from the cloud of dust

I have never really had any interest in any of Clint Eastwood's movies and so I have never seen one. Also, I like Angelina but would not classify myself as a huge fan or even a fan really. I think it was more the story line and the period of Los Angeles that made me want to see Changeling.

My Heart and I went to a preview screening of it last night and let me tell you, I was blown away. I find it amazing that such a story has been buried beneath the history of the city of angels. I am not usually one for period pieces but 20s and 30s LA intrigues me. And this film did not disappoint. Mrs. Pitt did an outstanding job (and had some killer wardrobe!). The effects were so convincing I felt like I was looking into the past at what has become my home.

Albeit it was a Clint Eastwood movie and I've been told they are slow moving almost to the point of boring. Changeling was drawn out and long (over 2 hours) but it kept moving and definitely kept me interested. More than once I was moved to the point of tears. I suggest you take the time for this one - the Oscar buzz, in my opinion, isn't hype.

my ideeli surprise

How much do you heart these shoes!?

marc by marc jacobs - CASSIE

dancing under the light of the tower

I'm not one for long nails and I'm not usually one for nail polish. But sometimes I go get my nails did to feel like I'm taking care of myself. I particularly love short nails with a dark color.

O P I has some awesome colors in their new Fall/Winter Collection - Le Collection De France - that I'm really into, especially...

her closet was our wonderland

Weird that yesterday I was trying to get a hold of my Mom but couldn't so when I was writing my post I thought I'd put a shout out to her. Of course she called today (not weird).
Weird again is that Mom needs change too - big change - but she's not sure what... she didn't even read yesterday's post. What's going on?

So this past weekend I was hanging out with Friend A (of Team AE) doing girl stuff; movie, lunch, shopping and a baby shower. We happened to be near the Kate Spade store so we went in to see My Bag... you know... the one I didn't get? Well, it was GONE! AND they were having a friends and family sale! Apparently I now qualified as a either a friend or family.
Sad day turned happy, my new friends (or family) at Kate Spade searched all the surrounding stores until they had located my bag in Topanga or some other far off land. So I got the bag.
Aunt M was right, why not both? It arrived today and it couldn't be more perfect.
Wierd = the card inside had a little quote on it:

"she thought of her aunt often...
patent boots, cherry red lipstick,
and forever mischievous."

has anyone talked to my mom lately

Someone recently told me that being content is the worst way to go through life. I think all my contentment is making me restless and I don't know what to do.

I do not hate nor love living in LA.
But I really want to live in NYC.

Being a finisher still has it's drawbacks but I love who I work for.
I don't want to risk leaving this place for nothing.

Our apartment is cleaner and slightly more organized which makes it just a tad bit more tolerable but it's no new house. Is right now really the time to be buying a new house?

I've been hanging out with the girls more and doing for me again which is interesting. I think I'd like to explore that further but not sure exactly how right now.

I need a change - a big change - but what?

the gift of paper

Happy One Year Blogiversary to me by the way!

I'd like to send my self a special gift like one of these books from Pepe's Paperie.
(Thanks for sharing Aunt M!)

downward dog

I'm being told...

Your mind is going to wander, today, and unfortunately sometimes at very inopportune times. This is most likely a sign that you are moving into a phase when you are going to be more introverted than usual. You're not quite connecting with other people at the level you would like to, so it's appealing to just go off on your own for a while. But late in the day you'll receive an invitation, and it's one you should accept. This event could hold the key to many major opportunities.

So true. Now I'm just waiting for that invitation. Or was that what lunch was today?

if the rain in spain fell on my brain

Today...

Tofu skins are delicious (mmm dinner).
Cupcakes are delicious (mmm lunch).
Stupid people are not (eww, every day).

My hair is in an annoying awkward stage (thank god for headbands).
My running regime is in an annoying awkward stage (next 5k in just over a month).
My job is not (things are pretty good).

Enjoyed the Kings game on Monday night because the Avs beat them (thanks Team AE).
Enjoyed dinner with the girls on Tuesday night because they are all so amazing (XOXO).
Do not enjoy the traffic on my commute some days (like today).

Saturday I will go see a movie with Friend A (of Team AE).
Saturday I will go celebrate baby Charbyn (at Friend R's baby shower).
Saturday I will play football (with the Orange Team).

Sunday I will probably do nothing.

Tomorrow is Friday!

What are you doing this weekend?

the only bomb to drop

A couple of Spring seasons ago I bought this amazing fuschia pink bouncy peasant skirt that I absolutely adore. I decided I needed a pretty pair of thongs (shoes you sicko) to go with it. I had an idea of the style I wanted - multiple leather straps that all connected to a metal circle in the middle. After months of searching I found an Anne Klein New York sandal that was as close as I was going to get to my ideal. I loved that sandal. Yesterday My Heart came home to this...

So today I bought this...

I don't love it but probably because I'm still upset that the puppy bomb went off in my closet and took something I wasn't ready to part with. I know it's just a shoe but it was my shoe and I am going to miss it. I'm sure I will eventually love my Bernardo's just as much.

we remember when snow fell

#15 Get married in Ireland (or at least visit it!)

#7 Celebrate our 50th wedding anniversary

#26 Ride a Vespa

#35 Take a ballet class

#10 Create photo albums (Hawaii, Torino, Down Under, M&M)

they make the shoes at night

There's this little tradition I started when I moved to LA. Every year I go see The Nightmare Before Christmas at the El Capitan. It's this old theater in Hollywood owned by Disney. And I love it.
Last week My Heart surprised me with tickets to the first night's showing (which is tonight).
He also told me he had another surprise but wouldn't tell me what. I had my suspicions since I had also been hinting about going to see the Nutcracker this year. I've always loved the Nutcracker and one of the theaters near our house is doing a performance of it. Since we're not going home for the holidays I thought it would be a sweet thing to do together.
So the other night, to trick him into revealing whether or not it was tickets to this show he had bought as my second surprise, I came home and told him I had bought tickets. The look on his face said it all and I couldn't help but laugh. I'm sorry My Heart but you know how I love a good surprise - for about 2 seconds and then I just HAVE to know what it is! Thank you :-)

life isn't fair

I was sent this link yesterday after a discussion on how ridiculous the Pro Prop 8 ads have been here in California. I think these are much smarter. Then again, I'm kinda biased...

No on Prop 8

small wonder

Today is the family's last day of vacation in Southern California. Tomorrow they fly home to beautiful Colorado where it really is Fall (damn you 90 degree weather!).
So Dad and his wife drove out to Hollywood to see where the magic is made. Sadly, it's in a dumpy alley off Cahuenga (ok, ok, it's not that bad). But we did head over to Hollywood and Highland to check out where My Heart works and grab a bite to eat.
We ended up at this newer place we had never tried called uWink. Weirdest lunch experience ever. No waiter just a computer. Everything, anything you need you find on this touch screen and order it up. Worst part, you are still expected to tip. Best part, there are also games on the touch screen. Good food but kind of like working for your meal.

when the goose jumps the fence

Apparently I missed a little excitement at the office on Friday because some famous guy came in to read a couple of scripts for a movie we're working on. Lucky for me, he came in again last night to read and I was still here.
I have had a long standing sort of crush on this person. I think it's the dry, witty sense of humor and the Airwalks with suits attire. Oftentimes I've been told I'm crazy for feeling this way but I think I'm starting to change my mind anyway...

gearing up for what's ahead

I have been a busy girL this weekend, the family is in town. They arrived on Thursday but are staying in Orange County so we didn't meet up with them until Friday. My Heart and I both took the day off to join them at Disneyland. It was such a great time! I had worried that by starting out at 8am the kids would be too tired to make it to the fireworks show at 9:3opm - boy was I wrong! 15 hours at Disneyland and they wanted more! It's amazing how contagious a sense of wonderment and excitement can be.

Saturday was a quieter and colder day (YAY FINALLY!) and of course we spent it at the beach. It wasn't very inviting but we made the best of it. Ran in to Friends C & J and got to introduce my Dad to them (eventually - sorry about that!). AND... the best part of all... My Heart and I played in our first coed touch football game!!! It was so much more fun than I had anticipated. We are the Orange team (Multiple Scoregasms) and the Orange team kicked some butt winning the first game of the season. Whoo hoo - go us. Friend J was awesome on the field beating out some of the boys even! I need some practice but did take a stiff arm to the face from some dude and was still able to tackle him.

Yesterday was more amusement park fun at Universal Studios with the whole fam except for My Heart (damn back again). We also had a nice sushi dinner before heading off to Griffith Park. It's interesting to see how much my Dad has changed over the years. He rode rides and ate sushi - who says you can't teach an old dog new tricks!?

It's good to be at work today though, I needed a break from my staycation.

if we can't save ourselves

Thank you Friend S for sending this my way... I encourage and invite all of you, my friends, to join.

INVITE A FRIEND

I just joined the Love/Avon Army of Women — and you should, too!

The Love/Avon Army of Women offers women the opportunity to partner with the scientists who are conducting research that will end this disease--once and for all.

Breast cancer has been around for decades, but it does not have to be our future. We can be the generation that stops breast cancer once and for all by figuring out what causes this disease and how to prevent it!

Sign up for your sister, mother, daughter, granddaughter, best friend, and the woman you met last week. This is YOUR chance to be part of the research that will end breast cancer.

It takes a just a minute to join. But the impact we will have will last a lifetime.

Please Join Me in Being One in a Million!

www.armyofwomen.org

the dusty pit of my stomach

Today, for the first time in my life, I have people cleaning my house for me. It was a long time coming but I didn't realize how difficult it would be to actually let it happen.

To start - our place is a mess. As I have described it many a time, it's a storage unit. My one bedroom apartment was supposed to be our temporary living situation but is now going on 2 years I think. Both our stuff just doesn't fit and we sit on a bed for a couch for god's sake!

Plus, we have 3 animals living with us who are little dirt balls - their fur just adds to the already dusty decor.

And to top it all off, we're lazy.

So cut to today... I had called a service I found on Yelp and they agreed to come by this morning and do a one time job for a pretty cheap rate. If I like the work I can schedule regular cleanings. 3 people showed up a little after 10am and got right to it. I left a check and left the house.

Problem is, I'm terrified something is going to go wrong. Maybe they won't really clean - just take my money and run. Maybe they'll take more than my money and run. And what about my little animals? Maybe they'll let them out and something terrible will happen. Ugh, I want to trust my instincts and say that everything is going to be fine but I think I'm a paranoid person because all my instincts are saying is, "WHAT THE HELL WERE YOU THINKING!?"

the grouch has got some brains

If you haven't seen the movie Once may I suggest you take the time to do so.
I had the privilege (along with My Heart) of seeing the leads of this film perform with their band on Saturday night at The Greek Theater. As Friend J (who also attended said show) put it - it was amazing, mesmerizing, incredible, stupendous. I had to one up him and add - POSSIBLY LIFE CHANGING (maybe more on that later). This article in the Hollywood Reporter shares a little more insight:

Oscar-winning duo mix old, new at L.A. show

By Darryl Morden Tue Oct 7, 6:07 AM ET

LOS ANGELES (Hollywood Reporter) - Most artists would save their best-known song -- an Oscar-winning song, yet -- for the end of a show or an encore. But not the Swell Season's Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova.

Opening Saturday's show at the Greek Theater in Los Angeles with an inviting cover of Van Morrison's "Into the Mystic," the duo followed with "Falling Slowly," the Academy Award-winning best original song from last year's "Once," in which the pair co-starred. And the audience was delighted.

As they were joined by musicians including members of Hansard's band the Frames, there was much to come during a richly giving performance that stretched for more than two hours, ranging from additional cover songs and new material to guest appearances.

Centered on the strums of Hansard's battered old acoustic guitar and Irglova's lullaby-like, lyrical piano, with embellishments of electric guitar, violin, bass and drums, the music was aching and elegant, heartfelt and soulful. Most of all, it tapped into the essence of our fragile relationships with one another and the world.

In concert, Irishman Hansard is the focal point, his gift of glib gab and wry humor between numbers part of what makes him so engaging, along with his raw-nerve-exposed taunt vocals. A solo segment found him stepping away from the microphone to sing the pleading "Say It to Me Now" "unplugged," and he furiously based away at his guitar strings for a soul-purging take on Morrison's "Astral Weeks."

Czech songstress Irglova offered gentle charm when she moved from her piano to the center-stage spotlight for lead vocals, and she played some acoustic guitar.

The set ranged from the jagged self-examination of "The Moon," about losing one's way in life, to the soaring waltz of resignation in "When Your Mind's Made Up" to the ringing pop of the new track "Maybe I Was Born to Hold You in These Arms."

Among the night's surprises were "Once" writer-director and former Frames member John Carney sitting in on bass for the film's title song, Disney's Richard Sherman of the Sherman Brothers leading the group in "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious" from "Mary Poppins" and Sam Beam of opener Iron & Wine joining for Neil Young's "Out on the Weekend."

The rising success of the Swell Season is heartening, the band's organic, crafted music defying the conventions of calculated pop marketing.

Reuters/Hollywood Reporter

is this glass over flowing

It rained on Saturday.
We ate at this really great, really European cafe as it was raining.
It felt good.

I've had cupcakes today.
I ate a red velvet half and then this amazing vanilla half on recommendation.
It felt good.

I'm at a weird crossroads in facing my own self awareness.
Who I am. Who I want to be.
Where I am. Where I want to be.

I have a quote on my desktop that says:
"Happiness is a place between too little and too much." - Finnish Proverb

Maybe I have too much?

all brats go to heaven

I wanted this...



I got this...

all is not fine

Last night I had dinner with Friend C at a place 2 blocks from my office. I walked up there at about 7:45pm and it was pretty dark and slightly scary for like half a block. That's when 2 cops on horses passed me and I felt like everything was ok. Everything was ok until I looked down from those horses and realized there was a trail of shit on the sidewalk for at least 10 feet. It was big. It was gross. And it got me thinking, who cleans that shit up?

for the good of all mankind

I check a small list of blogs every day - sometimes multiple times a day. Don't ask why (you've read the name of this blog right?). One out of the 4 that I check every day but have yet to add to my currently list is the fab I *Heart* You. Yesterday she had this up and it not only made me smile, it moved me so much that I thought it only right to share it with you...

organized schmorganized

Um, hello? Where have I been?

During Sunday football I was flipping through the new In Style and found an add for a TV show on TLC called Real Simple. Real Life. brought to us by one of my favorite magazines.

I just Googled it and found that PBS has been airing a show called Real Simple TV for 2 season already and is about to start the 3rd. This show is more like the actual magazine where as the new show is a reality makeover type thing.

How did I not know this? How did I not know that one of my favorite magazines that actually helps me survive life is a PBS TV show?

Well, I will be adding both to my DVR tonight.

I leave you with today's daily thought from realsimple.com

"Seek first to understand, then to be understood."
-Stephen R. Covey

P.S.

HAPPY HAPPY HAPPY Birthday to Friends ME & SB!!!
Much love to you both
XOXO

let the fog roll in

The heat has reared it's ugly head again and it's monstrous. Someone told me that the seasons change in his heart - that's because we live in LA and every season is the same. I'm sorry, but fuck this 90 degree weather we're having. It makes me cranky. It makes me lazy. Last night we took a late night walk and it was still hot out! I'm losing my mind...

It must be the heat but I'm feeling pretty crappy of late. You ever get to that point where you're done trying? You try so hard each and every day that it's gotta come to an end eventually. Or someone's gotta start giving you something back to help refuel maybe.

I know I can be bitchy - I am not necessarily a bitch but yes, I am bitchy. But I come to work every day with a pretty damn good attitude and I know it's my job to make other people's lives just that much easier. Well then, quit bitching! Give me a little something to work with here. It's tough for me too you know. We choose to be here so suck it up!

And I may be a bit selfish at times but I am a damn good girlfriend. Show me that it matters, that I matter. I want to feel the adoration every single fucking day - I know it's hard work but nothing comes easy. We're a team and we've gotta keep practicing to stay in this game.

Here's where I need to put in some major work of my own (I'm not afraid to admit it); spending time outside of my cocoon. If I step forward and start making this effort then I want you to do the same. Let's not say we're going to do a Sunday dinner and then never do it. Let's actually run that next 5k and have those drinks and get that dinner. My first step - yes, I am going to play coed touch football with you Friend J. I have signed up, paid my $75 and I am committed damn it! So the rest of you commit and let's have some fun already.

Phew, that felt good... sorry to be so bitchy but it's this heat I'm telling you.

finding the clearing

I have been so consumed with work lately. I knew what I was getting myself into when I started back in the business - but I feel like I'm losing touch. So I wanted to remind you (and me) that...

• I have a great partner/teammate in My Heart.
• Dogs will love you no matter what and are really great to come home to (when they haven't pooped in the house).
• Los Angeles can be an exciting place to live.
• Sometimes shopping really does help.
• Diamonds aren't always a girl's best friend - it's nice to have real girlfriends to fall back on.
• The right shoes can make almost any outfit killer.
• The heat will end eventually.
• The holidays are not about buying or receiving presents.
• Hobbies help to define who you are as a person.
• I love photography.
• Life is too short not to follow up on those dinner plans.
• Not all people suck.

the hyper hypo

My Heart planned a day out for us last weekend that started with breakfast at a new little place we've been eyeing, included roller coasters and knee socks and ended with this discovery:

It was a virtual wonderland of candy! The bright, bold and colorful enticing the senses brought so much joy - I was literally a kid in a candy shop!

My favorites are probably the gummy bears (since I am a bear).

Or maybe this display case - it was gorgeous! I would have been happy with any one of these treats.

I loved the non-edible sugar they had too (reminds me of my days as Sugar). Maybe someone will surprise me with something...

Is it so wrong that I needed to see up her skirt???

Teehee!

In the end, My Heart found his favorites and so we took home a little sugar treasure of our own.



(Gummy Cokes)
(And thank you My Heart for lending me your precious iPhone to document this)

for what it's worth

I don't know if it's actually critical but it's interesting.
It's a PBS online poll that is asking one question, "Is Palin qualified to be VP?"
What do you think...

http://www.pbs.org/now/polls/poll-435.html



And don't forget to vote - now that is critical!

little lace socks

Oh Glamour, aren't you just so cute!

10 Ways to Be an Even Better Friend

Want to ensure your friends can go to you for anything? Here's how.

By Kimberly Bonnell & Pamela Redmond Satran

1. Gossip, yes, but don't get mean. She'll wonder whether you're talking that way about her to everyone else.

2. If she's got a poppy seed in her teeth, mascara under her eyes or deodorant on her sweater, tell her.

3. Do not ̶ repeat, do not ̶ side with her mother.

4. If she's crazy about him, pretend he's your brother and never date him. Ever.

5. Have that scary fight about how she's been bugging you. If you can go there for a guy, you can for her, too.

6. Keep her ring size filed away in case you-know-who calls for advice about you-know-what.

7. Oh, just wear the bridesmaid's dress.

8. See straight through her attempts at cool perfection and love her more for the weaknesses she's trying to hide.

9. Remind her that she wasn't that into him, either.

10. When the guy dumps her, the cat gets cancer, the job explodes, simply be there.

never say never

I NEVER post twice in one day but this is an occasion that calls for it...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY AUNT M!!!

my secret identity

It used to be Victoria but now it's Katie...

(Photos courtesy of Frugal-Fashionista)

dear body, thank you

I did it.
I'm home now - showered and clean and relaxed.
My nerves were for nothing. It was so much easier than I expected.
I finished faster than I thought I would and it was nowhere near last!
Not to mention all the free shwag I picked up ;-)
So when's the next 5k ladies?

P.S.
Thank you to all my friends and family for the support - it's the only reason I actually showed up today!

you are so intriguing

I've been wearing My Heart's cologne lately.

A) Because it smells like him and I want to be closer to him somehow
B) Because it smells like him and I want him to notice
C) Because it smells like Fall more than my perfume does

Since A & B don't seem to be working I went ahead and found my own smell for Fall and I'm so happy I did... Jo Malone Sweet Lime and Cedar Cologne is exactly what I was looking for.

shooting stars

My Dad sent us girLs an email describing Luc's last day and I loved it so much I thought I'd post it. Poor one out for our old friend...

Well its been a week now and i'd thought i'd send out an update.

Luc spent the last night on earth cuddled up in a blanket in my arms. We stayed up until 2:30 having a few drinks and reminising about old times. We shared a few laughs, some tears and some bacardi. Then I put Luc to bed with Mooshie. The next morning Luc was all excited to be going for a car ride. Made me second guess the decision as he picked his little head up and wanted to stick it out the window. He loved car rides. But when we got to the vets office, he just lay there with no energy and when the vet. came in, right away he agreed it was time. Made me feel a lot better about the decision. Luc went peacefully, the last words he heard ( or I hope he heard cuz you know he was deaf) were "You're a good boy lukie boy" as I held him for the vet.

Mooshie's just loving all the attention that he's been getting, new haircut, extra walks and cuddling, double the treats (he especially loves double the treats, he potties twice as much just to get a treat!!) The first couple of days he would bark in his kennel, just sit there and bark. I think he realizes now that Luc isn't coming back.

The vets office called on monday to say that Luc's ashes were ready to get picked up. Wasn't ready to do that yet. Not till Thursday. Mooshie and I went to go get him. Mooshie doesn't know how to ride in a car, he's afraid to stick his head out the window and all he wants to do is sit in my lap!! Well we picked them up and i tried to tell mooshie that it was luc, but he didn't buy it. Wasn't sure how i would feel picking up luc's ashes but actually when i put them on the mantle above the fireplace, it was a good feeling, cuz luc's home again. and he'll always be home.

M, love the picture on the post on the blog.

Love

Dad

solace in the equinox

Dear Fall,
I miss you old friend.
The comfort of your crisp air and vibrant colors no longer here for me.
Where did you go and why so far away?
Oh, you say, it was me who left?
I am sorry dear one for I miss you more than the others.
I miss the passing of the summer months with the hope for something fresh and new.
I long to take in the deep clean breaths of your cold but not yet frozen air.
To feel that change once again seems from so long ago.
To go back to those times... those good times.
Of family and of friends.
Of the familiar and the unknown.
My dearest fall.
How can you ever forgive me leaving you, my favorite, for something so unworthy.
If only you would bring me back with open arms and love me the way I love you.
Yours Always,
the GirL

go team taco

It's getting so close and I'm getting so nervous.
I should have trained harder.
Why didn't I train harder?
Stupid, stupid, stupid.
I don't want to be the last one to finish.
I want to be able to finish with my friends.
What was I thinking doing this?
It's for a good cause.
It's more than just for me.
Wanna help?

Donate to Kickin Cancer

Join Us and Run!

scared to look

And on a lighter note today...



Really Domino's? Really?

ahead of the tombstone

A bit disconnected in that all too connected sort of way
Running around feeling lost and hostile
Not wanting to be anything but alone
Missing you
Missing them
Wondering when it all becomes
That circle
Full circle
Complete

When you just want to be
Within that space that suffocates
Separated because you feel
Happy but you don't know how to be
When it all went wrong
When it was right
Right there
Here

someone out there helping

Not a single phone call, text message or email... hmm, well no matter. I am fine thanks. I did not happen to be on that train so I am fine. But others were not so lucky...

Dear M --

Yesterday afternoon, a Metrolink commuter train carrying 225 people collided with a freight train in the Chatsworth area of the San Fernando Valley, killing at least 23 and leaving at least 135 injured. Survivors have been rushed to several local area hospitals and many are in critical condition.

Many of you have asked what you can do to help. The UCLA Blood and Platelet Center will be open Monday through Friday to accept blood donations. Healthy donors of all blood types are needed to donate blood. Appointments can be made by calling 310-794-7217 ext. 2. Contact the Red Cross at 800-RED-CROSS or visit www.redcross.org for other information about blood donation or ways you can help.

Thank you, and please keep your thoughts and prayers with the families and victims affected by this terrible tragedy.

Mitchell

Mitchell Schwartz
California State Director
Obama for America

friday filler

#39 Vacation in Costa Rica

#31 Sew myself something

#14 Get a photograph published

#22 Learn to meditate

#4 Be humble

talking smack

When I was in 5th grade I had this 6th grader as a best friend. She lived down the street and introduced me to boy's racing bikes, scooters, holy water and Dr. Pepper. I never really cared for soda even though we always had Pepsi in the house but once I met Dr. Pepper I was in love.

Another love was Bonne Bell Lip Smacker Lip Balm which my mom usually put in our stockings every Christmas along with chocolate Santas.

My world was complete the year I found the Dr. Pepper Bonne Bell Lip Smacker Lip Balm at the bottom of my stocking.

Cut to a decade and then some later and my newest love - thanks to life long best friend G... on 10 cosmetics Dr. Pepper Berries & Cream In Good Taste Lip Conditioner with SPF 15 Sunscreen. This was in my birthday package and I absolutely LOVE it! Thanks G!

(Wish I could find a pic of the beautiful box it comes in)

who has the heart

Today was unusual in that I left the office for lunch. I was actually a bit lost in what to do with myself. I had put a call in to My Heart but he was busy. I decided to go to the book store and eat with a new read. I drove because it's LA and it's hot and I have heels on and I'm lazy. At the meter there was a shiny new quarter sitting on top waiting for me to put it in. I went into Borders and wandered forever but couldn't find what I was looking for. I didn't know the name of either book or the name of either author even though they are father and son. Luckily, the staff were crafty and knowledgeable and good investigators/hunters. We found both books. Correction, they found both books - Tweak by Nic Sheff and beautiful boy by David Sheff. I bought them both. I was going to go to this little Thai place and pick up something to go but passed a Japanese place on my way back to the car. I went in with the intention of taking something from there to go. I ended up sitting at a table for four - just me and my books. The food was good but the service was relaxed. I ate and I read and finally I left. Walked to my car with the intentions of paying back the quarter to the next meter parker. But I had a ticket. A stupid parking ticket. But thanks for the quarter anyway, it was nice.

something to try

There was this box of glass you got into and then it moved from the inside out and then it went clear. That's how you could see how far up you really were. That's how you could see how far away from home you'd really gone. That was the Eureka Tower. I am afraid of heights but not afraid of trying something. It was on this day that we were walking through Federation Square and I saw this and it was one of my favorites. Meet Chor Boogie:

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!