I'm sitting here...completely bored out of my mind, and since I've been blasted here on blogger for having a seemingly boring blog, what the hell...I'll bore y'all some more.
Just a little broad and crazy statement - LDR's totally suck at holiday time when you're away from the one you love. The one that you have committed your life to. And those who know me personally, know what it takes for me to commit. My soul, my mind, and my heart all have to be rolled into one - to have someone complete me. And this someone does complete me. When asked by this gentleman the other day, "why him", that is the only thing I could possibly think of that truly explained my heart. I couldn't imagine life without him. I wouldn't want to live in this pitiful world without him.
Also, I've been blasted for being psycho. I really don't believe that this is the case. But I believe that when love is fresh, and new - that we are all a little bit crazy sometimes. I don't apologize for that - but if love doesn't make you a little bit nuts - I truly do not believe that it would be love at all.
Back to the holidays. I come from a big Irish Catholic family. And if you want to see psycho - y'all need to check my mother & her mother out for size. Things getting thrown...people getting cussed out day in & day out. Why is this? Why do people stress so much over a holiday that really if you truly believe in the meaning of it, that it has nothing to do with US. It isn't about breaking your neck to get your children each one of their hearts desires, it is about celebrating a religious holiday - a birthday. That's if you believe in The Big C. If not, God, are you lucky!!
Sometimes it makes me wish that I was still living 500 miles away, so I'd have a reasonable excuse to bow out of all of the "festivities". Why do we feel it necessary to be sickingly sweet to say...our co-workers, and yet we would use words on our family members that we wouldn't even say to our enemies? This is nuts. People who I don't give a flying-you-know-what about, I don't care if they call me a cunt, or even stupid...but when it comes from family members, that reaches a new low.
Well, let's hope that the holidays...one day in the future...will become something to be celebrated...and not despised.
And please tell your loved ones exactly how you feel this holiday season. That's what it is here for.
Sunday, December 25, 2005
Friday, December 23, 2005
Happy Happy
Happy Holidays!!
Hey all…just a quick note to say have a good one.
I would have posted this earlier so my bastard friends who got off work early today could have read this…but oh well. I was stuck in the land of slander.
But as my mantra goes: Karma’s really something, isn’t it?
Oh well…be safe…hold your loved ones if you’re near them.
Happy Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, Festivus, whateva’ y’all celebrate – just do it up ;)
Besos!!
Hey all…just a quick note to say have a good one.
I would have posted this earlier so my bastard friends who got off work early today could have read this…but oh well. I was stuck in the land of slander.
But as my mantra goes: Karma’s really something, isn’t it?
Oh well…be safe…hold your loved ones if you’re near them.
Happy Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, Festivus, whateva’ y’all celebrate – just do it up ;)
Besos!!
Wednesday, December 21, 2005
Lord, How Those Minutes Do Run!
It was a crazy weekend here in the blessed Land of Lincoln.
Saturday, I was hitting the stores at 8 am to finish/start my Christmas shopping. I’m nearly done, with the exception of Mr. Hep. But I know what he’s getting, so that’s a HUGE plus!! Hey, even got them all wrapped!!
I’m very proud of one gift, which is for my Once-And-Future-Husband, which will go unmentioned, since he is one of the two people who read this blog. Let’s just say that it’s imminent that my friends should be checking their mailboxes for a certain kind of invitation this summer.
After my “shopping marathon”, I had to run home to go to my sister’s house for Jack’s 6th birthday party. The funniest thing happened…I bought him a GREAT book called “Olivia”, because that’s his best friend’s name, and being the cool “uncle” that I am, I was sure that he’d love it. His face turned absolutely crimson, and he yelled “That’s for girls!”. Oops.
Following the party, I took him to see “Theater Armageddon 2005”, and he simply adored it! Although each time this guy, http://drastrozoom.blogspot.com would appear onstage, he would thumb his nose at him. Nothing like interactive Children’s Theatre.
Sunday…Sunday…Sunday. Let me first say that I love being a part of “Whorehouse”. Although, being referred to as “a lead” in the Springfield Theatre community is taking me a little bit of getting used to. Sitting with the “OG’s” kind of blows my mind. I feel completely humbled, and I am trying to be a good person to work with, to perhaps set an example to these high schoolers who have my #1 pet peeve: “Diva attitudes without the talent to back it up”.
The more these certain people annoy me, the more the rusty wheels in my pea brain start slowly churning. Was I this way when I was doing theatre as a kid? The more I think about it, the more I’m led to thinking that the answer is deniably, “yes”. So to all of those who I ever offended, or got on their nerves: I humbly apologize.
On a good note, I got a great compliment from our head honcho at rehearsal last night. He told me “I love your interactions with Miss Mona; It is such a relief not to have to tell someone when to breathe, snort, or laugh. Thank you.” This is from a guy who hardly ever compliments anyone. Besos, Bill!
Lord, enough of soul-searching. I swear, my New Year’s resolution is going to be to *stop* soul-searching. Oh, who the hell am I kidding!
Anyway, another huge thing that has taken some getting used to is this 7-days-a-week rehearsal schedule. Don’t get me wrong “I heart theatre” (pardon me while I throw up a little in my mouth), as much as the next thespian, but goodness! I work until 6 pm, then I go directly to the theater at 6:30. Wow. I’m t-i-red.
Another thing that is taken some getting used to is this proscenium theater vs. blackbox theater. I have been working for the last 8 years in what is known as “black box theater”. 80 seats. That means you’re probably a foot away from the audience. That means no microphones. That means me not having to sing as loud as I possibly can. This means…don’t worry about projection too much. That means…I’m having a hard time hearing the piano. Which equals to “crash and burn”. Gotta love live theater!
On a sad note, my dear friend from grade school, Mary Ellen “Mellie” Sukraw, passed away this past Friday after a long battle with Leukemia. As sad as I was when I first heard the news, I have to think that she is in a better place, free from the endless chemotherapy, radiation, and bone marrow transplants. Ciao, Mellie.
Saturday, I was hitting the stores at 8 am to finish/start my Christmas shopping. I’m nearly done, with the exception of Mr. Hep. But I know what he’s getting, so that’s a HUGE plus!! Hey, even got them all wrapped!!
I’m very proud of one gift, which is for my Once-And-Future-Husband, which will go unmentioned, since he is one of the two people who read this blog. Let’s just say that it’s imminent that my friends should be checking their mailboxes for a certain kind of invitation this summer.
After my “shopping marathon”, I had to run home to go to my sister’s house for Jack’s 6th birthday party. The funniest thing happened…I bought him a GREAT book called “Olivia”, because that’s his best friend’s name, and being the cool “uncle” that I am, I was sure that he’d love it. His face turned absolutely crimson, and he yelled “That’s for girls!”. Oops.
Following the party, I took him to see “Theater Armageddon 2005”, and he simply adored it! Although each time this guy, http://drastrozoom.blogspot.com would appear onstage, he would thumb his nose at him. Nothing like interactive Children’s Theatre.
Sunday…Sunday…Sunday. Let me first say that I love being a part of “Whorehouse”. Although, being referred to as “a lead” in the Springfield Theatre community is taking me a little bit of getting used to. Sitting with the “OG’s” kind of blows my mind. I feel completely humbled, and I am trying to be a good person to work with, to perhaps set an example to these high schoolers who have my #1 pet peeve: “Diva attitudes without the talent to back it up”.
The more these certain people annoy me, the more the rusty wheels in my pea brain start slowly churning. Was I this way when I was doing theatre as a kid? The more I think about it, the more I’m led to thinking that the answer is deniably, “yes”. So to all of those who I ever offended, or got on their nerves: I humbly apologize.
On a good note, I got a great compliment from our head honcho at rehearsal last night. He told me “I love your interactions with Miss Mona; It is such a relief not to have to tell someone when to breathe, snort, or laugh. Thank you.” This is from a guy who hardly ever compliments anyone. Besos, Bill!
Lord, enough of soul-searching. I swear, my New Year’s resolution is going to be to *stop* soul-searching. Oh, who the hell am I kidding!
Anyway, another huge thing that has taken some getting used to is this 7-days-a-week rehearsal schedule. Don’t get me wrong “I heart theatre” (pardon me while I throw up a little in my mouth), as much as the next thespian, but goodness! I work until 6 pm, then I go directly to the theater at 6:30. Wow. I’m t-i-red.
Another thing that is taken some getting used to is this proscenium theater vs. blackbox theater. I have been working for the last 8 years in what is known as “black box theater”. 80 seats. That means you’re probably a foot away from the audience. That means no microphones. That means me not having to sing as loud as I possibly can. This means…don’t worry about projection too much. That means…I’m having a hard time hearing the piano. Which equals to “crash and burn”. Gotta love live theater!
On a sad note, my dear friend from grade school, Mary Ellen “Mellie” Sukraw, passed away this past Friday after a long battle with Leukemia. As sad as I was when I first heard the news, I have to think that she is in a better place, free from the endless chemotherapy, radiation, and bone marrow transplants. Ciao, Mellie.
Tuesday, December 13, 2005
It's ALMOST My Birrrrtthhhdddayyyyyy
Ok…the countdown is here. In exactly (well, not EXACTLY…but …) 14 days I will hit one of the milestones. 30.
Thirty years old. Wow. I know for all of you OB friends of mine (that would be old bastards…yeah, yeah…the beatings begin later), that it doesn’t seem like much. And truthfully, it I don’t feel 30 yet.
But, let’s look at this from a “Kimita” perspective. My 30’s have got to be a hell of a lot better than my 20’s were. Granted, I kind of “found” myself in my mid-to-late 20’s. But still…
A Christmas Birthday. They suck…seriously. It’s always “Happy Birthday and Merry Christmas – here’s a card”. So, a warning to those “baby makers” out there…use protection – lots of it – around the middle of May.
But my birthday this year should be fabulous. My “once and future husband” is coming to visit, and after rehearsal of “Ho House”, we’re going out barhopping in Downtown Springfield. Free Drinks for meeee!! So all should be very very well about 12 am.
And…there it is.
Thirty years old. Wow. I know for all of you OB friends of mine (that would be old bastards…yeah, yeah…the beatings begin later), that it doesn’t seem like much. And truthfully, it I don’t feel 30 yet.
But, let’s look at this from a “Kimita” perspective. My 30’s have got to be a hell of a lot better than my 20’s were. Granted, I kind of “found” myself in my mid-to-late 20’s. But still…
A Christmas Birthday. They suck…seriously. It’s always “Happy Birthday and Merry Christmas – here’s a card”. So, a warning to those “baby makers” out there…use protection – lots of it – around the middle of May.
But my birthday this year should be fabulous. My “once and future husband” is coming to visit, and after rehearsal of “Ho House”, we’re going out barhopping in Downtown Springfield. Free Drinks for meeee!! So all should be very very well about 12 am.
And…there it is.
Sunday, December 11, 2005
...But What I Really Wanna Do Is Direct
OK...so I'm over at my dear friends' houses, Dr. & Mrs. Zoom, and I just had an epiphany while discussing a horrible Childrens Show.
I want to direct one.
Not for the main reasons...not to see my name in the byline. Not to "respect my authoritay", or something. But to friggin' make these diva-wanna-be's realize what theater is all about. Discipline.
The director of the afore-mentioned show is a sugary-sweet person. There was no structure to this show. She cast everyone who was auditioned. So it was a cast of MILLIONS.
I began doing Childrens' Theater when I was 10. It is how I learned through trial & error how to compose myself while auditioning, performing, etc. The one director who still sticks in my mind was the one who came into the very first audition and said "I have a revolving door policy. You do what I say, or you can leave". It still sticks with me after 17 years.
Kids respect discipline. Or even a little "meanness".
So, my original thought was to direct "The Best Christmas Pageant Ever", but the Executive Director shot that down, because it was promised to someone else. So I'm looking through the prior programs to the theater, and I'm just racking my brain for something new, or that hasn't been done in awhile. So I submitted "Ramona Quimby" and "The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe". The latter, obviously because of the huge success of "Narnia", and the previous because I was a HUGE fan of the books by Beverly Cleary, and the plays that they have dramatized are hugely popular nowadays, yet the theater hasn't done them.
In my bid, I also suggested that the theater do "The Diary of Anne Frank" next season. It hasn't been done in years, and I know plenty of people who are itching to do a dramatic show.
And...there it is.
I want to direct one.
Not for the main reasons...not to see my name in the byline. Not to "respect my authoritay", or something. But to friggin' make these diva-wanna-be's realize what theater is all about. Discipline.
The director of the afore-mentioned show is a sugary-sweet person. There was no structure to this show. She cast everyone who was auditioned. So it was a cast of MILLIONS.
I began doing Childrens' Theater when I was 10. It is how I learned through trial & error how to compose myself while auditioning, performing, etc. The one director who still sticks in my mind was the one who came into the very first audition and said "I have a revolving door policy. You do what I say, or you can leave". It still sticks with me after 17 years.
Kids respect discipline. Or even a little "meanness".
So, my original thought was to direct "The Best Christmas Pageant Ever", but the Executive Director shot that down, because it was promised to someone else. So I'm looking through the prior programs to the theater, and I'm just racking my brain for something new, or that hasn't been done in awhile. So I submitted "Ramona Quimby" and "The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe". The latter, obviously because of the huge success of "Narnia", and the previous because I was a HUGE fan of the books by Beverly Cleary, and the plays that they have dramatized are hugely popular nowadays, yet the theater hasn't done them.
In my bid, I also suggested that the theater do "The Diary of Anne Frank" next season. It hasn't been done in years, and I know plenty of people who are itching to do a dramatic show.
And...there it is.
Thursday, December 08, 2005
You Know You’re Not In Arkansas Anymore WHEN…
There’s nearly a blizzard goin’ on outside…and your job hasn’t shut down for the week yet.
Seriously folks…my friends in AR can back me up. There is almost 6 inches of the lovely white stuff on the ground…if there was even a chance of this happening in Lil’ Rock…the whole city would have shut down.
Luckily, I’m driving the beast.
Seriously folks…my friends in AR can back me up. There is almost 6 inches of the lovely white stuff on the ground…if there was even a chance of this happening in Lil’ Rock…the whole city would have shut down.
Luckily, I’m driving the beast.
Saturday, December 03, 2005
Oh, Hell...
Damn. Sorry.
Anyhey - now THAT is out of the way. I'm enjoying the thrills of being a student and having a real job at the same time. Currently I'm doing some Morgatge stuff at Wells Fargo. I hated it for the past few days, but it's getting better now.
My trainer lent me this book "Dating for Dummies". I was thumbing through it, and something caught my eye that I must share:
-The #1 Reason Why You Should Break Up With Someone:
They have moved & left no forwarding address
Tickled me.
Then came the chapter on "Long Distance Relationships"...according to this "MD" (I use the term extremely loosely), LDR's are only good if you
1. Want to live in a fantasy world
2. See one another more than once a month
Yes, I can tell you from first-hand knowledge, they are a lot harder than you could ever imagine in your lifetime. Heartbreak is present all of the time...
So how do I cope with this? I've been sleeping a lot lately. Been a lot more distant than I once had been with my significant other. Is that wrong? I don't think so. It is just a coping mechanism that I am using.
It is better than driving myself crazy with trust & honesty issues that I have within myself.
Anyway - "Whorehouse" - I would say that is going well...if we would have more than one rehearsal :P
Take care...be safe...
xoxoxo
Anyhey - now THAT is out of the way. I'm enjoying the thrills of being a student and having a real job at the same time. Currently I'm doing some Morgatge stuff at Wells Fargo. I hated it for the past few days, but it's getting better now.
My trainer lent me this book "Dating for Dummies". I was thumbing through it, and something caught my eye that I must share:
-The #1 Reason Why You Should Break Up With Someone:
They have moved & left no forwarding address
Tickled me.
Then came the chapter on "Long Distance Relationships"...according to this "MD" (I use the term extremely loosely), LDR's are only good if you
1. Want to live in a fantasy world
2. See one another more than once a month
Yes, I can tell you from first-hand knowledge, they are a lot harder than you could ever imagine in your lifetime. Heartbreak is present all of the time...
So how do I cope with this? I've been sleeping a lot lately. Been a lot more distant than I once had been with my significant other. Is that wrong? I don't think so. It is just a coping mechanism that I am using.
It is better than driving myself crazy with trust & honesty issues that I have within myself.
Anyway - "Whorehouse" - I would say that is going well...if we would have more than one rehearsal :P
Take care...be safe...
xoxoxo
Thursday, November 24, 2005
RENT!!
Ok...so I'll admit it. Since "Rent" first came out, I was anti-the whole show. As a whole. Just because I was sick of all of the young kids who were "Rentheads" going around quoting lines & songs from the show.
I saw the movie tonight with what had to be the entire community theater community here in Springfield. Well, not all - but a good chunk of 'em.
And I absolutely loved it. There were portions of the show (even though I had never seen, or heard any of the music except for the "Seasons of Love" song) that you could tell that were cut, and so some of the scenes seemed a little disjointed at times.
Nonetheless, it was a wonderful, moving, and fun movie. I do hope that everyone has a chance to go and see it.
Happy Turkey Day, all!! Be safe...be well!
I saw the movie tonight with what had to be the entire community theater community here in Springfield. Well, not all - but a good chunk of 'em.
And I absolutely loved it. There were portions of the show (even though I had never seen, or heard any of the music except for the "Seasons of Love" song) that you could tell that were cut, and so some of the scenes seemed a little disjointed at times.
Nonetheless, it was a wonderful, moving, and fun movie. I do hope that everyone has a chance to go and see it.
Happy Turkey Day, all!! Be safe...be well!
Tuesday, November 22, 2005
Ohhhh Nooo
Tuesday, November 22, 2005
Ohhhh Noooo
Current mood: ditzy
Was in another car accident on Saturday. I swear, I am NEVER getting in another vehicle on a Saturday night - at least for a couple of weeks
Since the "Deer" debacle last weekend, Georgia has been riding in a Mazda 3 rental car. Not bad. So, Jim is driving, and I'm in the back seat...smoking a cigarette & wishing that I didn't have to run spot for this show. Stopped at a stoplight, a Dodge Durango plows into the back of us. The next thing I remeber is feeling my pants on fire - haha.
Wiped out the back of the little Mazda. Back windshield is gone, and we got to see the wonders of the bumper - styrofoam. I swear, Old Navy packs their sweaters in better stuff than this bumper was made out of.
Officially I have a sprained back & neck. Whoo-hoo. Muscle Relaxers for everyone :P
Have a great Turkey Day, all...Gobble gobble.
Currently listening:
The Best Little Whorehouse In Texas: Original Cast
By Carol Hall
Release date: By 07 October, 1997
Ohhhh Noooo
Current mood: ditzy
Was in another car accident on Saturday. I swear, I am NEVER getting in another vehicle on a Saturday night - at least for a couple of weeks
Since the "Deer" debacle last weekend, Georgia has been riding in a Mazda 3 rental car. Not bad. So, Jim is driving, and I'm in the back seat...smoking a cigarette & wishing that I didn't have to run spot for this show. Stopped at a stoplight, a Dodge Durango plows into the back of us. The next thing I remeber is feeling my pants on fire - haha.
Wiped out the back of the little Mazda. Back windshield is gone, and we got to see the wonders of the bumper - styrofoam. I swear, Old Navy packs their sweaters in better stuff than this bumper was made out of.
Officially I have a sprained back & neck. Whoo-hoo. Muscle Relaxers for everyone :P
Have a great Turkey Day, all...Gobble gobble.
Currently listening:
The Best Little Whorehouse In Texas: Original Cast
By Carol Hall
Release date: By 07 October, 1997
Tuesday, November 15, 2005
Just Call Me "Deer", Please!!
I'm a bad blogger. Bad, bad, bad!!
I've just been a "little" neglectful...alas...here I am again. You can all jump up & down for joy...the 2 people who actually read this thing.
I'll begin with Saturday...I auditioned for "The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas" at Springfield Theatre Centre. Wasn't really caring about what role I got...I'd done the show a year ago in Little Rock, AR.
BUT...I was cast as the black housekeeper, Jewel (WTF?)
Then, I'm running spot for Nunsense (Just call me Sr. Mary Myopia), driving home...and WHAM. I hit a deer. By the grace of God, I was wearing a seat belt, so I didn't go through the windshield.
Whew. What a weekend.
I've just been a "little" neglectful...alas...here I am again. You can all jump up & down for joy...the 2 people who actually read this thing.
I'll begin with Saturday...I auditioned for "The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas" at Springfield Theatre Centre. Wasn't really caring about what role I got...I'd done the show a year ago in Little Rock, AR.
BUT...I was cast as the black housekeeper, Jewel (WTF?)
Then, I'm running spot for Nunsense (Just call me Sr. Mary Myopia), driving home...and WHAM. I hit a deer. By the grace of God, I was wearing a seat belt, so I didn't go through the windshield.
Whew. What a weekend.
Friday, November 11, 2005
Tuesday, November 08, 2005
Weird Fact About Me
My significant other today told me something about me that I hadn't known.
I'm taller than Charles Manson.
Thanks, Michael...I love you anyway :)
I'm taller than Charles Manson.
Thanks, Michael...I love you anyway :)
Slap a Bitch, Go To Jail - Per Mrs. Zoom
School board expels 18 students Thirteen were involved in fights at Lanphier
By PETE SHERMANSTAFF WRITER
Published Tuesday, November 08, 2005
The Springfield School Board decided to expel 18 high school students at its meeting Monday night - probably the most ever expelled at one time, according to School Superintendent Diane Rutledge.
Thirteen of the 18 expelled students attended Lanphier High School and took part in fights at the school on Oct. 25. About that many were arrested as a result. The board also expelled, for unrelated incidents, two other Lanphier students, two from Springfield High School and one from Southeast High School.
"It was a very sad day for us," Rutledge said. "We are not proud of that kind of thing."
All the students were expelled for the remainder of the school year, and most were offered alternative education options.
Rutledge said the district, the Springfield Police Department and social service agencies are working with many of the expelled Lanphier students and their families to resolve issues that lead to the fighting. According to police, the fighting stemmed from neighborhood gang-related disputes.
Part of the problem, some board members hinted, might be explained by high school expectations.
Following a briefing of tougher state-required high school graduation requirements, board members were concerned that they actually might stifle interest in learning. The new requirements, which gradually take effect during the next four years, increase the number of math, writing and science courses needed to graduate, while decreasing the number of elective courses.
"I think it's great that there's additional requirements. But I'm really concerned about keeping kids interested in school. And I hate to see that there's going to be fewer (electives)," said board member Cheryl Wise. "It really does bother me."
"If you look at the number of kids that we have expelled today - as the numbers continue to grow, in terms of expulsions - I think we need to look at: Why aren't they interested in school, really?" said board president Judy Johnson.
"Some of them want to be there. They come in and say they want to be in class. Yet, still, they're acting out. ... What are we doing as a district to look at that?"
By PETE SHERMANSTAFF WRITER
Published Tuesday, November 08, 2005
The Springfield School Board decided to expel 18 high school students at its meeting Monday night - probably the most ever expelled at one time, according to School Superintendent Diane Rutledge.
Thirteen of the 18 expelled students attended Lanphier High School and took part in fights at the school on Oct. 25. About that many were arrested as a result. The board also expelled, for unrelated incidents, two other Lanphier students, two from Springfield High School and one from Southeast High School.
"It was a very sad day for us," Rutledge said. "We are not proud of that kind of thing."
All the students were expelled for the remainder of the school year, and most were offered alternative education options.
Rutledge said the district, the Springfield Police Department and social service agencies are working with many of the expelled Lanphier students and their families to resolve issues that lead to the fighting. According to police, the fighting stemmed from neighborhood gang-related disputes.
Part of the problem, some board members hinted, might be explained by high school expectations.
Following a briefing of tougher state-required high school graduation requirements, board members were concerned that they actually might stifle interest in learning. The new requirements, which gradually take effect during the next four years, increase the number of math, writing and science courses needed to graduate, while decreasing the number of elective courses.
"I think it's great that there's additional requirements. But I'm really concerned about keeping kids interested in school. And I hate to see that there's going to be fewer (electives)," said board member Cheryl Wise. "It really does bother me."
"If you look at the number of kids that we have expelled today - as the numbers continue to grow, in terms of expulsions - I think we need to look at: Why aren't they interested in school, really?" said board president Judy Johnson.
"Some of them want to be there. They come in and say they want to be in class. Yet, still, they're acting out. ... What are we doing as a district to look at that?"
Tiring Week
I'm currently portraying Sr. Mary Myopia in "Nunsense" in Jacksonville, IL.
Oh, OK...you got me...I'm simply running the spotlight.
There are at least 4 or 5 different shows running this weekend in town (try http://gordonproductions for a complete listing), and I'm sick that I can't see any performances of "A Few Good Men". Oh, well. The joys of people who can't schedule correctly. It's better than my old town of Little Rock. At least we can get people to audition. I heard through the grapevine that they had 4 women, 3 men, and a couple of kids audition for "110 in the Shade". LMFAO.
So, yes...I'm in "Thespian mode" again this week.
So rant and rave at me...you know you want to ;)
Oh, OK...you got me...I'm simply running the spotlight.
There are at least 4 or 5 different shows running this weekend in town (try http://gordonproductions for a complete listing), and I'm sick that I can't see any performances of "A Few Good Men". Oh, well. The joys of people who can't schedule correctly. It's better than my old town of Little Rock. At least we can get people to audition. I heard through the grapevine that they had 4 women, 3 men, and a couple of kids audition for "110 in the Shade". LMFAO.
So, yes...I'm in "Thespian mode" again this week.
So rant and rave at me...you know you want to ;)
Friday, November 04, 2005
My "It List"
Ok...so I'm not as good as some people about the pictures & text thing - but these are the hotties on my list ;)
If This Is Any Indication of How My Weekend Will Be Going...
Sigh. I'm in the shower this morning, I bend down to get my conditioner which has fallen onto the floor, and hit my head severely on a hook that is on the shower wall. Hurt like hell...I didn't think anything of it...I have a scar on my forehead that sometimes aches (call me Harry Potter).
Get out of the shower, and lo and behold...I have a gash on my forehead. Not a big one, but dear GOD...right next to the scar that is already there.
Wow...the joys of being clumsy...I think I'll refrain from drinking this weekend...I'll wind up like the drunk out at Marley's Pub who fell and hit his head on this bar on Tuesday night...but that is another story altogether ;)
Have a good weekend, all.
Get out of the shower, and lo and behold...I have a gash on my forehead. Not a big one, but dear GOD...right next to the scar that is already there.
Wow...the joys of being clumsy...I think I'll refrain from drinking this weekend...I'll wind up like the drunk out at Marley's Pub who fell and hit his head on this bar on Tuesday night...but that is another story altogether ;)
Have a good weekend, all.
Tuesday, November 01, 2005
Mindless Blogging
I'm sitting here desperately awaiting 4:00 PM. My heart is racing...my mind is reeling. (I could start singing tunes from "Wicked", but the non-thespians out there just sooo wouldn't understand).
I am waiting for my special someone to come and visit me today. Luckily, today is the 1st day of registration, and my working at the Help Desk at the college, I'm swamped with calls of mass stupidity. "I can't register." Well, hon you haven't taken a class out here since 1999. Duh.
Time is slowly crawling by. I've had to stop myself like 10 times within the past hour from calling him. Wow. I'm not nervous. I am NOT nervous. If I keep telling myself this; maybe I will believe it.
Ugh...life and such. I cannot even find anything interesting to blog about. I'm a mess. But I look cute today ;)
I am waiting for my special someone to come and visit me today. Luckily, today is the 1st day of registration, and my working at the Help Desk at the college, I'm swamped with calls of mass stupidity. "I can't register." Well, hon you haven't taken a class out here since 1999. Duh.
Time is slowly crawling by. I've had to stop myself like 10 times within the past hour from calling him. Wow. I'm not nervous. I am NOT nervous. If I keep telling myself this; maybe I will believe it.
Ugh...life and such. I cannot even find anything interesting to blog about. I'm a mess. But I look cute today ;)
Tuesday, October 25, 2005
What the Hell Has Happened to Separation of Church and State?
Wow - I'm sure I'll get a rise out of a lot of folks with this one. Sorry, it cannot fester any longer.
While living in Arkansas, I kind of relented to my liberal upbringing. We had our lovely governor leading the state in prayer. I was confused. But yet, I understood. The things that southerners know are BBQ, Fried Foods, and Jeezus. More power to them. Personally, I am not an organized-religion fan. A lot of these fundamental Christians border on the cult-standard. I'm always looking for the next David Koresh. I mean, true Christianity, you are supposed to love your neighbor. Not hate them. Oh! And the biggest one that really gets to me is..."do not judge lest ye be judged". Hmmmmmmmmmmmm. That's all I am saying about that one.
So, I relented that S.O.C.A.S. is null and void in Arkansas. That's fine. It's the south - EVERYTHING'S backwards...and slow. Listen to me talk nowadays - you'll know that it's slow :)
But imagine my shock when I move back home - sigh - finally back in Liberalland. And I find out that prayer and religion is trying to find its way back into public schools. Come again? Religion=Public Schools. Now there's an oxymoron, if I have ever heard of one. WTF? Parents, if it is so neccessary that your child cannot live without praising Jesus for the what? 7 hours a day that they are in school - send them to a parochial school of some sort. Look what a good job they did on me ;)
While living in Arkansas, I kind of relented to my liberal upbringing. We had our lovely governor leading the state in prayer. I was confused. But yet, I understood. The things that southerners know are BBQ, Fried Foods, and Jeezus. More power to them. Personally, I am not an organized-religion fan. A lot of these fundamental Christians border on the cult-standard. I'm always looking for the next David Koresh. I mean, true Christianity, you are supposed to love your neighbor. Not hate them. Oh! And the biggest one that really gets to me is..."do not judge lest ye be judged". Hmmmmmmmmmmmm. That's all I am saying about that one.
So, I relented that S.O.C.A.S. is null and void in Arkansas. That's fine. It's the south - EVERYTHING'S backwards...and slow. Listen to me talk nowadays - you'll know that it's slow :)
But imagine my shock when I move back home - sigh - finally back in Liberalland. And I find out that prayer and religion is trying to find its way back into public schools. Come again? Religion=Public Schools. Now there's an oxymoron, if I have ever heard of one. WTF? Parents, if it is so neccessary that your child cannot live without praising Jesus for the what? 7 hours a day that they are in school - send them to a parochial school of some sort. Look what a good job they did on me ;)
Thursday, October 20, 2005
I Need a Mind Break
All of this studying of genetics is really bogging me down this morning...so here's a rambling post...but what else is new?
Had my Midterm Conference yesterday afternoon, which was surreal. I was told I had the potential to be an amazing writer one day, I had the creativity which cannot be taught, but I needed to start thinking. What a concept. I thought I was in college to daydream. Muah. My real problem with writing - and I don't know if it is a PROBLEM per se, but totally an issue. I have a very creative mind that about a dozen miles a minute, with dozens of things going on up there at one time. ADD - no. I'm too lazy for that. Bipolar - hmm...quite a possibility. I think I'm just nuts...seriously.
I was reading the Illinois Times online this morning, and I came across the fact that our dear Governor wants to change the age limit for tatoos from 18 to 21. Hmm...that's what we need a bunch of drunk kids going out to get their 1st tats on their 21st birthday. I hope you don't think that I'm anti-tatoo...I'm not. I have a lovely music note anklet on my right ankle...I love it. Yeah, painful...but very "me". My next endeavor will be either a shamrock or a celtic cross on my back. Yes, Dr. Zoom - feel free to comment on that one :)
Granted, I have not lived in Illinois for nearly 9 years now, but I just find it funny that Rod B. only decides to actually do things for the state when it's election year. Is it just me?
Hell, I seriously have no idea what I'm saying...back to genetics...
Had my Midterm Conference yesterday afternoon, which was surreal. I was told I had the potential to be an amazing writer one day, I had the creativity which cannot be taught, but I needed to start thinking. What a concept. I thought I was in college to daydream. Muah. My real problem with writing - and I don't know if it is a PROBLEM per se, but totally an issue. I have a very creative mind that about a dozen miles a minute, with dozens of things going on up there at one time. ADD - no. I'm too lazy for that. Bipolar - hmm...quite a possibility. I think I'm just nuts...seriously.
I was reading the Illinois Times online this morning, and I came across the fact that our dear Governor wants to change the age limit for tatoos from 18 to 21. Hmm...that's what we need a bunch of drunk kids going out to get their 1st tats on their 21st birthday. I hope you don't think that I'm anti-tatoo...I'm not. I have a lovely music note anklet on my right ankle...I love it. Yeah, painful...but very "me". My next endeavor will be either a shamrock or a celtic cross on my back. Yes, Dr. Zoom - feel free to comment on that one :)
Granted, I have not lived in Illinois for nearly 9 years now, but I just find it funny that Rod B. only decides to actually do things for the state when it's election year. Is it just me?
Hell, I seriously have no idea what I'm saying...back to genetics...
Tuesday, October 18, 2005
Slap me...please!!
Surprise...surprise...
As I mentioned in a previous "Abortion" post...Harriet Miers was being scrutinized for the abortion issue.
Well, let it be known that she was against abortion in 89...the only way she would be for it was if it endangered the life of a mother.
Gee...I'll bet she never talked to Junior about this...
BTW...did anyone catch that picture of she & Junior in Newsweek a couple of weeks ago? Reminds me of a certain intern & a certain former president...hmmm...
As I mentioned in a previous "Abortion" post...Harriet Miers was being scrutinized for the abortion issue.
Well, let it be known that she was against abortion in 89...the only way she would be for it was if it endangered the life of a mother.
Gee...I'll bet she never talked to Junior about this...
BTW...did anyone catch that picture of she & Junior in Newsweek a couple of weeks ago? Reminds me of a certain intern & a certain former president...hmmm...
Sleep Deprivation
I recently studied that it can kill you. But is a little s.d. all that bad?
Personally, the past two weeks I get, oh, about a good 3-4 hours sleep a night. But then I usually take a 2 hour *siesta*...if I'm lucky. If I'm not...and I need to do something that evening...like say...THINK...I'll take a sudafed, or something.
Is this wrong? Really, it keeps me more focused. That may sound completely crazy. But it does.
So, yes...please forgive me for these inane postings as of late - I don't think my brain is completely functioning...but one day...it will again.
Personally, the past two weeks I get, oh, about a good 3-4 hours sleep a night. But then I usually take a 2 hour *siesta*...if I'm lucky. If I'm not...and I need to do something that evening...like say...THINK...I'll take a sudafed, or something.
Is this wrong? Really, it keeps me more focused. That may sound completely crazy. But it does.
So, yes...please forgive me for these inane postings as of late - I don't think my brain is completely functioning...but one day...it will again.
Monday, October 17, 2005
I'll Get Killed for This Posting
I was having an in-depth conversation with my father last night, and I truly believe that this is an issue that is completely side-stepped around nowdays.
What has happened to people living in the "real world"? I know this person, and like me, he has stolen, lied to, been arrested for heinous (well, not heinous, really...but stupid) things done to not only strangers, but people who are close to them...friends, family, whatever. But there is one huge difference between us. I have taken responsibility for my actions. I have apologized for my actions. I do not make excuses for what I have done. All I can say is that I was a completely different person at the time that I did these things (the last time being 8 years ago).
This person walks around as if the world revolves around him, and isn't even humble around people that he has hurt. He's hugely egotistical, spiteful, and I am hurt because of this. I want to forgive him for the things that he has done to people that I consider to be my friends. But if you don't ask for forgiveness, how is one supposed to forgive you? He is not living in the real world.
People place all of their faith in God. Which I do not dispute at all. But if you believe in God, then you also should believe that He gave us the ability to make our own decisions in life, and we must take responsibility for those actions. If we do not make the right decisions, then it is our responsibility to do all that we can as mortals to make up for those transgressions. Get a fucking job, stop living in a fantasy land where your entire life revolves around theater, music, and movies. Faith is a good thing, yes. But you cannot just say "I don't have enough money to pay for this bill, but JEEZUS will take care of this for me". That is not acceptable.
Faith is a great thing, but you need to be humble, and get your ass in gear to become a productive member of society. Keeping your ego in check is a good thing.
What has happened to people living in the "real world"? I know this person, and like me, he has stolen, lied to, been arrested for heinous (well, not heinous, really...but stupid) things done to not only strangers, but people who are close to them...friends, family, whatever. But there is one huge difference between us. I have taken responsibility for my actions. I have apologized for my actions. I do not make excuses for what I have done. All I can say is that I was a completely different person at the time that I did these things (the last time being 8 years ago).
This person walks around as if the world revolves around him, and isn't even humble around people that he has hurt. He's hugely egotistical, spiteful, and I am hurt because of this. I want to forgive him for the things that he has done to people that I consider to be my friends. But if you don't ask for forgiveness, how is one supposed to forgive you? He is not living in the real world.
People place all of their faith in God. Which I do not dispute at all. But if you believe in God, then you also should believe that He gave us the ability to make our own decisions in life, and we must take responsibility for those actions. If we do not make the right decisions, then it is our responsibility to do all that we can as mortals to make up for those transgressions. Get a fucking job, stop living in a fantasy land where your entire life revolves around theater, music, and movies. Faith is a good thing, yes. But you cannot just say "I don't have enough money to pay for this bill, but JEEZUS will take care of this for me". That is not acceptable.
Faith is a great thing, but you need to be humble, and get your ass in gear to become a productive member of society. Keeping your ego in check is a good thing.
Friday, October 14, 2005
Yes I'm Still Alive
Nothing new to really talk about...sooo...
Let's talk about Karma.
Without going into great detail, I learned a great life experience on Wednesday. What goes around comes around, in full circle.
Thats all for today, kids!!
Let's talk about Karma.
Without going into great detail, I learned a great life experience on Wednesday. What goes around comes around, in full circle.
Thats all for today, kids!!
Tuesday, October 11, 2005
A Day in the Life as a Backstage Dresser
*Disclaimer - this was written on Sunday night - my how things change in a day*
I love theater...I really, really do. Maybe if I keep telling myself, I will believe it :)
I began performing onstage in Springfield, Illinois at the tender age of 10. As a puppet in a acid-induced production of "Pinocchio" at the Springfield Theatre Centre. Let me backtrack 3 months before then. I may have already posted this story, but what the hell - like I'm going to lose the 2 readers of this blog that I already have.
I come from an extreme musical family. I started violin lessons at age 4. My sister is the musical genius - plays more musical instruments (and plays them well, unlike me) than should be humanly possible. We were brought up on Mozart and Jesus Christ Superstar, for pete's sake. While dad was on "vacation" from singing with the Symphony Chorus, he decided with the help of Teresa Radlinski, the choir director at our church, to audition for the Springfield Muni Opera's production of "Jesus Christ Superstar". He was cast, and I was bitten by the theater bug. I thought, hey this is something that I could possibly do well. I couldn't sing worth a damn, so what could it hurt?
That's the reader's digest version. So, a Drama Queen was offically born!
As a true theater junkie, I've done my fair share of working backstage. Dresser, props, sound, lights, set building, set crew...whatever. I'm not picky. But for the last 8 years I kind of got my head blown up by playing some very interesting roles in Arkansas....The Narrator in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Ruby Rae in The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, Maggie in The Shadow Box, Victoria in A Grand Night for Singing...just to name a few. So imagine my delight when I heard that Springfield Theatre Centre was going to put on Jekyll & Hyde. Wow. But we all knew who the leading lady was going to go to. I just assumed I'd be put in the chorus, since I would only have to miss a few weeks of rehearsal. So I put on my most suitable skirt & gold lame blouse...curled my hair up Texas-style...and belted out "Someone Else's Story" from Chess. Made one critical error. I forgot that Springfield doesn't see fat girls as leading ladies. Believe me, that's the last time I use a "touchy" song for an audition here ;)
Or maybe I'm completely wrong. Maybe the reason why I wasn't cast is that I was just going to miss too much rehearsal. Because as good as the chorus is, I know I can go head-to-head with anyone of those women singing and acting. Sounds egotistical? Yeah, but I'm a friggin' thespian, what did you expect? I do have a diva attitude sometimes ;)
But I couldn't NOT work on that show in some capactiy. My father, whom I deeply admire and respect, was in the show. I hadn't been "in" a show with him since 1997. So when this guy asked me to be his dresser, I lept at the chance to be involved without having to move those massive set pieces.
So, here I was on Sunday afternoon...ready to go. Had my bravest game face on. Was prepared with a bowtie in one hand and a vest in the other. I was sooo prepared...time to show these people what kind of a uber-theater professional I have become...annnddd...
I friggin' crashed & burned. I hadn't adjusted the tie NOR the vest. Pfffttt...
The joys of live theater. What a professional I turned out to be.
I love theater...I really, really do. Maybe if I keep telling myself, I will believe it :)
I began performing onstage in Springfield, Illinois at the tender age of 10. As a puppet in a acid-induced production of "Pinocchio" at the Springfield Theatre Centre. Let me backtrack 3 months before then. I may have already posted this story, but what the hell - like I'm going to lose the 2 readers of this blog that I already have.
I come from an extreme musical family. I started violin lessons at age 4. My sister is the musical genius - plays more musical instruments (and plays them well, unlike me) than should be humanly possible. We were brought up on Mozart and Jesus Christ Superstar, for pete's sake. While dad was on "vacation" from singing with the Symphony Chorus, he decided with the help of Teresa Radlinski, the choir director at our church, to audition for the Springfield Muni Opera's production of "Jesus Christ Superstar". He was cast, and I was bitten by the theater bug. I thought, hey this is something that I could possibly do well. I couldn't sing worth a damn, so what could it hurt?
That's the reader's digest version. So, a Drama Queen was offically born!
As a true theater junkie, I've done my fair share of working backstage. Dresser, props, sound, lights, set building, set crew...whatever. I'm not picky. But for the last 8 years I kind of got my head blown up by playing some very interesting roles in Arkansas....The Narrator in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Ruby Rae in The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, Maggie in The Shadow Box, Victoria in A Grand Night for Singing...just to name a few. So imagine my delight when I heard that Springfield Theatre Centre was going to put on Jekyll & Hyde. Wow. But we all knew who the leading lady was going to go to. I just assumed I'd be put in the chorus, since I would only have to miss a few weeks of rehearsal. So I put on my most suitable skirt & gold lame blouse...curled my hair up Texas-style...and belted out "Someone Else's Story" from Chess. Made one critical error. I forgot that Springfield doesn't see fat girls as leading ladies. Believe me, that's the last time I use a "touchy" song for an audition here ;)
Or maybe I'm completely wrong. Maybe the reason why I wasn't cast is that I was just going to miss too much rehearsal. Because as good as the chorus is, I know I can go head-to-head with anyone of those women singing and acting. Sounds egotistical? Yeah, but I'm a friggin' thespian, what did you expect? I do have a diva attitude sometimes ;)
But I couldn't NOT work on that show in some capactiy. My father, whom I deeply admire and respect, was in the show. I hadn't been "in" a show with him since 1997. So when this guy asked me to be his dresser, I lept at the chance to be involved without having to move those massive set pieces.
So, here I was on Sunday afternoon...ready to go. Had my bravest game face on. Was prepared with a bowtie in one hand and a vest in the other. I was sooo prepared...time to show these people what kind of a uber-theater professional I have become...annnddd...
I friggin' crashed & burned. I hadn't adjusted the tie NOR the vest. Pfffttt...
The joys of live theater. What a professional I turned out to be.
Friday, October 07, 2005
Check This Out
Ok, I am sitting up here at my new job - working for the college that I am attending. I have 2 1/2 hours to kill, and I'm incessantly bored out of my mind. My significant other has disappeared this afternoon - damn him for actually having something to do tonight!! Anyway, so I'd thought I'd post this short essay that I wrote for Advanced Composition a little while ago. It's kind of crazy, but gets to the point. Isn't that the story of my life?
So, enjoy...if you dare...
So, enjoy...if you dare...
Childrens' Literature
Portraying characters in childrens' literature as animals without a doubt increases the humor in "Olivia Saves the Circus" by Anne Schwartz. For example, one page has to do with cleaning the house. Since the characters are pigs, why does the kitchen have to include dishes piled up to the sink? This leaves one word in this reader's mind: Pigsty.
The classification of humor in this particular story is superiority. Adults are superior to children, as humans are superior to animals. This reminds me of the egocentric way that humans viewed the novel "Animal Farm" by George Orwell. The novel was on the banned book list for years, and it really hit a nerve with humans. How DARE this author even suggest that humans could be overthrown by something so weak and powerless as animals? Perhaps in a way, some sort of salvaging a sense of relief, though it is comic; is to cast characters in children's books as animals. it is much easier to laugh at animals, rather than to laugh at one's self.
Although the characters throughout this book were of swine nature, the majority of books for younger readers, the characters of children are portrayed as animals. Adults tend to believe that children are beneath us, as are animals. In previous years, children were of little value until they had grown; just like animals. By portraying the characters of children as animals, they are indirectly stating the aforementioned point.
Annnnddd...I'm done!
Ok...Time to Take It Down A Notch
For all of those living anywhere near to Springfield, Illinois - I beg of you to call for your tickets to the "wondermouse" production of "Jekyll & Hyde" at the Springfield Theatre Centre.While I'm not actually IN the production (that's another posting altogether), I am the personal dresser for this guy http://drastrozoom.blogspot.com :)
And my FAVORITE liberal/communist in Springfield, Jim Leach, also makes an appearance. And my dad, Mr. Hep he ain't too shabby either.
Having said that, I attended a rehearsal last Sunday and can I say "OMG". While the leads are stunning, the biggest shock to me was the ensemble. These voices melt together like pure BUTTAH - I love it!
So, if you want to see the best community theater production that I've ever seen - ever - please c'mon down to the Hoog!
Thursday, October 06, 2005
Illinois...Home of the Unoriginal Idea
Ok...now this is a great idea from the state of Illinois. To have every child covered by the state of Illinois under their own insurance plan. You'd think that by the news coverage, that this was an original idea.
Sorry to burst your bubble, my fellow Illinoisans. I don't know about other states, but when I moved from Springfield to Little Rock, Arkansas in 1998, the same plan had been in action for several years.
So, sorry, Illinois. This is a great idea, but sooo unoriginal.
Sorry to burst your bubble, my fellow Illinoisans. I don't know about other states, but when I moved from Springfield to Little Rock, Arkansas in 1998, the same plan had been in action for several years.
So, sorry, Illinois. This is a great idea, but sooo unoriginal.
Another Gem From Everyone's Favorite Prez
President Bush today said the fight against terrorism must continue in Iraq because that is where terrorists are centering their war on freedom. If U.S. forces withdraw from Iraq, Bush said, insurgents would "use the vacuum created by an American retreat to gain control of a country, a base from which to launch attacks and conduct their war against nonradical Muslim governments."
Hmmm...hmmm...you'd think there was controversy going on in the White House. WAIT!! Read my last blog...there is!!
I just find it undeniably unbelieveable that any time that Jr. finds himself in hot H20, that he goes off on this tangent about terrorism. Hmmm...terrorism. Like the way that the Hurricane Katrina victims were terrorized by the federal government by being deprived of the basic unit of life? WATER??
Terrorism. Terrorism. Maybe if our government would start fighting for our rights here in America, then perhaps the terrorists wouldn't give a hoot as to what the Americans do. Perhaps I'll be killed for saying this. But who cares. I don't have any kids yet. Perhaps if we as Americans weren't so stuck on ourselves, then we wouldn't be experiencing terrorism. We thought that nobody could touch us...nooooo...not America. Land of the free, and all of that bullshit. We got a good lesson though, didn't we.
And what did our fearless leader decide to do? Stick his nose in where it didn't belong. Yes, I was all for Afghanastan. YES - kill OBL! Please get rid of him! But where is he? Isn't he the real threat to the nation's terrorism problem? Instead, someone got all high and mighty and decided that we needed to fight a war that they believed that we could win. Iraq. But we cannot possibly win this war...because it is NOT a war. It is a one-sided blind attack on a country. Yes, I'm sure that Sadaam Hussein is a bad man. A veerrryyy bad man. Who likes Doritos...LOL.
Oh yes...WMD...what ever happened to them? Did we forget that part?
Hmmm...hmmm...you'd think there was controversy going on in the White House. WAIT!! Read my last blog...there is!!
I just find it undeniably unbelieveable that any time that Jr. finds himself in hot H20, that he goes off on this tangent about terrorism. Hmmm...terrorism. Like the way that the Hurricane Katrina victims were terrorized by the federal government by being deprived of the basic unit of life? WATER??
Terrorism. Terrorism. Maybe if our government would start fighting for our rights here in America, then perhaps the terrorists wouldn't give a hoot as to what the Americans do. Perhaps I'll be killed for saying this. But who cares. I don't have any kids yet. Perhaps if we as Americans weren't so stuck on ourselves, then we wouldn't be experiencing terrorism. We thought that nobody could touch us...nooooo...not America. Land of the free, and all of that bullshit. We got a good lesson though, didn't we.
And what did our fearless leader decide to do? Stick his nose in where it didn't belong. Yes, I was all for Afghanastan. YES - kill OBL! Please get rid of him! But where is he? Isn't he the real threat to the nation's terrorism problem? Instead, someone got all high and mighty and decided that we needed to fight a war that they believed that we could win. Iraq. But we cannot possibly win this war...because it is NOT a war. It is a one-sided blind attack on a country. Yes, I'm sure that Sadaam Hussein is a bad man. A veerrryyy bad man. Who likes Doritos...LOL.
Oh yes...WMD...what ever happened to them? Did we forget that part?
Tuesday, October 04, 2005
Speaking of Oxymorons...
To quote Dubya: ..."I'm interested in finding somebody who shares my philosophy today and will have that same philosophy 20 years from now." Hmmm...I wasn't sure that he actually had a philosophy. Seriously though...if you are not aware, he is speaking of his nominee to fill O'Connor's vacancy on the Supreme Court, Harriet Miers. He is being accused of discussing the abortion issue with her.
Which brings me to this point. The history of politics when referring to Abortion. We all know that this is a horribly old issue. At least 175 years old, to be exact. Before that time, the American Government couldn’t give a shit about abortion. In fact, one might hear about abortion services like we hear about fast food restaurants. Then there was some debating about the health issues of abortion amongst the medical communities, and roughly about 20 out of the 33 states in the union had it banned by the year 1860.
But it actually took another 100 years for abortion to become a political issue in the united states. In the 1960’s, pro-choice advocates pushed for legalization of abortion in certain circumstances. On November 3, 1970, voters of Washington State liberalized the state abortion statue by passing Referendum 20 by a 56.6% majority. The law allowed women and their doctors to decide whether or not to terminate a pregnancy. It stipulated that abortions must be performed in a hospital or other approved facility and that it must be done during the first four lunar months after conception. It also stipulated that the woman must have consent of a parent or guardian if she was under 18 and consent of her husband if she was currently living with him. She must have been a resident of the state for at least 90 days. On January 22, 1973, the Supreme Court handed down the ruling on Roe v. Wade. That ruling lifted many of the restrictions on abortion in Washington. Now, a woman could have an abortion through the 24th week of pregnancy; there wasn't a residency requirement. It also stated that a facility that had "such legal/medical controls as would be protective of her health" could perform abortions during the first trimester. Roe v. Wade did not address the issues of spousal or parental consent, but by the mid-70's the Washington State Supreme Court and the U.S. Supreme Court handed down decisions that freed a minor from parental consent and a wife from a husband's consent.
Conservative groups saw an opportunity to increase their strength by exploiting the abortion issue. The founders of the New Right, in an effort to gain more supporters, turned to the evangelical and fundamentalist churches. They sent mail encouraging support for their cause, using the Supreme Court's recent decisions on abortion rights and the removal of prayer in public schools as the motivating factor. They asked church members to give money and to become politically active. The money began to pour in. These conservative groups had their origins in the Barry Goldwater campaign for the presidency in 1964. Among Goldwater's supporters were a core group of individuals who believed that there was a movement called "secular humanism" that was steering our country away from a "God-centered society" towards atheistic socialism. These supporters founded a variety of groups formed to fight communism, civil rights, feminism and other political and social reform movements of the sixties. During the 70's and 80's the social reforms continued and with them, growing opposition in the form of right-wing organizations promoting "family values." After Roe v. Wade, abortion became a major focus of many of these groups. In addition to the controversial substance of the decision, it was also proof of a Supreme Court out of control (in their view), making law instead of interpreting it.Copying the strategy of the civil rights and antiwar movements, the New Right turned to the churches. They developed committed supporters. The leaders in this movement began strategizing about ways to empower themselves. They knew that to achieve their goals, they would have to have influence over the political arena. They wrote manuals for their followers teaching them how to get elected to office. They worked together, often serving as advisors on each others boards. Television soon became the preferred method of reaching the masses. Televangelists seemed to spring up everywhere: Jimmy Swaggart, Jim and Tammy Faye Bakker, Oral Roberts and Jerry Falwell reached millions of viewers each week. The leaders of the New Right met with Jerry Falwell and asked him to head a religious right political organization that would put pressure on Reagan and other elected officials to conform to their views regarding abortion, gays and lesbians, sex education, school prayer, teaching creationism, separation of church and state and other issues. That was the beginning of the Moral Majority, which supported Reagan and Bush in the 1980 presidential election. They also supported many candidates for Congress who subscribed to their views. They tried to hinder the campaigns of candidates who were pro-abortion or disagreed with their overall philosophy. The Moral Majority had organizations in every state, and claimed credit for helping to elect Republican right-wing candidates.Reagan appointed several of the religious right activists to federal positions but largely ignored the social issues that motivated them, one of the most important issues being abortion. Some believe that this is what gave rise to the militant antiabortion groups that emerged during the mid and late 80's, such as Operation Rescue, started in 1987 by Terry Randall. The job of legislators has been described as being political as well as law- and policy-making. State and Local Politics states that "the primary job is to defuse these pressures [of competing interest groups] so that the political system can function intact without blowing wide apart." An argument can be made that the Reagan administration failed to defuse the anti-abortionists and, by ignoring them, effectively fueled their fire.Washington has been a victim of the violence that antiabortion protesters have demonstrated all over the country. For example, the Feminist Women's Health Center opened a clinic in Everett in 1983. They were greeted with a barrage of harassment, hate mail and personal threats. They were bombarded with phone calls to jam the phone lines and disturbed by as much noise as the protesters outside could make, all in an effort to close them down. The first fire bombing came shortly after they opened their doors. Before they were closed for good, less than a year after they opened, they were fire-bombed twice more. Although some of the leaders of the anti-choice movement denounced these actions, others thought they were justified.With the Reagan administration focusing on foreign policy and economic issues, the religious right became frustrated. In addition they had a number of setbacks when three initiatives to restrict abortion failed in Washington in the mid to late 80's, with two not even reaching the ballot. The antiabortion cause was waning. They stepped back and refocused on the local level. They began going after state and local offices -- including local Republican Party organizations. They had long since given up on starting their own political party. Taking control of the Republican Party was the best political move they could make. This was the beginning of the fight for the Republican Party in Washington State. The earliest success came with the Pat Robertson campaign for the presidency in 1988. Pat Robertson was one of the early televangelists, and is the founder of The 700 Club. He used his show to introduce politics and politicians to his viewers and to encourage them to become politically active. During Pat Robertson's bid for the Presidency in 1988, he carried Washington state in the primary caucuses which was a large contrast to both the rest of the country and polls of Republican voters within the state. This demonstrated the vulnerability of the caucus system to takeover by small but committed groups. With the ease of contacting and staying in touch with their constituency through weekly church attendance and his television programs, Robertson's supporters were able to organize a large attendance at the caucuses, voting for Robertson's delegates. Since state presidential caucuses generally have a sparse turnout, even a small group, if it fully attends, can have a powerful impact on the results of the caucus. This could be one of the reasons that the state has moved to a presidential primary to either replace or supplement the caucuses.
This is a small bit of information just to prove my original thought before I got all misconstrued by factual information. I find it hard to believe that George Jr. would pick someone that he knew was pro-abortion. We know that he has brought “Jesus back to the White House”, according to the Christian Collation.
Why do we allow people to force issues down our throats such as abortion and gay marriage? My thoughts about abortion are plain & simple. A man shouldn’t decide them. Any man. It should be purely a woman’s decision. And leave it at that. Nothing else. So shoot me, I was raised Catholic, and I’m pro-choice. Who would have thought?
Which brings me to this point. The history of politics when referring to Abortion. We all know that this is a horribly old issue. At least 175 years old, to be exact. Before that time, the American Government couldn’t give a shit about abortion. In fact, one might hear about abortion services like we hear about fast food restaurants. Then there was some debating about the health issues of abortion amongst the medical communities, and roughly about 20 out of the 33 states in the union had it banned by the year 1860.
But it actually took another 100 years for abortion to become a political issue in the united states. In the 1960’s, pro-choice advocates pushed for legalization of abortion in certain circumstances. On November 3, 1970, voters of Washington State liberalized the state abortion statue by passing Referendum 20 by a 56.6% majority. The law allowed women and their doctors to decide whether or not to terminate a pregnancy. It stipulated that abortions must be performed in a hospital or other approved facility and that it must be done during the first four lunar months after conception. It also stipulated that the woman must have consent of a parent or guardian if she was under 18 and consent of her husband if she was currently living with him. She must have been a resident of the state for at least 90 days. On January 22, 1973, the Supreme Court handed down the ruling on Roe v. Wade. That ruling lifted many of the restrictions on abortion in Washington. Now, a woman could have an abortion through the 24th week of pregnancy; there wasn't a residency requirement. It also stated that a facility that had "such legal/medical controls as would be protective of her health" could perform abortions during the first trimester. Roe v. Wade did not address the issues of spousal or parental consent, but by the mid-70's the Washington State Supreme Court and the U.S. Supreme Court handed down decisions that freed a minor from parental consent and a wife from a husband's consent.
Conservative groups saw an opportunity to increase their strength by exploiting the abortion issue. The founders of the New Right, in an effort to gain more supporters, turned to the evangelical and fundamentalist churches. They sent mail encouraging support for their cause, using the Supreme Court's recent decisions on abortion rights and the removal of prayer in public schools as the motivating factor. They asked church members to give money and to become politically active. The money began to pour in. These conservative groups had their origins in the Barry Goldwater campaign for the presidency in 1964. Among Goldwater's supporters were a core group of individuals who believed that there was a movement called "secular humanism" that was steering our country away from a "God-centered society" towards atheistic socialism. These supporters founded a variety of groups formed to fight communism, civil rights, feminism and other political and social reform movements of the sixties. During the 70's and 80's the social reforms continued and with them, growing opposition in the form of right-wing organizations promoting "family values." After Roe v. Wade, abortion became a major focus of many of these groups. In addition to the controversial substance of the decision, it was also proof of a Supreme Court out of control (in their view), making law instead of interpreting it.Copying the strategy of the civil rights and antiwar movements, the New Right turned to the churches. They developed committed supporters. The leaders in this movement began strategizing about ways to empower themselves. They knew that to achieve their goals, they would have to have influence over the political arena. They wrote manuals for their followers teaching them how to get elected to office. They worked together, often serving as advisors on each others boards. Television soon became the preferred method of reaching the masses. Televangelists seemed to spring up everywhere: Jimmy Swaggart, Jim and Tammy Faye Bakker, Oral Roberts and Jerry Falwell reached millions of viewers each week. The leaders of the New Right met with Jerry Falwell and asked him to head a religious right political organization that would put pressure on Reagan and other elected officials to conform to their views regarding abortion, gays and lesbians, sex education, school prayer, teaching creationism, separation of church and state and other issues. That was the beginning of the Moral Majority, which supported Reagan and Bush in the 1980 presidential election. They also supported many candidates for Congress who subscribed to their views. They tried to hinder the campaigns of candidates who were pro-abortion or disagreed with their overall philosophy. The Moral Majority had organizations in every state, and claimed credit for helping to elect Republican right-wing candidates.Reagan appointed several of the religious right activists to federal positions but largely ignored the social issues that motivated them, one of the most important issues being abortion. Some believe that this is what gave rise to the militant antiabortion groups that emerged during the mid and late 80's, such as Operation Rescue, started in 1987 by Terry Randall. The job of legislators has been described as being political as well as law- and policy-making. State and Local Politics states that "the primary job is to defuse these pressures [of competing interest groups] so that the political system can function intact without blowing wide apart." An argument can be made that the Reagan administration failed to defuse the anti-abortionists and, by ignoring them, effectively fueled their fire.Washington has been a victim of the violence that antiabortion protesters have demonstrated all over the country. For example, the Feminist Women's Health Center opened a clinic in Everett in 1983. They were greeted with a barrage of harassment, hate mail and personal threats. They were bombarded with phone calls to jam the phone lines and disturbed by as much noise as the protesters outside could make, all in an effort to close them down. The first fire bombing came shortly after they opened their doors. Before they were closed for good, less than a year after they opened, they were fire-bombed twice more. Although some of the leaders of the anti-choice movement denounced these actions, others thought they were justified.With the Reagan administration focusing on foreign policy and economic issues, the religious right became frustrated. In addition they had a number of setbacks when three initiatives to restrict abortion failed in Washington in the mid to late 80's, with two not even reaching the ballot. The antiabortion cause was waning. They stepped back and refocused on the local level. They began going after state and local offices -- including local Republican Party organizations. They had long since given up on starting their own political party. Taking control of the Republican Party was the best political move they could make. This was the beginning of the fight for the Republican Party in Washington State. The earliest success came with the Pat Robertson campaign for the presidency in 1988. Pat Robertson was one of the early televangelists, and is the founder of The 700 Club. He used his show to introduce politics and politicians to his viewers and to encourage them to become politically active. During Pat Robertson's bid for the Presidency in 1988, he carried Washington state in the primary caucuses which was a large contrast to both the rest of the country and polls of Republican voters within the state. This demonstrated the vulnerability of the caucus system to takeover by small but committed groups. With the ease of contacting and staying in touch with their constituency through weekly church attendance and his television programs, Robertson's supporters were able to organize a large attendance at the caucuses, voting for Robertson's delegates. Since state presidential caucuses generally have a sparse turnout, even a small group, if it fully attends, can have a powerful impact on the results of the caucus. This could be one of the reasons that the state has moved to a presidential primary to either replace or supplement the caucuses.
This is a small bit of information just to prove my original thought before I got all misconstrued by factual information. I find it hard to believe that George Jr. would pick someone that he knew was pro-abortion. We know that he has brought “Jesus back to the White House”, according to the Christian Collation.
Why do we allow people to force issues down our throats such as abortion and gay marriage? My thoughts about abortion are plain & simple. A man shouldn’t decide them. Any man. It should be purely a woman’s decision. And leave it at that. Nothing else. So shoot me, I was raised Catholic, and I’m pro-choice. Who would have thought?
Liar, Liar...Pants on Fire
OK – So I Lied.
When I first moved back to Springfield, my goals were these:
Work on schooling
Find a job
Find a car
Find KIMBERLY HEPWORTH again
The last thing that was on my mind was finding a partner…Boyfriend, lover, whatever. That was something that I really thought that I didn’t want. I wanted to be single, as I honestly have been since January of this year.
Much less would I have thought that I would have “found” someone in fucking Arkansas, to add the icing on the cake.
I was a firm believer that long-distance relationships do not, and cannot work. I tried one quite awhile ago, and it was horrible. But maybe that was because of the person that I was involved with.
This certain person that I am currently in a relationship with is simply amazing. I’ve known him for 5 years, and he’s been semi-pursuing me for that long. But, me not being in the right state of mind during those times, how could I even contemplate even speaking with him in a romantic fashion? And how can I possibly want to pursue a relationship with someone in Arkansas? I just moved from there.
Then I let him in. Damn it. I fell hard and fast. Turns out he was correct the whole time. Have you ever spoken with someone that shares your ideas on every single subject? He's an artist, and a fantastic writer. And he reads (LOL-oxymoron - from Arkansas & reads). Same tastes in music, movies. AND he used to do theater years ago. He is very easy on the eyes, as well. But put all of that bullshit aside. He makes me feel as if I am the most beautiful, talented, and intelligent woman on the planet; puts up with my drama queen attitude (I know you all are SHOCKED to hear that I have one!); and most of all, he loves me. How could I not pursue this? He is simply amazing.
So that’s just a little insight as to what is going on right now. No, I’m not moving back to Arkansas. We’ll just see what happens.
Sunday, October 02, 2005
Emotional Control or Lack There Of
Okay, as women we know there comes a time right before THAT time of the month where we want to kill our own emotions, called PMS.
Why do some of us go off the deep end during this time of the month? I cannot explain it. All I can say is that to those who I've hurt, or gone off on during these times, I am truly very sorry. Case in point. A guy I am semi-dating, tonight he told me to call him back at 10:00 because he was going to watch a program on television. Cool, right? Well, any other time I would have been. This certain time, I felt my face get hot, my heart plumment into my feet, and it felt as if he had kicked me in the chest. So I felt it best to cut it short, since I didn't want to take him down the road of insane emotions. Better to hold it in, right? Hell, why do you think I am blogging now? Should I have held it in? Or should I have went nuts on him? I knew at the time that I should not have been so stupid. It's a television program, right? It's not like this person & I never talk - we spend at least 7 hours a day talking to one another. What the fuck is wrong with my brain today? I felt as if he was saying "Fuck you, this program is so much more interesting than you are". But he wasn't. *Sigh*
I'm nuts during this time, and for that I sincerely apologize. I hope that you can forgive me.
Why do some of us go off the deep end during this time of the month? I cannot explain it. All I can say is that to those who I've hurt, or gone off on during these times, I am truly very sorry. Case in point. A guy I am semi-dating, tonight he told me to call him back at 10:00 because he was going to watch a program on television. Cool, right? Well, any other time I would have been. This certain time, I felt my face get hot, my heart plumment into my feet, and it felt as if he had kicked me in the chest. So I felt it best to cut it short, since I didn't want to take him down the road of insane emotions. Better to hold it in, right? Hell, why do you think I am blogging now? Should I have held it in? Or should I have went nuts on him? I knew at the time that I should not have been so stupid. It's a television program, right? It's not like this person & I never talk - we spend at least 7 hours a day talking to one another. What the fuck is wrong with my brain today? I felt as if he was saying "Fuck you, this program is so much more interesting than you are". But he wasn't. *Sigh*
I'm nuts during this time, and for that I sincerely apologize. I hope that you can forgive me.
Friday, September 30, 2005
Yes, I'm Fat...So Please Quit Staring
Plus-sized. Pleasantly plump. Obese. Curvy. BBW (big beautiful woman), large, super-sized. These are the most offensive words to a woman like me. Why can't we go back to what we are?
Fat.
I love to eat. I mean I love to eat. There is nothing better to me than a food orgasm. Except, well, maybe...you know. But still. It's not like I'm 400 lbs., though. I do have curves...plenty of them. But I am a fat chick. So why do I get stares at every restaurant that I walk into? It's not like I got this big by dieting all of the time. And yes...I am one of those fat chicks. I drink Diet coke with everything (Submit your own pun here).
I am fat. But not unattractive.
I am fat. But not desperate.
The other day I was on yahoo messenger and someone IM'ed me and said to be this big I was awfully flat-chested. If he was to date me I would have to get breast implants. And do you know what offended me the most? Not the fact that I said I was big...but that I needed breast implants. What the hell? I don't get this whole obsession with plastic surgery. Of any kind. No, I'm not getting the gastric bypass so I can find a husband. If I diet, it's usually because I want a good role in a show. For myself. Not for anyone else.
I am fat. But I know someone who is completely attracted to my mind, body, and spirit.
I am fat, but he makes me feel as if I am the most beautiful woman in the world.
I am fat, but I feel liked a whole lot, and perhaps even loved.
I am fat. But not lazy.
I am fat. And yes I have had sex.
I am fat. That does not mean that you can treat me as though I am less than human.
I am fat. But that does not mean that I don't have self-esteem.
I am fat. Why the hell won't you cast me in your show?
I am fat. But it does not personify who I am.
I am fat. Get over it. I have.
Fat.
I love to eat. I mean I love to eat. There is nothing better to me than a food orgasm. Except, well, maybe...you know. But still. It's not like I'm 400 lbs., though. I do have curves...plenty of them. But I am a fat chick. So why do I get stares at every restaurant that I walk into? It's not like I got this big by dieting all of the time. And yes...I am one of those fat chicks. I drink Diet coke with everything (Submit your own pun here).
I am fat. But not unattractive.
I am fat. But not desperate.
The other day I was on yahoo messenger and someone IM'ed me and said to be this big I was awfully flat-chested. If he was to date me I would have to get breast implants. And do you know what offended me the most? Not the fact that I said I was big...but that I needed breast implants. What the hell? I don't get this whole obsession with plastic surgery. Of any kind. No, I'm not getting the gastric bypass so I can find a husband. If I diet, it's usually because I want a good role in a show. For myself. Not for anyone else.
I am fat. But I know someone who is completely attracted to my mind, body, and spirit.
I am fat, but he makes me feel as if I am the most beautiful woman in the world.
I am fat, but I feel liked a whole lot, and perhaps even loved.
I am fat. But not lazy.
I am fat. And yes I have had sex.
I am fat. That does not mean that you can treat me as though I am less than human.
I am fat. But that does not mean that I don't have self-esteem.
I am fat. Why the hell won't you cast me in your show?
I am fat. But it does not personify who I am.
I am fat. Get over it. I have.
Wednesday, September 28, 2005
A Non-Partisan Look at Political Satire
Political Satire: Provoking Change
When looking at the effectiveness of humor when trying to make a political statement, there are a vast number of sources that may be described. Looking back through history, we find reasons why humor has been associated when someone is giving his or her views on political issues.
One of the first instances of humor when wanting someone to understand your political viewpoint would be found hidden in nursery rhymes, or other popular verses. One of the most well-known were in reference to Mary, Queen of Scots, or Bloody Mary, as she was often called by the people of Scotland.
The cousin of Elizabeth I, Mary became the Queen of Scotland when she was only an infant, since she was an only child. She spent most of her childhood in France, and was brought up in the Catholic Church. After returning to Scotland to fulfill her reign as Queen, she was ill-received, as the majority of the Scottish people had converted to the Prodestant church and no longer agreed with the teachings of the Catholic religion.
As a married, beautiful, and free-spirited woman, she had numerous adulterous affairs, which many people, knew about. Due to the influence of the puritanical Scots, one of them was murdered by her husband’s orders. To make matters worse, he was murdered in front of the Queen.
After her son was born, the Queen’s husband was murdered. The belief of the Scots was that the Queen herself ordered his death in retribution for killing her lover. As a result of her handiwork, the Scots overruled her and had her banished from Scotland, and later forced her to sign her own execution after years in exile.
Since the Queen was extremely quick to use the guillotine, the public had to find a way to voice their opinions without Bloody Mary knowing exactly what they were talking about. One such instance was in the nursery rhyme, "Little Bo Peep".
"Little Bo Peep has lost her sheep
And can’t tell where to find them.
Leave them alone, and they’ll all come home
Wagging their tails behind them" (Harrowen, pg. 160)
This was a parody of how the Queen treated the people of Scotland. The "sheep" being the people of Scotland, and Little Bo Peep referring to Queen Mary. She believed that while in exile, sooner or later the people of Scotland would invite her home to fulfill her reign, and that they would welcome her home with open arms. Another popular nursery rhyme that is directly related to Bloody Mary is:
"Mary, Mary quite contrary
Where does your garden grow?
With silver bells, and cockle shells
Pretty maids, all in a row." (Harrowen, pg. 160)
There are conflicting stories as to what exactly the people of Scotland were referring to. Some believe that the tone of the rhyme suggests the parody of her flirtatious behavior, and that the term "Pretty maids" refers to her ladies-in-waiting whose names were all "Mary".
Others believe that this was a much more somber nursery rhyme. They believe that the terms "Silver bells", and "cockle shells" are the different torturing devices that she used. Cockle shells, was referring to a torture device involving the male genitalia, while the final line is actually speaking about the guillotine.
It may seem simplistic, comparing a nursery rhyme to modern-day political satire, but since this particular matriarch was know throughout Scotland for her torture devices, one would gather that someone would be in fear for their life if they were to make a quip about her.
The art of political satire simply scratched the surface in 16th century Europe when compared to today, and in particular, American political satire. We as Americans took the early satire of nursery rhymes and ran with the idea. Since we are a "free country", it is a more pronounced brand of satire that those in Scotland, for example.
One of the greatest, an American author, Mark Twain, was one of the first blatant satirists. For example, "The War Prayer", was an acidic accusation of war, and in particular of blind patriotism and religious zealousness as motivations for war. As dramatic as that description of "The War Prayer" sounds, it was a satire, nonetheless.
Although we are branded a "free country", it was not published until long after his death, because to do so before would have cause great havoc.
As it was earlier stated, there are many types of political satire. Probably the most popular in our culture is the political cartoon. According to Encyclopedia Americana, cartoon "targets" are most often "in the field of political or public affairs, but they may be social customs, fashions, or sports events or personalities", this can be traced back to the modern political cartoon by making pictorial satire available to the masses.
In America, it became widely popular with the election of President Jackson, the Mexican War, and the Civil War. Before the end of the 21st century, the daily "editorial" cartoon was a feature of many newspapers. (Encyclopedia Americana)
Why has the visual aid of a cartoon become such a staple in our lives? In general, it has a great deal to do with the fact that we are a visual nation. For example, which would sell the audience your political point. A picture of the liberty bird dressed in bright red, white, and blue colors, stuffed in an extremely tight cage (which was gray, a wonderful alliteration) with just 2 words below it: "The Patriot Act". Or a bland black and white slogan stating, "The Patriot Act Sucks". The first example gives the target audience a chance to form their own opinion, with just a hint from the artist. Most people do not like "preacher"-type humorists who tell us what we should believe. It is a very generic form of art and comedy, voicing one’s own opinion, yet allowing the reader to form one of their own.
We use the term satire almost daily. But what does satire truly mean? Satire is defined as "a literary technique of writing or art which exposes the follies of its subject to ridicule, often as an intended means of provoking or preventing change". (Encyclopedia Americana) In other words, it is truly "Comic rationality". (Critchley, pg. 79) Or, using comedy to make sense of the lunacy of our political system.
If the aforementioned statement is true, then that is an agreeable rationale as to why more Americans are tuning into alternative sources for their news programs, such as Jon Stewart’s "The Daily Show" on the cable channel Comedy Central. We are searching for something other than the normal banter that is the "usual news".
Perhaps, we get tired of the monotonous news on the zillion cable and local news networks. Possibly we are even disgusted with news programs that are burdened with objectivity, and even journalistic integrity. Then again, perhaps the truth is better when taken with a grain of salt, or not too seriously. Just maybe it is easier to get a point across by doing something other than preaching.
As we look at the most popular political satirists of today (i.e. Dave Chappelle, Chris Rock, Bill Maher, and Rush Limbaugh); all of these satirists provoke something within us. It does not matter whether we are excited because we agree with what the person is saying, or get upset for we do not see eye-to-eye with their political views. They have ejected some sort of raw emotion from their audience. Isn’t that the point of satire? To provoke us to want to make a change, or to even change someone’s view of the political system today?
Political humor forces us to look at ourselves. It makes us look at our government, and if we do not like it, then we have the power to change it. Or at least try and change who is running the government. To look inside ourselves, and find what we believe to be true. For if you believe that the best humor comes from truth, wouldn’t the most honest truth be a result of humor?
When looking at the effectiveness of humor when trying to make a political statement, there are a vast number of sources that may be described. Looking back through history, we find reasons why humor has been associated when someone is giving his or her views on political issues.
One of the first instances of humor when wanting someone to understand your political viewpoint would be found hidden in nursery rhymes, or other popular verses. One of the most well-known were in reference to Mary, Queen of Scots, or Bloody Mary, as she was often called by the people of Scotland.
The cousin of Elizabeth I, Mary became the Queen of Scotland when she was only an infant, since she was an only child. She spent most of her childhood in France, and was brought up in the Catholic Church. After returning to Scotland to fulfill her reign as Queen, she was ill-received, as the majority of the Scottish people had converted to the Prodestant church and no longer agreed with the teachings of the Catholic religion.
As a married, beautiful, and free-spirited woman, she had numerous adulterous affairs, which many people, knew about. Due to the influence of the puritanical Scots, one of them was murdered by her husband’s orders. To make matters worse, he was murdered in front of the Queen.
After her son was born, the Queen’s husband was murdered. The belief of the Scots was that the Queen herself ordered his death in retribution for killing her lover. As a result of her handiwork, the Scots overruled her and had her banished from Scotland, and later forced her to sign her own execution after years in exile.
Since the Queen was extremely quick to use the guillotine, the public had to find a way to voice their opinions without Bloody Mary knowing exactly what they were talking about. One such instance was in the nursery rhyme, "Little Bo Peep".
"Little Bo Peep has lost her sheep
And can’t tell where to find them.
Leave them alone, and they’ll all come home
Wagging their tails behind them" (Harrowen, pg. 160)
This was a parody of how the Queen treated the people of Scotland. The "sheep" being the people of Scotland, and Little Bo Peep referring to Queen Mary. She believed that while in exile, sooner or later the people of Scotland would invite her home to fulfill her reign, and that they would welcome her home with open arms. Another popular nursery rhyme that is directly related to Bloody Mary is:
"Mary, Mary quite contrary
Where does your garden grow?
With silver bells, and cockle shells
Pretty maids, all in a row." (Harrowen, pg. 160)
There are conflicting stories as to what exactly the people of Scotland were referring to. Some believe that the tone of the rhyme suggests the parody of her flirtatious behavior, and that the term "Pretty maids" refers to her ladies-in-waiting whose names were all "Mary".
Others believe that this was a much more somber nursery rhyme. They believe that the terms "Silver bells", and "cockle shells" are the different torturing devices that she used. Cockle shells, was referring to a torture device involving the male genitalia, while the final line is actually speaking about the guillotine.
It may seem simplistic, comparing a nursery rhyme to modern-day political satire, but since this particular matriarch was know throughout Scotland for her torture devices, one would gather that someone would be in fear for their life if they were to make a quip about her.
The art of political satire simply scratched the surface in 16th century Europe when compared to today, and in particular, American political satire. We as Americans took the early satire of nursery rhymes and ran with the idea. Since we are a "free country", it is a more pronounced brand of satire that those in Scotland, for example.
One of the greatest, an American author, Mark Twain, was one of the first blatant satirists. For example, "The War Prayer", was an acidic accusation of war, and in particular of blind patriotism and religious zealousness as motivations for war. As dramatic as that description of "The War Prayer" sounds, it was a satire, nonetheless.
Although we are branded a "free country", it was not published until long after his death, because to do so before would have cause great havoc.
As it was earlier stated, there are many types of political satire. Probably the most popular in our culture is the political cartoon. According to Encyclopedia Americana, cartoon "targets" are most often "in the field of political or public affairs, but they may be social customs, fashions, or sports events or personalities", this can be traced back to the modern political cartoon by making pictorial satire available to the masses.
In America, it became widely popular with the election of President Jackson, the Mexican War, and the Civil War. Before the end of the 21st century, the daily "editorial" cartoon was a feature of many newspapers. (Encyclopedia Americana)
Why has the visual aid of a cartoon become such a staple in our lives? In general, it has a great deal to do with the fact that we are a visual nation. For example, which would sell the audience your political point. A picture of the liberty bird dressed in bright red, white, and blue colors, stuffed in an extremely tight cage (which was gray, a wonderful alliteration) with just 2 words below it: "The Patriot Act". Or a bland black and white slogan stating, "The Patriot Act Sucks". The first example gives the target audience a chance to form their own opinion, with just a hint from the artist. Most people do not like "preacher"-type humorists who tell us what we should believe. It is a very generic form of art and comedy, voicing one’s own opinion, yet allowing the reader to form one of their own.
We use the term satire almost daily. But what does satire truly mean? Satire is defined as "a literary technique of writing or art which exposes the follies of its subject to ridicule, often as an intended means of provoking or preventing change". (Encyclopedia Americana) In other words, it is truly "Comic rationality". (Critchley, pg. 79) Or, using comedy to make sense of the lunacy of our political system.
If the aforementioned statement is true, then that is an agreeable rationale as to why more Americans are tuning into alternative sources for their news programs, such as Jon Stewart’s "The Daily Show" on the cable channel Comedy Central. We are searching for something other than the normal banter that is the "usual news".
Perhaps, we get tired of the monotonous news on the zillion cable and local news networks. Possibly we are even disgusted with news programs that are burdened with objectivity, and even journalistic integrity. Then again, perhaps the truth is better when taken with a grain of salt, or not too seriously. Just maybe it is easier to get a point across by doing something other than preaching.
As we look at the most popular political satirists of today (i.e. Dave Chappelle, Chris Rock, Bill Maher, and Rush Limbaugh); all of these satirists provoke something within us. It does not matter whether we are excited because we agree with what the person is saying, or get upset for we do not see eye-to-eye with their political views. They have ejected some sort of raw emotion from their audience. Isn’t that the point of satire? To provoke us to want to make a change, or to even change someone’s view of the political system today?
Political humor forces us to look at ourselves. It makes us look at our government, and if we do not like it, then we have the power to change it. Or at least try and change who is running the government. To look inside ourselves, and find what we believe to be true. For if you believe that the best humor comes from truth, wouldn’t the most honest truth be a result of humor?
Just My Luck
Just my luck...right person, right time, wrong state.
Okay, so I've known this certain someone since, oh, say circa 2000 or 2001. Wonderful guy. Great writer, loves theater, same music tastes, television and movie tastes...and some things I won't publish on this blog. But wtf...he lives in Arkansas.
If you've read any of my previous postings, you'll know that the reason why I moved to and moved away from the lovely, exciting state of Bill Clinton-land was because of a pseudo-relationship that I was in. This person and I communicated for about 5 years off & on, and being with psycho person, I didn't want to let him in, for fear that the psycho would scare him away. As the psycho did to so many others that I could have connected with. I wouldn't even meet him for coffee.
So out of the blue, I began reading his blogger page. Was totally blown away. Nothing like a great read. So I just dropped him a line to say hello, and we began talking. I mean REALLY talking. Have you ever had a moment when you were like "damn". You just knew instinctively that this could possibly BE. Be what, you're not sure...but maybe, just maybe...
It's like everything just seemed to fall into place. Like...I don't know. I actually gave him my number. I mean, fuck, I'm 500 miles away...what can it hurt. And I hate talking on the phone. Seriously. We talked for 3 hours. Three freaking hours. Like I was a teenager, but adult conversation. He totally blew me away.
So what now? I seriously do not know. Stay tuned...I'm sure a heartbreak is headed my way...
Okay, so I've known this certain someone since, oh, say circa 2000 or 2001. Wonderful guy. Great writer, loves theater, same music tastes, television and movie tastes...and some things I won't publish on this blog. But wtf...he lives in Arkansas.
If you've read any of my previous postings, you'll know that the reason why I moved to and moved away from the lovely, exciting state of Bill Clinton-land was because of a pseudo-relationship that I was in. This person and I communicated for about 5 years off & on, and being with psycho person, I didn't want to let him in, for fear that the psycho would scare him away. As the psycho did to so many others that I could have connected with. I wouldn't even meet him for coffee.
So out of the blue, I began reading his blogger page. Was totally blown away. Nothing like a great read. So I just dropped him a line to say hello, and we began talking. I mean REALLY talking. Have you ever had a moment when you were like "damn". You just knew instinctively that this could possibly BE. Be what, you're not sure...but maybe, just maybe...
It's like everything just seemed to fall into place. Like...I don't know. I actually gave him my number. I mean, fuck, I'm 500 miles away...what can it hurt. And I hate talking on the phone. Seriously. We talked for 3 hours. Three freaking hours. Like I was a teenager, but adult conversation. He totally blew me away.
So what now? I seriously do not know. Stay tuned...I'm sure a heartbreak is headed my way...
100 Things About Me
I stole this from my dear, darling, childhood friend's blog...Sorry MzO!!
100 Things About Me
1. I have never been married
2. I have no children
3. I believe in God
4. I am a liberal democrat
5. I have 2 nephews who I love more than myself
6. I am 1/2 Irish 1/2 British and some German & French, too...I associate with the Irish
7. I lost my grandfather one year ago
8. I smoke Marlboro Lights 100's
9. I am a great friend
10. I would make an even better partner
11. I have not had sexual intercourse in two years
12. I am a great actress
13. I am an even better singer
14. I love science, studying medicine
15. My mother is neurotic, but I love her more than anything
16. I want kids someday
17. I want a husband someday
18. I have connected deeply with someone recently
19. My father is an alcoholic
20. I once was disowned by my family
21. I used to be a cleptomaniac
22. I sought therapy from the ages of 14-18.
23. I used to be a drug addict
24. I am a victim of domestic violence
25. It is very difficult for me to open up romantically
26. I have a tattoo
27. I want another tattoo on my back
28. I just want acceptance
29. I am very open-minded
30. I do not hate anyone
31. I am extremely sensual
32. I love Mozart
33. I am a geek
34. I believe in true love, in soulmates
35. I think I love someone, but I'm not positive
36. My family means the world to me
37. I hate my job
38. I make more with my unemployment check than my job
39. I have never owned a new car
40. I am a fantastic cook
41. I am fat; but not unattractive
42. I love my hair
43. I love my friends
44. I love my eyes
45. I am a sucker for blue-eyed men
46. I am attracted to men of an artistic nature
47. I have a hippie nature
48. I am a good writer
49. I love diet coke
50. I wish I could dance well
51. I love documentaries
52. I love to laugh
53. I will be 30 on December 28th
54. I don't feel 30
55. I am attracted to inner beauty rather than outer beauty
56. I do not believe in organized religion
57. I just bought a car
58. I am a great kisser
59. I am intelligent
60. I like gaming
61. I wish I would have practiced the piano more
62. I try and emulate my parents
63. I am majoring in Clinical Laboratory Science
64. I am a humanitarian
65. I love cats
66. I love dogs
67. I love to read
68. I am horrible at math
69. I love intelligent conversations
70. I prefer mind-foreplay
71. I miss my friends in Arkansas
72. Cancer runs wild in my family
73. I am the only woman over age 21 without a child in my family
74. I have one sibling
75. I want to play Jessie in "'night, Mother" someday
76. I have been performing in community theater for 19 years as of next month
77. I was brought up on classical music
78. I want to retire to Colorado
79. I want to visit Ireland and the UK someday
80. I think I'm a good person
81. I am ready to settle down
82. I don't get enough sleep
83. My mother is a breast cancer survivor
84. My uncle died of lung cancer when I was 11
85. My aunt died of a brain aneurysm when I was 19
86. I have 9 first cousins on my dad's side of the family
87. My maternal grandmother is 86 and drives back & forth from Colorado to Illinois at least twice a year
alone.
88. I love meeting new people
89. I am a Capricorn
90. I want to be loved unconditionally by a person not in my family
91. I walk at least a mile a day
92. I have large birthing hips
93. I love solitude at times
94. I also love being with friends at times
95. I don't study enough
96. I smoke too much
97. I wish I could re-do my high school years again
98. I wish I could re-do ages 19-21 again and not hurt anyone that I love
99. I miss the person I recently connected with
100. This list is only a sample of who I am today
100 Things About Me
1. I have never been married
2. I have no children
3. I believe in God
4. I am a liberal democrat
5. I have 2 nephews who I love more than myself
6. I am 1/2 Irish 1/2 British and some German & French, too...I associate with the Irish
7. I lost my grandfather one year ago
8. I smoke Marlboro Lights 100's
9. I am a great friend
10. I would make an even better partner
11. I have not had sexual intercourse in two years
12. I am a great actress
13. I am an even better singer
14. I love science, studying medicine
15. My mother is neurotic, but I love her more than anything
16. I want kids someday
17. I want a husband someday
18. I have connected deeply with someone recently
19. My father is an alcoholic
20. I once was disowned by my family
21. I used to be a cleptomaniac
22. I sought therapy from the ages of 14-18.
23. I used to be a drug addict
24. I am a victim of domestic violence
25. It is very difficult for me to open up romantically
26. I have a tattoo
27. I want another tattoo on my back
28. I just want acceptance
29. I am very open-minded
30. I do not hate anyone
31. I am extremely sensual
32. I love Mozart
33. I am a geek
34. I believe in true love, in soulmates
35. I think I love someone, but I'm not positive
36. My family means the world to me
37. I hate my job
38. I make more with my unemployment check than my job
39. I have never owned a new car
40. I am a fantastic cook
41. I am fat; but not unattractive
42. I love my hair
43. I love my friends
44. I love my eyes
45. I am a sucker for blue-eyed men
46. I am attracted to men of an artistic nature
47. I have a hippie nature
48. I am a good writer
49. I love diet coke
50. I wish I could dance well
51. I love documentaries
52. I love to laugh
53. I will be 30 on December 28th
54. I don't feel 30
55. I am attracted to inner beauty rather than outer beauty
56. I do not believe in organized religion
57. I just bought a car
58. I am a great kisser
59. I am intelligent
60. I like gaming
61. I wish I would have practiced the piano more
62. I try and emulate my parents
63. I am majoring in Clinical Laboratory Science
64. I am a humanitarian
65. I love cats
66. I love dogs
67. I love to read
68. I am horrible at math
69. I love intelligent conversations
70. I prefer mind-foreplay
71. I miss my friends in Arkansas
72. Cancer runs wild in my family
73. I am the only woman over age 21 without a child in my family
74. I have one sibling
75. I want to play Jessie in "'night, Mother" someday
76. I have been performing in community theater for 19 years as of next month
77. I was brought up on classical music
78. I want to retire to Colorado
79. I want to visit Ireland and the UK someday
80. I think I'm a good person
81. I am ready to settle down
82. I don't get enough sleep
83. My mother is a breast cancer survivor
84. My uncle died of lung cancer when I was 11
85. My aunt died of a brain aneurysm when I was 19
86. I have 9 first cousins on my dad's side of the family
87. My maternal grandmother is 86 and drives back & forth from Colorado to Illinois at least twice a year
alone.
88. I love meeting new people
89. I am a Capricorn
90. I want to be loved unconditionally by a person not in my family
91. I walk at least a mile a day
92. I have large birthing hips
93. I love solitude at times
94. I also love being with friends at times
95. I don't study enough
96. I smoke too much
97. I wish I could re-do my high school years again
98. I wish I could re-do ages 19-21 again and not hurt anyone that I love
99. I miss the person I recently connected with
100. This list is only a sample of who I am today
Tuesday, September 27, 2005
There Oughta Be a Law
Ok...just a quickie.
Someone ought to put a gag order on Michael Brown (that is the BROWNIE Michael Brown - the FEMA flunkie).
He stated today that "Dysfunctional Louisiana" was to blame for the mass devestation. WTF? I mean, since we're placing blame here, what about being under-qualified for your position? An administrative assistant trying to run FEMA? That's like me trying to actually WORK for the government.
Jesus, let a sleeping dog lay. Haven't these poor people been through enough?
Thank you, drive through.
Someone ought to put a gag order on Michael Brown (that is the BROWNIE Michael Brown - the FEMA flunkie).
He stated today that "Dysfunctional Louisiana" was to blame for the mass devestation. WTF? I mean, since we're placing blame here, what about being under-qualified for your position? An administrative assistant trying to run FEMA? That's like me trying to actually WORK for the government.
Jesus, let a sleeping dog lay. Haven't these poor people been through enough?
Thank you, drive through.
Another Test - Another Dozen Brain Cells Gone
LOL - a math exam I forgot about today. Talk about being "stuck on stupid"
But I had an amazing conversation with a friend of mine from Arkansas last night, if you ever need a good read go to http://mikebrown.blogspot.com he's an amazing writer, and not too bad of a person :)
I'm enjoying my time off from the big mouse these few days, doing absolutely nothing. Gotta love it!!
Well, I'm off to enjoy my burnt toast...
But I had an amazing conversation with a friend of mine from Arkansas last night, if you ever need a good read go to http://mikebrown.blogspot.com he's an amazing writer, and not too bad of a person :)
I'm enjoying my time off from the big mouse these few days, doing absolutely nothing. Gotta love it!!
Well, I'm off to enjoy my burnt toast...
Thursday, September 22, 2005
A Plethora of Useless Bantering
Okay - I have a lot on my mind today. So please bear with me. A lot of subjects in one useless blog.
A New/Old Car, a Lesson in Priorities
Georgia's not so bad sometimes. Sometimes. A neighbor was selling their car for $800, she talked them down to $700, and I put in $300, she came up with the other $400. Wow. My independence has been renewed.
So imagine my suprise when a friend of mine who is directing Nunsense in Jacksonville asked me to play Sr. Robert Anne. Wow. I was so excited - being cast without auditioning. Then sunk in the truth. Why am I back in Illinois? School. Work. I've got a shitload on my plate this semester, and I know me very well. I am a true performer at heart. I would have put everything on the back burner to play this part. So let's go over the list of priorities, shall we?
- Gas is really expensive. Really expensive. Would I be able to afford cutting down my hours at the big mouse, and paying probably $20 a day in gas? Probably not.
- One of my finals falls during tech week of the show. Nix.
- Georgia threatened to kick me out if I took the part. 'Nuff said.
Welcome to the real world. I don't think I've ever lived in it...while in Springfield, Illinois.
Friday, September 09, 2005
My Favorite Singer of All Time
After that last posting, can you see why I'm coming down with a cold?
Ugh...something to lighten my spirits...and YOURS after reading that! While this clip cannot compare to "Yodeling the Classics" (actually, Brain Boy, it's much better!), it does bring a smile to my face.
Back in 1994, a vocal director from a musical that I was in played this at a cast party. I was in tears; I was laughing so hard. Read up on Ms. Florence Foster Jenkins, and PLEASE listen to this audio clip at the end.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Florence_Foster_Jenkins
Have a great weekend!!
Ugh...something to lighten my spirits...and YOURS after reading that! While this clip cannot compare to "Yodeling the Classics" (actually, Brain Boy, it's much better!), it does bring a smile to my face.
Back in 1994, a vocal director from a musical that I was in played this at a cast party. I was in tears; I was laughing so hard. Read up on Ms. Florence Foster Jenkins, and PLEASE listen to this audio clip at the end.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Florence_Foster_Jenkins
Have a great weekend!!
Post-Exam Time
Ok...does all-night studying work?
I really don't know. I read & re-read this crappy material on my first unit test in Biology. Whew. It contained basics for Biology...no biggie. Then came Simple Chemistry & Organic Chemistry. Wow. We'll have to see. I made the most informed decisions I could...but who knows. We'll have to see about that "maybe" majoring in Microbiology. I have to give it up to my dear friend who is a science major. Wow. He must have a brain somewhere.
I thought I had a brain...after 2 exams today, I'm really not so sure. I could sure use some tequila. Any offers?
I really don't know. I read & re-read this crappy material on my first unit test in Biology. Whew. It contained basics for Biology...no biggie. Then came Simple Chemistry & Organic Chemistry. Wow. We'll have to see. I made the most informed decisions I could...but who knows. We'll have to see about that "maybe" majoring in Microbiology. I have to give it up to my dear friend who is a science major. Wow. He must have a brain somewhere.
I thought I had a brain...after 2 exams today, I'm really not so sure. I could sure use some tequila. Any offers?
Thursday, September 08, 2005
A Quickie...Usually I Hate These...But...
LOL - not THAT kind of quickie. Get your mind out of the gutter! The gutter is for me!
Heard on NBC nightly news today that FEMA is now advising the victims of Hurricane K. to call between the hours of 2 A.M. and 6 A.M.
Draw your own conclusions!
Heard on NBC nightly news today that FEMA is now advising the victims of Hurricane K. to call between the hours of 2 A.M. and 6 A.M.
Draw your own conclusions!
It's Dehydration Synthesis Time!
LOL - that is what I found myself explaining in Bio lab today, and actually GETTING what it means, and how it is related to Disaccharides. Wow. I forgot how much I honestly love studying science. Why I didn't get it in high school, is beyond me.
What an interesting day ;) I'm trying to study for a "Math for Morons" test, a Bio Exam, and write an essay. Welcome to my world.
What an interesting day ;) I'm trying to study for a "Math for Morons" test, a Bio Exam, and write an essay. Welcome to my world.
Wednesday, September 07, 2005
Meme Time!
Thanks to this one
http://drastrozoom.blogspot.com
Here's my listing:
7 things I plan to do before I die:
1) Get my PhD in Journalism
2) Find a husband...or even a steady sex partner would suffice right now
3) Play Elphaba in "Wicked"
4) Quit smoking
5) Play Velma to Rebecca's Mama in "Chicago"
6) Have some kids
7) Find my "true north"
7 things I can do:
1) Roll my hips REALLY well
2) Drink more tequila than should be consumed by human beings
3) I take good notes!!
4) I can laugh at myself better than you can!
5) I cook my behind off (literally)
6) I'm a mediocre writer
7) I laugh at DrAstroZoom's jokes!
7 things I cannot do
1) Argue with Georgia - but then again - who would?
2) Dance well
3) Put my leg up over my head without stretching ;)
4) Confess my feelings freely (intimate ones)
5) Wolf-whistle
6) Sing a high D anymore...damn Marlboros
7) Hate
7 things that attract me to the sex of my preference:
1) Eyes - blue are a plus
2) Teeth - you must have them all
3) Intelligence
4) Stamina
5) A little attention is nice
6) Open-Mindedness
7) I agree with the butt thing
7 things that I say most often:
1) That's a Hot Ass Mess
2) Demons be Gone!
3) Pipe!
4) Biotch
5) Oh dear God!
6) I really can't do that with you...but what the hell...
7) Well, kids...aaauuuggghhh
7 celebrity crushes:
1) Robert deNiro
2) Angelina Jolie
3) James Gandolfini
4) My real - life
5) Crushes are much
6) more interesting!!
http://drastrozoom.blogspot.com
Here's my listing:
7 things I plan to do before I die:
1) Get my PhD in Journalism
2) Find a husband...or even a steady sex partner would suffice right now
3) Play Elphaba in "Wicked"
4) Quit smoking
5) Play Velma to Rebecca's Mama in "Chicago"
6) Have some kids
7) Find my "true north"
7 things I can do:
1) Roll my hips REALLY well
2) Drink more tequila than should be consumed by human beings
3) I take good notes!!
4) I can laugh at myself better than you can!
5) I cook my behind off (literally)
6) I'm a mediocre writer
7) I laugh at DrAstroZoom's jokes!
7 things I cannot do
1) Argue with Georgia - but then again - who would?
2) Dance well
3) Put my leg up over my head without stretching ;)
4) Confess my feelings freely (intimate ones)
5) Wolf-whistle
6) Sing a high D anymore...damn Marlboros
7) Hate
7 things that attract me to the sex of my preference:
1) Eyes - blue are a plus
2) Teeth - you must have them all
3) Intelligence
4) Stamina
5) A little attention is nice
6) Open-Mindedness
7) I agree with the butt thing
7 things that I say most often:
1) That's a Hot Ass Mess
2) Demons be Gone!
3) Pipe!
4) Biotch
5) Oh dear God!
6) I really can't do that with you...but what the hell...
7) Well, kids...aaauuuggghhh
7 celebrity crushes:
1) Robert deNiro
2) Angelina Jolie
3) James Gandolfini
4) My real - life
5) Crushes are much
6) more interesting!!
OK..Something More Personal
Ok...for the last few blogs (with the 7 Most... Excluded), I've been on some liberal rage. For that I humbly apologize. I really have a lot going on internally, so if you'll bear with me...here goes.
I did something quite odd this weekend...I won't bore you with the details, as it may freak some people out...but let's just say if you know me I've not done this in years (no, it isn't the drug thing). Go to the other spectrum.
While I should be racked with guilt, I am not. The person who I was involved with this thing...I deeply care for & respect. I'm trying not to obsess over it...should I have done it? YES. A million times yes. Should I do it again? I surely hope I will have the chance to do so. There. It is said. And I think this goes back to Dr. Z's earlier posting of guilt. Does it matter? As long as I feel decent about doing something, should it matter? Fire away.
Oh, Kimmy got a job. Can you believe it? Living in Springfield, a full time student and working. I swear, the end times are near. I feel overwhelmed, yet happy. I've got a circle of friends that I deeply love and have a wonderful time with...and I'm a "productive member of society" as my uber-Catholic Grandmother would say.
So am I glad that I moved back home? Hard to tell. At least I don't have to worry about fighting anymore. That is a complete load off my back. I'm happy in a way...I love my family, and I'd do anything for them. I'm kind of weirded out in a way, too. I'm being told that I look 18 everywhere that I go. ...I'll be 30 this December. Thanks for the genes, Mater!!
And while I dreaded 30 for as long as I can remember, I think 30 is going to be a wonderful age. I'm full of life...love...free spirit...now if I could get CAST in a show here, I'd be 150%!!!
I did something quite odd this weekend...I won't bore you with the details, as it may freak some people out...but let's just say if you know me I've not done this in years (no, it isn't the drug thing). Go to the other spectrum.
While I should be racked with guilt, I am not. The person who I was involved with this thing...I deeply care for & respect. I'm trying not to obsess over it...should I have done it? YES. A million times yes. Should I do it again? I surely hope I will have the chance to do so. There. It is said. And I think this goes back to Dr. Z's earlier posting of guilt. Does it matter? As long as I feel decent about doing something, should it matter? Fire away.
Oh, Kimmy got a job. Can you believe it? Living in Springfield, a full time student and working. I swear, the end times are near. I feel overwhelmed, yet happy. I've got a circle of friends that I deeply love and have a wonderful time with...and I'm a "productive member of society" as my uber-Catholic Grandmother would say.
So am I glad that I moved back home? Hard to tell. At least I don't have to worry about fighting anymore. That is a complete load off my back. I'm happy in a way...I love my family, and I'd do anything for them. I'm kind of weirded out in a way, too. I'm being told that I look 18 everywhere that I go. ...I'll be 30 this December. Thanks for the genes, Mater!!
And while I dreaded 30 for as long as I can remember, I think 30 is going to be a wonderful age. I'm full of life...love...free spirit...now if I could get CAST in a show here, I'd be 150%!!!
Tuesday, September 06, 2005
Short...but Sweet
This is actually from my sister, so I can't take credit for this one:
Associated Press Writer
WASHINGTON
Buffeted by criticism over the federal response to Hurricane Katrina, President Bush said Tuesday he will oversee an investigation into what went wrong and why _ in part to be sure the country could withstand more storms or attack.
Isn't this like having Osama in charge of the 9/11 commission investigation?!?!?!?
Associated Press Writer
WASHINGTON
Buffeted by criticism over the federal response to Hurricane Katrina, President Bush said Tuesday he will oversee an investigation into what went wrong and why _ in part to be sure the country could withstand more storms or attack.
Isn't this like having Osama in charge of the 9/11 commission investigation?!?!?!?
Sunday, September 04, 2005
It's Almost Been a Week
It's almost been a week, and only recently has something been done to aid the victims of Hurricane K. But not to aid ALL of the victims. There are still a few counties in MS that haven't been visited. Why? What is the real deal?
I'm not ashamed to admit that I'm Left-Wing. I was raised that way, and will be so until my dying day. But this is completely a non-partisan issue. I thought, even in my leftist brain, that Dubya would actually DO something this time. He did...but too little too late. They've already found 59 bodies in Naw'leans. Lord knows how many more they will find when the waters dry in a month & 1/2. I'm sickened.
Now, I propose that we come up with a new name for FEMA. Something that ends with assholes. They sure talk a good game though, don't they?
More than ever, I am ashamed to be an American. We have too much money in this country to have let these people suffer. While you may say it's a race issue, I would rather say that it is a "class" issue. 99% of the people who stayed in NOLA didn't do so by choice. It was because they either were sick or elderly & could not work, or too poor to afford to leave.
Hmmm...if FEMA could find the buses AFTER the storm to move the victims to Texas, then why couldn't they do so before? These are questions that every American needs answers to, and what's more, is that we demand these answers. NOW.
I'm not ashamed to admit that I'm Left-Wing. I was raised that way, and will be so until my dying day. But this is completely a non-partisan issue. I thought, even in my leftist brain, that Dubya would actually DO something this time. He did...but too little too late. They've already found 59 bodies in Naw'leans. Lord knows how many more they will find when the waters dry in a month & 1/2. I'm sickened.
Now, I propose that we come up with a new name for FEMA. Something that ends with assholes. They sure talk a good game though, don't they?
More than ever, I am ashamed to be an American. We have too much money in this country to have let these people suffer. While you may say it's a race issue, I would rather say that it is a "class" issue. 99% of the people who stayed in NOLA didn't do so by choice. It was because they either were sick or elderly & could not work, or too poor to afford to leave.
Hmmm...if FEMA could find the buses AFTER the storm to move the victims to Texas, then why couldn't they do so before? These are questions that every American needs answers to, and what's more, is that we demand these answers. NOW.
Thursday, September 01, 2005
What the Hell is Wrong With the US?
Being addicted to CNN and various news channels over the past 3-4 days in response to the tragedy of Hurricane Katrina...I am sickened, saddened, and really, really pissed off.
Today I heard that the Lieutenant Governor of Louisiana said that the people who didn't evacuate New Orleans did so on their own free will. Hmmm...that really burns me a new asshole. What the fuck is going on? There were over 100,000 people who could not afford to leave, or who were too sick, or too elderly to do so. My God. It's funny how FEMA was able to scrounge up charter and school buses to transport the people from the SuperDome over to Houston to the Astro Dome. But they weren't able to do so BEFORE the disaster? And don't tell me any of this bullshit that they didn't know. THEY KNEW. The Weather Channel screamed for 24 hours "IT IS A CATEGORY 5. THIS SPELLS OUT CATASTROPHE". Does an evacuation plan only count for people who have cars?
More later...I need to smoke after that. My prayers are with EVERYONE who was affected by this tragedy.
Today I heard that the Lieutenant Governor of Louisiana said that the people who didn't evacuate New Orleans did so on their own free will. Hmmm...that really burns me a new asshole. What the fuck is going on? There were over 100,000 people who could not afford to leave, or who were too sick, or too elderly to do so. My God. It's funny how FEMA was able to scrounge up charter and school buses to transport the people from the SuperDome over to Houston to the Astro Dome. But they weren't able to do so BEFORE the disaster? And don't tell me any of this bullshit that they didn't know. THEY KNEW. The Weather Channel screamed for 24 hours "IT IS A CATEGORY 5. THIS SPELLS OUT CATASTROPHE". Does an evacuation plan only count for people who have cars?
More later...I need to smoke after that. My prayers are with EVERYONE who was affected by this tragedy.
Friday, August 26, 2005
My Sense of Humor
If I had to choose one word to describe myself, I would have to choose gravity-deprived,
or clumsy. Ever since I can remember, I have been running into things, falling when absolutely
nothing is there to trip me, numerous broken bones, chipped teeth, you name it - I’ve done it.
My first memory of the family curse of clumsiness has to be when I was in
kindergarten, attending Cathedral Grade School. It was the last day of school in 1980, a typically
stifling hot early June morning - and this was before air conditioning was heard of in Catholic
schools. Seriously, we as Catholics are made to suffer "To remember what Jesus went through".
Or maybe it was to conserve energy. Who knows?
Since it was the last day of school, we were permitted to go without our school uniforms.
If you ever attended a private school, you know that this was the best thing next to Christmas!
My grandmother at the time thought it was an ingenious idea to dress me and my sister and I up
as if we were going to mass. So here we are, complete in our pigtails, shiny Mary Jane shoes,
brand new peach-colored linen dresses that were homemade. Homemade dresses of course were
a must-have as we were growing up. They always matched, and I believe this is one of the main
reasons my sister and I fought like cats and dogs. When you are eighteen months apart, you
barely want to speak to your sibling, much less be dressed like the Bobsey twins
After suffering in the classroom for 4 hours, my long dark hair, which was slicked back
into double pigtails at 7:00 A.M. Now my head resembled that of someone who stuck her finger
into an electrical socket. My sister and I were now ready for our hike up Fifth Street to visit my
grandmother who had come into town the day before from Evergreen, Colorado.
I was doing my best to keep up with my older sister, which is hard enough in my usual
sneakers that I would wear to school, but this was excruciating in the stiff maroon-colored Mary
Jane’s. Which I often called my "booze shoes", because my mother told me that they were wine-
colored. My routine was to look down at my feet to make sure that they were following what my
brain told them to do. Sometimes they had a mind of their own.
I was paying extra-special attention to the cracks of the sidewalk, for it was nearly a
mortal sin at that time to step on one of them. The next thing that I remember, my sister is yelling
"Watch out, Kim!" and I am face-first in warm, fresh cement.
I look up, horribly embarrassed, to see Katie’s face pink with delight. She screams at the
top of her lungs, "Hurry up! You’re going to freeze into the cement!" Nothing could have
frightened a six year-old more. I try and get up and my legs felt so heavy, that I fell back into the
cement, which sent my sister into a fit of hysterical laughter. She grabbed me by the back of my
dress and pulled me onto my feet. She informed me that I had to keep moving before I froze
before we got home, which was another four blocks away.
By the time we got home, the stuff was feeling like cardboard all over my body, and I
was crying so hard that I had streaks down my cheeks that had penetrated through the cement. As
I was plunged into the bath water within two seconds of entering the house, this was my first real
lesson of taking myself lightly. Obviously I had flunked that test.
Four years after the "Cement incident", I discovered my great passion in life. Performing.
At the age of ten, I stepped onto the boards of Springfield Theatre Centre in a production of
"Pinocchio".
For me, performing has been a very humbling experience. As human beings, I believe
that we all start out our childhood as very self-centered people, and usually something that we
perceive to be traumatic happens in our lives, and thus begins our transformation of grounded
adults, or taking ourselves lightly. Performing has taught me a great lesson. To laugh at yourself
before anyone else has a chance to do so.
When I first began acting, I thought this was a way to put my clumsiness behind me. I
mean, if we are able to portray completely different personalities, we should be able to
incorporate that into our body movement. Boy, was I wrong.
After eight years of playing different small character roles in Community theater
productions, my big break came in Southeast High School’s production of "L’il Abner" in 1994.
After preparing for this audition for several months, I was confident that I would feel great about
my audition for the role of Mammy Yokum.
I hit a little snag, though. I was famous, or rather, infamous, in Springfield for being a
"repeat offender" - that is beating a song to death in every audition throughout town. This
particular year was no exception. The song was "Love Changes Everything" from the musical
Aspects of Love by Andrew Lloyd Webber. Why this was a snag is this was not a romantic lead.
Mammy Yokum is the comic relief. As soon as I got out two bars of the song, the director
informed me that he would like for me to do an up-tempo song. Ah, the joys of bad decisions! So
he chose for me "All That Jazz" from Chicago, and I nailed it, and the role of Mammy Yokum.
The performances went off without a hitch, with the exception of the last matinee. I was
parading around in my final scene in a pink taffeta dress, which happened to have a gigantic bow
on the back that went all the way to my feet. Yes, you guessed it! I tripped, fell, and landed on
my knees. At first, I was speechless. Not a thought popped into my head. Then I played it off as
if I was having a temper tantrum. I pounded my fists on the floor, and my friend, Micah, who
was playing my husband, helped me up.
What this has led me to is my sense of humor. I have learned that laughing at one’s self
before anyone else has the chance to do so is probably my way of relief. It helps mask my
insecurities and embarrassment of my lack of coordination.
I believe that if I didn’t have this sense of humor about myself, that I would absolutely go
insane. Whether it is when I hit a wrong note, forget a line, or fall on stage, you had better
believe that I will be the first one to talk about it with a huge smile on my face!
or clumsy. Ever since I can remember, I have been running into things, falling when absolutely
nothing is there to trip me, numerous broken bones, chipped teeth, you name it - I’ve done it.
My first memory of the family curse of clumsiness has to be when I was in
kindergarten, attending Cathedral Grade School. It was the last day of school in 1980, a typically
stifling hot early June morning - and this was before air conditioning was heard of in Catholic
schools. Seriously, we as Catholics are made to suffer "To remember what Jesus went through".
Or maybe it was to conserve energy. Who knows?
Since it was the last day of school, we were permitted to go without our school uniforms.
If you ever attended a private school, you know that this was the best thing next to Christmas!
My grandmother at the time thought it was an ingenious idea to dress me and my sister and I up
as if we were going to mass. So here we are, complete in our pigtails, shiny Mary Jane shoes,
brand new peach-colored linen dresses that were homemade. Homemade dresses of course were
a must-have as we were growing up. They always matched, and I believe this is one of the main
reasons my sister and I fought like cats and dogs. When you are eighteen months apart, you
barely want to speak to your sibling, much less be dressed like the Bobsey twins
After suffering in the classroom for 4 hours, my long dark hair, which was slicked back
into double pigtails at 7:00 A.M. Now my head resembled that of someone who stuck her finger
into an electrical socket. My sister and I were now ready for our hike up Fifth Street to visit my
grandmother who had come into town the day before from Evergreen, Colorado.
I was doing my best to keep up with my older sister, which is hard enough in my usual
sneakers that I would wear to school, but this was excruciating in the stiff maroon-colored Mary
Jane’s. Which I often called my "booze shoes", because my mother told me that they were wine-
colored. My routine was to look down at my feet to make sure that they were following what my
brain told them to do. Sometimes they had a mind of their own.
I was paying extra-special attention to the cracks of the sidewalk, for it was nearly a
mortal sin at that time to step on one of them. The next thing that I remember, my sister is yelling
"Watch out, Kim!" and I am face-first in warm, fresh cement.
I look up, horribly embarrassed, to see Katie’s face pink with delight. She screams at the
top of her lungs, "Hurry up! You’re going to freeze into the cement!" Nothing could have
frightened a six year-old more. I try and get up and my legs felt so heavy, that I fell back into the
cement, which sent my sister into a fit of hysterical laughter. She grabbed me by the back of my
dress and pulled me onto my feet. She informed me that I had to keep moving before I froze
before we got home, which was another four blocks away.
By the time we got home, the stuff was feeling like cardboard all over my body, and I
was crying so hard that I had streaks down my cheeks that had penetrated through the cement. As
I was plunged into the bath water within two seconds of entering the house, this was my first real
lesson of taking myself lightly. Obviously I had flunked that test.
Four years after the "Cement incident", I discovered my great passion in life. Performing.
At the age of ten, I stepped onto the boards of Springfield Theatre Centre in a production of
"Pinocchio".
For me, performing has been a very humbling experience. As human beings, I believe
that we all start out our childhood as very self-centered people, and usually something that we
perceive to be traumatic happens in our lives, and thus begins our transformation of grounded
adults, or taking ourselves lightly. Performing has taught me a great lesson. To laugh at yourself
before anyone else has a chance to do so.
When I first began acting, I thought this was a way to put my clumsiness behind me. I
mean, if we are able to portray completely different personalities, we should be able to
incorporate that into our body movement. Boy, was I wrong.
After eight years of playing different small character roles in Community theater
productions, my big break came in Southeast High School’s production of "L’il Abner" in 1994.
After preparing for this audition for several months, I was confident that I would feel great about
my audition for the role of Mammy Yokum.
I hit a little snag, though. I was famous, or rather, infamous, in Springfield for being a
"repeat offender" - that is beating a song to death in every audition throughout town. This
particular year was no exception. The song was "Love Changes Everything" from the musical
Aspects of Love by Andrew Lloyd Webber. Why this was a snag is this was not a romantic lead.
Mammy Yokum is the comic relief. As soon as I got out two bars of the song, the director
informed me that he would like for me to do an up-tempo song. Ah, the joys of bad decisions! So
he chose for me "All That Jazz" from Chicago, and I nailed it, and the role of Mammy Yokum.
The performances went off without a hitch, with the exception of the last matinee. I was
parading around in my final scene in a pink taffeta dress, which happened to have a gigantic bow
on the back that went all the way to my feet. Yes, you guessed it! I tripped, fell, and landed on
my knees. At first, I was speechless. Not a thought popped into my head. Then I played it off as
if I was having a temper tantrum. I pounded my fists on the floor, and my friend, Micah, who
was playing my husband, helped me up.
What this has led me to is my sense of humor. I have learned that laughing at one’s self
before anyone else has the chance to do so is probably my way of relief. It helps mask my
insecurities and embarrassment of my lack of coordination.
I believe that if I didn’t have this sense of humor about myself, that I would absolutely go
insane. Whether it is when I hit a wrong note, forget a line, or fall on stage, you had better
believe that I will be the first one to talk about it with a huge smile on my face!
Finally - it's Friday - My review of LLCC this week
Ok, Ok.
Again and again this week, I've asked myself: Am I absolutely insane for starting college at age 29? Yes, I went to nursing school in 97, but that's a completely different ballgame. As Becky once said "It was nurse prison". Something I had to do. As a former drug addict, it was completely necessary at the time in order to get my life together. And I have absolutely no regrets whatsoever.
And the degree I am seeking. Journalism. A certain writer with the AP actually made me realize my passion for writing again, and however much I love performing...it far outweighs my love of performing. God. I never thought I'd say that (or type that) out loud. But it is true. While writing my 1st Draft of my Humor Narrative in Comp 111 this week, I found that something just FLOWS out of me. Whether it is good enough to make a living at, who knows. But at least I can say that I really am trying.
While by no means do I mean to belittle Lincoln Land Community College by this statement: I feel like I am in high school again. Since I graduated from SSHS in 1994, it's quite a culture shock. The cattiness in the classrooms, professors having to explain why we should come to class on time. I guess it's a good thing.
I have to take freaking remedial Math. It's about to kill me. I scored through the roof on writing and reading comp, but my mind kind of went blank when it came to math. So, the first thing we studied was the placement of numbers. Not decimals or anything. TENS, ONES - HUNDREDS. I amost died. I knew I needed help, but GOD.
Biology - the first few days I thought I would pass out from boredom. Nothing makes me more tired than hearing about the make-up of different atoms. Ugh. Hopefully it will become more interesting later.
Psychology - this is wonderful. When I took it in nursing prison, nothing made me happier. Maybe that is because I am from a fucking nutso family, and now I know what is wrong with them ;) Seriously, nothing makes me happier.
Comp - I absolutely love this. It is studying Humorous writing. I was horribly taken aback at first, because when it is put on the spot, I am horribly self-conscious. What if I'm not funny? What if I make an absolute ass of myself? Worse than usual? Whew.
Well, all in all, not a BAD week.
Again and again this week, I've asked myself: Am I absolutely insane for starting college at age 29? Yes, I went to nursing school in 97, but that's a completely different ballgame. As Becky once said "It was nurse prison". Something I had to do. As a former drug addict, it was completely necessary at the time in order to get my life together. And I have absolutely no regrets whatsoever.
And the degree I am seeking. Journalism. A certain writer with the AP actually made me realize my passion for writing again, and however much I love performing...it far outweighs my love of performing. God. I never thought I'd say that (or type that) out loud. But it is true. While writing my 1st Draft of my Humor Narrative in Comp 111 this week, I found that something just FLOWS out of me. Whether it is good enough to make a living at, who knows. But at least I can say that I really am trying.
While by no means do I mean to belittle Lincoln Land Community College by this statement: I feel like I am in high school again. Since I graduated from SSHS in 1994, it's quite a culture shock. The cattiness in the classrooms, professors having to explain why we should come to class on time. I guess it's a good thing.
I have to take freaking remedial Math. It's about to kill me. I scored through the roof on writing and reading comp, but my mind kind of went blank when it came to math. So, the first thing we studied was the placement of numbers. Not decimals or anything. TENS, ONES - HUNDREDS. I amost died. I knew I needed help, but GOD.
Biology - the first few days I thought I would pass out from boredom. Nothing makes me more tired than hearing about the make-up of different atoms. Ugh. Hopefully it will become more interesting later.
Psychology - this is wonderful. When I took it in nursing prison, nothing made me happier. Maybe that is because I am from a fucking nutso family, and now I know what is wrong with them ;) Seriously, nothing makes me happier.
Comp - I absolutely love this. It is studying Humorous writing. I was horribly taken aback at first, because when it is put on the spot, I am horribly self-conscious. What if I'm not funny? What if I make an absolute ass of myself? Worse than usual? Whew.
Well, all in all, not a BAD week.
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