A Princess and Her Blog

I Don't Even Know My Own Strength

2009-07-13T20:46:00.000-07:00

As I get older I realize I don't even know my own strength. Or shall I say lack of strength. I've been selling my furniture and had placed my hamper for sale. I got an offer and rather than have someone go through my bedroom to get to my hamper I decided to bring it out by the front door. Not realizing how heavy my hamper is, I lifted with my back and not with my legs. Five days later I'm still nursing my lower back to health.

Air McNair Is Grounded

2009-07-08T21:10:00.000-07:00

The murder suicide of Steve McNair this past week got me thinking about the movie Fatal Attraction. I remember when the movie came out, it had scared most men to their core. But after what happened this week it tells me that maybe men need a refresher course.

McNair's indiscretion with a twenty-year old women cost him his life. I'm sure he never thought this would be the way things would end with her. Just like Michael Douglas in Fatal Attraction never thought his one indiscretion would lead to a women trying to kill his wife and child. I know this can happen to any of us. This could have happend to a Mark Sanford.

So maybe we should all remember when we get ourselves stuck in a situation and think it won't hurt anyone, we may end up getting grounded.

Support Shannyn Moore

2009-07-05T20:10:00.001-07:00

I know my blog is not a political blog, although you wouldn't know it by all my rants this past year. Fear not, my life is still a comedy of errors and I'll be blogging about it soon enough.

But for now, I have to post a statement that Shannyn Moore released today in response to Sarah Palin's threats to her for defamation of character or something of that sort. As if Sarah Palin character couldn't sink any lower. In a show of solidarity with Shannyn, I've posted her statement below in response to the Wasila hillbilly.

On the Fourth of July, when Americans everywhere were celebrating our most sacred national holiday with parades and barbecues, Governor Sarah Palin was busy having me, Shannyn Moore, declared an Enemy of the State.

In a rambling quasi-legal letter, the most powerful person in this state accused me of defaming her for pointing out the fact that there have been rumors, -rumors- of corruption, rumors that have been around for years.

When Sarah Palin gave her three-weeks notice to the people of Alaska, aborting her term as Governor, a lot of people wondered why she quit. Mid-level managers turn-in their notice, not elected public officials. It didn't make sense. It still doesn't. People have been trying to guess why she really quit, and everyone in Alaska has been playing the guessing game. They're rumors. There are a lot of rumors. And with all the corruption we've had here in Alaska, of course we wonder what's really behind her resignation.

Governors don't just quit. But Governor Palin did.

The governor's massive overreaction -on the Fourth of July no less- should make any reasonable person wonder what's wrong with her. The Lady protests way too much. Eventually we'll all find out why she really walked off the job.

Sarah Palin is a coward and a bully. What kind of politician attacks an ordinary American on the Fourth of July for speaking her mind? What's wrong with her? The First Amendment was designed to protect people like me from the likes of people like her. Our American Revolution got rid of kings. And queens, too. Am I jacked-up? You betcha.

Sarah Palin, if you have a problem with me, then sue me. Shannyn Moore will not be muzzled!

SP

2009-07-04T19:12:00.001-07:00

Sarah Palin...The gift that needs to be re-gifted.

GO AWAY!!!!!!

Quote of the Week

2009-05-04T15:40:00.000-07:00

I was telling my friend Hector about watching the movie "Rachel Getting Married" this weekend. I loved the movie and told him how much I loved the wedding minus all the dysfunctional stuff. I told him I was a hopeless romantic and his response was, "what good is being in love if your not hopelessly into it?". I loved what he said (I'm such a sucker) and it I'm making it the quote of the week.

My Blues are Brown

2009-05-03T20:11:00.000-07:00

I decided to give up sugar for the next 30 days. I thought I'd give it a try to see how I feel and also help me get back into shape. It's only day 1 and let me tell you, IT'S HARD! I've been reading as many labels as I can to make sure it doesn't contain sugar. I never realized how much sugar is in all different foods we eat. That's why my blues are brown as in milk chocolate brown.

note: My posts may turn into venting depending on how cranky I get with no sugar in my system. Please don't take it personal...

Quote of the Week

2009-04-02T13:53:00.001-07:00

I think I've posted this before but it's one that I think we should all remember.

Remember, sometimes not getting what you want is a wonderful stroke of luck.
-Dalai Lama

Why I love Madeleine Albright and Bill Maher

2009-03-22T08:54:00.000-07:00

Riddle Me This?

2009-03-22T08:17:00.000-07:00

Why is it if you rob a bank and get caught, you can get up to ten to fifteen years in prison. However if your the head of a financial institution, rob the country for billions you get away with a bailout and maybe a cap on your salary?

This type of stuff INFURIATES ME!!!!!!!!

The message that is being sent is white collar crime is okay. Especially if you donate to someones campaign. Talk about a class warfare. I'm sorry America we need to wake up and get angry. It's time to put a sitting president, former presidents, CEO's, EVP's, shareholders, senators, congressmen, governor's and mayors in jail. I'm all for keeping Guantanamo open and put all these jokers in there. Enough is enough. I hope any of my readers decide to pass this post onto anyone and everyone they know. GET MAD! DEMAND ACCOUNTABILITY! THROW A LOT OF PEOPLE AT THE TOP IN JAIL!

Nobody is above the law, and it's about time we remind these folks of that.

Religion - A Book Of Fairytales

2009-03-09T17:47:00.000-07:00

This weekend I watched Bill Maher's movie Religilous. First and foremost, I'm a big fan of Bill Maher so I'm sure my summation of the movie will obviously be favorable. I thought the movie was great. I think everyone needs to watch it. He's not attacking religion, he's just questioning it. Nobody knows for certain what happens after any of us pass away.

An ex-boyfriend of mine once told me that religion is just a way of controlling the masses (thanks David). I wasn't sure how I felt about that statement, but it did make me think. The older I get the more I believe that religion is pretty much a very creative fairytale to make us humans feel better and to control the masses.

The reality is there is no proof of what any religion preaches actually happened. Speaking as a Hindu(I use that term very loosely) I find it hard to believe in that as well. More murder and killing has happened in the name of religion, all religions. Every religion has blood on their hands. How can that be okay? Women are NOT equals in religion, yet we give life. All Hindu priests are male (who I don't trust as far as I can throw). They manipulate religion to get what they want, blind followers. These priests or gurus don't posses any special powers that the rest of us don't have. They claim to speak to God. Well nothing says CUCKOO like someone who says they talk to God. People make fun of Scientologists and say their religion is crazy. Is it any crazier than speaking to a burning bush? Or a talking snake? Or an Elephant God? Or plural marriages? GIVE ME A BREAK.

We spend hours researching an auto mechanic, or yelp a restaurant we aren't sure of. We need referrals. We need assurance of the best price. We need certainty. But when it comes to religion all rational thinking goes out the door. Nobody will buy a car based on faith alone, we look at consumer reports to give us their ratings.

I'm all for a sense of community. I'm also more than happy for people who feel a sense of peace when they go to their temples or churches. But be rational when it comes to the message. It's okay to question it. It's okay to doubt it. It's also okay to not participate in any organized religion.
More and more people in this country are less and less religious. Maybe we are finally waking up and realizing what's most important. Just treating people the way we want to be treated. Respecting and loving each other.

In the end I still want a Hindu ceremony when I get married. I'm not sure if that makes me a romantic, a hypocrite or sheep. I don't know. Maybe I'm all three...

3G Network

2009-03-05T20:31:00.000-08:00

I don't know about the rest of you but this 3G Network by AT&T keeps dropping my calls. It's very frustrating especially when I'm in the middle of one of my diatribes. I can sit in the same place and not move and the number of bars will change. Makes no sense to me. The EDGE Network through my blackberry never dropped calls. I need to know who I can complain too to make sure they something about it. *sigh*

Dumbass Of The Week Award

2009-03-02T20:10:00.000-08:00

This week's Dumbass of the Week Award goes to Rush Limbaugh. I will not post his picture in fear that my readers will go blind or have nightmares. For those of you who don't know, Rush Limbaugh is a fat pill popping pedophile. Rumor has it he likes little boys. I'm not surprised by this at all. So all of you in Florida keep an eye on all your young boys and don't let Rush get near them.

I'm Yours - Always Puts Me In A Good Mood

2009-02-27T16:09:00.000-08:00

I so love this song. Reminds me of what's important. LOVE...

How The Times Have Changed

2009-02-24T19:15:00.001-08:00

The person in this picture with the least amount of power is the white man. Boy how times have changed. His cabinet essentially looks like the make-up of the US and he has plenty of women in his cabinet as well. POTUS rocks!

This Is Why I love Chris Matthews

2009-02-24T15:02:00.001-08:00

He uses words like "Dicking Around" when he's grilling his guests. Watch the clip below to enjoy his use of the English language.

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

Dumbass Of The Week Award

2009-02-20T15:56:00.001-08:00

I've decided to do a "Dumbass Of The Week" post and at the end of 2009 I will nominate a "Dumbass of the Year". We all know who would have won that for the past seven years. Yes I said seven. Last year there were a lot of front runners and I'll let you figure out who those front runners were.

This weeks nominees are the following:
Roland Burris - President Obama's democratic replacement for Senate
Michael S. Steele - Newly elected Republican National Committee Chairman
Nadya Suleman - She gave birth Jan. 26 to the nation's first octuplets

Now, this weeks "Dumbass Of The Week" award goes to:
Michael S. Steele. He wins for such dumb statements as "The GOP needs 'hip hop' makeover". I always knew that for the most part the republican party for the past 16 years are useless at best. And now this? I had to do a double take when I read that. As if this country hasn't been dummied down enough.

Sometimes A Tool Is Just A Tool

2009-02-19T17:42:00.000-08:00

I think I've single handily managed to catapult the BRAVO network to the top. I've become enraptured with a majority of their reality television shows. The show I'm watching now is the Millionaire Matchmaker. The show is interesting and some of the rules the owner of the matchmaking company has are good rules for women and should be followed in theory. I basically watch it for mindless entertainment but the one thing the show does prove is that no matter how much money a guy has, if he's a tool all the money in the world can't change that.

I Keep Getting Punked

2009-02-19T17:36:00.000-08:00

Winter in Chicago sucks. I temporarily managed to escape back to my beloved California for almost three weeks where the weather was in the 70's. The day I returned I returned to a nice 60 degrees here in Chicago. Unfortunately I was too ill from the stomach flu to enjoy it. Since then the weather here has gone down again into the 20's which sucks. However, when I look outside and see the sun shining I think it's got to be nice and warm outside until I step outside and that bone chilling wind slaps me in the face and says, "You just got PUNKED!".

Kurkure Masala Munch - How I Love You So

2009-02-19T17:27:00.000-08:00

Thanks to my dear friend Aradhna I have grown to LOVE these chips. They are like crack and you can't just have one. They are the South Asian version of Cheetos, but instead of a cheese flavor it has Indian spices. It is so very delicious. I've been trying to get everyone I know to try these chips and in true crack dealer form they get a taste and are hooked. You should be able to find them in any Indian grocery store. They have other flavors as well but for now the Masala Munch is my favorite.

January 20th Cannot Come Soon Enough

2009-01-15T22:13:00.001-08:00

I like many proud patriotic Americans refused to watch Dubya's farewell "speech" to the nation. Well I've got two words for you
GO AWAY!

This nightmare of the last eight years is finally coming to an end. Although I have no doubt he'll try to give us one last "eff you" before he leaves. This man has learned NOTHING. The only thing he's trying to do is re-write history so they don't deem him the worst President ever. Well, before we forget here are a few things that happened on his watch:

9/11 happened on his watch
Katrina and New Orleans sinking happened on his watch
The financial collapse happened on his watch
He and his cronies decided to invade Iraq and get us into a war (on his watch)
The economic collapse happened on his watch
Global Warming has increased on his watch

The next couple of years will definitely be tough on all of us but at least we'll be spared from his narcissism, stupidity, and delusion.

So Funny and So True

2009-01-08T08:55:00.000-08:00

The Daily Show With Jon StewartM - Th 11p / 10c

Medicine Cabinet

Barack Obama Interview
John McCain Interview

Sarah Palin Video
Funny Election Video

X-Flop

2009-01-04T09:34:00.000-08:00

I just watched the movie, X-Files: I Want to Believe. I think the movie should be titled, X-Files: I Want My Money Back! The movie sucked ass.

This movie was horrible. Talk about throwing as much shit on a wall and hoping something sticks. I'm so very disappointed in Chris Carter. It had NOTHING to do with the X-Files. I even looked for hidden clues in regards to what I know about the show and came up empty.

The first X-Files movie was a very good movie and made very well. You did not need to watch the television show to understand the movie or follow it.

January 2009 OMG!

2009-01-03T14:41:00.000-08:00

What a month January 2009 is gearing up to be. Here's a list of why.

Let's start with the obvious. Barack Obama's inauguration on January 20Th. I've got my DVR all set to tape as well as possibly having an inauguration party to celebrate this historic moment. My cousin and her husband are fortunate enough to attend the inauguration. I was fortunate enough to be at Grant Park on November 4Th. That is a moment I will remember for the rest of my life and will always be grateful.
LOST is back with a bang! I can't wait to watch my favorite character Sayid and the rest of the passengers from the doomed Oceanic flight. There's still a lot of unanswered questions that all of us fans demand to know, for instance "who is Jacob?!". For all of you who don't watch this show you can still save yourself. There is a time for fun and there is a time to get serious and all of you who don't watch LOST need to get serious! I will not be posting updates to the show and you may miss out on my inside comments. So there!
January 16Th is the return of Battlestar Galactica on the Scifi channel. I can't frakin' wait! It's one of the best shows many of you aren't watching. Sure make your comments about what a nerd I am. In the end I shall prevail while the rest of you will be scrambling to order the series on Netflix. mmhmm...
My father will be celebrating his 65Th birthday. Happy Happy Birthday Dad. I love you and wouldn't be who I am with out you.
I'll be halfway through a Chicago winter. Although it hasn't been too bad. The weather has been in it's thirties and any residue of snow or ice has disappeared. I'm hoping to ride this mild winter out to the end of February. Hello open toed shoes and spring!
Last but not least, it is the end of the Bush Presidency. THANK KRISHNA! Not a moment too soon. I don't think I've ever been so happy to see a moving truck pull up to a house. I just hope and pray that the White house isn't burned down to the ground before he goes because I believe he's intent on doing so. Thank goodness the era of ignorance and incompetence is over. Now it's time for healing and righting our wrongs.

I think January 2009 will be an amazing month. In regards to the Inauguration of President Obama. Whether you voted for him or not realize this is a historic event and you'll be able to pass this down to your children and grandchildren one day.

Quote of the Week

2008-12-21T09:55:00.000-08:00

"If Your Heart Is Open, Love Will Always Find Its Way In"

-Jane Seymour

I believe that works for all the different relationships in your life.

2008 A Year of Change

2008-12-21T09:38:00.000-08:00

President Elect Barack Obama's message was change. 2008 was definitely a year of change for me. Not just politically (Thank Krishna!).

I changed a lot of things in my life. The two biggest being leaving a job that I was at for eight years and moving from sunny California to snowy Chicago. Two decisions of change that have had a major impact on my life. I left everything that was my security and took a leap of faith for change. Things haven't always worked out the way I thought they would. But it all worked out the way it was supposed to. This move has made me incur the following changes as well:

My hair. I have no control over it in the summer and no control over it in the winter.
My shoes. I can no longer wear open-toed shoes in the winter. :-(
My thoughts on wearing tights. I've learned they are essential during a Chicago winter.
My way of driving. I drive even SLOWER now.
My thoughts on family and friends. I've come to appreciate them more than ever now. Right, Wrong or Indifferent I love my family and friends and miss them dearly.

I think the tone for 2009 will be new beginnings. I can't wait!

What's His Damage?

2008-12-21T09:32:00.000-08:00

What's the deal with mailmen? Maybe its just the ones in Chicago. My mailman back home in California was a very kind.

The other day when I arrived home the mailman was filling all the slots and then moved onto a different box of slots. So I figured I would grab my mail and go. But NO. I got such a tongue lashing. He told me that while that box is open, I CANNOT REACH MY HAND IN AND TAKE MY MAIL!! I apologized and in turn got a look of disgust. I made an honest mistake. A simple polite no would have suffice.

Here's my question. What does he think I'm going to do? Take someones mail? Yeah because that's what I want, MORE JUNK MAIL! MORE CRAP TO THROW OUT! Give me a break guy. Now I know why dog's chase you guys!

Yes We Can!

2008-12-15T11:37:00.000-08:00

President Elect Barack Obama hasn't even been sworn in and I feel like everything we fought for collectively has already disappeared. I know times are tough, but we all have to work together to get through this. If you're like me and don't have any children maybe it's time we give to Toys for Tots or our local shelter, or any other program that is out there.

I know that I've lived a very privileged life and so have many of my friends and family. Ask yourself, "what don't you have?". I'm not saying don't buy for your nephews or nieces or any other children in your life. However maybe you should for go your gift to yourself and try the gift of giving. You won't be able to put a monetary value on the satisfaction you'll receive from giving to someone less fortunate.

Entourage

2008-12-15T08:12:00.000-08:00

I finally watched the show "Entourage". Actually I only watched this past season since it was available through my cable company. I thought the show was entertaining and funny. Mind you, I've only watched the last season but based on what I've seen it's definitely not better than Sex in the City.

I personally think the character of Ari Gold and his exec admin Lloyd are what make the show so funny. The other four characters are just there and don't add much substance to the show.

Sex in the City was about four successful women and their trials and tribulations regarding love, work and relationships. Entourage is centered around one character "Vincent Chase" and his three loser friends who have nothing going for them except following Vince everywhere. I guess they think their proximity to coolness makes them cool. It's kind of lame and pathetic. I will say that Entourage does do one thing right. It honestly shows how shady and evil Hollywood is. It reveals how everyone maybe attractive but have NO substance to them. I guess that's why people from Northern Cali don't like to be associated with So. Cal.

Don't get me wrong the show is funny. I do plan on watching the rest of the seasons as well. However I suspect it won't be much different from this past season.

I Don't Think They're Flowers

2008-12-15T08:06:00.000-08:00

"We will be greeted as liberators and showered with flowers" - Bush Administration

I don't think those were flowers.

Into The Wild

2008-12-11T15:56:00.001-08:00

I just finished reading the book "Into The Wild" by Jon Krakauer. The book made me sad and frustrated. It's the true story of Joel McCandless and his journey to live amongst the Alaskan brush.

I admire JM's zest for life. He did what he wanted to do and made no excuses for himself. He followed his dreams. Unfortunately those dreams also got him killed. On the other hand, his selfishness angered me. Leaving his family in the lurch is not something I agree with. His parents and siblings agonized over the disappearance of their son. He could have told them at any time where he was or where he was going. Instead he chose to disappear and leave his family wondering. Nobody's parents are perfect. However no parent/sibling deserves to be torchered with not knowing if their child is okay.

Jon Krakauer did a great job with this book and telling Joel McCandless's story. He's also written "Into Thin Air" and "Under the Banner of Heaven". I've read the latter as well.

What Would You Do For A Klondike Bar?

2008-12-10T15:57:00.000-08:00

Sell an Illinois senate seat? Hell, I would have sold the seat for a 10 lb box of See's chocolates and a tub of Garrets Caramel Popcorn. I blame the Chicago Cubs. :o)

I Blame the Cubs

2008-12-09T14:18:00.001-08:00

If you haven't heard already or if you live in a cave here's some news. Democratic Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich appeared in court this afternoon to hear federal corruption charges against him related to the selection of President-elect Barack Obama's successor.

This guy Rod sounds like a major douche. He's very arrogant and righteous. I hope he gets what he deserves. In the end I think the root of all evil is the Chicago Cubs.

Random Thoughts

2008-12-08T13:17:00.000-08:00

I know I have truly embraced Chicago when I look forward to the temperatures being in the 30's and 40's during the winter months. I finally learned what a BIG difference 10 degrees can make especially in the winter. The upside is I look cute in my winter hats and scarves. :o)

I'm able to extend my hair color in the Chicago winters since there is no sun. On the flip side my hair color gets VERY light during the summers in Chicago. That's right I just talked about coloring my hair.

I'm conflicted about bailing out the automotive industry. There's a big part of me that thinks we shouldn't. But then there's a part of me that thinks we should. It's not fair that we gave Wall Street a bailout and we didn't even get a chance to slap them around. I mean I really want to smack around the Wall Street execs Soprano's Style. All of the exec's associated with the Wall Street collapse should be in jail, their assets seized, dismantled and sold off systematically to help pay for their 700billion dollar loan. They need to be made an example out of. I'm SO over white collar crime. I really want them to suffer and let Karma take its toll on them. Perhaps we should start a petition for this? Hmm...Who's with me?!

Orange County Isn't As Exciting As Atlanta

2008-12-08T13:05:00.000-08:00

The new season of the Real Housewives of Orange County just started and it's not as funny as Atlanta was. I find this one much more disturbing. All the women try to look like Barbie. Someone needs to tell them they do look like Barbie, IF SHE WAS ON CRACK!

Gretchen is the new slut I mean housewife. She's so fake. She's faker than Sarah Palin's credentials. She's married to man that's old enough to be her father and she out right admitted she wasn't attracted to him when they met, but I have a feeling that all the money made him look more and more attractive. Whatever work she had done to herself isn't very good. Actually all the women should get their money back from their plastic surgeon. Or better yet their pictures belong in medical books under botched surgeries. Yikes!

These women are also VERY mean. They go after one another like a pack of wolves. Crazy I know. But hell I'm definitely looking forward to the next episode. Naturally to get more material for my blog. Happy Monday.

Finally Found It

2008-12-08T12:58:00.000-08:00

Phew... I FINALLY found a really good sushi restaurant in Chicago, Sushi Wabi http://www.sushiwabi.com/. Some of their rolls were excellent, I obviously did not try all of them but I will. Of course I had to tell them I was allergic to Mayonnaise so they wouldn't use any. They were also kind enough to substitute the Tuna with Sea Bass. That's what I'm talking about!

I don't think I can explain how relieved I am to have found a sushi restaurant that is somewhat on par with the sushi restaurants back home. It's in the West Loop of the city which happens to be my new home as well. It's very close to my home and I can even walk there. I did walk there on Saturday night. I came home to find my nose and cheeks bright red from the cold. Regardless of how close it is during a Chicago winter it might as well be in California .

My First Snow Fall

2008-11-30T17:45:00.001-08:00

I experienced my first real snow fall in Chicago this morning. I sat at the window and just watched it all come down. I think today was the first day since I've moved here that it's actually sunk in that I'm really in Chicago now. I actually live in the mid-west. It was also an emotional day for many reasons. Too many to name. My life is here now.

Realizing My New Guilty Pleasure

2008-11-06T09:18:00.000-08:00

Tuesday seemed like the LONGEST day ever. All day my stomach was in knots. I couldn't eat, I couldn't sleep. All I could do is watch and wait like the rest of the world.

But in a moment of selfish clarity I feared something else. I feared that the BRAVO network wouldn't show a new episode of The Real Housewives of Atlanta that night! I have become so sucked into this show. I know shows like these scrape the bottom of the barrel. But you have to understand, it's like a train wreck and I just can't look away.

The show allows me to LAUGH AT THEM. The women that star on the show maybe wealthy, but I can assure you they are not refined or polished. One of them needs a bra, another needs a voice, and they all need class. It's like a ghetto and dysfunctional version of the Wizard of Oz.

I think the true stars of the show are the gay men that are friends with all the women. I love their comments and their feisty attitude especially when it comes to fashion. I love when the Nene's friend blatantly says "that's dreadful!" when looking at clothes. It's hysterical!

I still look forward to next weeks episode and I'm trying to get everyone else I know to watch it as well. I figure if I'm mentally dummying down, I might as well take everyone with me. :o)

Quote of the Week

2008-11-04T10:32:00.000-08:00

"First they ignore you, then they laugh at you, then they fight you, then you WIN"
-Mahatma Gandhi (1869 " 1948) - Lawyer, Community Organizer, Patriot

Election 2008

2008-10-28T20:39:00.001-07:00

As you can see many of my recent posts have been about this years election. I'm sorry, but it's consumed me. I find myself having anxiety as November 4th looms closer. I want this to be over already. I'm so worried that some how, some way its going to get all messed up and I'll have a spokesperson for Depends and an idiot anti-feminist, anti-intelligence bigot in the whitehouse.

So I need all young voters and voters alike to take this little piece of advice that I found on the huffingtonpost.com.

"I encourage all of you to get out and vote on November 4th... for the black guy, not the old guy.

Some of you might be met with long lines at polling stations, but who cares? You probably don't have a job to go to and if you do have a job you probably hate it, so what difference does it make if you're a little late? Most of you would blow off your job to stand in line all night to get a new iPhone, or be the first to play "Guitar Hero: World Tour", or get free tickets to some shitty, horrible, unfunny Dane Cook concert; so why wouldn't you wait in line a little while to change the world?

Now, some of you might get to the end of this long line and realize some nefarious douche-nozzle has scrubbed your name from the voter rolls. This was probably done illegally and by some doughy, white gentleman who sweats a lot and has never had consensual sex. Make sure that you are not a victim of this asshole's plot to overthrow our government. Bring multiple forms of I.D., have the phone number of the local election commissioner on hand, and use your phone to record everyone and everything that stands in the way of you casting your vote. Then tell everyone who will listen that you were denied your rights. Blast the video everywhere you can. Post it on YouTube, email it to the news (not Fox News) and make sure the world knows what happened."

Remember you have every right to vote. If you're a college student you can vote in the town you go to school at. You always have a right to ask for a provisional ballot. Video tape ANY AND ALL voter suppression.

Bikram Yoga

2008-10-28T20:33:00.001-07:00

As many of you know I started taking Bikram Yoga classes and boy is it kicking my butt. Bikram yoga consists of 26 postures and two breathing exercises done in a room heated to 105 degrees. It's 90 minutes of intensity.

The first class I went to was interesting to say the least. I did feel dizzy and at one point almost felt like vomiting. Naturally the person in front of me was so good with her postures it was like watching Gumby to yoga. Thankfully my instructor was so kind and encouraging he got me to come back. Now I'm hooked. If you get the opportunity to ever try it, I say go for it!

This is for the Guys

2008-10-28T20:27:00.000-07:00

Make Sure Your Vote Counts

2008-10-24T07:26:00.000-07:00

If you run into any issues of voter suppression, problems or have any questions, please call
1-866-OUR-VOTE

The Best

2008-10-24T07:23:00.000-07:00

The article that I have posted below from Jason Whitlock is probably one of the best and honest assessments I have read about this years election. Let me know if you agree.

I Owe My Interest in American Politics to Sarah Palin

By Jason Whitlock

History is likely to reveal my disdain for Sarah Palin was misguided. The truth is I owe my interest in American politics to Gov. Palin's bid for the vice presidency.

Before the late-August morning when I awakened to learn that Alaska's moose-hunting governor would be John McCain's running mate, I had less than tepid interest in politics.

I was a stubbornly proud non-voter, a 41-year-old patriotic American unwilling to tie any of my identity to a political party or ideology. Politics, from my view, were nothing more than an excuse for unabashed public dishonesty.

When presidential politics provoked Barack Obama to disavow the minister who filled in the holes created by Obama's irresponsible biological father, it confirmed in my mind that Obama's message of political change wouldn't stretch nearly far enough to meet my standard of courage and honesty.

It sickens me that we are forced to pretend Obama doesn't have the ability to associate with and even love people with extreme, illogical views, denounce those beliefs in words and deed and remain a rational, fair-minded person. For decades, black people have supported and respected elected white officials who were raised by unrepentant racists, and we are expected to take those white politicians at their word that their parents' views don't interfere with their motivation to be fair.

Hmm. But now I'm supposed to believe that a half black man who owes his entire existence to his white mama and grandparents is a threat to America because his old black minister can't get over the racism he tasted first-hand.

I wanted Barack to make that point, more subtly than I just made it. But I wanted it out there for everyone to deal with. America is full of white and black Jeremiah Wrights, and a good president has to lead them all.

To the dismay of my parents, friends and everyone at my barbershop, I told anyone who would listen there were no substantive differences between John McCain and Barack Obama, only a difference in skin color.

Then along came Paris Palin, and her attempt to purchase the highest level of political power completely on credit.

She is the perfect manifestation of tinkle-down economics and tinkle-down intellectualism. Strapped with good looks, backed by a four-year degree earned at four different, below-middle-of-the-pack universities, and emboldened by a belief that America owes her far more than she's prepared to pay for, Palin desperately wants to piss down on the rest of us from the White House.

She connects because she's like most of America. She's determined to live beyond her means. She represents exactly what landed us in financial crisis. She's a maxed-out, main-street politician being exploited by the political friends of Wall Street willing to extend her credit over the objections of her bankrupt qualifications.

I was in a hotel room in Muncie, Ind., when I heard her name that late-August morning on CNN. My head was buried in pillows. I never looked up. But I was -- for reasons I still don't fully understand -- totally fascinated.

I hopped out of bed, flipped open my laptop, googled Palin and spent most of the morning and afternoon reading as much as I could about Alaska's governor.

I read all the unfounded rumors concerning her last child. I listened to an audio tape of a radio interview where she laughed wildly as her interviewers -- two shock jocks -- ridiculed one of her political opponents by calling the woman a "bitch" and overweight. I discovered that her popularity numbers could be directly attributed to her taking office precisely at the time when oil prices skyrocketed and she could play Santa Claus by redistributing wealth to her constituents. And I learned of her and husband's long ties to the Alaskan Independence Party.

By Saturday morning -- and keep in mind my political inexperience -- I had convinced myself that John McCain was attempting to throw the election with his selection of Palin.

It was the only thing that made sense to me at the time. I'm not that good at finding things on the Internet. In less than 24 hours of searching, I had found numerous red flags in regards to Palin's competence and maturity.

Since Palin's introduction, I have been immersed in election coverage and news. I spend hours every day reading realclearpolitics.com, fivethirtyeight.com, redstate.com, dailykos.com, huffingtonpost.com and watching CNN, MSNBC and Fox News.

By the time I learned that Palin had only recently acquired a passport and had demonstrated zero curiosity about the rest of the world, I began to rethink my position. There was something more at work here. When Palin exposed her embarrassing lack of knowledge during interviews with Charlie Gibson and Katie Couric, I started hunting for a new explanation for her arrival on the national political scene.

Lipstick on a pit bull.

Her exploiters never hid their intentions. They stated them and executed them in her mean-spirited acceptance speech at the Republican National Convention.

Sarah Palin's application for the vice presidency was approved so she could put a pretty face on a divisive, bigoted and desperate political strategy. McCain's strategists realized that President Bush's administration, Obama's pop-star status and record fundraising would make it nearly impossible for McCain to out-duel Obama in a debate about the issues.

In order for McCain to compete, there had to be an appeal along racial lines for two reasons: 1. McCain has to offset the swelling number of black voters who will turn out to vote for Obama simply because he's black; 2. Racial fears normally cause people to make irrational decisions such as a $40,000-a-year plumber getting upset about tax hikes on people making six times more money than him.

OK, so who would be foolish enough to be the front person for a line of attack that included telling America that the potential Jackie Robinson of presidential politics pals "around with terrorists" and sees America as imperfect and different from the pro-America part of America?

Who would be that thoughtless? Only someone running for the vice presidency on credit. Mitt Romney, Joe Lieberman and Tom Ridge wouldn't be that stupid.

Sarah Palin intends to acquire the skill, knowledge and savvy for high office later. In the meantime, she's not going to question the marching orders given to her by the McCain strategists who overlooked her spotty credit application, and she's going to duck calls from the creditors burning up her phone lines.

Who are her creditors? The investigators who wanted to talk with her about Troopergate, the mainstream "elite" media who wanted to ask her follow-up questions, the conservative pundits who wanted her to represent their side of the argument in a coherent, creditable fashion and anyone who watched her one debate with the hope of her answering a direct question.

And look what happened. With a credit score in the low 200s, Sarah Palin still had fraudulent lenders such as Sean Hannity ready to extend her more credit. With McCain sitting by her side to co-sign the loan, Hannity walked Palin through the process of pretending to be a qualified candidate for the vice presidency to the delight of Fox News viewers.

It was stunning. And it's depressing that it's actually working.

Envious that hard-right-wing sham lenders approved Palin for a bailout package and then milked her for ratings bumps, the traditional media lenders have offered to allow Palin to bat her eyes, wink and jive her way through softball interviews.

Fox, MSNBC and CNN are locked in such a heated battle for viewers and advertisers that they care virtually nothing about fulfilling their roles as TV journalists. They're most interested in preserving Paris Palin as a ratings winner to serve as a foil against Denzel Obama over the next four years. The cable news networks cannot match the integrity of Saturday Night Live executive producer Lorne Michaels, who rode Palin to record ratings while allowing Tina Fey and Alec Baldwin to treat the VP candidate like the lightweight she is.

Palin is unworthy of respect. At a critical juncture in our nation's history, she has selfishly asked for and received her 15 minutes and further damaged America's ability to discuss and debate critical issues.

She also cost me $2,300 last Friday. Living in Kansas, a vote for Obama and Biden is worthless. The only tangible thing I could do to voice my displeasure over her eagerness to be used as a tool to divide us is make a full donation to Obama's campaign.

Oh No He Didn't!

2008-10-16T08:36:00.000-07:00

Last night during the debate, McCain was very dismissive when talking about women's "health". He was so condescending! Then he said something that just sent me over the edge. He talked about the "Pro-Abortion Movement". Um...that doesn't exists you ASSWIPE! HOW DARE HE!!!!

Most women who are faced with that decision do not take it lightly. I'm pro-choice and proud of that. Feminism is about choice, the right to have a choice. My parents have sacrificed so much to come to this country and give me a better life so I could have choices and opportunities. Let me assure you that I don't get up every morning and make a to-do list that looks like this:
1. Do Laundry
2. Go to Bank
3. Get an abortion

For that old geezer to be so condescending about a topic that is a litmus test for many of us is just pathetic. I had already lost respect for him with his racist inciting at his rallies, but now he's made me angry and I'm not alone. Most men know that when women are angry they should be scared.

Everyone is Ripping on Cubs Fans - How's that Humble Pie Taste?

2008-10-12T11:47:00.000-07:00

Quote of the Week

2008-10-12T11:40:00.000-07:00

"The pig in lipstick should go back under the rock she crawled out from, I hear you can see Russia from there!"

-Author Unknown

Sheer Disgust

2008-10-12T11:24:00.000-07:00

Did you really think I wouldn't write about this? I know it's been a while since my last post but I've been so horrified by what I've been seeing on television I couldn't even think straight. This past week I've seen footage of McCain/Palin rallies where the mention of Obama's name has people in the audience shouting "terrorists" and "kill him". How different are they from Hitler if they are inciting all that anger. Instead of putting a stop to it they fan the flames. So what happens if someone shoots Barack Obama? Or heaven forbid kills him? Shouldn't McCain and Palin be put in jail for inciting it? After all they did technically "put the gun in the persons hands".

Finally on Friday McCain defended Obama when an obviously ignorant women referred to him as an "Arab". New stations commended McCain. I'm sorry, for what? For doing what he should have done all along? Shame on him! He lit this fire and now he's trying to put it out. Republicans should be ashamed of themselves. They should refer to themselves for what they really are, racists bigots.

I also have to question what the eff Bobby Jindal is doing when all this is happening? Why isn't he up in arms about this race baiting and why isn't he publicly denouncing it? Why isn't he calling McCain and telling him to put a stop to it?! You're name may be Bobby Jindal and you may be a Christian (Like Barack Obama) but don't forget your ass is still brown at the end of the day. And let's not even talk about that douche bag Lieberman. He's an idiot and also should be mortified by what's going on. Karma will come back to bite your party and you in the ass. Remember you're just as guilty when you do nothing to stop it.

Who won the Cubs/Dodgers Game on Saturday?

2008-10-06T14:52:00.000-07:00

What was the score? That's right. The Dodgers won. You know the Dodger who are part of the worst division in baseball, the western division. If you aren't sure what happened, the mighty Chicago Cubs got SWEPT!

Hopefully cubs fans have learned to not be so righteous when discussing Barry Bonds or when they immediately point out, "what place are the Giants in? Are they even over .500?" Yeah look who's crying now? I wonder if all their fans had a big tall glass of milk with their enormous piece of HUMBLE PIE they are all eating right now.

A Little Dab Will Do Ya

2008-10-04T20:03:00.000-07:00

I bought a used coffee table for $10.00 on Monday. It was what I was looking for minus the scuffs and scratches. So I went to Home Depot bought sand paper, primer, and paint. I used a sander and sanded it down. Cleaned it off. Put primer on it and then re-painted it. It looks like it's brand new. I LOVE IT. I never thought I was capable of doing this, but somehow I did it!

I've found a new love for power tools (please keep your dirty jokes to yourself). The power drill got me really excited, because of all the power associated with it. I was looking for anything to drill after a while. The sander is so cool and quick. I love that power tool as well.

I think what i love the most is the satisfaction and pride of being able to do all of this myself.

Quote of the Week

2008-10-01T20:00:00.001-07:00

"Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass, it's about learning to dance in the rain."

-Author Unknown

Fall is Here

2008-10-01T19:53:00.000-07:00

And dammit it's cold! I realized that I need to purchase some sweaters, scarves, gloves, insulated clothing, boots, hats, etc. So when I'm finally done with getting my new place together, I'll start on my winter wardrobe. God help my closets. They are already bursting at the seams.

Da Cubs

2008-10-01T19:40:00.000-07:00

For the first time since I've moved to Chicago, I actually watched the Cubs game tonight. It was a playoff game. Unfortunately they lost. I even cheered for them.

The Cubs will go to the World Series this year and win. You want to know why I know this? It's because I've moved to Chicago and not to forget the obvious it's also because I'm cute. I bring that j'ai no se que to the table, team and city. If they can't win it with the princess factor then they don't deserve to win. That's my story and I'm sticking with it. Da Cubs better win and if they don't their fans should just end it. :o)

The Big Pink Suede Elephant in the Room

2008-09-23T20:02:00.000-07:00

Okay folks I'm so sick of watching shows where certain people talk about how close this election is and it's because John McCain picked a female as his running mate, or because he's a war hero, or it's because he's got more experience, blah blah blah.

Here's the real reason why it's so close. Barack Obama is black. PERIOD.

Americans are inherently:
A) Stupid - I think Giuliani gets royalty checks every time he says 9/11. People in this country still believe there is a link between Iraq and 9/11.
B) Would rather die than see a black man or minority become president. You know who you are. I don't need to point it out. I want an intelligent, articulate man in the white house. If that makes him an elitist then so be it! Also, you're not an elitist because you watch the history channel!
C) Are sheep. Sarah (Douche bag) Palin? need I say more.

People who like to say that's not the reason are just burying their head in the sand.

A Word of Advice

2008-09-23T19:58:00.000-07:00

Here's a word of advice. When you see a girl (i.e. me) moving into your building and struggling with boxes. Instead of introducing yourself and trying to make a pass at her how about you ask her if she needs help! And to make a pass in front of my darling Raj. NOT COOL.

I'm talking to you John! I don't know your last name, don't remember what floor you're on and I DON'T CARE.

Chivalry is still very important to me. If you don't have it don't bother with me.

PHASE II

2008-09-13T16:24:00.000-07:00

I'm finally settling into my new place. The past two weeks of my life have been hectic at best. I was ill for almost two weeks. I moved into a new condo and had absolutely nothing. No pots, pans, flatware, stemware, plates, bed, sofa, TV, etc. So this past week starting at 8am Sunday morning I started to nest. The first thing on the agenda was groceries. Later in the day was my television. After that, I purchased some items for the kitchen to cook with. I've managed to get a bedroom set/mattress, TV stand, leather recliner and shag rug into my condo all in one week. Life's been go go go.

Monday I start a new job. I'm grateful for this job and am excited about what lies ahead. It will be nice to have a routine again. Although the flexibility I had with consulting will no longer exist. I look forward to traveling again for work, being in an office environment and meeting new people.

I've also been meeting a lot of new people and dating. That's all I'll indulge you with regarding my personal life.

These are all the things that we had hoped to have happen for PHASE II to be in full effect. Now I look forward to PHASE III. Just as soon as I can figure out what's supposed to happen then.

Baby High Heels?

2008-09-13T16:22:00.000-07:00

I saw an article on MSN.com regarding high-heels for babies. Its creepy and just wrong. I frankly find that disgusting. Babies are meant to look like babies. It's bad enough that children have to grow up so fast in this day and age. I think that babies should get to hold onto their innocence for as long as they like.

McCain/Palin = DOUCHEBAG

2008-09-13T16:04:00.000-07:00

McCain, do you think women are truly that stupid? Apparently you do. Let's see... you must think that because she has a vagina and I have a vagina I'm going to vote for your ticket now. Let me make this very clear FUCK NO.

Sarah Palin is the worst thing to ever happen to women in this day and age. The best and only word to describe her is USELESS. There is no way I'd ever support anyone that is willing to take away a women's right to choose. Especially in the case of incest and rape. Let's talk about the issues for one moment.

Sarah Palin only wants to teach abstinence in school. We can see how well that worked for her daughter. So obviously that policy has failed miserably when you're own child can't adhere to that.
She's stupid enough to say our invasion of Iraq was god's task. That's exactly what the terrorist that struck on 9/11 thought.
She has absolutely no international experience and being geographically close to Russia doesn't count.
She's tried to ban books in public library's because she thought it had inappropriate material.
She's so stupid she makes GW Bush look like a Scholar.

Someone like Sarah Palin is not only dangerous to women in the US, she's extremely dangerous for women all over the world who don't have rights or a voice. With someone like her she'll all but stop any and all strides/advancements that women have made over the centuries. If anything, please vote against them in November for the sake of all of our daughters and sons all over the world.

Tonight History Will Be Made

2008-08-28T09:13:00.001-07:00

Tonight is a very important night for all of us. History will be made. I've put all my plans on hold tonight to watch Barack Obama accept his parties nomination for the President of the United States. I think it's an important night to watch with your family, friends, strangers, etc. We've come a long way baby!

In Case You Forgot

2008-08-28T08:49:00.000-07:00

In case you forgot what a real President looks like after these eight years I've supplied you with a video.

THANK YOU HILLARY!

2008-08-26T20:20:00.001-07:00

Tonight I'm very very proud of Hillary Clinton and the speech she gave at the DNC.
Thank you Hillary!

Tonight I was so proud to see how far women have come and motivated for our future after seeing how far we still have to go.
Thank you Hillary!

Tonight she reminded me that my nieces and nephews will grow up thinking a women running for president is not an isolated incident, but the norm.
Thank you Hillary!

Tonight she brought back the Clinton's that I've always loved.
Thank you Hillary!

How not to use a Pumice Stone

2008-08-26T17:23:00.000-07:00

So I got a little carried away using the Pumice stone in the shower. It's great for ex foliation. However, you have to be careful where you use it. I made the mistake of using it over my breasts. It was fine until I noticed a bunch of red marks that looked like hickies. That was the last time I used the pumice stone there.

GET OVER IT!

2008-08-25T16:57:00.001-07:00

I'm sorry, but I think Hillary Clinton supporters need to get over it. She didn't win the delegates that she needed. Instead of being angry with Barack Obama be angry with her campaign and their failure to win. If the tables were turned and it was Obama supporters behaving the way Clinton supporters are they would be considered traitors.

The Four Agreements

2008-08-25T16:50:00.000-07:00

I just finished reading the book "The Four Agreements". I would urge anyone and everyone to read this book. If you don't get a chance to read the book, just try to remember these four agreements you should make with yourself:

Be Impeccable with Your Word
Don't Take Anything Personally
Don't Make Assumptions
Always Do Your Best

Quote of the Week

2008-08-19T16:24:00.001-07:00

"Until you find Mr. Right, have fun with Mr. Wrong!"

Batman Fever

2008-08-16T09:12:00.000-07:00

Apparently I'm the only one left in the world who hasn't caught it. I've yet to see the movie. When I tell people I haven't seen it they look at me as if I'm some sort of alien (insert obvious joke here). To make matters worse, I haven't seen Iron Man either. Yes, I know I'm scrapping the bottom of the barrel right now with Hollywood.

Here are my excuses:
1. I have nobody to go to the movies with. I know I can go by myself. But I do everything else by myself here in Chicago, and I really don't feel like adding this to the list.
2. Hollywood puts out so much crap, I'm just not willing to fork over my money to them. They need to earn it, not just get it.
3. I don't think I could control my impulse to stone people to death that answer their phone, bring babies/children, or talk during a movie. People have no class anymore. That is something I don't have the patience for anymore.

So that's why I'm the only person left in America that hasn't seen the movie.

What's the Big Deal?

2008-08-16T09:02:00.000-07:00

This whole shit storm over the Chinese having a young girl lip synch "Ode to the Motherland" is ridiculous. I don't get why of all people Americans are up in arms about it. Let me clarify one thing. I am NOT happy about how they say one little girl is cuter than another. That's NOT okay with me. They are both beautiful. Well, all little kids are beautiful. PERIOD.

I think us Americans, if anybody need to shut it. I've got two words for us. MILLI VANILLI. That's right. For all of you who have selective memory, they are the kings of lip synching. They sold thousands of albums, and had sold out tours. And why? Because they were attractive. Want more proof? How about the Bollywood actors and actresses, Britney Spears, and most of the people that sing for our biggest sporting events, Aretha!

Unacceptable!

2008-08-14T10:59:00.000-07:00

I've been reading a few disturbing stories about letting passengers talk on their mobile phones while in flight. I'm hear to say that that is unacceptable. It's bad enough you have to talk to the people that are sitting next to you sometimes. I definitely don't want to hear peoples conversations while I'm sitting on a 4-6 hour flight.

If you want to see air rage, that's the way to do it. Here are some conversations you would definitely hear if they allowed this:

The teenage girl - Oh my God, let's totally do it. It'll be so cool. Can you believe she wore that, and then I heard she went out with Trevor!

The wannabe cool guy - Yeah, we met these chicks last night, they were totally all over us, but I played her ass dude. Dude..you should have been there, it was off the hook!

The guy who takes his job too seriously - Where did you get those numbers from? Hold on, let me find the email. That's not right, I need you to get so and so and so on the phone right now!

Now just imagine listening to that for over even one hour? Yeah, you'd either want to kill yourself or hit them in the head with their own phone.

Who's Maria?

2008-08-14T10:51:00.000-07:00

On Monday I met with the A/V technicians for an upcoming event. One of the techs was Indian. As I was leaving, he turns to me and says, "Bye Maria.". I respond with "WHO'S MARIA? My name is S!@#$." He then asks me what my last name is and I tell him. Then he says, "I had no idea you were of Indian descent." :-/

Here's the bigger question, how does he go from my name starting with an S to Maria? There is absolutely no correlation. Next time I'm going to go with it. Tell him my name is Guadalupe, but he can call me Lola for short.

The Britney Spears in All of Us.

2008-08-14T10:43:00.000-07:00

I know we all get a good laugh at poor Britney's expense. Well, at least I do. DON'T JUDGE!

Anyhow, I never see any of the other tenants in my building. And when I say never, I mean NEVER. So the other day I needed to take out the trash. I was wearing short shorts, a tank top and NO BRA. Disturbing I know. I thought to myself, "It's fine. I never see any of my neighbors. It's no biggie if I go out like this. It's only for a few minutes anyhow." So my 3-inch heals were right by the door, surely I decided to put those on. I'm sure you all know where this is going, and if you don't let me enlighten you.

As soon as I was done throwing out the trash, my neighbor comes by. AND HE WANTS TO TALK. So politely I stand there keeping my arms folded over my boobs since the tank top is slightly sheer, and fidgeting to get the hell out of there. I feel like trailer trash... and then it hits me. OMG! I'm the Indian version of Britney Spears right now!

The comedy of errors continues.

Quote of the Week

2008-08-14T10:42:00.000-07:00

"You can't take the bus. That's like the who's who of mental illness"

-R. Patel

Outsourcing Babies

2008-07-10T07:17:00.001-07:00

This morning I watched Oprah about American couples that travel to India to find a surrogate mother in order to have a baby. I have VERY mixed feelings about this.

On one hand, I feel like the women in India are being exploited. The cost in India is five thousand dollars to find a surrogate mother. These women predominantly come from families that are obviously poor. Many of their extended family does not know that they provide this "service". I fear that if their family knows, they are just sent back when the money is running short. I fear for their safety if they discovered. Not to mention all the other stigma's that already exists for women in India, especially in rural areas. In the US surrogacy costs can be between seventy to eighty thousand. As I watched this I started to cry. They asked the surrogate women if it was difficult, emotional and/or sad and all the women started to cry. They said that the child they give birth to will never remember them, but they will always remember the child they carried for ten months. That statement broke my heart. I feel like people of wealth in the US are taking advantage of the poor in India.

On the other hand, I don't know what I will do if I'm not able to conceive a child. Would I choose the same route? Maybe these women are performing miracles for couples who will forever be grateful for the joy they have brought into their lives. I believe that all good you put into the universe comes back to you. Many of the surrogates are now able to provide a good home for their family and are able to educate their children. Perhaps a better way to think of it, is women in the US helping women in India.

In the end what I do hope for is both parties are able to bring joy into their life.

Rest in Peace Vinay

2008-06-28T12:59:00.000-07:00

I just learned that Vinay lost his battle with Leukemia on June 25th. I don't know Vinay at all. I had heard about Vinay's condition through Meenu, who was a superstar in helping him. I came to know more after I stumbled upon his page www.helpvinay.org

I remember reading his page and sobbing. I tried to do my part to get people to get tested for a bone marrow match, which wasn't much. I was so elated to hear that he had found a match, and was doing well. He was able to get our community to come together. It taught our community that even we are not immune to this horrible disease. He touched many hearts. Only to find out today that he he passed away a few days ago.

Here I am sobbing again for Vinay. I think about his parents that will never get to see their child again, but had the opportunity to say goodbye. I think about his wife, who is now a widow. I think about all his family and friends and how devastated they must be. Most of all, I think about Vinay.

This once again reminds me again to never take life for granted. Tomorrow is not promised to any one of us. Any of us could be in his shoes tomorrow. Treat the people in your life with kindness, love, and respect. But also treat the stranger you see on the street with kindness, love and respect.

I know that Vinay is at peace now. Hopefully one day his family and friends will be able to also find that peace.

Word of the Day

2008-06-19T15:49:00.000-07:00

Today's word of the day is Defenestrate. It means to throw out of a window.

I never knew that defenestrate was a real word. I thought it was part of GW's tard vocabulary like strategery.

I learned something new today, and I also signed up for getting an email word of the day everyday. I signed up at dictionary.com.

My Darling California Sushi

2008-06-19T15:20:00.000-07:00

Last week was the first time I had sushi in Chicago. Oh how I've missed it. The sushi here is good, but there is one problem. They like to put mayonnaise on their sushi... I cannot deal with mayonnaise! Not on my sandwiches, NOTHING. I thought to myself, "am I in Europe? WTF?" I don't know which tard came up with putting mayonnaise in any form on sushi, but it's just plain wrong. I've learned to tell the waiters at any restaurant I go to that I'm allergic to mayonnaise so it doesn't show up. If I say i don't like it, Voila! it shows up.

I love sushi. I really miss going to eat Sushi with my friends back home. The himachi, unagi, ebi, the butterfish, etc. It was the best! Some of my funniest and fondest memories are over Sushi.

The first time I met Kaush and instantly knowing I'd love him forever. One of our first meals was sushi at Blowfish where he made me try some sushi that didn't look appetizing at all. However, I obliged. I tasted it, smiled politely and told him, "It's good, but you can have it." We laughed so hard!

Almost hurting my buddy Rush because I thought he took the last piece of sushi, when I in fact had taken it and put it in my plate, but forgot. We still laugh hysterically when we think about that.

Trying yummy butterfish sushi for the first time with Meenu after a whole day of gabbing, walking, and shopping. We've been doing that for over 15 years.

Laughing, sharing, commiserating, catching up with Tami over sushi. We never knew where three or four hours went.

Those memories are indeed some of the best!

We shall meet again one day, my darling California sushi.

Irony

2008-06-19T15:16:00.000-07:00

Everyday like clockwork I hear this car alarm go off. But it's not a normal alarm. It's the one from the early nineties that sounds like a video game. You know which one I'm talking about. It drives me nuts because I think the person that owns that car is the only one that doesn't hear it.

So here is the irony. I want to break into the car to steal the stupid alarm! but if I break into the car, then that will just reinforce their belief for having an alarm on the car, and a loud annoying one like the one they have. Then we'll be back to square one.

Who Knew?

2008-06-19T15:11:00.000-07:00

I made yogurt for the first time yesterday. Who knew it was so darn easy. I was so proud of myself on one hand and completely baffled on the other hand as to why it took me so long to figure this out. I actually have to thank my mom. She walked me through the two step project. :o) Thanks Mom!

Straight to Hell

2008-06-19T15:05:00.000-07:00

I happened to watch Kathy Griffin's stand up comedy "Straight to Hell" on Bravo the other day. It was great. I laughed so hard. I never knew she was so funny. The television happened to be on, and thats how I stumbled upon it.

I think the funniest thing she had to say was about Dr. Phil. I keep hearing he's not a real doctor, but I'm not sure. My friend Daryl described him the best. He said he's just Jerry Springer with an MD. You can watch it on Youtube.com. I've included the first part of the show. Enjoy.

Happy Saturday!

2008-06-14T10:33:00.000-07:00

This morning has started off great. I got up, got ready and was headed out when I noticed I got my new issue of Real Simple Magazine and my latest Battle Star Galactica DVD from Netflix to watch. Yay!

My excitement helped me walk quickly over to Fleet Feet to get my feet sized for running shoes. I ended up buying two pairs of shoes. I know...SHOCKER I bought some shoes. One pair is for the Chicago Half Marathon. The other pair is for cross training at the gym. I can honestly say that if anyone likes to run/walk, they should definitely get their feet fitted for proper shoes.

On my walk back from home, I stopped at the hair salon and bought some of my favorite Bumble and Bumble products. I never knew they were so expensive? or maybe I just got really ripped off.

Lastly, I got home to receive an email from my girlfriend Maria about a bike ride she thinks she wants to do. Yeah...that's not going to happen since it's a naked bike ride. I don't care to go watch either. Well only if I can bring my best friend Grey Goose with me. I can start drinking and laughing very early without judgement. :o)

If you want to ride naked or just be a pervert and watch, here is the link:
http://chicago.worldnakedbikeride.org/

My Journey

2008-06-13T18:17:00.000-07:00

It's been seven weeks since I moved to Chicago. Next week will be two months. I can't believe the time has flown by so quickly. I think I've adjusted rather well, despite missing my family, friends and everything California.

My experience here has been nothing like I imagined it to be. I came here thinking my life would fall into place like a jigsaw puzzle. All the pieces would come together perfectly, snapping one by one to form the perfect picture I had played over and over in my mind. THAT DID NOT HAPPEN. It made me scared, confused, devastated, and numb. Naturally panic and doubt set in. I asked myself, "what did you do?" "what were you thinking!?". I had many sleepless nights full of fear, tears and uncertainty.

Like anything else in life, everyday got easier. Slowly, I let all the expectations I had go. I went where ever life decided to take me. I figured that everything else I had done so far was a risk, what were a few more going to hurt? I made myself smile through my tears. To try and enjoy every moment of life. I made a point of enjoying my walk to the gym and everything else I did. Eventually I didn't have to make myself smile, it just came naturally. Everything felt good again. All those feelings of fear and uncertainty began to dissipate.

My journey isn't clear and I have no idea what waits around the corner. What I do know is that in life you get so very few surprises. I've been fortunate enough to have a lot of surprises with this leap of faith. For that I'm grateful.

Quote of the Week

2008-06-13T18:16:00.001-07:00

This quote has never made more sense to me than it has right now in my life.

"You have to lose sometimes to gain"

Platinum Weddings

2008-06-12T18:38:00.000-07:00

I was watching Platinum Weddings on the WE Channel this past Sunday and was slowly starting to get annoyed. The episode featured Sara & Deepak, where "East meets West". Yeah so ORIGINAL! Can the writers come up with something else besides that? Here's a few:

"Curry meets BBQ"
"Outsourcing meets Headquarters"
"Cricket meets Baseball"

So I shouldn't be writing for these shows either, but lets get a little creative!

Back to my diatribe. I was annoyed with how it wasn't about the love or the union, but about the cost of everything. I'm tired of my people being on shows like these and acting like nimrods! Another thing, if you're going to brag about how much money you have or how much you plan on spending...PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE get a stylist that can dress you properly so you don't look like a complete fool! *sigh*

If you'd like to be as annoyed as I was the link below will show you when their episode will be aired.
http://www.wetv.com/platinum-weddings/episodes/sara-deepak

Hallelujah!

2008-06-12T18:27:00.000-07:00

The supreme court finally got something right! They actually gave prisoners at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba their human rights. I honestly thought the supreme court would puss out to the white house like they have done so many times before in the past. I'm surprised that they found their conscious and their backbone. However, I'm not willing to stand up and applaud them just quite yet. They need to undo a lot of injustices they have created in the last eight years.

It's Hott!

2008-06-12T18:19:00.000-07:00

and I am loving it! I'm loving this heat! I get to wear all my slutty tops, short skirts, open toed shoes, my hats (not baseball caps) and carry my parasol. The weather has finally warmed up here in Chicago and the nights are the best. Being able to sit outside and drink until all hours of the night w/out any wind or feeling cold. That's the best!

Here's the downside to the weather. I'm tired of being bitten. It seems as though all the bugs in Chicago got the memo on my arrival and have decided to bite me over and over again. I wear insect repellent, but it doesn't seem to help. I also ended up with an allergic reaction for the first time in my life. I looked like "Corky" from the old television show, "Life Goes On". It wasn't attractive at all. I've been told that the bugs bite me because I have sweet blood. I don't buy it. I think it's because I'm a California Girl and they want to try and make us as unattractive as possible. That's my theory and I'm sticking with it!

Running Club

2008-06-12T08:56:00.001-07:00

I did it. Wait, what did I just do? As much as I enjoyed emulating Peggy Bundy and sitting at home, I joined a running group today to train for the Chicago Half Marathon. Not sure why I want to torture myself again? But the feeling of accomplishment cannot be described besides painful. :o)

Honestly, training for a half marathon over a year ago was the healthiest thing I could do for myself. It was healthy for my mind, body, and spirit. I know, I sound like an Oprah add, but it's so true. If anyone feels like joining me, I'd love the company.

EIGHT MORE DAYS!!!!!

2008-05-22T08:08:00.000-07:00

Until the Sex in the City movie opens! I cannot wait to go watch it. I've been sitting at home rocking back and forth like a crack addict for May 30th.

Guys, listen up. If there was ever a time for you to go hang out with your boys, watch a game, hit up a strip club, May 30th is the day to do it. May 30th is your "get out of jail free" card since every women you know will be at the movies.

Quote of the Week

2008-05-21T14:21:00.000-07:00

"Happiness is like a butterfly which, when pursued, is always beyond our grasp, but, if you will sit down quietly, may alight upon you."

Thanks Monika!

New questions please...

2008-05-16T17:04:00.000-07:00

Interviewing is painful. I forgot how painful it actually is until now. I get the same set of questions over and over again. The ones that get me is if I know MS Word, Excel and/or PowerPoint. I want to yell back, I'M FROM CALIFORNIA! CHILDREN BORN IN CALIFORNIA COME OUT OF THE WOMB KNOWING HOW TO WRITE CODE! It's like asking someone from Boston if they know the lyrics to the song "Jump Around" by House of Pain. But I restrain my urge to have a "falling down" moment.

This Blows

2008-05-13T18:18:00.000-07:00

The weather here in Chicago blows. Since I've been here I don't think we've broke eighty degrees. It's been raining and windy. Last week I made the mistake of going out without my umbrella and ended up getting drenched in the downpour that came out of nowhere.

I hate the weather because I want to wear my skirts, my open toed shoes, and my slutty tops. You heard right I said slutty tops. You know slutty is the new black. I'm looking forward to walking around with my parasol. I've noticed a lot of women around here wear baseball caps and they aren't going to the game. It's such a fashion faux paux. I'm all for wearing a hat but it would be nice if it was feminine girlie hat. I've started to invest in flat shoes since I walk everywhere. I'd like to walk more if the weather was better. I guess in time. My cousin told me that come July and August I'll be cursing the heat and praying for the cool temperatures. I told her to keep a copy of the conversation so she could throw it in my face come July and August.

I can't wait until it's hot and humid. Rest assured, there will be another post titled "This Blows, the summer edition" and I'll be complaining then.

my so called life

2008-05-08T12:15:00.000-07:00

Week two has been tougher for me and the irony of it is I haven't even been in Chicago for two weeks. I was in Boston on Monday and Tuesday. I miss my family and friends a lot. I try to keep myself busy, but my loneliness consumes me at times. I can only clean an 810 square foot apartment so many times. I know I'm fine and just going through the motions of moving somewhere new. Instead of reaching out to my family and friends I try to be brave and deal with things on my own. For now, this is my so called life...

A little somethin somethin

2008-05-07T12:45:00.000-07:00

I've gotten through my first week and a half in Chicago. I really like it, although I do miss my friends and family a lot. There is another thing that hurts my heart, but I won't go into that. The weather has been a little up and down. I've been slowly exploring my area in which I live. At first, I would drive my car around to explore, but I figured that I would walk and avoid all those angry drivers behind me.

I've been going for three to four mile runs/walks everyday. I was mortified the first day I went for my walk/run that nobody looked me in the eye or said good morning. THIS IS THE MIDWEST! They pride themselves on being nice and friendly. Say what you want about California, but at least we say hello and good effing morning!

I'm enjoying urban living. I like the idea of walking everywhere and parallel parking blows! I'm looking forward to visits from friends and family. I've put off doing certain things as I want that memory to be with a loved one. CB2 has quickly become one of my favorite stores. I guess you can only find it in NY and Chicago. I took the train for the first time yesterday from the airport back home. It was fine, except for when I got off on my stop and it started to sprinkle. I was in my suit, three-inch heals and had my suitcase with me. I started walking towards my apartment which was over a mile away, praying for a cab. Finally I found a cab, and naturally, it stopped sprinkling.

I woke up at 5:30 this morning and decided nope, I'm going back to bed. I finally got up at 11am. That's honestly a first for me. Now as I wait here for my Battlestar Galactica DVD to show up in my mailbox I thought I would write a little somethin' somethin'.

The Princess is moving to Chicago!

2008-04-22T14:48:00.000-07:00

Life is going to dramatically change for me. Come Sunday night, I'll be a Chicago resident. I don't think it's hit me just quite yet. I look forward to this new chapter of my life. I have no idea where my future is going and am starting to get REALLY scared. But it's a good kind of scared.

Chicago is a great city. As my cousin told me, it's a drinking town with a sports problem. It recently had an earthquake. Not so different from Cali. Maybe it's the states way of welcoming me? Who knows. There will be a lot more adventure to write about, and I know I'll have plenty of time to write.

I'm Alive!

2008-04-22T14:45:00.000-07:00

It's been a LONG while since I've written on my blog. I got my hand slapped yesterday for not writing in a long time and for that I apologize. The last couple of months have been rather hectic. But I'm alive and I promise more posts to my blog!

The Truth Can Make You Laugh

2008-01-25T16:09:00.000-08:00

I shared a poem I had written a long time ago with my buddy Rush today. His response was, “never share or show that poem to anyone again, just rely on your looks”. :o)

As you can see I have no poem writing skills.

Quote of the Week

2008-01-18T14:32:00.000-08:00

"Everyday is a fun day when you work at Hyundai!"
by Ranjan Ray

Deep Thoughts - By Rishi

2008-01-18T09:59:00.000-08:00

My good buddy Rishi's three step program for me on how to get a boyfriend. He told me he tried it and it worked. I told him I already do two out of the three instructions. :0)

HAPPY FRIDAY!

This is too Funny!

2008-01-08T16:28:00.000-08:00

Dat's What I'm Talkin' About!

2008-01-04T13:18:00.000-08:00

Iowa got it right! Now if New Hampshire can get it right, we just might be on our way! Click on the link below to watch his victory speech in Iowa. Congratulations Barack!

First My Boobs, and Now My Ring?!

2007-12-27T17:24:00.000-08:00

Salma Hayek recently got engaged and guess what, she got my ring. THE RING I HAVE ALWAYS WANTED!

Anyone who knows me well, knows I have always wanted this exact setting. An Oval Diamond with trillions on the side set in platinum. I could let the fact that our boobs are fabulous (a gay guy told me that my boobs were as great as hers when he got to see me in my bra once). My ring though...

The Land of the Broken

2007-12-19T17:36:00.000-08:00

As the days go by, I realize more and more that I am broken. For those of you who don't know what I'm talking about, it's a term people use when there is something wrong with a person emotionally. I know there is something wrong with me. I've been thinking about it more and more of recent. Sleepless nights, loss of appetite, lack of motivation, the thought of how broken I am has consumed me. When you go through failed relationship after failed relationship, you realize that it can't be everyone else when you are the only common denominator. It's not a good feeling to know there is something definitely wrong with you, but I guess knowing is half the battle.

I guess the silver lining is that I have friends that are broken as well. Maybe all broken people find each other? Maybe we are like Mutants from X-Men. In the comic book series, they all eventually find each other. Mutants are also classified on a scale of 1 to 5, 5 being the most powerful. I think people that are broken are also classified on a scale from 1 to 5, 5 being the most broken. My fear is that I don't fall between those ratings, I fall between a 7 or 8. I think most people can be fixed, but I fear that I cannot.

In the past week or so, I've found myself withdrawing from social settings, not returning phone calls, not responding to emails. Trying to figure out where I can run away to for good. Searching for the land of the broken.

Quote of the Week

2007-12-01T23:06:00.000-08:00

"A size 2 is not fat! Nor will it ever be. And being a size 0 doesn't make you beautiful."
-Jennifer Love Hewitt

AMEN to that!

Don't get me wrong, recently my doctor told me I lost 7lbs in the last 4 weeks. I was surprised and oh so happy at the same time. And I would be ecstatic to be a size 2. I guess that makes me a hypocrite and or a victim to the warped body image that is set for women.