If you are a regular reader of my blog (which I know I have not really updated but life happens) you know I do this thing known as DaniMania where I make up a list of things that either I enjoy, want to see, want to get, want to do that add up to my age. This year I turn 42 years old. I have done this for the past 5 years. I would celebrate DaniMania all of March but something this year just did not feel right with that. At the beginning of March, it is Pisces season. Well it is Pisces season from February 21st all the way to March 21st. Well I do not have any Pisces in my astrological chart so I felt it was wrong for me to celebrate my birth during that time. So this year I decided to start DaniMania 42 on March 21st. I wrote out my list, actually shopped for some of the items before March 21st so I knew that they would arrive during Aries season. I was figuring out when to go to the places I put on my list...and then.....
PHYSICAL DISTANCING HAPPENED. QUARANTINE HAPPENED. COVID-19 HAPPENED. SCHOOLS ARE CLOSED NOW SO YOU WILL WORK FROM HOME HAPPENED.
So here I am, on day 15 of quarantine. I have not left my house except for a walk to my corner fruit stand. I have not seen Mike nor any of my friends physically. Texting/video chat has been my "social" as well as social media. And surprisingly enough, I am calm and cool and collected with this as well as accepted it and am making due.
Now I know what you are saying to yourself -- DANI YOU ARE AN EXTROVERT. YOU LIKE TO GO OUT. YOU LIKE TO EXPLORE. YOU LIKE BEING AROUND PEOPLE. WHAT THE HECK? But lets look at the grander picture -- I am writing again. I am being creative again. I am making connections that are filled with depth and meaning. I am truly appreciating and filled with gratitude of all of the things I have in my house. Thats like this one meme I have seen that said "Okay but honestly -- how privileged are we that during a global pandemic we can just stay warm at home reading, working, still being educated, creating, with little worries and a fridge stocked with food? Do remind yourself to be grateful today." That is the lesson I feel the Universe has bestowed upon me during DaniMania 42. Slow down. Have gratitude. Spend time with the things and activities that bring you joy. Become my own lover. Being my own creative muse. Realize that feeling good is the only goal. Yes it is good to desire what you want and to realize that you are worthy of it and so much more.
I have had friends surprise me with things on my Amazon wish list that I completely forgot about. I also have received some of the things on my list and yeah when we are told that it is safe to go out again, you damn skippy I am going to go to the places I put. It also has taught me a lesson in humility -- that the status quo is now over and I get to design the life of my dreams. What is stopping me from doing so? Certainly nothing now.
With that being said, I am going to go enjoy my birthday pineapple pizza and red velvet cookies I made for myself and smile. Happy Birthday to Me as I turned the age that is truly the meaning of life.
Showing posts with label love. Show all posts
Showing posts with label love. Show all posts
Sunday, March 29, 2020
Friday, October 26, 2018
Book Review: Choosing Me -- Love Letters from a Poet by Bill Weber
I am pleasantly surprised at the power of Instagram. It has brought forth to me some amazing people -- two life coaches, vivacious bookworms like myself, and inspiring authors. As most of you know I am going through a period of growth that is filled with positivity and that energy has manifested in my Instagram account.
When I was contacted by Bill Weber about his book Choosing Me -- Love Letters from a Poet, I felt this calling. I had to read this book. I had to HAVE this book. An opportunity arose for me to read it before everyone else. The universe is giving me all of this great energy and positivity and is sharing it with the world. This book is available for pre-order on Amazon and it goes on sale to the general public on December 1, 2018.
Here is the book description: Every time we make love is another opportunity to recognize how the spiritual principles of Yin and Yang represent themselves through the design of our bodies and the pleasures of the experience. It is another opportunity to experience the joy of transcending the illusion of duality, and another step along the spiritual journey of awakening to the true nature of our being. Making love is a physical expression of the interplay of Yin and Yang energy, , a joyous celebration of the human body, a sensual fountain of pleasures, a regenerating process of sacred energetic potential, and a hint of the joy of the heaven of enlightenment. Savor the sacredness of the being you are with. Savor the intimacy of the connection. Savor the ebb and flow of energy. Savor every sensation. Savor the sacredness.
Now I will admit -- when I started to read this book it made me blush a lot due to the content. There is an element of eroticism in these poems. I will admit -- the genre of eroticism/romance I normally do not read. I am happy and grateful that this book took me out of my comfort zone of reading. I am also happy and grateful that there are people out there who yearn to keep the spark of love alive in their relationships. It is the ultimate life force and my main priority is feeling good as much as I can. So when I started reading this book I felt happy. I felt good. That is what it is all about. It was also refreshing to see a man step out of his comfort zone of romance. His words just flow onto the page creating a myriad of images in my head; filling my soul with warmth. Plus the fact that this man is essentially honoring women, in particular his partner, it is a glorious sight to read and makes me wish to have a man in my life who is so expressive with his words.
If you are a fan of poetry, romance, love, eroticism, and feeling good as much as you possible can -- GET THIS BOOK. I highly recommend.
When I was contacted by Bill Weber about his book Choosing Me -- Love Letters from a Poet, I felt this calling. I had to read this book. I had to HAVE this book. An opportunity arose for me to read it before everyone else. The universe is giving me all of this great energy and positivity and is sharing it with the world. This book is available for pre-order on Amazon and it goes on sale to the general public on December 1, 2018.
Here is the book description: Every time we make love is another opportunity to recognize how the spiritual principles of Yin and Yang represent themselves through the design of our bodies and the pleasures of the experience. It is another opportunity to experience the joy of transcending the illusion of duality, and another step along the spiritual journey of awakening to the true nature of our being. Making love is a physical expression of the interplay of Yin and Yang energy, , a joyous celebration of the human body, a sensual fountain of pleasures, a regenerating process of sacred energetic potential, and a hint of the joy of the heaven of enlightenment. Savor the sacredness of the being you are with. Savor the intimacy of the connection. Savor the ebb and flow of energy. Savor every sensation. Savor the sacredness.
Now I will admit -- when I started to read this book it made me blush a lot due to the content. There is an element of eroticism in these poems. I will admit -- the genre of eroticism/romance I normally do not read. I am happy and grateful that this book took me out of my comfort zone of reading. I am also happy and grateful that there are people out there who yearn to keep the spark of love alive in their relationships. It is the ultimate life force and my main priority is feeling good as much as I can. So when I started reading this book I felt happy. I felt good. That is what it is all about. It was also refreshing to see a man step out of his comfort zone of romance. His words just flow onto the page creating a myriad of images in my head; filling my soul with warmth. Plus the fact that this man is essentially honoring women, in particular his partner, it is a glorious sight to read and makes me wish to have a man in my life who is so expressive with his words.
If you are a fan of poetry, romance, love, eroticism, and feeling good as much as you possible can -- GET THIS BOOK. I highly recommend.
Thursday, March 29, 2018
DaniMania 40 and It's Running Wild!
Yes, it is true. Today is my birthday and I am turning 40… Too Sweet Woop Woop! I know what you’re thinking, “I can’t believe she is going to be 40. She sure doesn't look 40. She can pass for a 25 year old! She is freakishly smart, witty, flat-out adorable, courageous and she is living her best life.” But it’s true. Some people hide their age, but I like to think of it as my DaniMania 40. To be honest it doesn't feel real at all. Forty has always seemed so far away, so grown up...so old! Yet here I am saying farewell to my thirties. And while it feels big, I have decided to embrace it and welcome a midlife with open arms. I have no idea what the future will bring but the past 3 years have been full of growth and SO MANY lessons learned. Here are 40 things that I learned and know --
1. Well for one thing -- I have made it to 40 years old! Had 4 major surgeries (3 reconstructive ankle surgeries, 1 gall bladder removal). Diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis 6 years ago and currently in remission. That shit ain't got nothing on me. Life for a while kept on handing me lemons -- so I lived by the cliche of making lemonade; even though I can not drink it.
2. I learned that I am not in competition with anyone but myself. Yeah sometimes it can be easy to compare yourself to others. I like to call it the compare and despair game. Facebook pages showing all the delightful moments your friends are having. Romantic comedies portraying what being in love should look like. Feeling like your life would be perfect if you just had that house with the white picket fence, 2.5 kids and a Siberian Husky. But now I’ve come to realize… everyone has their own crap they’re dealing with and I don’t have to be anywhere in my life other than where I am right now. I am in control of my life. Stop comparing myself to others. Serves me no good.
3. I don't feel guilty anymore about letting toxicity and negativity go. I used to be a paranoid, insecure, codependent due to past relationships. I do have some slips but after taking the time to dig deep into my roots and learning the ways of radical self love -- I understand it’s not the quantity of the relationships in my life, it’s the quality. I have learned to eliminate those in my life who don’t bring me happiness and who do not serve my most good.
4. I try my best to realize that I am not in control of everything and I do not waste time on the things that I can not change.
5. A good night sleep and drinking lots of water is better than botox. Take care of myself. Self-care is not self-ish; it’s necessary. Only when I take care of me am I truly able to care for others.
6. I am WAY stronger than I ever knew.
7. Life is just way too short for chaos and drama. Count my blessings and practice gratitude often.
8. I know who my true friends are. At 40, that fuzzy line that existed in your 20s and 30s between ‘friends’ and ‘acquaintances’ can be drawn with laser precision. By now, I have weeded out the fair weather friends, the posers and the double crossers. And, truthfully, I have probably been weeded out too. (By those who couldn’t handle my sheer awesomeness, of course!). At 40 I finally understand that it is perfectly normal to have a social circle of which only a handful are my true peeps. Sometimes I do have my moments of "I have no friends!" and no Facebook does not count but there’s comfort in finally understanding who my true friends are. True friends don’t care if I have had a bad day, if I have been incognito for months (which NEVER happens), or if I look like a hot mess. They are the ones who like me just the way I am, no matter how imperfect I may be.
9. I don't have time to worry about who doesn't like me. I am too busy loving the people who love me. I no longer need the acceptance, validation, or approval from others to feel good about myself. I no longer feel that I have to be someone I am not. I am me -- and if you don't like me, well that is your problem.
10. Three very important words -- LET IT GO.
11. I got to unplug from social media every once in a while. It will always be there and can wait but moments and adventures will not be as well as will not wait. Get out there and enjoy life!
12. I learned and embraced how to say “NO.” I need to protect my time so that I have time for what, and who, really matters — including ME.
13.I learned and embraced how to say “YES!” to what will feed my soul. Say yes to the things that will bring me joy.
14. Money doesn’t buy happiness; even though people will say it does. Research has suggested that once one’s income climbs above the poverty level, more money results in very little extra happiness. “Happiness is a place between too little and too much” (Finnish proverb). Put my focus on relationships and experiences over stuff.
15. I must accept and embrace change. Believe me, I sure did want to but the way I was going about things did not work and I needed a change.
16. Be okay with OKAY. Stop chasing perfection. I am sure as heck not perfect and those that expect me to be -- look at #3 and #8.
17. I create and manifest my own luck — by working hard; believing in myself; surrounding myself with positive, supportive people; and having the right attitude. It works.
18. I do not have to have a plan for everything -- another bitter pill to swallow. Most times the best things in life are serendipitous.
19. NYC, Paris, New Orleans, having wanderlust -- always great ideas.
20. Find the time to read all of the books! Having a cup of tea helps with this!
21. Failure is a blessing because when I fail that is when I will learn best.
22. Find the beauty in everything around me. It’s always there.
23. Even though I have RA and will hurt afterward -- Push my personal limits and try something crazy that I would never otherwise do, like walking across the Brooklyn Bridge or walk close to 2 miles in NYC while snowing in December. I will glow with victory!
24. Smile. It works wonders for my mood.
25. IT'S NOT ALWAYS ABOUT ME. STOP TAKING THINGS SO DAMN PERSONALLY. In caps for emphasis as this was and will continue to be a big lesson.
26. Nothing happens by accident and nothing is an coincidence.
27. Wearing my heart on my sleeve is stylish and is a true testament to who I am.
28. Having impromptu solo dance parties wherever I am is worth all the stares.
29. My strengths and passions are meant to be shared.
30. Everything I need to be happy is within me, not outside of me. It is no one's job to control my happiness. It is mine.
31. When I don’t get what I want now, it always makes sense why later.
32. It’s always better to bring others up than to drag them down. More people should learn this.
33. I must constantly craft actionable goals inspired by my strengths, passions, and purpose in order to evolve and thrive.
34. I can transform how I feel about and react to anything and anyone by being aware of my thoughts and intentionally challenging and changing them. Also pink salt goes a long way too.
35. Occasionally venting frustrations creates relief, regularly complaining about frustrations creates more frustrations and that does not feel good; which is priority #1.
36. My words really do create my world — both the ones I speak out loud to others and the ones I say internally to myself.
37. I can never be happy all of the time, but I can be happy a lot of the time if I decide to be.
38. Do not measure myself by age. It is just a number after all.
39. Be KIND. It matters.
40. Life is truly beautiful.
BRING IT ON 40!
1. Well for one thing -- I have made it to 40 years old! Had 4 major surgeries (3 reconstructive ankle surgeries, 1 gall bladder removal). Diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis 6 years ago and currently in remission. That shit ain't got nothing on me. Life for a while kept on handing me lemons -- so I lived by the cliche of making lemonade; even though I can not drink it.
2. I learned that I am not in competition with anyone but myself. Yeah sometimes it can be easy to compare yourself to others. I like to call it the compare and despair game. Facebook pages showing all the delightful moments your friends are having. Romantic comedies portraying what being in love should look like. Feeling like your life would be perfect if you just had that house with the white picket fence, 2.5 kids and a Siberian Husky. But now I’ve come to realize… everyone has their own crap they’re dealing with and I don’t have to be anywhere in my life other than where I am right now. I am in control of my life. Stop comparing myself to others. Serves me no good.
3. I don't feel guilty anymore about letting toxicity and negativity go. I used to be a paranoid, insecure, codependent due to past relationships. I do have some slips but after taking the time to dig deep into my roots and learning the ways of radical self love -- I understand it’s not the quantity of the relationships in my life, it’s the quality. I have learned to eliminate those in my life who don’t bring me happiness and who do not serve my most good.
4. I try my best to realize that I am not in control of everything and I do not waste time on the things that I can not change.
5. A good night sleep and drinking lots of water is better than botox. Take care of myself. Self-care is not self-ish; it’s necessary. Only when I take care of me am I truly able to care for others.
6. I am WAY stronger than I ever knew.
7. Life is just way too short for chaos and drama. Count my blessings and practice gratitude often.
8. I know who my true friends are. At 40, that fuzzy line that existed in your 20s and 30s between ‘friends’ and ‘acquaintances’ can be drawn with laser precision. By now, I have weeded out the fair weather friends, the posers and the double crossers. And, truthfully, I have probably been weeded out too. (By those who couldn’t handle my sheer awesomeness, of course!). At 40 I finally understand that it is perfectly normal to have a social circle of which only a handful are my true peeps. Sometimes I do have my moments of "I have no friends!" and no Facebook does not count but there’s comfort in finally understanding who my true friends are. True friends don’t care if I have had a bad day, if I have been incognito for months (which NEVER happens), or if I look like a hot mess. They are the ones who like me just the way I am, no matter how imperfect I may be.
9. I don't have time to worry about who doesn't like me. I am too busy loving the people who love me. I no longer need the acceptance, validation, or approval from others to feel good about myself. I no longer feel that I have to be someone I am not. I am me -- and if you don't like me, well that is your problem.
10. Three very important words -- LET IT GO.
11. I got to unplug from social media every once in a while. It will always be there and can wait but moments and adventures will not be as well as will not wait. Get out there and enjoy life!
12. I learned and embraced how to say “NO.” I need to protect my time so that I have time for what, and who, really matters — including ME.
13.I learned and embraced how to say “YES!” to what will feed my soul. Say yes to the things that will bring me joy.
14. Money doesn’t buy happiness; even though people will say it does. Research has suggested that once one’s income climbs above the poverty level, more money results in very little extra happiness. “Happiness is a place between too little and too much” (Finnish proverb). Put my focus on relationships and experiences over stuff.
15. I must accept and embrace change. Believe me, I sure did want to but the way I was going about things did not work and I needed a change.
16. Be okay with OKAY. Stop chasing perfection. I am sure as heck not perfect and those that expect me to be -- look at #3 and #8.
17. I create and manifest my own luck — by working hard; believing in myself; surrounding myself with positive, supportive people; and having the right attitude. It works.
18. I do not have to have a plan for everything -- another bitter pill to swallow. Most times the best things in life are serendipitous.
19. NYC, Paris, New Orleans, having wanderlust -- always great ideas.
20. Find the time to read all of the books! Having a cup of tea helps with this!
21. Failure is a blessing because when I fail that is when I will learn best.
22. Find the beauty in everything around me. It’s always there.
23. Even though I have RA and will hurt afterward -- Push my personal limits and try something crazy that I would never otherwise do, like walking across the Brooklyn Bridge or walk close to 2 miles in NYC while snowing in December. I will glow with victory!
24. Smile. It works wonders for my mood.
25. IT'S NOT ALWAYS ABOUT ME. STOP TAKING THINGS SO DAMN PERSONALLY. In caps for emphasis as this was and will continue to be a big lesson.
26. Nothing happens by accident and nothing is an coincidence.
27. Wearing my heart on my sleeve is stylish and is a true testament to who I am.
28. Having impromptu solo dance parties wherever I am is worth all the stares.
29. My strengths and passions are meant to be shared.
30. Everything I need to be happy is within me, not outside of me. It is no one's job to control my happiness. It is mine.
31. When I don’t get what I want now, it always makes sense why later.
32. It’s always better to bring others up than to drag them down. More people should learn this.
33. I must constantly craft actionable goals inspired by my strengths, passions, and purpose in order to evolve and thrive.
34. I can transform how I feel about and react to anything and anyone by being aware of my thoughts and intentionally challenging and changing them. Also pink salt goes a long way too.
35. Occasionally venting frustrations creates relief, regularly complaining about frustrations creates more frustrations and that does not feel good; which is priority #1.
36. My words really do create my world — both the ones I speak out loud to others and the ones I say internally to myself.
37. I can never be happy all of the time, but I can be happy a lot of the time if I decide to be.
38. Do not measure myself by age. It is just a number after all.
39. Be KIND. It matters.
40. Life is truly beautiful.
BRING IT ON 40!
Friday, September 1, 2017
Countdown to Halloween -- 2017 Edition
First of all -- let me apologize for not writing a blog since July. This seems to be a trend I have noticed. I had a lot of things go down in my life lately so I have been in a reading and writing slump. I am making my way out of my hole though. With that being said...lets get this annual feature of my blog started!
My favorite holiday, besides my birthday, is Halloween. I am drawn to all things Halloween/Autumn -- vampires, zombies, werewolves, cheesy 80s horror movies, dressing up, anything pumpkin flavored or scented, sweater weather... Just love it! With that said I thought it would be cool to do a COUNTDOWN TO HALLOWEEN activities list. Most of this stuff will be done by myself. Yes I know there are dates attached but I am using it more as a check off list.
October 1st: Watch the movie The Lost Boys
October 2nd: Watch the movie Nightmare on Elm Street (original with Robert Englund)
October 3rd? Watch the movie Hotel Transylvania.
October 4th: Attend In This Moment concert with Robert Payes and friends. (Done! Had a blast!)
October 5th: Attend New York Comic Con. (Done! Not a big haul like in years past but overall a good time.)
October 6th: Relax and catch up on the movies I missed above.
October 7th: Attend UWA Elite in South River, NJ or SWF in Jackson, NJ (yes....not a Halloween themed event but I do like my wrasslin'!) (Done! Went to SWF Wrestling in Jackson, NJ.)
October 8th: Go see Blade Runner 2049
October 9th: Watch the movie Hellraiser
October 10th: Watch the movie House of 1000 Corpses.
October 11th: Watch the movie Psycho (original Alfred Hitchcock version).
October 12th: Watch the Universal classic horror movies Frankenstein and Bride of Frankenstein. (Done!)
October 13th: Attend Ultimate Greenwich Village Ghost Tour with a half Jason/Half Dani painted face. (Done!)
October 14th: Get candles with a cinnamon or pumpkin smell from Bath and Body Works for my room. (Done!)
October 15th: Attend the 11th Annual NYC Zombie Crawl (Done! Was on Channel 7 ABC Eyewitness News!)
October 16th: Watch the movie Paranorman
October 17th: Watch the cartoon Its the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown (Done!)
October 18th: Watch the movie Hocus Pocus.
October 19th: Watch The Rocky Horror Picture Show.
October 20th: Go visit the Nerd Herders for early birthday shenanigans! (Done! So much fun as always!)
October 21st: Attend Jersey All Pro Wrestling in Rahway, NJ or Pro Wrestling Magic in Ridgefield Park, NJ (more wrasslin'....)(Done! Went to Jersey All Pro Wrestling and had a lot of fun.)
October 22nd: Watch the movie The Craft and the season premiere of The Walking Dead
October 23rd: Howl at the moon....lol....maybe not but instead maybe get a beauty treatment that is pumpkin scented or fall inspired. (Done!) Got the Too Cool for School Pumpkin Sleeping Pack)
October 24th: Watch the movie Carrie (the original version with Sissy Spasek)
October 25th: HAPPY BIRTHDAY VERONICA!!!
October 26th: Wear cat ears to work.
October 27th: Visit a farm and pick a pumpkin. (Didn't visit a farm. Instead went to the Union Square Farmers Market and got a pumpkin there.)
October 28th: Watch the movie Teen Witch
October 29th: Get a fall inspired color manicure.
October 30th: Wear skull hand hair clip. (Done!)
October 31st: HALLOWEEN!! Give an acorn to loved ones for good luck and fortune in the new year and get a tarot card reading for guidance for the year to come.
What are you doing for October/Halloween?
My favorite holiday, besides my birthday, is Halloween. I am drawn to all things Halloween/Autumn -- vampires, zombies, werewolves, cheesy 80s horror movies, dressing up, anything pumpkin flavored or scented, sweater weather... Just love it! With that said I thought it would be cool to do a COUNTDOWN TO HALLOWEEN activities list. Most of this stuff will be done by myself. Yes I know there are dates attached but I am using it more as a check off list.
October 1st: Watch the movie The Lost Boys
October 2nd: Watch the movie Nightmare on Elm Street (original with Robert Englund)
October 3rd? Watch the movie Hotel Transylvania.
October 4th: Attend In This Moment concert with Robert Payes and friends. (Done! Had a blast!)
October 5th: Attend New York Comic Con. (Done! Not a big haul like in years past but overall a good time.)
October 6th: Relax and catch up on the movies I missed above.
October 7th: Attend UWA Elite in South River, NJ or SWF in Jackson, NJ (yes....not a Halloween themed event but I do like my wrasslin'!) (Done! Went to SWF Wrestling in Jackson, NJ.)
October 8th: Go see Blade Runner 2049
October 9th: Watch the movie Hellraiser
October 10th: Watch the movie House of 1000 Corpses.
October 11th: Watch the movie Psycho (original Alfred Hitchcock version).
October 12th: Watch the Universal classic horror movies Frankenstein and Bride of Frankenstein. (Done!)
October 13th: Attend Ultimate Greenwich Village Ghost Tour with a half Jason/Half Dani painted face. (Done!)
October 14th: Get candles with a cinnamon or pumpkin smell from Bath and Body Works for my room. (Done!)
October 15th: Attend the 11th Annual NYC Zombie Crawl (Done! Was on Channel 7 ABC Eyewitness News!)
October 16th: Watch the movie Paranorman
October 17th: Watch the cartoon Its the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown (Done!)
October 18th: Watch the movie Hocus Pocus.
October 19th: Watch The Rocky Horror Picture Show.
October 20th: Go visit the Nerd Herders for early birthday shenanigans! (Done! So much fun as always!)
October 21st: Attend Jersey All Pro Wrestling in Rahway, NJ or Pro Wrestling Magic in Ridgefield Park, NJ (more wrasslin'....)(Done! Went to Jersey All Pro Wrestling and had a lot of fun.)
October 22nd: Watch the movie The Craft and the season premiere of The Walking Dead
October 23rd: Howl at the moon....lol....maybe not but instead maybe get a beauty treatment that is pumpkin scented or fall inspired. (Done!) Got the Too Cool for School Pumpkin Sleeping Pack)
October 24th: Watch the movie Carrie (the original version with Sissy Spasek)
October 25th: HAPPY BIRTHDAY VERONICA!!!
October 26th: Wear cat ears to work.
October 27th: Visit a farm and pick a pumpkin. (Didn't visit a farm. Instead went to the Union Square Farmers Market and got a pumpkin there.)
October 28th: Watch the movie Teen Witch
October 29th: Get a fall inspired color manicure.
October 30th: Wear skull hand hair clip. (Done!)
October 31st: HALLOWEEN!! Give an acorn to loved ones for good luck and fortune in the new year and get a tarot card reading for guidance for the year to come.
What are you doing for October/Halloween?
Thursday, November 24, 2016
What I Want For Christmas This Year -- Nothing Physical But Love
This is the first time I have said this -- I truly do not want anything this year for Christmas. Yes I do have the Amazon wish lists and will tell people OH MY GOODNESS THIS NEEDS TO BE IN MY LIFE but to perfectly honest, the pressure of "having" to getting me something for Christmas or whatever holiday excuse they have for gift giving -- I’d simply prefer they not get me anything at all. When I mentioned this to my friend Veronica, she openly told me that if she sees something that I would like, she is getting it and I can not question it. With her, she gets a pass. But I do know that the reaction to this will often range from confusion (i.e., how can you not want gifts?) to exasperation that my insincere “no, no, you don’t have to get me anything…” ways just means they will have to be extra crafty in getting me a gift, since I’m not helping them by hinting at what I want; even if you look at my wish lists on a consistent basis.
So, honest and truly: If you’ve ever thought about getting me a Christmas/holiday gift, stop now. The best thing you can get me (with one small exception, to be detailed below) is nothing. And no, it’s not because I’m an agnostic and/or communist and/or have environmental concerns and/or had the “seasonal joy” sections of my brain removed as a child. The reasons are somewhat more mundane than that, and I’ll be happy to detail them to you now.
1. When I really want something, I buy it. Because why wouldn’t I? I want it, and can generally afford to buy it, and I’m not patient enough to hint to other people that I want it and hope they get it for me. It helps that most things I want aren’t hugely expensive; even so. Everyone knows how much of a bookworm I am -- if I see a book I want, I get it. What this means for everyone else, however, is that all the really obvious stuff to get me is taken off the table, because I’ve already gone out and gotten it. Done and done. What’s left then is a whole bunch of stuff I don’t really want, and I don’t see why people should feel obliged to buy me something I don’t really want, just because it’s the holidays.
Well, you say, surely there are some things you want that you don’t have. The answer: No, not really. The things I want that I don’t have fall into two categories: Things that money can’t buy (happiness, love, romance, world peace, a hotel room romp with Nikki Sixx, Jared Padalecki, and Frank Bello, in which, you know, actually show up and are in a romptastic frame of mind), and things that are a multiple of my average monthly income, a category at the moment which currently has only one object of desire in it: Land. I want my own acre of land. Pretty much everything else that I want, I already own plus my basic needs are met (food, clothing, hygiene, roof over my head)
Now, to be clear, if you want to buy me the acre of land that I desire, I won’t stop you, although I’d probably ask you if you don’t have better things to do with that money, like your retirement account or your kids’ college fund (if you can arrange the hotel romp with Sixx, Padalecki and Bello, you are a master of time-space manipulation, not unlike Dr. Who, and you really shouldn’t be wasting your time with trivialities like my own perversions). But let’s just say I would be surprised if anyone actually likes me that much. Short of the acre of land, though, you can basically assume that if you think I would want it, I probably own it.
Which brings us rather handily to the second reason I don’t want holiday gifts:
2. I have too much crap already. Because, you know, even most of the stuff I want I don’t really need, and once I’m done playing with it, it just takes up space. Right now my bedroom looks like a bookstore exploded in it, and then an toy store was dropped on it to smother the flames. This is a good thing, in my opinion (my family are somewhat less enthusiastic about it), but it reinforces the point that I don’t really need more stuff, especially when, as noted above, it’s likely to be stuff I’m indifferent about in any event.
3. I don’t like people feeling obliged to get me stuff. This is actually a big one for me. One, of course, I don’t pick friends on the basis of who is liable to produce gifts on holidays and special occasions. Second, it’s money more profitably spent on people who want something in particular, or (if you’re in this frame of mind) to a charity (which I will be giving a list of in another blog post), or just kept in their own pocket. Third, well, you know. The holidays are stressful enough without me adding to the stress. Why would I want to stress out my friends and family? I’d like them to think “Oh, Dani. Don’t have to get her anything. Wow, that was simple.” See, a ray of sunshine in their lives, I’ll be.
Actually, in the real world, it doesn’t always work out that way; my mother and brother were stressed about getting me something every year, but they were even more stressed when I said I didn’t want anything to them this year — because it’s not natural to give people nothing, especially if they’re family. People like to give other people stuff. It doesn’t help that we buy gifts for friends and family — my not wanting to get gifts is not rooted in cheapness — so people feel like they should reciprocate. But eventually it gets sorted out.
But this does bring up a secondary point, which is that I sometimes will send gifts to people throughout the year, not just during the holidays, just because I feel like it. If you get one, don’t feel you have to reciprocate. I’m not sitting there with a clipboard, checking off the people who have hurriedly run out to Barnes and Noble or a department store to get me a bauble because I sent them something during the year. Relax, folks; it’s not the way I work.
4. Because I know some people won’t listen to or believe me: Now, after all of this, let’s say you still really feel like you want to/have to get me something for the holidays. Go right ahead. I don’t think anyone should feel obliged to get me anything, but I’m certainly not going to have the poor grace not to accept a gift and to appreciate the spirit of giving behind it. Because that would just make me an asshole and I am not one.
That said, here’s a suggestion: I’d rather have, say, a mix CD of your favorite songs, or a picture that you took that you think is especially artful, or a goofy drawing, or whatever, than just about anything you could buy in a store. Because I have enough stuff I can buy, and can get stuff I can buy easily enough; there’s an almost infinite number of ways to buy crap in our society. What I can’t get in any store — pretty much by definition — is something that’s personal. So that’s what I’d much rather prefer to get. A mix cd or a picture or whatever doesn’t cost much of anything — just the time to make and the cost of wrapping paper — but it’s worth rather more to me, because it’s not something I can buy, and because I know it’s not something that could come from anyone else.
If you haven’t the time to craft something, and decide to get something from a store, then have it be something you’d want to share: Music you really love, a book that spoke to you, a movie you can’t live without. You know what I’m talking about. Send it with a note telling me why that particular book, CD, or DVD matters to you. I love all those things, anyway, and knowing it’s one of your favorites will make it something I’ll pay extra attention to (if it’s a book/cd/movie you were involved in the production of in some way, that’s even better).
If you can’t do that, just get me something goofy. Something that you know will make it smile and laugh in some way. Like a bag of unicorn farts or unicorn meat. Seriously, they are a thing.
No matter what, if you’re spending more than $50 on a gift for me, you’re doing it wrong. Start over. Cheaper. Unless, of course, you’re getting me the acre of land that I want. In which case, spend all you like.
But when all is said and done, what’s important to me is not the gift, but the impulse behind it, the thought and effort you put into it, which is the true gift. I’m glad you’re thinking of me. I’d be glad of it even without the bauble. That’s a hint.
So, honest and truly: If you’ve ever thought about getting me a Christmas/holiday gift, stop now. The best thing you can get me (with one small exception, to be detailed below) is nothing. And no, it’s not because I’m an agnostic and/or communist and/or have environmental concerns and/or had the “seasonal joy” sections of my brain removed as a child. The reasons are somewhat more mundane than that, and I’ll be happy to detail them to you now.
1. When I really want something, I buy it. Because why wouldn’t I? I want it, and can generally afford to buy it, and I’m not patient enough to hint to other people that I want it and hope they get it for me. It helps that most things I want aren’t hugely expensive; even so. Everyone knows how much of a bookworm I am -- if I see a book I want, I get it. What this means for everyone else, however, is that all the really obvious stuff to get me is taken off the table, because I’ve already gone out and gotten it. Done and done. What’s left then is a whole bunch of stuff I don’t really want, and I don’t see why people should feel obliged to buy me something I don’t really want, just because it’s the holidays.
Well, you say, surely there are some things you want that you don’t have. The answer: No, not really. The things I want that I don’t have fall into two categories: Things that money can’t buy (happiness, love, romance, world peace, a hotel room romp with Nikki Sixx, Jared Padalecki, and Frank Bello, in which, you know, actually show up and are in a romptastic frame of mind), and things that are a multiple of my average monthly income, a category at the moment which currently has only one object of desire in it: Land. I want my own acre of land. Pretty much everything else that I want, I already own plus my basic needs are met (food, clothing, hygiene, roof over my head)
Now, to be clear, if you want to buy me the acre of land that I desire, I won’t stop you, although I’d probably ask you if you don’t have better things to do with that money, like your retirement account or your kids’ college fund (if you can arrange the hotel romp with Sixx, Padalecki and Bello, you are a master of time-space manipulation, not unlike Dr. Who, and you really shouldn’t be wasting your time with trivialities like my own perversions). But let’s just say I would be surprised if anyone actually likes me that much. Short of the acre of land, though, you can basically assume that if you think I would want it, I probably own it.
Which brings us rather handily to the second reason I don’t want holiday gifts:
2. I have too much crap already. Because, you know, even most of the stuff I want I don’t really need, and once I’m done playing with it, it just takes up space. Right now my bedroom looks like a bookstore exploded in it, and then an toy store was dropped on it to smother the flames. This is a good thing, in my opinion (my family are somewhat less enthusiastic about it), but it reinforces the point that I don’t really need more stuff, especially when, as noted above, it’s likely to be stuff I’m indifferent about in any event.
3. I don’t like people feeling obliged to get me stuff. This is actually a big one for me. One, of course, I don’t pick friends on the basis of who is liable to produce gifts on holidays and special occasions. Second, it’s money more profitably spent on people who want something in particular, or (if you’re in this frame of mind) to a charity (which I will be giving a list of in another blog post), or just kept in their own pocket. Third, well, you know. The holidays are stressful enough without me adding to the stress. Why would I want to stress out my friends and family? I’d like them to think “Oh, Dani. Don’t have to get her anything. Wow, that was simple.” See, a ray of sunshine in their lives, I’ll be.
Actually, in the real world, it doesn’t always work out that way; my mother and brother were stressed about getting me something every year, but they were even more stressed when I said I didn’t want anything to them this year — because it’s not natural to give people nothing, especially if they’re family. People like to give other people stuff. It doesn’t help that we buy gifts for friends and family — my not wanting to get gifts is not rooted in cheapness — so people feel like they should reciprocate. But eventually it gets sorted out.
But this does bring up a secondary point, which is that I sometimes will send gifts to people throughout the year, not just during the holidays, just because I feel like it. If you get one, don’t feel you have to reciprocate. I’m not sitting there with a clipboard, checking off the people who have hurriedly run out to Barnes and Noble or a department store to get me a bauble because I sent them something during the year. Relax, folks; it’s not the way I work.
4. Because I know some people won’t listen to or believe me: Now, after all of this, let’s say you still really feel like you want to/have to get me something for the holidays. Go right ahead. I don’t think anyone should feel obliged to get me anything, but I’m certainly not going to have the poor grace not to accept a gift and to appreciate the spirit of giving behind it. Because that would just make me an asshole and I am not one.
That said, here’s a suggestion: I’d rather have, say, a mix CD of your favorite songs, or a picture that you took that you think is especially artful, or a goofy drawing, or whatever, than just about anything you could buy in a store. Because I have enough stuff I can buy, and can get stuff I can buy easily enough; there’s an almost infinite number of ways to buy crap in our society. What I can’t get in any store — pretty much by definition — is something that’s personal. So that’s what I’d much rather prefer to get. A mix cd or a picture or whatever doesn’t cost much of anything — just the time to make and the cost of wrapping paper — but it’s worth rather more to me, because it’s not something I can buy, and because I know it’s not something that could come from anyone else.
If you haven’t the time to craft something, and decide to get something from a store, then have it be something you’d want to share: Music you really love, a book that spoke to you, a movie you can’t live without. You know what I’m talking about. Send it with a note telling me why that particular book, CD, or DVD matters to you. I love all those things, anyway, and knowing it’s one of your favorites will make it something I’ll pay extra attention to (if it’s a book/cd/movie you were involved in the production of in some way, that’s even better).
If you can’t do that, just get me something goofy. Something that you know will make it smile and laugh in some way. Like a bag of unicorn farts or unicorn meat. Seriously, they are a thing.
No matter what, if you’re spending more than $50 on a gift for me, you’re doing it wrong. Start over. Cheaper. Unless, of course, you’re getting me the acre of land that I want. In which case, spend all you like.
But when all is said and done, what’s important to me is not the gift, but the impulse behind it, the thought and effort you put into it, which is the true gift. I’m glad you’re thinking of me. I’d be glad of it even without the bauble. That’s a hint.
Thursday, February 11, 2016
Time to Be UnCool -- I Actually Love Valentines Day
I know..I know...it is all cool and hip to bash Hallmark holidays, like Valentine’s Day for example. You know, the whole they’re “cheesy, contrived, made-up occasions” routine. Or if not bash, at a minimum ignore them and flaunt your ignoring of them as much as possible.
So I’m going to fully own my uncoolness here by declaring that I love Valentines Day.
I embrace and hold onto this holiday fully. Why do you ask? Because life is too full of things to not celebrate, like sickness, natural disasters, career disappointments, overwhelming to-do lists, horrid traffic and people who cut you off in traffic. So when there is a chance to celebrate something, anything, I’m there. I don’t care how made up it is. And if that makes me appear all puppy dogs tails and rainbows and unicorns (Its a New Day...yes it is!) so be it.
So maybe giving someone a little white teddy bear with a red shiny heart chocolate box attached to it is not the truest expression of genuine love. I get that.
But you know what is? Not-hate.
In this tumultuous world of constant negativity -- we need so much more not-hate. If we could all take a day and give each other little teddy bears with chocolate-filled hearts, we would spread so much not-hate.
And you know what people do when they feel not-hate?
They express not-hate towards others. They help each other. They empower each other. They solve problems, fix up schools, invent cures for diseases, discover new planets, and a way to get there without traffic. People who feel not-hate also don’t cut you off in traffic; they’re the ones waving you through as you cut them off. They don’t mind because they feel not-hate, because someone, I hope, probably gave them a little teddy bear for Valentine’s Day and therefore had a smile on their face.
A few weeks ago, as I am sure yours was too -- my various social media feeds were filled with Powerball stories. They all said the same thing: Some people might win a ton of money, but don’t be jealous, they won’t be happy anyway because money doesn’t make you happy. Truth, right there, money doesn’t make you happy. Neither does reading endless articles about how money won’t make you happy.
Instead, I want more articles in my feed about a woman who races across town to get her friend’s favorite flowers for Valentine’s Day, gets to the flower shop as it’s closing, but the owner lets her buy a bunch anyway.
I want scientific studies about the average size of smiles people experience when given a teddy bear with a chocolate-filled heart attached. I want my various social feeds to be filled with photos of 95 year-olds having romantic dinners and 5 year-olds exchanging Valentine’s. I seriously can not wait to see this in the classroom that I work in; even though there is a lot of hostility at this present moment.
Give me more Instagram or YouTube videos where the husband attempts to make scallops for the first time because they are his wife’s favorite.
I say lean into Valentine’s Day. Really go for it.
Text your friends an overwhelming number of heart emoji.
Write a card to someone you like or love -- and there are plenty of hip Valentine’s cards to be had, so you can keep your coolness and spread non-hate, bonus! The one I love the most is getting an extra special card but due to circumstances beyond our control, it will be a while before he will receive it. That is alright though. It does not matter the time when you give your loved ones a gift as long as you do it with the right intention!
Send a box of books and literary trinkets that you know will make your nerdy BFF swoon.
Buy someone a teddy bear with a heart-full of chocolates.
Because you never know when your cheesy “Hey, happy Valentine’s Day, haha!” text is the very thing your friend needs, the very thing that helps them feel less lonely on a day when the world seems cruel and hope is hard to find. Or if your card makes someone smile, or gives them a break from feeling pain, sadness, boredom, or worry.
Thing is, it’s all just about love. Isn't that what it is all about?
This whole thing, our whole crazy world, with our overwhelming to-do lists and worries, our fears, and our achievements, it’s really all just about the love. All love, not just romantic love, although that one is nice too.
And the best way to get it is to give it. To be reminded that you’re not alone, that there is someone in your life to whom you’d like to send a heart emoji, or a “Let’s Ignore Valentine’s Day Together” card, or a $5.95 small teddy bear with a red heart full of chocolates attached to it.
I know I want one :)
Happy Love Day everyone. Here is a teddy bear with a red heart just for you -- my faithful readers.
So I’m going to fully own my uncoolness here by declaring that I love Valentines Day.
I embrace and hold onto this holiday fully. Why do you ask? Because life is too full of things to not celebrate, like sickness, natural disasters, career disappointments, overwhelming to-do lists, horrid traffic and people who cut you off in traffic. So when there is a chance to celebrate something, anything, I’m there. I don’t care how made up it is. And if that makes me appear all puppy dogs tails and rainbows and unicorns (Its a New Day...yes it is!) so be it.
So maybe giving someone a little white teddy bear with a red shiny heart chocolate box attached to it is not the truest expression of genuine love. I get that.
But you know what is? Not-hate.
In this tumultuous world of constant negativity -- we need so much more not-hate. If we could all take a day and give each other little teddy bears with chocolate-filled hearts, we would spread so much not-hate.
And you know what people do when they feel not-hate?
They express not-hate towards others. They help each other. They empower each other. They solve problems, fix up schools, invent cures for diseases, discover new planets, and a way to get there without traffic. People who feel not-hate also don’t cut you off in traffic; they’re the ones waving you through as you cut them off. They don’t mind because they feel not-hate, because someone, I hope, probably gave them a little teddy bear for Valentine’s Day and therefore had a smile on their face.
A few weeks ago, as I am sure yours was too -- my various social media feeds were filled with Powerball stories. They all said the same thing: Some people might win a ton of money, but don’t be jealous, they won’t be happy anyway because money doesn’t make you happy. Truth, right there, money doesn’t make you happy. Neither does reading endless articles about how money won’t make you happy.
Instead, I want more articles in my feed about a woman who races across town to get her friend’s favorite flowers for Valentine’s Day, gets to the flower shop as it’s closing, but the owner lets her buy a bunch anyway.
I want scientific studies about the average size of smiles people experience when given a teddy bear with a chocolate-filled heart attached. I want my various social feeds to be filled with photos of 95 year-olds having romantic dinners and 5 year-olds exchanging Valentine’s. I seriously can not wait to see this in the classroom that I work in; even though there is a lot of hostility at this present moment.
Give me more Instagram or YouTube videos where the husband attempts to make scallops for the first time because they are his wife’s favorite.
I say lean into Valentine’s Day. Really go for it.
Text your friends an overwhelming number of heart emoji.
Write a card to someone you like or love -- and there are plenty of hip Valentine’s cards to be had, so you can keep your coolness and spread non-hate, bonus! The one I love the most is getting an extra special card but due to circumstances beyond our control, it will be a while before he will receive it. That is alright though. It does not matter the time when you give your loved ones a gift as long as you do it with the right intention!
Send a box of books and literary trinkets that you know will make your nerdy BFF swoon.
Buy someone a teddy bear with a heart-full of chocolates.
Because you never know when your cheesy “Hey, happy Valentine’s Day, haha!” text is the very thing your friend needs, the very thing that helps them feel less lonely on a day when the world seems cruel and hope is hard to find. Or if your card makes someone smile, or gives them a break from feeling pain, sadness, boredom, or worry.
Thing is, it’s all just about love. Isn't that what it is all about?
This whole thing, our whole crazy world, with our overwhelming to-do lists and worries, our fears, and our achievements, it’s really all just about the love. All love, not just romantic love, although that one is nice too.
And the best way to get it is to give it. To be reminded that you’re not alone, that there is someone in your life to whom you’d like to send a heart emoji, or a “Let’s Ignore Valentine’s Day Together” card, or a $5.95 small teddy bear with a red heart full of chocolates attached to it.
I know I want one :)
Happy Love Day everyone. Here is a teddy bear with a red heart just for you -- my faithful readers.
Sunday, November 29, 2015
December Advent Calendar 2015
Besides Halloween, I will admit I still get excited for Christmas time. Things just seem to be more magical in the month of December. Maybe it is because of finally finding the love of my life or maybe it is due to still working in Kindergarten; I do not know. For the fourth year in a row, I am doing an activities Advent Calendar to count down to Christmas after reading some great articles online about it. I am big on traditions so here is an outline. Most of the things will be done either by myself, with George, or with my family. Also, just because there is a date attached does not mean it will happen on that date -- it is more of a checklist.
November 29th: Give George his Countdown to Christmas advent calendar (25 wrapped books. He opens up one a day to countdown until Christmas.)(Done!)
November 30th: Watch the 50th Anniversary Special of Charlie Brown/A Charlie Brown Christmas (Done!)
December 1st: Gather clothes and bring to The Bowery Mission.
December 2nd: Make Christmas mix CD for George. (Done!)
December 3rd: Get holiday cards. (Done!)
December 4th: Wear mistletoe headband.
December 5th: Watch the movie Scrooged.
December 6th: Get some chocolate coins and give them to people who make me smile. (Done!)
December 7th: Wear Christmas ornament earrings, get some hot chocolate at Hu Kitchen & walk around Union Square holiday market. (Done!)
December 8th: Watch National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation
December 9th: Start writing out holiday cards. (Done!)
December 10th: Get a holiday inspired manicure. Make sure one nail is sparkly!
December 11th: Watch A Nightmare Before Christmas.
December 12th: Attend CZW Cage of Death with George. (Done!)
December 13th: Mail holiday cards (Done!)
December 14th: Watch He-Man & She-Ra A Christmas Special
December 15th: Get a holiday inspired candle from Bath and Body Works.
December 16th: Make Star Wars themed glitter snowflakes.
December 17th: Go watch some ice skaters in Bryant Park.
December 18th: Watch one of my favorite movies Untamed Heart and have a good cry.
December 19th: Cozy up in some pajamas and watch the Pee Wee's Playhouse Christmas Special.
December 20th: Give my Funshine buddy her present.(Done!)
December 21st: Watch The Original Christmas Classics (Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, Frosty the Snowman, Santa Claus is Coming to Town, The Little Drummer Boy) on DVD.
December 22nd: Make sure all of my gifts are wrapped. (Done!)
December 23rd: Wear ugly Christmas sweater to work. (Done!)
December 24th: Go Christmas caroling in Washington Square Park. (Due to the weather, I didn't go.)
December 25th: CHRISTMAS!!! Open presents and watch The Muppets Christmas Carol.
December 26th: George visits to celebrate Boxing Day and Christmas. Go and see Star Wars: The Force Awakens, go to dinner, and just celebrate our time together.
I hope all of my readers are enjoying this holiday season! What did you do for the season? Leave a comment below to let me know!
November 29th: Give George his Countdown to Christmas advent calendar (25 wrapped books. He opens up one a day to countdown until Christmas.)(Done!)
November 30th: Watch the 50th Anniversary Special of Charlie Brown/A Charlie Brown Christmas (Done!)
December 1st: Gather clothes and bring to The Bowery Mission.
December 2nd: Make Christmas mix CD for George. (Done!)
December 3rd: Get holiday cards. (Done!)
December 4th: Wear mistletoe headband.
December 5th: Watch the movie Scrooged.
December 6th: Get some chocolate coins and give them to people who make me smile. (Done!)
December 7th: Wear Christmas ornament earrings, get some hot chocolate at Hu Kitchen & walk around Union Square holiday market. (Done!)
December 8th: Watch National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation
December 9th: Start writing out holiday cards. (Done!)
December 10th: Get a holiday inspired manicure. Make sure one nail is sparkly!
December 11th: Watch A Nightmare Before Christmas.
December 12th: Attend CZW Cage of Death with George. (Done!)
December 13th: Mail holiday cards (Done!)
December 14th: Watch He-Man & She-Ra A Christmas Special
December 15th: Get a holiday inspired candle from Bath and Body Works.
December 16th: Make Star Wars themed glitter snowflakes.
December 17th: Go watch some ice skaters in Bryant Park.
December 18th: Watch one of my favorite movies Untamed Heart and have a good cry.
December 19th: Cozy up in some pajamas and watch the Pee Wee's Playhouse Christmas Special.
December 20th: Give my Funshine buddy her present.(Done!)
December 21st: Watch The Original Christmas Classics (Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, Frosty the Snowman, Santa Claus is Coming to Town, The Little Drummer Boy) on DVD.
December 22nd: Make sure all of my gifts are wrapped. (Done!)
December 23rd: Wear ugly Christmas sweater to work. (Done!)
December 24th: Go Christmas caroling in Washington Square Park. (Due to the weather, I didn't go.)
December 25th: CHRISTMAS!!! Open presents and watch The Muppets Christmas Carol.
December 26th: George visits to celebrate Boxing Day and Christmas. Go and see Star Wars: The Force Awakens, go to dinner, and just celebrate our time together.
I hope all of my readers are enjoying this holiday season! What did you do for the season? Leave a comment below to let me know!
Wednesday, December 31, 2014
2014 Best Pop Culture Favorites As According to Moi
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 2014 and that is fine. Here is a list of 15 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.
15: The book Red Rising by Pierce Brown. This was the little book that could if you are a dystopian reader. This book was highly underrated. It is a trilogy and this is the first book. Please look beyond the unfortunately inevitable comparison to The Hunger Games. Here is the book description: On desolate Mars, the protagonist, Darrow, is caught in a class system that thrives on oppression and secrecy. He is a Red, the lowest member of society, born to toil in the bowels of the planet in service to the sovereign Golds. When Darrow suffers a devastating loss and betrayal he becomes a revolutionary, taking on a dangerous role in an attempt to bring about social justice. Questions of fate, duality, and loyalty, evolve in a cruel test of war between the sons and daughters of the ruling elite. By turns brutal and heartfelt, Red Rising is nonstop action with surprising twists and unforgettable characters
14: Scarlett Johansson being a bad ass in the movies Lucy and Captain American: The Winter Solider.
13: Guardians of the Galaxy. Do I need to say anything else?
12: The episode "The Sign of Three" of Sherlock.
11: The music service app Spotify. I started using it more instead of Pandora as it has more of a selection and it has helped me find music that I haven't heard in a long time to creating mix CD's for my love and friends. If you haven't used it, give it a shot.
10: The book The Bone Clocks by David Mitchell. David Mitchell weaves a story like no other writer today. Bouncing around through time, making the early 80's come to life just as easily as making the not-so-distant future terrifyingly real. The characters are what keep you reading through the endless pages. Lucky us--the ending promises to revisit many of them in the next go-around. Highly recommended to David Mitchell fans, but newbies should start with his earlier work.
9: Getting really into the Funko Pop figures to the point that I actually pre-ordered the Dancing Groot one.
8: Pausing to "look at the flowers". It happened on The Walking Dead and Sons of Anarchy that just speaks of the allusion from the John Steinbeck novel Of Mice and Men and that made my inner bookworm squee.
7: The Southern Reach trilogy by Jeff VanderMeer. This trilogy is considered to be nontraditional science fiction and how could you not enjoy these plots: The first book trails a team of women chosen (sacrificed?) for an exploration of Area X. The second investigates the aftermath of the expedition from the halls of a broken, festering government. And the third? It ties everything together, forming the crux of VanderMeer's deeply unsettling philosophical argument. If you have not read this trilogy yet, get your hands on it in 2015.
6: The complete shock that Jax Teller kills Wayne Unser on Sons of Anarchy in the second to last episode of the series. Now of course I expected Jax (Charlie Hunnam) to kill Gemma (Katey Sagal) due to the fact her lie and deceit about the murder of Tara was perpetuated by her but Jax putting a bullet in Unser (Dayton Callie), who refused to leave the two alone, turned some fans against Jax and made a bunch of us question WTF? It wasn't just the most shocking moment of the final ride, it was the most shocking moment of the entire series, at least for me.
5: I fell into the hype of the book Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn and will say that the movie was better than the book. Maybe I should update that blog piece? I certainly get why some fans of the novel, which I am not, walked out of the theater disappointed. Movie adaptations never mesh with the way we envision characters on the page. But I will admit -- I enjoyed the adaptation put forth by David Fincher better. I loved it as a bleak account of modern love after it's curdled, as a wicked satire of cable-news scandal-mongering, and as just a good old-fashioned dark-as-hell thriller. Fincher's film managed to tease us, play with our loyalties, and sucker punch us with surprise twists most of us already knew that they were coming.
4: Something else from Sons of Anarchy -- the song "Come Join the Murder" by The White Buffalo and Forest Rangers. It was perfect as Jax found peace in death; the same way Hamlet did.
3: This isn't something that I would consider to be the best pop culture favorite but it brought to light that even though you make others laugh and smile and appear to be happy does not necessarily mean that you are and that everyone needs help -- the suicide of Robin Williams. This news came to a complete shock to everyone, including myself. I remember stepping out of my room and telling my family and the look of WHAT across their faces was the look the entire world had. If you know anyone who is suffering from mental illness, please make sure to reach out to them to make sure they are okay.
2: This was the year that staying dry was a challenge. Yes I am talking about the damn ALS Ice Bucket Challenge. I did not participate as my body would have hated it due to my disorder but it was nice to see a cause go wildfire. I just hope the money raised for ALS actually got there.
And the best pop culture favorite for 2014 goes to...
1: THE BUTT. Sir Mix-a-Lot should really consider a career as a trend forecaster. The rapper was way ahead of his time when he proclaimed his love for a juicy booty in his one hit wonder "Baby Got Back,'' because 2014 will undoubtedly go down as the Year of the Backside. Jason Derulo's ''Wiggle'' encouraged big butts to shake. Meghan Trainor defied those body-image expectations with ''All About That Bass.', even though you should consider yourself beautiful regardless of your size. Nicki Minaj even sampled ''Baby Got Back'' on ''Anaconda.'', much to my smirk and smacking my head. Then there was Jennifer Lopez and Iggy Azalea's duet, ''Booty,'' in which the video was basically the U.N. Summit of Ladies With Well-Endowed Cheeks. Plus, how can we forget Charlie Hunnam revealing his rump on Sons of Anarchy a lot this year and had the Parents Television Council crying and most of the Internet cheering. But why all of this focus on the rear? It's not rocket science — we have been working our way down the body. In the '90s, boobs were huge, both literally and figuratively. We moved on to abs in the 2000s, with Britney Spears displaying her midriff whenever she had the chance. Enjoy your time in the sun, butts. Hollywood can be fickle. Maybe in 2015, legs will get a shot!
15: The book Red Rising by Pierce Brown. This was the little book that could if you are a dystopian reader. This book was highly underrated. It is a trilogy and this is the first book. Please look beyond the unfortunately inevitable comparison to The Hunger Games. Here is the book description: On desolate Mars, the protagonist, Darrow, is caught in a class system that thrives on oppression and secrecy. He is a Red, the lowest member of society, born to toil in the bowels of the planet in service to the sovereign Golds. When Darrow suffers a devastating loss and betrayal he becomes a revolutionary, taking on a dangerous role in an attempt to bring about social justice. Questions of fate, duality, and loyalty, evolve in a cruel test of war between the sons and daughters of the ruling elite. By turns brutal and heartfelt, Red Rising is nonstop action with surprising twists and unforgettable characters
14: Scarlett Johansson being a bad ass in the movies Lucy and Captain American: The Winter Solider.
13: Guardians of the Galaxy. Do I need to say anything else?
12: The episode "The Sign of Three" of Sherlock.
11: The music service app Spotify. I started using it more instead of Pandora as it has more of a selection and it has helped me find music that I haven't heard in a long time to creating mix CD's for my love and friends. If you haven't used it, give it a shot.
10: The book The Bone Clocks by David Mitchell. David Mitchell weaves a story like no other writer today. Bouncing around through time, making the early 80's come to life just as easily as making the not-so-distant future terrifyingly real. The characters are what keep you reading through the endless pages. Lucky us--the ending promises to revisit many of them in the next go-around. Highly recommended to David Mitchell fans, but newbies should start with his earlier work.
9: Getting really into the Funko Pop figures to the point that I actually pre-ordered the Dancing Groot one.
8: Pausing to "look at the flowers". It happened on The Walking Dead and Sons of Anarchy that just speaks of the allusion from the John Steinbeck novel Of Mice and Men and that made my inner bookworm squee.
7: The Southern Reach trilogy by Jeff VanderMeer. This trilogy is considered to be nontraditional science fiction and how could you not enjoy these plots: The first book trails a team of women chosen (sacrificed?) for an exploration of Area X. The second investigates the aftermath of the expedition from the halls of a broken, festering government. And the third? It ties everything together, forming the crux of VanderMeer's deeply unsettling philosophical argument. If you have not read this trilogy yet, get your hands on it in 2015.
6: The complete shock that Jax Teller kills Wayne Unser on Sons of Anarchy in the second to last episode of the series. Now of course I expected Jax (Charlie Hunnam) to kill Gemma (Katey Sagal) due to the fact her lie and deceit about the murder of Tara was perpetuated by her but Jax putting a bullet in Unser (Dayton Callie), who refused to leave the two alone, turned some fans against Jax and made a bunch of us question WTF? It wasn't just the most shocking moment of the final ride, it was the most shocking moment of the entire series, at least for me.
5: I fell into the hype of the book Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn and will say that the movie was better than the book. Maybe I should update that blog piece? I certainly get why some fans of the novel, which I am not, walked out of the theater disappointed. Movie adaptations never mesh with the way we envision characters on the page. But I will admit -- I enjoyed the adaptation put forth by David Fincher better. I loved it as a bleak account of modern love after it's curdled, as a wicked satire of cable-news scandal-mongering, and as just a good old-fashioned dark-as-hell thriller. Fincher's film managed to tease us, play with our loyalties, and sucker punch us with surprise twists most of us already knew that they were coming.
4: Something else from Sons of Anarchy -- the song "Come Join the Murder" by The White Buffalo and Forest Rangers. It was perfect as Jax found peace in death; the same way Hamlet did.
3: This isn't something that I would consider to be the best pop culture favorite but it brought to light that even though you make others laugh and smile and appear to be happy does not necessarily mean that you are and that everyone needs help -- the suicide of Robin Williams. This news came to a complete shock to everyone, including myself. I remember stepping out of my room and telling my family and the look of WHAT across their faces was the look the entire world had. If you know anyone who is suffering from mental illness, please make sure to reach out to them to make sure they are okay.
2: This was the year that staying dry was a challenge. Yes I am talking about the damn ALS Ice Bucket Challenge. I did not participate as my body would have hated it due to my disorder but it was nice to see a cause go wildfire. I just hope the money raised for ALS actually got there.
And the best pop culture favorite for 2014 goes to...
1: THE BUTT. Sir Mix-a-Lot should really consider a career as a trend forecaster. The rapper was way ahead of his time when he proclaimed his love for a juicy booty in his one hit wonder "Baby Got Back,'' because 2014 will undoubtedly go down as the Year of the Backside. Jason Derulo's ''Wiggle'' encouraged big butts to shake. Meghan Trainor defied those body-image expectations with ''All About That Bass.', even though you should consider yourself beautiful regardless of your size. Nicki Minaj even sampled ''Baby Got Back'' on ''Anaconda.'', much to my smirk and smacking my head. Then there was Jennifer Lopez and Iggy Azalea's duet, ''Booty,'' in which the video was basically the U.N. Summit of Ladies With Well-Endowed Cheeks. Plus, how can we forget Charlie Hunnam revealing his rump on Sons of Anarchy a lot this year and had the Parents Television Council crying and most of the Internet cheering. But why all of this focus on the rear? It's not rocket science — we have been working our way down the body. In the '90s, boobs were huge, both literally and figuratively. We moved on to abs in the 2000s, with Britney Spears displaying her midriff whenever she had the chance. Enjoy your time in the sun, butts. Hollywood can be fickle. Maybe in 2015, legs will get a shot!
Monday, December 1, 2014
December Advent Calendar 2014
Besides Halloween, I will admit I still get excited for Christmas time. Things just seem to be more magical in the month of December. Maybe it is because of finally finding the love of my life or maybe it is due to still working in Kindergarten; I do not know. For the fourth year in a row, I am doing an activities Advent Calendar to count down to Christmas after reading some great articles online about it. I am big on traditions so here is an outline. Most of the things will be done either by myself, with George, or with my family. Also, just because there is a date attached does not mean it will happen on that date -- it is more of a checklist.
December 1st: Gather clothes and bring to The Bowery Mission.
December 2nd: Make Christmas mix CD for George and mail it. (Done!)
December 3rd: Get holiday cards.(Done!)
December 4th: Wear mistletoe headband. (Done!)
December 5th: Watch the movie Scrooged.(Done!)
December 6th: Get some chocolate coins and give them to people who make me smile. (Done!)
December 7th: Wear Christmas ornament earrings (Done!) get some hot chocolate at Hu Kitchen (Done!) & walk around Union Square holiday market. (Could not do this due to all of the protests going on because of the Eric Garner grand jury decision. Did not feel safe.)
December 8th: Watch National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation
December 9th: Start writing out holiday cards. (Done!)
December 10th: Get a holiday inspired manicure. Make sure one nail is sparkly! (Done!)
December 11th: Watch A Charlie Brown Christmas. (Done!)
December 12th: Mail holiday cards. (Done!)
December 13th: Spend some time with some old friends and laugh at some Christmas mischief. (Done!)
December 14th: Watch He-Man & She-Ra A Christmas Special (Done!)
December 15th: Get a holiday inspired candle from Bath and Body Works.
December 16th: Make Star Wars themed glitter snowflakes.(Done!)
December 17th: Go watch some ice skaters in Bryant Park. (Done!)
December 18th: Watch one of my favorite movies Untamed Heart and have a good cry.
December 19th: Cozy up in some pajamas and watch the Pee Wee's Playhouse Christmas Special. (Done!)
December 20th: George visits. Visit the Rockefeller Center tree (Did not do as everyone does this and we are not ordinary) and walk along 5th Avenue and look at the holidays windows (Same reason. Everyone does this. We are not ordinary and never will be. I did see the Macy's windows as I have to walk past it to get to the Port Authority.) and take a picture with Santa. (Done!)
December 21st: Watch all of the Christmas episodes I have on DVD.
December 22nd: Make sure all of my gifts are wrapped. (Done!)
December 23rd: Wear ugly Christmas sweater to work. (Done!)
December 24th: Go Christmas caroling in Washington Square Park. (Could not do this due to the rain. Oh well.)
December 25th: CHRISTMAS!!! Open presents and watch The Muppets Christmas Carol.
I hope all of my readers are enjoying this holiday season! What did you do for the season? Leave a comment below to let me know!
December 1st: Gather clothes and bring to The Bowery Mission.
December 2nd: Make Christmas mix CD for George and mail it. (Done!)
December 3rd: Get holiday cards.(Done!)
December 4th: Wear mistletoe headband. (Done!)
December 5th: Watch the movie Scrooged.(Done!)
December 6th: Get some chocolate coins and give them to people who make me smile. (Done!)
December 7th: Wear Christmas ornament earrings (Done!) get some hot chocolate at Hu Kitchen (Done!) & walk around Union Square holiday market. (Could not do this due to all of the protests going on because of the Eric Garner grand jury decision. Did not feel safe.)
December 8th: Watch National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation
December 9th: Start writing out holiday cards. (Done!)
December 10th: Get a holiday inspired manicure. Make sure one nail is sparkly! (Done!)
December 11th: Watch A Charlie Brown Christmas. (Done!)
December 12th: Mail holiday cards. (Done!)
December 13th: Spend some time with some old friends and laugh at some Christmas mischief. (Done!)
December 14th: Watch He-Man & She-Ra A Christmas Special (Done!)
December 15th: Get a holiday inspired candle from Bath and Body Works.
December 16th: Make Star Wars themed glitter snowflakes.(Done!)
December 17th: Go watch some ice skaters in Bryant Park. (Done!)
December 18th: Watch one of my favorite movies Untamed Heart and have a good cry.
December 19th: Cozy up in some pajamas and watch the Pee Wee's Playhouse Christmas Special. (Done!)
December 20th: George visits. Visit the Rockefeller Center tree (Did not do as everyone does this and we are not ordinary) and walk along 5th Avenue and look at the holidays windows (Same reason. Everyone does this. We are not ordinary and never will be. I did see the Macy's windows as I have to walk past it to get to the Port Authority.) and take a picture with Santa. (Done!)
December 21st: Watch all of the Christmas episodes I have on DVD.
December 22nd: Make sure all of my gifts are wrapped. (Done!)
December 23rd: Wear ugly Christmas sweater to work. (Done!)
December 24th: Go Christmas caroling in Washington Square Park. (Could not do this due to the rain. Oh well.)
December 25th: CHRISTMAS!!! Open presents and watch The Muppets Christmas Carol.
I hope all of my readers are enjoying this holiday season! What did you do for the season? Leave a comment below to let me know!
Sunday, November 30, 2014
Things I Love -- November 2014 Edition
Oh my gosh...is it the end of November already? Before I know it, I will have to do my 2014 Pop Culture Favorites blog and Best of 2014 blog! But with that being said....lets do this months THINGS I LOVE.
Here is what I love for the month of November:
--This video from Nerdist:
--Enjoying some vintage pinball games with the one I love.
--Using lines from Spaceballs in comments for pictures on my Facebook.
--Cinnamon bun candles that make my room smell like fall as finally arrived.
--This video:
--Knowing that karma will strike at any moment and that I can not wait for it.
--After work gossip with co-workers I do not get to see all that often.
--Trying to instill that THANKSGIVING must come so that we can have Christmas to my students. I love the holidays as much as the next person but I really do not like this whole "Black Thursday" thing or Summer than Christmas. Its Halloween, then Thanksgiving, then Christmas!
--Listening to my love snore.
--Heated blankets that keep me snuggly and warm.
--Knowing that my love has my back period. I got into a huge fight with my family and he listened, tried to console, tried to cheer me up, and was just overall awesome.
--Allenberry Murder Mystery weekends. It was my third time going and I won again this year! I am a detective...I know this.
--Being thankful for what I have and not participating in any Black Thursday/Black Friday/Cyber Monday stuff. There is nothing I need that badly.
What are you in love with this month?
Here is what I love for the month of November:
--This video from Nerdist:
--Enjoying some vintage pinball games with the one I love.
--Using lines from Spaceballs in comments for pictures on my Facebook.
--Cinnamon bun candles that make my room smell like fall as finally arrived.
--This video:
Post by Psychostick.
--Knowing that karma will strike at any moment and that I can not wait for it.
--After work gossip with co-workers I do not get to see all that often.
--Trying to instill that THANKSGIVING must come so that we can have Christmas to my students. I love the holidays as much as the next person but I really do not like this whole "Black Thursday" thing or Summer than Christmas. Its Halloween, then Thanksgiving, then Christmas!
--Listening to my love snore.
--Heated blankets that keep me snuggly and warm.
--Knowing that my love has my back period. I got into a huge fight with my family and he listened, tried to console, tried to cheer me up, and was just overall awesome.
--Allenberry Murder Mystery weekends. It was my third time going and I won again this year! I am a detective...I know this.
--Being thankful for what I have and not participating in any Black Thursday/Black Friday/Cyber Monday stuff. There is nothing I need that badly.
What are you in love with this month?
Saturday, May 31, 2014
Things I Love -- May 2014 Edition
The sun is finally shining...the air is such a cool breeze. Flowers are finally blooming and coats/jackets/tights are finally packed away. Spring has FINALLY sprung in the month of May and since it is also the end of the month it is now time for a...
THINGS I LOVE!
Here are the things that I love for the month of May.
--Being part of the 8th Annual NYC Zombie Crawl. This is my 8th one and it is a glorious time. Apparently I was featured on Channel 5 Fox News here in New York City as well as on their website. 8th Annual NYC Zombie Bar Crawl
--That the flower that my student gave me for Teacher Appreciation Week bloomed another flower.
--That there is a convention FINALLY just for bookworms! Book Expo America, an industry only event for book publishers, opened to the public for the first time this year with a one day event called The Book Con. Originally it was called Power Reader Day but I do not think it got as much press as it did until the name was changed. Mind you, I have stacks upon stacks of books to read but who can say no to BOOKS???
--Walking through a sun shower on a nice Friday night with lots of smiles.
--Walking to the Javits Center.
--Having an official countdown to the end of work. 19 More Days!
--Impromptu fireworks shows that you did not know was happening while out with your dark angel.
--Proving a theory wrong.
--My class having one of the highest reading averages in the entire school. Lets go Kindergarten!
--Sex and the City marathons. They always bring a smile to my face.
--Finding inspiration in the weirdest of places.
--Air popped popcorn with cinnamon sugar on it. Want to try it with cayenne powder for a little metabolism boost!
What are you in love with this month?
THINGS I LOVE!
Here are the things that I love for the month of May.
--Being part of the 8th Annual NYC Zombie Crawl. This is my 8th one and it is a glorious time. Apparently I was featured on Channel 5 Fox News here in New York City as well as on their website. 8th Annual NYC Zombie Bar Crawl
--That the flower that my student gave me for Teacher Appreciation Week bloomed another flower.
--That there is a convention FINALLY just for bookworms! Book Expo America, an industry only event for book publishers, opened to the public for the first time this year with a one day event called The Book Con. Originally it was called Power Reader Day but I do not think it got as much press as it did until the name was changed. Mind you, I have stacks upon stacks of books to read but who can say no to BOOKS???
--Walking through a sun shower on a nice Friday night with lots of smiles.
--Walking to the Javits Center.
--Having an official countdown to the end of work. 19 More Days!
--Impromptu fireworks shows that you did not know was happening while out with your dark angel.
--Proving a theory wrong.
--My class having one of the highest reading averages in the entire school. Lets go Kindergarten!
--Sex and the City marathons. They always bring a smile to my face.
--Finding inspiration in the weirdest of places.
--Air popped popcorn with cinnamon sugar on it. Want to try it with cayenne powder for a little metabolism boost!
What are you in love with this month?
Saturday, May 17, 2014
Who Was I In A Past Life?
Upon talking to one of my closest friends/current partner in crime about writing a love letter to myself in which I had asked him to help me -- he said that one of the things he loved about me was when he stares into my eyes he can read my soul and that it is beautiful. That got me to thinking and asked him exactly what he meant since doesn't everyone have a beautiful soul. He in turn replied that no; some are tortured and black and that every soul is different. Since it is my nature to do so, I asked him to explain and he asked if I believed in past lives. He was always taught that we all have past lives and that sometimes we re-live what our soul was in our past. So, if someone has a dark soul, it usually means they were not a nice person in a past life; take Charles Manson for instance, his soul is probably black and twisted. He then mentioned that I have a beautiful soul because I like to help people and interact with people and that my soul helped me pick the career I have which is a teacher.
So....what is the whole point of this? This led to an investigation. We were both curious about my past lives and he asked a friend of his to look into it. I was asked what my middle name was (I do not have one) and my birth year, which is 1978. Here is what was concluded.
According to her reading, my past life is during the Renaissance Era and I lived in either Germany or Belgium. I somehow had to leave or pushed to leave where I am from and relocate. The reading did not conclude if I originated in Germany and left due to the Protestant Reformation or if it is some other reason; for all that is known it might tied to the early witch hunts. But also my relocation is also connected to marriage -- either one that I was pushed into or one that someone else is involved in that caused my need to leave my home.
Apparently in both of my lives I am constantly getting warnings as to not let myself be cut off from something or someone by outside influences or people or because I feel this need to let go of something and start fresh. The number 2 kept on coming up, and that means that I work best in pairs and I am meant to have strong partnerships in life but I also have the number 11 floating around which gives me a great risk of karmic influences in my life who create issues. These issues could be mostly jealousy or false sense of righteousness.
Now while it is true that I do work best with partners/partnerships, I am able to tap into other influences and for this reason I am sure I do not run the risk of letting others make decisions for me. I always think things through -- nothing rash. Back in my past life, I needed to learn to trust myself more and to be fussy about who I listen to/whose advice I follow. Apparently, I need to do this in this life too. Also in this life I need to guard what I say, use caution, or I might lose my temper (hello Joisey Mode) and say something in careless anger that I will regret and it will be too late for me to take it back. It could code my friends or trouble in a relationship. Karma is playing heavy in my life right now, as it did in my past life. There is an important truth in my life that I need to face as well.
Have you ever wondered who you were in a past life?
So....what is the whole point of this? This led to an investigation. We were both curious about my past lives and he asked a friend of his to look into it. I was asked what my middle name was (I do not have one) and my birth year, which is 1978. Here is what was concluded.
According to her reading, my past life is during the Renaissance Era and I lived in either Germany or Belgium. I somehow had to leave or pushed to leave where I am from and relocate. The reading did not conclude if I originated in Germany and left due to the Protestant Reformation or if it is some other reason; for all that is known it might tied to the early witch hunts. But also my relocation is also connected to marriage -- either one that I was pushed into or one that someone else is involved in that caused my need to leave my home.
Apparently in both of my lives I am constantly getting warnings as to not let myself be cut off from something or someone by outside influences or people or because I feel this need to let go of something and start fresh. The number 2 kept on coming up, and that means that I work best in pairs and I am meant to have strong partnerships in life but I also have the number 11 floating around which gives me a great risk of karmic influences in my life who create issues. These issues could be mostly jealousy or false sense of righteousness.
Now while it is true that I do work best with partners/partnerships, I am able to tap into other influences and for this reason I am sure I do not run the risk of letting others make decisions for me. I always think things through -- nothing rash. Back in my past life, I needed to learn to trust myself more and to be fussy about who I listen to/whose advice I follow. Apparently, I need to do this in this life too. Also in this life I need to guard what I say, use caution, or I might lose my temper (hello Joisey Mode) and say something in careless anger that I will regret and it will be too late for me to take it back. It could code my friends or trouble in a relationship. Karma is playing heavy in my life right now, as it did in my past life. There is an important truth in my life that I need to face as well.
Have you ever wondered who you were in a past life?
Monday, March 31, 2014
Things I Love -- March 2014 Edition
Wow is it the end of March already? 2014 has been going fairly well for me, even though right now I am in the middle of a retrograde but dealing with it well. Well enough of that negativity, lets get on with the louvre at hand!
Here is what I love for the month of March --
--The song "Work B*tch" by Britney Spears. Yes I know it was out in 2013 but I am always late to the party. Listen to the song here:
--Finally realizing the reason of my dating/single slump and that is being afraid of falling in love again. I do not want a repeat of 2005-2013 so I have put up this massive wall around my heart. It is time to start tearing that wall down brick by brick and open my heart back up to receiving and giving love.
--The teaser trailer for Sin City: A Dame to Kill For. Oh my goodness is it filled with loads of sexy -- check it out here:
--Having movie dates with my father. We went to see Mr Peabody and Sherman and it was great!
--Getting addicted to the show Sons of Anarchy. Did not think I would but damn is it a great show. I know most women lust after Jax Teller, and do not get me wrong he is fine but my cleanup on Sons of Anarchy would have to be Juice.
--Watching a very lovey dovey couple sitting in Argo Tea Cafe and smiling over it.
--Eavesdropping on a French conversation and understanding all of it.
--That one of my favorite cartoons, Peanuts, will have a movie coming soon! Watch the teaser trailer here:
--Having one of my students ask me if I was allergic to boys. It was cute…especially at that age.
--Starting a new morning and night routine with The Five Minute Journal. It makes a difference.
--My friend Daniel telling me about this great violinist named Lindsey Stirling. This is my favorite by her:
--Having great discussions over books at Argo Tea Cafe with my Geek Girl Adventure Group. It is inspiring to actually talk to women with similar interests and ideas and that it is not all about shopping and the latest material items.
--This article. Yes What To Do If You Are Falling Out of Love with NYC
What are you in love with for the month of March?
--Spending the birthday with my mom at The Sands in PA!
--Receiving surprise birthday flowers from Daniel when I returned home from The Sands in PA with my mom.
~~Chocolate almond cookies…soooo yummy!
What are you in love with this month?
Here is what I love for the month of March --
--The song "Work B*tch" by Britney Spears. Yes I know it was out in 2013 but I am always late to the party. Listen to the song here:
--Finally realizing the reason of my dating/single slump and that is being afraid of falling in love again. I do not want a repeat of 2005-2013 so I have put up this massive wall around my heart. It is time to start tearing that wall down brick by brick and open my heart back up to receiving and giving love.
--The teaser trailer for Sin City: A Dame to Kill For. Oh my goodness is it filled with loads of sexy -- check it out here:
--Having movie dates with my father. We went to see Mr Peabody and Sherman and it was great!
--Getting addicted to the show Sons of Anarchy. Did not think I would but damn is it a great show. I know most women lust after Jax Teller, and do not get me wrong he is fine but my cleanup on Sons of Anarchy would have to be Juice.
--Watching a very lovey dovey couple sitting in Argo Tea Cafe and smiling over it.
--Eavesdropping on a French conversation and understanding all of it.
--That one of my favorite cartoons, Peanuts, will have a movie coming soon! Watch the teaser trailer here:
--Having one of my students ask me if I was allergic to boys. It was cute…especially at that age.
--Starting a new morning and night routine with The Five Minute Journal. It makes a difference.
--My friend Daniel telling me about this great violinist named Lindsey Stirling. This is my favorite by her:
--Having great discussions over books at Argo Tea Cafe with my Geek Girl Adventure Group. It is inspiring to actually talk to women with similar interests and ideas and that it is not all about shopping and the latest material items.
--This article. Yes What To Do If You Are Falling Out of Love with NYC
What are you in love with for the month of March?
--Spending the birthday with my mom at The Sands in PA!
--Receiving surprise birthday flowers from Daniel when I returned home from The Sands in PA with my mom.
~~Chocolate almond cookies…soooo yummy!
What are you in love with this month?
Friday, February 28, 2014
Things I Love -- February 2014 Edition
Well hello there my lovely readers! It is that time of the month again….wait…that does not sound right. No I do not mean it is time for a ladies gimmick, I mean it is time for….
THINGS I LOVE!!!
So here you go ladies and gents, here is what I louvre for the month of February.
--This link: 13 Dogs That Are Having The Best Day Ever!
--A daily love tarot card on February 10th that rang so true I have to post it:
The Four of Chalices card suggests that a gift of love and support may be offered to you by a compassionate, committed or reliable source willing to go out on a limb just when you feel like no one cares. If you are too wrapped up in your perceived problems, you might not recognize the attempt at outreach and miss the opportunity that could lead to romantic renewal. Don't focus too much on what you don't have, or you could become resentful or condescending of the happiness and passion of others.
--Having two book clubs with some lively conversation.
--Grateful to Revolver Magazine foe exposing me to bands I have never heard of.
--Thankful for random surprise gifts from my Funshine Buddy at work that make me smile.
--Having lazy days due to Snomaggedon 2014.
--Being selected as a 2014 Book Giver for World Book Night! Go here to find out more info -- www.worldbooknight.org
--Having marking out/fangirling moments over the Westminster Dog Show.
--Reconnecting with former college friends via Facebook.
--My infected zombie mug from my friend Joe.
--Warm cozy socks when it is below zero with the wind chill.
--The ice skating genius that is Evgeni Plushenko. It is a shame he had to retire due to medical reasons but this man on the ice is flawless. Watch this fan montage :
What are you in love with for February?
THINGS I LOVE!!!
So here you go ladies and gents, here is what I louvre for the month of February.
--This link: 13 Dogs That Are Having The Best Day Ever!
--A daily love tarot card on February 10th that rang so true I have to post it:
The Four of Chalices card suggests that a gift of love and support may be offered to you by a compassionate, committed or reliable source willing to go out on a limb just when you feel like no one cares. If you are too wrapped up in your perceived problems, you might not recognize the attempt at outreach and miss the opportunity that could lead to romantic renewal. Don't focus too much on what you don't have, or you could become resentful or condescending of the happiness and passion of others.
--Having two book clubs with some lively conversation.
--Grateful to Revolver Magazine foe exposing me to bands I have never heard of.
--Thankful for random surprise gifts from my Funshine Buddy at work that make me smile.
--Having lazy days due to Snomaggedon 2014.
--Being selected as a 2014 Book Giver for World Book Night! Go here to find out more info -- www.worldbooknight.org
--Having marking out/fangirling moments over the Westminster Dog Show.
--Reconnecting with former college friends via Facebook.
--My infected zombie mug from my friend Joe.
--Warm cozy socks when it is below zero with the wind chill.
--The ice skating genius that is Evgeni Plushenko. It is a shame he had to retire due to medical reasons but this man on the ice is flawless. Watch this fan montage :
What are you in love with for February?
Friday, January 31, 2014
Things I Love -- January 2014 Edition
Why hello there faithful reader! In case you do not know what this series is about -- this blog is where I tell you all of the things have made me swoon with love for the month. I still keep a daily gratitude/love list but instead of writing that every day, or every week, I decided to keep it to once a month. It helps me keep the positive and the smile on my face that I love. It is a great habit to get into when you are feeling blue. Something about writing down the positives in your life is just so uplifting! Try it sometime and tell me if I am wrong that your mood does not change.
With that said, here is what I love for the month of January!
--That this is my first blog post for the year 2014.
--That I do not let little things get to me/stress me out.
--That most of my students grasped the concept of counting by 2s with a trick I shown.
--Nice conversations throughout my workday that make me smile.
--For people willing to watch me inject myself with Humira so the pain is not as bad.
--Heated blankets during this polar vortex.
--Air popped popcorn with a mixture of cinnamon sugar and sea salt. Nom and yum!
--Getting used to methotrexate (one of the drugs I have to take for RA) not wiping me out/making me tired.
--Comfy warm sweaters with hearts on them.
--My unicorn slippers when my feet are worn and tired.
--Warm chocolate almond milk on a snowy night.
--Receiving "good morning beautiful" messages before I go to work.
--Egg white sandwiches on panini bread.
--Watching Jeopardy! and getting an entire category correct.
--Blueberries on anything.
--Using Nair for the first time on my nether regions and having it worked and not being sensitive afterward.
--Finally getting my foster cat, Domino, adopted!
--Chicken wings, fresh herb crackers, and Argo Tea on Fridays after work for relaxation.
--Comfy trapeze style dresses that do not make me look pregnant.
--Losing a whole person without the aid of gastric bypass or some other kind of stomach stapling surgery.
--Being part of a wrestling podcast again.
--Sending my friends surprises just because.
--The return of Sherlock!
--Having a "lets turn my phone off for the night and see if anyone will text/voicemail me without me doing it first" experiment fail as I received a phone call from a long lost friend from ISCA BBS.
--Smelling like a marshmallow gingerbread cupcake.
--Walking in the snow with a huge smile on my face.
--Having songs by Frank Sinatra dedicated to me.
--Getting a crystal clear stream of WWE Royal Rumble on my computer. Thanks Joe!
--The talk show Bethenny. Did not think I would like it as much as I do.
So my faithful, what are you in love with for the month of January?
With that said, here is what I love for the month of January!
--That this is my first blog post for the year 2014.
--That I do not let little things get to me/stress me out.
--That most of my students grasped the concept of counting by 2s with a trick I shown.
--Nice conversations throughout my workday that make me smile.
--For people willing to watch me inject myself with Humira so the pain is not as bad.
--Heated blankets during this polar vortex.
--Air popped popcorn with a mixture of cinnamon sugar and sea salt. Nom and yum!
--Getting used to methotrexate (one of the drugs I have to take for RA) not wiping me out/making me tired.
--Comfy warm sweaters with hearts on them.
--My unicorn slippers when my feet are worn and tired.
--Warm chocolate almond milk on a snowy night.
--Receiving "good morning beautiful" messages before I go to work.
--Egg white sandwiches on panini bread.
--Watching Jeopardy! and getting an entire category correct.
--Blueberries on anything.
--Using Nair for the first time on my nether regions and having it worked and not being sensitive afterward.
--Finally getting my foster cat, Domino, adopted!
--Chicken wings, fresh herb crackers, and Argo Tea on Fridays after work for relaxation.
--Comfy trapeze style dresses that do not make me look pregnant.
--Losing a whole person without the aid of gastric bypass or some other kind of stomach stapling surgery.
--Being part of a wrestling podcast again.
--Sending my friends surprises just because.
--The return of Sherlock!
--Having a "lets turn my phone off for the night and see if anyone will text/voicemail me without me doing it first" experiment fail as I received a phone call from a long lost friend from ISCA BBS.
--Smelling like a marshmallow gingerbread cupcake.
--Walking in the snow with a huge smile on my face.
--Having songs by Frank Sinatra dedicated to me.
--Getting a crystal clear stream of WWE Royal Rumble on my computer. Thanks Joe!
--The talk show Bethenny. Did not think I would like it as much as I do.
So my faithful, what are you in love with for the month of January?
Thursday, August 1, 2013
Things I Love Thursday -- July 2013 Edition
Summer is in full swing and you know that means....
IT IS TIME FOR ANOTHER THINGS I LOVE THURSDAY!
Here is what I have been in love with for the month of July.
--Setting a reading goal for the month of July.
--Being a volunteer for Major League Baseball All Star Summer.
--Despicable Me 2! Love me some minions! I need to get one of my own.
**This is not me guys. This is the awesome Meghan also known as Strawburry17. She is AMAZING and a total inspiration.***
--The fact that I can in a chair, bend forward, and kiss my knees. Thats right KISS MY KNEES. Have not had that ability in a long long time.
--This article from Veronica Varlow which rings very true: 3 Ways to Know if Someone is Great in Bed All Before the Dessert Arrives
--All of the support from my family and friends that I have received lately due to something that I should have done a long long time ago. You ladies and gents are the best!
--Receiving the New Beauty Test Tube for Summer and loving all of the products.
--That my favorite comic strip, Calvin and Hobbes, will have its own documentary!:
--Having a friend of mine make this for me when the royal baby was born:
--Is it November yet?:
--Having the ability to still work a room even though I have not attended a mixer/mingling thing in a long long time.
--Feeling amazing and walking without my cane for the first time in MONTHS.
--This sandwich: Nine flavour combinations in one sandwich! Well I would have to change the strawberry jam to grape but still...awesome!
--The Netflix show Orange is the New Black. Truly amazing!
--Still enjoying dark brooding AJ Styles on TNA Wrestling.
What have you been in love with for the month of July?
IT IS TIME FOR ANOTHER THINGS I LOVE THURSDAY!
Here is what I have been in love with for the month of July.
--Setting a reading goal for the month of July.
--Being a volunteer for Major League Baseball All Star Summer.
--Despicable Me 2! Love me some minions! I need to get one of my own.
**This is not me guys. This is the awesome Meghan also known as Strawburry17. She is AMAZING and a total inspiration.***
--The fact that I can in a chair, bend forward, and kiss my knees. Thats right KISS MY KNEES. Have not had that ability in a long long time.
--This article from Veronica Varlow which rings very true: 3 Ways to Know if Someone is Great in Bed All Before the Dessert Arrives
--All of the support from my family and friends that I have received lately due to something that I should have done a long long time ago. You ladies and gents are the best!
--Receiving the New Beauty Test Tube for Summer and loving all of the products.
--That my favorite comic strip, Calvin and Hobbes, will have its own documentary!:
--Having a friend of mine make this for me when the royal baby was born:
--Is it November yet?:
--Having the ability to still work a room even though I have not attended a mixer/mingling thing in a long long time.
--Feeling amazing and walking without my cane for the first time in MONTHS.
--This sandwich: Nine flavour combinations in one sandwich! Well I would have to change the strawberry jam to grape but still...awesome!
--The Netflix show Orange is the New Black. Truly amazing!
--Still enjoying dark brooding AJ Styles on TNA Wrestling.
What have you been in love with for the month of July?
Monday, July 29, 2013
Love Letter To My Body
My dearest friend:
It has been quite a long journey… since we have started. During our path together we have developed a new level of communication and trust that allows each other an amazing mutual echo and respect filled with lots of love and cooperation. I live my life through you. You have been with me through the best of times and worst of times. You have helped me on my journey through life; taking me to places that I have not seen before; laughing with other friends; having the gift of gab and exploration. Here are some of the things I thank you for.
I thank you for the way you allow me to experience all of the arts on this great planet of ours whether it be music, professional wrestling, comic conventions, book swaps, writing, teaching.
Thank you for the ability to walk without the use of a cane or a brace.
Thank you for the wonderful times that you allowed me to swim.
Thank you so much for your ability to enjoy food and easily digest it.
Thank you for allowing me amazing sexual abilities and pleasures with no effort.
Thank you for the wonderful way you experience nature, animals and children.
Thank you for the way you help me to share things with others.
I therefore promise to you to go on and take care of you with wonderful foods that I know you like, wonderful green teas, plentiful glasses of pomegranate blueberry juice, walking around parks and getting manicures and pedicures done. I also promise to surround you with good energy and good people.
I will always listen to you, to your guidance and to the signs you keep sending me – you are the best “intuition container” and I unconditionally love you.
Yours,
Danielle
(THIS WAS AN EXERCISE IN MY RADICAL SELF LOVE BOOTCAMP COURSE. Maybe you should do it too?)
It has been quite a long journey… since we have started. During our path together we have developed a new level of communication and trust that allows each other an amazing mutual echo and respect filled with lots of love and cooperation. I live my life through you. You have been with me through the best of times and worst of times. You have helped me on my journey through life; taking me to places that I have not seen before; laughing with other friends; having the gift of gab and exploration. Here are some of the things I thank you for.
I thank you for the way you allow me to experience all of the arts on this great planet of ours whether it be music, professional wrestling, comic conventions, book swaps, writing, teaching.
Thank you for the ability to walk without the use of a cane or a brace.
Thank you for the wonderful times that you allowed me to swim.
Thank you so much for your ability to enjoy food and easily digest it.
Thank you for allowing me amazing sexual abilities and pleasures with no effort.
Thank you for the wonderful way you experience nature, animals and children.
Thank you for the way you help me to share things with others.
I therefore promise to you to go on and take care of you with wonderful foods that I know you like, wonderful green teas, plentiful glasses of pomegranate blueberry juice, walking around parks and getting manicures and pedicures done. I also promise to surround you with good energy and good people.
I will always listen to you, to your guidance and to the signs you keep sending me – you are the best “intuition container” and I unconditionally love you.
Yours,
Danielle
(THIS WAS AN EXERCISE IN MY RADICAL SELF LOVE BOOTCAMP COURSE. Maybe you should do it too?)
Thursday, April 25, 2013
Things I Love Thursday -- April Edition
Is it just me or is 2013 just going by in the blink of any eye? I do not know if I like it or not. Granted it is create that we all survived the Mayan apocalypse, but I think time needs to slow down a little. But also the cliche goes "life moves pretty fast...if you do not stop and look around, you can miss it." With that said, here is what I am in love with for the month of April!
--Being interviewed for WWE Wrestlemania 29 for the Star Ledger! Here is the article, just in case you have not seen it on my Facebook or Twitter: Wrestlemania 29: Faces, heels, and fans converge at the big show
--Having suite level seats at Wrestlemania 29. I knew it was going to get cold at night as the original Giants Stadium was a wind tunnel. Well, Met Life Stadium was not any different. It was nice to duck inside for some warmth and hot chocolate.
--That Spring finally decided to show up!
--This video:
--Making vlogs. Granted I am no Jenna Marbles or Strawburry17 but it is fun! You can check out my latest vlogs here:
--Creating my new favorite drink at Argo which is Green Tea bubble tea with vanilla syrup and almond milk. So good!
--MTV's Awkward is back! This is the only show I watch on MTV. It is so good and a guilty pleasure.
--My purple and black Converse high top sneakers. With having RA, finding comfortable shoes is a MUST. So far the only shoes that are comfy on my feet are my Converse and I love it.
--My skeleton pajama jumpsuit from my friend Jacob Hugart! Thank you again! Here are some pictures of its awesomeness:
What are you in love with this month?
--Being interviewed for WWE Wrestlemania 29 for the Star Ledger! Here is the article, just in case you have not seen it on my Facebook or Twitter: Wrestlemania 29: Faces, heels, and fans converge at the big show
--Having suite level seats at Wrestlemania 29. I knew it was going to get cold at night as the original Giants Stadium was a wind tunnel. Well, Met Life Stadium was not any different. It was nice to duck inside for some warmth and hot chocolate.
--That Spring finally decided to show up!
--This video:
--Making vlogs. Granted I am no Jenna Marbles or Strawburry17 but it is fun! You can check out my latest vlogs here:
--Creating my new favorite drink at Argo which is Green Tea bubble tea with vanilla syrup and almond milk. So good!
--MTV's Awkward is back! This is the only show I watch on MTV. It is so good and a guilty pleasure.
--My purple and black Converse high top sneakers. With having RA, finding comfortable shoes is a MUST. So far the only shoes that are comfy on my feet are my Converse and I love it.
--My skeleton pajama jumpsuit from my friend Jacob Hugart! Thank you again! Here are some pictures of its awesomeness:
What are you in love with this month?
Thursday, March 28, 2013
Things I Love Thursday -- March Edition
New month, new TiLT! Here is what I am in love with for the month of March.
~~It is my birthday tomorrow! I am turning 35 and I am not ashamed to admit it.
~~This article saying what your favorite Daria character says about you. I am definitely a mixture of Daria and Jane Lane: Thought Catalog: What your favorite Daria character says about You.
--Surprises from various friends simply because.
--This might sound totally weird but having an RA flare up. It helps me figure out what I can eat and what I can not. I have been on the hunt for potato chips but most chips are either fried or made with canola/vegetable oil. I have done well staying away from that but then I saw OLIVE OIL POTATO CHIPS. I could not believe it. THEY EXISTED. I bought three bags and chowed down. Unfornuately about an hour later my right foot felt like it was broken and burning. I frankensteined walked my way home from my French class, took a Super Motrin and placed an ice pack on my foot. By the next morning I felt much better. But again if I did not try it I would have never known.
--Having a Guinness World Record. I was a participant for the largest media scavenger hunt. http://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/1000/largest-media-scavenger-hunt
--Teddy Grahams as a snack. So glad I can have something crunchy!
--Dark chocolate covered cashews. Satisfies my chocolate urge.
--Making new friends.
--Getting followed by Meghan Camarena (Strawburry17 on le Twitter). She is a contestant on the Amazing Race this season. GO TEAM YOUTUBE!
--That I have my own t-shirt and I did not even know it until I saw it on FashionablyGeek.com The Book Was Better t-shirt
--The finally release Breaking Dawn Part 2 parody from The Hillywood Show
--Apples dipped in chocolate almond milk pudding for a snack. Yum!
--That someone actually bought me a Clarisonic Aria Sonic Skin Cleansing Kit for my birthday. I still can not believe it and can not wait to use it! I like giving myself facials and that I can save money instead of going out to get one and I can do it myself? Oh yeah that is amazing.
--I have my own Nyan Cat now!
--Hosting and participating in the first annual International TableTop Day with my girls from NYC Vaginal Fantasy!
--Listening to some rockabilly/swing music as I attack the dust buddies in my room.
--Wearing bunny ears at work and when I went into NYC today.
--"Are you seeing someone?" Hehe. Was asked this by a young man on University Place who has a female English Bulldog who does not like anyone apparently but was friendly to me.
What are you in love with this month?
~~It is my birthday tomorrow! I am turning 35 and I am not ashamed to admit it.
~~This article saying what your favorite Daria character says about you. I am definitely a mixture of Daria and Jane Lane: Thought Catalog: What your favorite Daria character says about You.
--Surprises from various friends simply because.
--This might sound totally weird but having an RA flare up. It helps me figure out what I can eat and what I can not. I have been on the hunt for potato chips but most chips are either fried or made with canola/vegetable oil. I have done well staying away from that but then I saw OLIVE OIL POTATO CHIPS. I could not believe it. THEY EXISTED. I bought three bags and chowed down. Unfornuately about an hour later my right foot felt like it was broken and burning. I frankensteined walked my way home from my French class, took a Super Motrin and placed an ice pack on my foot. By the next morning I felt much better. But again if I did not try it I would have never known.
--Having a Guinness World Record. I was a participant for the largest media scavenger hunt. http://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/1000/largest-media-scavenger-hunt
--Teddy Grahams as a snack. So glad I can have something crunchy!
--Dark chocolate covered cashews. Satisfies my chocolate urge.
--Making new friends.
--Getting followed by Meghan Camarena (Strawburry17 on le Twitter). She is a contestant on the Amazing Race this season. GO TEAM YOUTUBE!
--That I have my own t-shirt and I did not even know it until I saw it on FashionablyGeek.com The Book Was Better t-shirt
--The finally release Breaking Dawn Part 2 parody from The Hillywood Show
--Apples dipped in chocolate almond milk pudding for a snack. Yum!
--That someone actually bought me a Clarisonic Aria Sonic Skin Cleansing Kit for my birthday. I still can not believe it and can not wait to use it! I like giving myself facials and that I can save money instead of going out to get one and I can do it myself? Oh yeah that is amazing.
--I have my own Nyan Cat now!
--Hosting and participating in the first annual International TableTop Day with my girls from NYC Vaginal Fantasy!
--Listening to some rockabilly/swing music as I attack the dust buddies in my room.
--Wearing bunny ears at work and when I went into NYC today.
--"Are you seeing someone?" Hehe. Was asked this by a young man on University Place who has a female English Bulldog who does not like anyone apparently but was friendly to me.
What are you in love with this month?
Thursday, February 28, 2013
Things I Love: February 2013 Edition
A new month, a new THINGS I LOVE THURSDAY! Here is what I have swooned and loved in the month of February.
--This video is hysterical. Thanks Veronica for the share on FB:
--That one of my favorite bands Bullet for My Valentine will be releasing a new album on February 12th. Here is one of the singles from their new album:
I bought the whole album the day of its release and it has been on constant loop on my iPod. Fast, rhythmic drums followed with gut wrenching lyrics...LOVE LOVE LOVE.
--The launch of this company:
--Sending an email to the man Stan Lee himself to possibly donate his new companies books to my school.
--Having a weekly segment on my friends radio show about something I love....BOOKS!
--This cover of Losing My Religion by Lacuna Coil:
--The YouTube comedian Ryan Higa. Always brings a smile to my face. Look him up on YouTube at either nigahiga or HigaTV
--This website: Skeletor is Love Thank you Samantha for the share!
--Thanks to my friend Hector for sharing this video. Laughter for hours!
--Finally figuring out what this Harlem Shake thing is all about and watching various interpretation videos of it. Here are my three favorites:
--Trying acupuncture for my RA. So far it seems to be helping.
What did you love in the month of February?
What did you love in the month of February?
--This video is hysterical. Thanks Veronica for the share on FB:
--That one of my favorite bands Bullet for My Valentine will be releasing a new album on February 12th. Here is one of the singles from their new album:
I bought the whole album the day of its release and it has been on constant loop on my iPod. Fast, rhythmic drums followed with gut wrenching lyrics...LOVE LOVE LOVE.
--The launch of this company:
--Sending an email to the man Stan Lee himself to possibly donate his new companies books to my school.
--Having a weekly segment on my friends radio show about something I love....BOOKS!
--This cover of Losing My Religion by Lacuna Coil:
--The YouTube comedian Ryan Higa. Always brings a smile to my face. Look him up on YouTube at either nigahiga or HigaTV
--This website: Skeletor is Love Thank you Samantha for the share!
--Thanks to my friend Hector for sharing this video. Laughter for hours!
--Finally figuring out what this Harlem Shake thing is all about and watching various interpretation videos of it. Here are my three favorites:
--Trying acupuncture for my RA. So far it seems to be helping.
What did you love in the month of February?
What did you love in the month of February?
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