use the force

Once there was a role of film left on the kitchen counter with a note saying, "if you want to know what your dogs do while you are away develop this." We developed it...

Today after a long and very happy life, my first dog ever is being put to sleep.
Luc, you were a sweet and fun little puppy your whole life. Always up for anything us three girls put you through. Mushy will be lost without your lead. I love you buddy.
You are a good dog.

my candy store

My shopping spree won't be this fancy but oh how I love this Balenciaga...

insert applause and laughter here

Hello? Is this thing on?

I know, I know... almost a month and nothing but silence from me.
Work's been coming at me left and right and I know that's not an excuse but once you've stepped out of your blogger shoes for long enough it's scary putting them back on. Will they fit? Will they go with my outfit? Will my friends like them? So don't be too harsh just yet.

Run down:
Went on vacation.
Had such a great time on vacation.
Came back from vacation.
Have been working my ass off non-stop.
Did not even have a Labor Day weekend.
Just Labor.
Kind of running.
Can finish 2 miles in 30 minutes.
Not sure how I'm going to get through 3 miles.
Eating back on track for the most part.
The puppy had cancer.
The puppy is now cancer free.
Barely surviving the heat of September.
It's only the 4th of September.
I am 30.

I can not believe it is already the 4th of September! Before you know it Fall will be here and then the holidays! I'm looking forward to that because I think I'm in my summer slump right now. I think I'm going to go reward myself for last weekend's labor with a fancy shopping spree. Maybe that will help me to feel a bit better. Any other suggestions?

Oh, and I'm sorry - what's new with you?
XOXO

upside down or downside up

I'm safe and I'm sound but only physically here.
At work.
Don't know how much longer I'm going to be able to stand it.
So tired.
Sandy Hill ran off with my suitcase.
Took off at 11am this morning from Melbourne.
Landed and was at work by 11am in Los Angeles.
So tired.
But I'm here.

not a day late

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM!!!

where are all the sheep

We arrived in Auckland today after some minor problems. No worries though.

We have a really luxurious room that makes up for it.

I haven't been feeling all that well the past couple of nights.

But things are really great.

I love vacation.

just the facts ma'am

It was actually only a 14 hour flight. I watched 21 and Horton Hears A Who. I slept 8 hours or so. I had 2 vegetarian meals and I read a magazine. It was uneventful mind the turbulence. I am here. We are here.

Spent the day on Maling road - ladies who lunch (and My Heart), shopping... simple stuff to keep us moving and awake.

Aunt M is making home made pizza for dinner. Waiting for Uncle P to get home from work. All is well.

Tomorrow we do the lunch tram from there we'll see what else transpires.
We leave for New Zealand on Monday.
We come back to Melbourne for another weekend and then head home on the 11th of August.

I don't know what day or time will show up when I publish this but it is Tuesday, July 29th at 6pm... 17 hours ahead of Los Angeles.

the blume of it all

Are you there God? It's me, Margaret...

I turn 30 in 5 days. I leave tonight on a 16 hour flight to go celebrate down under. I am ready to be 30. I am ready to start this next chapter in life.

Yesterday was the 2 year anniversary of Friend A's death. We did the midnight bike ride to the beach in celebration of his life - or maybe more in celebration of life. He had barely begun this journey into 30-dom before it all ended. Yet, he lived more and gave more in that short amount of time then any other human I have ever met. I can't describe Friend A because he is beyond words - he was that amazing.

His wife, Friend C, has left Australia and is now in solitude in Bali. She is nothing short of amazing herself. I found that on this anniversary of Friend A's death, her absence was more of a hole in my heart than his. I've grown familiar with the fact that he is gone and I've found comfort in her presence.

A & C have an amazing love story. One I could never do justice here. I can only say that knowing their story has taught me so much about love, so much about life. I appreciate each day I have and each day I share with My Heart.

Turning 30 alone is special but turning 30 together and continuing on our journey is a precious gift that I am thankful for with every breath I take.

one tall order

If I wasn't already going on an adventure down under for my 30th birthday (or saving up to buy my dream house), I'd treat myself to these in honor of the next decade of my life...

I've also been wanting a pair of riding boots for the past decade of my life so maybe I'd have to get these also...

machine is my favorite word

There's this piece of me that has always had a thing for vintage cars. The beauty of an era passed, the sophistication in these true machines. In particular I have a love for the Ford Falcon. I envision having a first or second generation (1960 to 1965) restored sitting in my garage waiting for that Sunday afternoon drive up the coast.

Yesterday Glendale had it's annual Cruisin' Night in downtown. My Heart and I rode our bikes over to it and I got some photos (with my new camera) of these great classics all restored to look even better then they did in their hay day. Sadly, no Falcons.

midnight snack before midnight

Tonight is the full moon. May explain my crazy self today. All the work may also be to blame. It's really great to have a good team on your side on days like this.

I need to let go and trust my assistant more. He gets it done and he's really good people. We have such laughs and it's definitely more sincere than the last time. He may not have that technical know how of the last time but at least he's good spirited.

Yesterday was the last day of one of our team members. When I first started I thought she meant trouble. I can honestly say I will miss her. She told me I was eternal sunshine. That felt great.

Driving home from work tonight at 10pm after 13 hours of non-stop excitement I caught a few moments of the firework show at the Hollywood Bowl. It was a nice little spy.

I need to decompress so I can sleep and hopefully fight off this cold I feel coming on.

brain helmet

It's a Stage 1 Malignant Type S Skin Tumor.



And it's a good thing we caught it early.

hidden power of birth control

This past weekend I picked up The Bell Jar. I had actually bought it during my last trip to Colorado but never ended up reading it. I decided this was the time to do it. I don't know why. I've never read anything by Sylvia Plath before and I don't really know anything about her other than she committed suicide.

I wonder why girls aren't encourage to read this book? In the end it leaves one optimistic and hopeful about the strengths we have as women (until you shut the book and think about where things ended up beyond it's pages). It's actually a funny and charming book. I felt very comforted by her experiences, her struggles even if they were during a time so removed from my own. I think Esther Greenwood is our Holden Caulfield ladies.

I wish 16 year old me had read The Bell Jar but I also wish 16 year old me would never find out that Ms. Plath eventually stuck her head in an oven.

brings tears to my eyes

My Heart and I used to have date night once a week where we would cook a new meal together and spend the night in peace - no TV. We still do no TV Tuesdays and Thursdays but we don't cook together as often as we used to.

On Friday we were going to do fajita and margarita night but due to a long week at work it ended up being fajita and bottle of wine night. I got out of work a little later than we had hoped so he started without me...



He's usually sensitive to onions so I always had to cut them - that is until I bought him the onion action goggles. And they really work!

these cards aren't stacked

Yesterday I read a mommy blog. Well, at least it started out as a mommy blog in April but became something more in June. In June this mommy lost her youngest child in a tragic drowning accident. The blog has become her therapy. I couldn't stop reading through my tears because of this woman's amazing journey in such a short (and recent) time.

The past couple of weeks a co-worker/mentor/friend/mommy has been dealing with the struggles of her own child's health. He's been in the hospital for multiple surgeries - so young but so sick. It's been heartbreaking standing by watching while she fights not only this battle with her son but also carries half of our company on her shoulders.

Today we dropped the puppy off for his tumor removal surgery. And although I've seen some perspective from these mommies I couldn't help but shed a few tears for my baby.

I have been on again, off again as to whether or not I actually wanted to have children. Most of my adult life was a no until I got serious with My Heart. I know how much it means to him and I would love to give him that gift. I am more than willing to adopt a child in order to try and make their life better in any way that I can. I'm still not completely convinced however, that I am ok with carrying a baby of my own.

Here's my biggest concern though - am I strong enough? I'm worried sick about a puppy. How much more intense must these feelings be if it's a mini human - not to mention a mini human that you've grown inside your own body!? Am I meant to be a mommy?

rosetta stone anyone

#2 Be forgiving

#18 Learn French

#23 Own a hybrid vehicle

#25 Pick up the guitar again

#39 Vacation in Costa Rica

where the dryer takes you

Over the 4th of July weekend one of the cable channels was doing a marathon of Holiday movies and not necessarily the holiday you would think. Yeah, sure it was Independence Day and all but these holiday movies had more to do with Santa Claus saving the day than Will Smith saving the world.

When my sisters and I were young we had this VHS tape of animated holiday specials we had recorded off of TV during winter vacation. We would pull it out during summer vacation, cover the windows with blankets (made it feel more like winter) and pretend that Santa would be paying us a visit any day. Talk about Christmas in July.

I wonder if my sisters remember doing this like I do or if it's something I was enchanted by alone. I don't know but it sure brought a warm fuzzy feeling thinking back to those days as I watched Nicole Eggert realize how great her real life was in Holiday Switch (sure to be an instant classic).

Guess I've always loved the winter.

the cap i wear

I'm starting the week rested and relaxed after a wonderful 3 day weekend.

Got to leave work early on Thursday after an extended lunch with old friends. That evening had delicious sushi and received my anniversary/early birthday present from My Heart... the amazing camera I had oh so been longing for.

Lazed around the house on Friday until the late afternoon when we decided to go see Wanted. It was a good movie but not great. My Heart also found a fun Fourth activity for us in the valley that concluded with an amazing fireworks show.

Got up Saturday morning for a hike up Runyan Canon with Friend A, My Heart and the Captain - lucky dog had to be carried most of the hike because of the heat. Came home for a nap and a shower before heading over to Friends R & B's house warming BBQ.

Did the grocery/household shopping yesterday and concluded the day with a group of friends at the movie theater. It was Friend C's birthday so we all went to see Hancock together. Again good but not great - definitely not as bad as I thought it would be. Although the visual effects were pretty bad and I'm not a fan of the director. It's always nice to go to the movies with friends though.

Now on to the work week... and running. I officially start my training for the 5k this week. And the Captain has surgery to remove his tumor on Thursday. We have tickets to a Ricky Gervais warm-up show on Thursday night in Brentwood if anyone is interested. Don't think we'll have it in us to leave our puppy for a few chuckles.

when grapes aren't the worst of it

The Captain has a tumor.

Turns out his mange may have just saved his life. So far so good on the grape consumption but the little ball that developed on his ear about 3 months ago (or at least that's when we noticed it) is a sort of skin tumor that can be malignant. They will remove it next week along with the surrounding tissue. It will be tested further to see exactly what it is. If it is malignant, hopefully they will have removed it all and he will be ok - better yet, let's hope it's benign. But still, the Captain has a tumor.

I'm starting to question the month of July.

the daily gotham

I am officially signed up for a 5k on September 21st.
I will officially begin training next week.
I will do some cardio including the treadmill this week.
I am scared.
I am excited.

In other news...

Looks like my puppy will be ok. We will know more later this week.

I am on disc 2 of season four of Sex and the City and never realized I would actually like this show. I've wanted so badly to hate it. We've started working on the home video campaign for the movie so I've got to get through all these episodes and see that movie before work ruins it.

I do not care to see Wall-E but I can not wait to see The Dark Knight.

Tomorrow will be 3 years that My Heart and I have been dating. We are going to a fancy sushi restaurant for dinner.

25 more sleeps until Australia.

oranges and apples really

My puppy has mange. Worst though, we fed him grapes last night. It was cute but apparently deadly. His first tests came back ok but he has to get more blood work done on Thursday morning. Who knew that grapes were poisonous to dogs and could cause their kidneys to fail!?! Oh, and they're doing a biopsy on this growth on one of his ears. Not a good day.

what the bottle can do

So I have been in a self imposed exile the past week or so. Having too much on my mind and wanting to deal with it alone I felt it best to stay away from the blog. Knowing me I would let too much out and the innocent would get hurt.

Well, after enough truth serum it all came tumbling out of me anyway and I am no longer dealing with my shit alone. It's a new beginning.

And with that, here I am ready to blog again. Hope you missed me.

as the earth makes another rotation

This is a big week of birthdays for my friends. I apologize to some of you for not sending well wishes earlier - I make no excuses.

Bestie G - I hope this next decade of your life brings you everything you could ever want. You are amazing and you deserve the best in life.

Friend D - I'm so glad to be back in touch with you. You are a charming, witty, sarcastic bitch and I love you for it.

Friend DB - I'm lucky to have you as my wing man but don't let it go to your head.

Friend T - In LA family tradition I believe we owe you a dinner when you get back from your European romp. Hope you're having a great time.

Co-worker M - I'm not mad that you're leaving me with all your work while you go celebrate your birthday for 5 days but you will be missing out on cake as we're still going to party whether or not you're here.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY FRIENDS!!!
XOXO

this is my closet

It's officially summer and I hate it.

I hate the heat. I hate my summer wardrobe. I hate the sunshine. I hate the longer days.

With that said... Happy Summer!

I'm looking forward to this being the summer of the tan.
I love my new even shorter and sassier (now with great color) haircut.
I can't wait for summer vacation (thank god it's going to be in the land of winter).
And I'm going to end this summer a new person.

Ok, so here's the deal...
When My Heart and I started dating I was a slimmer and healthier me then I had been since the end of college. I've always been - let's say - curvy. I've gone through some bigger stages and I've been able to slim down when I've tried. My trying however, hasn't been in the healthiest of ways. I've gone to extremes and it wasn't pretty. 3 years ago I was alone and happy but that also meant I could do whatever I wanted to my body and nobody would ever know. 3 years ago I started dating My Heart and that all changed.

I've long since screwed up my metabolism and dating someone with the metabolism of a giraffe really messed with my head. He can eat an entire pizza in one sitting and still lose weight while I just look at the pizza and gain 5 pounds. I didn't pay much attention to this until I realized I had put on about 40 pounds in less than a year. Albeit there were emotional reasons I'm sure fueled the fire but my eating and laziness mixed with no more drastic measures did not look good.

I have struggled with my weight my entire life but I have never been as fat as I am now. Yes, I said it, I AM FAT. I've been working on changing that but it's been hard. I have joined a gym, I see a trainer 3 times a week on most weeks, I have tracked my food and exercise on SparkPeople. I know that the only way to fix this is through hard work and dedication but I hate that I feel so alone. My Heart has no idea what it's like to struggle with weight and body image issues. I have girlfriends who can relate but aren't currently in the same boat as I am nor have they ever been. The only one who really knows my pain is so far away.

That is, I was alone until last week. I had one of the most touching conversations on this issue with a male friend of mine, ME. Someone I never realized was wanting or needing this change like I am. He and I have made a pact to help each other through this misery once and for all. We realize it won't be easy - we're not even in the same country right now. But we've agreed to keep each other motivated and hold each other accountable. Set goals and actually reach them or else!

So here I am, laying it all out on the line for anyone and everyone to read. I'm going to do this. I am done being fat. I will run that 5k in September. I will reach a healthy weight by the end of this year. I will do this so that I can raise a family and be around to see them grow up. I will do this so My Heart will always think I'm the most beautiful. I will do this for Friend ME. I will do this for me.

how do we know we can fix it

My 3 days are up and you know what, I do feel better. "These things happen..."

It's amazing the support that comes if you let it when you're in that dark little hole.

Walking to get a smoothie and some sun with Friend DB.

The comments from Aunt M & Friend D that made me smile in the midst of it all. D - I especially liked the "taco" comment... laughed my ass off because of course I didn't see it that way at all but the minute I read it out loud realized how right you were!

Received the best video message from Friends C & J who are currently living in Australia. It was sweet and pure and loving and it was exactly what I needed from them after months of feeling their absence. It made me laugh and it brought tears to my eyes. Thank you guys.

Then there was the connection that happened yesterday. Friend ME is working in London for an extended period of time and he touched base via IM yesterday. The usual chit chat turned more serious when the question of what is currently reality in our lives came up. It was nice to feel that connection and that understanding with someone, someone I'd never realized was in the same boat as I am. So #16 on the to do list will be tackled with the love and support and camaraderie of Friend ME.

And My Heart, I know your efforts are sincere and I appreciate every last bit of you reaching out to me even when the darkness has no real explanation.

Thank you all for the love and for being who you are - I love you!

not even a taco can fix it

I have been grumpy for 2 days. I don't know why - I am not PMSing thank you very much. I am just grumpy.

Yesterday at our finishing meeting I got annoyed with the boys talking about the stupid Lakers and not being concerned enough with the actual finishing that was going on. I'm glad the Lakers lost. Now we all need to get serious and worry about the work that's going to happen while I'm away on vacation.

I took that annoyance home to My Heart and he had to put up with it for the night. Sorry my love... it wasn't you, it's me.

Today I feel like everyone's lazy. Don't they want to go that extra mile for their job? For me?

I'm going to try and work this anger out at the gym tonight and not take it home again. I really need to get over myself. In the mean time, I'm going to take the advise of Friend D's mom...

KILL THEM WITH KINDNESS

the next step

#1 Adopt a child

#16 Get to a healthy weight

#32 Skydive and/or bungie jump

#13 Get a ½ sleeve tattoo of my tree of life

#24 Paint something for someone on canvas

when it all falls into place

My mentor, my teacher, my father... thank you for all you have given me in life.

The confidence to try anything I've set my mind to.

The pride in knowing that I can be the best.

The drive to compete at the same level as all the tough boys out there.

The love that never ends even when I feel like a failure.

Being a Daddy's Girl growing up I always wanted to please my Dad. I played sports. I excelled in academics. I volunteered. I participated in anything I found slightly interesting. Because of all this I am a successful, independent and happy person. I am me today because of what my Dad has taught me over the years. Thank you Dad. I love you. Happy Fathers Day!

gettin' my boy on

My Heart's father is flying in from Chicago today. He's only staying the weekend but we've got some fun plans. We'll be headed to Pismo Beach to ride ATVs. I've done the ATV thing with him before at Hungry Valley and had a blast. I'm looking forward to some good times.

Oh, and I may be an LA girl but I am tired of the Lakers -

GO CELTICS!

the jury is in

So I didn't find my perfect dress and I'm not going with the red accessories.
Instead I will do a simple black number with these new kicks...


(Thank you Daniel for the BCBG tip!)

At least I have something special to wear to my first Key Art Awards. It's really just nice to finally be going. I hear it can get boring but after being snubbed for 8 years by one company, it's nice to be invited after only 8 months with my new company. Wish us luck!

when nordstrom doesn't work

UGH!!!

I can not find the perfect dress to wear to tomorrow night's Key Art Awards. I just need a cute little cocktail dress that doesn't make me look like a) a house, b) a mom or c) a hooker.

I'm really into red right now but hoping to actually find something in that color or that can be coordinated with it - now that's pushing it. I'll probably just go with something black I already own and put some red accessories with it. There's no fun in that but at least it gets the job done.

Some times shopping can be so frustrating.

I did find a new pair of sunglasses yesterday during my dress hunt. Fossil's Alexie:


I just need to do something about all that bling on the side of them...

inhaling the oxygen

I'm still exhausted...

I worked until 4:30 in the morning on Friday night (into Saturday morning) which is fine by me because I get paid overtime, it doesn't happen all the time and I was prepared for last week to be very busy. The only problem was that I had a pretty booked weekend so there wasn't much time to catch up on sleep.

Saturday we went to the Dodger game because they were playing the Cubs and most of my friends are Cubs fans. Not to mention My Heart is from Chicago. The Cubs lost and the guy behind us didn't shut his trap for more than 2 minutes at a time (no exaggeration either - I know more about him than I do my own friends) but we had a great time and it's always nice to hang with the crew. Beer count = 3

We then headed downtown for the evening. There is this parking lot we always park in when we go to the Geffen Contemporary at MOCA and there is a restaurant next to that lot we have always wanted to try - Weiland's Brewery. It was delicious and we were there during happy hour. Beer count = 3

The main attraction Saturday night was CineMOCA which is an ongoing summer event at the Geffen location of MOCA showing various documentaries under the stars downtown. Saturday's was a screening of Underground Forces (punk and new wave music doc) featuring a music set by special guest Henry Rollins. Turns out music set means he plugged in his iPod and mingled amongst the rest of us - which was cool in it's own way but not what we expected at all. Beer count = 1

The best part of Saturday, 7 beers was exactly the number I needed.

Sunday was spent in the sun working with Project Angel Food during Christopher Street West. I started my morning with them at 9am and ended the day at 7pm. I was an official chef on the parade float which was fun (saw trainer Bob from The Biggest Loser in the crowd) and then got to partake in the festival for a couple of hours before going to work the booth. Pictures of the float to come...

Like I said, I'm still exhausted.

no headaches here

Three Good Things Today:

1. Had flowers sent to someone
   
2. Nachos and Margarita lunch with D & D
3. This being my 100th blog entry!!!

(Thanks for the Idea American Aussie)

Happy 100!

lifting the fog juice

I have been removed from the world that is blog. My work and personal life are barely fitting into 24 hours per day... sleep is suffering, exercise is suffering and my blog is suffering. Sad, I know. I will catch you all up slowly but surely.

My Heart had a dream that we was at a movie premiere hanging out with Jack Black. When he recounted the details of this dream he said how happy he was in it. Even though I was slowly falling into a slumber of my own it made me smile.

I then had a dream that A wrote a secret memoir before he died. I was reading it and going to these places he had been, investigating this almost double life he was living that none of us knew about. The details are foggy now - I was there but I wasn't as people and places unfolded turning things too bizarre for words. It made me feel my own special connection - to see this, what he had experienced.

Old and distant friend M from the original LA crew recently lost her mother... love to you M and wish you safety and warmth.

resistance is fine i guess

Apparently you can get free hot dogs at Pink's today between 12 & 2pm. I've never had a Pink's hot dog but they are somewhat of a Los Angeles legend. I hear we have Tori & Dean to thank...

It's also National Doughnut Day and Krispy Kreme is celebrating with a free doughnut of your choice.

And last but certainly not least (especially on my list!) is Crumbs Bake Shop. To celebrate the opening of their newest location on Larchmont they are giving away 1000 free cupcakes but it started at 8am so most likely if you're not already in line you are SOL my friend.

Have a HAPPY Friday and a fun filled weekend.

not even on the payroll

Have you tried these!?

OMFG - I think they are so amazingly delicious.
It's a tragedy they are only for a limited time.

flipping through the glossy

I LOVE the magazine Real Simple.

Actually, I'm a magazine lover in general. I just feel so guilty subscribing to them because of the paper waste. I'm really tempted to start a subscription to Real Simple though.

I'm sure there are a few we could cancel and not miss. We are currently receiving Wired, Dwell, Juxtapoz, Entertainment Weekly, Maxim and Shape... I think that's all of them. We used to get Interview and some days I really miss it but I need to learn to let go. What else should I let go of?

Wired: We get if for free but I can't remember why. It's a fun read but I'm sure it will run out eventually and we won't renew it.

Dwell: I love to see all the great designs and now that we're looking to buy a house it may come in handy. Since it comes free with our MOCA membership I will eventually cancel it and let that money go directly to them.

Juxtapoz: I love this magazine but don't take full advantage of it - I feel like I should be going to check out more local art. My Heart bought the subscription for me as a birthday present a couple of years ago but I think I will let it lapse.

Entertainment Weekly: I need to close a bank account and once I do that there will be no more - it gets renewed automatically from that account. I look forward to Fridays as this is one of my favorites to read. It's simple fun. Maybe I'll keep it.

Maxim: This is My Heart's so we won't touch it!

Shape: I don't use this as much as I thought I would but I do enjoy reading it. I probably won't renew it.

Well, it seems like there are a few I am ready to give up in exchange... I wonder if reading Real Simple online would be as satisfying? I'll have to test that out before I commit to a paper copy.

when the elves come out to play

Over the weekend I worked on the construction of a parade float. It was actually a lot of fun. It's great to be crafty but man do I have a lot to learn. There were 2 girls there with some major skills. It was pretty inspiring.

I spent the day building a giant stove out of cardboard boxes and an industrial sized mixer out of a plant potter, poster board and tin foil. My favorite part was the spray painting though. I really want to find some projects of my own that involve spray painting. I think I could be really good at it.

A friend of mine recently agreed to teach me how to weld (another thing I have always wanted to do). Maybe with the combo I can create some great pieces. The possibilities would be endless. How exciting to work with my hands!

my puzzle piece connected

So what the hell is a finisher anyway? I know it doesn't make sense. People in my own industry don't get it unless they are one. So, even though I was trying to be a bit cryptic I will explain further.

I am a post production supervisor for a motion picture marketing company in Hollywood. Sounds fancy and I guess it is but it's much easier to say I'm a finisher. That's how I was brought up in the business so that's what I believe.

Long story, well, long... I came out to LA from Colorado over 8 years ago in hopes of finding a career in editing. I fell into finishing because I am naturally organized, detail oriented and have an eagle eye.

So here I am. A post production supervisor (that's what my new business card says anyway).

IMDB defines Post-Production Supervisor as follows:

"A person overseeing the entire post-production of a project. They report directly to the producer and/or the studio in charge of the feature. Working side by side with the director and editor, the supervisor has the responsibility of finishing the film on time and on budget while satisfying the wants of the director. Post-production supervisors have authority over post-production coordinators. Typical duties include: controlling all activities with vendors such as optical houses, sound facilities, inserts, ADR, reshooting, CGI, score, delivery requirements to domestic and international distributors, legal clearances, preview screenings, color timing, video mastering and budgeting the movie through the completion and delivery."

That's basically what I do but on a smaller scale. I finish TV spots, trailers, radio spots, etc. for the advertising campaigns on movies. I love it and I'm proud to say that I think I'm really good at it. There was a brief period in my professional career when I didn't think this is what I was supposed to be doing. I left to find myself and what I found was that I am a finisher at heart and I love it. I have also had a short stint working on features which was great and a little less stressful because you have so much more time to "finish" a feature than you do a TV spot or trailer. When it comes down to it though, I'm meant to be on the real tail end of the finish.

Any questions?

on caps of snow covered

I'm having bloggers block as I'm trying to not think about shoes so much.
Here are a couple of things going on:

Memorial Day Weekend was spent relaxing, shopping and having dinner with friends. It was a really good time. We also saw Forgetting Sara Marshall which was hilarious. And we took the puppy to the park where he jumped off a picnic table, hitting face first and cutting his mouth a little. It was a very mom and dad moment for us when we rushed him home afterwards. Don't worry, he's fine.

I got new business cards at work and they are very cool. Email me if you want me to send you one. I've got a 1000 to spare.

My Heart and I need to figure out what to do in New Zealand in August. Other than sky diving, any suggestions?

I have been asked to play in a coed touch football league. I have never played football in my life but think it could be a lot of fun. I'm kind of scared and kind of excited. I'll be gone for 2 of the 6 weeks and it's kind of pricey. Should I do it anyway?

And last but not least... the CSW Pride Parade is coming up and the float building has begun! To all you locals out there... Are you a frustrated artist, painter, builder, etc? Come help us re-create the Project Angel Food kitchen on the back of a flat bed truck! If you don't want to get your hands dirty then maybe you have something to donate that can help:

• paint (water-based)
• paintbrushes
• wood
• foam board (+printing if possible - we want to make giant utensils!)
• cardboard boxes / large pieces of cardboard
• cloth (rainbow colors or white or blue)

If you want to help in anyway (including participating in the parade or the PAF booth) just get in touch with me and I'll fill you in on the details.

is the cat out of that bag yet

A couple of months ago the entire company was called to an impromptu meeting. The receptionist was asked to lock the front door - it was that serious. We would be working on a super secret project and we were not to discuss it, not even within the hallways of our own building, until after the release date. That was it - no name, not even a release date. It was on a need to know basis.

Cut to last week when our newly designed website launched a new home page in holiday Google style. Apparently it was now ok to disscuss the project. I mean, it was and still is out there for the whole world to find.

So now, with the secrecy gone and the numbers in we can safely celebrate out loud. The studio sent over this sweet treat in recognition of all our hard work. Way to go AR!

what to do next

#27 Run a 5k or half marathon

#6 Buy a home

#40 Visit New England in the fall

#17 Give a major gift to an organization I really care about

#11 Do something crafty with the tables in our house

when nothing else fits

Okay, so I am also addicted to shoes.

I can not find any additional information on 2 pair of shoes that I am in love with. And I do fancy myself quite a good little googler.

#1 The shoes Pepper Potts (Gwyneth Paltrow) is wearing in the big battle scene at the end of Iron Man. They are adorable, very tall, black strappy stilettos.



#2 The shoes Serena van der Woodsen (Blake Lively) is wearing in one of the opening scenes of the Gossip Girl Season Finale. RED! sling backs.

good day sir, i said good day

Two things that fascinate me and terrify me:

• Jet Propulsion

• Growing a Little Human

god bless jessie spano

I'm in a particularly good mood today and I'm drinking a cup of coffee this morning (a rarity for me these days - the coffee not the good mood). It makes me think of this, one of the greatest moments in television history:




My Heart and I watched Enchanted last night instead of going out to Verdugo Bar with some friends. I hate to be those kind of people that flake out every time but I really haven't been feeling well and it was nice to stay in, cook a meal together, open a bottle of wine and watch a movie. It was a cute movie too.

dorothy would be jealous

I have been on an eternal search for the perfect red shoe. I've purchased 2 different pair since the search began many years ago (ok, 3 if you count the ones I bought online for $10 and never once wore - a sweet find at the local Goodwill for one very lucky lady). Each cute in its own right but not the perfect red shoe I've been looking for.

I have looked near and far. Stores. Internet. Catalogs. And yet I've come up short. Yesterday I discovered LIKE.com and did a red shoe search on there. It brought hundreds of choices and I found a couple that I really like...


This shoe is cute and Kenneth Cole is one of my favs but I'm not convinced I love the heel.





I like how understated and simple this shoe is. I don't like the $300+ price for understated and simple no matter who's name is on the label.






I LOVE this shoe but Zappos doesn't have my size and I haven't been successful in finding it for sale anywhere else. If I do find it, I will take a chance and buy it. I'm sorry My Heart, I know this goes against the rules of no more buying shoes online since I have to return 75% of them for various reasons. This one is worth the chance.


And then there is this one.
The jewel of my most recent red shoe search (and yes, I know it's not red). See, this is how I get into trouble.
This one also comes at a pretty price but doesn't it look so worth it!?

do i smell cake

This is a record breaking day!

I have now had more posts in the month of May than any other month in the short history of my blog! I have been aiming to do a new post every other day so that people like me would have something new to read more often than not.

I am one of those people who reads my list of blogs religiously every day. Actually, I should say that I check them religiously every day - there isn't necessarily something new to read each day. Ok, in all reality I check them multiple times a day in the hopes of something new - hence the name of this blog. I am addicted.

I know people are busy. You all have lives. That's why I love reading your blogs. To see into your lives. I just wish there was new content more often. I think Sarah's Fab Day does a pretty nice job of keeping it new. Thanks Sarah.

So I hope I have done the same for you. I hope that you are just as excited to read my blog because of it's new (and entertaining?) content being posted on a regular basis.

Thanks for reading!

and how was your day

Ok, ok... point taken. Bees are good. I'm sorry bees. I love your honey. I love all your hard work. Why can't you just chill the f out though!?

Weekend was good. Hot, but good.

Captain Little Bear graduates from the Perfect Puppy Academy tonight. He was also in a commercial shoot last week and did better than all the other dogs. Maybe we should get him an agent...

Now I'm settling in to my week. Didn't have a very productive day at work today - albeit not entirely my fault. Personally I feel very tired which in turn leads to feeling unmotivated. I find that when I'm in this place (which has been off and on lately) it really reflects physically with me. I'm not that comfortable in my outfit today as it looks kind of mom-ish and not very put together. I let my hair air dry and I have no make up on. On top of that I have really bad eye allergies that make my eyes puffy and red. I'm just not feeling that great about myself.

Dr. Cari is working on helping me tell myself that I am doing my best. I'm currently in the space where my brain is trying to convince me to do my best which is just setting myself up for failure.

I am doing my best.

It's hard to convince myself of that. Although, I really wanted to eat Taco Bell today but instead went to the Nite Moon Cafe at Golden Bridge Yoga. And while I did indulge in a vegan PB&J cup I also had a vegan burger with a side salad instead of nachos bell grande and a burrito.

Baby steps...

sorry maya

I do not like bees. I have only been stung once but it doesn't matter.
If I could I would punch all bees in the face.
Stupid bees.

what is that refreshing smell

Ahhh, the start of another weekend. I love waking up in the morning and not totally dreading work. I love going to bed on Sunday night not completely upset with the prospect of going to work in the morning. But I still LOVE my weekends more!

We are going to another music festival of sorts this weekend. We will take another jaunt around town to check on some open houses. And we will spend some time with friends catching up on the Indy trilogy before #4 comes out.

It sure is Spring and our schedule is in full swing! Even though we live in Southern California we still have a tendency to hibernate in the winter. It's amazing how you don't realize what you haven't done until you can feel the dawn of Spring near. You feel restless and kind of sad because you don't do anything. But then it hits like a wave and the schedule fills up again. Can you believe that next weekend is Memorial Day already!?

So friends, call me or email me because my time is going fast ;-)

short but sweet

Today was co-worker L's last day. We gave him a great send off as he will be missed. He was one of the first people to be-friend me here and he truly felt like a friend even if I only knew him for a short while. I will miss him.

But in proper AR style we ate and drank to celebrate the occasion. I've never been at a company that can honestly congratulate an employee moving on and thank them for the service they've given. AR did just that and beautifully.

We had a typical Friday company BBQ and L sat as shifts of people came to say their goodbyes. Then we had a surprise beer Friday complete with cake and banners and speeches. It was amazing. I love this place.

So, good luck L and congratulations - hope to keep in touch!

feeling the void

Last week My Heart and I went to our first set of open houses. We are months away from buying but thought we might as well start looking.
I've been online looking at houses today so that we can go to some more open houses this weekend. There's one that's perfect but the neighborhood is questionable. And another that's perfect and in a great neighborhood but is slightly above what we want to pay. What ever will we do? This is going to be difficult and so much fun. Too bad looking only makes me want to have a house NOW!

Today is friend Mrs. Team A E's birthday. YAY! Happy Birthday Mrs. Team A E... see you tonight at the Cozy Inn.

My Heart saw Metallica at a benefit show for the Silverlake Conservatory of Music last night at the Wiltern here in LA and had a blast. I got the gift bag. Thanks honey!
You can totally see him in this video - he's the super tall one on the right hand side of the screen that pops into view every now and again.

another taste

#5 Build a home with Habitat for Humanity

#20 Learn to knit

#29 See the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade live

#3 Be great at yoga

#38 Take some sort of boat trip

who we've grown up to be

I would say I was a Daddy's Girl growing up. It's not that I particularly chose this role it just happened. My mom was there but kind of in the distance. I feel like both my parents were actually.

I often felt like my sisters were Mommy's Little Girls and it made me sad.

Today I can safely say that I am very close to my mom and that we love each other very much.
She is special. She is unendingly loving. She is super sweet and thoughtful. She is my best friend. The ear and shoulder I turn to in good times and bad. I don't know what I would do without her.

Thank you Mom, for everything you have been to me and for everything you have done for me.
I love you more and more every day and am thankful to have you in my life.

Happy Mother's Day.

thank you christian

Friend D made me a mix tape and it's awesome.

Hot Mess Tranny Mix

1. Hot Chip - Sexual Healing
2. MGMT - Time To Pretend
3. Tokyo Police Club - In A Cave
4. The Arcade Fire - Rebellion (Lies)
5. Cub Country - Could Be The Moon
6. Hot Chip - Baby Said
7. Jarvis Cocker - Running The World
8. Stars - Midnight Coward
9. Rilo Kiley - Go Ahead
10. The Knife - Heartbeats
11. Ratatat - Lex
12. Numero# - La Vie D'Artiste
13. Mates Of State - Running Out
14. The Decemberists - Los Angeles, I'm Yours
15. Rilo Kiley - With Arms Outstretched
16. Asobi Seksu - Goodbye
    

with eternal love and gratitude

Today I had an amazing experience thanks to Friend G & Aunt M... I went to the chiropractor!!!

I haven't been feeling that great the past year. Aunt M suggested seeing a chiropractor. Friend G suggested seeing Dr. Cari.

I think I'm in the midst of a break through. Dr. Cari is no ordinary chiropractor. She is also a doctor of Holistic Medicine.

When I left her office this morning I felt like I was high. I felt like my body was floating. I felt like I was on good drugs. I think this is the start of something great.

My only problem is that she actually works in Illinois and only comes out here everything month or two. Still, I think she's going to be worth the wait.

and then i flew a kite

Yesterday I ran into old classmate C. This is odd and it isn't odd.

Odd - C and I only went to school together for one year. I was in the 7th grade and he was in the 9th grade. This was not anywhere near where we both live now yet somehow we have managed to "stay in touch" over the past 18 or so years. We were never particularly close and we still are not.

Not Odd - I've known that C has lived out here the entire time I have and we've met for drinks and we've run into each other before. I've actually seen him at the gym before which is where we ran into each other yesterday.

Twelve year old me had a crush on C. Fifteen year old me grew to disdain C. Eighteen year old me became indifferent, which is where I stand now.

Ok, so there's this thing about C - he always asks about money and how much I'm making. I'm honest but not brutally so. I do very well for myself out here and so does My Heart - that's all anyone needs to know. C has been a struggling actor for years. But as uncomfortable as the money question was/is there's more. He said I looked matronly. Ouch.

I admit I haven't been feeling that well this week and it's been freezing in my office. That combination led to new short & sassy hair in disarray, comfortable clothes (including a VERY grandma-ish sweater), little to no makeup and a an over-all tired look. But matronly!? That's no way to say hi to an old pal. Come on now. I didn't look that bad. Or did I?

The thing is, even if I did look that bad, I honestly don't care. I'm in a really great place in my life and I don't feel the need to impress anyone. Even if C tried to make me feel old and grown up - as he so gently put it, "Life is done with you." I think life is just getting good. Sad that he may never know what that feels like.

Oh, but I did forget to mention that C will be in a Hallmark Channel Original Movie this month!

je m'appelle me shell

I was originally a Hillary supporter. Now I feel like she's just a ruiner.

Get Out!

You're just making it worse staying in this race. Yes, it's close but it's just not the time. We need to start creating some sort of unity before it's too late. She's tearing us apart.

I've become involved in my first Political Organization. I haven't done much other than sign up for emails but I think they've got a good agenda and I'd like to do more. We are in desperate need of change. Divided We Fail.

I should get started on those French lessons just in case...

sad but true

I was exploring the Anonymous Photo Project's website again today and found that I was blogged about! You can see for yourself...

I've got to come up with a couple of creative places to drop my LA cameras this weekend (or maybe next). I should have done one or two at Coachella. Oh well. I'll have to find another place where the cool kids hang.

I really want to see Iron Man and Speed Racer this weekend. Each of these looks mindlessly entertaining and I think they could give Transformers a run for its money as my all time favorite in theater action movie experience. I sound like such a nerd! Whatever. I could have sat and watched that movie a second time directly after the first time. I thought it was that great.

I heard that the new Americana at Brand has movie theaters. We can kill two birds with one stone - since I also want to check out the Americana.

I think this is going to be a great summer for movies. The Dark Knight looks awesome and everyone is pumped for Indy 4 (I'm still undecided as I've never really been a fan). There's already a list of movies I still want to catch; Forgetting Sarah Marshall, Baby Mama, The Hammer, Son of Rambow. I love the feeling of spending a hot summer afternoon or evening in a dark cold room with a bunch of strangers all there for the simple task of enjoyment.

I love enjoyment.

Oh, speaking of enjoyment... my puppy is getting his balls chopped off today. Wish him luck!

reaching quiet

Have you been wondering what I've been working on?

Colorado was good. The Captain had fun.
Bought 2 books, started the first on the plane.
(No one belongs here more than you. Stories by Miranda July)

I'm really disappointed in Old Chicago's new menu. I long for the old days - sometimes.

I dropped cameras #148 & #149.

Bought some shoes on clearance at Target to bum around town in.
I'm hoping the rest of the week shapes up to be better than today.
Happy Cinco de Mayo anyway.

blanketing me from the cold

Life is crazy.

Last week I found out that an old friend from High School (S) recently lost her mother to cancer. I know that S now lives in So Cal.

When I moved to LA a friend of a friend (H) came out here as well and we were roommates for a brief but exciting period. H moved back home after a few months but is also now living in So Cal again.

Turns out that S & H are now friends with each other.

I contacted Friend E (she originally set me up with H) whom I've known almost my whole life but haven't talked to in years. I did this partially to catch up (I mean, come on now - it was only her sister and me that stood up in her wedding) and partially to find out about S & H.

Right now I'm not in a state where I would be comfortable enough to befriend either S or H again (for completely personal reasons) but you never know what the future can hold. There were 2 very different times in my life when I loved each of them dearly.

Love lost not forgotten. One thing is for sure, it will be really great to catch up with Friend E again.

don't forget the local heroes

just the drippings

#19 Learn how to weld

#33 Start composting

#8 Climb Pikes Peak

#12 Experience Paris with My Heart

#37 Take golf lessons

ain't life grand

I forgot to tell you that I almost died at Coachella but a cherry snow cone saved my life.

Today is Free Cone Day at Ben & Jerry's so get out there and get ya self some ice cream!

Tomorrow is 31 cent scoop night at Baskin Robbins so don't fret if you can't get to the B & J today, you've always got cheap ice cream tomorrow.

his wife could eat no lean

The tickets are finally booked. My Heart and I are officially going down under to celebrate our 30th birthdays this summer.

Since I have been a couple of times to the island country that is Australia we are also going to expand our trip over to New Zealand. This will be a first for both of us. We figure it'll be a special way to celebrate that next unexplored decade of our lives.

I love vacation!

As for this past weekend at Coachella, the pros definitely outweighed the cons even if in the beginning it looked bleak.

We had to park about a mile and a half out from the on-site camp ground because the camper parking was full. Which wouldn't have been a big deal if we didn't have to walk in the 100 degree sun with arms full of heavy gear. Thanks to the nice lady who gave us a ride on her golf cart I didn't cry! Then we find out we would have to go back to the car and put a parking tag in it so we wouldn't get towed. Ugh. I started to cry.

But like I said the pros were on our side. We got there in time to see DeVotchKa. We ate yummy (and for me, vegetarian) fair food. We also saw Dwight Yoakam, Rilo Kiley, M.I.A. (briefly) and my beloved and flawless Portishead, followed up with an amazing set by Prince. It seemed like the day just got better and better. The quality of music and musicians was outstanding. And it was nice that we didn't have to drive the 2+ hours home afterward but were able to curl up in our little tent. What a great experience. So yes, the desert sucks because of the heat and the dirt and some of the people and and and... with all that said and done, I can safely say we had fun ;-)

This weekend we head out to the metropolis of C Springs for the Big Day (and The Captain will be in tow - whoo hoo!).

alice through the looking glass

One of my greatest joys in life was spending time in a dark room. The calm, serene feeling of being alone with your mind and your eye - to make it work - to make it come alive in the darkness. It was pure heaven for me. I haven't been able to do that since college although I have picked up a camera now and again.
With the focus on creating a Bucket List I realize how much photography really means to me. And I am bound and determined to get back into it even if it's only to entertain my own notions of art.
Today I joined an online newsletter to help get those creative juices flowing, Photojojo. We'll see if it helps to inspire...
Another thing I did was ask to be a part of The Anonymous Photo Project. Sure it doesn't actually involve me taking the photographs but it's kind of like, "hi photo meet my friend blog."
Random.
Fun.
Now all I need is a nice new digital camera of my own... Hint. Hint. ;-)

a complete physical

Perfect Puppy Academy class was way better last night than it was the first night. So not only can our dog beat up your dog but he can also out spell him. Go Captain!

I'm sick - again - maybe for the 5th or so time this year. What is up!?

Today is Earth Day. Happy Day Earth! I am only running a Compact Fluorescent Light Bulb in my office today. I am not using paper products today. Oh wait, I do that every day! I should have taken the bus to work.

I've got some projects going on for Disney at work these days. I like work.

I'm sipping on Yerba Mate like always. Yum.

I need to call my sister to:
A) Tell her we changed our flight and it now lands directly in the Springs
B) See if she can pick us up or if we should rent a car
C) Let her know that The Captain will be with us
D) Confirm her address (for a puppy health certificate)

I wore converse to work today.

Benihana with the girls was fun but could have been more fun. We did see Brian Austin Green when we left and he looked kind of pissed off. Whatever.

I ate chicken at lunch :-(

I created a bucket list. Maybe I'll share with you all some day.

I'm going to run out for a few minutes. Bye.

the cotton in my ears

I got a call from Benihana in Santa Monica this afternoon saying they needed to cancel my reservations tonight but after that I couldn't quite understand what the man on the phone said - even though I asked him twice to explain it (hoping to catch a hint). It sounded something like bomb or bum in their kitchen and they couldn't open, hadn't opened all day.

We're going to Benihana in Beverly Hills instead.

sweet dreams

I worked out hard tonight. Came home, took a shower and got into my comfy (new) robe (from Friend C - kinda) and slipped into my night. Had a dinner alone watching Gossip Girl (I think I'm all caught up and CAN NOT WAIT for the new episodes next week) and now, one too many glasses of wine in, I think I am going to bed. My Heart is with the boys driving up to Mammoth for the weekend. Be safe. Be happy. Love you...

you gotta have style like kanye

I am in love with the fact that today is FRIDAY! I feel rejuvenated. I feel energized. I feel like a new person. I am ready to face the world. I am ready to rock.

I don't know why I am so happy but for once in my life I might be looking forward to summer. I usually loathe the heat and the sun - I get depressed during this sort of weather rather than the cloudy and cold winter - but this year I've vowed to make it the summer of the tan. I know, I know... I vowed that last year yet my legs remained an effervescent white, blinding to the naked eye. Trust me, it is going to be different this year. I'm not going to run in paranoia, fearful of the big C. Nope, I'm going to embrace the sun and take it a step further... I am going to worship those rays and the healthy dose of Vitamin D they're providing. And it's already begun.

Tomorrow I'm going to Polliwog Park in Manhattan Beach for their annual Earth Day celebration with Friend K. I plan on wearing a skirt or shorts and tank top for maximum sun exposure. Then next weekend My Heart and I head out to the dessert for Coachella. It's supposed to be 99 degrees on Saturday and 100 on Sunday. Whoo Hoo! Sun, here I come! Although I will be wearing sun screen and maybe a hat.

the destination is the journey

For those of you who know me, and have seen me in the past 2 or so years, know that my favorite shoe is the Palladium Sarlat. I own 2 pair in this particular color:




I also own an adorable green & brown pair as well as an interesting white pair that don't get worn that often. But these black ones are a staple in my wardrobe. They are super comfy and pretty stylish. I mean it wasn't an over-night transition from my beloved converse to today's heels and these puppies have helped so much along the way that I will never give them up.

So, I went to the Palladium website to see what other cute creations they have available and ended up signing up for their mailing list called Bribes. Love it. The first Bribe was getting 10 of your friends to also sign up for this mailing list. If you do, they'll give you $100 credit towards anything on the site. PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE... if you got the email from me go sign up! You can always cancel it later. If you didn't get the email from me but love the shoes let me know so I can send you the email and you can sign up and I can get closer to my new shoes!


In other news:

• My Heart is at jury duty today.
  

• Took The Captain to Friend E's house on Saturday for his going away BBQ. He'll be going to London for at least 6 months to work on State of Play. Let me just say that I think my little dog was the hit of the party ;-)

• Had a lovely dinner with Friends S & T on Sunday night. Then went to their place for a rousing game of Wii Tennis.

• I start committee meetings tomorrow at Project Angel Food for their CSW parade float.
  

happy to be home

Today Co-worker D pointed me in the direction of Golden Bridge where I enjoyed a delectable salad created by moi at Nite Moon Cafe. Completely vegan, completely delicious and just a short walk away. I sat quietly outside eating and reading. I think I've found my new lunch routine.

Friend G brought me this magazine today. He thought I would enjoy it, especially since it is their green issue. I love it and love that he knew I'd love it! But I guess that's what you get from a fellow welder (or at least someone with a desire to weld like my own).

la la la human step

This amazing company has a new production "Amjad" which we went to see Saturday night at UCLA's Royce Hall.
I was mesmerized. I guess that wasn't the case for 1/3 of the audience since they walked out. Jerks.

C & J had a going away party on Friday night which I went to without My Heart (he was rocking out at a Les Claypool show). I was a social butterfly. It was fun and I didn't get home until 3am - so unlike me! Have fun in Australia ladies... wish I was going with.

Took The Captain for an evaluation at Bow Wow Bungalow (doggy day care) and he passed with flying colors. Whoo Hoo!!! Now we can take him there during the day to play his little brains out while mom and dad are working. Though we do love our dog walker (thank you Mitch@City Pets) and will still have her take him out on most days.

where have the days gone

there are slight pains in my chest.
i'm feeling sorrow for something i never lost.
isolated but not in my cocoon.
reaching but not getting there.

wondering what happened.
knowing nothing.
hoping it's okay.

realizing the beauty of it all.
without doubt but lost in hope.
I am enough.

get out yer batons

Is today my birthday and someone forgot to tell me?

I decided I would treat myself to a manicure at lunch today. I know, I know... you're all wondering what happened to the girl you know and love because she would never go get a manicure at lunch or ever for that matter.
Well, my nails were getting long and hadn't been dealt with in a while so instead of cutting them I got a manicure. And they're now a lovely shade of light purple. Very spring. Very girly.
While walking to the nail place I decided to call My Heart to tell him I love him. He said he was out getting a sandwich but when I inquired further he admitted that he was lying and was really on a surprise mission.
Half an hour later while still sitting in the nail salon my phone rings and it's My Heart. He's at my office but I'm not there! He decides to come by the salon instead.
Low and behold the sweetest man in the world shows up with the sweetest treat... My Beloved Sprinkles Red Velvet Cupcakes (and chocolate and vanilla)!!!
So sweet right. But it doesn't end there...
When I got back to my office my print from Hide n Seek was sitting on my desk in the most gorgeous packaging you have ever seen. Nobody takes this much care or pride in sending goods out these days. Beautiful brown paper with lovely print all wrapped up nicely with a red bow. And not only was the print I ordered in there but a hand written letter from the artist and a couple of extra goodies from her.
What a special day. Thank you me, thank you Eloise, thank you My Heart. I feel very loved today. :o)

one can dream

I love winter. I love cozy, cold, snow, warm, happy, family, christmas, love winter.

I am not a big fan of baked goods.

I do however love red velvet cake. If it's perfect. One time it made me cry. Granted I had had a pretty crappy day and a nice co-worker thought of me while having a client lunch. She brought back from that lunch a mini red velvet cake from Doughboys. I had heard these were amazing. Nothing had prepared me for what I tasted. I cried. So good.



The only problem with that cake was its size. I couldn't eat the whole thing in one sitting (ok, yes I could but let's not go there) and it just wasn't as good the next day. It is smaller than a normal cake which helps but still. Then I discovered cupcakes. I know these are all the rage with the hip kids these days but I don't care. Count me in. They are the PERFECT size. Enough to satisfy me but not too much to feel guilty about. I've tried a couple of the trendy places around town; Sprinkles, Joan's on Third, Suzie Cakes... all pretty good but not tear inducing. I guess I'm going to have to accept the fact that the moment has been created and can never be duplicated.



Mmmm, cupcakes. Does April Fool's Day count as a cupcake worthy holiday?

hiding our tracks

Just do it. Forget the skeptics that say it won't make a difference. We have to start fighting for a difference. This is just one of the first steps in that fight. And really, how hard is it? Just do it.
Earth Hour

sour stomach

I've been trying to do something new and exciting on my blog. It's not working. Doesn't help that I don't know HTML code. Oh well. I guess you'll just have to deal with it. I put up some pictures to keep you entertained though. Yer welcome.

I don't feel so good so I'm going to call it a day.

(Why yes, I did take these intriguing photographs myself)

hidden love

I'm not "allowed" to buy shoes online because they never fit.
Today I got this response from HidenSeek in regards to my purchase on Etsy:

Sent by HidenSeek on March 26, 2008:

Hi there my lovely Michele! :)

Thank you so much for your order and your kind comments sweety!

♥ --------- ♥ You love bears and Mr Bear loves you! ♥ --------- ♥ :D

I'll start preparing your goodies and ship them to you asap !!
They can't wait to come to you :))
I hope you had a wonderful Easter break!!

Let's play again sometime :)

Take care and all the best,

Hidden Eloise
xxx

My comments to her when purchasing this lovely piece of art were something along the lines of...

"I LOVE Bears and the little girl looks like she could be me! I love this piece."

More than bears, I love kind people. So thank you Hidden Eloise for your sweet words and kind spirit. I hope to someday support your wonderful art again. I also encourage you, my friends, to go to Etsy and look at her work - maybe you'll find something that speaks to you too.
I'm pretty sure this shoe is going to fit me perfectly.

sleeping dogs

I go home almost every day and walk the dog at lunch. Sometimes it's the simple things that are the best part of your day.
Today I not only went home at lunch, walked the dog and ate spaghetti but I also watched an episode of Gossip Girl.
I've also been randomly out searching the world of blogs and found this great one called Sarah's Fab Day in which I found a link to a piece of children's art that I loved. I bought a print of it on Etsy to put up in my office. It's called "Mom, this is the friend I told you about" and the description by the UK artist HidenSeek says, ...I met him in the forest...
My tea mug went missing in the office (I left it in the kitchen) only to find that one of the kind men that works here had washed it for me. He proceeded then to teach me to say, donde esta mi taza?
I have an alone meeting tonight.
Someone I am in constant contact with clears their throat too much.
The weather is really starting to warm up.
Sometimes it's the little things that really get to you.

the window is open

YAY!!!
I have finally updated my .mac page with some new photos. I try to do it every month or so but fell really behind this past year.
So now there are some new albums up - even though they're mostly from the holidays and are not actually new. But nobody has really seen them so they are new in that regard.
I had to finally do something about that site because everyone wants to see MORE pictures of the new puppy.
So if you didn't get the email announcing the update let me know and I'll send you the info.
I wouldn't want to deprive anyone of puppy pictures.

flying fox hounds

I'm trying to cut back on my meat consumption. I've found that I don't like certain things as much as I used to but also I just love animals so much.
Most times it's fairly easy but sometimes it's not.
Why do those cows and pigs have to be so damn tasty!?

one day a man bought a house

If you haven't yet seen it you should.

Love works in mysterious ways.

Short movie by Pjotr Sapegin.

into the deep shallow sunlight

It's nice to feel like there's someone out there reading my odd little blog about nothing.
I came in today to find newly posted comments from anonymous.
Thank you anonymous but who are you?
It's hard to pin point the writing style to determine whether it's one person or a couple.
I would love to know who it is but then again I like the mystery of it.
I can imagine it being some sweet member of my family just being funny.
I can imagine it being an old friend just being kind.
Or, it could actually be a stranger... interested, offended, intrigued by my rants on surviving.
Whoever you are, thanks again for the little gem you've left me.

my kindergarten teacher

hello?
is there anybody out there?
does anybody care?

the addition

Meet Captain Little Bear...



Friends of ours found this little guy wandering the streets. After no luck finding his owners and not being able to have pets at their apartment he ended up in our home.
He's ridiculously sweet and already seems to be pretty well trained.
We've wanted a dog forever but hadn't been able to make the commitment. This time it just feels like it is meant to be. So let's welcome The Captain home!

behind the bus on barham

And really... did she need to flip me off?
I slowed down to let her and her shiny red convertible in even though I didn't have to and she was the one driving like a jerk.
Stupid blond hair and french manicured nails.
Sometimes I hate LA.

melrose and western

I really hate that people talk on their cell phones and drive.
It's one thing to have a head set on it's another to stop in the middle of the road to write something down while you're holding the phone up to your ear.

billy ray berling & the mullets

My Heart cut his beautiful long hair into a mullet.
Sure it was only a joke and only for a day.
But ugh, it was not attractive.
Mullets are ugly.
Now he's got a wonderfully soft shaved head.
Mmmm, now that's nice.

pulling together the truth

I don't know what to write about anymore.
Things are good. Not great but good.
I just finished a week filled with lots of work. It wasn't too bad and I'll be paid for my overtime which is nice.
Now I need to focus on getting back into the gym and eating on a healthy schedule again.
We're also going this weekend to see a financial planner in order to get our finances ready to buy our first home.
So things are good. My Heart said he's kind of bored and wished to do more in life.
I guess I feel that sentiment too but I'm more concerned with getting our current house cleaned and organized. I still haven't quite accomplished that goal to the best of my abilities. There's just so much to do. Ugh!
Sometimes do you feel like you really hit it off with people only to feel like you've been bamboozled? I do and it sucks. It also kind of pisses me off. Nothing I can do about it but live my own life and do the best I can.
I need to get a bank account closed. Reminds me to call my dad.
I finished reading The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime. I loved it. I've just started In Cold Blood. I still haven't picked up the Biology book. I guess I'm not one for setting and reaching goals.
Sent my twin sisters birthday presents and got a nice thank you card from one of them. I should email her back.
I need to start carrying around this little silver book I have again so I can write things down when I think of them.
Now I'm just rambling.
Nothing better to do.
Am I boring you?