Sea Life - Monterey Bay Aqaurium
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Wednesday's Knitting
So what am I up to this week? Another pair of Child's First Socks from Knitting Vintage Socks.
Isn't it pretty? The yarn is from the Yarn Pirate Sock Club and is called Kalamata. Brown's and purple's and green's. I love it! The way the colorway is spiraling around the sock is great, the feel of the yarn is amazing. Buy her yarn! You won't regret it. I have three other skeins and I want to use them all now!
I knit a pair of these for a swap pal. Next week for my Friday Finish, I will put up a photo of the box and goodies I sent her. Personally, I would love to get a box like this myself.
Isn't it pretty? The yarn is from the Yarn Pirate Sock Club and is called Kalamata. Brown's and purple's and green's. I love it! The way the colorway is spiraling around the sock is great, the feel of the yarn is amazing. Buy her yarn! You won't regret it. I have three other skeins and I want to use them all now!
I knit a pair of these for a swap pal. Next week for my Friday Finish, I will put up a photo of the box and goodies I sent her. Personally, I would love to get a box like this myself.
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Tired Tuesday
I'm to tired too do a tirade this week. Because, if I did a tirade, it would have to be about politics or the economy, and my poor brain is too tired for that.
I will state for the record that I think the Fed will drop the rate by half a point. If not, Bernanke will be in a world of hurt. If you have no idea what I'm talking about, how lucky you are. This is part and parcel to my line of work, and all I can say is that I need Tums when I read the business and real estate reports. I thought it was bad back in 1990-1991. This will probably be worse.
See you tomorrow.....
I will state for the record that I think the Fed will drop the rate by half a point. If not, Bernanke will be in a world of hurt. If you have no idea what I'm talking about, how lucky you are. This is part and parcel to my line of work, and all I can say is that I need Tums when I read the business and real estate reports. I thought it was bad back in 1990-1991. This will probably be worse.
See you tomorrow.....
Monday, January 28, 2008
Memories
Two years ago on the 26th, my furry shadow went to her final rest. I like to think that she's with my Dad, following him around instead.
I miss you, Boo.
I miss you, Boo.
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Saturday, January 26, 2008
Out and About
I had a busy Saturday. I usually don't get up very early. I try to take advantage of one of the few days of the week I can sleep in. Today, though, I had to get car stuff done.
Went and got my tires balanced and rotated. I bought them in December 2006, and I just rolled over 6,000 miles week before last. I try to average every two oil changes. This was the least amount of miles I have driven in a year. Very surprising.
Next stop was the oil change. I had a bit of fun there, since at least two of the guys weren't as old as my car. I heard one of them exclaim, "man, this is old school!" Yes, carburetors and distributors caps would be considered old school.
Last car stop today was for a new battery. I haven't purchased one in 10 years, so it was time. I took the car to Sears, since the Die Hard in it has done so well. This was the longest stop, since they were pretty busy. I walked the mall and bought some rain boots and a few other little things.
When I was done with this, I picked Kevin up for lunch and we went to look at mattresses. The bed in old, very old. I can't stand it anymore. So, we saved a bit and throw in his company Christmas bonus, and we are going to buy something softer to sleep on. We didn't find one we liked today, but hopefully soon.
Round out the day with a stop at Target and the grocery store, and you've got a full day.
Tomorrow, I am not leaving the house!
Went and got my tires balanced and rotated. I bought them in December 2006, and I just rolled over 6,000 miles week before last. I try to average every two oil changes. This was the least amount of miles I have driven in a year. Very surprising.
Next stop was the oil change. I had a bit of fun there, since at least two of the guys weren't as old as my car. I heard one of them exclaim, "man, this is old school!" Yes, carburetors and distributors caps would be considered old school.
Last car stop today was for a new battery. I haven't purchased one in 10 years, so it was time. I took the car to Sears, since the Die Hard in it has done so well. This was the longest stop, since they were pretty busy. I walked the mall and bought some rain boots and a few other little things.
When I was done with this, I picked Kevin up for lunch and we went to look at mattresses. The bed in old, very old. I can't stand it anymore. So, we saved a bit and throw in his company Christmas bonus, and we are going to buy something softer to sleep on. We didn't find one we liked today, but hopefully soon.
Round out the day with a stop at Target and the grocery store, and you've got a full day.
Tomorrow, I am not leaving the house!
Friday, January 25, 2008
FOF (Finished Object Friday)
Last September, I made a felted handbag. I thought it was a bit plain, so I did some surface embroidery and beading. I am very pleased with the results. I want to line it, but I know that won't happen anytime soon.
May I re-present the Lavender Haze Bag....
I have all these different ideas running through my head for different types of bags I want to do. I have found all these wonderful beads and trinkets that will look amazing. I wish there were more hours in the day - or that we win the lotto!
Ok - now for things I finished this week.
Last Sunday, I spent the day watching football. The NFC and AFC championship games are usually better than the Superbowl, and this time was no exception. I had enough time to finish a cowl.
It's called a Fishbone Lace Cowl. Here is some more detail to the pattern:
It's from a book called Ocean Breezes: Knitted Scarves Inspired by the Sea. I got the book when I was in Solvang last summer, and the yarn is Lorna's Laces Lion & Lamb. The colorway is Seaside. Oh my, this is so soft! I really like the way it turned out. I have four skeins of Lorna's Laces sock weight in this colorway, and I planned a pair of socks and mittens to go with.
The other thing I finished this week was from One-Skein Wonders, called One-Skein Scarf.
The yarn is Vergnasco Teseo di.ve. I bought it at the Yarn Connection in Idaho Falls back in 2006 when we were visiting for Thanksgiving. I also bought sock yarn to match these colors, as well as some mohair blend for a hat and mittens. That was my "matching accessories" stage. I've gotten better. It took two skeins, since the pattern called for about 200 yards, and these were 98 yds each. I made this over two nights.
I have a pair of socks that I will probably have done before Wednesday. I would like to cast on some lace, but will probably cast on another pair of socks.
Until next time.....
May I re-present the Lavender Haze Bag....
I have all these different ideas running through my head for different types of bags I want to do. I have found all these wonderful beads and trinkets that will look amazing. I wish there were more hours in the day - or that we win the lotto!
Ok - now for things I finished this week.
Last Sunday, I spent the day watching football. The NFC and AFC championship games are usually better than the Superbowl, and this time was no exception. I had enough time to finish a cowl.
It's called a Fishbone Lace Cowl. Here is some more detail to the pattern:
It's from a book called Ocean Breezes: Knitted Scarves Inspired by the Sea. I got the book when I was in Solvang last summer, and the yarn is Lorna's Laces Lion & Lamb. The colorway is Seaside. Oh my, this is so soft! I really like the way it turned out. I have four skeins of Lorna's Laces sock weight in this colorway, and I planned a pair of socks and mittens to go with.
The other thing I finished this week was from One-Skein Wonders, called One-Skein Scarf.
The yarn is Vergnasco Teseo di.ve. I bought it at the Yarn Connection in Idaho Falls back in 2006 when we were visiting for Thanksgiving. I also bought sock yarn to match these colors, as well as some mohair blend for a hat and mittens. That was my "matching accessories" stage. I've gotten better. It took two skeins, since the pattern called for about 200 yards, and these were 98 yds each. I made this over two nights.
I have a pair of socks that I will probably have done before Wednesday. I would like to cast on some lace, but will probably cast on another pair of socks.
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Oh what a beautiful morning
You know, sometimes the day can start out pretty nice.....
Sunrises - one of my favorite things.
Sunrises - one of my favorite things.
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
20 years ago today
I have a tendency to hang on to things. Goodwill has been quite the beneficiary of late due to this habit. However, there is one thing I do not regret buying, as it has been an integral part of my life all these years.
Me and Blue, when we were young and full of ourselves. When I first bought her (yes, it's a "her"), there was no such thing as an SUV. It was rated a commercial truck and I had to pay weight fees. I found I loved off-roading, and she's seen her share of mud. This was back in the day when a 4x4 AND a stick shift might be too much for a girl to handle. Well, it was handled very well.
I've driven through urban floods.
I've towed a Cadillac out of Monument Valley.
I've been on the fire roads in the hills above Monterey.
We went face to face with a Buffalo in Yellowstone Valley. The Buffalo was almost as tall as the car.
I've been to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon.
I've spun out in a down pour on an oil slick off ramp.
I've gone ice skating on black ice in a snow storm.
I've had two blowouts - driver side rear tire in 1992, passenger side rear tire 2006. Both on Interstate 5 going home to Northern California.
I brought my precious girl, Heidi, home in this car. I took her and Fen to their final rest in it as well.
I brought my Dad home after hip replacement surgery. He had an easier time stepping up into the car as opposed to sitting down in his.
I moved all my stuff from South to North, either towing a trailer or filling her to the brim (she can hold a lot).
I have had 2 speeding tickets - 1990 going downhill on I40 on the Navajo Reservation, 1993 on the I5 going home. My top speed has been 90 - and that was quite a few years ago.
I have been rear-ended 6 times - 5 women, 1 man, all sedans, all had damage to their hoods or grills. A trailer hitch can do a lot of damage.
I have hit no one. I did hit a brick post. Parked in that same space for over 2 years and one day I came at it too fast and took a bad bump off the rain water diverter. Had to remove the end cap from the bumper because I couldn't turn the front tire to the left. That happened in 2005.
She has no air conditioning. Didn't need it living in Orange County. Can't say the same for Diablo Valley.
I can still remember the days when I could come out of a store and see the top above all the other cars. Haven't been able to do that for years.
She still has the tightest turning radius of any car I have driven.
There is nothing like taking her down Lombard Street. It feels like you are going to fall out the front window. Scares the crap out of anyone sitting in the front seat!
I guess it just comes down to all that I have seen and done, all the places I have been, all the experiences I have had from the seat of that vehicle. And when people see her, they know it's me, because she is one of a kind. We're one of a kind. I love my Blue. The joke around here is that I'll probably be buried in her!
Happy Anniversary, Blue!
Me and Blue, when we were young and full of ourselves. When I first bought her (yes, it's a "her"), there was no such thing as an SUV. It was rated a commercial truck and I had to pay weight fees. I found I loved off-roading, and she's seen her share of mud. This was back in the day when a 4x4 AND a stick shift might be too much for a girl to handle. Well, it was handled very well.
I've driven through urban floods.
I've towed a Cadillac out of Monument Valley.
I've been on the fire roads in the hills above Monterey.
We went face to face with a Buffalo in Yellowstone Valley. The Buffalo was almost as tall as the car.
I've been to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon.
I've spun out in a down pour on an oil slick off ramp.
I've gone ice skating on black ice in a snow storm.
I've had two blowouts - driver side rear tire in 1992, passenger side rear tire 2006. Both on Interstate 5 going home to Northern California.
I brought my precious girl, Heidi, home in this car. I took her and Fen to their final rest in it as well.
I brought my Dad home after hip replacement surgery. He had an easier time stepping up into the car as opposed to sitting down in his.
I moved all my stuff from South to North, either towing a trailer or filling her to the brim (she can hold a lot).
I have had 2 speeding tickets - 1990 going downhill on I40 on the Navajo Reservation, 1993 on the I5 going home. My top speed has been 90 - and that was quite a few years ago.
I have been rear-ended 6 times - 5 women, 1 man, all sedans, all had damage to their hoods or grills. A trailer hitch can do a lot of damage.
I have hit no one. I did hit a brick post. Parked in that same space for over 2 years and one day I came at it too fast and took a bad bump off the rain water diverter. Had to remove the end cap from the bumper because I couldn't turn the front tire to the left. That happened in 2005.
She has no air conditioning. Didn't need it living in Orange County. Can't say the same for Diablo Valley.
I can still remember the days when I could come out of a store and see the top above all the other cars. Haven't been able to do that for years.
She still has the tightest turning radius of any car I have driven.
There is nothing like taking her down Lombard Street. It feels like you are going to fall out the front window. Scares the crap out of anyone sitting in the front seat!
I guess it just comes down to all that I have seen and done, all the places I have been, all the experiences I have had from the seat of that vehicle. And when people see her, they know it's me, because she is one of a kind. We're one of a kind. I love my Blue. The joke around here is that I'll probably be buried in her!
Happy Anniversary, Blue!
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Monday, January 21, 2008
The beginning and the end of the work day
It has been cold and a little rainy. You know it's really cold when we get snow on Mt. Diablo.
Sunrise over Diablo. Not a bad way to start my work day. I took this from the bus plaza at North Concord BART. It was pretty quiet here today. A lot of people got the holiday off. But if I want to get paid, I have to go to work. The wonderful life of an independent contractor.
Now, on my way home, it's a different story.
At the end of the work day, I make my way to BART. This is what I see while I am waiting for the train. I'm sorry - shouldn't this be called First Blood or something? Is this midlife crisis, part 2? I feel like I should have big hair, big shirt, big belt, leggings, major makeup and elf boots. Why on earth, at the age of 58, would he decide to do another Rambo movie? Two generations have been born since the first one came out. When I first saw the poster , I figured someone else was picking up the franchise. Nope. The trailer hasn't been in broad release. He certainly isn't the Italian Stallion anymore. Ugh, that took to me to place I didn't want to go. Visions of Ron Jeremy just popped into my head. Bad ju-ju, very, very bad.
Now Harrison Ford in Indiana Jones or Bruce Willis in Die Hard, that's a different story. Oh, that's better. I have the Indiana Jones theme running through my head now. Take that, Ron Jeremy! Yippee-ki-yay............
Sunrise over Diablo. Not a bad way to start my work day. I took this from the bus plaza at North Concord BART. It was pretty quiet here today. A lot of people got the holiday off. But if I want to get paid, I have to go to work. The wonderful life of an independent contractor.
Now, on my way home, it's a different story.
At the end of the work day, I make my way to BART. This is what I see while I am waiting for the train. I'm sorry - shouldn't this be called First Blood or something? Is this midlife crisis, part 2? I feel like I should have big hair, big shirt, big belt, leggings, major makeup and elf boots. Why on earth, at the age of 58, would he decide to do another Rambo movie? Two generations have been born since the first one came out. When I first saw the poster , I figured someone else was picking up the franchise. Nope. The trailer hasn't been in broad release. He certainly isn't the Italian Stallion anymore. Ugh, that took to me to place I didn't want to go. Visions of Ron Jeremy just popped into my head. Bad ju-ju, very, very bad.
Now Harrison Ford in Indiana Jones or Bruce Willis in Die Hard, that's a different story. Oh, that's better. I have the Indiana Jones theme running through my head now. Take that, Ron Jeremy! Yippee-ki-yay............
Sunday, January 20, 2008
I'm Ready For Some Playoffs
I was hoping for one good game, and I wasn't disappointed. I expected Green Bay to play better, and I certainly didn't think that Favre would throw that many interceptions. I wanted to see Green Bay back in the Super Bowl. Instead, I get to see the other Manning going up against Brady in SB LXII.
I just hope it's not a blow out.
I was productive today. We made guacamole and queso to enjoy for the early game. I knitted a cowl. Packaged up three bags of clothes to go to charity and I did three loads of laundry. In other words, a typical winter Sunday.
Back to work tomorrow. No break for Martin Luther King Jr's birthday.
I just hope it's not a blow out.
I was productive today. We made guacamole and queso to enjoy for the early game. I knitted a cowl. Packaged up three bags of clothes to go to charity and I did three loads of laundry. In other words, a typical winter Sunday.
Back to work tomorrow. No break for Martin Luther King Jr's birthday.
Saturday, January 19, 2008
An Evening In Berkeley
There are those rare occasions that we venture out from out humble squalor and actually interact with other humans socially. It's rare, but it happens. In this instance, it was my husband's co-workers and we went to Berkeley for dinner and a lecture (not the boring kind).
Dinner was at the Pyramid Brewery. I have never been, which is funny, because I love micro-brews and there is a Pyramid Brewery in Walnut Creek as well. I worked in downtown Walnut Creek for over 5 years, and the Brewery was less than 5 minutes from my office. Not a lot of good excuses for this one.
I wonder if they give tours? I requested the tasters, and there were 5. A nice range, from malty to hoppy, light to full bodied. I liked the Hefe Weizen best. I usually lean towards the dark beers, but this just had a nice, complex palate. I'd like to go back - and I only have to go to Walnut Creek to do that!
Ok, the main point of the evening. We went to Zellerbach Hall, on the campus of the University of California at Berkeley (commonly referred to as "Cal") and enjoyed this:
Visit their site at Discovery Channel.
Our view of them was this:
It was still fun, though. We got to see some video that Discovery said was not appropriate for airing (it was about farting). I learned some new things about the show, and the guys. Jamie has a degree in Russian Studies and was a charter boat captain. Adam did not graduate from college, and worked at ILM (Industrial Light and Magic - the Holy Grail to all Star Wars and tech geeks). Their experiences were very interesting and they took a lot of questions from the audience, mostly kids.
It was a great evening. On a way home we stopped for Ben & Jerry's. That just about made it perfect.
Dinner was at the Pyramid Brewery. I have never been, which is funny, because I love micro-brews and there is a Pyramid Brewery in Walnut Creek as well. I worked in downtown Walnut Creek for over 5 years, and the Brewery was less than 5 minutes from my office. Not a lot of good excuses for this one.
I wonder if they give tours? I requested the tasters, and there were 5. A nice range, from malty to hoppy, light to full bodied. I liked the Hefe Weizen best. I usually lean towards the dark beers, but this just had a nice, complex palate. I'd like to go back - and I only have to go to Walnut Creek to do that!
Ok, the main point of the evening. We went to Zellerbach Hall, on the campus of the University of California at Berkeley (commonly referred to as "Cal") and enjoyed this:
Visit their site at Discovery Channel.
Our view of them was this:
It was still fun, though. We got to see some video that Discovery said was not appropriate for airing (it was about farting). I learned some new things about the show, and the guys. Jamie has a degree in Russian Studies and was a charter boat captain. Adam did not graduate from college, and worked at ILM (Industrial Light and Magic - the Holy Grail to all Star Wars and tech geeks). Their experiences were very interesting and they took a lot of questions from the audience, mostly kids.
It was a great evening. On a way home we stopped for Ben & Jerry's. That just about made it perfect.
Friday, January 18, 2008
FO Friday
I almost thought I wouldn't have anything for today. Hah! I actually managed to cause the pad of my right index finer to split from the velocity of my knitting. So here we go:
All done! The Clap is done! I found that dropping the stitches with cotton yarn is so easy - just press the back of nail and run it down the ladder with some force and the loops just pop. 800 yards of nearly 20 year old stash gone! Worth noting, the skeins had their price tags on them, from the clearance bin. This shawl cost me $11.52, a $1.44 per skein!
Particulars - Under Classic Cable Printed, US 7 needles, Clapotis pattern care of knitty.com.
I also finished yet another washcloth:
Based on the pattern, My So Called Scarf, I did another washcloth. Sugar'n Cream in the colorway Beach Ball Blue on size US 7 needles. The colors didn't pool as great as before, but I cast on another while I was on the train today and we'll see how that goes.
Now what else can I finished before next Friday. Damn, unwanted pressure. I'll figure something out.
All done! The Clap is done! I found that dropping the stitches with cotton yarn is so easy - just press the back of nail and run it down the ladder with some force and the loops just pop. 800 yards of nearly 20 year old stash gone! Worth noting, the skeins had their price tags on them, from the clearance bin. This shawl cost me $11.52, a $1.44 per skein!
Particulars - Under Classic Cable Printed, US 7 needles, Clapotis pattern care of knitty.com.
I also finished yet another washcloth:
Based on the pattern, My So Called Scarf, I did another washcloth. Sugar'n Cream in the colorway Beach Ball Blue on size US 7 needles. The colors didn't pool as great as before, but I cast on another while I was on the train today and we'll see how that goes.
Now what else can I finished before next Friday. Damn, unwanted pressure. I'll figure something out.
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Favorite Things
Pin collecting.
Yes, I collect pins.
I am a Disney Pin Collector, lanyard and all. I bought my first pin case at Disney MGM (now know as Disney Studios) in Florida when we were there in 2002. It is very heavy now, and very full. I like to collect cast member pins, and other limited edition releases. My first pins from Disneyland were two plastic pins of Mickey and Donald. I got them when I was a kid. I still have them. The first metal pin I have is from the 30th anniversary of Disneyland. They sure made them different in those days. And I do enjoy trading with cast members at the parks. It is an enjoyable part of the experience for me.
I am a Hard Rock Cafe Pin Collector, no lanyard, no trading. I picked up my first pin at the San Francisco Hard Rock back in 1991, when I enjoyed my first cold, foggy visit to SF. I consider it my "home" Cafe, though I liked the old one on Van Ness much better than the one on Pier 39. I am an original member of the Pin Collectors Club, and received my 7 year anniversary pin last summer. I believe I have been to 13 cafes now, and have pins from many more. Friends and family bring me a pin from their trips, and they have been to interesting places. It's a wonderful collection. They are displayed in shadow boxes. I use HRC t-shirts as the backdrop.
I have a decent collection of Olympic pins, especially those related to our recent games here in the US, and in Norway. I will be honest, I enjoy the winter games much more than the summer games. What I don't like is the "highlight" coverage that only emphasizes the US victories. I would like to see coverage of all the medal winners. The games are supposed to be a display of friendly competition, a coming together of nations in the name of sport. It's just a pity we can't appreciate the efforts and skill of all the athletes.
I also collect pins from places I have been, such as state and national parks, wineries, historical landmarks, and any other place that struck a chord with me.
Do yo think I may have a lot of pins? Hmm, maybe.
Yes, I collect pins.
I am a Disney Pin Collector, lanyard and all. I bought my first pin case at Disney MGM (now know as Disney Studios) in Florida when we were there in 2002. It is very heavy now, and very full. I like to collect cast member pins, and other limited edition releases. My first pins from Disneyland were two plastic pins of Mickey and Donald. I got them when I was a kid. I still have them. The first metal pin I have is from the 30th anniversary of Disneyland. They sure made them different in those days. And I do enjoy trading with cast members at the parks. It is an enjoyable part of the experience for me.
I am a Hard Rock Cafe Pin Collector, no lanyard, no trading. I picked up my first pin at the San Francisco Hard Rock back in 1991, when I enjoyed my first cold, foggy visit to SF. I consider it my "home" Cafe, though I liked the old one on Van Ness much better than the one on Pier 39. I am an original member of the Pin Collectors Club, and received my 7 year anniversary pin last summer. I believe I have been to 13 cafes now, and have pins from many more. Friends and family bring me a pin from their trips, and they have been to interesting places. It's a wonderful collection. They are displayed in shadow boxes. I use HRC t-shirts as the backdrop.
I have a decent collection of Olympic pins, especially those related to our recent games here in the US, and in Norway. I will be honest, I enjoy the winter games much more than the summer games. What I don't like is the "highlight" coverage that only emphasizes the US victories. I would like to see coverage of all the medal winners. The games are supposed to be a display of friendly competition, a coming together of nations in the name of sport. It's just a pity we can't appreciate the efforts and skill of all the athletes.
I also collect pins from places I have been, such as state and national parks, wineries, historical landmarks, and any other place that struck a chord with me.
Do yo think I may have a lot of pins? Hmm, maybe.
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
What's On My Needles Wednesday
This week, it's one big Clapotis. I made a pretty good run at it last week, and by Saturday realized that I would not have enough yarn to finish. Frogged the whole thing and started over. I've made some adjustments to the pattern, and am tracking the usage very carefully.
I don't know why I am so obsessed with this. The yarn is from stash I found in storage that I know was purchased before my move to No Cal in 1991. I think I started something else with this, frogged it and put it in a bag. I am making some great progress, obviously.
This has been pretty much all I have worked on this week. I started another hat, worked on some swap socks (NOT a commuter project) and put a couple of rows on my chevron scarf.
I guess that's it for this week. Maybe I'll have this done by Friday. Maybe.
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
A little tirade for Tuesday....
.... 'cause I am too tired and it's been a long day.
I grew up in Southern California. I spent a lot of time in LA - I was born in LA. One of my favorite places was Westwood, with West LA in general being a great place to hang out. Every once in a while I'd head over to Beverly Hills, have a bite to eat at Nate & Al's. If I didn't want to deal with that crowd, I'd head over to Cantor's. That's what the Bay Area needs - a good Jewish deli. The thought of bagel and lox, with a little cup of chicken noodle soup, just makes me salivate.
I digress.
bumped into me in When I roamed these streets, it was not unusual to see "famous" people. David HAsselhoffWestwood one night, and told me to watch where I'm going (he's like 6'3", I'm 5'6" - and there's a reason "ass" is part of his last name). Aresnio Hall spilled coffee on me - and was very sweet and very apologetic. Arnold Schwarzenegger banked at my bank and I saw him depositing his studio checks (my ex worked as a teller while attending UCLA). I saw Ophra and Gail on a bad, bad hair and attire day. It was not uncommon to see the faces on the big screen going about their business being normal human beings - eating, shopping, spending time with friends. There was one thing that wasn't there - the paparazzi.
15, 20 years ago, those that made a living in the television and movie industries could expect some semblance of normalcy in their daily lives. If they were at an "event", that was a different story. Something very ugly is happening in my home town, and it's getting worse day by day.
Let's take yesterday for example.
LA is also the home of the helicopter traffic reporter/car chase commentator. If you see a car chase on TV, 9 times out of 10 it will be somewhere in the Basin. It's just a fact. It is a spectator sport, and we've made it into an art form. KCAL, local channel 5, was usually the source of our need for potential speed. At least that's how I remember it. Honestly, our most notorious car chase was the crawl chase of OJ. I still remember where we were - husband and I were out for a midweek dinner and we decided to go to the Outback because I needed a steak. We saw the car chase and knew it had to be LA. When the news feed popped on, we saw what it was about. Not that it surprised us, but as two people who had lived in SoCal long enough to become trained sheep, we were transfixed. We couldn't look away. We sat in the bar, watched TV and ate dinner. Baaaaaaaaa.
So yesterday there was another helicopter following another SUV along the streets of LA. This time the SUV was black, the passenger of interest was a white woman. A very sad, in much need of medical help, pathetic excuse for a mother, hugely famous, young woman. KCAL was reporting.
Out society is rapidly going down the crapper, and our media spends h-o-u-r-s reporting and recounting every detail of her existence. It's like a play-by-play of the most pathetic game in the world. We are watching someone self destruct. This isn't news - and it isn't entertainment. It's just wrong.
Humanity has to evolve - we have done this for millenia. But to me it seems we are de-evolving. I encourage all of you to take a personal pledge to improve our society. Don't go to TMZ.com. Don't buy the National Enquirer. If it's media and pertains to the perpetuating of gossip, don't participate, don't watch, turn it off.
There are some people who do their work in a much more visible setting than we do ours. The thing is, they are still people. I can't imagine having every step blocked by a man shoving a camera or recorder in my face. What a horrible way to live. Is it right to have someone camped in front of your house, waiting for you to take out the garbage in your pj's? Or having lunch with a friend? Or taking your daughter to the airport? What gives any of those stalkers the right to involve the children?
It's just not right.
I grew up in Southern California. I spent a lot of time in LA - I was born in LA. One of my favorite places was Westwood, with West LA in general being a great place to hang out. Every once in a while I'd head over to Beverly Hills, have a bite to eat at Nate & Al's. If I didn't want to deal with that crowd, I'd head over to Cantor's. That's what the Bay Area needs - a good Jewish deli. The thought of bagel and lox, with a little cup of chicken noodle soup, just makes me salivate.
I digress.
bumped into me in When I roamed these streets, it was not unusual to see "famous" people. David HAsselhoffWestwood one night, and told me to watch where I'm going (he's like 6'3", I'm 5'6" - and there's a reason "ass" is part of his last name). Aresnio Hall spilled coffee on me - and was very sweet and very apologetic. Arnold Schwarzenegger banked at my bank and I saw him depositing his studio checks (my ex worked as a teller while attending UCLA). I saw Ophra and Gail on a bad, bad hair and attire day. It was not uncommon to see the faces on the big screen going about their business being normal human beings - eating, shopping, spending time with friends. There was one thing that wasn't there - the paparazzi.
15, 20 years ago, those that made a living in the television and movie industries could expect some semblance of normalcy in their daily lives. If they were at an "event", that was a different story. Something very ugly is happening in my home town, and it's getting worse day by day.
Let's take yesterday for example.
LA is also the home of the helicopter traffic reporter/car chase commentator. If you see a car chase on TV, 9 times out of 10 it will be somewhere in the Basin. It's just a fact. It is a spectator sport, and we've made it into an art form. KCAL, local channel 5, was usually the source of our need for potential speed. At least that's how I remember it. Honestly, our most notorious car chase was the crawl chase of OJ. I still remember where we were - husband and I were out for a midweek dinner and we decided to go to the Outback because I needed a steak. We saw the car chase and knew it had to be LA. When the news feed popped on, we saw what it was about. Not that it surprised us, but as two people who had lived in SoCal long enough to become trained sheep, we were transfixed. We couldn't look away. We sat in the bar, watched TV and ate dinner. Baaaaaaaaa.
So yesterday there was another helicopter following another SUV along the streets of LA. This time the SUV was black, the passenger of interest was a white woman. A very sad, in much need of medical help, pathetic excuse for a mother, hugely famous, young woman. KCAL was reporting.
Out society is rapidly going down the crapper, and our media spends h-o-u-r-s reporting and recounting every detail of her existence. It's like a play-by-play of the most pathetic game in the world. We are watching someone self destruct. This isn't news - and it isn't entertainment. It's just wrong.
Humanity has to evolve - we have done this for millenia. But to me it seems we are de-evolving. I encourage all of you to take a personal pledge to improve our society. Don't go to TMZ.com. Don't buy the National Enquirer. If it's media and pertains to the perpetuating of gossip, don't participate, don't watch, turn it off.
There are some people who do their work in a much more visible setting than we do ours. The thing is, they are still people. I can't imagine having every step blocked by a man shoving a camera or recorder in my face. What a horrible way to live. Is it right to have someone camped in front of your house, waiting for you to take out the garbage in your pj's? Or having lunch with a friend? Or taking your daughter to the airport? What gives any of those stalkers the right to involve the children?
It's just not right.
Monday, January 14, 2008
There's a first time for everything
Some people may think this is a little silly, but I like accomplishing firsts. For instance, I tried Corn Nuts for the first time just a couple of years ago. For once, my husband was a little surprised.
I moved to the Bay Area in October 1991. It took a few years for me to try BART (our commuter train). I haven't been on a ferry here, but I have been on a Bay Cruise. Today, I tried MUNI, San Francisco's light rail system, and to me, very similar to the subway trains found on the East Coast.
Having grown up in a place really devoid of public transportation - in the OC - you just didn't take the bus except to go to the beach - getting used to these various modes of conveyance is just strange. But, since I work in the City now, I have to get used to these things.
One more thing off my "have to try" list....
I moved to the Bay Area in October 1991. It took a few years for me to try BART (our commuter train). I haven't been on a ferry here, but I have been on a Bay Cruise. Today, I tried MUNI, San Francisco's light rail system, and to me, very similar to the subway trains found on the East Coast.
Having grown up in a place really devoid of public transportation - in the OC - you just didn't take the bus except to go to the beach - getting used to these various modes of conveyance is just strange. But, since I work in the City now, I have to get used to these things.
One more thing off my "have to try" list....
Sunday, January 13, 2008
Memorable Quote's
Individual commitment to a group effort - that is what makes a team work, a company work, a society work, a civilization work.
- Vince Lombardi
- Vince Lombardi
Update for Saturday
Weekends are always pretty busy for us. Yesterday was no exception.
I drive an old car. In fact, I will have owned it 20 years on the 23rd of the this month. The problem with owning an old car is parts. So, last year I was able to acquire a car that was pretty much a match to mine - it came off the line in October 1987 and my original car came off in July 1987. If it weren't for the after market work mine had, you would be hard pressed to tell them apart.
I refer to mine old car as the "old girl" or "old blue". Like me, she creaks a bit more than she used to and she's not as pretty as she used to be, but with a little work she'd be great. The "new" car is referred to as Debi. There's a slightly sick joke behind that one, but at least it's a quicker way to point one of them out. Anyway, Debi had to go away because the city said so.
Our lovely little town said that since she wasn't running, she had to be removed from public view. Our only way to remedy this was to move her to storage. That's what we did yesterday. We also moved a bunch of stuff from our old storage unit to the new one. We had a nice lunch at Claim Jumper. We went shopping after we were done, and to give our backs a break. When we got home, I steamed some crab and we had a nice dinner with some reserve beer we picked up in Fortuna last summer. By the time I got around to thinking about posting, it was Sunday morning.
We had a full day. We are about to head out again, hopefully to move the last of the stuff from storage. We have some more shopping that needs to be done. If all works out, we should be home early enough so that I can actually post for Sunday.
Oh - I did make time to watch some football yesterday. Even though I am a Vikings fan, and I really should detest the Green Bay Packers, I do love Brett Favre and hope they go back to the Superbowl this year. OMG what a beautiful game yesterday! I love it when the weather becomes part of the game plan. I'm hoping the Giants win today. I would love to see another great game in Green Bay!
I drive an old car. In fact, I will have owned it 20 years on the 23rd of the this month. The problem with owning an old car is parts. So, last year I was able to acquire a car that was pretty much a match to mine - it came off the line in October 1987 and my original car came off in July 1987. If it weren't for the after market work mine had, you would be hard pressed to tell them apart.
I refer to mine old car as the "old girl" or "old blue". Like me, she creaks a bit more than she used to and she's not as pretty as she used to be, but with a little work she'd be great. The "new" car is referred to as Debi. There's a slightly sick joke behind that one, but at least it's a quicker way to point one of them out. Anyway, Debi had to go away because the city said so.
Our lovely little town said that since she wasn't running, she had to be removed from public view. Our only way to remedy this was to move her to storage. That's what we did yesterday. We also moved a bunch of stuff from our old storage unit to the new one. We had a nice lunch at Claim Jumper. We went shopping after we were done, and to give our backs a break. When we got home, I steamed some crab and we had a nice dinner with some reserve beer we picked up in Fortuna last summer. By the time I got around to thinking about posting, it was Sunday morning.
We had a full day. We are about to head out again, hopefully to move the last of the stuff from storage. We have some more shopping that needs to be done. If all works out, we should be home early enough so that I can actually post for Sunday.
Oh - I did make time to watch some football yesterday. Even though I am a Vikings fan, and I really should detest the Green Bay Packers, I do love Brett Favre and hope they go back to the Superbowl this year. OMG what a beautiful game yesterday! I love it when the weather becomes part of the game plan. I'm hoping the Giants win today. I would love to see another great game in Green Bay!
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