Ch-ch-changes

I'm moving on from blogger and joining the world of Wordpress, thanks to my blogidols Chelsea and Lauren.

Please visit my new and improved (I think) blog at http://pearlsandpolitics.wordpress.com.

My disclaimer: it's much more plain than this one, but that is precisely the way I had hoped. Something straight to the point. But I hope you come to my blog because of what I write, and not because of what it looks like.

I'm also still in the process of adding all my previous blogs to Wordpress, but I'm only about halfway there. Bear with me. (Nobody reads old posts anyway.) Also, I have added all the comments to each blog, but - unfortunately - it shows my avatar on each. Oh well. I'm not stressing over it. Does anyone know how to fix that?

Anyway, it's just time to move on to bigger and better things.

Thanks, y'all!

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I Need Help. ... No, Really!

I have big dreams for my little ol' blog. Sure, I only get about 300 hits a month right now, but I figure there is potential for more if I do things right.

But that's the key: do things right.

So, I am asking the (few) people who read me for some opinions / help. A few things:

1. Wordpress? Should I go switch over? I have used it some in my previous job, but just for basic posting. I have a feeling it's pretty self-explanatory, but so far I've had some problems getting my own started, mostly with the ...
2. Theme? I want something custom, classy and contemporary. I made a header, but I'm not sure it's quality work. I'm a writer, not so much of a designer. Don't judge. ... I was under the impression Wordpress was free, but when I try to change the CSS it says I need to upgrade? Do I? Then what? Help.
3. Is it a good idea to change my URL? Will I lose traffic? I plan to eventually buy pearlsandpolitics.com, but it's owned for a couple more months, although nothing is being done with it. Is this a good shift? Or should I stick with the free blogspot account?

As you can see, I'm clueless and ignorant. I need help. I want my blog to be top-notch - something people will want to come back to every day (like I do with Lauren from Texas, Roots and Rings, and Sings the Magpie). I know appearance has a lot to do with recurring traffic - I don't return to ugly blogs.

So ... any help is deeply appreciated. I want to want to blog, but when I look at my pink, bubblegummish, teenagery theme, it makes me want to vomit.

Thanks, y'all.

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Mr. Clean

Today, Mr. Clean Man did the unthinkable (in guy world) ... he cleaned. And by "cleaned," I mean he actually used product to scrub and disinfect the bathroom. And vacuumed! (And not with a broom!) He's pretty awesome.

When I walked into the (almost) clean bathroom, the smell of SoftScrub along with the light breeze coming through the open window reminded me of when I was a kid. I loved getting off the school bus, walking in my freshly cleaned home with all the windows and doors open (yes, I lived in the boonies). Not sure why I remember this. My mom has always been a bit of a clean freak - but I love it. I inherited a little of her OCDness ... mine just rarely gets put into action. Maybe one day.

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Lungs of a Smoker, Never Took a Hit

There are many few things of which I am intolerant. But cigarette smoking in public when a crowd is present comes close to (if not AT) the very top.

I will admit my stupidity for standing out in the cold for four hours to get free tickets to a 30-minute concert. But, that's my perogative. I'm hurting no one but myself.

However, the sidewalk along the Keith Albee entrance is uber-crowded with my fellow Rascal Flatts groupies. And everytime someone gives into the nicotine urge, we ALL have to inhale the deathly carcinogens.

I understand it's legal and ONLY legal to suck on cancer sticks outside (in most cases). But, it is just common courtesy to blow your smoke where no one else has to breathe it in. Today, in fact, there is a non-busy, two-lane street that separates us from the other, crowd-free side of the road. Please take your smell over there.

To top it off, a man, who I will refer to as Mr. Bud Light hat, steps out of the door behind me into my tiny cubby that is keeping me from the unbearable chill of the wind, and lights up, filling my personal bubble with intoxicating (not in a good way) fumes. So, to maintain my breathing, I step to the end of the sidewalk and not-nonchalantly (would that just be chalantly? Okay, no.) wave the smoke out of my face. And I may have even thrown in a forced cough or two.

For a few minutes, I watch Mr. Bud Light hat ingest toxic chemicals into his lungs. When he is done, old guy flips his butt (cigarette, that is) down on the ground. See below.

(a few more things about this photo: a) the girl on the right is the ballsy chick who, at about 3 hours into waiting, plopped her butt .... real one, that is .... down at the front of the line. I mean, really? Also, here you can see my little cubby in which I was standing. As you can see, it's very personal-space invading.)

My problem with Mr. Bud Light hat, other than the blatant littering, is that only a few feet away stood this:

Yep! A place to dispose of your used cancer sticks! So, not only are you, Mr. Bud Light hat, filling others' lungs with harmful carcinogens, but you're making the streets we walk on ugly. Thanks.

Then, I turn around and see this:

The only thing I hate more than being surrounded by cigarette smoke is seeing adults blow their smoke around their own children. I can at least walk away. Children have no choice. This is appalling, unhealthy, inappropriate and careless. Parents need to be responsible and need to be held accountable for their actions.

Oh, and by the way, today is the Great American Smokeout. Epic. Fail.

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Me.

I don't want to be like everyone else anymore. And even more so, I don't want to want to be like everyone else.

I'm pretty hard on myself, and I throw a lot of extravagant pity parties for poor ol' Jen. But maybe who I am isn't so bad.

So what if things aren't how I planned them to be when I was growing up? Who really knows anything about life at 16? All I was basing my dreams and visions on were the outcomes of others' lives. And those people undoubtedly went through their share of not-fun, depressing times.

I've really never been one to hate myself. In fact, I've always pretty much loved everything about me. This past year has changed that, for sure, but whose fault is that other than mine? And whose fault is it if it stays that way? Again, mine.

I'll never be model-thin or basketball-player tall. I'll never have a Whitney voice or Cindy Crawford looks. But what keeps me from building an Oprah empire or joining the socialites of NYC? Maybe I'll never get to those places in my life, but I'll certainly never get there if I don't try.

I know what I want, but those things seem to hate my guts.

And when no one wants you to stay, you have no other choice but to go.

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Ten on Tuesday

I clearly have no imagination, because I repeatedly take blog ideas from my favorite bloggers. BUT - I always link back... AND Chelsea invited her readers to keep the questions going. ... So, I am.


1. What are some of your family traditions?
Traditions typically come out during the holidays - but wouldn't it be fun to have traditions throughout the whole year? Oh well. 
In December, the women on my mom's side of the family always get together to bake cookies. We each bring our own recipe(s), ingredients and bakeware. We mix, we roll, we bake and we have a good time with family. (And, of course, we all help clean up.) At the end of the day, we share each others' cookies, which is the best part!
But my favorite tradition of all time is on Christmas Eve. Since I was a little girl, I remember walking into my Mamaw's house and she is always stirring the punch. Love this. Sometimes, I have to call and remind her I'm coming over and to get ready. But - it's the thought that counts! (PS - her Christmas punch is the BEST punch I've ever tasted. By. Far.)


2. Do you know how to change a flat tire?
Actually, I do. Could I execute it properly? Not so sure. But the better question is, "Do you know how to put gas in your car?" because I have been stranded so many more times for running out of gas than having a flat tire. Probably 10 to 1. It's called procrastination.


3. Do you subscribe to any magazines? What are your favorites?
I do, but not enough. Mr. Man's mom gave me a Real Simple subscription for Christmas last year, which may be one of the best Christmas presents EVER (you keep getting it ALL year). I used to subscribe to Cosmopolitan, Women's Health and the Food Network ... but I'm poor now. Real Simple is definitely my favorite ... maybe because it's the only one that comes to me via mail. 


4. What are your top three favorite office supply items? (If you don’t share the love of office supplies with me or if you are male, you may skip this question.)
BIC mechanical pencils. I love how the eraser is perfect when you first buy the pack, although I hate making that first mistake. The pencil loses all its innocence.


Notebooks. Any and all. I love the plain to the gaudy. My only stipulation is no wide rule. I love a sketch book, a composition notebook, a journal or a regular, college ruled notebook. But it's always a struggle for me to write on that first page. Like the pencil's eraser, it's so clean and perfect - and I'm about to mess it up. But ... I always do.


Planners. Regardless of what Chelsea says, I think day planners are an essential office supply. Like notebooks, I love them all. Big or small, I don't discriminate.


5. Are you a good public speaker?
My initial answer is "NO!" But, if I have great notecards, or (if I'm President Obama) I have a teleprompter, I can make a heck of a speech. This hasn't always been the case. In my first years of college, my speech class was my dreaded hour of the day. I was terrified to stand in front of the class of, like, 15 people and talk about anything. I'd sweat and be nauseated. Fun times. 


6. How do you feel about acronyms?
Well, Burnis and AP Style certainly turned me off to them years ago. But sometimes, they can be fun. Unless you're ACORN.


7. What's the most creative thing you've ever done? (Bloggers, feel free to include pictures!)
I'd like to have something more appropriate or mature than what I'm about to say ... but I'm afraid this might be the winner. ... In high school, my BFF Kristi and I needed Halloween costumes for my party. Since it was the day-of and we were still costume-less, we threw on trashbags, glued on banana peels, food wrappers and (dare I admit this) even a (clean) tampon, and called ourselves white trash.


8. I'd rather jam a pen in my eye than...
-go back to high school
-work retail (oh wait, I do)
-drink V8
-watch someone spit


9. What company has the best advertising?
For lack of time of thinking, I'm going to go with Apple. Although I do love their commercials, I'm certain there are more entertaining ads out there. 


10. When is your birthday?
May 8. I don't want to turn 24!!! Noooooooo!

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Wow ... I'm out of shape.

After waking up early at 10 AM to the incessant, obnoxious ringing of the telephone, it was time to start my day.

I sat down with a bowl of Special K (with yogurt and berries ... mmm) to watch my favorite morning show people of all time - Regis and Kelly. And who else was on the show but my favorite celebutards of all time - Heidi and Spencer.  I am not ashamed to say that I will most likely buy their book, How to be Famous. (Because, clearly, I have a chance at that.)

I looked down to see an eyelash in my cereal. Very likely it was my own ... but does that make it any better? I dipped my spoon in the milk and just like that, the eyelash disappeared into cereal land. I took another bite from the other side of the bowl and then, upon imagining myself unknowingly ingesting that eyelash, became a bit nauseated and poured it out.

So now it is all of 10:30 AM. No work until 5 PM and nowhere to go. What to do? Ah, the forbidden two words: work out. I mean, it's only been months.

I grabbed my newest pair of running shorts ...

(not the exact pair ... but close. And I paid 10 bucks for them at Marshalls! I know, I'm so thrifty!)

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... tied up my laces, turned on my Let's Get Skinny playlist on my iPod and pressed Start on the treadmill.

Minutes 1 through 5, I was singing along with Fergie and Jason Mraz, doing a little dance here and there (almost fell only once).

Minutes 6 through 10, I resorted to singing in my head and focusing on my breathing.

Minutes 11 and 12, I mentally pumped myself up. ("Come on, Jen. You can do this, you fat tub of lard.")

Minute 13, I pressed stop and started bargaining with God for my life. Minute 13 is also the time I realized, I am certainly way, WAY out of shape.

Yes, this is all pretty embarrassing and actually quite sad. HOWEVER, I am satisfied with myself today because I got off my butt, turned off the TV and did something for myself. I know this whole "getting into shape" thing takes a very long time, but being healthy is something I have to do. I have too many physical conditions that rely on me taking care of myself. I can do this.

So, after almost dying, I was hungry. (duh) I skipped the pizza rolls, although they were screaming at me, and made myself a salad. A delicious salad, might I add.

A handful of baby spinach lettuce, about a tablespoon of chopped onion, tablespoon of chopped tomato, half a cucumber, about a half tablespoon of shredded cheese, salt, pepper and a side of Ranch. I never put dressing directly on my salad (unless I'm at Olive Garden) because:

1. It smothers the taste of the salad and makes me want to gag.
2. You will actually eat less dressing (the most fattening part of the salad) if you either dip your naked fork into the dressing and then get salad, or the other way around. And it tastes just the same ... or in my opinion, better!

Too bad the onion I used was mega potent, and now I'm going to have killer breath for a week. Not to mention the smell coming through my pores. Lovely, right?

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Today I....

- drove a big ol' redneck truck. (And it was a stick shift, which is easy in a little tiny car. But in a big ol' honkin' truck? No, thanks!)

- decided to have the peanut butter cookie double doosie instead of the m&m cookie double doosie. And it was wonderful.

- spilled water in my lap on the way to work. It very much looked like I peed my pants.

- have a headache.

- saw Mr. Man for all of five minutes. That's just enough to make ya mad.

- wish I lived on Huntington Avenue.

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Should I Stay or Should I Go?

When I was a kid, I wanted to be a great many things (as I have mentioned before). An astronaut, a writer, Miss America. I guess one out of three isn't so bad.

As an adult, there are still a great many things I dream of becoming, although I now understand the reality of my hopes and ambitions and know they're quite unlikely ... or will cost me another 50 grand in student loans to be qualified.

Here's my situation: in high school, I worked at The Buckle. I quit, went to college for five years, got my bachelor's in print journalism, and guess where I'm working now? The Buckle.

Oh, and I make $5.50 / hr plus 3% commission. Not quite ideal.

I almost feel as if my college time was a waste, considering I can't find a writing job around here - or really anywhere. But I haven't exactly been actively looking outside the Tri-State area.

See, one of my big dreams growing up was to move away. New York. California. Somewhere big. Along the way of getting older, though, my ideals have changed. I've realized I love being with Mr. Man and the two munchkins, and that is what is most important to me. (Ideally, I'd love to get married and add to our ready-made family, but that's another blog). Now, my ideal occupation(s) would be a wife, stay-at-home mom and work-from-home freelance writer. Plus, add in carpool chauffeur, soccer mom, healer of boo boos, etc. That's a lot of responsibility.

Clearly, all that is far away for me. So, what do I do in the mean time? Stick around this dump of a town working at (below) minimum wage jobs and (dare I admit this) living in the storage room at my parents? Or, should I pursue my one-time biggest dream and find something awesome to do in NYC or LA? I'm really not sure. Granted, I know I absolutely can't fathom the thought of being without Mr. Man and my babies, but what is the best choice?

So,  I applied for an office manager position with Twitter. (as did probably 1 million+ Americans). Although I am qualified, I am sure I will not land the job. I never really had high hopes for it, but I thought - why the heck not. If for some crazy odd reason they call me and say "hey Jen, we love you and your celeb-stalkerish tendencies of Twitter," maybe I'll just head on out to San Francisco anyway.

I'll let you know.

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Today I....

Today, I:

**burnt the bottoms of our cinnamon rolls. I knew I shouldn't have sprayed the pan with Pam.

**used public transportation as a means to get to work ... for the first time ever. (and, as a result, was 15ish minutes late for work).

**began to understand why Mr. Man always talks about "women drivers." The bus driver lady gave me whiplash at every stop sign.

**wore men's deodorant. When you forget to pack your own, ya gotta do somethin'.

**missed the home Marshall game. I hear it was sucky anyway.

**drove the streets of Huntington while the Gang War is in progress. It was like a real-live video game or something.

**told a lot of people a lot of clothes were "super cute" when, in reality, I wouldn't buy it for someone I hated. Commission changes people.

**realized how much I love my own pillows. All 4,600 of them. You really understand how much you take things for granted when they're gone. I miss you, pillows. We'll reunite tomorrow.

**tweeted "please come to WV" to Heidi and Spencer. Not sure if I'd be able to have a conversation with either one of them if they did, in fact, come to WV. But I just want to see Spencer's blonde beard in person. And maybe laugh a little.

**had a lot of interesting tidbits for my "Today I..." blog, but now I can't remember any of them.

That's pretty much my day. Boring. I need sleep, and more blog topics. And a bigger following. Ugh.

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Currently

I suck at consistently posting. I really wish I could be a serial blogger, but it seems that life gets in the way a little too often. My November resolution is to write more. We'll see how long that lasts.


Sings the Magpie (my friend from J-school) introduced me to Lauren from Texas, whose blog I have fallen head over heels for. And yes, I just ended a sentence with a preposition. A lot of good those 5 years of J-school did me.


Anyway. Lauren from Texas periodically posts a blog about everything she is "currently" about. And, because I love the idea, I'm borrowing it. But mosey on over to her site (after you read mine, of course) and check out her ramblings. You'll loves.


So, here's my currents for November 12, 2009. (p.s. - my answers are not necessarily what is happening at this exact moment ... its a general idea of my life)



Wearing
BKE Starlites. Every. Single. Day. It's the only pair of Buckle (where I work) jeans that I own. And although I do get a 40% discount, I'm still too poor to buy a new wardrobe. Sad, I know.

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Reading
Blogs, mostly. Magazines. And text messages, of course. But I'm also trying to find time to finish the two Jodi Picoult books I started - but I honestly can't even remember the titles. Again, sad.

Listening to
Love, love, loving the Glee soundtrack I just downloaded. It makes me want to choreograph all of my in-shower performances.

Eating
Lots and lots of bad stuff. Chick-Fil-A has become a staple since working at the mall. I really need to be more healthy - but how?

Drinking
Water, FINALLY! I am weaning myself off soda again. I once went an entire 364 days without drinking a sip of soda. But on New Year's Eve day that year, Mr. Man talked me into giving up my whole year's hiatus and I purchased and gulped down a Mt. Dew. It tasted so, so weird. I should try again next year, and maybe make it that extra day. Doubtful.

Celebrity Crush
Taylor Swift. By. Far. I feel like she could be my BFF. And I'd love to sit around and harmonize with her for a day. Is that weird?

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Obsession
America's Next Top Model. This is the first season I've even followed religiously, but I'm so addicted. I was hoping Jennifer would win, and not just because we share a ridiculously wonderful name. But, she was eliminated tonight, so now I'm rootin' for country gal Laura all the way. Who will be named Americas ..... next ...... top ..... model. The suspense.

Pet Peeve
Control freaks. Yeah, sure, I'm kind of one, myself. But - that's okay.

Coveting
Kim Kardashian's body. We have a love/hate relationship. I love to watch her TV shows on E!, but I hate her for having the body I want. Ah, to dream.

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Saving for
A car. A clunker. An engine with four wheels. Also, a place of my own. Pathetic, I know.

Hoping to
Find a new job. The Buckle ain't cuttin' it. Not only am I making pennies, but I'm completely exhausted at the end of the day - and that just isn't spectacular in my book. Don't get me wrong, I don't mind hard work and being worn out from it - I would just like to get paid accordingly. I need a big girl job ... pronto.

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What if?

We make decisions every minute, every day of our lives. Some are of much greater importance than others, but all indicative of the future.

Today, for example, I chose to look for apartments in Huntington, to which my efforts availed no positive outcome. I chose to take lemonade and crackers to work on my 4-hour shift, which resulted in me saving $5 on a drink and snack for the evening. I chose to accept my manager's request for me to work 8 am - 5 pm instead of my scheduled 3 pm - 10ish pm, which will inevitably result in my feet throbbing uncontrollably and me being so tired I'll want to come home and crash.

The decisions we make, important or irrelevant, can result in positive or negative reactions. Unfortunately for me, my terrible, irrational decision-making skills have placed me in a position today that I never thought I would be. And I wonder, what if.

So, decisions I have made that I may or may not want to change should I be given the option:

1. Cheerleading in high school. I mean, why not? Flying in the air and doing body-wrenching twists just seems uber-cool.
2. Never finishing all of my summer reading. Both of my Honors and AP English teachers in high school were killer, but I wish I would have let them challenge me instead of intimidate me. Actually reading the assigned books and 86ing the use of SparkNotes would have been ideal.
3. Getting married at 18 years old. I mean, that's a no-brainer, right?
4. Getting divorced at 20 years old. Again, a no-brainer. But, had I changed decision #3, decision #4 would be irrelevant. So much goes into these two decisions, though, that would make much more sense to a reader on the outside - but those are my problems that I have and will deal with myself.
5. Credit cards. My, my, my. How it would have changed my life not having credit cards. Debt is a four-letter word that I find appalling and sickening, but something we only get ourselves into and can only get ourselves out of. If I have any advice for young people, it's stay away from credit. What did I buy? I really have no idea.
6. Forget Journalism - something, anything else. Unless you're the editor-in-chief for National Geographic or The New York Times, print journalism is not the way to go in the 21st century. It's going digital. Unfortunately, my professors and advisor did not let me in on this little tidbit of info until I was over halfway finished with my degree - and I wasn't turning back then. Now, I can't get a job (other than in retail or food service ... which blows) and I'm basically forced to go back to school. Crappy.

I could go on and on and on and on about crappy decisions I have made, but that would just be really depressing, and I've had enough of that lately. But I can't change the past. All I can do is make the right decisions in the future, and hopefully I'll be competent and intelligent enough to discern from right and wrong, and what is good, bad, best and worst for me. If not, at least I'll have something to blog about in the years to come.

And, for the record, I hate thinking about "what if." It's pointless, discouraging and unproductive. But every now and then I like to dream. You know, about "what if" I decided to run away at 16, hitchhike to California, starve myself and become a model or actress. I'm skinny, rich, and wearing Manolos. A girl can dream.

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Reflections from the life of a great man, and hopes for MY great man

Today, I attended the funeral of a man who made an incredible impact on my life. His name is Keith, and he's walking down streets of gold, talking to my Jesus.

The first time I went out of the country, I was on a mission trip to Grenada and Anguilla (West Indies) with Keith and his wife Roberta and 9 other girls (poor Keith). On that trip, I realized a few things.

1. People in other countries do not live as freely, luxuriously as we do in America.
2. Keith and Roberta love each other more than any couple I have EVER met.
3. Some other things that didn't hold true in the following years.

We traveled within three countries for 14 days, during which Keith preached at least once daily, and had to put up with 10 females constantly.

One night during the trip, Keith and Roberta sat all nine of us chit-chatty, giddy, silly girls down to tell us about true love and what makes a relationship last a lifetime. I will never, never forget that night and what they taught us.

Love is certainly not a Cinderella story and is never a happily ever after. It takes work and dedication. It takes two people who care enough about one another to put their partner above all else, but under God. It takes looking past imperfections and loving unconditionally - even if he eats his eggs with ketchup and it grosses you out (one of Roberta's pet peeves about Keith ... which we all thought was just adorable).

Sitting in the church this afternoon watching the family nod in agreement with the preacher and occasionally wipe a tear (they were all incredibly and admirably strong), I couldn't help but be thankful it wasn't me sitting in the front row listening to funny stories about my dad who had gone to be with Jesus. Don't get me wrong - my heart breaks for Roberta and her boys, and I wish we had Keith back in full silly-guy form, with a guitar strapped over his shoulder and a goofy grin on his face.

But when things like this happen to other people, it always makes me stop and realize how easily it could be me. I can't help but be thankful that my family is healthy and happy for now. And it makes me feel incredibly guilty for how upset I have been tonight over seemingly ridiculous things.

I've cried hysterically (no joke) from making myself upset over all the things "wrong" in my life: no car, no money, no job, no apartment, and other things that make me sad to the core. I cried even harder because I can't fall asleep and Mr. Man could not make it to my house to comfort me ... and I made him mad by being upset.

 It wasn't worth it. It wasn't worth getting myself so upset I'm nearly sick. It wasn't worth ticking Mr. Man off so much that he never wants to come over again. It wasn't worth being so involved in my own ridiculous problems that I forgot what Keith's family is going through tonight. The things of this world are not worth it. And in the past few years, I have forgotten what IS important.

I have also forgotten this:

And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. - Romans 8:28

That's good stuff.

I'm embarrassed to admit that I am so self-centered and selfish, but I am. I hate it. There is so much more I want to be, and maybe - just maybe - if I were a little more selfLESS, a little more caring, a little more compassionate, a little less dramatic, a little less psychotic, a little more loving, a little less annoying ... I would be lovable.

The Lord loves me. I just hope someone else can, too.

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Random Thoughts for the Day

It rarely pays to be the one nice person out of the bunch.

People should be required to retake the written AND physical driving tests upon each license renewal. Too many ignorant drivers on the road.

Barbie's full name is Barbara Millicent Roberts, and I feel that it doesn't suit her at all.

I should have the new Michael Buble CD.

It's funny and actually quite intriguing how many old people are now texters-while-driving. Scary. Refer to thought No. 2.

I don't understand why my 3-year-old dog who sleeps on the floor every night is crying endlessly to get in the bed with me while my 10-month-old dog that sleeps in the bed with me every night is curled up on a blanket on the floor passing out.

I keep hearing the heat kick on, but I'm still freezing underneath these blankets. This is why I prefer summer. Heat. Warmth. All things wonderful.

Five years of my life were spent going to college for an education that would help me get a better-than-normal job and make better-than-normal money. I graduated and it's the first time in my life I can't get a job. SallieMae still expects me to pay them back for the loans. Crazy.

It is pointless and a waste of time to help someone who doesn't want to be helped.

My iPhone arrives tomorrow. And I am .... so .... excited!

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David Letterman. Why?

David Letterman. We've all heard about the scandal. Why are we still talking about it?

I get it - he's technically a celebrity, and with the job comes the invasion of privacy. It's what all the stars complain about. But, he's still human and, although it doesn't excuse his behavior, its his life.

But what really gets me is this: As I sit here watching Entertainment Tonight, which is dedicated to the Letterman do-dah and the endless Jon & Kate debate, I'm floored by the number of celebs who commend Dave for stepping out and explaining the situation.

One. Commending him? Really? He's brave for going on air to tell about his scandal? Give me a break.

Two. Why should he have to go on his show and tell the world? It's no one's business. Granted, the rumor is that his wife made him apologize multiple times on TV - probably to cause him as much embarrassment as it has her. Regardless, there is no reason he should be expected to talk publicly about his private life.

I'm celebrity-obsessed, and I'll be the first to admit it. But I do realize these people are human and have just as crazy lives (crazier, actually) as I do. I wouldn't want my business splattered all over the Internet, and they don't need theirs to be either.

Then again, I'm posting a blog about it. Hmm... maybe I'm my own opponent.

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Crying over Puffy Pretzels

Piece of advice: before you begin putting medication into your body, recommended by your trusted family doctor, do your research. Know all side effects, not only from taking the medicine, but from not taking the medicine, as well. 

As I've come to find out, it is the withdrawal that physically hurts the most. It's quite ironic that side effects from the medicine that is supposed to make me feel better are actually worse than the original symptoms. How does that work?

So, now I am crying. Constantly. Over anything and everything. If I see a baby - I cry. If I see a picture of a happy couple - I cry. If I see someone else cry - I cry. I'm watching reruns of an old season of America's Next Top Model, episodes I've seen so many times I could probably quote them. Someone gave Shandi a compliment - I cried.

Why?

This, as could be imagined, is very annoying. Not only for me, but Mr. Man, too - although I'm trying to save the tears for when he is not present.

 

However, last night, I failed. I decided to make some homemade pretzels, recipe courtesy of mi madre. When she made them - oh man, SO good. Mr. Man was in love.

Although I knew before I started that my rendition of homemade pretzels wouldn't hold a candle to momma's, I wanted to try anyway.

After letting the dough set up and double in size for almost an hour, I plunge my hands in to start forming the pretzels. 

It was like cake batter. Not a baker? Let me give you a hint: it's not supposed to look or feel like cake batter.

So, go figure, I cried ... and cried ... and cried. Mr. Man came in when he heard me sniffling. And, of course, we laughed at the dough-batter as it schlopped from my hands to the cookie sheet like poo. Yes. Very disgusting.

But, after some guidance from my mom, I added some serious flour to the dough-batter to not only keep it from conforming to my hands, but to allow me to twist it into a shape other than a blob.

In the end, I only had to throw away one batch of pretzels because they were as big as pillows. Ew. The remaining thousand that did work out weren't so bad after all. Mr. Man ate 8 of them for breakfast, so they couldn't have been too disgusting. Or maybe he was just being nice...

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TV Time

I'm thinking I should cancel my television service. Unfortunately, I signed a 2-year contract that keeps me with DirecTV until 2011. Fantastic.

It seems as if every television show is just a huge mockery of everything I don't have.

The Hills: money, career, life.

Jon and Kate Plus 8: Eight kids. Thank .. God.

Say Yes to the Dress: a wedding. A marriage.

The Apprentice: a JOB.

The Price is Right: plasma TV, a car, trips around the world, and again, money.

These shows make sitting at home all day even more depressing than it already is. I sit and think about having no job, no money, no car. Maybe I should get up off the darn couch and take a run through WPR.

I am competent and old enough to understand that what is portrayed on TV is not always (actually, rarely is) realistic. It's not common for MTV producers to go into a high school, choose a clique and make them into millionaires. Most teenagers don't drive Mercedes and Range Rovers, take lavish vacations with parents MIA or live in mansions with pools overlooking the Hollywood hills. But this is what we see on TV. This is what we (I) want.

Unfortunately for the younger generation who is growing up in this reality-TV era, they are unable to discern between what is realistic and what is unattainable. They think that because their idols are sickeningly skinny, uber rich and spoiled brats, they should be too.

When the 8-Year-Old-Teenager cries, she doesn't just shed some tears - she throws an entire theatrical production. A small disclaimer: she's such a good girl. She doesn't throw tantrums or fall on the ground and scream like some crazy kids I've seen ... but her face says it all. She needs to be an actress.

My point is, she acts the way she does because of what she has seen in movies and on TV. It's sad... but how do you stop it? I don't mind her being a movie buff - because she definitely watches a lot of movies.

I think it's her generation's epidemic. Forget the Swine Flu - drama is taking over our children.

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The 10 Things I'm Loving Right Now

Here's what I'm obsessing over right now.


10. My New Mug
I bought this I Heart Jim mug at Border's today (sorry for the terrible pic). For $4.99, I got this incredible mug, PLUS a World's Best Boss mug for Mr. Man - the world's best boss (behind Michael Scott, of course!) ... What a bargain!

9. Popcorn
With movie theater butter seasoning, every night before I go to sleep while watching TV. Except now, I'm starting to watch movies that I've yet to see. Mr. Man hates my lack of movie knowledge, and quite frankly, I do too. So - I'm working to improve my general trivia knowledge of movies ... and pop culture in general.


8. Girly YouTube videos.
Make-up and hair do tutorials, in particular. I'm loving Elle and Blair, and they make me wish I knew how to wear make up. And it makes me want to be obsessed with MAC products - and affluent enough to afford them. Oh well.


7. Kate Spade leopard bag.   
I love, love, LOVE this bag. Every time I walk through Macy's I admire its impeccable beauty. But, at $295, it is quite a bit more than I can afford right now with a $0 income. It will have to appear in my dreams until I find a job to complement my shopping fantasies.

6. Leopard Print Ballet Flats.
It may seem otherwise, but I'm not really an animal-print kind of girl. But I've been dying for an adorable pair of leopard-print flats. The only pair I've found so far that I remotely like are - sit down - Miley Cyrus / Max Azria from none other than Wal-Mart. For $10, at that! I may go for the bargain.


5. Dr. Mario.
On my computer, not on the Nintendo. (I had an old school SNES, but I traded it a while back for my Sega Genesis. Stupid.)


4. Thigh-High boots.
Non-hookerish thigh highs for fall / winter. Particularly fringe. Ah. 


3. Where the Wild Things Are art.
I love art. But I love art that has meaning even more. I would LOVE to have this on my bedroom wall to look at before I go to sleep every night and when I wake up every morning. Oh - and I'm so very excited to take my loves to see the movie.

2. OPI Nail Polish.
Right now I LOVE the color You're a Pisa Work (very bright pink). However, it spilled in my purse and dried to the lid so I can't open it. Boo to that. 


1. The Loves of my Life.
They are beautiful. They are my life. Need I say more?

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Someday, I'll Write a Book

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Meet Gwen

This is Gwen.

She is one of the newest additions to the American Girl family.

Gwen looks much like her AG friends Chrissa, Kit, Molly, Julie, just to name a few.

But there's just this one thing: Gwen is homeless.

Gwen doesn't come with her own book and story, because she is only a friend of Chrissa. But in Chrissa's story book, Gwen is described as a poor, homeless girl who lives in a car with her mom.

Apparently, Gwen was introduced into the AG community and to impressionable, little girls all over the world in light of the economy's drastic downturn. Her story is intended to educate and raise awareness among preteen girls whose parents purchase the $95 doll.

Each AG doll has a different life story, and many are great. In fact, my 8-Year-Old-Teenager has her very own Julie doll (a hippie chick whose story is one of a divorced family) who she loves and treats as if she's human. Julie is theoretically great for her because she has also experienced the going-ons of a divorce.

But the 8YOT didn't choose Julie because they shared a common life-denominator. She chose her because she liked her outfit and her hair - and more likely, because her friend had Julie.

A homeless doll, though. Children, because this is who we're dealing with here, do NOT need to know about the failing economy or the possibility of their families losing everything and all they have. Especially in these uncertain times, children do not need to worry about the welfare of their selves or their families - that's mom and dad's job.

Growing up, my family was certainly not wealthy. We lived in a trailer until I was in third grade, and there were many times I didn't get what I wanted because we couldn't afford it. Regardless, I ALWAYS had everything I needed and SO much more.

But the thing is - I never thought I was any different from the super rich kids, at least not until Jr. High or High School. As an elementary kid, I didn't worry about whether I'd have dinner or winter clothes. I wasn't concerned about the utility bills being paid or having enough laundry detergent to wash clothes. If my family ever struggled, my parents did a fantastic job of hiding it.

And that's the way it should be.

We are stripping children of innocence by making them grow up way too soon! Children don't need to be concerned that their family may one day be homeless! They need to be concerned about who will come to their slumber party, or how prepared they are for their Friday spelling test.

Children's imaginations are vivid and wild. If they are in the least concerned about losing everything and living on the streets, it immediately becomes an extravagant, inevitable nightmare. What kind of childhood is that?

I think the Gwen doll is precious and just as adorable as her predecessors. But I think her story of homelessness and automobile housing is one step too far for preteens.

Don't make these little girls grow up before they even hit puberty. Time will pass quickly enough.

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What's In My Purse?

I've never done a video blog. Ever. I try to stay away from the camera (still and video) as much as humanly possible. This hasn't always been the case - I used to LOVE the camera and being the center of attention. Okay, I still love being the center of attention, but I just hate seeing images of myself now. I think it's a getting-older thing. Or maybe a getting-fatter thing. Hmm...

Anyway. I found this girl on YouTube | Elle / All that Glitters | who gives tutorials on makeup and beauty products, and just has some all-around fun videos for all things girly. I LOVE it. So, I decided that maybe this is my new venture. I won't stop writing. I will NEVER stop writing. But, why not delve into a little more media?!

So I stole one of her video ideas and made a vlog about "What is in my Purse." Very, very exciting, I know. Especially considering she pulled out a Louis Vuitton, and I'm sporting a Target satchel. Hey - I'm just Jenny from the Rock. (Salt Rock. Sad, I know.)

Here it 'tis. What do you think? Should I stick to writing? :)

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Another Day to Celebrate!

It's certainly the time for milestones! Mr. Man just turned 30, and today my daddy turns 50! 50!! I know, crazy!

Here's my dad as a youngin'. When he sees this picture, he says "that wasn't my hat." I think that's the very least to be concerned about.

That just cracks me up. Here's my daddy more recently. (when we were both skinny ... so not THAT recent)

Happy 50th Birthday dad! Love ya.

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You Are 30!!!!!!

To end the week of Mr. Man, a collage. (yesterday was actually his birthday, but it was a busy day!)

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Progression of Mr. Man

Just one more day until Mr. Man turns the big 3-0. That's right, I said it. THIRTY!!

This is the Mr. Man who I first met a few years ago:

Classy, it's true. In a Brokeback-Mountain-esque denim jacket nonetheless. He pulls it off well.

This is the Mr. Man who emerged. Loves it.

And this is how I know him now. Always. On. The. Stupid. Iphone.

Love him, anyway.

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Teen Years

Here is Mr. Man with his family as a teenager. T-minus 2 1/2 days 'til the big day!

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Little Mr. Man

This is some really good stuff. Below is a picture of Mr. Man and his little bro (who now has Piper ... boo!). Again, I don't know how old he is. Looks about 8 to 10. He's adorable, though. And it's funny that in this picture, he looks like the 8-Year-Old Teenager! Never saw it until now...

Only 3 more days until the thirtieth twenty-tenth birthday celebrations!!

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Poem Time

So, here's another poem from years ago. This one I wrote about my momma.

her natural beauty shines
and touches those around
she brightens up the morning
and happily greets sundown
her anger isnt wrath
but sympatheticness
for she has learned so much of life-
she always knows whats best
her love is so inviting
and reaches to the low
she picks the weak up from their glum
and helps them, then, to grow
her labor is rewarding
but she looks for no award
she's happy on one's good day
and comforts when one mourns
she's a woman of the Lord
and of moral she is true
she is pure angelic in her heart
and a mother, through and through

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Mr. Man and Piper

Continuing with my week-long theme of a tribute to Mr. Man for his thirtieth twenty-tenth bday, here is a short video of my bb and a super-small Piper girl.

PS. I miss her SO much.


PS No2: You may want to take some Dramamine.

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The week of Twenty-Ten

This week is dedicated to Mr. Man, who turns thirty twenty-ten on Saturday.

Not sure how old he is here, but isn't he the cutest? He looks exactly like Little Man does now. I love it.

And a little poem for the occasion:

it must suck to be that old

three decades worth of life

hope you blow out all your candles

if you can get them all to light

you may be twenty-ten

but your looks say you're a teen

so what if i am lying?

at least i wasn't mean.

i dont know what to buy you

a plane jump from the sky?

or maybe i'll buy piper back

or just give you a high five.

the end.

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All About Me

In my 23 years of life, I have figured out a thing or two about myself. I have changed over time, especially in the last several years - but there are many things that remain consistent about me. I'm a silly girl, a hopeless romantic, a writer, a bad word. I am many things normal. But here are a few things that are unique to me that I, surprisingly, love about myself (well, maybe not all of them):

1. I like to sweep and vacuum. There's something about visible dirtiness being overcome by a force greater than it with the end result being cleanliness. Actually, I really just like cleanliness.

2. When I'm driving, I often grit my teeth in between certain points, i.e. slashes in the middle of the road, shadows of trees, telephone poles, mailboxes, etc.

3. I have a birthmark on my back that is lighter than my skin and only shows up when I have a great tan. The cool thing about it is it looks like a dinosaur.

4. I can't burp. (this is one I do NOT love)

5. I daydream about being a celebrity and giving an interview about all the exciting things in my life. Perhaps this is just a fantasy because I have been the interviewER for years. Or maybe I just want to be a celebrity. Or maybe I just want an exciting life. Any of the above.

6. I like to pretend that I'm a great photographer. But really, I suck. Big time.

7. I really wish I had grown up in the '80s (I was born in '86, so that doesn't count). I hate that I don't know every word to every Madonna and Michael Jackson song. And I'm really bummed that I missed out on the first go-around of leg warmers.

8. I searched and searched for my fourth grade teacher years after graduating high school. I had a recurring dream about her that was slightly haunting. We finally reconnected on Facebook, and I literally felt a weight removed from my mind. Facebook. Who knew?

9. I would totally have my legs broken so I could be taller. 5'3" blows.

10. I'm still afraid of the dark. Well, really I'm afraid of what lurks in the dark. Typically it is my boyfriend creeping up on me to scare the bejeezus out of me. Mean, I know.

11. As a former waitress, I have never in my life spit in or made any disgusting adjustments to someone's meal ... but I have witnessed it done.

12. During my "I'm going to be a singer" phase, I had my Christian contemporary demo song played on a local radio station. It was really, really bad.

13. When I was 13, I was in love with a 20 year old who told me that one day, if we got married, we would write a book about our love story. I believed him. It didn't happen. Sad (on many levels), it's true.

14. I hate beets. No, I loathe beets. My dad made me eat them when I was younger. I gagged. Everyone laughed. Never again.

15. I want a tattoo. No, I don't. I can't make up my mind. I think they're edgy. I also think they're trashy. Hmm...

16. I can't take a fish off the hook. Never have. One of these days I'll grow some and stick my fingers down that critter's throat and yank out the hook. Maybe not.

17. I love Martha Stewart. I love everything she does, makes, sells, promotes. I bet she even folds fitted sheets perfectly.

18. I think George W. Bush is sexy. But that's not new information.

19. I've always said I'm a city girl living in the hills of WV, but the older I get, the more I realize I'm a country girl through and through. I'll take four-wheeling and fishin' over broadway and a taxi any day.

20. I don't necessarily want to be a celebrity ... but I'd like to be BFFs with one.

21. People genuinely do not like me and I don't know why - oftentimes, people I don't even know. Because of this, I've made it my goal to be a better person. (Update: haven't started yet)

22. I wish I knew how to dance. I can't even do the macarena correctly.

23. The thing that bothers me the most about getting divorced is that I missed out on so much as an 18 to 20 year old. College life. Sororities. Friends. Parties. Then again, maybe it kept me out of trouble...

24. I am incredibly fascinated by Hitler and his Nazi followers.

25. I only eat Chinese food with chop sticks. Even rice.

26. "That's what she said" is my favorite thing to say. And if I don't say it, I'm still thinking it.

27. When I try to think about the things that define me, I can't. So I'll just think on this for another week and add some more later. Sigh.

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I Ain't No Emily Dickinson

I used to write poetry a lot. Nothing decent. Mostly silly rhymes about my ever-so-distressing life as a teenager in love. Reading through them at 23 years of age, I find the musings rather, well, amusing.

I remember feeling so sad and upset. I was positive my life was over .. every day. If only I knew then what I know now.

I'll share these silly things with you every now and then - if you promise not to judge me.

Here is one I most likely wrote during a math class:

my eyes are heavy
my minds asleep
my dreams become vivid
much deeper i creep

concentration has left
my hearings absurd
i fall into darkness
please do not disturb

what a heavenly state
i could not resist
oh nothing compares
to this peaceful bliss

ive waited forever
all day at least
and finally i can
lay down to sleep

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An open letter to the MU loudspeaker person

Dear person who runs the scoreboard/JumboTron at the Joan C. Edwards stadium for Marshall football games:

Get with the program.

Sitting in the stands last night watching the Herd take a victory over old Mac-rival Bowling Green, my head was sent into a terribly uncomfortable frenzy during the chaos of what came from you playing extremely loud (nonetheless, fun and energizing) music overtop of the band's tunes.

This happens all...the...time.

Your job is an integral part of each home football game and, don't get me wrong, I appreciate your dedication to the green and white.

However, maybe you should invest in some walkie talkies and collaborate with the band leader so that your musical interludes do not constantly overlap to produce incessant and inevitable headaches and brain spasms for all stadium occupants.

I love listening to Ozzy snd Thunderstruck. I also love hearing Sweet Caroline and the 1st Down piece. I don't love hearing them at the same time.
When I attend away games, I am always incredibly jealous at the cooperation and interworking of the opposing school's band and loudspeaker-person. They always seem to have their acts together, working in conjunction to energize the crowd and boost morale. The overhead music / talking never interrupts the band.

And furthermore, the band is in direct conjunction with the fans to sing silly songs and yell encouraging cheers to their beloved team. However, that's a whole other open letter.

For now, loudspeaker person, please buy those 2-way radios and let's try not to send fans into convulsions.

In love of the Herd,

Jen ( a die-hard MU fan )

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Obama's Media Playing by His Rules

Today's front-page headlines on leading news sites:

CNN
-Carter: Racism key in opposition to Obama
-House admonishes 'You Lie' lawmaker
-Kanye calls Swift with 'sincere' apology
-Cheerleader hunts, kills 10-foot gator
-Sean Penn steps out with new girlfriend

MSNBC
-Carter: Wilson comments 'based on racism'
-Facebook 'cash-flow positive' in second quarter
-Obama: Kanye West a 'jackass' for outburst
-Scoop: Lindsay Lohan shows little sis the night life
-House votes to rebuke Rep. Wilson

The Washington Post
-Alterations of New Fame (First Lady fashion)
-House votes to rebuke Rep. Wilson
-Fake Twitter Accounts Draw Capitals' Attention
-College Football Confronts Threat of Swine Flu
-Supreme Court Asked to Weigh Redskins Case

The New York Times
-Rare Coins: Family Treasure or Ill-Gotten Goods?
-House Rebukes Wilson for Shouting 'You Lie'
-Senate Health bill Draws Fire on Both Sides
-Swift-West Spectacle, Stoked on Screen
-President's Opinion of Kanye West Sparks Debate

Anyone can see a pattern here. Current events are typically common across the board of all media. The Joe Wilson deal, Kanye's outburst, Obama's opinion of Kanye - these have all made the headlines of major media outlets days after they first broke.

But one story you haven't seen splattered across all mainstream media is this:

Pressure For ACORN Probe

That's the main headline on FoxNews.com right now. Here's a little background, because if you read any mainstream media other than Fox, you're most likely unaware of this incredibly serious breaking news story.

You can read it directly from FoxNews.com here.

Basicaly, ACORN (Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now), better known as the group who supported Obama through his campaign, has been caught on tape four different times in four different branches handing out advice on how to get around federal laws for tax evasion, fraud and prostitution. Yes, people - prostitution.

This is a federally funded organization.

In the San Bernardino tape, which you can watch here, the self-proclaimed-previous-prostitute and not-so-eloquent ACORN worker encourages "Eden" in her business ventures to set up a prostitution business and brothel house for El Salvadorian teenage girls.

This ... is ... sick.

Again, this is an entity FUNDED BY OUR FEDERAL GOVERNMENT - and an Obama supporter. (shocker)

But here is my question: Why are mainstream media not covering this? If they have reported on it or ran an AP article, it was brief and severely downplayed. This is a BIG deal. Why is Fox News the only outlet shining light on such a sickening issue?

If not for the videos, then this: the Senate voted Monday 83-7 to cut off ACORN from Housing and Urban Development grants. AND The Census Bureau cut their ties with the group Friday.

Those issues ALONE are huge deals. Are we truly more interested in how many apologies an arrogant black supremacist gives an innocent country chick?

I don't believe its about interest. It's called CENSORSHIP.

Here's a quote from an ACORN spokesman from the FoxNews.com article I linked above:

Brian Kettenring, an ACORN spokesman, said Republicans were "playing politics" and trying to "stop ACORN's good work fighting to stop the foreclosure crisis and to win quality, affordable health care for all Americans."

Are you KIDDING me? These crazy, treasonous, law-evading ACORN workers are blatantly breaking the law and aiding others in doing the same, and yet its the Republicans trying to play ill. It's always the conservatives' faults.

Regardless - the lack of coverage of this debacle absolutely, positively SICKENS me. The media are corrupt. It shouldn't be about sides or bias or left or right. It should be about presenting the truth, the facts, the stories of importance. We have been failed.

If our government doesn't start doing some serious internal investigations, we are in for some sad, sad trouble.

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Thoughts about Public Enemies

I love the Cinema theater. Sure, it has tiny screens and non-reclining seats and sometimes the picture gets a little messed up. But it is never crowded - ever. And if you buy combo #3, you get free refills on your popcorn and soda! The best part: tickets are half the price of the Marquee theater. That's a great date when you're poor (as I am).

Tonight, Mr. Man and I went to the Cinema to see Public Enemies. Johnny Depp and Christian Bale on the big-screen together? Yes, please.

A few thoughts about the movie:

*John Dillenger, a professional bank robber, (Depp) is clearly the bad guy in the movie. So, why was I constantly hoping he'd get away, escape the law and get the girl? Why was I so bummed when he was finally shot and killed? Maybe because I'm the bad guy in real life?

*i LOVE me some Christian Bale. I first fell head over heels as a youngin' watching Little Women. It's his lisp. Or maybe his bedroom eyes.

*However, this was possibly Lover Bale's least impressive theatrical performance.

*What is up with the X shaved into the back of Johnny Depp's head? I did a Google search and couldn't find anything associated with Dillinger. I found it very interesting.

*I am so glad I wasn't an early-1900s journalist. For lighting, they lit gigantic sparklers. Then again, that could be really fun.

Okay. Public Enemies = good movie.

That's all.

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An Uneventful VMA

So, I'm not really a VMA patron. I never watched it as a teenager. In fact, last year was the first time I actually sat down and made an evening of watching the pre-show and awards (at which I was thoroughly disappointed because of Russell Brand's outrageous remarks).

But, of course, I am obsessed with celebrities and their luxurious, fantastical lives, so I must have all the 411.

Here are a few VMA thoughts from tonight's show:

*Russell Brand is (still) a loud, offensive skank. We know Obama is president, thanks. And we don't need his British help promoting the terrible healthcare plan. But, then again, its probably safe to say he has no idea what the plan entails - just riding the Obama bandwagon like all the other supporters.

*Lady Gaga? Music - rocks. Person - freak. Arrives in a decorated neck brace, continuously makes out with Kermit the Frog, splatters blood all over her white outfit and crazy face, changes into a catsuit that covers her face (freak) and then wraps a bird nest around her head. Crazy girl is trying way too hard.

*Kanye West is a douche. An inconsiderate, rude jerk. Taylor Swift deserved the Pop Video award, and Kanye can suck it.



*Beyonce is super classy for giving Taylor a chance to have her moment. Diva? No. Dynamic.

*Jack Black praying to satan? What was the purpose?

*The red carpet pre-show was a total disappointment. Isn't the point of the pre-show to see all the stars and what they're wearing? They featured less than a dozen celebs! So sad.

*Back to Beyonce. KILLER performance. She rocked the house. I HAVE to learn that dance.

*The Michael Jackson tribute was rather disappointing, as well. I was expecting a kick-butt memorial, but was actually rather bored. Boo to that. He was a freak, anyway.

*Kristin Cavallari: super skinny. What is her secret?!

*New Moon trailer: I don't get the hype.

*Yay for B Spears grabbing an award. Boo for her not performing (or showing up).

All in all, I was pretty upset that I sat for hours watching the VMAs. Apart from the Kanye/Taylor debacle, it was relatively uneventful. Someday, though, I'll be there. In the audience, but I'll be there.

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