Lost in TechnoLand

I signed up for Twitter about a year ago.  Then, I decided I couldn't figure it out.  We had been discussing it the other day, so thought I'd give it a new try, and did figure out how to Twitter from my phone.  But, I can never usually think of anything fun to "twitter".   We'll see how it goes.

Then a few weeks ago, I had to become a Facebook member to view some photos of my grandson's vacation, so I made an account and logged in.  I hadn't thought much about it, but 

thought I'd log in tonight and take a gander.  I found several people  from my old high school to be "friends" with, along with some family members.  So, I invited them to be friends.  Within about five minutes I already had four friends.  Ha.   So, we'll see how that goes too....

I don't know if I will be able to keep up with those, because I do like to blog the most of all of it...I still think writing is my therapy.  But, hey, thought I'd see what all the facebook twitter blog techno nerd stuff was all about.   One of my friends said I was a techno goddess.   Uh no...I am a techno novice...ha!   

Tom Hanks achieve Chaplin Award from Lincoln Center

Oscar winner Tom Hanks was presented the new Chaplin Award at the 36th annual Film Society of Lincoln Center Gala Tribute on Monday night in New York, Julia Roberts kept her tribute brief.

Roberts told Hanks that "everyone likes you." Only Roberts added an expletive before "likes."And the crowd roared with laughter.

When it was Tom Hanks turn at the podium, Tom Hanks told the black-tie crowd that Roberts has so much clout that the big story of the evening would be: "Julia Roberts wears same dress as publicist."

Not only does Oscar-winning actress Julia Roberts have an infectious laugh, but she also spouts some, um, colorful language.

Assessing Hanks' 2004 movie "The Terminal," in which he played an Eastern European trapped in Immigration at J.F.K., Julia Roberts said, "That movie about you and the airport and the accent was a pass for me. Airport? Were you just an immigrant lost? I didn't know. I love you, but I didn't know ... and I'm wearing the same dress tonight as your publicist."Roberts and the publicist both opted for a cream dress by Dolce & Gabbana.

Night at the Flicks

Yesterday was a long tedious day, and my friend, S, asked if I wanted to go to the movies. I first thought, no, I just want to curl up and veg. But, I thought, maybe OK. I thought I was going to have to help hubby with a fixit project as well, but he was all done. So, my night was free. So, after exercise class I went to see "17 Again" with my friend, S, and another gal. I am so glad I did, it was such a great break, and we laughed our pants off in spots. I think there was only the three of us in the whole theater!??? But, I noticed another group of 3 or 4 in the back finally, but then they were gone when we left already....so who knows? It was so nice to just relax with friends and laugh. Parts of the movie were dorky, but most of it was just enjoyable and some of it, like I said, laugh your pants off funny!

And, if I were a teenager, I'd have a poster of Zac Efron on my wall.....

Julia Roberts brief On Tom Hanks Chaplin Award reception

Oscar winner Tom Hanks was presented the new Chaplin Award at the 36th annual Film Society of Lincoln Center Gala Tribute on Monday night in New York, Julia Roberts kept her tribute brief.

Julia Roberts told Hanks that "everyone likes you." Only Roberts added an expletive before "likes." And the crowd roared with laughter.

Not only does Oscar-winning actress Julia Roberts have an infectious laugh, but she also spouts some, um, colorful language.

Assessing Hank's 2004 movie "The Terminal" in which he played an Eastern European trapped in Immigration at J.F.K., Julia Roberts said, "That movie about you and the airport and the accent was a pass for me. Airport? Were you just an immigrant lost? I didn't know. I love you, but I didn't know ... and I'm wearing the same dress tonight as your publicist."Julia Roberts and the publicist both opted for a cream dress by Dolce & Gabbana.

Another Day in the Life...

Why is it when you get older that you don't wear the same size shoes as you used to?

Why is it that your eyes start to be more vision impaired?

Why is it that after you eat the wrong food, that tasted so good, you feel like your chest is full of acid?

Why is it that you feel young inside still?

Hmmm....I went to the eye doctor yesterday, and as I suspected, my eyes had gotten worse. I figured as much. I have to get new glasses, which, of course is quite a dilemna. Last time, Tina picked them out for me. So, I may bring some to work and do a fashion show and take votes? I don't know....I thought about these cute funky ones, but these other, more subtle ones, seemed to just fit. We'll see. I also know when I buy shoes, they are 1/2 size bigger than I used to wear? If I keep losing weight, will my feet shrinnk? So many things to ponder....

Lindsay Lohan Thinks She Looks Good In a Bikini

After going on Ellen last week and explaining how she was going to get her career back on track now that she's single, Lindsay Lohan got her resume together, hired a new agent and began seriously checking out the job market, looking for small independent films where she can re-establish her credibility. Nah, I'm just kidding. She went to Maui and laid around in a bikini. The worst part was, she

one week of success....

Someone I know and love dearly has just made it through one week of sobriety. It is a long, hard road, and the journey is just beginning, but I pray that this is the first week of many weeks. I am so proud of this first success. If you can, say an extra prayer for the strength and courage the journey will take.

Thank you!

Falling for a Guy

Or - the modern day version of dropping one's hanky.

I finally got my non-existent butt over the park to roller-blade. Roller-blading is my cardio workout of choice. Low impact, fun & easy, with great waist-whittling properties and also very effective on the glutes and legs. So effective that I'm still feeling my glutes today - so that is awesome.

I really enjoy it.

The first year I bought my roller-blades, I actually met a guy at the park. Obviously that didn't work out - but we did date for a little while so it is in the back of my mind that I can meet men at the park.

My favorite park to blade in has a smooth paved loop, with lanes marked for walkers/runners and another for bicycles. They face opposite directions like traffic lanes (northbound, southbound). Actually, the way I see it, one lane has a little diagram of a walking stick figure and the other lane has a stick figure on wheels - which one could perceive to be a bicycle - but I take it as - people on feet and people on wheels. Since I'm blading I figure I'm on wheels and I use the bike lane. Most bladers do.

On my second lap around the 2.2 mile loop, I saw a guy that looked cute enough to want to meet. He was in the walking lane, facing me, so we passed each other quickly and any opportunity to interact was over before it began.

As I continued, counter-clockwise to his clockwise... I wondered how I could actually get a guy's attention in that scenario.

When I met that guy a few years ago, he was resting on a bench - and when he saw me go around the second time he quipped, "You should stop and look at this view!"
That was enough to get my attention. The sun was slowly dipping into the mountains and reflecting on the lake. I sat for a bit, we talked and eventually skated back to our cars and exchanged numbers.

But I didn't remember that pick-up line the other day. Instead I thought I'd do one more loop, expecting to encounter this guy again and then... what?

Um... I could fall down. Right in front of him. He'd have to stop and see if I was alright. It'd be a funny story to tell our kids - because I wouldn't tell him until after the wedding that I fell on purpose.

I chuckled over the idea while I skated. Then I thought, how do I just fall without actually getting hurt? Do I slow down and just sort of lean to one side? Won't that be obvious?
Maybe I could just drop my water bottle.
Then he could trip over it. This probably isn't going to work.

In the end, I ran into my friend Mibr on the path, and lost the opportunity to fall for the guy.

Actually, I've never made such a manipulative effort to meet a guy before. Maybe I'm getting desperate in my old age.
But you know, you live and learn.

A few years ago, I crashed my bike in a spectacular fashion. My friend Mime and I were riding down the street on our way to a trail - I hit a hole and body-slammed on the pavement with an emphasis on my chin.

A guy who was at the stop light when it happened saw the whole thing and slowed down as he passed to ask if we needed help. I was embarrassed and prideful, so I said no. As he drove away Mime glared at me saying, "You dummy, you could have met a guy!"

Silly me. I'd probably be married to him by now!

If you want to watch something very moving, and that will maybe make you stop and think...about marriage, relationships and faith, be sure and watch "Fireproof".

Here is a brief description: In an attempt to save his marriage, A firefighter uses a 40-day experiment known as "The Love Dare".

Enough said....

A Review of the Trip

Hello. I am back from our trip to Omaha. We got home last night, and I am a little tired today...but sure did have a good trip. We not only learned a lot of wonderful new things, saw a lot of great gadgets and fun tips and tricks, but renewed our vision and love of technology. It is great to be with these people, to hear what others are doing, and network with so many wonderful new friends. It was also great to travel with my friend, S. We always have a good time together, and I do enjoy her company so much! S and I attended a workshop on Wednesday all day ahead of the NETA conference, so we got into Omaha on Tuesday.

Our rooms at the Embassy Suites were completely amazing, and the people working there were all so accomodating! It was such a treat to stay there. I thought, wow, I must be a "hick from the sticks" to think it was so great and that all the amenities were so amazing, but I think everyone felt the same way! Not only did they host a manager's reception each evening, they also had a wonderful made to order breakfast, in addition to a state of art workout room, I loved the treadmills! I took a bunch of pictures (click to view in photo albums)...so I am putting the slideshow on here...



We enjoyed dinner on Tuesday night at a recommended Mexican restaurant, called Azteca! It was very yummy! Wednesday, S and I attended a workshop all day. Then, we went shopping right after it ended....I got some really good buys! I have pictures of my shoes and watches on the slideshow! They were really great buys. I got a couple tops as well, and we had a blast. We then went to the Managers reception for snacks and drinks at the motel, while we waited for the rest of our group to arrive. We enjoyed dinner at the restaurant at the motel with them that night. I did get a workout in early Thursday morning...but not much else, other than a lot of walking...so will have to push hard again now...

The NETA conference started on Thursday, and had wonderful keynote speakers and sessions. It was great to learn new things, meet and talk to new and old friends, and connect. That night, we went shopping a bit with K and J before we went to downtown Omaha for supper, where we ate at Upstreams, and it was wonderful.

Friday morning, we attended another keynote address and sessions before we headed out around noontime....we stopped in Lincoln for lunch, and took turns driving home. I was tired, but enjoyed the trip. I am glad to be home...sorry this post is so long!

My shoes are made from a bag!?

Before I leave for Canada, I thought I would share my new purchase today... I am kind of obsessed. Behold, BC Footwear's "I Used to be a rice bag" sandals:

At first I just liked the unique pattern, but when got closer and read the tag, I was surprised to see they were made from old rice, detergent and supply bags. The creators thought, "Why waste colorful bags that end up in a landfill?" Well, when life hands you trash, make shoes:
Excuse the post-work feetNo two pairs are the same either

Helping the Earth one shoe at a time!!!!!!!!!!!

~*Erin*~

Eva Mendes Looks Good Without Clothes

Eva Mendes posed for a photo session with Ellen Von Unwerth and seems to have forgotten to bring any clothes with her to the shoot. No matter, it turns out she looks much better wearing nothing at all. I know, who'd have thunk it.Hollywood Gossip,Hollywood News,Hollywood Celebrity,Hot Celebrity Gossip, Hollywood Business, Hollywood Actress, Celebrities StarsHollywood Gossip,Hollywood News,

Miley Cyrus Throughs A Paparazzo's iPhone

Miley Cyrus Drops A Paparazzo's iPhone Shot in Burbank outside Pilates Studio. It is not yet known the reason of dropping the iphone.

Lets see in the video why Miley Cyrus did so.........

Why Miley Cyrus Cries at Kids Choice Awards???

In this video clips covered the Kids Choice Awards. In this ceremony Miley Cyrus the young star Cries. Lets see the clips of Miley Cyrus.

Enjoy the video .............

Video: Hannah Montana, Is DIES In Movie?

The video clips contain Entire movie recap in 7 mins. If you are not a Hannah fan- do you have any interest in going? If you ARE a Hannah fan and went- did it change your opinion or was it what you expected?? Would you like a secret identity double life? Favorite song in the movie? What was the crowd like? Did they laugh at the same parts I talked about?

Don't miss the video on Hannah Montana................

Miss USA California HATES GAYS?!Buck talks about Miss USA 2009

In this video episode, Buck talks about Miss USA 2009 and has some advice for the Kardashians! Stay tuned for a Would You Rather question too.

PS- calm down! Miss USA is HILARIOUS in general! The debate in the comments is adorable but really, I am just here for the LOL's! Miss CA - I am sure is not a bad person. Hello! Michael Phelps likes her! BAM!

Also- why do they even ask these girls about the economy and gay marriage? The whole thing is funny! Hugs!

Don't miss the video................

Miss California Carrie Prejean Responds To Gay Marriage

Perez Hilton asks Miss California Carrie Prejean what Carrie Prejean thinks about legalizing gay marriage and Carrie Prejean definitely does not give the politically correct answer.

There are DEFINITELY a lot of boos coming from the crowd followed by mixed applause, though it's hard to hear the boos in the recording.

Enjoy the video interview of Miss California Carrie Prejean..........

Going to Canada

I'm heading to Canada to go fishing this week as well as celebrating my 24th (eeek) on Tuesday!!! I won't be posting until next weekend.... I'm sure I'll have my fair share of riverside fish frying, beans, chili, trail mix, coffee and beer, I mean I am going with my Dad and his Canadian friends will be there. On vacation I find it necessary to take in the local color and cuisine and to chill and have a good time........Wish me luck!!

Have a great end of April!!
Peace!

Vanessa Hudgens Just Got Out Of Bed

Vanessa Hudgens went shopping yesterday on Melrose Avenue in California. It's a good thing too, from the looks of these pictures, she doesn't have a thing to wear except for boyfriend Zac Efron's shirt.It's a pity all of the stores suddenly closed and she was forced to walk around like that all day. On the other hand, when you have legs that look like that, who really needs pants?Hollywood Gossip

Hello from out on the Road!!

Hi....I thought I would be able to blog from my trip, but wow, it has been BUSY.  But, not to fear, I have ideas and photos and will be updating over the weekend, if not before.   

It is going to be in the 80's here today...can you believe it?  When was that blizzard?  Not too long ago????   Wow!   

Hope everyone will have a wonderful day! 

Lindsay Lohan Might Do a Topless Show in Vegas

In seems that when she's not busy doing every guy she can while rebounding from her lesbian relationship with Sam Ronson, Lindsay Lohan continues to explore her dwindling career options. The latest rumor is she might do a topless stage show in Las Vegas. Lohan flew from Los Angeles to Las Vegas on Saturday on the private plane of the producer of Mel B. and Kelly Monaco's "Peepshow" to attend the

Earth Day is every day

Happy "Official Earth Day". I unfortunately have to work.

Wish I was gardening... the satisfaction from getting dirt under your fingernails and seeing green plants 2 weeks later.....

I find it great that an expected 175 countries and over a billion people are said to "celebrate Earth Day".

Have a great day, enjoy mother earth!

My take...

In response to all the hoopla around Miss California's answer at the Miss USA pageant,

She sounded like an idiot answering that question, but I won't bad-mouth her because of her opinion, because it is HER opinion. It may not be yours or mine, or Perez Hilton's, but it is hers.

"I do not agree with a word you say, but I will fight to the death for your right to say it" - Voltaire

Worked

Today I started my high-powered job as power barista on L.B.I., lol. It was a chill day, because I have made coffee drinks before in my many jobs. I love the owner, I love the location (1/2 block from beach), and I love the fact that some days I can start work early enough to make it to the beach. I am finally making some dollas again, JEEZ, it took long enough.

This morning my sis and I went to our fav. strength class and our tri's got worked pretty hard. I am noticing that I am getting stronger with each week I do the strength classes. We also did a TKO (kickboxing style) class last night. Fun, Fun.

Flashback to this weekend: I had a great time in Philly celebrating my college roomate's 24th. It's always nice to reconnect with friends. It reminds me a lot of why they became my friends in the first place. It's always like we never left college when we are all together. Good Times.


Meditation of the Day
I've been thinking a lot lately about "chapters" in your life you used to believe would occur at certain times. For example, when I was 12 I thought I would be married with children by 23 because, obviously you meet your husband when you're 20 (because 20 is soooo old to 12 yearolds), take 2 years to travel then pop them kids out by 23 . I never factored in that I would be in college, had gotten over a catastrophic break-up right before leaving, or had enjoyed the perks of college life so very much. Instead, my chapters have been written accordingly:

Chapter 1: Beginning of College. Contents: Boys. Beer. Best Friends. Beer. Battered chicken fingers, Blackhaus. Bars. Boys. Transition to becoming a better person...

Chapter 2: End of College. Minor mid-life crisis, discovering who I was, Best Friends (dwindled down to a couple), interning, boys, better beer, becoming smarter (and by smarter I mean realizing I could've saved a ton of money by pregaming with Franzia boxed wine before going out), fizzy drinks, spring break, crying at graduation, Transition to "get me the hell out of my hometown" epiphany.
Footnote: Went backpacking, fell in love with the mountains.dharma bums........something pulled me West.....
Chapter 3: Colorado, baby. Moving across the country, starting from scratch, confident, feeling invincible, mountains, mountain men, micro-brewed beer, real job, real money, real spending!!!, real independence, real town I want to live in forever, more friends, crazy-ass OCD roommate, living alone for the rest of my life, cultured, exposed, alone, homesick, lived in a tent for work, 8,000 feet, meditation, mountain sunsets, yoga, no connection to outside, raw, new, amazing, great friends, real, dharma, karma, materialism, money, no money, feeling pulling me east, homesick, sacrifice, transition to crossroads.....
Chapter 4: Hometown glory. High-school acquaintances ,weird, small town, back to solid friends, solid family, sister, backpacking, beach, ex-boyfriend (short appearance), regret, tears, humbled, lost, unemployed, freelance, feet on the ground, head in the clouds, where do I go?, who should I become?, questions, regret, failure, Colorado, New Jersey, Colorado, New Jersey, friends, love, yearning for answers, talks, recession, frustration, suck it up, strong, pride, barista it'll be for now, save money, okay, happy, content, still yearning, still craving more, surrounded by love.
Chaprter 5: Unwritten.....

Sure, someday I'd like to have a butterflies in the stomach relationship, a family of my own, a house, clearly a puppy, even a car newer than 1995, but I have never set a goal to acquire any of these. I'm okay with embracing these ups and downs. It excites me that I still have so many feelings, experiences and loves to conquer. Setting a timeline will leave me with nothing to strive for now, in the present. I strive to be loved, happy, excited, hopeful, open-minded and never satisfied; always keeping my eye on the horizon.

What chapters in your life have you experienced?

On the Road Again....

I am leaving today for the next few days for a workshop and then technology conference in Omaha. I am sure I will get really smart. Well.....maybe...ha! I will be traveling with my friend, S, and know we will have a good time laughing and talking all the way. I love my friend. I got out my suitcases and Sissy has been latched onto me ever since. She wants to go with me! Poor baby. She has to stay home and watch out for Sammy and my hubby. I will post from our motel, which looks like it will be awesome, brand new.

This week I celebrate for my sisters' birthdays, J and J! (We all have J names!) One had a birthday the 19th and one today, 21st. They don't read my blog, but Happy Birthday to them! Have a great day!

Brooke Hogan in a bikini

Here's Brooke Hogan and her boyfriend Stack$ on the set of her new music video yesterday, and obviously, Brooke's people have realized the only way to get any exposure is to make her roll around in a bikini and/or show as much breast as humanly possible.Normally, I'd applaud this thought process except I'm kind of wishing they went for something a little more subtle. Like a bear costume.Hollywood

Madonna again drown from a horse in Britain

Near after four years Madonna was again thrown from a horse in Britain, Madonna took another spill while riding in the Hamptons on Saturday, The Associated Press reported. Madonna suffered minor injuries when her horse was startled by photographers at the Bridgehampton home of the photographer Steven Klein, according to Madonna spokeswoman, Liz Rosenberg.

The resilient Madonna, 50, was released after being treated at Southhampton Hospital. In 2005 she was thrown from a horse in Britain and cracked three ribs and broke Madonna hand and collarbone.

Anne Hathaway believes in the "perfect" Man

Anne Hathaway believes in the "perfect" man. The actress Anne Hathaway - who split from long-term boyfriend Raffaello Follieri last year after he was accused of fraud - insists Anne Hathaway is over her heartbreak and still believes in true love.

Anne Hathaway, who is currently dating actor Adam Shulman, said: "I think the perfect partner exists, of course I believe so. I know he's somewhere.


"My prince charming is kind, patient, has a sense of humour and rescues me from the dizzy, frenetic, fast-paced rhythm of this life."

Despite Anne Hathaway's successes, the Oscar-nominated star admits Anne Hathaway still
struggles to feel like Anne Hathaway belongs at prestigious events.

Anne Hathaway explained: "The Venice Film Festival was a wonderful moment for me. At these events, I always feel like a little girl playing dress-up. I kept expecting that at any moment, someone would come up to me and say, 'How did you get in here?' and throw me out."


Actress Anne Hathaway poses at the West coast premiere of the documentary "Valentino: The Last Emperor" at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) in Los Angeles April 1, 2009.

Blog Revelation

I had an epiphany today while browsing through some blogs here and there. I always feel like I have a lot to say about life, culture, current issues, music, likes, dislikes, daily happenings, gardening, boys (lol), although focusing my writing only about working out and eating healthy etc... isn't really "fun". I constantly feel like I am limiting what I say. I'm not enjoying writing this way. It basically is what it is, literally. I like when I take a good gym class or go for a bike ride and write about the experience, but to tell you the truth, I am bored. Bored with trying to limit my posts to my healthy decisions, because some days are active, healthy and inspiring, but others I just feel like writing. period. Devoting each and every post to my "healthy" choices and doting on which ones I didn't make, I find I become obsessive with it, feeling guilty when I do not follow through. Being fit & working out etc... is a big part of my life, more now than before, but I have lost a lot of creativity in writing each day just focusing on healthy decisions I make or don't make day in and day out.

Enough rambling. The bottom line is, this is my blog, and I am not going to limit my content anymore just to center around diet and exercise. So many other aspects of my life contribute to my healthy path both mentally and physically; my friends, family, writing, reading and music contribute as well. I want to share deeper writings than my food and exercise choices. My life is full and I intend on filling this blog with all I love. Primadharma will still be a blog about "one path" to a healthy lifestyle, but a wider path filled with posts on life, love, happiness, and the daily questions I feel all 20-somethings get day in and day out. When it comes down to it, that is what life is all about.

Phew. That was long but makes me happy. I look forward to writing each day and start using this little page in the vast blogworld as my creative outlet:-)
Erin

Meditation of the Day
Journal writing is a voyage to the interior - Christina Baldwin

He Speaks

This week was rather miserable for me. The pity party was pretty lame - and I hope I have it out of my system.

The other night as I readied myself for bed, I wished for something comforting to read. I have a bookshelf where I keep inspiring books that I've already read or started to read. I have a tendency to have three books at a time on my nightstand - and eventually one of them gets read entirely. The others return to the shelf.

So I stood there, glancing at their spines just barely suggesting to God that He lead me to something that could still the ache in my heart. My hand reached for the title "Becoming Friends with God"
What an invitation!

As I made my way back to bed I noticed slips of paper marking random places in the book. I've been here before.
But it's not likely I remember what I read. I make a plan to start the book at the beginning, but let it fall open to a marked page first.

Oh that. A prayer I obviously wanted to remember:

Lord, help me to understand why You say no, even if it will be a difficult lesson for me to learn. Grant me the patience in waiting to understand. And God, I submit to You and will accept Your answer with gratitude and faith, even if I never understand why - because I trust You. Amen.

Isn't that beautiful? Isn't that exactly what I need to pray right now?!
Trust is the part I have trouble with. I do trust God. But I trust Him here (hand level with my eyes) and I want to trust Him here (hand reached far above my head)
But look at that. I asked God to show me something and He showed me that He wants me to trust Him.

So I've been reading a chapter or two each night and last night was something so beautiful I want to share it with you, my bloggy friend.

The writer brings us back to the Wedding of Cana. Reminding us that this wedding is not famous for the bride and the groom - we don't even know their names do we? This wedding is important because Jesus was invited. His presence there made a profound difference.

I'm going to interject here - the writer of the book is not Catholic but he reminded me of the Catholic observance that because of Jesus' presence at this wedding - Christian marriage was raised to the dignity of a Sacrament. (from Praying the Rosary Without Distractions, Copyright 1994, 2006 Dominican Fathers)

The Wedding of Cana has always been one of my favorite bible stories - even long before I knew this - or that it actually registered that it was the place of Jesus' first miracle.

Okay, going back the book now...

Mary the mother of Jesus, was among the first to discover that they had run out of wine. She immediately went to Jesus. Up to this point in Jesus' life there is no record of His ever performing a miracle. So it wasn't that she expected a miracle. Maybe she thought that He would just say something that would relieve the tension.

...

I doubt that she understood when He said, "My time has not yet come." I don't think she had a sense of the schedule that He was following from conception to crucifixion to resurrection and back to heaven again. She didn't understand all that. So when Jesus said what He said, she simply turned to the servants and said, "Well, just do whatever he says."

Mary was right. She got it. Her response teaches us a lot. Whenever problems arise, even if we've never seen Jesus do a miracle before, even when we don't understand Jesus' words and can't figure out how He will handle it - just take your problems to Him and do whatever He says.

Emphasis mine.
Again, there is my reminder to be more like Mary. If I ever want to be a mother, she's the example I should follow.

Ha. I am so impatient, waiting for God's will - I keep asking God for an outline. A syllabus would be nice. I want to be prepared, I want to know when I can expect what I expect!

Mary? Trusted God. With very little information. No outline. Just - "Let it be done unto me as you have said."

Wow. I've got a long way to go.

Also, further into the study of this miracle the writer also notes:

When Jesus does something, He does it very well. It wasn't just wine, it was the best of wine.

...

When Jesus does something special, He does it big. One hundred eighty gallons. That would have provided for a very large and a very long party!

I really like that. He does it big! Whatever I am waiting for - will be worth it. Now back to that trust issue...


Source: Leith Anderson - Becoming Friends with God - A Devotional Invitation to Intimacy with God
I should also note that in the above quotations from the book, the writer does not capitalize he & him as references to Christ. I have taken the liberty of capitalizing the references to Christ as I feel it is proper.

Crazy days, but they make me smile

Sorry for the long hiatus! I have been crazy busy this week with getting stuff together for Canada, celebrating my birthday (it's actually April 28th, but I'll be in Canada), and visiting friends. I start work next week at a cute coffee shop on L.B.I. too. It's funny how I am actually so excited to work there, (actually ANYWHERE) at this point. My bday out was accompanied by one to many shots, but it was my "mock" celebration lol. Next week, I am going out to dinner with the fam to my favorite place "Mud City Crab House", then in Canada, I am pretty sure I'll be eating whatever concoctions my dad creates on his little stove.

The "healthy lifestyle" has been touch and go this week, some days I've felt great, but my workout has been on hold since Monday due to all of these crazy days. April is always jammed packed for me.

I lost another 2 pounds, woohoo! I really don't know how exactly, but I feel like with all the strength work with cardio definitely has helped. Changing up your routine really works!

I am off to Philly tonight to celebrate my good friend Charlene's bday and I'll get to see a lot of my college friends I miss so much. I love reunions with them, and I always feel like I am back in college when we are all together. We are going to have lunch at an outdoor place by the river... It's beautiful outside today.

All in all, these days have been crazy but in the midst, I am feeling good. Moving home was hard, leaving Colorado was harder, but days where I spend time with the ones I love, I feel like it was worth it in the end....

Have a great weekend!!

Meditation of the Day
We spend our whole lives searching for all the things we think we want... never really knowing what we have. -The Ataris

P.S. - I completed the second square foot garden plot... wohoooooooo

Greeting Committee

These wonderful worms were all over the sidewalk by the doorway at work Friday morning, and they multiplied during the day since it just kept raining....yuk, yuk, yuk. I tried to step around to not smash them. Yes, they were already dead, but, yuk....

Friday's Random Thoughts

Woohoo, it is Friday! Even though it was a short week, I have been so busy at work, I'm ready for the weekend.

The dogs got groomed yesterday and I was going to get some photos, but...suffice it to say, they looked cute. Adorable. Etc.

It rained all night starting yesterday afternoon and was still raining when I got up! Wow! Rain, something we dont' see much of! Yippee!

There is a wine tasting event on Sunday that I am going to, that will be fun, I'm sure.

Other than that, no big plans for the weekend. Actually, Adam and Tina will be here to take care of some business, so guess we'll just see what transpires and play it by ear....

Yep, random thoughts for sure today...

Favorite Photos from our Trip

Best Friends

KING

King #2

Which is your favorite? Mine is the first one, Best Friends.....

Jennifer Love Hewitt is Back in Maxim

Jennifer Love Hewitt is on the cover of the May 2009 issue of Maxim magazine - a good 10 years after she last appeared on their cover.She may not be nearly as hot as she was back then, but when you consider that her entire career has been based on her having a great rack that she refuses to ever completely show off, I suppose not much has changed.Hollywood Gossip,Hollywood News,Hollywood

Drew Barrymore gets dolled up again

Drew Barrymore dolled herself up for the premiere of Grey Gardens last night. Unfortunately, she also brought Justin Long, and the two were openly affectionate, according to People.Normally, I'd say "To each his own," except Drew is clearly giving Justin the "Did You Just Roofie Me?" Face in the final shot. Trust me, I'd The Geekologie Writer would know that look anywhere.Hollywood Gossip,

The Great Divide

Getting to know Mr. Dad (most recent dating prospect) a few weeks ago was the most unusual dating experience I have had. A divorced dad - who had been married for 12 years.

We brought to each other the perspective of two entirely different worlds.
He'd been married since he was 24. I've been alone since I left the security of my parent's home at age 18.

I couldn't even imagine being married at 24! In all honesty, at 24 I wasn't even interested in marriage. I was barely interested in anything but my career. I knew I wanted to get married someday - but I wanted to experience a little bit of life without school first. (can I get a hallelujah?)

Mr. Dad on the other hand, jumped right into a family. His wife had a child from a previous relationship.

As we talked about our experiences, I realized that this man had never EVER been alone. At 24 you just finished college, you're probably still living with roommates. If you're marrying at 24 you've probably been dating for at least a year or two - so you've never spent any REAL time looking for a mate.
And now, divorced with three kids - he's still never alone.

I told him once that the comment that bugs me most from married folks is, "Marriage is hard."
#1 - No kidding! Anything that is worthwhile IS hard. Big surprise.
#2 - Guess what? Being single is hard too.
Maybe just maybe, life is hard regardless of your circumstances.

After I shared this, he asked me a question that showed he realized he had no way to comprehend my point of view - but he was interested in trying. He asked, "Tell me about being single. How is it hard?"

#1 - Every day I come home to an empty house. (Never mind the empty bed)
#2 - Everything I do (work, grocery shopping, making my bed) is for me. That's not very satisfying.
#3 - There is no physical touch. No foot rub, no caress, no pats on the head or even brushing against a hand when setting the table. (as if I set a table! - ha!)

I told him that I'm sure, even in a house alone with three kids at least you get to tousle their hair when they come through the door. Depending on their ages, hugs are still a commodity. That he had no idea what it's like to live without touch.

Later he told me that those words just broke his heart for me. During the brief time we spent together he spoiled me with strong fingers rubbing my back. Almost constantly, as if he couldn't stop, and I wasn't going to stop him! It was like sensory overload.

This reminds me of the Great Divide between Marrieds and Singles.
For some reason - once someone gets married they can no longer relate to single life. I don't know if it's because they are immediately absorbed in something bigger - a partnership that really does take all their energy. Or if they just become selfish - self absorbed in a we sort of way.

What I find really odd is that - in conversations, I feel that single people can really relate to married people. We sympathize with the complications of living with another human being. We can commiserate over the challenges of a new baby. Even though we've never been married or had kids - we can relate because - well - because we come from a family. We have the experience of having parents model husband-wife behavior. We know what about our parents relationship worked and didn't work. We can apply the concept to ourselves and others.

But married people can no longer relate to singles - despite the fact that we all started out single!!

Really.
Three months after my best friend got married she actually said, "I don't know any single people."
Really?! All you knew were single people three months ago - and now you don't know any?

Maybe the moment that status changes - people seek out others with the same traits.
Like when you have only one working headlight on your car - you're more keenly aware of every other car on the road with only one headlight.

Maybe they realize that being single really was hard - and they want to put as much distance between it and them as possible.

When they do try to relate... sometimes it's absurd. They find out you have a date and they say ridiculous things like "Oh that will be fun." "This is going to the be the One."

Fun? Please. The One? Doubtful.

But most offensive are the married people who think they'd rather be single than married.
Another friend told me of a gaggle of married people, possibly trying to console her on her single status, launched into a bit about how so many people are headed for divorce and they never want to get married again.

To which I say - HA! People get divorced and within a year they are looking for someone else to help fill the empty space. Those are the people driving up the divorce rate. They say they want out and they want to be alone - but those are the very people diving into new relationships way before they are ready - and basically contaminating the dating pool for the rest of us.

To quote Thornton Wilder's Our Town - "We were meant to go through this world two by two."

If I ever do get married, I vow to never forget the struggle and pain of being single. I hope to be able to still relate to the single people in my life and at least commiserate.

Easter Weekend

There were no dyed eggs this year!! I did miss my two little ones, Brooklyn and Chloe. They were not with us for Easter this year. I know they had fun, though. Chloe was with her other grandparents and her dad this year. Brooklyn just got home from a vacation to Maui with his mom...wow!!, and spent Easter with his dad, and our extended family in Denver. It was strange not dying eggs and getting up early to watch the big hunt!

We had an awesome time in Dubois. Tina did a great job hosting Easter dinner for us and three others, friends of theirs in Dubois. It was a nice day, beautiful outside, and a wonderful gathering inside.

It is beautiful in and around Dubois, the landscape is ever changing, and you can't tire of anything, because of the great variety. They have the most awesome view from their house all the way around. It is just heaven.


We missed our other children, and hope they can experience the beauty of Dubois as well sometime soon.

Click on this sentence to view Easter Weekend Photos of our trip.
(It is easiest to click Slideshow in the upper left corner to view photos. )

Big Horn Sheep In Wyoming

I will post a link to my pictures after I get the captions done.

Scarlett Johansson clear up rumors dropping 14 pounds

Scarlett Johansson clear up rumors of her dropping 14 pounds by using her blog. Scarlett Johansson wrote "If I were to lose 14 pounds, I'd have to part with both arms. And a foot. I'm frustrated with the irresponsibility of tabloid media who sell the public ideas about what we should look like and how we should get there."


Scarlett Johansson continues by saying she feels "the press should be held accountable for the false ideals they sell to their readers regarding body image."


The actress is currently the face of Dolce & Gabbana's makeup line. Scarlett Johansson can also be seen in her "cat suit" when 'Iron Man 2' comes to theaters in May of next year.

Scarlett Johansson is giving the skinny on how she's slimming down for her new role as Black Widow in 'Iron Man 2,' denying the rumors that she's been on a crash diet.

Megan Fox plays gorgeous cheerleader In JENNIFER'S BODY

The hot Hollywood bombshell Megan Fox, With little being reported of the production of the upcoming horror comedy Jennifer's Body, Empire Magazine and Megan Fox's fansite Megan-Fox.net have revealed what Megan Fox's character will be. In a plot line which appears to cater to a lot of lusty fanboys.


In the film, Megan Fox plays a gorgeous cheerleader who is possessed by a demon and starts feeding off the boys in a small Minnesota farming town. Amanda Seyfried, Johnny Simmons, Adam Brody and J.K. Simmons. Director Karyn Kusama led the action behind the camera for 20th Century Fox, based on a screenplay by Diablo Cody.


Empire magazine has published this new photo of Megan Fox in Jennifer's Body, Jennifer's Body will hit theaters September 18, 2009.


The story of Jennifer's Body concluded like- When a gorgeous cheerleader is possessed by a demon and starts feeding off the boys in a small Minnesota farming town, her "plain Jane" best friend must kill her, then escape from a correctional facility to go after the Satan-worshipping rock band responsible for the horrible transformation.

Megan Fox:"I have no plans of getting married soon"

The sexy and hot "Transformers" star Megan Fox explains, "I am impulsive and I love my boyfriend but I have no plans of getting married any time soon."

Hollywood bombshell Megan Fox had gotten an engagement ring from on-again/off-again fiancé Brian Austin Green, but told "Extra" that Megan Fox has no plans to walk down the aisle anytime soon!

"I'm not going to be married -- I'm not the marrying type," Megan Fox admits to "Extra" on the set of Megan Fox new film, adding, "and I know what your next question is going to be -- you're going to ask me, 'Why are you engaged if you're not the marrying type?"

Megan Fox's next flick, "Jennifer's Body," slashes into theatres September 18.

The Need for Grace

Yep. I've been feeling sorry for myself lately.
It's easy to do.
I only have to think about my upcoming 39th birthday and the fact that I have no husband, no boyfriend, no children. ( and a full-time job that just went part-time. Whoo hoo. )

Never mind the affliction of renewed symptoms which are the only proof that I am a woman, in terms of a physical body - a body that will likely never prove it's feminine worth by bearing a child.
See, when Mr. Burns and I started dating in 2007 - I began experiencing pain where there had never been pain before. In my breasts.

At the same time, one of my favorite journalists - ABC's R*b!n R*berts - was sharing her experience with breast cancer - and urging women to get checked. I decided to see my doctor.
No cause for alarm. The pain and tenderness I was experiencing was not cancer. My doc said it was peri-menopause.

I was in a state of disbelief. I actually said to her, "Do you mean to tell me that I am 37 years old, finally met a man I could think of marrying - only to find out that my childbearing years are even less than I thought?!!!"

She nodded. I love my doctor, but she wasn't sympathetic - just matter-of-fact. Which is fine. Heck if I want sympathy, I'll hire a shrink. She did however, share that she went through it too - and warned me that it's really, really lousy.

Oddly enough, a year later I wasn't experiencing those symptoms anymore. I was back to normal and taking normal for granted.

But now they're back. My typically very flat chest suddenly feels as though it's bursting with lead. The water stream from my shower hurts like he!!. A bra feels like a torture device.

It's all just a reminder that my clock is ticking in an empty room. If a clock ticks in the forest and there's no one there to hear it - does it make a sound? Does it matter?

On the upside, I bought a new bra and it seems I suddenly fill a B cup. Yay me!

Enough about my b**bs. That's a bit of a sidetrack. It's really just a painful reminder of how alone I am and that I'm running out of time.

That I spent the best years of my life (and my best physical condition) practicing abstinence - all the while watching people who don't share their faith, don't live for God and surely don't practice abstinence - getting everything EVERYTHING that I pray for.

I grouse that while I am certain my reward is in heaven - it would be nice to get some reward on earth.

I know. I'm a real piece of work!

But in the end - as much as I mutter about it - I wouldn't change what I do for the Lord. I don't exactly regret it. In actuality, I'm not abstinent for the reward. I do it because it's the right thing to do. And tempted as I may be sometimes - it's not as if I'd rather be a hoochie. When you know the right thing to do - you can't just turn around and do the opposite because it's easier. Even if it is easier.

So, in the midst of my pity party I clicked on the blog of one of the angels of the Internet - Angie at Bring the Rain.
She shared the beautiful Easter story that she reads her girls from their children's bible.

They nailed Jesus to the cross.

"Father, forgive them, " Jesus gasped. "They don't understand what they are doing."

"You say you have come to rescue us!" people shouted. "But you can't even rescue yourself!"

But they were wrong. Jesus could have rescued himself. A legion of angels would have flown to his side-if he'd called.

"If you were really the Son of God, you could just climb down off that cross!" they said.

And of course they were right. Jesus could have just climbed down. Actually, he could have just said a word and made it all stop. Like when he healed the little girl. And stilled the storm. And fed 5000 people.

But Jesus stayed.

You see, they didn't understand. It wasn't the nails that kept Jesus there.

It was love.

Yes. I may grumble about my cross. But as Angie pointed out - it's not the religion - but the relationship that keeps me close to Christ.
I do what I believe because I love God! (if you can see that through my grumbling, you are blessed with a pure heart! That's for certain!)

I know my problems don't sound as great as Angie's or Christ's or R*b!n R*berts' or many, many other people's - but they are mine. My afflicted life is the one with which I encounter the world - so even though it may not seem so terrible to anyone else - it is my cross. Every one's cross looks lighter by comparison. Admit it, you think so too.

It's just that in so many ways, this is not the life I imagineed. Being alone. Struggling just to get by.

Meanwhile -I pray for the grace to carry my cross without the whining. Maybe one day, I'll catch up.

Supermodel Adriana Lima

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Adriana Lima Victoria's Secret Lingerie Photos

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Happy Easter

Happy Easter! This Glorious, Glorious Day.

Sorry - I can't create a video link - but enjoy this beautiful version of Were You There.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9J8PBY04gTU

Happy Easter!

Pppllbbt!

I'm feeling pretty lonely right now.
Another holiday alone.
Yes, a friend invited me to have Easter dinner with her family, and I may still take her up on it - but for right now, I'm just not feeling it. Sometimes it's uncomfortable to insert yourself into someone else's family.

I am thinking of a friend of mine back home - who was frazzled getting her house ready for her parents, step parents, brothers, sisters, in-laws and all their kids. And I can't feel sympathetic for her. HER FAMILY comes to her for holidays. Ya know why? Cuz she has a family.

My family will never come here for Christmas or Easter or Thanksgiving. At least not until I'm married and probably not until I have kids. Gotta lay that golden egg ya know.

And married - may never happen.
Things with Mr. Dad look like they're fizzling. That's normal. Things are always really sparky and exciting at first - but as per usual it doesn't last.

Then there is Mr. Burns. He's been calling and asking me to dinner, and to go on walks and stuff with him. We went out for dinner a couple weeks ago - I thought he would have something he wanted to tell me - but no - he just wanted to enjoy my company.

Then he wanted to take me to his place to show me his new furniture and how he's been improving his house. (is he finally nesting?) When there, he said things like - "If we end up together we'll put this here - that there. We'll have to modify this closet."

I looked at him seriously and said, "How can you say things like that? 'If we end up together?'."
He says he is thinking about his future and that he pictures me in it.

Well isn't that a nice piece of torture? Why wasn't he thinking like this while I was thinking that way?

The last time he called, wanting to walk in my favorite park, I had plans with Mr. Dad. I didn't say anything that specific - but I also didn't say that my plans were with any of my girlfriends.
I think he figured it out.

And before we got together for dinner a few weeks ago - I took his phone calls spouting pure vinegar. A bit of hostility. I'm still angry that I'm not planning a wedding.
I'm a little pissed that I'm turning 39 this summer and still looking for a husband! A bit of that anger is directed at Mr. Burns because he should have realized he didn't want me and let me go a year earlier.

And worst of all - though I try to deny it - some of my anger is directed at God, because I feel like He's holding out on me. Or that He sold me a bill of goods (everyone gets married - everyone but YOU!) that He won't make good on.

Clearly I have the wrong attitude. Right now I don't know how to change it. Today I don't know how to change it. Some days are better than others. This is a tough one.

as for home for Easter - I can't afford it. I just spent $300 getting my taxes done. I'm planning to go home in May for my niece's graduation - and a 20 hour drive each month just isn't that appealing - or affordable considering my reduced hours.

Pity Party - right here.

Happy Easter though.

Something in the air....

Good afternoon everyone! This morning I woke up and went to an overdo pilates class at the gym. I was surprised we had a fill-in teacher, but she did an amazing job. I then went and visited my sister at work and came home to many pleasant surprises:

Would you believe me if I told you i made this rye bread while at pilates? Well, I had some assistance from the Breadman, aka, the bread machine behind the loaf. We've had this machine sitting in the back of our pantry for years and my sister and I decided to buy the ingredients to make homemade bread. Dana has made like 4 loaves, but I tried my hand at it and wala.... the bread gods were in my favor.... This is a light wheat rye:


I bet you WOULD believe I made these beautiful egg babies all by myself, lol:


The plants must've taken steroids last night or something because look what I woke up to this morning!!!!::: Summer Squash, Cucs busting out of the cells!!


My tomatoes also were busting out! Something was in the air last night or the cards are just in my favor this morning with everything doing what it's supposed to.

Maybe the plants are telling me that I have to cultivate my other square foot garden tomorrow....

Yesterday was pretty fun. I made enchiladas with my friend Daryl at her house, came home, did The Shred Level 3 with my sis and her friend, then I did Yogadownload Detox #2, which was a little more advanced but was nice. I also accidentally got hooked on this show on BBC called Mistresses. It's like a classy but secretly whorish version of Sex and the City, UK style.

I've been pretty good with exercising (strength mostly) and watching my meals lately and finally have dropped some weight, which I am happy about! It's only a little, but I feel like this week my balance and mindset was right on par with my healthy goals.

I leave you with this great song by Ryan Adams called My Winding Wheel. Ryan recently married Many Moore (weird) and started a death metal band (weirder), but this song reminds me that at one time he was sane enough to make good music. A good 3:56 seconds well spent:


Tonight, I am staying with my friend Amanda at her Aunt's house on the island and we're going to see our first live show of the Spring/Summer! Ted Hammock, a local singer. Nice.

It's raining here, but I'm glad because then my garden will start to get a move on....

Meditation of the Day

Do not now seek the answers, which cannot be given you because you would not be able to live them. And the point is, to live everything. Live the questions now. Perhaps you will then gradually, without noticing it, live along some distant day into the answer.-Rainer Marie Rilke