Having Colin as my best friend and boyfriend.
My job at ZooFriends and my awesome coworkers there, all of whom I consider friends.
My job at the library, and my coworkers/friends there.
The library, with all the free books, DVDs, CDs, and information it offers.
My dad, who lets me live at his house and is a great roommate.
My mom, who takes me on cool vacations, like Disney World.
My sister, who will be a friend I never have to worry about losing contact with.
My friends who live close by and come hang out with me.
My friends who live far away and keep in touch with me.
Having a bachelor's degree.
Not having to be in school, but having the opportunity to go back if I want.
My cousins, more friends I can count on to always be in my life, no matter what.
Facebook, which allows me to easily keep in touch with so many people that I rarely get to see.
Barnes & Noble, for sending me coupons and making it affordable for me to buy gifts for everyone, including myself.
Neil Gaiman, for making the fantasy genre cool and the macabre accessible.
Hulu, which allows me to keep up with my shows when I miss their original air dates.
Hollywood, for providing me with endless hours of entertainment and escape.
Independent filmmakers, for providing me with endless hours of though-provoking and emotionally resonant stories.
All the band directors and music instructors I've ever had, for teaching me how to play, listen, and appreciate music.
Macaroni and cheese, for being the most delicious food ever.
Thursday, November 24, 2011
Saturday, November 12, 2011
And the Academy Award for Best Costume Design goes to...
I just got back from seeing Anonymous at AMC. It's extrapolates on the theory that William Shakespeare didn't actually write his plays, that he was a frontman cover-up for the Earl of Oxford, Edward de Vere. It's an interesting idea. I recently borrowed from the library a documentary about the whole thing called The Shakespeare Conspiracy, which I thought was quite fascinating, and I find I'm more prone to believe the cover-up story than to assume that Will Shakespeare from Stratford-upon-Avon was the true writer.
Regardless of which side you're on (and it is actually a legit debate among scholars) the movie is very enjoyable. It opens and closes with actor Derek Jacobi narrating to an audience from a stage, which presents the story as a suggestion rather than a "here's what really happened." (Jacobi also narrated The Shakespeare Conspiracy, by the way.) The rest of the movie plays out in the Elizabethan era, with all the splendor of period sets and costumes (Oscars?).
As a whole, I thought the plot was very enjoyable and well-written, although the "character" of William Shakespeare feels somewhat more like a "caricature," being portrayed as a bumbling, illiterate drunk (though it is quite funny). Aside from that, I thought the cast was amazing. Vanessa Redgrave's Elizabeth I felt very real. In most other films featuring Elizabeth I, she's a hard, empowered woman who gets what she wants and knows how to rule, but rarely do we ever see her as anything less than a super-strong heroine. This film shows her in the context of court intrigue and personal entertainment. We never see her as the unyielding ruling Queen of England, so she actually comes off somewhat weaker than we might be used to. I liked it. She seemed more tangible, like what royalty would actually be like day to day--somewhat spoiled, somewhat disinterested. That's not to say that the film necessarily shows her to be a snobby brat, but since her role as a ruler isn't relevant to this story, we don't see that side of her, and it's quite refreshing, to be honest.
I thought Rhys Ifans as Edward de Vere was astounding. I already liked him, but in the past I've only seen him in roles as slightly crazy people (Xenophilius Lovegood in Harry Potter) or loser fools (Spike in Notting Hill). In Anonymous, he's all at once suave, aloof, cunning, discerning, and yet somewhat unsure of himself and eager to please as all artists are. His performance mesmerized me. Edward Hogg as Robert Cecil was superb, as well. He totally pulled off the conniving, yet pitiable antagonist.
All in all, I found Anonymous to be a very fun, entertaining, and intriguing film. I definitely recommend it, even for Shakespeare purists--don't deny a good story simply because it's not what you would consider "historically accurate." Just enjoy it for what it is, the tragic story of a man who had to hide his art and let someone else take the credit for it.
Regardless of which side you're on (and it is actually a legit debate among scholars) the movie is very enjoyable. It opens and closes with actor Derek Jacobi narrating to an audience from a stage, which presents the story as a suggestion rather than a "here's what really happened." (Jacobi also narrated The Shakespeare Conspiracy, by the way.) The rest of the movie plays out in the Elizabethan era, with all the splendor of period sets and costumes (Oscars?).
As a whole, I thought the plot was very enjoyable and well-written, although the "character" of William Shakespeare feels somewhat more like a "caricature," being portrayed as a bumbling, illiterate drunk (though it is quite funny). Aside from that, I thought the cast was amazing. Vanessa Redgrave's Elizabeth I felt very real. In most other films featuring Elizabeth I, she's a hard, empowered woman who gets what she wants and knows how to rule, but rarely do we ever see her as anything less than a super-strong heroine. This film shows her in the context of court intrigue and personal entertainment. We never see her as the unyielding ruling Queen of England, so she actually comes off somewhat weaker than we might be used to. I liked it. She seemed more tangible, like what royalty would actually be like day to day--somewhat spoiled, somewhat disinterested. That's not to say that the film necessarily shows her to be a snobby brat, but since her role as a ruler isn't relevant to this story, we don't see that side of her, and it's quite refreshing, to be honest.
I thought Rhys Ifans as Edward de Vere was astounding. I already liked him, but in the past I've only seen him in roles as slightly crazy people (Xenophilius Lovegood in Harry Potter) or loser fools (Spike in Notting Hill). In Anonymous, he's all at once suave, aloof, cunning, discerning, and yet somewhat unsure of himself and eager to please as all artists are. His performance mesmerized me. Edward Hogg as Robert Cecil was superb, as well. He totally pulled off the conniving, yet pitiable antagonist.
All in all, I found Anonymous to be a very fun, entertaining, and intriguing film. I definitely recommend it, even for Shakespeare purists--don't deny a good story simply because it's not what you would consider "historically accurate." Just enjoy it for what it is, the tragic story of a man who had to hide his art and let someone else take the credit for it.
Sunday, October 16, 2011
Sometimes I feel as though I never get to see my family.
My cousins Melinda and Sid are moving to Seattle soon, so they had a little going away party for family today at my sister Melissa's house. It started at 1 and I was scheduled to work at the zoo 'till 5, so I figured I probably wouldn't make it, 'cause they'd all be gone by 5:30. I actually managed to get off work early, though, and I arrived at Melissa's at about 4... just as everyone who remained was leaving. So I really didn't get to see anyone. They are having another party next weekend for the other side of their family, but I can't go to that, either, 'cause I work at the library from 1-6. I tried to make an effort to take off work so I could go to one of them, but because of a little bit of late notice and other schedule conflicts concerning Halloween, I just wasn't able to.
This seems to be happening to me a lot. If I get a chance to spend time with family or friends, I usually end up having to work. I basically have to plan at least a 4 weeks in advance to be certain that I can hang out. No day is automatically free. Between my two jobs, I have every other Friday off and I get random Saturdays off, but it's never guaranteed unless I specifically request it. I work almost every weekend, while everyone else I know has weekends off. It just doesn't fit together, and it's getting really frustrating, but there's nothing I can do about it without quitting one of my jobs, which is something I don't feel I can afford to do.
I keep wondering how much longer I can go on like this. I feel like work is all I ever do. It's nice not to have homework when I get home, and it's certainly nice to get paid, but is it worth losing time with family and friends? My instinctual answer is no, but I already feel like I'm not saving enough money, so if I quit a job, that would mean even less. I think next spring or summer, after I've been at each job for a full year, I might just have to choose one over the other. This summer I worked basically every day, and I really don't want to do that again.
If I knew I would be living here long-term, I would be inclined to try to look for a more permanent full-time position, but I'll probably be moving away at the end of next year, so I don't feel comfortable doing that. I wish I knew what was going to happen.
Monday, September 12, 2011
I Heart ZooFriends
Last Friday I had my 6 month work review for ZooFriends, and it went really well. It was nice to get a confirmation that I'm doing a good job. We did talk about things I needed to improve on, as well, but many of them are things that I'm already working on anyway. One thing that will be harder for me to do is speak less in the style of "Yeah" and "Uh-huh" and more like "Yes, ma'am" and "Of course, sir." I've never been big on cussing, but my speech in general is very casual. I tend to say "yep," "you guys," "kinda," and use lots of contractions. I really don't use ma'am and sir very often. When talking on the phone, however, I can see why it would be appropriate to use more formal speech, since body language and facial expressions aren't a factor in the conversation. It may take a little time, but I think I can get used to it.
Thinking back on the progress I've made at ZooFriends overall, I realize just how much I've grown with this job. I'm much less shy around strangers than I used to be. I tend to be a bit anxious around people I don't know because I don't like to give bad or wrong impressions, and I hate the thought of people not liking me. Dealing with tons of strangers on a daily basis has helped me realize that there are some people who are just determined to be rude, no matter what the situation is, and there are some people who may seem annoyed, but they're most likely bothered by something going on with them, not by me in particular. In the past, if I had to deal with a rude store clerk or bus driver, it would bother me for a while and I would feel uncomfortable with the thought that the person didn't like me. Now I know that it most likely had nothing to do with me--the person was either in a sour mood because something in her life was stressing her out, or because she was determined to pick a fight, or both. Working for ZooFriends has definitely taught me that many people feel very self-entitled. They expect to get more by giving less, and if they don't get it soon enough, they feel they ought to be compensated. It's really quite ridiculous how little patience so many people have. I used to think I was an impatient person, but compared to these people, I'm like freaking Buddha! It's mind-boggling.
Basically, what I'm trying to say is that I've gained much more than money and work experience from my job at ZooFriends. My interpersonal skills have sharpened, my anxiety over strangers has lessened, and I'm no longer thrown off-kilter by rudeness. I work really well within my team of coworkers and I consider them all my friends. We are as efficient as possible, which makes me feel constructive, and yet we still have lots of fun, which makes me feel happy!
My overall self-confidence has boosted quite a bit in the last few months, and I'm sure working at ZooFriends as been a large reason for that (another would be Colin). I never before thought I could enjoy a customer service job, but I'm SO glad I found this one!
Thinking back on the progress I've made at ZooFriends overall, I realize just how much I've grown with this job. I'm much less shy around strangers than I used to be. I tend to be a bit anxious around people I don't know because I don't like to give bad or wrong impressions, and I hate the thought of people not liking me. Dealing with tons of strangers on a daily basis has helped me realize that there are some people who are just determined to be rude, no matter what the situation is, and there are some people who may seem annoyed, but they're most likely bothered by something going on with them, not by me in particular. In the past, if I had to deal with a rude store clerk or bus driver, it would bother me for a while and I would feel uncomfortable with the thought that the person didn't like me. Now I know that it most likely had nothing to do with me--the person was either in a sour mood because something in her life was stressing her out, or because she was determined to pick a fight, or both. Working for ZooFriends has definitely taught me that many people feel very self-entitled. They expect to get more by giving less, and if they don't get it soon enough, they feel they ought to be compensated. It's really quite ridiculous how little patience so many people have. I used to think I was an impatient person, but compared to these people, I'm like freaking Buddha! It's mind-boggling.
Basically, what I'm trying to say is that I've gained much more than money and work experience from my job at ZooFriends. My interpersonal skills have sharpened, my anxiety over strangers has lessened, and I'm no longer thrown off-kilter by rudeness. I work really well within my team of coworkers and I consider them all my friends. We are as efficient as possible, which makes me feel constructive, and yet we still have lots of fun, which makes me feel happy!
My overall self-confidence has boosted quite a bit in the last few months, and I'm sure working at ZooFriends as been a large reason for that (another would be Colin). I never before thought I could enjoy a customer service job, but I'm SO glad I found this one!
The Guard and the Wrong Guy
A couple weeks ago I went to see The Guard with Kristine, a library coworker. It's an independent Irish film starring Brenden Gleeson and Don Cheedle, and I loved it! It's very typical Irish dark humor (hilarious!), and the acting, of course, is brilliant (my favorite baddie, Mark Strong, is in it too!). It's nice to see a non-Hollywood, non-American film every once in a while to keep me from getting bored with movies. Especially after a summer full of mostly conventional blockbusters (which is pretty much every summer, to be honest), I like to refresh myself with a little odd indie film like this one. In fact, I think this is probably my favorite film of the year so far! It's the first feature from director John Michael McDonagh--I think I may have to keep an eye out for what he produces in the future.
I checked out another book from the library on a whim. It's called How Not to Marry the Wrong Guy by Anne Milford and Jennifer Gauvain, MSW, LCSW. It has the subheadings of "Is He 'the One' or Should You Run?" and "A Guide to Living Happily Ever After," with a picture on the cover of a wedding cake with a little bride and groom on top, and the bride dashing away. I laughed when I saw it and read the first few lines. They intrigued me! I decided to check it out just to see what it ridiculous things it might say, but now I find myself actually reading it through. It's quite interesting! The authors interviewed numerous women from varying backgrounds asking them to give advice to other women on how not to make the mistakes they did. So the book is filled with snippets and stories from women who have been through bad relationships and marriages, giving the reader a good idea of how to recognize "red flags." It also serves the purpose of letting the reader know she's not alone in her situation. The book's objective is to help women recognize unhealthy relationships, and to realize that although it is hard to break it off, it will only get worse if it's allowed to continue. I personally am in a very satisfying relationship, but I still feel as though I'm learning from this book. At the very least, the various anecdotes given within have helped me realize why it's possible for so many women to stay in relationships they know aren't good for them. (It also helps confirm for me the healthiness of my own relationship.) Regardless of one's relationship status, I would recommend this book to anyone who is interested in the psychology behind bad relationships, or anyone who wonders why the divorce rate is so high in this country.
The Guard trailer:
I checked out another book from the library on a whim. It's called How Not to Marry the Wrong Guy by Anne Milford and Jennifer Gauvain, MSW, LCSW. It has the subheadings of "Is He 'the One' or Should You Run?" and "A Guide to Living Happily Ever After," with a picture on the cover of a wedding cake with a little bride and groom on top, and the bride dashing away. I laughed when I saw it and read the first few lines. They intrigued me! I decided to check it out just to see what it ridiculous things it might say, but now I find myself actually reading it through. It's quite interesting! The authors interviewed numerous women from varying backgrounds asking them to give advice to other women on how not to make the mistakes they did. So the book is filled with snippets and stories from women who have been through bad relationships and marriages, giving the reader a good idea of how to recognize "red flags." It also serves the purpose of letting the reader know she's not alone in her situation. The book's objective is to help women recognize unhealthy relationships, and to realize that although it is hard to break it off, it will only get worse if it's allowed to continue. I personally am in a very satisfying relationship, but I still feel as though I'm learning from this book. At the very least, the various anecdotes given within have helped me realize why it's possible for so many women to stay in relationships they know aren't good for them. (It also helps confirm for me the healthiness of my own relationship.) Regardless of one's relationship status, I would recommend this book to anyone who is interested in the psychology behind bad relationships, or anyone who wonders why the divorce rate is so high in this country.
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
The internet and stuff
Our internet has been having problems this week, so I've been having to go to cafes to get online. Right now I'm at Panera. Kind of annoying, but also nice in some ways. I've been going through my clothes as well as my books to give away all the stuff I don't want. And I've been reading a bit more. I just read this book I picked up at the library called A Guide to Quality, Taste, and Style by Tim Gunn. It was pretty entertaining, and I read it in like 3 days--that's pretty quick for me!
I've also made good progress in A Game of Thrones. I know I'll be able to finish it before season 2 of the tv show, but I'm wondering if I should wait to read the second novel till I've seen the second season. If I do, the show will be more exciting, but if don't, the book will be more exciting. I'll probably try to wait, and then become impatient and end up reading the book first.
My jobs at ZooFriends and the library are going really well. For a while, the schedules were stressing me out 'cause I either felt like I wouldn't have enough hours or I wouldn't have enough time off, but it looks like everything is going to fit together quite well. I should get a day off at least every other week so I can visit Tulsa, and my hours at the library have increased to make up for lost hours at the zoo. I hope this fall turns out as well as I think it will!
I've also made good progress in A Game of Thrones. I know I'll be able to finish it before season 2 of the tv show, but I'm wondering if I should wait to read the second novel till I've seen the second season. If I do, the show will be more exciting, but if don't, the book will be more exciting. I'll probably try to wait, and then become impatient and end up reading the book first.
My jobs at ZooFriends and the library are going really well. For a while, the schedules were stressing me out 'cause I either felt like I wouldn't have enough hours or I wouldn't have enough time off, but it looks like everything is going to fit together quite well. I should get a day off at least every other week so I can visit Tulsa, and my hours at the library have increased to make up for lost hours at the zoo. I hope this fall turns out as well as I think it will!
Friday, August 26, 2011
Say no to hate
I drove up to Tulsa yesterday, I'm sitting in Colin's apartment on TU's campus now, and I just realized that for the first time in 2 years, I don't hate school. I hated it during my senior year--I could hardly wait to be finished. I hated it the year after that, remembering how "awful" it was the previous year. But now that I'm a little more removed from experience, I no longer have such negative feelings toward it. I can even see myself doing more in the future, either tech or grad school, and not being miserable the whole time. (The only downside--really steep downside--would be the cost.)
I think perhaps the reason why school seemed to suck so much was because I wasn't happy with my life in general at the time. I liked school my sophomore year, and I liked my life. I didn't like school my junior and senior years, and I didn't like my life. Funny how that seems to work. It's hard to be satisfied with one part of your life when another is severely stressing you out.
Right now, I'm mostly happy with my life, but I'm uneasy about where it's headed. I like both of my jobs, and I love my coworkers. I'm in a healthy, fulfilling relationship with a guy I love. I have a fairly good number of friends in OKC now. But I do still somewhat feel like I'm in a rut. I don't really have a concrete game plan. I don't know where or when I'll end up moving (or even if I'll be moving at all, frankly). My life so far has consisted of working toward the next level of school. Now that I'm done, I'm not sure what to do with myself. I'm not even sure I want to pursue a career in the field I studied.
At least I can rest easy knowing I'm not in debt, like most other people my age who just graduated. That's a really nice situation to be in, and since I'm living with my dad, not having to pay rent, I'm able to save up money. I guess even if nothing changes in the next year or two, I'll have a good chunk of change in my savings account that will allow me to do whatever, and go wherever, I want once I figure out what, and where, that is.
I think perhaps the reason why school seemed to suck so much was because I wasn't happy with my life in general at the time. I liked school my sophomore year, and I liked my life. I didn't like school my junior and senior years, and I didn't like my life. Funny how that seems to work. It's hard to be satisfied with one part of your life when another is severely stressing you out.
Right now, I'm mostly happy with my life, but I'm uneasy about where it's headed. I like both of my jobs, and I love my coworkers. I'm in a healthy, fulfilling relationship with a guy I love. I have a fairly good number of friends in OKC now. But I do still somewhat feel like I'm in a rut. I don't really have a concrete game plan. I don't know where or when I'll end up moving (or even if I'll be moving at all, frankly). My life so far has consisted of working toward the next level of school. Now that I'm done, I'm not sure what to do with myself. I'm not even sure I want to pursue a career in the field I studied.
At least I can rest easy knowing I'm not in debt, like most other people my age who just graduated. That's a really nice situation to be in, and since I'm living with my dad, not having to pay rent, I'm able to save up money. I guess even if nothing changes in the next year or two, I'll have a good chunk of change in my savings account that will allow me to do whatever, and go wherever, I want once I figure out what, and where, that is.
Thursday, August 18, 2011
Alphabet Date
On Tuesday, Colin and I decided to go on an "Alphabet Date." This consists of choosing a letter from the alphabet, and then everything you do has to start with that letter. We chose "P," and I decided to take Photos of everything we did. First, we read a bit of Poetry. I read some that I'd written, and we also read some together from the collection Joyful Noise: Poems for Two Voices.
Then we went to the mall and looked around in Payless and PacSun.
And we got a Pretzel from Aunti Anne's.
We had lunch at P. F. Chang's.
After eating, we popped over to PetSmart and Party America.
Then we went to see Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides at the dollar theater.
When we got home, I changed into comfy clothes and then made Pasta for dinner.
Colin, Dad, and I watched a Pair of episodes of Rescue Me while we ate, and then we went to Peach Wave for dessert.
That was a really fun day! I definitely want to try it again with other letters. It would also be a challenge to try to do all the letters in one day, in order. I could start by having an Apple, a Banana, and Cereal for breakfast. See? There's 3 down, just 23 more to go after that!
(The poems in this book have two separate columns, meant to be read by two people at the same time.)
Then we went to the mall and looked around in Payless and PacSun.
(I bought a metal owl necklace. We'll see if I actually wear it.)
And we got a Pretzel from Aunti Anne's.
We had lunch at P. F. Chang's.
After eating, we popped over to PetSmart and Party America.
(I bought this little squeaky toy for Melissa.)
Then we went to see Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides at the dollar theater.
(The movie was alright. Fun, but still holds no candle to the first one.)
When we got home, I changed into comfy clothes and then made Pasta for dinner.
Colin, Dad, and I watched a Pair of episodes of Rescue Me while we ate, and then we went to Peach Wave for dessert.
That was a really fun day! I definitely want to try it again with other letters. It would also be a challenge to try to do all the letters in one day, in order. I could start by having an Apple, a Banana, and Cereal for breakfast. See? There's 3 down, just 23 more to go after that!
Friday, August 12, 2011
End of summer cleaning
Today has been a really nice day off. I got a lot of things done I needed to do--buy a gift for Grandmother, buy groceries, check out Vintage Stock, pay my speeding ticket online... So I've been really productive, which feels nice.
This evening, though, is has been super awesome. I decided that I'm going to go through all my stuff again and get rid of stuff I don't need or want, and repack the rest so I know where everything is. Some stuff that's packed away right now is stuff I want handy, and some that I have handy, I never use. Also, I know I of some old toys and random objects that must be somewhere, but I have no clue where that where might be.
As I've been doing this tonight, I've also been watching ABC's miniseries The 10th Kingdom. I remember loving it the first time it aired in 2000, and they did an encore showing a few weeks later, so I recorded it on VHS--3 tapes in all. Going through my old stuff while watching this definitely brings back lots of memories, AND it's raining! So it's been a pleasant trip down memory lane with a soothing pattering on the window pane. Ha! ...And I'm even drinking Ginger Ale.
I love sorting through things. It's always been cathartic for me. It allows me to do an inventory check on all my belongings, while rearranging them to fit my life at the time, and it also feels nice to throw out stuff I haven't used in forever, or haven't used ever, like the user manual for my old phone. I usually tend toward right-brained traits, but I love putting things in order for some reason. (I guess that's why I like working at the library!) It's kind of like putting together a puzzle--I have to figure out the best way to pack items together, and I also have to decide which items I need and which I want and which I can do without. It's a great exercise and learning experience! Hopefully I'll learn that I'm not a hoarder.
This evening, though, is has been super awesome. I decided that I'm going to go through all my stuff again and get rid of stuff I don't need or want, and repack the rest so I know where everything is. Some stuff that's packed away right now is stuff I want handy, and some that I have handy, I never use. Also, I know I of some old toys and random objects that must be somewhere, but I have no clue where that where might be.
As I've been doing this tonight, I've also been watching ABC's miniseries The 10th Kingdom. I remember loving it the first time it aired in 2000, and they did an encore showing a few weeks later, so I recorded it on VHS--3 tapes in all. Going through my old stuff while watching this definitely brings back lots of memories, AND it's raining! So it's been a pleasant trip down memory lane with a soothing pattering on the window pane. Ha! ...And I'm even drinking Ginger Ale.
I love sorting through things. It's always been cathartic for me. It allows me to do an inventory check on all my belongings, while rearranging them to fit my life at the time, and it also feels nice to throw out stuff I haven't used in forever, or haven't used ever, like the user manual for my old phone. I usually tend toward right-brained traits, but I love putting things in order for some reason. (I guess that's why I like working at the library!) It's kind of like putting together a puzzle--I have to figure out the best way to pack items together, and I also have to decide which items I need and which I want and which I can do without. It's a great exercise and learning experience! Hopefully I'll learn that I'm not a hoarder.
Dear Grandmother
As a birthday gift to my grandmother (on my dad's side) this year, I decided to get her a journal, blank except for a letter from me at the front. This is that letter:
Dear Grandmother,
This journal is for you to write down whatever you want: stories from your life, stories you've been told, little bits of wisdom you've learned, small things you notice, advice about anything, etc. Feel free to write as much, or as little, as you want (if you run out of space in this book, I will buy you another one). When you feel like you've said all there is to say, you can give it back to me as a keepsake, and I will be sure to share it with all of my cousins who are interested. So really, this gift to you is more like a gift for me and all of your grandchildren.
Tina was the one who gave me this idea. She has a book of poems by her grandmother that she loves dearly, a memento of thoughts from someone she loved and admired. I've always held the belief that we have a lot to learn from our elders. Picking the brains of our parents and grandparents allows us to gain insight from those who have lived much longer, and experienced much more, than we have. This journal allows me to pick your brain with your complete control. You decide what to say and how to say it. This is your project to do with what you will.
Love,
Casey :)
P.S. ~ I'm sure Papa Jerry has his own insights about things, too, so if you want to let him add something to the journal, I would love that. This book is yours, though, so if you would rather keep it for yourself, please do so. I can get a separate book for him if he wants to join the project.
Dear Grandmother,
This journal is for you to write down whatever you want: stories from your life, stories you've been told, little bits of wisdom you've learned, small things you notice, advice about anything, etc. Feel free to write as much, or as little, as you want (if you run out of space in this book, I will buy you another one). When you feel like you've said all there is to say, you can give it back to me as a keepsake, and I will be sure to share it with all of my cousins who are interested. So really, this gift to you is more like a gift for me and all of your grandchildren.
Tina was the one who gave me this idea. She has a book of poems by her grandmother that she loves dearly, a memento of thoughts from someone she loved and admired. I've always held the belief that we have a lot to learn from our elders. Picking the brains of our parents and grandparents allows us to gain insight from those who have lived much longer, and experienced much more, than we have. This journal allows me to pick your brain with your complete control. You decide what to say and how to say it. This is your project to do with what you will.
Love,
Casey :)
P.S. ~ I'm sure Papa Jerry has his own insights about things, too, so if you want to let him add something to the journal, I would love that. This book is yours, though, so if you would rather keep it for yourself, please do so. I can get a separate book for him if he wants to join the project.
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Books, backstories, bowling
I decided to get a 2-month free trial membership to Barnes & Noble. Not sure if I'll end up keeping it, but it's not that much--just $25 a year, and I do tend to buy a lot of books as gifts (and a few for myself). My first purchase was A Game of Thrones, the first book of George R. R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire. I ordered it online and just got it today... and it was damaged. If it was something small, I wouldn't care, but the spine of the cover has a slice through it and the first few pages are badly torn. I called the nearest store and had them put one on reserve (they're sold out right now) so I can exchange it there. I'd rather not mail it back 'cause I wouldn't be able read it for at least another week. This way, I can go ahead and start reading it till the store calls me to say they have the book in.
I went and saw Kung Fu Panda 2 at the dollar theater last week. It was good--not as good as the first one, but still a great sequel. It goes into the interesting backstory of the main character, Po, but I wish they had done the same for some of the other characters, as well. For example, I'd really like to know the tale behind Tigress--she's the most "hardcore" of the group, and yet she seems to sympathise with Po when he's frustrated about his past. If they make a third movie (which I think is pretty likely), I really hope they spend time developing the other characters. The animation is basically flawless, though. They used 2-D animation for all the flashback sequences, a nice change of pace, and the prologue and credits are made to resemble Chinese shadow puppetry, which I thought was a nice touch.
For Dad's birthday dinner, we ate at Humble Pie. The Chicago style pizza was amazing, as expected, but the New York style wasn't great. I guess from now on I'll only get the Chicago style there. Besides, if I really want good New York style pizza, I can always go to Little Caesar's, right? ...just kidding. I'd go to Falcone's.
I'm really excited about Colin coming to visit next week. I got to see him for a few hours on Sunday on his way home from QuakeCon in Dallas. He, Mike, and I ate at Ted's (MMMMMM) and then went bowling. I'm really starting to get sick of not being able to see him, but I just have the rest of this week and then he's back in Oklahoma for the rest of the semester.
I'm really glad summer's almost over. I've been working almost every day for the last three months and haven't had much of a social life. My work schedule will change soon, though, giving me at least one day off each week, which should allow me time to visit Tulsa regularly. Aleithia is leaving :( , but Graham will be here for OU Med school, and Heather will be back from London, so hopefully I'll still have people to hang out with. I have gotten to know my coworkers better over the summer, too, so maybe I'll chill with them outside of work more often. Who knows?
I went and saw Kung Fu Panda 2 at the dollar theater last week. It was good--not as good as the first one, but still a great sequel. It goes into the interesting backstory of the main character, Po, but I wish they had done the same for some of the other characters, as well. For example, I'd really like to know the tale behind Tigress--she's the most "hardcore" of the group, and yet she seems to sympathise with Po when he's frustrated about his past. If they make a third movie (which I think is pretty likely), I really hope they spend time developing the other characters. The animation is basically flawless, though. They used 2-D animation for all the flashback sequences, a nice change of pace, and the prologue and credits are made to resemble Chinese shadow puppetry, which I thought was a nice touch.
For Dad's birthday dinner, we ate at Humble Pie. The Chicago style pizza was amazing, as expected, but the New York style wasn't great. I guess from now on I'll only get the Chicago style there. Besides, if I really want good New York style pizza, I can always go to Little Caesar's, right? ...just kidding. I'd go to Falcone's.
I'm really excited about Colin coming to visit next week. I got to see him for a few hours on Sunday on his way home from QuakeCon in Dallas. He, Mike, and I ate at Ted's (MMMMMM) and then went bowling. I'm really starting to get sick of not being able to see him, but I just have the rest of this week and then he's back in Oklahoma for the rest of the semester.
I'm really glad summer's almost over. I've been working almost every day for the last three months and haven't had much of a social life. My work schedule will change soon, though, giving me at least one day off each week, which should allow me time to visit Tulsa regularly. Aleithia is leaving :( , but Graham will be here for OU Med school, and Heather will be back from London, so hopefully I'll still have people to hang out with. I have gotten to know my coworkers better over the summer, too, so maybe I'll chill with them outside of work more often. Who knows?
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
My arms hurt.
That workout video I tried yesterday must have worked, 'cause I've been pretty sore all day. I think I'll keep it up for a couple weeks 'till I can remember the exercises and then do my own thing from there. I checked out another video from the library today, too. It's a yoga one. I might try that tomorrow.
So this weekend is Oklahoma's tax free weekend--Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. I want to go try out the new Outlet Shoppes at Oklahoma City that's opening Friday, but I don't want to deal with the crowds. I'll probably end up going anyway. I think I'll go by there after work on Friday, to sort of scope it out and make sure I know how to get there. Then on Saturday maybe (maybe) I'll get up early and try to beat some of the rush (I don't work that day). I'm really excited about this outlet mall! I love The Gap, but their prices are usually too high for me, so I always wait till I'm in Dallas to go to the Gap Outlet near there. Now I can go whenever I want 'cause there's one right in town! There are other stores I'm excited about too, like Banana Republic, Jones New York, Bose, and Disney, and the mall will also have an Orange Leaf and a Smash Burger! Woo!
Today I started a 2-month free trial membership to Barnes & Noble. I'm not sure if I'll want to start paying, but I figure I might as well get some discounts for 2 months, especially since I'm gonna start reading George R. R. Martin's series A Song of Ice and Fire. I was originally going to check the books out from the library, but the waiting lists are too damn long. Besides, from what I've heard and from watching the show Game of Thrones, I know I'll love them and want to own them, anyway.
So this weekend is Oklahoma's tax free weekend--Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. I want to go try out the new Outlet Shoppes at Oklahoma City that's opening Friday, but I don't want to deal with the crowds. I'll probably end up going anyway. I think I'll go by there after work on Friday, to sort of scope it out and make sure I know how to get there. Then on Saturday maybe (maybe) I'll get up early and try to beat some of the rush (I don't work that day). I'm really excited about this outlet mall! I love The Gap, but their prices are usually too high for me, so I always wait till I'm in Dallas to go to the Gap Outlet near there. Now I can go whenever I want 'cause there's one right in town! There are other stores I'm excited about too, like Banana Republic, Jones New York, Bose, and Disney, and the mall will also have an Orange Leaf and a Smash Burger! Woo!
Today I started a 2-month free trial membership to Barnes & Noble. I'm not sure if I'll want to start paying, but I figure I might as well get some discounts for 2 months, especially since I'm gonna start reading George R. R. Martin's series A Song of Ice and Fire. I was originally going to check the books out from the library, but the waiting lists are too damn long. Besides, from what I've heard and from watching the show Game of Thrones, I know I'll love them and want to own them, anyway.
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Yay for exercise videos that aren't obnoxious!
Yesterday Melissa came to Edmond and we went to see Crazy, Stupid, Love. I loved it! I loved the characters, especially Steve Carrell's and Emma Stone's, and JOSH GROBAN had a small role, too! Ha! I did not expect that. He was really funny! The whole movie was. The climax reminded me of a Shakespeare comedy, the way everything was drawn together with secrets exposed in a flurry of confusion. It's definitely one of the best romantic comedies I've seen in a few years. One thing that makes it so satisfying is the realism of the characters' pain, which the actors all pulled off. Definitely as good as Love Actually (to which it is similar), if not better.
Last week I bought the new downloadable content for Dragon Age II. And I actually finished it the next day. It was quite fun. There were new locations, which was nice, since the main game reuses the same caves and warehouses over and over. And the new plot stuff was interesting, too. I love the Dragon Age writers. I'm ready for them to make another game that has the awesome combat of II with the more extensive plot of Origins. Then I can go back to wiling away the hours sitting at my computer!
Speaking of sitting, I didn't do much of that today! I had planned to get up at 8 this morning to go on a walk before it got too hot, but didn't get out of bed till 11. BUT... I decided to check out a work out video from the library. It's called "Fit in Your Jeans by Friday" with Kim Kardashian and her personal trainer. Lol. I don't care about Kim Kardashian at all, but the description on the back of the case made it seem interesting, so I tried it. I liked the trainer a lot! She was encouraging and helpful without being really annoying and overly energetic. And the background music isn't obnoxious, which is a plus. The video, which focuses on abs and upper body, had some hard bits, but it was mostly pretty easy. I'm gonna see if I'm sore at all tomorrow and if I am, then maybe I'll use some of the stuff in the video to create my own workout routine. I think creating a routine of my own would be good so that I can strengthen what I want to and do exercises I like. Listening to my own music would be nice, too.
I've started drinking tea again the last few days. It's nice. I should really keep it up, 'cause tea is good for you and it's yummy and it relaxes me. It also kinda reminds me of being in Ireland.
Last week I bought the new downloadable content for Dragon Age II. And I actually finished it the next day. It was quite fun. There were new locations, which was nice, since the main game reuses the same caves and warehouses over and over. And the new plot stuff was interesting, too. I love the Dragon Age writers. I'm ready for them to make another game that has the awesome combat of II with the more extensive plot of Origins. Then I can go back to wiling away the hours sitting at my computer!
Speaking of sitting, I didn't do much of that today! I had planned to get up at 8 this morning to go on a walk before it got too hot, but didn't get out of bed till 11. BUT... I decided to check out a work out video from the library. It's called "Fit in Your Jeans by Friday" with Kim Kardashian and her personal trainer. Lol. I don't care about Kim Kardashian at all, but the description on the back of the case made it seem interesting, so I tried it. I liked the trainer a lot! She was encouraging and helpful without being really annoying and overly energetic. And the background music isn't obnoxious, which is a plus. The video, which focuses on abs and upper body, had some hard bits, but it was mostly pretty easy. I'm gonna see if I'm sore at all tomorrow and if I am, then maybe I'll use some of the stuff in the video to create my own workout routine. I think creating a routine of my own would be good so that I can strengthen what I want to and do exercises I like. Listening to my own music would be nice, too.
I've started drinking tea again the last few days. It's nice. I should really keep it up, 'cause tea is good for you and it's yummy and it relaxes me. It also kinda reminds me of being in Ireland.
Monday, August 1, 2011
It's been a pretty busy weekend.
On Thursday, aunt Nancy came to Edmond on her way down to Abilene. She, my dad, and I went to Old Chicago for dinner (yummy), then went back to my dad's and watched Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1 'cause Nancy had it with her and Dad still hadn't seen it. It was a nice, though short, visit.
Then that night, I went to see Cowboys & Aliens at midnight with Aleithia and Christiana. It was fun! The movie was pretty good. I loved the first half, but the last quarter was less impressive. The plot seemed to wrap itself up a little too easily toward the end, but I still liked it. The story is definitely a great western, with western themes, and the sci-fi element added in is a neat touch. Usually, when those two genres are combined, it's the other way around--sci-fi setting and themes with a western motif added (like in Firefly, Cowboy Bebop, or various episodes of Star Trek and Doctor Who).
The acting in Cowboys & Aliens was superb, and how could it not be with a cast including Daniel Craig, Harrison Ford, Olivia Wilde, Sam Rockwell, and Paul Dano? I'm also starting to really like John Favreau as a director. He's racking up quite the list: Elf, Zathura, Iron Man, and now this. I'm glad they kept the campy title for the film, even though the film itself isn't campy at all. It is, after all, based on a comic of the same name. Plus, how much more straightforward can you get? I remember talking with Nancy earlier about how interesting it would be to have Indians & Aliens instead of Cowboys, noting how differently Indians would have reacted to an alien invasion. But, funnily enough, Cowboys & Aliens actually does include Indians (Apaches, specifically) and the film itself notes the difference in reactions. I was really impressed by that! I definitely recommend this film, but I do want to see it again to see if it holds up on a second viewing.
(I slept all afternoon/evening after work on Friday to make up for lost sleep Thursday night.)
Saturday, after work, I went to the Bowling for Rhinos event with other OZS employees at Boulevard Lanes. That was really fun! I hadn't been bowling in a long time, but I actually did fairly well. We were able to squeeze in 3 games, and on my last game I got a 126, which is really good for me! I got around 6 or 7 strikes during the evening and a few spares. It was definitely good practice. My arm was a little sore the next day, too. :P
Sunday was a pretty lazy day, but Dad and I watched 3 episodes of Rescue Me, which I'm borrowing from Colin. I'm really liking this show! It does have more sex in it than I'm usually comfortable with, but the show as a whole is worth it, and those scenes are almost always important to the plot or character development in some way.
Then that night, I went to see Cowboys & Aliens at midnight with Aleithia and Christiana. It was fun! The movie was pretty good. I loved the first half, but the last quarter was less impressive. The plot seemed to wrap itself up a little too easily toward the end, but I still liked it. The story is definitely a great western, with western themes, and the sci-fi element added in is a neat touch. Usually, when those two genres are combined, it's the other way around--sci-fi setting and themes with a western motif added (like in Firefly, Cowboy Bebop, or various episodes of Star Trek and Doctor Who).
The acting in Cowboys & Aliens was superb, and how could it not be with a cast including Daniel Craig, Harrison Ford, Olivia Wilde, Sam Rockwell, and Paul Dano? I'm also starting to really like John Favreau as a director. He's racking up quite the list: Elf, Zathura, Iron Man, and now this. I'm glad they kept the campy title for the film, even though the film itself isn't campy at all. It is, after all, based on a comic of the same name. Plus, how much more straightforward can you get? I remember talking with Nancy earlier about how interesting it would be to have Indians & Aliens instead of Cowboys, noting how differently Indians would have reacted to an alien invasion. But, funnily enough, Cowboys & Aliens actually does include Indians (Apaches, specifically) and the film itself notes the difference in reactions. I was really impressed by that! I definitely recommend this film, but I do want to see it again to see if it holds up on a second viewing.
(I slept all afternoon/evening after work on Friday to make up for lost sleep Thursday night.)
Saturday, after work, I went to the Bowling for Rhinos event with other OZS employees at Boulevard Lanes. That was really fun! I hadn't been bowling in a long time, but I actually did fairly well. We were able to squeeze in 3 games, and on my last game I got a 126, which is really good for me! I got around 6 or 7 strikes during the evening and a few spares. It was definitely good practice. My arm was a little sore the next day, too. :P
Sunday was a pretty lazy day, but Dad and I watched 3 episodes of Rescue Me, which I'm borrowing from Colin. I'm really liking this show! It does have more sex in it than I'm usually comfortable with, but the show as a whole is worth it, and those scenes are almost always important to the plot or character development in some way.
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Thank you letter to Krystal
At the ZooFriends office, each of us was assigned to write a thank you letter to one of our coworkers. Here's mine:
Krystal,
Thank you for being an awesome coworker! You are super nice to everyone, and you're a great team player. If one of us is busy doing something you don't hesitate to help out when customers come in or a line starts forming. I also remember you being a HUGE help to me when I first started, showing me the ropes and giving good little tips. You always help make the work atmosphere fun and relaxed (I love chatting with you when it's not busy), and I really appreciate your giving nature toward customers AND coworkers.
Casey :)
Krystal,
Thank you for being an awesome coworker! You are super nice to everyone, and you're a great team player. If one of us is busy doing something you don't hesitate to help out when customers come in or a line starts forming. I also remember you being a HUGE help to me when I first started, showing me the ropes and giving good little tips. You always help make the work atmosphere fun and relaxed (I love chatting with you when it's not busy), and I really appreciate your giving nature toward customers AND coworkers.
Casey :)
Monday, July 25, 2011
I'm ready for fall.
Just one more week of July and then it's August. Yay! Then just 2 weeks of August and Colin is here in Edmond for a week. Yay! He and I had a good talk on the phone today for about an hour. We talk pretty much every day, but sometimes it's only for 10 minutes, and sometimes we don't have much to say (and sometimes it's a little less than pleasant :P). But today's chat was a good amount of time and just plain fun. I talked about my hair a bit (real interesting, I know), and I've decided to grow it out again. For a while, I was thinking about cutting it even shorter--like more of a pixie cut, but I'm gonna just let it grow. I miss ponytails and braids. 'Course, when my shoulder blades are covered, I'll probably be sick of it and cut it all off again. *shrug*
Today at the ZooFriends office, I was looking at this DC comics preview thing that Steve had. Apparently in a couple months, DC is going to completely revamp all their comics and start over with #1 issues. I was wondering if maybe I should pick one and start reading it. Comics have always interested me, and some of the characters are really fascinating, but I've never really read them. I've watched film and television adaptations, but I've never gone to a store and bought the paper issues. I do tend to prefer Marvel to DC, but since DC is starting everything at the beginning, now would be a good time to jump in. (If I tried to start reading Marvel now, I'd probably get super confused about all the alternate universes and get lost in the middle of complicated story lines.) If money weren't a factor, I'd probably try following multiple comics, but I think I'll just choose one--probably one of the Batman stories.
Here's a really cute picture summary of Harry Potter that Sam K. showed me: http://pics.livejournal.com/lucylou/pic/0012wqx1
Today at the ZooFriends office, I was looking at this DC comics preview thing that Steve had. Apparently in a couple months, DC is going to completely revamp all their comics and start over with #1 issues. I was wondering if maybe I should pick one and start reading it. Comics have always interested me, and some of the characters are really fascinating, but I've never really read them. I've watched film and television adaptations, but I've never gone to a store and bought the paper issues. I do tend to prefer Marvel to DC, but since DC is starting everything at the beginning, now would be a good time to jump in. (If I tried to start reading Marvel now, I'd probably get super confused about all the alternate universes and get lost in the middle of complicated story lines.) If money weren't a factor, I'd probably try following multiple comics, but I think I'll just choose one--probably one of the Batman stories.
Here's a really cute picture summary of Harry Potter that Sam K. showed me: http://pics.livejournal.com/lucylou/pic/0012wqx1
Saturday, July 23, 2011
Planning ahead. It's what I do.
Today at the ZooFriends office, Steve and I talked at some length about Halloween costumes. At dinner last night, Ally had mentioned the Halloween party that she and David throw each year, and we sort of (maybe officially?) decided that the theme this year would be "villains." I like it, especially since it fits what Colin wants to be--the bad guy from Commando. Ally said she would be Bellatrix Lestrange (from Harry Potter), which is awesome. Steve wants to be Bane (from Batman). Allison was toying with Ursula (from The Little Mermaid).
I still need to figure out who to I'm going to be. We talked a bit last night about me being Umbridge (from Harry Potter), but I'm not sure I want to go hunting for pink sweaters and wool skirts. Catwoman would be easy enough, but I would definitely want to lose some more weight before doing that. The Wicked Witch of the West would be fairly easy, too, but I would have to wear a ton of green make-up, so I'm not sure on that one. Then I thought of Lady Macbeth. I already have a Renaissance-ish dress, and I could buy a cheap red wig. Then I could put fake blood all over my hands, maybe a little on the dress. That would work, right? She certainly is a villain. But it wouldn't be easily recognizable. People would have to come up to me and ask who I am. Although, that could be kinda fun. When I was Juno for Halloween a couple years ago, a few people did come ask me who I was, and it was entertaining to watch their "Ooooohhhhh, I see it now" faces after telling them. Hmm...
In other news, this heat needs to end, or I just need to get over it. I haven't been going for walks at all lately because it's been "too hot" or I've been afraid of getting sunburned. Really, though, it's going to be a degree of hot any time of day, and I could wear that thing called sunscreen. I'm guaranteed to want to take a shower afterward regardless because I will get very sweaty. I need to just go do it. No more excuses. Maybe being Catwoman for Halloween is the goal I need as motivation to get into shape.
I still need to figure out who to I'm going to be. We talked a bit last night about me being Umbridge (from Harry Potter), but I'm not sure I want to go hunting for pink sweaters and wool skirts. Catwoman would be easy enough, but I would definitely want to lose some more weight before doing that. The Wicked Witch of the West would be fairly easy, too, but I would have to wear a ton of green make-up, so I'm not sure on that one. Then I thought of Lady Macbeth. I already have a Renaissance-ish dress, and I could buy a cheap red wig. Then I could put fake blood all over my hands, maybe a little on the dress. That would work, right? She certainly is a villain. But it wouldn't be easily recognizable. People would have to come up to me and ask who I am. Although, that could be kinda fun. When I was Juno for Halloween a couple years ago, a few people did come ask me who I was, and it was entertaining to watch their "Ooooohhhhh, I see it now" faces after telling them. Hmm...
In other news, this heat needs to end, or I just need to get over it. I haven't been going for walks at all lately because it's been "too hot" or I've been afraid of getting sunburned. Really, though, it's going to be a degree of hot any time of day, and I could wear that thing called sunscreen. I'm guaranteed to want to take a shower afterward regardless because I will get very sweaty. I need to just go do it. No more excuses. Maybe being Catwoman for Halloween is the goal I need as motivation to get into shape.
Friday, July 22, 2011
Free stuff!
Since Melinda and Sid are moving soon, they're getting rid of a lot of their stuff, but they're letting people they know have a look through everything before giving it to Goodwill. I went over there this afternoon and came home with quite a lot!
I got quite a few books, some that are classics I've been planning to read, some that just looked interesting. I got the 3 Lord of the Rings theatrical release DVDs (since I only have the extended versions) and the super fun Lord of the Rings Trivial Pursuit. I also got some random things, like a feather duster, some bookends, a couple CDs, and some mini margarita mixers. I love free stuff!
After that, I headed over to Chili's to have dinner with my ZooFriends coworkers. That was the first time I'd really hung out with any of them outside of work, and it was really fun! I definitely hope we keep doing it in the future. Yay for making friends!
Now I think I'll just chill on the couch and watch some more X-Men (the old animated series) on Netflix.
I got quite a few books, some that are classics I've been planning to read, some that just looked interesting. I got the 3 Lord of the Rings theatrical release DVDs (since I only have the extended versions) and the super fun Lord of the Rings Trivial Pursuit. I also got some random things, like a feather duster, some bookends, a couple CDs, and some mini margarita mixers. I love free stuff!
After that, I headed over to Chili's to have dinner with my ZooFriends coworkers. That was the first time I'd really hung out with any of them outside of work, and it was really fun! I definitely hope we keep doing it in the future. Yay for making friends!
Now I think I'll just chill on the couch and watch some more X-Men (the old animated series) on Netflix.
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Did a lot of stuff today!
So this morning I slept in really late 'cause I was having a really interesting dream. It was about Harry Potter. It had Harry Potter characters in it, including Harry, Ron, Hermione, McGonagall, Bellatrix Lestrange, etc. The plot, however, was not the one from the books. The characters were the same, but the events were completely different. Also, I was not in it. Most of the dream was in third person, like I was just watching it happen, but for some parts, I was seeing things in first person from Harry's perspective! In one these instances I was Harry was flying on a broomstick. That was cool! Awesome dream.
Soon after I got out of bed, I went to pick up Aleithia. We ate lunch at the Spicy Pickle (mmmm!) and then went to see Beginners at AMC. We were originally going to see Horrible Bosses, but I'm rather glad we picked this one instead. It was very different than anything I've seen recently. The story itself was original, about a man named Oliver (Ewan McGregor) who is in a new relationship with a Bohemian girl (Mélanie Laurent) and thinking back on his last years with his recently deceased father (Christopher Plummer) who came out of the closet at age 75 when his wife died. And the storytelling was quite refreshing, as well. Oliver's dog has subtitles (which are Oliver's thoughts being projected onto the dog by the character), and as Oliver thinks back to the past, photos flash onto the screen as he tells us, "This is was what nature looked like in 2003. This was the president." Perhaps an odd way for a narrator to tell a story, but it was effective at guiding the audience to see from Oliver's perspective. It's not exactly a feel-good movie, but it has a relaxing air to it and I could see myself watching this on DVD at home, snuggled up on the couch. I just might buy it when it goes to video.
After that was work at the library, from 5-9pm. Uneventful, but I checked out Fun & Creative Dates for Dating Couples since I enjoyed Fun & Creative Dates for Married Couples. I did like Dating Couples better than Married Couples, though, for obvious reasons. They both have similar ideas in them, but with small detailes pertaining to which kind of relationship you're in. And I can't exactly recreate my marriage proposal, as I've not yet had that experience. I would definitely recommend both books. Dating Couples for those people, and Married Couples for those other people.
Tonight I was watching Jay Leno (I don't rightly know why) and Daniel Craig was a guest (maybe that's why). The clip they showed from Cowboys & Aliens made me excited for the midnight premier, for which I just bought tickets. I think it's gonna be really entertaining, if not generally amazing.
Soon after I got out of bed, I went to pick up Aleithia. We ate lunch at the Spicy Pickle (mmmm!) and then went to see Beginners at AMC. We were originally going to see Horrible Bosses, but I'm rather glad we picked this one instead. It was very different than anything I've seen recently. The story itself was original, about a man named Oliver (Ewan McGregor) who is in a new relationship with a Bohemian girl (Mélanie Laurent) and thinking back on his last years with his recently deceased father (Christopher Plummer) who came out of the closet at age 75 when his wife died. And the storytelling was quite refreshing, as well. Oliver's dog has subtitles (which are Oliver's thoughts being projected onto the dog by the character), and as Oliver thinks back to the past, photos flash onto the screen as he tells us, "This is was what nature looked like in 2003. This was the president." Perhaps an odd way for a narrator to tell a story, but it was effective at guiding the audience to see from Oliver's perspective. It's not exactly a feel-good movie, but it has a relaxing air to it and I could see myself watching this on DVD at home, snuggled up on the couch. I just might buy it when it goes to video.
After that was work at the library, from 5-9pm. Uneventful, but I checked out Fun & Creative Dates for Dating Couples since I enjoyed Fun & Creative Dates for Married Couples. I did like Dating Couples better than Married Couples, though, for obvious reasons. They both have similar ideas in them, but with small detailes pertaining to which kind of relationship you're in. And I can't exactly recreate my marriage proposal, as I've not yet had that experience. I would definitely recommend both books. Dating Couples for those people, and Married Couples for those other people.
Tonight I was watching Jay Leno (I don't rightly know why) and Daniel Craig was a guest (maybe that's why). The clip they showed from Cowboys & Aliens made me excited for the midnight premier, for which I just bought tickets. I think it's gonna be really entertaining, if not generally amazing.
Here's a cute trailer of Beginners:
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Two Turntables and a Library Book
I've been fiddling around on this new site called Turntable that Sid and Melinda introduced me to. You join a room, build a playlist of songs by either searching on their site (they have almost everything you could think of) or uploading, and then you hop onto a DJ spot and take turns playing songs with other people online. Most rooms have themes, like "90s Music" or "Indie Mix" or "Mashups" or whatever. Or you can create your own room with your own rules. I've already discovered a few artists I really like that other people were playing. It's super fun! I can invite you to the site if you want to try it out!
I also checked out another book from the library called Fun & Creative Dates for Married Couples. Of course, I'm not married, but I figure it all works the same. :P If it has anything interesting, I'm going to make a note of it and maybe try it out once Colin gets back to Oklahoma... just 3 1/2 more weeks! Seems like a long time, but maybe it'll go by quickly (it won't).
I also checked out another book from the library called Fun & Creative Dates for Married Couples. Of course, I'm not married, but I figure it all works the same. :P If it has anything interesting, I'm going to make a note of it and maybe try it out once Colin gets back to Oklahoma... just 3 1/2 more weeks! Seems like a long time, but maybe it'll go by quickly (it won't).
Monday, July 18, 2011
Declaration of Independence from Insecurity
(An exercise from Keeping a Journal You Love by Sheila Bender)
You have prevented me from having fun.
You have made me anxious.
You have made me bland.
You have made me silent.
You have restrained my sense of humor.
You have restrained my sense of dignity.
You have caused me to pretend.
You have caused me to hide.
You have caused me pain.
You have hindered my ability to laugh.
You have hindered my ability to cry.
You have held me in the dark.
You have held me under water.
You have held me back.
I will not allow this anymore.
I will be me.
I will live truth.
I will refute anger.
I will bask in solitude.
I will embrace uncertainty.
I will hold onto my principles.
I will prize my "guilty" pleasures.
I will grow to be a person I admire.
I will show the world who I am.
I will agitate my comfort zone.
I will admit my weaknesses.
I will honor my intuition.
I will fly my freak flag.
I will trust my Self.
I will forgive.
Fresh start
It's definitely been a while since I've written on here. Partly, I was busy last fall working at Blunck's Photography. While I earned lots of money there, I'm glad to be gone from there. I had no life while I was there, and I didn't much like it, either.
Now I have a super awesome job at the OKC ZooFriends office with super awesome coworkers. I'm also working some hours at the Edmond Public library as a library page, which is very low key. I find sorting things cathartic.
Another change is my boyfriend Colin. We started dating in February, and we've had a great time so far. This summer, he's been in Chicago working for his dad, and that's been really hard 'cause we haven't been able to see each other. But I did go visit for a week earlier this month. That was a blast--museums, Six Flags, yummy pizza. I'll be glad when he comes back to Oklahoma in August, though, even if he is in Tulsa.
I checked this book out from the library called Keeping a Journal You Love with tips about keeping a journal without getting bored of it, which is usually what happens to me. :P So maybe this time I'll be better about posting more regularly. We'll see!
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