Happy Birthday Mack!

Tonight we'll be partaking in these sweet-ass moves. You should be jealous! Very jealous!

What I get to look forward to...

Guess what? A naked man hijacked a bus in Las Vegas yesterday! It's what I get to look forward to on my daily bus ride! I absolutely can't wait!

Facebook requests

Facebook requests bother me. Especially the kind where I haven't seen or heard from the person since high school. I've recently had two acquaintances from high school request my friendship and I am confused as to what I should do.

When I graduated from high school I never looked back. I danced to the beat of my own drum and my small community knew it. I had no intention of marrying young and popping out babies like many of my friends did. And because of this I can honestly say I've kept in touch with one person from high school and he didn't even graduate with me.

What also interests me is that both of the individuals "requesting" were on my high school reunion committee, the one I was conveniently not invited to. I guess calling my father who still lives in the small-ass town and asking where I could be located was too much work. The snub made me want to totally Romy and Michelle the reunion. It just goes to show that reunions are for the popular crowd. My father urged I not attend anyway (the local newspaper announced it). He felt my accomplishments wouldn't match up with the many children the women I graduated with have had. Where I come from the badges are babies, Bibles, and husbands. No, no, and nope.

So I have not seen or talked to these people, nor would I via Facebook. Even in high school I really wasn't close to them. I'm not into "collecting" friends. In fact the only reason I signed up for Facebook was because my undergraduate students requested it and I felt it might boost my end of the semester evaluations (which it did). So what should I do? I know I'm not alone out there after recently reading this post over at Magic Cookie. Is Facebook something people are now using to reconnect and possibly become better friends? Isn't it just a way to lurk? Am I missing the point? Because I honestly feel like it's more of a "look how many friends I have" thing.

Dear Woosellio,

I'm listening to Cat Stevens and wondering what you're doing. I finally watched Harold and Maude and know why you like it so much. I like it too. The other day I was wondering if you've grown chest hair yet. I don't really know why I thought about that. I saw Patricia "Awol" Cornwall's Jack the Ripper book today and thought about our crazy trip to Canada. I'm sorry I was such a bitch, you and K didn't deserve it. The Moose Drool is here, it's not too cold, if you want to come over. I'll even wrestle up an actual ashtray for you. Kiss Ocean and Pixel for me.


Love,

Me

Goals

I have the next week off. Here are my goals:

• Clean and sort through the garden shed. I have many pots to get rid of along with the potting soil inside. Thankfully I've already found a home for them.
• Pack the hallway books and sort through those I will most likely never read and donate. I feel bad getting rid of books, however space is an issue and I like to have it!
• Yard work!
• Law School reading list tackled.
• Sort through furniture to see what we can do without.
• Pack, pack and pack. Cleaning while packing.
  

It is a lot however I feel that if I get a good start on things then in a month I'll be in a better place when the move occurs. We've accumulated so much in a year and half since we lived in a one bedroom apartment. Now we've got to go from a three bed to a two bedroom and a two car to a single car garage. Ahh the joys of a good challenge.

I think it was time.

I gave up on a friend today. It was very hard to do but I felt that I just had to let go. The number was deleted from my phone. An e-mail was sent.

I keep telling myself that it's okay to let go of friends. It wasn't a bad argument or anything. I just think it was time to exit stage right. I feel horrible. Not a good way to start a holiday. Not to mention I've got to go and get two shots in an hour, one of which is a tetanus shot which hurts like hell. Not going to be a fun day.

BTT: Holidays

It’s a holiday weekend here in the U.S., so let’s keep today’s question simple–What are you reading? Anything special? Any particularly juicy summer reading?

In preparation for law school I'm reading The Brethren by Bob Woodward and A Civil Action by Jonathan Harr. I'm almost finished with the Brethren which discusses the Supreme Court from 1969-1975. I would recommend it to anyone interested in the Supreme Court. Along with interesting cases (Watergate, Roe v. Wade), the personal aspects of the Justices make it an enjoyable read. I haven't started A Civil Action yet but I plan on reading it this weekend. It doesn't look like a difficult book. I'm not particularly fond of the idea of reading it but it has been on several pre-law school reading lists and I picked it up for a buck. My goal for the next week is to knock out some of this boring reading so I can get into something good. Any recommendations on what I should read?

An Ode to Farmer Ted

I had never seen this movie. Farmer Ted was appalled. According to him the following clip is the only reason to see this movie---Rob Lowe's sexy sax solo.




I just shook my head.

My Hair Debacle

I did something the other day I have never, EVER done before, I complained to a hair dresser and succeeded with my request! Yeah! I had my haircut and colored almost two weeks ago and walked away extremely dissatisfied. I wanted my roots touched up since I had been long overdue for a coloring and cut. I walked away still with roots. She told me that the sun would lighten my hair. I wanted to tell her that I wasn't throwing money her way for that lovely advice. She complimented the way my hair gradually got lighter toward the ends. I wanted to kill her considering it was obvious that I was not a true, true blond with the way my hair turned out. Who goes to the salon wanting their roots one color and the mid and end sections another? Honestly? I'm not currently in a band* and I'd choose Kool-aid over a salon if I wanted to stand out.
So I called and made another appointment. She admitted that she was unhappy with the lifting process and now I am a much happier blond! My roots match my tips and I didn't hear a word about the sun naturally taking care of my strands. In the end I chose to tip her since she did the right thing by correcting her mistake. I also wanted to pay her for her time since I know what it's like to work in the service field. I appreciated not having to explain in fine detail my disgust and she was very professional. Hooray! I feel so much better!



*Superdrumtastic, my all-drum band, is currently on a hiatus.

I agree..HORRIBLE!

I could not agree more with this article. The audio clip horribly woke me up yesterday and like someone else I too will never be able to get those three minutes back!

Dork Alert!

I've warned you! What you're about to read is so utterly dork-ish that you'll be embarrassed for reading it. I've decided to start another online reading group! Before I tell you the book let me first say that I am SOOOOOOOO EXCITED! I've read it before however this time will be better because I'll be simultaneously listening to another well-known academic dissect the book! Farmer Ted is jealous since he won't have time to participate. However he has suggested another reading option...which I'll also try to fit in (blegh!). Feel free to shake your head in disgust.

So what's the book?

Karl Marx's Capital!

You know you're jealous!

Where I've been lately

So I've been in this strange place lately with respect to blogging. I have one month left before my life is turned upside-down. For starters I'll be moving to Las Vegas and will no longer be able to call Idaho my home. So in order not to confuse people I'll change the title of my blog slightly to something along the lines of "An Idaho Gal in Vegas". Suggestions welcome! While I live mostly in denial deep down I know that my Northern Idaho/Eastern Washington roots will never leave me. Born a redneck always a redneck!
The other aspect is that I'll be beginning law school which some have equated to purgatory. So like other lemmings I started a law school blog to document my specific law school adventures. And I plan on cross-posting so that my personal stories are on both blogs. Anyone interested in reading my law school blog AND respecting my anonymity over at the blog just let me know. I'm very nervous about law school but I'm excited as well. I'm nervous about the work load but excited about the people I'll meet and the opportunities I'll have.

So dear readers I promise you I'll post more but know I feel as if I've fallen through the looking glass. Any advice for packing up a huge house and moving it across state lines?

BTT: Definition

What, in your opinion, is the definition of a “reader.” A person who indiscriminately reads everything in sight? A person who reads BOOKS? A person who reads, period, no matter what it is? … Or, more specific? Like the specific person who’s reading something you wrote?

For some reason I feel like this was recently a topic. Oh well. I define a reader as someone who reads for pleasure or enjoyment. While we may all read on a daily basis, whether it's the newspaper, work, e-mail, etc I don't necessarily believe that we are reading because we desire to. So a smidgen of desire is worked into my definition. While I have no children of my own there are many in life. I'm always reading with them and they know that we have to read for at least five minutes without interruptions. Reading is a skill on its way to becoming a reader.

FF: 194

Appetizer

If you could live on another continent for 1 year, which one would you choose?

Difficult, Antarctica is up there but I think it would have to be Asia. I would love to explore all that China has to offer. I suppose I could if I had the money since I have three friends living over there. Farmer Ted pointed out that I should pick Australia since it's an island and I have thus far only been to islands. An actual continent might throw things off.

Soup

Which browser do you use to surf the Internet?

Mozilla, because all my friends use it. And I love Leechblock which keeps me away from sites I shouldn't be wasting my time on. This will come in handy this fall when law school starts.

Salad

On a scale of 1-10 (with 10 being highest), how much do you know about the history of your country?

7---I have a strong aversion to the Civil War, however all else is covered.

Main Course

Finish this sentence: Love is…

a garden. Dig it! (Farmer Ted's addition) All I can think of is Love is a Battlefield by Pat Benatar

Dessert

Have you ever been in or near a tornado?

No. I'm sure I've had a drink called a tornado though. Does that count?

BTT: Flavor

Think about your favorite authors, your favorite books . . . what is it about them that makes you love them above all the other authors you’ve read? The stories? The characters? The way they appear to relish the taste of words on the tongue? The way they’re unafraid to show the nitty-gritty of life? How they sweep you off to a new, distant place? What is it about those books and authors that makes them resonate with you in ways that other, perfectly good books and authors do not?


This is a truly complicated question. Several books stand out as favorites, all for different reasons. Reflecting on those that come to mind I would have to say that these books resonate with me due to what I was going through at the time I read them. I have fond memories of Anne of Green Gables as a child, most likely because I was coping with my parent's divorce. Anne is a strong, courageous character who overcame obstacles. I'm positive this is why I was drawn to her.
Old Jules by Mari Sandoz reminds me of living with my own angry father. It is one of my favorites because again, if Mari could do it then so can I. I related to many of her experiences even though she lived in the 19th c. When I read it my father was just being diagnosed with kidney failure and thus in need of a lot of assistance.
I have always loved the Harry Potter series because when you listen to them they sound so exciting. I enjoy the feeling of closing my eyes and listening to Harry's adventures. It's an escape from reality unlike any other audiobook I've ever listened to.
I've enjoyed Jeanette Winterson and Jhumpa Lahiri because of the emotion they write into their books. Winterson makes me think about feeling like I never have before, while Lahiri's Interpreter of Maladies came at a time in my life where I was feeling lifeless. Reading the emotion helped re-spark life back into me.
Then there are those books like Carson McCullers's The Heart is a Lonely Hunter and Carlos Bulosan's America is in the Heart that just remind me of growing up in small town USA. Bulosan because he traveled through the area I grew up in and McCullers because she captured the loneliness small towns often possess. I am proud of myself for not looking back after H.S. graduation. Small town life is just not for me.*

So, the flavor is really just what I'm experiencing in my life at the time I'm reading any book. I'm sure I'm not alone in this as many people read in search for parts of themselves they've never known or explored. I don't need self-help books, just the right book at the right time.




*Small is under 10,000 people. I am perfectly content in a city of 30,000 + or even seven million.

Live from Las Vegas

We've been here two whole days with two goals: to find a place to live and to see the law school.
Found a house to live in yesterday, AHEM, the very first day we were here. It's cute, has pool access and outside misting system for already spoiled dogs. Today we went to the law school where I received an "eh" tour. The dude, oh wait!, Director of Admissions, did not know how to sell his school. A beautiful law school though. Other perks were partying last night with friends met in line for Purple Reign, the Prince tribute band AND partying with Wayne Brady, who likes to have an entourage of ladies. Our table kept ourselves busy by betting who would be the first person to puke at the table in front of us. It was horribly fun!

Winnings: $5.11
Money spent gambling: 0

I found eleven cents and won five pigs on the free spin! Whoo-hoo!

FF:193

Appetizer

Do you consider yourself to be an optimist or a pessimist?

At the moment? Pessimist. We're moving to a new city, new state, and I'm very nervous. My nerves have been causing me to be a pessimist lately.

Soup

What is your favorite color of ink to write with?

I have no preference in ink. I tend to prefer cheap freebie pens over nicer ones. I probably don't have to ever buy a pen with the number I have in my house. They just seem to accumulate over time. However if it's a pencil then I prefer Ticonderoga pencils above all else.

Salad

How often do you get a manicure or pedicure? Do you do them yourself or go to a salon and pay for them?

Occasionally I will pay for them but for the most part I do them myself. When I was a full time floral designer I gave myself one weekly due to standing on my feet all day and using my hands. The knives we would use dried out my skin and my cuticles were always dry. I find that a good scrub, some cuticle oil and a rich lotion do the trick for me.

Main Course

Have you ever won anything online? If so, what was it?

No.

Dessert

In which room in your house do you keep your home computer?

Well, we have two laptops and a desktop. The laptops are everywhere in the house. The desktop stays in our bedroom where we also use it to watch movies and online television. We have really bad reception for digital television and don't watch enough tv to pay for cable. It's nice and easy since we have a wireless mouse and wireless keyboard. If I wanted to surf the net in bed I can.

BTT: Clubbing

A combo of two suggestions by: Heidi and by litlove

Have you ever been a member of a book club? How did your group choose (ot, if you haven’t been, what do you think is the best way to choose) the next book and who would lead discussion?

Do you feel more or less likely to appreciate books if you are obliged to read them for book groups rather than choosing them of your own free will? Does knowing they are going to be read as part of a group affect the reading experience?

I have never been a member of a book club. I just don't have the time for one. I also think I'm too selfish since I tend to read books I like and frequently pause my reading or switch when a book is getting boring. (I find that my reading moods change often.) I do however enjoy discussing books with others as I often find different insights and perspectives. One aspect of book clubs that deters me is the idea that the group is telling me how to feel about a book. I'm not interested in , for example, Oprah telling me the reasons why I should relish her latest book choice.
I don't think I would appreciate books if I was obliged to read them. I'm thinking about my English courses in college and how I loathed having to read certain books because they were required. I'd much rather read a book because I wanted to as it makes reading it more enjoyable.

Sexing the Cherry

I have wanted to read this book for years. I bought it in 2000 after reading Winterson's The Passion, which I love. However, I don't get Sexing the Cherry. I read it carefully, as I do with all of Winterson's writing, because she tends to hide themes and play with words. Her style fascinates and challenges me as a reader. But as I finished this one I felt empty. I suppose this is ok since I'm not bound to enjoy every book I read, but after seeing this book on the 1001 books you should read before death I couldn't help but be disappointed. The story is somewhat post-modern, with aspects of magical realism however I wouldn't label it that. Oh well, at least it's off my To Be Read in 2008 list.

FF 192

Appetizer

When you drink soda/pop/coke, do you prefer to drink it from the bottle, a can, or after pouring it into a cup?

Pouring into a glass with ice. I prefer glass to plastic if offered plastic I usually turn it down.

Soup

What television show are you willing to stay up late to watch?

We don't watch tv unless the show is posted online. Sorry, but no tv in our house.

Salad

Name one person, place, or thing you think of as brilliant.

Brilliant? I think the way Walt Disney World was built one story above ground is genius. I think the movie Amelie is pretty darn close. I think Farmer Ted can act like a genius some days. But brilliant? I'd have to say my dogs. They are brilliant at begging and getting to sleep on the bed--which is hard since one is a Great Dane and the other a Lab.

Main Course

Would you be willing to work 4 10-hour days instead of 5 8-hour days in order to save gas?

Yes. When I worked for the State I wasn't allowed to and Farmer Ted isn't allowed to either which sucks. I don't work very far from home so in the long run I really wouldn't save much gas. We probably drive ten miles total in an average day.

Dessert

If you were a superhero, what would you call yourself?

I was just explaining to Farmer Ted that I had a boyfriend who would wear a superhero cape around. His superhero name was "Scirocco Danger" and he was 25 when we dated. He was a true child at heart. I couldn't think of anything, so I asked Farmer Ted. He suggested General Disarray. I'm not going to ask why, but I do know that it's a South Park character. I think I like my mild attempt of "Dancing Queen" much better. I'll admit that my robot dance is really coming together. Street performers beware!

BTT: Trends

Have your book-tastes changed over the years? More fiction? Less? Books that are darker and more serious? Lighter and more frivolous? Challenging? Easy? How-to books over novels? Mysteries over Romance?

Oh my goodness yes! I used to only read non-fiction and memoirs. Now I read a lot more fiction. I also read more than I did ten years ago. I would say that the books I've been reading are more challenging since I've been reading more classic literature. I still don't read many grocery-store novels, mysteries, romance, etc but that doesn't mean that I won't start someday. I've been enjoying my time with fiction but I usually read a non-fiction book alongside the fiction. I think this keeps me a little grounded in my reading. In general, I just don't know what I would do without a good book.

Those two...

Today would have been my parent's 30th wedding anniversary and of course, I called to remind them of it. My mother, eh...she remembered. My father's response was was, "Oh. So I could have been out of jail by now if I had just shot her."

Thanks Dad. You always know how to redneck things up for us.

A presented challenge

School is out which means I'm on to new odds and ends jobs this summer before I begin law school. One is as a math tutor. On Friday Farmer Ted and I headed over to the home where I'll tutor for a fine feast of food, friends and fun. The house is stunning. The yard is fabulous and the homemade sangria was heavenly.
I've known this family for the past year and they have been absolutely wonderful to me. So when they asked if I would tutor their daughter I had no reservations. I had been told that Mr. S is a wine connoisseur and Mrs. S an excellent chef. I was and am excited to spend two evenings each week with them. Especially now that Farmer Ted is studying for the Nevada bar exam.

However a new challenge presented itself to me.

Mr. S was telling us wine stories and I briefly mentioned that I grew up in Washington's wine country. I told him about my aversion toward some wines due to a childhood of drinking diluted wine since we couldn't afford juice. Yep. My mother would dilute the wine we received from the wineries we sold our grapes to and serve it for dinner. My parents really don't drink and in the 80's there was a lot of shitty wine. It worked well as a juice substitute and I'm positive us kids willingly went to sleep on our own.

So Mr. S presented me with a challenge; to learn to enjoy wine. Was he serious? Yes. I start my wine appreciation course tomorrow with a man who knows way too much about wine. It will be interesting to see if I can tutor while wine-ing. I still can't believe they're going to pay me to do this.

Blast From the Past #5

Sept. 28, 1993

Dear K,

How's it goin? Buenos Dias? Como esta? Muy Bien. I learned that in Spanish. We won our first game. We won 20-6 against Interlake. We play Newport next. There is going to be a retreat Oct. 8-10 at Lazy F! I'll send you a copy. Come if you can. Cale will be there. My picture is wierd. The guy said here look this way, and my eyes are totally off. I'm getting new songs for my drums: Jeremy, Would, Stairway to Heaven, D'ver Maker, and For Whom the Bell Tolls. Sorry so short!

Love,
J

P.S. Don't care for looks. I wanna have control. I want a perfect body. I want a perfect soul. I want you to notice when I'm not around. So fuckin special. I wish I were special, but I'm a creep. I'm a riddle. What the hell am I doin here. I don't belong here.

Farmer Ted's thought process

Farmer Ted's godson's 3rd birthday is this weekend. However an actual celebration will be postponed until July, to which Farmer Ted had this comic response:

I hope you are not planning to delay Cosmo’s actual birthday because I happen to know that he is counting down the days until he is able to legally visit the Cactus (and Graineys at 1 AM, of course). Presently, we are at 6573. This would be very disappointing to him and would force him to go to the black market for Cactus-entrance credentials (Nevada or otherwise).

On the other hand, delaying a birthday would be pretty sweet to me. I propose that I will delay my next birthday until 2491, which, not coincidentally, is the same date the Buck Rogers emerged from some sort of stasis on the TV show named after him.

What is Reading, Fundamentally?

What is reading, anyway? Novels, comics, graphic novels, manga, e-books, audiobooks — which of these is reading these days? Are they all reading? Only some of them? What are your personal qualifications for something to be “reading” — why? If something isn’t reading, why not? Does it matter? Does it impact your desire to sample a source if you find out a premise you liked the sound of is in a format you don’t consider to be reading? Share your personal definition of reading, and how you came to have that stance.

(Two weeks late for Reading is Fundamental week, but, well…)

Today is my last day of school. So I find it funny that this is fundamentally an education question. As a teacher I think every time we read anything, (a cereal box, signs, or bumper stickers), it qualifies as reading. I'm always having the children in my life read out loud. Be it menus or recipes it helps their reading and vocabulary so much. Personally, I don't like children reading manga, at least at school, because I'd rather see them reading larger blocks of paragraphs. I suppose I should just be happy they are reading anything with all the video games out there.

I consider magazines, cook-books, and audiobooks reading. Overall I'm pretty lax when it comes to my own stance of reading.

The weekend ahead...

FF: 191

Appetizer

What is the nearest big city to your home?

I thought I lived in a big city. Salt Lake City?

Soup

On a scale of 1-10 with 10 being highest, how well do you keep secrets?

No comment. I'm not letting my mad skills leak out on this question.

Salad

Describe your hair (color, texture, length).

Golden. Long. In Japan it was an issue because people wanted to touch it. I've been approached about selling it. Heather, my hairdresser, thinks I have a secret to keeping it shiny. It needs a haircut.

Main Course

What kind of driver are you? Courteous? Aggressive? Slow?

Clean record however I am not a legal driver at the moment...oh the rebel in me!

Dessert

When was the last time you had a really bad week?

Two weeks ago. I try not to think about bad weeks or days anymore. They are too draining.

Happy Anniversary

Dear Jamier (a.k.a. Beef Jerky Vegetarian),

It's been one hell of a year for us eh? After a year of not speaking to each other our immaturity at a funeral of all places forced us back together where we should have always been. Do you remember the wake? When I kept sliding the flowers between us so I wouldn't have to look at you? It was pretty funny now that I think about it. I don't think Mack was bringing me beers fast enough! Anyway we've had some good times. I thought we could re-live them for a moment. But first we need some music. (Press play now!)

• I can no longer watch a basketball game after you argued with the ref over LOGIC! You were trying to inject logic into the game! It was beautiful!
• Remember our George Michael Faith night?
• Our wise and gossipy discussions on crap. But you have to admit, it's usually good crap.
  
• Homeless man at our table discussing life and hitchhiking.
• That time we found you in the rose bushes after a needed cigarette run? Or was it beer?
• New Year's and Caddyshack (Bitch! You stole that game from us!)
• Our secret fear of our thighs...(who else could I admit that to?!)

And everything in between. Happy Anniversary sweetheart!

Blast from the Past #4

As promised, this is a letter from my brother during his incarceration. It's dated 5/15/03. I sent him a lot of mail so that he would have something to look forward to. Mostly they were silly cards. He was transferred frequently so I always heard about the new place. I suppose crowding in prisons will do this to some.



Dear folks,

How is it going for you folks? I am doing well. I no longer have a job, and am waiting to get into school. This place is different from any other institution. We don't have movement every hour like every other place. We have to share our gym and yard. So it makes it difficult to get into a routine. So I found myself playing a lot of cards and watching some pretty dumb TV shows. My cellie doesn't shower and he doesn't ever leave the room. He follows me like a lost puppy dog. It gets pretty bothersome. I have learned to have patience. Without those I would be in all sorts of trouble. I am on a softball team. The league starts in a couple of weeks. The living conditions are alot different from the movie. There are no open barred cells. Those are in the K units. Here we have a solid door with keys it seems pretty laid back. I have sent you some visiting forms you must fill them out and return them for an approval before you can visit. If you choose to visit be prepared to get searched. I don't have a big selection of classes to choose from so I take what I can get sorry I haven't wrote in awhile. I am just getting settled I miss you guys, and enjoy the cards.

Love you,

M

Books v. Movies

Books and films both tell stories, but what we want from a book can be different from what we want from a movie. Is this true for you? If so, what’s the difference between a book and a movie?


I have a really good example for this question. I have purposefully not watched the movie Atonement because I am waiting to read the book. (Attn: L and J--where's the book?!) I'm usually drawn into the characters more if I read a book. I tend to empathize more as well. It's been a goal of mine to try to read the book version before seeing the movie for at least the last year. So far I'm doing pretty well, that is unless I have no interest in the book and just want to relax via a movie. The Kite Runner is next on Netflix. Even though I somewhat enjoyed the book I think I won't enjoy the movie--just a feeling I have.

One of the movies where I think they got it right was the PBS version of Anne of Green Gables. I love it almost as much as I love the book. So I guess they can get them right sometimes.

On a side note, what I don't like is how Hollywood is now quick to make any good book or bestseller into a movie. If I see a bestseller these days I often ask myself whether I should read it now or put it off. If I put it off too long then there's a movie version. I suppose I'll just have to work harder at disciplining myself on reading the book first!

Remembering Gabe

It's been a year. We miss you Gabe...

Nippon

I was reminded of how much I love(d) Tokyo's vending machines this morning. There is so much I dearly miss about Japanese culture that is difficult to explain to those who have never ventured there. I think I'll plan a trip there next spring.

The Brother

So my brother is in jail...again.... For some reason I'm always the last to find out. I was happy to hear that he called our mother on Mother's Day though. I've been a student for eight years of which my brother was incarcerated for close to six. When I was off getting a degree he was playing chess with a cell a couple doors down, calling out the moves to each other. I still have all the letters he wrote to me. I think this week I'll post one for my Blast from the Past.

Marriage and Laziness

I've received two proposals in my life thus far both by men I dearly loved and still think of often. I'm telling you this because I am at the point in my relationship with Farmer Ted where we THINK we should get married but neither of us are all that interested in the hoo-haa that comes with actually signing something that says HEY, YOU'RE MARRIED!

As we prepare for our next adventure to Vegas we have a zillion things to do and for some reason we've decided that marriage isn't one of them. Crazy, but we are just too lazy to get married with all the other crap in front of us. I'm fine with this because as I've said, I've already had not one, but two proposals (obviously those engagements ended). Maybe it's better this way because Farmer Ted and I can just be that couple that will never marry to our friends. Someone has to be that couple and we play the role extremely well.

Besides, I love my name!

BTT: Manual Labor Redux

Following up last week’s question about reading writing/grammar guides, this week, we’re expanding the question….

Scenario: You’ve just bought some complicated gadget home . . . do you read the accompanying documentation? Or not?

Do you ever read manuals?

How-to books?

Self-help guides?

Anything at all?

Of course I skim the manual, but not read it top to bottom. I keep the manuals in a file drawer, something most people don't do. I have read my car's maintenance manual so I am aware on how to maintain my car. I enjoy reading a lot of how-to books on organizing the house, and life in general. I am always looking for more time in the day to do some annoying chore and sometimes find the tips in how-to guides helpful.

In terms of self-help guides I read them occasionally. I believe it is important to check in with yourself every now and then and see if you're living according to your morals and important character traits. I have to remind myself that I don't want to live a negative life and sometimes self-help books can help put you back on track. I also find that some self-help books can help you strengthen your problem solving and communication styles.

1001

Lately I've been catching up on my Google Reader which is so, so awesome! Today I came across 1001 books and movies I supposedly should read/see before I die. This is in tune with the 1001 places I should visit before I die and makes me wonder if I should attempt the three in unison. Most likely not.

Here are the books I've read from the said list:

• The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time – Mark Haddon
• The Poisonwood Bible – Barbara Kingsolver
• The God of Small Things – Arundhati Roy
• Memoirs of a Geisha – Arthur Golden
• Silk – Alessandro Baricco
• The Passion – Jeanette Winterson
• Beloved – Toni Morrison
• To Kill a Mockingbird – Harper Lee
• Tess of the D’Urbervilles – Thomas Hardy
• The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn – Mark Twain
• Little Women – Louisa May Alcott
• Jane Eyre – Charlotte Brontë
• Sense and Sensibility – Jane Austen

I'm surprised at so few, but then again I enjoy more non-fiction and memoirs than fiction. I saw a lot of Jeanette Winterson on there. She is one of my favorite authors; I just haven't read all her books. There were several books on there that I own, just haven't gotten around to reading them yet. I have The Wind-Up Bird Chronicles, Bleak House, All Quiet on the Western Front and The Woman in White on my night stand. There just hasn't been enough hours in the day lately.

Blast from the Past #3

I met Susan while in D.C. This was written April 14th, 1998. I had forgotten about the scholarship and the fact that I loved calculus. Hmm....

K,

Waz up? Sorry I took I while to write back. It was because I was moving and I just wanted to wait so you could get my new address. I didn't move that far from my old house. My parents just wanted a smaller house since it would only be the two of them after I go to college. I didn't get accepted into UCLA so I guess I'm going to UC San Diego. That's good though because I'll be sort of near my boyfriend. He's going to San Diego State. So you had a cheerleading scholarship, that's so cool! That must mean you're like a psycho good cheerleader. I wanted to try out for cheer my senior year, but I didn't. I played volleyball instead. I wish I would've tried out though. It was so funny because everyone thought I was a cheerleader in D.C. I don't know why. So you're taking analytical calculus. That sucks! I'm in calculus now and I'm doing bad, well I'm doing better that I was at the beginning of the year. I was failing first quarter. I absolutely hate calculus! I'm gonna die in college. I thought it over, and decided that I'm gonna still try to go into medicine. That made my mom really happy. Anyways, I saw "Wild Things" and it was such a good movie. I think I saw it the day it came out. I saw "Grease" in the theatre and I really want to see "City of Angels." I love Nicolas Cage! This girl was telling me that she cried more in that than in "Titanic." I only got teary-eyed in "Titanic" so maybe I'll cry in "City of Angels". I just got off my spring break. I didn't do much but pack, sleep and I went to Disneyland. I hadn't been to D-land for like two years. It was so much fun! I mad my boyfriend, Scott, buy me Minnie Mouse ears. They're so cute. I was wearing them around all day like a real tourist. Being the procrastinator that I am, I ordered my senior pictures just a few weeks ago. They should be done like some time next week. I'll be sure to sen you one. Do you watch Dawson's Creek? You're probably too mature for the show, but I totally love it. I have to admit it is sometimes gay, but I still watch. I watch Buffy too. I still watch 90210, I like Ally McBeal. The show Dharma & Greg is funny too but it's on the same time as 90210. You remind me of Dharma for some reason. I think it's your hair. As you can see I watch too much TV. Well, I'm going now. I hope you're not stressed out with school or anything. Bye!

Susan

If you are a woman...

then you simply MUST watch this!! It is hilarious!

Not much

I spent my last day as a floral designer Saturday and I could not be happier! Although I know I'm good at it it is a very exhausting, stressfull occupation---especially around Mother's Day. Farmer Ted and I made arrangements for Vegas in June and I started working through a legal writing workbook with some new online friends recently. I have several book and movie reviews to post and laughs to share. Hopefully this will be the week to crack into them. I only have 2.5 weeks of school left and I'm hoping they'll fly by! I need a break in routine! Thankfully my summer of watching a set of twins should be relaxing. We'll see....

Something Uplifting

This makes me proud to say I'm from Washington state, and glad to know that small towns still hold good people.

Blast from the Past #2

This letter was postmarked June 14, 1993. I had just graduated the 8th grade! The shaving reference was due to the world's worst perm ever! See this posting if you're lost.

K,

Hi schools fine. Congrads you've graduated! How was the dance? Meet any cute guys? Why did you shave the back of your head? Is it a new fashion faze or something but thats ok if you did. I guess it doesn't matter if Josh is cute or hot because he's not going; his parents decided it was to inconvenient (wow thats a doozy!) Bring your swiming suit to camp and I'll tell you if you look good in it or not, but ya probably do don't worry. I don't have a fax but at camp brin a camera and take a picture of my butt. Why not, I don't care. Did you have any cavities in the dentist? Last check up I didn't have one. WOW I'm a stud!
Screw your friend's boyfriends. I am actually equal to five guys! (strength and all) Send me a school picture of yourself so I can marvel at your hair. (Did you have it shaved or not then?) I already comitted suicide but I'm still alive so I'll read ya soon!

Love,
DB

P.S. What is 5 * 12 / the square root of seven to the fifth power. There is a nice shiny nickel in for it!!

P.P.S. You owe me $10! Visa is accepted!

Events that have taken place recently...

• am playing florist. Have parties and silent auctions to design for. Did the above in record twenty minute time!
• trying to explain that the snakes are not stuck together but in fact mating to children who would rather believe that a stick is holding them together
• wishing Farmer Ted had not found this posting this morning
• finished some reading with reviews to come shortly
• am waiting for my orange juice to arrive
• forgot that my sister had a baby and became the worst Auntie eva! I'm horrible!
  

BTT: Mayday

Quick! It’s an emergency! You just got an urgent call about a family emergency and had to rush to the airport with barely time to grab your wallet and your passport. But now, you’re stuck at the airport with nothing to read. What do you do??

And, no, you did NOT have time to grab your bookbag, or the book next to your bed. You were . . . grocery shopping when you got the call and have nothing with you but your wallet and your passport (which you fortuitously brought with you in case they asked for ID in the ethnic food aisle). This is hypothetical, remember….

In the past I have purchased magazines and thoroughly read the newspaper IF I am not too busy worrying about my family. There have been times where I asserted myself to ask others in the waiting room if I may read their purchased magazines. Other times I have just read through the book summaries and thought of purchasing one however I am always aware that I could purchase the book used or check it out from the library if I just patiently wait. The same kind of situation applies to the airport although I usually have at least one book to read while there.

On a different note I laughed at the Mayday title! Since it actually is May Day! Happy May Day!!

Blast from the Past #1

Awhile ago I was cleaning out my hope chest and came across a bunch of letters I saved from high school. (This was obviously before e-mail BUT still in the 90's! I'm not THAT old!) I've decided to post one letter a week. The sender will remain annoymous and I shall not edit the letter in any way. Just remember, I was in high school, I was crazy, and I lived on a rural postal route. That said here is the first of many.

Feb. 21 1995
A letter from DB talking about my move from Olympia (pop. over 100,000) to Prosser (pop. rural). Age: 16


K,

Hey there little mama. So among the hicks are you. HA! HA! We'll we certainly do have alot in common now my hair was copper red now its more of a strawberry blonde. I don't skate but I'm a grunger. My hair covers my eyes but by the time I see you it'll be up to my chin (maybe). That be cool for you to come over here. If you do get into Yakima call me at XXX-XXXX and we can go do something! I'd come see you if I went to Prosser but I seriously doubt I could get over there. But maybe someday. Shit maybe I forgets where Prosser was. I was thinking by Pasco but Duh. Well I'm just jammin' to Jimi (he's my God.) Yea.
I'm sure you'll meet some freaks or friends sometime. No Hicks now. I also dislike hicks but as long as they're fucking their horse and not me or my mom it's ok! Well I better go write back por favor.

Love, DB
P.S. I'll be your friend!

Awkward moment #312

How exactly do you ask your classroom whose gynelotrimin was found on the closet floor?

Do you:

A.) Pretend you didn't see it.

B.) Add it to the lost and found.

C.) Send memos home to all students.

D.) Drop in a random student's bag to take home.


So far it has been A but I'm rethinking D if the tube shows up again.

FF: 188

Appetizer

Name something you would categorize as weird.

Nipples. It was the first thing to come to mind. I also had a conversation about them earlier with my breast-feeding sister so I'm sure that's why it was fresh in mind. I should say that they CAN be weird but in general are quite normal since everybody has them.

Soup

What color was the last piece of food you ate?

green, white and pink---sushi--California roll. Why is it called that?

Salad

On a scale of 1-10 with 10 being highest, how much do you enjoy being alone?

Love it! I want more of it! I think you can learn a lot about yourself when you stop to spend time with yourself.

Main Course

Fill in the blank: I will _________ vote for ___________ in _______.

I will not vote for any American Idol in the next month.

I cannot stand that show.

Dessert

Describe your sleeping habits.

HA! Funny you should ask...I am one of those ladies who wears a sleeping mask to bed. I also have to have the tv on which helps me fall asleep faster and Farmer Ted stays up much later than I do. I find it easier to sleep when our lab is next to me too. For some reason I also get the privilege of the alarm. I don't know how I got this responsibility but it's mine.

A busy and bad day

I've been busy. Really busy. We have decided to move to Las Vegas so I can attend law school. We've decided that we should probably get married. We've decided that we have no time for anything anymore. I'm sitting here reflecting on my day, my week, my last ten minutes listening to Flogging Molly's Float and reading the wise words of my favorite 8 year old.

My bad day? I am tired of spoiled brats. And when you work at a private school you see more than enough. I'm tired of the parent notes to get out of P.E. when their children are the ones who would benefit most from it. I'm tired of the spoiled brat complaining that she is not getting enough attention from me. I'm tired of remaining calm, composed and patient. The good news is I have less than a month left!

And those wise words from the 8 year old could not have come at a more perfect time.

If the hill is on fire go to safety.
No one can climb a tree with candy in your hands.
The man who is not hungry says maybe later.
Remember the time of the dinosaurs.
He who plows gets snow out of the way.
If you travel with wisdom, you will find great stuff will happen.

--L.G.

Springing

Do your reading habits change in the Spring? Do you read gardening books? Even if you don’t have a garden? More light fiction than during the Winter? Less? Travel books? Light paperbacks you can stick in a knapsack?

Or do you pretty much read the same kinds of things in the Spring as you do the rest of the year?

Yes, my reading habits change when the weather warms up. I actually tend to read less and switch over to reading magazines, gardening tips, landscaping ideas--mainly short pieces. However, I have my yearly reading goal so I think this spring and summer will be different. I've noticed that when the days get longer I tend to work more and skip reading before bed. It's sad, I know but at least I've recognized it and know that I need to change that schedule since I miss not reading!

FF: 187

Appetizer

Name a color you find soothing.

Green. It also happens to be my favorite color. There is just something about green that calms me and makes me feel like me.

Soup

Using 20 or less words, describe your first driving experience.

Horrible, interstate, father reading the newspaper, and raining outside.

Salad

What material is your favorite item of clothing made out of?

Right now it would be velour. It's warm and comfy and I'm addicted to track jackets so when Juicy Couture combined the three I bought em up.

Main Course

Who is a great singer or musician who, if they were to come to your town for a concert, you would spend the night outside waiting for tickets to see?

Well, when Elton John came my way I quickly grabbed tickets. The same for Bob Dylan. I would have to say David Grey, Madonna, R.E.M., or Pearl Jam. Now that I am moving to a major entertainment area I will have more opportunities to see some of these if they ever tour! Hopefully with R.E.M. having a new album out I will have that chance!

Dessert

What is the most frequent letter of the alphabet in your whole name (first, middle, maiden, last, etc.)? E with 4 which beats L with 3

BTT: Vocabulary

I’ve always wondered what other people do when they come across a word/phrase that they’ve never heard before. I mean, do they jot it down on paper so they can look it up later, or do they stop reading to look it up on the dictionary/google it or do they just continue reading and forget about the word?

If Farmer Ted is in the room I will usually ask him if he knows the meaning. If not I write the word down with the intention of looking it up later on. This part usually doesn't happen though. If I have a dictionary handy I will look it up. There have been too many times where the context of the writing has been lost due to one misunderstood word for me. I guess it also depends on how into the book I am.

BTT: Writing Challenge

• Pick up the nearest book. (I’m sure you must have one nearby.)
• Turn to page 123.
• What is the first sentence on the page?
• The last sentence on the page?
• Now . . . connect them together….
  (And no, you may not transcribe the entire page of the book–that’s cheating!)

"Raising rewards and punishments pushes the child into more self-deception, precisely when more self-reflection is needed instead. So we writers need to invest in a self-image as people who get something done every day, and self-deception helps us achieve that."

From Discover Your Inner Economist: Use Incentives to Fall in Love, Survive Your Next Meeting and Motivate Your Dentist by Tyler Cowen. It's a great, enjoyable book!

Who's more of a feminist?

I read an interesting piece this morning titled, "Who's more of a feminist? Hillary Clinton or Barack Obama?" As the election nears and Democrats scramble to earn delegates I am still undecided. I suppose this is acceptable since I won't be choosing between McCain, Obama and Clinton. But it nerves me that I have not been able to confidently stand behind a candidate. And maybe I won't be able to this election. This is ok in my mind since I would be making a rational decision to not vote for a president.

I'm an Auntie!

My nephew, Camden Harley, was born on Friday after 23.5 hours of labor. He is an absolute gem!

FF: 186

Appetizer

Invent a new flower; give it a name and describe it.

A great question for a florist! It would be lime green and a cross between a dendrobium and tuberose. The dendrobium more for looks with the tuberose for scent. It could be called a dendrose.

Soup

Name someone whom you think has a wonderful voice.

I am going to read this question as if its asking for a singer. I really like Amy Winehouse's sound, that deep voice. I also like Louden Wainwright's voice which I find calming and fun. In terms of people I enjoy a local DJ's voice, Kate McGuire, from Mix 106. She is hilarious to listen to and has this great raspy, but not smoker, voice.

Salad

On a scale of 1 to 10 with 10 being highest, how clean do you keep your car?

I would say a 6. It's not cluttered but dusty at times and could use vacuuming more often. We do wash it often though.

Main Course

How do you feel about poetry?

I enjoy poetry and wish I was more patient to try it. I'll write something and then give up because I don't have the patience to work on it. As an undergraduate I would listen to poetry every Monday night.

Dessert

What was the last person/place/thing you took a picture of?

Myself upset and silly over how long it was taking to order our Idaho ice cream potatoes. I was also peeved that our group plans had changed so quickly.

Lit-Ra-Chur

• When somebody mentions “literature,” what’s the first thing you think of? (Dickens? Tolstoy? Shakespeare?)
• Do you read “literature” (however you define it) for pleasure? Or is it something that you read only when you must?

Anything that requires reading whether it be the newspaper, a magazine, research, non-fiction or fiction. I believe this comes from my many years as a student where professors would ask us to look up "literature" on various subjects. They tended to use it as a synonym for research. When I hear classic literature I think of authors such as Dickens, Tolstoy, Austen, etc.

Of course I read literature for pleasure! I love reading and our house is full of books. My bedside stand has, on average, seven books waiting to be read. I read more than one book at once so as soon as I finish one I can quickly grab another if I feel like it. There is part of me that thinks the question "or is it something that you read only when you must?" a silly question since everyone that participates in Booking Through Thursday enjoys reading and/or discussing books.

FF:185

Appetizer

What does the color dark green make you think of?

A leather bomber jacket I had in the seventh grade. It was so cool! However I saw someone wearing one the other day and couldn't believe that I actually wore and owned one. Does anyone else remember the navy, mauve and forest green leather jackets back then?

Soup

How many cousins do you have?

Eleven. I am the third oldest on both parent's sides.

Salad

On a scale of 1 to 10 with 10 being highest, how honest are you?

Seven? I'll admit that I can be fake or hide my true feelings in uncomfortable moments and of course I consider this to be dishonest.

Main Course

Name something that is truly free.

This is a difficult question for a household of two economists. My first suggestion was body odor but I was reminded that there is a cost with body odor---exercise, the cost of smelling yourself and having others smell you. So then I brought up AIR! I thought I was genius for this! However Farmer Ted has pointed out that it takes time to breathe and thus there is a cost to consuming air. TANSTAFL BABY!

Dessert

Using the letters in the word SPRING, write a sentence.

Do the words have to be in order?

Spring pours rain in new gardens.

Sing Prince's Rasberry (Beret) in navy galoshes.

Cover-Up

While acknowledging that we can’t judge books by their covers, how much does the design of a book affect your reading enjoyment? Hardcover vs. softcover? Trade paperback vs. mass market paperback? Font? Illustrations? Etc.?

The design of a book can greatly affect my reading enjoyment. I read to relax and books that have beautiful, oftentimes romantic cover designs help me relax. There is something comforting about viewing a cover that makes you want to read the book more than just the reviews or summary. I also enjoy looking through the additions to Covers, a website dedicated to book covers.

I've had a copy of Tess of the d'Urbervilles by Thomas Hardy since 9th grade English class. The sole reason I could never depart with it was the cover. I only recently read the book but I've held onto the worn copy for years because the painting on the cover haunted me. The painting, by Francis Danby, is called "Disappointed Love". It made me want to read the book.


Sometimes I've been misled in purchasing a book because I liked the cover but was disappointed the writing. My most recent experience with this was Yakuza Moon: Memoirs of a Gangster's Daughter by Shoko Tendo. I liked the simplicity and statement the cover makes but I believe that the story has been lost in translation. I have already listed the reasons why I prefer hardcovers and I still stand by those reasons, especially bullet #3 in this case. I'll also admit that if a cover has painted tulips on it I'll usually buy it. I love tulips and since I can't have the real thing all year round in Idaho I like to be able to look at paintings of them.

Ladies out on the town talk

"Excuse me, but I think my uterus just shriveled up a little bit."

Happy Easter

While cruising Craig's list Farmer Ted came upon a painting of Jesus for sale.

His questions were: How would a devout Christian attempt to negotiate this deal? Are we going to see hard core negotiating or lowballing? In general, a negotiation takes place and the two parties split the pool of value (e.g. the difference between the lowest value the seller will accept and the highest price the buyer will pay). Can you really put a price on the Lord?

So, when negotiation meets religion, will the price be closer to the asking price?

FF: 184

Appetizer

Given the choice, would you prefer to live in the country or in the city?

I grew up in the country and over the years have come to appreciate all that it offers. So I would have to say country. You can always travel to cities but the countryside is harder to get to. Cities have planning guides, countrysides don't. I believe it's easier to choose what city to visit but the same doesn't apply to the country.

Soup

Who is the cutest kid you know?

They are seven year old twins. I can't get enough of them as they make me laugh all day.

Salad

Fill in the blank: I couldn’t believe it when I heard ___________.

I couldn't believe it when I heard my LSAT score. It's one of the last times I remember going WOW! and I was nervous since I didn't know if hard work would pay off for that test.

Main Course

If you could star in a commercial for one of your favorite products, which one would you want to advertise?

I can't decide! I'm thinking Mr. Bubbles, Juicy Couture (I live in their velour jackets), and Harney and Sons jasmine tea. To be honest, I wouldn't want to star in a commercial. I would be fine as an extra though.

Dessert

What type(s) of vitamins and/or supplements do you take on a regular basis?

I take a Flintstone everyday. I like them chewable.

BTT: The End

You’ve just reached the end of a book . . . what do you do now? Savor and muse over the book? Dive right into the next one? Go take the dog for a walk, the kids to the park, before even thinking about the next book you’re going to read? What?

(Obviously, there can be more than one answer, here–a book with a cliff-hanger is going to engender different reactions than a serene, stand-alone, but you get the idea!)

What I do after a book ends depends on the book. If it's nonfiction I usually think about whether or not I would recommend the book to others. Sometimes I will summarize the ideas to Farmer Ted which helps me understand how I felt about the material. If it's a super good book, fiction or non-fiction, it usually takes me awhile to choose another book to read. There have been times where I have felt that reading any book following a book I really enjoyed has left me with below average feelings on that "following" book. I couldn't read for a week after I finished Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows and it took me awhile to decide a book after America is in the Heart by Carlos Bulosan. I know it's not fair in some aspects to compare books but there is just something that lingers over into the next book at times that I'm not too comfortable with. Of course this doesn't happen often but enough that I thought I would mention it.
I read a lot of predictable books and I read a lot in bed. I also read more than one book at once and it is usually a combination of non-fiction with fiction. When this happens I can honestly say that I turn over and go to sleep. When I wake up I take a moment to think about the book before I put it back on the shelf and cross the title out on my 50 Books for 2008 list. I have respect for writers and like to think that I spend time reflecting on the style, plot and my interaction with the themes. I have had too many moments with people who say they have read a book but cannot tell you their thoughts on it. This peeves me and makes me question whether they really have read it or are just claiming to have due to the prestige of reading. I'm thinking of academics and English majors, some who think they're better than everyone else and the sole reason why books are published in the first place.

I have finished five books in the last two weeks. Here is what I did upon completing them:

America is in the Heart by Carlos Bulosan: Spent some time discussing how amazing Bulosan's journey was with family and friends. I enjoyed this book enough to be able to discuss it with my conservative father. Bulosan spent time working through eastern Washington, the area I grew up in and where my family still lives. When I was finished I spent about a day thinking about what would be best to read after such a great read. I decided on Dream When You're Feeling Blue by Elizabeth Berg, a book a friend loaned me to read.

The Pirates! In an Adventure with the Scientists by Gideon Defoe: I read this during silent reading at school. This series reads fast and is laugh out loud funny. When I finished it I ordered their adventure with whaling. I finished it in class and felt good the rest of the day. I love it when a book does that for you!

Yakuza Moon: Memoirs of a Gangster's Daughter by Shoko Tendo: Easy memoir to read through however afterward I felt a lot was lost in the translation. When I was done I picked up my non-fiction book and continued reading it. This meant that I didn't have too much to reflect upon finishing the book.

Sex with Kings by Eleanor Herman: Nice non-fiction. A little too organized in a manner I wasn't fond of but the information was great. I finished it the same night as Yakuza Moon and then went to sleep.

Dream When You're Feeling Blue by Elizabeth Berg: A nice easy WWII story that a friend wanted me to read. I usually don't read this type of fiction but I will read books friends loan me. Since she wants it back I felt obligated to read it so I could give her my opinion on it. Upon finishing it I turned to Farmer Ted and said, "this is an easy peasy nice and pleasy read" and went to sleep.

Today I will decide what to pick up next for my non-fiction and fiction book. I usually don't do that on the same day.

Moments with Farmer Ted

Farmer Ted: I have an idea for a new Transformer.

Idaho Gal: (sigh) What?

FT: He is an outhouse who turns into this guy who cleans up after the other Transformers. Similiar to The Poopsmith.

IG: I shouldn't have asked.



IG: Hey! Our dog is not a guitar!

FT: But he likes it! Do you know of any other dog that can play "guitar" as well as Keynes?



We have many, MANY Curb Your Enthusiasm moments in our house. This being one of them. Only it was at an airport. And after everything the guy still didn't get it. I was also known at work for doing this with my Shrek light that resembled an earpiece. Why do people do this? It is so annoying! And rude!

Happy St. Patrick's Day

In honor of Guinness day as it is called in our house, I present two of the best Guinness commercials. The first is just cool. The second is also cool unless you don't believe in evolution or if you admire St. Patrick's use the the clover to represent the Holy Trinity. Either way the motto, "Good things come to those who wait" still applies. Cheers!



(Most expensive ever Guinness advert features large-scale domino game. Directed by Nicolai Fuglsig of Sony Bravia 'Balls' fame, it is a celebration of community. The advert was shot on location in a remote side village called Iruya, in the Salta region of northern Argentina, with a population of around 1,000 people. Toppling items included: 6,000 dominoes, 10,000 books, 400 tyres, 75 mirrors, 50 fridges, 45 wardrobes and 6 cars.)

FF: 183

Appetizer

On a scale of 1-10 (with 10 as highest), how much do you like your own handwriting?

7, although when I am at school I have to use "correct" cursive so I don't like my handwriting that much

Soup

Do you prefer baths or showers?

I love a hot bath, but I never find the time to take one, so my preference (due to a time restraint) are showers.

Salad

What was the last bad movie you watched?

The Simpsons Movie and Because I Said So

Main Course

Name something you are addicted to and describe how it affects your life.

Reading. I am always reading books. It has affected my life positively since I am always learning, building upon my vocabulary, and lost in stories.

Dessert

Which instrument is your favorite to listen to?

Piano, cello or violin solos.

Wow

Watch and be moved.

Not Oprah's Book Club--Angela Shelton

I can't believe

• that I just purchased the soundtracks to High School Musical and Enchanted. I swear its for work!!
  
• that my nephew (or nephlette as I call him) could be here any day
• that I have a growing collection of 1st and 2nd grade scarves. I'm starting to receive them daily.
• it's raining...which means our class won't be able to practice our parachute dance routine. Yes, you read that correctly! A PARACHUTE DANCE ROUTINE! And don't mess with me! I'm a serious parachute choreographer now! To you guessed it, music from above.
• that a guy brought his pet snake into the grocery store the other day. WHY ON EARTH WOULD YOU DO THIS? I can't take my dogs or the cattle I somehow now own into the meat section, so YOU CAN'T EITHER! I looked at Chelsie and asked why she let him in. She looked at me like seriously, you expect me to ask him, with a huge boa, to leave! No.
• I'm now obsessed with the Tudor period. Not the menstrual period that was so loudly asked about in silent reading yesterday. She was pointed to the dictionary where we could silently discuss the meaning. I'll admit my composure was flawless when the question came half way through a gulp of tea. The joys of teaching....
  

BTT: Playing Editor

How about a chance to play editor-in-chief? Fill in the blanks:

__________ would have been a much better book if _________________.

I don't really know how to respond to this question. Yes there are thousands of poorly written books in the market but a ready example doesn't jump to my mind. One aspect of editing that I've recently come to loathe is how a book is sold. Editors or marketers, whoever is responsible for this, have done an excellent job of selling me books that are not what I thought they were. For this I have several non-fiction examples.

I like to garden and cook. After growing twenty-one heirloom tomato plants last summer I thought it would be nice to buy The Tomato Festival Cookbook which promises 150 recipes AND tips on growing the best heirloom varieties. While there are lots of recipes I don't find them realistic because even I don't have the amount of ripe tomatoes to make them. Who has three pounds of ripe tomatoes gathering in their kitchen at one time? The tips on growing are ones any basic gardener should already know. Nothing new and thus nothing exciting. So I bought another cookbook that I most likely will never use and should just give away.

I purchased The Sexual Organization of the City for research purposes thinking it would be about any city. It's not. It is focused around Chicago and is more on interpersonal relationships than the sex market which I was hoping the focus would be around. I guess I should have read the description more carefully, but no mention of Chicago-based was mentioned at the time I bought it. The book is interesting, just not what I was hoping for.

Planet of Slums by Mike Davis reads like one long demographic study. I feel as if I'm reading the same things in every chapter too. I would have enjoyed more social dynamics, personal stories and breaks in the statistics. I enjoy facts but not in the manner Davis has presented them.

I was a Women's Studies major in college so I enjoy reading women's history probably more so than other people. The American Women Activists' Writings: An Anthology, 1637-2002 is a disappointment though. It promises to cover a range activist subject matter however I feel that it does not. Some of the activists', such as Abigail Adams, entries are excerpts from their diaries or letters to family members that don't necessarily showcase their activism. It takes away from these women's work and the meaning of activism.

I could probably come up with other examples but I'll stop. I don't think I would ever want to play editor-in-chief but I would like to make sure books are more appropriately labeled.

Concert experience #419 Gogol Bordello

Last night Farmer Ted and I went to a concert. It was our first concert since the concert of utter disaster last December when we saw Tool with our friend The Drummer. We saw Tool in the Idaho Center which is probably the crappiest place in Idaho to see a show. When we arrived we could already tell they were severely over serving alcohol which isn't the best idea for a metal/rock show. We found our seats which were two rows from the back wall and quickly realized that the five dudes sitting behind us were extremely drunk, and the opening band had not yet started. I was not happy. By the third Tool song I had beer poured down my back and decided to stand so that I wouldn't have it spilled on my head. Let's face it, that wouldn't be the best combo with an already soaking sweatshirt. Farmer Ted tried to sarcastically suggest that beer should go into the belly and not the floor but I don't think they heard. It didn't matter much since I was already in bitch mode. It was the beginning of a long night of standing, of yelling, of scaring everyone around me and of having to do everything on my own since The Drummer and Farmer Ted did not want to fight five drunk dudes. About six songs in more beer was spilled and the cigarettes came out! So we were ashed on. No, let me rephrase that, we became THE ashtray. At this point I again let my wrath out and the drunken a$$hole claimed he wasn't smoking when in fact he was so drunk he couldn't see his cigarette in his hands and his friend bent over backward to apologize. It wasn't working. About another song later he started falling on me and I had had enough so I let it all out and they shut up. None of the five dudes could look at me. They were pretending not to be with their drunken friend. It was around this time that their mohawk friend came back and heartily said "aren't you glad he doesn't have any more beer!" to which I replied, "I'd be happier if he didn't have any more F*#$%#@ing cigarettes!" He was embarrassed, shocked that I was that angry and shut up. Just because we're at the same concert does not make us friends. And just because you have a mohawk doesn't make me fear you. I went to the Prom with a mohawked dude. Meanwhile, Farmer Ted and The Drummer are still just sitting there most likely pretending not to know me. Things settled down for the most part. And I am grateful that he chose to piss and vomit against the wall and not on me. I still had to hear it, smell it and see it though. It was the worst concert experience ever and I've been to many shows over the years.

So we decided it was time to try the show scene again and one of our favorite bands came through last night, Gogol Bordello. It was the best $17.50 show I've seen. They played their asses off, the energy was crazy and the dancing sublime. The opening act, Skindred, was also incredible! We had so much fun and we didn't have any drunken a$$holes to deal with. Gogol Bordello played for two+ straight hours and the encore was unbelievable! All on a Sunday night! It was crazy. It was fabulous!

FF: 182

Appetizer

If you could be any current celebrity for one whole week, who would you want to be?

Queen Elizabeth II. I think it would be absolutely fabulous to rummage through her belongings, tour her castles and drink her tea. I also think it would be somewhat relaxing and she always has loads of dogs to please her. I would not be bored, that's for sure!

Soup

On a scale of 1-10 (with 10 being highest), how much do you enjoy talking on the phone?

1

Salad

Name a charitable organization to which you have donated (or would like to).

Amnesty International, Idaho Youth Ranch, YWCA, Idaho Food Bank and Idaho WCA--all are current donations.

Main Course

What is a food you like so much you could eat it every single day for a month?

Easy, sushi. And I've done it while living in Tokyo.

Dessert

Have you or anyone in your family had the flu this year?

Yep. Farmer Ted and I both did at the smack dab start of the year. It was horrible and I wouldn't want to wish it on any of you!

BTT Hero

You should have seen this one coming … Who is your favorite Male lead character?

Hmm....I'll admit that if I read fiction it usually has lead female characters for me or that the men don't stand out. I had to resort back to my library for some responses. So, I suppose these aren't truly favorite characters, but enjoyable male characters. One of the more recent characters is Amir in The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini. I liked his internal struggle, his humanity, and adult thought process. It was a worthwhile read. I have always liked Old Jules by Mari Sandoz. Jules, her father, is such an asshole but he reminds me of my own father--so I could relate to the character. In fact, anyone with a conflicted father-daughter relationship might be able to relate.

I found fascinating the unnamed narrator in Memoirs of My Melancholy Whores by Gabriel Garcia Marquez. The short novel starts out, "The year I turned ninety, I wanted to give myself the gift of a night of wild love with an adolescent virgin." How is this not interesting! He is one of the least engaging first-person narrators I've ever encountered. He's insipid and silly and has spent much of his life, as well as his modest nest egg, frequenting prostitutes. What are we to make of this lifelong bachelor who's never been in love and who actually likes to pay for sex? He comes off as a typical dirty old man and leering pedophile who now wants to call his friendly madam to request a young virgin over whom he can exert complete mastery. Of course, almost any type of person can be made interesting in a work of fiction, no matter how weird or banal or repellent he might seem at first glance.

And, I've enjoyed the life of Harry Potter. I don't think I have to say much about his character as it is known worldwide.

Musical Musings

My friend Jeffrey is always sending me new music to check out. His latest was on Erykah Badu's new album New Amerykah Part One. I have to say that I find the music video for "Honey" creative in the sense that it takes me back to MTV 1991 for some reason. I'm not sure if I like the song and have yet to listen to the rest of her album but I do like the mellow sound.

The last time Jeffrey sent me music it was M.I.A., who is playing Sasquatch this year with a bunch of other awesome bands. M.I.A. has grown on me. I love the chorus to Paper Planes. And I'm thinking I should see her live. I also secretly wish I could get away with wearing spandex and converse together.

Before tonight's results

There is an interesting piece titled, A Letter from Feminists on the Election in the current Nation. I enjoyed reading it however I saw a lot of rainbows and unicorns dancing in the background. It's not that I'm against what these feminists are saying, it's more that I'm cautious of their reactive stance. Where was this discussion a year ago? Yes, Clinton and Obama have had to downplay their gender and race but there has a been a rift in the women's movement for awhile now and frankly, I rarely hear it being discussed by these same feminists. Again, like so many moments in the past twenty years, certain feminists are acting reactively versus being proactive. Could they not meet more frequently?

Must see Poll

I love reading the blog Feministing. I learn so much information from these gals. Today they have an interesting (and in my opinion disturbing) poll. I urge all of you to check it out!

Which PETA campaign do you hate the most?

FF:181

Appetizer

Who was the last person you hugged?

Adult: Amy

Children: Nikita or Dillon, although I'm not sure if they were hugs. When you are surrounded by children they tend to perform "hanging hugs" to get your attention.

Soup

Share a beauty or grooming trick or tip with us.

I use a toothbrush to groom my eyebrows. I also apply hair oil to the ends of my hair. It helps moisturize and strengthen my long locks. I also use conditioner to shave my legs, it's cheaper and longer lasting.

Salad

What does the color yellow make you think of?

Gerber daisies, daffodils and a certain submarine

Main Course

If you were to make your living as a photographer, what subject would your pictures revolve around?

flowers, plants, gardens, parks, water--relaxing eye candy

Dessert

What was the longest book you ever read?

I have no idea, one of the following most likely:

War and Peace

Anna Karenina

Harry Potter series or individual book. Depends on how you view series

BTT: Heroine

Who is your favorite female lead character? And why? (And yes, of course, you can name more than one . . . I always have trouble narrowing down these things to one name, why should I force you to?)


The first one that comes to mind is Anne, of Anne of Green Gables. I loved her as a child and still do as an adult. Her adventures and challenges are wonderful to follow. She is strong, confident, loving, hard working and sincere, traits any good role model for young girls should have. Another lead is Sophie Amundsen in Sophie's World by Jostein Gaardner. She is also curious and smart in her adventures through the history of philosophy. She best reminds me of Alice from Alice in Wonderland. I would list Alice but I have never read the book and it would be poor form to list book-to-movie characters, not to mention pure laziness.

I'm currently reading Tess of the d'Urbervilles by Thomas Hardy and Tess definitely stands out as a lead female character, however I wouldn't say just yet that she is a favorite. I'm finding that it is quite a depressing novel.

Conversations with Farmer Ted

Farmer Ted: I have a great idea for a cover band.

Idaho Gal: ok...

FT: Take Metallica and get rid of all the instruments.

IG: ok...

FT: Then insert a cappella singers and call it A Cappellica!

An embarrassed IG can do nothing except shake her head.