this life is a beautiful one...

Redirect

2009-06-30T15:39:00.001-07:00

I have combined my blog with a guy I know. Check it out at:

RobotVersusDoll

Happy Blogging!

Twitter-ites

2009-04-27T13:35:00.002-07:00

A great musician (Molly Jenson) posted this on her new blog. It's good to laugh about how caught up I sometimes get in the social networking ploys. I thought about tweeting this, but that seemed like overkill. Enjoy.

Hawaii?

2009-04-07T15:08:00.003-07:00

I think it's pretty safe to say that I'm excited about my new habitat for the next year. And that I get to bring a buddy along with me. Just in case you don't know what Hawaii looks like, here:

So, I got a sweet gig working at a audiology clinic in Honolulu, about a mile from the beach. The sound booth even has a window overlooking the water so patient's don't feel locked in. Strange, but I'll take it. In lieu of getting paid, our little apartment is furnished and paid for. Oh, and we get a bike to pedal around on.

I'm nervous/scared/excited for this next year's adventure. Come and visit. You know you want to.

New Obsession Alert!

2009-04-06T10:06:00.003-07:00

Hello people.

I have been unable to stop listening to Anya Marina's new album "Slow & Steady Seduction: Phase II". It's quite fabulous.

In fact, if it were up to me, I would have played it on repeat for the entire drive from Cali to Utah. Never tiring of it. 'Cause that's just how I am. Obsessed.

Darling Dishes

2009-03-02T09:22:00.002-07:00

My future sister-in-law introduced me to the new Orla Kiely houseware designs that Target is selling for a limited time about two weeks ago. We both decided it would be a good addition to the wedding registry, so she went on a search for anything she could get. Unfortunately, she wasn't able to get any dishes. But Orem's Target did not disappoint. The beau and I bought many dinner plates, bowls and glasses. Oh, and also two dope cork-board place-mats. So two months from today, we will be eating in style. Check out the cuteness (Isn't the apron just precious?):

Orla Kiely for Target

Best of '08

2009-01-04T20:26:00.003-07:00

This was ridiculously hard, seeing as I went to over 25 concerts this year and all my fave artists came out with outstanding albums. I did my best.

Top 5 Concerts:
1. Bonnie Raitt at Red Butte Garden
2. Mile High Music Festival in Denver
3. Ray LaMontagne at The Saltaire
4. Ani DiFranco at Library Square
5. Wilco at Red Butte Garden

Top 5 Songs:
1. "Clean Getaway" by Maria Taylor
2. "Jesus, Etc." by Wilco
3. "The Greatest" by Cat Power
4. "Little Black Sandals" by Sia
5. "Right As Rain" by Adele

Top 5 Artists:
1. Greg Laswell
2. Sia
3. Ingrid Michaelson
4. Ray LaMontagne
5. The Weepies

Top 5 Albums:
1. Three Flights from Alto Nido by Greg Laswell
2. Some People Have Real Problems by Sia
3. 19 by Adele
4. Hideaway by The Weepies
5. Hello...x by Tristan Prettyman

Top 5 Movies:
1. The Savages
2. Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants
3. American Teen
4. Changeling
5. Wall-E

Top 5 Places:
1. Khao Lak, Thailand
2. Denver, Colorado
3. Orange, California
4. Faifield, California
5. St. George, Utah

Top 5 people:
1. Em
2. Max
3. KJ
4. Kate
5. Ane

Top 5 TV Shows:
1. 30 Rock
2. Project Runway
3. 90210
4. The Office
5. Grey's Anatomy

Top 5 Books:
1. The Giver by Lois Lowry
2. The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath
3. Into The Wild by Jon Krakauer
4. In Cold Blood by Truman Capote
5. Brave New World by Aldous Huxley

Top 5 Experiences:
1. Tristan Prettyman singing "Void" just for me at soundcheck. Un-Real.
2. Falling in love with the boy. Getting engaged.
3. Seeing Tom Petty for the 2nd time with Em. Amazing.
4. Meeting Jason Mraz. Hugging his little waist.
5. Serving the people of Thailand and eating their food. Oh, and getting bit by a leech and riding an elephant.

Winter Song

2008-12-15T16:39:00.002-07:00

I love Christmas. Well, except for that little snow detail in Utah. As far as Christmas music goes, I've always just been a fan of the classics. Bing Crosby, The Nutcracker, etc. I've never been one to buy an artist's Christmas album every year. For some reason, hearing Mariah Carey's rendition of Silent Night (I don't even know if she's done that) doesn't do anything for me. New holiday songs are also hard for me to enjoy. They just end up being cheesy and overproduced.

Well, that all changed last year when Sister Carlile came out with "The Heartache Can Wait". Pure genius. It was depressing in just the right way to keep my holiday spirit up. Weird, I know, but I have a feeling some of you know what I'm talking about. Sara Bareilles and Ingrid Michaelson have done the same thing for me this year. They make beautiful music together. Seriously. I haven't heard a song this pretty in a while. I wish I could have embedded their darling video for it here, but the link will have to suffice. Enjoy

Winter Song

iSuicide Update

2008-11-05T21:07:00.003-07:00

Pessimistic view on Big Poppa's life. Everything booted up fine, except the touchscreen sensors are completely gone. Bummer. Hopefully, that can somehow by replaced cheaper than buying a new iPhone. We'll see.

Note to self: Next time don't purchase ridiculously expensive items that can jump in the toilet. It's somewhat traumatic and sad. Oh, and if you do make the mistake of buying something so attractively bad ass and expensive, don't get so attached. It will make the after-jumping-in-the-toilet transition a lot easier.

Music Mondays

2008-11-03T23:38:00.004-07:00

Last Tuesday, Ray LaMontagne came to town. The night was highly anticipated after he bailed on us as an opener for Guster in 2006.* But he did not disappoint. There were many "What-Ever!" moments that evening. It was unreal. Oh, and did I forget to mention that Em scored us great VIP seats right as Ray went on stage? Well, yeah. She did. The night was perfect.

An even more pleasant surprise was the opening act of Leona Naess. Her voice is simple and beautiful. "Heavy Like Sunday" is by far my favorite song on her album. The video is a little hectic, but just take a listen. You won't be disappointed.

*I must say, however, that I don't know if I would ever put Ray and Guster together. That just seems like an odd combo. Very different in style and mood. Things work out for the best sometimes.

Quirky-Quirker-McQuirkerson

2008-11-02T20:17:00.009-07:00

I may be a little quirky. 6 things you didn't need to know about me, but now you are so glad you do:

1. I find it hard to share drinks with anyone. Even family. Even that special someone. There's just something very unappealing about putting my mouth where someone else's just was. Cooties. Ew. Don't take it personal if I swig your beverage without touching the opening. I've gotten really good at it.

2. I have an irrational fear of sharks. I've never had a bad experience or anything remotely close to that, but with the losing of my innocence, I also became extremely afraid of these enormously, gigantic, sharp-toothed, man-eating sea creatures. I know. Completely irrational.

3. Every time I go shopping, I have to find the nearest bathroom, quickly. Mostly it's when I'm shopping for clothes or presents for other people. I get a little nervous/excited and have to eliminate. Come to think of it, I should have made this quirk #2...

4. I have come to grips with the fact that no bra will fit me perfectly. This realization has led me to becoming an amateur seamstress. I've even used staples as a quick fix to loose straps. Don't knock it til you try it.

5. When I decide something, I decide! No matter how big or small the decision seems to be, if I make up my mind to do one thing, I'll follow through. For example, if Ingrid Michaelson's CD comes out today, I will drive to every CD store to get it that day. Nothing will stand in my way.

6. I blow dry my hair completely naked. It's not that I like to check myself out or anything, I just do it. No explanation. (Maybe I should lock my door now...)

I apologize for the over-share, but I was tagged by my good ol' friend #5. I now hereby tag: Lindsay, Steph, Ciacci, and Chanel.

Unmotivated

2008-11-02T20:14:00.003-07:00

I decided I wanted to change the look of my blog about 15 minutes ago. I ended up with this Blogger template because I was too lazy to figure out how to download a free template from the interweb.

In recent news, my iPhone committed iSuicide in the toilet a couple hours ago. It may be days before we know if it will make it. Sad day. Sad day.

Forever My Friend

2008-10-31T07:09:00.008-07:00

I just want to share with you some of my favorite engagement pictures. I can't show you all of them...there wouldn't be any surprises!
OpieFoto LLC

OpieFoto LLC

OpieFoto LLC

OpieFoto LLC

Selfishness

2008-10-27T15:35:00.002-07:00

A couple weeks ago, the beau and I decided to take a ton of pictures of ourselves. Professional ones.

For the last week and a half I have been replaying the photo shoot over and over again in my head; did I smile too big, were my eyes closed, did we take too many kissy pictures? The anticipation of their finished state was almost too much for me to handle. But I made it through the waiting and couldn't be more impressed with Opie's work. She made us feel extremely comfortable the whole time and I think it comes across in the pictures. Even those kissing shots turned out great. Well, at least I think they did.

Opie was kind enough to post some on her blog.

Check it out: www.opiefoto.blogspot.com.

(I will post some of my faves later...)

Honesty

2008-10-22T17:17:00.003-07:00

...is in the finer details.

Thanks to Anna for this find. It has truly been uplifting.

More Facebook love <3

2008-10-20T14:18:00.002-07:00

Here's another great Facebook funny.

SWPL Facebook

Facebook has taken over the world.

2008-10-16T09:11:00.002-07:00

So, I realize that Steph has already posted this, but I can't sit back and not share the funniness that is this video. Enjoy.

A New Confidence

2008-09-21T18:26:00.005-07:00

I would like to bare testimony of my new bra. If anyone knows me, they know that I have an extremely hard time finding a bra that: 1) fits and 2) uh...fits. (Isn't that the most important part?)

I strolled into Nordstrom's the other day, just dreading the fact that I had to find a new piece of underwear. It's almost as bad as the annual swimsuit shopping event. But I knew Nordstrom's was the best, so I started there. I was surprised- shocked, even- to find more than one style that was in my size. Usually I settle for a size or two smaller than what I should get and make some household adjustments when I get home, like sewing the straps smaller or something like that. So, not only were these bras in my size, they actually fit and looked nothing like something my grandma wore in 1955. There are even comfort straps! I would call that a success.

For any of you full-figured women, such as myself, looking for a good time in bra-wear, check out the Natori style 7233495. It's fantastic!

(p.s. That isn't me in the picture...)

Cloud 9

2008-09-10T14:55:00.003-07:00

So this is what it feels like, huh?

The beau proposed last night and I couldn't have said YES! any faster. I'm just a little excited. Okay, I'm super excited.

To your left you can see the ring of authority (and I only call it this because now I don't feel dumb buying bridal magazines or trying on wedding gowns). It's funny how such a little detail gives a girl some confidence.

So here goes something! I really don't think I could be happier.

Quote of the Night:

2008-09-08T07:48:00.000-07:00

"I can love Jesus Christ AND vampires at the same time!"

-Ms. Jones

Budget? What's that?

2008-09-06T10:00:00.002-07:00

I've decided to start myself a little budget. I just feel like I should have a little more control over where my money goes each month (I don't have much of it, so it shouldn't be hard). I managed to buy a columnar pad, which I think my grandma was the last human to use one. Ya know, the cute little accounting tablets. Looking back, I think I took a class at Utah State in Family Finance. In fact, I think everyone who graduates from USU takes that class. The only thing I can remember is the book we read, "Don't Shoot the Dog!". Oh, and how I always took my online quizzes with a classmate.*

I can't, for the life of me, remember how to set up a budget on paper. I know there are different categories of spending, and there is also a place for your income. But it just isn't coming back to me. I know I can probably look this all up online, but I want to set it up to fit my needs. I do remember the first assignment. We were supposed to track a month (or maybe a wee) of all our money flow. I figured this would be a great place to start. I should figure out where my money is going and then set up a budget to monitor that.

So the first page of my green book is what I spend my money on. Most of it consists of food and bills. Just know, that my future budget will never cut the amount of concerts I see. I think this may be the one thing I can't budge on. At all. There will always be a need for music; food, not so much.

Wish me luck.

*What? The professor never said we couldn't do that.

Work, Work, Work it out.

2008-09-05T16:59:00.003-07:00

I started going to the gym again. This seems to happen at the beginning of every new semester. I get the urge to get in shape and find the free membership to the campus gym to be quite appealing. I am still amazed at the workout attire people choose to wear, but I've already gone there. Moving on.

Yesterday, I didn't bring any reading material to keep my mind occupied while my body sweat and suffered. I can only read so much while on elliptical until my eyes go cross-eyed and I spew. SO, I found myself people watching (dang it). I managed to spot my freshman year crush (that was 6 years ago, people, 6 years!) and took a step down memory lane for a minute. Then, it hit me. I felt really old. Yeah, I know. I'm only 24. I got it. But have you seen the BABIES that are starting college this year? I don't think they've hit puberty yet. It's amazing. I feel like walking around with a sign that says "I'm too old for you" or something to that affect. I'm not saying I get hit on while working out, but if I could prevent it in any way, I would. I probably have nothing to worry about, since I still work out in orientation shirts dated in 2002. But a girl can never be too cautious.

Music...Fridays?

2008-07-25T20:47:00.003-07:00

I have a new obsession, internet world. Well, I guess he's kind of an old obsession turned new again, if that makes any sense. His new cd just came out a couple weeks ago and it's fantastic. There isn't a bad song within it. There is something about him that tickles my fancy. He's so good, that even after 48 hours of live music, I got in the car craving his sound. Here he is. Greg Laswell at his finest.

How The Day Sounds

Peace Out.

2008-06-02T11:40:00.003-07:00

Well, my people. I am off to visit a foreign land. It honestly doesn't seem real, but it's only hours away! Before my departure, I would like to leave you with this little cartoon. It makes me laugh every time. I will miss most of you. Okay, all of you! Let the Mexican food cravings begin!

Music Mondays

2008-05-26T00:00:00.001-07:00

Oh Jason!

How I love thee. Will you sing to me every night before I go to bed? That would be fantastic. Thank you.

Love, Chelsea

Music Mondays

2008-05-12T21:56:00.001-07:00

This past week I have been enjoying a co-worker's iTunes. I find this song interesting and entertaining. Too bad Andrew Bird is coming to town the same night Feist is...

Good Times Gonna Come

2008-05-05T16:00:00.002-07:00

School is out and it is summer.

I have just completed the hardest two years of graduate school! I finally have more years under my belt than I have left to actually finish this degree. That thrills me.

The next couple months will bring me great joy. Here are a few things I am looking forward to:

Reno Wedding (hopefully not too white trash)
Thailand
Red Butte Gala
20 million concerts
Denver Road Trip (Mile High Music Festival!)
So Cal Road Trip (with the beau)
Bear Lake
Utah Camping
etc, etc, etc...

Let us celebrate Cinco de Mayo and toast to the Summer of 2008!

Customer Service

2008-04-30T11:36:00.003-07:00

Attention GM - Southwest Student Insurance Plans: I thought that by advertising a live chat with a live person, that's what would really happen. Enticing me to chat with you live was an offer I wasn't ready to pass up. But really? Live chat does not mean asking me to put my email in a little box with my question next to it, so you can email me days later.

You have failed me.

You should learn a lesson from Backcountry.com. Who knew that companies actually hire people to answer your questions right then and there, as if we were instant messaging buddies. And they even post a picture of the hot, outdoorsy guy helping me. Even if it isn't really him, it's great customer service!

Music Mondays

2008-04-28T23:22:00.003-07:00

This past week has been all about The Weepies. Their new album was not a disappointment! And, they named their son Theo. How cute is that?

Let's Chat.

2008-04-24T18:52:00.002-07:00

Fellow Utah dwellers!

Have you ever noticed the inexcusable, unrelenting stenchi (plural for stench) that exude from many Utah cities? Well, if you haven’t, I will now give you the best places to experience such a treat.

1. West side of Logan. I lived there for a few years and I can honestly say that I haven’t smelt anything like it. As you come to the mouth of Sardine Canyon and into Wellsville, just roll down your windows and take a few deep breaths. At this moment, you will know exactly what I mean.

2. The Saltair. I attended a concert there last night and was reminded of a few things: 1) a crappy sound system, 2) awesome people to judge and place on teams, and 3) a plethora of odors that smell anything but good. Instead of bring earplugs, I suggest you bring nose plugs if you want nothing to cling onto your little nose hairs and cuddle you after the concert is long over.

3. South of SLC. I have no specific experience to insert here, only that driving on I-15 can be somewhat unbearable the further you get from civilization. There is a reason underlying the “Cow Town” reference.

Cheers.

Music Mondays

2008-04-21T10:05:00.000-07:00

Thanks to a special someone, I have been sharing my music listening time with Miss Prettyman and AA Bondy. He has a very soothing voice. Check him out:

Music Mondays

2008-04-14T09:00:00.001-07:00

I can already tell you that the highlight of this week will be purchasing Tristan Prettyman's new album "Hello...x". The record hits stores tomorrow, April 15th.

Brandi Carlile will be temporarily out of service until I get my TP fill. Who's with me?

This is painful.

2008-04-10T20:48:00.002-07:00

Teri Hatcher singing "Before He Cheats"...Need I say more?

What was American Idol thinking? I bet they lost money. Suckas.

And if you can make it to the end of the song, I promise you it will be worth it.

Music Mondays

2008-04-07T12:18:00.000-07:00

Beautiful, sweet music.

I heart Ingrid.

Music Mondays

2008-03-31T22:33:00.000-07:00

I like music. So I hereby dedicate every Monday to something I heart musically.

Check out other artists we like at Live from Abbey Road.

Crafts.

2008-03-23T22:31:00.012-07:00

Sometimes, Em and I do strange things. This is no exception.

Work station.

Behold, miniature objects on a postcard.

The object of the game being to meticulously cut out those objects and glue them together to make a cool looking 3D thingy (dinosaur or scooter). It was my job to cut.

Em struggled a bit with gluing the tiny edges together.

The start of a wonderful scooter. This is the back tire.

Cute!

Finished product. It took a couple weeks, but I finished nonetheless. It will be a couple more weeks before Em (and I) finish the dinosaur.

Thank you, England.

2008-03-18T19:09:00.002-07:00

Please take 3 minutes of your day to enjoy the beautiful voice of Adele. She is my current musical obsession and should be yours too.

My favorite line: "I like it in the city when two worlds collide." Ah geez.

Brains.

2008-03-16T09:11:00.003-07:00

Here is proof that I actually do visit the brain lab twice a week. I have to walk through this museum of sorts before I get to the actual brains. I named him Grandpa Charlie.

I'm sure you care.

2008-03-12T22:01:00.002-07:00

I actually came up with 99 things about myself that hopefully are interesting to someone out there on the world wide web.

1. I really dislike mushrooms.
2. My parents got divorced when I was 3.
3. I have a 13 year-old half sister.
4. I love rap music.
5. I am somewhat against young people (under 16) having cell phones.
6. I have never tasted alcohol. Ever.
7. I have never tried drugs.
8. When I was little, I pretended I smoked with my dad’s used cigarette butts. Apparently, I thought that was cool…
9. I lived with my grandparents during my preschool/kindergarten years.
10. I have a crush on Tom Petty.
11. I have an irrational fear of sharks, murky, deep water, and driving by mountains in the dark.
12. I can’t stand being scared, so watching horror movies is painful.
13. I enjoy singing and playing the guitar for myself; having people around intimidates me.
14. Being in front of crowds gives me the hives.
15. I am allergic to dogs. Big, furry dogs that smell nasty.
16. I pretty much know all the words to “What’s Your Fantasy” by Ludacris.
17. I want an afro so bad.
18. I love to get rid of things that I haven’t used in a while.
19. When I find a song or album I like, I play it over and over again to try and learn the lyrics. If that doesn’t work, I look them up. I like to know what I’m singing.
20. I’m obsessed with Macintosh.
21. I honestly don’t know what I would do without music.
22. I don’t really like pizza. I think it’s all about the hot, melted cheese. It makes me sick. But for some reason I love BBQ chicken pizza. It’s a good compromise when everyone you know loves pizza.
23. I would eat sourdough bread from California every morning, noon and night. I love it.
24. I don’t like fish.
25. Birds weird me out.
26. I didn’t talk to or see my dad for 6 years.
27. When I buy new clothes, I have to get rid of the same amount existing in my closet. Why? 1. Because my closet is so small, and 2. I like to get rid of unused things (see 18).
28. Worrying about finances stresses me out. If only I was rich and never had to worry about having enough money.
29. I like songs that have the words ‘picture’, ‘dreams’ and ‘ocean’ in them. Don’t ask me why, I just do.
30. My favorite color is green.
31. I like wearing glasses.
32. I love to build things. For example, when I bought my IKEA dresser, I was determined to put it together all by myself in one night. It was up the next morning before I went to work.
33. I judge people by the shoes they wear and how their jeans fit.
34. I hate getting application invites on Facebook.
35. The first concert I ever went to was Reba McEntire at the Oakland Colliseum. I was 8.
36. I enjoy eating raw cookie dough.
37. I have a mole positioned perfectly in the middle of my head, right between my eyebrows. It looks like an Indian bindi decoration.
38. I don’t like having long fingernails.
39. I love sweet Del Monte midget pickles. I don’t think you can buy them here.
40. I enjoy taking pictures, even if I’m not that good at it.
41. I’ve been on a real African safari. Uhhh-mazing!
42. I love Oregon chai tea latte. So yummy.
43. When I used to visit my dad every other weekend (age 2-12), he would give me 10 vocab words to work on. I hated it. Too bad I didn’t continue with that, it may have helped on the GRE.
44. My pumpkin pie will change your life.
45. I touch real brains twice a week and think it’s cool.
46. Sometimes I slip too easily into my ghetto accent.
47. I’m always competitive, but if I find someone more competitive I don’t even try because I know I’d beat them.
48. I promote peace.
49. I didn’t care for high school.
50. I can't stand people who wear bluetooth headsets.
51. The perfect Subway sandwich: tuna on honey oat with swiss cheese, lettuce, mustard, lots of banana peppers, topped with salt and pepper.
52. I finished 5 seasons of Dawson's Creek and 4 seasons of Alias in the same 2 1/2 months while working on my doctorate.
53. I have a bit of what they call the travel bug.
54. I don't like tomatoes.
55. My stepmom could be my sister.
56. I have bird-like feet, meaning I can pick objects up with my toes. For my next trick: the flip off.
57. I secretly enjoy taking emo pictures of myself.
58. I have double jointed elbows.
59. I prefer the west coast to any other coast.
60. I don't like the feeling of lotion on my hands.
61. In high school I tried soccer and cross country running before I settled with playing water polo for 3 years.
62. I used to collect stickers and stamps as a young buck.
63. I used to think all cats were girls and all dogs were boys.
64. I judge books by their cover.
65. I look better when I'm tan.
66. I got my ears pierced when I was 16.
67. I enjoy most water sports - skiing, tubing, boating, etc.
68. I have never snow skied and don't really care to.
69. I have a crazy scar from getting my appendix out when I was 8.
70. My grandma and I used to play barbies together.
71. I survived the '89 earthquake in San Francisco.
72. I was baptized by my grandpa.
73. I rock a 2000 Saturn LS.
74. I want no more than 3 kids. Maybe only 1. The whole pregnancy thing freaks me out.
75. A 16 year-old made me a true aggie. OOPS.
76. Sometimes I prance around in spandex.
77. My favorite Beatles song is Eleanor Rigby.
78. I still play M.A.S.H. during class. It never gets old.
79. I type ridiculously fast...it was a hobby as a kid. I taught myself how to type on my grandma's old typewriter, Libby.
80. I prefer to be prepared for all situations.
81. I watch ‘R’ rated movies and I’d like to think I have good movie taste.
82. I think swear words are humorous.
83. I heart avocados.
84. When I was 8, I drove to Chicago with my dad in a sparkly green Taurus.
85. My feet are chronically cold. The doctor couldn’t find a pulse in my foot…
86. I worked for the orientation staff at Utah State all four years of college. I rocked the blue and khaki.
87. I have this thing for vintage posters and postcards.
88. I have nice legs?
89. I can spend hours playing Text Twist and Mahjongg online.
90. I have small hands and chubby fingernails.
91. I work at a botanical garden.
92. I tend to not listen more than I admit. My mind likes to wander.
93. In 7th grade, a black chick told me that I was dancing too fast…I was just years ahead of my time.
94. I stay up late just so I can listen to a little more music.
95. I am a sympathy crier.
96. I clean my grandma’s condo every month.
97. My first car was a gold Saturn…I must be doomed to driving a Saturn.
98. I backpacked through Italy and Switzerland for 3 ½ weeks.
99. I love kids, but they intimidate me.
100. (you come up with something…I got to 99!)

Two years? Really?

2008-03-12T20:41:00.004-07:00

Sheriff: Woman sat on toilet for 2 years
NBC News correspondents and producers across the U.S. shed light on the news of the day.
By ROXANA HEGEMAN

WICHITA, Kan. - Authorities are considering charges in the bizarre case of a woman who sat on her boyfriend's toilet for two years _ so long that her body was stuck to the seat by the time the man finally called police.

It appeared the 35-year-old Ness City woman's skin had grown around the seat, said Ness County Sheriff Bryan Whipple. The woman initially refused emergency medical services but was finally convinced by responders and her boyfriend that she needed to be checked out at a hospital.

"We pried the toilet seat off with a pry bar and the seat went with her to the hospital," Whipple said. "The hospital removed it."

Whipple said investigators planned to present their report Wednesday to the county attorney, who will determine whether any charges should be filed against the boyfriend.

"She was not glued. She was not tied. She was just physically stuck by her body," Whipple said. "It is hard to imagine. ... I still have a hard time imagining it myself."

Police declined to release the couple's names, but the boyfriend, Kory McFarren, agreed to be interviewed Wednesday by The Associated Press. He identified his girlfriend as Pam Babcock.

McFarren, 36, told investigators he took Babcock food and water and asked her every day to come out of the bathroom.

"And her reply would be, 'Maybe tomorrow,'" Whipple said. "According to him, she did not want to leave the bathroom."

McFarren told the AP that he wasn't to blame, and that it was solely Babcock's choice to remain in the bathroom.

"She is an adult; she made her own decision. It was my fault I should have gotten help for her sooner; I admit that. But after a while, you kind of get used to it," McFarren said.

"It really doesn't surprise me," Ellis said. "What surprises me is somebody wasn't called in a bit earlier." ....

(Full story)

A new obsession.

2008-03-01T08:03:00.002-07:00

So what? I'm a little obsessed with another supposedly lesbian singer. What's the big deal? The girl can sing.

I had to throw this one in. What the hell are they wearing? I still love her, but really? Why those clothes?

2008-02-25T22:14:00.009-07:00

A couple days ago, YourHeartOut blogged about a yogurt shop in Sandy. Em and I finally went to check it out. It's like one of those things you dream of as a little kid: pretending to be the cashier at a grocery store or meticulously folding clothes in your dresser because you work at The Gap. The Yogurt Stop actually lets you dish up your favorite fro-yo-go flavors and toppings. I mean, this place has got it all: cookie dough, sprinkles, and berries. Whatever you want, you can have it. Life just got a little sweeter.

Tonight's concoction: Chocolate and Vanilla swirl with rainbow sprinkles and cookie dough.

And the winner is...

2008-02-24T10:34:00.002-07:00

Here are my picks. Hopefully i will do better than the Grammy's.

Best motion picture of the year
-Atonement
-Juno
-Michael Clayton
-No Country for Old Men
-There Will Be Blood

Achievement in directing
-"The Diving Bell and the Butterfly"
-"Juno"
-"Michael Clayton"
-"No Country for Old Men"
-"There Will Be Blood"

Performance by an actor in a leading role
-George Clooney in "Michael Clayton"
-Daniel Day-Lewis in "There Will Be Blood"
-Johnny Depp in "Sweeney Todd The Demon Barber of Fleet Street"
-Tommy Lee Jones in "In the Valley of Elah"
-Viggo Mortensen in "Eastern Promises"

Performance by an actor in a supporting role
-Casey Affleck in "The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford" (Warner Bros.)
-Javier Bardem in "No Country for Old Men" (Miramax and Paramount Vantage)
-Philip Seymour Hoffman in "Charlie Wilson's War" (Universal)
-Hal Holbrook in "Into the Wild" (Paramount Vantage and River Road Entertainment)
-Tom Wilkinson in "Michael Clayton" (Warner Bros.)

Performance by an actress in a leading role
-Cate Blanchett in "Elizabeth: The Golden Age" (Universal)
-Julie Christie in "Away from Her" (Lionsgate)
-Marion Cotillard in "La Vie en Rose" (Picturehouse)
-Laura Linney in "The Savages" (Fox Searchlight)
-Ellen Page in "Juno" (A Mandate Pictures/Mr. Mudd Production)

Performance by an actress in a supporting role
-Cate Blanchett in "I'm Not There" (The Weinstein Company)
-Ruby Dee in "American Gangster" (Universal)
-Saoirse Ronan in "Atonement" (Focus Features)
-Amy Ryan in "Gone Baby Gone" (Miramax)
-Tilda Swinton in "Michael Clayton" (Warner Bros.)

The Haircut.

2008-02-23T16:58:00.001-07:00

Ok. Here it is. Judge away. It's an A-line cut, so the back is shorter...

Don't do drugs, kids.

2008-02-22T16:49:00.004-07:00

Let me tell you about my day.

First of all, I think this is the first haircut I love the first time around, which is surprising because I am a hard one to please when it comes to the 'do'. It is super short (to me), but I like it. It's weird not being able to pull it back...

Secondly, I was surprised to see a healthy two-year old that was born at 25 weeks (that's 1, 2, 3, 4, 5...14 weeks early) because his mom was 18, doing meth and pot. She was very open with all this information. But the saddest part was that she could not remember details about her little guy's hospital stay because she was STILL USING at the time of his birth. Luckily, she went through a rehab program and got it together after that. The kid has normal hearing. Hallelujah.

Next: a three-year-old may or may not have told me that his parents are going to kill me. Yeah, he repeated it three or four times, "My parents are going to kill you" and then proceeded to kick me. Fantastic. Now mind you, I am just trying to play a simple hearing game with the kid, not torturing him with pins and needles. His mom, sitting right next to us, didn't do anything...It makes you wonder what he will grow up to be like. I don't want to be there to find out.

Lastly, I travelled to Provo with some cool people for some great Mexican food and a little concert. I had to remind myself numerous times that I was, in fact, in Provo...the people watching was at an all-time high at Velour. I never thought I would see THOR dressed in embroidered jeans and a pink scarf. FANTASTIC.

Umm..

2008-02-21T23:20:00.001-07:00

I may or may not have chopped my hair off today...

pictures to follow...

OBAMA for yo mama.

2008-02-19T10:30:00.003-07:00

If I wasn't such a cheap ass, I would be wearing this today.

Are you KIDDING me!?

2008-02-16T09:57:00.000-07:00

Good. Better. Best.

2008-02-14T22:26:00.002-07:00

Anna and I were discussing some important issues at work. Here is what she discovered:

Good: A non-committal make-out with a "non-member".

Better: A non-committal make-out with a "member". Having things in common is not a requirement, but some physical attraction would be nice.

Best: Making out with a member that shares your same beliefs and values, and could be a potential "match made in heaven", or something that affect (potential being the key word).

Applying gospel principles has never been so much fun!

Next President?

2008-02-12T20:37:00.002-07:00

I recently took an online quiz to see how my views lined up with some of the candidates in this year's election. Many questions ranked my opinions about current political policies, while others touched on whether or not I would vote for a woman or a person of a minority race. In hope that the questionnaire could read my mind and recognize I am an Obama fan, I answered all the questions truthfully, according to my own thoughts. To my dismay, the first two line-ups were men I had no idea were running. I can't even remember their names. To my even greater dismay, 64% of my way of thinking matched up with Hilary Clinton.

What!?

The quiz was wrong. There is no way in hell I would ever vote for that woman. And I'm not at all sorry about it.

3 1/2 hours later...

2008-02-10T22:52:00.000-07:00

The GRAMMY'S were a disappointment. Besides not predicting correctly, I just wasn't really impressed with how the show turned out. I never thought I would be sad that only 9 awards were actually presented, but I was. The highlight of the evening was seeing Tina Turner in a pop tart wrapper. Who knew?

But anyway, here are the winners in case you missed it:

Record of the Year
-Rehab, Amy Winehouse

Album of the Year
-River: The Joni Letters

Song of the Year
-Rehab, Amy Winehouse

Best New Artist
-Amy Winehouse

Best Femal Pop Vocal Performance
-Rehab, Amy Winehouse

Best Male Pop Vocal Performance
-What Goes Around…Comes Around, Justin Timberlake

Best Pop Performance By A Duo Or Group With Vocals
-Makes Me Wonder, Maroon 5

Best Pop Collboration With Vocals
-Gone Gone Gone (Done Moved On), Robert Plant & Alison Krauss

Best Pop Vocal Album
-Back To Black, Amy Winehouse

Best Alternative Music Album
-Icky Thump, The White Stripes

Best Rap Album
-Graduation, Kanye West

Best Soundtrack Compilation Album
-Love

50th GRAMMY Award Predictions

2008-02-10T10:13:00.000-07:00

The Grammy's are always entertaining. Because music is one of my number one priorities, I thought I should probably take interest in the winners and losers of this past year. The only problem I see with my predictions is that I don't really care what is popular or on the radio...so, the artists I have chosen to win each category have been picked because I like them, no other reason. I also narrowed down the categories to the most important ones. I have included the other nominees in case you would like to make your predictions as well. (my predictions are italicized)

Record of the Year
-Irreplaceable, Beyonce
-The Pretender, Foo Fighters
-Umbrella, Rihanna
-What Goes Around…Comes Around, Justin Timberlake
-Rehab, Amy Winehouse

Album of the Year
-Echoes, Silence, Patience & Grace, Foo Fighters
-These Days, Vince Gill
-River: The Joni Letters
-Graduation, Kanye West
-Back to Black, Amy Winehouse

Song of the Year
-Before He Cheats, Carrie Underwood’s songwriters
-Hey There Delilah, Plain White T’s songwriter
-Like A Star, Corinne Bailey Rae
-Rehab, Amy Winehouse
-Umbrella, Rihanna’s songwriters

Best New Artist
-Feist
-Ledisi
-Paramore
-Taylor Swift
-Amy Winehouse

Best Femal Pop Vocal Performance
-Candyman, Christina Aguilera
-1234, Feist
-Big Girls Don’t Cry, Fergie
-Say It Right, Nelly Furtado
-Rehab, Amy Winehouse

Best Male Pop Vocal Performance
-Everything, Michael Buble
-Belief, John Mayer
-Dance Tonight, Paul McCartney
-Amazing, Seal
-What Goes Around…Comes Around, Justin Timberlake

Best Pop Performance By A Duo Or Group With Vocals
-(You Want To) Make A Memory, Bon Jovi
-Home, Daughtry
-Makes Me Wonder, Maroon 5
-Hey There Delilah, Plain White T’s
-Window In The Skies, U2

Best Pop Collboration With Vocals
-Steppin’ Out, Tony Bennett & Christina Aguilera
-Beautiful Liar, Beyonce & Shakira
-Gone Gone Gone (Done Moved On), Robert Plant & Alison Krauss
-The Sweet Escape, Gwen Stefani & Akon
-Give It To Me, Timbaland

Best Pop Vocal Album
-Lost Highway, Bon Jovi
-The Reminder, Feist
-It Won’t Be Soon Before Long, Maroon 5
-Memory Almost Full, Paul McCartney
-Back To Black, Amy Winehouse

Best Alternative Music Album
-Alright, Still…, Lily Allen
-Neon Bible, Arcade Fire
-Volta, Bjork
-Wincing The Night Away, The Shins
-Icky Thump, The White Stripes

Best Rap Album
-Finding Forever, Common
-Kingdom Come, Jay-Z
-Hip Hip Is Dead, Nas
-T.I. vs T.I.P., T.I.
-Graduation, Kanye West

Best Soundtrack Compilation Album
-Across The Universe
-Dreamgirls
-Hairspray
-Love
-Once

I would also like to see Patty Griffin take the Folk/Americana Album award, and Glen Hansard & Marketa Irglova definitely deserve the Best Song written For Motion Picture for “Falling Slowly”.

Good luck to all the artists.

P.S. Praise and hallelujah's to the writer's strike being over!

If you are easily offended...

2008-02-09T08:38:00.000-07:00

...don't watch this. Stephen Colbert interviews a lobbyist from the Human Rights Campaign and is highly inappropriate!

Is it wrong that this makes me cry it's so funny? What do you think?

Two enthusiastic thumbs up!

2008-02-08T22:22:00.001-07:00

I was pleasantly surprised by "Tthe Savages" (in theatres now). It has been awhile since a film has hit every emotion, more than once. I laughed and cried, and laughed and cried some more. It was fabulous and comes highly recommended by someone whose opinion really matters: muah. So if you have no qualms about the rating 'R' and enjoy quality movies, just go see it. I promise you won't regret it.

Yes WE Can.

2008-02-07T22:14:00.000-07:00

I'm a fan of this so-called Barack Obama. And so are they. Take a listen....

Toxic.

2008-02-04T22:23:00.000-07:00

What is it about this song that makes it so...toxic?

Yael Naim

Tristan Prettyman

Nickel Creek

buddy

Profundity

2008-02-03T21:55:00.000-07:00

Chelsea: ‘A grumpy friend will frustrate you, but don’t get too upset. They will make it up to you later.’

Em: Uh-oh. I think that’s me.

Chelsea: Are you grumpy?

Em: I was in a BAD mood today.

Chelsea: So, what are you gonna do to make up for it?

Em: I made you a quesadilla for breakfast!

Chelsea: You can’t make up for something before it even happens!

Em: Yes I can. Have you ever played Mario Bros? …It’s like collecting tokens so you don’t die.

Chelsea: Wow.

Snow...

2008-02-03T20:01:00.000-07:00

sucks.

Plans to leave Logan this morning were postponed because of the so-called "beautiful" snow we are so graced to receive. I'm sure somewhere out there, there is someone who is happy with such a gift. But that someone is not me. Hopefully the sky will clear so we can make a break back to the city.

Will winter ever end?

Land of Aggies

2008-02-02T17:35:00.000-07:00

It's been awhile since I made the drive to the great Logan, a.k.a. cow town. Today I had an all day audiology conference in the good old Walnut Room of the TSC. It's funny how actually stepping foot in some places will resurface past memories and feelings that have been long forgotten.

I don't know how, but I managed to forget that I rocked my undergrad. Yeah, I did A-Team and endulged in sorority land as a Chi-Omega...but really...I was good at school. I'm not trying to boast or brag here. I'm just stating the truth. Seeing a couple familiar faces and shaking hands with past professors just reminded me of how great USU really was.

This has made me think about my current school situation and whether or not I made the correct choice in graduate programs. Even though there are many things that I dislike about the U, I am confident that I am in the right place. I'm not the type of person to base my own happiness on 'what ifs'. When I decide, I decide. So I am happy to report that I do not have any regrets and I have left USU with great memories. I hope that in 2 years I can say the same about U of U.

Way to go.

2008-01-28T12:13:00.000-07:00

The week has started. It couldn't have been more perfect. Changing my tire at work while hurricane winds froze my face off was how it all began. Yes, I had a flat. Yes, I drove on it all the way to work (which is probably only about 3 miles). Yes, it ruined my almost brand new tire. Yes, I am pretty much an idiot. But I redeemed myself by previously purchasing some sort of certificate that gives me a replacement tire for FREE. That was exciting.

Changing that tire was half the battle. Getting home from the tire store proved to be more difficult than expected. As the hurricane winds starting spitting out snow I began to worry about how I was going to get back to work and if that gigantic bowling pin sign would come crashing down, making this a much more exciting story than it really is. But it didn't and I was left to deal with getting back up to Sugarhouse with my plastic car and no power whatsoever, sliding every which way.

So, here I am, safe at home, unable to drive to work, and contemplating why the hell I live in a place where it snows. I mean, is Utah really worth it? I am doubtful.

Sundance Star Stalking

2008-01-19T22:33:00.000-07:00

Sundance '08 has begun. Some friends and I decided to go up to Park City with the sole purpose of becoming paparazzi for the day. I must admit, it was quite exhilerating. Here are a few highlights:

Brushing shoulders with Woody Harrelson.

Method Man.

This is Jack Black. He's been in a few movies.

Tilda Swinton is the white witch from The Chronicles of Narnia.

Arrmand Assante was recently in American Gangster.

Shawn Livingston. NBA player for the Clippers.

Perez Hilton through a window, as though a zoo animal.

Em, Steph, Perez and Me.

So, overall the day was a success. We never got to see the Olsen Twins or Paris Hilton, but life will go on. Maybe next year.

Channel surfing.

2008-01-16T21:14:00.000-07:00

So, after American Idol I decided to channel surf. I came upon TLC's "My Shocking Story". I am always up to a shocking story. This one happened to be Half Man Half Tree. I'm still cringing. Just watch the clip...

Best of '07

2008-01-14T15:50:00.000-07:00

Top 5 Concerts:
1. Brandi Carlile at the Fillmore, San Fransisco.
2. Indigo Girls at RBG, Salt Lake City.
3. Brandi Carlile at the Big Easy, Boise.
4. Regina Spektor at the Avalon Church, Salt Lake City.
5. Sundance Hotel Cafe Tour at Club Celcius, Park City.

Top 5 Songs:
1. "How These Days Grow Long" -Brandi Carlile
2. "Don't Look Back" -Telepopmusik
3. "Loose Ends" -Imogen Heap
4. "This Must Be The Place" -Shawn Colvin
5. "Sea Legs" -The Shins

Top 5 Artists:
1. Brandi Carlile
2. Feist
3. Meiko
4. The Shins
5. Missy Higgins

Top 5 Movies:
1. Once
2. No Country for Old Men
3. Lars and the Real Girl
4. American Gangster
5. Into the Wild

Top 5 Places:
1. Kenya, Africa
2. Albequerque, NM
3. Colorado Springs - San Fran Road Trip
4. Logan canal
5. Home

Top 5 People (influential or otherwise):
1. Em
2. Ane
3. Anna
4. Jen
5. KJ

Top 5 TV Shows (old and new):
1. Grey's Anatomy
2. Alias
3. Dawson's Creek
4. So You Think You Can Dance?
5. Scrubs

Top 5 Books:
1. What is The What by Dave Eggers
2. Ella Minnow Pea by Mark Dunn
3. A Guide to Recognizing Your Saints by Dito Montiel
4. On the Road by Jack Kerouac
5. How We Are Hungry by Dave Eggers

I <3 BAGELS.

2008-01-12T15:04:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks ago I took a stroll over to the local bagel shop where I tend to frequent at least once a week. I greeted BAGELMAN with a smile, and wondered if he remembered me. For some reason I decided to switch it up, so instead of a cinnamon bagel with strawberry cream cheese, I ordered an egg and cheese bagel. As I waited, I guiltily hummed along to Bryan Adam's "Have you ever really loved a woman" playing overhead. BAGELMAN started talking to the room, which consisted of empty chairs and me:

"If this song doesn't stop I'm going to @#$&ing cry!"

I awkwardly smiled and said, "I know, right?"

As I walked up to get my bagel and pay, the following conversation took place:

BAGELMAN: Isn't this Bryan Adams or something?

Me: I think so.

Taking my debit card from me, BAGELMAN: So, do you sing?

Me: Umm, yeah, sometimes. Sure.

BAGELMAN: Well, I am in this local rock band and we are looking for a female vocalist. I don't know if that's something you are into or not, but we are having try-outs and you should totally come down and try-out.

Me: Oh, okay. (A brief pause) So what kind of stuff do you guys do?

BAGELMAN: We take classic 80s/90s love songs and put a twist on them. Ya know, start out mellow and quiet and just end big and crazy. Ya, so if you are interested you should totally come down and try-out.

Me: Alright, I'll think about it. What's your band name?

BAGELMAN proceeded to ramble off the name of this band that I cannot remember for the life of me. I don't even think I would recognize it in writing. I signed the receipt and left with my bagel in hand, baffled by what just went down. Seriously? I just have to wonder what kind of vibe I'm putting out there. My everyday attire doesn't exactly scream grunge-rock-band-chick. But maybe it's all the hidden tattoos and piercings I have. Hey! How does he know about those?

Goodbye 2007.

2007-12-31T10:58:00.000-07:00

I would like to title this past year as “The Year of Extremes”. Never have I felt so lost, alone, and happy in such close proximity. I never expected “finding myself” to be so heartbreaking or difficult. I’ve gone through 23 years of life thinking that everything would be perfect. It never really hit me that in order to be truly happy, I would have to experience unhappy things, sad things. But these monumental events have contributed greatly to this little personality of mine and I wouldn’t take any of them back. I dare say I would repeat everything just to be standing where I am today…but I would if I had to. Sure, life has its ups and downs, some steeper than others, but it can only get better from here. I am looking forward to the “better” that this new year has to offer.

Until then, a nice long shower will do.

Dilemma?

2007-12-11T10:23:00.000-07:00

Should I watch the apparently "fantastic" movie FARGO or continue my DVD marathon of Dawson's Creek?

Yeah...I don't know either.

November?

2007-11-23T15:56:00.000-07:00

I was sitting on my bed, the usual place, where I can see my entire room. the dresser, the desk, the globe, the exercise ball, the calendar, etc. i spend a lot of time here surfing the web, reading, studying, playing the guitar, contemplating life. (did i mention studying?) I just happened to focus on my calendar for a second. And there is was, still on October.

It's Thanksgiving...

I am opposed.

2007-11-22T21:27:00.000-07:00

I am opposed to people coming to the gym in everyday clothes. Okay, yes, I applaud them for even making it to the gym, but really? you have no other clothes but your jeans and hiking boots to work out in? that just amazes me. I wonder if it's out of pure convenience: they don't have to change before OR after their workout session. Or maybe it's because they just don't have any money to buy gym shorts and a simple t-shirt. Hell, some people don't even wear a t-shirt. Five bucks at wal-mart will get you an outfit, I promise.

I'm not trying to be shallow. I don't expect high-end sweat suits and matching shoes. In fact, that's another blog on it's own. I just think you should have separate clothes for sweating profusely in. It just makes sense.

Friday at work.

2007-11-16T17:33:00.000-07:00

Fridays are always known for extreme laziness and many "errands" that cannot be done any other day. After running these so-called errands and picking up some lunch for myself, my coworkers and I decided to be productive. This originally involved scrambling each person's name (first and last) into some kind of dirty word. We started with LAGNENAAN, which was fairly unsuccessful. We continued with LWEYNNYDOGIN and EDJOWADRAWDNOSH. Again, nothing dirty. My turn came around, so we tried THSPCELSHAEA. Putting our noggins together, we came up with CHEST, TAP, PAT, and ASS. I would interpret this as a win. The mormon chick at work has dirty written all over her name. I'm so proud.

Fear.

2007-10-31T22:31:00.000-07:00

This freaks the hell out of me...

Ohh! Now that makes sense.

2007-09-11T21:59:00.001-07:00

I am taking a class this semester called Psychoacoustics, which I won't even try to explain the meaning of at this point. My teacher is from Korea. Probably one of the nicest guys I've ever met, but he just struggles getting his point across, not to mention his educational background is in engineering. Just try and imagine the many communication barriers that lie between him and I. Enough said.

Anyway, last week we were discussing a lot of statistics and came across the bell curve and all its meanings. To help us understand that each end of the curve never reaches an absolute zero (which we already knew), he decided to make a sensible comparison. He laughed, "Normal distribution never ends...so basically, it is like God!"

Yeah. Exactly what I was thinking.

awesome.

2007-08-23T19:35:00.000-07:00

As I was reviewing my warranty on my almost brand new Nokia phone, I came across some conditions under which Nokia will NOT honor their "One-Year Limited Warranty". The second paragraph reads as follows:

b) The Product has been damaged from external causes such as collision with an object, or from fire, flooding, sand, dirt, windstorm, lightning, earthquake or damage from exposure to weather conditions, an *ACT OF GOD, or battery leakage, theft, blown fuse, or improper use of any electrical source, damage cause by computer or internet viruses, bugs, worms, *TROJAN HORSES, cancelbots or damage caused by blah blah blah....

Now, I'm not much of a computer wizard, but really? Trojan Horses? And, has someone really used the excuse of an "Act of God" to get their cell phone replaced? What has this world come to? Either Nokia is comprised of very sarcastic staffers or the general public has gone completely insane. You tell me.

*highlighted for your amusement.

Just because it's a 435- number, doesn't mean you know who they are.

2007-04-17T20:04:00.000-07:00

Random Texter: hey whats up?

Me: Hey, sorry, I don't know who this is?

RT: emily

Me: whats up?

RT: just sitting on my tramp. thanks for saying hi to me today.

Me: Umm...I don't think I know who you are? last name?

RT: dude, we banged dumb ass

Me: Who do you think I am?

RT: who is this

Me: Chelsea

RT: sorry wrong number

Me: thank, I don't remember banging anyone recently. Haha. Have a good night.

FYI

2007-04-12T21:27:00.001-07:00

You can now blog in Hindu!

America.

2007-04-06T08:02:00.000-07:00

The other day I went on an errand for work. If you've ever been to XpedX you will know they offer endless possibilities for invitations and paper creations. It only makes sense that they would also have pinatas, since they are made mostly out of paper, right? As we were waiting for an answer about a particular paper product, a customer asked the price of these pinatas ($7.99 in case you were wondering). The gentleman helping us then felt the need to tell us that a lady once returned a $7.99 pinata because there was no candy in it...Wait, hold up. In case you missed that, she had no clue that you had to fill the paper donkey with your own damn candy! What made the story even better, was that she didn't realize this until the kiddos at the birthday party were swinging away at an empty pinata. Imagine the horror! You are 7 years old, bashing a donkeys head in, expecting piles of yummy goodness to flow from its being, and then...nothing. Just the thrill of being blindfolded, trying to hit a floating paper animal is all they got. No reward for little Jimmy! I can totally understand why this lady was so frustrated. I mean, she did pay eight dollars! Maybe one of the parents should have clued her in before she made an idiot of herself...

Attention: Macy Gray

2007-03-28T10:56:00.000-07:00

You weren't good last night on Leno and you don't sound any better today on The View!

Genius.

2007-03-24T21:25:00.000-07:00

Scrubs is the funniest sitcom on television. I have never laughed out loud, alone in my room, so much in my life! Here's to the joy of laughter! Cheers.

the secret.

2007-03-22T17:06:00.001-07:00

I’ve been thinking lately about my past relationships, friendships and loveships. And as I remember each experience, it makes me smile. I have come the point where I am unaffected by how many times I was hurt or how many times I was let down. I can now appreciate the lessons I have learned from things not working out as I had planned. We learn the most when things don’t go our way. We learn about ourselves, who we really are.

My outlook on life has changed tremendously in the past couple of months. I don’t really know what sparked this change of thought. Maybe it has something to do with moving to the city or deciding to continue my education, basically starting from scratch. Whatever the reason may be, I feel like a different person, closer to who I am or want to be. I used to be so uptight and stubborn. And I still have those tendencies (I’m not denying that), but I’ve tried to consciously be aware of how I act and whom it affects. So, maybe that’s one of the most important things I’ve learned, that what I do and say can either challenge or inspire my current relationships. And although challenges are no fun to deal with, they are completely necessary and part of living.

Positive thinking is the key, or the secret, however you want to refer to it. My perspective on life is not so gloomy. I am learning to live for the unexpected moments and not care so much about the things I don’t like (such as school). I’m trying not to take life and myself so seriously. What a concept! Just LIVE once and awhile. Take in all the experiences life has to offer. I’m only 22 and yet I have experienced more than I have planned on. But I just smile and continue on my way, getting closer and closer to who I am. I’ll get there someday, or maybe I won’t. But would that be such a bad thing?

Ouch.

2007-03-21T20:11:00.000-07:00

Today I walked out of the clinic with 4 shots, 44 malaria pills, typhoid pills, and anti-diarrhea pills for just over $200. It's the price I gladly pay to hopefully not get sick and die in a foreign land. And yes, I can only hope that I won't get sick, because as the lovely nurse, Cheryl, pointed out, these immunizations do not prevent any disease from entering my body. Wonderful. So basically I dish out the cash and hope that it pays off. Let's all HOPE it all works.

Just for the record.

2007-03-14T14:05:00.000-07:00

I think there is something wrong with Martha Stewart. She's been acting very weird lately. And I only know this because the Martha show is the only thing on at 3pm...I usually don't watch her show, I swear!...

Today I learned...

2007-02-08T21:28:00.000-07:00

There are numerous manufacturers who sell hearing aids. Part of their job is to make people with a hearing loss want to buy their product, e.g. fun hearing aid colors, intriguing names, etc. Well, today I realized that one company stands out as far as creative name giving goes. First of all, their company name is Siemens. Okay, fine. I'll give them some credit; maybe it's the founder's last name or something. They probably didn't have any control over it. BUT! Second of all, out of all the other titles they could have given to one of their programs, they decided that the "Wiener filter" was the best fit! Yep, both pronounced like the male anatomy parts! I don't even want to know what the marketing crew was smoking when they came up with that one!

A funny joke.

2007-02-07T21:25:00.000-07:00

After eating downtown, the following conversation took place between two good friends:

Friend 1: The homeless shelter is right there.

Friend 2: I really need to do service.

Friend 1: Not there.

Friend 2: Maybe there…

(Driving past a brick fire pit on the sidewalk…silence)

Friend 2: You know, why don’t homeless people just go get some hot dogs and roast them right there?

Friend 1: They don’t have the money to buy hot dogs…

Friend 2: Well, maybe they should save up a couple bucks to go buy some hot dogs at the grocery store instead of buying a pack of cigarettes!

You know, maybe that’s what I should do: gather up hotdogs and give them to the homeless. We can call it “Hotdogs for Homeless!”

(Outbursts of laughter filled the car. At that moment, nothing was more funny to those two friends.)

Spring.

2007-02-05T22:48:00.000-07:00

According to the Weather Channel dot com, today's temperature reached a high of 47 degrees in SLC. I don't think you can understand how happy that makes me. My spirits were lifted as I walked around the Garden without the protection of a heavy jacket. Life is so much better when the sun can actually keep you warm! Winter, I beg you to leave.

Yes, I am a nerd...

2007-01-27T10:06:00.000-07:00

So, I heard about this in class and thought I would check it out. This is one of our inner ear hair cells at its best! Just jammin' to the music! HAHAHA.

Okay, you probably won't think that it's cool, but it is...

Calling all Utahns, male in gender:

2007-01-25T21:26:00.000-07:00

If you take the time to dress nice, wear nice shoes, etc...

the least you could do is not wear white socks!

2007-01-16T21:26:00.001-07:00

It's dang cold outside.

LD

2007-01-07T12:55:00.000-07:00

So when did Leonardo DiCaprio become a sexy man? I mean, he has always been the teenage heart-throb, especially since his Titanic performance. But really, I have never been attracted to him until now. I think there are some folks (male in gender) who age very nicely, and he happens to be one of them. I hope this doesn't mean I will end up marrying an old man...that would be weird.

Dammit.

2007-01-05T11:50:00.000-07:00

I sometimes find myself surprised by a person's stupidity. I am amazed at what people think is okay to do. I have learned these past few hours that I should not be surprised, but instead I should expect it. Some things never change.

Strange encounters.

2006-12-07T21:41:00.001-07:00

I frequently ride Trax to a class I have on campus. Yesterday, I parked in my usual spot and headed toward the train. As I was walking, I noticed a homeless man holding a sign straight ahead of me. He was greeting cars as they exited the busy shopping center parking lot. I instantly decided to avoid an uncomfortable "hello" by walking behind him, hoping to prevent any type of communication between the two of us. Just as I thought I had escaped all awkwardness, the following happened:

Homeless Man Holding Sign: Hello Ma'am, How are you today?

I replied with the curtious "Good" answer, but of course I couldn't stop there. Before I knew it I added, "How are you?"...

Hold on. What a second. Did I really have the audacity to ask a HOMELESS man how he was doing?? Ummm, yes I did. And what do you think was his reply? Not the curtious "Fine, Thank you", but instead he boldy replied, "I don't know yet", hoping that I could somehow change his fate right at that very moment. (heart sinking to bottom of chest) What was I thinking? Of course a homeless man begging for something is not doing great. What did I expect! It's not like I really cared how he was doing. And if I did, I would have pulled out my loose change from my purse and smiled kindly, no words needed.

So I continued my walk of shame to the tracks and made a vow never to make stupid conversational decisions again. We'll see how that works out.

What I hate.

2006-12-03T13:59:00.000-07:00

I hate:
writing papers
cold sores
cold hands
homework
studying
finals week

ok, basically I hate school right now...I can't wait for this week to be over. I keep finding other things to do besides study or write my paper. I am ansy right now just to be done with the semester. I need a couple weeks to get ready for another, even harder, semester. AHHH. I should go now.

Money

2006-11-30T17:54:00.000-07:00

I will never forget the feeling of paying off credit card debt. To finally be able to do that is a tremendous, overwhelming happiness that reminds me how much I rely on money. I get really nervous when I don't have any and I hate asking my parents for money, so I don't whenever possible. But I try and take on my mother's attitude of "Money is there to spend, so we have to spend it when we have to spend it!" I try not to worry when my bank account gets horrifyingly low, but when I get money again and can pay off what I owe, I am joyous and relieved. Thank you money, for causing stresses and then taking them away.

It could happen.

2006-11-01T21:05:00.001-07:00

"Prayer the ultimate wireless network"

I saw this on a billboard outside of a church in downtown Salt Lake. It reminded me of a small town horror flick made in the 80's. The camera would pan across a church like this as you enter the town where everyone will be murdered except you. And you will be left in bloody clothes, with scrapes and bruises from the many close-calls, trying to hitch a ride to the nearest town, which happens to be even weirder than the first. And next summer the same thing will happen to you once again. Your life is forever haunted and you will never escape it...

Just sayin'...

10.31

2006-11-01T00:09:00.000-07:00

America is a weird place. For the past month I have procrastinated the registration of You Too, and have left the task for the last possible day of completion, the 31st of October. As I took the long way to the DMV, I had forgotten that this was a special day. If I had decided to sit on nasty black, plastic chairs any other day, I would have a had a completely different experience than that of this blessed day. Before I walked through those ever too simple doors, I was expecting grumpy, unforgiving government workers. Instead, I got normal, everyday Americans, dressed as witches, and pirates, and pumpkins. As I sat there trying to think of anything but how long I had been there, I realized that we live in a strange place. One day, out of all the days of the year, we are allowed to be anyone but ourselves. We are able to put on a front and say "Peace, love and happiness" without being judged as a free spirit or hippie. And I believe I got better service because of it. It is sad to think that tomorrow, just a couple hours difference, will change the attitudes and demeanors of those government workers who so willingly helped me today. They will no longer have such a convenient conversation starter or tension-breaker. So, that leads me back to my opening statement: America is a weird place. If we really wanted to be a hippie or pirate, what is stopping us from that. Or even better, what makes us believe that it is okay to do it once a year?

Lately...

2006-10-26T21:39:00.000-07:00

Lately I have been going to sleep to a movie. I just can't get my mind to shut off. Life got hard and busy and I don't know how to deal with it. And it's not like I have never been busy before, I have. It's just more complicated now. I don't want to give that extra effort that would make things okay. I just don't. I can't get rid of that feeling, you know, the one that will never let you relax because you have a million things to do. And somehow you get them all done. That's how it has ended up before, but this kind of feels different. Like there is no ending. And there might not be and so what. What do I care? I seem to care a little too much. Maybe that's my problem. I should try to not care so much. But for now I just need more movies...

2006-10-08T13:19:00.000-07:00

"Pain...you just have to ride it out. The truth is you can't outrun it. Life always makes more."
-the creative writers of Grey's Anatomy

Poem #1278 in memory of You

2006-08-29T13:20:00.000-07:00

Today I lost You.

A loud pop,
And you're gone.
As I waited to be saved,
You were already dead.

We listened to great music,
You never complained.
Except for that Winter,
You would scream everyday.

And then came the Summer,
We barely went out.
I would sometimes forget,
You were so close.

But Your time is now done,
You left me in pieces.
What shall I ever do,
without You.

-dedicated to the best friend a girl could have...my Mitsu. (tear tear)

Firenze, Italia

2006-07-30T05:06:00.000-07:00

I am here in the beautiful city of Florence. It is our second day here so we are becoming more and more familiar with its streets and people. When you travel, you learn quickly what you like and don't like. Like: Florence, Don't like: Rome. And I mean, yeah, Rome is great for the obvious reasons (Coloseum, ancient ruins, Vatican, etc.), but it really is just another hot, stinky and busy city. There is nothing wrong with that, it just wasn't my favorite. I think it was good to start with Rome, get the worst over with and now I can enjoy the company of those who don't mind that I am not familiar with the language. People are happier the further north we go. I wish everyone the chance to travel to different parts of the world. It is a very good thing. Tomorrow we tour the churches. What a life!

Ciao!

Top 10 Fav. Songs, 7.20.06

2006-07-20T22:03:00.000-07:00

Most of these are solid, but let me tell you something...It is dang hard to figure out your favorite songs of all time. I have no doubt that every year, maybe even every week, some of these will be exchanged for newly discovered captivating songs. But for now:

1. Unfold - Jason Mraz
2. Eleanor Rigby - The Beatles
3. Because I Told You So - Jonatha Brooke
4. Learning to Fly - Tom Petty
5. King of Sorrow - Sade
6. Guestcheck - Tristan Prettyman
7. Nobody knows me at all - The Weepies
8. Glory Bound (acoustic) - Martin Sexton
9. Building A Mystery - Sarah Mclachlan
10. Out of Habit - Ani DiFranco

Peace be with you...

TOP 5 as of 7.6.06

2006-07-06T13:28:00.000-07:00

On the glorious ride back from Colorado (the colorful state) I was asked the question: "What are your top five song artists?" Everyone in the car had a chance to respond, each taking their time. As I pondered, I felt good about the five I chose. When it comes down to it, each of these artists have been with me through different times of my life. It is kind of cool to look back on memories and hear a song playing in your head. It spices up life a bit...

1. The Beatles
2. Tom Petty
3. Guster
4. Jason Mraz
5. Tristan Prettyman

Update.

2006-06-28T14:53:00.000-07:00

So, last night I found out that the angry man that I talked to yesterday is completely insane and rude to everyone. So now I do not feel bad one bit. Not even a little. He definitely deserved the attitude I laid down on him. Ha! I feel great!

I broke.

2006-06-27T12:31:00.000-07:00

So much for being nice. I thought i was doing just great. but then i lost control. well, not completely, but i was no longer nice. i got a phone call from a very rude parent today. at first i was nice, but he was already to the point where when you are so frustrated you just repeat yourself and don't listen to what people have to say. i tried to answer his questions as politely as i could, at first, but that didn't last. it's hard not to stoop to the level of an angry parent when he won't even take the time to listen. it was so bad, i had to call him by the name "SIR"...that rarely happens. you know someone is frustrated when the names "sir" or "maam" are spoken. when i hung up the phone, i had failed to get the students name, or his for that matter, and luckily he didn't ask for mine. i feel bad for my reactions, and i should, but he made me feel useless and dumb. the more i write, the more i realize that everyone should just be nice to each other. i think a lot of problems would be fixed if everyone just shook it off a little and relaxed, myself included. i am getting less shakey by the minute, so i should be recovered by tomorrow. oh, the perks of working for orientation.