement out of the simplest of pleasures... like a grape, for instance. Or maybe even a pencil.

Additionally, cats are beautiful and they know it. No games. No pretending. No groveling. They don't care what anyone else thinks and express their emotions as they wish. They can purr, but they know when to bring out the claws..no one can mess with a kitty! Cats confidently mind their own business and don't go around sniffing anyone else's behind. Plus, their affection is equally sincere as any dog's... minus the drool. And you can cuddle with them and not smell bad afterwards. YAY!

As Mark Twain said: "Of all God's creatures there is only one that cannot be made the slave of the leash. That one is the cat. If man could be crossed with the cat, it would improve man but deteriorate the cat." And we all know Mark Twain was a pretty smart dude. =)

More cat quotes and pictures of my current kitty [and BFF] Annie!

"If animals could speak the dog would be a a blundering outspoken fellow, but the cat would have the rare grace of never saying a word too much."
- Mark Twain

"Dogs come when they're called. Cats take a message and get back to you."
- Mary Bly

"I simply can't resist a cat, particularly a purring one. They are the cleanest, cunningest, and most intelligent things I know."
- Abroad with Mark Twain and Eugene Field, Fisher

"Cats are smarter than dogs. You can't get eight cats to pull a sled through snow. "
- Jeff Valdez

"The smallest feline is a masterpiece."
- Leonardo da Vinci

"You will always be lucky if you know how to make friends with strange cats."
- Colonial American Proverb (I must be SO lucky!!!)

"Women and cats will do as they please, and men and dogs should relax and get used to the idea."
- Unknown

"The cat has too much spirit to have no heart."
- Ernest Menaul

"There are few things in life more heartwarming than to be welcomed by a cat."
- Tay Hohoff

"I like pigs. Dogs look up to us. Cats look down on us. Pigs treat us as equals."
- Winston Churchill (HAHA)

Circadian rhythms

2007-10-01T12:02:00.000-04:00

You know that time of day when you just kinda lose it? When you can't focus, can't think straight... You can't even keep your eyes open and all you seem capable of is curling up in a ball and passing out? Well, those are called circadian rhythms, and they vary from person to person and somehow relate to the earth's rotations (so I've heard.. I'm not TOTALLY making this up!) Well, it's a little past 2:30 and they've hit... hardcore... zzzzzzz.

Too bad I'm at work =(

Sketchmaster2000

2007-09-30T21:24:00.000-04:00

It's official. If there is a predatorial sketchball out there, he will find me. It doesn't matter where I'm at or what I'm wearing or how I'm acting...I simply cannot attract normal people, whether in clubs, in bars, in the library... and apparently, even at church:

"Hey there. Just wanted you to know that I got you on Myspace--I saw that you accepted me as a friend---HOWEVER:-) I had to delete you before my wife saw it:-) HOLY $#!@%!!!! She would have wigged out if she saw you on there. My wife is super-protective. She would have seen how sexy you look and that would be it---fight, fight, fight between her and I. Not sure if you understand or not--I don't expect you to, necessarily. We can chat about it sometime---privately:-). Until then, I think your pix are very sexy and well....I will keep my mouth shut:-) before I get in trouble. Don't reply to my work email with any of this conversation---K? Just this one.
Talk to you soon,
****"

Yep... that's my pastor. A man of God. I guess I need to keep church shopping... =(

I am not a ho!

2007-09-29T20:15:00.002-04:00

When I was in high school, I had no style. Well, I actually did have style, but it was BAD style, and I was incredibly awkward-looking to boot. I would show you a picture, but I don't have any on my computer, so you'll just have to use your imagination. But trust me, it was bad. Picture if you will: waist-high, baggy jeans; full coverage turtlenecks; braces; huge glasses; mousy, plain, dirty blonde hair; ghostly pale skin... oh yeahh, I was the wholeee package. I was also the good Christian girl, who thought parties were bad, drinking the dumbest thing ever, and any dancing other than ballet completely impure. While people weren't blatantly mean, I was picked on a good bit, and I certainly wasn't included in any particular social group. But I was fine being a floater. At least, for a while.

WELLLL... things change. I made it to senior year and decided my old look wasn't winning me any points. Even the pastor's kids looked cooler than I did. So I highlighted my hair, got contacts, joined the hip-hop dance team, discovered Mystic Tan, and gradually started to vamp up my wardrobe. This process continued and increased in extremity over the course of my college years.

I'm sure I over-compensated, but I had (and am having) the best time EVER with my sexy girls' nights out! But oddly enough, I now get picked on for being "slutty" more than I ever did for being dorky. Well, maybe not moreso, but it's weirder because I am the direct opposite of slutty... I am SUCH a prude...and definitely a dork. And there is way more to me then what shows up on Friday nights. I'm a good girl. My friends know this about me. And really, their opinions are the only ones that matter. However, even friends have, at times, been misled by the party image I have adopted of late, drawing conclusions that are simply inaccurate.

I get a lot of slack for wearing outfits like this:

And for making a spectacle out of myself like this:

And for posing with my sexy friends like this:

And people ask me, "Why do you do that?"

And I would always think hard about this, and try to come up with all these psychoanalytical explanations, and get all defensive--"It's not that bad, I'm not actually DOING anything slutty", or "Oh I sorta like the attention, this is my way of expressing myself", or "I'm insecure and this is how I feel more accepted and noticed," or "I'm a dancer and a performer and that's why I do it!" or "Even when I was little I liked to sing and dance and play dress-up!" blah blah blah... But then I got to thinking... why the HELLL do I owe you an explanation?! Why are you giving me such a hard time? Who cares?! Bottom line: my [highly moral & wonderfully classy] friends and I dress up and dance like crazy for one simple reason: it's FUN. We're not doing anything wrong and certainly not hurting anybody. This is just our way [one way] of having fun. So leave us the eff alone!!!

And believe it or not... I still have my dork wardrobe and wear it on a regular basis! Yay CAT SWEATER!

Zodiacs are stupid

2007-09-29T14:48:00.000-04:00

I really hate the fact that I am the Year of the Rat. How does that make any sense whatsoever?! Why can't I be Year of the Kitten? Or even Year of the Butterfly? =(

'Sup!

2007-09-27T00:32:00.000-04:00

Since Wendi and Kat have blogs, and since I always do everything the cool kids are doing (drugs are awesome!!!!), I have a blog now too. This is where you can learn alllll about moi, a.k.a. the Pink Piglette.

I am the Pink Piglette for a number of reasons.

One, I am a glutton.

Two, pink is my favorite color. [Except not really. Secretly, it's red. I was peer pressured into preferring pink when I was 7 years old and at Sunday School. All the other little girls liked pink so I wasn't about to have my feminimity called into question in front of all the cute little Christian boys. True story.]

Three, I'm a piglETTE because I am a girl, and I didn't want to create any confusion. [Except not really. I'm PiglETTE because someone else already took PiglET. How bitchy!]

Four, I'm a piglette instead of a pig because, despite being a glutton, I am little. And -ette means "little" in French.

TOODLES!

p.s. I was totally kidding about the drugs. TRUE STORY!

~*Bad Kitty*~