Don't get me wrong, I'm a BIG fan of long weekends. But it would be so much better if this weekend marked the beginning of summer as opposed to the end of summer - most especially this summer. I think today may have been the hottest day we've had all season. What the heck? It finally gets warm then September starts.
I like Fall and all but really, can't we just have a little more summer?
Sunday, August 31, 2014
Saturday, August 30, 2014
Why I Create
However, like I said, not everyone feels the way I do. And because of that, it can get a little lonely. Crafty people put so much into whatever they're creating but they may never get to see the outcome of their creation. Of course, that's not why we do it at all. We do it because it's fun and it makes us happy. Making other people happy too is a huge bonus that we may never get to see.
Enter, possibly the best text I've ever received. I made the card you see above for my Etsy shop. My coworker loved it and bought it (and coincidentally became my first real customer so she's already top of my list of fave people) then sent it to a friend to make her feel better. That friend loved it so much she put it in her journal. Just knowing that my work was so special to her, makes me all sorts of giddy.
Learning she's kept it permanently and I helped to cheer her up is much better than any award!
Making people smile and sharing the love - that's why I create.
Friday, August 29, 2014
Friday Five: Summer Reading Edition
Since this week has been pretty slow - nothing terribly exciting and nothing terribly awful - I decided to focus on my summer reading. Of course, I've been terribly negligent this year and haven't accomplished my usual library of books. I'm hoping to remedy that soon.
1. "Delicious!" by Ruth Reichl: I couldn't put it down. It was the first truly awesome book that grabbed my attention this summer. It was a mish mash of chick lit and food lit. How could I not love it? I'm hoping she continues with the fiction writing because with her first novel, she knocked it out of the park!
2. "Cupcakes at Carringtons" by Alexandra Brown: This is one of those British books I love so much that you can't find in the States - unless of course you visit the truly fabulous Bank Street Books in Connecticut, and then you're in luck. It's a super cute chick lit story. What makes it even better is that there are 2 more coming out and I'm going to England next year, so it shouldn't be a problem to shove them in my suitcase (come to think of it, I may be needing a bigger suitcase...)
3. Twitter: I know technically this isn't a book, but I've been pretty much glued to Twitter this year. Between all sorts of useless information, truly hilarious parodies, Breaking News and an over-abundance of Ice Bucket Challenges, it's the first site I turn to in the morning and the last place I visit at night. I used to think it was a waste of time social network, but I have to say, it's where I get a lot of my news these days. It's also a great tool for crafting, and travel planning. Of course, it's also full of some truly vile trolls and some ridiculous false information too, but if you can filter through to the good stuff, you're all set!
4. "We'll Always Have Paris" by Jennifer Coburn: I was hooked from the start - a mother daughter trip across the world. As a lover of all things travel, it ticked off all the boxes for me. It's also a pretty fantastic memoir of someone trying to live life to the fullest.
5. "Sous Chef" by Michael Gibney: I think I wrote about this one at the time I finished it. I even said that it was better than Bourdain's "Kitchen Confidential" and I stand behind that statement. It's a pretty crazy portrait of what 24 hours in a professional kitchen looks like. I love restaurants but I have to say after reading this book, I'd much rather do the eating than try the cooking in one.
1. "Delicious!" by Ruth Reichl: I couldn't put it down. It was the first truly awesome book that grabbed my attention this summer. It was a mish mash of chick lit and food lit. How could I not love it? I'm hoping she continues with the fiction writing because with her first novel, she knocked it out of the park!
2. "Cupcakes at Carringtons" by Alexandra Brown: This is one of those British books I love so much that you can't find in the States - unless of course you visit the truly fabulous Bank Street Books in Connecticut, and then you're in luck. It's a super cute chick lit story. What makes it even better is that there are 2 more coming out and I'm going to England next year, so it shouldn't be a problem to shove them in my suitcase (come to think of it, I may be needing a bigger suitcase...)
3. Twitter: I know technically this isn't a book, but I've been pretty much glued to Twitter this year. Between all sorts of useless information, truly hilarious parodies, Breaking News and an over-abundance of Ice Bucket Challenges, it's the first site I turn to in the morning and the last place I visit at night. I used to think it was a waste of time social network, but I have to say, it's where I get a lot of my news these days. It's also a great tool for crafting, and travel planning. Of course, it's also full of some truly vile trolls and some ridiculous false information too, but if you can filter through to the good stuff, you're all set!
4. "We'll Always Have Paris" by Jennifer Coburn: I was hooked from the start - a mother daughter trip across the world. As a lover of all things travel, it ticked off all the boxes for me. It's also a pretty fantastic memoir of someone trying to live life to the fullest.
5. "Sous Chef" by Michael Gibney: I think I wrote about this one at the time I finished it. I even said that it was better than Bourdain's "Kitchen Confidential" and I stand behind that statement. It's a pretty crazy portrait of what 24 hours in a professional kitchen looks like. I love restaurants but I have to say after reading this book, I'd much rather do the eating than try the cooking in one.
Thursday, August 28, 2014
Things on a Thursday
~ The headline on Twitter this week read "Woman stunned by 3 meter wide wasp nest on bed" After seeing it and its accompanying picture, I just have so many questions. How in the world do you forget about a bedroom window and the entire bedroom for 6 weeks? How do you not hear the distinctive "buzz" from probably thousands of wasps coming from the bedroom? And how doesn't a single wasp get out into the house from under the door of the abandoned bedroom? I'm just so darn curious!
~ For the next few months, you will be able to visit the Central Perk (aka a replica of the coffee shop made famous by Friends) in NYC. On one hand, I'd like to know, Why? What exactly is the purpose of creating a replica of the orange sofa and why in the world now? But on the other hand, I kind of want to plan a trip to NYC...
~ And in other ridiculous news, Sanrio, the company behind Hello Kitty (aka the ridiculous little pink and white thing that graces all sorts of wallets, bags and stationary) came out as saying that Hello Kitty is in fact not a kitty at all. The thing is actually a young Japanese girl. Why does it have cat ears and most importantly, why is it called Hello Kitty? You can't make this stuff up...
~ Oh and Brad and Angelina got hitched in a secret ceremony in a French chateau, because of course they did. Last I checked, lots of people get married in French chateaus, why after about 32 children between them, do we care that they're finally making it legal? (I'm usually not so cynical about weddings, but I'm so not a fan).
~ For the next few months, you will be able to visit the Central Perk (aka a replica of the coffee shop made famous by Friends) in NYC. On one hand, I'd like to know, Why? What exactly is the purpose of creating a replica of the orange sofa and why in the world now? But on the other hand, I kind of want to plan a trip to NYC...
~ And in other ridiculous news, Sanrio, the company behind Hello Kitty (aka the ridiculous little pink and white thing that graces all sorts of wallets, bags and stationary) came out as saying that Hello Kitty is in fact not a kitty at all. The thing is actually a young Japanese girl. Why does it have cat ears and most importantly, why is it called Hello Kitty? You can't make this stuff up...
~ Oh and Brad and Angelina got hitched in a secret ceremony in a French chateau, because of course they did. Last I checked, lots of people get married in French chateaus, why after about 32 children between them, do we care that they're finally making it legal? (I'm usually not so cynical about weddings, but I'm so not a fan).
Wednesday, August 27, 2014
Mission Love
They fully stand behind everything they say and support. They're a big supporter of the Wounded Warrior Project and have reserved parking spaces for wounded warriors in each restaurant. Each dining room is covered in military memorabilia as well as local law enforcement decals and photos. The owners are involved in the community and are regularly seen in the dining room talking to customers or just cleaning tables. They treat all customers with respect and kindness, especially those who serve or who have served. In other words, it's an All American place with a great atmosphere. And I haven't even mentioned the food yet.
You wouldn't think a restaurant would have everything put together so well but on top of their honorable mission, they also serve some seriously delicious BBQ. I'd say it's better than some much more well known places, and is most definitely the best I've eaten in a Maryland restaurant! Between the pulled pork, the moist brisket or the mac and cheese, it's impossible to pick a favorite. I just can't say enough wonderful things about Mission BBQ. They deserve all the accolades and press they've gotten and I hope they continue to do great things!
Tuesday, August 26, 2014
Cupcake Burnout
And now that we have a final version, I've got a serious case of cupcake burnout. They were cute at first but now they're just multiplying at an alarming rate and I'm sort of done with them. I cannot wait to get these darn things off my desk on Friday. Of course, that's provided I can get what needs to be printed, printed tomorrow evening without spending my entire budget at Office Depot. The worst part is, that there's also a banner yet to be made - out of, you guessed it: more cupcakes!
Of course, along the way there were some lessons learned. The top of the list is corner rounding. Don't round the corners of the original prototype. While it looks cute on one, it's a MAJOR pain in the butt to actually do 8 corners (2 pieces of paper for each) of 20 invitations. Also, if you're too accommodating, your customer, will continue to add things to your list of things to do which requires many, many trips to craft stores. Particular craft stores mind you because AC Moore, Michael's and Joann's all have different paper stock.
But I have to say, in the end, as long as they're cute, I'll be happy - I'll never be making cupcakes again, but I'll be happy : )
Monday, August 25, 2014
So Thankful For...
A Facebook friend, has for some reason chosen this month to list something she's thankful for each day. I understand doing it in November in honor of Thanksgiving, but I haven't a clue why she chose August. However, since I moan a great deal about little things in life going awry, I think I'm going to follow her lead, and focus on the good things in life this month. For instance:
~ I'm so very thankful for my wonderful parents who I have no idea what I'd do without.
~ I'm thankful for friends that love me for who I am, even though that person tends to be a tad bit socially inept at times..
~ I'm thankful for finally having a job that I like and feel useful doing.
~ I'm thankful to have the ability to travel and see the world - though I'd like to do it just a bit more than my wallet allows.
~ I'm thankful to have a roof over my head and food on my table each day.
~ And mostly, I'm thankful to live in a country (though sometimes I wish it were another one) that isn't perfect, but is full of wonderful and kind people living their lives and who still care about each other. As much as I blather on about England (all those things still stand true, don't get me wrong), but I'm quite lucky to live in the good old USA!
~ I'm so very thankful for my wonderful parents who I have no idea what I'd do without.
~ I'm thankful for friends that love me for who I am, even though that person tends to be a tad bit socially inept at times..
~ I'm thankful for finally having a job that I like and feel useful doing.
~ I'm thankful to have the ability to travel and see the world - though I'd like to do it just a bit more than my wallet allows.
~ I'm thankful to have a roof over my head and food on my table each day.
~ And mostly, I'm thankful to live in a country (though sometimes I wish it were another one) that isn't perfect, but is full of wonderful and kind people living their lives and who still care about each other. As much as I blather on about England (all those things still stand true, don't get me wrong), but I'm quite lucky to live in the good old USA!
Sunday, August 24, 2014
Doctor Who?
Sometime in the last year or so I developed a small addiction to Doctor Who - mostly to David Tennant's 10th doctor, but over time, Matt Smith's 11th doctor grew on me. The sad part was, as soon as the 11th finally found a way into my heart, it was time for him to go to make room for the 12th. As a sobby mess as the 11th's farewell left me, I'm usually an optimistic person so I was one of the few that was pretty excited to see Peter Capaldi take over the reigns. He's a brilliant actor who is a bigger Who nerd than most and seemed utterly delighted to jump into the Who-niverse.
After almost 8 months, it was his turn to shine this past Saturday and all the world (seemingly at least all of Twitter) joined around the telly to watch. I couldn't but DVR'ed to watch today. I was spoiled by the over-abundance of spoilers on Twitter including one big one that would have been a great surprise which I'm still ticked about so I won't mention it here for fear of spoiling it for someone else. And the verdict, you may ask? I'm not sure.
Peter Capaldi is brilliant, as expected. He didn't seem to be the problem. It was the show in general. It was still quick and exciting. The doctor still got all the best lines. Clara, Vastra, Jenny and Strax were there to bring the laughs, but the show wasn't as "sparkly" as it usually is. I understand Moffat's hoping to go a bit darker and I'm actually ok with that. But in doing so he lost all the optimism the show has had from the start. Capaldi has that same twinkle in his eye that all the former doctors have had, Moffat just needs to let it loose for a bit.
After all the build-up of the last few years; of the doctor discovering who he is and what his mission is, it sort of just grinded to a halt during this hour. Also, the distinct lack of plot, was a bit distracting to say the least. You can have all the great dialogue you want, but not having a plot seems a bit counter intuitive. I have faith, it will eventually get back to its roots so I'll continue to watch, if for nothing else than to see Capaldi work his magic on Moffat lines ("attack eyebrows" may be my new favorite!) but I know for a fact, it's already turned off at least a few viewers. My hope is that they don't blame Capaldi though, he really is quite terrific!
After almost 8 months, it was his turn to shine this past Saturday and all the world (seemingly at least all of Twitter) joined around the telly to watch. I couldn't but DVR'ed to watch today. I was spoiled by the over-abundance of spoilers on Twitter including one big one that would have been a great surprise which I'm still ticked about so I won't mention it here for fear of spoiling it for someone else. And the verdict, you may ask? I'm not sure.
Peter Capaldi is brilliant, as expected. He didn't seem to be the problem. It was the show in general. It was still quick and exciting. The doctor still got all the best lines. Clara, Vastra, Jenny and Strax were there to bring the laughs, but the show wasn't as "sparkly" as it usually is. I understand Moffat's hoping to go a bit darker and I'm actually ok with that. But in doing so he lost all the optimism the show has had from the start. Capaldi has that same twinkle in his eye that all the former doctors have had, Moffat just needs to let it loose for a bit.
After all the build-up of the last few years; of the doctor discovering who he is and what his mission is, it sort of just grinded to a halt during this hour. Also, the distinct lack of plot, was a bit distracting to say the least. You can have all the great dialogue you want, but not having a plot seems a bit counter intuitive. I have faith, it will eventually get back to its roots so I'll continue to watch, if for nothing else than to see Capaldi work his magic on Moffat lines ("attack eyebrows" may be my new favorite!) but I know for a fact, it's already turned off at least a few viewers. My hope is that they don't blame Capaldi though, he really is quite terrific!
Saturday, August 23, 2014
Happy Saturday!
Taking the evening off due to a rogue headache, but I'll leave you with this (yes, it's yet another Ice Bucket video, but it's a good one I promise! : ) Happy Saturday!
Friday, August 22, 2014
Friday Five
1. I said it last week, and it still rings true this week - I'm in love with these Ice Bucket Challenge videos. Each one is more creative than the last and no 2 reactions are the same. Of course the celebrities are the best, but every day people come up with some pretty epic ideas as well. Though, I've found a few more favorites that may have beaten Matt Bomer's from last week: Misha Collins (naked in a tub of ice save for a strategically placed blow up horse), Benedict Cumberbatch (dunked not once but 6 times) and Joss Whedon (who called out the entire British Royal family - except for the baby of course because that's just "mean"). Such a totally unexpected phenomenon but such a crafty way to raise awareness and funds!
2. I found this on BuzzFeed this week but it's originally from Three Panel Soul. You can totally see these thoughts going through a dog's head, especially the big dopey dogs that are just so happy to be alive and be with you. Too cute!
3. The only show in this video I've ever seen is True Detective. However, if their leading men and ladies were always this cute, I'd watch every single one of them. Little Matthew McConaughey is too adorable for words!
4. Three day weekends that include a trip to the beach are always high up on the list of favorite summer activities. I really believe that if every weekend was 3 days, life would be a bit happier all around!
5. Doctor Who is back tomorrow! It's been about 8 months since the eleventh Doctor left and left me sobbing on the sofa in the dark on Christmas night. He wasn't even "my" doctor for goodness sake - it should be illegal to make people cry that much on Christmas! But anyway, tomorrow's a brand new chapter in the 50+ year show and I'm quite looking forward to seeing what Peter Capaldi brings to the role. He's no David Tennant, but I'm certain he'll pull it off! Allons-y!
2. I found this on BuzzFeed this week but it's originally from Three Panel Soul. You can totally see these thoughts going through a dog's head, especially the big dopey dogs that are just so happy to be alive and be with you. Too cute!
4. Three day weekends that include a trip to the beach are always high up on the list of favorite summer activities. I really believe that if every weekend was 3 days, life would be a bit happier all around!
5. Doctor Who is back tomorrow! It's been about 8 months since the eleventh Doctor left and left me sobbing on the sofa in the dark on Christmas night. He wasn't even "my" doctor for goodness sake - it should be illegal to make people cry that much on Christmas! But anyway, tomorrow's a brand new chapter in the 50+ year show and I'm quite looking forward to seeing what Peter Capaldi brings to the role. He's no David Tennant, but I'm certain he'll pull it off! Allons-y!
Thursday, August 21, 2014
Wednesday, August 20, 2014
Wishful Wednesday
I don't want the crazy 300 degree constant we had last summer, but some 90 degree'ers would have been nice. I absolutely LOVE summer and HATE the winter, so if I'm wishing for anything right now, it would be for it to be June again when the entire summer was laid out in front of me. I know it's only August, and we still have September and October to live through before it gets really cold, but just the thought of the chill in the air and dark mornings, is pretty darn depressing.
You wait all year for summer, and it's over in the blink of an eye, which is the real bummer. Come back fresh fruit, and long days of sunshine. Come back beach time and books galore. Most importantly, come back summer, please. I'm not ready for you to leave just yet!
Tuesday, August 19, 2014
Natalie-isms
After a long while, I had the time to spend with my niece Natalie today. And as par for the course, she was on fire. I can definitely tell she's turning into quite the little lady, but she's still able to crack me up with just a few words or just a funny face. She had some good ones today.
After telling me about how she saw a big boat on the way to school this morning.
Me: A big boat, huh? Was it a cruise ship?
Nat: Yep, I think it was.
Me: Cool beans! I've never been on a cruise before.
Nat: Oh, can you take me on one?
While cooling off in the car after a hot hour on the playground - after standing on the front seat, with her head popping out of the sun roof.
Nat: Ok, Aunt Kris, now drive...
After discussing the ice bucket challenge.
Nat: I don't think I like cold water on my head. No thank you.
While discussing her Uncle who's currently out of the country right now.
Me: Has Uncle Tim sent you a postcard yet?
Nat: Nope, he's just a silly pot.
And my personal favorite:
After discussing the seriously impressive moves she was managing to accomplish on the monkey bars.
Me: Those were some awesome moves! Did you learn those in gymnastics?
Nat: No, I've been doing those for years...
Love that little one to pieces!
After telling me about how she saw a big boat on the way to school this morning.
Me: A big boat, huh? Was it a cruise ship?
Nat: Yep, I think it was.
Me: Cool beans! I've never been on a cruise before.
Nat: Oh, can you take me on one?
While cooling off in the car after a hot hour on the playground - after standing on the front seat, with her head popping out of the sun roof.
Nat: Ok, Aunt Kris, now drive...
After discussing the ice bucket challenge.
Nat: I don't think I like cold water on my head. No thank you.
While discussing her Uncle who's currently out of the country right now.
Me: Has Uncle Tim sent you a postcard yet?
Nat: Nope, he's just a silly pot.
And my personal favorite:
After discussing the seriously impressive moves she was managing to accomplish on the monkey bars.
Me: Those were some awesome moves! Did you learn those in gymnastics?
Nat: No, I've been doing those for years...
Love that little one to pieces!
Monday, August 18, 2014
OC Beach Day
Sunday, August 17, 2014
#ALSIceBucketChallenge
After taking delight in all the ALS Ice Bucket videos, I should have known it was only a matter of time before someone got me. It was cold and a little too much fun. What a fantastic way to raise awareness and money!
Saturday, August 16, 2014
Crafty Saturday
Aside from being called out for the #ALSIceBucketChallenge (Thanks Susan...), not much of note to report today. I did spend most of the day, crafting which is always a good thing. I'm still having issues remembering to use the big girl camera to take photos but at least I had my handy-dandy iPhone (which is my favorite picture taking device at the moment).
Kinda love Special Orders! I get to be creative and get paid at the same time : ) Luckily, I have some seriously non-crafty friends that would rather just pay someone than do it themselves.
The beginnings of my Craft Bombing project from RandomActs. I'd love to figure out a way to CraftBomb using my cards, but I'm not quite sure how to make that work...
Friday, August 15, 2014
Friday Five
1. #ALSIceBucketChallenge: Like I said yesterday, I don't really get it. But that hasn't stopped me from watching a ridiculous number of videos on Twitter. Apparently they're making tons of cash for the ALS Foundation which is fantastic - confounding, but fantastic nonetheless! My personal fave so far is Matt Bomer's, though the video "isn't listed." I don't understand what that means so I didn't want to post. You can find it on Twitter though using the hashtag above. So very, cute! It may not be the most original way to make money for a cause, but anything used to raise awareness is wonderful!
2. Also, sort of obsessed with the new card I made this evening as a special order for a wedding. After an inordinate number of times trying to get the stamps straight, I finally nailed it (though to the trained eye, it's still a teensy bit crooked - but not crooked enough that I couldn't handle it).
3. Random Acts has some pretty crafty and creative ideas to get people to be kind, but none so creative and awesome as the one they shared today. I believe this week's theme is the Arts and if this idea isn't perfect to get art to the community, I don't know what is. I'm so going to do this. I'm thinking Naptown is the perfect place!
4. Travel Planning: I know it's a geeky thing to geek out about, but it's a means to an end. Doing the research and seeing all the fancy pins (yes, Pinterest is how I research, deal with it) gets you all sorts of excited for the trip to come. Of course when said trips are 5 months and 12 months out, it proves a bit hard to concentrate on anything else...
5. As a gift to myself, I promised myself, I wouldn't get overly stressed out about Christmas this year. You heard me, Christmas. It's a little over 4 months out. So I've already started planning and shopping. Don't get too excited, I've only bought 2 gifts so far, but I like the idea, that some of the shopping is already off my plate. I even have a few other ideas for people that I just haven't bought yet. Hopefully, this will save me from the November freak-out of 2013, but that remains to be seen.
2. Also, sort of obsessed with the new card I made this evening as a special order for a wedding. After an inordinate number of times trying to get the stamps straight, I finally nailed it (though to the trained eye, it's still a teensy bit crooked - but not crooked enough that I couldn't handle it).
3. Random Acts has some pretty crafty and creative ideas to get people to be kind, but none so creative and awesome as the one they shared today. I believe this week's theme is the Arts and if this idea isn't perfect to get art to the community, I don't know what is. I'm so going to do this. I'm thinking Naptown is the perfect place!
5. As a gift to myself, I promised myself, I wouldn't get overly stressed out about Christmas this year. You heard me, Christmas. It's a little over 4 months out. So I've already started planning and shopping. Don't get too excited, I've only bought 2 gifts so far, but I like the idea, that some of the shopping is already off my plate. I even have a few other ideas for people that I just haven't bought yet. Hopefully, this will save me from the November freak-out of 2013, but that remains to be seen.
Thursday, August 14, 2014
Epic Fail
I don't watch Downton Abbey. I've been told hundreds of times that it's right up my alley. But I've also been told it's a big old cry fest which is totally not my thing. However, this today, made me sort of want to watch it.
I'm also not a marketer. I work for a company that's been starting an aggressive ad campaign, so I've been listening to the marketing spiel for the last few days. I get what you have to do and what you need to say to get people excited about a product. I'm pretty sure what you're not supposed to do is leave an item in a picture, say a plastic water bottle for instance, that hadn't been invented yet in the time-period the photo was taken. You know, sort of like the one just over her left shoulder. : )
How exactly does that happen? I can picture some poor marketing genius all sorts of excited about these brand new promo shots to get everyone excited about the new season; only to go online the morning they're released and see the tweets laughing at their hard work. In the long run, it's not such a big deal. It's not hurting anyone at all, but it is pretty funny.
**In other media questions I have - How in the world does the Ice Bucket Challenge make any money for ALS research when everyone is actually completing the challenge?
How exactly does that happen? I can picture some poor marketing genius all sorts of excited about these brand new promo shots to get everyone excited about the new season; only to go online the morning they're released and see the tweets laughing at their hard work. In the long run, it's not such a big deal. It's not hurting anyone at all, but it is pretty funny.
**In other media questions I have - How in the world does the Ice Bucket Challenge make any money for ALS research when everyone is actually completing the challenge?
Wednesday, August 13, 2014
Wishful Wednesday
I know that it's just under a year until I'm back there again, but is it too soon to start counting down the days?
Tuesday, August 12, 2014
Media Mayhem
I'm usually all for leaving it to the experts. I think it's the reporter's jobs to report the news and we should listen to them rather than get our news through the grapevine. But after the last 48 hours or so, I'm convinced that the everyday human is doing a much better job reporting the news compassionately than most major media outlets, which is just a bit sad. Between the ABC News helicopter hovering over Robin Williams' home yesterday and the genius that thought it was a good idea to speak to a cameraman that just happened to be in AA with Robin Williams (pretty sure they call AA, anonymous for a reason, jerk!), everyone seems to be losing what little integrity they had left.
There have been some beautiful tributes to Robin Williams on Twitter in the last 24 hours, much more heartwarming and kind than anything CNN or ABC have put out. Tucker Carlson went on air and called the man a coward - only to apologize a few hours later when he realized so many people were mad at him. And some congressman decided to cash in on his death to try to drum up votes. How utterly disgusting and slimy is that? Whereas, multiple posts on Twitter, Instagram and even BuzzFeed have shown an outpouring of love and compassion as well as assistance to those that may be in the same boat, as opposed to making us feel sick.
What's even worse, if it could be any worse, is that it also seems that these stations are ignoring big stories such as what's happening in Ferguson, Missouri (which I haven't seen covered at all yet) or the ongoing Ebola crisis or the crisis in the Middle East in favor of sensationalism and canned quotes that aren't remotely helpful. Shame on you!
Robin Williams was a seemingly wonderful and thoughtful man. He deserves the respect that many are giving him. If any good can come out of this senseless tragedy it's that suicide prevention, depression and alcoholism are being thrust into the spotlight. Make that the bigger story. Don't give us sensational details about the hours leading up to his death. Give us facts and ways to help. That's what this country needs right now. Maybe, just maybe by doing so he can provide the assistance to others that he wasn't able to find himself.
And while you're at it, start reporting actual news. In case you haven't noticed, there's a whole lot on our country's plate right now - it shouldn't take Twitter to tell me that! (Speaking of which, Twitter is the only reason I know about Ferguson Missouri right now, how is that possible?)
There have been some beautiful tributes to Robin Williams on Twitter in the last 24 hours, much more heartwarming and kind than anything CNN or ABC have put out. Tucker Carlson went on air and called the man a coward - only to apologize a few hours later when he realized so many people were mad at him. And some congressman decided to cash in on his death to try to drum up votes. How utterly disgusting and slimy is that? Whereas, multiple posts on Twitter, Instagram and even BuzzFeed have shown an outpouring of love and compassion as well as assistance to those that may be in the same boat, as opposed to making us feel sick.
What's even worse, if it could be any worse, is that it also seems that these stations are ignoring big stories such as what's happening in Ferguson, Missouri (which I haven't seen covered at all yet) or the ongoing Ebola crisis or the crisis in the Middle East in favor of sensationalism and canned quotes that aren't remotely helpful. Shame on you!
Robin Williams was a seemingly wonderful and thoughtful man. He deserves the respect that many are giving him. If any good can come out of this senseless tragedy it's that suicide prevention, depression and alcoholism are being thrust into the spotlight. Make that the bigger story. Don't give us sensational details about the hours leading up to his death. Give us facts and ways to help. That's what this country needs right now. Maybe, just maybe by doing so he can provide the assistance to others that he wasn't able to find himself.
And while you're at it, start reporting actual news. In case you haven't noticed, there's a whole lot on our country's plate right now - it shouldn't take Twitter to tell me that! (Speaking of which, Twitter is the only reason I know about Ferguson Missouri right now, how is that possible?)
Monday, August 11, 2014
Surreal
I just can't seem to get the death of Robin Williams off my mind. It seems so surreal that someone so full of life could be gone in such an instant. It literally hurts that he wasn't able to feel the love and appreciation that the world seemed to have for him. He was larger than life and seemingly could make anyone laugh, and always did so with a twinkle in his eye. I only hope he can feel just a little of the outpouring of love and compassion that's being sent to him tonight. Here's to a man, myth and legend that will be unbelievably missed.
Some may have loved him for his comedic roles, but by far my favorite is "Dead Poet's Society". There are not many movies that I can quote and far less that I own and actually watch over and over again. This is the very last scene in what is a fantastic movie and right now I'm crying just watching it. Such a loss.
Sunday, August 10, 2014
Awesome Ending
It may not have the same crazy rabid fan base as football does, but you can't argue with golf's ability to get the adrenaline spiking.
Congrats Rory!
Old-Fashioned Saturday Night
I may have figured out why I'm single. It quite possibly may be because I spent a Saturday evening having dinner, going to Home Depot, Joann's & Office Depot, then capped the night off with tea on the back deck chatting with a BFF. My Saturday nights were never that rowdy, but this may have taken the cake for staid Saturday nights. That's not to say it wasn't lovely. I'm just saying that I really need to get out more : )
Friday, August 8, 2014
Friday Five
1. "Delicious!" by Ruth Reichl: I've read a few of her other books before but this was her first novel and I fell in love with it. For some reason I haven't been reading as much as I usually do this summer, and this was the first book that I flew through and couldn't put down. Fantastically chick lit and foodie lit - my two favorite types of books. Seriously, how could it have gone wrong?!
2. A fabulous sports week: Not only did the Ravens triumphantly return last night to a 23-3 win against the Niners, but the Orioles are also winning currently 12-2 during their 60th anniversary game. To top it all off, Tiger Woods missed the cut and Rory McIlroy is in the lead for the 3rd week in a row. Now if we could Phil Mickelson to start playing actual golf again as opposed to the putt-putt he's been playing the last few months, things would be perfect!
3. Not to sound like a broken record, but seriously, the GISHWHES'ers are doing some astoundingly awesome things! Check them out! They so deserve the recognition mostly for being brave enough to go for it!
4. File this under the label "Strangest News Story You'll Read All Week" - Kama the Surfing Pig...Yep, you read that right. He's a pig that lives in Hawaii and has a thing for surfing...apparently. It's bizarre, yes. And a pig doesn't really have facial expressions but he certainly looks like he's having a good time : )
5. I'm still not over the trauma of having to present but I have to say I feel a bit accomplished in the fact that I didn't completely suck. I'm also pretty darn proud of myself for getting a bunch of tech geek guys to actually Pin things to Pinterest. I'm totally taking that as a win!
2. A fabulous sports week: Not only did the Ravens triumphantly return last night to a 23-3 win against the Niners, but the Orioles are also winning currently 12-2 during their 60th anniversary game. To top it all off, Tiger Woods missed the cut and Rory McIlroy is in the lead for the 3rd week in a row. Now if we could Phil Mickelson to start playing actual golf again as opposed to the putt-putt he's been playing the last few months, things would be perfect!
3. Not to sound like a broken record, but seriously, the GISHWHES'ers are doing some astoundingly awesome things! Check them out! They so deserve the recognition mostly for being brave enough to go for it!
4. File this under the label "Strangest News Story You'll Read All Week" - Kama the Surfing Pig...Yep, you read that right. He's a pig that lives in Hawaii and has a thing for surfing...apparently. It's bizarre, yes. And a pig doesn't really have facial expressions but he certainly looks like he's having a good time : )
5. I'm still not over the trauma of having to present but I have to say I feel a bit accomplished in the fact that I didn't completely suck. I'm also pretty darn proud of myself for getting a bunch of tech geek guys to actually Pin things to Pinterest. I'm totally taking that as a win!
Thursday, August 7, 2014
Things You Learn
~ I learned that I still hate public speaking with every fiber of my being. But I also learned I don't suck. I just still hate it. There's too much to think about and it's just much too stressful.
~ I learned that so called "professional" speakers like to focus on rules that were pulled from 1962, including, women shouldn't have brightly colored finger nails, and men should not forget to comb the back of their hair when they're combing the front. Yes, these were 2 rules that were covered in class this week during the "Being a Good Presenter" lesson.
~ I learned that body language that I believe signals relaxed and in control actually means (in pro speak) lazy and rude, such as walking & talking with one hand in the pocket. I've seen countless speakers do it and I think it signals that the speaker is relaxed and confident. But apparently I'm wrong...
~ I learned that I speak too quickly, quietly and "click my tongue" when speaking in front of a group - actual feedback I received on my presentation, mind you.
~ I learned that there must be a secret code in regards to moving around during a presentation, because I apparently didn't walk enough, while another speaker walked too much.
~ While I'm still terrified of going in front of large groups and secretly wish I could change that, I learned that those people that become professionals at it are downright condescending to those that aren't.
~ Lastly, I learned the dudes and one dude-ette not counting me, that I work with are fantastic speakers and gave such great presentations that it was hard not to get excited for them. During one presentation, we actually made a wallet! How cool is that!? Though, super happy I didn't have to follow that one : )
~ I learned that so called "professional" speakers like to focus on rules that were pulled from 1962, including, women shouldn't have brightly colored finger nails, and men should not forget to comb the back of their hair when they're combing the front. Yes, these were 2 rules that were covered in class this week during the "Being a Good Presenter" lesson.
~ I learned that body language that I believe signals relaxed and in control actually means (in pro speak) lazy and rude, such as walking & talking with one hand in the pocket. I've seen countless speakers do it and I think it signals that the speaker is relaxed and confident. But apparently I'm wrong...
~ I learned that I speak too quickly, quietly and "click my tongue" when speaking in front of a group - actual feedback I received on my presentation, mind you.
~ I learned that there must be a secret code in regards to moving around during a presentation, because I apparently didn't walk enough, while another speaker walked too much.
~ While I'm still terrified of going in front of large groups and secretly wish I could change that, I learned that those people that become professionals at it are downright condescending to those that aren't.
~ Lastly, I learned the dudes and one dude-ette not counting me, that I work with are fantastic speakers and gave such great presentations that it was hard not to get excited for them. During one presentation, we actually made a wallet! How cool is that!? Though, super happy I didn't have to follow that one : )
Wednesday, August 6, 2014
Brain Fried
On the Upside: I somehow managed to turn my slight obsession with all things Pinterest into a workable presentation.
On the Downside: I actually have to give said workable presentation tomorrow in front of about 15 people who are so much smarter than me.
Like I said, brain fried. Also, terrified. Ugh!
On the Downside: I actually have to give said workable presentation tomorrow in front of about 15 people who are so much smarter than me.
Like I said, brain fried. Also, terrified. Ugh!
Tuesday, August 5, 2014
Craft Room: Complete!
I started this whole craft room project months ago. It went smoothly for a while but then life got in the way and things sort of just sat. But after a fruitful trip to IKEA last weekend (finally!), I got the very last thing I was waiting on: the super cool towel bars with hanging baskets. Perfect for pens, markers, washi tape etc. And thanks to a handy dandy dad, they're up and looking great! Thanks bud! Now if only this stupid class would end, so I'd have enough energy to actually craft in my craft room!
PS: Ignore the giant shiny fireball of a lamp. The darn thing isn't that bright in real life and if I'd turned it off, you wouldn't see anything : )
Monday, August 4, 2014
The Agony & The Ecstasy
The Agony: For those who thought I was exaggerating when I said the Train the Trainer class I would be taking this week would be painful, I'd like you to know that it was even worse than previously thought. It was 8 LONG hours of pure torture and I'm already dreaming up ways to get out of it for the next 3 days. When I originally thought about the class, I knew the subject matter would stink, and giving a presentation would be torturous but I assumed since the trainer was teaching a bunch of trainers, she would at least be semi-good. I'm here to say she was not.
She's a lovely person who, I'm sure, has lots and lots of knowledge. But she's also used to teaching high school students instead of a bunch of highly technical (excluding me of course) ex-military guys. After the first 1.5 hours was spent discussing what we were going to discuss, I knew it was only a matter of time until it all went downhill from there. The next 6. 5 hours weren't much better. Now I'm stressed, annoyed and I still have NO idea what I'm supposed to present on Thursday. Awesome.
The Ecstasy: After a very good friend spent 3.5 long hours in the queue this morning at the butt crack of dawn, I'm happy to announce, we have tickets in hand to see Benedict Cumberbatch in Hamlet in 2015!!! I realize it's 367 days from now, but seriously how cool is that?! When the train the trainer got to be just a little too much, the thought of my tickets got me through the day : )
She's a lovely person who, I'm sure, has lots and lots of knowledge. But she's also used to teaching high school students instead of a bunch of highly technical (excluding me of course) ex-military guys. After the first 1.5 hours was spent discussing what we were going to discuss, I knew it was only a matter of time until it all went downhill from there. The next 6. 5 hours weren't much better. Now I'm stressed, annoyed and I still have NO idea what I'm supposed to present on Thursday. Awesome.
The Ecstasy: After a very good friend spent 3.5 long hours in the queue this morning at the butt crack of dawn, I'm happy to announce, we have tickets in hand to see Benedict Cumberbatch in Hamlet in 2015!!! I realize it's 367 days from now, but seriously how cool is that?! When the train the trainer got to be just a little too much, the thought of my tickets got me through the day : )
Sunday, August 3, 2014
GISHWHES Envy
After an unseemly amount of time trolling Twitter yesterday, I finally found the 2014 GISHWHES list. I'm sort of obsessed. I really wanted to participate but my biggest fear was that I wasn't brave enough. Since none of my friends are as crazy as I am, they didn't want to join a team with me. So I would have been placed on a team. Therein lies the issue. I know that I'm a big old ninny and therefore would have let down the 18 other people on my team which is just not cool.
Now that I've seen the list, I know this for a fact: I'm so not brave enough to participate and I was quite smart not to even try! Holy moly! I knew the challenges were a little off the wall, but I never thought they'd be this extreme - oh, and AWESOME! I can't wait to see what the participants accomplish but I'm so glad I'm not responsible for fulfilling the wishes. I'd be a basket case. Out of 185 items, I'm pretty sure the ones below are the only ones I could even hope to complete:
2. (Video) You (and a friend if you wish) enlist with a local volunteer organization and have yourself filmed doing one of the following: planting a tree, working at a food bank or soup-kitchen, collecting trash, or helping out at a retirement facility. You must be wearing something that shows you seriously know how to party.
7. IMAGE. Find an object that you’re holding onto for all the wrong reasons. Destroy it mightily.
9. VIDEO (time-lapse 20 seconds). Assemble a puzzle with a minimum of 50 pieces in one sitting. The video must show the box with more than 50 pieces and then you putting the puzzle together. For ease of assembly you must be wearing wool mittens or gloves throughout the assembly of the puzzle.
15. VIDEO. Have an elderly person teach you an “old-school” skill now considered obsolete. For example, how to operate a telegraph or a mechanical typewriter (those examples are now off-limits).
19. VIDEO (8 seconds). Stand in front of a recognizable landmark or monument, wear something magnificent, and in whatever your native language is, complete the following sentence: “Gishwhes makes me feel_____”
37. IMAGE. “When I grow up, I want to be…” Have a child dress up as what they want to be when they grow up (lawyer, doctor, ballerina, dragon-slayer, etc.). Then stage the photo in the environment they would be working in
58. IMAGE. Register to be a bone marrow donor: you could save a child’s life or someone’s mom’s life.
As you can see, I'd make about 221 points. That's just pathetic so yay for not participating! Though, I already feel a little part of it which is curing the jealousy a bit so that's fun. Apparently one of the items is to create an Orlando Jones Twitter account and gain 400 followers. Before finding the list this morning, I was followed and subsequently followed "OrlandoJones" sort of assuming it was a GISHWHES thing rather than a famous hollywood actor following me on a whim. And I was right!
Good luck Gishers! I hope to join you with the fun next year, if I somehow magically grow a backbone over the course of the next 365 days : )
Now that I've seen the list, I know this for a fact: I'm so not brave enough to participate and I was quite smart not to even try! Holy moly! I knew the challenges were a little off the wall, but I never thought they'd be this extreme - oh, and AWESOME! I can't wait to see what the participants accomplish but I'm so glad I'm not responsible for fulfilling the wishes. I'd be a basket case. Out of 185 items, I'm pretty sure the ones below are the only ones I could even hope to complete:
2. (Video) You (and a friend if you wish) enlist with a local volunteer organization and have yourself filmed doing one of the following: planting a tree, working at a food bank or soup-kitchen, collecting trash, or helping out at a retirement facility. You must be wearing something that shows you seriously know how to party.
7. IMAGE. Find an object that you’re holding onto for all the wrong reasons. Destroy it mightily.
9. VIDEO (time-lapse 20 seconds). Assemble a puzzle with a minimum of 50 pieces in one sitting. The video must show the box with more than 50 pieces and then you putting the puzzle together. For ease of assembly you must be wearing wool mittens or gloves throughout the assembly of the puzzle.
15. VIDEO. Have an elderly person teach you an “old-school” skill now considered obsolete. For example, how to operate a telegraph or a mechanical typewriter (those examples are now off-limits).
19. VIDEO (8 seconds). Stand in front of a recognizable landmark or monument, wear something magnificent, and in whatever your native language is, complete the following sentence: “Gishwhes makes me feel_____”
37. IMAGE. “When I grow up, I want to be…” Have a child dress up as what they want to be when they grow up (lawyer, doctor, ballerina, dragon-slayer, etc.). Then stage the photo in the environment they would be working in
58. IMAGE. Register to be a bone marrow donor: you could save a child’s life or someone’s mom’s life.
As you can see, I'd make about 221 points. That's just pathetic so yay for not participating! Though, I already feel a little part of it which is curing the jealousy a bit so that's fun. Apparently one of the items is to create an Orlando Jones Twitter account and gain 400 followers. Before finding the list this morning, I was followed and subsequently followed "OrlandoJones" sort of assuming it was a GISHWHES thing rather than a famous hollywood actor following me on a whim. And I was right!
Good luck Gishers! I hope to join you with the fun next year, if I somehow magically grow a backbone over the course of the next 365 days : )
Saturday, August 2, 2014
Rubber Stamp Love
I can't say that I have all that many ideas for projects in mind to use it for, but I can never resist a cute travel stamp! Not many people send out Bon Voyage cards anymore, so what in the world am I going to do with them all? I'm getting quite the collection. Our Michael's and Joann's might not have the selection that online stores have but boy do they have some awesome travel goodies, that apparently I'm unable to resist!
In other, non crafty related news, thanks to Twitter, I'm seriously regretting my decision not to do GISHWHES this year. While not crafting, I've spent the day desperately trying to see the list items, while everyone else is on Twitter trying their best to win. So very, very jealous! : )
Friday, August 1, 2014
Friday Five
1. The fact that I spent an entire Friday evening eating BBQ, shopping in not one, not two but three craft stores, then rounding it off with a trip to Barnes & Noble, makes me very happy. Does it directly correlate to the reason I'm single? Totally. But is it a fabulous way to spend an evening? Oh yeah!
2. Nerd HQ: If you can't be at Comic Con, it's the next best thing. What Zac Levi was able to pull off in one weekend while raising oodles of money for charity is super impressive. The icing on the cake is that the conversations for a cause are so darn entertaining, that it's almost ok that you're not there. The people he ropes into these things are super fun, super intelligent and super hilarious. I recommend them all, but my favorite is the dudes of Supernatural. Will someone please give them their own talk show?
3. Homemade Caesar Dressing: I've made this loads of times, but it is by far the best recipe for dressing I've ever tried. Be sure to leave out the anchovies, and cut down the lemon juice to about a tablespoon, and it's perfect!
4. Yet another reason to hate the fact I'm not living in England - they always get the best movies first. I have no idea when, or even if this one will make it over here to the states, but I certainly hope so, because it looks adorable!
5. And of course, BuzzFeed hits the nail on the head once again. I'd like at least 20 of these inventions right now.
2. Nerd HQ: If you can't be at Comic Con, it's the next best thing. What Zac Levi was able to pull off in one weekend while raising oodles of money for charity is super impressive. The icing on the cake is that the conversations for a cause are so darn entertaining, that it's almost ok that you're not there. The people he ropes into these things are super fun, super intelligent and super hilarious. I recommend them all, but my favorite is the dudes of Supernatural. Will someone please give them their own talk show?
3. Homemade Caesar Dressing: I've made this loads of times, but it is by far the best recipe for dressing I've ever tried. Be sure to leave out the anchovies, and cut down the lemon juice to about a tablespoon, and it's perfect!
4. Yet another reason to hate the fact I'm not living in England - they always get the best movies first. I have no idea when, or even if this one will make it over here to the states, but I certainly hope so, because it looks adorable!
5. And of course, BuzzFeed hits the nail on the head once again. I'd like at least 20 of these inventions right now.
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