With some inspiration from Stephen King, I asked myself this question -- Did I have a great year pop culturally speaking? I would have to say yes; and this years list includes only things I enjoyed in 2012 and that is fine. Here is a list of 14 things that made me squee with fandom. Please remember -- I am more interested in entertaining myself than in a OMG this is a great moment/statement. So let us get this ride started.
14: The fact that I have not read any of the "best" books of 2012 and I am content with that. I personally do not listen to critics. Sometimes they have an agenda, for example pushing a book that has some of the worst writing ever *cough50ShadesofGreycough*. So instead I went with my own gut feelings and enjoyed reading some paranormal smut (thanks to Felicia Day and her Vaginal Fantasy book club) to steampunk vampires to getting back into comic books (thanks to my friend Veronica as well as DC Comics producing some great stories.) Some great books I read this year were: The Walking Dead by Robert Kirkman, My Life as a White Trash Zombie by Diana Rowland, Abraham Lincoln Vampire Hunter by Seth Grahame Smith, The Wonderland series by Raven Gregory, Tiger Eye by Judy Blume, Succubus Blues by Richelle Mead, Rot to Ruin by Jonathan Maberry, and Fables by Chris Roberson.
13: The television show Don't Trust the B in Apartment 23. It is a shame this show might get cancelled but the comedy writing is pure genius and the acting from Kristen Ritter and James Van Der Beek is pure gold.
12: The cancellation of the television show The Secret Circle. Yes I did say this last year: When I found out this series is based on another series written by L.J. Smith, I had my tread lightly shoes on as the CW Network took another series by L.J. Smith and made a televised version of The Twilight Saga. Yes I am talking about The Vampire Diaries. 'The Secret Circle' did not redefine my idea of what a supernatural drama can be or what a program about witches and warlocks can be. But the main pieces of a teen drama are laid out perfectly from the young women learning about their abilities to first loves/crushes to the bad girl troublemaker and the history of a small town. 'The Secret Circle' demonstrates an admirable confidence in its pace and destination, and it also has the excellent Britt Robertson ('Life Unexpected') giving the journey of Cassie Blake an emotional grounding that is likely to make the whole affair satisfying to genre fans and myself. but this show had no action whatsoever. It was all dialogue dialogue dialogue. If that was the case, I would have just read the books and left it alone. The show did start off well but come March 2012, it fell very flat. Now when will Vampire Diaries get the ax?
11: The television show Two Broke Girls. Again, great comedy writing by Whitney Cummings and the acting of Kat Dennings is golden.
10: The movie version of my favorite musical "Les Miserables". The singing in the movie is subpar at best but I am glad to see that this great book has now passed through three mediums.
9: Gangham Style. Yes it is a silly dance. Yes it is a one hit wonder. Yes PSY's 15 minutes of fame are now over. But to bring together a bunch of people at a convention or a murder mystery weekend in a completely random way and have some fun, isn't that what music and dancing is all about?
8: Anne Hathaway as Catwoman/Seline Kyle. We all know the story --The prologue alone is a heart-stopper, as masked brute Bane (Tom Hardy) escapes from a CIA-manned plane in midair. He soon plots to destroy Gotham City, leading Batman (Christian Bale) to emerge from an eight-year exile. Can the caped crusader trust a leather-clad cat burglar (Anne Hathaway) to help? Hathaway shines brightest playing a slinky femme fatale. She even induces chills strutting through a jail. But while she rivets and Hardy menaces, Bale broods. Ever the tortured soul, Batman as well as alter ego Bruce Wayne wallows in a pit of desolation -- emotionally and literally -- for long stretches, which doesn't always translate into primo entertainment. This one is not my favorite of the Batman movies but in terms of casting, Anne Hathaway blew Michelle Pfieffer out of the water with her portrayal of Catwoman/Selina Kyle.
7: That the television show Gossip Girl finally ended and I really did not care. Gossip Girl used to be one of my favorite shows. The fashion, the scandals, the relationship between Chuck/Blair/Serena/Dan but after a while it was just downright boring and the characters just did not grab you anymore. For five years it did well. Heck maybe the book Gossip Girl Psycho Killer will be a spin-off?
6: The television show Arrow. Originally I was annoyed that Justin Hartley was not cast as Arrow/Oliver Queen as he did a superb job as this character on Smallville but I got used to the abs known as Stephen Arnell. Also I am glad that the CW Network followed the canon of Arrow as best as they could plus the inclusion of Manhunter and Huntress? I say CW Network found its next superhero television hit.
5: The television show Once Upon a Time. My love of fairy tales came back with Zenescope Entertainment last year and this show continues to foster and make it grow.
4: Animated movies being better than live action movies, namely Brave, Wreck-it Ralph, Rise of the Guardians, and A Cat in Paris. It takes great storytelling and talent to pull off a children's movie or book. These movies did just that.
3: Getting back into the television show The Walking Dead. Season 2 SUCKED. Too much dialogue. Not enough action. Not paying attention/following the canon of the graphic novel. Season 3 changed all that. The show did not follow the graphic novel as precisely as I would like and have expressed in other forums but more action was in this season and more zombies. I like zombies...in case you did not know that.
2: The book and movie Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter. It seems that the mash up of history and fiction works well for Seth Grahame Smith even though I did not like his book Pride and Prejudice and Zombies. But to take something as far fetched as Abraham Lincoln before becoming the 16th president of the United States that he was a vampire hunter and that slaves were food for vampires and that is one of the reasons he abolished slavery into a book and a movie, that takes some talent.
1: The movie The Avengers. This movie fulfilled every fanboys/fangirls dream. Thank you Joss Whedon! He should be the director of every Marvel superhero movie. Now hopefully he can bring Firefly and Dollhouse back.
So my fellow readers, what are your 2012 pop culture favorites? Why not answer the question in the first paragraph as I did? Remember -- what you enjoyed or were entertained by in 2012 does not have to be from 2012. This years blog for me just happened to be.
Monday, December 31, 2012
Tuesday, December 25, 2012
Holiday Haul 2012
As I have some Food Network playing on my television in the background, I figured it would be a perfect opportunity to write up my 2012 Christmas Haul. It has been a crazy festive time. Donated clothes to The Bowery Mission, wore an ugly Christmas sweater to work, drank copious amounts of peppermint hot chocolate, visited various holiday windows, and wore mistletoe. I think because I work in Kindergarten is the reason why this holiday season for me has been magical. I want to wish you all a festive day! For myself, today is all about my wonderful family, the food that my mom has prepared for us, and enjoying each others' company. I also cannot wait to share the joy! My wish for all of you that read my blog is that you are surrounded by loved ones and have a wonderful, relaxing day. Happiest holiday to you. With all of this being said, here is what I received this year. Please do not think I am rubbing it in -- I do know the true meaning of the season.
From Lorraine and Adam Jacobs:
Big Bang Theory fact or fiction trivia game, some makeup from Maybelline.
From Melissa Miller:
Clerks X DVD set.
From my students:
Laugh Often by Reese Witherspoon perfume.
A digital photo frame.
A purple scarf.
Some walnut tarts.
A Coach wristlet bag.
A tealight wall sconce.
From Christine Schneider:
Hello Kitty jeweled earbud headphones.
From Fran Gonsiewkski:
The book "Fairy Tales from the Brothers Grimm: A New English Version" by Philip Pullman
From my family
A Nintendo 3DS XL
A new Trouble board game
A purple velvet top
A Marvel Heroes activity and sticker book.
A Dammit Doll
A $40 LUSH gift certificate
From David Cohen
The Big Bang Theory complete 3rd and 5th season DVD sets
The King of Queens complete series DVD set (27 discs of pure Dougie goodness!)
Angry Birds Trilogy game for my Nintendo 3DS XL
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time game for my Nintendo 3DS XL
Hello Kitty Snow White on VHS
A Sheldon Cooper plush doll
A KidRobot Donut plush
A Big Bang Theory Soft Kitty snuggie blanket.
The book Math Doesn't Suck by Danica McKellar
The book 365: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life -- A Daily Creativity Journal
Tell me what you received in the comments below!
From Lorraine and Adam Jacobs:
Big Bang Theory fact or fiction trivia game, some makeup from Maybelline.
From Melissa Miller:
Clerks X DVD set.
From my students:
Laugh Often by Reese Witherspoon perfume.
A digital photo frame.
A purple scarf.
Some walnut tarts.
A Coach wristlet bag.
A tealight wall sconce.
From Christine Schneider:
Hello Kitty jeweled earbud headphones.
From Fran Gonsiewkski:
The book "Fairy Tales from the Brothers Grimm: A New English Version" by Philip Pullman
From my family
A Nintendo 3DS XL
A new Trouble board game
A purple velvet top
A Marvel Heroes activity and sticker book.
A Dammit Doll
A $40 LUSH gift certificate
From David Cohen
The Big Bang Theory complete 3rd and 5th season DVD sets
The King of Queens complete series DVD set (27 discs of pure Dougie goodness!)
Angry Birds Trilogy game for my Nintendo 3DS XL
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time game for my Nintendo 3DS XL
Hello Kitty Snow White on VHS
A Sheldon Cooper plush doll
A KidRobot Donut plush
A Big Bang Theory Soft Kitty snuggie blanket.
The book Math Doesn't Suck by Danica McKellar
The book 365: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life -- A Daily Creativity Journal
Tell me what you received in the comments below!
Tuesday, December 18, 2012
Are You A Cosette or an Eponine?
My favorite play, Les Miserables, as many of you are aware, is coming to a movie theatre near you on Christmas Day. Yes I know everyone is going ga-ga over Anne Hathaway playing Fantine but guess what? Her role at most is 10 minutes long. So I decided to look at the other two main characters in this play -- Cosette and Eponine -- and asked people on Facebook as well as now this blog which one would you be?
Let me first explain each character.
Cosette, in the realm of Les Miserables, is the daughter of Fantine and becomes the adopted child of Jean Valjean. After her mother leaves her to be looked after by the Thénardiers she becomes an exploited and victimised child. Taken away by Valjean, she grows up in a convent to become a radiant and innocent young beauty, who falls in love with student Marius Pontemercy. The protection and love of Cosette is the principal motivation for the actions of the main positive characters in the novel. Critics have often considered Cosette to be something of an empty figure, with no real independent character apart from the role she plays in the lives of others: as an innocent child-victim; daughter to be protected (for Fantine and Valjean); and object of adoration (for Marius). Stephanie Barbé Hammer writes that "Having served her function as a paternalizing figure, Cosette grows up into a silent, beautiful cipher".She has the same, but reverse, role as an object of jealousy and hatred for the villainous characters. As Kathryn M. Grossman remarks, she brings out the "hatred of humanity" that is typical of Hugo's villains. When Mme Thénardier sees that the grown-up Cosette has become a "well-off and radiant young woman, Mme Thénardier responds viscerally, "I'd like to kick open her belly"."Cosette is also portrayed as largely sexless. Mario Vargas Llosa says of her relationship to Marius, Now the love between these two is completely ethereal; the sex drive has been surgically removed so that their relationship can be purely one of feeling. Before the wedding the young people exchange one kiss, which is not repeated because, as the narrator says, neither Marius nor Cosette was aware of the existence of carnal desire.... The dialogue between these two virtuous lovers is as unreal as their amorous behavior. For this reason, the episodes where the two lovers talk to each other are the most artificial moments in the novel.
George Saintsbury calls her "merely a pretty and rather selfish little doll". Others consider Cosette to be the popular girl that everyone adores with no original thought of her own.
Eponine, on the other hand, is introduced as a spoiled and pampered child, but comes back into the story as a ragged and prematurely aged teenager who speaks in the Parisian street-argot of the time, but who retains vestiges of her former charm and innocence. Éponine and her younger sister Azelma are described as pretty, well-dressed, charming and a delight to see. They are pampered and spoiled by their parents, the Thénardiers. Following their parents' example, they tease and mistreat Cosette.
When Éponine becomes an adolescent, she and her family descend into poverty as a result of the bankruptcy of her parents' inn. They live in a small run-down apartment in Paris under the assumed name of "Jondrette". Éponine becomes a "pale, puny, meagre creature", with a hoarse voice like "a drunken galley slave's", having been "roughened by brandy and by liquors". She now wears dirty and tattered clothing, consisting solely of a chemise and a skirt. She has missing teeth, mangled hair, bony shoulders, heavy brooding drooping eyes, and a prematurely-aged face with only a trace of beauty lingering. She had "the look of a corrupted old woman; fifty years joined with fifteen; one of those beings who are both feeble and horrible at once, and who make those shudder whom they do not make weep". Éponine brings Marius and Cosette together, even though she herself is in love with him and envious of Cosette. The name Éponine derives from the ancient Gaulish heroine Epponina, wife of Julius Sabinus, who rebelled against the Roman empire. She "became the symbol of great patriotism and virtue" by protecting her husband for many years and by choosing to die with him when he was finally captured. The name was quite common in post-Revolutionary France among Republicans and Bonapartists.
So upon reading both of these descriptions -- which would you fall under? A Cosette or an Eponine?
Let me first explain each character.
Cosette, in the realm of Les Miserables, is the daughter of Fantine and becomes the adopted child of Jean Valjean. After her mother leaves her to be looked after by the Thénardiers she becomes an exploited and victimised child. Taken away by Valjean, she grows up in a convent to become a radiant and innocent young beauty, who falls in love with student Marius Pontemercy. The protection and love of Cosette is the principal motivation for the actions of the main positive characters in the novel. Critics have often considered Cosette to be something of an empty figure, with no real independent character apart from the role she plays in the lives of others: as an innocent child-victim; daughter to be protected (for Fantine and Valjean); and object of adoration (for Marius). Stephanie Barbé Hammer writes that "Having served her function as a paternalizing figure, Cosette grows up into a silent, beautiful cipher".She has the same, but reverse, role as an object of jealousy and hatred for the villainous characters. As Kathryn M. Grossman remarks, she brings out the "hatred of humanity" that is typical of Hugo's villains. When Mme Thénardier sees that the grown-up Cosette has become a "well-off and radiant young woman, Mme Thénardier responds viscerally, "I'd like to kick open her belly"."Cosette is also portrayed as largely sexless. Mario Vargas Llosa says of her relationship to Marius, Now the love between these two is completely ethereal; the sex drive has been surgically removed so that their relationship can be purely one of feeling. Before the wedding the young people exchange one kiss, which is not repeated because, as the narrator says, neither Marius nor Cosette was aware of the existence of carnal desire.... The dialogue between these two virtuous lovers is as unreal as their amorous behavior. For this reason, the episodes where the two lovers talk to each other are the most artificial moments in the novel.
George Saintsbury calls her "merely a pretty and rather selfish little doll". Others consider Cosette to be the popular girl that everyone adores with no original thought of her own.
Eponine, on the other hand, is introduced as a spoiled and pampered child, but comes back into the story as a ragged and prematurely aged teenager who speaks in the Parisian street-argot of the time, but who retains vestiges of her former charm and innocence. Éponine and her younger sister Azelma are described as pretty, well-dressed, charming and a delight to see. They are pampered and spoiled by their parents, the Thénardiers. Following their parents' example, they tease and mistreat Cosette.
When Éponine becomes an adolescent, she and her family descend into poverty as a result of the bankruptcy of her parents' inn. They live in a small run-down apartment in Paris under the assumed name of "Jondrette". Éponine becomes a "pale, puny, meagre creature", with a hoarse voice like "a drunken galley slave's", having been "roughened by brandy and by liquors". She now wears dirty and tattered clothing, consisting solely of a chemise and a skirt. She has missing teeth, mangled hair, bony shoulders, heavy brooding drooping eyes, and a prematurely-aged face with only a trace of beauty lingering. She had "the look of a corrupted old woman; fifty years joined with fifteen; one of those beings who are both feeble and horrible at once, and who make those shudder whom they do not make weep". Éponine brings Marius and Cosette together, even though she herself is in love with him and envious of Cosette. The name Éponine derives from the ancient Gaulish heroine Epponina, wife of Julius Sabinus, who rebelled against the Roman empire. She "became the symbol of great patriotism and virtue" by protecting her husband for many years and by choosing to die with him when he was finally captured. The name was quite common in post-Revolutionary France among Republicans and Bonapartists.
So upon reading both of these descriptions -- which would you fall under? A Cosette or an Eponine?
Friday, December 14, 2012
Le Geek Carousel #8
Well hello everyone! We are 11 days away from Chrishankwanzakahmus but here I am with some early geeky links! Enjoy!
What? DC Comics' Gail Simone Has Been Removed as Writer of Batgirl.
Calling All Geek Girls! Join the STEM Program at The Huffington Post.
The Hunger Games was the most googled movie in 2012.
Found a new web series to enjoy...and yes Felicia Day is in it -- MY GIMPY LIFE
Love the new The Wolverine poster.
Hannibal prequel casts Gillian Anderson as his therapist.
Progress! NJ Teen Girl meets with Hasbro about Easy Bake Oven.
So who is the villain in Star Trek into Darkness? JJ Abrams and Benedict Cumberbatch discuss it.
Colton Haynes is cast for Arrow.
Angry Birds is getting a movie in 2016, Yep you read that right.
Here is the first full trailer for Man of Steel. I am not a Superman and this gave me goosebumps.
Lets hope this does not get cancelled in two seasons -- Eliza Dushku to co-star in The Saint reboot/remake.
What? DC Comics' Gail Simone Has Been Removed as Writer of Batgirl.
Calling All Geek Girls! Join the STEM Program at The Huffington Post.
The Hunger Games was the most googled movie in 2012.
Found a new web series to enjoy...and yes Felicia Day is in it -- MY GIMPY LIFE
Love the new The Wolverine poster.
Hannibal prequel casts Gillian Anderson as his therapist.
Progress! NJ Teen Girl meets with Hasbro about Easy Bake Oven.
So who is the villain in Star Trek into Darkness? JJ Abrams and Benedict Cumberbatch discuss it.
Colton Haynes is cast for Arrow.
Angry Birds is getting a movie in 2016, Yep you read that right.
Here is the first full trailer for Man of Steel. I am not a Superman and this gave me goosebumps.
Lets hope this does not get cancelled in two seasons -- Eliza Dushku to co-star in The Saint reboot/remake.
Friday, December 7, 2012
Le Geek Carousel #7
Why hello all to another edition of Le Geek Carousel! I hope all of my readers are having a splendid Friday as well as a splendid countdown to the holiday season. I just came home from a make up French class and now I am ready to share some of the geek news I saw this week with you. Lets get started!
Director exits Highlander remake. Good. Maybe it will not be made now.
Fan of Battlestar Galactica? Be part of a LARP game in Sweden.
New poster for Man of Steel.
Museum of Mathematics opens in NYC on December 15th. Oh yes I will be visiting.
Eighth Grader tells Hasbro to Man-Up the Easy Bake Oven. Personally, this should have been done eons ago.
Here is the poster for Star Trek Into Darkness.
"Fifty Shades of Grey" Porn Adaptation sued by Universal Studios
Disney is eyeing three different actresses for Cinderella lead. Who would you pick?
CW's Wonder Woman has Diana going back to her roots. EXCITED!!!
Grr! False Alarm! Sir Patrick Stewart is not part of X-Men: First Class...yet.
No!!! Please don't go! Karen Berger leaving DC Entertainment.
Director exits Highlander remake. Good. Maybe it will not be made now.
Fan of Battlestar Galactica? Be part of a LARP game in Sweden.
New poster for Man of Steel.
Museum of Mathematics opens in NYC on December 15th. Oh yes I will be visiting.
Eighth Grader tells Hasbro to Man-Up the Easy Bake Oven. Personally, this should have been done eons ago.
Here is the poster for Star Trek Into Darkness.
"Fifty Shades of Grey" Porn Adaptation sued by Universal Studios
Disney is eyeing three different actresses for Cinderella lead. Who would you pick?
CW's Wonder Woman has Diana going back to her roots. EXCITED!!!
Grr! False Alarm! Sir Patrick Stewart is not part of X-Men: First Class...yet.
No!!! Please don't go! Karen Berger leaving DC Entertainment.
Wednesday, December 5, 2012
My December Activity Guide
Besides Halloween, I will admit I still get excited for Christmas time. Things just seem to be more magical in the month of December. Lights and sparkle are everywhere. Last year, with inspiration from Gala Darling's December Activity Guide I wrote up my own and it made my month of December just that much more fun. Below you will find an outline of what I am doing this month to bring on the holiday cheer. Yes some of it might be cheesy but the point is to be FESTIVE! I do apologize for writing this on December 5th, but as you can tell...I have been busy!
December 1st: Gather Christmas music to make a mix for my iPod. Donate clothes to The Bowery Mission.
December 2nd: Make Star Wars glitter snowflakes.
December 3rd: Get holiday cards ready!
December 4th: Wear mistletoe headband at work and at the French Institute.
December 5th: Get some peppermint hot chocolate and enjoy Gingerbread Extravaganza at Le Parker Meridien.
December 6th: Get some chocolate coins and give them to people who make me smile.
December 7th: Wear Christmas ornament earrings at work and at the French Institute.
December 8th: Get some Ferrero Rocher chocolate or Godiva Chocolate for the NYC Vaginal Fantasy Book Club meet up.
December 9th: Go to Bryant Park, get some hot chocolate, and watch the ice skaters.
December 10th: Start writing out holiday cards.
December 11th: Watch something holiday related.
December 12th: Attend holiday party at The French Embassy.
December 13th: Start wrapping presents!
December 14th: Mail out holiday cards.
December 15th: Attend Unsilent Night in Washington Square Park at 7pm.
December 16th: Check out Christmas windows along 5th Avenue.
December 17th: Wear ugly Christmas sweater at work.
December 18th: Maybe take a picture with Santa Claus?
December 19th: Watch the Polar Express with my class.
December 20th: Get a manicure and make one nail sparkly.
December 21st: Go see How the Grinch Stole Christmas on Broadway with David.
December 22nd: Have Rankin Bass Christmas special marathon at home.
December 23rd: Visit nephews.
December 24th: Have dinner with David.
December 25th: Watch A Muppet Christmas Carol after opening presents.
I hope all of the readers of my blog have a wonderful holiday season!
December 1st: Gather Christmas music to make a mix for my iPod. Donate clothes to The Bowery Mission.
December 2nd: Make Star Wars glitter snowflakes.
December 3rd: Get holiday cards ready!
December 4th: Wear mistletoe headband at work and at the French Institute.
December 5th: Get some peppermint hot chocolate and enjoy Gingerbread Extravaganza at Le Parker Meridien.
December 6th: Get some chocolate coins and give them to people who make me smile.
December 7th: Wear Christmas ornament earrings at work and at the French Institute.
December 8th: Get some Ferrero Rocher chocolate or Godiva Chocolate for the NYC Vaginal Fantasy Book Club meet up.
December 9th: Go to Bryant Park, get some hot chocolate, and watch the ice skaters.
December 10th: Start writing out holiday cards.
December 11th: Watch something holiday related.
December 12th: Attend holiday party at The French Embassy.
December 13th: Start wrapping presents!
December 14th: Mail out holiday cards.
December 15th: Attend Unsilent Night in Washington Square Park at 7pm.
December 16th: Check out Christmas windows along 5th Avenue.
December 17th: Wear ugly Christmas sweater at work.
December 18th: Maybe take a picture with Santa Claus?
December 19th: Watch the Polar Express with my class.
December 20th: Get a manicure and make one nail sparkly.
December 21st: Go see How the Grinch Stole Christmas on Broadway with David.
December 22nd: Have Rankin Bass Christmas special marathon at home.
December 23rd: Visit nephews.
December 24th: Have dinner with David.
December 25th: Watch A Muppet Christmas Carol after opening presents.
I hope all of the readers of my blog have a wonderful holiday season!
Friday, November 30, 2012
Le Geek Carousel #5
This week's Le Geek Carousel is brought to you by the first time attending, first time WINNING 2ND PLACE Allenberry Murder Mystery Weekend participant, the one and only Joisey Dani! This past weekend was a lot of fun and if you like playing Clue, I suggest you go. Well anyway...lets get on with the show!
Cory and Topanga will be on the sequel of Boy Meets World!
Watch out village in Serbia -- There is a Vampire on the loose!
I agree Harley Quinn. Your latest costumes are kind of weak.
From Bryan Singers Mouth -- PATRICK STEWART and IAN MCKELLAN to be in X-Men: First Class!
Is Joseph Gordon Levitt Going to play Batman in the Justice League movie?
Five Comics to get a dude into comics from a girls prospective.
One of my favorite horror movies, Psycho, is getting an series on A&E called Bates Motel.
A ZOMBIE SCHOLARSHIP??? I am not in college anymore so you apply! Deadline is 12/31/2012.
Spiderman 2 Set for Filming in London
Here is a plot synopsis for Star Trek into Darkness
Cate Blanchett in talks to play Evil Stepmother in a new Disneylive action Cinderella movie.
Next week is the Hobbit week on Colbert Report.
Christmas Gift? Wonder Woman caped pint glass
Robert Zemeckis Just Waiting for the go-ahead for Roger Rabbit sequel.
YES CW NETWORK! Casting Begins for Teenage Wonder Woman TV Series titled Amazon.
Cory and Topanga will be on the sequel of Boy Meets World!
Watch out village in Serbia -- There is a Vampire on the loose!
I agree Harley Quinn. Your latest costumes are kind of weak.
From Bryan Singers Mouth -- PATRICK STEWART and IAN MCKELLAN to be in X-Men: First Class!
Is Joseph Gordon Levitt Going to play Batman in the Justice League movie?
Five Comics to get a dude into comics from a girls prospective.
One of my favorite horror movies, Psycho, is getting an series on A&E called Bates Motel.
A ZOMBIE SCHOLARSHIP??? I am not in college anymore so you apply! Deadline is 12/31/2012.
Spiderman 2 Set for Filming in London
Here is a plot synopsis for Star Trek into Darkness
Cate Blanchett in talks to play Evil Stepmother in a new Disneylive action Cinderella movie.
Next week is the Hobbit week on Colbert Report.
Christmas Gift? Wonder Woman caped pint glass
Robert Zemeckis Just Waiting for the go-ahead for Roger Rabbit sequel.
YES CW NETWORK! Casting Begins for Teenage Wonder Woman TV Series titled Amazon.
Friday, November 23, 2012
Le Geek Carousel #4
HAPPY BUY NOTHING FRIDAY! Thats right -- BUY NOTHING. Why does the day after Thanksgiving have to mean give into your primal urges and buy more stuff you probably do not need anyway? So on this day I give you a hearty geek carousel to keep you entertained that does not cost you a dime! Besides, after Chrishankwanzakah sales are the BEST!
--First and foremost, I need to make this announcement first. My BFF Nerd Herder Veronica and her husband Damian have secured a very special guest for their podcast on December 7th. If you are a fan of the Mighty Morphin Power Rangers, you must listen to their podcast on December 7th at 9pm EST. Why you might ask? THEY HAVE A LIVE, ON AIR INTERVIEW WITH THE ONE, THE ONLY, JASON DAVID FRANK. Thats right ladies and gents, Tommy the Green Ranger as well as Tommy the White Ranger. This is an episode NOT to be missed. Here is the link: Nerd Herders Radio
--This needs to be made into a television show. Seriously. Smallville lasted 10 years.
--I am allergic to cats but this is cute: "Oskars First Toys wins Friskies' best cat video
--*smacks head* Yes because Battleship was so good....Award Winning Playwright Jez Butteworth Hired to write an ASTEROIDS movie. No, really.
--Jane Goldman to Write "Pinocchio for Robert Downey Jr. and Tim Burton
--FINALLY! Makeup Artist Rick Baker to get a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame
--I do not want to see The Hobbit but I might just have to shell out the money for this: Star Trek Into Darkness to debut first 9 minutes in IMAX sneak preview
--This is pretty funny and well edited.
--As I start my Christmas advent calendar I am definitely making some Star Wars Snowflakes
--My ban on NYCC might have to be lifted for this: Operation BatGirl
--Shakespeare Choose Your Own Adventure? HECK TO THE YES PLEASE!
--New story posthumously from Ray Bradbury "Dear Santa"
--Yes! Tyreese is coming to AMC's The Walking Dead!
--I am still excited Huntress is coming to CW's Arrow. Here are 5 more pictures of her.
--More Reasons for me to spend money to see The Hobbit and then leave.
--
--First and foremost, I need to make this announcement first. My BFF Nerd Herder Veronica and her husband Damian have secured a very special guest for their podcast on December 7th. If you are a fan of the Mighty Morphin Power Rangers, you must listen to their podcast on December 7th at 9pm EST. Why you might ask? THEY HAVE A LIVE, ON AIR INTERVIEW WITH THE ONE, THE ONLY, JASON DAVID FRANK. Thats right ladies and gents, Tommy the Green Ranger as well as Tommy the White Ranger. This is an episode NOT to be missed. Here is the link: Nerd Herders Radio
--This needs to be made into a television show. Seriously. Smallville lasted 10 years.
--I am allergic to cats but this is cute: "Oskars First Toys wins Friskies' best cat video
--*smacks head* Yes because Battleship was so good....Award Winning Playwright Jez Butteworth Hired to write an ASTEROIDS movie. No, really.
--Jane Goldman to Write "Pinocchio for Robert Downey Jr. and Tim Burton
--FINALLY! Makeup Artist Rick Baker to get a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame
--I do not want to see The Hobbit but I might just have to shell out the money for this: Star Trek Into Darkness to debut first 9 minutes in IMAX sneak preview
--This is pretty funny and well edited.
--As I start my Christmas advent calendar I am definitely making some Star Wars Snowflakes
--My ban on NYCC might have to be lifted for this: Operation BatGirl
--Shakespeare Choose Your Own Adventure? HECK TO THE YES PLEASE!
--New story posthumously from Ray Bradbury "Dear Santa"
--Yes! Tyreese is coming to AMC's The Walking Dead!
--I am still excited Huntress is coming to CW's Arrow. Here are 5 more pictures of her.
--More Reasons for me to spend money to see The Hobbit and then leave.
--
Thursday, November 22, 2012
Things I Love Thursday -- Thanksgiving Edition
This week I am thankful for....
1. I am thankful that I have the ability to communicate well with others.
2. I am thankful for all of our military personnel for keeping our country safe.
3. I am thankful for the ability to read critically
4. I am thankful for the roof over my head.
5. I am thankful for the food in my stomach, even if it is not healthy!
6. I am thankful that even though sometimes the job drives me up the wall that I do have a job to go to in the morning.
7. I am thankful for the food group known as chocolate.
8. I am thankful for my Italian culture and ancestry. Without it, a lot of art, music, and cuisine would not be around!
9. I am thankful for my friends who always try to keep me in balance.
10. I am thankful for the man known as David Cohen—my rock, my support, my Phenomenal.
11. I am thankful for cold nights—that means hot cocoa!
12. I am thankful when Maritza Camilo calls me at 8:30am and says “I need you to cover…”
13. I am thankful for my family—the true meaning of the word love.
14. I am thankful for Green Bubble Tea at Argo Tea Cafe.
15. I am thankful that there is train wreck/reality television because it puts my life into perspective and makes me realize that there are far more crazy and stupid people out there.
16. I am thankful for the sport known as hockey.
17. I am thankful for learning something new everyday.
18. I am most thankful for everything that God has provided for me, whether it is good or bad.
19. I am thankful for TiLt—Things I Love Thursday on www.galadarling.com
20. I am thankful for my dogs, Hudson and Sweetums (RIP). They know what unconditional love means.
21. I am thankful for my health, which has failed lately but getting back into control.
22. I am thankful for all of the strides and contributions to research for finding a cure for the deathly disease known as AIDS that took my cousin from me 19 years ago.
23. I am thankful for the smiles I see on my students when they pass my tests and catch on to the material I am teaching.
24. I am thankful for the muses that spontaneously hit me with creativity.
25. I am thankful for social networking websites that I can use to bond with former classmates and people from my past and also my current peeps.
26. I am thankful for the cities known as New York, New Orleans, Atlanta, and Paris!
27. I am thankful that I have all five senses so I can appreciate everything in my life.
28. I am thankful for really cheesy b-grade horror movies. They make me happy.
29. I am thankful for the world we live in, even if the economy sucks right now.
30. I am thankful to just be alive and spend my time with family and friends and myself doing the things I love.
Friday, November 16, 2012
Le Geek Carousel #3
Well it is Friday so we all know what this means....it is time for..
LE GEEK CAROUSEL!!!
I hope all of you had a fantastic week. I will admit -- this feature of mine is very fulfilling and satisfying my geek girl. Share it with your friends who might need some geekdom distracting.
Well let us get started now shall we?
I have no problem with admitting this -- I have read The Twilight Saga. Well with that series ending in the film version: Deadline has posted a trailer for The Host, another Stephenie Meyer book.
Oxford Dictionary names "GIF" as America's Word of the Year
Some more casting announcements for Joss Whedon's S.H.I.E.L.D.
Here is some Star Wars VII Speculation. Read it...if you dare!
Young Romance and it feels so good....DC Comics reignites Young Romance with Valentine's Day special.
You know I had to include the trailer for World War Z. ZOMBIES UNITE!
First Catwoman, now Robots -- Anne Hathaway joins the cast of Steven Spielberg's "Robopocalypse
Some spoilers concerning Pepper Potts and Iron Man 3.
Set Photos from Thor: The Dark World, which I am the excited about.
LE GEEK CAROUSEL!!!
I hope all of you had a fantastic week. I will admit -- this feature of mine is very fulfilling and satisfying my geek girl. Share it with your friends who might need some geekdom distracting.
Well let us get started now shall we?
I have no problem with admitting this -- I have read The Twilight Saga. Well with that series ending in the film version: Deadline has posted a trailer for The Host, another Stephenie Meyer book.
Oxford Dictionary names "GIF" as America's Word of the Year
Some more casting announcements for Joss Whedon's S.H.I.E.L.D.
Here is some Star Wars VII Speculation. Read it...if you dare!
Young Romance and it feels so good....DC Comics reignites Young Romance with Valentine's Day special.
You know I had to include the trailer for World War Z. ZOMBIES UNITE!
First Catwoman, now Robots -- Anne Hathaway joins the cast of Steven Spielberg's "Robopocalypse
Some spoilers concerning Pepper Potts and Iron Man 3.
Set Photos from Thor: The Dark World, which I am the excited about.
Friday, November 9, 2012
Le Geek Carousel #2
Thanks to everyone who love this feature! I enjoy sharing news that has a geek/nerd center of gravity as well as sharing my fandoms with the world. With that said, lets get this weeks Carousel started!
Yes! "Boy Meets World" follow up show in the works!
Look! It is a zombiefied Coraline! Mixing my two favorite fantoms -- zombies and Neil Gaiman! Can not handle it!
Are you a girl who likes superheroes? Well do not expect a superhero toy in your McDonalds happy meal as according to McDonalds superheroes are only for boys.
Give me the story of Alice + Jasper! Stephenie Meyer won't rule put the possibility of more Twilight
There is an actual Krypton? GET OUT!
Abe Lincoln better be part of this: New Vampire Hunter tv series coming!
For those that love Steampunk and knitting, this is a book for you!
Start to get excited for S.H.I.E.L.D! SHOOTING SCHEDULE HAS BEEN POSTED!
Here is an awesome cos-play music video from London Comic Con
When Disney bought LucasArts, one of the questions I constantly heard was "Is Princess Leia a Disney princess now?" I do not think so, but this video is pretty funny.
Marvel NOW! Gets and All-Female Team of Fearless Defenders. One of them as my name.
Here is the trailer for Warm Bodies. I suggest reading the book first.
Yes! "Boy Meets World" follow up show in the works!
Look! It is a zombiefied Coraline! Mixing my two favorite fantoms -- zombies and Neil Gaiman! Can not handle it!
Are you a girl who likes superheroes? Well do not expect a superhero toy in your McDonalds happy meal as according to McDonalds superheroes are only for boys.
Give me the story of Alice + Jasper! Stephenie Meyer won't rule put the possibility of more Twilight
There is an actual Krypton? GET OUT!
Abe Lincoln better be part of this: New Vampire Hunter tv series coming!
For those that love Steampunk and knitting, this is a book for you!
Start to get excited for S.H.I.E.L.D! SHOOTING SCHEDULE HAS BEEN POSTED!
Here is an awesome cos-play music video from London Comic Con
When Disney bought LucasArts, one of the questions I constantly heard was "Is Princess Leia a Disney princess now?" I do not think so, but this video is pretty funny.
Marvel NOW! Gets and All-Female Team of Fearless Defenders. One of them as my name.
Here is the trailer for Warm Bodies. I suggest reading the book first.
Friday, November 2, 2012
New Feature: Le Geek Carousel!
Stemming from Gala Darling's Friday feature of various links and articles she has found on the Internet that she found interesting, I decided to do a Geek Carousel of where every Friday I post various links of stories/news in the geek fandom world that might be relevant. Hope you enjoy!
CALLING ALL MY HUNGER GAMES PEEPS: Mockingjay Parts 1 and 2 has found a director
Aww RIP Nyan Cat
Amazing Spiderman 2 will have Electro as its villain. Do not know if I agree.
YES! Huntress and Manhunter on the CW's Arrow!
I guess I have to start reading this series now: Locke and Key to get a three movie deal
I am not a gamer but a Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 trailer featuring ROBERT DOWNEY JR? Okay...maybe I will play. Maybe.
Some information about the Captain America sequel including the villain.
Did you participate in All Hallows Read? The Mary Sue did!
New X-Men Movie slated for 2014 to be directed by Bryan Singer. Yay?
A JACK O LANTERN THAT PLAYS TETRIS? ITS PUMPKTRIS!
Finally here is the link for my friends podcast -- NerdHerders -- which has been #1 in the ratings for the past 6 weeks. Are you listening?
That is all for this week! Make sure to check in next Friday for more Le Geek Carousel!
CALLING ALL MY HUNGER GAMES PEEPS: Mockingjay Parts 1 and 2 has found a director
Aww RIP Nyan Cat
Amazing Spiderman 2 will have Electro as its villain. Do not know if I agree.
YES! Huntress and Manhunter on the CW's Arrow!
I guess I have to start reading this series now: Locke and Key to get a three movie deal
I am not a gamer but a Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 trailer featuring ROBERT DOWNEY JR? Okay...maybe I will play. Maybe.
Some information about the Captain America sequel including the villain.
Did you participate in All Hallows Read? The Mary Sue did!
New X-Men Movie slated for 2014 to be directed by Bryan Singer. Yay?
A JACK O LANTERN THAT PLAYS TETRIS? ITS PUMPKTRIS!
Finally here is the link for my friends podcast -- NerdHerders -- which has been #1 in the ratings for the past 6 weeks. Are you listening?
That is all for this week! Make sure to check in next Friday for more Le Geek Carousel!
I Survived Hurricane Sandy
In my 34 years of living in Jersey City, New Jersey we have seen our share of bad storms. From the blizzard of 1992 and 1996 and 2010 to really bad rainstorms but nothing as horrendous and full of disaster as Hurricane Sandy was.
On Monday night around 11pm, my entire neighbourhood lost power. Complete darkness. Complete stillness. I originally blamed Paul Heyman for waiting until the last minute to announce Team Punk therefore my power went out. I have never seen my city, my hometown, in so much turmoil. The stores up the block from me were closed. The school on my corner has a generator so their lights were on as custodians cleaned it up. School for me was cancelled for the entire week meaning I now have to work until the end of June as well as my spring break might be in jeopardy. I am very glad I did not start booking my trip to Montreal, Quebec, Canada for that week now. My city had a curfew of 7pm to 7am as there were no street lights, but I did break the curfew a couple of times by just standing outside my house. My cell phone remained charged throughout the entire time I did not have power as so my computer; well it lasted up to 10 percent as I was using it to charge my phone. I, unfornuately, lost cell phone service Tuesday morning so if you wanted to get in touch with me you could not unless you had my land line phone. My mom had to cook everything in our freezer as it would have gone bad as well as use the gas stove for heat as my heat thermostat runs on electricity. Luckily the pilot lights of the hot water heater did not go out so hot showers were to be had but to stay warm my entire family and Hudson practically camped out in the kitchen for three days. We played card games, ate by candlelight, listened to the radio, read a lot of books, slept until weird hours of the afternoon. We live on a street in Jersey City that is raised so we did not experience any flooding in my house but the winds knocked out the power grid. Or so we think. We are all fine and we managed. By Thursday we were all pretty much sick of not having power but we dealt with it. To be honest, not being connected to the outside world actually felt good. Yes I made sure to get in touch with loved ones to let them know I was okay but to not have the instant gratification of social connection brought me back to high school times. I was tempted to take a shower and shave in complete darkness but was afraid of slipping and cutting myself and not see what I was doing. I saw my local chinese food delivery man deliver food on his bike with a flashlight in his mouth. Whoa.
When my power came back on, after myself saying "If Sam and Dean Winchester were here this would be fixed by now. If Sheldon were here this would be fixed by now." my entire neighbourhood started screaming in joy. It was so surreal and amazing.
But other than that I hope all of my friends are fine.
For ongoing coverage of the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy go here: CNN Ongoing Coverage
For amazing and astounding photos of the storm, go here: Hurricane Sandy Photos
On Monday night around 11pm, my entire neighbourhood lost power. Complete darkness. Complete stillness. I originally blamed Paul Heyman for waiting until the last minute to announce Team Punk therefore my power went out. I have never seen my city, my hometown, in so much turmoil. The stores up the block from me were closed. The school on my corner has a generator so their lights were on as custodians cleaned it up. School for me was cancelled for the entire week meaning I now have to work until the end of June as well as my spring break might be in jeopardy. I am very glad I did not start booking my trip to Montreal, Quebec, Canada for that week now. My city had a curfew of 7pm to 7am as there were no street lights, but I did break the curfew a couple of times by just standing outside my house. My cell phone remained charged throughout the entire time I did not have power as so my computer; well it lasted up to 10 percent as I was using it to charge my phone. I, unfornuately, lost cell phone service Tuesday morning so if you wanted to get in touch with me you could not unless you had my land line phone. My mom had to cook everything in our freezer as it would have gone bad as well as use the gas stove for heat as my heat thermostat runs on electricity. Luckily the pilot lights of the hot water heater did not go out so hot showers were to be had but to stay warm my entire family and Hudson practically camped out in the kitchen for three days. We played card games, ate by candlelight, listened to the radio, read a lot of books, slept until weird hours of the afternoon. We live on a street in Jersey City that is raised so we did not experience any flooding in my house but the winds knocked out the power grid. Or so we think. We are all fine and we managed. By Thursday we were all pretty much sick of not having power but we dealt with it. To be honest, not being connected to the outside world actually felt good. Yes I made sure to get in touch with loved ones to let them know I was okay but to not have the instant gratification of social connection brought me back to high school times. I was tempted to take a shower and shave in complete darkness but was afraid of slipping and cutting myself and not see what I was doing. I saw my local chinese food delivery man deliver food on his bike with a flashlight in his mouth. Whoa.
When my power came back on, after myself saying "If Sam and Dean Winchester were here this would be fixed by now. If Sheldon were here this would be fixed by now." my entire neighbourhood started screaming in joy. It was so surreal and amazing.
But other than that I hope all of my friends are fine.
For ongoing coverage of the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy go here: CNN Ongoing Coverage
For amazing and astounding photos of the storm, go here: Hurricane Sandy Photos
Thursday, November 1, 2012
Things I Love Thursday -- 11/1 Edition
Happy Dia De Los Muertos everyone! Yes I have survived the Frankenstorm with copious shouting of IT'S RAINY......RAINY.....RAINY!!!! in my house as well as in text messages. Thanks to all who have checked in to see that I was okay. With that said, here is what I am in love with this week.
~~This great parody of Bohemian Rhapsody. Granted I am not a gamer but Nintendo was my gaming system of choice growing up so a lot of this I did identify with. Enjoy!
Thursday, October 11, 2012
Things I Love Thursday -- October 11th Edition
Happy Hallow-month everyone! I am in the midst of my Hallow-month planning. I went to Killers: Nightmare NYC haunted house last Friday. This coming weekend I plan on viewing the movies Frankenweenie, Hotel Transylvania, and V/H/S, followed by attending New York Comic Con and NYC Zombie Crawl. So while all of that excitement is coming up, here is what I am in love with for this week.
These two videos:
~~My new heated blanket. I have learned that if I sleep with heat on me it looses up my muscles and joints.
~~Sundays in Union Square Park.
~~Being a fan of Sticky's Finger Joint before its appearance on the Food Network
~~Conversations on NYC buses.
~~Lush Cosmetics products.
~~Being able to write with a lot of noise and it not break my concentration.
~~Being happy that I embraced my geekdom/fandom and not worrying about what people think.
~~The cream Penetrex for my aching joints.
~~Adopting a new attitude at work.
~~Reading three books at the same time.
~~Thinking about my next vacation.
~~Enjoying the fall weather.
~~Trying not to cry as much when I think about my dog Sweetums.
~~My friend Veronicas parody of "Call Me Maybe. If you have not seen it/heard it, well here you go:
What are you in love with this week?
Sunday, October 7, 2012
The Fun and Joy of Having Rheumatoid Arthritis
Back in March 2012 my right knee blew up to be the size of a melon. I had it drained, filled with cortisone and Euflexxa but something was just not right. It would constantly fill up with fluid; even to the point that my left knee started to get jealous and do the same thing, After about 5 knee drains and 5 cortisone shots later, I decided to completely change my diet/eating. I have eliminated all vegetable oils but olive oil, do not eat fried foods anymore, no more baked goods, nothing with any saturated fats in it, no red meat of any kind, and limit my intake of dairy. Now while that has helped in the long run, I was still waking up in the morning with a lot of stiffness in my joints and overall pain.
My doctor decided to run some blood tests on me to make sure my liver enzymes were okay after I had my gall bladder removed back in August. Luckily that was okay, but guess what was through the roof? My rheumatoid factor. Now I bet you are asking yourself -- what is a rheumatoid factor? Well here is the clinical definition: Rheumatoid factor (RF) is the autoantibody (antibody directed against an organism's own tissues) that is most relevant in rheumatoid arthritis. It is defined as an antibody against the Fc portion of IgG. RF and IgG join to form immune complexes that contribute to the disease process. Rheumatoid factor can also be a cryoglobulin (antibody that precipitates on cooling of a blood sample); it can be either type 2 (monoclonal IgM to polyclonal IgG) or type 3 (polyclonal IgM to polyclonal IgG) cryoglobulin.
Rheumatoid factor can be of either isotype of immunoglobulins, i.e. IgA, IgG, IgM,[2] IgE,[3] IgD.[4]
Okay I know that is a bunch of science right there. Believe me I do not understand it either so here is an interpretation that I found that might help you and I understand this a little bit better. Rheumatoid factor is an immunoglobulin (antibody) which can bind to other antibodies. Antibodies are normal proteins found in the blood which function within the immune system. Rheumatoid factor though is not normally found in the general population (only found in about 1-2% of healthy people). The incidence of rheumatoid factor increases with age and about 20% of people over 65 years old have an elevated rheumatoid factor.
A blood test is used to detect the presence of rheumatoid factor. The blood test is commonly ordered to diagnose rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatoid factor is present in 80% of adults who have rheumatoid arthritis but there is a much lower prevalence in juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. The incidence of rheumatoid factor increases with duration of disease in rheumatoid arthritis: at 3 months the incidence is 33%, while at one year it is 75%. Up to 20% of rheumatoid arthritis patients remain negative for rheumatoid factor (also known as "seronegative rheumatoid arthritis") throughout the course of their disease.
So while I am healthy, certain antibodies are becoming buddy buddy with one another causing my joints to get stiff and sore. Believe me -- it is a true pain with no pun intended. I see a rheumatologist this coming Friday which will help me determine if I do have RA. Right now what I do for it is I switch up taking Aleve and Turmeric followed up by rubbing various pain relief creams into my joints as well as go to physical therapy at least twice a week. Also my RA is effecting my ankles and my shoulders. It tends to work itself out throughout the day but if it is too cold or damp outside, I do feel it. I will not let this get the best of me though. I will do what I have to do to make myself feel good and happy.
My doctor decided to run some blood tests on me to make sure my liver enzymes were okay after I had my gall bladder removed back in August. Luckily that was okay, but guess what was through the roof? My rheumatoid factor. Now I bet you are asking yourself -- what is a rheumatoid factor? Well here is the clinical definition: Rheumatoid factor (RF) is the autoantibody (antibody directed against an organism's own tissues) that is most relevant in rheumatoid arthritis. It is defined as an antibody against the Fc portion of IgG. RF and IgG join to form immune complexes that contribute to the disease process. Rheumatoid factor can also be a cryoglobulin (antibody that precipitates on cooling of a blood sample); it can be either type 2 (monoclonal IgM to polyclonal IgG) or type 3 (polyclonal IgM to polyclonal IgG) cryoglobulin.
Rheumatoid factor can be of either isotype of immunoglobulins, i.e. IgA, IgG, IgM,[2] IgE,[3] IgD.[4]
Okay I know that is a bunch of science right there. Believe me I do not understand it either so here is an interpretation that I found that might help you and I understand this a little bit better. Rheumatoid factor is an immunoglobulin (antibody) which can bind to other antibodies. Antibodies are normal proteins found in the blood which function within the immune system. Rheumatoid factor though is not normally found in the general population (only found in about 1-2% of healthy people). The incidence of rheumatoid factor increases with age and about 20% of people over 65 years old have an elevated rheumatoid factor.
A blood test is used to detect the presence of rheumatoid factor. The blood test is commonly ordered to diagnose rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatoid factor is present in 80% of adults who have rheumatoid arthritis but there is a much lower prevalence in juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. The incidence of rheumatoid factor increases with duration of disease in rheumatoid arthritis: at 3 months the incidence is 33%, while at one year it is 75%. Up to 20% of rheumatoid arthritis patients remain negative for rheumatoid factor (also known as "seronegative rheumatoid arthritis") throughout the course of their disease.
So while I am healthy, certain antibodies are becoming buddy buddy with one another causing my joints to get stiff and sore. Believe me -- it is a true pain with no pun intended. I see a rheumatologist this coming Friday which will help me determine if I do have RA. Right now what I do for it is I switch up taking Aleve and Turmeric followed up by rubbing various pain relief creams into my joints as well as go to physical therapy at least twice a week. Also my RA is effecting my ankles and my shoulders. It tends to work itself out throughout the day but if it is too cold or damp outside, I do feel it. I will not let this get the best of me though. I will do what I have to do to make myself feel good and happy.
Sunday, September 30, 2012
Sorry for My Absence
The last post I wrote on here was on September 6th when I discussed the death of my beloved best friend Sweetums. Ever since then I have not had the feeling to really write much. I have also noticed that I have not posted a Things I Love Thursday since July 19th! That is unacceptable. I need to start that feature again as I always felt good after writing it. You must be grateful; even for the tiny things in life. So this Thursday while I am in my Advanced Beginner French class at the French Institute Alliance Francaise (www.fiaf.org) a new TiLT will be posted. I also found a bunch of my old creative writing pieces that I did while in college and I am thinking of posting those too for your amusement/reading pleasure. Furthermore, I purchased a book called One Good Deed a Day. I will chronicle those too. Writing seems to be what keeps me grounded and happy so I must get back into it!
Thursday, September 6, 2012
Miss You Sweetums
Sweetums is the one on the right.
This week has been very troubling and sad as my dog Sweetums passed away Tuesday morning while I was at work.My mom and dad waited until after work to tell me. We had a wake in my house and I petted her for the last time. She was in a lot of pain and could not get up at all as well as walk. Her legs just went. My brother who has weight lifted in the past would pick her up to go outside to go to the bathroom. Sweetums was a Siberian Husky/German Shepard mix and weighed close to 100 pounds. When I came home on Monday I was the last person she greeted hello. She wagged her tail and tried her best to push herself to sit up. It was so sad to see her in so much pain. She is at peace now and I hope she is burying bones in couches up in Heaven and jumping around/pouncing on chew sticks as that was her favorite activity. I miss her walking into my room in the morning and licking my elbow to wake me up as well as lying right behind me while I was on my computer. I miss her burying bones in my shoes. I just miss her period. She gave me twelve good years of unconditional love which some humans out there should learn.
For the past couple of days I have watched videos to cheer me up. Here are some of them. I hope you enjoy them.
Now if you excuse me, I need to go look at my phone for a while....
Sunday, August 19, 2012
My Gall Bladder Has Gone Fishin'!
I had a lot of trepidation writing this because I honestly did not think anyone would want to read it but after texting my peeps I received an collective WRITE IT so here it goes...
After the Supernatural convention which was a blast, I started feeling ill. I figured maybe it was con sickness or David gave me his cold but this feeling of ickiness was not like any other feeling of ickiness I have ever experienced. Usually with colds and myself, I get stuffed up and sneezy; I take the NyQuil and the cold is gone in a matter of a day. Not this. I had a fever of 101 degrees, chills, and this incredible pain in my right side that went all the way up to my right shoulder and down to my hip. I could not get comfortable in my bed. I was crying all night. My mom gave me some Gas X thinking maybe it was a lot of trapped gas but relief was not in my future. This was all on Tuesday August 7th. I finally found a comfortable position and went to sleep.
Wednesday August 8th I woke up around 10am still in a lot of pain and fever/chills. I called my doctor; Dr. Gary Cardiello; and made an appointment for that day at 3pm. Typical exam but when he went to examine my right side, I nearly jumped out of my skin. He asked me to take a urine test which everything came up negative but then he gave me the news that something might be wrong with my gall bladder; that I might have gallstones and the only way for relief/to feel better would be surgery. I freaked out but took the news as best I could. He scheduled me for an ultrasound on Friday August 10th at 10am and got the results on Monday August 13th -- had gallstones that decided to float to the neck of the bile duct and block the duct so no bile could flow in and out as well as myself not absorbing enough nutrients and fats. How this happened -- I have no clue. I do know that I was taking more than the prescribed dose of fish oils for my joints so that might have cause it or it could be the fried foods I have eaten over the years; again I have no clue. Only thing I know is I would be losing my gall bladder making this surgery #4 for me.
My doctor recommended two surgeons for me. I went with Dr. Jay Stylman out of Kearny, NJ. While he was nice and explained everything he was going to do, his office staff SUCKED. Very rude, very condescending, very bitchy, no personality or any signs of care. Basically you were a dollar sign to them and that was it. While I would recommend the surgeon himself, he needs a new office staff. My surgery was scheduled for Friday at 12pm at Clara Maass Medical Center in Belleville, NJ.
My nerves were shot the rest of the week but I tried my best to hold it together. I went to hospital on Friday at about 930am, was registered, and then went into the holding pen for close to an hour and a half. I met a slew of nurses who were all very nice and patient. I was wheeled into the operating room about 1145am and met some more nurses -- two of which were kinda cute. I was asked my name and my birthday a million times as well as my allergies which are strawberries and Celebrex as well as being lactose intolerant. I then met my anesthesialogist and he explained what he was going to do. I asked everyone how long they have done their jobs -- apparently this was very important to me. An IV was inserted into my hand and three electrode pads on my chest and a blood pressure cuff on my right arm. I asked if I could be localised so I could watch the surgery in which my surgeon told me I would be really uncomfortable but that he would take a photo of what my gall bladder looked like; which was a lie as I never saw a picture. Oxygen mask on my face and 2 minutes later I was in sleepy land.
About an hour later I woke up in the recovery area with a very dry mouth and pain all in my stomach area. I saw that I have three incisions which means my surgeon performed an Laparoscopic Gallbladder Surgery in which he went in with a scope and other surgical instruments into my stomach to remove my gall bladder. This is the method that you should want as the old method means a longer recovery period. If you want to read more about this procedure, go to this link Laparoscopic Gall Bladder Surgery.
I went down into the main recovery area where I met up with my mother and brother and was instructed to sit in this recliner and just relax/let the anesthesia wear off. I was a chatterbox again, asking everyone about their work, but most of the time I was a big dopey mess. I remember hitting my brother with his shoe over something he said but I do not remember what it was. I finally went to the bathroom, given my aftercare procedures, and went home about 530pm.
It is now Sunday and I am getting better each day. Yesterday I was really sore and I definitely feel that something is missing inside my body but I do feel better. I am still overly gassy which is part of my recovery. I just have to remember to stand up straight so my stomach can heal; even though it is uncomfortable. I should be all ready to go for Dragon Con and for work in two weeks. I am debating about getting a tattoo where my gall bladder used to be. Thought it would be funny. I also have to say goodbye to fried foods and soda but this break up will be for the best.
Thanks to all who helped me through this troubling time, checking up on me and answering any questions I have had.
After the Supernatural convention which was a blast, I started feeling ill. I figured maybe it was con sickness or David gave me his cold but this feeling of ickiness was not like any other feeling of ickiness I have ever experienced. Usually with colds and myself, I get stuffed up and sneezy; I take the NyQuil and the cold is gone in a matter of a day. Not this. I had a fever of 101 degrees, chills, and this incredible pain in my right side that went all the way up to my right shoulder and down to my hip. I could not get comfortable in my bed. I was crying all night. My mom gave me some Gas X thinking maybe it was a lot of trapped gas but relief was not in my future. This was all on Tuesday August 7th. I finally found a comfortable position and went to sleep.
Wednesday August 8th I woke up around 10am still in a lot of pain and fever/chills. I called my doctor; Dr. Gary Cardiello; and made an appointment for that day at 3pm. Typical exam but when he went to examine my right side, I nearly jumped out of my skin. He asked me to take a urine test which everything came up negative but then he gave me the news that something might be wrong with my gall bladder; that I might have gallstones and the only way for relief/to feel better would be surgery. I freaked out but took the news as best I could. He scheduled me for an ultrasound on Friday August 10th at 10am and got the results on Monday August 13th -- had gallstones that decided to float to the neck of the bile duct and block the duct so no bile could flow in and out as well as myself not absorbing enough nutrients and fats. How this happened -- I have no clue. I do know that I was taking more than the prescribed dose of fish oils for my joints so that might have cause it or it could be the fried foods I have eaten over the years; again I have no clue. Only thing I know is I would be losing my gall bladder making this surgery #4 for me.
My doctor recommended two surgeons for me. I went with Dr. Jay Stylman out of Kearny, NJ. While he was nice and explained everything he was going to do, his office staff SUCKED. Very rude, very condescending, very bitchy, no personality or any signs of care. Basically you were a dollar sign to them and that was it. While I would recommend the surgeon himself, he needs a new office staff. My surgery was scheduled for Friday at 12pm at Clara Maass Medical Center in Belleville, NJ.
My nerves were shot the rest of the week but I tried my best to hold it together. I went to hospital on Friday at about 930am, was registered, and then went into the holding pen for close to an hour and a half. I met a slew of nurses who were all very nice and patient. I was wheeled into the operating room about 1145am and met some more nurses -- two of which were kinda cute. I was asked my name and my birthday a million times as well as my allergies which are strawberries and Celebrex as well as being lactose intolerant. I then met my anesthesialogist and he explained what he was going to do. I asked everyone how long they have done their jobs -- apparently this was very important to me. An IV was inserted into my hand and three electrode pads on my chest and a blood pressure cuff on my right arm. I asked if I could be localised so I could watch the surgery in which my surgeon told me I would be really uncomfortable but that he would take a photo of what my gall bladder looked like; which was a lie as I never saw a picture. Oxygen mask on my face and 2 minutes later I was in sleepy land.
About an hour later I woke up in the recovery area with a very dry mouth and pain all in my stomach area. I saw that I have three incisions which means my surgeon performed an Laparoscopic Gallbladder Surgery in which he went in with a scope and other surgical instruments into my stomach to remove my gall bladder. This is the method that you should want as the old method means a longer recovery period. If you want to read more about this procedure, go to this link Laparoscopic Gall Bladder Surgery.
I went down into the main recovery area where I met up with my mother and brother and was instructed to sit in this recliner and just relax/let the anesthesia wear off. I was a chatterbox again, asking everyone about their work, but most of the time I was a big dopey mess. I remember hitting my brother with his shoe over something he said but I do not remember what it was. I finally went to the bathroom, given my aftercare procedures, and went home about 530pm.
It is now Sunday and I am getting better each day. Yesterday I was really sore and I definitely feel that something is missing inside my body but I do feel better. I am still overly gassy which is part of my recovery. I just have to remember to stand up straight so my stomach can heal; even though it is uncomfortable. I should be all ready to go for Dragon Con and for work in two weeks. I am debating about getting a tattoo where my gall bladder used to be. Thought it would be funny. I also have to say goodbye to fried foods and soda but this break up will be for the best.
Thanks to all who helped me through this troubling time, checking up on me and answering any questions I have had.
Friday, August 10, 2012
If You Really Knew Me
I saw this post on one of my favorite blogs which is Dani Hampton -- Sometimes Sweet and thought I would give it a try! I know I try to share myself as much as I can on this blog; when I do have something to write about. Thought this would be a fun post and here we go:
If You Really Knew Me...
You would know that I am at my happiest with people around me talking about various topics.
You would know that I really love dubstep and hip-hop.
You would know that the favorite thing I love to do is people watch, that anything strawberry is forbidden at my house as well as David's, how I could live on tacos and fried chicken even though they are very bad for me, that I do not understand how women can wear stilettos/uncomfortable shoes for the sake of "style" and that I can live in my Converse sneakers every day for the rest of my life, how that even though my friends might not understand me when I speak French that I enjoy practicing with them.
You would know that I want to visit every state in the United States.
You would know that I want to get more tattoos but genuinely afraid of the feedback.
You would know that I hope to one day write a book; just haven't decided the topic yet.
You would know that I do not like everyone, even though I sometimes act like it simply because I know how to be polite and professional and have manners.
You would know that I am the queen of small talk with strangers on trains/buses.
You would know that I am not into a lot of trends/fads but will read up on them if my friends like them i.e. Game of Thrones.
You would know that sometimes weird things happen during a game of Dungeons and Dragons.
You would know that I sometimes have a sailors mouth but will try to curb it when around my nephews Seth and Jace, even though their mom and my close friend Veronica says I do not have to.
You would know that I have no problem asking celebrities to talk to my friends on the phone. What is the worse thing they can say -- no?
How about you?
Thursday, July 19, 2012
Things I Amour Jeudi -- July 19th Edition
This week has definitely been an interesting and fun one if you live in the New York City area. With that said, here is what I am in amour with this week. Oh and just in case you do not know, Jeudi is Thursday in French.
~~Studying French! I have changed my cell phone and computer to French and it helps. Trying to immerse myself as much as I can in the language.
~~Game night with the NYC Geek Girl Adventure Club. Even though there was a horrendous and disaster filled storm yesterday, 9 of us (myself included) braved it to Argo Tea Cafe and played some Apples to Apples and had the biggest laughs and fun ever. I want to play again!
~~My new water shoes for when I go swimming.
~~Side pony twists in my hair.
~~This video, especially at 2:52 and 3:21
What are you in amour with this week?
Sunday, July 1, 2012
Bonne fin de semaine!
Paris, France. 2003. No A/C. Just a fan and a shower. I survived.
That immediately shuts people up. I did meet a girl outside of the theater who claims to have seen Spiderman the musical 107 times. Well that is 106 times too many in my opinion. After the play, I did my best speed walk to the subway then to the PATH in 95 degree weather at 1040pm and I was home by 1130pm in my arctic tundra of a room.
Saturday, which was not as bad as Friday, David and I went to the New York Public Library -- Main Branch (like I need anymore books...) to hang out with the stacks and view some artifacts as well as say hello to Patience and Fortitude
Tomorrow my brother and I are off to see Iron Maiden and Alice Cooper in the Prudential Center located in Newark, NJ. Can not wait! Thank you to my knees -- Stubborn and Jealous -- for healing so I can enjoy my life again in not so much pain.
How was your weekend?
Friday, June 29, 2012
Joisey Review: Semi-Charmed Life by Nora Zelevansky
Since my knees were feeling somewhat better, I decided to go to a Gilt City book event located at this Lower East Side boutique 143 Ludlow which the address of the boutique is also the name of the boutique. Kinda of quirky in its own right I gathered. The boutique was used for a book launch with champagne and cupcakes from Georgetown Cupcakes. I did not imbibe in either as I do not drink and the cupcake looked to be more frosting than cake. Now I do like cupcakes but I want cake not cake with my frosting. The boutique itself was small and got very crowded due to the subject matter of the book whose title is Semi-Charmed Life by Nora Zelevansky. Most of the time I sat outside until it was time to hear a reading from the book which made me laugh as well as receive my copy and a gift bag filled with various beauty products from Aveda, Stila makeup, and Liz Earle. This event was sponsored and coordinated by Gilt City, like I said above.
The book which is Nora Zelevansky’s hilarious debut, Semi-Charmed Life, is about an Upper West Side naïf, Beatrice Bernstein, gets swept up in the seemingly magical life of socialite Veruca Pfeffernoose, while ghost writing her blog. Veruca’s glitteringly opulent world soon seduces Beatrice away from her own insular, arty family with a promise of fancy parties, travel outside Manhattan (for once) and one desperately cute guy. But when her new glitzy lifestyle starts to take on dark undertones, Beatrice has to decide who she is—once and for all. With her own magical touch, Zelevansky explores the world of Manhattan in this modern fairy tale of first love, finding one’s voice and growing up.
Immediately when I read the description, I thought "Oh it is another version of The Devil Wears Prada" but as I delved into the book more it is simply not that. The writing is superb and much easier to understand. It is quirky, laugh out loud, fun. This book has so many twists and turns that you will not want to put it down, which I didn't, for three days. Hey I am a bookworm...what did you expect? If I had to compare the writing with its various art and pop culture references, Nora is a twin of screenwriter Amy Sherman-Palladino whose work is most known for the television show Gilmore Girls and we all know how much I adored that television show.
If this is the type of book that you enjoy, prepare to be fully charmed! Definitely recommend. Semi Charmed Life by Nora Zelevansky is available on July 3rd at your local Barnes and Noble or you may get the Kindle version/Nook version on that date as well.
Thursday, June 28, 2012
Things I Love Thursday -- June 28th Edition
Second round of Euflexxa shot in my left knee and an second M.R.I. done....you would think I am some sort of athlete but I am just a Jersey/NYC Girl living the dream. This week has gone by in a big whirlwind but nonetheless a happy and grateful one. With this said, here is what I am in love with this week.
~~Thunderstorms that make references to The Mighty Thor
~~My dog Hudson being back to his usual goofy self.
~~When my joints pop and it relieves pressure and does not cause pain.
~~Reading three books at a time and not confusing/mixing plots together.
~~Going to a book event in a fashionable Lower East Side boutique.
~~Watching reality television with my mom, especially Swamp People and Hardcore Pawn.
~~Second half of French classes start today! Wondering if I should make a weekend/what I did blog post all in French?
~~That Sugar Slam 3: Batter Royal is in full swing!
~~The way my other dog Sweetums comes into my room and head butts me in the leg so I can scratch her.
~~In This Moments new song "Blood" Take a listen!
~~This graffiti I found on the way home from the book event
~~Receiving a Chad Ochocinco Cincinnati Bengals jersey simply because he changed his name back to Chad Johnson and he is no longer on the Bengals.
~~Seeing some inappropriately dressed 8th graders during their awards ceremony. It is a lot of fun going "oh...you have a lot to learn" as well as "WHAT THE HECK ARE YOU WEARING? WHERE ARE YOU GOING?" Yes I am being judgmental but it is also a way of being nostalgic.
What are you in love with this week?
Thursday, June 21, 2012
Things I Love Thursday -- June 21st Edition
As I sit here with my left knee stretched out on a chair since it is filled with fluid again, (hey I go hard I guess), here is what I am in love with this week:
~~My dad installing my air conditioner in my bedroom. Summer in NYC decided to show up like a bull in a china shop!
~~Catching up on my reading and leaving books/magazines in various spots in NYC.
~~Getting tickets to see Hugh Laurie with my friend V in September.
~~My new sunglasses from Lucky Cupcake Hair Clips! I got the 8 bit sunglasses in Black and Hello Kitty sunglasses in Black with White polka dot bow. Lucky Cupcake is also the one that has made my custom wrestler hair bows. She is AWESOME. Check her stuff out!
~~Having a dance party, well while sitting due to my knees, in my bedroom to WWE themes.
~~Late night conversations with Michael.
~~Making new friends via YouTube.
~~Finally using Meetup.com for my geek girl interests.
~~Veggie chips!
~~That my dog Hudson is well on his way to a speedy recovery from a pinched nerve.
~~The television show Dallas on TNT.
~~Summer trip anticipation and planning.
What are you in love with this week?
Friday, June 1, 2012
Sugar Slam III -- Batter Royal
So now...Sugar Slam 3 is back with a vengeance! The most delicious championship in sports-entertainment is the tagline. Last year's competition had over 100 entries. Just like last year, there will be two prize levels - the Championship, as chosen by the esteemed Sugar Slam 3 judges -- UCBW MegaStar Zach Linder, former WWE Diva Amy "Lita" Dumas and US Air Guitar Champion Justin "Nordic Thunder" Howard. Plus there is the People's Choice Award winner as chosen by the fans. This year's competition will also feature guest "commentary" by author/musician Mike Edison. Just by this alone, don't you want to enter? If I had any decorating ability I sure would!
Check out last years entries here -- Sugar Slam 2011
If you would like to enter SugarSlam 3 please go here for official rules and how to enter: Sugar Slam III: Batter Royal Official Rules!
UPDATE: SUGAR SLAM 2012 DEADLINE EXTENSION! The deadline is now AUGUST 15TH so now you have no excuse to not enter!
Thursday, May 31, 2012
Things I Love Thursday -- May 31st Edition
Whoa is it the end of May already? Where the heck is the year going? Way way way too fast if you ask me. With that said, here is what I am in love with this week.
~~Being an official sponsor for Sugar Slam III. I still can not believe it. My blog about it will be released tomorrow. I am so excited to be part of this crazy competition.
~~Seeing my friend Sean (Hanson). He is one of the only people that I have held onto from my days of professional wrestling photography. He is rad and says what is on his mind and does not care if you agree or not which is awesome in my book. Plus he is a wealth of info about sports which helps.
~~My new New York Mets hamburger plushie! Look at how cute he is!
~~Having lots of down time to relax and recuperate.
~~Nice cold chai lattes while I sit in my fave Starbucks reading.
What are you in love with this week?
Monday, May 28, 2012
Joisey Review: Harvey starring Jim Parsons
As many of you are aware, I am a fan of the television show The Big Bang Theory. I watch the marathons, have the DVDs, bought merchandise, you name it. My favorite character on the show is Dr. Sheldon Cooper played by actor Jim Parsons. Now last year he debuted on Broadway with the play The Normal Heart but by the time I found out about it, tickets were sold out all through the run. So when I heard that he was returning to Broadway this summer to be a production of a play called Harvey -- I patiently waited online until tickets went on sale and got myself a preview ticket for Sunday May 27th, 2012. The play does not officially open until Thursday June 14th but the benefit of the preview tickets is you get to see kind of a dress rehearsal. This is the time period where the actors have to get their lines right, their cues right, their mannerisms right, basically everything right. I figured what the heck -- a preview of a play where I do not have to deal with the possibility of a large crowd on a Sunday afternoon, works for me.
So what is Harvey about? Harvey is a six-foot-tall rabbit invisible to everyone except Elwood, much to the exasperation of his sister, Veta. In order to save the family’s social reputation, Veta takes Elwood to the local sanatorium. But when the doctors mistakenly commit his anxiety-ridden sister, Elwood—and Harvey—slip out of the hospital unbothered, setting off a hilarious whirlwind of confusion and chaos as everyone in town tries to catch a man and his invisible rabbit. In my opinion, it kind of sounds like Donnie Darko, just without all of the Jake Gyllenhall angst. I did enjoy the movie so the synopsis kind of appeals to me. Harvey is written by Mary Chase and directed by Scott Ellis.
Walking into the lobby of Studio 54 I was met with a variety of fans -- young, old, and we were all there for one reason only. Now most of the audience knew of the movie version with Jimmy Stewart which I will admit I have not seen but heard about it through my mother. Jim Parsons as well as not watched the movie version as he said he did not want to be influenced; he wanted to make the role his own. He most certainly did. A lot of the lines would be considered Sheldon-esque which I will not spoil if you plan on going to the play. The play is hysterically done and the chemistry between Jim Parsons and Jessica Hecht is spot on.
If there is one Broadway play you plan on seeing this summer, I highly recommended Harvey. It is in previews right now until June 14th which is the date of opening night. It lasts until August 5th. It is playing at STUDIO 54 whose address is 254 West 54th Street in NYC.
Thursday, May 24, 2012
Things I Love Thursday - May 24th Edition
Do you ever think that things happen in your life because the universe is trying to tell you something? This week I have been home from work with the possibility that I tore my left knee. It is not as bad as when I tore my right knee back in February/March but it is really swollen and I can not walk farther than my bedroom to the bathroom and back. I have been sleeping late, talking to Michael via Skype as he plays Diablo 3, made a new friend on YouTube/email whose name is Elvis and he does all of these weird/wacky food eating challenges. We might get together for his latest challenge which involves McDonald's. Also I have read most of my comic books, watched some television, snuggled and played with my dogs in my bed, made my bed into a fort, and just chilled. So I would have to say that there is only one big thing I am in love with this week -- DOWN TIME. I am probably missed at my job but my health comes first. I see my knee doctor tomorrow and I bet some drainage and cortisone will be involved. As long as I am okay to enjoy life again, that is what I am most looking forward too.
So what are you in love with this week?
Thursday, May 17, 2012
Things I Love Thursday -- May 17th Edition
It has been a hot minute since I have posted a TiLT to this blog but I have kept up with it in my journal. Personally I do not like the new version of Blogger but for things to evolve it must change; like a butterfly. I guess the more I use it, the more I feel comfortable with it. I am a creature of habit so with anything I should practice, practice, practice. I do tend to write more in this blog as my work comes to stop on June 21st. Ahh the benefits of being a school teacher but that is another post for another day. Let us get on with the gratefulness and positivity!
Here is what I have been in love with since the last time I wrote a TiLT on here:
~~A song by Alex Clare called "Too Close". It has a great dub step beat and some powerful lyrics. Take a listen.
~~Planning my Dragon*Con weekend and it is only May 17th! So far my list of celebrities is up to thirteen. This years convention will be EPIC.
~~Finishing my 2012 Spring! playlist.
~~Watching WWE with my mom as she is the one who got my brother and I into it.
~~My oui ring I found on Etsy.
~~Watching my parents coo and swoon over each other even after 43 years of marriage.
~~Karma, and no I do not mean the women's wrestler on WWE.
~~Playing with puppies.
~~Working a film festival in NYC, particularly the Tribeca Film Festival.
~~Bubbles everywhere!
~~Booking my summer vacation. Going off to Denver, Colorado from August 15th to August 22nd!
~~Studying French.
~~Testing season being over in my school building.
~~Looking for ways to spend my money to support my happiness goals especially eliminating sources of boredom and irritation.
~~Being happy with my choices of fashion.
~~These television shows: 90210, Gossip Girl, Once Upon a Time, Don't Trust The B* in Apartment 23.
~~Free refills at my fave Starbucks!
~~Having a stranger say "see you soon, love" in Italian to me.
What is making you swoon and coo with love lately?
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
Queen of Small Talk
My friends constantly tease me about being the queen of "small talk"/talking to strangers. By having this quality, I have made friends with a letterer from DC Comics, made friends with tourists visiting my fair city and when I visit their fair city I email them for recommendations, made friends with people at conventions who follow my fandoms, and so on. Put it this way -- I have made my own network of friends or gained some valuable information/learned something new by following these steps.
1: If you are sitting on a train or a bus and you see someone reading a book, smile and talk to the person/comment on the book they are reading at the moment. Try to keep it on the positive side! Unless you can be hilariously funny, the first time you come contact with a stranger; especially a stranger; is not the greatest time to start complaining about your day, your boyfriend/girlfriend, etc.
2: Just start talking about an interesting news item you might have read, a recent movie you saw, or a book that is getting a lot of buzz. When I met the letterer from DC Comics, he was wearing a Superman t-shirt so I asked him if he watched Smallville. He was also reading a comic book so I talked to him about that too. The point of the matter is -- be observant. Do not just in your iPod or put your eyes in a book. You might actually meet someone interesting! Unless of course you are having a bad day and you really just want to be your loner self, then of course you can do that too.
3: Have a genuine reaction to what a person says. Make sure you have the spirit in which the comment was offered. For example, if someone makes a joke, even if it is not that funny, try to laugh. As they say -- fake it 'til you make it!
4: Have eye contact. I know that when I am talking to someone new I try to look them straight in the eye and act interested.
I hope this helps you! Let me know your results! Also if you have any advice about this, feel free to leave a comment below.
Saturday, April 7, 2012
Finding Your Inner Kid
Back in February in all places Cosmopolitan I found this article about "finding your inner girl" which then sent my creative muses on a rampage. In this article it says that experts say it pays to reclaim some of the qualities you had back when you did not care what playing in the snow did to your blowout. For me, this translates to the time of innocence and play and to the point that the world was rose-colored and you had your ideals. I also learned that by playing pretend or doing any of the stuff you loved when your toy chest was still G-rated is a proven way to chill and enjoy life. Here is how I let my inner kid free as I want to enjoy my life as best as I can because you know what they say -- you only get one.
Steps to Finding Your Inner Kid
1: Go ahead. Eat the last cupcake. I bet your eight year old self had no problem with being selfish when the situation arose for it to be. Besides, why pass up frosting? That is the best part!
2: Write a fan letter. I do this all the time for David. It is an excellent way to connect to someone. Write it to someone you idolize -- a former teacher you had, a favorite co-worker, or if you are feeling brazen that boy or girl you have your eye on. Sign your name too!
3: Sing or dance like no one is watching. You did not care what others thought of you when you danced or sung or when it came time to show off. Reclaim that spirit!
4: Ask a lot of questions, but do not be so egotistical about it that people think you are being a know it all.
5: Get onto a swing! Pump those legs! Don't worry if you will fall -- a lot of playgrounds now have rubber mats to break your fall.
6: Imagine what you want to be when you grow up. Dreaming that you would grow up to be an actress, rock star, writer, princess, firefighter, gave you the drive and inspiration then. There is absolutely no reason why it can not do the same power to you now.
7: Have a ridiculous celebrity crush. Mine is Zachary Quinto, even though he plays for the other team. It is fun to fantasize and hey now that you are all grown up you might have a shot!
8: Play in the snow during the winter/Blow bubbles and pop them during the spring. I always played in the snow and blew bubbles then when I broke my ankle that fun stopped. Now that I work with kindergarteners, that inspiration came back. So what if you get wet and turn red? Your clothes will dry and your face will go back to normal in due time.
9: Take a nap. This is my absolute favorite thing to do especially during rainy days. If you are tired, do not reach for that energy shot. Take a nap! Your body will tell you if it is tired. Powering through tiredness will only make your body and health worse. Is that what you really want?
10: Say " I love you" to your parents. No brainer. Do it. Do it right now.
11: Enter a contest. I imagine when you were a kid you would have crazy races in your playground that would push you to do your best. Get that same rush now. Enter a local run, a baking contest, an upload your best YouTube video competition, passes to a movie you are dying to see, and so on.
12: Buy a piece of jewelry for yourself and your best friend. Since you have some cash now, it of course does not have to be one of those best friend half hearts that ultimately turn your skin green thus you not wearing it. Give your best friend a piece of jewelry you know he or she will appreciate and it is a fun way for both of you to remember how important you are to each other.
13: Ask people their favorite color. A student of mine asks me every day what is my ultimate awesome favorite color. I would turn around and say purple and she beamed with delight because she loves purple as well. I want that same delight too. It is an acceptable way to determine whether or not people you know have things in common or not.
14: Do not look in the mirror in the morning. Did you criticize yourself when you were six years old? I did not think so. Look only in the mirror to inspire yourself and to say affirmations to make yourself happy, not to criticize.
15: Be amazed, not annoyed, by your body quirks. Right now I am dealing with a torn knee. I was annoyed by it at first because I am in a lot of pain but do you know what else it means? It means time to pamper myself and to enjoy the things i like slowly instead of rushing.
So what about you? What do you do to find your inner kid?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)