Birthday Sluts
4 years ago
Monday, December 17, 2007
Sunday, December 16, 2007
Friday, December 14, 2007
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
A Charlie Brown Christmas...
This post is really about celebrating the holiday season (whatever holiday you celebrate) by doing something a little bigger than yourself. I love the holidays and feel they are a celebration of family, life, and the hope of the coming year. I personally love the holidays.
What I do not love is the stores ramming it down my throat right after Halloween. It's too much and always makes me grouchy. My inner Mr. Brown comes out and I yell a cathartic "good grief!" But, this year I decided to really do something for the holidays that mean something.
I donated a laptop from the charity "One Laptop per Child". The goal of this organization is to get every child in developing countries and those underserved in the US a free computer made possible by donations. I saw the founder on 60 Minutes and for the past year have been following this organization. Yesterday I got online and bought their laptop.
If you do it now, you will also get a laptop sent to your residence to give to a child in your life. The computer uses battery power, can be cranked, and is made to withstand desert and rainforest conditions. For $400 I am getting 2 computers, one for a child somewhere else and one for my future child. I also get to tax deduct $200 on my taxes for basically being a decent person.
I know it's easy to get cynical and humbug things like this. But, truly, giving is something we can do. If you can't afford to purchase one you can donate any amount of money to the foundation.
This "Give one/Get one" offer is only happening until Dec. 30th. Just stop by the website and check it out.
http://www.laptopgiving.org
Happy Hannukah, Merry Christmas, Joyous Kwaanzaa, Happy New Year, and Happy Diwali to everyone!
What I do not love is the stores ramming it down my throat right after Halloween. It's too much and always makes me grouchy. My inner Mr. Brown comes out and I yell a cathartic "good grief!" But, this year I decided to really do something for the holidays that mean something.
I donated a laptop from the charity "One Laptop per Child". The goal of this organization is to get every child in developing countries and those underserved in the US a free computer made possible by donations. I saw the founder on 60 Minutes and for the past year have been following this organization. Yesterday I got online and bought their laptop.
If you do it now, you will also get a laptop sent to your residence to give to a child in your life. The computer uses battery power, can be cranked, and is made to withstand desert and rainforest conditions. For $400 I am getting 2 computers, one for a child somewhere else and one for my future child. I also get to tax deduct $200 on my taxes for basically being a decent person.
I know it's easy to get cynical and humbug things like this. But, truly, giving is something we can do. If you can't afford to purchase one you can donate any amount of money to the foundation.
This "Give one/Get one" offer is only happening until Dec. 30th. Just stop by the website and check it out.
http://www.laptopgiving.org
Happy Hannukah, Merry Christmas, Joyous Kwaanzaa, Happy New Year, and Happy Diwali to everyone!
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
This Week in WTF?!?!?!?!
So, this week is shaping up to be totally bizarre and funny. Just the way I like it.
First things first...
Jay-Z was on Charlie Rose- the format of the show and the formality of the show made this interview just weird. Jay-Z is a great intervew and Charlie Rose did a good job. But, watching these two talk almost created a space-time rift in my living room.
Now, onto things with links...
Stephon Marbury is blackmailing Isiah Thomas for his starting position. Mr. Sex Truck has even more damaging information on Mr. Thomas than we already knew? Somebody get me some movie theater popcorn and a soda, this should be good.
http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/basketball/knicks/2007/11/14/2007-11-14_stephon_marbury_threatens_to_dish_info_a.html
Mariah Carey has created her own perfume called "M". I can't wait to use it while I enjoy time in my tub with clothes on or hanging in my butterfly room reading notes from my adoring fans.
http://www.mariahcareybeauty.com/
Britney Spears kids teeth have offically made me angry. They are really nasty and maybe Britney should have used white strips on them. There are no pictures of the teeth here. But, check out Pink is the New Blog for pics of those chompers.
http://blog.vh1.com/2007-08-28/britneys-kids-have-rotting-teeth/
And finally, Lyndon LaRouche has been a staple of crazy people politics about as long as L. Ron Hubbard has been a staple of crazy people religion. This article is a fascintaing piece about his career and followers. If you haven't heard of this guy this is a nice introduction to him and his followers.
http://www2.washingtonmonthly.com/features/2007/0711.klein.html
First things first...
Jay-Z was on Charlie Rose- the format of the show and the formality of the show made this interview just weird. Jay-Z is a great intervew and Charlie Rose did a good job. But, watching these two talk almost created a space-time rift in my living room.
Now, onto things with links...
Stephon Marbury is blackmailing Isiah Thomas for his starting position. Mr. Sex Truck has even more damaging information on Mr. Thomas than we already knew? Somebody get me some movie theater popcorn and a soda, this should be good.
http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/basketball/knicks/2007/11/14/2007-11-14_stephon_marbury_threatens_to_dish_info_a.html
Mariah Carey has created her own perfume called "M". I can't wait to use it while I enjoy time in my tub with clothes on or hanging in my butterfly room reading notes from my adoring fans.
http://www.mariahcareybeauty.com/
Britney Spears kids teeth have offically made me angry. They are really nasty and maybe Britney should have used white strips on them. There are no pictures of the teeth here. But, check out Pink is the New Blog for pics of those chompers.
http://blog.vh1.com/2007-08-28/britneys-kids-have-rotting-teeth/
And finally, Lyndon LaRouche has been a staple of crazy people politics about as long as L. Ron Hubbard has been a staple of crazy people religion. This article is a fascintaing piece about his career and followers. If you haven't heard of this guy this is a nice introduction to him and his followers.
http://www2.washingtonmonthly.com/features/2007/0711.klein.html
Thursday, November 01, 2007
This is Why Home Schooling Scares Me...
Read this profile of home-schooled "Kid Nation" contestant Nathan. I find it hard to believe he came up with these opinions on his own.
http://www.cbs.com/primetime/kid_nation/bios/nathan/
http://www.cbs.com/primetime/kid_nation/bios/nathan/
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Great Post from Craigslist...
I just read this hilarious rant on Craigslist and wanted to post it verbatim.
And, after reading it, let me ask all of you a question: who bothers you most on the subway?
OK, I have been riding the subway every day for a lot of years. When you start riding, it doesn't take a much time to see all sorts of characters. At first, these people sightings might be somewhat shocking or even funny, but you begin to grow used to the pants less, toothless, yelling, drunk, cracked out, stinky, sweaty, and perverted characters that ride the subway. They really don't bother you much; in fact I welcome a little cameo from these guys once in a while. After all, it is part of our city culture.
That said I have compiled a list – a spilling of my mental Rolodex of the people I share the subway with on a daily basis. These are the monsters I can't get used to and won't accept. They annoy the ever-loving piss out of me. Thing is, I never see these hooligans all at once, but I do see one at least once a day.
- Lady that fans herself with a piece of paper in the train car with broken a/c: Look lady, the air is hot. Not just your air but everyone's air. We are all breathing in each other's nasty hot breath and germs and here you go creating a gust of hot wind. This does not cool you down and it is especially fucking annoying when the car happens to be stuck that day, all is silent and we are forced to listen to the flip flopping of your paper up and down as you breath in and out deeply. So fucking ridiculous.
- Chinese guy with yellow nails and a bag of chicken feet: Dude, I'm not even kidding, you are nasty as hell. No one likes a set of long man-nails near them EVER and here you are wrapping those daggers around the center subway pole nearly slicing innocent bystanders as the plastic bag of chicken feet sways near your legs. Oh yes, and what are you going to do with those chicken feet anyway? Take advantage of us poor unknowing customers by grinding them up to use as filler in the next batch of HAPPY FAMILY from the local Jade Garden? I mean Jesus.
- Asshole with the sunglasses on: OK, there is no sunshine on the subway. This is not the L train pal. You sit there with your black as night shades on clearly staring at people for as long as you please. That's just wrong. Your probably staring at the lady's tits who is standing above you or even undressing some poor middle schooler with your eyes. Not only are you taking ample amounts of time to fanaticize about unsuspecting riders, but you look like an idiot doing it. This is especially worse when you also chew gum with an open mouth like a friggin' cow. You are drawing attention to yourself now and I can tell by the direction of your neck muscles that you were staring at me! Lady on the 8:30 F train Monday morning - you know who you are!
- Jerk that leans over you to look at the subway map: OK, your ball sac is 2 inches from my face. You don't care do you? Even though you've traumatized me and I lean back in my seat to shy far far away from your jewels, you lean in closer to get a better look at where to transfer from the E to the D train! Yuk man, have some manners. This is worse when you are sleeping with your head in your hands and wake to find a pants slacks covered man bulge in your grill.
- Ghostfarter: OK, I know it may be hard to hold it, but if you had diarrhea this morning of course your farts are going to reek! I mean the train is crowded with little ventilation yet you subject us to the rotten remnants of your ass-meal. This is inconsiderate and nasty! Hey if one clipped out, OK - it's happened to the best of us but you try to move around a bit and circulate. Don’t just stand there and poof out stinker after stinker while you read your paper! I'm talking about the well-dressed guy in the suit or the one hot chic on the train, it was probably you!
- Asshole with the book bag: If your bag more than 3 inches off of your back for god's sakes put it in front of you toward the floor! This is common knowledge!! I can't tell you how many times some retard with a book bag extending 3 feet tall off his back has decided to turn around and talk to his friend or bend down to tie his shoe and clock me one without knowing the difference. Yeah, that was me who bumped you on purpose. I hate you!
- Lady that hugs the pole on a crowded train: Are you fucking blind!?? There are other people riding the train with you jerk but yet you proceed to make sweet love to the silver pole. Can we maybe hold on for a second TOO so we don't break and ankle??!!! Then, when we ask you to move you PRETEND you don't speak English. Real nice. Why don't you walk to work with a broomstick and hug that you shitbag.
- Nail Clipping Fool: This means you regular business guy with no regard or oblivious Asian lady. Jesus Christ, does anyone have manners?? DO NOT CLIP YOUR NAILS ON THE SUBWAY! I should be making signs for god's sakes! Not only are we subjected to the resonating sound of your clipping but your nail shrapnel is flying every which way and hitting men, women and children. This is by far the most disgusting thing ever. I'd like to take a free shot at your gut while fellow train riders hold you up.
And, after reading it, let me ask all of you a question: who bothers you most on the subway?
OK, I have been riding the subway every day for a lot of years. When you start riding, it doesn't take a much time to see all sorts of characters. At first, these people sightings might be somewhat shocking or even funny, but you begin to grow used to the pants less, toothless, yelling, drunk, cracked out, stinky, sweaty, and perverted characters that ride the subway. They really don't bother you much; in fact I welcome a little cameo from these guys once in a while. After all, it is part of our city culture.
That said I have compiled a list – a spilling of my mental Rolodex of the people I share the subway with on a daily basis. These are the monsters I can't get used to and won't accept. They annoy the ever-loving piss out of me. Thing is, I never see these hooligans all at once, but I do see one at least once a day.
- Lady that fans herself with a piece of paper in the train car with broken a/c: Look lady, the air is hot. Not just your air but everyone's air. We are all breathing in each other's nasty hot breath and germs and here you go creating a gust of hot wind. This does not cool you down and it is especially fucking annoying when the car happens to be stuck that day, all is silent and we are forced to listen to the flip flopping of your paper up and down as you breath in and out deeply. So fucking ridiculous.
- Chinese guy with yellow nails and a bag of chicken feet: Dude, I'm not even kidding, you are nasty as hell. No one likes a set of long man-nails near them EVER and here you are wrapping those daggers around the center subway pole nearly slicing innocent bystanders as the plastic bag of chicken feet sways near your legs. Oh yes, and what are you going to do with those chicken feet anyway? Take advantage of us poor unknowing customers by grinding them up to use as filler in the next batch of HAPPY FAMILY from the local Jade Garden? I mean Jesus.
- Asshole with the sunglasses on: OK, there is no sunshine on the subway. This is not the L train pal. You sit there with your black as night shades on clearly staring at people for as long as you please. That's just wrong. Your probably staring at the lady's tits who is standing above you or even undressing some poor middle schooler with your eyes. Not only are you taking ample amounts of time to fanaticize about unsuspecting riders, but you look like an idiot doing it. This is especially worse when you also chew gum with an open mouth like a friggin' cow. You are drawing attention to yourself now and I can tell by the direction of your neck muscles that you were staring at me! Lady on the 8:30 F train Monday morning - you know who you are!
- Jerk that leans over you to look at the subway map: OK, your ball sac is 2 inches from my face. You don't care do you? Even though you've traumatized me and I lean back in my seat to shy far far away from your jewels, you lean in closer to get a better look at where to transfer from the E to the D train! Yuk man, have some manners. This is worse when you are sleeping with your head in your hands and wake to find a pants slacks covered man bulge in your grill.
- Ghostfarter: OK, I know it may be hard to hold it, but if you had diarrhea this morning of course your farts are going to reek! I mean the train is crowded with little ventilation yet you subject us to the rotten remnants of your ass-meal. This is inconsiderate and nasty! Hey if one clipped out, OK - it's happened to the best of us but you try to move around a bit and circulate. Don’t just stand there and poof out stinker after stinker while you read your paper! I'm talking about the well-dressed guy in the suit or the one hot chic on the train, it was probably you!
- Asshole with the book bag: If your bag more than 3 inches off of your back for god's sakes put it in front of you toward the floor! This is common knowledge!! I can't tell you how many times some retard with a book bag extending 3 feet tall off his back has decided to turn around and talk to his friend or bend down to tie his shoe and clock me one without knowing the difference. Yeah, that was me who bumped you on purpose. I hate you!
- Lady that hugs the pole on a crowded train: Are you fucking blind!?? There are other people riding the train with you jerk but yet you proceed to make sweet love to the silver pole. Can we maybe hold on for a second TOO so we don't break and ankle??!!! Then, when we ask you to move you PRETEND you don't speak English. Real nice. Why don't you walk to work with a broomstick and hug that you shitbag.
- Nail Clipping Fool: This means you regular business guy with no regard or oblivious Asian lady. Jesus Christ, does anyone have manners?? DO NOT CLIP YOUR NAILS ON THE SUBWAY! I should be making signs for god's sakes! Not only are we subjected to the resonating sound of your clipping but your nail shrapnel is flying every which way and hitting men, women and children. This is by far the most disgusting thing ever. I'd like to take a free shot at your gut while fellow train riders hold you up.
Thursday, October 04, 2007
What a Crappy Time to Be a Woman
Here are a few links related to some items about women and children. Neither seem to be having a great week.
"Is a Mommy Job Necessary?"
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/10/04/fashion/04skin.html?pagewanted=1&_r=1
This story from the NY Times fashion section details to pressure of women to get full body lifts after pregnancy (boob job, tummy tuck, lipo). As if pregnant women and mothers need any more to worry about.
"Idiot's Guide to the Isiah Trial"
http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=simmons/070927
Bill Simmons breaks down the whole case. Needless to say, after the "win", women still have a long way to go. Between the culture at MSG we have an intern who slept with players and got promoted for it. She then got another promotion before testifying and THEN talked about how difficult her job was. Thanks for destroying female credibility all by yourself!
"Why Bush was dumb to veto SCHIP"
http://www.slate.com/id/2175243/
Thank God we're keeping insurance companies rich and making sure kids can't get benefits. Socialized medicine is a false argument and not passing this bill keeps doctors AND patients at the mercy of Aetna, HIP, and other insurance agencies.
"The Science of Strippers' Tips"
http://www.salon.com/mwt/broadsheet/?last_story=/mwt/broadsheet/2007/10/04/stripper_tips/
Basically, when you ovulate and lick the pole you make more money. If only this moved us ahead in other fields.
So, there you go. Be prepared to cry and curl up in bed. Happy Reading!
"Is a Mommy Job Necessary?"
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/10/04/fashion/04skin.html?pagewanted=1&_r=1
This story from the NY Times fashion section details to pressure of women to get full body lifts after pregnancy (boob job, tummy tuck, lipo). As if pregnant women and mothers need any more to worry about.
"Idiot's Guide to the Isiah Trial"
http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=simmons/070927
Bill Simmons breaks down the whole case. Needless to say, after the "win", women still have a long way to go. Between the culture at MSG we have an intern who slept with players and got promoted for it. She then got another promotion before testifying and THEN talked about how difficult her job was. Thanks for destroying female credibility all by yourself!
"Why Bush was dumb to veto SCHIP"
http://www.slate.com/id/2175243/
Thank God we're keeping insurance companies rich and making sure kids can't get benefits. Socialized medicine is a false argument and not passing this bill keeps doctors AND patients at the mercy of Aetna, HIP, and other insurance agencies.
"The Science of Strippers' Tips"
http://www.salon.com/mwt/broadsheet/?last_story=/mwt/broadsheet/2007/10/04/stripper_tips/
Basically, when you ovulate and lick the pole you make more money. If only this moved us ahead in other fields.
So, there you go. Be prepared to cry and curl up in bed. Happy Reading!
Wednesday, October 03, 2007
Always Making Excuses...
It's been a while since I blogged about anything. But, I have some things on my mind and I will start blogging tomorrow in ernest. It's time to get off my enlarged (pregnant) booty and get to work!!!!
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Amy's Summer Round-Up
What I Liked:
Black Girls dressing like Valley Girls circa 1984. I love big pearls and neon.
1408, Stardust, Superbad, and very little else.
US Open tennis. Serena Williams WILL win. I'm betting money on it
USA Basketball. We did great and it got me amped for the upcoming season.
More skateboarding and less thugging
My work with Generation Stockholm
What I Didn't:
The continued dominance of most southern rap. I'm over it.
The entire movie season. (read previous blog)
Scott Baio is 45...and Single. What a jerk this guy is. It was almost laughable, and a special place of hate for his friend "Johnny V."
All the sports drama. Who cares? Just watch sports, every job is filled with jerks.
No good summer shows, excluding Big Love.
Songs of the Summer:
National Player's Anthem (UGK f/ Outkast)
Stronger (Kanye West)
Tambourine (Eve)
The Way I Are (Timbaland and some other people I don't know)
Lovestoned (Justin Timberlake)
Rehab (Amy Winehouse)
Drivin' Me Wild (Common f/ Lily Allen)
The entire Mark Ronson album version (a must buy. Trust me!)
Songs I Wish Would Die:
Umbrella- Horrible. The "ella/ella/ey/ey" crap made my ears bleed.
Hey there Delilah- I liked this sone when Simon and Grafunkle was recording it 40 years ago.
Big Girls Don't Cry- But, I do bleed out of my eyeballs when Fergie tries to sing.
Black Girls dressing like Valley Girls circa 1984. I love big pearls and neon.
1408, Stardust, Superbad, and very little else.
US Open tennis. Serena Williams WILL win. I'm betting money on it
USA Basketball. We did great and it got me amped for the upcoming season.
More skateboarding and less thugging
My work with Generation Stockholm
What I Didn't:
The continued dominance of most southern rap. I'm over it.
The entire movie season. (read previous blog)
Scott Baio is 45...and Single. What a jerk this guy is. It was almost laughable, and a special place of hate for his friend "Johnny V."
All the sports drama. Who cares? Just watch sports, every job is filled with jerks.
No good summer shows, excluding Big Love.
Songs of the Summer:
National Player's Anthem (UGK f/ Outkast)
Stronger (Kanye West)
Tambourine (Eve)
The Way I Are (Timbaland and some other people I don't know)
Lovestoned (Justin Timberlake)
Rehab (Amy Winehouse)
Drivin' Me Wild (Common f/ Lily Allen)
The entire Mark Ronson album version (a must buy. Trust me!)
Songs I Wish Would Die:
Umbrella- Horrible. The "ella/ella/ey/ey" crap made my ears bleed.
Hey there Delilah- I liked this sone when Simon and Grafunkle was recording it 40 years ago.
Big Girls Don't Cry- But, I do bleed out of my eyeballs when Fergie tries to sing.
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
How To Balance it All?
Yesterday I got my second songram. This is the one they make sure to check for all organs, body parts, etc. I did not find out the sex. There are so few surprises in this day and age, I want this one to be huge. Plus, I am not such a fan of gender specific things. What if your liitle football player wants to be a ballerina and vice versa? That is not something you can force on a child.
The whole event was amazing and as time approaches, I find myself more excited and happy about what is going to happen to my life. But, this whole event has also made me think about many things in my life. Now, my main career is working with children. I love it, but in all honesty I do not see myself working with kids and then coming home to a kid. That would be too much. My love is writing and comedy. I worry daily about how this new life will affect that. Already my energy and stamina have decreased. I worry how I can balance writing, performing, and filming shorts with having a child and being a mother.
I think writing and helping Generation Stiockholm and Josh Homer with filming will still happen. But, I am realisitic. I will probably be off the comedy scene for at least 6 months or more. And that scares me. Whenever I make some headway things in my personal life get nuts. I am really happy with the past few months of what I have been doing. I know that my comedy partner and our endevours would still happen. But, my solo success could have a huge hit.
Who knows what will happen? I sure don't. Right now, I am just trying to work hard, create interesting things, and basically enjoy my husband, my (soon-to-be) baby, all my friends, and where things take me.
If anyone out there has any advice, I will listen. I think comedy and entertainment is already hard on women, I can't imagine what it is like on mothers.
Thanks for listening. This might be the most solopsistic post I've ever written.
The whole event was amazing and as time approaches, I find myself more excited and happy about what is going to happen to my life. But, this whole event has also made me think about many things in my life. Now, my main career is working with children. I love it, but in all honesty I do not see myself working with kids and then coming home to a kid. That would be too much. My love is writing and comedy. I worry daily about how this new life will affect that. Already my energy and stamina have decreased. I worry how I can balance writing, performing, and filming shorts with having a child and being a mother.
I think writing and helping Generation Stiockholm and Josh Homer with filming will still happen. But, I am realisitic. I will probably be off the comedy scene for at least 6 months or more. And that scares me. Whenever I make some headway things in my personal life get nuts. I am really happy with the past few months of what I have been doing. I know that my comedy partner and our endevours would still happen. But, my solo success could have a huge hit.
Who knows what will happen? I sure don't. Right now, I am just trying to work hard, create interesting things, and basically enjoy my husband, my (soon-to-be) baby, all my friends, and where things take me.
If anyone out there has any advice, I will listen. I think comedy and entertainment is already hard on women, I can't imagine what it is like on mothers.
Thanks for listening. This might be the most solopsistic post I've ever written.
Thursday, August 09, 2007
Why was the Summer Movie Season so Bad This Year?
So, I have been hitting the multiplexes this summer. And I have one worrd. BLAH! I usually enjoy summer movies for what they are, mindless fun. But, so far, this summer it hasn't been much fun.
Most movies have been profoundly dissapointing. I have only truly enjoyed 2 movies, 1408 and Knocked Up. Why? Both of these movies were just entertaining. They didn't try to be something they weren't. Ratatouille was fine, but it was not The Incredibles.
All the big stuff Spidey, Harry Potter, Transformers were all let downs.
So, how will my summer be saved? Below is a list of movies I haven't seen yet, but have some faith in:
Bourne Ultimatum
Superbad
Rescue Dawn
Sunshine
Stardust
The 10 (I still have a soft spot for The State)
It's a shame that this summer has been such a letdown. I am going to see Hairspray by myself tomorrow. I am not expecting much. Maybe that's how I should have approached the whole summer.
Most movies have been profoundly dissapointing. I have only truly enjoyed 2 movies, 1408 and Knocked Up. Why? Both of these movies were just entertaining. They didn't try to be something they weren't. Ratatouille was fine, but it was not The Incredibles.
All the big stuff Spidey, Harry Potter, Transformers were all let downs.
So, how will my summer be saved? Below is a list of movies I haven't seen yet, but have some faith in:
Bourne Ultimatum
Superbad
Rescue Dawn
Sunshine
Stardust
The 10 (I still have a soft spot for The State)
It's a shame that this summer has been such a letdown. I am going to see Hairspray by myself tomorrow. I am not expecting much. Maybe that's how I should have approached the whole summer.
Monday, July 23, 2007
My Big Geeky Weekend
So, what did you do this weekend?? It probably involved going out, exploring, doing things. Not me! I started my weekend seeing the film 1408. Excellent. The best movie I've seen in this disappointing summer. Then, I went to Virgin Megastore to pick up my pre-ordered copy of Harry Potter.
This is where everything goes off the rails. My husband and I were walking in and saw a small sign that said, "We have the Wii." The first words out of Joe's mouth were, "Where do you think they are?" He made a beeline downstairs and got in line. He got the last one they had that evening. Joe was even more satisfied because the guy behind him looked like a perp on "To Catch a Predator" and crushing dreams is something Joe loves to do. So, he got the Wii, 2 games, and an extra remote.
We then got ready to get our books and saw that the line was ridiculous. So, we went home and fired up the Wii. And, I am not a huge game fan, but let me say something. Nintendo has changed the game. While everyone else fretted about grphical load and adding every extra known to man, the Wii just decided to be the simplest and most interesting console around. The use of the wands with point and click functions along with the functionality of the sensors denoting any movement, make it a more interactive game.
The unit also connects to the internet where you can read news wire articles, get the weather, create avatars called Miis, and purchase almost every game in the NES universe. This creates an interactive and personal game experience. Needless to say, I spent a few hours playing Wario Smooth Moves and Wii Sports. The future is now.
Saturday morning I went and picked up my copy of Harry Potter, I am at page 345 currently and will be getting abck to it as soon as I finish this post. I have loved all the books and have been waiting for a while for this one. I think the books have been amazing and have really boosted a love of reading in many children and adults. I hope that all of Harry's fans continue seeking out good stories.
So, until The Simpsons opens next weekend this, officially, was the geekiest weekend ever.
This is where everything goes off the rails. My husband and I were walking in and saw a small sign that said, "We have the Wii." The first words out of Joe's mouth were, "Where do you think they are?" He made a beeline downstairs and got in line. He got the last one they had that evening. Joe was even more satisfied because the guy behind him looked like a perp on "To Catch a Predator" and crushing dreams is something Joe loves to do. So, he got the Wii, 2 games, and an extra remote.
We then got ready to get our books and saw that the line was ridiculous. So, we went home and fired up the Wii. And, I am not a huge game fan, but let me say something. Nintendo has changed the game. While everyone else fretted about grphical load and adding every extra known to man, the Wii just decided to be the simplest and most interesting console around. The use of the wands with point and click functions along with the functionality of the sensors denoting any movement, make it a more interactive game.
The unit also connects to the internet where you can read news wire articles, get the weather, create avatars called Miis, and purchase almost every game in the NES universe. This creates an interactive and personal game experience. Needless to say, I spent a few hours playing Wario Smooth Moves and Wii Sports. The future is now.
Saturday morning I went and picked up my copy of Harry Potter, I am at page 345 currently and will be getting abck to it as soon as I finish this post. I have loved all the books and have been waiting for a while for this one. I think the books have been amazing and have really boosted a love of reading in many children and adults. I hope that all of Harry's fans continue seeking out good stories.
So, until The Simpsons opens next weekend this, officially, was the geekiest weekend ever.
Friday, July 13, 2007
Generation Stockholm Hits You Tube
Please go to You Tuber and Check out our hilarious new sketch...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tn9IhTOY3ks
If the link doesn't work, please search on You Tube using the search Generation Stockholm.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tn9IhTOY3ks
If the link doesn't work, please search on You Tube using the search Generation Stockholm.
Thursday, July 12, 2007
The World Series of Pop Culture (A Conspiracy Theory)
So, VH1 has started up their competition "The World Series of Pop Culture" again. And, once again, they did not advertise the tests and on-line auditions. For 2 years in a row they have stymied my attempts for pop cultural dominance. I have a good feeling by either through the on-line test or by creating an uber-team that $250,000 would be mine.
Now, why did I label this conspiracy? Because, I am pretty sure VH1 wants to keep it under wraps so that the viewer at home can answer almost as many as the talent. I think if they made the testing rounds widely advertised they would end up getting the savant types that surf the net all day, watch every pop culture show, and basically consume pop culture in a single minded way. By advertising in smaller markets like Chicago, Austin, Miami, and not NYC or LA, they keep the number of people in the pop culture industry or who are just savvy.
Why do I care? Because I want approximately $77,000 ($250,000 split 3 ways before taxes) and I think I would at least have a chance. I'm not sure where I am going with all this. I was just mad watching the show last night and wiping the floor, by myself, with every team.
Oh well, maybe next year.
Now, why did I label this conspiracy? Because, I am pretty sure VH1 wants to keep it under wraps so that the viewer at home can answer almost as many as the talent. I think if they made the testing rounds widely advertised they would end up getting the savant types that surf the net all day, watch every pop culture show, and basically consume pop culture in a single minded way. By advertising in smaller markets like Chicago, Austin, Miami, and not NYC or LA, they keep the number of people in the pop culture industry or who are just savvy.
Why do I care? Because I want approximately $77,000 ($250,000 split 3 ways before taxes) and I think I would at least have a chance. I'm not sure where I am going with all this. I was just mad watching the show last night and wiping the floor, by myself, with every team.
Oh well, maybe next year.
Thursday, July 05, 2007
By the Time I Get Back From Arizona (apologies to Chuck D.)
So, I just got back from a small trip. Work for the past 2 months has been kicking my ass. I have been trying to write, do comedy, have a job, and biggest of all BE PREGNANT! It's official, and many of you already know, I'm 3 months pregnant. The main reason I haven't been blogging or on the comedy scene is because this whole fetus thing has left me constantly tired and distracted.
Those of you that know me, know that I have never been a big sleeper. In fact, I suscribe to Mr. Nasir Jones' theory that "sleep is the cousin of death." But, over the past few months I have been sleeping like crazy, sick, and basically worhtless. But, after hitting the wall, I have made it over the mountain and am slowly getting back to myself.
I just took a small trip to Arizona for relaxation. I feel great now. I am working several days a week, tutoring, and doing my usual. I am making a new dedication to blogging and writing and hitting mics and guest spots. It's tough but I'm working at it. So much has been going on since I haven't been blogging; the NBA draft, summer movies, Barack Obama, Supreme Court cases, and much more. I will begin back to my old ways blogging and being a part of society.
I know you'va all missed me!
Those of you that know me, know that I have never been a big sleeper. In fact, I suscribe to Mr. Nasir Jones' theory that "sleep is the cousin of death." But, over the past few months I have been sleeping like crazy, sick, and basically worhtless. But, after hitting the wall, I have made it over the mountain and am slowly getting back to myself.
I just took a small trip to Arizona for relaxation. I feel great now. I am working several days a week, tutoring, and doing my usual. I am making a new dedication to blogging and writing and hitting mics and guest spots. It's tough but I'm working at it. So much has been going on since I haven't been blogging; the NBA draft, summer movies, Barack Obama, Supreme Court cases, and much more. I will begin back to my old ways blogging and being a part of society.
I know you'va all missed me!
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
Friday, April 06, 2007
Stories of my Life: Grindhouse Edition
I have been eagerly awaiting the release of Grindhouse for a few reasons. 1. I love trashy movies, women in prison, kung fu, you name it. I think they are usually better directed and acted than people give them credit for. They also usually speak frankly on issues in a way a big budget film could. (The new film Shooter is a classic of this style. It is a radical film.) 2. Boobs and violence always get attention. And, 3. A WOMAN WITH A MACHINE GUN LEG!!!!
So, as I get ready to order my tickets I thought about many of the grindhouse experiences I have had.
Growing up, my family always went to the drive-in. The drive-in is the grindhouse of the suburbs. One of the first movies I remember seeing at the drive-in was a double bill of "Blazing Saddles" and "Young Frankenstein". I can honestly say that this experience formed my sense of humor, and my worldview. My mom still can't believe that they let me see this movie at a young age. I always thank her.
My other experience is more generalized. People talk about the "Disney-fication" of Times Square. I can honestly say that in the past 10 years since I moved here, it's gotten worse. There were still a few sex theaters and run down movie houses when I got here.
I always romanticized NYC growing up. I knew I wanted to live here and watched Woody Allen movies, "All that Jazz", and any other movie showing what I thought was city life. Looking at Scorsese films let me see the gritty side. I knew from books and other things that I wanted to see movies in Times Square.
The best memory I have of seeing a movie in a crappy theater was my first few weeks here. My husband and I went to see "Summer of Sam" in Times Square. The theater we went to was paret of a complex of a few theaters and shady souvenir shop. This area is now a foot locker, Swatch Shop, and Toys R' Us.
At the theater we were in a full crowd. The floor was sticky, the seats were falling apart, and the crowd was rowdy. What a way to see the movie. I went to the bathroom at the end. I waited until plenty of people were there. To say the bathroom was a little "rapey" is a understatement.
For almost a year we went to that theater every weekend. By 1999, it was torn down and changed into the mini shopping mall it is today.
Off topic for a minute. We lived in Washington Heights and would go to a movie theater right next to our apartment, sadly, this theater is now a dollar store. Very sad.
So, with all this said, I'll see you at the grindhouse!
So, as I get ready to order my tickets I thought about many of the grindhouse experiences I have had.
Growing up, my family always went to the drive-in. The drive-in is the grindhouse of the suburbs. One of the first movies I remember seeing at the drive-in was a double bill of "Blazing Saddles" and "Young Frankenstein". I can honestly say that this experience formed my sense of humor, and my worldview. My mom still can't believe that they let me see this movie at a young age. I always thank her.
My other experience is more generalized. People talk about the "Disney-fication" of Times Square. I can honestly say that in the past 10 years since I moved here, it's gotten worse. There were still a few sex theaters and run down movie houses when I got here.
I always romanticized NYC growing up. I knew I wanted to live here and watched Woody Allen movies, "All that Jazz", and any other movie showing what I thought was city life. Looking at Scorsese films let me see the gritty side. I knew from books and other things that I wanted to see movies in Times Square.
The best memory I have of seeing a movie in a crappy theater was my first few weeks here. My husband and I went to see "Summer of Sam" in Times Square. The theater we went to was paret of a complex of a few theaters and shady souvenir shop. This area is now a foot locker, Swatch Shop, and Toys R' Us.
At the theater we were in a full crowd. The floor was sticky, the seats were falling apart, and the crowd was rowdy. What a way to see the movie. I went to the bathroom at the end. I waited until plenty of people were there. To say the bathroom was a little "rapey" is a understatement.
For almost a year we went to that theater every weekend. By 1999, it was torn down and changed into the mini shopping mall it is today.
Off topic for a minute. We lived in Washington Heights and would go to a movie theater right next to our apartment, sadly, this theater is now a dollar store. Very sad.
So, with all this said, I'll see you at the grindhouse!
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
Lessons I Learned at the LCS Auditions
So, after a long night, a decent audition, and some napping, I am ready to share the lessons I learned from Last Comic Standing. My loyal fans will know that this is being done in a similar format to the lessons I learned at the Apollo auditions.
On with the lessons.
On with the lessons.
- Always wear gloves and a hat no matter how not cold you are at the beginning.
- Having someone like Josh putting up a tent can help your night.
- Having an Irish Pub nearby open until 4am is helpful for using the bathroom.
- Gotham is filled with stand up people (no pun intended)
- Delusion doesn't have to have grandeur, just a vessel for its sadness. There were people in the line who had no idea what to do or what comedy was all about. I don't think this helps comedy at all.
- Diners are good for 8 cups of coffee, a bathroom, and breakfast after 2 hours of sleep.
- And finally, Adrienne will make sure you get no sleep. Trust me on this on.
For me, the audition was a learning experience. I have been trying to be more zen about things. I got to do several jokes, figured out what to do better, and made some decisions about my comedy from what I learned.
Without my husband or my comedy husband this never would have even happened. I am glad I was pushed.
To everyone with a dollar and a dream, good luck.
And to Extreme Maggie...you are a sexy bitch! Good luck. I'm going to Home Depot right now in honor of you.
Thursday, March 08, 2007
Phyllis Diller: An Appreciation
So, I was watching The View yesterday and Phyllis Diller was a guest. I have to say, I have never really seen her stand-up. I really only know her as a "personality" and her guest spots on "Scooby Doo". But, listening to her talk, I realized that not only did she pave the way for comics, she is still sharp and keeping up with the scene.
They showed some clips of on "The Jack Parr Show". And let me be honest, her jokes and delivery were great. In fact, she could get on stage with her jokes now and be as fresh as many "lady" comics out there. It was amazing to see a woman who started her career at 37, just do it. She talked about how it was easier to market herself back then because she was a solo act and a woman and that made her a novelty.
She talked comedy with Rosie and Joy. They all three lamented the fact that currently, there is a lot of people and fewer spots on comedy than ever before. Diller said she thinks that it's tough being a woman comic now because you have to be cute, funny, and basically willing to sell out. She said that it makes her sad how much looks have taken over comedy.
Diller also talked about some of the women who came up with her like Totie Fields and Moms Maberly. She talked about getting her start. She also talked about how important it is to make a persona and never use real names of family on stage. She said her marriages (2) lasted because she never used real names. "You keep that at home," Diller said.
I was so glad to have seen this. Her wisdom and humor gave me a lot of inspiration, I hope she did the same to other women watching as well.
They showed some clips of on "The Jack Parr Show". And let me be honest, her jokes and delivery were great. In fact, she could get on stage with her jokes now and be as fresh as many "lady" comics out there. It was amazing to see a woman who started her career at 37, just do it. She talked about how it was easier to market herself back then because she was a solo act and a woman and that made her a novelty.
She talked comedy with Rosie and Joy. They all three lamented the fact that currently, there is a lot of people and fewer spots on comedy than ever before. Diller said she thinks that it's tough being a woman comic now because you have to be cute, funny, and basically willing to sell out. She said that it makes her sad how much looks have taken over comedy.
Diller also talked about some of the women who came up with her like Totie Fields and Moms Maberly. She talked about getting her start. She also talked about how important it is to make a persona and never use real names of family on stage. She said her marriages (2) lasted because she never used real names. "You keep that at home," Diller said.
I was so glad to have seen this. Her wisdom and humor gave me a lot of inspiration, I hope she did the same to other women watching as well.
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
My Trip to Amsterdam
I just came back from the very interesting city Amsterdam. Because blogging is the art of talking about yourself believing that others want to read it, I will share the details of my trip. I won't really recount everything I just want to share some general impressions.
It's a beautiful and intersting city. It's smaller and very different architectually than most European cities. I found it a refreshing change of pace from places like Madrid or Paris. It has a cozier, smaller feel.
Although everyone focuses on the drugs and prostitutes, it's a city with a lot more. We enjoyed some really good food and great sights. The Van Gough museum is filled with beauty and some of the most stunning art on record. The Anne Frank House is powerful. Being in the house itself was powerful. I, along with many others, spent most of the time crying. It ends up moving you in ways you cannot imagine.
The Red Light District is not so shocking, for me it was a little sad. Many of the prostitutes looked young and from Russia and Eastern Europe. Every man walking the street looked guilty. Not as funny as I hoped it would be.
In contrast, the hash bars are a great time. Good atmosphere, calm music, and just a good time. You could have a conversation without yelling. My husband Joe summed it up best. "I would love to just hang out in a hash bar. It's better than a drinking bar. You can hear people." Truer words have not been spoken.
We did do the tourist thing and went to a cheese factory and a wooden shoe demonstration. Good times. I love being a tourist sometimes.
I would recommend Amsterdam. But, I would say do the "bigger" cities first. They awe you. Amsterdam feels cozy, more like being in Brooklyn as opposed to Manhattan.
It's a beautiful and intersting city. It's smaller and very different architectually than most European cities. I found it a refreshing change of pace from places like Madrid or Paris. It has a cozier, smaller feel.
Although everyone focuses on the drugs and prostitutes, it's a city with a lot more. We enjoyed some really good food and great sights. The Van Gough museum is filled with beauty and some of the most stunning art on record. The Anne Frank House is powerful. Being in the house itself was powerful. I, along with many others, spent most of the time crying. It ends up moving you in ways you cannot imagine.
The Red Light District is not so shocking, for me it was a little sad. Many of the prostitutes looked young and from Russia and Eastern Europe. Every man walking the street looked guilty. Not as funny as I hoped it would be.
In contrast, the hash bars are a great time. Good atmosphere, calm music, and just a good time. You could have a conversation without yelling. My husband Joe summed it up best. "I would love to just hang out in a hash bar. It's better than a drinking bar. You can hear people." Truer words have not been spoken.
We did do the tourist thing and went to a cheese factory and a wooden shoe demonstration. Good times. I love being a tourist sometimes.
I would recommend Amsterdam. But, I would say do the "bigger" cities first. They awe you. Amsterdam feels cozy, more like being in Brooklyn as opposed to Manhattan.
Monday, February 12, 2007
Stories of My Life: Riding the Bus Edition
Many people I meet in NY, look down on the bus. The bus is seen as what you ride when you live far away from the subway and need it to connect to something. Many times I use it for that. However, I also use the bus because I love to look at the city. Many times I'll ride the bus just to look at the sights.
Now, if you are looking for a quick mode of transportation the bus is not it. For those not in the know, you can walk faster than taking the crosstown bus. But, other routes move faster and take some great streets and small nooks and crannies.
All of this is leading to my story. Be patient dear reader.
So, I enjoy going to DUMBO in Brooklyn. To get there from my house, the most fun way is to take the B25 bus. I went to DUMBO one day to shop at West Elm and get some Jaques Torres chocolate. I picked up the bus and headed home. The way home goes through the Fulton Mall. The Fulton Mall was immortalized in "Fortress of Solitude". It's known for its abundance of grill (mouth not BBQ) stores, sneaker shops, and many Duane Reade stores. To say it's a little ghetto is to say Teri Woods writes books with bad grammar.
After my little shopping excursion, I took the bus back to my house. The bus was at the end of the mall and on its way to the rest of the BK. The bus was waiting at a red light. As it waited, across the street two men were fighting. Everyone on the bus was looking because the fight was very loud and intense.
Suddenly the two men got very close. It appeared that the one man smacked the other. It took a second, but soon everyone saw that it was not a slap. The man had slashed the other man across the face. As the slashee moved and placed his hand on his face. The blood sprayed through and covered the street. The slasher ran as fast as he could. Now everyone on the bus said a collective,"Damn." It was frightening. All of this was taking place at 3pm on a Wednesday. As the man seemed to be in shock another man came up and started to escort him in the direction of the Brooklyn Hospital.
The light turned and the bus moved on. There was nervouse chatter and awkward pauses. Noone on the bus knew how to react. They also were left with the world's largest cliffhanger.
Who knows?
I like to think the guy got to the hospital, got stitches, then found the bitch ass that did it and got some revenge. But, I am also filled with hate.
Now, if you are looking for a quick mode of transportation the bus is not it. For those not in the know, you can walk faster than taking the crosstown bus. But, other routes move faster and take some great streets and small nooks and crannies.
All of this is leading to my story. Be patient dear reader.
So, I enjoy going to DUMBO in Brooklyn. To get there from my house, the most fun way is to take the B25 bus. I went to DUMBO one day to shop at West Elm and get some Jaques Torres chocolate. I picked up the bus and headed home. The way home goes through the Fulton Mall. The Fulton Mall was immortalized in "Fortress of Solitude". It's known for its abundance of grill (mouth not BBQ) stores, sneaker shops, and many Duane Reade stores. To say it's a little ghetto is to say Teri Woods writes books with bad grammar.
After my little shopping excursion, I took the bus back to my house. The bus was at the end of the mall and on its way to the rest of the BK. The bus was waiting at a red light. As it waited, across the street two men were fighting. Everyone on the bus was looking because the fight was very loud and intense.
Suddenly the two men got very close. It appeared that the one man smacked the other. It took a second, but soon everyone saw that it was not a slap. The man had slashed the other man across the face. As the slashee moved and placed his hand on his face. The blood sprayed through and covered the street. The slasher ran as fast as he could. Now everyone on the bus said a collective,"Damn." It was frightening. All of this was taking place at 3pm on a Wednesday. As the man seemed to be in shock another man came up and started to escort him in the direction of the Brooklyn Hospital.
The light turned and the bus moved on. There was nervouse chatter and awkward pauses. Noone on the bus knew how to react. They also were left with the world's largest cliffhanger.
Who knows?
I like to think the guy got to the hospital, got stitches, then found the bitch ass that did it and got some revenge. But, I am also filled with hate.
Thursday, February 08, 2007
Justin Timberlake @ MSG: A Review
Last night, while the world was watching Lost. I was at Madison Square Garden watching Justin "JT" Timberlake at his FutureSex/LoveSounds tour. I am going to break down the 3 and a half hour four part show. It was amazing. And, seeing such a huge act (sold out the Garden) do so many avant garde things, I have a little hope for the future of music.
OPENING ACT: P!NK
As Pink has made better music, her popularity has placed her on the margins. Her last 2 albums tanked in comparison to her breakout "Missundastood" with the hits "Get this Party Started" and "Family Portrait". But, as the opening act, playing to between 50-80% of the crowd at any given time, she got the crowd pumped and showed her talent as a musician. Her singing voice was strong and she utilized the full open circle stage. Her 40 minute set featured her biggest hits, a few songs that were not known but filled with energy and style. By the end of her set, which finished with "Get this Party Started" and had the crowd eating out of the palm of her hand.
Small Break before opening act...
PART I
Timberlake came out to his "FutreSex/LoveSounds" open. Large see-through scrims covered the stage. All of them projected visuals and then superimposed the stage action on top of them. The effect, which worked great, was used during the whole show. Part one focused on many dance songs, with a few small breaks for ballads. He sat down with his guitar and played several slow songs. He ended the first act with an assist by Timbaland. By this part, he had the crowd loving every move.
The show was different for many reasons. Timberlake, for many times during the show, was under the scrim and let his band and dancers take up the full stage. He also played guitar, drums, and piano during this time and the use of a live band added depth to many of the songs. Timberlake grew up during Michael Jackson and Prince. His stage style, songs, and performance are an intriguing mix of both.
INTERMISSION
Timberlake went off the towel off, change clothes, etc. Timbaland went to the middle of the stage. He surrounded himself in scrims. He began beat mixing, noodling on the 808, and sharing samples. All of the beats were choreographed to the movie scenes being displayed on the scrims. This whole segment was the DJ equivalent of Deadhead guitar noodling. Oddly fascinating. Also, it shows the trust Timberlake has in his audience that they would sit for this. The crowd did more than sit, they were riveted.
PART II
More of the same with Part One. Timberlake again mixed up the middle with a light ballad set. But, the highlight was the last 10 minutes. Timberlake fused "Cry me a River" and "SexyBack" into one epic moment. The staging, dancing, and scrim work was amazing. Timberlake had every person out of their seats, dancing, screaming, and just losing themselves. During "SexyBack" both Timberlake and Timbaland had to dodge panties. That just about sums up the night.
ENCORE
"Dick in a Box" with Andy Samberg and in full character. Enough said.
OPENING ACT: P!NK
As Pink has made better music, her popularity has placed her on the margins. Her last 2 albums tanked in comparison to her breakout "Missundastood" with the hits "Get this Party Started" and "Family Portrait". But, as the opening act, playing to between 50-80% of the crowd at any given time, she got the crowd pumped and showed her talent as a musician. Her singing voice was strong and she utilized the full open circle stage. Her 40 minute set featured her biggest hits, a few songs that were not known but filled with energy and style. By the end of her set, which finished with "Get this Party Started" and had the crowd eating out of the palm of her hand.
Small Break before opening act...
PART I
Timberlake came out to his "FutreSex/LoveSounds" open. Large see-through scrims covered the stage. All of them projected visuals and then superimposed the stage action on top of them. The effect, which worked great, was used during the whole show. Part one focused on many dance songs, with a few small breaks for ballads. He sat down with his guitar and played several slow songs. He ended the first act with an assist by Timbaland. By this part, he had the crowd loving every move.
The show was different for many reasons. Timberlake, for many times during the show, was under the scrim and let his band and dancers take up the full stage. He also played guitar, drums, and piano during this time and the use of a live band added depth to many of the songs. Timberlake grew up during Michael Jackson and Prince. His stage style, songs, and performance are an intriguing mix of both.
INTERMISSION
Timberlake went off the towel off, change clothes, etc. Timbaland went to the middle of the stage. He surrounded himself in scrims. He began beat mixing, noodling on the 808, and sharing samples. All of the beats were choreographed to the movie scenes being displayed on the scrims. This whole segment was the DJ equivalent of Deadhead guitar noodling. Oddly fascinating. Also, it shows the trust Timberlake has in his audience that they would sit for this. The crowd did more than sit, they were riveted.
PART II
More of the same with Part One. Timberlake again mixed up the middle with a light ballad set. But, the highlight was the last 10 minutes. Timberlake fused "Cry me a River" and "SexyBack" into one epic moment. The staging, dancing, and scrim work was amazing. Timberlake had every person out of their seats, dancing, screaming, and just losing themselves. During "SexyBack" both Timberlake and Timbaland had to dodge panties. That just about sums up the night.
ENCORE
"Dick in a Box" with Andy Samberg and in full character. Enough said.
Wednesday, February 07, 2007
The Amy Awards Part I: The Top 10 List
As we head into the new year and get ready for Oscars I am posting my 10 Favorite Movies (and 5 runners-up) for the year 2006. Part II will be posted later this week with many special awards given out. Now, on with our show!
1. Children of Men
2. Idiocracy
3. The Departed
4. The Devil Wears Prada
5. The Fountain
6. Stranger than Fiction
7. Dreamgirls
8. The Prestige
9. The Last King of Scotland
10. (tie) Half Nelson/ CSA: The Confederate States of America
Runners-Up: Brick, Little Miss Sunshine, A Prairie Home Companion, Jet Li's Fearless, and A Scanner Darkly.
Get ready for round 2. I fully expect lots of comments on my amazing list!
1. Children of Men
2. Idiocracy
3. The Departed
4. The Devil Wears Prada
5. The Fountain
6. Stranger than Fiction
7. Dreamgirls
8. The Prestige
9. The Last King of Scotland
10. (tie) Half Nelson/ CSA: The Confederate States of America
Runners-Up: Brick, Little Miss Sunshine, A Prairie Home Companion, Jet Li's Fearless, and A Scanner Darkly.
Get ready for round 2. I fully expect lots of comments on my amazing list!
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
My Senior Year of High School
So, I always end up doing these dumb things, but this one was a little different so I thought I would share. Unfortunately, I am terribly boring, so this is proably going to be deadly dull. Fill this out about your SENIOR year of high school! The longer ago it was, the more fun the answers will be.
Who was your best friend(s)? Steve Trimble, Shawn Ruble, Dale Edwards, Stephanie Smith, not many others, I am a loner by nature.
What kind of car did you drive? Didn't drive, had many traumatic incidents with the driving test.
It's Friday night, where were you? At a football game performing with color guard and then heading out for food and hanging out.
Were you a partier? No, but I found out later people thought I was a slut.
Were you considered a flirt? No, boys (not men) are intimidated by humor and brains.
Ever skip school? All the time. I usually tallied about 20 days out a year.
Were you a nerd? Yes and I still am.
Did you get suspended/expelled? No, but many detentions and other drama.
Can you sing the fight song? Yeah
Who was your favorite teacher? Ms. Stevens, people thought she was tough, I thought she was one of our more cultured teachers. I will also include Senora Catron on this list.
Favorite class? English and Advanced PE
What was your school's full name? Carlisle High School
School mascot? Indians (Sambo was already taken)
Did you go to Senior Prom? Yes. Got dumped by my 1st date but Ruble pulled through for me.
If you could go back and do it over, would you? I wouldn't go back. My life has been really great after it.
What do you remember most about graduation? The feeling of relief and my itchiness to move to NYC.
Favorite memories of your Senior Year? Hanging out with people, debating politics with Steve Trimble and Kevin Ritchie, Academic team and Teen Counseling sleepover, both of which changed my life.
Where were you on senior skip day? Who knows, many days were senior skip day!
Did you have a job your senior year? Yes. I worked for a catering company on the weekends and then also did babysitting. That summer I worked midnights at Meijers.
Where did you go most often for lunch? The cafeteria, sitting with my nerdy AP friends and usually reading a magazine. Hollaback Sassy!
What did you do after graduation? Went to college, got married in Las Vegas, moved to NYC. The rest is history.
When did you graduate? 1994
Are you going to your 10 year reunion? I did. I was hoping the women would have been fatter. But the guys aged in dog years. I might do the 20, just to see what's up.
What school did you're school hate most? Franklin
Who will repost this after you? Who knows?
Who was your best friend(s)? Steve Trimble, Shawn Ruble, Dale Edwards, Stephanie Smith, not many others, I am a loner by nature.
What kind of car did you drive? Didn't drive, had many traumatic incidents with the driving test.
It's Friday night, where were you? At a football game performing with color guard and then heading out for food and hanging out.
Were you a partier? No, but I found out later people thought I was a slut.
Were you considered a flirt? No, boys (not men) are intimidated by humor and brains.
Ever skip school? All the time. I usually tallied about 20 days out a year.
Were you a nerd? Yes and I still am.
Did you get suspended/expelled? No, but many detentions and other drama.
Can you sing the fight song? Yeah
Who was your favorite teacher? Ms. Stevens, people thought she was tough, I thought she was one of our more cultured teachers. I will also include Senora Catron on this list.
Favorite class? English and Advanced PE
What was your school's full name? Carlisle High School
School mascot? Indians (Sambo was already taken)
Did you go to Senior Prom? Yes. Got dumped by my 1st date but Ruble pulled through for me.
If you could go back and do it over, would you? I wouldn't go back. My life has been really great after it.
What do you remember most about graduation? The feeling of relief and my itchiness to move to NYC.
Favorite memories of your Senior Year? Hanging out with people, debating politics with Steve Trimble and Kevin Ritchie, Academic team and Teen Counseling sleepover, both of which changed my life.
Where were you on senior skip day? Who knows, many days were senior skip day!
Did you have a job your senior year? Yes. I worked for a catering company on the weekends and then also did babysitting. That summer I worked midnights at Meijers.
Where did you go most often for lunch? The cafeteria, sitting with my nerdy AP friends and usually reading a magazine. Hollaback Sassy!
What did you do after graduation? Went to college, got married in Las Vegas, moved to NYC. The rest is history.
When did you graduate? 1994
Are you going to your 10 year reunion? I did. I was hoping the women would have been fatter. But the guys aged in dog years. I might do the 20, just to see what's up.
What school did you're school hate most? Franklin
Who will repost this after you? Who knows?
Sunday, January 28, 2007
Friday, January 12, 2007
The Similarities Between Drag and Hip Hop
This is probably going to end up being my most esoteric and academic posting, but screw it. I think this is interesting.
So, last night my husband and I were talking about drag shows. We agreed that everyone should see a few in there life. They are entertaining first and foremost. They are the American equivalent to Kabuki. And, mainly, they just make you laugh.
Now, on a deeper level, drag does many things. There are also many types of drag. I'll delve into all of this. But, first a small antecdote. I have been a fan of drag for a long time. Personally, I have almost always enjoyed camp, satire, and ironic commentary. An appreciation of these things is essential to enjoying drag. In Dayton, Ohio there was a club I went to very often called "Celebrity". This was one of 2 gay clubs in the city. Celebrity had some great drag shows. Most of the drag fell into the lip-synch a diva's song category. You would watch and laugh and generally participate in the shenanigans. Seeing many shows there for such a long time gave me an appreciation for good drag and a keen eye in spotting bad drag.
So, there are several types of drag. They include; good drag, bad drag on purpose, scene drag, music drag, and gender illusion. Let me explain. Good drag is over the top femininity with glamorous gowns. Bad drag on purpose is looking messy or "real" for comedic effect (i.e. Divine, Kiki and Herb), scene drag is the lip-synching or acting out of classic scenes featuring over the top women (i.e. Mommie Dearest), music drag works the same way as scene drag (i.e. Cher, Judy, Liza, et. al.), and gender illusion is the most confusing, it is typically standard drag for the purpose of contests and pageants.
Now, I said something at the top where I said drag and hip-hop have similarities. The main similarity they have is that unlike many other forms of creativity, they do not live in a vacuum. They constantly comment on the society they live in. Hip-hop many times uses the music video genre to comment on films, TV, and other pop culture detrius. Drag does the same thing.
There is a term in literary criticism called "informing the text". This is when outside influences, history, or just time change how we look at the piece of work. Drag does this constantly. Any song or scene that is acted out, is changed by the drag performance. Many times it illuminates unseen comedy, pathos, or subtext not seen in the original piece.
I encourage anyone who has never seen a drag show to check one out. It's worth the price and is a definite artistic experience. Leave your preconceptions at the door.
So, last night my husband and I were talking about drag shows. We agreed that everyone should see a few in there life. They are entertaining first and foremost. They are the American equivalent to Kabuki. And, mainly, they just make you laugh.
Now, on a deeper level, drag does many things. There are also many types of drag. I'll delve into all of this. But, first a small antecdote. I have been a fan of drag for a long time. Personally, I have almost always enjoyed camp, satire, and ironic commentary. An appreciation of these things is essential to enjoying drag. In Dayton, Ohio there was a club I went to very often called "Celebrity". This was one of 2 gay clubs in the city. Celebrity had some great drag shows. Most of the drag fell into the lip-synch a diva's song category. You would watch and laugh and generally participate in the shenanigans. Seeing many shows there for such a long time gave me an appreciation for good drag and a keen eye in spotting bad drag.
So, there are several types of drag. They include; good drag, bad drag on purpose, scene drag, music drag, and gender illusion. Let me explain. Good drag is over the top femininity with glamorous gowns. Bad drag on purpose is looking messy or "real" for comedic effect (i.e. Divine, Kiki and Herb), scene drag is the lip-synching or acting out of classic scenes featuring over the top women (i.e. Mommie Dearest), music drag works the same way as scene drag (i.e. Cher, Judy, Liza, et. al.), and gender illusion is the most confusing, it is typically standard drag for the purpose of contests and pageants.
Now, I said something at the top where I said drag and hip-hop have similarities. The main similarity they have is that unlike many other forms of creativity, they do not live in a vacuum. They constantly comment on the society they live in. Hip-hop many times uses the music video genre to comment on films, TV, and other pop culture detrius. Drag does the same thing.
There is a term in literary criticism called "informing the text". This is when outside influences, history, or just time change how we look at the piece of work. Drag does this constantly. Any song or scene that is acted out, is changed by the drag performance. Many times it illuminates unseen comedy, pathos, or subtext not seen in the original piece.
I encourage anyone who has never seen a drag show to check one out. It's worth the price and is a definite artistic experience. Leave your preconceptions at the door.
Saturday, January 06, 2007
Random Thoughts...
So, lately I've had a lot on my mind. Much like the insane Tracy Jordan on 30 Rock, I wanted to write down a few musings.
Off topic: If you are not watching 30 Rock, you are missing out. It's the funniest show on TV right now.
Back to your regularly scheduled blog...
Here are some things I've been thinking about for the past month. I'm sure I'll seem crazy, but who cares.
Off topic: If you are not watching 30 Rock, you are missing out. It's the funniest show on TV right now.
Back to your regularly scheduled blog...
Here are some things I've been thinking about for the past month. I'm sure I'll seem crazy, but who cares.
- Are the parents in "The Parent Trap" the best parents in the world or the worst parents in the world for what they did by splitting up their twin daughters?
- Is "Dreamgirls" the gayest movie ever made? (Seeing this in a theater seemingly holding the entire cast of Noah's Arc may have clouded my view about that.)
- Why are the NJ Nets so bad this year? They should be first in their division. They have some great new rookies and bench guys. Hopefully, Lawrence Frank will be fired by the All-Star break. More on this topic to come.
- I still miss Chappelle's Show
- Being told you are too edgy for Showtime at the Apollo and too mean for the Comic Strip can put you in a small depression about your comedy career.
- Being asked "what are you good for" can put you in a small depression about your day job.
- Hopefully this weather, seemingly a bell weather for the Apocalypse, can get me out of ever having to be succesful.
- And finally, I saw an amazing retro Soul Train episode today. If you live in NYC it's on every Sat. at noon on the CW11. Today's highlight was Al Green performing. He was still arm bandaged from hisd hot grits drama. Riveting TV.
So, that's about it for now. I made several New Year's resolutions and one of them was to write more, perform more, and become more well-rounded. Hopefully, this is the start of some real creativity.
Coming Soon
To say things have been crazy is an understatement.
New blogs, the Amy Awards, etc.
They are coming your way.
New blogs, the Amy Awards, etc.
They are coming your way.
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