Wise Words from Carrie Couture

"I'm a Big Kid Now" or "Why Not To Get The Comcast Self Installation Kit"

2011-07-25T18:52:00.000-07:00

For those of you hiding under a rock, I recently moved into a studio in San Francisco. I got the call a few weeks ago that I scored the place and I literally screamed out loud. It's been a little bit of a challenge finding an apartment that was both in my budget and in the Marina, but I somehow managed to pull it off.

A little about the place: My next door neighbor is practically the Exploratorium (how awesome is that?!), hardwood floors, laundry in the building, a walk-in closet and... wait for it... a parking spot. Cue angelic music. This place is everything I hoped to find and more. It's always quiet, I feel completely safe, and most importantly, I'm a short walk (or bus ride if I'm lazy) away from my friends.

I'm going on my second week here and I love it more and more everyday. I'm finally settled and it's beginning to feel more like home. After a slight tug-of-war with Comcast, I finally have tv, internet, and a phone line so I can buzz people into my building (debatably my favorite part of living in San Francisco).

Move-in costs in the City can be pretty phenomenal. One place I looked at wanted what some people in the Central Valley pay for a down payment on a home. Luckily, I was able to get in here with more reasonable costs. But since I spent all of my money on a deposit and first month's rent, I decided to opt for Comcast's "self-installation kit." When I got the box in the mail that was large enough to sleep in, I began to panic. Luckily (or unluckily, however you want to look at it) they sent me the wrong order so they scheduled a technician to install everything for free. After two calls to Comcast, one missed appointment and 3 hours this morning with Ali, the Comcast technician, I'm finally up and running.

I like to describe my place as "quirky." You have to be under 150 pounds to even fit through my foyer (yes, I have a foyer) and the sound of my shower often mimics the screaming mandrake root on Harry Potter. But I can lay in bed, eating ice cream and watching The Bachelorette; I can blast the Dixie Chicks while I make a Trader Joe's dinner; and I can leave my dishes in the sink for 3 days and no one will care. This place isn't perfect. But it's perfect for me.

Just when you thought our living situation couldn't get any weirder...

2011-06-14T22:44:00.000-07:00

I can summarize my Saturday in three words: Baseball, beers, bars. Consequently I had a rather unfavorable Sunday morning, however, for more reasons than just my hangover.

Tim only lives 6 blocks away but he stays over at Ashley, Dave and Sofia's a close second to me. "At 2am, that's a rough 6 blocks." I wake up and see him on the loveseat. Knowing neither of us are going anywhere anytime soon, I turn on Dumb & Dumber. Two hours and 4 glasses of water later, Tim and I have the standard 10-minute discussion on who is going to venture out to Safeway for eggs and bacon. After a coin toss, rock paper scissors, some pretty unconvincing arguments and having it closer to noon than 8am, we both decided we'd venture out to the Italian Deli on Chestnut for lunch. Being the diva I am, I required a shower first.

So fresh and so clean, I immediately grab my towel and wrapped it around me. While still in the shower, wringing out my hair, the door between Ashley and Dave's room and the bathroom flies open in full force. There stands Dave. Naked.

My initial reactions in chronological order are as follows:
1. Gag reflex
2. Rubbing my eyes to make it go away
3. Scream
4. More gagging

Dave bolted out of the bathroom and before I can even get my upchuck reflex under control says from behind the door, "If you like what you see, speak up."

Getting dressed with the speed of light, I head back to the living room. Wanting to put it all out there (no pun intended) I stop at the entry way, look Tim in the eye and say, "I just saw Dave naked." He stares back at me then says, "Well... what did you think??"

With zombie-like demeanor I put my PJs away in the closet and head back to the couch. In a last ditch effort to avoid Post Traumatic Stress Disorder I sit down and try to watch tv. Before I knew it, Tracy Chapman starts blaring and it's coming from the bedroom. Again, the door flies open (cringe) and out comes Ashley in nothing but a blue towel dancing the jig to "Talkin' Bout A Revolution."

The four of us, plus Jarrett who came over shortly after, eventually ended up heading to the deli for lunch. I did not order salami.

Inspire Me

2011-06-01T12:45:00.000-07:00

Lately I have been a little down in the dumps about my wardrobe. I consistently feel like I need to be adding to my closet to make sure I don't become a fashion robot, wearing the same thing week after week after week. Further, it's become more and more difficult to get creative with the pieces I already own since I sleep on someone's couch and have limited closet/suitcase space (my living on a couch is a blog subject for a different day). In an effort to overcome this slump, I've been reading a lot of blogs, articles, and anything I can get my hands on to try and help me tame the wild beast that is my wardrobe.

A few months ago I posted a status on my Facebook asking people for any interesting blog suggestions. After wading through all of the smart ass comments, I found a diamond in the rough. My friend Christine suggested I check out Kendi Everyday, a fashion blog about utilizing only the items in your closet and remixing them for 30 days. I was intrigued.

Not only does Kendi manage to mix and match the cutest outfits ever, but she is a phenomenal writer who keeps me in stitches with her daily posts. Are you sensing a girl crush?? Totally have one. For those of you wifeys out there, Kendi also has another blog about she and her husband's relationship called Better Off Wed, which is just as funny if you're not married and you're a single gal like myself. Again, with the girl crush.

Having been in San Francisco for an entire three months now, I have found fashion inspiration in plain sight: takin' it to the street. There are people from all different cultures and walks of life here, so why not use them to influence your daily fashion choices? I wouldn't recommend trying to scope out inspiration from the crackheads in the Tenderloin, but the Mission hipsters and Marina preps are a good start.

One of my interests on StumbleUpon just so happens to be fashion (if you haven't "Stumbled" yet, give it a whirl. I highly recommend it). Every now and then I'll come across shopping or fashion websites that catch my eye for a minute or two before I move on. But today I came across a blog that simply captivated me. The genius behind this gem of a blog decided to draw inspiration from animated Disney characters. They had me at "Disney." I was enthralled with all of the fabulous outfits they were able to produce from not only the Disney Princesses, but the Villains too. Amongst my favorites were Cinderella, Belle and Ariel. But my heart melted for Sleeping Beauty. Tell me you wouldn't want to rock every single one of those outfits?? Absolutely fabulous.

I feel like I've uncracked a whole new world of inspiration (Did you get the Aladdin reference? How witty am I?!). Ladies, and gents if any read my blog, moral of the story is to keep your eyes and mind open at all times. Inspiration is lurking around every corner.

Hot Child In The City

2011-05-30T19:54:00.000-07:00

I've been in San Francisco since March and I still feel like I haven't seen a fraction of what the City has to offer. I really wanted to utilize the extended part of my weekend to maximize my San Francisco exposure. We shall call this extended weekend my first "Exploriday."

On Sunday, we ventured out to the Treasure Island Flea Market. A $3 entry fee gets you access to vendors selling everything from feather hair extensions to 1950's circle-dial telephones. I only walked away with a bag of kettle corn (which is gone, by the way) but Ashley scored herself a nice used baseball glove ($25) and a pair of the raddest white cowboy boots on earth for a measly $30. Jealous.

Since we made our rounds at the flea market early and the weather was phenomenally gorgeous, we decided to get some authentic Mexican food in the Mission at La Taqueria. Named on of the top 20 places in the Mission to eat, it did not disappoint. It may have been one of the best tacos I've ever had. Sorry grandma. Filled to the brim with kettle corn, carnitas tacos and an ice cold Corona, we headed back to camp and watched a house-record 3 Netflix movies until bed. I'm now not only convinced the real Paul McCartney is dead, but I'm convinced Courtney Love killed Kurt Cobain. I need to stop watching documentaries. I digress.

Today I woke up and hit the gym with Ash. She and Dave had tickets to the A's game, so it was just me, myself and I. I knew I wanted to head down Fillmore and check out some of the shops in Pac Heights, so I hopped on the ol' deuce-deuce (the 22 bus) and headed on my way. A little nervous to be by myself in the City, my mind was soon at ease when I spotted my boyfriend on the bus. And when I say "boyfriend," I mean Tim Lincecum. And when I say "spotted," I mean there was a newspaper article about him hanging up. It took all my might not to vandalize the by-line to read, "Lincecum flirts with Carrie Campos." But again... I digress.

Shopping was a huge success. Not only did I manage to buy my sister a birthday present (yeah, I know it was a month ago, but I haven't seen her in a while so lay off me), but I gained the confidence to go out and explore on my own. Head held high, I decided to walk home. I took the picture featured above on my way. The weather was too nice to sit inside for the rest of the day so I called Tim and asked him to meet me for some food/drinks and watch the Giant's game. We decided to head out to the Embarcadero, only to find it was a ghost town. Thankfully, Gordon Biersch was open and happy hour was just beginning. Awesome. Dave and Ashley met us there after the game and after a few more apps and drinks, we were off to pick up a bed at Ashley's co-worker's house. The mattress didn't fly off of Tim's roof going up/down Fillmore, so we can bank this as yet another success.

Not ready to end the day, we headed out to Moscone Field to break in Ashley's new baseball glove. While Dave and Ash played catch, I practiced my fastball on Tim (yes, in flats). At first glance, I thought a homeless man was walking toward me on the mound. Turns out he was just a weirdo who wanted to pitch to Tim. I happily obliged. After about 10 minutes of this guy almost pegging Tim in the head, he left the field with his shopping cart full of beer and told us to have a "Happy Fucking Memorial Day."

We all took turns at bat and, not to toot my own horn but, I was pretty good. I even told Dave my softball team in 5th grade almost made it to the Junior World Series (total lie). He believed me (total sucker). We played until sundown and walked back to the apartment. How "Sandlot" of us.

I remember moving to San Luis and exploring on my own. The only problem is, there was only so much in San Luis to explore. Not here. There are museums, and fields, and galleries, and food (lots and lots of food). There is a never-ending plethera of events, places and people to see. I learned today that exploring a city can be fun, challenging and more often than not, memorable. I can't wait to see what my next Exploriday brings.

Get It Right, Get It Tight

2011-05-13T10:34:00.000-07:00

I know everyone has their own taste in workout music. In high school, my friend Jenna would listen to Celine Dion's "A Decade of Song" before basketball games. To each his own. But the other day I was working on my fitness and I had an epiphany: I had perfected my workout mix.

For a long time I'd find myself skipping tracks, which would consequently get me out of my workout groove, especially while running. What I noticed is that there was a direct correlation between what song was on my iPod and how hard I was pushing myself. This needed to change and my playlist was the key.

With the consistent release of new songs, I am constantly adding to my playlist. I find this both encourages me and excites me to head to the gym. Another tool I utilize is my "shuffle" button. I put my mix on shuffle to spice things up a bit and find, somehow, my iPod knows exactly when to play Kanye's "Stronger" just before I get the urge to push the emergency stop button on the treadmill.

For those of you wondering what gets my blood pumping and my legs moving, I have decided to share a few crucial tracks on my workout playlist with you. Happy running, everyone.

1. Uprising, Muse
2. Cry For You, September
3. Dynamite, Taio Cruz
4. Rock That Body, Black Eyed Peas
5. Because The Night, Cascada
6. When Love Takes Over (Remix), David Guetta & Kelly Rowland
7. Stronger, Kanye West
8. 3, Britney Spears
9. On The Floor, Jennifer Lopez
10. Blow, Ke$ha
11. S&M, Rihanna
12. Evacuate the Dancefloor, Cascada
13. Boom Boom Guetta (Boom Boom Pow Remix), Black Eyed Peas & David Guetta
14. No Sleep Til Brooklyn, Beastie Boys
15. Say It Right, Nelly Furtado
16. Getting Over You, David Guetta with Fergie and Chris Willis
17. Right Above It, Lil Wayne & Drake
18. Make It Rain, Fat Joe
19. I Like It, Enrique Iglesias
20. Can't Be Tamed, Miley Cyrus

Just another day...

2011-04-26T17:20:00.000-07:00

Having a job at Genentech has its perks; one being the charter bus that totes me to and from work everyday. The only downside of the Genetech bus system is that my route home only comes once an hour. If I don't make the 4:30 bus, I'm waiting until 5:30 for the next one. I've never had much problems making it onto the bus... that is, until today.

The ride back to the Marina is approximately 45 minutes. Considering I have a bladder the size of a peanut, I try and hit up the ladies room before I take off. When I returned to my desk after today's daily lavatory ritual, my boss was waiting for me. He was in meeting all day and wanted to discuss some tasks before his busy schedule tomorrow. With a plastered grin I tried to seem interested, but found my eyes darting back and forth between he and my clock, like I was watching a tennis match, to make sure I could catch the bus. After wrapping things up, I had 5 minutes until the bus arrived. I didn't have time to properly stow anything away so I grabbed my tupperware from lunch and headed out. Like a gazelle, I flew by my co-workers' cubicles, leaving behind only the voice of my goodbyes.

I decided I better skedaddle since I was cutting it pretty close, so I picked up the tempo as I hopped down a few flights of stairs. Now into a brisk walk, I headed out of the building and around the corner where I could get my first glimpse of the bus stop. The bus was already there. Shit. Without hesitation, I threw my body into a full-on sprint. Approximately 12 steps in, I felt my bare right foot hit the ground. My shoe must have flown off. Behind me. Shit! In an effort to stop the momentum of my body, my right foot dragged across the cement, leaving a nice scuff across a number of my newly pedicured toe nails. Double shit!

No stranger to hop scotch, I launched myself on only my left foot to my abandoned shoe, slipped it on and was rolling in no time. Not wanting another aerodynamic mishap, I was running and shuffling at the same time. I was ruffling.

Hoping some kind soul would see me ruffling across campus and tell the driver to hold the bus, I started waiving my arm, tupperware in hand, in a panicked frenzy. When I finally made it to the bus doors, I apologized to the driver and thanked him profusely for waiting for me. He looked a little puzzled, glanced at his watch and said, "Oh you had plenty of time. We're not leaving for a few more minutes."

Things I've learned in San Francisco so far...

2011-03-01T21:45:00.000-08:00

1. Never underestimate the acceleration of a MUNI bus.

2. When someone graciously offers you their couch, you are obligated to participate in unfavorable activities (6 a.m. is not a fun time to work out, Ashley).

3. If you meet new people, refrain from telling them about your blog to avoid being called by your pen name.

4. Despite hundreds of restaurants in the City, people still seem to congregate at Subway for lunch.

5. There is a lighting conspiracy in bars where they make it seemingly light enough to read the name of the drink on the menu, but too dark to read the price.

6. "Clipper Card" is used in your daily vocabulary just as much as "hello" and "thank you."

7. To avoid awkward conversation, don't tell people you're not a Giants fan.

8. Rumor has it the Safeway in the Marina turns into a nightclub after 7 p.m.

9. The Golden Gate isn't a bad backdrop for morning runs.

10. Hand sanitizer has never been a better investment.

I Wanna See Your Peacock!

2011-02-14T18:51:00.000-08:00

Back in 2008 I was asked through a friend of a friend of a friend to help serve at a Christmas party. Always happy to earn an extra buck or two, I happily obliged. Three years and multiple parties later, I created quite a relationship with Tom and even helped work at his daughter Christine's wedding.

Right before moving out of

San Luis Obispo, I worked my last Christmas party. It was at this event that Tom told me about how Christine had begun selling her handmade headbands online. On the outside I was calm and collected, but on the inside I was like a fat kid in a candy shop... stoked. Christine has amazing style and I couldn't wait to see her products.

Before I left the party, Christine gave me her Etsy seller name (Benny Peacock) and told me she would have some new things up in the next few weeks. Fast forward to the end of December and I made my first, but certainly not my last, purchase.

I immediately fell in love with the "Dana - Velvet Mauve Headband with Vintage Gold Button Flowers." I have worn this headband several times and always get the best compliments. I also purchased Benny Peacock's "Alice - Satin Creme Flower with Pearl Button." I'm saving this hair clip to debut at my friend Kiersten's wedding in July (I'm a planner).

Christine, aka Benny Peacock, not only has amazing handmade pieces, but they are all one-of-a-kind. When wearing my Benny Peacock merchandise I never have to worry about running into anyone with my same accessories. Don't you just love that?? And the icing on the cake... all of Benny Peacock's products are reasonably priced and shipped in a timely manner. LOVE LOVE LOVE!

I continue to stalk the Benny Peacock Etsy page multiple times a week because Christine is constantly creating more and more beautiful things to share with us. You can find Benny Peacock on Esty by clicking here or "Like" Benny Peacock Accessories on Facebook for updates on the newest products, and sometimes some awesome discounts. Happy shopping! :)

My name is Carrie, and I'm a clothes hoarder.

2011-02-09T10:54:00.000-08:00

I have been back home for 3 weeks now and I still have yet to put away all of my crap. I would like to blame laziness for this organizational disaster, but I can't. I don't have a lot of "things" but rather a lot of clothes.

I have been designated a 3-drawer dresser and essentially a quarter of a closet to pack away all of my digs. If you know me and are aware of my shopping addiction, cue hysterical laughter. Using my mom's suggested "a little at a time" approach, I have been slowly but surely hanging, folding and packing away. I find my fingers crossed every time I try to wedge something new into my closet.

The other day on my weekly Target run, I found myself, as I usually do, in the book aisle. I saw Lauren Conrad had a new style book and decided to take a peek. I don't particularly like Lauren Conrad and have only seen The Hills a handful of times (due to my protest of MTV programming), but I love love love reading other people's opinions on what style means to them. Like flipping through The National Enquirer, out of sheer curiosity I picked up the book with no intention of buying it.... Until I saw Chapter 4: "Mastering your closet." At the bargain price of $13, I left Target with hope and, for lack of a better term, my new organizational Bible.

I read through the first few chapters with ease. "Style" has parallel similarities to "The Extra Half an Inch" by Victoria Beckham and both of Nina Garcia's books, "The Little Black Book of Style" and "The One Hundred," all of which I love. I found comfort in knowing that it took Lauren Conrad three days, a professional organizer, a stylist and several friends to help tackle her closet. She says to try on every single piece of clothing you own. If it doesn't fit right, is uncomfortable or simply can't see yourself wearing it anymore, toss it.

She also suggests tossing clothes in a number of different piles: give away, Goodwill, sell, garbage, and storage (put away a bag of clothes under your bed for 6 months. If you don't remember what's in there, you don't need it). These piles seemed a little too complicated for me. I usually toss my clothes in two piles: garbage and my "Jenny" pile. Jenny is my friend from San Luis Obispo who rarely buys clothes for herself, but rather takes peoples hand-me-downs (and looks better in them then I ever did). Giving my clothes to Jenny also helps cure the emotional attachment I sometimes have to pieces of clothing.

So here I am in my fashionable gray sweats and "I Heart NY" tee shirt, about to tackle the monster that is my wardrobe. I'm going to mix Lauren's ideas with my mom's approach and pray that this project is done before my 30th birthday. Wish me luck. I'm gonna need it...

Watch out Bay Area... here I come.

2011-01-31T18:35:00.001-08:00

I don't like telling people that I'm currently "unemployed." In times like these I feel like being unemployed reflects a negative connotation. It allows people to jump to their own conclusions that I was either fired or am unhirable. I am neither. So for the sake of this post, and my sanity, I will refer to myself as being "in between jobs."

I spent my first week of being in between jobs scooting around Raleigh, North Carolina (I had a wonderful time, thanks for asking!). So this week I'm back to reality and on the ol' job hunt. Most of the jobs I have applied for thus far have been recommended to me by friends and family who have openings at their companies. Thankfully when you have someone vouching for you, your resume doesn't disappear into the abyss. For this, I have already had a phone interview.

I'm not exactly sure of what type of job I am looking for. I have a public relations degree with professional marketing and legal experience. As odd as this may sound, my diverse resume opens up a plethera of opportunities for me. Not only do I have the creativity that comes from a marketing background, but I also think strategically and critically because of my experience working with attorneys. On top of that, I have had the pleasure of working first-hand with company executives and attorneys (which I loved), allowing me to consider and qualify for personal assistant positions.

I may not be 100% certain about what type of job that I want, but I am sure of one thing: I will be fantastic at whatever it is I am hired for. I don't mean for this post to sound like a horn-tooting fest, but I know that a combination of my work ethic with an enthusiasm to learn creates an ideal work environment that any employer would be delighted to have in the workplace. Fingers crossed!

Golden Globes

2011-01-16T21:31:00.000-08:00

As do most people, I mainly watch award shows to critique the dresses. At this year's Golden Globes, I found myself un-wooed, if you will, at most of the fashion choices. Women like Angelina Jolie, Sophia Vergara and Mila Kunis were all beautiful as expected. But there were only a few ensembles that really stuck with me.

In a sea of one-shouldered and sleeved dresses, Carrie Underwood's champagne colored, strapless Badgley Mischka really hit the mark for me. I thought it was simple, elegant and classic. Plus, I like sparkles. What can I say?! A+.

It may have been Claire Danes' Golden Globe that she carried as an accessory that won me over, but her salmon colored dress with the plunging back simply wowed me. I thought the modern gown mixed with such a vibrant color was uber chic. Bravo.

A well deserved win, Natalie Portman took home the Globe for Best Actress in Black Swan. However, her dress really threw me for a curve ball. I absolutely despise red and pink together in an outfit. It sits way up there with "jean on jean." This isn't 1986 where Hollywood is lacking sophisticated maternity wear. Always the optimistic, I will be holding out hope for her Academy Award gown (and win).

And what was with J. Lo (or is it Jennifer Lopez? Or Jenny from the Block? Or Jennifer Anthony?) and that god-awful white number she pulled out? Did she steal that dress from the set of Selena? Don't even get me started...

I can't wait to watch the Fashion Police tomorrow and see the critic's choices compared to my very important opinions. What did you guys think?

Small Town USA

2011-01-12T21:18:00.000-08:00

As I map things out thus far, on the cusp of my 26th birthday I believe I will be entering the sixth chapter of my life.

Chapter 1: Kindergarten
Chapter 2: Junior High
Chapter 3: High School
Chapter 4: College
Chapter 5: Oh crap... I'm an adult. Now what?
Chapter 6: Gilroy Bound

Yeah, I said it. I'm moving home. That's right. Gilroy. Garlic-capital-of-the-world, home. No, I didn't lose my job or have some crazy sob story, a stalker, or anything cool. I just wanted to move home. So I am. I missed my friends and family and started resenting the 2 hour drive each way for visits. That's not the way I wanted to live my life. And more importantly I realized that San Luis wasn't making me happy.

People have called me crazy saying that San Luis Obispo is, and I quote, "The happiest place on earth." That's no lie. A few months ago there was even an article posted on Yahoo! about how it was literally named one of the happiest places on earth to live. Don't get me wrong. San Luis is a phenomenal city. But I'd like to see the scientific evidence behind this research. Minimally, I'd like to see the survey questions.

What people don't see when they look at San Luis is the lack of jobs, fair pay, and reasonable living. Not to mention the lack of diversity. I can throw a rock and hit 17 bleached blonds in jean skirts and Cal Poly tanks. That's not to say that I won't miss it here. San Luis Obispo has one of the cutest downtowns I have ever seen, I'm going to yearn daily for a Turkey California from High Street Deli and a Cowboy Cookie, and the wines here are better than anything I've ever tasted.

Additionally, I have San Luis Obispo to thank for my first real full-time jobs, without which I may never have met some of the most amazing and brilliant young people I've had the pleasure of working with. Also, if it weren't for San Luis, I might never have met Ms. Chavez and the whole nightmare-ish crew she calls friends.

Not many people can say that they are moving back in with their parents under good circumstances. But I can. Nothing will make me happier than being surrounded by my great parents, the friends I love, my insane sisters, my even more insane niece and nephew and a boxer that is the most loyal pet I may ever have the pleasure of cuddling with. Gilroy is no San Luis, but these are my roots and this is what I love...

127 Hours

2011-01-03T22:40:00.000-08:00

My Monday night ritual of noodles and a $5 movie with my friend Jenny has not only become entertaining, but rather educating. This week we intended on seeing Black Swan. But as it always happens, it sold out right when we approached the ticket counter. We were left to see 127 Hours or to walk home in shame. "We should have eaten those damn noodles faster!" With our heads held high we dismissed the latter and headed into the theater. What's better than James Franco for two hours anyway? I guess Ryan Gosling for two hours, but I digress...

The movie wasn't quite like I had expected, but it was excellent. I would describe it as a mix of "Into the Wild" meets "Requiem for a Dream" with a touch of "Silence of the Lambs." Weird, I know. But the sheer thought of this movie being a true story made me quiver in my NorthFace (literally... I was wearing my NorthFace jacket. How festive am I?!). It was incredible how this man could have kept himself alive for as long as he did. A true outdoors-man indeed.

What I liked: I loved how interesting the cinematography was. The movie made you feel like you were down in a crevice in the middle of nowhere with this poor man, understanding all of his hallucinations and sharing every let down and triumph along the way. I also liked that I have the same exact Nalgene bottle as he had in the movie. Stay classy.

What I didn't like: The close up of the ants crawling all over him. Ick. I almost gagged a few times at parts that I'd rather not speak of.

Kudos to Danny Boyle for writing/directing the movie and making two hours of James Franco sitting next to a rock intriguing. This movie definitely makes James Franco Academy Award-worthy. Two thumbs way up.

Steal From Your Mother

2010-08-25T19:02:00.000-07:00

I shop. A lot. As most of you know. So you would assume that my closet is a never-ending carousal of clothing constantly being rotated in and out as fashions fade. Call me annoying but for important events, I enjoy me a new outfit. So sue me. Nevertheless, there has been one article of clothing that has, and will remain, in my wardrobe cue for years: my cream wool hooded sweater.

I got this sweater from my mom's closet in high school because it was always freezing cold when I left the house at 7 a.m. each morning. After hoarding it for a while, I think my mom gave up her efforts for a permanent return and accepted that she was mine (yes, my sweater is a she). It wasn't until I'd worn the crap out of it that my mom turns to me one day and says, "Do you know how long I've had that sweater?" Uhhhhhh, no. But I have a feeling you're gonna tell me. "Forever," she says. Turns out she got it as a birthday gift from my dad either when she was in high school or shortly thereafter. The nostalgia automatically intrigued me.

I cannot tell you how many people compliment me on this sweater and ask me where I got it. It's an interesting story and great conversation starter. Even more than telling the story I love that inquiring fashionistas are unable to obtain this exact sweater.

Due to my sweater's overwhelmingly positive response, I decided to tool around my mom's closet and jewelry box a little more. Turns out mama-dearest had a ring, that she also has had since high school as well. Made out of the handle part of a spoon, it was engraved with a cursive "C" (Mama's name is Connie). I peg my obsession with finding anything and everything with either a "C" or "Carrie" on it to this very moment. After narrowing down the best excuse for requesting the ring be mine, my mom was happy to give it to me. She never wore it anyway.

Every now and then I ask my mom if I can fish through her jewelry box with her (which pisses me other sisters off) and I often find some gems. I highly recommend you all look through your mothers' stuff and starting a vintage family collection of your own. Afterall, your mom's trash could be this season's treasure.

Blogging about, well... blogging.

2010-07-25T23:01:00.001-07:00

I love blogs. It's so much fun to read about other people's lives as they live them. Today Melanie posted a blog on Stephanie's page about a celebrity hair dresser who has a special needs daughter and I've been in the blogosphere ever since. Very touching. I read the family blog, then her blog as a hair stylist, then I wanted to add a link of her blog to my blog and realized that my blog background no longer exists. Sheesh. Anywho, I changed up the background. Do you love or what?

Point being: If any of you (assuming anyone reads this besides me) has a blog, please share. I'd love to read it. And if you don't have one, I encourage you to start writing. Thank you. Carry on...

Nerd Alert

2010-07-13T21:29:00.000-07:00

A few months ago I was walking back to work from the post office and saw a book in the window of a consignment shop. I don't know what drew me to it, but I went in to check it out anyway. Turns out it was a hard over copy of Wuthering Heights circa 1943. I've never read the book but another urge engulfed me and I asked how much it was. $1.35. Sold.

As I walked back to work, I thumbed through the pages and observed the cover. The nostalgia of a book that was 65+ years old wasn't the only thing that intrigued me. What got me was the fact that I had, in my hand, a book that so many people before me had enjoyed; both physically in the book that I was holding and in the words Emily Bronte wrote so long ago. A classic. After examining every angle of the book, I concluded that I liked the spine the best. It looked vintage, a little worn, but charming. It was then that I decided I'd collect classic books to outfit my new bookshelf (that I bought for $30, thank you Sarah!).

It wasn't until this past weekend that I'd found some more books to add to my collection. At a used bookstore in downtown San Luis, I picked up "A Complete Poems of Emily Dickinson (1960)" and "Here Lies Dorothy Parker (1939)." I got the Emily Dickinson book for obvious reasons, but the Dorothy Parker book was my true golden find. She was an author/poet in the early 20th century and a woman of my own heart. Smart, witty, and a man-hater. Love. I learned about her in my Women in Literature summer school class at Chico State and had been itching to get my hands on more of her work ever since. The hardcover book I got is only a collection of her short stories, but I picked up a paperback of a collection of her poems and stories at the used bookstore as well. I can't wait to thumb through and learn more about this literary hero of mine.

"I shall stay the way I am because I don't give a damn."
- Dorothy Parker

Freaks, Families, Fangs...

2010-06-30T20:30:00.000-07:00

So I watch a lot of TV... what of it? I very much enjoy finding a new show and obsessing over watching all of the past episodes until I catch up to the most recent. I figured I'd share with you some of my latest victims.

Last week I rented Freaks and Geeks from the library. After I heard some good peer reviews (isn't that how it always happens?), I decided to give it a whirl. I loved it. It was smart, funny and best of all, had James Franco in it. I'm not going to sell Jason Segal short but mmmm... James Franco. Anywho, I digress. It's a shame the show only lasted a season. I will forever wonder if Sam ever confessed his love to Cindy Sanders or if Lindsay and Nick get back together. Maybe Judd Apatow will tell us in his biography someday.

It's been hard finding a good TV show these days that is so funny it'll make you fall over crying. Last show I had this experience with was The Office and, like my dating life, that fuzzy feeling fizzled after just a short period of time. Modern Family has proved to be the knight and shining armor of sitcom television these days. BRILLIANT and laugh-out-loud funny. And the best part? It's only just begun. This show is too good for just two thumbs up. I give it three thumbs up. Or I guess two thumbs and a big toe.

Last summer I spent an unspeakable night with Sarah doing nothing but eating Thai food, frozen yogurt and watching 12 straight hours of True Blood. It wasn't one of my prouder moments but it was 12 of the most addicting hours of my life. These writers probably pump this show full of subliminal messages, at the end of each episode leaving you salivating for more. Did I mention how hot Eric the vampire is? If I didn't... well.... he's hot. A great show with suspense hidden around every corner. Another great recommendation, although I might warn you, this is an HBO series so beware of some rather, ahem, graphic scenes.

Enjoy :)

Going to the chapel and we're gonna get maaaaaaaaaaarried!

2010-06-15T20:06:00.000-07:00

Congrats to Kiersten and Ryan! I can't wait til you get Maui'd next year!

Road Rage

2010-02-24T18:03:00.000-08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4E9X-y3ylbY

"Daaaaaamn girl! You drive like Danica Patrick!" -Cesar Sepulveda.

I can't say I'm the best of drivers. I've never gotten a ticket (knock on wood) and I've never been at fault for a car accident. But what I can say is that I may have a mild case of road rage.

One morning on my way to work, I'm cruisin' down the 101 in the fast lane and I come up on a line of cars. I continue to drive along with traffic when I notice a maroon Mazda convertible behind me. Now, let me preface this by mentioning that one of my biggest pet peeves is when drivers start tailing you when it's obvious that I can't go any faster due to the traffic ahead. Maroon Mazda decides to ride my ass until traffic lets up and I'm the only one in the fast lane. To make Maroon Mazda pay for driving like a dip shit, I pull along someone in the slow lane and cruise at the same pace for a few miles, not allowing Maroon Mazda to get passed me. After I have myself a little chuckle, I pull ahead and sure enough, Maroon Mazda jumps in the slow lane, passes me, and the Asian lady driving Maroon Mazda(who clearly raided Liberace's closet) shakes a nasty fist at me and barrels ahead.

About to claim my victory, I see that Maroon Mazda has once again decided to ride the tail of yet another innocent victim, Silver Accord. I find myself behind Maroon Mazda and decide to stick up for my fellow Honda and tail Maroon Mazda to give her a taste of her own medicine. As soon as Silver Honda could get into the slow lane, Maroon Mazda is on to my tactics and slams on her brakes, causing me to nearly smash into her. That bitch. I proceed to scream profanities and flip her off. Through the shadows of her rear view mirror, I see her giving me the bird as well.

Much to my surprise, I instantly start laughing. I have to hand it to Maroon Mazda for being crazier than me, a feat not often reached. I slow my horse down and let Maroon Mazda speed off in a rage. A few miles and a good hard laugh later, I see Maroon Mazda getting off the freeway in Atascadero. She looks over at me from the off-ramp. As if inching past Maroon Mazda past the checkered flag, I give her a warm smile, a friendly wave (with all 5 fingers this time) and say goodbye to my foe. I win.

Workin' on My Fitness

2009-12-08T19:15:00.000-08:00

I made the decision almost a year ago that I was going to start training for a half-marathon. It wasn't until now that I decided to put actions to my words.

There are a number of reasons why I wanted to start training. One of which was my endeavor to find a new hobby. I'm sure on week two when I'm tired, cranky and immobile that I will wish I opted for scrap booking.

It not only irritates me when people say they enjoy running, but it downright pisses me off. No one could possibly get a high from the heavy breathing and the notion that you may just about drop dead at a moments notice. No, I do not enjoy running. Nor do I believe I will grow to enjoy it. I'm doing this to create a goal for myself; to keep me busy after work and have a feat I'm constantly reaching to attain. Getting my bod in bangin' shape also helps.

You know I'm serious about an idea when I buy a book about it (hence the numerous baking and knitting books that compile my personal library). The book I'm currently reading suggests that in keeping motivated in your goals, you need to make yourself responsible. So here I am, telling the whole world that me, Carrie Campos, will complete a half-marathon. I give you all permission to hoot and holler in praise for my bold assertions. Transversely, I also encourage doubt. Hopefully this will add some fuel to my fire.

I plan on chronicling my story with you all, good and bad, similarly to my "raw diet" venture. I have high hopes this will last longer than that 4-day lapse of judgement. I have yet to reach the "diet" chapter of my book yet so I will continue to sneak pieces of See's Candy until I'm told it's on the naughty list. I read two chapters and ran 2 miles today on "the mill" (that's treadmill for those of you slow to catch on) which brings my hobby count to killing two birds with one stone. Tomorrow begins day two, 3 miles and the chapters on "The Accessories" of running (yes!), and the "Training Schedule" (eff). Time to get physical...

The Best Invention Since the Telephone and Sliced Bread.

2009-10-25T22:46:00.000-07:00

Oh, flat iron. Where would I be without you? I got to talking to some friends the other day about life before the flat iron. Not pretty. No pun intended. At the end of the conversation, I found myself thanking the inventor of this life changing mechanism. And after stewing on the subject for several days, I decided to do a little research and find out, who exactly, I should properly thank.

I'm not much of an avid researcher, but I figured Wikipedia is a legit enough source. They refer to the flat iron as a "straightening iron" and claim its first known existence was back in 1882, invented by Jessica Tamsin and Rachel Levinson Young to style and straighten hair. Interesting enough, this device was invented even before the curling iron, circa 1890. Several versions of the flat iron were made but it wasn't until Scottish heiress Lady Jennifer Bell Schofield created the two-plated iron that we have the tool we all know and love today.

Thanks to big, frizzy hair being acceptable in the '80s and '90s, the flat iron went virtually extinct. But have no fear, after a little excavation and the death of heavy metal bands, the flat iron has come back into our lives with a vengeance. After my diligent 5 minute search for the inventor of the flat iron, I still don't know who to thank; whether it be Tamsin and Levinson Young, Lady Schofield or Wikipedia for making my unauthorized search quick and painless. But what I do know is that without it, we'd all be a bunch of hot messes. I mean, come on... I don't wake up looking this good.

Raw: Day 2

2009-09-01T15:19:00.001-07:00

I woke up this morning feeling refreshed and ready to take this raw food diet head on.

Halfway through the day I'm craving a Big Mac. I hate McDonald's. I guess it's true that you always want what you can't have. I could also go for a nice Volcano Burrito from Taco Bell right now, but NO! I'm sticking to my guns. I did, however, accidentally put pasteurized yogurt in my smoothie this morning (I know, heaven forbid!) Breaking the rules already.

I decided to make my own pesto for dinner last night and drizzled it over tomatoes. De-lish. I may have put a little too much garlic in it though. But no big for a girl from Gilroy. I'm trying this "raw lasagna" tonight. It's pretty much the last thing I want for dinner but there's no way I'm breaking down this early in the game.

Oh what I'd do for a steak taco right now...

Raw: Day 1

2009-08-31T12:47:00.000-07:00

I decide last night that this week would be the perfect time to do the Raw Food detox. My boss is out of town so I don't have the temptation of a free (cooked) lunch, and Ashley will be out of town so I found it opportunistic to test my own discipline.

I had a smoothie and some mixed nuts for breakfast but soon realized after raiding the fridge that I needed to hit up the grocery store for some more raw-friendly provisions. Fast forward to an hour ago: Picture me driving up to Trader Joe's. I forgot Chili's was right next door. Buffalo chicken. Eff.

Straight to the produce I pick up some essentials and decide I need something to tie me over for lunch. After scanning the entire pre-made salad collection and realizing not one of them comes sans chicken, shrimp, steak or cheese, I place my bets in a packet of edimame and some macadamia nuts. Have no fear, I got apples and bananas for that mid afternoon hunger.

Tonight I explore Raw Lasagna for dinner, recipe thanks to www.rawpeople.com.

This raw thing may not be so bad. I mean, the cavemen did it right?! Although, they didn't have Chili's staring them in the eye either. Stay tuned...

College Confession #1: The Hunky Professor, Oh Lord!

2009-08-26T22:16:00.000-07:00

So this one time in college I sign up for Religious Studies. Not my cup of tea. Besides the familiar face of my friend Jenna, suffice it to say I was not looking forward to this class.

In a smaller lecture hall, Jenna and I take a seat toward the back. I arrange my pink Chico State notebook, pull out my pen and brace myself for a long 45 minutes worth of useless knowledge.

Class starts and up to the podium walks a gorgeous man with an ass that can squeeze a dime. Instantly I'm intrigued. In the next few minutes he calls roll and tells us that he played soccer at Purdue where he got his BA (hence the buns of steel). I am now loving this class.

Being the helpful classmate I am, I log onto RateMyProfessor.com a few weeks into the semester and start my review. Chili pepper indicating hotness factor? Check. I crack my knuckles and begin writing: "The class is deathly boring. The only thing that keeps me motivated is staring into the eyes of this Mike Seaver look-alike and, boy, does he have a nice ass!"

About a week later, I'm half-doodling, half-daydreaming when I hear Professor Hottie say, "I never check out those professor rating sites but my good friend did the other day and apparently one of you think I look like Mike Seaver and have a sweet ass." If Jenna's burst of laughter didn't point the finger at me, my slouch and beet-red face probably did.

I'll never know if Professor Hottie knew it was me. All I know is that he probably still has that sweet ass. And on my Final, he gave me an A and drew a smiley face.

Imposter

2009-02-20T10:59:00.000-08:00

Ode to Vodka

2009-02-16T12:17:00.000-08:00

Recently I read Chelsea Handler's “My Horizontal Life.” After nearly peeing my pants of laughter from her countless bedside adventures, I just knew I had to pick up her latest book, “Are You There Vodka? It’s me, Chelsea.” As if the title didn’t give it away, Ms. Handler is quite the fan of vodka and it got me thinking about my own adoration for the clear substance.

Back in high school, my sophomore Biology teacher told us the only types of soda she let her kids drink were Sprite, 7UP and basically anything without color. Her reasoning was, “There must be less crap in it since it didn’t have that awful caramel color to it.” I’ve decided to adopt this same theory when it comes to choosing my alcohols.

There was a brief stint where I cheated on my beloved vodka with his cousin, gin. It was a short affair ending the night after purchasing the Popov equivalent of gin at Albertson’s at the bargain price of $5.99. Long story short, it just didn’t work out. Vodka has stayed faithful to me and I plan on reciprocating that love.

I’ve never been a fan of SoCo, I’m not bad ass enough to drink Jack Daniels, Jager is just plain nasty and our dear friend Jose Cuervo makes me do horrible things such as puke on motor homes in Podunk towns after singing karaoke in a in a bar filled with stuffed ducks, bears and elk. Case and point: Biggs, California (population 1,793). But that story is set for another blog posting.

Although I’ve spent many mornings wondering just why I thought it was a good idea to take my last shot of the night while singing, “Friends In Low Places,” I’ve never once questioned my relationship with vodka. Grey Goose in all its glory both gets the job done and is also a preventative agent for morning hangovers. My new found awakening has inspired this posting and better yet, awarded itself praise for being with me on some of the best times I’ll never remember. So here’s to you, vodka, and all of your friends: Soda, Tonic, OJ and Collins. Cheers!

She's back...

2009-01-07T15:58:00.001-08:00

I'm sorry, but Britney's here to stay. And I'm loving it.

Is The Grass Always Greener?

2009-01-05T08:39:00.000-08:00

Picture it: Me. Two years ago. Sitting in front of my laptop staring at a blank screen wondering how the hell I’m going to write an entire paper on Al Jazeera and the ethics of journalism by tomorrow morning. My mind wonders to a fantasy of my oh-too-near future; sitting in my apartment after work, sipping on a glass of wine and talking to friends about how the stresses of my job are minimal compared to the joy and security of having funds transferred into my checking account every week.

Cut to today. My glass of wine has been changed to a vodka soda and instead of relishing on my direct deposit, I start to question if my new pair of jeans was a good investment considering I’d be eating Top Ramon for the rest of the month.

In college I wanted to be a career woman, and now working all the time I wish I was back in college spending Thursday nights at Power Hour at Riley’s. How is it that you always want what you can’t have? I’m a single girl living in one of the most beautiful places in California, so how come I can’t seem to find that one puzzle piece that makes my life like an episode of “Friends?” It’s more like watching reruns of “Sex and the City.” Find a guy. He’s an ass. Find another guy. He’s not quite an ass at first but then pulls the let’s-not-get-serious card and inevitably becomes an ass. Whine to my friends. Drink more vodka. Keep on keepin’ on. Story of my life.

Things are changing and as I watch my 20’s start to pass me by, I wonder if I’d even be happier with a steady boyfriend, hearty paycheck and a puppy named Couture. But the more I think about it, I’m not sure if that would change anything. What I can do is take what I’ve been given and run with it. The grass will always be greener on the other side, but hey… at least I’m not a single 30-year-old with a hazy life path (yet). And life has handed me lemonade. So now I’ll find someone whose life handed them vodka and party.

iTunes Songs

2008-08-28T21:03:00.000-07:00

Daily tip: Download the free song each week from iTunes. Most of the time they're crap and you can delete them. But I've downloaded a few songs that I really love and have become hits ("Bubbly" by Colbie Callait and "Mercy" by Duffy). It's worth it. And fun to see what's new to the music scene if you're into that stuff.

Thank you.

Twilight

2008-08-28T20:25:00.000-07:00

I love when things become viral. Videos, blogs, whatever. Most recently, my friend Kiersten got me into the "Twilight" series. Beyond myself, Kiersten talked another 4 people or more into reading the four-book series. And now that I've got my nose into it, I can't seem to get enough.

I'm not one for books about vampires, but I am seriously addicted. When people ask what the books are about, I tell them it's about a girl who moves to a lonely town in Washington and falls for a boy who turns out to be a vampire. But the more I get into the series, I am realizing that it's much more than that. I'm almost done with the second book, "New Moon." I have to admit that this book in particular has struck a cord. In an effort not to give away too much, I'll be vague. The way the author exposes Bella (the main character) and her emotions really hits home. Not only because Bella is clumsy and unathletic, something I have been known to describe myself as, but because Bella experiences love, loss and questions herself about the "why's" of the past and the "what if's" of the future. Things I think every girl experiences at one time or another in her life. I know I have.

Working in an industry where I am fortunate enough to be able to recognize good creative writing, I like to think I have a pretty good grasp on brilliance when I see it. Definitely a page-turner and a must-read for any girl to swoon over the perfect guy that will never exist (I said I recognize creative writing. My perception is not distorted by this fantasy. Sorry guys). And in my somewhat light-hearted way of continuing this viral trend, I am paying it forward to you my friends, my blog readers. If you have not read the series yet, just give the first book "Twilight" a whirl. You won't be disappointed. You have plenty of time to read it before the movie is released, then be disappointed. In the words of a Facebook flair button, "Twilight the Movie: Ruin it and die."

80's Hair Band Tribute to Me

2008-07-07T15:24:00.000-07:00

The best song ever...

http://youtube.com/watch?v=Tj1JXL-zvyw

Carrie: The San Francisco Treat

2008-06-22T14:05:00.000-07:00

I have this friend Marika who I have known since second grade. Growing up we did everything together: dug through the garbage for Marika's lost retainer, went to our first dance, got our driver's licenses and we were even roommates in college for the best three years of her life. So it's no surprise when she decided to move to San Francisco with some friends, I wanted to check out her new digs and find out more about life in The City by The Bay.

Her Victorian-style house in Pacific Heights is a renter's dream. High ceilings, crown molding, backyard big enough for a nice garden. Not to mention she has a window seat in her bedroom, Stephanie Tanner-style. Which is nice.

Marika's roommates are old friends from San Diego. They grew up in the San Francisco area, so had friends who now lived in the city. It was nice to hang out with people who are new to the working world and still want to go out and have fun. Being surrounded by people who live a similar lifestyle to me was very refreshing. Only difference is, they have an alive city at their disposal while I'm still a small-town girl.

These people reminded me a lot of my own group of friends. We are similiar in the way that most of the people in our groups are friends from back in high school and can always remind you of home and where you came from. I saw from these people that they could be themselves in front of each other and also welcomed others with open arms. Essentially, they are my group of friends with a heightened drive for outdoor activities. My friends' athleticism extends about as far as a game of beer pong. But still it was nice to know that in a big city like San Francisco, you can find people who are genuine and are a lot like you.

I drove into San Francisco thinking about the noise and the traffic and the crazy bums who might try to steal my purse. I left thinking about the nice bars, the shopping, the excitement and most of all, the people and the endless possibilities the city can bring. I'm glad to know that Marika is in good hands with all of the nice people whose paths crossed with mine this weekend. Could San Francisco be the next chapter for me? Maybe. But it's nice to know that there is something else out there for a girl who has spent her life living in the small towns. And remember: if you're going to San Francisco, be sure to wear some flowers in your hair...

The Woman, The Myth, The Legend

2008-06-18T09:41:00.000-07:00

Ladies and gentleman... Meredith Litke.

Why?

2008-06-17T11:34:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I ask myself, "Why does this even exist?" Can be a thought, a concept, a thing, a person... whatever. Since I think of these things quite often, I figured I would compile a list of some of the most questionable existences that frequent my daily thought:

1. Jean-on-jean: It's the pairing of a jean top with jean pants. Even worse is when the jeans are different washes. Regardless, should be avoided at all costs. Not to be confused with the "mom jean." All of these fashion no-no's are sure to create a deadly combination. Just don't do it.

2. Cellulite. Why? Enough said.

3. People like the dude from Indiana Jones last night: Let's just say he was a rather large fellow, with a huge head that blocked my view of the bottom half of the screen. Not to mention started chatting with his pal the first five minutes and I had to "shhhhhhh!" him for everyone else's viewing comfort. Oh and did I mention he "beefed" twice and it smelled horrible? And with Nick's overly-keen sense of smell, I was also distracted by his gagging noises. I swear I could not make this stuff up...

4. Local commercials: I know, this coming from a girl who works in advertising. That's not to say we haven't come up with nice commercials at my company, but we are in an overwhelming minority. I used to think Chico was the worst, but San Luis is right up there with them. I'm starting to think it's an epidemic.

5. Anyone driving past the age of 75: I'm sorry, but old people do not need to be on the road. They drive slow, hold up traffic, cause and nearly cause accidents, etc. And let me say I'm being liberal by saying 75 -years-old. A lady in her 60s was driving on the wrong side of the FREEWAY in San Luis a few weeks ago, didn't stop when the police tried to pull her over, rammed a cop car and was finally stopped 15 miles down the freeway in Arroyo Grande by a spike strip. Apparently she was "confused" and got no charges brought on her. Old people are dangerous beings.

That's all I can think of for now. Stay tuned for random posts about more "why's?"

Mind Your Own Siz-ness

2008-06-16T16:00:00.000-07:00

Top 10 Sizzle Moments of All Time:

10. She falls off the log in Tahoe at the rip old age of 5 after my mom tells her repeatedly not to play on a slippery log in the snow. We have video to prove it.

9. Dressing her and Angela Barbieri up as cholas when we had cabin fever.

8. Sizzle doing "the worm" in Sally's living room in Chico for our end-of-summer bash.

7. Her soccer-kneel pose in the backyard when my mom sent my dad to take her team pictures and he took one look at the price of the head shots and said "F-it. I'll do it myself at home." Mom was livid by the way...

6. When we got my mom to trick Kristen into thinking some cheap, fake gold bow pin was vintage from my great grandma and she turns to my mom all annoyed and says, "What the hell am I going to do with this?"

5. Telling Sizzle when she hears the dial-up tone on the computer, she has to scream into the speakers so "an operator" can hear her say, "I'd like to get on the internet!"

4. When Sizzle was 6-years-old, she got mad at my parents and stole my Barbie car telling us she is running away to Wal-Mart.

3. Sizzle went missing when we were camping in Oregon on her bike. My dad found her riding her bike in circles after she asked a park ranger where camp site 45 was. He pointed her around the bend and gave her some Smokey The Bear stickers. Needless to say, she never found us.

2. My dad took Sizzle and I to get my mom Christmas presents one year. For some reason we got her kitchenware and Kristen put an egg-seperater in my mom's stocking. When my mom asked what it was, Kristen replied, "It's a bean whacker. You whack beans with it." She really did think that's what it was.

And the best Sizzle moment of all time:

1. Seeing Sizzle cry as she was sent to her room for blowing out my candles 3 times in a row on my 10th birthday.

The Trials and Tribulations of Benjamin Hein

2008-06-11T14:29:00.001-07:00

A wise man once said that blogging gives the average Joe-schmo the freedom and independence to be a self-publisher and share their ideas and thoughts with the world. This man was not Benjamin Hein (yes, Hein... like the ketchup, minus the z).

Although his exterior may allude that Ben is an egotistic, self-absorbed, has-been high school athlete who still lives vicariously through his youth (his long, long, long ago youth as I may add), he can sometimes bring something to the table...

For example, Ben is the mastermind behind the "bomb.com" phrase that is seemingly sweeping the nation. Everyone that spends more than 4 hours with me in one single block always seems to walk away using "bomb.com" like it's en ever evolving virus that won't ever go away. Ironically, Ben's existence matches this simile. I can't hand him too much credit as he has been known to steal my sayings and claim them as his own: i.e. "See ya, wouldn't wanna be ya."

I know what you all are thinking: Who is this D.B.? For those of you who don't easily connect the puzzle pieces that make an acronym, D.B. stands for "douche bag." Well my friends, this D.B. is my co-worker. He is also my self-proclaimed "boss" although I have yet to sign any paperwork linking my services to him. Ben Hein is the one that makes inappropriate comments and makes even the most liberal groups uncomfortable. He is the one that takes his lunch breaks late so he can drive by the high school when class gets out, popped collar and AC/DC blaring. And most importantly, he is "that guy."

Ben may think my blogging is frivolous and mind-numbing, but then again so is he.

"I'm half-assing it with all my heart." -Ben Hein

There Are Still Generous People Out There

2008-06-10T14:47:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I'm totally new to this blogging mumbo-jumbo, but I'm gonna give it a whirl...

Today was the my big event: Hunger Awareness Day. It's something I've been coordinating for months now. And I must mention how fulfilling it is to see people my age donating $50, $100, etc. Makes me feel like the future is in good hands.

Today also taught me that it doesn't matter how big or how small a donation, every contribution matters. Even if it's not in the form of money. "Joe the Homeless Guy" as we called him, was screaming random phrases in the intersection of one of our donation sites, making a big scene and dancing like a lunatic. It was that kind of energy that pumped up the volunteers and got them collecting money from everyone we can trap on the sidewalk and along the street, bribing innocent passer-bys with "I Support Hunger Awareness Day" stickers.

All in all, a great success and a wonderful organization to be associated with.

P.S. Another fun fact 'o the day... Marika Knapp was born 23 years ago today. Happy birthday.