Friday, December 31, 2004
Tsunami Relief
Given the enormity of the disaster in Asia, you might consider donating some cash. MoveOn.org recommends OxFam as a good choice. You can donate by clicking here.
"Ole Crazy Eye"
That's what we're calling Malcolm as his right pupil is very small and his left is completely dilated. He looks totally insane. It's freaking us out! Congrats to Malcolm for at least *trying* to kill the mouse that got in our bedroom this morning. As you can imagine, it was a fun couple of hours while us city slickers tried to figure out how to catch and release the mouse. Luckily, I left a storage bag unzipped under the bed and it eventually crawled in there. I put it outside and hopefully, he's gone now. Useless felines! Bah!
Thursday, December 30, 2004
Beware The Gooey Eye
Poor Malcolm went to the vet today. He had a thorn in his eye! Poor little guy. So now he has an "eye ulcer" - right in time for us to leave town of course. So now, all my friends have to put drops in his eye this weekend. Sheesh. I am lucky I have friends. Of course, they all have pets and I know there will be some payback (as well there should...) Tommorow is the wedding of Dave's friends Nikheel and Michelle. It will be the first Catholic/Indian wedding I've ever been to.
I'm working on my New's Year's Resolutions. One is to eat less sugar. I'm a pretty healthy eater in general, but I do go through binge/purge cycles with sugar. God, it's so good. Second is to try and be more comfortable with talking to random people in unfamiliar places. I tend to clam up and freak out. It's silly, I know, but I have some minor social anxiety, I guess. Third is to budget money better which I figure I'll stick to for two months. Ummm, there are probably other places where I am deficient, but I'm not ready to admit them just yet.
I'm working on my New's Year's Resolutions. One is to eat less sugar. I'm a pretty healthy eater in general, but I do go through binge/purge cycles with sugar. God, it's so good. Second is to try and be more comfortable with talking to random people in unfamiliar places. I tend to clam up and freak out. It's silly, I know, but I have some minor social anxiety, I guess. Third is to budget money better which I figure I'll stick to for two months. Ummm, there are probably other places where I am deficient, but I'm not ready to admit them just yet.
Crazy Cat Lady? Who? Where?
Wednesday, December 29, 2004
We're All Going To Hell
I think the world is moving along on its course to hell a little faster than I was anticipating. The incredible number of deaths that resulted from the recent tsunami, the fact that Tom DeLay will escape punishment for very clear ethics violations, Republicans in charge, soldiers dying in Iraq. It's pretty bleak. How is in that in one breath, Republicans can so vehemently deny stem cell research and a woman's right to control the destiny of her own body and yet not have any second thoughts or concerns about KILLING IRAQIS. Oh yeah, they're Muslim. So, whatever, right?
And On A More Cheerful Note
Trail of Lights Stars Xmas 2004
Originally uploaded by silverzephyr.
Here's my favorite picture from Christmas.
Tuesday, December 28, 2004
More Xmas Merriment!!!
This is the message on the index page of Ann Coulter's website. I SHIT YOU NOT.
To The People Of Islam: Just think: If we'd invaded your countries, killed your leaders and converted you to Christianity YOU'D ALL BE OPENING CHRISTMAS PRESENTS RIGHT ABOUT NOW! Merry Christmas
I've said it before and I'll say it again every day for the rest of my life -- WTF???
To The People Of Islam: Just think: If we'd invaded your countries, killed your leaders and converted you to Christianity YOU'D ALL BE OPENING CHRISTMAS PRESENTS RIGHT ABOUT NOW! Merry Christmas
I've said it before and I'll say it again every day for the rest of my life -- WTF???
Monday, December 27, 2004
Holiday Fun Comes To A Close
The holiday festivities are coming to a close and I return to work tommorow (but then, uh, take Thursday and Friday off, so it's really not that bad). I was thinking today about how sad it will be to come home to a dark house after we take the lights off. We could leave 'em up til next year, but as we learned this past year, squirrels eventually start to chew through the wires.
Last night was the "meeting of the parents" - my Mom met Dave's parents & sister. It went really well and they all chatted up a storm. I think the alcohol really helped.
My Mom's visit was tons o' fun but of course this means next year we must leave the comfort of Austin for the great white north (and by that I mean Oklahoma and Missouri). The only bad thing that happened was that Malcolm peed on her pillow. For those of you who have anxiously followed the ever developing Polly Poo stories, I would like to report that she was on her very best behavior and did not pee or poo inside the house the entire time despite the extreme cold temperatures outside. Good for her.
And now, I must search for Christmas sale items at Target for 2005....
Last night was the "meeting of the parents" - my Mom met Dave's parents & sister. It went really well and they all chatted up a storm. I think the alcohol really helped.
My Mom's visit was tons o' fun but of course this means next year we must leave the comfort of Austin for the great white north (and by that I mean Oklahoma and Missouri). The only bad thing that happened was that Malcolm peed on her pillow. For those of you who have anxiously followed the ever developing Polly Poo stories, I would like to report that she was on her very best behavior and did not pee or poo inside the house the entire time despite the extreme cold temperatures outside. Good for her.
And now, I must search for Christmas sale items at Target for 2005....
Sunday, December 26, 2004
Xmas Bonanza!
So, I r'cvd many fabulous gifts from family n' friends. The Jon Stewart book (Dave is encouraging my unhealthy crush on a married man!), earrings, mallets for my Glockenspiel (I thought it was a Xylophone and it's not really mine...it's borrowed from Gina) and best of all, a new digital camera! Yay! Girlstown will have great pictures now and I won't feel guilty about borrowing the work camera. Well, it wasn't guilt I felt. Mainly fear. Today Dave's parents come to town from Oklahoma to open their presents and meet my Mom. We figured it would be good for them to meet before the wedding, ya know?
Check out the Ms. Magazine blog. It's informative and pretty cool
Check out the Ms. Magazine blog. It's informative and pretty cool
Saturday, December 25, 2004
Compassion For You White Folk Out There!
"The Christmas season fills our hearts with gratitude for the many blessings in our lives, and with those blessings comes a responsibility to reach out to others," Bush said in his weekly radio address.
(retching noise)
Bush went onto clarify, "...that is, if you ain't one of them Christmas-hating heathen terrorists." Bill O'Reilly celebrated the day with a stack of porno DVDs Santa brought him for being such a good boy and saving Christmas. You see, because so many people were losing their faith in Santa Claus, Christmas almost DIDN'T HAPPEN. But luckily, O'Reilly stepped in at the last minute and all the little rich, white, Christian boys and girls all over the land got presents! Barbie dolls for the girls and fire trucks for the boys. No way in hell is little Johnny Womack getting that Easy Bake Oven he so wanted! Meanwhile, Carl Rove sharpened and shined his retractable horns, the met with Wolfowitz for a champagne lunch and review their plots...I mean, PLANS...for the coming year.
Merry Christmas, Iraq!
Thursday, December 23, 2004
Mitten Weather
Well, Mom's here and so we're off! We took her to our fave crappy mexican resturant last night: Enchiladas Y Mas which has, as think I've mentioend before, the BEST FAJITAS the ATX, yo. WE're going to get some of them there fancy shmancy massages this morning, then onto Central Market to shop for our Christmas Eve party. It is freezing ass cold in Austin. Prolly maybe a bit over 30. Gah! Not a whole lot to complain about this morning, but I'm sure a day full of driving in Austin will make me a horribly cranky bee-yatch. People here drive like total a-holes.
Tuesday, December 21, 2004
Best EVER!
Just finished cleaning the bathroom and it is soooooo clean. Did I mention that I have the BEST Mom in the entire universe...who is coming to Austin tommorow? And this has nothing to do with the fact that she apparently reads this pretty regularly. Nope. Nothing at all. I would say nice things even if she didn't. You know how some Mothers are like crazy and weird and controlling? Not this one. Non-judgmental and a better cook than YOUR Mom. And I've dragged her to punk shows, Vegas (well, there was no dragging exactly) and record stores.
You've Been Stroodled!
Yesterday, a friend was telling me about a new technology being developed that would level rioters with a high pitched frequency that would instantly make them sick. I did a little reading this morning and found out that device is only the tip of the “non lethal weapon” iceberg. My friend Sally just wrote a science fiction/fantasy novel where people controlled each other with “stroodlers” – devices emitting frequencies that made them do things against their will. So it was kind of eerie to see how close we are to what I perceived as science fiction. This shit creeps me out. It’s so X-Files.
Read more here on the “Future of Crowd Control”:
http://www.economist.com/diversions/displayStory.cfm?Story_id=3423036
Read more here on the “Future of Crowd Control”:
http://www.economist.com/diversions/displayStory.cfm?Story_id=3423036
Karma Police Arrested This Man
Why oh why has Bill O’Reilly *not* spontaneously combusted on air??? Where are the Karma Police???
I am reading a gloriously bad Larry McMurtry book. My friend Sarah put me on her Paperback Chain Letter and now I am receiving random books in the mail, which is great fun! Since I managed to somehow lose the book I was reading (“Spring Snow”…and right when it was getting good, too)…I figured what the hell? So “Desert Rose” is it! It’s about a cheerful but put-upon Las Vegas topless showgirl. Nuthin’ like a stripper with a heart of gold.
I’ve been thinking a lot about the soldiers in Iraq being killed/murdered protecting America’s corporate interests. Protecting our right to drive a Porshe SUV like an a total jerk off. I like Austin allright, but I’m not sure I can continue to live in a Red State. People have some pretty fucked up priorities here: people who dare to preach so-called “Christian values” (ugh…I just hate typing the word values…which is so filled with conflicting meaning, it is rendered meaningless) while never *volunteering* in their own community! Going to church doesn’t count, dude! Sitting on your fat suburban ass for a few hours every week so that you can feel better about yourself doesn’t cut it. The pastor or minister or whatever may talk to you about being kind and understanding and empathetic. And yet, you will have no empathy for anyone but yourself. And maybe some other white people...Church is just another service industry. Bleh! Bleh! Bleh! Of course, there are plenty of activists here and some good peeps, but they get overshadowed by the assholes.
I am reading a gloriously bad Larry McMurtry book. My friend Sarah put me on her Paperback Chain Letter and now I am receiving random books in the mail, which is great fun! Since I managed to somehow lose the book I was reading (“Spring Snow”…and right when it was getting good, too)…I figured what the hell? So “Desert Rose” is it! It’s about a cheerful but put-upon Las Vegas topless showgirl. Nuthin’ like a stripper with a heart of gold.
I’ve been thinking a lot about the soldiers in Iraq being killed/murdered protecting America’s corporate interests. Protecting our right to drive a Porshe SUV like an a total jerk off. I like Austin allright, but I’m not sure I can continue to live in a Red State. People have some pretty fucked up priorities here: people who dare to preach so-called “Christian values” (ugh…I just hate typing the word values…which is so filled with conflicting meaning, it is rendered meaningless) while never *volunteering* in their own community! Going to church doesn’t count, dude! Sitting on your fat suburban ass for a few hours every week so that you can feel better about yourself doesn’t cut it. The pastor or minister or whatever may talk to you about being kind and understanding and empathetic. And yet, you will have no empathy for anyone but yourself. And maybe some other white people...Church is just another service industry. Bleh! Bleh! Bleh! Of course, there are plenty of activists here and some good peeps, but they get overshadowed by the assholes.
Monday, December 20, 2004
Democrats! Now with 50% more Republican!
Finally got the server space issue worked out for Girlstown! Kim is writing reviews in Alaska and I am hard at work as well… Nick is an absolute kick ass dude for doing our coding. All in all, we’re moving forward.
Wrapped most of our presents yesterday morning and put them under the tree knowing full well that the ribbons will be covered with chew marks in a matter of days. It’s like a kitty kat playscape for Malcolm. Angus is too dignified for such nonsense.
And lest you think I am going to leave on a positive note, read this:
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/6700571/site/newsweek/
An excerpt: “The week after Thanksgiving, dozens of Democratic Party loyalists gathered at AFL-CIO headquarters for a closed-door confab on the election. John Kerry dropped by to thank members of the liberal 527 coalition America Votes. When Ellen Malcolm, president of the pro-choice political network EMILY's List, asked about the future direction of the party, Kerry tackled one of the Democrats' core tenets: abortion rights. He told the group they needed new ways to make people understand they didn't like abortion. Democrats also needed to welcome more pro-life candidates into the party, he said. "There was a gasp in the room," says Nancy Keenan, the new president of NARAL Pro-Choice America.”….
That’s right! Democrats need to be MORE LIKE REPUBLICANS. Are you fucking kidding me???
Wrapped most of our presents yesterday morning and put them under the tree knowing full well that the ribbons will be covered with chew marks in a matter of days. It’s like a kitty kat playscape for Malcolm. Angus is too dignified for such nonsense.
And lest you think I am going to leave on a positive note, read this:
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/6700571/site/newsweek/
An excerpt: “The week after Thanksgiving, dozens of Democratic Party loyalists gathered at AFL-CIO headquarters for a closed-door confab on the election. John Kerry dropped by to thank members of the liberal 527 coalition America Votes. When Ellen Malcolm, president of the pro-choice political network EMILY's List, asked about the future direction of the party, Kerry tackled one of the Democrats' core tenets: abortion rights. He told the group they needed new ways to make people understand they didn't like abortion. Democrats also needed to welcome more pro-life candidates into the party, he said. "There was a gasp in the room," says Nancy Keenan, the new president of NARAL Pro-Choice America.”….
That’s right! Democrats need to be MORE LIKE REPUBLICANS. Are you fucking kidding me???
Sunday, December 19, 2004
Today's Sermon
Lured by the prospect of bitching about stuff on a daily basis, Dave has decided to start his own blog: http://distresssignals.blogspot.com/ You should check it out.
It's too damn nice this weekend to spend any amount of time on the computer. Many leaves have been raked and more to follow. Watched Last Temptation of Christ last night -- though I was too young to see it when it came out, I do remember lots of fuss and controversy from the religious right. I was surprised since I thought the movie was a flattering account of Jesus. In the end, he decides that he will sacrifice himself -- he comes to realize that he's made a mistake. The movie actually shows Jesus as a conflicted human. I guess it makes complete sense that "evangelicals" would pooh pooh any movie that depicts Jesus or any other coveted religious figure as *thinking* for themselves & addressing serious theological issues. The right path is to blindly follow, isn't it?
It's too damn nice this weekend to spend any amount of time on the computer. Many leaves have been raked and more to follow. Watched Last Temptation of Christ last night -- though I was too young to see it when it came out, I do remember lots of fuss and controversy from the religious right. I was surprised since I thought the movie was a flattering account of Jesus. In the end, he decides that he will sacrifice himself -- he comes to realize that he's made a mistake. The movie actually shows Jesus as a conflicted human. I guess it makes complete sense that "evangelicals" would pooh pooh any movie that depicts Jesus or any other coveted religious figure as *thinking* for themselves & addressing serious theological issues. The right path is to blindly follow, isn't it?
Friday, December 17, 2004
Jolly St. Dick
Just to piss you off today...
"Frank Corte Jr., a San Antonio Republican, is the author of an odious bill that would protect the jobs of pharmacists who refuse to fill prescriptions on moral grounds. But don't worry, boys, none of this has anything to do with your pecker pills. Nope, Corte's bill is aimed solely at women. It would allow pharmacists to refuse to fill prescriptions for "morning after" pills, a form of contraceptive that women can take up to 72 hours after intercourse."
More...
http://www.dallasobserver.com/issues/2004-12-09/news/buzz.html
"Frank Corte Jr., a San Antonio Republican, is the author of an odious bill that would protect the jobs of pharmacists who refuse to fill prescriptions on moral grounds. But don't worry, boys, none of this has anything to do with your pecker pills. Nope, Corte's bill is aimed solely at women. It would allow pharmacists to refuse to fill prescriptions for "morning after" pills, a form of contraceptive that women can take up to 72 hours after intercourse."
More...
http://www.dallasobserver.com/issues/2004-12-09/news/buzz.html
We're Always This Clean
I thought I was going to be in training all day yesterday but got a reprieve. Which was good, since I ended up getting a migraine and being miserable for a few hours. I don’t know why they are coming back after I had such a glorious absence of about 7 months. Crap. The only thing I can think of is that I’ve been eating waaaaay too much sugar and maybe that threw everything out of balance. I think though I invent reasons for why I am plagued with this affliction when really it must just be my evil inner core rising to the surface.
My Mom will be here next week and so we’ll be running around scrubbing the house and pretending like we’re always that clean. Yeah! But the shining beacon of light is the Tuna Helpers Christmas show on Sunday at Emo’s which all you Austinites should gather for. I think it’s an early-ish show.
Its genuinely cold – could see my breath and everything early this morning! Xmas-y!
My Mom will be here next week and so we’ll be running around scrubbing the house and pretending like we’re always that clean. Yeah! But the shining beacon of light is the Tuna Helpers Christmas show on Sunday at Emo’s which all you Austinites should gather for. I think it’s an early-ish show.
Its genuinely cold – could see my breath and everything early this morning! Xmas-y!
oooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo
ohmigod, this new Low album is sooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo good. Sooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo good.
Thursday, December 16, 2004
If You Must, Call Me An Old Bag
I’ve been consciously trying to reuse old bags and not accept bags if I don’t need them. I mean, do I really need a single item in a bag to walk to the car with? And trust me, you all know how NOT a hippie I am – and I’m really wasteful about food, so this is no public service announcement about conservation. Wasting bags in particular just really bugs me. I do pretty well at remembering to bring old bags to the grocery store, but I do forget occasionally. I was at Albertson’s buying a bunch of stuff for a work breakfast, including a BAG of oranges. When I told the checkout girl I didn’t want a bag for the oranges as they were already in one, she scowled at me. She was also putting, like, two items in one bag. I asked her if she could consolidate some of the items so I would have less bags. She responded by dumping a bunch of heavy stuff on top of my apples, while giving me a look that clearly said…don’t want my bag, bee-yatch? well, enjoy your bruised fuckin’ apples, commie! Then the bagger came and desperately tried to put my oranges in a bag! Why, God, why? Is not wasting bag un-American? Are my terrorist colors showing through?
Wednesday, December 15, 2004
Diamonds Are a Girl's Best Friend
There’s this HORRIBLE Helzberg Diamond commercial that has been running constantly in the past two weeks. I mean like every 15 minutes on FOX. A man buys a maroon box with a bow on it from Helzberg and walks to meet his lady friend to a blues/rockabilly song “Mojo Box”. As he travels to meet her, women of all colors leer at him, presumably because he’s carrying diamonds. Or maybe they’re leering at the box. Either way, it’s gross. Then his lady friend sees it and pretty much jumps him. Look, I recognize that diamonds are pretty and everything. I just feel like this is supporting some (wrong, deeply disturbing) stereotype that women can be bought off with expensive gifts. Been an emotional absent loser boyfriend/husband all year? Buy her a freakin’ diamond, already. Women want you if you buy a diamond. You’re the biggest lion in the jungle by displaying your economic prowess! And yes, I do know that this is penance for my having written *terrible* jewelry ads in the past.
In Girlstownproductions.com news, we have a logo by none other than Marshall S., one of Austin’s finest. Still working on the absolute shitload of writing that needs to be done.
In Girlstownproductions.com news, we have a logo by none other than Marshall S., one of Austin’s finest. Still working on the absolute shitload of writing that needs to be done.
Note of Funni-ness: Spell Checking this document, the computer recommended "foreskin" as a replacement for "freakin'"...heh heh heh (In Beavis-y laugh)...
Tuesday, December 14, 2004
Accents Ahoy-hoy!
My company just bought another company that is run by South African peeps who moved here about 7 or 8 years ago. They all have kick ass accents. My favorite thing is their tendency to say "in actual fact" all the time to accentuate an important point instead of the now seemingly boring "really". And it sounds super neat when they say "neccessary".
Monday, December 13, 2004
Measure Of A Man
I love this Clay Aiken Scandal!
http://www.nj.com/news/gloucester/index.ssf?/base/news-2/1102756521132440.xml
It distracts me from thinking depressing thoughts about Iraq every second of the day. Now I just think about people getting killed for a coupla hours.
http://www.nj.com/news/gloucester/index.ssf?/base/news-2/1102756521132440.xml
It distracts me from thinking depressing thoughts about Iraq every second of the day. Now I just think about people getting killed for a coupla hours.
Sunday, December 12, 2004
Toast n' Stuff
Angus likes to walk across the keyboard while I'm typing which is bad because he weighs, like, eighteen lbs (not exaggerating).
Beautiful weekend. It was eighty here today which is ridiculous considering we are getting ready for Xmas. Did yard work all day and remembered what a drag it is being an adult. Bah! The flurry of activity makes up for the fact that we actually just had fun yesterday. Headed to the Cherrywood Art Festival, El Azteca and The Blue Genie Art Bazaar for presents, then Lovejoys. Bought stuff for Mom and, uh, me. Dave got me the cutest purse in the world with a piece of toast on it (for me). Not actually toast, cartoon toast. With a happy gace and toasty cheeks! Whee....Came home and our DOOR WAS OPEN. We had been gone for eight hours. Surprisingly, nothing was gone and the cats were located quickly. I was practically hyperventilating with worry about Malcolm. But he was in the neighbor's yard. Nobody stole the tree. We must not have pulled the door shut all the way or something...I don't know...stupid, stupid!
I made Dave turn off the news this morning because my ears were hurting listening to Russert talk about Scalia. I can't bear it, honestly.
Beautiful weekend. It was eighty here today which is ridiculous considering we are getting ready for Xmas. Did yard work all day and remembered what a drag it is being an adult. Bah! The flurry of activity makes up for the fact that we actually just had fun yesterday. Headed to the Cherrywood Art Festival, El Azteca and The Blue Genie Art Bazaar for presents, then Lovejoys. Bought stuff for Mom and, uh, me. Dave got me the cutest purse in the world with a piece of toast on it (for me). Not actually toast, cartoon toast. With a happy gace and toasty cheeks! Whee....Came home and our DOOR WAS OPEN. We had been gone for eight hours. Surprisingly, nothing was gone and the cats were located quickly. I was practically hyperventilating with worry about Malcolm. But he was in the neighbor's yard. Nobody stole the tree. We must not have pulled the door shut all the way or something...I don't know...stupid, stupid!
I made Dave turn off the news this morning because my ears were hurting listening to Russert talk about Scalia. I can't bear it, honestly.
Saturday, December 11, 2004
CUTEST EVER!!!!!!!!
I STILL can't get the photo software to work for this damn thing. That way I can annoy a lot of people at one time with photos of my cats which I will declare to be the CUTEST EVER. You know why? Because I am a crazy cat lady. You heard me. I embrace that as an integral part of my identity. How did this happen? I think research will show that it's something you're born with. Cat person or dog person...gay or straight...Rolling Stones or Beatles...
Oh, I ate some Indian food last night and actually liked it! I was always under the impression that it wasn't for me with all the heavy sauces and what not. But the Tandoori had no sauce. And that fried bread...bring it on, yo. In addition to being a cat person, I am also a food person. Some might say...a food snob.
I finished my Frausdots story for Rocket Fuel and it should be up in maybe a week or so on the website. I reviewed their album Couture, Couture, Couture and interviewed 'em...Couture is like...the best eighties album you never heard...and it's totally about drugs, fashion, glammy glam glam stuff...but these pretty Echo and The Bunnymen-esque pop songs. It took me about four listens to get into it and then I loved it. Then again, I also like that new Gwen Stefani song...not Rich Girl, the other one. What can I say? I am a sucker for some good pop. I am totally comfortable listening to Alex Chilton next to Ciara...
Oh, I ate some Indian food last night and actually liked it! I was always under the impression that it wasn't for me with all the heavy sauces and what not. But the Tandoori had no sauce. And that fried bread...bring it on, yo. In addition to being a cat person, I am also a food person. Some might say...a food snob.
I finished my Frausdots story for Rocket Fuel and it should be up in maybe a week or so on the website. I reviewed their album Couture, Couture, Couture and interviewed 'em...Couture is like...the best eighties album you never heard...and it's totally about drugs, fashion, glammy glam glam stuff...but these pretty Echo and The Bunnymen-esque pop songs. It took me about four listens to get into it and then I loved it. Then again, I also like that new Gwen Stefani song...not Rich Girl, the other one. What can I say? I am a sucker for some good pop. I am totally comfortable listening to Alex Chilton next to Ciara...
Friday, December 10, 2004
Leggo My Ligonberry
I went to the store to get some Xmas crap and there are, like, one million types of specialty wrapping accessories for any gift imaginable. So overwhelming, the choices. I think that’s all part of the Republican conspiracy. Give us so many consumer choices we get confused trying to buy really simple things and don’t have the brain power to do much else. Gosh, do I want the toilet paper with the blue flowers or with the pink ribbon? Which would my ass like better? Hrm…. There are even a new line of tampons out with clever names, cute boxes and quotes on the inside of the packages (presumably, so you have something to read in the stall) called “Dittie”. Yup, my vagina sure needs that! Anyway, I bought wrapping paper a month ago at Ikea. At least maybe I am supporting those crazy Swedes what with their socialism and Ligonberry drink. Mmmm….Ligonberry…
Speaking of food, I just had a delightful Dark Chocolate/Espresso Truffle Bar from Seattle Chocolates that I was only going to eat one fourth of, then gradually ate the whole thing. The dark chocolate was a little on the sweet side, but it was very good overall. Recommended.
Speaking of food, I just had a delightful Dark Chocolate/Espresso Truffle Bar from Seattle Chocolates that I was only going to eat one fourth of, then gradually ate the whole thing. The dark chocolate was a little on the sweet side, but it was very good overall. Recommended.
Peanuts in A Pear Tree
Planters are such liars. They SAY that no more than 50% of the mixed nuts will be peanuts in the can. But there’s always, like, 200 peanuts, two cashews and three pecans. WTF????? I just wonder what my good friend Solly thinks of this travesty...
Last night, we bought a Christmas tree that touches the ceiling. Malcolm wore himself out chasing tissue paper and pouncing from beneath the tree. He was such a little freak, but I was intoxicated with motherly love. Angus slept in his box, completely uninterested and above it all (of course).
Last night, we bought a Christmas tree that touches the ceiling. Malcolm wore himself out chasing tissue paper and pouncing from beneath the tree. He was such a little freak, but I was intoxicated with motherly love. Angus slept in his box, completely uninterested and above it all (of course).
Thursday, December 09, 2004
From The Desk of Mildred Millay...
I think everyone has their own personal fake name. Our office manager here at work has two – one white and one Latina. I just have one – Mildred Millay (very white). The Mildred came about when I called someone at an old job and couldn’t give my real name. I had to think of something silly enough so she would know it was me and for some reason Mildred was the first thing to pop into my head. And it stuck like so much Thanksgiving Tapioca that I’m certain a Mildred somewhere in Kansas actually made. Millay came out of my reading of a biography of the poet Edna St. Vincent Millay. It’s good to have a fake name at the ready in case you have to lie to police.
Last night, I had a delightful dinner with Kae from TARAL. An amazing woman! Very interesting, engaging and funny – of course, very fired up about her job and wanting to move the organization forward and get younger ladies involved. She very graciously asked me to serve on the Board of Directors and what an honor! I think it will be beneficial for both of us. I’ll get to learn more about event planning and how non-profits operate and I think I can help attract younger volunteers even though we all know I ain't no spring chicken.
Tonite, we’re planning on buying our Xmas tree! I’m using lots of exclamation points! I like exclamation points!!!!!! I went kinda crazy at Joann Fabric yesterday and bought some decorations for the house. I feel like it needs to be ultra festive since a good chunk of family will be around. And as you all know, I’ve got just a touch of Martha Stewart in my blood. It lays dormant for the majority of the year, but rears its ugly head up around major holidays.
Last night, I had a delightful dinner with Kae from TARAL. An amazing woman! Very interesting, engaging and funny – of course, very fired up about her job and wanting to move the organization forward and get younger ladies involved. She very graciously asked me to serve on the Board of Directors and what an honor! I think it will be beneficial for both of us. I’ll get to learn more about event planning and how non-profits operate and I think I can help attract younger volunteers even though we all know I ain't no spring chicken.
Tonite, we’re planning on buying our Xmas tree! I’m using lots of exclamation points! I like exclamation points!!!!!! I went kinda crazy at Joann Fabric yesterday and bought some decorations for the house. I feel like it needs to be ultra festive since a good chunk of family will be around. And as you all know, I’ve got just a touch of Martha Stewart in my blood. It lays dormant for the majority of the year, but rears its ugly head up around major holidays.
Wednesday, December 08, 2004
A Few Of My Favorite Things
I’m pleased to report that there was NO POO in the bathroom this morning.
The new issue of Venus is out. Go buy it! It has Joanna Newsom on the cover and some of my reviews in the back. You should also go buy the new Ms. Led CD while you’re at it – “These Things We Say”. Political Rawk never sounded so good. They’ll be playing at Emo’s with The Thermals on Jan. 22nd. I’m excited to see them not only ‘cause they're great live performers, but also 'cause when they played Ladyfest, I was too stressed/busy to enjoy anything…ok, except for the craft fair because that was the last thing that happened.
My favorite word for today: persnickety.
The new issue of Venus is out. Go buy it! It has Joanna Newsom on the cover and some of my reviews in the back. You should also go buy the new Ms. Led CD while you’re at it – “These Things We Say”. Political Rawk never sounded so good. They’ll be playing at Emo’s with The Thermals on Jan. 22nd. I’m excited to see them not only ‘cause they're great live performers, but also 'cause when they played Ladyfest, I was too stressed/busy to enjoy anything…ok, except for the craft fair because that was the last thing that happened.
My favorite word for today: persnickety.
Tuesday, December 07, 2004
Startling Realizations
#1: ICE T is a really bad actor. There should never be a Law & Order episode written around his character.
#2: I'm always surprised when boys seem just as concerned about their appearance as women. I forget they're victims of dumb ass ad messages and from seeing too many covers of Men's Health (and/or pornos...ok, mostly pornos...whatever).
#3: I'm getting lamer by the day. Soon, I'll be shaking my fist at those damn kids and their damn music. I'll be wearing a pink terrycloth robe while doing this, of course. And slippers.
#2: I'm always surprised when boys seem just as concerned about their appearance as women. I forget they're victims of dumb ass ad messages and from seeing too many covers of Men's Health (and/or pornos...ok, mostly pornos...whatever).
#3: I'm getting lamer by the day. Soon, I'll be shaking my fist at those damn kids and their damn music. I'll be wearing a pink terrycloth robe while doing this, of course. And slippers.
Poo and Our Website (not related topics)
Complaining: Definitely having some dog issues this morning. You know, you just don’t want to wake up each day to a big pile of poo on your bathroom rug…or come home to poo in your living room. I think this is a common human desire. If this hadn’t happened consistently for a week or if she hadn’t had ample opportunities to go outside, I might be less irritated, but that just isn’t the case. And yes, yes, I know Malcolm pees on things sometimes…he pees on things that dogs lay on because he is getting territorial with them. And who came blame him? There is zero space for anyone to move about comfortably. I’d pee on something myself if it meant everyone would stay away from it. Except food. No one wants a soggy cookie. Which makes me think of the time I told my brother to pee on that cookie…but that was a long time ago.
Not Complaining: Tomorrow is going to be an exciting day! I’ll be meeting with the exec director of TARAL, an organization you should all check out. They are our Texas branch of NARAL, the National Abortion Rights Action League. Their website is http://www.taral.org Kim and I would like to feature them in our very first edition of girlstownproductions.com. Speaking of the website, things are coming along nicely. I am almost done with an initial graphic design. My friend Nick will code it with Moveable Type. We’ve got two people working on a logo…and we’ve got a huge amount of writing to do! If any of you are interested in reviewing albums or live shows, lemme know…please!
Not Complaining: Tomorrow is going to be an exciting day! I’ll be meeting with the exec director of TARAL, an organization you should all check out. They are our Texas branch of NARAL, the National Abortion Rights Action League. Their website is http://www.taral.org Kim and I would like to feature them in our very first edition of girlstownproductions.com. Speaking of the website, things are coming along nicely. I am almost done with an initial graphic design. My friend Nick will code it with Moveable Type. We’ve got two people working on a logo…and we’ve got a huge amount of writing to do! If any of you are interested in reviewing albums or live shows, lemme know…please!
Monday, December 06, 2004
Xylophone Is Fun To Type
I completely forgot how good Nestle butterscotch chips are. Especially if you eat one chocolate and one butterscotch chip at the exact same time. I think you'll find, as I did, that it's a taste sensation!
The Blue Genie Art Bazaar is this weekend (goes from 12/9-12/19 and opens at 10 every day!) if ya'll are lookin' for some super cool Austin-made stuff. Ex-Ladyfester and all around neat gal Gina McCool will be displaying some of her jewelry. http://www.bluegenieart.com/ for more info. Their place is over on Springdale by the Blue Theater in the lot behind Salvation Army. It sounds hard to get to and maybe it kinda is the first time, but you'll find it. Kim and I are planning a trip this weekend if anyone's interested...
Does anyone have a Xylophone? I am interested in purchasing one. Or borrowing for an extended period of time. I require a Xylophone to make my vision a reality.
The Blue Genie Art Bazaar is this weekend (goes from 12/9-12/19 and opens at 10 every day!) if ya'll are lookin' for some super cool Austin-made stuff. Ex-Ladyfester and all around neat gal Gina McCool will be displaying some of her jewelry. http://www.bluegenieart.com/ for more info. Their place is over on Springdale by the Blue Theater in the lot behind Salvation Army. It sounds hard to get to and maybe it kinda is the first time, but you'll find it. Kim and I are planning a trip this weekend if anyone's interested...
Does anyone have a Xylophone? I am interested in purchasing one. Or borrowing for an extended period of time. I require a Xylophone to make my vision a reality.
Banana Nose Is Not My Name
Back at work. ick. Drizzly and rainy. Super ick. Shameful secret: we don’t have cable so in my desperation, I actually watched a half hour of the network broadcast of a movie with Nicolas Cage in it, whom I really dislike (though he was great in Raising Arizona, one of my fave comedies of all time…it’s been all downhill for him from there) called “Family Man”. I can’t believe this movie actually made it to the theaters and that some percentage of the population actually saw it. It was bad, and I’ve seen lots of bad movies (Last Samurai…why oh why did I rent this?). “Pieces of April”, however, is very good little movie, I have to say. Dysfunctional family movies always make me feel pretty freakin’ great about my own.
Besides that, I spent last night reapplying myself to the TASCAM four-track, inspired by Dave’s friend Bryan telling me that it’s really easy and that I shouldn’t be intimidated by it. That was before we realized the free demo of Pro Tools won’t work on my OS. I need to either run two different systems or find someone who has a copy of the real thing to lend me to see if I like it before I buy…anyone? I need to think of an alias to record under. I’ve always wanted to have one…or at least a nickname…but never have (ok, except for my Mom calling me Banana Nose which isn’t really my idea of a cool name)…
Besides that, I spent last night reapplying myself to the TASCAM four-track, inspired by Dave’s friend Bryan telling me that it’s really easy and that I shouldn’t be intimidated by it. That was before we realized the free demo of Pro Tools won’t work on my OS. I need to either run two different systems or find someone who has a copy of the real thing to lend me to see if I like it before I buy…anyone? I need to think of an alias to record under. I’ve always wanted to have one…or at least a nickname…but never have (ok, except for my Mom calling me Banana Nose which isn’t really my idea of a cool name)…
Sunday, December 05, 2004
Fashion Death Trends
White chocolate almond bark is super delicious!
***
I've been wondering lately about the relationship between fashion and political trends. Is the recent popularity of "vintage" 40's and 50's fashion due to our more conservative political environment? Are we returning to the fashions of the old days (you know, when women acted like Presidential Stepford Wife Laura Bush) because apparently, a large contingent of people in the US (red states! ack!) really believe that the atomic age was a golden era? I truly believe these people wish they could have the Cold War back. You know, a time when men were men, women were women and Russians were really bad spy dudes with furry hats. Things were so much easier to figure out then!
Wearing vintage clothing (and I don't so much anymore) used to be a way to differentiate myself from the masses; also, it was meant to be an ironic statement made with the (maybe a little smug) optimism of third wave feminist attitude...as in, see, I can wear a 50's housedress as fashion because we're so far beyond what it stood for! In the current climate, this doesn't quite fly 'cause things suck ass. As the threat to our control over our own reproductive rights increases and unions between gay couples are described as "immoral"...I gotta wonder...maybe vintage clothes mean something different in a Bush-era political context. And if it's not a vast right wing conspiracy to get women to look "proper" again, then maybe it just means something different to me personally. Crap. Because I do really love those round-toed pumps out now...
Maybe I am completely overthinking this and it's just a fashion that's been around for a while and now it's more mainstream and next year scrunchies or something will be popular.
***
I've been wondering lately about the relationship between fashion and political trends. Is the recent popularity of "vintage" 40's and 50's fashion due to our more conservative political environment? Are we returning to the fashions of the old days (you know, when women acted like Presidential Stepford Wife Laura Bush) because apparently, a large contingent of people in the US (red states! ack!) really believe that the atomic age was a golden era? I truly believe these people wish they could have the Cold War back. You know, a time when men were men, women were women and Russians were really bad spy dudes with furry hats. Things were so much easier to figure out then!
Wearing vintage clothing (and I don't so much anymore) used to be a way to differentiate myself from the masses; also, it was meant to be an ironic statement made with the (maybe a little smug) optimism of third wave feminist attitude...as in, see, I can wear a 50's housedress as fashion because we're so far beyond what it stood for! In the current climate, this doesn't quite fly 'cause things suck ass. As the threat to our control over our own reproductive rights increases and unions between gay couples are described as "immoral"...I gotta wonder...maybe vintage clothes mean something different in a Bush-era political context. And if it's not a vast right wing conspiracy to get women to look "proper" again, then maybe it just means something different to me personally. Crap. Because I do really love those round-toed pumps out now...
Maybe I am completely overthinking this and it's just a fashion that's been around for a while and now it's more mainstream and next year scrunchies or something will be popular.
Saturday, December 04, 2004
Talk To People More!
Kim, Marshall (Kim's bike-lovin' man) and I attended the GenAustin Happy Hour last night. Two martinis for $10...and oh yeah, it's, like, for a good cause n' stuff. Anyway, we talked to some pretty fascinating, dedicated folks and Kim and I worked *very hard* at being social. We're trying to improve our "networking" (heh heh) skillz...and yes, I realize that keeping an online journal sort of goes against that goal. My New Year's Resolution is hereby..Talk To People More.
GenAustin is a kick ass non-profit that provides empowerment programs for teenage girls and their parents. They do this through a Speaker Series (with topics like "Ten Things Dads Can Do To Support Smart, Saavy Daughters" and "Yoga For Modern Girls") and other specials events. Definitely worth checking out: http://www.genaustin.org Wish I had access to this kind of stuff when I was fourteen.
On a completely unrelated note, I was wondering today if Dennis Miller and Ann Coulter have TOTALLY DONE IT. I bet they have. They so freakin' deserve each other. Bleh.
GenAustin is a kick ass non-profit that provides empowerment programs for teenage girls and their parents. They do this through a Speaker Series (with topics like "Ten Things Dads Can Do To Support Smart, Saavy Daughters" and "Yoga For Modern Girls") and other specials events. Definitely worth checking out: http://www.genaustin.org Wish I had access to this kind of stuff when I was fourteen.
On a completely unrelated note, I was wondering today if Dennis Miller and Ann Coulter have TOTALLY DONE IT. I bet they have. They so freakin' deserve each other. Bleh.
Friday, December 03, 2004
Christmas Frolic!
I f*cking LOVE Christmas (in a purely secular fashion). Lights, trees, giving people stuff, kids putting lawn reindeer in compromising positions at night…it makes me very happy. Every time I drive by a nativity set, I have an overwhelming desire to steal part of it. This goes back to The Great Jesus Kidnapping Of 1990. My friends and I trolled through unsuspecting neighborhoods and sent my brother out to grab the Jesuses out of their mangers and put them in my trunk. I think we took about ten or fifteen. And lest ye judge, let me tell you that our plan was to bring them back at Easter! Brilliant, I know…except for the fact that we had forgotten where they had come from months later. Oops!
Met with Kim (who just finished her last paper yesterday and is done with school until January – yay!) and Audra, who is new to Austin, last night at my favorite North Austin bar, LaLas (and also conveniently down the street from me). It’s decorated for Christmas year round, of course, but seems extra festive around the actual holiday. Everyone in the city has heard a different story on why the decorations never come down – it has become one of those ever-changing urban myths. Someone told me a few years back that LaLa (one of the older ladies who runs the bar) had decorated for her son’s return around Christmas from Vietnam, but he was killed on his way back. Keeping the holiday spirit is an act of mourning. Romantic, yes. True, prolly not.
Met with Kim (who just finished her last paper yesterday and is done with school until January – yay!) and Audra, who is new to Austin, last night at my favorite North Austin bar, LaLas (and also conveniently down the street from me). It’s decorated for Christmas year round, of course, but seems extra festive around the actual holiday. Everyone in the city has heard a different story on why the decorations never come down – it has become one of those ever-changing urban myths. Someone told me a few years back that LaLa (one of the older ladies who runs the bar) had decorated for her son’s return around Christmas from Vietnam, but he was killed on his way back. Keeping the holiday spirit is an act of mourning. Romantic, yes. True, prolly not.
Thursday, December 02, 2004
What Ever Happened To...
Last night at the gym, I saw the bee girl video…you know, the one for that band Blind Melon. The dude killed himself or overdosed maybe ten years ago, I can’t remember. And I don’t mean to disrespect the dead but he had terrible hair. But anyway, I know you’ve all seen the video. So I was wondering what is the bee girl doing now? Is she in college? Maybe the money from the video paid for her college?
Wednesday, December 01, 2004
Holy Crap! Links!
I've added some links to the side of the page...slowly learning this crazy new technology! I'm only about...er...five years behind. Sigh. This means cable television is not far behind. My identification with the Luddites is crumbling.
Anyway, Rocket Fuel is an online music site that I write for. I also did some music reviews for the Winter issues of Bitch and Venus. If you go to Venus online, you'll see one of my reviews on the first page! Eek! I am so excited!
My friend Kim and I are starting a music/activism website and hope it will be up sometime in January -- girlstownproductions.com We're working on content and will have music & live show reviews and interviews, as well as features on local non profits and news pertaining primarily to women's rights. We'll be focusing on the ongoing battle to preserve our right to obtain safe and legal abortions.
The other link is to my friend Spencer's blog and list of shows he's playing in the NYC area. He so rocks. And ladies, he's single!
Anyway, Rocket Fuel is an online music site that I write for. I also did some music reviews for the Winter issues of Bitch and Venus. If you go to Venus online, you'll see one of my reviews on the first page! Eek! I am so excited!
My friend Kim and I are starting a music/activism website and hope it will be up sometime in January -- girlstownproductions.com We're working on content and will have music & live show reviews and interviews, as well as features on local non profits and news pertaining primarily to women's rights. We'll be focusing on the ongoing battle to preserve our right to obtain safe and legal abortions.
The other link is to my friend Spencer's blog and list of shows he's playing in the NYC area. He so rocks. And ladies, he's single!
It begins....
The other day, my Mom reminded me about The Silver Zephyr. As I recall, it was the name of a bicycle in a book I'd read (though in reality a train name) and I was obsessed with the sound of it and, most likely, the exotic spelling. I used The Silver Zephyr as a "company" name for my many enterprises, under which I engaged in various schemes. One of these was making small costumes out of felt for my friends favorite stuffed animals. The only costume I remember making was for Toasty, a penguin, owned by this kid in my class named Alan (believed to be a genius by the rest of the class, myself included). I am about 95% sure it was a court jester costume.
When my Mom asked me if I remembered the Silver Zephyr, I was just as enamoured of its sound. And I still have to pause to correctly spell it out even today. And so, it seemed a capitol idea for a title.
When my Mom asked me if I remembered the Silver Zephyr, I was just as enamoured of its sound. And I still have to pause to correctly spell it out even today. And so, it seemed a capitol idea for a title.
