only a phase, these dark cafe days

Speaking of My Nana...

2012-02-03T15:19:00.001-05:00

Speaking of my Nana...

I was thinking of her on the way into work today. This is nothing new. Generally, any and every time I'm alone in my car (which is ALL the time) I think about my Uncle Johnny and my Nana. It goes without saying, I miss them both like crazy.

When I think about my Nana, I think of a million sweet little memories:

The first few years of my life her bedroom wall was on the other side of mine; every night when my parents would put me to bed, I'd knock and she'd knock back, our little "good night" to each other. (I can NOT ever put into words how precious this is to me!)

The way she'd let me (over) eat the awesome treats she'd bake for me until I (literally) would throw up, because she couldn't bear to tell me "no." I laugh when I think about how she'd try to "assist" me while throwing up by wrapping her arms around my stomach and kind of Heimlich (ing) me - it was awful! But so sweet!

How she always worked so hard (a widowed single mom of three!) and had so little but STILL managed to be the most generous person I've ever known(although, my mom is exactly like her, so maybe it's a tie).

Knowing she didn't have a lot made the fact that she got me this little fur coat from Gabby's (if you're from Amsterdam - remember, Gabby's?) that I loved so much, that much sweeter. (I'm mentioning this not from a materialistic standpoint, but because even when I was little, I understood this was a HUGE expense for her.)

And, even more so than that (although, she did love the fact that I never forgot about that pretty little coat and thanked her for it well into adulthood!)...

As an adult, I remember how her eyes would light up when I'd walk into her room at the nursing home to visit.

How she literally stayed alive to witness certain milestones in my life, suffering with emphysema but loving me so much she didn't want to miss anything she didn't have to. This may sound self-centered, but she told me she was waiting and she literally passed away one month later, I am so lucky to have had someone love me that much!

The way she'd refer to using the bathroom as making a "BM", hahaha!

Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy. Always. I'm pretty sure 7:00-8:00 p.m. every night for my entire life she watched those shows. My stepfather now watches the two shows religiously every evening because of the time he and my mom spent taking care of her, watching that show as my mom helped her get ready for bed every single night.

Anyway, there are (like I said) a million memories... but, this morning, I was thinking about her and about how I haven't been to the cemetary since April, and how I need to go soon. (Although, Nana did caution us not to be wasting money on flowers for her when she won't even know!) Anyway, I texted my mom a little while ago about something and she wrote back "so weird" because she was at the cemetary and was just about to text me a photo saying she was there. It's crazy.

We miss her so much! There are so many things that have happened since she passed in 2007 that I want to talk to her about. I am, however, thankful that she didn't have to witness some of the not so happy times our family has endured since she passed. But, man I wish she got to meet Tom! I know she'd gush over his big brown eyes (as I roll mine) and just think he's the greatest ever! But, what I wouldn't give to have that oppportunity to roll my eyes!

Little Nana and some of her sisters.

Mr. and Mrs. Irvin Hughes
I love this picture, I love the way she is standing, I love the moon and star...

Nana and her little brother, Bud.

Beautiful in 2007

I'm Basically the Derek Jeter of Cuteness...

2012-02-03T15:18:00.001-05:00

Double Take live at Blessings Tavern, Colonie, NY

This is going to be super random, I have so many thoughts swirling through my mind. I am, indeed a crazy person. I realize this on my own, additionally, Tom and Sara Pak tell me frequently! Actually Tom tells me I'm weird and Sara tells me I'm crazy. Pots calling kettles if you ask me! Anyway, I'm fairly functional and for the most part, it's amusing (to me).

Let's start off with the subject of Facebook. Has anyone else noticed it's become the world's largest soapbox and EVERYONE is standing on it? Every time I sign on I feel like I'm being lectured! Ha! And, I'm not saying I'm not guilty of sharing the occasional inspirational quote or expressing a strong opinion on a topic here and there, I totally am! Still, I've been "unsubscribe(ing)" from people left and right!

But, seriously! I can't take all the cautionary tales. All the life lessons! I just want to kick it with my friends and family, share some pictures and some jokes... it's starting to make me feel like it's one GIGANTIC email forward and I just want to delete without reading!

(Disclaimer: At the very same time, I do appreciate some of the soap box spam, the education, the conversation on issues... I'm just a big hypocrite I guess! Also, I'm totally going to SPAM all my friends' homepage when I link this blog post to my facebook! Vicious cycle.)

______________________________________________________________________________
Anyway, I heard this song on the way into work today. I love this song, but, seriously how WEIRD is it?

I remember when it came out. I was in 8th grade. I also clearly remember my 8th grade Spanish class, I remember a group of us were discussing the song; specifically the verse that says "And when they went to their church, they shook and lurched all over the church floor."

I almost hate the random weird details I remember in life. I'm sure the memory of my 8th grade Spanish class, including the EXACT people involved in that conversation; is taking up precious memory space where I could be storing more important information such as math equations... or, at the very least the 8 years of Spanish I took!

(Random Fact: Brad Roberts, of Crash Test Dummies now owns a Yoga studio in NYC.)
_________________________________________________________________________________
I am MORE THAN, Like, BEYOND excited... A WORD DOES NOT EXIST for how happy I feel about the fact that MORE than one person has found my blog by searching "Mullet and Buck Teeth." If I could be a spokesmodel for anything in this world, I'd most like to be the spokesmodel for Mullet and buck teeth. I lived it! Here are my, and excuse my ego for one moment here, most gorgeous photographs:

Sammy, Teeth, Mullet

Permed Mullet in all its Poodle Glory

These photos were taken at my Nana's house. I'd just been at the hairdresser, where my mom generously paid for me to have this done to my hair. I remember this day so clearly. I remember exactly the way the hairdresser's shop was set up. And, I remember walking over to my Nana's house (it was just down the street) afterward to show her my new glorious mane. It was snowing, and my mom was telling me how gorgeous I looked... I remember her getting excited saying the snowflakes were catching in individual curls and how beautiful it looked. Now, this makes me laugh. Here is one of those times I'm thankful for my freakishly good memory.

Then, we arrived at Nana's. And, well my mom and Nana are/were my biggest fans; so of course there were a lot of "Oh Jilly's" (you know, in that you look so breathtaking type voice!) And then a little photo opp. The picture with my Nana's cat, Sammy is hilarious. I remember them posing that and both saying how amazing it looked! Man, that day brings me so much joy to this day.

On that day, I felt absolutely BEAUTIFUL. And, today... I think this is absolutely hilarious! That's a perm that keeps on giving!
_____________________________________________________________________________
Speaking of my Nana...
Had to make this it's own blog post: CLICK HERE.
_____________________________________________________________________________
Now, onto every one's favorite... quotes from Tom! He should really have his own blog, but I think he prefers that I record these moments and he can relive them and laugh at how funny he is along with the rest of us! Anyway...

Jill: You are so cute!
Tom: It comes natural.
Jill: Oh yeah?
Tom: Yeah, it's not easy.
Jill: If it comes natural, how is it "not easy?"

Tom: Think about it, Derek Jeter is naturally good at baseball, but he still has to work at it. I'm basically the Derek Jeter of cuteness!

And, he says I'm weird!

Here are some random pictures to add to this random post.

Thursday Night = Mexican Night, Food Courtesy of Tom.
I'm spoiled

Tom and Four Eyes.

Double Take live at Blessings Tavern, Colonie, NY

One of my mom's (two) Irene rescues; Sushi.
Sushi is OBSESSED with this faucet!

One of my favorite Saturday mornings... picking up free Pallets
(thanks to Craigslist) for future wine racks and coffee tables

Pallets! No joke, those are legit sunbeams, I did not edit those in!

Anyway, life is pretty sweet. Even if ya'll are telling me what to do and think via Facebook! ;)

I Would Be Friends With All of These People... If I Just Knew Their Names!

2012-01-27T15:12:00.000-05:00

So, this is my first blog entry (not counting Sara's awesome GUEST BLOG) this year!

Speaking of Sara's post; you should all probably go comment on it, because she needs a lot of positive feedback so she'll do it again. I know, super princessy, but that's my Sara!

I have so many funny stories to tell, I don't know where to begin. By the time I start, I know I'm going to feel like they're expired! Hopefully, I'll get to that next week. For now, I'm just going to provide a list of ten things that make me happy.

* List is music heavy.

1. Macaroni and Cheese.

2. Gospel Music. My mom, Grandma and I went to see Joyful Noise on Wednesday night, I loved it. And, it reminded me how much I love Gospel Music. And, also, how much I'd like to see the Harlem Gospel Choir again (minus the BB King venue), because they are fantastic!

3. This song... perhaps not the video, though!

5. My brother surprised me with a new HELLO KITTY! t-shirt last week! And, it makes fun of the Double Rainbow YouTube video! My brother didn't even realize the DOUBLE awesomeness of this sweet sweet "gift for no reason."

6. Nicholas Kristof, my favorite New York Times columnist. If you haven't read the book, Half the Sky, by Nicholas and his wife Sheryl WuDunn; I have it, you can borrow it! And, definitely tune into his columns!

(Disclaimer: It's not the stories he tells in his columns that make me happy, it's the fact that he's telling them; giving a voice to so many who wouldn't otherwise have one.)

7. The "Chimes of Freedom" album release this week. Although, I was hesitant because I noticed Miley Cyrus and Ke$ha were contributors, I bought the album on iTunes (thanks to Christmas and Birthday giftcards) and am SO excited about most of it. Especially THIS ONE, because I LOVE Brett Dennen and Tom and I listen to this particular Bob Dylan song, A LOT... so, I was so excited to see Brett covered that one (and emailed it to Tom immediately!) * Also, Michael Franti covers one of my TOP FIVE Dylan songs, Subterranean Homesick Blues.

8. I made my first solo batch of homemade pierogis (83!) a couple weekends ago!

9. Yoga! I've started working toward my 500 hour teaching certification. So, every other weekend I'm spending hours in yoga class (practice and theory). Can't think of a better way to pass winter weekends!

10. The Art of Compliments.

I happen to think Tom and I are really amazing at complimenting one another. (Really, we are... ) My favorite compliments are the ones that make us both laugh. Here are some examples...

When we first started dating, we were sitting in Tom's living room, he was playing his guitar and singing (awesome). And, all of the sudden something struck me!

Me: "You know, sometimes you remind me of Kermit the Frog...."

"... and, that's NOT a bad thing!"

Well, we apparently enjoy Muppet compliments because last month (or, was it November?) we went to see the new Muppets Movie and at one point, Miss Piggy came on and Tom leans over to say, "Her hair looks like yours!"

I elbowed him and then he said, "What! That's awesome!"

I agreed.

Well, this week, I got the best compliment of my life. I have been laughing about it ever since, and I haven't even mentioned it to Tom, so when he reads this he'll find out how much I love it!

The other day, after work, I was wearing a suit. They're not my favorite to wear, because I just don't feel like "me" in them...

Tom: "Oh! Look at you in your suit!"

Me: "Yeah, I hate wearing suits, I feel old or something."

Tom: "No, you look good! You don't look old."

Me: "Whatever!"

Tom: "You do look a little like David Byrne!"

Oh, how we laughed!

"Dear Jilly" - First Guest Blog Post by Sara Pak

2012-01-05T12:06:00.001-05:00

Dear Jilly:

Now that you’ve taken permanent residence in your thirties, I thought I’d impart some wisdom I’ve gained over these past few years.

1. Men and pornography are like women and the Sunday Times real estate listings. They may fantasize about some buxom blonde while we fantasize about the 4 story brownstone in Windsor Terrace with a real wood-burning fireplace and a patio garden (have you seen those granite countertops?!?!). In every relationship, at some point, you eventually have to retreat to your respective corners and cater to your own internet addictions.

2. When writing anything, whether it’s a work presentation, a guest blog post or a birthday card, add a chart or graph (for illustrative purposes). People are impressed with charts and graphs. It lends a sense of gravity and veracity. People will think, “Why, there’s a bar graph, it must be seriously true!” Double points if you can also provide statistics.

3. A few years ago when I was moving out of my apartment in NYC, I decided to unload all my stuff via Craigslist. The small stuff was easy. I’d wait for a prospective buyer on the street corner or a subway platform and exchange the iPod speakers or Cuisinart for a few wrinkled bills. Kind of like an illicit drug deal but with used kitchen appliances. But then came time to get rid of the awkward IKEA furniture. I had to invite “Rodney” to my apartment to pick up said awkward furniture. For hours before he came, I was convinced he was a serial killer and $10 for a pair of Poang chairs was, in my estimation, not a worthy amount to die over. Statistically speaking, if thousands of people exchange goods and services over Craigslist every day, and really there’s only been 1 “made for TV” movie about a “Craigslist killer,” what were my chances of being killed by “Rodney”?

4. Ironically enough, I once gave my phone number to a guy who bought my cordless power drill off of Craigslist. He stalked me for 3 weeks. “Rodney” I never heard from again after he picked up those chairs.

5. Cultivate a signature gift and you won’t have to waste precious time at the mall shopping for something no one really wants. Mine is a garden gnome akin to the Travelocity Travel Gnome. Housewarming? Garden gnome. Hostess gift? Garden gnome. Baby shower? Garden gnome. See how this works for all occasions?

6. Read contemporary non-fiction. A few of my favorite authors: Michael Lewis, Malcolm Gladwell, Eric Weiner, Ruth Reichl, Nora Ephron, David Sedaris, Sandra Tsing Loh, Michael Pollan. It gives you a new way of articulating the obvious.

7. Buy books of said authors above to support the publishing industry but immediately toss them to eliminate clutter and then borrow them from the library.

8. Travel is 98% suffering and 2% amazing. Watching the sunrise over Mount Kinabalu – truly breathtaking! Getting there via single engine propeller plane, a leaking ferry without navigation system, a cargo train and 2 chicken buses (after, of course, the major airport was closed “due to volcano eruption,” hotel was on fire, and being detained by local police) – well, now, that’s just a better story.

9. When a guy tells you there is something really attractive about you but he can’t seem to pinpoint exactly what it is… it’s probably your car. It’s the anti-lock brakes and rack and pinion steering. It’s irresistible.

10. It’s never too early to start using eye cream.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

2011-12-25T17:20:00.128-05:00

Our Homemade Apple Wine... catalyst in Amanda'a |
dish breaking.

Serious Growth - Jeffy Deuel

Grateful Dead Bear Cookie Amanda made for me!

Homemade Pinot Noir - Christmas Gift

So, as usual, we've been laughing a lot here! I have a little story to tell about each of the "kids"...

Amanda:
I've always considered myself the klutz of the family; but Amanda has apparently decided, now that she's almost 26, it's her turn to shine! Tom and I recently bottled our best (thus far) homemade brew; Apple Wine. I was excited to have my family try it. When I offered some to Amanda, she was excited and said I had to wait for her to get a "special" Christmas wine glass that someone had given her as a gift, because she doesn't get to use it very often.

She emerged with the festive glass and I poured her some wine. A little while later, we were sitting at the kitchen table when my parents remembered/spotted the Olde English Crackers that I purchased a few weeks ago for our Christmas Eve Dinner... we were all disappointed we forgot to use them! Amanda hadn't ever experienced the fun and was inquisitive. So, I told her to try one... and, if you're familiar with the English Crackers, you know that you hold it with two hands and pull in opposite directions. Well, Amanda did this with such gusto and spirit that she smacked her glass off of the table and into the wall shattering future opportunities for cups of cheer!

This was hilarious because, just the day before, I was on the phone with my mother as she was fighting with her various pets to stay away from some carpets that she was trying to clean, because Amanda had shattered a bowl. She will be "home" for a bit longer and I can't wait to see what she breaks next!

Andrew:
Our Marine, Andrew lives in North Carolina, and wasn't able to make it home this year. Thanks to technology, we face-timed him in during the Christmas Morning Gift Exchange. As he watched via Steve Jobs' technology, my Mom unwrap a Nativity Scene box, she said, "Oh, thank you!" And he immediately said, "OH! That's not what it is..."

Followed by...

"I put X's on it!"

Is this not hilarious? My brother and I could not stop laughing. Andrew put gifts in this box and in order to communicate not to anticipate a Nativity Scene; he simple drew a simple black "X" on each side of the box. I don't know if it's just Jeffy and me, but we think this is AWESOME! Thank you, Andrew for always being so charmingly hilarious!!

Jeffy:
Well, after the gift exchange; Jeffy recognized an opportunity to do some Christmas Laundry and he took it! (I don't know what Christmas Laundry means, I just figure whatever you do on Christmas, you can put the word "Christmas" before that action which makes it feel more festive and celebratory, no matter how mundane)...

So, while my mom and I were enjoying some coffee and conversation in the living room, my brother walked in with an unexpected scolding.

Unimpressed!

Jeffy showed us what he referred to as a "lint sweater with cookie crumbs" (there weren't actually cookie crumbs, fyi!) and then gave an educational lecture on the dangers of lint induced fires, the fact that he is a deep sleeper and would be a goner for sure and about safer laundry practices. Christmas Education.

Creepy Professor of Lint Studies

Anyway, that's all I have to report for now... looking forward to another week of celebrating the last of 2011 with the amazing people in my life! (And, starting off 2012 with a Polar Plunge!) I hope you're doing the same! MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

One of my Mom's rescues from Hurricane Irene enjoying his Christmas Present

Beautiful Skeeter

Awwwww - Jeffy Deuel (for the record, he still disciplined us at this age, too!)

Look What I Spotted Under Tom's Tree...

2011-12-23T12:27:00.001-05:00

Hmmm, well this is awkward. I certainly didn't get anything for the Silverfish! I really hope this doesn't mean that there's any sort of migration happening from the basement!

Lou Mancuso - Guitar Maker

2011-12-20T10:20:00.000-05:00

I've been meaning to share this documentary Tom made for months, and today just seems like a good day to do so. Enjoy!

Lou Mancuso - Guitar Maker

From Eric Weiner's Geography of Bliss...

2011-12-19T16:52:00.001-05:00

My friend, Sara Pak, is reading Eric Weiner's The Geography of Bliss: One Grump's Search for the Happiest Places in the World. Incidentally, she came across this quote and instantly sent it to me, in light of my recent misfortune.

Gorgeous Bhutan: Photo from HERE

Bhutan
...I peek out on the patio and see that the bug is still flailing, though losing steam. Why the hell should I care? I hate bugs, damn it. But all this Buddhist talk of loving-kindness has gotten to me. What the heck, I give the bug one more kick, this time more gently, and in an instant it is right-side up, scampering away. Not thanking me, but that's okay. It feels good. I saved a life. I got involved.

A postscript. When I stepped out on the patio later that evening I found a bug, the very same bug I'm sure, on its back again. I couldn't believe my eyes. This time, I did nothing. I slept easily that night though. Nobody, not even Karma Ura, I bet, can save a dumb bug from itself.

* In case I haven't mentioned this before, and I believe I have - I NEED to visit the Himalayas at some point, and, it's clear a visit to the "The Land of the Thunder Dragon" is essential.

And, I Certainly Can't Do Anything Except Act Completely Irrational When I See a Bug

2011-12-13T11:53:00.004-05:00

Newcastle clone cooking - smelled like chocolate and caramel!

So, Tom and I are brewing stuff! We started with a wine kit at the end of August and now we're getting crazy. We're making wine, brewing beer, hard cider, apple wine, blueberry wine, kombucha tea... it's getting serious! Which has made a storage location essential. Tom has a creepy little room in his basement, one in which I would imagine someone would hide homicide evidence and possibly severed body parts (is that redundant?)... Tom says this location would be too obvious. (Yes, this coupled with the strong odor of formaldehyde down there creeps me out! - KIDDING!)

Anyway, we've decided to transform this room into a wine cellar so we can house all the booze we're making! It's exciting and fun! We started a few weekends ago with buckets full of hot water, bleach and optimism! I shop vac'ed (new verb, ya'll!) cobwebs - and SPIDERS (with tears in my eyes and fear in my heart) and now the room is not so creepy and completely sanitized!

So, on Sunday we started on the faux brick wall. Tom has taught me a lot already, and so far, all I know is I can NOT stop thinking about snapping chalk lines. It's my favorite. It's really fun and exciting and I can't wait for the next opportunity to snap perfectly straight chalk lines on to smooth surfaces.

Don't those nice level lines make you smile?

So, we spent the afternoon putting up the faux bricks (which are currently white, but that will change...) Everything was great, we work together quite well now that Tom has learned not to force me to do math and I've learned not to read him random facebook statuses while he's doing said math.

But, then... there was an upset.

As we were laying bricks out on the floor - I noticed something, something awful. And, I certainly can't do anything except act completely irrational when I see a bug. So, I yelled, "OH.... MY.... GOOOOOD!"

Tom, not quite as panicked as me, but a little creeped out by my level of alarm responded with a slightly elevated, "What!?!" And, then, I pointed to one of the worst things I have ever seen in my life.

I really did google them - they're called silverfish - this photo came from HERE.

I pointed, and Tom saw it and killed it with a quickness. He looked slightly annoyed, because I know he thinks I overeact about bugs. But, I can't help it, I'm not even a crier - but tears instantly come to my eyes, I feel like I'm going to vomit, I am petrified of bugs! All of them! I asked Tom if he was disturbed at all by these disgusting beasts (as a couple more scurried out of the bricks)... he said yes, but he didn't seem to want to discuss it. (Normally, when he's working on something side conversations are not his favorite, he likes to stay on topic - and at this point, the topic was bricks).

So, I quietly checked each brick I had to hand to him and freaked out silently about it. After we were done for the day, the follow up conversation went something like this.

Jill: "I can't stop thinking about those creepy silver bugs, weren't they awful?"
Tom: "Yeah, they were gross."
Jill: "No, but seriously, I know you get annoyed at my reaction, but I literally can NOT help it. It's involuntary, how are you so calm about it, aren't you grossed out?"
Tom: "I don't like them."
Jill: "I feel uncomfortable knowing they are down there... just waiting.
Tom: ----
Jill: "I'm totally going to be googling them tomorrow."
Tom: "You're so weird!"

Then, a little while later, we weren't talking at all... and, I began to laugh.

Tom: "What?"
Jill: "Nothing, I don't want to say."
Tom: "You're thinking about those bugs again aren't you!?"
Jill: "Well, I don't know why, but I was envisioning a few of them coming upstairs, and what if it was like while we are hanging out and you're playing guitar and they just sat up on the coffee table and were enjoying the music, moving to the beat. I'd still want them to die, but I'd feel a little bad."
Tom: "I'm going to take a shower now."

It's Friday, It's Food...

2011-12-02T16:16:00.006-05:00

Raw Homemade Pasta

Tom's Now Famous (to me) Lentil Balls - Taste just like the real thing without harming animals!

Homemade Pasta, Homemade Meat(less) Balls, Homemade Vino

Tom made this delicious meal for my birthday.

Soundtrack: Dizzy Gillespie on vinyl.
Pasta, Wine and Jazz?

Bliss!

Furthur 11.15.11

2011-12-01T17:11:00.000-05:00

Concrete Performance @ Shakedown

So, Tom and I went to see Furthur on my birthday at the Times Union Center. The show was complete with two encores AND a George Harrison (Beatles) tune... needless to say, we had an amazing time! Before the show, we walked around Shakedown a bit and were approached by a young Hippie who looked at us and said, "Oh my God, you two are beautiful!" We thanked him (laughing).

Then, he went on to say, "No, you two are truly both so beautiful, when I look at you, I see two pieces of a puzzle that fit together perfectly. Can I give you guys a hug?"

So, we hugged him. Gotta embrace the weird!

Shakedown Quesadillas!

Tom admiring the meat cooking/considering alternate career options...

Life is tough as a traveling Hippie Saint Bernard - We were obsessed with Zeus!

My beautiful puzzle piece and me.

Setlist Furthur 11/15/11:

I: Here Comes Sunshine > Row Jimmy, Big Bad Blues, Magnolia Mountain > Minglewood Blues, Dire Wolf, Loose Lucy, Cosmic Charlie

II: Passenger, Here Comes the Sun, No More Do I > Estimated Prophet > The Other One > All Along the Watchtower > Stella Blue, Uncle John's Band

E: Not Fade Away, Brokedown Palace

On Preserving Innocence...

2011-10-31T13:35:00.003-04:00

October Storm Draws Near - Amsterdam, NY

It all started when the new Eminem album came out.

Someone (totally did not) burn a copy for me, and I was excited to listen to it! But, as soon as I started, I stopped... it was so... angry! And, rude! I know, I know, Eminem was angry and rude when Slim Shady first hit the boom box in my dorm room at Saint Rose in 1999. But, for some reason, this time,I could not allow his negative words to penetrate my ears for more than 30 seconds before I turned it off.

Well, the other day, I was driving to work and I came across some song that sounded kind of fun... but, after listening for less than a minute the chorus bragged, "So what we get drunk, so what we smoke weed, we're just having fun, we don't care who sees, so what we go out, that's how it's supposed to be, living young and wild and free." It made me feel... scared and protective of all the young impressionable kids out there. And, even though I'm not one of them, I turned the station...

I immediately remembered the arguments I had with my parents when I was younger about music. Specifically, how just because lyrics in a song say something, doesn't mean that I'm going to run out and do those things... (I also remembered a time when my father went way overboard telling me I shouldn't listen to All 4 One; which is still funny to me, because I'm still pretty sure they were fairly innocent - and, I may have to bring that up to his AC/DC loving self!) Anyway, I started to realize that while I, personally never took action based on song lyrics or video games, that the lyrics and games (television, movies, media, etc.)DO desensitize us. Perhaps when I was younger, I was exposed more to this type of music by my peer group, which is not the case now, making the lyrics much more intolerable to me.

So, even though I didn't always necessarily listen, I'm thankful that my parents were trying to preserve my innocence. I'm also thankful I always REALLY liked "the oldies", best! Anyway, I realized as we get older (at least as I do...) we end up trying to do for ourselves, what we may have argued against with our parents...

(I'm still going to listen to Cee Lo Green's song that includes profanity, because he's so darling and the song is so cheerful!)

On a positive note, I took an amazing yoga class with Ricky Tran yesterday afternoon, which included 30 minutes of Pranayama (I've never done Pranayama for 30 minutes straight before). Needless to say, the class was phenomenal, Ricky has a gift and I'm glad he shares it! I'm feeling SO GOOD today. So sore, but so good! Anyway, during the "headstand" portion of class, Ricky had this fun little song playing and I can't get it out of my head!

Happy Halloween!

Oh, and... no, the picture has nothing to do with the post!

Happy Birthday, Tom!

2011-10-25T10:22:00.001-04:00

October is a great month!

Some very special people were born in the month of October and I feel so blessed to have them in my life.

Today, is Tom's birthday! Tom is one of the most fun and interesting people I know (not to mention, hilarious - you know that's my favorite!)

He's extremely talented in his profession... check out his Youtube Channel, HERE.

Additionally, he plays guitar, builds "stuff" is an AMAZING cook - (and a BBQ competitor!), he's thoughtful, smart and he's my favorite person to be around - the most fun! He's also the most geniunely appreciative person I've ever met.

I could go on and on, but I have to say, my very favorite (even more than him making me laugh non-stop) characteristic is the fact that Tom is really there for everyone in his life. He is ALWAYS spending time helping others in whatever capacity they need. And, his number one priority is his family; I couldn't wait to meet them because I'd heard so many wonderful things about each and every one of them from Tom.

I'm sure I've thoroughly embarassed him at this point... so, I'll save all the other wonderful things I have to say for his birthday, next year!

Happy Birthday, Tom - you're the BEST!

Nothing Beats Fall in New York...

2011-10-20T12:00:00.001-04:00

You will receive everything you need when you stop asking for what you do not need.

-Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj

October 13, 1988

2011-10-13T10:47:00.003-04:00

Jeffy Deuel Broadalbin Beach Circa 1991
Photo by his Mama, Holly Therrien

I waited nine long years for the love of my life. And, I remember clearly the October afternoon when someone other than my mom showed up at school to pick me up. She let me know it was time for my little brother or sister to be born, that moment is the first I remember ever feeling light headed... I leaned into the wall... FINALLY! The baby was coming!

I also remember the overwhelming guilt I felt after seeing my baby brother for the very first time... a few minutes after he was born - I didn't think he was cute, but I loved him anyway! In reality, he is and was the most beautiful boy I've ever seen. Today, he turns 23 but when I look at him I still and will forever see that beautiful blonde little boy with a shelf haircut.

Happy Birthday Jeffy! I love you!!

Jeffy's first pickle!

Uncle Johnny, Baby Jeffy and me.

"To the outside world we all grow old. But not to brothers and sisters. We know each other as we always were. We know each other's hearts. We share private family jokes. We remember family feuds and secrets, family griefs and joys. We live outside the touch of time." - Clara Ortega

Thanksgiving 2010

Mom and Jeffy

October

2011-10-11T16:11:00.004-04:00

New York State Apple Wine - Goold Orchard's Apple Festival
Photo by Tom Kahil

"There is no season when such pleasant and sunny spots may be lighted on, and produce so pleasant an effect on the feelings, as now in October."

- Nathaniel Hawthorne

Charity Wednesday... on Friday!

2011-10-07T12:50:00.001-04:00

So, I believe I've mentioned I'm a big fan of World Vision as discussed here, as well as here. It's a wonderful Christian organization, the President is from Syracuse, NY and they keep their administrative expenses UNDER 5%... an organization I can certainly get behind! (and do).

Anyway, no matter how much I "think" I know about the pain throughout the world, there's always those moments where something comes to light and I think, oh my goodness... yet again, here's another luxury I take for granted, I never EVEN thought of this...

Now, of course we all know that clothing has become a luxury most of us enjoy in absurd excess. I mean really, fashion, when you think about it is ridiculous; an unecessary indulgence. Yet, most of us even those who feel they don't , subscribe to this societal pressure in some way or another.

I believe we're all aware that for many in various parts of the world, including our own country, this is not the case. But, I will admit and I don't know whether it's ignorance, (which I'd like to think it's not as I'm always reading and educating myself about everything -especially suffering in this world)... or what, but, the issue of owning just one, single article of clothing has never even crossed my mind. Until this morning when I received the following in a World Vision email:

At only 14 years old, Flavia struggles to hold together a life that's falling apart. Her mother is dead. Her father is gone. Flavia is faced with caring for her siblings with little food, no medicine, and just one item of shredded clothing each.
"I only have this dress," Flavia says. "I don't like looking dirty, but I would have nothing to wear if I washed it."

In impoverished areas like Flavia's community, dirty clothing can be the difference between sickness and health. Even life and death.

Flavia and her brothers and sisters have contracted terrible skin rashes from their clothes. And what they wear, often without proper shoes, leaves them vulnerable to influenza, parasitic infections like worms, and a host of other terrible diseases. The closest medical center lacks adequate medicine to treat the community.

I believe God, through His mercy, has given us a way to help children like Flavia. Leading companies have donated clothing and medical supplies to World Vision. So your gift multiplies 11 times in impact to help ship and distribute these items to children in need around the world.

Your generosity will help children suffering right now. Please join World Vision in our efforts to mend their lives today.

Can you imagine being 14 years old, with four siblings to care for without any education or opportunity? Or, really, can you imagine being 14 years old with ALL the education and opportunity that you were afforded at the age of 14 and having the responsiblity to care for four younger siblings? Obviously, this is just one of millions of stories of suffering throughout the world, but when I read this particular story, I had to share it... because it's easy to overlook simple comforts (owning more than one article of clothing) and not recognize them as blessings.

If you'd like to donate to this particular cause, CLICK HERE.

HELLO KITTY DIARY: DECEMBER 25, 1988

2011-09-22T14:06:00.002-04:00

This Diary Belongs to Jillian Deuel
Third Grade

December 25, 1988
I got A Nintendo!

I was pretty sick that Christmas, apparently this was all I could muster.

I also got a Hello Kitty diary.

Sh*t That Made Me Laugh This Week : Plus, It's My Grandma's Birthday!

2011-05-20T16:34:00.033-04:00

Look at me, week two of this "Blog Series". I'm so committed, now!

Brother on Friend with Motorcycle:
So, he keeps asking me to go for a ride on his motorcycle. And, I'm like dude! I can't be riding around holding you, snuggled up to your butt!

Making Fun of My Brother's "Lady Brows" (Again) :
Me: Just grow them out a little bit! Don't worry - I had an awful stage where I wore mine too thin as well!
Jeffy: Yeah! I remember it looked as though someone snapped a toothpick in half and threw it on your face for eyebrows - all archy and thin! - you looked excited and angry all the time - even when you were sleeping!
Me: You have lady brows!

Text Message Exchange:
Me : Hi hi! Happy Monday - are we still on for Saturday???
Class of 1998's Chronic Complainer: Mondays suck. As long as you're still going then we're on for Sat.
Me: Hell yeah! Let's do this, aren't you SO EXCITED!?!
Class of 1998's Chronic Complainer: Did I tell you Monday's suck?

Car Ride Conversation on my "Awkward Stage':
My Mom: Jeffy (my brother) never went through an awkward stage, he was beautiful all along. Jill, you went through one for a couple months, but then you were pretty." (this was NOT said with much conviction)
Jeffy: A couple months? She was awkward for a SOLID DECADE at least!

(perms, buck teeth, mullets - my brother is RIGHT!)

Phone Conversation
Friend: Hello?
Me: Hi, sorry I missed your call I was still at work. How are you!?
Friend: Ugh! My foot is falling asleep, I'm limping around trying to wake it up, my Grandmother's yelling "ARE YOU MOCKING ME?!"

Speaking of Grandmother's...

TODAY IS NANCY DEUEL'S BIRTHDAY!!!!

I probably should have waited until tomorrow to post this blog, because I'll be seeing her for dinner tonight, and she is one of the FUNNIEST people I know! That combined with a night out for some ZZ Top and Lynyrd Skynyrd live with the Class of 1998's Chronic Complainer this weekend should provide a HILARIOUS post for next Friday. I'm keeping a notebook handy!

Anyway, Happy Happy Birthday to my Grandma!!!! :)

She's funny AND gorgeous, you can't really beat that combo. Ever.

Have a great weekend!

Sh*t That Made Me Laugh This Week

2011-05-13T17:02:00.003-04:00

Email from a friend regarding mundane tasks:
Sometimes I forget to check the collate button and then I’m so pissed (but I won't reprint it because I'm concerned about the environment)... I’m def going to heaven.

Strangers with Dolls:
Adult Male (while making doll wave to me) “Byyyye!” (using doll voice)
Me: Oh! Good bye!
AM: This is < insert boy name here .>
Me: Oh, yeah?
AM: He’s my son, I love him very much.
Me: *BLINK*

Conversation:
Anonymous: “These eyebrows are a collaboration effort between me and my Barber!”
(Okay, this was actually my brother in response to my commentary on his “lady brows”)

Email from friend talking about her son:
Seriously, no one compares to him. I keep trying to find a child as cute and I just can’t. I try hard to make sure I’m not just saying that because he’s mine. Because, he wasn’t that cute to me when I first had him.

Another email talking about her son:
Did you see the pictures I posted on facebook of how fabulous his mullet is coming along?

On Tanning:
We're all gonna have ass melanoma like idiots!

Text Message:
“We need to wear some ZZ Top beards to their concert!”

Life is good.
And most importantly, funny.
Especially mine!

Peace Man, Turn on Your Lovelight! (Turn off the A-Hole Light!)

2011-03-29T21:42:00.006-04:00

Furthur - Radio City Music Hall - 3.29.11

So, I saw Furthur at Radio City Music Hall this past weekend. It was excellent as always - love those boys oh-so-much! I was particularly excited to hear Golden Road, Turn On Your Lovelight, Alice D. Millionaire and Stella Blue! Awesome. Check out the setlist:

Set 1: Golden Road (to Unlimited Devotion) > Viola Lee Blues > Alligator > New Minglewood Blues, Sittin' On Top Of The World, Alice D. Millionaire > Cream Puff War > Turn On Your Lovelight

Set 2: Playing in the Band > Born Cross Eyed > Dark Star > Eclipse (pink floyd) > Jam > Mountains of the Moon > Space > Dark Star > Terrapin Station Suite > Stella Blue, Help on the Way > Slipknot! > Franklin's Tower E: One More Saturday Night

We love you more than words can tell...

Usually, I find the crowd at Dead Family shows to be nothing but awesome. Yes, there's some people getting a little crazy - but, they never interfere with my good time and are never rude. Well, at this particular show, I was basically, SHOVED out of the way not once, but twice. Not by accident, on purpose; WITH purpose. Both times by MEN. Also, these men weren't young. They were grown men. Men of all ages should know how to be gentlemen - or at least how to say excuse me or wait your turn to walk somewhere, but I believe men in their 50's should be old pros at this! I am still a little ticked about people putting their hands on me and blatantly shoving me out of the way - one of these men, simply got a phone call and I was walking IN a door he decided to walk OUT of and shoved me to the side. I have a difficult time NOT speaking my mind, and therefore said, "You could say excuse me!"

Anyway, if I were somewhere else - I'd still be disappointed in these men... but, is this what's happening to our Dead Family!? I hope not! Be a gentleman, a gentle human being, Turn on Your Lovelight! Peace, man!

Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine...

Indraprastha Home Stay, Grey Hair, Sweet Balinese Men, Tom Jones and Me!

2011-03-24T22:49:00.002-04:00

The sign in front of our homestay, complete with offering.

"Miss Jillian, I think you forgot something..." my giggly driver Kadek said from the front seat in a sing-song voice.

We left the home stay his mother owns in UBud about half an hour ago and were headed to the Denpasar International Airport. I instantly felt panic, as there was no time to turn back. Why hadn't he said anything when we were getting my bags into the car?

Jill from South Africa, pouring our breakfast tea/coffee on our patio at Indraprastha.

View from our balcony during breakfast.

Kadek's mama prepared homemade rolled banana and coconut pancakes for us. Amazing.

Best breakfast of my life.

Best breakfast dates of my life.

Kadek and his friend, Komang (Kadek politely asked if it was okay for him to join us on the ride) had been eagerly asking me about music and practicing their English on me throughout the ride. Komang told me Kadek tutors him in English. They were in their early 20's, but seemed much younger, like children, so sweet and innocent. Komang had excitedly asked me if I like Green Day. I said I did, and he played some tunes on his phone. He played a variety of random (humorously random – like Tom Jones random) American music on his cell phone - he and Kadek singing along. It's something so surreal, to be in a country SO foreign to you and to have these people know your music.

Clari, Kadek and me.

I tried to stay calm as I quickly surveyed my mental checklist wondering what I could have forgotten and replied, "What did I forget, Kadek?"

"You left a Buddha statue in your room," he said. Kadek was one of those people whose smile ABSOLUTELY NEVER leaves their face... so you can hear the smile in his words, it's absolutely precious.

"Oh! I left that for you," I said relieved.

I had received this Buddha statue as a gift from the place I'd stayed prior to the home stay, but it creeped me out. They had given out ganesh and Buddha statues - the fun little ganesh elephants were cute, but the Buddha looked like it may haunt me in my sleep, so I left it in behind.

I gazed out the window at the rice paddies, ocean, families riding five deep on motorbikes (!) from the back of the van. Taking in the ever present scent of Plumeria, incense and cloves one last time, I was so sad. But, so happy my last 45 minutes were spent with these two sweet, Balinese men, utter bliss.

Kadek's mama and me. After we took this picture she said "we have hair the same", referring to my SUPER GREY roots!

Sweet sweet Kadek.

Kadek, Sara and me. Gotta love the Asian enthusiasm for the peace sign, I sure do!

It's Not What It Looks Like

2011-03-17T22:24:00.000-04:00

I got this in an email from one of my friends today. Mind you, she's a total hottie; tall, thin, model-esque. The type you kind of hate and maybe (falsely) accuse of an eating disorder because it's SO NOT FAIR she gets to be that thin without trying. She wrote the following with this picture attached:

I attached a picture I drew in like 3 seconds, showing you what my belly does when I'm in the push-up(plank)position. I circled the problem area.

WTF is that EVEN?!?!?

This is not a penis.

Have you ever had one of those moments where it strikes you how absolutely BLESSED you are. How you really have some amazingly hilarious friends and you can't believe this is your life and you're the one living it? I do. I realize not everyone values hilarity as much as I do... but, seriously!? I immediately made this the wallpaper on my phone. And, I've laughed every single time I've looked at my phone since. LOVE MY LIFE.

SHE CIRCLED THE PROBLEM AREA?

LOVE MY FRIENDS! This reminds me of the Pink Hoodie email I got from one of my other friends.

By the way, where have you guys been since December 31st?

Give Me Love, Give Me Love, Give Me Peace on Earth...

2010-12-31T14:00:00.000-05:00

Give me light, give me life

Keep me free from birth

Give me hope to help me cope

With this heavy load

Trying to touch and reach you

With heart and soul

My Lord

Please, take hold of my hand

That I might understand you

Won't you please, oh won't you

I played this song for my my yoga class last night, and I really think that these simple lyrics are my exact wish and prayer for us all in 2011. If we have love, hope, peace on earth and an understanding of God, there's really nothing else we need, right?

Happy New Year, everyone!! One Love!

Give Me Love, Give Me Love, Give Me Peace on Earth...

Horrifying.

2010-12-28T22:57:00.002-05:00

So, I was just "google-image-searching" Chug Puppies, because I want one. But, I'll probably never get one, because I recently decided I don't really feel like potty training a dog. And, I definitely don't want to clean up accidents, I'm too lazy. Plus, I want a hedgehog, but only if it's a vegetarian. If ANYTHING at ALL involving MEALWORMS is necessary to own a hedgehog (I refuse to research this because I want to hold on to the dream) COUNT. ME. OUT! Ugh! Did you have to raise a mealworm in grade school in a big Quaker Oats container? I have no idea how I survived. I will not subject any child of mine to this. Ever. I have a feeling I'd be just as amazing if I never had to do that. I also feel that raising that stupid slug, Lester (I named him) that I made Little CB's Mommy's younger step brother catch for me for 10th grade Biology class was absolutely pointless. And awful. And, it didn't teach me anything!

Anyway, I'm googling these cute puppies and this comes up:

WHAT THE.... Are they owls? Are they monkeys? I feel like there are feathers and legs and maybe a tail? WHATEVER THEY ARE I AM TERRIFIED!! I do NOT like living in a world that something like this exists in!

Nightmares...

***EDIT TO ADD: It was just pointed out to me that one of those MONSTERS is eating a rodent! I DID NOT NOTICE! SADFACEFOREVER!!!!

I also HATE that this article exists on the world wide web, WHY!? I'm completely uncomfortable with the fact that means people are researching how to raise mealworms because they ARE GOING TO RAISE MEALWORMS!

I am so sad. And distrubed. This never happens when I'm googling pictures of Hello Kitty!

What kind of upsetting topics and pictures have you accidentally come across while innocently searching for something cute?

Butt Crack Tattoos!

2010-12-27T15:01:00.000-05:00

Tramp Stamp

So, I went to get my eyebrows threaded the other day. Being it's the holiday season and everyone apparently wanted their eyebrows to look ON POINT in their Christmas pictures, there was a bit of a wait.

Now, the place I go to is run by two Indian women and they also offer Henna tattoos. So, while I was waiting to go through the [completely worthwhile] pain and torture, I browsed their Henna tattoo book to pass the time.

And, I quickly came across this page. I took out my ghetto cell and took a picture immediately, because this is amazing. I then, of course, sent my brother a picture message so he too, could enjoy this. We later discussed the image and he said, "Well, that's what they are! They just didn't beat around the bush, they called it what it is!" So true, so true!

I always enjoy the signs in Asian owned shops because some of what's lost in translation is hilarious and enjoyable... but, this, by far takes the cake! There's no missing words, no plurals where it should be singular or vice-versa, this is just funny because it's accurate.

Also, I told my brother we're totally getting matching tattoos of this:

This would look super classy on your boob!

Happy Friday: I LOVE THIS!

2010-12-17T16:33:00.002-05:00

Thursday PSA: Time to Say Goodbye to the Eyebrow Ring

2010-12-16T15:32:00.000-05:00

Case and point, even above these beautiful eyes? Gross.

I saw an eyebrow ring the other night. And, it made me feel the way they've always made me feel - uneasy. Maybe even a dull, sympathy pain in my eyebrow area. The young man with the ring was certainly too young for them when they were the "in" thing, so maybe he is living out his childhood dream, but sometimes it's better to let go of your dreams.

I'm not even totally against facial piercings. I like some of them. But, the eyebrow ring seems so unnecessary, and the scar has GOT to look better than a piece of metal sticking out of your eye.

So, I just thought everyone should know, it's time to take out the eyebrow ring, place it back in that suspicious little Ziploc baggie that all stainless steel "jewelry" comes in and send them right back to 1996, where they must stay for all of eternity.

You can, however, continue to enjoy the following from 1996:

Fiona Apple's album "Tidal", Busta Rhymes' Woo-Hah!! Got You All in Check!, FUGEES "The Score" (preferably all day everyday), The Bizarro Jerry episode of Seinfeld, your VHS tapes of My So Called Life, which will cause you to mourn Jordan Catalano, miss boys with long hair, leather cord necklaces and unbuttoned J.Crew Flannels, (yes, it was cancelled in 1995, but don't front, you wore that VHS out in 1996 - cause it was the best show ever) and wonder HOW and WHY we got left with THIS INSTEAD? WTF!? No, seriously? Really? Okay, now I'm upset.

RIP Jordan Catalano, wherever you are.

Charity Wednesday: Do You Guys Know About This Appalachian Mountain Situation?

2010-12-15T23:32:00.000-05:00

So, sometime last year, I saw this intriguing and disturbing episode of 20/20 that shared the stories of four different children living in the Appalachian Mountains.

Things are crazy disturbing there! They're surrounded by all this beauty and the people are just in shambles! Depression, THREE TIMES the National Poverty Rate, shortest life span in the nation, chronic depression, toothlessness, cancer, prescription drug abuse like WHOA and Mountain Dew Addiction; it's a real, legit addiction! Mountain Dew is being used as an antidepressant and causing tooth decay insanity!
(To be honest, I hate Mountain Dew, I always have. I've always known there was something suspicious about that neon-colored drink... I'll stick with Ecto Cooler, thanks!)

If you really want the whole scoop; check out Diane Sawyer's report - it's really sad and scary to think this is going on in America!

Here's some links to organizations that you can contribute to, to help our fellow Americans:

Christian Appalachian Project: Check out the "Gifts That Can Change Lives" section for that Charity Minded person on your Christmas list!

Appalachian Region Missions: The Appalachian Region Missions works with volunteers to provide services to low-income families in eight counties of eastern Kentucky. Its mission is "to assist the neediest of the needy," distributing food, clothing, school supplies and everyday items.

Kids First Dental: Dr. Edwin Smith's dental van currently provides school-based dental services to children in 16 eastern Kentucky counties.

* Appalachian is a REALLY difficult word for me to spell for some reason. My mind will NOT process/memorize the spelling.

Wa Waves On Swim So They Hate On Him...

2010-12-14T16:54:00.001-05:00

So, I have a couple new obsessions! Some may have just come about yesterday, but whatever... I have an addictive personality...

Matt Mulholland

First, Matt Mulholland (link to youtube account). Some of his stuff is a little off-color, but his covers of popular songs are hilarious and, I think I've probably mentioned, I always NEED hilarious! (and, yes! I've already stalked his facebook, YOU KNOW THIS!)

Never spoke lies and he never broke fly...

Second, Nicki Minaj!! Right Through Me is definitely a favorite but, Your Love? I mean, she was obviously after my heart when she decided to mix over Annie Lennox - can't take it! And, I love her voice in this, so soft almost breathless over her admiration of this man! And, who doesn't want a dude who's "Never spoke lies and never broke fly"? Sign me up.

And although there's pain in my chest, I still wish you the best...

Finally, Cee Lo Green, the lady killer himself is on REPEAT up in here, up in here (DMX, what, what!)! I mean, he's so happy and upbeat and while I haven't experienced exactly what he's singing about, I can certainly get on board with the general message of the song (with a smile, 'cause he's classy like that!)

This video is probably NOT safe to put on BLAST in the office as there's some profanity (the general message).

Also, how fly is Cee Lo? Seriously!? With his cute plaid jacket and red rimmed glasses!? All his suits and shades? I've seen some live appearances on TV lately where he's just wearing a gigantic pink suit, it's so comforting, I want to hug him and all that Pink Gucci. (totally making up the Gucci, I have no clue, check out my cousin's blog mon amour pour la mode for that type of info!)

BREAKING RYAN REYNOLDS NEWS!

Also, this just in. Ryan Reynolds and Scarlett Johnasson have separated. Shocker. I'm not one to celebrate the demise of a marriage, but for all selfish reasons - I KNEW IT! Call me, Ryan!! I do feel bad for speaking unfavorably about Scarlett in this blog. Unless, of course, she cheated on him and in that case, I was obviously right. But, Ryan has been my love for so long only to be rivaled by my love for Patrick Demspey, the most gorgeous man alive. I've loved him since my favorite movie of all time came out, Can't Buy Me Love. Way before all of you front runners (yeah, I said it) jumped on the bandwagon!

Also, my mom is trying to rain on my parade and believes my excitement over my future husband is ridiculous and said, "so what? do you think that if Ryan Reynolds is single, he'll date you!?" I guess I don't have one of those supportive parents who tries to instill confidence and lets you know you can DO ANYTHING IF YOU PUT YOUR MIND TO IT! Thanks, Mom!

I'll show her.

Everyone's a Fashion Critic

2010-12-09T09:48:00.010-05:00

*Please note this is not THE hoodie

I love my friends. This email totally made my day because it's hilarious to me. So hilarious, I need to document it here. I received this email from my friend, who has a VERY successful career (which is why I won't use her name) in another part of the country, but still apparently likes to kick it in a hoodie! That's my girl!

Subject: Everyone's a Fashion Critic

My boss called me into his office. He said, "All the head executives from Chicago are here today. We should all be on our best behavior. They'll be at the holiday party and you're going to have to talk to the COO, CEO, etc. I want you to impress. So maybe you shouldn't wear your pink hoodie."

I'm wearing my pink hoodie today. BUT IT'S CASHMERE.

Charity Wednesday: I Procrastinate + SAVE THE DATE!!

2010-12-08T08:24:00.002-05:00

So, obviously it's time to Christmas shop. If you're way awesome and not at all like me, then you're done and this post can be used for your future shopping endeavors.

Fair Trade Hand Knit Stuffed Yellow Llama from Peru

If you're exactly like me, then you haven't even started yet. Perhaps you wrote down the names of those you need to buy for on a yellow piece of paper at your desk at work one day because it made you feel accomplished and like you were getting your shopping started - but, then the list just sits on your desk and/or is balled up in your purse somewhere and you still haven't purchased a single gift...

Well, how about spending your money where it's going to do the most "good"? Here are a couple great places to shop for your loved ones AND have your purchase make a difference in a stranger's life as well!

WorldofGood.com by ebay

World of Good by ebay is an awesome site! Set-up pretty much just like ebay. It is a global marketplace where every purchase makes a positive impact. Purchases benefit artisans, the planet, animals and even non-for-profits. The site labels items so that you can easily tell what cause will benefit from your purchase! How cute is the Peruvian stuffed Llama to the left?

Water Lilies Batik Hanging

Ten Thousand Villages

Ten Thousand Villages is one of my favorite stores! I literally want, basically everything I see in there! And, here in the Albany area, we're lucky enough to have one right in Stuyvesant Plaza! Ten Thousand Villages sells handmade jewelry, house ware, art and my favorite soaps! Product sales help pay for food, education, health care and housing for thousands of disadvantaged artisans in 38 countries who would otherwise be unemployed or underemployed.

I'm loving this Water Lilies Batik Hanging from India!

Drop Tom's, Not Bombs!

So, I'm a big fan of Blake Mycoskie, who created Tom's Shoes in 2006 after meeting some children in Argentina and realizing they had no shoes. (Is this my kind of guy, or what? He also has crazy hair - LOVE). Anyway, Tom's shoes gives one pair of shoes to a child in need for every pair they sell. "One for one." Incredible, you really can't go wrong! There are shoes for men, women and your offspring! There's also apparel - sometimes celebrities create a design - if Kate Hudson ever does, you can bet I'll be rockin' 'em! Even better, if Paul Rudd designs anything, at all, ever - even if it's a Moo Moo you can be sure I want 100% of the people I know in that item at all times. I mean, I recently purchased a book; I Drink for a Reason, by David Cross solely because it was endorsed by Paul Rudd. The cover quoted him as saying, "One of the funniest books I've ever skimmed." I mean, it's not even that funny - but, I own it, all because Paul Rudd's little quote was on the front... I still find it hilarious.

So, there are obviously an incredible amount of amazing places to shop this holiday season, these are just a few!

Also, please SAVE THE DATE: January 29, 2011 - my friend Kristen from kristensletterpress.com and I are planning a fundraiser to benefit a local 8 year old who has been diagnosed with Leukemia. It's time to help one another - details to come, but please spend January 29th with us at Bailey's Cafe in Saratoga!

This Would Have Been John Lennon's 70th Year!

2010-12-07T23:00:00.031-05:00

One of my two very favorite John Lennon songs, "Hold On", it's so hopeful, simple and sweet:

Create a MySpace Music Playlist at MixPod.com

Check out this short, perfect article Yoko contributed about the love of her life to the New York times today: The Tea Maker

They're seriously my all time favorite couple, I don't even know if love like that exists anymore, I sure hope it does.

Also, just a quick little shout out to one of my best friends and one of the biggest John Lennon fans, Kristen Lemanski! She was the cutest in high school, she'd always wear black on the anniversary of his assassination.

"Hold on World, World hold on, It's gonna be alright..."

12.8.80

Tao Porchon-Lynch: Beautiful 92 Year Old Yogini

2010-12-06T18:22:00.001-05:00

This video is from 2006; Tao is now 92 years old and still teaching yoga and dancing. She teaches here in NY! You can bet I'm going to be stopping into her class sometime this year! (add it to my 31 Goals for Year 31, for sure!)

Check out this article about 92 year old Tao who practices and teaches yoga as well as dances competitively... so inspirational! Tao says, "There is nothing you cannot do!"

My Dad is Paris Hilton's Fashion Icon

2010-12-02T21:19:00.000-05:00

Jillian Deuel, Tom Deuel and Carrie Hughes circa 198-radical

I know what you're thinking, "What a babe!"

You're right. I'm obviously gorgeous... I love how I really felt inspired by the common bumblebee and decided that I would take that inspiration right to the beach with me for some sunbathing. It doesn't get much hotter than that! Unless of course I'd allowed my buck teeth out to sparkle and protrude in the sunlight. Oh, well.

My cousin Carrie is obviously adorable, so I can't really say anything about her! I like that suit! I'd throw that on right meow and rock it...

I enjoy the person in the background who's lifting their shorts up right in public to really scratch that itch! (I'm sure it's a relative of mine). This was the 80's, and we were proud and shameless! I'm also a fan of the baby who's obviously celebrating a touchdown!

But, the true star of this photograph and the reason why I wanted to post it, is my Dad's mustache! It's amazing and I think that he should bring that bad boy back, don't you!? I also love his giant sunglasses, such a trendsetter! My dad was the Paris Hilton of the 80's. That's hot!

So, do you think Tom Deuel should Bring Back the Stache for 2011?

Charity Wednesday: Charitable Endeavors All Over the Capital Region!

2010-12-01T08:25:00.000-05:00

Brianne Cramer rode 150 miles on Cape Cod in a fundraiser for the MS Society

Okay, first of all, how adorable is my friend, Brie? I know, it's ridiculous! Makes me kind of mad! Especially when she's teaching spin class and looks beautiful the ENTIRE TIME... so annoying!

Anyway, Brie recently contributed an article to the Times Union about her inspiration for becoming a part of the Multiple Sclerosis Society's fundraising efforts.

Click Here to read: Using Adversity to Build Strength, by Amsterdam's own Brianne Cramer! I'm currently lobbying for Brie to start a blog - feel free to join my efforts and encourage Brie to entertain and educate us all!

Also, Brie teaches Spin at Alpin Haus Fitness! Check out one of her classes - she has great set lists and as previously mentioned, she looks beautiful the whole time and makes you jealous, and maybe regret that donut you had for lunch. (Is this just me? Again? Damn.)

Have you ever been to Yoga Mandali in Saratoga, Springs? If you haven't, definitely check it out - the studio is absolutely gorgeous (floor to ceiling windows)! It's an amazing room to practice yoga in! They also hold a bunch of really interesting events, so check their calendar frequently! I've definitely been disappointed in myself for missing some REALLY great stuff - sometimes it's easy to forget that there IS a lot of excitement in your own backyard, you just have to remember to explore it!

Anyway, Yoga Mandali announced on their facebook page the other day that they're raising money to build a house for a family in Vrindavan, India. Here's the information they posted on their facebook:

Please Help! Yoga Mandali is building a house for a family in Vrindavan, India. Our goal is to raise $1500.00 between now and Christmas so we can give the gift of a secure, safe home made of brick to a family who is now living in a makeshift tent. It only takes $1,500 american dollars to build a home in Vrindavan and t...here is such great need. Please consider helping in whatever way you can...even a small amount makes a huge difference!!! Thank you for your kindness in giving a child a roof over their head at night! Donations may be made on our website www,yogasaratoga.com on the "buy classes" page or you may send a check made out to 'Care for Vrindavan' to Yoga Mandali, 454 Broad...way, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

For more info please visit: Food for Life Vrindavan

I mean, just think about it - if 100 people gave $15 each, some struggling little family could have a home! That's so inexpensive! And, it IS the season for giving!!

If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him?

Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth.

I John 3:17-18

31 Goals For Year 31.

2010-11-29T13:08:00.005-05:00

Jilly's Piano Bar - 1007 North Rush Street - Chicago

So, two weeks ago today, I turned 31. I'm not one of those people who's super freaked out/secretive about my age. I'm excited about it! I get smarter and more amazing with each passing year! (ha. totally kidding) But, I do think if you're open to it, you learn more and more about yourself, who you want to be and the people and activities you want to surround yourself with; and you're confident enough to put those things into action!

I'm generally anti-New Year's Resolutions, because I feel I'm just setting myself up for failure. I also think it's pretty silly to think that January 1 is THE day to change. I mean, I understand why it's a good motivating date, but I also think that you can change any day you wake up and decide to! Remember Spitzer's "DAY ONE" nonsense? You know, his January 1st 5K where everyone wore "DAY ONE" attire followed by the Inauguration? I was there. It wasn't very inspired, it was a bunch of fanfare for a jackass that we never should have elected anyway, but I digress.

I like to set goals for myself for each year of my life. (Although, this just started last year...) I didn't write them down last year, but I knew what they were. For instance, one thing I wanted to accomplish, simply for my own satisfaction and which most likely seems stupid to many was to drive in New York City. It's something that I kind of figured I'd never do because it was scary to me. But, I resolved that sometime during my 30th year I'd face this rather silly, personal fear. Well, I was going to let 30 slip right by without doing it because I was still scared. But, luckily (I can say luckily, now, but really I was stressed about it for a week straight) I had to attend a fundraiser on Long Island for work in October, alone, and I had to drive. So, I did it! And, now I'm not afraid! I know I can do it, I'll do it again - Booyah!

Anyway, here are my own personal:

31 Goals For Year 31 (or maybe just 20)

Really and truly focus on and figure out where I belong instead of just existing. "Where Do I Belong?" is my MOST read blog, even though you guys aren't commenting, I know a lot of people are reading (don't worry, I can't tell who - just page views and countries - what's up friends in Trinidad?). The fact that that's the most read makes me think that's something that should be on a lot of our "goals" lists! (Or, perhaps, everyone enjoys reading about my personal misery- thanks a lot!)
Move my vegetarian diet more toward a vegan diet. Although, I don't think I'll ever be 100% vegan with Fresh Mozzarella in existence.
Also, eliminate/limit unnecessary sugars in my diet.
Visit the Ranado Family in North Carolina!
Become a regular volunteer for some sort of cause, locally.
Return to counseling. (I think every single person in the world could benefit from counseling!)
Leave the country - this may be a fiscal challenge more than anything! (and, yes Bali/SE Asia are HIGH on the destination list).
Spend less time on facebook!
Spend more time outdoors.
Explore New York State a little more. (You know, the whole "be a tourist in your own town" deal)
Teach Yoga.
Expand my personal practice to at least five, but optimally six days a week.
Figure out what I want to do when I grow up! (This may take more than the 31st year)
Communicate better/more often with my friends who are far away. I know my lack of communication does NOT translate the fact that I think of each of them daily and love them SO MUCH!
Get something I've written published. (My blog and the magazine I'm editor of for work do not count!)
Save more money (this could conflict with number seven). Spend less on nonsense.(super guilty of this)
Become more balanced in each and every area of my life.
Take a yoga class with Tao Porchon-Lynch!
Take a yoga class with Ricky Tran!
Add goals to this list as they become evident.

What are your goals? Comment people - you have an anonymous option!

Frostbite!

2010-11-25T22:44:00.002-05:00

Look how much my BABY BROTHER loves me!

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone! This photograph was taken about an hour ago. I'm super thankful for my little brother. I was an only child for nine years, it was alright, but MAN! I was happy when he came along. I can't imagine not having someone around who shares my DNA, looks like me (although he got those fabulous lips and I still find it completely unjust and evidence that he's my parents' favorite), can commiserate about our chubby "Deuel" cheeks (we both have fat faces we hate!) and to team up with me to make fun of our mother mercilessly. He's the love of my life and I really have to give my parents props for creating him! Thanks, parents!

What I am not thankful for, is he is slightly abusive! I currently have a tiny spot of frostbite on my leg because he sprayed my leg with duster. It was shocking, I screamed! I didn't know what was going on! Then, I thought it was wet, but then it was cold and then it was painful. I mean, WHO DOES THIS STUFF? He does. And, it's why I love him and find him hilarious. I'm pretty bored with anyone who's anything less than outrageous. I love you, Jeffy!

A brother is a friend provided by nature.

- Legouve Pere

The Only Thing I Like About Today is Zach Galifianakis' Face.

2010-11-17T16:21:00.005-05:00

So, I know it's Charity Wednesday - which was all my idea and I haven't written since TWO Wednesday's ago. Now, I'm writing and I'm not going to write about Charity, but whatever! It's my blog! I make the rules! I do what I want! I do have Charitable endeavors to write about and will most likely do that tomorrow. Topics such as the homeless, adopting turkeys and a Polar Plunge my friend is participating in to raise money for the Special Olympics.

However, I'm feeling too negative today. I don't usually like to dwell on the negative, but I kind of sort of hate absolutely everything today(except Zach Galifianakis). I'm starting to get a headache from all this hate pumping through my veins. I'm so bummed out!

So, in an effort to unload all this negativity I'm carrying, I'm going to make a small list (that I shouldn't make) of ingredients that are making my attitude SUCK.

Ryan Reynolds being named People's Sexiest Man Alive. I mean, I'm happy for him - BUT, I'm annoyed. I mean, there was once a time where he was just MINE and Alanis', and I freaking faithfully watched Two Guys, a Girl and a Pizza Place - AND THEN, I continued to watch when they dropped the "a Pizza Place" from the title and killed it. I mean, when that show was out, was that whore Scarlett Johansson even born yet? Just kidding, Scarlett is gorgeous and doesn't annoy me... that much. I mean, except for the fact that she swooped in with her full lips, voluptuous curves and sex appeal and stole my man! Anyway, I'm glad everyone is all into my boyfriend almost 13 years after I dubbed him Sexiest Canadian Alive! Whatever.
I think it's super rude to "recline" your chair into my lap while on a train/plane/any other form of public transport. Pay extra for First Class if you want to sprawl out!
Please don't tailgate me if I am in the slow lane and you have TWO other lanes to utilize to pass me. Perhaps I have an outstanding ticket and have to go to court and therefore would like to steadily go the speed limit until I take care of that instead of getting arrested! Or, perhaps I don't - none of your business!

Blah, I'm even boring myself right meow. Plus, the main annoyances are those that I can not openly discuss in this forum at this time. Anyway, it's lame to be so negative. I love you, Ryan Reynolds and, I love your ABs! I hope you enjoy being the Sexiest Man in the World and I'm sorry I called your wife a whore... I was kidding. I'm just jealous!

I have a fever, and the only prescription is MORE Zach Galifianakis!

Duck, Duck! What, What!

2010-11-03T00:33:00.000-04:00

So, I bought five ducks on Monday. I'm so excited about it! It sounds so silly, but ducks can make a difference. Here's what World Vision has to say:

Donate five ducks. Give ducks to a hungry family today and they’ll benefit from hundreds of large, protein-rich eggs all year long. Extra duck eggs and hatched ducklings can be sold to buy medicine or help send a child to school.

A duck also offers valuable down-feathers, famous for their thermal insulation and padding — great for use in bedding materials and warm clothing, or to fetch much-needed income at the market. Ducks even produce fertilizer that can dramatically increase crop yields!

Ducks have made a big difference for Elna Lajo’s children in the Philippines... READ MORE

Anyway, I wanted to make sure that I actually PARTICIPATE in charitable endeavors that I suggest.

Unfortunately, I'm not ready to sponsor a child just yet! I'm just nervous about job stability in this economic climate and I don't want to disappoint a sweet little face like the one above. But, I've decided that I'm going to do something like this each pay period, because I should and on a selfish note, because it makes ME feel good. I'm not going to write that I did it in my blog, every time though... that's kind of tacky. (Unless, you would like to hear about which charities I personally choose to donate to and for what - if so, let me know!) I do want to be held accountable for what I say and the promises I make.

So, anyway... I'm going to try to present a new charity each Wednesday for a variety of reasons. The first, being, I HATE the term "hump day". I pray every week that this will be the week that it becomes extinct... but, it always returns and I always cringe. So, at least in MY little world, I'm making it "CHARITY DAY!" Second, I think being aware of others' suffering is important. I think it's important to be good to each other and I think doing good, in turn makes us FEEL good. WIN/WIN am I right or am I right?

I'm right.

Before I present today's charity. I want to address the fact that it IS scary to give your hard earned money toward a cause and fear that it may NOT be going where it should be. I share this fear, I don't want my duck money paying for anything but ducks for beautiful Filipino children. So, I've done some research and there are a few organizations out there that will help you determine whether your money is going in the right place. I like CHARITY NAVIGATOR.

Charity Navigator rates charities based on an assortment of variables such as: Organizational Efficiency, Organizational Capacity, Revenue, Expenses, etc. The site even shares the salary of the organization's President. World Vision's President, Richard E. Stearns (from Syracuse, NY - HEEEY!) is well compensated. This does not bother me, because World Vision's current Administrative Expenses are kept UNDER 5%, that's amazing. Also, Richard's organization is HUGE and his job is obviously NOT easy. Anyway, the website also provides Historical Data, News and a Public Comment area about the organization. This site is an efficient and convenient way to ensure that you're donating to an organization that you can feel comfortable with and confident in.

And, onto CHARITY WEDNESDAY, November 3, 2010: AIDAN's MONSTERS!

CLICK HERE TO DONATE!

First of all, how cute is that little faux hawk? I really can't resist a faux hawk... men, children even some women can pull it off! Whenever someone has this hairdo, I instantly find them adorable and charming and probably want to spend time with them. And if they're Asian (MADDOX, I'm talkin' to you, you little trendsetter) multiply that times infinity. Anyway, this beautiful little boy, who's only FIVE years old was diagnosed with Leukemia in September... he finished his first round of chemo, but has two to three more years of chemo treatments ahead. Plain and simple, no little kid should EVER have to deal with this. And, I can't even fathom what it must be like to be a parent watching this. Worrying about your child's health non-stop in ADDITION to worrying about your job, bills, home, etc. It's just TOO MUCH! Aidan (and his baby brother) NEED to be priority.

As we all know, MEDICAL EXPENSES are insane. So, Aidan's art is for sale. Sale of his artwork will assist his family with medical expenses and lost wages, etc. You can also donate to his family by clicking the link I posted above. But, seriously!? How sweet of a Christmas gift would a cute little framed monster drawing (or, "crazy guy" - who's obviously Mr. Potato Head), with Aidan's story attached, be? I for one would kiss your whole entire face and think you were the sweetest person on earth if you put this under my tree! Think about it!

Chris Brown Thinks He's Smarter Than Us!

2010-10-29T12:54:00.000-04:00

First, I am happy to report I just typed "Chris Brown Douche Bag" into Google and found this facebook page. Sweet.

So, I don't have any idea what songs this kid sings. I do know that he's a woman beater; which is reason enough not to buy or listen to his music. In case you need another, the other day I was flipping restlessly through the stations on Sirius and landed on "THE HEAT". I must have gotten distracted trying not to hit other cars or pedestrians and left it there...

Moments later, my subconscious "hears" the following lyrics:

"She make me wanna leave the one I'm with Usher Raymond

Probably didn't register, don't trip, later on it will."

Oh, I'm trippin' alright, Chris Brown! Is he freaking kidding me? For those of you who don't know, what happened right there is he stated the title of a song, followed by the name of the artist. Then, he implied that it went RIGHT OVER OUR PRETTY LITTLE HEADS.

Don't worry, fools!

Later on, maybe while you're on your couch in your chocolate ice cream stained t-shirt, eating a large bowl of mashed potatoes, your fat face lit ever so gently by the soft glow of Seinfeld reruns (is this just me?) it's going to CLICK!

"Oh my God! Chris Brown is such a clever little bastard! I can't believe he totally mind f-ed me! I JUST GOT IT! He said the TITLE OF AN USHER SONG! Then, HE STATED USHER's NAME!" At this moment, you start drooling butter and parsley (you're eating mashed potatoes, remember?) and go back into your comatose state; mindlessly spoon feeding yourself and daydreaming about a career at Kramerica Industries. But, you'll NEVER forget that Chris Brown's lyrics are so deep and beyond your intellect that they'll take you days to figure out (if ever).

I am so annoyed by this. Don't trip CB, you DB! You'll never be Lil' Wayne!

I Just Read This Book! You Should, Too!

2010-10-29T00:44:00.000-04:00

"I then uncorked the sloppiest, wettest fart of my life, a desperate five-second bleat of sweet relief. The sound seemed to bounce around the walls of the studio like a rubber ball thrown at maximum velocity. I followed this with a series of three little toots, duckling farts chasing after their mother. It was like the campfire scene in Blazing Saddles except that, instead of cowboys, hot chicks in Spandex surrounded me, and I was the only one farting.

'Oh yeah,' Tanya said. 'That's it.'

My fart had been so strong that even my teacher felt relief. I quaked with humiliation and self hatred.

'Oh my God.' I said. 'I'm such a Jew.'

The class roared in appreciative laughter, which made me even more nervous. Really, what did Judaism have to do with farting? My comment could be explained away by self-loathing, but what was their excuse? Were all yogis secret anti-Semites?" - Neal Pollack

So, after the last book I read, I needed something a little lighter to read. I was browsing books and this title/cover caught my eye, 'cause, you know... I kind of like yoga. Well, as I mentioned in this blog, by the time I'd reached the third chapter I was stalking Neal Pollack as if I were 13 and he was a Jonas Brother or that girl with the hair. I read through his website, including weird articles about his strange transformation fetish (kind of sorry I read that one). I friended him on facebook, became a FAN of him on facebook annnnnd, I even checked out his wife's Etsy shop! See? I told you guys I'm super creepy! I mean, I'm stalking this dude more than I'm stalking my new boyfriend CJ Wilson or researching panda bear dogs!

Anyway, Neal is exactly my kind of yogi, basically because he's my kind of person - HILARIOUS! I mean, when I was in Bali, Sara Pak and I instantly hit it off because we made fun of ourselves and each other non-stop. We lovingly refer to our month spent in Bali obtaining our Ashtanga teacher training as "Fat Camp." We recently said this to someone who was NOT familiar with this type of humor and he looked stunned. He didn't know what to say and then tried, "you guys don't look like you need fat camp!"

"See!? It worked!" We replied. He didn't get it. Or us.

I'm confident if Sara and I spent time with Neal Pollack, he would. He is totally into yoga, but recognizes why some aspects are weird from the outside and EVEN from the inside. He's my favorite kind of person; self depreciating! I know that sounds awful, but let's face it... those of us who make fun of ourselves are the funniest! I mean, really... if the quote I used at the beginning of this entry isn't reason enough to buy three copies of Stretch: The Unlikely Making of a Yoga Dude and to start stalking him, too... I just don't get you!

On a serious note, Neal has definitely done his homework like a good Yogi. He understands the history of yoga and explains concepts really well. I even learned WHILE laughing through this book! He's tried various types of yoga. There's a funny moment where he unexpectedly experiences his first Kundalini class and is nervous he's being sucked into a cult. During his first jivamukti class, he totally freaks out over the instructor discussing politics and storms out of class. I love Neal because he's the real deal (totally queer how that rhymes, i know!)! He's completely unpretentious, he's not trying to impress anyone or act holier than thou, he's just a dude that likes yoga (and fantasy baseball).

I'm mourning the fact that I've finished reading this book. I literally PUT OFF reading the last chapter because I knew I was going to be bummed it was over. Now, THAT's a good book. All I have left now are the memories and all the stalking I will continue to do on everything he has ever written and/or will write.

I mean, dude wanted to make "Namaste, Motherfuckers!" his "yoga catch phrase." Amazing.

World Vision is My Antidepressant Today!

2010-10-27T11:39:00.000-04:00

So, I've been feeling depressed lately. The time of year, the fact that I'm prone to depression as well as a lot of sad events happening in the lives of people around me has really brought me down. This morning, I came across this amazing story and am so thankful that World Vision posted it on their facebook page. I literally got chills and teared up like a big loser right here at my desk. But, seriously! This is amazing! This is something we ALL could do! I know I'm going to really make it a priority that I get involved. Sponsoring a child costs $35 a month. I mean, I waste that on snacks and Hello Kitty nonsense! Or, you could give a family two chickens for a one time price of $25. This is so simple and sounds so stupid, but seriously!?

My 31st Birthday is coming up on 11/15... if you want me to love you forever, how about two chickens or a goat for our World's children?

Click here to "like" World Vision on facebook to stay informed and inspired!

Taylor Swift: "Why You So Obsessed With Me?"

2010-10-26T16:13:00.000-04:00

Taylor Swift - 2010

I am not a fan of Taylor Swift. This is most likely because I'm not 8 years old. I am overjoyed that that awful Romeo and Juliet ridiculousness is no longer playing on a continuous loop absolutely everywhere.

For at least three or four years Taylor Swift made that treacherous mess the soundtrack of our lives. I mean, there was no escaping that detestable song! I know the lyrics! I hate that about myself! She shoved it down our throats, there really was nowhere to turn!

I pretty much hate her for it because I'm blissfully unaware of all her other music, but that wretched beast of a song would NOT be silenced. I'm bitter.

I would be just as bitter if somehow, Christian Audigier forced me to wear his ridiculous Ed Hardy line at all times. Look at me! I'm in screen print dragons! Look at my "tattoo inspired clothing!" I'm looking like a huge DB! I'm awesome! No.

Jillian Deuel - 2008

That's what Taylor Swift did to me with her song. She basically made me walk around wearing "tattooed clothing" like it was cool. I hated it, but would sometimes catch myself singing, "marry me Juliet you'll never have to be alone..."

Obviously she was too busy with her music career to finish reading Romeo and Juliet. If she did, I'm sure she would have picked different characters for her awful song.

Anyway, I came across this picture of Taylor Swift on another blog, it was apparent immediately that Taylor Swift has been peepin' my facebook.

Why is Taylor Swift such a huge Jillian Deuel fan?

So, Taylor Swift, my girl Mariah and I want to know:

Check Out This Delicious Cardboard Box Full of Strawberry Ice Cream/ Laffy Taffy?

2010-10-26T15:07:00.000-04:00

I realize that this has been all over the internet for a few weeks now and that it's old news. But, I want to make sure everyone sees it. What's your first thought when you look at this photograph?

If your thought is "Yum! I love chicken nuggets." then, you're right on! If you were thinking "I wish the Yankees didn't blow the ALCS (quick shoutout to my new boyfriend, CJ Wilson!) so I could enjoy more delicious hotdogs at Yankee Stadium this year." You're right on, too!

This is Mechanically Separated Meat. The photograph alone should be reason enough not to eat meat. But, in case you need more information, here's Wikipedia's description of MSM:

Mechanically separated meat (MSM), also known as mechanically recovered/reclaimed meat (MRM), is a paste-like meat product produced by forcing beef, pork, turkey or chicken bones, with attached edible meat, under high pressure through a sieve or similar device to separate the bone from the edible meat tissue.

Yum. I mean, don't the terms "reclaimed meat" and "edible meat tissue" make you hungry? The article describes how this "meat" is bacteria laden and will need to be washed with ammonia, reflavored artificially and dyed with artificial color so we don't mistake it with our favorite frozen treat.

Wanna go to McDonald's tonight??*

*McDonald's claims they do not use mechanically separated meat, "anymore". But, I personally trust them just about as much as I trust Big Tobacco. I'm not saying McDonald's isn't delicious, all I'm saying is I believe they're trying to help Government with population control.

I Just Read This Book! You Should, Too!

2010-10-07T13:41:00.000-04:00

I recently read, Autobiography of a Recovering Skinhead: The Frank Meeink Story as Told to Jody M. Roy, PhD.

sidenote: I just thought to myself, "Do we still underline book titles?" 'cause you know how the MLA has been switching stuff up in recent years? I get really annoyed when I'm not following the most up to date grammar rules... PLUS, when I want to cite a book in my facebook status, I don't have an underline option. I figure Mark Zuckerberg knows what's up and maybe that's why there isn't the option. So, I actually typed "Do we still underline book titles?" into the Google Search bar. Google says we do. Something is wrong with me, I am beginning to talk to Google like it's my best friend. Plus, I linked the book - soooo, I didn't even really need to investigate this at all. Dumb.

Anyway, back to Frank Meeink's story. This was a tough read, emotionally. Especially for someone like me. I find the world extremely abrasive. The absolute hatred that exists for others breaks my heart (I know, insert crying hippie face here! Peace, man!). At the same time, I don't believe anyone is pure evil, I believe that circumstances sometimes push people in evil directions, and that's something I like to research.

another sidenote: I remember reading Gini Sikes' 8 Ball Chicks (a book about female gangs - i HIGHLY suggest this read!) in my early 20's, around that same time a friend and I often joked around speaking in ghetto-esque jargon and my mom decided I was going to join a gang. (In her defense I DID have a friend do those half head corn rows that made it look like i had a cool braided headband in around that time, too.* Embarassing, but true! HA!) And, even cited the book I was reading as evidence! (Sorry mom, but this story is still HILARIOUS to me, I love it and you!)

In my eyes, Frank Meeink's story was a love story. He committed and was involved in atrocious, hateful acts of violence. He served prison time at a very young age, and managed to turn his life around and has dedicated his life and career to educating children and adults alike on the importance of diversity and tolerance. His story gives me hope in the human race. It gives me hope because, while he was in prison a black man invited this young skinhead to his cell for a nightly Bible study (which, Frank attended). When he was released from prison, trying to find a job covered in tattoos (including a HUGE swastika on his neck AND "Skin" "Head" on his knuckles) proved to be impossible. But, a Jewish man was the first to give him a chance.

The fact that two of the people who helped transform Frank's life were a black man and a Jewish man; made me realize (yet again!) how amazing God is. To create human beings with hearts kind enough to look past the fact that this guy basically despised them for absolutely no reason and share with him God's word or offer him the opportunity to make an honest living, gives me chills!

Added bonus: Frank is a huge PHILADELPHIA FLYERS FAN! (Season Opener tonight! Vs. the Penguins!) And, he has partnered with the team to create this amazing charity: Harmony Through Hockey.

From Harmony through Hockey's website:

Harmony through Hockey is a program dedicated to creating a youth urban hockey league for the purpose of cultivating the sport of hockey. The program is patterned after a similar, highly successful program that began in the city of Philadelphia. Harmony through Hockey strives to bring culturally diverse American communities together by promoting racial harmony through team building and athletic competition. We recruit children 6-12 years of age, from different cultural backgrounds to teach them the life skill of teamwork and respect both on and off the ice. Harmony through Hockey allows each participant to bond with others of a different social, economic and racial heritage.

So, check out this book if you're looking for some inspiration!

Now, I'm reading the hilarious Neal Pollack's Stretch: The Unlikely Making of a Yoga Dude. I am only on chapter three and I'm a total Neal Pollack fan already. Yup! I even stalked out his blog and we became facebook friends yesterday! (Yeah, I'm creepy!)

* I am not insinuating that cornrows = gang members. I'm just pointing out that cornrows aren't a part of my heritage and I definitely looked like a stupid white girl trying real hard to have cool hair (I don't have cool hair!). Add to that some hemp necklaces and Grateful Dead t-shirts and, well, I looked like I was having an identity crisis! I love being a fool!

So, what have you read lately? Suggest! Discuss! I love books!

Om Shanti Om, Bitches!

On a Spontaneous Purchase: Two Puppies

2010-08-03T16:48:00.000-04:00

Jillian: OMG, Finally! Are you a puppy owner?

Sara: I KNOW! YES! They are the cutest things!

Jillian: Are you in love already?

Sara: and they peed everywhere!!!

Jillian: YAY! CRATE!

Sara: I woke up at 6:00 a.m. to take care of them, they peed in the CRATE! I'm in love already, but they are so much work!

Jillian: Was the seller Latino and gay as suspected?

Sara: He was! (but didn't know it - he asked me out!)

Jillian: I love your life!

Sara: We had two glasses of wine before I took the puppies home, we are friends now!

Jillian: OMG, I love your life! Did I say that already? I am in a bad mood today and this is making me laugh.

Sara: Why are you in a bad mood? Is it because you don't have puppies? Go buy some!

Jillian: I don't know! I just woke up and was like, "WTF?"

Sara: THAT'S HOW I FELT UNTIL I GOT THE PUPPIES!

Where Do I Belong?

2010-07-28T22:49:00.000-04:00

I think I am the definition of “Insatiable”. No matter what it is, if it’s something I like or enjoy I want more. I don’t know if this means I have an addictive personality or if I’m really driven; possibly both. As soon as I obtain something I’ve been working toward, I’m ready for the next step, I’m ready to push it further, I’m ready for MORE! That’s a positive way to put it, I’m also frequently ready for more; pizza, cookies and beer. As you can see, there’s a downside!

So recently, B* and I were chatting, I have to give him major props because he’s always listening to my various ideas and plans and tirelessly entertains them without trying to hold me back or put me down in any way, which I’m sure at times, is no easy feat. Anyway, I was reminiscing (yet, again) about Bali (I know, it’s annoying!) and describing its beauty and how I can’t STAND not knowing when I’ll go back (I’m not a fan of anything other than instant gratification). I’m sure I was also listing ALL the places in the WORLD I want to see, like the Himalayas, Machu Picchu, Okinawa (Karate Kid II, anyone? Bueller?) the Paduang Hill Tribes, AFRICA, etc. I mean, there are places I haven’t even heard of yet and I’m sure I want to visit! It’s overwhelming! B said he understands my feelings because he fell in love with Nashville, Tennessee because it’s just so “him.”

So I asked, “Why don’t you move there?”

B responded, “Because this is where I belong, I feel as though I belong here.”

“I don’t,” I replied, admittedly, kind of jealous of his confidence and certainty. It must feel so good to be so sure. I don’t know what that feels like.

So, where do I belong? I feel like the places you feel most alive are where you belong, right? The places you feel most inspired, the most beautiful, the most USEFUL? I think that’s a big one, I am absolutely confident that I’m meant to do something great, it’s just very scary to step out of your everyday life, or the conventional way of doing things and take a chance. (But, I WILL!)

My home, of course is here. But what makes me feel the most alive? In the Happiness Project, Gretchen Rubin says that people are happiest when they’re in an environment for learning. I feel like this is true, I personally need lots of stimulation! I read about everything and anything and I constantly need new information and plans and goals and inspiration to be happy!

Please comment, I want to know: What makes you feel alive? Where do you belong?

*B = Brendon

Photo = Incredible Buddhist Temple in Bali

I have something to say...

2010-02-01T12:40:00.000-05:00

I generally like to stay positive, but this is REALLY bugging me. People keep posting the following as their facebook status:

America: the only country where we have homeless without shelter, children going to bed without eating, elderly going without needed meds, and mentally ill without treatment - yet we have a benefit for the people of Haiti on 12 TV stations. 99% of people won't have the guts to copy and repost this.

Unfortunately, many people have the "guts" to repost this ignorant statement. I can list a million reasons why this statement is ridiculous, not to mention completely insulting to our amazing country. But, I have a question, if you're one of the people who posted this, what have you done for your fellow suffering Americans lately?

Can you really look at this picture and think, oh well, that child isn't "AMERICAN" so, we really shouldn't help them out. No one is forcing you to help or donate, but when you're making statements like the above, I really hope you're helping and donating to the suffering Americans you mention.

"Gentleness, self-sacrifice and generosity are the exclusive possession of no one race or religion." -Gandhi

missing the gamelan

2009-12-08T16:37:00.000-05:00

I miss the sweet sounds of the gamelan music that you hear pretty much everywhere in Bali.

I have to start uploading all the little video clips I took to show you guys... I took this one in Putu's van on the way to the market and his house for the cooking class... I miss these girls, too!

Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. 1 Peter 4:8

2009-09-22T06:37:00.000-04:00

Then I curse my whiteness,
and I get so damn depressed,
In a world with suffering,
Why should I be so blessed?

- Brett Dennen

This one particular afternoon I spent in Bali keeps playing on my mind. I decided to spend an afternoon alone in Lovina, I believe I posted a quick little blog on that afternoon. I was sad, and I find I NEED a lot of alone, quiet time. So, I took some time.

Anyway, I visited the ATM, which is an interesting experience when the "English" option won't work! And, even after you've mastered the Rupiah, it's still confusing when you're trying to "name your own amount" with only Indonesian text!

Anyway, as I was entering the ATM there was an elderly woman (not the one pictured - I this woman when I was on a rice field trek in Munduk, Bali), she was holding a rather large child, probably around four or five, he looked ill and dirty. She looked dirty, and she had another child with her. They all looked so tired and defeated, she just kept putting her hand out to each passerby. When I came out of the ATM, I gave her 50,000 Rupiah (about 5 USD). This is always a problem for me. Whenever I give money to someone who needs it, I have instant guilt - - I should have given them more! And, forget the guilt if I end up making ANY purchases that day, you know, anything you buy seems stupid when the thought of someone starving is so fresh on your mind.

Anyway, I had to go back to the ATM (as I mentioned, I was confused... the English option wasn't working!) So, I was waiting in line, and this really tall, WHITE man came out of the ATM, walked up to this elderly woman caring for TWO grandchildren (I'm assuming) bent down so he could get his face close to hers and yelled (YELLED!) "YOU NEED TO GET OUT OF HERE!"

Seriously, man? I want to say this dude wasn't American... but, really does it matter? What matters is he wasn't Indonesian. He OBVIOUSLY is a visitor in HER country and he was telling HER she needed to get out of there? WHY ARE PEOPLE SO ANGRY!? I mean, is he covering the fact that it's hard for him to see with his anger? I don't think so. I'd like to think it's some kind of defense mechanism... but, really couldn't he have just handed her a couple bucks or ignored her if he didn't want to. YELLING AT HER? I am still so angry about it.

I couldn't believe his audacity... and, I keep thinking about it. I think I think about it so much because I didn't say anything. There was a lot on the tip of my tongue, and usually I would... but, I was all by myself... in the middle of Indonesia, and I wasn't sure it would be in my best interest to start a fight with this gigantic jerk.

I felt so embarrassed to be in theory "like" him. We were both white, both OBVIOUSLY tourists in this BEAUTIFUL country with BEAUTIFUL people who are SO appreciative and thankful for all they have in spite of the poverty they deal with on a day to day basis. How could this man, who's obviously blessed because he was able to fund a trip to beautiful Bali (something, EVERYONE should do, please do it!!!) be SO ANGRY at an elderly woman trying to feed two grandchildren... one who looked really ill?

It makes me sick. I can't stop thinking about him and the anger in his face and it just makes me realize how many awful, hateful people there are out there. people like that shouldn't be allowed in places like Bali.

But, I know there are also amazing, selfless, loving, beautiful people all over the world. People who genuinely care about others and who want to help and make a difference. I am hoping to meet more people like that in my upcoming travels. I need to. I need that hope, you know?

HAPPY 50th BIRTHDAY CHARLES THOMAS DEUEL! :)

2009-09-09T21:01:00.000-04:00

Happy Happy Birthday to my dad, Tom Deuel! :) Dad, I wrote it this way so if anyone googles your name, they'll know you're really getting up there! :) Happy 50th Birthday, I love you! :)

don't let me down...

2009-08-31T09:24:00.000-04:00

...So! Adventure number two -- this one a little bigger and more intense than the last. I am going to India, meeting my friend Sara (I met Sara in Bali) in January. I believe I will be leaving on January 3rd. One way ticket.

We're going to start off with a schedule and then just kind of take it from there. So, we need a starting point... what do you all think? We'd like to do some volunteer work... what should we do?

Teach English in the Himalaya's (yes, this is an actual/AMAZING option).

Empowering young women in India - this would be teaching young women everything from managing their finances to HIV/AIDS prevention.

NUMEROUS orphanage opportunities...

Any other suggestions? Let me know, we're open to everything... can't wait to hear YOUR ideas! :) it's like a "choose your own adventure"... help us choose ours! :)

P.S. I'm on a Beatles/John Lennon kick right now, FOR REAL!

mornings and evenings in Bali...

2009-08-23T06:53:00.001-04:00

every morning at 4:30 a.m., you can hear the prayers from the Mosque... they use a microphone/PA system. it's a very haunting and beautiful sound... there are also prayers in the afternoons and at random times throughout certain days (i'm guessing because of holidays, holy days, reasons i'm not aware of).

i took this video during a walk into town (Seririt) to use the internet. I basically took the video for the audio, because i wanted to give you all an idea of what this country is like...

enjoy! :)

baby gede...

2009-08-18T02:39:00.000-04:00

... yesterday was Independence Day here. Last night, I held four month old baby gede for over an hour, he was beautiful, just like all of the Balinese people.

I'm so sad to leave... but excited to see all of MY loved ones. <3

it's almost over...

2009-08-17T02:26:00.000-04:00

i came here to try to clear my mind and hear my own thoughts, today i finally listened.

my baby would be turning a year old sometime this week, it's a sad, quiet time for me.

can't wait to see you, mommy!

motorbikes, burns and karaoke!

2009-08-13T00:15:00.000-04:00

om swasyastu!

I was supposed to go to ubud today, but decided to just chill out instead... UBud is a three hour drive from where I'm staying and I get car sick, and air conditioning here is NOT the same as in the States... so, the thought of a hot van for six hours in one day didn't appeal to me. ANNNNND, I'm going to UBud next week for a night/day with some of the girls I met here. I'll spend my last night in Bali there. And, we're going to take a class at the Yoga Barn before I leave! :)

I burned my leg on a motorbike yesterday. It's gross. A huge blister, Dr. Suresh put Aloe, Tumeric and this oil that the Balinese put on EVERYTHING here on my wound and wrapped it up in gauze... I'm going to have an interesting tan line on my leg! I got made fun of for wearing a helmet, too. I don't know what they were saying, but the Balinese were laughing at me... haha! They weren't being mean though. :)

I also experienced Karaoke Balinese style yesterday. It was great! Everyone sits in this big table/booth things and there's like a movie screen with videos and the words to songs and they pass around a microphone. They played a song called "Soldier of Fortune" like four times, and the Balinese kept telling us that it was American... it was in English, but it was a REALLY weird DORKY song! And, the video was sooooooooooooo cheesy, I'm kind of sad if that's their opinion of Americans! Haha!

Most of the songs were in Balinese or Indonesian, and they were really cool and fun! I have to get some Indonesian music before I leave, it's great! haha! I certainly missed my karaoke singing partner Jimmy Russo! haha.

Well, I'm off to eat some salad and read by the pool... I'll be home in 8 days... :) and :(.

10 days left...

2009-08-10T07:24:00.000-04:00

... i am going to be so sad to leave Bali, and all the great friends i've made here!

i don't have a whole lot to say because i've just been doing a whole lot of yoga!

i rode on a motorbike, the gardener from our hotel, Robert gave a friend of mine and i a ride to the bus stop last week... annnnd, i believe i'm getting a motorbike driving lesson on our day of on Thursday! i will probably suck, but it would be neat to learn and rent one on my next trip here... i am definitely coming back!

i still think i'm probably eating bugs... haha.

the internet is really slow right now, and going in and out of service, i guess because it's "windy" today... windy is a hot breeze... so i'm not so sure how that effects the internet...

hmmmm... i'm drinking basil water every morning, because my SKIN has gone CRAZY here and just keeps getting worse, it is not cute! There's an Ayurvedic Dr. here and we discussed this issue and he prescribed the basil juice, I hope it helps! :) He's from India and really cool and knowledgable.

This update kind of sucks because there's a lot of talking around me and I'm really distracted... I will be home next week... I'm excited to see all of my loved ones... buuuuuuuuut, I'm going to miss Bali.

See you all soon!

I love you, Mom! :)

Gado Gado!

2009-08-06T05:23:00.000-04:00

Hello!

Week Two has been amazing!

On Monday, some of us decided to take a Balinese cooking class with Putu (first born). Putu came to pick us up at our hotel and took us to the local Market. We were all seriously so into the Market and took a million photos...unfortunately, photos take FOREVER to upload here, which is why I can only upload one or two to my facebook at a time. Anyway, the Market was really cool. There were lots of foods I'd never heard of before, annnnnnnd some straight up FULL ON chickens with slit throats lying there for sale... that part was not exciting! :(

After we got our ingredients, Putu took us to his HOME to cook our meal! It was so cool to cook in his kitchen and hang out with his family... and to see how the Balinese live. We made Gado Gado, which is probably Bali (Indonesia's?) most popular dish... it has a peanut base, really good! We also made mie gorang which is/was my favorite... noooooodles! :) We made corn fritters, spicy coconut pepe's grilled in banana leaves... annnnd, I can't even remember what else... haha. I have the recipes and will make some of them when I get home, though!

Last night there was a full moon, which is a big deal here. Some of us attended a Full Moon Ceremony at our hotel with the staff and then, they had a Full Moon party for us on the beach. A lot of the staff members brought their instruments, and what is the first song they decide to play? That freaking song I can't stand or escape, Jason Mraz's "I'm Yours"... haha. But, when performed by these Balinese friends, it sounded good! We danced in the sand, and had a blast. This party, was of course alcohol free... it was really beautiful. We lovingly refer to this month as "Fat Camp", so it was hilarious when they brought down glass bottles of coke cola and sprite for each of us to drink. It was seriously one of the best nights ever, I will write about all these occassions in more detail with pictures when I get back... I promise! :)

Today we went hiking through rice fields to a waterfall, I can't even describe how amazing today was, everything here is just SO BEAUTIFUL! And, everyone lives so simply and is so happy! Something that struck me, today... our tour guide was showing us around the rice fields, and we were passing some homes, they looked a lot nicer than a lot of the homes you typically see here, and one of our group asked if the people who live in this area are considered "rich", our tour guide said there is no rich. That if they eat in the morning and eat in the evening, then they are happy and good. There is no rich.

How different would our world be if we all thought this way?

incense and cloves...

2009-08-01T06:25:00.000-04:00

hello!

Things are going well, here! :) I forgot to mention from the start, that everything here smells like incense and cloves... many locals smoke clove cigarettes, and there are mini temples and offerings with burning incense absolutely everywhere, it's awesome!

On Thursday we visited Banjur Natural Hotsprings it was a really pretty place. I did not swim because the warm water coupled with a plethora of tourists and locals swimming didn't seem very sanitary to me... I dipped my feet in, got the idea, but definitely didn't need to be submerged! haha.

Next, we visited The Vihara Temple, Bali's oldest Buddhist Temple, it was absolutely beautiful! So quiet and peaceful and, well beautiful! And, there were fresh cloves drying in the sun on the lawn in one area, I love cloves!

Our Yoga classes are good, it's still hot here ;). We do two hours of yoga each morning, and then eat breakfast, after breakfast we take turns teaching different poses in front of the class and learning how to adjust people appropriately... it's fun!

This quiet atmosphere is really a nice change from "normal" life. Once in a while it's boring, but for the most part it's a nice change! I don't really miss TV, and have a hard time making the internet a priority.

On Monday a group of us scheduled a Balinese cooking class. We're being picked up and brought to a local market to shop for ingredients and then will have a cooking lesson, that should be fun! :)

Open air showers... seem like a great idea, and are often really nice, but oh my goodness! I have seen some scary living creatures in there, and I'm constantly on guard! haha! One of my friends here has had two REALLY large spiders in his shower... not good. A Gecko lives in my ceiling and sometimes talks and peeks his head out... haha.

I think I've eaten bugs, too! I am being so brave, you would all be so shocked! We eat all of our meals outside, soooo, I don't know, I'm sure something unsavory has entered my digestive system... I'm not really happy about that, but I try to block it out.

I think that's about all for now, I hope everyone is doing well! I miss you guys!

Love!

Om swastyastu...

2009-07-27T07:54:00.000-04:00

... which means hello in Balinese! Unfortunately, I brought an Indonesian dictionary, the Balinese all know Indonesia, but they speak Balinese. Luckily, Americans are spoiled and everyone knows English. I feel so lazy! Anyway, I have been learning a few words, the Balinese are happy to teach you, and laugh with you as you repeat and sound SO WRONG!

I've also learned some swear words in some other languages, haha.

Today, we had the afternoon off from yoga. Soooo... I'm back in Lovina. Some of my new friends and I got a driver to come to dinner and shop and use the internet. I visited a non-for-profit called High 5 Rehab. I made a donation, because what an awesome organization!

We just had dinner on the beach at a restaurant. There were five of us and the grand total was 465,000 Rupiah... which, is about $47.00 US... and, it was a nice restaurant. Crazy, right? Everything is so inexpensive here, it's insane.

I don't have too much to update being I've been immersed in yoga practice since Friday. It's awesome! We've learned so much in only four days...

... Oh! Remember when I was talking about the Balinese children in the internet shop and how they were humming "Here Comes The Bride"? Well, they were playing a game on the internet where they walk down an isle and the groom tries to DODGE the bride, haha. So funny. And, the last time I was there, the owner played Michael Jackson's "Billie Jean" on repeat the entire time I was there.

The restaurant I just ate at had some live music. Three Balinese men and a whole lot of John Lennon! They were awesome!

Well, it's about 10 after 8, and it's a 20 minute ride back to where I temporarily live... it's about bed time for me, Sunrise Meditation comes early... I will update again soon! Suksama (thank you)!

sweating in seririt...

2009-07-25T06:38:00.000-04:00

Hello! After a long, AWESOME day of yoga, some of us walked into Seririt again to use the internet and to try to sooth our sooooore hamstrings! ;) It is sooo hot, I've been taking like three showers a day... I LOVE THE HEAT! :)

I have soooo much energy... I feel great! I am going to have to teach you all Ashtanga when I get back! :)

Walking down here is kind of fun because you get to speak with a lot of the locals... on our way here, a young Muslim girl said "Hello!" to me and I said "Hello!" back, then she said "You are very beauty-full" I said, "Thank you, so are you!" and her and her friends giggled. I am NOT very beautiful right now... just very sweaty and gross! haha!

We receive many offers for rides on the back of motorbikes while we walk... everyone here drives them... children/adults/etc. There aren't as many helmets as one would hope... and, they pile people on them! I saw a family of four riding through town, smiling and waving. Scary. I asked the driver we hired the other day, Komang, if there are a lot of accidents and he said, YES! That makes sense being there doesn't seem to be many rules on the road, and you chance your life every time you cross the street... you just have to make a run for it!

There are sooo many different personalities and interesting people from all over the world in the yoga course. So many different locations represented; US, Canada, Finland, Slovakia, South Africa, London, Norway, etc. It's really interesting to talk to everyone.

There are GIANT spiders here. One was pointed out to me on a walk to the beach yesterday, and I instantly got goosebumps all over my arms... it is SO SCARY! Our showers are "open air... so they are basically outside. I have a baby Gecko that lives in my shower... he is SO TINY I am petrified I'm going to step on him and kill him.

Our first day off from Yoga is on Thursday, so we will be doing some sightseeing and what not, until then, I guess I don't have too much to say. I love it here, I don't want to come back to NY! haha! I do, because that's where all of my loved ones are, but this place seems like heaven on earth.

Amazingly fragrant flowers fall from the trees, you can wear a flower in your hair all day, it's great! It smells like Plumeria everywhere, the mangoes taste floral... everything is so fresh and beautiful.

I apologize if this is jumbled and I am sure there are a million grammatical errors that will drive me nuts when I read this in the future, but I don't have time to fine tune this, I want to be outside enjoying Bali, inside on a computer.

Plus, I am starving!

hello from Lovina!

2009-07-23T05:48:00.000-04:00

The girls and I hired a driver to bring us to Lovina this afternoon... it's a very cute, beachy surfer-ish town. We walked down to the beach and were immediately surrounded with people trying to sell us stuff... the Dolphin boat dude REALLY wanted me to look at Dolphins... He kept finding me and asking me again and again. I told him I didn't like Dolphins... sorry!

I met a little girl on the beach named Tini, she was adorable. She made me guess her age, I guessed eight, she was ten. She spoke better English than any other Balinese people I've met so far. She was beautiful, of course!

We also met a young Balinese guy with a golden retriever puppy that he named "Amelia"... I don't know why, but I find this adorable. And, rare... dogs here are all so sad! :( They're not pets, they're wild and looking for food all the time, their ribs protruding from their sides... it's awful. But, Amelia was a happy and healthy puppy. I have a feeling Lovina is a little better off than Seririt.

Yoga starts tomorrow morning at 6:30 and then it will be 8 hours a day six days a week! I can't wait!

I would tell you about the food, but I have no idea what I've been eating... NO MEAT! I'm addicted to a carrot/lemon/ginger/cinnamon juice! :) And, I tried some seaweed crackers that were pretty delicious!

Well, that's all for now!

"hallo!"

2009-07-22T06:56:00.000-04:00

People who don't believe in God have obviously never visited Bali!

I'm in an internet Cafe and there are four Balinese children next to me giggling as they watch a video of an American wedding, haha. The children here, like everywhere are SO beautiful! They are all so friendly and so excited to smile and wave and say "Hallo!" They're precious.

My trip here was pretty much without incident. Completely smooth. Narita Airport in Japan had HELLO KITTY everywhere... I was in heaven. haha.

I've had a relaxing day of reading and sunbathing, I swam in the Sea of Bali this afternoon, it's like bath water! I met two girls who are also in the yoga program (which doesn't start until Friday) and the three of us walked into town this evening (sorry parents! don't be scared! haha!) to use the internet and maybe grab a bite to eat.

One of the children is reading over my shoulder right now, I think and I looked at him and he nodded his head in approval. haha. Now two of them are staring at me and smiling, haha. They're so cute.

Okay, obviously I do not have much of substance to say right now... just taking it all in!

Now the kids are humming here comes the bride while watching this video, I might have to ask them what's going on... haha.

I will update again when I get a chance... I have no idea how much this costs... the whole Rupiah thing has me SO CONFUSED... math has never been my strength!

Darlin' Do Not Fear What You Don't Really Know*

2009-07-20T03:09:00.001-04:00

Ziggy is already missing me, so he's snuggling up to my boot!

So, I'm leaving three hours from now and I can't freaking believe it! It's bittersweet, I am SO EXCITED because I've been saving and looking forward to this trip for months... it always seemed so far away, and now, here it is! While I'm excited, I'm also sad. I am sad to leave my husband, and I'm sad to leave my family and most of all, I'm sad to leave my cats! ;) haha. (I'm kidding family! :) )

When I originally booked this trip, my goal was to get away from everything to figure out where I wanted to go next after some really tough relationship... stumbling blocks... I thought that the time away would help me figure out what I really want. It already has! I think feeling like I didn't have to make a decision until my trip took the pressure off. My decision is made and I am comfortable and happy with it.

My friend Amy from high school sent me a message on facebook today and included the following excerpt from Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert:

"Happiness is the consequence of personal effort. You fight for it, strive for it, insist upon it, and sometimes even travel around the world looking for it. You have to participate relentlessly in the manifestations of your own blessings. And once you have achieved a state of happiness, you must never become lax about maintaining it, you must make a mighty effort to keep swimming upward into that happiness forever, to stay afloat on top of it."

Thank you, Amy! Perfect. This is absolutely the perfect description of what I believe.

Time to shower, I'll be barefoot and Bali bound in no time!

*darlin' do not fear what you don't really know