Doggie

For my inner freak

mmmm cake

so my favorite pastry chef at the hotel where I work is moving on to his next big job in Arizona...he is truly an artist and even though this groomsman cake is for TCU it is still freaking AMAZING. After working in the food and beverage industry for so long I can truly see how it is an art form to create beautiful, eye catching, and appealing things....

I love...

Coupons

I guess you could call me thrifty, but I truly believe in the power of coupons....my $100 grocery bill was only $48 after in-store discounts and my AWESOME coupons!!!

Inspiring

http://ilovetypography.com/2008/12/04/30-inspiring-type-treatments/

WOW I actually know this guy!

"That's so gay"

Social Media

working on a project for H&R Block...pretty cool stuff for a company that no one seems to like

How creative is this guy?

so I found out what the term "rolling" means

...not personally, but from someone else..WOW I'm so out of the loop...but this is pretty cool stuff even if your not "rolling"

Highline NYC

One of the COOLEST off the beaten path places to visit in NYC!!! Went there a few weeks ago and it was beautiful and very peaceful. It use to be an old subway stop in the meatpacking district, but now is a park. There were even wooden lounge chairs and the tracks were still visible through the greenery! HIGHLINE = AWESOME adventure

HAPPY HALLOWEEN

Me, Melissa, and Alex

Dallas Preforming Arts Expand

This past weekend the opening of the new preforming arts center took place...it is a HUGE move for Dallas as an international city to open something of this nature. In the large picture, Dallas is not a major hub for preforming arts. While we get world-class performers and great exhibits, Dallas just isn't one of the top places people think of when they hear the words "preforming arts." Not only is the multi-million dollar venue absolutely beautiful, it has attracted the attention of people all over the world. In the on-flight travel magazine on a recent flight to NYC (hands down the US's largest preforming arts city) there was a feature story on the new venues opening in Dallas. As I am itching to get out of Dallas this is an encouraging step that Dallas is taking to attract young, hip, culturally minded people.

Did I move to Seattle?

The weather lately is nothing less or more than what can be expected of Texas weather- sporadic, non-predictable, and crazy. On days like this i wish that I could lazily sit around the house with a good magazine or book and do a whole lot of nothing. The chilling breeze is somewhat refreshing and the rain makes everything so mellow. I could do with out the rain when I have to be outside, but I'm glad we are getting so much of it. The weather change definitely seems to bring about a difference in attitudes and actions. People are quieter and more reserved. There is little activity around campus which is a slightly disheartening. The feeling of winter is nearing...

October

SO fall is definitely in the air and this year I actually love it. I don't know if it's because of working at the pool in the heat this summer or that it just seems to bring on a weird relaxing break. Walking to my car tonight it was chilly, but I actually enjoyed it. Usually I'm all about the 110 degree weather, but not right now. I like the light jacket/sweatshirt and some comfy jeans. Maybe this will give me an opportunity to do more things indoors and not feel bad about not being outside or at least sit outside a little more and read. I don't know what it is, but I'm REALLY loving that fall is here!

Money...

...is the root of all destruction in a relationship. Every relationship I have had or seen some way returns back to money. It causes fighting, bickering, arguing, hurt feelings, animosity, jealousy, skepticism, etc. I can think of no other material thing that holds this much. I always try to not let money get in the way of the relationships I have...well, it has again, but not because my own doing. I try to remain pleasant and optimistic, but it's getting to me! This is ridiculous. Why do things cost so much money and why does it matter? Can't we all just be happy-go-lucky? Well, since I know that's never going to be the case...might as well ride it out and let his storm pass, he will come back around...


Sorry for the vent- it's been a long day!!

Does my life suck?

So last night before I was going to bed at like 9:30pm because I have to work a double today starting at 6am and ending at 10pm, my roommate ask me "Not to bed rude or anything, do you sometimes think your life sucks?" The question kind of caught me off guard, but knowing my roommate I knew exactly what she meant and how she meant it. We then proceeded to have a lengthy discussion on how much I do work and how I help support myself, and blah blah blah. I tried to explain to her that although I work, I enjoy it and most of the time it is rewarding in some way. I also explained that I make all my decisions for myself and with life choices comes "consequences" so to speak. for example, I took an awesome two week trip to Australia this summer...it was amazing, but a little pricey and unlike many of my other peers at SMU daddy and mommy didn't help out. It still amazes me though after three years of living with her, she still thinks I must/should hate my life, working, and staying busy. I do agree I "overwork" sometimes, but who doesn't- well except her most of the time. Also, that's just me staying busy and happy, soing what I've always known and always done. And furthermore, I only do things I want to do, so no one is forcing me to work 16 hour days in the middle of the semester...Plus look what I'm doing at work....blogging and homework, so obviously it's not THAT bad. So when it comes down to it...I do have credit card debt, I do have loans to pay back after college, I work a full-time job while in school full-time, I pay for most of my own stuff, I work when my friends are out having fun...BUT I have had the same job for the past year and a half which a small percentage of college students can say, I have went on 4 international trips and 3 domestic trips in the last year and a half, I've meet some great friends at work, and above all I am HAPPY. My life doesn't suck and I wish she would understand that, or at least accept that I don't think that it does. But I mostly think that's a lost cause.

Odd

Isn't it odd how in the English language we have recently created many words that have become mainstream from new media and applications. Many of them people like my mother are dumbfounded by and totally don't understand. For example, "I'm tweetering, facebooking, skyping, etc." What made me think of this comes back to me saying a "verb" that someone else just didn't quite understand....I was telling a friend about scraboking with my mother all day Saturday. He had no clue what I meant and told me "Are we just making up verbs now." It is quite hilarious to think about. As a culture we just add -ing to something and fit it into the English language on everything from television to radio. no wonder the English language is so odd and hard to learn...

All I can do is laugh at myself....

...for telling myself I was going to keep up with this thing and then POW...not writing in it for over 3 months....so typical of me! I can honestly say that the summer as VERY busy working 70 hour weeks at the hotel, taking 2 summer classes, and all the in-between, but I had time to waste on Facebook right? So, why not here? Well, the problem with myself is that I must have a deadline...I always have great intentions, but without a deadline I make too many intentions, get overwhelmed, tuck them nicely away in a closet, and look for more...starting the process over again. That's probably why I have 4 different scrapbooks started, 2 different quilts going, a number of half-painted canvases around my apartment,a number of book on the self I intend to read, gardening that should be done, and even a few ingredients for things I am going to get around to baking...someday...SO, to keep the creative juices flowing I am gong to try to post three times a week...

50 Thing I want to accomplish

1. visit 100 countries
2. sail the Mediterranean
3. live in Indonesia
4. bike coast to coast
5. do a walk-about across Australia
6. plan a wedding
7. grow a garden with over 25 variety of plant
8. own a sailboat
9. play in the waves of the Indian ocean
10. teach for a year
11. do a triathlon
12. run through big bend
13. hear my own child laugh
14. be on a grass roots campaign in Washington DC
15. visit each US State capital
16. play the piano
17. make a quilt (or at least finish the one I’ve started)
18. change some aspect of the internet
19. be in a Broadway play
20. meet the most important leaders
21. meet Eminem's daughter
22. Learn to love salad
23. Eat the best chocolate and drink the best wine in the world
24. play tag with Michael Phelps
25. paint a painting to hang in my living room
26. run a 7-minute mile
27. work for Weiden + Kennedy
28. Work in a coffee shop
29. Watch the imploding of Texas Stadium
30. play softball every summer
31. feel the sand in my toes
32. help discover a cure for breast cancer
33. read the top 100 classic novels
34. create ads for top brands like Nike, Coke, etc
35. play rugby
36. buy a pair of TOMS
37. learn money management
38. pay off debts
39. have intellectual conversations with my parents
40. meet the man of my dreams
41. raise a puppy
42. impact someone each day
43. learn about religion
44. attend Christmas service in the Vatican
45. go skiing in Chile
46. learn to fly a plane and drive stick shift
47. buy a mac book pro
48. not be so OCD- let the small things go
49. know I am always loved
50. ALWAYS BE ME!

Last Lecture

I recently read the Last Lecture by Randy Pausch. I found it to be very touching and thought provoking. I had heard the background story on the book, so I went into to it expecting to cry and feel down for a few days after reading it, but it actually made me smile, made, me think, made me feel joy, and it did bring a few tears to my eyes. If I were in Randy's shoes I have no idea how I would handle myself- I feel as though it definitely would not have been with the grace he did. If I had to give my last lecture/ talk with one last person I do not know how I would feel, much less what I would say. I often think about things like this and stories such as Randy's do hold a special place in my life. When I was three, my mom was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer and the doctors did not give her a good/ positive diagnosis. Stories like Randy's make me think what it would be like to have lived 19 years without my mother. Although, I can't dwell on the past or dramatize events so long later, it is a sort of wake-up call to remind me how different my life could have been.

The Flow Rider

Today my group and I worked on our third project together and it was actually a very rewarding experience. We choose to do "Flow" and demonstrate a swimmer going through a moment of "Flow". I did not know any of the three other group members in my group, but we all were able to work together so well, to produce what I think is a really great product. I usually hate group work this time of the year because schedules are crazy and it is so hard to coordinate times to meet, so going in the group meeting I did not have the most positive attitude. The outcome of the experience was really great though. I think for the first time in a while, a group I was in actually listened to one another and played off of each others ideas. We each took things we were good at and expanded on them. We worked for about four hours, but got the entire thing done. Not only does it feel good to have something out of the way and as if I accomplished something, I did not leave the experience wishing I had not wasted hours of my life. I am excited to see how we are evaluated and what the reaction to our machine is.

Summer Plans

What are your summer plans? Oh, where are you going this summer? Will you be in Dallas this summer? So, yes, it's time for the typical end of the spring semester questions and this time I am totally prepared to blow peoples socks off!

I am going to take two classes during Summer One, work a ton to make lots of money, work-out extra hard to loose some weight...and go to AUSTRALIA!! Yea, that's right, one continent not many Americans frequent. I am totally stoked about the trip and wish I could leave tomorrow (especially since I have a test tomorrow I have yet to study for! ha). I will be there for two weeks so I plan to do a lot of beach sitting while reading a few good novels and take some amazing pictures. I know that the experience will be awesome and I am thrilled to be going.

It's things like this that I enjoy most about life and living...getting out an exploring, seeing the world, and being somewhere different in a different routine for a while. Traveling truly does open the mind to new ideas and allows more knowledge to be stored for later on in life. Too bad there are very few professionally traveling jobs in the world today...

Tattoos

Are they artwork? Are they pure insanity? Are they just "for fun." What constitutes a creative tattoo versus a just plain weird one? When I was 18 I got a tattoo and definitely do not regret it and I would not regret ever getting a 2nd, 3rd, or 4th like many people I know. I have recently seen a lot of signs across the metroplex for ink removal shops and the services they can offer...to this I wonder, "Really, is it that bad?" To me it seems as if one spent the time, money, and energy so many years earlier in getting "inked-up" that the tattoo would provide lasting memories. If the memories are bad, then why erase them? They made you stronger, they made you who you are today, and they can only prevent you from doing something irrational in the future, right?

Now I am not saying for everyone to go get all "tatted-up," but it is a fun experience as a whole, especially if your not one to often be found among the crowds that frequent tattoo parlors.

Sharpie Fun

On Thursday during class, Dr. Griffin said that the best thing to do for "Concepting" is to get a pack of Sharpie markers and go...since I really want to be part of the Method Creative, but am having somewhat of trouble coming up with am idea that i truly feel is profound, I went out Friday and did just that...I bought 2 24-packs of Sharpie markers- both fine and ultra fine point. With one of the packs of markers came a plain bag that you could "decorate" using your newly purchased markers. Because last week was so draining both emotionally and physically, I spent about two hour on Friday afternoon sitting in front of the television watching all my recorded shows that I have missed and just doodling on the bag...nothing fancy or artistic...just doodles that meant nothing. I don't even intend on using the bag other than maybe for groceries, but I would have to say that it didn't turn out too bad. It was very nice and relaxing to do nothing, but still use my hands to create something that didn't count for anythings. I really wish in my schedule I had more time to do stuff like this...just the mind numbing stuff that no one grades or judges, the little task that make you smile and are done for no reason at all other than "because"...

Tweet Tweet. Twitter

Twitter anyone? So, I gave in and got a Twitter...I know, I know just one more thing to clutter up my life and make me "waste" time...but I did it, and for once I actually am ahead of all my friends! None of them have a Twitter account yet....now you have to understand, I was the last to get myspace, the last to get facebook, the last to get skype, the last to close my myspace, the last to get a mac, etc. etc. when it comes to new technologies....The little bit that I have used Twitter I really like it. I think that although the best way to describe it is a "bunch of facebook statues," but I also think that it is more than that. I have connect to various news organizations and potential leads for internships and opportunities in my future. I find myself constantly looking at web-links that others put on their updates. Thus far, I have found Twitter to be a great source of new information varying from the old information that I am always feed. It is also interesting to look at the changing face of Twitter and see how it will shape the internet, social interactions, and media over the next few years. Although many say Twitter is just a trend, I definitely think that it is here to stay, or at least for a while...

beep, Beep, BEep, BEEp, BEEP...snooze...LOVE IT!!!

I am what most would deem a terrible, terrible person to spend the night with. Why you ask? Well, not only is there the occasional talking in my sleep and tossing and turning all night, but there is what happens in the morning as well...the snooze button. I am declaring myself the world's worst "snoozer". I absolutely love the snooze button and don't know if I could function with out it; so bravo to the inventor! I purposely set my alarm WAY in advance just so in the morning I can snooze for a while. So, the one or two time snooze button pusher is bad enough for most, but me...way worse! Take for instance this morning; I sat my first alarm at 6am, 2nd at 7am, and third at 8am (I had these high hope of getting up to work on homework, but wasn't quite sure how early to set me hopes, ha) and when did I finally force myself to role out of bed?...8:30am! All he while I was pushing snooze in between alarms and turning the others off. I have to just giggle at myself for this stupidity, but I love the snooze button. It allows me to drift in and out of dreams getting those last few precious moments of sleep. I guess at this point you can say I'm dependent on it and am too afraid I won't wake up if I set an alarm for one time at the very last minute. My roommate and other friends think I am a little ridiculous, but hey I LOVE THE SNOOZE BUTTON!! Everybody has a terrible habit and if this is my worst (which I am afraid to say its probably not) then I'm going to keep on pushing...pushing the snooze button that is!

Whoof, Whoof

I have never really been an animal person. They are smelly, can't talk, and get in the way. For the most part animals make me sneeze, get me dirty, and are not cute. There is an exception to this- small dogs- and only small dogs, nothing over about 20 pounds at the most. I have always loved cute, cuddly small dogs. Not only are can they be very well-behaved if trained properly, they make for a good partner to watch a movie on Friday night with, a reason to take a long walk, or a personal heater on cold nights.
There are two dogs in my life right now that I absolutely adore- Oliver and Nacho. Oliver is the eleven year old dog that I have grown-up with. He is an Lhasa Apso that my family got as a few week old puppy. Although he is getting old he is still playful and a ton of fun. He loves to go on walks and sit with me while watching television. The funniest thing he does is bark and run at the television when he sees another dog on it. In the summer we keep him super short and in the winter we let his coat grow long an beautiful. My younger brother and I were charged with training him as a puppy, so he may not be the smartest dog and he really can't do any trick, but he's my little Oliver- lovable, adorable, and loyal.
The second dog's name is Nacho and he is FREAKIN AWESOME!! He is a nine-year old poodle. His dad doesn't keep him cut like a poodle because he looks more "handsome" completely shaved. Nacho is by far the smartest, most well behaved dog I know. I have only known Nacho for a little over a year, but he listens to me and obeys what I tell him. I can take him on long walks, babysit him without any problems, and I can even put food down in front of him, tell him to wait and he will just sit there, then go get it when I instruct him to. Nacho is great!
Through being around Nacho and Oliver I feel a love that I think you can't really get anywhere else. There is that unconditional love and comfort that a small dog provides. Playing with both dogs help me to forget my other problems and feel like a kid again. So, I have officially decided that as soon is my last final is over...I am going to get a puppy!

RIP my little tulip baby

Well, she's all grown up! Big, tall, and beautiful. I feel like a proud mother on the first day of kindergarten or on graduation day, but she is mine. I brought her as a small bulb all the way back from a tulip garden/market in Amsterdam- she was one of the few that US customs didn't trash because apparently plants have to have a special seal of approval. But anyways...I planted her, watched her grow into a beautiful spring tulip! Me and my roommate even named her...Tuilee. But unfortunately due to the smoke storm on Thursday, she is gone. Today she withered up, the wind blew her leaves off, and she died. I guess she lives a long, strong three weeks, but its a little disappointing! Oh well, what can you do...travel back to the tulip market, buy some more bulbs, and plant them next spring......

Dear Future...

Have you went around the world? Have you sailed the Pacific Ocean? Have you skydived in Australia? Have you swam in the Great Barrier Reef? Have you went to Rwanda? Have you seen 500 movies? Have you read a good novel lately? Have you seen the flicker in the man of your dreams eye? Have you skied in Chile? Have you eaten any new foods recently? Do you still struggle with your weight? Do you run for fun yet? Have you rode your bike through the Rockies? Have you visited ever state? Have you seen happiness? Have you heard a child laugh? Have you pleased your parents? Have your made amends with your brother? Have you played in the sand? Have you sat in fresh cut grass? Did you remember to say I love you? Have you played an instrument? Do you sing in the shower still? Do you make the bed ever morning? Are you too busy to smell the flowers? Have you planted your garden yet? Have you changed the world? Have you made a lot of money? Have you taken 500,000 pictures? Have you listened to music today? Have you seen a sunset? Have you danced in India again? Do you believe in yourself? Have you made a difference? Have you donated your time? Do you still love yoga? Have you sat through a big thunderstorm and wished you were hiding with your little brother in your parents closet like when you were 7? Have you decorated a Christmas tree? Have you sang a carol? Have you eaten naan? Have you drank wine from New Zealand, while in New Zealand? Have you felt the ocean splash against your ankles? Have you held your dad's hand? Do you look back and regret? Do you remember me? DO you like yourself? Are you successful? Are you vibrant? Are you joyful? Are you in love? Are you happy...

My qualification in 5 Questions?

While reading the chapter in Account Planning in the Idea Industry, the required reading for the course, I ran across a set of five questions that I just couldn't get off my mind. The section of the book was discussing interviewing, creating a portfolio, and small things that would distinguish yourself from all the other candidates fighting for the job as well. The five questions stuck with me the rest of the day and I continued to day-dream how I would answer them and if they really would set me apart from other people. So I guess I am leaving you to be the judge of that...

Five Provocative Questions for Real Interviews
*Idea Industry page 69

1. What do you think it would be like to work on a cruise ship?
* FUN...the perfect fit for me. I currently work in hospitality/hotel industry and love it. I have always enjoyed meeting new people and people watching in general. On a cruise ship I imagine it to be just one big party...You get to travel the world- or at least wherever your ship line goes- and meet tons of interesting people. Unlike a typical hotel, I think the majority of cruise goers are there to have a relaxing good time. Working on a ship, you would always be on stage...from making memorable experiences for guest to thinking of new ways to stay entertained. I would enjoy living in close quarters with people, leaving the ship to explore, and making lots of tip money! Pretty much I see it as a mix between a non-stop party and a great continuous travel experience while racking in the dough because your not paying for living expenses.

2. Why do you think American Idol is so popular?
* Because we can't get enough of laughing at people, watching Simone make other people look stupid to hide our own insecurities, and being able to truly believe you took part in the next big "thing."

3. What would you do to get into the mind of a 54-year old woman?
* Nothing....I have a 54-year old mother (well, okay she's only 52 1/2 years old, but close enough!) and that is plenty enough. She regularly speaks her mind and tells you exactly what's wrong with something, how to fix it, and don't mess up again. Don't get me wrong, she's awesome, I love my mom, but WOW!!! I think I would rather just wait 33 more years and find out what its like on my own to be in a 54 year old woman's head!

4. Tell me what you think a day-in-the-life of a typical long haul truck driver might be like.
*A barrel of laughs...how much funnier/ better could it get!?!? Drive a huge truck that dominates the road, eat all the junk food you want, because hell you have a figure to uphold right, talk on the CB using code names, pull over and sleep whenever you want virtually wherever you want, and have a endless network of friends no matter where you are driving the truck that day.

5. Have you ever made a documentary film?
*No, yes...well, not the typical one with a movie camera, but I do like to take pictures and then "scrapbook" them to preserve the memories. I like to but them in cute books, with cute stickers and paper, and write names, dates, and places down...so yeah I document my life just not in the typical Micheal Moore kind of documentary film way.

Deer In Headlights

Ever have that Deer in the headlights moment? You know the one where you hear words coming out of someone's mouth, you see their lips moving, you see their eyes searching for your response, but you just freeze. Nothing comes to your head. The brain just stops and freezes. Words don't find their way to your lips. Then AWE-HA it clicks. The juices start flowing and you know all the answers. You buff up to the other person talking, or shrink back and hide. But none of this happens before a short giggle is let out on both parties parts. The expression "Deer in Headlights" is perfect. especially if you have every sat back and watched deer. I got the opportunity to do this while in Austin and it was quite entertaining. I drove around for a good while just laughing at how they froze when they heard me approaching, but BAM something clicked and they darted away. We were in a small town called Sunrise Beach outside of Austin and the deer were everywhere. For a short while that afternoon they provided such a comedic relief. They were fun not only to watch as they reacted to the slightest noises, but were very interesting to try to photograph as well. I often have those "Deer in the Headlight" moments and wish that I could react so much faster like deer do. When I get stuck on my words or loose my train of thought I wish it was as easy as the slightest noise to re-trigger all the neurons that had temporarily frozen. Unfortunately not, and I will continue to be the awkward pauser when asked a question or the weird 'contemplator" when giving a speech....

Austin

I have lived in the Dallas area my entire life. I have been to about half of the U.S. states, been to the nation's capital, sang in Times Square, took a canal tour in Amsterdam, hell I've even spent half a day at the freakin' Taj Mahal, but I have never been to my state's capital! When we were growing up my mom always wanted to take a trip to Austin, but it just never happened. I have heard just great things about the food, the arts, the nature, and the overall atmosphere that Austin has to offer, yet have never ventured the few hours down the highway to capital. SO, over spring break I went for the first time...and I'm officially in love!
I went with a travel buddy that I've been on two previous trips out of the country with. He lived in Austin for fifteen years, so he knows the city like the back of his hand. His younger sister is at school at UT Law, so we spent some time with her and her amazing little poodle, Mocha. We arrived late Thursday night to a rainy, wet, and very cold Austin. We stayed right downtown, so at 3am we went to little joint called Katz. It was great. We shared a great sandwich and sat back to watch all the drunkards stumble by and snickered at their "funnies"- (I definitely thought there were more than what you would find in Dallas for that time of the night and attributed it to the ever famous South by Southwest that was taking place, but apparently it was normal.
The next morning we woke up and visited a small custom guitar shop that David's uncle owns, then a small (but delicious, well minus the hair in my food I found- but I would have to say the guy behind the counter handled it with grace I have never seen in Dallas)pastry shop, before heading to Fredrickburg- a quaint German town. After being awkwardly bombarded in an Amish shop by signs of Jesus' coming we went to German restaurant, partook in some good ole German beer and then were off to Enchanted Rock. Enchanted Rock is a huge granite, well, rock. There are hiking trails and camp grounds. Our original plans were to camp, but due to the weather, ya right! So, we just hiked, got muddy, and left. As you can see from the not-so-good pictures, it was pretty darn cool.
While driving I saw some really neat art deco type chairs I could use for my porch so we pulled over to inquire how much the were, oh boy did we get some laughs! We were in the "countriest" town and the accent was so thick I could hardly understand it! They recommended we go to a BBQ place for dinner, so we did. Well needless to say, we ate on a piece of paper, with our hands, in a tin barn, at a community table with about 40 stranger- all of whom I'm sure have never left the state! We then drove some back roads to David's grandparents house in Sunrise Beach. After hearing his grandpa tell him "I don't think I know you," we delivered some fresh homemade cookies and jetted.
Muddy, tired, and wet we stopped at Lost Creek winery, partook in a wine tasting and headed to Horseshoe Bay were we spent the night- needless to say we were exhausted and went to bed pretty early, but not before ordering chocolate cake and milk! The next morning I got the grand tour of Austin including Lake Travis, The Oasis, David's old house, the oldest school in Texas, The Capitol building, Whole Foods, the UT campus, a few parks, and much much more! We ate dinner with his sister and then headed back to Dallas.
I tell you ALL of that (Well really it was only about 50 hours worth of story, but we did a hell of a a lot in those 50 hours!) to say that Austin was AMAZING. I loved all of the green space and the evidence of forward thinking. I was amazed by the public artwork and the "organic" factor that I felt. I don't know if I could ever see myself living in Austin for a long period of time, but I would love to go back a visit again. My first Austin experience was definitely a great one!!

I am Cool, Creamy, and Green

I am Cool, Creamy & Green...

http://www.kettlefoods.com/index.php?cID=12071

"I'm cool. Yeah. I know it. Laid back, easy-going and breezy. Nothing ruffles my feathers. I'm the one everyone wants around in a crisis. I keep my head about me. I may even walk around like I own this place. Underneath my cool exterior, though, is a passionate, self-possessed person who knows what's right and what's good."

While researching for Project #2 I came across this quiz on Kettle Chips website and would say that it does accurately describes me no matter how silly it may be. I really enjoyed experiencing the website just to learn more about the product. I hardly ever have time just to look around and explore various websites for the simple fact of doing it. Kettle Chip's website was actually very innovative and attractive. I have only tried their product a few times but after spending about an hour reading about it and interacting with it, I definitely think I will be buying Kettle Chips more often. They seem relatively healthy for a potato chip and come in wide array of flavors and "styles." So, yes....I'm calm and cool and sold on Kettle Chips to be paired with my sandwiches!

My Feather Pillow

My feather pillow is my gift from God...no seriously I LOVE MY FEATHER PILLOW. It's not a lush, expensive pillow from the top home decor store, but rather a flat as a pancake, about 30 year of brown, stained feather pillow. It came from my grandparents house when I was little, so it does have some sentimental value to it. I have slept with it ever since I can remember. It even has my name written in it from when I would take it to slumber parties when I was little. My appreciation for the pillow didn't heighten to the extent it is today until I moved out of my parents house and had a place of my own. Not only does it have hints of home, but when I hold it real tight to my nose I can smell my grandparents house. You know that stuffy, old person smell that I usually hate so much but hey what can I say, in this case it is nostalgic. When I was in third grade I lost my blankie. I was absolutely devastated. In some ways I think that the pillow replaced the blankie. I sleep with my feather pillow every night. I have to have it bunched into a ball under my head or I just do not sleep well. For instance, last nights it feel on the floor and I didn't know it till the morning, but all night I had terrible dreams and just could not figure out why. I think that my feather pillow has to be part of my nightly sleeping routine or the sleep is just ruined.

Cellphones

Such a convenience, but oh such a hassle!! Why does mine never receive text? Drop calls? Never receive calls? Run out of battery? Loose Internet connection?....and I have a freakin' I-phone, so I could only imagine how those feel with the free LG phone that comes with a contract....or do they even notice or care? I thought my cell phone was suppose to solve all problems, help me stay connected, and be ultimately invincible!??! Guess not!! hahaha- I love my I-phone dont' get me wrong, but I think that it is where a lot of the trouble lies. I want it to be the end all of any problem and sticky situation that arises, but often times it is the source of a headache and frusteration. I would bow down to the creator of cell phones because it does help me to stay in touch and on -top of my hectic schedule, but on the other hand I want to spit on the creator of glitches. So...I know there isn't one person who created glitches, but can't I just receive all of my text, make a call virtually anywhere, and read my email while walking down McKinney Avenue?

Slumdog

This afternoon I went to see the movie Slumdog Millionaire. I thought it was fantastic and a great depiction of what I saw from my short travels in India. The movie was very stimulating and informative. I thought the overall performances of the actors and actresses were great. They all seemed to embody there parts. I also felt that the scenes of the country-side were great- the cinematography was fantastic. The only thing that I would have liked to see more of was the Bollywood type singing/dancing routines- there was one short one as the credits played. Having seen a first-run Bollywood movies in an Indian theatre I believe that the way in which they are performed and produced is phenomenal. The singing and dancing which is incorporated into the movies enhances it. I would highly recommend Slumdog Millionaire to anyone. Although the movie is not what one would typically think of as an multi-Academy Award winner, it truly does deserve all the acollades it recieved.

Red

Sexy. Seductive. Secretive. Fun. Bubbly. Blood. Sin. Passion. Lust. Dangerous. Sophisticated. Smart. Intelligent. Unruly. Outrageous. Red has to be the color that evokes perhaps the most emotional feelings. It can be worn to stand-out, to camouflage in a cord, or to attract. Red is sexy when used to decorate a cool pad or friendly and inviting in grandmas kitchen. Red has so much meaning associated with it from love to lust to death. Red symbolizes where one has been and where they are going. Red is for the cause. Red is for life. Red it for hearts. Red stimulates the mind body, and soul.

Rain

Well, it's spring break....and it's RAINING! Normally I would be sad and down that it is not sunny, bright, and warm enough to go lay-out by the pool, but I am actually okay and really liking the weather today. It is very relaxing and peaceful. I have to stay in Dallas over the break for track practice so it is a little bit of a bummer, but when I woke up this morning I was excited to see it raining. Rain makes for the best sleeping weather. It also makes for a great day of sitting in my apartment studying, reading, and watching television. If you think about rain it has so many benefits that I can't see why anyone couldn't like it. It nourishes, refreshes, stimulates, and moistens.

Trees

*Mango Tree in Amedabad, India

Trees are great. There are so many different varieties, sizes, and shapes. They provide protection from the sun or rain. The are houses to many wildlife. Some even produce the sweetest fruits and tastiest nuts. My grandparents live in Tennessee and on their property sits a dozen huge pecan trees. Not only was this a playground heaven for my brother and me when we were little, but as we got older we really enjoyed helping my grandfather pick up the pecans that has fallen to the ground. As the weather is getting warmer and the sun is shining bright, it has been just so awesome to take my books out and go sit under a tree to read! The fragrance from the tree paired with the slight breeze you can feel while siting under it makes me feel so happy and warm inside. I really do love spring and the colors it will brings. As we venture out of winter and into spring I cannot wait for the flowers to bloom, the grass to the extra green, and the trees to bare some amazing fruits!

The Shower

The shower has to be one of the most creative havens ever known to man. While taking a shower you not only have total control over the temperature, the length of time in the shower, but you can allow all your creative juices to flow as you are completely alone and free. I am known to take some rather long showers, but they are always WONDERFUL. They are a way for me to escape reality if only momentarily. I can play music or sing myself, which is only good in the shower, I can dance around, daydream, act out a play, think about homework, or do absolutely nothing but relax. I love coming home after a long day, stripping down, turning the water on so hot the bathroom instantly steams over, getting in, and just letting the water run down me as I can totally relax and forget about the day. So, like naps, I think we as a population should take more of them for longer amounts of time. Just think how more relaxed and easy going we would all be!

Geico vs Allstate: The Ultimate Smackdown

When you think of insurance companies there are two that are most heavily advertised and stick out in anyone's mind: Geico and Allstate. Both are appealing and comfortable, but in many different ways for a number of different reasons. Allstate appeals to the family consumer. With its "Back to the Basics" campaign it is striving to instill a sense of nostalgia and good-will. On the other hand Geico positions itself as spunky, fun, and hip by using talking geckos and cavemen. This appeals generally to a younger crowds looking for cheaper insurance. I think that it is facinating to put the two companies side by side and compare their positioning. Each have two totally differnt motives and ideals behind what they are doing, but essentially are selling the same product. I have never had to buy insurance for myself, but it would be a hard decision to make as to which is better. Do I want something I know is keeping up with times by staying stylish and cool or an insurance company that provides security and comfort in not only thier services, but their demeanor as well?

TOMS Shoes

When I first heard of TOMS shoes I thought that it was a noble idea, but wasn't going anywhere and would be hard to implement. The idea behind TOMS is that they will donate one pair of shoes to a child in need for every one pair that is purchased. To my great surprise, TOMS has really taken off and made and impact. I see other kids everyday on campus wearing a pair, they are sold in many stores here in Dallas, and SMU even had the 1990's pop group Hanson back in the fall somewhat endorsing TOMS shoes. The shoes are actually really hip and stylish. They also come in a huge array of colors, designs, and materials. It is truly awesome to see how one person's vision has really turned into a successful reality. TOMS may not have a huge marketing/advertising team to launch the brand, but after pairing with other cultrual icons and having a great word of mouth, TOMS is doing great!

5 Minutes

Stopwatch set- five minutes....GO!!!

tired. stressed. Friday. sleep. read. bike. chocolate. brush teeth. commercial. grrr. lady downstairs is weird. dogs barking. Oliver. mom. home. fresh cut grass. brother. bad. terrible. dinner. Tei an. sashimi. soba noodles. wine. Penfold's. New Zealand. boating. sun. sunburn. banana boat. Jamaica. smoking. cancer. India. travel. plane trip. long. worn-out. physical. emotionally strong. nervous. internship. future plans. dress. shopping. care. car fixed. gas. reading about human trafficking. human rights. Rwanda. summer plans. questionable. safety. security. George Bush. meet on Monday. hooray. my "idol" is jealous. laugh. smile. lost the tv show. missed. taken. that poor girl. hahaha. grades. questionable. twenty seconds and this is hard. why. wondering. Taos. painting. photography. print photos 5:07:59...done!!


How's that for a creative exercise? Well, it actually was a little challenging, but a good refresher!

The Jesus Painter

I grew up going to church three times a week and was super involved in the youth group throughout middle school and for the majority of high school. I've always been shy and reserved about my faith and often found myself having different ideas about what it meant to be religious, faithful, and spiritual. i would go to youth camps, retreats, and on mission trips. As youth ministers would say: "I was on fire for God." Although today I am not exactly where I was when I was strong in my Christianity and have taken a few different paths than I would have thought, I still look back and remember how it was....to just sing out loud, read the bible, etc. Not that I miss anything, but I do feel that when people are spiritual and religious, their attitudes, minds, and demeanor is completely different. I know a lot of people believe that religion blocks creativity and exploration, but I do think that in some ways, if done in the right environment, it can foster creativity. When I was in 7th grade we went to Texarkana on a weekend retreat. On Saturday night as everyone came together and sang we sat and watched Mike Lewis, "The Jesus Painter." I remember sitting in my pew thinking how powerful it was. I think that the majority of times the greatness in creativity stems from the powerful emotional feeling that it creates. I think that the video is a wonderful thing to watch even for some one who does not beleieve in the Christian Jesus- just mute the video if needed.

Bike Riding

I have always loved riding my bike. Ever since I was a little girl I could ride around all day. I was the kid in middle school who rode her bike to and from school when the cool thing to do was ride the bus, and yes I was even that girl who rode her bike in high school! Something about the whole experience just makes me happy and full of life. Not only is it exercise, but to feel the wind in your hair and enjoy the sights around, aw.... just pure bliss! Now don't get me wrong, I am definitely no Lance Armstrong or triathlete, but I do love a good bike ride. So, that's exactly what I did....I put a brand new seat on the bike, strapped on my helmet, and rode. I live somewhat near white rock lake, so I headed in that direction. I biked the lake and returned home. Of course I was worn out, but oh boy I had a great time. I was totally alone, the weather was AWESOME, and I got to listen to some of my favorite tunes on my Ipod! What heaven! I wish I could do it more often. I would definitely live in a place where riding my bike was my only way of transportation or a more visible option. I truly do think that riding my bike not only brings out my inner-child screaming to escape, but it totally add to my "cool factor." :-)

Yoga

Recently I got a membership to a yoga studio here in Dallas. I absolutely love it! It is a way for me to spend 60 or 90 minutes totally alone and in my own little world- of course I'm not totally alone, but having people around me that I don't know or don't care to get to know, but all the same sweating right along with me, is not only an encouragement, but a motivator as well. I enjoy the 90 minute fire class the most. For 90 minutes I sweat, stretch, and feel the burn while I can push away all my stresses and concerns. It is a way for me to escape the real world. I leave my mind at the door and push all my obligations out for the time being. After doing yoga for about a month now, I can see a total difference in the way that I feel on a day to day basis and how my body responds to the world around me. I am learning how to respect and appreciate my body more and more. I look forward to the days when I have time to go to yoga class. I think that everyone should find an activity like yoga- I really feel people in general would not only be healthier, but happier! Check out the video and see if its for you....

Tough Call

So when do we decide at what point someone can't endorse a product because of their actions? Everyone does "bad" things, but isn't there a point in which we have to realize we are acting silly? I'm not trying to justify Phelps smoking pot in anyway and think he made a very poor decision by "getting caught," but aren't there millions of people out there who do a lot worse stuff? And don't hand fulls of celebrities that we allow to act on shows we love and sing to sold out concerts partake in much worse activities? Where do we draw the line?

What is real beauty?

I think that this commercial is GREAT! Too many times we all get caught up in having the best looking physical features and forget to examine what it truly "real beauty." It is really refreshing for Dove to put out something of this nature. It is funny/ironic how the majority of the time we see the most beautiful things and desire to have or be like them, but in reality it is nothing more than fake computer images.

YAY!!!

So, I always get inspired by things like this and think: Why can't I do something like this? I don't mean just the trying to win the contest that Sierra is doing, but the actual production of the video, the things she does in the video, etc. etc.. She did all of it by herself. Her whole campaign really has inspired me to truly find what I love in life and pursue it! I know that it won't come to me overnight, but I'm here and waiting. It may take a little bit of searching on my part, but just being inspired has helped me realize that I can do crazy, outrageous, and exciting things like become a STA intern if I wanted. Thanks Sierra and good luck!!!

Now this is what I call intense!!!

Horizontal- Nike constantly uses clips and videos from sporting events to produce ads that inspire. This advertisement is simply a bunch of clips that could have been used in any one of Nike's previous ads. Connections to other Nike (or even Reebok) commercials can be made. Nike has used famous athletes, such as Michael Jordan to create other ad spots- he is also featured in this ad with his father after he the Bulls won in 1991.

Vertical- Within the clips shown in the ad, there are many of popular culture events, such as the first man on the moon, riots, championship events, and various other real life events. Without prior knowledge of the event the commercial would not have as great of an impact. There are many events that I did not recognize, but because there were some that I did I am able to connect with the commercial. The ad moves through many genres, but concentrates predominantly on sports.

Tertiary- There are many public messages that Nike is sending throughout this ad. It sends a strong overall mesaage about war/peace/and soldiers fighting. Furthermore, it evaluates popular events in history that made people stop, stare, and admire someone for something. It evaluates not only what it means to be American, but to be a world citizen as well.

ORGANS

While this may be a comical look at organ harvesting and transplantation, it is a real life problem. Who gets to decide why we can't buy or sale organs if we really need to? Who gets to decide when it becomes a human rights violation? In a class this past week, a guest speaker spoke on this very topic. It was a very interesting discussion as to how people in poor parts of the world are willing to sell off there organs in order to make a few dollars. his case study focused on a man from Bangladesh who had sold a kidney on the black-market in order to buy himself a cell phone. The repercussions of the surgery were very severe for him personally. He saw the physical body and spirit as a whole so once his kidney was removed he felt empty and violated. But wasn't the decision totally his? Yes. So what shall we do? Allow organs to be sold legally so it doesn't happen on the black-market where conditions are unsanitary and no counseling can be provided by the health care system?

Julian Beever Artwork

I am usually not big into chain letters, but when my grandmother sent me one containing the street artwork of Julian Beever I was highly impressed. I am always a sucker for cool, out of the ordinary things in not so ordinary places. Not only has Julian used his talent to create really COOL artwork, he sends messages rather they be humanitarian or adverting. With the use of some ordinary chalk he has done something very extraordinary! The pictures almost look as if they were computer generated. The 3-D effect that they have make them "stand-out" on the busy streets. I always wanted to draw and create organized, well-drawn pieces of artwork, but never could. I do think of myself as a rather creative and crafty person, but this? No way would I ever be able to be as presice and detailed as Julian. Through artwork I think a lot can be said about a person as a whole. I have never meet him, but I can only image what kind of personaltiy he has. I would love to go see it in person!....Check out some of his amazing stuff below!







(Side view of globe)

How Far?

"I refuse to accept the idea that mankind is so tragically bound to the starless midnight of racism and war that the bright daybreak of peace and brotherhood can never become a reality...I believe that even amid today's mortar bursts and whining bullet, there is still hope for a brighter tomorrow. I believe that wounded justice, lying prostrate on the blood-flowing streets of our nations, can be lifted from this dust of shame to reign supreme among the children of man."
-Martin Luther King

So really how far have we actually come? I look around everyday and still see racism rooted deep in every activity of life. I feel pressures from others of different colors, people still get preferential treatment because of the color of their skin, and rappers are making songs like "My President is Black" when in reality that should not be his one defining characteristic (not to mention he is only half black!). Martin Luther King was quoted saying the above quotation many years ago, yet little had changed. On the surface I think people would like to believe that things have changed, but in reality many things are exactly the same if not worse. The other day at work while engaging in a conversation I referred to someone who use to work with me as "the short black gentlemen" because at the moment I could not recall his name. Another employee happened to walk by at the exact moment that the words came out of my mouth and reacted in what I thought to be a very improper manner. He threw his hands in the air, shrugged and said, "Hey African-America okay. Can't we ever get a break?" Well, I'm sorry I thought I was living in 2009 where not every black person in America is from Africa (guess he has never meet a black Jamaican or black Haitian?) and not everyone from Africa is black (and I assume then he has never meet a white South African or non-black Egyptian?). To his comment I replied, "Oh, ok- well then it's not 'oh that white girl then,' 'caucasion' ok." He apparently thought I was joking and walked away. And in reality I don't care what I'm called. If we are going to pick needles out of haystakes here then I'm Irish-German American, but when have I ever been to those places or when did I ever meet my relatives from there? NEVER, so I'm white, much like he is black- I seriously doubt he could trace his heritage back more than 2 generations! So instead of pointing fingers and bitching about symantics shouldn't we focus on bigger issues at hand such as children getting raped by there own relatives, while other children starve because they have a cracked out mother? Let's stop teaching everyone to hate and ingrain things that really count into our brains!

Who says one person can't make a difference?

Sure we are not the president of the United States, but each individual can do something that on a large scale will make a difference. So find your cause and act on it. Someone will see it. Someone will act because of you. Someone will find you inspirational. You will have an impact. Watch this video for a little inspiration!

Finding your inner creativity....

The best way to find your inner creativity is to get out of your comfort zone. To put yourself in a place you least expect it. To go somewhere you never dreamed possible. To view new cultures. To travel to far lands. Eat new foods. Take a walk down a street where you are the only person that resembles yourself. I had this exact opportunity over the past summer when I traveled to India. While there I got to explore a culture completely foreign to myself. Ride camels and elephants. Eat food with my hands. Walk through slums. Explore ancient palaces and tombs. While in India I was able to use my camera to capture the moments I will never forget and images that are ingrained in my inner person. I enjoyed looking at things from a new angle, not only with my own eyes, but through the camera lens as well.

Rijsttafel

Over winter break I took a short trip to Europe. While there I went to hands-down the best dinner I have ever had. It was at a small Indonesian restaurant named Sampurna, near the tulip market in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. I had never experienced Indonesian cuisine and it was WONDERFUL! I ordered what is called a rijsttafel, or rice table. The idea of a rice table is similar to tapas. Each diner gets a bowl of sticky rice and then many different small items are placed on the table. So basically you can take a bite of one thing here and another thing there. On the rice table was the most flavorful meats, such as lamb, goat, chicken, and beef. Each meat was full of flavor and fragrance. This brings me to my central question...where is all the good food here in America? As soon as I got back I looked for somewhere in the Metroplex where something similar is served and found nothing. As you can see from the pictures the meal was amazing. Many people here take things, such as the daily habit of eating, for granted but I have learned that it is not only something to always be enjoyed but an art form as well. Through cooking one can gain a sense of creativity. Pulling from many different areas of life, food can not only become essential, but enjoyable as well. So I say-get out there and start eating and cooking!