Learning To Swim

x_X

2010-05-25T19:56:00.001-07:00

I have been working this trade show for two days. Two days too many and I have one more to go. And I can't wait to play Red Dead Redemption.

¡fin!

Buzzkill

2010-04-28T23:46:00.001-07:00

I totally killed Unsung Party Hero. :( What bad luck I bring!

Sorry James!

Stop!

2010-04-27T22:46:00.001-07:00

Dear MFN JMR,

I told you not to read my blog. I'm being serious. Stop right now. Don't do it. Your blog is better than mine times infinity.

Sincerely,

Amanda

I can't sleep

2010-03-02T00:03:00.000-08:00

I have too many good tunes to listen to.

It keeps raining on Saturdays. I want to go hiking! Stop raining on my days off.

Personal time = the best.

Housewarming parties = fannnnnntastic!

-.-.-.-

2009-12-20T12:25:00.001-08:00

Things aren't moving fast enough. It needs to be 2010 already. I just want to wash 2009 away. I want the new year. I want a fresh start. I want to feel better.

To Too Two

2009-12-14T23:37:00.000-08:00

I've been terrible about updating and I'm sorry. It's not like anyone reads my blog anyway, but I still like to write. I've kinda been having a tough time the past few weeks. I was on the biggest high from my road trip with Sarah and getting ten days with one of my best friends. It really, really sucks that she lives thousands of miles away from me. Like 5400 or something like that. I was so happy to have had that amazing week. It's been back to reality for me and I just haven't been able to snap out of it. I'm trying to be patient, but it seems so hard when I feel so much. I just can't stop feeling everything so deeply and truly. I'm trying so hard.

Lists...I'm putting together my dream list for Hanukkah/birthday. This is only an extreme want list, but hey, I'm allowed to dream, right?
1. HD TV, 32"+, 1080p.
2. Credit card debt gone.
3. MacBook Pro (15").
4. My apartment to be here sooner than expected.
5. A raise.
6. Ollie is allowed to come to work with me.
7. Steve Madden Kristene boots, size 7.5, brown.
8. My feet (and lungs) to be fixed so I can run a half marathon.
9. A 1.5" barreled curling iron that doesn't shut off mid-use.
10. Complete and undeniable love.

2009-10-29T21:12:00.000-07:00

It has been two weeks since I arrived home and I realize I haven't updated. This is mainly because I've been super busy with work. So let's talk about work. Ok, to start. I really fucking love my new job. I love love LOVE it! I like my boss, my coworkers, the work I have, the work load (I'm super busy), the industry I'm in, the amount of responsibility I'm given, I could go on and on. I have been super super happy there, to the point of whistling on my way to work and whistling on my way home. It's good. Life is good right now and I'm really really happy, and you know what I think? I think I fucking deserve it. I was pretty fucking low a few months ago, and right now, things are going well and I am glad for that. The next thing on my agenda is to get my credit card debt paid off so that I can move out, but one step at a time, right?

Currently I'm home sick with the flu. I've been home two days and I'll be missing tomorrow as well. It's awful. This is the worst flu I've had in terms of aches and pains and symptoms, but it hasn't lasted too long which is good, and I haven't had a runny nose or congestion which is fine by me. It does mean I'm missing Halloween this weekend. Rest is good, but this is the second year in a row I'm missing Halloween. I guess that means next year I will have to go all out, or else have a costume party for my birthday.

Home!

2009-10-15T16:10:00.000-07:00

I've arrived home safe and sound. I'm glad to be home and excited to see my friends tonight. I can't believe I made it. Looking forward to starting work on Monday!!!! The weather got hot which is good and bad because I love fall fashion, but who doesn't love warm weather!? The only bad thing is I've been having bad stomach problems for almost 24 hours. :(

Four more days

2009-10-10T18:47:00.000-07:00

Four more days until I get to go home. I can't wait. I'm so excited. This week dragged on, but I'm enjoying a very relaxing weekend. I went to the Little Italy farmers market. Got some olive & sun dried tomato pasta sauce, and some green juice made from green veggies and fruit. It's delicious. I painted my nails today which is quite a feat because I never do it and they turned out pretty nice. I think we're going to Fro-yo tonight, which I will not eat, but wouldn't it be great if they had soy? I can dream.

2009-10-07T21:32:00.000-07:00

This week is going so SLOW. I just want it to be Wednesday, October 14 already!!!

I Can't Believe It!

2009-09-30T22:35:00.000-07:00

I really can't believe it! It's happening! I got the call today. I GOT THE JOB! I GET TO MOVE HOME! I am so fucking ecstatic I could scream! Ahhhhhh! I'll post more information soon...

Lots going on, but...

2009-09-29T21:39:00.000-07:00

There has been a lot going on and I've been insanely busy. Work has been crazy busy, I've had stuff going on at home a lot, and I've just been trying to keep myself on track to getting what I want. Yesterday was Yom Kippur, the day of atonement. I spent the day fasting, going to synagogue, and really reflecting a lot. I really am going to make an effort this year to be a better person, to be more positive, to go out and make things happen and get things done. So off I go...

On to better news. You may or may not know that I am completely dairy-free. Most people who know me know that I am horribly lactose intolerant, and have completely cut dairy out of my life. I tried to be vegan for awhile but it killed my super sensitive stomach. So anyway, I read a lot of vegan blogs because 1. I still like to be as animal friendly as possible, and 2. they often write about awesome dairy options and really great restaurants. I was reading Quarry Girl's website and reading about Daiya cheese, which lead me to Sick of Lettuce and she talks allllll the time about Daiya cheese. Anyway, after reading about it I was intrigued, so during my day of fasting, I moseyed on down to Whole Foods and purchased two blends of Daiya. I got the Italian/mozzarella blend and the cheddar variety. I decided that to break fast, my family was going to have pizza (of the dairy variety for them, of the daiya variety for me). So I made pizzas. Holy crap. This cheese really tastes like cheese! Like, really! I even made my mom try it and she was like, "that does taste like cheese!" Here are my lovely pizzas...
Daiya Version:

Dairy Version:

and one cute NJD (Nice Jewish Dog):

This Daiya cheese totally blew my mind. It was delicious, gooey, it melted and it tasted like cheese. I would really like to shake the hand of the genius who invented Daiya. I'll have to update when I use the cheddar version. I think I am going to make some mac'n'cheese when I use that! I think my favorite thing about it is it is soy free, and I have been having problems with soy. This coming weekend I will be trying out hemp milk as well. Looking forward to that experience because it might be better on my stomach than even rice milk!

And now I will end this post with the view I had driving "home" tonight.

xoxo

Life is This...

2009-09-16T21:41:00.000-07:00

Well, as I said in my last post, my life never goes according to plan. And really, it has not gone according to plan. I'm not going to write much, but I'm eagerly anticipating getting a better job in Los Angeles and moving home to be closer to my family and friends. Right now, I think my life is at one of the lowest points I've been in as long as I can remember. I'm trying to put the pieces back together and am refocusing my efforts on attaining that DREAM JOB, and making my life really happen. I'm over this "life on hold" business. I'm awesome. I know I am. As in the "I'm a good person" way, and the "I'm really good at what I do (job/work/marketing/etc)" way. I'm going after everything I want and I'm going to get it. And I'm going to make a better effort to write here more. For real.

A New Life

2009-07-26T23:38:00.000-07:00

I'm starting up my blog again. I'm going to try try TRY to keep it going because I have a feeling I will have some good time on my hands for reflection.

My life is about to change pretty drastically: Tomorrow I am moving to San Diego. Tonight I am a mix of emotions. San Diego is really not that far (2 hours drive from my hometown of LA) and I can come home any weekend I want really. The thing is, I am not just moving to San Diego, I'm starting a new life. I got a job in Carlsbad which starts Tuesday. I'm staying in a house with people I know of but I have never met and will live there until September when I get an apartment with Kira, who is supposed to move down then. This is all if things go according to plan, and let's face it, my life never goes according to plan (which isn't necessarily a bad thing). I'm really looking forward to getting out of my parents house. I'm looking forward to moving on with my life. I spent the past 8 months at a standstill and I'm ready to get my life moving again. I'm nervous. And that is all I really have to say about that.

I spent this past weekend in New Jersey for my cousin Rachel's wedding, which was absolutely beautiful. It was so good to see my Bubbe and my aunt and my cousins. I got to wear a pretty dress and dance around with my relatives which was really fun. The east coast is definitely a different world though. I will admit that. The way people conduct themselves is very different. Don't get me wrong--I love my family very much and love being around them, but I am very much glad to be back in California where life seems to be a little less hectic and in-your-face.

I need to go to sleep. My head is pounding. But I want to leave any readers I may have with a couple of songs to listen to (and dance around like an idiot to, if you wish). "Embrace" and "Lover" by Pnau. So. Good.

ABC

2009-04-02T18:20:00.000-07:00

I have been doing so much extra work lately that I haven't had much time to myself. I've quit for this month to focus on my job search. I really need to find something that pays decent and where I can get benefits. I'm sick right now and it totally blows.

I'm feeling a little bit weird today. Weird mood and state of mind. Ugh.

SD

2009-03-03T22:08:00.000-08:00

My boyfriend is in the hospital right now. They think he has Crohn's disease. I am currently down in San Diego to be with him. I'm gonna help him out this week. He's gonna have to change his entire diet and lifestyle, but I don't think it will be too hard for him. I'm pretty tired so I'm gonna go to bed now. L8r.

He Shoots! He Scores! ... Get Off My Lawn!!!

2009-02-25T23:12:00.000-08:00

I worked 5 days out of the past 8 days. Not too shabby. Made $180 on Saturday for a commercial shoot. Niiice.

Tomorrow I am taking my brother to the airport and running errands with Liz. Then I hope to go to the gym in the evening.

Russ is coming up on Friday for the weekend and I am totally stoked about that. Friday I hope for some fun and then I'm either going to see a concert on Saturday or see Dirty South at Vanguard. Excellent. Then Bustos gets here on Sunday and will be here for a few days. I am happy to have some girly time with her and shop and just hang.

I am doing some freelancing for E-Z-Hook next week as well. It will be nice to have a bump in my pay. Though I need to get a real job. I really need a job. I'm going to apply to work for the 2010 Census as well.

Not too much going on...

"I'm Tired"

2009-02-19T01:18:00.000-08:00

See title.

Spent all day on set doing absolutely nothing. I got paid to sit and play my Nintendo DS all day. Amazing.

San Diego this past weekend was good. :)

I want a real job so bad. So SO bad.

I need some $$$$$$$$$$$$.

Ti-ti-tired. Going to bed.

Too Much

2009-02-13T00:04:00.000-08:00

I am on information & communication overload. What did I do on the internet before Facebook? That site is driving me kind of crazy right now. Everything is kind of driving me crazy right now. I'm trying to not let things get to me, but I feel like I'm slowly falling apart on the inside.

2009-02-05T21:33:00.000-08:00

Today was my first day back in the gym. I'm really happy about that and am feeling awesome. I'm going to sleep like a baby tonight! I'm working as an extra tomorrow. I think it's a video shoot. Hopefully I won't have to wear high heels.

I've been keeping busy the last few days. I went to LACMA with Kira, Liz & Betsy on Tuesday to see the Vanity Fair portraits. It was really good. I'm feeling mentally exhausted and really kind of feel like removing myself from my social circles lately. People are pissing me off, acting ridiculous, treating others disrespectfully; there is lots of selfishness going on that is driving me mad.

I have to go. I hope to update more soon. Russ is in town this weekend and I am pumped.

The Unemployed Life (what's new?)

2009-02-02T13:28:00.000-08:00

I'm at Swork in Eagle Rock right now. I would like to note that everyone here (including me) is drinking iced tea cause it's almost 80 degrees out today. I am supposed to be job hunting, but I feel like writing in my blog, so that's what I am doing right now. It's nice to be able to just sit and write about whatever I feel like. I really want a job. I'm sick of not working. I am signing up for 2 more months with my calling service, so that I can make some money. I've wasted too much time doing didly squat the past month. Applying for jobs on the internet really doesn't have me going anywhere. I wish I had something new to say on the job front, but things are pretty bleak. I think I need to turn my blog into something interesting that people will read. I'll make myself a famous blogger and just write all day. Ha. I think that has only worked for a couple of people. I don't have anything of real importance to say anyway and this is possibly the most jumbled up blog entry to ever exist.

Let's see. I bought tickets to Coachella last week. The line up is alright.

It's not as good at 2007 or 2006, but I'm going anyway. Liz and I are going to camp. I'm pretty excited for that actually. It will be a new experience and I'm happy about it. I'm not so happy about the fact that the tickets altogether cost me $368 (including camping). It probably wouldn't matter if I had a proper job, but now my credit card bill is getting really high and it's killing me.

On a different note, I just put on my new headphones. I bought them a week ago when I was in San Diego visiting Russ. They were about $20 at Circuit City and I haven't used them until now. I wasn't expecting much from them but I'm rather impressed. They aren't name brand or anything, and the bass is pretty freaking amazing for the price I paid. I'm listening to Mike's mix he made for Liz & me for our birthdays. It's all electronic music and it's really good and that means there is lots of bass. The headphones are impressive. I had to turn them down. The packaging did say they were "DJ Headphones" and I kinda lolled at that, cause ha ha, you can turn the ear pieces sideways. Niiiiiice.

Back to the joblessness. This really blows. I wish JPL would just sort their shit out. I know they want to hire me, I just wish stuff wasn't all messed up with the department right now. I wish the economy were better. I kind of feel like Monster and CareerBuilder are a waste of my time. They are mostly sales jobs or pyramid schemes. I've been using craigslist more because they seem like more legitimate posts. I know it sounds weird, but I feel like it's so true. I am not looking forward to being an extra again, but c'est la vie. I need to make some money.

I'm pretty sure I saw this guy today: Bruce Dern. I watch Big Love and so that's why I recognized him.

Eagle Rock is becoming a hipster town. There are quite a few here in Swork and I have seen plenty on the street. I still kinda want to live in this neighborhood, though I am really not a hipster.

I think I'm going to go back to work now.

Welcome Back

2009-01-29T01:05:00.000-08:00

I decided that today is a very good day to start updating my blog again. I was rather inspired by my old livejournal that I rediscovered today. I went back and read all my posts and realized that, hey, I can be damn funny when I want to. Why not keep it up here? Facebook has kind of taken over as a way to keep your friends posted on your life, but having my blog is different and I like it. I like being able to write what I want.

The past nine months or so since I have written have been kind of a whirlwind. I spent the summer in LA working as an extra, partying with friends, having fun, living. Then I went back to Australia, which turned out to be a right disaster.

I did learn a lot, and I had some fun, but overall, I was more on the miserable side. I saw a few cool things like Wave Rock...

I kept at it until November 5th when I flew home. I learned Barack Obama was going to be my new president when I was somewhere over the Pacific. Pretty sweet. Since I've been home, I haven't done much. I have been trying to get a job. I was supposed to have one, but it has since been pushed back and pushed back and now I'm just applying like crazy and trying to find something. I tried the dating thing. It didn't work, and I gave up on it (can you believe I've been single almost a year?!), only to have someone come into my life in the most unlikely of times (an old friend's funeral!). Now I'm sort of seeing him which is going quite well, all things considered. I am still broke, in debt and have no job, but I am having some fun and I'm trying to stay positive. I have my good days and I have my bad days and that is life.

What has been recent in my life: I'm kind of doing this vegan thing. Part of it is for the animals (though I am not ready to give up leather just yet), and part of it is for my health. I started reading a lot recently about hormones and shit they put in your food and it's just so fucking toxic. It made me sick to think about it. Anyway, I've increased my vegetable intake and complex carb intake and have cut out animals and eggs (dairy was already out). I'm not giving up honey. That is just plain lame. I'd squash a bee, so why not take it's honey? Since I've been doing this whole "vegan" thing, I've already noticed a difference. Seriously, I have. Even my mom said something. It hasn't been easy, and I have eaten some meat, but it's going to be a slow process to completely rid myself of all the crap. I ate a little bit of meat yesterday and then felt really bad that I ate it. It's almost like I'm in AA, except it's carnivores anonymous. I also gave up soda. I've been drinking lots of sparkling water (my fave) and tea and regular water. Since we're on the subject of health, I'm going to add that I am switching gyms. I'm gonna start going to 24 Hour because there are way more locations and they have pools and my foot is pretty messed up so swimming is a good choice for me. I'm kind of excited to be getting back into the game and getting fit again. Hooray.

Barack Obama is our president. I think that's pretty rad. A black man is president. And you know what's cool?! I've met him!! Four years ago when he was running for Senator of the great state of Illinois, I went to hear him speak in an airplane hanger in Peoria with my friend Brian. Nobody wanted to come with us. It was pissing down rain and it was cold and dreary, and I couldn't even vote for him, but I thought he was so inspirational that I wanted to hear him speak, so I went. It was worth losing my umbrella that day to hear him speak and get to shake his hand and tell him I couldn't vote for him (because I was a California resident)--all to see that priceless look on his face. He was awesome and still is awesome. I can't stand all these conservatives ragging on him. Every president is going to have challenges to face and it's not going to be easy. Our economy has gone to shit and he's trying to help it right now. The shape of our country and the younger generation is changing and I feel like many conservatives aren't willing to shift and change with it. In fact, many areas of the world are in denial about the changing landscapes of our world society. But that is another subject for another time. I don't even know where I'm going with this political rant. I'm glad gas is cheap right now though. Ha ha.

I'm going to try to keep this updated as much as I can so bear with me. L8r.

...Exploring Oz...

2008-04-22T17:34:00.000-07:00

I guess it's time to update, and with that update, explain myself. The past two months have been an insane and incredible journey to say the least. Maybe some people were wondering why I didn't blog on here from Australia, and this was because there were hardly any places to blog from when I was in the Northern Territory and by the time I got to a place where I could blog, blogger was down, and then so much had gone on that I just kinda thought it would be funny if I started from the middle.

So here is my Australia story in a nutshell:
1. The Northern Territory was a blast. I loved it. I loved the vast nothingness and the Aboriginal ties. I loved everything that was there, from Kakadu

to Tennant Creek (There's nothing there but a highway and some pubs):

and the Devil's Marbles:

to Alice Springs,

but most importantly Uluru.

The day we went to Uluru was one of the best days of my entire life. It included a 4:40am wake up to see the sun rise over the Rock.

Then a base walk around it...

After visiting the cultural center, we went to Kata Tjuta (the Olgas), which was also incredibly stunning.

That afternoon I went on a helicopter ride. It was my first time in a helicopter and I loved it. But being in the air and flying around both Uluru and Kata Tjuta was just unreal.

After everyone did their helicopter rides, that evening we had champagne sunset. Everyone paid $10 and got unlimited champagne and food while we watched the sunset over Uluru. There is nothing more incredible than being with a group of people you completely and totally love and sharing the specialness of a day like that together.

All day I felt high and incredibly euphoric. I have never felt so put together in my life. There really is something about going to that place and being there. I know not everyone did, but I felt something amazing when I was there. I felt not just connected to the land, but connected within myself. That place is incredibly special and it's sad that many people go to Oz and don't experience the "real" Australia and to anyone who reads this, if you go to Australia, nothing...not the cities, not the beaches, not the Great Ocean Road nor the Sydney Opera House...NOTHING compares to being at the Red Centre. This is the true and real Australia. It's practically untouched and unbelievably inspiring and you cannot leave Australia without visiting this special place. March 5th, 2008 will be remembered as one of the best days of my life because of this place.

The Northern Territory was unbelievable. I didn't go talk about every place, but everything there made me feel really incredible and I cried the entire plane flight to Cairns in Queensland when we left.

The East Coast... It was pretty rad. It was hard for me to come from such an incredible high to an entirely different place. The Outback is like nowhere else on Earth, and the rainforests and tropical cities and beaches of Queensland were a great contrast. I think I had a bit of culture shock when I got there. Nevertheless I tried really hard not to be distracted by my longing to go back to the Outback.

My first full day in Cairns was spent on the Great Barrier Reef. I snorkeled and took loads of pictures. I won't post them all because it would take a lifetime (there are over 100!).

The next day I went white water rafting on the Tully River. It was a blast, even though I almost died.

After Cairns, we went on to sail the Whitsundays. It was incredibly beautiful.

We visited White Haven Beach, which is the most beautiful beach I have ever been to. It is only accessible by boat or plane/helicopter. It is the most beautiful beach in Australia and #5 in the world. The sand is 99% white silica sand and it's as white as snow. Epic.

After sailing, we were on Long Island (one of the Whitsunday Islands) for a night, and then headed south to Rockhampton. There isn't much in Rockhampton, but we did go to the Koorana Crocodile Farm, which was totally epic and we had an awesome dinner, ate some croc, saw some crocs, and held a croc.

FYI Australian Estuarine Crocodiles are fucking huge. I loved it!

Next morning we departed Rockhampton and went on to Fraser Island. Fraser Island is a sand island and is known for having dingoes. It was a really nice relaxing time for me, and included parties at the Dingo Bar, and sitting by the saltwater pool. I also tried the Aussie version of Mexican food. It wasn't terrible, but it wasn't great. There aren't many pictures of Fraser Island because I didn't do much except relax.

After Fraser Island, we went on to Adora Downs for a farm stay, which everyone except me enjoyed. The next day we went to Brisbane, which was cool, but we only got to stay for 2 hours. Our next stop was Surfer's Paradise, which was a blast. I spent a lot of time relaxing on the beach and hanging with friends.

After Surfer's Paradise, we went to Currubin Wildlife Sanctuary, where I held a Koala, which was smelly and grabbed my boob.

There were a lot of other really great animals there...like one of my favorites (to pet and to eat!)..the Kangaroo!

Also they had others:

That day we headed on to Byron Bay and the most Easterly point on the Australian mainland.

We couldn't actually get out to the most Easterly point...

So I took a picture beside it...

Byron Bay was awesome and I loved it. I just wish we had had more time there (like more than an afternoon.

We spent the night in Coff's Harbour and then went on to Sydney. I ended up loving Sydney much more than I anticipated. It was actually a really rad city.

After a week in Sydney and some tearful goodbyes to my favorite travelmates, I got on a plane and flew to Melbourne. Melbourne was a different experience. I couldn't get into a groove there and didn't feel a connection to it. I also hated the weather. I never thought I'd be wearing a scarf in Australia, but I did. I was at that point pretty ready to come home. I'd said goodbye to someone I had made a strong connection with (Sarah) and was staying in a hostel with some pretty unfriendly people. I did make one friend and go to the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, where I saw Patton Oswalt and Arj Barker. Both were fantastic and I almost peed my pants. I did the Great Ocean Road and St. Kilda, as well as the Queen Victoria Market and pretty much everything downtown like the Old Melbourne Gaol. Here are some pictures.

Great Ocean Road:

This is London Bridge. It fell down...

St. Kilda:

So, I was in Australia for 5.5 weeks. It was an incredible trip and my last thought as the plane was taking off was, "why the fuck am I leaving? I don't really want to leave Australia..." The truth is, I felt incredibly alive when I was there, and I really didn't feel like I was ready to leave. I didn't feel like I had explored everything that I wanted to or see what I wanted to. My initial plans upon coming home were, "move to Seattle, find a job, live the awesome life up there because I love it." These plans have changed...

I have decided to move back to Oz. I'm going to go for one year, and I am going to be working in the Outback, fingers crossed, as a jillaroo (Aussie word for cowgirl). This is something I have always wanted to do (be a cowgirl), and it's in one of my favorite places ever (Australia). This is going to give me the opportunity to see everything I want to see in Oz, and to explore myself more. I am not ready to walk that path of getting a job, then eventually getting married and having kids and spending the rest of my life living for my kids. I want to explore the world. I want to see the world and go everywhere and do everything, and I will do whatever it takes to do this. It has become my dream and I'm completely focused on making my dreams come true. I am too young to not take on this world and what it has to offer. I am only going to live this life once, and this is what I want to do and where I want to go with my life, and so I have decided to do it. I couldn't be more thrilled about it.

I have landed job at Cheesecake Factory (whoopee...) and am trying to do some freelancing to make some dollahz, until I get my investment funds next month. Hopefully I will get this show on the road this summer, but it may be postponed. Looking forward to a wild roller coaster ride in these next few months and years...

Life FTW

2008-02-22T20:30:00.000-08:00

So, in 51 hours I depart for Australia and it's going to be one hell of a journey. I am flying into Brisbane, where I have a 6 hour layover. Then I fly to Cairns and have another layover, and then fly to Darwin. It's going to be exhausting, but I'm super excited.

This past week has been a hectic cyclone of trying to get everything in order before I leave, running errands, seeing people, etc. My heel has been awful to top it off. On Wednesday I went to see my doctor about it. She put in an urgent request to get me into the podiatrist. I have plantar fasciitis, if you didn't already know. Anyway, today I got to see the podiatrist (who I totally loved more this time than last time btw), and my foot is pretty messed up. So, I had to get a Corticosteroid injection. This was the single most painful shot I have ever had in my entire life. The needle was about 3 inches long and since my foot is really tender, the shot hurt like crazy and it took forever to finish (probably 15 seconds). The doctor said I have to stay off my feet for 48 hours. 48 hours! I'm going to almost be on my way to Australia then! I guess it's for the best though. I rest it now, because I'm not going to be able to rest there.

Anyway, this weekend is full of last minute details and bon voyages from friends. Sunday night is the night. I might post one more time before I leave, but otherwise, next time is from Australia!

Seattle ftw.

2008-02-08T18:28:00.000-08:00

I'm in Seattle right now in tea house. We just had a "tea party" and it was fantastic. This place has more than 150 different teas. So far I am totally in love with this place. The vibe is so laid back and I feel really comfortable. I was pleasantly surprised by the smallness of the city and the proximity of really awesome places. I absolutely love it here. The weather is much better than people said it would be, and we even got some sun yesterday afternoon. Yesterday Siobhan and I walked around Capital Hill and went to some awesome shops. I got two pairs of really sweet sunglasses. Last night we ate at a French restaurant and it was sooo good. Then we went to a burlesque show at the Noc Noc. Today I toured myself around downtown. I went to the library and Pike Place Market. It's so awesome how close everything is because it's not very large. Everything is a quick trip away, whether it's by foot or by car. Also, everywhere we go has lots of vegan options, which is totally rad because I don't have to worry about dairy products. Hell yes. Tonight we are going to go out, and tomorrow is a big touring day...Seatle Art Museum, Pike Place Market, Space Needle & Seattle Center, and the Experience Music Project. I am totally looking forward to it.

Dude. Wtf?!

2008-02-06T15:23:00.001-08:00

Okay, so after my last post about YogurTree being totally awesome. I have to say, yesterday was a disappointment. I drove out to Woodland Hills to spend the evening with Andy. Keep in mind, WH is a good 30 minute drive. Anyway, I went out there, intending to pick up some YogurTree and bring it to Andy at work, so he could take a break and I could see him. When I got to YogurTree, I picked up my cup (you serve yourself and they weigh it and charge by the ounce-which is super cool), and walked over to the machine. There was no soy. I literally jumped and said "wait, where is the soy?!" and the manager happened to be there, and he rambled something off about the machine and they have to get a new machine for the soy or whatever. I told him, "look, this is the only frozen yogurt place I can get soy so you better get it back!" I also told him that I had driven all the way out there for the soy, and that it was main reason they were better than Pinkberry.

Okay, I know. YogurTree has three locations, and one is closer to my house, but even still, I don't know if that one has the soy. What a disappointment. I was craving a frozen dessert so I drove to Whole Foods and got some Soy Dream mocha fudge ice cream, which I ate with Andy.

Last night we ate at Red Balls NY pizza which was awesome. The food was great, and the owner was super cool. Then we saw Atonement. It was my second time and it was still totally awesome.

Tomorrow morning I am off to Seattle for the weekend. I am so incredibly excited for this trip! I get to see Lilia, Matt Russell and Trevor! That's three totally awesome people right there, and all in one weekend is going to be a blast. I might have the chance to write when I'm there, but if not, I'm going to leave a nice post when I get back.

YogurTree. You Complete Me.

2008-02-04T19:09:00.000-08:00

YogurTree is way better than Pinkberry. I'll tell you why. They offer soy. Why is this totally awesome and way better than Pinkberry?

Okay, if you know me at all, you would know that I am horribly lactose intolerant. I mean, it's more like an allergy. I can't eat anything with dairy products in it because my body automatically recognizes it and it puts me in a very uncomfortable situation. So. Pinkberry starts popping up everywhere and makes headlines. Everyone raves. I watch my friend Liz devour a delicious looking fruit dish. I practically cry. So, I am walking through the mall a few weeks ago in Woodland Hills...actually I was at Ruby's which is in the mall...the Ruby's where we tend to see celebrities on a regular basis (who knew they liked the bottomless french fries the way my friends and I do?!). Anyway, across from Ruby's is this place called YogurTree and with any normal ice cream place, I wouldn't even glance in the window. However, that glorious day something caught my eye. It was "SOY" pasted above one of the spouts. My eyes practically bugged out of their sockets. I walked over, inquired to the process, and discovered: yes completely dairy free. Vegan friendly and food allergy friendly! Alright! So I concocted my yogurt cup, and it included the soy ice cream, topped with pineapple, kiwi and strawberry. Let me tell you it was heaven. For someone who can't eat the simple things like ice cream and milkshakes, finding an actual facility that produces good tasting desserts that I can eat is like finding a diamond in the rough. And you know what the best part was? I didn't have to pay extra for soy. That is one of my big pet peeves. Yeah I know it costs more or whatever, but if I want a latte, I have to pay 50¢ extra to get one because soy is not as cheap as cows milk...which we shouldn't be drinking anyway! As if Starbucks wasn't making enough money...

Anyway, I have been thinking about YogurTree a lot lately. I want more. I didn't go last time I was in Woodland Hills, and I may have to make a trip out there to have some before I go to Seattle this weekend. Oh and to see Andy. ;-) But mostly to have the YogurTree. <3

Let's call this "Chapter 24", okay?

2008-01-29T16:08:00.000-08:00

I have just begun a new chapter in my life. Ok, I take that back. The journey began --let me check my Dashboard calendar-- 19 days ago. So, to start that again... Nineteen days ago, I began a new chapter in my life. Let's work it out from then.

Day 1: I finished my job at E-Z-Hook. You could say this was a big deal for me. I worked there as an intern for two summers and winters in college. Then I started there full time after graduating, all the way up to now )with the exception of camp last summer+. It was a great job. I got a lot of experience and I loved the people I worked with. It was also very lonely and I knew it wasn't taking me in the right direction.
Day 2: I turned 24. I think this is the first year I have ever looked at my age and said, "wow, that sounds kind of old." Not old in the granny sense, but old in the, "I need to maybe act a little more mature" sense, I guess. I had a fantastic birthday party with dairy free cake, and some delicious pies made by my incredible baker sister, Morgan. You should seriously consider hitting her up for a pie. She might charge you for ingredients and labor, but believe me it's worth it. She's incredible.
Day 3: Took the CIMI ladies to the boat and then visited with Nick for his 24th.
Days 4-7: Ran some errands, went to some appointments, etc. Worked on a few projects. Organized and finalized my trip plans.
Days 8-11: Stayed with Andy and got him all caught up on Lost and refreshed my memory. Played some incredible soccer and got my lip busted open.
Days 12-15: worked on various projects for people such as logos and a few other design projects. On day 15, I also saw Atonement and it was totally awesome. I had some margaritas with Liz & Stu beforehand and it reminded me that I should never drink tequila again because it gives me the most disturbing and crazy dreams.
Day 16: Went to a party at Mike's. It was fun, but I have too many guy friends. I need to meet chicks. Betsy & I were the only girls and there were 12 of us. Ugh.
Day 17: Saw Cloverfield. It was really good and I was satisfied.
Day 18: Worked on projects, namely one for my mom.
Day 19: Today. I got up and went to the gym where I felt totally worthless and not with it at all. I pushed myself and got a good hour's worth of lifting in. I came home and walked the dogs and realized that it was ridiculously cold today. I don't think it has been over 55 today. After the walk, I showered and drove out to visit Andy on his lunch break. It was nice to see him in the middle of the week. After that, I went to REI to get a bag. I've been researching and found one that is going to do it for me.

So, if you looked closely, you would have noticed that I finalized my trip, and you're probably wondering what I'm doing. So, without further ado...My Trip.

Australia.

February 24-April 1st.

I'm doing a tour of the Northern Territory, and going into the Outback. Then I will head up to Cairns and work my way down the East coast seeing lots of places along the coast, and then go on to Sydney. I'll be in Sydney for about four days and then I fly to Melbourne for 9 days.

I'm incredibly excited for my trip. I am looking forward to a vacation, as well as being on my own and sorting out where I want to go next. I honestly don't know what I want to do after this. I know I'm going to come back different, and I think I love that thrill of traveling. It's so eye-opening and inspirational.

Before I go to Australia though, I do have another trip coming up. I'm going to Seattle on February 7th. I'll be there for the weekend and come home on the 11th. I am going to be staying with my good friend Lilia. I'm totally looking forward to seeing her because she's a beautiful person--extremely vivacious and hilarious, but also very intelligent. I also will get to see some old friends like RussellSprouts (Matt) and Trevor! That will be really awesome.

I've got a lot on my plate and I still hope that when I come back from Oz, that I can make it out to NYC (if I'm not broke). I really want to see my Israel friends and my Bubbe and my Aunt. I also want to get to Chicago, but I have a feeling I won't make it there right away. :-(

I am hoping to keep my blog more updated now that I have no job and stuff. When I travel, I am really going to try to use it, so look forward to those updates.

2008-01-11T17:47:00.000-08:00

I am 24. It's kind of weird.

So

2008-01-09T20:25:00.001-08:00

Tomorrow is my last day at E-Z-Hook and then I begin my big fat journey.

Hooray!

Travel

2008-01-05T13:30:00.000-08:00

I am thinking about going to Australia for a couple months. I'm thinking of basing myself in Melbourne, then traveling to other parts of the country. I could use some ideas/pointers/tips, anything. If you have any, leave a comment for me!

Not Gonna Lie

2007-12-23T10:38:00.000-08:00

I really freaking love Ashlee Simpson's new song "Outta My Head" and the video.

Tonight....

2007-12-23T10:22:00.001-08:00

I leave for Houston tonight. I'm nervous, but also excited. It will be nice to gtfo of town and have a little vacation. I also get to see Jeremy & Amelia, so that should be awesome.

It's Official

2007-12-14T12:19:00.000-08:00

As of January 10, 2008, I will be unemployed. Er, self-employed I guess. Freelancing.

If you need ANY graphic design (ie. business cards, letterhead, invitations, cards, flyers, brochures, calendars, photoshopping funny images of yourself or friends, whatever.), or know anyone who needs anything done, get in touch with me or get them in touch with me. I could use anything I can get, and I'm probably more affordable than anything else you can find.

This means many things for me and I'm really excited.

Oh I forgot to mention

2007-12-06T09:32:00.000-08:00

I totally forgot to mention who was sitting in the box behind me. Literally no more than 30 feet away. Katie Holmes, Suri & Tom Cruise, David Beckham & his sons Brooklyn, Romeo & Cruz. It was ridiculous. When people realized they were sitting there the entire arena went crazy. That kid Suri is the cutest thing ever. Jesus. What a fucking night!

People of the World

2007-12-06T00:34:00.000-08:00

That was one of the best shows I have ever seen. Spice Girls put on an incredible performance. I can't stop singing "Spice Up Your Life", and I don't think I'll stop for awhile. Andy is going to kill me before we get home from Vegas.

Next up:
Vegas tomorrow.

2007-12-03T18:33:00.000-08:00

Underpaid, under appreciated, and overworked.

I can't wait to start freelancing.

In the mean time, my 22 inch monitor has arrived. I am super happy with it so far. The current set up is a bit disorganized, but look at that thing! It's HUGE! I'll fix the set up eventually.

It's going to be super helpful for designing.

This week:

Wednesday = SPICE GIRLS
Thursday = VEGAS
FRIDAY = PARTY
SUNDAY = DANE COOK

I do have things to look forward to.

Bombin' It.

2007-11-21T13:46:00.000-08:00

For the first time ever, I am having trouble figuring out what to put on my annual Thanksgiving mix CD. It's driving me up a fucking wall. Maybe it's because I feel so disrespected right now...

TTFO (Tranced the Fuck Out)

2007-11-06T17:46:00.001-08:00

Well things have changed. It looks like I'll be at E-Z-Hook a bit longer. And who knows what will happen after that.

This is All I Really Have Right Now..

2007-11-05T20:57:00.000-08:00

It seems like I blog every Monday during the commercials of Heroes.

So this weekend was...interesting. I had a good time, as usual. There were some things that were just...off...

Soccer was good, but I got thrown around a bunch. My feet hurt today.

Ollie got a hair cut and he has a faux hawk. It's so cute. He is so cute and fluffy. All day he has been in my lap, dying to have me pet him, cuddle, etc. He's so cute. I love him.

Work is ehh. I'm losing steam. Two more weeks. Twoooooo more weeks!

I kind of have a stomachache. Ughhhh.

I don't know what is going on this weekend, yet. Mo is having a bday party, but I don't know if I can drive up for it. I want to work on An Endless Sporadic logos with Andy. I want to go for a bike ride at the beach. I want to relax.

The end.

More Than Liking

2007-10-29T21:30:00.000-07:00

The Guitar Hero launch party on Saturday was awesome.

The Guitar Hero party next weekend should be awesome too.

I am so happy right now.

About three more weeks at E-Z-Hook.

I want to travel to some places.

Minus the Lighter Fluid Problem

2007-10-22T17:35:00.000-07:00

Andy & I are becoming the best chefs the valley has ever seen.

Shish Kabob FTW.

Well I tried

2007-10-21T13:07:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I woke up at 9:45am in hopes of getting tickets to see Tool @ the Nokia Theater. I didn't get any. This is the second time I have been let down and I fucking hate it.

Wrapping Paper

2007-10-15T19:37:00.000-07:00

How can I wrap up the past few days into one blog post? I guess I will just get through it...

Thuuuuuursday! I picked up Amanda Bustos from the Metro & we spent the entire evening talking and eating some damn good Mexican food and talking more, and making cds & it was sooooooooooooooooo goood to see her. I am really happy I got to spend time with her because she helped me close a lot of doors.

Fridayyyyyyyyy:
Okay, so we woke up at 5am, got ready & then I drove B to the aeropuerto so she could catch her 7:30 am flight. It was an easy drive. I borrowed my mom's hybrid so I could make it back on time & use the carpool lane. I'm so glad I did because traffic was awful. I made it home, had breakfast with my mom for a little bit, and then headed to work. I left work early at 4 and headed out to Woodland Hills for a few reasons:
A. I wanted to beat as much of Friday traffic as I could.
B. I wanted to get there to bake something for Chris
C. I wanted to get Andy from Neversoft
D. I wanted to help decorate for the party

So I got to Neversoft around 5. Met Andy and went around Neversoft for a minute. Didn't get a Vitamin Water though. We went and bought cake stuff and then went home and I started to bake. Jamie & I started to decorate while the cake was in the oven and Andy helped a little bit. After decorating, I took the cake out and let it cool. I showered & got ready for the party and then came downstairs and frosted the cake. A few people were already there.

Chris's surprise party was soooooo fun. A good group of people were there and he was totally surprised. Everyone brought him baked goods (because he is the ultimate baker---he had even brought dough over because he thought he would be making cookies). I drank peach orgasms (best drink ever) and then passed out around 3. Oh and PS. the cake I made was a hit and sooooo goood.

Sooo Saturday we got up and went to Hometown Buffet because Chris loves buffets. Needless to say, it was pretty terrible. I ate a salad. Chris & Yumi both had 3 platefuls though. Delish...yeah. Right. After the buffet, Andy & I went to see Avenue Q. It was hilarious. Ohhhh man. We were laughing so hard. I'm glad we got to go. After a quick bite at Phillipe's, we stopped by my house because I needed contacts. Saturday evening consisted of bumming around, watching Ninja Turtles, a few peach orgasms, an incredible teriyaki salmon dinner, and relaxation.

Sunday consisted of all-day soccer. It was one of my favorite times playing, but I was hurting by the end. Today my entire body is aching. And what did I do today? Oh, that's right! I had jury duty....AGAIN.

So today was a big waste of time. I sat around in the morning, then got called and sat in a courtroom all afternoon, even though I really am not able to serve, financially and for the reason that my company would suffer. This evening I trained at the gym and was barely able to make it through. My body is sooo sore.

This week...I plan to relax. I have no plans for this weekend except I told Andy we could practice driving and I want to eat bagels. I want to relax. No more of this plans, plans, plans all the time. Or at least for the time being.

Bow Chicka

2007-10-11T13:53:00.000-07:00

Dude. I finally decided that I am going to make a list of my top 100 favorite songs. It's something that I will continue to update because new songs will enter the market/my life and I will inevitably find some of them amazing. This is going to be a really fun project and I am super excited.

Have I mentioned how much I love headbands lately? Or that I love wearing the color black? Or that I think spending money on unneccessary items when you don't really need it and really can't afford it is annoying/dumb?

More thoughts at a later point.

For now: Hanging out with Bustos tonight. Definitely looking forward to catching up with that girl! This weekend should be good. I'm seeing Avenue Q and hanging out with friends. Plus soccer. Hopefully next week will be a little less stressful than this one. I've been swamped.

This one goes out to Morgan

2007-10-09T22:51:00.000-07:00

On December 5th, 2007, Morgan and I will be at the Staples Center for this:

Hopefully the costumes will be a little better.

And Aaron, if you read this...remember the drive out of Coachella last spring? Didn't you make a video of that one too?

2007-10-04T20:31:00.000-07:00

Hotel: Luxor.

Room: Two-bedroom suite between 7 people = awesomeness

Attendees: Amanda, Jamie, Nathan, Andy, Chris, Yumi, Mike.

Money gone: I blew $1 on a slot machine. About $250 on drinks and dining. Plus $185 or so for 2 nights at the hotel. I think I made it out alright.

Arrived Friday..checked out the sweet suite, jumped around, got dressed up and then we all had a glorious dinner at the Rum Jungle ($429 bill). It was soooooo good. It was also really fun to be with my friends and just laughing and talking.

Then we raced back to the hotel and Jamie & I went to that new LAX club while the dudes opted out and drank peach orgasms (our signature drink) in the hotel room. LAX was the worst experience of my life. It was the worst club I have ever been to.

They treated the us like shit. The bartender stole $10 of the money we gave her and demanded more. The people were ugly. The employees were assholes. It was the biggest social segregation I have ever experienced. It was out of control and totally ridiculous. Two drinks cost $26. WTF. Not to mention when we gave the bartender $30, she turned really quickly, then turned back after placing $10 in her pocket and demanded more money. That is just the brief version of it. I kind of got up in her face (I am not one to step down from a fight if I know I'm right--especially when drinking) and she was a bitch and after that, Jamie and I were like, "this is fucking stupid. Let's get the FUCK out of here!"

So we did and went to a dueling piano bar with all the dudes, which ended up being soooo much fun.

Seth came out and hung out too and it was soooooooo awesome to see him.

Saturday we woke up, ate some brunch and went to the pool for a bit.

We had pina coladas and found Andy's long lost brother.

Then after showers and rest some of the dudes went to gamble. Jamie & Chris took naps and Andy and I started to have some beverages. We ran out of vodka so we went to buy more. Then we came back and drank a bit more after waking Chris and Jamie up. They drank with us and we got into a discussion about their music projects. It was really meaningful and insightful, and I was starting to get pretty messed up, so Jamie and I started getting ready so we weren't too drunk to get ready to go out.

After a photoshoot with Chris,

we met up with everyone for some food. Jamie and I weren't really hungry so we kind of walked around the casino a bit. Thennnn we all went to Studio 54 at the MGM Grand. It was soooo much fun.

We ended up leaving by 12:15 (We got there at like 10:30) because Jamie and I were wearing little black dresses and high heels and we could no longer stand. It hurt too much. It probably took us more than 30 minutes to get back to the hotel. We came home, rested/changed for about an hour

and then we all went out again. Yumi, Nate & Mike took off for the poker tables. I don't know where Chris went. Jamie went to the Flight bar to see Kurt. Andy & I went to the Flight bar to see Jamie & Kurt. We ended up getting bored after awhile and just walked around and then sat & talked outside the Luxor for a bit. It was a good chat. Then at 4am I realized I hadn't had dinner, so we went to the Pyramid Cafe (Andy--how many times did you go there in 24 hours?) & met up with Mike. Then at 5:30 we went to bed.

On Sunday we woke up, checked out, and drove to Primm on the Nevada/California border.

Some of the dudes gambled and Jamie and I went shopping. I didn't get home until 10pm.

Vegas was probably one of the best weekends I've ever had. It felt so good to be with my friends. They are my extended family and this weekend just showed me how much they love me and care about me and also how much I love them and care about them too. It was just awesome. I can't wait to have another weekend like that. I have the best friends in the whole world.

Quickly

2007-10-01T01:02:00.000-07:00

Vegas was amazing. More soon. For now. HEre is MEez!

2007-09-26T22:28:00.000-07:00

Work has been unsatisfying and lonely.

The gym has been my release.

Music has been my savior.

My brother goes back to Japan tomorrow. I'm going to miss him. I like having him around. He gives great advice. He understands things. He is patient and he reads people so well. He loves it over there and I'm happy for him. I just wish he didn't live so far away.

I've started planning my travels a little bit. Working on internships in Australia, New Zealand and Israel. I guess it just depends what I can find. I am leaning a bit toward Israel right now. I think I'd like to get an internship somewhere so that I can see what it's like to work in another country, to see how they do it elsewhere. Although I do plan to travellllllll wherever I go. We'll see.

Girl-date with Jamie tomorrow night, and then She, Andy, Nathan, Chris, Mike, Yumi and I head to Vegas on Friday. I am sooooooooooo pumped!

I Can't Get Enough of This Song

2007-09-23T22:15:00.000-07:00

"King of Hearts" by the Sleeping

Little boxes

2007-09-19T21:28:00.000-07:00

Last weekend was amazing. I went to a dueling piano bar on Friday with Liz, Stu and a few others. It was sooooo much fun. So entertaining and lively. Saturday, I got up and went to the LA County Fair to meet up with Jeff, who was visiting from NY. That was actually quite fun. I walked around a bunch and my feet hurt, but I made it out of there by 6:30. I came home, got ready and then went out to the VHS or Beta show at the Echo. Best night EVER! All these incredible djs were spinning upstairs and so we danced for 2.5 hours. I was drenched in sweat but it didn't matter because I was having so much fun. Then at around 12:40 or so, VHS or Beta came on downstairs in the Echoplex. Oh my god. What an amazing set. I felt so incredible. They sounded amazing. It was unreal. They finally played "Alive" which is one of my favorite songs...ever. I got the goosebumps. Ahhhh. It was soooo amazing. My feet hurt sooo bad. I didn't get home until 3 am. I haven't had a night like that in ages. Overall I'd give the weekend a rating of a 6 stars on a 5-star scale. It was awesome.

Vegas is in 9 days.

I'm getting sick. I'm going to go to bed.

Turn over

2007-09-12T21:06:00.000-07:00

The Jewish new year has started. Shana tovah to my friends. If I have knowingly, or unknowingly caused you harm this year, I apologize. A new year begins...

I'm really not one for resolutions. I don't really make them, I mean. But this year I kind of want to do it.

Resolution 1: Be healthy. This includes diet, fitness, sleep, drinking less, laughing more,
Resolution 2: Live for yourself. This includes resolution 1, but also, making choices for yourself, not based on anyone else, exploring new things, doing things you really want to do. Ultimately, this means living for the moment. Don't waste another second being anything but happy. You can't make up for every second you waste not doing the things you want to do, the things that make you happy.
Resolution 3: Waste less. Water, hair/hygiene products, electricity, gasoline, money, time.

I am going to try to stick to these things. If I stray off course, please remind me.

MONKEY ROLLS

2007-09-12T21:04:00.000-07:00

Piercing

2007-09-09T22:32:00.000-07:00

1. I can't believe the Bears lost.
2. I love Heroes.
3. Man, people can be malicious.
4. I cannot wait to post the monkey rolls video.

...Somehow...

2007-09-03T23:47:00.000-07:00

I start work back at E-Z-Hook tomorrow.

We'll Find Each Other in the Dark

2007-08-31T01:15:00.000-07:00

I've been in the gym every single day since last Thursday, except for today. Working out pretty intensely. I'm so so SO happy to be back. I missed it. Today I gave my legs a break and went swimming with Andy and Nathan. That was fun. Andy and I practiced holding our breaths and tried to do hand stands, except with no hands. You know. Like synchronized swimmers. It didn't work so well. Nate was a nerd and stayed in the hot tub. It was 105 today. And he went in the hot tub. What a dork.

Amanda Bustos came to visit last weekend. That was AWESOME. We both got new running shoes (hers were trail runners..lucky bitch gets to stay on Catalina). We ate a good lunch and went out to Woodland Hills. About 10 of us went to the Rack, played pool and got awesome. It was so fun. I haven't had fun like that in awhile.

My friend Jamie is attending Massage Therapy school. This means free massages. AWESOME massages. I've already gotten two Shiatsu massages. They were pretty amazing and I can't wait until she learns more.

This week, Kira has been in town visiting. We hung out a few nights. Had some fun on Tuesday with Matt at the Blue Moon. I want to get those pictures from her. It was soooooo good to see her. I wish she were around more.

Today my mom and I went to the Petal Pushing showroom at the LA Mart. It was pretty awesome. My mom's friend owns the company and I may do some freelancing for her. She gave me a ton of free bags which was awesome. I love the stuff. The prints are amazing.

Tomorrow I intend to organize my room. I really want to get organized, because I am going to be going back to work next week ( :-( ) and I want to clean my room and desk. Saturday is Zuma, and Sunday hopefully soccer (where are my cleats?). Maybe I'll go to the beach again on Monday. Who knows. I want to enjoy these last few days.

Windy

2007-08-24T16:17:00.000-07:00

White Sox:

Transfer to Red at the Mutiny:

Chicago was great. I got to see friends, good live music, and eat some great food. It was nice to go back after being away for so long. Now that I'm back, I'm going to try to get everything in my life in order. I have to figure out when I will be back at work and what I am going to do next spring, summer and fall. I don't know what I want to do yet, so it's hard. I'm back at the gym, seeing the trainer, and kicking ass. I'm glad to be back because it was hard to get any workouts in at camp. Hopefully I can get back to where I was before I left quicker than it took me to get there.

Amelia and me:

Roommates!:

I miss everyone from camp a whole lot. It was nice having constant entertainment and awesome people around all the time. It's nice to have personal time now, but I would love to have more people around than I do now. I saw Kyle this morning. I gave him a ride to the train. We were going to hang out yesterday, but it didn't pan out because I got a migraine. So I got to see him for a little bit this morning. Tomorrow Bustos will get in and we are going to live it up. I am SO PUMPED to see her! I started to miss her 3 days after we left. It's hard to go from seeing someone everyday for 10 weeks straight to not seeing them at all. I am going to have to go visit her and everyone else this fall. On Sunday we are going to pick up Larissa from the airport and get lunch. Then I'll drop them at the boat in Long Beach. I'm so jealous they're going over there to live and work and I am staying here on the mainland. I wish I could go with them.

I've got a dentist appointment to get to now. More later.

TMJ

2007-08-14T19:46:00.000-07:00

I'm starting to miss camp a bit. :-/

pod

2007-08-13T16:19:00.000-07:00

The fatePod died. I got a new one today.

Fin

2007-08-11T20:36:00.001-07:00

I am home. That's it. It's over. I honestly can't believe it.

A Little Bit Of

2007-08-08T16:49:00.000-07:00

I can't believe I leave here on Saturday. I can't believe it has been 10 weeks. It has flown by. I don't want it to be over. I don't want to stop doing this. This summer has changed my life. I am going to miss it so much.

Behind You

2007-08-02T22:06:00.000-07:00

I can't stop listening to "Take Cover" by Acceptance. I fucking love that song. Thanks Mo.

Now I need to take care of some business....like getting the Science & Adventure tshirts finished. Ahhhhhhh. I hope I finish them. Well...I HAVE to, so I might have some sleepless nights. :-/

Sweeps

2007-08-01T08:19:00.001-07:00

Last night all the instructors from camp went into town. Needless to say, I had a lot of fun. Although I toned it down a bit from last Friday night. I am definitely enjoying my last few days here.

Here I Am

2007-07-31T13:23:00.000-07:00

I'm done worrying. I know why I came here to this island and I know what I want to get out of it. I'm going to let myself live the way I want to live for these next few days. I just don't care anymore. I'm sick of trying to be nice. I'm sick of walking on eggshells. I'm sick of pretending. I'm not going to worry about someone who I don't trust, who has disrespected me, and who refuses act like a mature adult. I am going to live my life the way I want it to be. I'm going to be friends with the people I'm going to be friends with. This is my life and I only live it once, so I am going to live it well. I have less than two weeks here on this island and I fully intend to live it up for everything it's worth.

Pony Up

2007-07-29T10:59:00.000-07:00

Two more weeks. I can't believe it. Two more weeks. This summer has been crazy/amazing/surprising/exciting/everything. I don't want it to end, yet I am looking forward to my life after camp.

The other day we went on a sunset session (surfing) and I am going to miss being able to do that. Mannnnnnnn.

Exploratorium

2007-07-23T20:26:00.000-07:00

It was a long weekend "over town". I am glad to be back and feeling a bit recharged. My classes seem alright for this session. I hope the campers prove themselves to be as totally awesome as everyone claims they are.

I want to go surfing. Maybe we can do a sunset session this week.

Pieces, Pieces, Everywhere...

2007-07-14T20:34:00.000-07:00

Trying to pick them up and keep my head on straight. Life moves pretty fast on an island.

Wow

2007-07-06T20:53:00.000-07:00

One month goes by fast. Yet, so slow. I have a lot going on but I'm not in a state to write it all. It's nice to be teaching to the kids, but sucks when they don't care at all.

Mentally I think I need to come home for a weekend in two weeks. I think I need to cleanse and refresh and prep myself for the last 3 weeks. I have 5 more. And then everything is going to change more than I ever thought it would.

Finally, some pictures...

Here is a picture of me in a grove of trees that were burned in the fire. It's pretty crazy and amazing looking.

This is the Art Shack where I work.

My housemate Mistral. She's an Aussie and totally rad.

My AWESOME roomie, Amanda. We have the same name. Isn't that cute? Haha. She's amazing.

Last weekend: Hiked to Ben Weston beach for a surf trip and camping out.

Over and out.

Tres

2007-06-21T07:08:00.000-07:00

I can't believe I've been here almost three weeks. It's been awesome and I'm loving it so much. This place is paradise. There are so many things to do here. Kayaking, sailing, paddleboarding, surfing, hiking, climbing, sports, etc. It's unreal. The ocean is right in front of my eyes all day long. Mistral (my Australian roommate) and I are going for a summer soltice paddle tonight. Maybe we will get some people to go with us. It is my favorite day of the year after all.

So my roommates here are some of the people I'm closest too. My actual "room"-mate Bustos is hilarious and energetic, but she's so focused and on the ball. Mistal is my Australian hippie roommate/housemate. She and I are very similar in a lot of ways. She's fun and loves life and lives is...she's almost invincible. Larissa shares a room with Mistral and she is super energetic and funny. I can relate to her in a lot of ways, especially in that our Mom's are crazy and think weird stuff is funny..like her mom sent her some horse hair from her horse's blanket when she was cleaning it because she thought it looked like some creature from classic star trek and thought Larissa would like it. Haha.

I woke this morning and played some soccer and ran around after the soccer ball a bit. I love that I can do that sort of thing. It's nice to be outside everyday. I have to go. Breakfast barbeque this morning. This sesson's kiddies have topped last session. I'm excited for next week though.

Catalina, Part 2

2007-06-13T08:20:00.000-07:00

It would be near impossible to write everything I've done in the past week and a half out here, but so far it's been pretty amazing. I love it here. I love the people I work with. I love teaching the kids. I love being outside all day. I love living a simpler life with not too much internet and no cell phones. I'm starting to realize more and more about myself and things I want and goals I want to accomplish. It's a pretty amazing feeling. Photos will hopefully be uploaded soon. The internet is terribly slow and I have been busy. Oh, and I surfed!

The Start

2007-06-03T11:59:00.000-07:00

So I have arrived and am alive and well. I can't explain the emotions I felt when I walked off that boat yesterday. This place meant the world to me when I was a camper and it hasn't sunk in that I am living here for the whole summer. I moved into my place--Manzanita. It's at the very top of camp so I have kind of a hike up there, but I don't mind. My roommate is also named Amanda, so we decided to ditch our names and she is Bustos (her last name) and I am Salamander or Art Shack. We live with a few other people who seem pretty cool. It's the nicest house of the staff living situations.

The group of Science & Adventure staff so far is pretty awesome. We are kind of a small group, and I kinda like that. I so far am liking everyone and I can't wait to know more about them. Last night a bunch of us went up to Pinetree (one of the guys' houses) and we hung out getting to know each other a bit. Everyone seems pretty cool. I painted one of the sliding glass windows for them. They have a series of them and they paint them and change them a lot I guess. We also made a chocolate cookie bunny house. It was dairy free which made me pretty excited.

I don't know who else can say this about their job, but this morning I got up at 6am and went kayaking on the ocean with Bustos and another S&A instructor named Daimar. He has been here a year so he told us a lot. Not only did we get to go kayaking, but we saw a dolphins, a seal, a few sea lions AND a bald eagle! Talk about incredible! The water wasn't too cold. Today I am going to get into the art shack and start looking at some stuff. We are also going snorkeling. I can't believe I'm here. I'll try to post more soon, but send me email because it makes me feel special!

Love,
Amanda

Dude. DUDE

2007-06-01T16:16:00.001-07:00

I'm moving to Catalina tomorrow. Wtf.

Ohhhh man!

Plus my new glasses are sweet.

Hmph

2007-05-29T16:37:00.001-07:00

It has been two weeks now since there has been a C-M University update. I'm beginning to get a little impatient. :-(

Devoured

2007-05-27T22:08:00.000-07:00

Wtf.

CBS: You Are IDIOTS For Cancelling Jericho!

2007-05-23T10:30:00.000-07:00

So as most people know, Jericho is my favorite show on TV. I also watch Lost and Weeds, but Jericho has surpassed them in my liking. The season finale left me going "OH MY GOD! I can't wait for next season!" It's new and original material. Everything on TV is reality, hospital, or police/detective/crime shows. There are few exceptions to these formula-type shows. Jericho was one exception. Now CBS has fucked up big time and cancelled it. This morning I added to the Jericho fans NUTS campaign to have nuts sent to CBS headquarters. If you watched the show you'd understand the "nuts" thing. I think it's rather brilliant that this whole thing is going. There is a site called Jericho Lives that is helping get things moving with keeping the show. I don't care if it goes to another network. I really hope they can continue the show because it's soooo good.

I guess Jericho's ratings went down a bit, but I also think the ratings are a bad judge of who's watching. In college as an advertising major, we learned about ratings, and really it's all television has to go by, but I also know that they aren't super accurate. I think CBS has fucked up big time and they need to fix it. I almost cried when I found out. You can help out by signing this petition, or by sending an email to CBS.

My message to CBS: Renew Jericho, you idiots!

Brrrr

2007-05-22T21:35:00.000-07:00

It's kinda chilly in my room. Typical. Except it's MAY!

So 10 more days until I depart. I'm kinda thinking party on Saturday...tho I don't know who'd go or where it'd be. Kinda like, "Amanda's one last wild night before she leave for the island." That would be fun. I'd enjoy it. Or I could just go out like a usual night. Yeah.

Worked legs today with my trainer at the gym. I felt a little wobbly but managed to get on an elliptical for about 15 min after training. So that's 30 minutes of cardio. Not to shabby. I think I am going to step it up a notch this next week.

Tomorrow is the season finale of Lost. I am pretty pumped for it. 2 hours of Lost action makes me happppyyyyyyy.

Ummm, so listen to Pete Nischt. Thank you Ace Ender (of the Early November) for making a record label with awesome music. Hooray!

The old glutes (ass muscles) are a wee bit sore. I'm gonna go brush my teeth and pass out. Peaaaaace.

Paper Bag

2007-05-20T21:15:00.000-07:00

So the past couple of days I've been asking myself, "is this for real?! Are you fucking kidding me?!"

AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!

x 93847987039103810697143019730459820743542390

What is going onnnnnnnnnnnnnnn?!

What. The. Fuck.

Just WTF...

Bust a Move and Shake Some Tail

2007-05-16T19:03:00.000-07:00

Hello few blog readers. I'm gearing up for the big move to the Island. 2.5 weeks. Holy crap that is in no time. I'm getting more nervous as we move closer. The sad part is that I feel like things in my life are kinda picking up, and now I'm about to leave. I am still glad to leave, but it's just weird that right before I leave I start meeting more people and stuff.

I have been working out, as usual. It's going well. My trainer is a cool dude and I like him a lot. I was looking today at my arms and you know what? They look pretty good. Allllll right! My knee is kinda hurting a bit right now. I think I might do the elliptical tomorrow. I will miss the gym when I leave. There is this one hot dude who makes eye contact with me all the time there and I enjoy it because he's so pretty to look at. I am always thinking to myself, "the girl on the treadmill next to me is way hotter." But he does it EVERY time! I don't know what that means... I doubt he'll ever talk to me. At least not before I leave. But I'm leaving anyway, and he's just a pretty dude. I don't know if there is anything going on behind the looks. He is sooo pretty to look at though. Damn. Delicious.

Anyway. I am kinda sweaty right now and hungry, so I'm going to shower and eat. That is the end of the current story.

FIRE: This time for real

2007-05-11T08:53:00.000-07:00

I really hope Toyon makes it through this new fire. Right now I don't know what the scoop is. I know it was evacuated and so was Fox. The fire looks AWFUL. So bad that it's the headline on cnn.com today. Jeez.

That's my island for this summer. That's where I spent many summers as a kid. This fire is nuts.

Fire!!!!

2007-05-09T14:04:00.000-07:00

That fire in Griffith Park is pretty crazy. Yesterday driving home all I could see was smoke. Then in the evening coming home from the gym I could see it. There was a huge line of fire moving down the hill and flames at the top and the sky was just ORANGE. Crazyyyyy.

I Have the Sniffles

2007-05-08T14:35:00.000-07:00

It's true. I have been sick this week. Not horribly sick. But you know. Sniffles. Blowing my nose. It's probably just sprung from allergies because I dont' really feel that sick. I've had more time to accomplish some stuff I needed to do. I wrote two lesson plans for camp. I paid bills. I am working on a freelance logo project. My room is still a mess, though. I swear I'll get that done next.

Last weekend was a Cinco de Mayo celebration at Jenny & Courtney's. It was so fun.

Somehow they got me to eat guacamole with a straw. I think it was the $1 that got me to do it. I do love avocados.

This friday is a BBQ at Liz's and I'm pumped. Greg is also visiting on Thursday. I haven't seen him in almost 6 months.

Migraines: They Really Suck

2007-05-02T22:11:00.000-07:00

I have a migraine. Yuck. I'm about to go to bed without watching LOST. Jericho was ridiculously good tonight. I will catch LOST on my lunch break tomorrow. Thank you ABC for your awesome video player. I wish I could watch Jericho episodes online but their video player doesn't work too well. I am happy I have a Cinco De Mayo party to go to. That will be nice.

Bella Coachella

2007-05-01T17:59:00.000-07:00

Holy crap this weekend was amazing. Coachella rocked my socks. I saw so many bands, but not just that, AMAZING bands.

First day: Of Montreal, Arctic Monkeys, Jesus & Mary Chain, Benny Benassi, Interpol, part of Bjork, and DJ Shadow.
Second day: the Fratellis, Hot Chip, MSTRKRFT, Kings of Leon, the Arcade Fire, Blonde Redhead, LCD Soundsystem, part of the Rapture, and Tiesto.
Third day: Mika, part of Kid Beyond, Mando Diao, The Kooks, Soulwax, CSS, part of Placebo, part of Crowded House, Paul Van Dyk, TEDDYBEARS, and Rage Against the Machine.

Ask me what the best was.

"Amanda, what was the best?!" - you
"TEDDYBEARS" - me

That's right. Teddybears fucking rocked my world this weekend. I think on Saturday, Liz & I were asking ourselves, "how could this get any better?" after seeing Hot Chip rock out and then LCD Soundsystem and Tiesto. And Sunday did it for us. Mando Diao was also notably fucking great. They have a great, solid sound and are really good, fun performers. CSS was also pretty freaking fabulous. I loved their set. The singer is hot as hell and she was wearing this body suit and just being crazy. The Kooks were great, but the people we were around in the tent were smelly and not nice. Rage was pretty good. It was nice to see them back together and they had a solid set, but it was the last of a 3-day marathon and I was tired, so I don't think I enjoyed it as much as I normally would have. Teddybears came on before RATM on the smallest stage. They were so fucking incredible. I have never EVER felt the way I felt in that tent. I felt more alive than ever. It was the most amazing show I have ever seen. I wish I had bought their zip up hoodie and now I can't find it online. :-( I bought their CD today. I only had a few songs before, but I went and got the album.

It was fun to see Aaron again and his friends were pretty cool. They even let Liz & me sleep in the beds and took couches for themselves. How nice. Anyway, it was hot and tiring, but Coachella was awesome. I can't wait for next year.

And one and two and one and two

2007-04-25T23:27:00.000-07:00

Jericho tonight= ok
LOST tonight= ok

I am still totally into them. I love them!

I feel kinda weird right now. I feel like everything is moving really fast. I need to go to bed. I can't wait to get back into the gym tomorrow and then drive to Indio. Coachella baby. Yeahhhhhhhhhh.

ATTN: Vegans

2007-04-25T15:22:00.000-07:00

Dear Vegans:

I was thinking about it and in reality, you shouldn't be driving cars because they are powered by really fucking old dinosaur juice.

Love,
Amanda

Life Chronicles (Part 50000000000)

2007-04-25T13:33:00.000-07:00

So I guess I have a new blog now. That's cool. I don't always have something of importance to write about, but I think I was gettin' sick of the old one. I think this is the best way for people to keep up with the happenins in my life. Woo. So here we go. This is not going to be a long post, but I'll put more later.

Recent/Near Future Things:
This weekend is Coachella and I am pumped.
Yesterday I saw my trainer and got my ass kicked.
Tonight I see my trainer to get my ass kicked.
Tomorrow I see my trainer to get my ass kicked.
I like feeling like I just got my ass kicked.
I am wearing a cute white dress today over dark blue jeans.
38 more days until I am at that place in the picture (Catalina).
I like chocolate chip cookies.

i Fin !