really? Really? REALLY????

For starters today, I saw something that really upset, and I have seen it before. I hate the shirt with this print on it:

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Are we in shock of the way our world views marriage and why our divorce rate is so high? Do not blame it on people who live together before getting married; I've seen and heard the statistics. Those of us who do it make a conscious choice. This shirt, however humorous it might be to you, shows truly why our society sucks when it comes to marriage. If you view marriage as the end to your "life" and a "game over" of course it will not work for you. Just as if you wake up thinking your day will suck, news flash, it probably will. I get that these shirts are supposed to just be funny, but lots of men (and women) feel this way. My first issue with the shirt is the way it portrays the woman. Getting married is her fault, as if she chose to do it and now the man has a "ball and chain." If you do not want to get married and the girl you are with wants to, maybe you should reevaluate things. If you have no interest in getting married ever, for any reason-its your decision, don't string along this girl and make her resent you. Don't say, somebody baby just not today. She will resent you and therefore become that ball and chain. Just be honest. This group of guys I saw where one was wearing the above mentioned shirt, they looked like guys who would tease their friends for getting married. This brings me to my next pet peeve of the day (I have to tell you though, it is so beautiful outside today and I had the day off, so basically I am in an excellent mood).

I have a guilty pleasure, it is "War of the Roses" on Magic

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92.5. I love listening to the people, it is like a 10 minute soap opera on the radio. It is sweet when someone's fears of their partner cheating are relieved, BUT when they find out the cold hard truth I get sad and angry. Why do you ask? First, there's the typical, "I am sorry, I didn't think you would find out, I wasn't sure about us," etc. etc. Yes, you are a coward, but at least when you are sincere you at least sound like you care for that person. I bring you to the next kind of person. It goes like this: "We have only been together like a year (or any amount of time) I mean, we weren't exclusive or anything." This means, well this isn't the first, its the first time you got caught. Second, not exclusive? Last time I checked if you are my boyfriend we are exclusive. No ifs and or buts. People are cowards and have no conscience. And we think living together before marriage breaks up our marriages? No, its having no conscience or respect for anybody. It is pure selfishness.

My pet peeve of the day. Enjoy the sunshine. It is beautiful.

we should have learned

"The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you'll go." - Dr. Seuss

I love reading. I know that I have already done a post on reading, but I am going to explain once again. As if anyone out there really cares. I finished reading, "Water for Elephants," and I really liked it. I liked it a whole lot. It sparked my interest not only in circuses but also the 1930s and 1940s; time periods that already fascinated me. Anyway, I really liked the Dr. Seuss quote, and I had also just finished reading the book. I do, however, have no interest at all in seeing the movie. First of all, I can not picture Robert Pattinson and Reese Witherspoon as the characters. It just does not work. Sorry Mr. P but unless you are playing a vampire, well, then you're really not my kind of actor. You naturally look vampire-ish. Secondly, I can not picture Reese either. I prefer her to him as an actor no doubt, but eh, I'll probably skip it.

I do, however, want to see this:

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Yes, that is a photo from "Tangled," and I am dying to see it. Please, rent it for me!

will you still love me tomorrow....??

My self-confidence has been at an all time low. I miss my more slender self. My clothes fit and looked better. My stomach did not hang over my pants; I did not have a muffin top. Now all I can focus on is my stomach in my clothes hanging out. I have to wear higher waisted pants to try and cover it up. This is not a cute look, AT ALL. Anyone who knows me knows that I love shopping. I love window shopping and I also love actually shopping. I am so excited to have my sister visit so we can shop together later this week... Buuut, in my mind I'm thinking, oh I can't wait to get new accessories. I mean, I do love my accessories, but I don't even want to say, I can't wait to get new this or new that. Maybe some earrings and a scarf? Really? Earrings and a scarf? Who am I? Christopher says that from when I was heavier before I have all this extra skin, so gross, but so true. Yet, now, my body is starting to fill that extra skin back up with who knows what. I have these beautiful shoulders, but that's about it. This is a terrible post and I hope that nobody ever has to read it. It makes me so unhappy. :( :/

keepin' it real

I have decided, and maybe Chris will be happy with it, but then again, maybe he won't be, to try and really limit the processed food that I eat. I do know it is almost impossible to get rid of it all together, but I can do my best. I know that buying my Yoplait yogurt has processed sugar, BUT I think it is better than a candy bar. I have eliminated Diet Coke (high five and jumping jacks for me) and added lots more water (not that I didn't already drink enough as it is). With that being said, I am trying to eat food that is closer to its natural state rather than adding artificial junk. More fruits (real sugar) and vegetables. Which brings me to my real point. I was always a Yoplait Light kinda lady for the sake of calories, however, I have recently changed to regular. Why do you ask? Regular sugar is much better for me than fake sugar. And now I am a firm believer in it tasting better. Yum-o, with my strawberries and a few sprinkles of granola. Who needs dessert? I think I am going to test out full fat yogurt. I do not like whole milk, but if I can find it in the form of yogurt and possibly organic, that should be delicious. I don't really buy into things having to be organic, because that doesn't give us much to base on how the food is grown and raised, but, sometimes it has to be better. Anyway, yummy in my tummy. :)

happy birthday Momma Benz

Today is my mommy's birthday. She is 54, but does not look like it. This is a photo blog in tribute to Momma Benz. I can not be there with her BUT I know that the rest of my family is treating her well; except Ricky and Lucie, they do not really care much for others, unless that other person is petting them. Enjoy!

This is my mom in her fur coat, I believe it is her rabbit coat. I think this is when we first moved into our new house. My mom is kind of a dork, like me, which I think is partially where I get it from (the other part is from my dad and come Sepetember, you will see why!). Anyway, it does not matter which coat it is, other than the fact that she has it, but she never wears it. She really should though, don't you think?

I told my mom when she was visiting a couple weeks ago, that I think when my grandparents (and I am going to safely assume my grandmother alone) had all the intentions of calling her "Chrissy Jo" otherwise, why would they give her Jo as a middle name? So, this is Momma Benz aka Chrissy Jo, just do not, I repeat, do not call her: Christine.

Anyway, she is the best mom any one could EVER ask for. I lvoe her soooo much. I also know that she learned from the best. So, hopefully when I have children (which hopefully Hannah will suffice for the new "grauntie") I'll be just as good as a mom like they were.

These are a few of her favorite things:

• 
  
  The Bachelor, American Idol, and American's Next Top Model


• 
  
  Diet Coke on ice, with a straw that is big enough for the cup


• 
  
  Ice cream for dessert


• 
  
  Snacking rather than eating full meals (I haven't seen in awhile, but it used to be: "chips and cheese" with a pickle)


• 
  
  Peet's Coffee


• 
  
  Lindsay, Danielle, Lucie, and I suppose Ricky too


• 
  
  Decorating (thank you to my apartment that now looks like people live in it)


• 
  
  Hawaii

This is my mom, be jealous that my mom is better than your mom. Happy Birthday Mom!!!

time and time again

I have mentioned this time and time again, but I wholeheartedly feel that movies and tv shows were so much better from long, long ago. I love the movie, "How to Marry a Millionaire," not because it has Marilyn Monroe but because it is the perfect example of how a comedy should be. Not to mention, my favorite part of the movie, at least this version I rented, is the symphony before and after the movie. I would rather have a symphony any day over movie previews. In addition, I am in love with 1950's style. I love their hair, their clothes, the way their homes look, and lots of the music. Compared to the decade I am living in now, they were a much simpler time. And to think, most of these famous women in the world and men who starred in these great films are now all dying off if they are not already dead. Movies are not the same and I don't know if they ever will be.

I cut my heel today on one of the carts at work. It does not hurt, but it irritates me because I do not think I can wear regular shoes and go to the gym. Ugh, double ugh, and triple ugh. I'd like it to heel quickly. That would be my wish for it. Oh and for it to continue to be painless.

I gave up Diet Coke and now I'm going to be giving up aspartame and sucralose, no more fake sugar. It is time for bed now though. Good night!

peanut butter and sweet potatoes

I do not really know if that would be a good combination. It could be, but no, I did not test out that theory tonight. I did have a yummmmmy sweet potato from Outback; I love sweet potatoes. My discussion on peanut butter has to do with this article that my coworkers and I were discussing today. I'm not in the mood to go into it, but let's just say, I'm always right.

black.and.white.

I remember when I was a kid, since Nickelodeon does not do this anymore, watching Nick at Nite and seeing all the old shows from way before I was born. Many were in black and white; others were those that started when tv sets actually had color and were played in color. Examples: I Love Lucy, Leave It to Beaver, Dick Van Dyke Show, Bewitched, etc. etc. As well as movies and all kinds of stuff. Anyway, when the world revolved around black and white tv shows and movies, I think, we were happier people in general. And in many ways, I think I would have preferred living then. Here are my reasons for why I feel this way:

1. In the present, we want everything faster, louder, stronger, quicker, smarter, better looking, more of it, more expensive, top of the line, high quality, and as soon as possible. We don't even stop to think about what it is. Does this tv show provoke anything? Is this movie even funny to me or do I only laugh because everyone else is?
2. Back then, things were original. It is nearly as creative or interesting to remake things. Yes, covering a song is the finest form of flattery, and I'm all for that, when you make it your own but give credit to where it is due. But really, don't remake old movies and tv shows. It won't be as good, ever. I mean, think about it, could anyone but Lucille Ball be Lucy Ricardo? I don't think so. I rest my case.
3. People always seemed to live in the moment. This definitely relates to my first point, but families enjoyed time spent with each other. They did things together, besides watch tv. Yes, back then it was common for mom to stay home and dad to work and with the cost of things that is not quite possibly, but sometimes it seems as though family comes second or third or fourth to everything else in the world. That is so terribly wrong in so many ways.
4. It was embarrassing to have children before you were married or where short skirts or certain hairstyles. I am all for freedoms and for women to be treated equally to men, but newsflash, if you wear a short skirt and low cut shirt, a size too small, with high heels it is quite obvious you aren't dressing for your own enjoyment, fashion, or comfort, but as a sex object. Thanks for making it okay to stare at my chest because you like the attention. I don't. What happened to looking pretty and sophisticated, if not simply prim and proper? And when has casual Friday become the uniform for life? We shouldn't judge by appearance, but sometimes, it happens and I would rather come off as sophisticated that trashy.
5. Finally, politeness. I don't know if that's a word, but it seems, or maybe I'm incorrect, as I wasn't there. People were more polite. I don't know why I feel that way, but I do.

Anyway, those are my reasons for preferring the black and white era to my super technological world. I'm really into retro things these days and I'm totally digging old movies. I really want to watch a whole bunch. Hmm... Maybe I will. :)

These are a few of my favorite things...

The title is self-explanatory. This is a list of my favorite things.

• Lists. What thing to start off with. I love making lists. Some are short, some are long, but I really love lists. They could be lists of anything in the whole wide world. It does not matter. I prefer them handwritten, but any kind of list will do.
• Ice cream. What would our world be without ice cream? My favorites (yes - more than one, I really can not limit it to just one): Baskin Robbins' Peanut Butter N Chocolate. Mmmm... Baskin Robbins' Love Potion #31, once again, heaven in a cup. Butter Pecan, it makes me feel like a classic movie, that I should be living in Black and White - which, is completely weird, but it is utterly delicious. Rainbow Sherbet - summer in an ice cream cone.
• Reading and books. I can get lost in any book. I always give a book the benefit of the doubt. It might not seem very good, but 8 times out of 10, it definitely turns out better than it started.
• Sunglasses. I have quite a few pairs. Thankfully, I was blessed with a wide-ish, heart-ish, and round-ish shaped face. I can pull off any big sunglasses in the world. I can pull off aviators and classic Ray-Bans. I can't pull off anything small, but anyway, I have a bunch, in many different colors. I just love them.
• Real Housewives of Orange County. It is almost embarrassing, but it really is my favorite. I do not dislike the other versions of the show, but Orange County is the original and it is my absolute, hands down favorite.
• Old Hollywood. It sounds silly but anything from 1920 - 1960. It was a different time. It was a different world. Movies were better, people were more creative, movie stars weren't so whacked out. It was just better.
• French Toast. My favorite breakfast food. Mmm... with lots of cinnamon and syrup.
• Watching cooking and decorating shows, things that are so far from my life, but I love them.
• Dresses and skirts. Don't get me wrong, I love my comfy jeans and leggings, but really, I love dresses and skirts. Long or short, plain or printed, with heels, flats or flip flops. Obviously I should have been born when pants were forbidden on women. I really could hvae gone for those times.
• Grease and Footloose. Best movies, ever. They don't even need any explaining.
• Parenthood, the TV show. I'm a crazy cross of Kristina and Julia, and I love it; while Chris is a cross of Adam and Joel. I love that even more.
• San Diego. I live here nad I love it. It is my happy place. Beaches, sunshine, and all the things that I want in life.

rain. Rain. RAIN.

It is raining outside. I like the rain, only when I am inside. Not when I am outside like I was today. I'm pretty tired and my body is absolutely exhausted. I'm going to go to sleep soon. However, I have one thing I'd like to share. Going to Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum and Grauman's Chinese Theater out in this awful rain, makes me want to do one thing. But on some comfy jammies and curl up watching old movies in the rain. Awww... what I wouldn't do for a day off tomorrow just to do that. Lovely. Oh well. I leave you on this note, my new favorite photo:

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the sahara

I have really dry skin and hair. So dry that it cracks and itches. From my feet to the top of my head. The only thing that works on my feet, is Eucerin Plus Intensive Repair. However, nothing works on my hair. It is pretty soft and shiny, but sucks in so much water from my shower, its insane. And it doesn't grow, at all. Or at least, not fast enough. I'd like long hair again. Good night.

more grease than a burger joint

Unfortunately, like many, I have had a problem with acne. I am thankful, that for the last few months, I have really kept it under control. Maybe I am finally growing out of it or maybe I am really taking the best care of it that I can. Anyway, for the last week I have had the most oily prone skin in the world. I have never had this issues, acne yes, but never just a greasy, oily feeling. I just took a shower, my hair is off my face and I am freshly washed, and I feel the oil piling up. I think you could fry a hamburger at McDonald's on it. It is just really not pretty. My hair and skin are so dry, I moisturize once a day (for moisturization and for the sunscreen protection that it has). Anyway, I'm really tired of this problem.

I'm also tired of not enjoying my lunch. Lean Cuisines used to be great. Now, I would rather eat anything else. I am not in the mood for fast food, just something that tastes good. It is so inconvenient to have good food. I supposed I'm being extra picky. I think I'm going to have to go the fruits and veggies route or tuna sandwiches or peanut butter and jelly, or who knows. I need new ideas.

eh

I'm addicted to Kit Kats. Are they my new replacement for Diet Coke? I hope so.

I have nothing to really blog about today.

My legs are sore, I'm thankful that they can carry my body through a million activities BUT, they are still sore.

I'm pretty sleepy.

I'm also sick and tired of people ranting and raving about this whole "Asians in the Library" thing. Yeah, she made a video that she probably regrets making. She isn't the first, she won't be the last. Stop being so jealous of her because she has something you don't. Accept her apology and move on. She's a 20 year old girl, who now has a ruined life. Is that what you wanted? Well, it is what she'll get. She can not do any more than just apologize. And if you won't accept that, then I feel bad for you, not her. She will always remember this mistake, but she will move on. Just leave her alone. I'm not in the mood to continue with this rant, so there you go.

Did I mention my legs are sore? Oh, ok, I did. That's great. :)

....something always brings me back to you....

I've been toying with meditation and yoga and different relaxation practices for awhile. I really do not know where to begin. I am hoping that it will help me sleep better and get through my day. The exercise is helping, and my eating was okay for awhile, but I really want to cut some thigns out of my diet. I just want to take an overhaul and try again. We all grow up with our parents telling us to eat this, eat that, but do not, I repeat do not eat that and only a little bit of that. I can not tell you what my mom and dad said I could or could not eat. This is really just a brain dump, it is a Monday after all. My coworkers and I toyed with growing wheatgrass and drinking shakes of it, together, as to not have to deal with the potential grotesque-ness (my new word, thanks I'm glad you like it) of drinking grass. Apparently, it helps flush out the nasty toxins that make you have B.O. I do not sweat profusely, but I tried to give up regular deodorant to help prevent cancer (you know, aluminum being bad for you, clogging your glands, and potentially causing cancer) but it did two things: 1) Yeah, I sweat like a whore in church and 2) I got a rash. The rash is slowly going away now that I've gone back to my regular deodorant. I'll try again when the rash heals. It could be the scent, I could try unscented.

I've thought about what it must be like to be an organic eating, water drinking, super active, wheat grass shooting, non coffee addicted person. Oh yes, also adding yoga and meditation to that as well. For starters, they'd definitely not be me. I am slowly losing my addiction to caffeine (praise Jesus, no seriously, its a life saver). I love me some coffee, and I'd like to drink large amounts of it daily, BUT if I miss it because I'm too lazy to make it and too cheap to buy it, I DO NOT, I repeat, DO NOT, get a migraine. I had a mild twinge of a headache, but with enough water in my body, the hydration prevents anything more. So I guzzle my tea, with its lower caffeine count, and cross my fingers that I can keep the pain at bay.

This blog has helped with the relaxation. I really just type up all I want and say all I need to say and find important. And on a beautiful note, I love my Sara Bareilles pandora radio station.

Criminals?

For whatever reason, and this is one that I have not quite been able to figure out yet, the church service today was much shorter than usual. I know that my church tends to fall into the longer service time of the spectrum, it went so quickly, I did not really know what to think of any of it. Although, I thoroughly enjoyed the Message. (It is the most important part anyway).

As Christians, or Lutherans since I'm not so sure I can really generalize this, we are entering what is or should be considered the most important time in the church year: Lent, followed by Passion Week, and finished with Easter. If you do not find this of importance, I suggest you go back to Adam and Eve and then to Jesus's birth, and you might figure it out. I'm not going to steal what Pastor Burkey wrote up, but I am taking the idea and digging deeper into in my own way. We all know the image of Jesus on the cross, three crosses on the hill-in Golgatha I believe-with the two criminals flanking him on either side. It is a brutal image to see and imagine, yet, it is truly a turning point in our history with God and His son, Jesus. Throughtout Jesus's life we see him wavering between being the Son of God and the Son of Man. This is an important time where we as Christians see this middle ground between heaven and earth, Jesus.

"Two other men, both criminals, were also led out with him to be exectued. When they came to the place called the Skull, they crucified him there, along with the criminals-one on his right, the other one his left. Jesus said, 'Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.' And they divided up his clothes by casting lots." Luke 23:32-35

Now, I feel as though most of us see this version of the Crucifixion. Jesus is mocked by many, those on the ground watching the gruesome execution of three men, as well as the criminals, and many others around. Possibly anybody passing through the area, etc. Now, we have the opportunity, to see three other accounts of this moment in Jesus's life, as well as there being more to this particular version of the Crucifixion.

"Two robbers were crucified with him, one on his right and one on his left. Thsoe who passed by hurled insults at him, shaking their heads and saying, 'You who aer goign to destroy the temple and build it in three days, save yourself! Come down from teh cross, if you are the Son of God!' In the same way the robbers who were crucified with him also heaped insults on him." Matthew 27:38-40, 44.

Matthew is usually the much more long winded writer of the Gospel, but this account does not attain for what could be the most important parts of this story. If not the most important, it is a vital point of what we can expect thanks to Jesus's death on the cross.

"One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at him: 'Aren't you the Christ? Save yourself and us!' But the other criminal rebuked him. 'Don't you fear God,' he said, 'since you are under the same sentence?' 'We are punished justly for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong.' 'Jesus remember me when you come in to your kingdom.'" Luke 23:39-42

This criminal realized that he was at a point in his life that no matter what, he was going to die. He then came to the realization of where he wanted to spend eternity. There was no reason to badger Jesus into trying to save them in that moment and keep them on the earth. He decided that he wanted to join Jesus in his kingdom, just like we all hope to one day. The answer that he gave the criminal is the answer that he gives to us:

"Jesus answered him, 'I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise.'" Luke 23:43

Of all phrases that become important to us in this particular time is the words of the criminal and Jesus's response. Those who believe in Jesus before men will be in paradise with him upon their earthly death.

"Then he said to them all: 'If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will save it.'" Luke 9:23-24

"We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give." - Winston Churchill

This is such a true and powerful statement. The earnings that we all make are things we get, or things we receive. Yes, we all need them to survive on a daily basis. Without some kind of wage, you would not be able to survive. However, there is so much more to life than money exchanging hands, money entering a bank account, or money being spent. It is more important to make our lives something by giving to others. That does not mean that you have to give all the money you have to someone else. You can give to others by being kind; smile at someone, hold the door open for them, say please and thank you. That is giving to someone. And yes, it could be physically giving and financially giving. Buy yourself a pair of Toms shoes and children in poor countries without shoes will be given a pair of shoes. Yes, you were using your wages to buy yourself something, but you gave something back.

ashes, ashes, we all fall down

I suppose it is not the most appropriate title for an Ash Wednesday post, but it was the first thing that popped into my head. Yet, I think I can make jsut that line alone work for Ash Wednesday. I feel like such a bad person for not going to church tonight, but sometimes things do not work out the way we would like them too. Anyway, these ashes are supposed to be the burnings of last years palm fronds from Palm Sunday. The imposition of the ashes is symbolic as a form of repentance and preparation for the 40 days of Lent that are symbolic of the time that Jesus spent fasting and preparing for Easter and his time on the cross. With that being said, with these ashes we fall on our knees, we "fall down" in repentance and ask for forgiveness. It is the symbolic beginning to a time of almost darkness, times of temptation when Jesus really struggled with what he knew was ultimately going to happen to him. I know this song is better for Easter, but it always makes me want to fall to my knees and remember what God and Jesus did for us, God was willing to send His only son whom He loved so much, to die on the cross to forgive us. What more could any person ask for? We have to be so thankful for that.

In only a moment truth

Was seen revealed this mystery

The crown that showed no dignity He wore

And the King was placed for all the world

To show disgrace but only beauty flowed from this place

Would you take the place of this man?

Would you take the nails from His hands?

Would you take the place of this man?

Would you take the nails from His hands?

He held the weight of impurity

The Father would not see

The reasons had finally come to be to

Show the depthy of his grace with

Every sin erased He knew that this

Was why He came

Would you take the place of this man?

Would you take the nails from His hands?

Would you take the place of this man?

Would you take the nails from His hands?

And we just don't know the blood and

Water flowed and in it all

He shows just how much He cares

And the veil was torn so we could have

This open door and all these things have

Finally been complete

Would you take the place of this man?

Would you take the nails from His hands?

Would you take the place of this man?

Would you take the nails from His hands?

"This Man" - Jeremy Camp

We have to be aware and remember what this time is all about. It is not about, can I give something up and stick with it or can I adopt a habit that would benefit me. We should really be giving up something so difficult, like 40 days of fasting, that we struggle to make it through and rely on the God's strength and assurance to get us through. We should also be focusing on studying different parts of the Bible, not just trying to give something up.

tough

Jillian Michaels' 30 Day Shred is totally kicking my butt. It feels so good. I don't care what I weigh exactly, I know that I have a lot of muscle already, or I did. I was very small but I didn't lose many pounds before. That's what I'm hoping for. I want to wear a size 8 and stay there. None of this 12, 14, 10 back to a 12 scenario. I am eating lots of fruits and vegetables, because I know they are better to eat than anything else. I always have a fruit and a vegetable with my lunch (berries or an apple and carrots). I've been buying smaller apples so that I'm not gorging myself with a huge piece of fruit, but I'm able to enjoy it. I really need to get more veggies though. I just think that fruits are so much easier to grab and go. There aren't really any veggies other than washed baby carrots that you don't have to cut up or anything. I'm going to really incorporate more into my life.

I also need to give up or pick up a habit for Lent. I already gave up Diet Coke, and I think I've survived so far. I don't miss it as much as I used to. I'm also going to treat myself to a weekly Dr. Pepper so that I get the craving for soda out of my system. I was thinking of reading the Bible more, but I don't know if that will work to just out right read the Bible. I'm starting to help in church, simply by assisting with the LWA Spring Brunch, but I don't really know of any habits that I should pick up or any that I should quit. I can't give up junk food because I really don't eat that much... I think it would be way too hard with the limited amount that I eat. I already drink more water than most people. Hmmph... Maybe it will come to me in a dream tonight.

I want this blog to become more thought provoking for me, but we will see if in my desk job anything crosses my path that is thought provoking and educational.

garbage

No, I'm not talking about old food, paper, and empty containers. I'm talking about my secret addictions: Real Housewives (of everywhere but Atlanta and New York, I can't really get into them). My ultimate fave, is obviously the original: The Real Housewives of Orange County. My second favorite is New Jersey. Beverly Hills and Miami are tied for next in line, well I haven't really watched Miami, but I kind of dug Beverly Hills. Anyway, I'm addicted. I always watch all the marathons and reruns. It doesn't bother me if it is fake or real, it is so entertaining. It really is the only trashy TV that I watch. I loathe Jersey Shore; I can't stand the Bachelor and the Bachelorette; you won't catch me wathing Teen Mom 2 or any of the other crappy MTV shows (Real World), most of these shows are just for people to drink, have sex (or who have had sex and now have children), and do illegal things without getting caught. The message it sends out is irresponsible.

Anyway, that is the only garbage that I watch. Speaking of garbage, I have to stop putting garbage into my body. Ugh, Jillian Michaels' 30 Day Shred is only SOMETIMES something I can do. I need to treat my body like a temple and let the only garbage in my life be the kind in my trash can and my Real Housewives television.

I don't have much more for today.

Welcome to This World

Hannah Margaret Christensen was born yesterday. Congratulations Kevin and Megan!

It is amazing to think of how this world works. There really is a time for everything in life. Yes, there is sadness when a loved one dies and the grief that goes with it. Yet, there is also the happiness and the joy in each new life that is born into this world. That is something that can never be taken away. Anyway, everyone is so excited for this new life and all that she will bring to this family.

On a more spiritual note, today was Transfiguration Sunday. A very important part of Christ's journey to the cross. As if we did not already know, but it is a day that God made special with Moses and Elijah coming down and God shining a great light onto Jesus. God was so pleased with His Son. It is a great experience that all parents, I assume, experience, being delighted in their children. Luckily, thanks to Jesus, we don't have to go through the pain and suffering for our sins.

Better Together

Some things are better together:

• Peanut Butter and chocolate
• Macaroni and cheese
• Jack Johnson and sunshine
• Me and Chris ♥

This a terrible list. I thought I could come up with more. Obviously, things are not better together like I was hoping to go for. Oh well. :)

Curtain Closing

It is Friday night.
The weekend has begun.
I'm in my satin-y nightie.
I'm freshly showered.
My make up is off
and my skin is soft.
My music is playing,
ever so low and sweet.
And now it is time that
my dreams and I meet.

I just wrote that on the spot, it probably isn't that great; it came to me while listening to Adele. I'm really feeling my Sara Bareilles Pandora station. I really need, yes, need her new CD; as well as Adele's new CD. I'm ever so relaxed right now. There is nothing like wearing a soft and clean nightgown and being fresh out of the shower. It is just warm enough in my apartment, and my music is just so perfect.

I've had a tough Friday, and can't wait to relax and do nothing this weekend. Oh, did I mention I bought this new laptop today. I really like it. It is pretty and now I have one that I can use ANYWHERE. However, now I'm going to be a slave to my laptop again; awesome.

Good night moon.

uncharted

I like Sara Bareilles' new song. I should probably buy her new CD.



However, my issue for today, (and can I ever not have an issue?!) is the disqualification from the Brigham Young University basketball team of Brandon Davies. I went to high school with a large amount of Mormons, or those who are Latter Day Saints, I'm not sure what is the proper way to call them, yet, whichever they prefer, hopefully I've mentioned it. I am not uncomfortable by them, I don't think they are "freaks" or "weird" in fact, they have a much higher strength and willpower than most to truly live in this world but not of it. However, I must make remarks on what is all over NCAA Division 1 Men's Basketball.



First, Brandon Davies broke the honor code that all students sign when attending Brigham Young University (from here on out, BYU). It is a list of moral and ethical standards that the students are to live by. I would hesitate to call them rules, because that implies that someone just made them up. They are standards, high standards at that, which these students must abide by. Now, a large number of students attend BYU and it must not be that difficult to abide by these standards if such a large number of people choose to go to school there. At first, that is all the NCAA Div I had heard of about this young man. Then it was said that it was nothing criminal. Then comes the heat, from every corner of the ring, and some inbetween. What could he have done, that wasn't criminal that would mean he is to be kicked off the team? Then I hear of these horrendous comments made by one of my alma mater's students (about another player than said player - a hearsay paraphrase): "Hey go poke his girlfriend because he can't." First of all that is absolutely the most inappropriate thing I have ever heard of. I am without a doubt, embarrassed to be associated with such foul minded and mouthed people. But anyway, back to Brandon Davies.



It is then learned that he had sexual relations with his girlfriend and confessed to it. Now, there are many issues that will eventually arise from this, but first is the thought that this code of honor is too harsh. Yet, I don't think it is true in the least bit. Athletes are representatives of a school. They should not be be treated any different than anyone else. They should feel as though playing sports are a privilege and not a right. I know that sounds crazy, but I have never thought it appropriate to just let athletes pass classes in hopes that they become exceptional and therefore don't need an education. I also think all schools should have a code of conduct for their athletes, as I know the NCAA has, but it should be enforced and respected. BYU is doing their civic duty and moral duty to ALL of their students by reprimanded this athlete for breaking their code of honor. If you were the most unknown student at that school who broke it, the same would be done of them. It is simple logic, if you do the "crime" you must do the "time." I agree it is unfortuntate for the rest of the basketball team yet, maybe he should have spent more times with his teammates and not his girlfriend. Nobody will ever really know.

Now, the fact that I have read rumors of him being kicked out of school, it is extreme, but I suppose it is a possibility. I've been researching Mormonism because I am very interested in it and find their website to be super helpful, easily navigated, and has all the answers an then some on every subject (click here http://www.lds.org ). Anyway, although I am not a Mormon, I do have a tremendous amount of respect for them (minus Polygamy, but that's a whole other blog).

Little Girl You're in the Middle of the Ride

This really doesn't have anything to do with anything, which also doesn't make any sense. Today is Wednesday. It is the middle of the week. This made me think of "The Middle," by Jimmy Eat World and I decided to listen/watch the music video. With that being said, I also got relatively excited about the videos that were going to come on after it. Examples: "Perfect Situtation," by Weezer; "Take Me Out," by Franz Ferdinand; and "Fat Lip," by Sum 41. It kind of made my day, actually.

Today was one of those days where when I looked in the mirror, I stared back and said, "who are you and what have you done with Lindsay?" I had no make up on and though, okay, that's normal. Yet, I almost looked sickly. It was very strange. I know my body is having reactions from the lack of Diet Coke, but today was just not a good look for me. Not to mention, I just felt so blah. Tired, its Wednesday, that just plain sucks.

On a more joyful note, I want to make Red Velvet Cake. However, I don't want to eat it all. So, I will probably refrain from making it. Maybe I wll just go get myself a piece. I read once that Heidi Klum doesn't eat dinner, she eats dessert. I could go for that. That would make my day more than the music video playlist on Yahoo!

I really enjoy Rebecca Wells' books. "Little Altars Every Where" is really exceptional. It tells such a great story, well, great probably isn't quite the word to use. I think that it was so much more common in the 50's, 60's, and 70's for parents to be alcoholics and for it to be considered okay. I think that people thought it was okay to drink and play cards and abuse their children. I know that sounds harsh, but I think it was so much more common than people want to admit. I know this books is not a true story, nor is it a memoir, but it feels so real, it has to be truthful to someone.

Finally, I want a phone where I can listen to Pandora. My Ipod is getting on my nerves. And I'm too lazy to upload new songs or change what is on my Ipod. So, I definitely need something new.


EDIT: Totally digging (music wise):
Adele
KT Tunstall
Sara Barielles
Kate Earl
Norah Jones
Keane

The End.

Things that make me mad

Apparently, this is one thing that really gets my goat. Lame phrase, but definitely how I feel on a certain subject.

I am not a prude, and what other people do in their own homes is none of my business. Yet, some things still upset me so much that I have to rant it out, a lot. People can tell me that I am old-fashioned, or that I can't possibly be a girl my age and feel this way.

There is a reason that in the United States there are so many teen pregnancies, unwanted pregnancies in general, abortions, etc. I am not socially inept and therefore I also know there are truths and although this is my opinion, you have to ponder and realize, it does make sense. We all know that girls generally go through puberty first (usually before high school, around junior high, or slightly earlier) and that boys go through it later (during junior high and high school) and I also think they take longer to get through it, but it is beyond that. Out society tells girls and boys, yes they are still girls and boys, especially if they are 15, that it is okay to "feel good" and "enjoy pleasure." There are things that can make you feel good and are pleasurable and don't involve sex. This is not about abstinence, this is about making people realize that every action you take has a consequence. Some negative, others are positive, but we all face consequences. Example of something that someone has said, "well I've paid for plenty of abortions, I just don't want children." Which, look, if you don't want children, that is fine, however, are you proud of continually enjoying this pleasurable act and having to decide with a woman to have an abortion? And then you tell me, "well her 15-year-old boyfriend might want it from her," which yes, I am sure might be true. We teach our boys that you can have as much sex as you want because it feels good and there is no responsibility. If a girl gets pregnant it is her fault; she should be on the pill, she should be making sure to not get pregnant. It takes TWO people to make a baby. Therefore, sex, whether you do it for a pleasure reason all the time, you do it on occasion, or you rarely do it, it is more than just an act. It is procreation. It is not okay to tell boys, you can have sex because it feels good, and leave a girl to do one of three things: 1) have a baby and be a teen mom, 2) have a baby and give it up for adoption, or 3) have an abortion. But remember, it is her fault.

Do you wonder why girls are pregnant so often? Do you wonder why boys expect girls to put out? Do you wonder why STDs are rampaging our world? Which brings me to part 2 of this lovely rant.

Do we wonder why there are so many pedophiles in this world? That is because there is this huge focus on looking young, and having the "baby sitter" or the "young girl" to be with. Make her a woman, by having the middle aged man have sex with her. So, if you're taught or shown that these things are okay, then of course you see the 16-year-old girl who looks like she is 20, you want that. It is understandable. It is not right. A 16-year-old girl may physically look as though she is an adult and should be having an adult sexual relationship, with a 16-year-old or a 50-year-old. It is wrong. Yet, TV and movies and magazines put so much focus on being a little girl, and being cute, yet sexy; young, but mature; a girl, but making her a woman. It is so frustrating. Yet, we ask ourselves, this is so absurd. Not it is not. Just open your eyes. It is clear.