Book.... Night Fall Nelson DeMille
Movie.... Mamma Mia
TV.... Gary Unmarried, Big Bang Theory, Bringing Home Baby
Video Game... Wii fit, Paper Mario
Internet Activities... Update website, blog
Around the house... laundry, straighten up the house
Friday, December 26, 2008
Lisr of guys I'd love to have come over and clean my house with no shirt on...
Joshua Jackson
Jesse L Martin
Johnny Depp
Jude Law
Jay Mohr
Jesse L Martin
Johnny Depp
Jude Law
Jay Mohr
Saturday, December 20, 2008
Survivor and Amazing Race
Another season of tv comes to a close.
Amazing Race - This was an odd season for me. I didn't like many of the teams. My favorite team, the techie-nerd guys, got out fairly early on because of a silly mistake not reading the directions. This season was FULL of incidents of racers screwing up because they didn't read the directions. As a 5th grade teacher, it was all too familiar. The winners, Nick and Starr, I didn't love, but I did feel that they were the most deserving.
Survivor - Again, another odd season for me because of the cast. I was so glad that Bob won - I really feel that he deserved it. I thought the other members of the cast treated him horribly. Time after time they rated him as a valuable player yer no one seemed really interested in befriending him.
However, I was royally pissed that Sugar didn't get any votes, and more pissed that Susie managed to get 3. Susie? She didn't do anything during the show! It just pointed to the idiocy of the Jury. I can't believe they would rather give Susie, who did nothing, votes, rather than Sugar, who they all acknowledged played a smart game, or Bob who was smart, good at challenges, and essential around camp. I love that Sugar kept Bob - because he truly deserved it! And screw the jury, Sugar knows most of America loves her.
Looking forward to next season!
Amazing Race - This was an odd season for me. I didn't like many of the teams. My favorite team, the techie-nerd guys, got out fairly early on because of a silly mistake not reading the directions. This season was FULL of incidents of racers screwing up because they didn't read the directions. As a 5th grade teacher, it was all too familiar. The winners, Nick and Starr, I didn't love, but I did feel that they were the most deserving.
Survivor - Again, another odd season for me because of the cast. I was so glad that Bob won - I really feel that he deserved it. I thought the other members of the cast treated him horribly. Time after time they rated him as a valuable player yer no one seemed really interested in befriending him.
However, I was royally pissed that Sugar didn't get any votes, and more pissed that Susie managed to get 3. Susie? She didn't do anything during the show! It just pointed to the idiocy of the Jury. I can't believe they would rather give Susie, who did nothing, votes, rather than Sugar, who they all acknowledged played a smart game, or Bob who was smart, good at challenges, and essential around camp. I love that Sugar kept Bob - because he truly deserved it! And screw the jury, Sugar knows most of America loves her.
Looking forward to next season!
Busy times
I am so glad that it is finally vacation! I need a bit of relaxation - some time to slow down and prepare for the upcoming months.
In the past few weeks my mom flew out and I had a baby shower, so I got to put together a lot of fun baby stuff, I've been teaching a parent training program on Thursday nights, and my doctor's appointments have been increasing in frequency. It is going to be nice to have a few weeks to slow down, start preparing my lesson plans for my maternity leave, and do some stuff around the house.
In the past few weeks my mom flew out and I had a baby shower, so I got to put together a lot of fun baby stuff, I've been teaching a parent training program on Thursday nights, and my doctor's appointments have been increasing in frequency. It is going to be nice to have a few weeks to slow down, start preparing my lesson plans for my maternity leave, and do some stuff around the house.
Saturday, December 06, 2008
Bell's Toy
Belle has this new toy - It is a squeaker duck. When it squeaked, it sounded like a duck. She's played with toys like this before - She loved Lily's duck - and she's had one of her own before - but Belle has become quite attached to this one, which is unusual for her.
Normally, all of her toys are downstairs, and she mostly pulls them out when other people are here because she wants to play with the visitors.
This duck she keeps upstairs in the bedroom.
She has completely gutted the inside - no squeaker, no stuffing, so it is just the duck "skin," left. She brings it up on the bed with her at night. She usually plays with it a little each night, you know, to make sure that it is good and dead, and then she slips with it on the bed next to her - like it is her teddy bear.
Belle's never done this with a toy before. It is so cute and so funny!
Normally, all of her toys are downstairs, and she mostly pulls them out when other people are here because she wants to play with the visitors.
This duck she keeps upstairs in the bedroom.
She has completely gutted the inside - no squeaker, no stuffing, so it is just the duck "skin," left. She brings it up on the bed with her at night. She usually plays with it a little each night, you know, to make sure that it is good and dead, and then she slips with it on the bed next to her - like it is her teddy bear.
Belle's never done this with a toy before. It is so cute and so funny!
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Rosie Live!
Risue Live - Rosie's variety show was on NBC last night. I was really looking forward to this - I had high hopes. You know my love for Rosie... and some parts of it were very good. I think it needs some polish - it has some rough edges to smooth out.
I would like to see it brought to primetime for a season. I think it has promise. But it needs more... variety. For a family draw, I didn't feel like it had enough acts to suit the younger set. The pacing seemed off. I was bummed that there were no broadway acts.
Still, as I said, this is really a good medium for Rosie. She could do well here. I hope she gets the chance!
I would like to see it brought to primetime for a season. I think it has promise. But it needs more... variety. For a family draw, I didn't feel like it had enough acts to suit the younger set. The pacing seemed off. I was bummed that there were no broadway acts.
Still, as I said, this is really a good medium for Rosie. She could do well here. I hope she gets the chance!
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Yeah Robery Kirby!
"Shouldn 't it be against the law for stupid people to get married? What's more harmful to society — two well-dressed men getting married and settling down, or two idiots tying the knot and cranking out any number of additional idiots?"
-Robert Kirby
-Robert Kirby
California Wildfires
...one discussion I think we should have is that maybe California is on fire because God thinks gay people are awesome and is angry that Prop 8 passed. I mean, if every nutball theologian gets to have an audience preaching the opposite point of view, surely we can entertain the possibility that God hearts the Folsom Street Festival.
- Jason Linkins
- Jason Linkins
Sunday, November 09, 2008
Obama's Win
I am stoked about Obama's win. I think it is a positive, uplifting, and hopeful feeling that is spreading over the country.
I just hope people remember that change takes time. Every new president inherits the office - and the state of the nation. Things are not going to change over night on Jan. 20.
Also, we, as a nation, as a people, need to be the change we want to see. It is not up to the government, or Obama, to save us. We need to participate, we need to work for that change.
If we work together - these next four years can be wonderful - Obama has the passion, the drive, and the promise to be the president we need to lead us into a brighter future.
Yes, WE can!
I just hope people remember that change takes time. Every new president inherits the office - and the state of the nation. Things are not going to change over night on Jan. 20.
Also, we, as a nation, as a people, need to be the change we want to see. It is not up to the government, or Obama, to save us. We need to participate, we need to work for that change.
If we work together - these next four years can be wonderful - Obama has the passion, the drive, and the promise to be the president we need to lead us into a brighter future.
Yes, WE can!
Twilight Saga
I just finished reading the Twilight Saga this weekend. I started it a week and a half ago. It was a fun series - I am looking forward to the movie.
Baby Name Survey
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Sound off in our baby name survey...
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Sound off in our baby name survey...
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Sunday, October 19, 2008
Turning 30
So, I have been 30 for over a week now. I think what amused me the most about turning 30 was other people's reactions. "Are you ok?" "Wow, 30!" "It's ok, you'll survive!" I kind of had to chuckle when I heard this stuff!
I was excited to turn 30! I mean, my 2o's were way better than my teens, so I feel like I have nothing but good stuff to look forward to. I feel like life can only get better! I am settled with the best husband ever. I have a fantastic job. We have our first baby on the way. I feel like I am more set to deal with things, more secure.
My 30's are going to be fantastic - and I am just at the start!
I was excited to turn 30! I mean, my 2o's were way better than my teens, so I feel like I have nothing but good stuff to look forward to. I feel like life can only get better! I am settled with the best husband ever. I have a fantastic job. We have our first baby on the way. I feel like I am more set to deal with things, more secure.
My 30's are going to be fantastic - and I am just at the start!
It does not impress me
It does not impress me when I go to nicer restaurants and the server who takes my order doesn't write it down. I mean, seriously, not impressive! I would much rather they reassure me and get my order correct by writing it down rather than try to impress me with their memorization skills.
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Wii Fit
We got wii fit last week. Funny time for me to start and all - what with my ever expanding belly and changing sense of balance, since wii fit measures pretty much everything based on your sense of balance.
It also told me I was overweight, and then didn't blink an electronic eye when I set a goal to GAIN a pound and a half in the next two weeks. Hee hee.
It also told me I was overweight, and then didn't blink an electronic eye when I set a goal to GAIN a pound and a half in the next two weeks. Hee hee.
Rent: FIlmed Live on Broadway
So yesterday, I went to see Rent: Filmed Live on Broadway at Metro Pointe theater. This is part of a new thing that SOny is doing called "Hot Ticket," where they film big events - broadway shows, concerts, etc., and then play them in movie theaters on extremely limited engagements.
From feedback I've been reading, Rent did not do very well - meaning most of the theaters had 15 - 40 people in it. (I would expect that it could have done much better.) There were some big problems with it, though. First of all, it was VERY poorly advertised. Even I had trouble finding info on it, and I am a total rent head. Also, it was expensive - $20 a ticket. Again, even as a total rent head, I had trouble parting with $20 to see a movie of Rent that will be released on DVD in a few months. Finally, its engagement was very limited - in theaters across the country, your only options were to see it on Wednesday or Thursday at 7:00 pm, and Saturday and Sunday at noon. Noon? On the weekend? What were they thinking? I mean, all of the previews in the "first look" that they play when you're waiting for the real previews to start (you know the previews before the previews?) were geared towards little kids. It was not planned well.
That being said, I did enjoy the production. My and 16 other loyal Rentheads watched it Saturday, at noon, in Costa Mesa. At times, I could almost forget that I was in a theater, and feel like I was at an actual stage show. I loved that it was the musical, pure and simple - no cheesy edits or cookie cutter plots like the movie version. This is a true recording of the stage show as it is meant to be seen. However, some of the filming was not to my taste - I thought they spent way too much time doing close ups, and not enough shots pulled back to show more of the stage. Some of the close ups were WAY too close - those shots were distracting and unnecessary. Also unneeded were some of the shots where the cameras, zoomed in closer than needed, moved quickly to follow the action, which sometimes gave a dizzying effect.
The performances were awesome, the music flawless. I can't wait to get this on dvd - as I can guarantee it will get a lot more play then the movie dvd gets. If I come across people who have never seen it, I won't have quite as many qualms about recommending this as I do about the movie version.... (My normal advice is, don't see the movie until you see the play. Chances are, you won't like the movie.) This version, though, really does the musical justice.
From feedback I've been reading, Rent did not do very well - meaning most of the theaters had 15 - 40 people in it. (I would expect that it could have done much better.) There were some big problems with it, though. First of all, it was VERY poorly advertised. Even I had trouble finding info on it, and I am a total rent head. Also, it was expensive - $20 a ticket. Again, even as a total rent head, I had trouble parting with $20 to see a movie of Rent that will be released on DVD in a few months. Finally, its engagement was very limited - in theaters across the country, your only options were to see it on Wednesday or Thursday at 7:00 pm, and Saturday and Sunday at noon. Noon? On the weekend? What were they thinking? I mean, all of the previews in the "first look" that they play when you're waiting for the real previews to start (you know the previews before the previews?) were geared towards little kids. It was not planned well.
That being said, I did enjoy the production. My and 16 other loyal Rentheads watched it Saturday, at noon, in Costa Mesa. At times, I could almost forget that I was in a theater, and feel like I was at an actual stage show. I loved that it was the musical, pure and simple - no cheesy edits or cookie cutter plots like the movie version. This is a true recording of the stage show as it is meant to be seen. However, some of the filming was not to my taste - I thought they spent way too much time doing close ups, and not enough shots pulled back to show more of the stage. Some of the close ups were WAY too close - those shots were distracting and unnecessary. Also unneeded were some of the shots where the cameras, zoomed in closer than needed, moved quickly to follow the action, which sometimes gave a dizzying effect.
The performances were awesome, the music flawless. I can't wait to get this on dvd - as I can guarantee it will get a lot more play then the movie dvd gets. If I come across people who have never seen it, I won't have quite as many qualms about recommending this as I do about the movie version.... (My normal advice is, don't see the movie until you see the play. Chances are, you won't like the movie.) This version, though, really does the musical justice.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Kids say...
Last night, I was talking with Andrew - Angie's son. We told him that we were having a boy, and that his name had to start with G. Grant asked him, "Don't you have any friends that have names that start with G?"
Andrew says no, only girls. Then he says, "Well, I guess there's God and Jesus."
Grant tells him, "Jesus starts with a J, but God works."
"Yeah," I said. "We could name him God. How's that?"
and Andrew says, "No. I don't think you can name him God. I think the name is copyrighted or something...."
Andrew says no, only girls. Then he says, "Well, I guess there's God and Jesus."
Grant tells him, "Jesus starts with a J, but God works."
"Yeah," I said. "We could name him God. How's that?"
and Andrew says, "No. I don't think you can name him God. I think the name is copyrighted or something...."
Friday, September 19, 2008
Disneyland free on your birthday
Get in Disneyland for free on your birthday.
September 18th, 2008, 11:03 am · 8 Comments · posted by Adam Townsend
If you've got a birthday next year, you can get into Disneyland or Disney's California Adventure for free.
Starting Jan. 1, the two theme parks will let you in free to one of them on your birthday.
If you already have a multi-day ticket or annual pass, you can choose an "alternate birthday treat," like a gift card, a ticket for another day or Fast passes for the rest of your group – up to six people.
The gift will be worth the value of a day pass to one park.
"This is your birthday – come on in," Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Chairman Jay Rasulo said in a Thursday telephone interview.
Regular admission into Disneyland is $69 for adults, and $59 for those ages 3-9; under age three is free.
The Disneyland and Disney World resorts are starting a new promotion to take advantage of the current tourism trend: celebration vacations.
According to industry research firm Ypartnership, more and more people are taking vacations to celebrate some life event, like a birthday, a reunion, a honeymoon or a retirement – so-called "milestone" vacations.
"People tend to plan more intensely and further in advance for certain vacations," Rasulo said. "Historically, most of our celebrations have focused on Disney milestones. This is a celebration that focuses on milestones in our guests' lives."
Disney has used that research to organize its promotional strategy — the resorts next year will institute Web programs that let park partiers order ahead cakes, flowers, restaurant table service, tea parties with characters and other special services.
To avoid delays at the park, officials suggest pre-registering for the free tickets at www.disneyparks.com. To get the free passes, park-goers must show a valid ID for adults or notarized birth certificates for children.
Monday, September 08, 2008
Miss Me?
I know - it has been a while! I had my long vacation, which was amazingly awesome.
I am back to school - I have 30 students this year - more girls than boys - and they seem like a really nice group. I have one student who has autism. So far, so good - I really like him. I am super busy though with back to school stuff. It will be nice when things settle back into a routine. We have a new 5th grade teacher on our team - the new dynamics are interesting but things are going well.
My belly is starting to pop out a bit. I can fit some of my regular clothes, but some are getting too tight. My belly is a little better on the left then on the right which is funny. Odd, though, is that my belly button hurts! It is kind of itchy and tender on the inside. My boobs are sore too. It is just like everything in stretching and getting tighter. Such fun!
I am back to school - I have 30 students this year - more girls than boys - and they seem like a really nice group. I have one student who has autism. So far, so good - I really like him. I am super busy though with back to school stuff. It will be nice when things settle back into a routine. We have a new 5th grade teacher on our team - the new dynamics are interesting but things are going well.
My belly is starting to pop out a bit. I can fit some of my regular clothes, but some are getting too tight. My belly is a little better on the left then on the right which is funny. Odd, though, is that my belly button hurts! It is kind of itchy and tender on the inside. My boobs are sore too. It is just like everything in stretching and getting tighter. Such fun!
Saturday, August 09, 2008
Maternity Clothes
My friend Katherine lent me a whole bunch of her Maternity clothes - because she totally rocks. Also, Delaine took me shopping at the Gap for some clothes. I really don't need them yet, but I wanted to bring a few things on our cruise, since my belly "could" pop out in those two weeks. I just figures better safe then stuck on vacation with uncomfortable clothes.
Anyway - OH MY GOD - Maternity Clothes are SO comfortable. Seriously, I think the word would be a better place if everyone wore comfortable clothes, and I swear, going back to regular clothes is going to be a nightmare. I think that is a huge contribution to why people have trouble losing the baby weight. I swear, I would be perfectly happy wearing maternity clothes for the rest of my life!
Anyway - OH MY GOD - Maternity Clothes are SO comfortable. Seriously, I think the word would be a better place if everyone wore comfortable clothes, and I swear, going back to regular clothes is going to be a nightmare. I think that is a huge contribution to why people have trouble losing the baby weight. I swear, I would be perfectly happy wearing maternity clothes for the rest of my life!
wii sports
I played boxing with Andrew on wii sports last night. My arms are freakin' killing me.
Have you seen my baby blog yet?
0urbabybl0g.blogspot.com
Have you seen my baby blog yet?
0urbabybl0g.blogspot.com
Fall Shows
fall shows:
Fox: Fringe, Dollhouse
CBS: Survivor, Amazing Race, The Big Bang Theory, Gary Unmarried, The ex list?
ABC: Ugly Betty, Opportunity Knocks?, (Pushing Daisies)
NBC: Kath and Kim,
CW: 90210,
Fox: Fringe, Dollhouse
CBS: Survivor, Amazing Race, The Big Bang Theory, Gary Unmarried, The ex list?
ABC: Ugly Betty, Opportunity Knocks?, (Pushing Daisies)
NBC: Kath and Kim,
CW: 90210,
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
High School Musical - Get in the Picture
Ok - I know pregnancy reeks havoc on my hormones and this crying crap is all related, but just hear me out...
Kay, I am watching this new abc show High School Musical: Get in the Picture. They are auditioning young talent from across America. First they have these open casting calls. What I love about it, is the auditioners are so respectful of everyone who auditions - whether they suck or not. If they don't pass into the semi finals, the judges are so kind and helpful and positive with their advice, and when the kids walk out, even if they did not pass they audition, they feel really good about it.
It made me think about how that compares to American Idol. I mean, I'll admit, there are some really funny auditions - I've laughed at really unbelievable performances, but still, I am not crazy about how mean the judges can be.
This show is interesting - and yet the judges don't put anyone down. I really like it!
Something I like about the show - is the alternative way kids can make it to the semi finals. Parents and teachers were bale to send in videos - and then the auditioners went out to watch them perform and then, if they pass their "secret" audition, they auditioners announce it in front of the school, friends and family. So cool!!!
I like it. I like it, I like it a lot.
Kay, I am watching this new abc show High School Musical: Get in the Picture. They are auditioning young talent from across America. First they have these open casting calls. What I love about it, is the auditioners are so respectful of everyone who auditions - whether they suck or not. If they don't pass into the semi finals, the judges are so kind and helpful and positive with their advice, and when the kids walk out, even if they did not pass they audition, they feel really good about it.
It made me think about how that compares to American Idol. I mean, I'll admit, there are some really funny auditions - I've laughed at really unbelievable performances, but still, I am not crazy about how mean the judges can be.
This show is interesting - and yet the judges don't put anyone down. I really like it!
Something I like about the show - is the alternative way kids can make it to the semi finals. Parents and teachers were bale to send in videos - and then the auditioners went out to watch them perform and then, if they pass their "secret" audition, they auditioners announce it in front of the school, friends and family. So cool!!!
I like it. I like it, I like it a lot.
Saturday, July 12, 2008
The two extremes of life - birth and death...
Yesterday, Grant and I went to my first ultrasound. I got to see my little baby - the heart beat... the movement - it was so amazing to see. I am keeping a pregnancy blog at 0urbabyblog.blogspot.com
On a down note, yesterday, we had to put our dog, 13 year old dog, Kanga, to sleep. How much does that suck? Seriously - it happened so fast. A few days after we got back from Europe, she started peeing in the house - After a few days, with it starting so suddenly, we thought maybe she had a bladder infection. We took her to the vet and she got an antibiotic but after a few days, things didn't seem to be getting better. She stopped peeing in the house - she stopped peeing at all. She would squat and strain but nothing would come out. She also wasn't eating very much. We called the vet again, and they thought maybe she had kidney stones. I dropped her off yesterday to get x-rays. Well, the xrays showed no stones, so the vet suspected a tumor or bladder cancer. She put Kanga out to do the test and found that her bladdar was so blocked she couldn't get a catheter up, and the urine was very, very dark. Essentially, there was nothing they could do, and they suggested just letting her go at that point - since she was already underanesthetic for the test, it just seemed easier for her than reviving her so we could all say goodbye - it would have been selfish to put her through that pain.
On a down note, yesterday, we had to put our dog, 13 year old dog, Kanga, to sleep. How much does that suck? Seriously - it happened so fast. A few days after we got back from Europe, she started peeing in the house - After a few days, with it starting so suddenly, we thought maybe she had a bladder infection. We took her to the vet and she got an antibiotic but after a few days, things didn't seem to be getting better. She stopped peeing in the house - she stopped peeing at all. She would squat and strain but nothing would come out. She also wasn't eating very much. We called the vet again, and they thought maybe she had kidney stones. I dropped her off yesterday to get x-rays. Well, the xrays showed no stones, so the vet suspected a tumor or bladder cancer. She put Kanga out to do the test and found that her bladdar was so blocked she couldn't get a catheter up, and the urine was very, very dark. Essentially, there was nothing they could do, and they suggested just letting her go at that point - since she was already underanesthetic for the test, it just seemed easier for her than reviving her so we could all say goodbye - it would have been selfish to put her through that pain.
Wednesday, July 09, 2008
Oasis of the Seas
Awhile back, I shared with you the "Central Park," neighborhood on the new Project Genesis ship that Royal Caribbean is building. Well, the ship is officially named the Oasis of the Seas (with its sister ship being named the Allure of the Seas.) Oasis will begin booking this September, and sail in December of 2009.
They are designing Oasis around the concept of neighborhoods - seven in all. The first that they revealed was the Central Park Neighborhood. The next one was the Royal Promenade, already a familiar concept to the Royal Caribbean Fleet. They just recently revealed the third neighborhood, and the will continue revealing information about the rest of the ship throughout the summer.
The most recent neighborhood is the Boardwalk. This neighborhood is adjacent to Central Park, above the Royal Promenade, on the back of the ship. It, too, opens to the sky, and recalls the feel of historic boardwalks - it will include an airbrush "tatoo" parlor, candy shop, fortune telling, Johnny Rockets, and the first ever at sea amusement ride - an old fashioned carosel! In addition, there is a zip line that travels across the Boardwalk Area that decends something like 9 decks.
The Boardwalk exits onto an ampitheater pool deck known as the AquaTheater. During the day, terraced decks filled with lounge chairs surround this aft pool, while two movie screens can, at time, offer entertainment to the sun batehrs and swimmers. Behind these decks are two rock climbing walls. At night, these lounge hairs convert into stadium seating, while the pool transforms into an aqua theater - complete with a suitable depth for high diving, synchronized swimming, and water ballet and acrobatics.
Can you even imagine?
Here, you can go to the official website. There is a photo gallery, a video with all sort of concept art, and all sorts of neat info.
Here are some interesting quotes from the recent chat event:
Foffie232: How will the space in the AquaTheater transform at night? Specifically, if the area is a public pool area during the day, with lounge chairs, what kind of seating will there be at night for the shows performed there?
Royal_Caribbean_Alice_Norsworthy: You'll find this very interesting. We will have very unique chairs which can convert from reclining sun lounge chairs by day, to fully upright stadium seating by night. Other "transformations" include: water show programming (day = passive; night = active), plus large screen tv programming, in-water lifting platforms which convert from standard pool bottom depth during day, to become ultra deep diving pool at night (17.9 ft), night lighting and sound, etc
Roe: What is a zip line?
Royal_Caribbean_Alice_Norsworthy: A zip line is best described as a pulley suspended on a cable. The zip line is designed to allow the guest to propell by gravity nine decks across the top of the Boardwalk. This is for those that are looking for an adventure.
dogloverCalifornia: what kind of shows are going to be in the aquatheater? the stage seems awfully small for any kind of real entertainment.
Royal_Caribbean_Alice_Norsworthy: The AquaTheater is the first of its kind at sea. At night the space will be transformed into a performance venue which feature dramatic acrobatics, synchronized swimming, water ballet and professional high-diving performances. There is ample space to execute wonderful performances.
patswife: WILL THERE BE INSIDE CABINS
Royal_Caribbean_Alice_Norsworthy: Yes, there will be inside, outside, and balcony staterooms. Actually, there will be a total of 37 stateroom categories to choose from.
BEACHCAT: ARE ALL THE TREES AND GRASS REAL?
Royal_Caribbean_Alice_Norsworthy: Yes, Central Park features real grass, foliage, shrubs, trees and flowers. It's going to be so neat!
They are designing Oasis around the concept of neighborhoods - seven in all. The first that they revealed was the Central Park Neighborhood. The next one was the Royal Promenade, already a familiar concept to the Royal Caribbean Fleet. They just recently revealed the third neighborhood, and the will continue revealing information about the rest of the ship throughout the summer.
The most recent neighborhood is the Boardwalk. This neighborhood is adjacent to Central Park, above the Royal Promenade, on the back of the ship. It, too, opens to the sky, and recalls the feel of historic boardwalks - it will include an airbrush "tatoo" parlor, candy shop, fortune telling, Johnny Rockets, and the first ever at sea amusement ride - an old fashioned carosel! In addition, there is a zip line that travels across the Boardwalk Area that decends something like 9 decks.
The Boardwalk exits onto an ampitheater pool deck known as the AquaTheater. During the day, terraced decks filled with lounge chairs surround this aft pool, while two movie screens can, at time, offer entertainment to the sun batehrs and swimmers. Behind these decks are two rock climbing walls. At night, these lounge hairs convert into stadium seating, while the pool transforms into an aqua theater - complete with a suitable depth for high diving, synchronized swimming, and water ballet and acrobatics.
Can you even imagine?
Here, you can go to the official website. There is a photo gallery, a video with all sort of concept art, and all sorts of neat info.
Here are some interesting quotes from the recent chat event:
Foffie232: How will the space in the AquaTheater transform at night? Specifically, if the area is a public pool area during the day, with lounge chairs, what kind of seating will there be at night for the shows performed there?
Royal_Caribbean_Alice_Norsworthy: You'll find this very interesting. We will have very unique chairs which can convert from reclining sun lounge chairs by day, to fully upright stadium seating by night. Other "transformations" include: water show programming (day = passive; night = active), plus large screen tv programming, in-water lifting platforms which convert from standard pool bottom depth during day, to become ultra deep diving pool at night (17.9 ft), night lighting and sound, etc
Roe: What is a zip line?
Royal_Caribbean_Alice_Norsworthy: A zip line is best described as a pulley suspended on a cable. The zip line is designed to allow the guest to propell by gravity nine decks across the top of the Boardwalk. This is for those that are looking for an adventure.
dogloverCalifornia: what kind of shows are going to be in the aquatheater? the stage seems awfully small for any kind of real entertainment.
Royal_Caribbean_Alice_Norsworthy: The AquaTheater is the first of its kind at sea. At night the space will be transformed into a performance venue which feature dramatic acrobatics, synchronized swimming, water ballet and professional high-diving performances. There is ample space to execute wonderful performances.
patswife: WILL THERE BE INSIDE CABINS
Royal_Caribbean_Alice_Norsworthy: Yes, there will be inside, outside, and balcony staterooms. Actually, there will be a total of 37 stateroom categories to choose from.
BEACHCAT: ARE ALL THE TREES AND GRASS REAL?
Royal_Caribbean_Alice_Norsworthy: Yes, Central Park features real grass, foliage, shrubs, trees and flowers. It's going to be so neat!
Thursday, July 03, 2008
Wicked
On Tuesday, we went up to see Wicked in LA. We took the train and spent the night at the Marriott at Hollywood and Highland!
Wicked really is a good play - and I loved the casting - Elphaba and Galinda were perfect in their roles! It seems like such a fun play to be in!
Wicked really is a good play - and I loved the casting - Elphaba and Galinda were perfect in their roles! It seems like such a fun play to be in!
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Evolution
Something that leaves my head scratching -
I know a lot of people who believe in creationism and say that evolution is absolutely wrong. Yet, when asked, they really don't understand what evolution is. I'll bring up a specific point and they'll say, "You know, I don't really know the details..." or "I don't really understand what that part (of evolution) is."
One example is micro versus macro evolution. I'll talk about a general point on micro evolution, and they'll readily admit that they don't understand the specific points of evolution.
So how can people discredit a scientific theory that they don't even understand? That seems a bit close minded. I would never reject (or accept) a theory that I don't understand. "Oh I don't understand refraction, so I don't believe rainbows are created from the separation of light."
I know a lot of people who believe in creationism and say that evolution is absolutely wrong. Yet, when asked, they really don't understand what evolution is. I'll bring up a specific point and they'll say, "You know, I don't really know the details..." or "I don't really understand what that part (of evolution) is."
One example is micro versus macro evolution. I'll talk about a general point on micro evolution, and they'll readily admit that they don't understand the specific points of evolution.
So how can people discredit a scientific theory that they don't even understand? That seems a bit close minded. I would never reject (or accept) a theory that I don't understand. "Oh I don't understand refraction, so I don't believe rainbows are created from the separation of light."
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Friday, June 13, 2008
Saturday, June 07, 2008
Superhero Quiz
Your results:
You are Spider-Man
Click here to take the Superhero Personality Quiz
You are Spider-Man
| You are intelligent, witty, a bit geeky and have great power and responsibility.  |
Click here to take the Superhero Personality Quiz
Wednesday, June 04, 2008
After Thoughts
The Manicotti turned out pretty well. I am going to make it with Spinach and mushrooms next time. yum.
Sasha Baron Cohen. Freakin hilarious. Honestly, I think the guy is a genius.
Sasha Baron Cohen. Freakin hilarious. Honestly, I think the guy is a genius.
Tuesday, June 03, 2008
Ten for Tuesday - On My MInd
Ten things on my mind (in completely random order... because I am... random that is...
1) I hope dinner is yummy... I am making Manicotti for the first time. (fingers crossed)
2) Tony Awards on Sunday - with the original cast of Rent... probably playing tribute since Rent is closing this year after it's 12 year run (it was the 7th longest running broadway musical).
3) The Mamma Mia movie. I am so excited for it - I really hope it is good! One thing I am bummed about - one of my favorite songs is not in the movie (or if it is, it is not on the soundtrack... :o( "Thank you for the music...."
4) Amsterdam... coming up in just a few more weeks! I hope I sleep on the flight. Should I check my bag or carry it on??? The Other Boleyn Girl is playing on the flight...
5) The Disney cruise. I am so So SO excited... SO excited. I can't even tell you. SO excited.
6) Million Dollar Password: Fun show!!! Neil Patrick Harris is pretty good! Really suspenseful! Seriously... I am getting so excited!!! Oh God he is going on..... and... OH! He didn't make it!
7) School: I really should start me report cards. More to the point, I really should be correcting research reports right now. Sigh. After dinner.
8) Summer TV. Man does it suck. Nothing is on until Big Brother in July. Thank GOD for Netflix.
9) Lost. I actually like the 2nd Season. A lot... so far...
10) Obama won. I am still praying for an Obama - Clinton ticket. Seriously, he would totally go up in my esteem if he did that!!!
9)
8)
1) I hope dinner is yummy... I am making Manicotti for the first time. (fingers crossed)
2) Tony Awards on Sunday - with the original cast of Rent... probably playing tribute since Rent is closing this year after it's 12 year run (it was the 7th longest running broadway musical).
3) The Mamma Mia movie. I am so excited for it - I really hope it is good! One thing I am bummed about - one of my favorite songs is not in the movie (or if it is, it is not on the soundtrack... :o( "Thank you for the music...."
4) Amsterdam... coming up in just a few more weeks! I hope I sleep on the flight. Should I check my bag or carry it on??? The Other Boleyn Girl is playing on the flight...
5) The Disney cruise. I am so So SO excited... SO excited. I can't even tell you. SO excited.
6) Million Dollar Password: Fun show!!! Neil Patrick Harris is pretty good! Really suspenseful! Seriously... I am getting so excited!!! Oh God he is going on..... and... OH! He didn't make it!
7) School: I really should start me report cards. More to the point, I really should be correcting research reports right now. Sigh. After dinner.
8) Summer TV. Man does it suck. Nothing is on until Big Brother in July. Thank GOD for Netflix.
9) Lost. I actually like the 2nd Season. A lot... so far...
10) Obama won. I am still praying for an Obama - Clinton ticket. Seriously, he would totally go up in my esteem if he did that!!!
9)
8)
Saturday, May 31, 2008
Buzz Lightyear in Space!
Buzz Lightyear has launched to the International Space Station today on the Discovery!
See the promotion clip HERE on You Tube
Follow along on Buzz's mission at nasa.gov, or here at Buzz's official site through the Nasa Kid's Club
See the promotion clip HERE on You Tube
Follow along on Buzz's mission at nasa.gov, or here at Buzz's official site through the Nasa Kid's Club
Monday, May 19, 2008
View Askewniverse
I'm watching Mallrats and thought I'd use this opportunity to list the View Askew movies in my personal favorite order (although I enjoy them all! Love them!)
1) DOGMA - Jay, Silent Bob, Alan Rickman, and religious dogma. Who could ask for anything more?
2) Mallrats - Brodie is to the mall as I am to Disneyland. Fear and respect the elevator. What, like the back of a volkswagon? Fly fat-ass Fly!
3) Clerks 2. A squeaky clean, dealin' Jay, the best bachelor party in the history of the world, a happy ending for Dante, and all the Mooby burgers you can eat.
4) Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back: Tickets? Since when did they start charging for the bus? Didn't we used to ride that shit to school every morning for free?
5) Chasing Amy: So, you've never been curious about men?
Curious about men? Well, I always wondered why my father watched Hee Haw.
6) Clerks: "I'm not even supposed to be here today...
Love Jersey Girls, but really, not a View Askew movie... you think?
Well, that's my list for today... of course, it is subject to change...
1) DOGMA - Jay, Silent Bob, Alan Rickman, and religious dogma. Who could ask for anything more?
2) Mallrats - Brodie is to the mall as I am to Disneyland. Fear and respect the elevator. What, like the back of a volkswagon? Fly fat-ass Fly!
3) Clerks 2. A squeaky clean, dealin' Jay, the best bachelor party in the history of the world, a happy ending for Dante, and all the Mooby burgers you can eat.
4) Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back: Tickets? Since when did they start charging for the bus? Didn't we used to ride that shit to school every morning for free?
5) Chasing Amy: So, you've never been curious about men?
Curious about men? Well, I always wondered why my father watched Hee Haw.
6) Clerks: "I'm not even supposed to be here today...
Love Jersey Girls, but really, not a View Askew movie... you think?
Well, that's my list for today... of course, it is subject to change...
Sunday, May 18, 2008
Chocolat
I just watched Chocolat. What a lovely movie. Really, I enjoyed it much more then I thought it would. I think I'll read the book this summer.
I know lovely isn't that I normally use, but it truly is a lovely story. Not awesome, fantastic, great, or cute - lovely.
Oh, and I think I am totally in love with Johnny Depp now.
I know lovely isn't that I normally use, but it truly is a lovely story. Not awesome, fantastic, great, or cute - lovely.
Oh, and I think I am totally in love with Johnny Depp now.
Saturday, May 17, 2008
Same Sex Marriage Legal!
I am so stoked! The California Supreme Court has ruled the Same Sex Marriage is legal! I am so, so incredibly happy!
When I heard the news on Thursday, I was so happy about it! Someone I know made a snide comment about it, and when asked me, with a completely disgusted look on her face, why I was to happy. It about broke my heart.
In our country, people have a right to equality. Who is anyone to say who someone else can love? As long as the love is between to consenting adults, then it should be legal. The government can't forbid people of different races from getting married. Civil Unions are not the same (Haven't we already had the separate but equal issue in America?)
I am so happy. This is a day I have been waiting for. What the world needs now, is love, sweet love, and why anyone would want to deny that of anyone else is beyond me.
A friend of mine said it best on Thursday. She said, "You know, I've always been for gay marriage. But now that I have my own children, I feel even strongly about it. I want my children to find love and to be happy, and if they happened to be gay, then I would want this for them. I would want them to have the right to be married."
Love. Love for your children. Love for your life partner. Love for your neighboy, your fellow man.
Love.
That's what life is all about, folks.
When I heard the news on Thursday, I was so happy about it! Someone I know made a snide comment about it, and when asked me, with a completely disgusted look on her face, why I was to happy. It about broke my heart.
In our country, people have a right to equality. Who is anyone to say who someone else can love? As long as the love is between to consenting adults, then it should be legal. The government can't forbid people of different races from getting married. Civil Unions are not the same (Haven't we already had the separate but equal issue in America?)
I am so happy. This is a day I have been waiting for. What the world needs now, is love, sweet love, and why anyone would want to deny that of anyone else is beyond me.
A friend of mine said it best on Thursday. She said, "You know, I've always been for gay marriage. But now that I have my own children, I feel even strongly about it. I want my children to find love and to be happy, and if they happened to be gay, then I would want this for them. I would want them to have the right to be married."
Love. Love for your children. Love for your life partner. Love for your neighboy, your fellow man.
Love.
That's what life is all about, folks.
Sunday, May 11, 2008
Survivor Finale
I am still pulling for Amanda...
I think that the Ozzie/Amanda romance is so cute - way better than the gag me Rob and Amber reality show crap...
But, seriously, what is it with the all-star romances... seriously... I mean, I bet the stay-tgether rate of all-star romances is higher than the Bachelor....
Oh God... Jeff's gonna tally the votes!
I love when they pan across the Survivors back in the US looking all healthy and pretty...
What if there is a tie???
Parv
Amanda
Parv
Amanda
Parv
Amanda
Parv
Parvati
Parvati??? Wow! Holy Macaroni!
Well, congrats, Parvati. It has certainly been a season of blind sides!
I think that the Ozzie/Amanda romance is so cute - way better than the gag me Rob and Amber reality show crap...
But, seriously, what is it with the all-star romances... seriously... I mean, I bet the stay-tgether rate of all-star romances is higher than the Bachelor....
Oh God... Jeff's gonna tally the votes!
I love when they pan across the Survivors back in the US looking all healthy and pretty...
What if there is a tie???
Parv
Amanda
Parv
Amanda
Parv
Amanda
Parv
Parvati
Parvati??? Wow! Holy Macaroni!
Well, congrats, Parvati. It has certainly been a season of blind sides!
Friday, May 09, 2008
Love the movie Juno
If you have not yet seen the movie Juno, please, go see it... I love Love LOVE it. Seriously. Love it. 
CLICK HERE TO SEE MY FAVORITE JUNO DELETED SCENE!
CLICK HERE TO SEE MY FAVORITE JUNO DELETED SCENE!
Sunday, April 27, 2008
Quick Quiz on Politics
The Quiz I took can be found here...
The political group that
agrees with you most is...
.
CENTRIST
CENTRISTS espouse a "middle ground" regarding government
control of the economy and personal behavior. Depending on
the issue, they sometimes favor government intervention
and sometimes support individual freedom of choice.
Centrists pride themselves on keeping an open mind,
tend to oppose "political extremes," and emphasize what
they describe as "practical" solutions to problems.
The political group that
agrees with you most is...
.
CENTRIST
CENTRISTS espouse a "middle ground" regarding government
control of the economy and personal behavior. Depending on
the issue, they sometimes favor government intervention
and sometimes support individual freedom of choice.
Centrists pride themselves on keeping an open mind,
tend to oppose "political extremes," and emphasize what
they describe as "practical" solutions to problems.
Saturday, April 26, 2008
Juno
Oh my gosh - Juno - such a cute movie! I really, really liked it!
It was funny and cute, with some heart tugging, poignent moments, and a quirky, simple soundtrack.
A MAJOR reason that I loved this movie is that it represents to me one of the most awesome things someone can do - It is about a teenager who gets pregnant, and decides to keep the baby and give it up for adoption - in my opinion, the kindest, most selfless thing a teen in that situation can do. Abortion just gets rid of the problem, and keeping it when you are not ready, finacnially or emotionally, is just a bad situation for the mom and the baby. Carrying the baby and giving it to a loving family who can take care of the child is a beautiful act.
This movie is fantastic - it is a beautiful story of growing up - of being faced with grown up problems when still young. WATCH IT!
It was funny and cute, with some heart tugging, poignent moments, and a quirky, simple soundtrack.
A MAJOR reason that I loved this movie is that it represents to me one of the most awesome things someone can do - It is about a teenager who gets pregnant, and decides to keep the baby and give it up for adoption - in my opinion, the kindest, most selfless thing a teen in that situation can do. Abortion just gets rid of the problem, and keeping it when you are not ready, finacnially or emotionally, is just a bad situation for the mom and the baby. Carrying the baby and giving it to a loving family who can take care of the child is a beautiful act.
This movie is fantastic - it is a beautiful story of growing up - of being faced with grown up problems when still young. WATCH IT!
Water for Elephants, The Glass Castle
I just read two books - Water for Elephants and The Glass Castle.
Both of them were great books, if you are looking for a good read.
Water for Elephants takes place on a traveling circus in the early part of the 20th century. It is a rich detailed description of the politics and workings of the traveling circus during the prohibition and The Great Depression, when circuses - and everyone - was struggling to stay afloat. It is also about growing old, as the protagonist is reliving his time in the circus while he is living in an elderly home. A beautiful story.
The Glass Castle is sort of like an "Angela's Ashes" type tale... a story of a family growing up in poverty and hard times and parents who have a, shall we say, different view of what a parents role should be. However, as a child growing up in the family, what to someone on the outside may seem horrific seems to her as, well, more or less, normal. Of course, the older you get, the less crap you are willing to accept. This is a tale of a family of children who made the best out of the circumstances they were dealt, and then became determined to not repeat the cycle in their own adult lives.
Both of them were great books, if you are looking for a good read.
Water for Elephants takes place on a traveling circus in the early part of the 20th century. It is a rich detailed description of the politics and workings of the traveling circus during the prohibition and The Great Depression, when circuses - and everyone - was struggling to stay afloat. It is also about growing old, as the protagonist is reliving his time in the circus while he is living in an elderly home. A beautiful story.
The Glass Castle is sort of like an "Angela's Ashes" type tale... a story of a family growing up in poverty and hard times and parents who have a, shall we say, different view of what a parents role should be. However, as a child growing up in the family, what to someone on the outside may seem horrific seems to her as, well, more or less, normal. Of course, the older you get, the less crap you are willing to accept. This is a tale of a family of children who made the best out of the circumstances they were dealt, and then became determined to not repeat the cycle in their own adult lives.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Royal Caribbean - Project Genesis
I am so excited about The new Royal Caribbean Genesis Class ships. OH MY GOD.... Seriously, it looks so awesomely awesome. I mean, check out the link... I am not kidding! It looks so great. My favorite part of the Adventure of the Seas was the promenade... and their "Central Park" plans for the promenade of the new ships just looks spectacular. Seriously? I would love to stay in a promenade view room!
2009, baby!!! SO excited!
2009, baby!!! SO excited!
Monday, April 14, 2008
Thank you for the music....
I swear, Abba must have been playing in the hospital when I was born. I can't believe how catchy the tunes are, and how easily I seem to pick up the lyrics. Granted, they aren't the most complicated songs int he world, but still... I think I may have a new musical obsession....
I mean, I ask you in all honesty, what would life be, without a song or a dance what are we? So I say thank you for the music, for giving it to me...
I mean, I ask you in all honesty, what would life be, without a song or a dance what are we? So I say thank you for the music, for giving it to me...
Cori's Fortune
Grant and I went out to eat with Angie, Andrew and Cori at Golden Garden. At the end of our meal, we got our Fortune Cookies. Grant read his out loud. Angie read hers. I read mine, and Andrew read his. Not wanting to be out done, four year old Cori pulls out her fortune, and starts reading/singing it, "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star, How I wonder what you are!..."
Sunday, April 13, 2008
Stupid IQ Test.
Don't go do this one. Trust me, it is not worth your time. Its not a real IQ test, and it makes yo9u wade through 15,000 ads before it gives you your results.
Take a Free IQ Test.
Take a Free IQ Test.
My 2nd choice
Your Personality Profile |
 You are dreamy, peaceful, and young at heart. Optimistic and caring, you tend to see the best in people. You tend to be always smiling - and making others smile. You are shy and intelligent... and a very hard worker. You're also funny, but many people don't see your funny side. Your subtle dry humor leaves your close friends in stitches. |
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Shortest Personality Quiz
Your Personality Profile |
 You are dependable, popular, and observant. Deep and thoughtful, you are prone to moodiness. In fact, your emotions tend to influence everything you do. You are unique, creative, and expressive. You don't mind waving your freak flag every once and a while. And lucky for you, most people find your weird ways charming! |
Color Quiz
 | Bobbi+Jo took the free ColorQuiz.com personality test! "Needs a peaceful environment. Wants release from ..."
|
Here are all the results, but you can click above to take the quiz yourself!
Bobbi Jo's Existing Situation
This represents a barrier between the compensatory colors which precede it and the remaining colors.
Bobbi Jo's Stress Sources
Wishes to be independent, unhampered, and free from any limitation or restriction, other than those which she imposes of herself or by her own choice and decision.
Bobbi Jo's Restrained Characteristics
Clings to her belief that her hopes and ideas are realistic, but needs encouragement and reassurance. Applies very exacting standards to her choice of a partner and wants guarantees against loss or disappointment.
Becomes distressed when her needs or desires are misunderstood and feels that she has no one to turn to or rely on. Egocentric and therefore quick to take offense.
Able to achieve satisfaction through sexual activity.
Bobbi Jo's Desired Objective
Needs a peaceful environment. Wants release from stress, and freedom from conflicts or disagreement. Takes pains to control the situation and its problems by proceeding cautiously. Has sensitivity of feeling and a fine eye for detail.
Bobbi Jo's Actual Problem
Does not wish to be involved in differences of opinion, contention or argument, preferring to be left in peace.
19 Minutes
I just finished "19 Minutes," by Jodi Picoult. Almost everyone I know says that "19 Minutes" say that it is their favorite Picoult book.
I enjoyed it. I thought it was really good. However, I don't think it was my favorite. There were too many plot issues... the whole plot about the older brother who got killed by the drunk driver.... so? The only way I can see that that helped was to give the mom a sympathetic reason to not go through her son's room to be aware of the guns and stuff.
Anywho. A good read - you'll like it... much better than Mercy and Change of Heart, but I like The Tenth Circle and Plain Truth better...
I enjoyed it. I thought it was really good. However, I don't think it was my favorite. There were too many plot issues... the whole plot about the older brother who got killed by the drunk driver.... so? The only way I can see that that helped was to give the mom a sympathetic reason to not go through her son's room to be aware of the guns and stuff.
Anywho. A good read - you'll like it... much better than Mercy and Change of Heart, but I like The Tenth Circle and Plain Truth better...
Mamma Mia
I think Mamma Mia is one of my all time favorite shows. It really truly is the music that makes it so good. The story itself is far fetched but cute - and I really like how it is just as much about the mom (Donna) as the daughter (Sophie).
I just found out that they are making a movie. I don't really know how it will translate to the big screen - so many of the musical numbers barely work, but do, because it is on the stage... but I am still excited...
I am most excited about Amanda Seyfried as Sophie and Julie Walters as Rosie. Amanda plays Sarah Hendrickson in Big Love, and Julie Walters is Molly Weasley in the Harry Potter movies.
They cast Christine Baranski (Chicago, Grinch) as Tanya... I really like her as an actress, but not who I would picture in the role... every time I see the musical I picture Kim Cattrell (Sex and the City).
Here's the cast:
(Credited cast)
Colin Firth ... Harry Bright
Meryl Streep ... Donna
Pierce Brosnan ... Sam Carmichael
Amanda Seyfried ... Sophie
Dominic Cooper ... Sky
Stellan Skarsgård ... Bill
Julie Walters ... Rosie
Christine Baranski ... Tanya
I just found out that they are making a movie. I don't really know how it will translate to the big screen - so many of the musical numbers barely work, but do, because it is on the stage... but I am still excited...
I am most excited about Amanda Seyfried as Sophie and Julie Walters as Rosie. Amanda plays Sarah Hendrickson in Big Love, and Julie Walters is Molly Weasley in the Harry Potter movies.
They cast Christine Baranski (Chicago, Grinch) as Tanya... I really like her as an actress, but not who I would picture in the role... every time I see the musical I picture Kim Cattrell (Sex and the City).
Here's the cast:
(Credited cast)
Colin Firth ... Harry Bright
Meryl Streep ... Donna
Pierce Brosnan ... Sam Carmichael
Amanda Seyfried ... Sophie
Dominic Cooper ... Sky
Stellan Skarsgård ... Bill
Julie Walters ... Rosie
Christine Baranski ... Tanya
Wednesday, April 02, 2008
Tuesday, April 01, 2008
2008 - 2009 Broadway Series at OCPAC
10 for Tuesday - 10 reasons to be excited about next season at the Orange County Performing Arts Center!
1) The Color Purple (regular season) in November
2) Cats (Curtain Call add on) in December
3) Stomp (Curtain Call add on) in January
4) Avenue Q (regular season) in March in April
5) The Rat Pack - Live at the Sands (Curtain Call add on) in April
6) Grease (regular season) April in May in June
7) Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (regular season) in July
8) Fiddler on the Roof (regular season) in August
9) Legally Blonde (regular season) in September
10) The fact that there are 9 shows again instead of 7, like the 2007 - 2008 season!
1) The Color Purple (regular season) in November
2) Cats (Curtain Call add on) in December
3) Stomp (Curtain Call add on) in January
4) Avenue Q (regular season) in March in April
5) The Rat Pack - Live at the Sands (Curtain Call add on) in April
6) Grease (regular season) April in May in June
7) Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (regular season) in July
8) Fiddler on the Roof (regular season) in August
9) Legally Blonde (regular season) in September
10) The fact that there are 9 shows again instead of 7, like the 2007 - 2008 season!
Friday, March 28, 2008
Reading
I love to read. So much. Too much, maybe. When I read a book, I get totally absorbed in it. I don't understand NOT liking to read.
I am reading a book called "Change of Heart" - Jodi Picoult's newest one. So far, eh, I don't know. I am way at the beginning, still, (page 80 of 400 and something...) but there are these things happening that suggest that there may be supernatural things occurring... now, I don't mind reading supernatural books, but it seems to be a little off putting in her novel, because thats not what she usually writes.
Plus, I am not sure if I am crazy about the message her book might be leading up...
On the other hand, it could be that there is a logical explanation for everything that is happening and I just haven't figured it out yet. We shall just have to wait and see.
Which to me, is the best part of books!
I am reading a book called "Change of Heart" - Jodi Picoult's newest one. So far, eh, I don't know. I am way at the beginning, still, (page 80 of 400 and something...) but there are these things happening that suggest that there may be supernatural things occurring... now, I don't mind reading supernatural books, but it seems to be a little off putting in her novel, because thats not what she usually writes.
Plus, I am not sure if I am crazy about the message her book might be leading up...
On the other hand, it could be that there is a logical explanation for everything that is happening and I just haven't figured it out yet. We shall just have to wait and see.
Which to me, is the best part of books!
Friday, March 21, 2008
The Sims 3
The Sims 3 is on the horizon!
It is coming in 2009, and it has some definite features that I am way excited about - namely - the fact that you are playing in a whole neighborhood rather than one household at a time, so your Sims can stroll out of the house, down the street, to the park, or into a coffee shop without loading new lots constantly.
Also, I am excited about how we will be able to create our Sims personalities. In Sims 2, you were given 25 "points" that you could use to create your Sims personality, distributing them among 5 personality "bars" (sloppy-neat, shy-outgoing, lazy-active, serious-fun, and grouchy-nice) - with each bar having the possibility of 10 points max. The way you distributed your points gave your sim a personality.
The creators of Sims 3 noticed that in the real world, when people classify themselves, they do so by character traits - so when creating your sims personalities, you will have a list of 80 some odd character traits (lazy, clumsy, genius, family oriented, etc.) and you will pick 5 to describe your sim. This should really make sims customizable!
I am pretty excited. This is my favorite article so far.
There is also lots of information at Snooty Sims.
It is coming in 2009, and it has some definite features that I am way excited about - namely - the fact that you are playing in a whole neighborhood rather than one household at a time, so your Sims can stroll out of the house, down the street, to the park, or into a coffee shop without loading new lots constantly.
Also, I am excited about how we will be able to create our Sims personalities. In Sims 2, you were given 25 "points" that you could use to create your Sims personality, distributing them among 5 personality "bars" (sloppy-neat, shy-outgoing, lazy-active, serious-fun, and grouchy-nice) - with each bar having the possibility of 10 points max. The way you distributed your points gave your sim a personality.
The creators of Sims 3 noticed that in the real world, when people classify themselves, they do so by character traits - so when creating your sims personalities, you will have a list of 80 some odd character traits (lazy, clumsy, genius, family oriented, etc.) and you will pick 5 to describe your sim. This should really make sims customizable!
I am pretty excited. This is my favorite article so far.
There is also lots of information at Snooty Sims.
Newsies on Stage
I am watching Newsies right now, while working on report cards - you know, a little background noise and all, and I was just thinking again about how much I would LOVE to see a stage version of this - with a little tweaking - I've always believed that Newsies could be a huge hit on stage - like a new Oliver! or Annie. Seriously, it has some great songs, a good story, family appeal - it could be totally awesome!
So I decided to take a break and google to see if Disney telepathically read my thoughts ( like it does so often for many of its brilliant ideas that I also thought up)
... and sure enough, I found this Nov. 2007 article that says, way down, at the very end:
Other upcoming Menken projects include "working with Tim Rice on King David, a stage musical of 'Newsies' [also 1992], and a couple of new movie musicals with Stephen Schwartz. There's a whole agenda of what I want to do."
AAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHH Could it possibly be true? This could be a dream come true for me! Seriously, I'd probably fly out to New York to see it before it started its National Tour.
Also, I found this about it on wikipedia:
Stage Adaptation
Music Theater International is currently working on a stage adaptation of Newsies. In an e-mail response to a question, an MTI employee stated that "at this time, the performance rights to NEWSIES are still not available and a release date has not been set, although we are hopeful that a stage adaptation might finally be available sometime in 2008-2009".
So I decided to take a break and google to see if Disney telepathically read my thoughts ( like it does so often for many of its brilliant ideas that I also thought up)
... and sure enough, I found this Nov. 2007 article that says, way down, at the very end:
Other upcoming Menken projects include "working with Tim Rice on King David, a stage musical of 'Newsies' [also 1992], and a couple of new movie musicals with Stephen Schwartz. There's a whole agenda of what I want to do."
AAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHH Could it possibly be true? This could be a dream come true for me! Seriously, I'd probably fly out to New York to see it before it started its National Tour.
Also, I found this about it on wikipedia:
Stage Adaptation
Music Theater International is currently working on a stage adaptation of Newsies. In an e-mail response to a question, an MTI employee stated that "at this time, the performance rights to NEWSIES are still not available and a release date has not been set, although we are hopeful that a stage adaptation might finally be available sometime in 2008-2009".
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Stresses
Top Ten Things I've been stressed about lately...
1) Not getting my top ten out on Tuesday
2) My field trip (stressful, but fun! It went really well...)
3) The walk through. Don't ask. I hate them. I have always hated them, and I always spend the next few months feeling like a shitty teacher.
4) Report Cards. I have to get them done. This weekend.
5) Grading my students writing. I have to get it done. This weekend. Before I can do report cards.
6) Student Led Conferences. I feel so unprepared this time around.
7) The writing portion of student led conferences. I feel like I have spent too much time on reading and science that my writing instruction has been really weak this year.
8) Not practicing or writing as much as I had hoped I would (Not working on my personal goals).
9) Not helping Grant as much as I should around the house.
10) This crazy dream I had. Seriously, you'd have had me committed. Maybe I should have my self committed.
Wednesday. Most of this will be over by Wednesday. My last conference is on Wednesday. I can make it to Wednesday....
1) Not getting my top ten out on Tuesday
2) My field trip (stressful, but fun! It went really well...)
3) The walk through. Don't ask. I hate them. I have always hated them, and I always spend the next few months feeling like a shitty teacher.
4) Report Cards. I have to get them done. This weekend.
5) Grading my students writing. I have to get it done. This weekend. Before I can do report cards.
6) Student Led Conferences. I feel so unprepared this time around.
7) The writing portion of student led conferences. I feel like I have spent too much time on reading and science that my writing instruction has been really weak this year.
8) Not practicing or writing as much as I had hoped I would (Not working on my personal goals).
9) Not helping Grant as much as I should around the house.
10) This crazy dream I had. Seriously, you'd have had me committed. Maybe I should have my self committed.
Wednesday. Most of this will be over by Wednesday. My last conference is on Wednesday. I can make it to Wednesday....
Friday, March 14, 2008
My boyfriend's back!
My boyfriend has moved back in to the family room. And my boyfriend's better than ever.
Our new Tivo records in HD. It can record two channels at a time. Plus, it can access all of the shows on our old, 300 hour Tivo upstairs, so we can actually record 3 shows at once (if needed) and access all the programs (from upstairs or downstairs) on our spiffy new Tivo that is connected to our big TV.
I must credit Miranda from Sex and the City for being the first to call Tivo her boyfriend. I so understand.
I love my TV. I love my Tivo. I fully admit it.
Our new Tivo records in HD. It can record two channels at a time. Plus, it can access all of the shows on our old, 300 hour Tivo upstairs, so we can actually record 3 shows at once (if needed) and access all the programs (from upstairs or downstairs) on our spiffy new Tivo that is connected to our big TV.
I must credit Miranda from Sex and the City for being the first to call Tivo her boyfriend. I so understand.
I love my TV. I love my Tivo. I fully admit it.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows
Finally! Seriously, they should have done this for books 4, 5, and 6, too. And possibly book 3.
I hope someone makes a TV series out of it. 2 seasons. 24 48 minute episodes. Or as many as it takes to tell the story full, completely, and accurately.
Here is the story:
After months of rumors, Warner Bros. and the producers of the massively successful movies will announce Thursday that they plan to split "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows," J.K. Rowling's seventh and final "Potter" novel, into two blockbuster films -- one to be released in November 2010 and the second in May 2011.
The films will be titled, simply, "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part I" and "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part II," according to producer David Heyman. Director David Yates, who returned for his second tour of Potter duty with "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince" and is quite popular with the cast, will direct both "Deathly Hallows" films, which will be filmed concurrently. Screenwriter Steve Kloves also returns and, by completion of the franchise, will have written seven of the eight films.
I hope someone makes a TV series out of it. 2 seasons. 24 48 minute episodes. Or as many as it takes to tell the story full, completely, and accurately.
Here is the story:
'Deathly Hallows' films are scheduled to be released in November 2010 and May 2011.
WATFORD, England -- It's official: Eight will be the magic number for the "Harry Potter" film franchise.After months of rumors, Warner Bros. and the producers of the massively successful movies will announce Thursday that they plan to split "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows," J.K. Rowling's seventh and final "Potter" novel, into two blockbuster films -- one to be released in November 2010 and the second in May 2011.
The films will be titled, simply, "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part I" and "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part II," according to producer David Heyman. Director David Yates, who returned for his second tour of Potter duty with "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince" and is quite popular with the cast, will direct both "Deathly Hallows" films, which will be filmed concurrently. Screenwriter Steve Kloves also returns and, by completion of the franchise, will have written seven of the eight films.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
10 Jobs
10 for Tuesday -
10 Jobs I would love to have (if I had the ability) and/or (if I wasn't a teacher) and/or (if I could make a living doing it.) -
Presented in no particular order...
1) A singer.
2) A fiction writer
3) A Disney Imagineer
4) A year round camp counselor
5) A radio talk show host
6) A TV show series writer
10 Jobs I would love to have (if I had the ability) and/or (if I wasn't a teacher) and/or (if I could make a living doing it.) -
Presented in no particular order...
1) A singer.
2) A fiction writer
3) A Disney Imagineer
4) A year round camp counselor
5) A radio talk show host
6) A TV show series writer
7) A Travel Book Writer/Travel Magazine Writer
8) A Disney Tour Guide
9) A stand up comedian
10) A Broadway Legend
Maybe some of those jobs could be combines and it is not 10 actual songs, but hey, it is cool!
Today is a happy day!
8) A Disney Tour Guide
9) A stand up comedian
10) A Broadway Legend
Maybe some of those jobs could be combines and it is not 10 actual songs, but hey, it is cool!
Today is a happy day!
Monday, March 10, 2008
Writer's Block
I did a lot of writing this weekend, and then I just stopped. Arg! I am totally stuck! I completely forgot what I wanted to come next. This morning, I woke up and remembered another key scene that I wanted to take place, so I thought I could skip over this transitional section and work on that, and then go in and fill the holes in.
About 1/2 of my story I have read twice - because I wrote it on different computers and merged them together and had to double check that everything fit correctly. What I enjoyed is that I revised a lot f the stuff that I had rewritten, and it is even better. I feel like I can tell a distinct difference between what I just wrote, and what I went through and revised. The dialogs flows more naturally (at least, I hope it does!) and things go better together.
In the past, one of the weakest things about my stories was my lack of dialog, I spend so much time focusing on giving back story that by the time I get to action, this story always sort of fizzled out. This time, I really tried to focus on dialog, and filling in the back story as I go along - however, I am afraid now it is too dialog heavy - I don't know if I am striking the right balance. Again, always something I can work on.
If I can just finish it, I will be so proud of myself!
2008 is turning out to be quite the year for me, a year of new things, getting over personal hurdles, and trying things I've always said I wanted to do...and it is still just at the beginning!
About 1/2 of my story I have read twice - because I wrote it on different computers and merged them together and had to double check that everything fit correctly. What I enjoyed is that I revised a lot f the stuff that I had rewritten, and it is even better. I feel like I can tell a distinct difference between what I just wrote, and what I went through and revised. The dialogs flows more naturally (at least, I hope it does!) and things go better together.
In the past, one of the weakest things about my stories was my lack of dialog, I spend so much time focusing on giving back story that by the time I get to action, this story always sort of fizzled out. This time, I really tried to focus on dialog, and filling in the back story as I go along - however, I am afraid now it is too dialog heavy - I don't know if I am striking the right balance. Again, always something I can work on.
If I can just finish it, I will be so proud of myself!
2008 is turning out to be quite the year for me, a year of new things, getting over personal hurdles, and trying things I've always said I wanted to do...and it is still just at the beginning!
Sunday, March 09, 2008
All Good Things Must Come to an End
That is the title of the 2 hour season finale of Dawson's Creek that I just finished watching.
Which is why I am sitting here, crying like a baby.
All the big points I remembered... who ended up with who (except I had forgotten who Jack's boyfriend was) and what happened to all of the major characters. I wanted to avoid it, because I hate it when good storied end.
It had a good run. (You know, the whole inevitable video collage that shows just how much the characters aged throughout the series).
Ah, what can I say? Life is weird, is it not? Real or fictional. The thing about these shows is, they have to end on tv, even though the character's lives go on from here - we just don't get to see them anymore - so they have to make some big event to end it all for the viewing public. (I mean, look at Joan of Arcadia - that show just ended - totally left everyone hanging - but it didn't have all the drama of a finale....)
In real life, there are only a handful of major events that mark these monumentous endings of one life and beginnings of another - graduation, weddings, births, deaths. But the reality is, as you go back and look through your life, the big changes are more gradual. You don't see them until you look from a distance.
God, I am just trying to be all poetic by trying to put into words what I'm feeling in my chest right now.
Have I mentioned how much I hate endings?
"It's not about getting it right. It's about knowing when something is wrong and doing something about it."
Which is why I am sitting here, crying like a baby.
All the big points I remembered... who ended up with who (except I had forgotten who Jack's boyfriend was) and what happened to all of the major characters. I wanted to avoid it, because I hate it when good storied end.
It had a good run. (You know, the whole inevitable video collage that shows just how much the characters aged throughout the series).
Ah, what can I say? Life is weird, is it not? Real or fictional. The thing about these shows is, they have to end on tv, even though the character's lives go on from here - we just don't get to see them anymore - so they have to make some big event to end it all for the viewing public. (I mean, look at Joan of Arcadia - that show just ended - totally left everyone hanging - but it didn't have all the drama of a finale....)
In real life, there are only a handful of major events that mark these monumentous endings of one life and beginnings of another - graduation, weddings, births, deaths. But the reality is, as you go back and look through your life, the big changes are more gradual. You don't see them until you look from a distance.
God, I am just trying to be all poetic by trying to put into words what I'm feeling in my chest right now.
Have I mentioned how much I hate endings?
"It's not about getting it right. It's about knowing when something is wrong and doing something about it."
Friday, March 07, 2008
One more thing to add... for now
I do seem to have a hard time - when I DO remember to not talk about myself - and I try to show my genuine interest in others, I feel like I come across as nosy. It is a tough balance. I envy those who are naturally social.
Guess what? I'm allowed to use my "head voice!" Don't ask - it is a random comment and not remotely related to this topic.
I'm just... random
Guess what? I'm allowed to use my "head voice!" Don't ask - it is a random comment and not remotely related to this topic.
I'm just... random
Self Centered
See, here is the thing. I am annoyed by people who are self centered. However, I have come to realize that I am one of the most self centered people I know.
My problem was, I always assumed that self centered people were that way because the thought that they were fabulous. So, with those glasses on, I could never really see myself as self centered because I know that I am anything but fabulous.
(Let me be clear - I don't suck, I'm just not fabulous. You know what I am trying to say. You've met those really and truly fabulous people. Some are very self centered, true, but some are extraordinarily humble in their fabulous-ness, which makes them, of course, all the more fabulous.)
However, it has become clear to me over the past year or so that I spend so much time thinking about all of the ways that I am NOT fabulous. Second guessing things I said, or things I did. With my close friends, I talk about it, a lot, and it must be terribly boring.
It occurred to me that all of this self doubt and self reflection add up to self centered-ness. I am TOTALLY self centered. If I spend most of my time thinking about how I can improve myself, how I can not be such a dork, how what the last thing I said or did was totally stupid, then that is pretty self centered, right?
Here's the problem. In many ways, I think I am a pretty cool person. I make good "big idea" decisions in the course of my life. Unfortunately, where I pretty much suck, is where anyone else is involved. Talking to people, going to parties, hanging out with friends.
So, when I am with other people, I enter this sort of "freeze mode," where I forget everything I am supposed to do because I am so uncomfortable. I coach myself "Don't say this, Don't do that, Don't talk about yourself, Talk about others, Show interest in others." Then I get in the situation, and I forget everything that I am supposed to do. Upon reflection, I realize that as I sit there, wanting to join in a conversation, I don't know how, I don't know what to say in the moment, so I end up connecting the conversation to me. About me.
I forget all of my self coaching.
(Come on - you can totally relate - I can parallel this to when you take lessons in something new, and you have all this stuff you have to remember to get it to work right - like playing an instrument - remember how to play each note, remember to keep a tempo, remember to sit up straight, remember the correct position of your fingers, remember to breathe, oooooh wait now you're slouching and oops you're not keeping the tempo, but remember to breathe... you try to juggle all of those little things and you remember one thing and you forget another...)
I feel like I have so little patience with myself - because I know what I am suppose to do - but I forget to do it. I feel so stupid sometimes - and infuriated because I know I am NOT a stupid person. But I do think I am a SLOW person. I am very good at thinking out everything that I need to do, but I am not very good at actually doing them in the moment.
It's why I suck at playing the piano - I can't play and look at the music at the same time - I had to memorize the song. Maybe that is my problem. I spent so much time finding ways to "cheat" growing up (ie, memorizing the songs) that I didn't learn how to actually learn to do stuff.
Anyway. What was I talking about in the first place?
Oh yeah. Myself.
sigh
Wednesday, March 05, 2008
Ten songs in my head
Ten for Tuesday (A day late)
Ten Songs stuck in my head: (in no particular order).
1) Imagine - John Lennon "Imagine all the people, sharing all the world.... you, you may say I'm a dreamer, but I'm not the only one...."
2) Maria - Blondie "She walks like she don't care, smooth as silk, cool as air, oooh it makes you wanna cry..."
3) Life Support - Rent - Jonathan Larson "Will I lose my dignity? Will someone care? Will I wake tomorrow from this nightmare?"
4) Angel of Music - Phantom of the Opera - Webber, Hart, and Stilgoe "Where in the world have you been hiding? Really you are perfect! I only wish I knew your secret, who is this new tutor?"
5) Bathwater - No Doubt "But I still love to wash in your old bathwater, love to think that you couldn't love another, I can't help it.... you're my kind of man!"
6) White Houses - Vanessa Carlton "She's so pretty and she's so sure, maybe I'm more clever then a girl like her... the summer's all in bloom.... the summer's ending soon... "
7) Mamma Mia - Abba - "Just one look and I can hear a bell ring, one more look and I forget everything..."
8) Breakaway - Kelly Clarkson "I'll spread my wings and I'll learn how to fly, I'll do what it takes 'till I touch the sky and I'll take a risk, take a chance, make a change.... and breakaway..."
9) What Time is It? - High School Musical 2 - "What time is it? Summertime! It's our vacation!"
10) Theme Tune - Charlotte Church - The Charlotte Church Show (Season 2, I think) "It's my theme tune, it's my theme tune, it goes on and on.... it's my theme tune, my lovely theme tune, it goes on and on."
Ten Songs stuck in my head: (in no particular order).
1) Imagine - John Lennon "Imagine all the people, sharing all the world.... you, you may say I'm a dreamer, but I'm not the only one...."
2) Maria - Blondie "She walks like she don't care, smooth as silk, cool as air, oooh it makes you wanna cry..."
3) Life Support - Rent - Jonathan Larson "Will I lose my dignity? Will someone care? Will I wake tomorrow from this nightmare?"
4) Angel of Music - Phantom of the Opera - Webber, Hart, and Stilgoe "Where in the world have you been hiding? Really you are perfect! I only wish I knew your secret, who is this new tutor?"
5) Bathwater - No Doubt "But I still love to wash in your old bathwater, love to think that you couldn't love another, I can't help it.... you're my kind of man!"
6) White Houses - Vanessa Carlton "She's so pretty and she's so sure, maybe I'm more clever then a girl like her... the summer's all in bloom.... the summer's ending soon... "
7) Mamma Mia - Abba - "Just one look and I can hear a bell ring, one more look and I forget everything..."
8) Breakaway - Kelly Clarkson "I'll spread my wings and I'll learn how to fly, I'll do what it takes 'till I touch the sky and I'll take a risk, take a chance, make a change.... and breakaway..."
9) What Time is It? - High School Musical 2 - "What time is it? Summertime! It's our vacation!"
10) Theme Tune - Charlotte Church - The Charlotte Church Show (Season 2, I think) "It's my theme tune, it's my theme tune, it goes on and on.... it's my theme tune, my lovely theme tune, it goes on and on."
Friday, February 29, 2008
Parties
I always seem to make an ass out of myself at parties. Say something I regret or act stupid or something. I always spend so much time thinking DOH! I shouldn't have said that!
I wish I could be more like Grant and just be like "whatever..." I spend WAY too much time thinking about what others think about me.
Anyway.
Happy Leap Day!
I wish I could be more like Grant and just be like "whatever..." I spend WAY too much time thinking about what others think about me.
Anyway.
Happy Leap Day!
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
10 things on my mind lately
10 for Tuesday
10 Things on my mind lately...in no particular order...
1) Earrings. I must admit, some people look cute with earrings. But seriously, it is weird. It is cute to punch holes in your ears and dangle metal from them? Strange.
2)Amsterdam - we're going in June. I am SO EXCITED!!! We are staying on a house boat! Check out here to see where we're staying!
3) Sims 2 Free Time - the New expansion pack. It ships today, so I could probably buy it tomorrow at Gamestop - but I am going to wait until the weekend and get it on sale at Circuit City (They better put it on sale again - they've done that with every EP so far...$17.99 instead of $29.99.) Trust me, with as many EP's as I've bought, I need to save whenever I can. This might be the last EP before SIms 3 comes out.
4) Survivor, American Idol, Big Brother. Thank God the Writer's Strike is over - more of my shows should be coming back on. I miss The Big Bang Theory. I hope that Rosie O'Donnell's new sitcom is a hit!
5) Dinner. I am hungry. I think we are having fish tacos at Rubio's. Yum!
6) Correcting - I am SO behind. I know I have barely blogged - I just feel like I have SO MUCH to do and I am always catching up! Hee hee - I know, I know, don't we all feel that way?
7) Relationships - A certain type of relationship, actually. I am trying to think of the correct word for it. You know the type - like your doctor or a teacher - where they are like YOURS, so you feel comfortable around them, but to them, you lare like one of many. For example, As a teacher - I am the only 5th grade teacher that 125 kids have ever had (and the only first grade teacher 20 kids have had and 32 in 4th grade...) but yet I have had that many students. You know what I mean?
I need a name for those types of relationships. Not unbalanced or uneven or unequal (or maybe one of those would work) but those names remind me of relationships that are unbalanced - like a parent/child - obviously that has to be unbalanced - or you know, certain types of friendships where one person does all the work...
8) The democratic race. I am on pins and needles. I know who I want SO BADLY, and I fear the other. I just feel like Obama is a big speaker - but he doesn't have any solid plans or enough experience to back them up. I think Hilary is ready. My mother in law is probably freaking out as she reads this.
9)Writing. I want to write. DO you have any idea how many stories I;ve started and never finished?
10) Science Pilot - We are getting a new science program in our district. I am piloting it, so tomorrow, I will be at a training to learn how to use it. Yipee! I hope it is a good program - after all, we're stuck with it for the next 7 years! Speaking of new programs - I asked to be on the new math consult to help pick the new math program. I hope I get to be on it!
10 Things on my mind lately...in no particular order...
1) Earrings. I must admit, some people look cute with earrings. But seriously, it is weird. It is cute to punch holes in your ears and dangle metal from them? Strange.
2)Amsterdam - we're going in June. I am SO EXCITED!!! We are staying on a house boat! Check out here to see where we're staying!
3) Sims 2 Free Time - the New expansion pack. It ships today, so I could probably buy it tomorrow at Gamestop - but I am going to wait until the weekend and get it on sale at Circuit City (They better put it on sale again - they've done that with every EP so far...$17.99 instead of $29.99.) Trust me, with as many EP's as I've bought, I need to save whenever I can. This might be the last EP before SIms 3 comes out.
4) Survivor, American Idol, Big Brother. Thank God the Writer's Strike is over - more of my shows should be coming back on. I miss The Big Bang Theory. I hope that Rosie O'Donnell's new sitcom is a hit!
5) Dinner. I am hungry. I think we are having fish tacos at Rubio's. Yum!
6) Correcting - I am SO behind. I know I have barely blogged - I just feel like I have SO MUCH to do and I am always catching up! Hee hee - I know, I know, don't we all feel that way?
7) Relationships - A certain type of relationship, actually. I am trying to think of the correct word for it. You know the type - like your doctor or a teacher - where they are like YOURS, so you feel comfortable around them, but to them, you lare like one of many. For example, As a teacher - I am the only 5th grade teacher that 125 kids have ever had (and the only first grade teacher 20 kids have had and 32 in 4th grade...) but yet I have had that many students. You know what I mean?
I need a name for those types of relationships. Not unbalanced or uneven or unequal (or maybe one of those would work) but those names remind me of relationships that are unbalanced - like a parent/child - obviously that has to be unbalanced - or you know, certain types of friendships where one person does all the work...
8) The democratic race. I am on pins and needles. I know who I want SO BADLY, and I fear the other. I just feel like Obama is a big speaker - but he doesn't have any solid plans or enough experience to back them up. I think Hilary is ready. My mother in law is probably freaking out as she reads this.
9)Writing. I want to write. DO you have any idea how many stories I;ve started and never finished?
10) Science Pilot - We are getting a new science program in our district. I am piloting it, so tomorrow, I will be at a training to learn how to use it. Yipee! I hope it is a good program - after all, we're stuck with it for the next 7 years! Speaking of new programs - I asked to be on the new math consult to help pick the new math program. I hope I get to be on it!
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Sunday, February 17, 2008
CAG
I just spent the weekend at the CAG (California Association for the Gifted) conference in Anaheim.
The conference itself was pretty good - I went to some fantastic talks and some pretty good talks.
I stayed at the Anaheim Hilton. Grant and Belle came up to spend time with me on Friday night, but they didn't spend the night because Grant had to work the next day. It was kind of cool that Belle was able to come to the hotel - they had a very liberal dog policy!
Also, my room faced the parks, so I got to watch the fireworks from my hotel room!
On Saturday, as part of CAG, I got to attend a panel of nine Disney Imagineers, including Marty Sklar!!! More on that in a future blog!!! Needless to say, I was ecstatic, emotional, and excited to be sitting in on such a panel, listening to such bright, creative, and energetic minds talking about some of my most beloved problems that now exist in parks around the world and previewing future projects. So FREAKING amazing!!!
So of course, I was in such a Disney mood. Unfortunately, I was blocked out this weekend. Fortunately, Grant and I had reservations at Hook’s Point at the Disneyland hotel, followed by watching the fireworks from our hotel room.
A great weekend - very educational... very inspirational... but I am SO tired now! Thank GOD there is no school tomorrow!
The conference itself was pretty good - I went to some fantastic talks and some pretty good talks.
I stayed at the Anaheim Hilton. Grant and Belle came up to spend time with me on Friday night, but they didn't spend the night because Grant had to work the next day. It was kind of cool that Belle was able to come to the hotel - they had a very liberal dog policy!
Also, my room faced the parks, so I got to watch the fireworks from my hotel room!
On Saturday, as part of CAG, I got to attend a panel of nine Disney Imagineers, including Marty Sklar!!! More on that in a future blog!!! Needless to say, I was ecstatic, emotional, and excited to be sitting in on such a panel, listening to such bright, creative, and energetic minds talking about some of my most beloved problems that now exist in parks around the world and previewing future projects. So FREAKING amazing!!!
So of course, I was in such a Disney mood. Unfortunately, I was blocked out this weekend. Fortunately, Grant and I had reservations at Hook’s Point at the Disneyland hotel, followed by watching the fireworks from our hotel room.
A great weekend - very educational... very inspirational... but I am SO tired now! Thank GOD there is no school tomorrow!
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
stressed
I am feeling very stressed at work, due to a few students, but one in particular. In addition, I have the most HIGH MAINTENANCE parents on the planet this year. I have one parent who wants to meet to discuss her son's progress - her son is doing JUST FINE! I have another parent who makes so many excuses for her son that the kid has never "failed," and thus has learned NO coping skills.
Sigh.
I had my evaluation today, though, and it went well, so that is certainly a relief.
Sigh.
I had my evaluation today, though, and it went well, so that is certainly a relief.
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Family
Dinner tonight at Souplantation - Tammy and Dave's treat.
Dave's daughter, Alexis - a ready made niece. She's almost 6. She likes me. I like her.
Mom, Bobby, Grant, and Danny, there as well.
Melted chocolate cake night. Yummy.
I love when my mom and Bobby are in town. I feel like my life is more complete when they're around.
Dave's daughter, Alexis - a ready made niece. She's almost 6. She likes me. I like her.
Mom, Bobby, Grant, and Danny, there as well.
Melted chocolate cake night. Yummy.
I love when my mom and Bobby are in town. I feel like my life is more complete when they're around.
Saturday, January 26, 2008
Buzz Lightyear
Last Wednesday, I went to Disneyland and rode Buzz. (This ride is equipped with lazer blasters, and as you progress through the ride you aim at targets to try to build up a high score. )My average score on this ride is about 250,000 - 280,000 points. My goal when I ride it is to get above 300,000, which I've done a handful of things. This includes times when the ride has "stopped" for special loading (usually about 30 seconds).
On Wednesday, I scored 950,000 + points! Yes, the ride stopped, and I was able to lock on to a high scoring target, but still. That blew any score I've ever had out of the water! In addition, I was in the Top 10 for the DAY! (That includes anyone else who was stopped on the ride at the same time I was!) CHeck it out!
That is me with the blaster in front of my face. (Trust me, it is me!)
And that is me: Number 8 BJB.
On Wednesday, I scored 950,000 + points! Yes, the ride stopped, and I was able to lock on to a high scoring target, but still. That blew any score I've ever had out of the water! In addition, I was in the Top 10 for the DAY! (That includes anyone else who was stopped on the ride at the same time I was!) CHeck it out!
That is me with the blaster in front of my face. (Trust me, it is me!)
And that is me: Number 8 BJB.
Mom's in town
Mom's in town this weekend. She, Grant, and Bobby are rocking out on Guitar Hero as I type. They're good. Me? Not so much, but that is okay. I am perfectly content to listen as I blog and read about the upcoming expansion pack for Sims 2 (Free Time, being released in February...) and fan speculation as to whether there will be another expansion pack before Sims 3 comes out. Since there are a lot of "hints" about sims 3 in this expansion pack (for example, a painting that can be hung on one of the walls is of "the future" and shows a neighborhood where the houses are more interactive with each other, and one of the new video games your sims can play on their pc's is "Sims 3."
ALso, I am watching the debate between Obama and Clinton on You-tube. I think tonight we are going to go in the jacuzzi, especially if it starts to rain (fingers crossed!) and maybe watch the rest of Clerks 2. I just noticed that Jay is wearing a "Buddy Christ" shirt (from Dogma...) SO cool. I want one.
ALso, I am watching the debate between Obama and Clinton on You-tube. I think tonight we are going to go in the jacuzzi, especially if it starts to rain (fingers crossed!) and maybe watch the rest of Clerks 2. I just noticed that Jay is wearing a "Buddy Christ" shirt (from Dogma...) SO cool. I want one.
Monday, January 21, 2008
Vegas - thoughts
Vegas is getting a new revival for me. There was a time when I was sort of sick of the place. Really over it. I mean, it was just "ok." But now, I am all over the place again, and mostly just sticking with the strip!
First of all, the smoke situation is vastly improving, with more and more areas being limited in where you can and can not smoke. I don't come home with all of my clothes reeking of cigarette smoke. blech!
Second, I can now afford to attend some great shows. I LOVE that! In the meantime, they are developing more and more of my favorite types of shows: musicals and Cirque's. That thrills me.
Third, and, well, I never didn't enjoy this aspect.... I do love to eat. And what better place to eat then Vegas? hee hee.
First of all, the smoke situation is vastly improving, with more and more areas being limited in where you can and can not smoke. I don't come home with all of my clothes reeking of cigarette smoke. blech!
Second, I can now afford to attend some great shows. I LOVE that! In the meantime, they are developing more and more of my favorite types of shows: musicals and Cirque's. That thrills me.
Third, and, well, I never didn't enjoy this aspect.... I do love to eat. And what better place to eat then Vegas? hee hee.
Sunday, January 20, 2008
Vegas
Hi,
Sorry about the lack of posts. Back to school, slight addiction to my Nintendo DS (more on that later....)
But I wanted you to know that I am in Vegas with Grant, so check out the our vacation blog if you're interested!
Sorry about the lack of posts. Back to school, slight addiction to my Nintendo DS (more on that later....)
But I wanted you to know that I am in Vegas with Grant, so check out the our vacation blog if you're interested!
Saturday, January 05, 2008
Nintendo DS
I got a Nintendo DS for Christmas. It is way cool - it is a gold one - a limited edition. I really like it!
One of the games I got is called "Brain Age 2" I like it because it is fun puzzles that you do to get your brain thinking and working. It also has Sudoku on it.
I also got Zelda - Phantom Hourglass - but I've just barely begun that game. I'll probably play that more in depth on the plane to Vegas in two weeks.
The third game I got was Super Mario Brothers, but I haven't really been able to play that - Andrew got a DS also, and he got Mario Party - so we traded for a while, and I have his Mario Party and he has my Super Mario Brothers. I have already beat the story mode on Mario Party, but it really is more fun to play together. (A cool thing about the ds is that if someone else has a ds, and they are within 30 feet, you can play some games together - like Mario Party, for example, with just one game cartridge... the other player temporarily can download the software.)
Other games, like Mario Kart (which Grant ordered in the mail and we got today) can connect online and play with other people who have the game around the world. SO far tonight, Grant has raced someone from India, someone from Japan, and people from around the US. cool, huh?
The last game I got, which could very well by my new video game obsession, complete and compact in my traveling Nintendo DS world (which can go every where I go) is Animal Crossing - Wild World. It consists of my little person (named Beejay) who has moved into a town populated by animals (I named the town Nahtazu - like Disney's Animal Kingdom's old slogan "Nahtazu" which let people know that the Animal Kingdom is "not a zoo..." get it?)
One of the cool things about it is it runs on real time - it is set to the time you set on your nintendo ds - so assuming it is set to real time, then if it is night time in real life, it is night time in your game - if it is noon, then it is day time in the game. It also follows seasons - if you play in January (as I am) then it is winter in the game - with snow on the ground sometiems, sometimes it snows, and the days have a cool blue cast to it - when you play in the summer, then the game is brighter and the weather adjusts accordingly.
The game is very open ended - you can fish and you can catch bugs, you can write letters to your new animal friends, and they will write you back. You find ways to earn "bells," the currency in the game. It seems like fun so far!
I am going back to include links in the post so check them out.
One of the games I got is called "Brain Age 2" I like it because it is fun puzzles that you do to get your brain thinking and working. It also has Sudoku on it.
I also got Zelda - Phantom Hourglass - but I've just barely begun that game. I'll probably play that more in depth on the plane to Vegas in two weeks.
The third game I got was Super Mario Brothers, but I haven't really been able to play that - Andrew got a DS also, and he got Mario Party - so we traded for a while, and I have his Mario Party and he has my Super Mario Brothers. I have already beat the story mode on Mario Party, but it really is more fun to play together. (A cool thing about the ds is that if someone else has a ds, and they are within 30 feet, you can play some games together - like Mario Party, for example, with just one game cartridge... the other player temporarily can download the software.)
Other games, like Mario Kart (which Grant ordered in the mail and we got today) can connect online and play with other people who have the game around the world. SO far tonight, Grant has raced someone from India, someone from Japan, and people from around the US. cool, huh?
The last game I got, which could very well by my new video game obsession, complete and compact in my traveling Nintendo DS world (which can go every where I go) is Animal Crossing - Wild World. It consists of my little person (named Beejay) who has moved into a town populated by animals (I named the town Nahtazu - like Disney's Animal Kingdom's old slogan "Nahtazu" which let people know that the Animal Kingdom is "not a zoo..." get it?)
One of the cool things about it is it runs on real time - it is set to the time you set on your nintendo ds - so assuming it is set to real time, then if it is night time in real life, it is night time in your game - if it is noon, then it is day time in the game. It also follows seasons - if you play in January (as I am) then it is winter in the game - with snow on the ground sometiems, sometimes it snows, and the days have a cool blue cast to it - when you play in the summer, then the game is brighter and the weather adjusts accordingly.
The game is very open ended - you can fish and you can catch bugs, you can write letters to your new animal friends, and they will write you back. You find ways to earn "bells," the currency in the game. It seems like fun so far!
I am going back to include links in the post so check them out.