Day by Day

Dead week

2008-12-08T12:17:00.000-08:00

One question. Why doesn't St. Edward's offer a dead week to it's students before finals. Come on now everyone has a dead week...or at least a few dead days, all we get is a super packed week of projects and papers due before our finals. Does this give us any time to have a break and study for our tests? NO! It doesn't. All it does is make us even more stressed out because right after we turn in all of our end of the year projects and papers we have to turn right around and study for our finals. Totally unfair if you ask me.

Ain't nothing but pirate talk

2008-12-08T12:05:00.000-08:00

So I've decided everything sounds better if you say it like a pirate. I don't know for sure what made me think pirate talk was so cool but it is. I use it very often. For example, when someone asks me something obvious I reply with a "yarr" like yes but in pirate, you understand? You can use pirate talk anywhere and for all occasions. I like to think of it as a way to switch things up, regular talk just gets so boring, am I right? Here are some more examples of pirate talk that you can use yourself:

Narr: No
Nevarr: Never
Darr: Duh
Ar Narr: Oh no
Ar Yarr: Oh yea
Harrharr: Haha
Suparr: Super
Forevarr: Forever
Hilarr: Hilarious

Puppy...

2008-12-08T11:58:00.000-08:00

I really really want a puppy. I am such a dog person, I've grown up with dogs all of my life. I have a Great Dane back home and ever since I've lived away in Austin for school I have been so lonely without my pup. His name is Titan and believe me he definitely lives up to his title. If I had a dog I would take him on walks everyday. He could even sleep in my bed. I knew if I bought a dog my parents would probably cut me off financially though so that's the only thing holding me back...I'm watching a dog roam around right now outside my window. There is no owner in site. He has a red collar on and he's midsize but pretty muscular, tan colored, pointy ears. Maybe I should steal him. He can be my dog and I can tell my parents that he found me and wouldn't leave...that's pretty much what's happening, he's not leaving the grassy area outside of my window. He obviously wants me to become his new owner.

Windy

2008-12-08T11:56:00.000-08:00

Hair blowing uncontrolably, scarf getting tossed and twisted arouns my shoulders, papers flying. How frustrating. Windy weather has got to be the most annoying weather there is. I mean let's face it it's even hard to drive in windy weather. My jeep wrangler blows all over the road. I hate windy weather. Go away windy weather, go away.

Victoria's Secret Fashion Show

2008-12-07T15:32:00.000-08:00

This past Wednesday the 2008 annual Victoria's Secret Fashion Show aired on CBS. To be honest I didn't really like this year's event at all. Year's past I have been in love with the show. I love the sexy outfits that grace the runway, as well as the killer music that they always have going along with the show. But this year was different. First of all, the runway was running left to right, horizontal, sideways, instead of front to back or up and down. That along left a bad taste in my mouth. It made it almost impossible to see the outfits well, not to mention the cameras this year were all over the place focusing more on the faces in the audience then the hot bodies of Adriana Lima and Heidi Klum. I mean wings weren't even a big deal this year. I think a few of the girls sported giant bows on their backs once or twice but the show definitely didn't have the same effect as it does when the famous angel wings come out on the backs of the models. And the music, gosh the music wasn't good either. Usher opened the show and then sang a song or two towards the end. I'm sorry Usher I usually love ya, but let's be honest you just didn't sound good, more like a little shakey, and maybe the hot models were to blame, they'd probably make me nervous too. In between Usher were some other people who obvisouly didn't make an impact on me considering I can't even remember who they were now. I'll admit that the show got better as it went on...I'll give them that, but come on I wait all year for this and this is what I got. Hopefully next year will be better.

Lindsay Lohan shot

2008-12-07T15:19:00.001-08:00

NEWS FLASH! There's a new drink out there, all of the bars are serving it. It's known as the Lindsay Lohan. What's it consist of you ask? None other than a traditional "red headed slut" with a splash of coke. And yes, I do mean coca cola. Clever.

P.s. nice picture of the gal huh? pretty flattering. yea I don't really like the chick as you can tell.

"Smile with your eyes"

2008-12-07T15:18:00.001-08:00

Victoria Beckham is featured in this month's issue of Harper's Bazaar. In it Posh talks about her fear of smiling and how she is slowing becomming used to smiling...well smirking as she refers to a new smirk she has perfected for the cameras. She goes on to say how learning to "smile with her eyes" has helped her with the issue. You know, I've heard of this before, smiling with your eyes and all. It's true it really helps, try it, look in the mirror at yourself and do not smile. Think about smiling through your eyes instead and without smiling you can almost appear to be smiling all saying it with your eyes. What a good idea right? So next time you flash someone a big grin and don't receive one in return, just imagine that they could really be smiling with their eyes instead.

I hate cockroaches...

2008-12-07T15:17:00.004-08:00

I'm not going to lie...my roommates and I probably have the cleanest apartment in our entire complex. Even the apartment managers have commented on how clean we keep our pad. So can someone explain to me why we tend to attract the worst bugs known to man kind....COCKROACHES! I thought these bugs liked trash and left out food and dirty boys or something like that...why are they popping up in my super spotless bathroom. Come spiders, come flies, come ants. I'll take ANYTHING over nasty cockroaches with their awkward flying bodies and their light brown wings and their long antennas. YUCK! I can't even sit here and write about them without getting the creeps. I'm so paranoid that these things are crawling around close to me bed when I sleep that I have even developed some time of insomnia. I think I'm going to go buy a giant lizard to live in my apartment so it can eat all of these unwanted bugs.

Circus tickets

2008-12-07T15:17:00.003-08:00

What a great boyfriend...my lovey dovey honey bought me tickets to Britney Spear's tour "Circus." He sure knows the way to my heart. I can't wait...and that sucks because the concert isn't until the end of March....consider it an early birthday present he said, considering my birthday isn't until March either. Either way, he did good and I am super stoked. Promise this is my last post about Britney...figured I might as well end on a good note!

Why does winter make me tired?

2008-12-07T15:17:00.001-08:00

There's something about me knowing it is cold outside that keeps me from getting out of my bed the entire day. What is it about cold weather that makes me want to become a hermit in my own home...or more my own bed. A warm bed just sounds so much better than going out and being productive.

Paris picks her new bff

2008-12-07T15:16:00.003-08:00

Finally. It seems like this TV show went on forever. But last Tuesday Paris finally decided who would become her new "BFF." And the choice was.....Brittany Flickinger. After 16 girls and two guys came and left Paris' California mansion, Brittany remained the last man standing. Paris served her famous lines "ttyn" to everyone else (with the exception of a few she hoped to keep in touch with) besides Brittany and they have already been spotted out and about in LA. Wonder if this friendship will last considering Flickinger has been up front about her hopes to become a famous rock star...we'll just have to wait it out I guess.

Leighton Meester

2008-12-07T15:16:00.001-08:00

After reading the article about Britney Spears in the December 2008 issue of Rolling Stone I came across an article about Gossip Girl star Leighton Meester. First of all, the picture in the magazine of Meester is awesome, it's a centerfold spread and she looks amazing. Meester plays a backstabbing gossip queen that lives on the upper east side better known as Blair Waldorf, and even though she is a...well backstabbing gossip queen that lives on the upper east side, we all still love her to death. In the mag Meester talks about her love for New York stating "you're never along, but you're always on your own." What a good line huh?

Trend: Scarves

2008-12-07T15:15:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite trends this season are scarves. I have acquired quite the collection over the past two months or so. I can't get enough of them, I wear them with everything I own. I think scarves are the perfect way to dress up a casual outfit, or at least make a simple v-neck tee look cute and stylish. There are also a few different ways to wear them so you don't have to look like everyone else wearing a scarf. Definitely a must have suggestion for this winter.

Rolling Stone

2008-12-07T15:14:00.002-08:00

I went out and bougt the new issue of Rolling Stone Magazine last night. I love the magazine and buy it from time to time when one of my favorite celebs is gracing the cover. This time I bought it for one specific reason...my one and only Britney Spears was featured on the front. This is Britney's fourth time to be on the cover and she just looks great, you know? The magazine did an entire story about her on the inside, along a spread of black and white photos of the super star. The more I watch and read about her life the more I feel so bad for her. The article in Rolling Stone was so depressing, and although it talks about how she's making a great comback and all the story behind her life is pretty sad. If you're a Britney fan I suggest you go out and pick up the magazine, it's worth it!

Outlet Malls

2008-12-07T15:14:00.001-08:00

My roommate went to the outlet mall in San Marcos yesterday. She had herself a nice little shopping spree at Victoria's Secret. She came back with an entire outfit all under $20.00. Speechless. Victoria's Secret is one of my favorite stores, I can't help but spend at least $50.00 everytime I go in there. How did she come back with a variety of cute under garments while still managing to keep on the college student budget? Two words, outlet mall. Supposedly everything in the store is at least 75% off including all of there fragrances and skin and hair products. This is insanity. I figured that most of the stuff had to be leftovers from years past, or really big sizes like usual, or pretty much just the ugly stuff that other stores couldn't get to selll, but no. She said that they have almost all of the same stuff as the regular Victoria's Secret stores. Sounds like heaven to me. Drawback...you have to wait in line outside to get in because they limit the number of customers in the store at a time so everyone can enjoy their shopping experience without a crowd of people trying to pick the same stuff you are.

Look how sweet....

2008-12-05T12:28:00.000-08:00

Click here!

This is a video of an dog saving another dog that was hit on the highway...probably the sweetest thing I have ever seen...breaks your heart.

Christmas shopping.

2008-12-05T12:19:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite things about Christmas time besides all of the good movies running on TV, all of the over decorated houses with beautiful lights, and of course the great food, is presents! Of course I love receiving presents...but I love going out and doing some quality Christmas shopping for other people. I truly love buying presents for other people, it makes me really happy. I'm going to go Christmas shopping later today and I can hardly wait...too buy buying presents means you have to have money which in my case I'm running pretty low on right now. Well a small gift is still a gift right, it's the thought that counts.

Fashion...

2008-12-05T12:15:00.000-08:00

I was thinking about all of the new clothes I have added to my closet over this semester. A lot of which consist of things I constantly wear over and over like a few different scarves and baggy cardigans that I can wear with almost anything in my closet. This made me wonder...what did I wear last year? You know, like...if I'm constantly wearing this stuff over and over what was I wearing with my fitted t-shirts last year if it wasn't one of these scarves...what was I wearing over all of my tank tops if it wasn't my black loose cardigan cover up? Interesting to think about how dependent you become on new fashions that I never would have thought of last year.

Festival of lights not so light

2008-12-05T12:05:00.000-08:00

This year St. Edward's plans to take a different approach to their annual festival of lights. Every year before the entire main building along with all of the trees have been fully decked out in Christmas lights. Lights hung from all of the trees around the back side of main buliding in front of the carridge house and the fountain. Trees were lit up everywhere you could look, in front of all of the dorms, around the school seal, along South Congress, lights lights and more lights. Well not this year. St. Ed's has decided to downsize in order to save energy, as well as save on the cost of labor. This year the festival of lights will only include lighting the lights along the front of the main building. This kind of makes me sad...what is a festival of lights with no lights...is it even worth it to hold a festival of lights for a few strands hung across the front of one building. What is Christmas coming to?

Circus

2008-12-02T21:02:00.000-08:00

Britney's new album dropped today, finally...I've been waiting. The album, she titled "Circus," is awesome. There are 15 tracks... all of which I can listen to over and over. So far my favorite song on the album is "Circus" but I pretty much like them all.

1. Womanizer
2. Circus
3. Out From Under
4. Kill The Lights
5. Shattered Glass
6. If You Seek Amy
7. Unusual You
8. Blur
9. Mmm Papi
10. Mannequin
11. Lace and Leather
12. My Baby
13. Radar
14. Rock Me In
15. Phonography

Happy Birthday Britney!

2008-12-02T20:56:00.000-08:00

Today is Britney's 27th Birthday!

Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday dear Britney... Happy Birthday to YOU!

Happy Birthday Brit, good to see your 27th is already going better than your 26th, keep up the good work!

ICE! at Gaylord Texan

2008-12-01T11:12:00.001-08:00

This is me going down the giant slide made of ice...actually everything in this room was made of ice at the Ice Show at the Gaylord Texan in Grapevine, Texas.

Britney Spears doc

2008-11-30T11:11:00.000-08:00

FINALLY! I loved it. I love her. There was actually a point where I teared up, when Britney started getting emotional about having no control of her own life and she said "I'm sad..." what a tear jerker. I've watched the documentary three times already. I know I'm probably really pathetic but I thought they did a great job, or she did a great job at getting her point across, or at least her side of what's been happening in her crazy life the past year. I just wish they would have went more in depth on certain issues. For example, why she acted the way she did, who was she influenced by or taken advantage of by, or more importantly what drugs was she on because no one just up and shaves their head like that...am I right?

Mary-Kate preggers?

2008-11-29T11:01:00.000-08:00

Word on the street is that Miss MK Olsen has a bun in the oven. According to E! News since tiny framed Mary-Kate has pushed past 100 lbs. it must mean nothing else but that she is pregnant with boyfriend Nate Lowman's baby. Are these people serious? Talk about pressure. The girl finally gets to a healthy weight and everyone starts saying she's pregnant. But if it's true, I don't think that's such a bad thing. With all of the other celebs having babies recently, I wouldn't mind seeing MK have a baby. Guess we'll have to wait and see what happens.

Celebs gathering for the holidays

2008-11-28T10:54:00.000-08:00

The Tom and Katie duo were nice enough to let the Beckham family spend Thanksgiving with them this year. According to Us Weekly Magazine the two families were spotted in NYC Thursday celebrating Thanksgiving. Supposedly these two mega-families are big time pals. The families were spotted leaving the Big Apple Circus, then on a tour through Central Park, followed by a horse and carriage ride through the city. Sounds like an eventful Thanksgiving Day!

Brooke Burke wins!

2008-11-27T11:48:00.000-08:00

I always liked Brooke Burke the best! The super fit mommy took the win on Tuesday night as the third woman to win "Dancing With the Stars." From the very start Burke was a crowd favorite, and most of the time had the judges on her side every step of the way. Even more exciting is that Burke got a perfect score on her final dance. Talk about going out on a good note. I will always remember Burke from "Wild On" on E!. I loved her then and I love her now, I'm really happy that she won. Congrats Brooke!

Heidi and Spencer wed

2008-11-26T10:39:00.000-08:00

Well it's about time after all of the talk, Heidi Montag and Spencer Pratt finally eloped in Mexico. Luckily for everyone who cares about these two kiddos, "The Hills" camera crew was present in Mexico, hoping to catch the couple on their vacation but lucked out with the exclusive wedding footage instead. The wedding and honeymoon is said to be an upcomming episode on "The Hills." Supposedly Heidi and Spencer upset everyone with this secret wedding due to the fact that they kept it from both of their families until they broke (more like Us Weekly broke) the news to the world when they got back. Looks like the two have done it again and excluded anyone who cares about them out of their lives. Heidi admits to have cried through the enitre ceremony in Mexico. Believe me, I'd be crying my eyes out too if I had just married Spencer Pratt. Goodluck guys.

Trends: Photoshop much?

2008-11-24T19:13:00.003-08:00

5. Everyone can admit that devil red eyes don't flatter anyone, but some picture uploading lovers have become obsessed with testing out their best photoshop skills.

Trends: Purple is in

2008-11-24T19:13:00.001-08:00

4. Although I am a firm believer that black will be around forever, at least in my closet, purple isn't far behind this year. Purple has been taking over fashions in every season of 2008 and it is finishing strong with winter.

Trends: Musicians come together

2008-11-24T19:12:00.002-08:00

3. Musicians realize there could be more power in numbers. "The more the merrier" right? This past year it seems like a lot of artists have decided to collaborate their musical talents and pair up for songs, performances and albums. Artists such as Justin Timberlake and Lil' Wayne have caught onto the idea, and it's working for them, both have put out multiple number 1 hits this year.

Trends: Celebrity babies

2008-11-24T19:12:00.001-08:00

2. Babies have been popping out left and right in Hollywood. Nicole Richie and Joel Madden, Jessica Alba and Cash Warren, Gwen Stefani and Gavin Rossdale, Ashlee Simpson and Pete Wentz, and of course how can we forget Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt, are just a few of the stars that welcomed newborns this year.

Trends: Booties

2008-11-24T18:59:00.001-08:00

1. Along with a variety of scarves, this year's chilly season has also welcomed another one of my favorite fashion trends, little "booties" (sometimes called "shooties") will be taking the place of traditional winter closed toe heels this season.

Texas Weather

2008-11-24T09:26:00.000-08:00

So it is warm again today. Thursday it was freezing. Friday it was more than freezing. Saturday it was sprinkling. Sunday it was humid. Monday it is warm and windy. What is this? Where is our long lost season fall? Will winter even join us Texans this year? It doesn't even feel like Thanksgiving, let alone the end of November. Come on chilly air, everyone knows you can dress so much cuter for cold weather.

Court

2008-11-24T09:21:00.000-08:00

Today I went to court for a traffic violation. Believe me I am innocent. It was packed, every room in the building seemed crowded. Are there really this many tickets given? What happened to protecting us? Has making us pay tickets and ruining our lives become more important? I tried to listen in on everyone that went before me and their situation and to me it looks like there are definitely some power trip issues in the force. I hope I never have to start my day off like this again.

Twilight at Midnight

2008-11-23T16:23:00.000-08:00

So I was one of those people who got a ticket to see the much anticipated movie of the year "Twlight" for the midnight showing last Thursday night. With the movie showing at three different times to chose from, 12:01, 12:02 and 12:03, I decided to keep it neutral and go with the 12:02 show time. Bottom line, the movie was great. I only read the first book, "Twilight," the rest of the people I went with have read all four of the books already. They really did a great job of portraying the characters and the setting exactly how I had imagined it from reading the book. Everything down to Bella's truck was exactly how I had imagined. The only thing that I didn't like about my movie experience was all of the little girls that filled the theater. They laughed constantly. Every part, serious parts in the book that were not meant to be funny, they giggled. A part of me wished that I had enjoyed my movie experience by myself at home. But none the less I loved it. My favorite scene was the family vampire baseball game. Oh yeah, and the sound track to the movie is awesome.

Christian the lion

2008-11-20T13:47:00.000-08:00

Nothing has ever made me want a lion more. After watching this video I'm pretty sure that I'm more of the "lion type" as opposed to a cat or dog person. This is a true story of two men, John Rendall and Ace Bourke, who adopted a lion in the 60's. They raised the lion in their apartment in London, although they would take him on walks everyday, Christian (the lion) became too big to live in their flat. Once Christian was a year old and 150 pounds it was suggested to them that they take Christian to a conservation in Kenya. So the men let go of their baby which they raised and decided to do what was best for little Christian. They took him to Africa and reintroduced him to the wild where he could learn to live like a normal lion with a pride. Christian was let into Kora National Reserve where he eventually became the head leader of his pride believe it or not. After learning about how successful Christians transition was, the two men decided that they wanted to travel to Kenya to visit their long lost lion son, but were told that Christian would most definitely not remember them. Despite the fact that Christian is now a wild lion, the two men traveled anyway in hope that a miracle would occur and Christian had not forgotten the two men who raised him. The two men filmed their visit as a documentary titled "Christian, The Lion at World's End" in 1971. What they captured on film is truly amazing. Christian remembered them! Not only did he remember them but he ran towards them and greeted them with a gigantic "lion-hug" wrapping his enormous paws around the men and snuggling his head all over them. It's hard to describe and put the video into words you will have to watch it yourself. Christian even introduces his old roommates to his new family, a truly astonishing thing considering all of these are wild lions. Since then, Christian the lion has been famous and this love story has made the headlines for many TV shows such as "The View" and many other talk shows. Many versions of the video have also been put on YouTube where they have been put to music which make them hilarious to watch, if you don't enjoy this video then something has got to be wrong with you, this is great. This is one of my favorite versions, click here. Here's another video with an interview of the two men from the "Today Show," click here.

Shiba Inu Puppy Cam

2008-11-19T12:00:00.000-08:00

I overheard some fellow classmates talking about this puppy website earlier this week. So I decided to check it out for myself when I got home. Supposedly the owners of these six week old Shiba Inu puppies decided to set up a live web cam for their pups so that they could watch them while they were at work. The pups are broadcast on a live stream on the USTREAM.TV website. Little did they know that these puppies would become an Internet phenomenon. I'm currently watching the puppies right now and there are 21,502 viewers just right now on a Wednesday afternoon. The site has a list of locations all around the globe that people are watching the puppies from. The couple has even received letters and emails from viewers telling them how the puppies have changed their lives. Viewers that are terminally ill in hospitals credit the pups for making their day and giving them happiness. Who can resist these little pups, three boys and three girls, they sleep, eat, play, fight, even the noises they make are cute. Click here to check out these adorable puppies for yourself.

Missy Higgins

2008-11-10T14:53:00.000-08:00

Australian singer-songwriter Missy Higgins has one of those voices you can't help but fall in love with.

The 24-year-old's newest album "On a Clear Night" has remained on repeat on my iTune's playlist for the past week.

My favorite song on the album is "Where I Stood" a song that carries a more personal meaning to me. This is actually the first song I heard by Higgins when I caught it on the late night program Nocturnal State on VH1. This song is what made me gain interest in this previously unheard of artist.

The lyrics in "Where I Stood" seem to flow perfectly together, each line rhyming, each line reaching out to anyone who would listen. Here is chorus from the song:

Cos I don't know who I am, who I am without you
All I know is that I should
And I don't know if I could stand another hand upon you
All I know is that I should
'Cos she will love you more than I could
She who dares to stand where I stood

I even got my roommates addicted to the album. Each time I walked into one of their rooms this weekend they were playing her music. I guess Higgins is just one of those artists who makes such an impact on their audience even with just one song that the listeners have no other choice but to become addicted to their music for the time being.

Registration...

2008-11-10T00:19:00.001-08:00

Ahh...it's that time again. Scheduling meeting times for advising meetings, making a dream schedule, seeing your dream schedule filled up by first pick students, stressing over making three different alternative schedules, hoping you won't be tied up during registration time, realizing that you do have prior obligations during your scheduled registration time, realizing it is still not your time to get all of the classes you want...maybe senior year it gets easier.

ROYO

2008-11-08T17:17:00.000-08:00

Zach and Miri

2008-11-07T15:16:00.000-08:00

Wow so I saw Zach and Miri, the same movie as Zach and Miri Make a Porno, after they were forced to change the title of the movie. Well, I should have known then that the movie would be like this. And by this I mean...a real PORNO! Sheesh...this movie is only rated "R"...are you kidding? Yes, the movie is hilarious. Yes, the cast is great and the story line is good, yes yes. But there are full female and male frontals people! Not to mention the multiple full on sex scenes throughout the movie! It was pretty hard to watch! Especially considering I went with a group of people whom I was not exactly too close with if you know what I mean. Talk about awkward! "Wanna get away??" No wonder Utah banned the film, I can completely understand. Eeeeek!

Changeling

2008-11-06T21:34:00.000-08:00

I finally saw the movie Changeling, starring the highly adored Angelina Jolie. The movie is about the true story of Chrstine Collins losing her son, Walter Collins, during the late 1920's with no help from the corrupt LAPD during this time. Personally, I loved the movie. Despite the fact that the movie tends to drag and be a tad bit slow at certain points, the story of this woman and her determination to find her son is truly inspiring, you can't help but become enhanced in the story until the end. And needless to say, Angelina does a magnificent job as the roll of Christine Collins. I mean, let's be honest Angelina could stand on screen as a mute and we'd all run off to see it right? It's relieving to see a movie based on a true story "truly" depict the story in an honest way-- without adding all of those "to make a great movie" details and all. I don't want to give any of it away, but I definitely recommend going out and seeing it.

Facebookers obsessed with photo editing

2008-11-05T12:14:00.000-08:00

Lately I've noticed some of my fellow Facebook friends guilty of over using their killer photo shop skills on their posted pictures. Okay, I get it, we all like to make ourselves look a little brighter and a little tanner, but come on some of these pictures are so over done that I can't even make out who is in the picture in the first place. One of the popular sites that "Facebookers" are using is a site called "Picnik" a site where anyone can upload their photos for free and edit them, crop them, brighten them, darken them, basically tweak just about anything about them. But I'm a little worried...some of these "photogs" seem a little obsessed with their photo shopping privileges...is this even healthy? Come on people, no one wants to see a picture where the people look orange and their faces are so blurred out that you have to squint to see the slightest resemblance to a human figure...GET REAL.

Election Day

2008-11-04T10:43:00.000-08:00

YooHoo! Today's the day, get out and VOTE! Everyone's doing it.

CATS!

2008-11-01T16:18:00.000-07:00

Here kitty kitty...I have a bad history with cats. For some reason this furry little species and I never seem to get along. My family has had cats all of my life. And all of my life this tiny four legged animal and I have butted heads. It all started when I was still a baby sleeping in my crib and our "nice" family cat jumped on in and scratched my cornea with his whiskers. It was from that day on that I have held a grudge towards the felines. No matter what I do I end up getting scratched, hissed at, or sprayed on. Yes, sprayed on. I was sleeping in bed back at my home in Grapevine when our family cat "Mo" moseyed on in and when I refused to wake up to feed him he turned around backwards on standing on my chest and sprayed a funky...repuslive...stick with you for the day, horrid smelling juice right into my face. Well after many bad experiences I have been able to live cat free for the past two years at my apartment here in Austin. Until this weekend. One of my friends from back home came in town and stayed with us for the weekend. She didn't travel alone. She brought "Reggie" along, her gray striped kitty cat. Yeah yeah so he was cool for the first day but every time I walked passed my couch, passed a closet, passed a corner, I got a furry little paw of claws in the leg. As of right now I have one, two, three, five different scratch marks on my body. I'm definitely sticking to my theory that dogs are man's best friend. It's as simple as that, cats are definitely my enemy.

Happy Halloween

2008-10-31T13:19:00.000-07:00

Post Coming Soon.

Unused Text Books

2008-10-29T13:18:00.000-07:00

Honestly, nothing is more annoying than buying a super expensive text book because a teacher assures you that you MUST have it for the class, and then towards the end of the semester you realize that you have not even ONCE opened up that text book. Not to mention you still have an "A" in the class. What a WASTE! The State Public Interest Research Groups released a study in 2004 known as Ripoff 101, a report on college textbooks. Their story showed that the average student will spend nearly $900 each year purchasing textbooks. ARE YOU KIDDING ME! Teachers hand out a syllabus for their students each semester. On the syllabus is a section dedicated to required textbooks for their class. Each student is expected to purchase the book or books listed for the class. Most of which tend to range anywhere from $40 to almost $200. I even have a teacher this semester that forced us to buy an extremely expensive book around $120, then after a week she decided she didn't really like the book and we've been reading chapters from other books off blackboard ever since. Cmon' profs really? Let's figure this problem out because things are getting a little ridiculous, eh?

Kenichi

2008-10-28T22:17:00.000-07:00

Tonight I went to a birthday dinner for a friend at Kenichi, located on 5th and Colorado. Kenichi is probably one of my favorite places to get sushi here in Austin. I always start off with their unbelievable Macadamia Baked Goat Cheese salad. I am a huge fan of goat cheese and this is an appetizer I can never pass up. Then I always go with two rolls, one always being the Kenichi Special, and the second one I like to switch up everytime I come in. This time I got the Japanese Bagel. What a good idea for a sushi roll, the Japanese Bagel is made with salmon, cream cheese, and strawberries, pretty much to die for. And when I leave you betcha I never forget to grab a handful of their chocolate mint sticks at the door. Yes, I am one of those annoying people who grabs a handful for my purse...

Hudson Tragedy

2008-10-27T18:39:00.000-07:00

My heat truly goes out to Jennifer Hudson and her family. I cannot possibly imagine in my worst dreams what she is going through right now. Hudson's mother, Darnell Donerson, 57, and brother, Jason Hudson, 29, were found dead in their Chicago home on Friday. Missing from the crime scene was Hudson's 7-year-old nephew, Julian King. The body of the little boy was found today five miles away from where Hudson's mother and brother were found. Hudson identified the body of her nephew this afternoon. The body was found covered in plastic in the back seat of Jason Hudson's vehicle. The boy had suffered a gunshot wound to the back of the head. Police are still searching for the person or persons responsible for horrific crimes. When a tragedy like this happens to someone in the spotlight, someone we see all of the time on television, hear about, read about, see in the tabloids, you can't help but feel like you know them. I hope authorities can find who's responsible, you and your family are in our prayers Jennifer.

Album Cover: Britney Spears

2008-10-25T12:39:00.000-07:00

Britney released her new album cover for "Circus." Gosh, what a good name for this album. It really sums up her life over the past year. Doesn't she look gorgeous on the cover? Let's give her a little credit...I mean it looks like she's been busting her ass lately to get her life back on track. Seems like every time I see her in the tabloids or on TV she's looking better and better, sounding more and more normal...it's good to see she's got her head back on. Now let's see if this album is really going to show us that I'm not stupid for sticking with her through thick and thin.

1. Womanizer
2. Circus
3. Out From Under
4. Kill The Lights
5. Shattered Glass
6. If U Seek Amy
7. Unusual You
8. Blur
9. Mmm Papi
10. Mannequin
11. Lace and Leather
12. My Baby
Bonus Track:
13. Radar

Love this...

2008-10-24T11:13:00.000-07:00

"You're considered superficial and silly if you're interested in fashion, but I think you can be substantial and still be interested in frivolity." -Sofia Coppola

Influence: Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen

2008-10-24T09:54:00.000-07:00

The Olsen twins new book is finally out. "Influence" a coffee-table book about fashion is full of interviews and photos of artists and designers that have inspired or "influenced" the girls. The entire book is a mix between people who the twins admire from generations of the past and present. I plan on going out and purchasing the book today actually. As soon as I get my hands on it I will be sure to post a review on my blog. Until then, you can click here to listen to an interview of the twins talking about their book.

Olsen Twin Alert

2008-10-22T22:48:00.000-07:00

Its been a while since anyone has heard anything about the Olsen Twins. They tend to do a pretty good job of keeping their lives private. But don't worry Olsen fans, the twins are appearin on the Oprah Show this Thursday the 23rd. Supposedly the twins are going to fill us all in on what they've been doing lately, current projects, fashion lines, and personal lives. I wouldn't hold your breath on the personal lives part, history shows these girls are pretty tight lipped when it comes to that stuff. The twins were only 18 years old the last time they went on as guest of the Oprah Show, so it will be interesting to see what they have had going on over the years. Running their fashion lines, The Row, and Elizabeth and James, I'm sure the girls will have plenty to talk about. I will definitely be watching.

Rays vs. Phillis

2008-10-21T23:20:00.000-07:00

I would have never guessed that the Tampa Bay Devil Rays OR the Philadelphia Phillies would have finished over .500, let alone win their division. Then to think that both teams would win their playoff series and continue on to the World Series seemed even more impossible. Now the two most improbable teams in the league are battling it out for the greatest title in baseball.

I mean it's about time that we see someone else besides the Yankees or the Red Sox make it to the end. Having two new teams in the World Series is definitely going to spark up new interest in baseball. Aside from New York and Boston fans, I think it’s safe to say that baseball viewers look forward to see other teams compete this year. Not to mention, teams that have a significant lower budget than the overly wealthy Yankees and Red Sox. Maybe there is still a chance that baseball is something more than money and power.

The Rays are an expansion team, one of the last to be added to Major League Baseball. Over the last decade two expansion teams have made it to the World Series, whereas teams like the Chicago Cubs, one of the oldest teams in the Majors, haven’t taken a World Series title in 100 years. It is interesting that one of the newest teams in the league is competing against a team as old as the league itself.

Now let’s not forget though how unlikely a Phillies vs. Rays World Series would have sounded last year. The Phillies are a team that took the ten thousandth loss in the franchise during last year’s season, this year they make it to the end. The Rays are a team that has never had anything close to a winning season; they have managed to pull themselves up from last place in the league to first place in the league this season.

A Rays vs. Phillies World Series is what America’s favorite pastime is supposed to be about. Baseball should be about an inspiring story or having the chance to root for a team in the World Series that you have believed in all of your life. It’s about determination, strength, and motivation, not about which team has the most money or the largest percentage of sold out games.

We’ve lost the excitement of seven-game battles and unbelievable competitive nature between Major League teams. This year’s World Series demonstrates that two turnaround stories can time and time again prove skeptics wrong. No matter who takes the title this year, the Rays and the Phillies will each be writing their own history and giving hope to fans, as well as other teams in the league, that the World Series is still anyone’s game, well maybe except for the Cubs.

House of Torment

2008-10-20T18:56:00.000-07:00

I have, without dying, successfully reached the exit. I made it. It is finally over. I walked down the exit ramp in relief. Right before I heard this, “I need to see your tickets for the second part, Illusion Manor,” said an employee. Another one? I have to go through all of this again? I spoke too soon. I showed the ticket, my combo-package ticket, and walked in defeat down the sidewalk to the entrance of my next challenge. The break between rapid heartbeats and the blood covered dead was cut short. Out of the bushes he jumps, chainsaw in hand, ready to make me wish I had chosen to stay in my car. In an effort to escape from Mr. Chainsaw, I had no time to delay the next exhibit. I hustled to the entrance doors, and as the man covered in piercings greeted me, it was time for Round 2.

Comedy Relief

2008-10-19T15:17:00.000-07:00

Came across this video of Joel McHale from "The Soup" on the E! network and his version of Britney Spear's music video "Womanizer" it's pretty funny, click here to check it out.

Girl Talk

2008-10-18T12:23:00.000-07:00

Bad news for me... I am seriously obsessed with Girl Talk (an extremely talented musician who makes mashup style remixes). I first discovered Girl Talk at Lollapalooza when I was in Chicago over the summer. I fell in love. The man responsible for this amazing musical performance is Gregg Gillis. It blows my mind how he can take a mix of over a dozen songs and mash them together to make one, new, almost better than the originals, type of music. Well lucky for me Girl Talk is on tour right now with Grand Buffet and Hearts of Darkness. This means that Girl Talk will be coming to Austin this Monday to play a FREE show on a first come first serve basis at Emo's off of 6th and Red River. Weeeeeeell it just so happens to show is supposedly ALREADY COMPLETELY SOLD OUT! I tried checking on every "ticket-selling" website to find a way to attend the show, but of course every ticket is going for $80.00 at the least. I know I know...I already got to see him once this year, let's not get greedy...but c'mon...this Pittsburgh native comes all the way down to my town and I can't even go enjoy it...SUCH a bummer. Talk about starting the week of bad...yikes.

"Where America Gets Dirty"

2008-10-16T19:55:00.000-07:00

I stumbled across this interesting website today...The site is called USA Gone Dirty and it posts random pictures of students from numerous college universities across the USA and makes fun of them. Think of it as a Perez Hilton site that instead of making fun of celebrities it is calling out college students. The pictures mainly consist of students out partying and then the caption pointing out how stupid or drunk people look. The site also has pictures posted of specific people with juicy story about them in the caption. True or not this site is fun to look at. While I was scoping out the site I actually saw multiple pictures with people I knew in them. Yikes! Watch out guys, you never know where your posted Facebook pictures will end up, or what people will have to say about them!

High waisted skirts

2008-10-14T21:16:00.000-07:00

My obsession...high waisted skirts. I have found my fashion love. I adore these high waisted skirts that are the craze right now. I am so excited to see stores with an abundance of skirts this season. Knee-length, mini's, fitted, flared, colorful, patternized, I love them all! I've always been a fan of skirts don't get me wrong, but it wasn't until recently when the classic high waisted skirt came back in style that I abandoned every pair of my jeans. This former look is making a brilliant comeback and I am definitely in favor!

Beyonce's new video

2008-10-12T21:05:00.000-07:00

Beyonce sure shows off some killer acting skills in her new music video for "If I Were a Boy." I like it. Click here to watch it yourself.

Britney Spears: For the record

2008-10-11T15:29:00.000-07:00

Finally my girl is back! I am a Britney Spears fan. Not just when Britney is hot, Britney Spears fan, but I'm talking for richer or poorer in sickness and in health Britney Spears fan. Britney has definitely made her come back. Brit really started to prove she has made it back by taking home three moonmen at this years 2008 MTV VMA's. This past Friday Britney premiered her video for her newest single "Womanizer" on ABC's "20/20." But Brit Brit doesn't stop there. Speats will be airing a documentary on MTV November 30th titles "For the Record." I caught a clip from the documentary (click here to watch sneak peak) and I have to say Britney seems back to herself, by that I mean the Brit we all knew before K-Federline stepped into the scene. She sounds healthy, sane, and most importantly coherent. I'm interested to see the show. Click here to watch Brit's "Womanizer" video .

St. Edwards: Baseball

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

It's that time of year again. Where the boys are back to show off what they've got during the fall ball season. Fall ball is always my favorite because it shows us a little sneak preview of what to expect for baseball season in the spring. Our own St. Edward's baseball team played today against nearby Temple College. The four hour game kicked off early at 11:00 AM. The game was initially supposed to begin at noon but because of UT-OU traffic the game began early. After losing a good number of Senior players last spring, this years team with the addition of some new recruits and freshman proved that they are going to be just fine on their own. It was a good day for Hilltopper first baseman's. First baseman Nic Godre hit three home runs during the game, as well as other first baseman Dexter Moreno hit one home run during the game. The Topper's took the victory, the final score of the long game totaled at 19-09.

The many scents of Britney Spears

2008-10-09T17:01:00.000-07:00

Fun fact for the day. Britney Spears has SEVEN fragrances out! The flirty scents include Curious, Fantasy, In Control, Midnight Fantasy, Believe, Curious Heart, and hew most recent Hidden Fantasy. In fact, E! Online is even conducting a poll to see what fans think Britney should name her number eight next big fragrance. Click here to take the poll!

New Music: Ra Ra Riot

2008-10-08T16:04:00.000-07:00

Album of the day The Rhumb Line by the group Ra Ra Riot. This indie rock band on the rise from New York will keep you hypnotized for days with their catchy lyrics and memorizing sounds from their Cello and Fiddle players. Check them out here!

Rachel Zoe Project

2008-10-07T23:46:00.000-07:00

"I die." Alright I admit it I am totally obsessed with Rachel Zoe. I am an addict of her new TV show, Rachel Zoe Project, on Bravo. I'm not going to lie I secretly, kind of, really, want to be her! With Rachel's frequently used lines such as "bananas" "shut it down" "kills it" "loves it" and my personal favorite "I die" what is there not to like about this reality show? This show has all of the essential elements to make great TV as far as I'm concerned. With a mix of catty assistants, celebs that need a dressing, and killer fashion, this show certainly has my attention!

Monday Night TV

2008-10-06T23:35:00.000-07:00

Just about the only thing I like about Mondays is the great TV line up. On a typical Monday I like to catch the new fabulous Gossip Girl episode, followed by a new episode of the ever so dramatic One Tree Hill, and then I end my night with a new episode from the very addictive series known as The Hills. Unfortunately this Monday was a bi-week for my first two shows in the line up. Gossip Girl and One Tree Hill decided to take a week off. So tonight it was just the gang from The Hills and I. Tonight's episode gave hope for LC and Heidi to rekindle their friendship. Heidi's sister, Holly Montag, and LC have been hanging out quite a bit since Holly moved to L.A. at the beginning of the season. This has made Heidi somewhat come back into the picture for LC. Of course the only thing that is stopping LC from being friends with lonely Heidi again is the much loved Mr. Spencer Pratt. As long as he's in the picture LC says there is no chance for her and Heidi to reunite as BFF's. Oh no! Looks like we have more drama in the hills.

No more NBC for me...

2008-10-05T15:31:00.000-07:00

I no longer have the NBC (KXAN) channel. Unfortunately the battle between Time Warner and NBC has left me out in the dust when it comes to catching episodes of my FAVORITE TV SHOW Lipstick Jungle. How RUDE! Looks like I'll be switching over to AT&T soon. 'Til then I guess I'll be watching from my computer screen. Bummer.

The Belmont

2008-10-04T17:33:00.000-07:00

Looking for something fun to do with that significant other? I suggest having a night at The Belmont located on West Sixth. My boyfriend and I recently ate there and first of all their food is amazing. The Belmont has a nice, dim, quiet restaurant on the inside. We both ordered the salmon and it was absolutely delicious. After we ate we walked to the outside part of the joint which is always flocking with some of Austin's most trendy socialites. We sat on the terrace and drank martini's before we witnessed one of the coolest things I have ever seen. Every Friday night The Belmont hosts a "fire show" on their outside stage. The performance is put on by an extremely entertaining group called "The Usual Suspects." They blew our minds. Their show was not only very interesting and memorizing. But each group member does a dance to some of the most creative mash ups done by a DJ which force everyone in the crowd to want to dance along. But don't sit too close...the heat gets pretty intense.

Strut: First Thursday

2008-10-04T09:46:00.000-07:00

For some reason I always seem to miss "first Thursday" on South Congress. The fact that it is the first Thursday of the month slips my mind, or I have already made prior arrangements, either way I never get to experience one of Austin's special little gems that is "first Thursday."

First Thursday is (literally) the first Thursday of every month when all of the local Austinites come out to walk along "soco" enjoying food, music, and great shopping. All of the stores and restaurants put on great deals for this particular day of the month. One of my personal favorite places to shop, Strut, is one of the stores that partakes in the festivities.

Strut always puts on a great sale for the night, usually at least 40% off of everything in their store. Unfortunately, I usually hear about all the great clothes, shoes, and jewelry people got the day AFTER. I can never seem to remember that it is the FIRST THURSDAY of the month, but not this month. This time I remembered.

It all happened during my Journalism class. I was sitting in class Thursday afternoon, doing an in class exercise where we interview our fellow classmates. A little exercise that is supposed to help us become comfortable with asking complete strangers personal and intrusive questions about their life. Fortunately I was able to spare the awkwardness this time because I got paired up with the one person out of our entire class that I actually knew. During my mock interview with Tristan it dawned on me. For the very first time I ACTUALLY remembered that it was first Thursday. Even better, I still had time to drive across the street to Strut and maybe, actually, finally, have the chance to buy something that was discounted for a change.

Luckily this day I had no prior obligations, so right after class I rushed with a smile on my face and my wallet full of cash ready to be spent on first Thursday souvenirs from Strut. Of course, since everyone typically remembers to do their shopping on first Thursday there were no parking spots in the lot designated for Strut so I had to settle for a spot in front of a house in a neighborhood not too far from the store.

Once I finally arrived at the doors of the little white store it was clear that I was not the only one who remembered first Thursday this time. The place was packed. I looked around for a while but after I saw the long lines to the dressing rooms it was clear that my patience was not going to hold up for long. The employee in charge of getting shoe sizes was moving particularly speedy so I figured it was my best bet. I decided on a pair of strappy black heels and made my way to the jewelry section. The jewelry area was another place less crowded with shoppers. I picked out a pair of gold hoops and headed for check out.

I'm still not sure if I needed either of the items I bought at Strut that day, but the fact that I bought them on first Thursday is what makes it all worth it.

Lipstick Jungle

2008-10-01T22:41:00.000-07:00

Ah...one of my favorite TV shows started back up last week. Have no fear, "Lipstick Jungle" is back ladies and gentleman, a series based on the best-selling book by Candace Bushnell. "Lipstick Jungle" really caught my eye in it's first season last spring and I have been anxiously awaiting its arrival back on NBC this fall. I consider "Lipstick Jungle" the modern day "Sex in the City." I was a huge fan of "Sex in the City" when it was on TV and I think that is why I have taken such a liking to the "Lipstick Jungle" series. The series is only two episodes into the new season and I am already biting my nails for it to air each week. This show is filled with juicy and scandalous material...not to mention the characters are always decked out in the most to-die-for outfits and accessories. My favorite character from the show is fashion designer "Victory Ford" who is played by actress Lindsay Price. She is such a cutie and I really admire her fun and free-spirited character on the show. Some pretty major events have already happened in just the first two episodes, I absolutely cannot wait to see whats in store for the rest of the season.

ACL: Cough Cough

2008-09-30T22:49:00.000-07:00

It's safe to say I've been slacking on my blogging. I'm not going to try and make excuses but I will say that I have been working as a slave for Austin City Limits since this past Thursday. Thursday night around 5:30 PM it began. I was hired to work as a bartender for the ACL's VIP pre party benefit. I'd have to say it wasn't too shabby serving complimentary beverages to guests while getting a front row view of the Blues Travelor's performance but little did I know that this night would be the beginning of the longest weekend of my life. The rest of the weekend is now a complete and utter blur to me. Friday, Saturday, and Sunday I arrived at Zilker Park at 10:00 AM. Each day I bartended at bar #4, not only was this bar located next to the main AT&T stage, but it remained one of the busiest bars in the park the entire weekend. Each night, after cleaning all of the bar mess, I left the park around 11:00 PM. Yes, that means that I worked 13 hour+ days the entire weekend. Not to mention, the whole weekend consisted of working conditions such as, the constant inhaling of dirt and dust from the great Zilker Park, dealing with drunk hippies all day, and worst of all serving customer after customer who were getting to enjoy the coolest music festival of the year while I was stuck behind a muddy bar. Sunday night when I got back to my aparement I collapsed. I had offically lost my voice. I was pretty sure I had over a pound of dirt and dust gathered in my lungs. And I was most definietly sleep deprived and exhausted from my super long weekend. I will tell you that I am just now gaining back control of my life. This weekend officially forced me to be left behind in a giant cloud of dust (literally) as life as I knew it carried on without me. But good news for all, it is late Tuesday night and I finally feel that I am back on track. See you out there all.

Einstein Bros: Bagels

2008-09-25T10:31:00.000-07:00

Here we go again. I'm the type of person that tends to get overly passionate about certain food products. This is how it works, that certain food becomes the only thing I eat (yes all three meals including snack time) until I am so sick of it that I'm lucky if I'll be able to eat it again for the rest of my life. I know, pretty lame. For instance, some of the food I've been hooked on in the past include everything from the time I discovered how great string cheese was, to when I suddenly had immense love for Rosemary and Olive Oil Triscuits, or worst of all, when I discovered Lean Cuisine's Panini meals. During my panini fad, my entire freezer stayed stocked full with the tiny white boxes for about two months. During those two months, breakfast, lunch, and dinner all consisted of a panini from a box. And then it happens, I suddenly realize I no longer have a love for the food. The gracious panini's that kept me full for two whole months I instantly want to clear from my fridge and never hear from again. Well this time it's bagels that have caught my eye. Not just any bagels though, Einstein Bros' bagels. Not only have I become entranced by all of the 18 delicious flavors of bagels that the Einstein Bros offer, I have also found an unconditional love for the many different Cream Cheese Schmears I can chose to top my bagel of choice with. Yesterday, I made a stop by the busy store to pick up my weekly bagels. Lucky for me and my current addiction, the bros are currently offering a "12 bagels with 2 schmears for only $12.00" deal. So I stood in line and picked all 12 of my bagels out and my two schmears (I chose plain and onion and chive of course). I even waited an hour for them to make my onion bagels because they were out at the moment and I couldn't bare to let myself leave without taking my favorite kind home with me. So for the time being, bagels it is. My center-less, carbohydrate-packed buddies have done me good so far. Well it is only the second week of our relationship...it's only a matter of time before they too will have to hit the road!

Amelie

2008-09-22T10:43:00.000-07:00

Before I made my trip out to "no more power land" I was able to watch a great movie which I have heard a lot about but somehow it is always already checked out at any of my local Blockbusters. Amelie is a French film about a young girl, named Amelie, whose life is changed after she finds a hidden box of treasures in her bathroom wall. After returning the box to its owner Amelie realizes that she has a calling to help change the lives of others for the better, all while battling with her own messy life. The movie is in sub-titles but that in no way hindered it. The movie has been very successful it won best film at the European Film Awards, four awards at the Cesar Awards, two BAFTA Awards, and was nominated for five Academy Awards. I found the movie to be extremely funny and clever. It is definitely a feel good movie. I reccommend renting this one and switching it up a bit from everyone's typical box office gold rental choices.

MGMT Obsession

2008-09-22T10:32:00.000-07:00

I have to admit I have been pretty much obsessed with MGMT's album recently. I have been a big fan of the duo ever since I heard their song "Time to pretend" in the movie 21. Although after checking out their entire album last week I have not been able to press stop on my iTunes or iPod. I even jammed the funky futuristic electric pop music the entire way to Houston. The music gives off a real happy, lively vibe. The type of music that when you hear it you can't help but to dance a little, even if that just means a slight foot tapping or head bobbing. Either way it gets you moving and feeling good. I find myself singing two of my favorite songs by the group, "Electric Feel" and "Weekend Wars"-due to their addictive song lyrics that are constantly playing in my head. Good news, the band will be performing at ACL this coming weekendm, great timing guys.

You can check them out here for yourself MGMT

Too Many Plane Crashes...

2008-09-22T10:21:00.000-07:00

Alert Alert! Blink 182 drummer and reality tv show "Meet the Barkers" star Travis Barker and DJ AM Adam Goldstein were involved in a tragic plane crash this past Friday in South Carolina. Barker and Goldstein were two of the six passengers who were aboard the plane that crashed upon takeoff at the Columbia Metropolitain Airport. Unfortunately Barker and Goldstein were the only survivors, the other four passengers, which included the pilot, co-pilot, security gaurd, and Barker's assistant, were all pronounced dead. Barker and Goldstein have been held at a burn facility under critical condition but are expected to make a full recovery. This accident has really caught everyone off gaurd. It feels like a plane crash has made the headlines a little too often lately...

Update

2008-09-22T10:18:00.000-07:00

Hey there to anyone who reads this... I have been in Houston since Thursday helping those who were affected by hurricane Ike. Unfortunately everywhere I stayed in H-town still didn't have electricity back from the storm, therefore I have not been able to update my blog for a few days. Lucky for you, I was smart enough to keep track of a few things I wanted to post about so these next few posts are what I have been waiting to put up until I got back to Austin this morning where there is air conditioning and internet access.

Only in Grapevine

2008-09-14T16:53:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again...my home town Grapevine, Texas celebrated their 22nd annual Grape Fest this past weekend. The celebration takes place all along Main Street in downtown historic Grapevine. There is plenty of entertainment including live music, plenty of shopping, great food, carnival rides, and of course the sampling of award-winning Texas wines. Grape Fest is the largest wine festival in the Southwest. Hurricane Ike didn't stop this small town from getting down over the weekend. With the exception of a few light sprinkles of rain the weekend was a major success for everyone who participated. Unfortunately I was unable to make it this year but I've heard nothing but great things and I am happy to hear that my home town is holding it down!

Here's to the dreamers, the wanders, the lost.

2008-09-14T01:20:00.000-07:00

I came across this today and I enjoyed it quite a bit. Thought I would share it. I know it's a bit long but I really suggest everyone take a few minutes to read it.

By columnist Penelope Trunk

Here is an open letter to all the parents, aunts and uncles who write to me asking for advice about the twenty something in their life who is an incorrigible underachiever:

Lighten up! No one should be labeled an underachiever in their twenties! The first thing you should ask yourself is whose standards are you using? This is not the same workplace that existed ten years ago. There are new rules, and you need to stop applying the old rules to someone who has no need for them.

The people who know exactly what they want to do when they are 22 are called, in the land of sociology, “fast starters.” And today that is only 12% of the workforce. In general, these people are conservative, taking paths their parents took, and do not ask a lot of questions. The majority of twenty somethings today move back home with their parents ,job hop every 18 months, and refuse to pay their dues.

And you know what? These are all good decisions. To you, these decisions might look like decisions that losers make, but the world is different. Do you know what a loser is today? A loser is someone who doesn’t take the time to get to know herself. A loser is someone who saw his parents earn a lot of money and not get happiness from it and still deludes himself that money will make him happy. A loser is someone who looks for fame or prestige. A loser is someone who lets someone else tell them what success looks like.

Today success is personal. It’s about using the years of emerging adulthood to figure out what works for you. This is time to experiment - try things and quit them and try other things. This is a time to have gaps in resumes, red in bank accounts, and a suitcase packed, ready to go at a moment’s notice. These are symptoms of someone who is learning a lot and growing a lot.

Personal growth looks a lot like being lost. Lost is okay. Who wouldn’t be with twenty years of schooling and no preparation for adult life? People grow more when they are lost then when they are on a straight path with a clear view of where they are going.

Don’t tell me that your kid is a bar tender and will never grow up. Bar tenders have some of the best social skills in the workforce, and social skills are what matters. Bar tenders are not underachievers. Also, did you ever stop to ask your bar-tender kid what he does during the day when he’s not pouring drinks? He’s probably doing something fun and cool and a little risky that you didn’t have the guts to try til you had a midlife crisis.

And don’t tell me about your kid who isn’t finishing college. No one said college has to happen right away. No one has research to show that if you do college right after high school you will be a happier person. But people do have research to show that if you take time to find yourself during your twenties then you will avoid a quarter life crisis. So maybe it’s okay that your niece is taking a year off of college to travel in Thailand. Or knit sweaters.

Stop judging the twenty somethings. Instead, look at yourself. Why is it so important for your twenty something to make choices that you like? In fact, the most successful people in today’s workplace are making choices that would have seemed absurd ten years ago. And things that are true today were not true ten years ago.

And have a heart. It’s not easy to be a twenty something today. These young people grew up with tons of structure, tons of adults watching over them, tons of accolades. It’s a hard adjustment to go into the adult world where there is none of this. The most successful transitions happen when the person making the change receives time to adjust, space to grow, and support for tough decisions.

Have some patience. Most people find what they want to do with their life by the time they are 30. Really. And they are already putting so much pressure on themselves to find a good life. They don’t need more pressure from you.

Cover Songs

2008-09-14T01:05:00.000-07:00

Many new artists are taking a new approach to music. These days musicians are simply re-doing older songs of other artists. Most of them are trying out the new fad on songs from other genres, such as a slow acoustic artist re-doing a rap song. Some of my favorites are Jenny Owen Youngs and her cover of Nelly's "Hot In Here," or one of the newer artists to surface here in the United States, Beligian artist Milow and his cover of Justin Timberlake's "Ayo Technology." Personally, I like both of the covers better than their original version. You can find both of these songs on MySpace Music to decide for yourself.

Style Week 08

2008-09-10T21:31:00.000-07:00

Tonight Tribeza kicked off style week with a colorful premier party at the Domain's Neiman Marcus. Throughout the night the room flocked with fashionistas and socialites. I myself was lucky enough to get the chance to attend the event among some of Austin's top designers, models, and even the Mayor Will Wynn himself. Although the night was not only a tribute to Style Week and Tribeza's annual Fashion Show, it also celebrated the Mayor's birthday. Joe DiMaggio's and McCormick and Shmick's were just a few of the top restaurants who kept guests fed throughout the evening with their delectable hor'dourves, along with a trendy live DJ, two complimentary open bars, and cocktail servers flourishing with fruity vodka martinis and white wine, it's safe to say the night was nothing less of a great time for everyone who attended. The night was not without good deeds though, the entire evening benefited Candlelight Ranch, a non-profit organization for children. With guests dressed in top of the line designer names with drink in hand it's safe to say that this little gathering might just have been the most stylish event of the year.

Sunday Funday

2008-09-08T14:49:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday I experienced Houston's newest social gathering known as Sunday Funday. The idea for Sunday Funday came from club, bar, and restaurant promotors. Throughout the day different hot spots around the Midtown area schedule drink specials at different times all day long for people looking to end their weekend off right before the dreadful Monday. We started off our Sunday Funday at noon with brunch and bottomless mimosas at trendy restaraunt Ferrago's. Ferrago's hosts the first part of Sunday Funday and ends when they run out of mimosa's, typically around three o'clock. From there we walked across the street for margaritas with chips and salsa while watching the Cowboys game on flat screens in the bar area at Cyclone Anayas. At five o'clock we ended our extravaganza at Open City drinking their famous frozen mojito's. All in all the day was a success, and even more a great idea to get people out and socializing spending one last day of fun before everyone goes back to the grind for the week. A numerous amount of bars and clubs participate in this new idea and it has become a talk of the town among people of all ages.

Keep Austin Weird

2008-09-08T07:51:00.000-07:00

On my way home from Houston this morning I heard something on the radio that shocked me. Austin's own Leslie Cochran, otherwise known as "homeless Leslie" actually used to be a college professor at the University of Texas. YES! Can you believe it? Leslie was also said to have been educated at the school as well. Supposedly back in the day good ol' Les lived the typical American dream, he was a University professor, had a wife and family and lived in a house out in Westlake. It wasn't until the death of his wife that Leslie chose to live the life he lives today, which mainly consists of dressing in women's clothing, hanging out at Bouldin Creek Coffeehouse, walking along 6th street, or even running for mayor. Why would Leslie chose this life you ask? Well when you think about it...the man has his own calendar's and refrigerator magnets, which he gets 15% of profit from...looks like the man is still doing pretty well for himself and his lifestyle is simply his marketing ploy! The man must promote himself right? Way to go Leslie!

Shiner's Saloon

2008-09-06T19:41:00.000-07:00

This past Thursday night I went to dinner with my two roommates at a new place downtown called Shiner's Saloon. Shiner's has all of the ingredients for a fun time down town. With giant flat screens, a live dj, unique bar food, and plenty of other people down to party our night was very successful. Located off of 5th and South Congress, the bar/restaurant sits right next to an old favorite, The Marq. I wish this new spot lots of successful, it's a fresh new spot with great specials and a fun young crowd, something that Austin really needs right now. Everyone who works there is tons of fun and we will definitely be going back soon.

Banksy

2008-09-03T22:34:00.000-07:00

According to Banksy, art speaks way louder than words. I came across this website after seeing it posted on a friend's interests lists on Facebook. Little did I know that this is what I would find, much the less would I end up enjoying it so much or be fascinated so dearly by the artist. The following pictures are a few of my favorite's from the website. I love the artist's unique style, I would definitely rather see his work on the side of a building as opposed to graffiti vandalism...wouldn't you? Banksy has an interesting way of getting his point across through his art. Personally, I feel that it may be more effective than a lot of the approaches people are choosing to take these days...especially on issues such as war, corrupt media, cleaning up New Orleans, and the hurricane relief. One thing's for sure, Banksy has a great way of reinventing old art and changing it into something that our society may understand a little bit more these days...I highly suggest you check it out. --> http://www.banksy.co.uk/

90210

2008-09-02T21:00:00.000-07:00

After watching the new 90210 that premiered tonight with its two hour episode on the CW I have to admit I was unpleasantly surprised. The show itself was not what shocked me, but yet the extremely tiny frames of the young cast members. Apparently, the girls from "the most anticipated show of the season" are not too into eating? Is this really the message we want to send to the young fans, whom of which are primarily young teens? My roommates and I could hardly believe how thin the girls in the show appeared... I mean isn't the camera supposed to "add 10 lbs." anyway? Yikes, if that's the case these girl's are definitely in trouble. Especially after seeing these same characters just recently in movies and other TV shows where they looked nowhere near as alarmingly skinny as they appeared in the new 90210 tonight. Such as actor Jessica Stroup for example, who sported a much more healthier frame when she recently starred in the summer hit Prom Date. Personally, I think with all of the trouble we have been having with skinny "celebs" in the spotlight I think that this is a major setback for our efforts on trying to change the messages celebrities send to their fans about body image. Well one thing's for sure, I certainly hope that in the episodes to come the little bitty gals will be allowed to eat...until then I know the only thing I'll be able to focus on this season won't be the show itself but how disturbing the skin and bones characters look in this renewed hit series....eeek!

Gossip Girl

2008-09-01T18:19:00.000-07:00

With school starting again, I can hardly anticipate for all of my favorite TV shows to start up again, debuting their season premieres to us during the first few weeks of September. One show that premiered tonight was one of the CW's very successful hits Gossip Girl. I have to admit I wasn't a fan of the show last season, but after all of the hype about the series as well as their very controversial ad campaign this summer, I decided to give it a shot. The past few weeks I spent some of my time catching myself up on the last season by asking friends and family (my sister is a big fan of the show) as well as watching full episodes on the CW website. I have to admit I became instantly obsessed. Tonight at 7 o'clock was the big season premiere and you better believe it I was ready to go waiting on the couch 10 minutes before it aired to be sure I didn't miss a single second. The episode definitely got me excited for the rest of season 2...I cannot wait to see what happens in the crazy lives of the girls and boys for the big city as well as what they're all wearing for the fall; as their style never ceases to impress me.

Speaking of fashion, lucky for me I recently discovered that all of the clothes and accessories worn by the cast members in each show can be found on the CW's website under the section labeled "style." What a great idea...they make it as easy as browsing by brand, character, episode, or product. Just what I need, I wish every one of my favorite shows would do this!

Who's Gonna Save My Soul?

2008-08-30T19:25:00.000-07:00

New Gnarls Barkley song, I love the video. Interesting idea of a music video and who doesn't love the talking-singing heart? This isn't his first run around with brilliant videos, how could any of us forget his trippy video for his song "Crazy" a few years back? Well it's safe to say bravo again Mr. Barkley.

Check the video out at here.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kTVSygNKAsg

Success

2008-08-29T15:25:00.000-07:00

"To laugh often and much, to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children, to earn the appreciation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends, to appreciate beauty, to find the best in others, to leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch...to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded."
- Ralph Waldo Emerson

I love this.

P.S. Happy Birthday Michael Jackson
The "king of pop" turned the big 5-0 today.

Fall Fashion

2008-08-28T19:41:00.000-07:00

So I finally gave in and purchased Elle magazine's Fall Fashion issue...

It's safe to say that I have not experienced any sense of buyer's remorse since I scooped it up last night. What a great issue. The magazine can practically double as a fashion bible with it's 600+ number of pages. I'm not even half way through it yet...

Pick it up if you dare. Jessica Simpson graces the cover in a super-tight plaid button down with a pretty honky tonk belt around her tinsy-tiny waste...you can hardly miss it.

Bella

2008-08-27T20:55:00.000-07:00

Movie tip. If anyone is feeling a movie night anytime soon I strongly suggest renting Bella. The movie ultimately revolves around the subject of abortion and has actually become quite the center of attention within the Christian community because of this controversial topic. I recently watched the movie with my boyfriend and I have to admit we both cried multiple times. Sorry Brian. Anyway, I think it is probably safe to say that anyone would cry while watching this movie, it is quite the tear jerker. Mexican film director Alejandro Monteverde is who's responsible for this brilliant film. He even took home the "People's Choice Award" at Toronto's International Film Festival in 2006 for it. What makes this movie even more moving is that it is actually a personal story related to Monteverde's own life. I was lucky enough to have worked with a close friend of the director this summer. The insight she gave me into the director's life and how he used his experience with the story in his movie is truly inspiring. It is really good to see that artists today still use their own personal lives to inspire their work; it truly gives the audience a sense of vulnerability, passion, and honesty from the director. Very often, those three elements are the difference between a good movie...and a poor one.

Brit Brit

2008-08-26T17:28:00.000-07:00

It's been a very busy couple of days with the starting of school and getting back into the swing of things. But that doesn't mean that I haven't been able to keep up with my celebrity news as I go...

I thought I would dedicate this first post to the one and only Ms. Britney Spears. I'm sure as we have all heard, there have been rumors flying around about Spears redeeming herself with a performance at this year's 2008 VMA's. Especially after Brit, Russel Brand (popular UK radio and television personality), and a giant live elephant appeared in commercials together talking about the VMA's it has pretty much been assured that she was going to perform again this year. But all of my wishes have officially been confirmed! According to Brit's hairstylist, and one of my personal favorites from Shear Genius, Kim Vo slipped out secrets of what he plans to do for Britney's hair on the big day.

Personally, I am so excited about the news and it clearly makes for a fun blog. I have always been a big fan of Britney Spears, for richer or for poorer, and I believe that this is going to be a great opportunity for her to prove herself and make up for her on stage disaster last year. But we will have to wait and see and believe me I am already counting down the days until the big show!