Monday, November 2, 2009

My first taste of Jane Austen

Ironically, I did not want to read any Jane Austen for fear of being bored out of my mind with English drawing-room gossip. However, I was surprised to find that I actually liked "Pride and Prejudice", especially the straight-forward character of Elizabeth. I liked her from the moment she walked three miles through muddy fields to see her sick sister. Although I enjoyed this book, there is something about a tall, dashing, and rich man that makes women swoon. Even better is in the case of Mr. Darcy, who is perceived as a jerk and changes into a better man. I blame books like these for women's romantic dreams of finding a man they can change like Mr. Darcy, because ladies: MEN DON'T CHANGE in real life. But maybe that's why we read; to escape our realities. Even as I realize this point, I will probably be reading more of Jane Austen in the future.

Thursday, October 22, 2009

A Thousand Splendid Suns

I thought the Kite Runner was powerful, and so is this novel. A Thousand Splendid Suns focuses on the lives of women in Afghanistan and how they were impacted with each take over of the country in modern times. The novel ends hopeful as Afghanistan rebuilds after the Taliban is forced out of Kabul, but the war is still happening, and their latest election is speculated to be rigged. This story was very powerful to me, and makes me grateful to live in a nation that sees women as a partner, even though we have a ways to go in America. It is nothing like life under the Taliban. It also made me see what extreme religion and beliefs can do to a society. The Taliban is an example of religion gone bad. They see the words in the Koran, but they do not see God behind them. This is a good read, greatly recommended.

Since my last entry, life has changed quite dramatically. In a few weeks, I'll be back in Texas, living with friends and trying to find a teaching job and obtain my certification. After my dad lost his job last week, we can no longer afford to stay here, and the 9% unemployment rate is not helping us find jobs. Since I've been here in May, I've had one substitute job and maid $80. In 6 months I've made $80 bucks. It's just awful. Arizona is not the place to be right now. The news always reports that the economy is looking better in other parts of the country, but not here. I think that's our cue to get out.

Friday, October 9, 2009

Just don't know what to think!

My recent posts have been about books and films that I've seen, which is what I want this blog to focus on. However, I also want it to be a place for me to vent, or voice my opinion on things. Since my life has been relatively boring as of late, books and news events keep me entertained.

I awoke to news that President Obama won the Nobel Peace Prize. Although I voted for the guy and believe he will do good works, I asked myself, "Why did he win this award? What has he done?" Besides being the first African-American President of the free world, I don't get it. Bin Laden is still hiding somewhere in a cave, the 8th year anniversary of the war in Afghanistan just passed us and the outlook is still bleak, more soldiers are being sent to Iraq, Iran is making WMDs and won't admit it, North Korea is still a huge threat, and Darfur/Sudan/Congo are still a huge genocidal mess. So far, Obama has increased funding for stem cell research, for which I applaud him, but that's it. Maybe if he won this award after fulfilling his duties in four or eight years it would make sense. But now, it's anything but sensible.

I'm reading Scott Russell Sanders' "Hunting for Hope" and really finding it inspiring at this point in my life. I realize that I'm still young and can't know the answers to all of life's questions, but it's still weird to me how much people can change; morph into something that you have never seen before, nor saw coming. Maybe I'm still naive when it comes to love and loss of love, but it makes me sad to be on the losing end, still. However, the good thing about this change I've noticed is that I no longer can feel tied to that person, and the process of moving on is getting easier. I'm not there yet, but I know I'm in the right direction. Someone said, "You never really move on until you meet someone new." I think that's true, but I also know that I won't be able to forget my first love. Love is something truely special and amazing, and when you find something like that, it's hard to forget.

On a funny note, I remembered this afternoon that I had a dream last night about eating an entire bag of chocolate chips and it was AMAZING! Ha, at least I can indulge in my dreams if not in real life! :)

Sunday, October 4, 2009

"A Million Little Pieces" by James Frey

This book is intense. I don't really know the specifics of the controversy surrounding it besides the allegations that some of it was fabricated, but either way it is a powerful story. Stylistically, it fits the mood and tempo and insanity of the story very well, and it is a very quick read. I read the first 100 in pages in the first sitting alone, which is a big deal since I'm a slow reader. I must warn, though: this book is not for the faint of heart and discretion is strongly advised. However, I do not feel that the need for discretion took away from the book in any way. It is worth the read, and worth the thoughts about our brain and addiction and how we treat our bodies and our souls.

Speaking of bodies... I'm still training for the Race for the Cure that is now only a week away! I got my time down to 27 minutes, which means a 9 minute mile- I haven't done that in years! I hope this week with the cooler weather I can finish a little faster. 8 minutes a mile would be great, but I don't want to push it and get frustrated and give up, like I usually do. This is something I want to stick with!

I'm now starting to read "Hunting for Hope" by Scott Russell Sanders. My friend Jenna read it for a class at TLU and gave me an extra copy after she lost hers and bought a new one, then found her original one! She loved it, and Sanders actually spoke at TLU, so I'm finally getting around to reading this book.

Also on my "To Read" list: 1) Blue Like Jazz [I liked "Searching for God Knows What" so I'm going to check this one out, too] 2) The Lost Symbol [Dan Brown's new Robert Langdon saga] 3) and a few Jane Austen novels, since I loved "Anna Karenina", maybe I can finally start to like English drawing room novels. (I do like "Jane Eyre", though, just to clarify!)

When did 82 degrees feel so cool? The desert must be driving me crazy...

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy

I have never read Tolstoy before, but I read in several different places on the internet that "Anna Karenina" is a must-read in world literature. So, I picked up the book at the local chain bookstore and began the arduous task of reading all 923 pages. I am used to reading much shorter books, usually only taking me a few days to a week to finish. But I'm sure it took me a lot longer to get through this one. However, it's not because it is awful to read; it was just the opposite, but very long. I instantly felt drawn in to Russia, even though I've never been there. Tolstoy wrote like he saw it; I felt that I was looking through a window while reading this book. I also felt that the two plots were very nicely linked and did not cause me any confusion, but I believe it is because in this age, we are used to complicated plots and can follow them easily.
Also, I have to mention that I loved Tolstoy's view of the lives of women during this time. He shows what it was really like for a woman; to virtually be a slave to men, and if you were not married to one, than your life was difficult just based on the fact that women had no way of earning a respectable living then. If a woman fell in love, but not with her husband, what was she to do? I believe that Tolstoy feels that it is better to love, even in a scandalous situation, then to stay with the one you do not love. Anna's frustration can be summed up in this quote: "I don't want to prove anything; I merely want to live, to do no one harm but myself. I have the right to do that, haven't I?" (698). Bravo, Tolstoy!

Monday, September 21, 2009

3:10 to Yuma

Sorry for a long absence in blogging, but I'm still reading "Anna Karenina" and I'm about halfway through the 900+ pages. I'm really enjoying it so far, and it makes me want to pick up my Chekhov paper from a class I had in the spring and start the rewrite. I want to expand it for publication in a journal, which will definitely add sparkles to my resume.

My mom and I watched "3:10 to Yuma" a while back and I just haven't gotten to write about it. I must say that I really enjoyed this film, and it was refreshing to see a shoot-em-up, full-on, western. It takes place in southern Arizona, near Bisbee, so it was fun for us to watch, being new transplants to the area. Russell Crowe was great as the badass gang leader Ben Wade, and Christian Bale threw in a great performance as the hard-working, and sometimes honest, rancher. But what was most surprising to me was the performance of Ben Foster. Yes, that's right, Ben Foster: the nerdy kid from that television show "Flash Forward" years ago. Foster really proved himself in this film as a great actor because I had no idea it was him until I sat and thought about it a while. He played a great ruthless gangster and I generally felt hatred for his character. I'd buy this film... that is, if I had a job...

Saturday, September 5, 2009

"House of Many Gods" by Kiana Davenport

I bought this book while I was in Honolulu for a conference. I've decided that when I travel, I will try to buy some form of literature/poetry that reflects the native people. In Prague, I bought a Kafka book and found a poetry book online that I read in a hostel. I had no idea what to buy, so I picked this one up. It was great at the beginning; filed with Hawaiian culture with every word. Then it started to get all over the place with a story line about radiation, and never really coming to a conclusion on that issue. It was a good read because it read fast and I was attached to the characters and the Hawaiian culture. Otherwise, I'd say it was average, and had I not traveled to Honolulu, I probably would not have read this book. Maybe if the story had stayed in the islands, it would have made it better. But, that's what the author was talking about: there is more to the world than the small islands, even though they are precious.

I have now decided to take on the task of reading Tolstoy's "Anna Karenina" because I hear it's a classic love story that will forever be in the literary canon. It's been hard for me to read Russian literature, even Chekhov's plays, but once I get past the fact that each character has three different names, it becomes easy for me. I wish I knew more Russian history, but all I know of Russia is desolation and starvation. We shall see if I make it through this ginormous book.

I have also decided to run the Race for the Cure 5k here in Phoenix next month. A 5k is over three miles! What was I thinking?? I want to be a runner, so doing this will force me to get into it, and it's for a great cause. I asked my friend Jessica to go with me because I know she's at home with a small baby and might want some interaction with someone her age besides her husband. And I know she likes to run, so there's pressure on me!

Jeff got evicted from the Big Brother house this week. :( BIG SAD FACE! He was my favorite.

Wednesday, August 26, 2009

Girls Like Us: Carole King, Joni Mitchell, Carly Simon- and the Journey of a Generation

"Girls Like Us" is a fabulously written biography of three trail-blazing women in rock and roll. Although I am young, I grew up listening to their music, called "Oldies" then, and reading this book helped me understand their lives and generation, and exactly what they did for women and rock music. They are the reason Britney and Madonna have music careers to begin with. I know Madonna stretched boundaries and knocked down walls, but Joni, Carly, and Carole set the stage for her to do so. Not only do I think these women are strong and beautiful, their music is timeless. I love "You're So Vain", "River", "Big Yellow Taxi", and "Natural Woman". This is a must read for women of all ages who are trying to find a place in a rough world.
joni mitchell Pictures, Images and Photos
Now I'm downloading and listening to Joni Mitchell, mostly, but "You're So Vain" is a great one, too! I think I read this book at the right time in my life. I need direction, and I feel lost, but so did these women and they found their way through. I just need patience, and I can never give up. And, it's okay if I don't get married, or get divorced, or end up without a husband. I don't need a man to feel complete; that idea is just ridiculous.

Ted Kennedy lost his battle with brain cancer. That's really all I have to say about that. I never really "knew" him, or paid attention to his career. I don't know why. Maybe my Republican parents had an influence on that.

It's still really hot. I can't wait for cooler weather. Lately I've been wanting to go for a run- OUTSIDE- but it's been so hot, even in the mornings. It was 90 degrees at midnight last night, so I have reason to believe it didn't get much cooler by the morning. So, I'm stuck inside doing the 30 Day Challenge on the Wii Active. Which, by the way, I think you should do first upon purchasing it, because the first workouts seem easy compared to the individual ones I've been doing separate from the challenge. But I'm guessing that by the time I get to workout #20 it'll be challenging.

Monday, August 17, 2009

The Stars at Night, are Big and Bright...

I just spent a great week in Texas putting finishing touches on a theatrical production, trying to get interviews, and seeing friends. The highlights of my trip include attending an opening of my first post-school show, seeing Dave Matthews Band simulcast at Hogg Auditorium in Austin, playing in the low river, and watching the meteor shower in the back of a pick-up truck.

The show was so great! "House of Several Stories" by A. John Boulanger premiered at the Austin Playhouse last weekend, and it was a big hit. There are reviews in Austin Live Theatre, Austinist, and I'm mentioned in the Austin Chronicle's review! I'm so excited for the positive reviews, this play definitely deserves it. Hopefully it can be a good stepping stone for Imagine That! Productions.


Right now I'm in the middle of reading "Girls Like Us", a biography of singers Carly Simon, Joni Mitchell, and Carole King. So far it's been really interesting, and since I did a lot of similar research for my thesis last year, it's like an extension of that. It's crazy how these three women share similar ties throughout their lives.

I've been watching Big Brother, and I know it's sad because it's dumb reality TV, but it got a little crazy when we found out that one of the house guests was kicked out by the producers! I thought they were going to explain it on tonight's show, but they didn't! I have to wait until Tuesday to find out what happened to have her kicked out. Also, I just wanted to make a comment out three women in the house that say they are "strong women", but they spent 30 minutes the other night literally crying over a guy that was evicted in a surprise vote. They kept saying how kind he was and blah blah blah. HELLO GIRLS! This guy was a huge jackass and totally had them under his spell. Talk about WEAK WOMEN. Makes me mad. Stand on your own, ladies!

Monday, August 3, 2009

Shotgun

I don't spend a lot of time in my room since I have a laptop. I usually bring it out into the living room so I don't feel so penned up. So, I haven't been really listening to music lately. When I lived alone, I had speakers hooked up to my laptop and I would put on music no matter what I was doing (unless I was watching TV). I miss that, I guess. Tomorrow I'll be packing for my much anticipated trip to Texas, so I am looking forward to putting my iTunes on Dave Matthews Band shuffle.

Right now I'm listening to the song "Shotgun," by DMB. This song puts me in a mood every time I hear it. There's something about the riff that just puts me in a pensive mood. I LOVE the song, and it's evolved since they debuted it in 2006, I think. I put the first few lyrics on my Facebook page because they're so dead-on. It's crazy. I hope I get to meet that man and shake his hand, and personally thank him for his music.

"This photograph of you and me,
when these old boots of mine
were brand new,
And look at you, how you smile, smile, smile.
Look at you.
What has become of us?
Chasing the avalanche down,
Watching the world on TV,
There must be something better on."

I told my mom the other day that I know three couples that are married or almost there because of E-Harmony. I said that must be a site for people that want to get married right away, so I'm going to stay away from it! And she asked me why I didn't want to get married. Hello! I'm too independent, and untrusting. I love being independent, which is why I'm so nervous about finding a job soon. I NEED to work if I want to move out. My parents have been great, and always will be, but I miss living on my own, by myself, just me and my cat. And my friends being a short drive away.

But I get to see them soon!!! I never thought I could miss a place as much as I miss Texas.

EDIT
I forgot to add that I finished "The Virgin's Lover" by Philippa Gregory. This story was based on Queen Elizabeth I and her scandalous relationship with Robert Dudley. I liked Gregory's view of Anne Boleyn and Henry VIII, but I think she might have exaggerated a bit in this book. I have my own view of Elizabeth as a woman, and I personally feel that she was smarter than what Gregory makes her out to be. However, it was an intriguing story with romance. All in all, it was a good read. I'm now reading a biography of some women in early rock 'n roll: Carole King, Joni Mitchell, and Carly Simon. I came across this book when I was putting together my birthday list on Amazon and realized that when I was researching for my thesis play, all the musicians were males! The Beatles, the Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, The Kinks... where were the women? Hopefully this book can shed some light on that!

Friday, July 31, 2009

The Book of Ruth

I finished reading "The Book of Ruth" a few days ago. I was not that impressed. It was a good story, and ended up very shocking, but it took the entire book to get to the good stuff. I constantly felt myself thinking, "Hurry up and get through this, there are other (better) books waiting for you on your bookshelf!" So I finished it, and that's that.

I'm now reading "The Virgin's Lover", about Queen Elizabeth I when she began her reign. Historical fiction has to be my favorite, and Philippa Gregory does a great job with these books. I loved "The Other Boleyn Girl" and breezed through it in a matter of days. So far "The Virgin's Lover" is pretty good and very politically detailed.

I'm excited for some good movies that are coming out, like "Funny People", and mostly "The Time Traveler's Wife". The book was AMAZING, and I want to read it again, actually. But, I loaned it to my sister, who is in Texas, so I'll have to wait. I've got a lot of other unread books to read, anyway.

Speaking of Texas... I'm going to visit in less than a week! I'm excited to see everyone and see the revamp of "House of Several Stories" that I've been working on from afar. I also get to see Theresa, who just bought her first house with her husband! I get to help them move in, I'm really excited!

Also, I'm sure my parents will be moving this fall. This puts me in between a rock and a hard place. If I could find a job here, I would stay. I've been going crazy looking, but they make it so ridiculously hard to be a teacher, and school starts on Monday for most Valley schools. :( If I knew it was going to be so hard to be a teacher I would have started the process in January. So far my options are 1) God is good and I find a great job here and stay, 2) move with my parents, 3) move back to San Marcos/Austin and live off my friends until I find something there. I don't want #2. I could use some prayers. :(

Wednesday, July 22, 2009

Vacation?

I haven't posted in a while because I was in Fort Walton Beach, Florida, for a colleague's wedding, and then a week after that we had family from Wisconsin visit so I was spending time with them. Now it's quieted down a bit (except for the crazy weather) so I should update.

I finished reading "My Antonia" and really liked it. I loved Cather's writing style and the way that it was set in Nebraska and not in an upper-class drawing room. Which is probably why I haven't read any of Jane Austen's novels yet. I read some of Edith Wharton's work, but it's the same upper-class-drawing-room stuff of the time. I went to Border's to see if they were hiring and ended up buying "Anna Karenina" by Leo Tolstoy. It's going to be a great feat to tackle that one, but I hear it's one that I cannot pass up. Right now I'm reading "The Book of Ruth", and although it's interesting, it's been slow-going. I can't seem to get into it, even though it takes place on the border of Wisconsin and Illinois. Maybe it's the language or writing style, but I'm hoping I get into it so I can finish it soon.

I already mentioned the crazy weather, and it is monsoon season, but it's been crazy! While family was here we went out to dinner to eat mexican at On the Border and saw the storm coming, and as we sat down and ordered, we looked out the window and saw the dust just spinning out in the air-- you couldn't see 10 feet in front of you! By the time we finished, it died down a little bit, and mom turned on the pool pump right away so we went for a night swim as soon as little Addy was asleep.

The first picture is my favorite of Addy swimming by herself with those arm floatie things! And then the picture I got of the dust storm as we were driving out of the parking lot from the restaurant.
It's dinner time, so I'm going to go eat! I'm sure I'll update more tomorrow or later this week!

Thursday, July 9, 2009

I'm such a nerd!

So... when I was in high school, I was OBSESSED with the film "Titanic", as all of my friends know. However, not everyone knows that I used to write stories about it... yeah. And to top it all off, I had a website where I put them up for the public to read. I found one of my stories that is hosted at another site, and I'm thinking I'm going to rummage through the garage to find where I stored all the rest of them. This is evidence that I cannot write original thoughts. I'm not even sure I should post this link because I'm afraid of being made fun of, but here it is, for your reading enjoyment, my favorite Titanic fiction that I ever wrote: Formality

I'm leaving for Fort Walton Beach, Florida, tomorrow to attend the wedding of one of my colleagues from Texas State. She's the only one I will know there, and I wanted a little mini vacation to clear my head and find my confidence to tackle the crappy employment situation here. As it turns out, some of my high school friends will be there: Krystal and Colby! So hopefully we can have dinner together or something. And it's supposed to rain the entire weekend. So that's nice.

I'm reading "My Antonia" by Willa Cather and I am really enjoying it! It's so refreshing since I've been reading depressing novels, like "The Road" and "Revolutionary Road". I'm thinking of buying another one of her famous novels, "O Pioneer!". But we'll see.

I've figured out that if you play MarioKart Wii enough that you can "unlock" your Mii and race as yourself! And there's a "Mirror Mode" where all the tracks are flipped! Pretty cool. More proof that I need a job...

I booked my flight to Texas!! August 4-12! I'm so excited to get back and see everyone! (and maybe find out if there are jobs out there...)

Monday, July 6, 2009

The Road by Cormac McCarthy

This was a surprisingly fast read, although I think that's because it kept me awake at night, even if I wasn't reading it! It really made me think, and as I was trying to fall asleep I would sit and listen to every noise in the house. I'm not really sure how they made a film out this, as I feel that it should be left in literary form. It's been a while since I've read a novel with this sense of style and aw. This truly is a work of art, and I wouldn't be surprised if it was included in the high school reading canon. After reading this, I wanted to dig through the boxes in my garage to find Camus's "The Stranger" and reread it. But, it's 110 degrees today, so I'll save that task for another day. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys the art of literature.

My parents and I watched the film version of "Revolutionary Road" last night, and I must say that Sam Mendes did a fantastic job in creating the mood of the piece. However, I felt the beginning moved a little too fast and we never got to see the powerful scene where April is mowing the lawn when Frank wakes up with a hangover and discovers she's slept on the couch. To me, having the wife mow the lawn, which typically was a man's job in the 50s, says something about the couple. Also, there was a scene in the book that I felt was powerful, and it didn't come out that way in the film for some reason.

It's HOT! My mom is playing Mario Kart and I might join her. I think later I'm going to stop by a few restaurants and see if they're hiring and are willing to hire someone without any experience (meaning ME!).

My next novel: "My Antonia" by Willa Cather.

Saturday, July 4, 2009

Revolutionary Road: The Novel

I'll admit, I read this book because I was interested in the story after I saw a trailer for the film. Usually I enjoy books better than their film versions, so I quick read this book because my parents had just purchased the movie. With that said, the entire time I was picturing Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet the entire time. It's not a bad thing, but when I see the film I think I'll be disappointed because it will be different.

This story is heartbreaking. There really is no alternative for the actions of the characters to break free from their confinement in the suburbs. This novel is a perfect example of how the 1950s were all about conformity and "normalcy", while the government was on a rampage to end communism throughout the world. What they did not know was they had created their own small form of it right in America.

I could go on and on about feminism in this novel, but I think April Wheeler is a great character, and any actress with talent would LOVE to play her. I also feel that the dialogue is so rich in this novel that a play could easily be extracted from its pages, and it would be powerful.

We'll be watching the film sometime this weekend, I think, so I'll let you know how Sam Mendes' version compares to the novel.

It's raining the desert!! I'm listening to thunder as I type this, and I had no idea how much I missed it. I loved the Texas thunderstorms. I remember one Friday in April that was just stormy all day, and when I got home from school I took the most wonderful nap... falling asleep to thunder is a wonderful thing.

Still no job. And I'm running out of places to apply. I've already applied to Target, Walmart, Barnes & Noble, Best Buy, a few pre-schools, and some random desk jobs. I guess I could bag groceries with a Masters degree. How awesome would that be?

Saturday, June 27, 2009

People always told me, "Be careful what you do!"

Yesterday was such a weird day: Farrah Fawcett lost her battle with cancer and then all of a sudden Michael Jackson is rushed to the hospital and dies of cardiac arrest. I'm saddened by his passing, even though his greatness has been in the past for some time now. I don't see him as a current hit-making musician because all my favorites of his were from a long time ago. But I have memories of jammin' to MJ while drinking with my buddies in Texas. We'd usually end up playing his videos on YouTube while we drank, or I had a bunch of his songs on my New Year's Eve playlist on my iPod that we listened to before we toasted the New Year. It's sad what he became in the end. But on the up side, I think Geico has stopped playing those stupid commercials with the pile of money with eyes in respect for his song that's in the commercial. "I always feel like somebody's watchin' me..."

My mom has decided that she wants to put my dinning room set in her eat-in kitchen because it's a little smaller than the one they have in there. It will make the room feel bigger, I think. But it was a very blonde color, so we've been sanding it down and refinishing it with a darker stain. It's taking a while because we bought this new stain that's supposed to be quicker... but of course it's not. We'll need at least three coats to get the color we want. We still haven't sanded down three of the four chairs! It's going to keep us busy, that's for sure. I'll be sure to post pictures when we're done, I think it's starting to look great. The stain gives it character.

I finished "The Memory Keeper's Daughter" and started "Revolutionary Road." "Memory" was a great novel, but it was kind of annoying that the husband kept such a serious secret all of his life. Why couldn't he just TELL her?? Men... "Revolutionary Road" is intriguing so far, but I'm only 50 pages in. Yesterday, Imagine That! Productions received its first new play submission, so I spent last night reading that. I LOVE reading new plays, and I think this one is a great work of art. I hope we can put it on the stage because I could have a Dramaturgical Field Day with this one!

I'm very glad that John let me be apart of his production company, even though I'm out here in Arizona. I feel like I'm doing a job, but I'm not getting paid for it (yet!). I love the work, and I feel it's the only thing keeping me sane right now, and keeping me motivated to chase my dreams in the fickle life of a theatre artist.

I've also been working out on the Wii Active, and I think I'm getting addicted! I still do lunges and squats, which I HATE, but I enjoy having that "trainer" there, and I love the boxing, tennis, and volleyball. I've only done a few workouts, but I plan to do the 30-day Challenge once I get my body used to regular exercise. (I also have dreams of completing a triathalon, but that's a lofty goal right now!)

On another sad note, I didn't get the lecturer position that I applied for at SFA in Nacogdoches, Texas. I knew if someone more qualified applied, then I wasn't going to be considered, but I figured it was worth a shot. So... there's that. I need to look out for GRE prep courses soon so I can retake that (and hopefully get a higher score) so I have a better chance of getting into a doctorate program. I've also requested information from a few different online schools about getting my teaching certification. At least I'll have something! (My Masters degree STILL hasn't come in the mail...)

So, the job search continues... along with the reading, researching, and working out!

And remember: "It don't matter if you're black or white!"

Monday, June 22, 2009

The Proposal

The movie. Not an actual proposal. (It's going to be a LOOOOONG time before that ever happens to me...)

The movie was a typical chick-flick: two people that hate each other need to spend a long amount of time together and they fall in love because of it. Typical. But it was funny, and Ryan Reynolds is a cutie. I liked how Sandra Bullocks' costumes became more relaxed as her character learned more about Reynolds' character, and when she left him they were very formal again. Good design choice. Other than that, I really have nothing else to say about the film. I might watch it again when it comes out, my mom liked it.

Today was Father's Day, so we went to church and had some family friends over. Jessica was in the youth group with me at church and graduated high school a year behind me. Our parents are really good friends, and Jessica and her husband Sam are stationed at the Air Force Base here. We get to see them and their new baby pretty often, and her parents came into town this week. I think it was really good for my parents to see their friends from Texas and catch up on what's been going on in The Woodlands. We ate smoked brisket and played the Wii, and played with the baby until she fell asleep. After they left, we went for a short dip in the pool before it got chilly.

Jessica wants to play golf sometime, so I need to get some golf shoes and clothes, and practice! I'm really good at Wii golf, but not so good in real life. Last time I went to the driving range I was doing pretty well. I'm just now learning to use my hips as the source of power in my swing and keep my feet planted.

I'm still reading "The Memory Keeper's Daughter." I saw the Lifetime movie a while ago, so I keep comparing scenes I remember to the film, but it's a well-written novel so far. I'm about halfway through. After I finish that, I think I'm going to start "Revolutionary Road." My dad just bought the movie and I want to read the book before I see the film.

As a side note, I was playing with the zoom and focus of my camera last month and took some pictures of the desert flowers in my parents' backyard. Here are a few:



Now I'm going to get in bed, cuddle with Sassy, and read my book. Good night!

Friday, June 19, 2009

Never Say Never

Sorry it's been a while, for the two people that read this. I'm watching Late Night with Jimmy Fallon and the Fray is on. I wouldn't mind seeing them in concert.

Speaking of concerts... I need to start drinking some Bud Light so I can go on the Paradise Cruise and see Dave Matthews Band. That would be BAD ASS.

I cut my bangs... too short. Usually I cut them when they're dry, but I cut them right out the shower this time and they ended up too short. I look like a 5 year old. It's terrible. I hope they grow fast!

I had one of those days where you try to complete your errands in a timely manner and nothing goes right. I ended up spending too much money printing out a script because the library lady only let me do 30 pages. The library here is really ridiculous. I took Texas State's library for granted, that's for sure.

I finished "Water For Elephants" a few days ago and LOVED it. I spent all of Sunday afternoon reading while golf was on TV. I only stopped to bowl on the Wii with my parents. We're all Pros now, according to our skill level. We've bowled a lot of games... Anyway, the book was great-- I love books that completely transport you to another world that completely absorbs you. The love story wasn't cheesy, either, so that was nice. It makes me want to go to the circus that will be here at the end of the month.

A few nights ago (maybe even over the weekend) I had one of those dreams about my ex. I thought they were over. If I could erase my memory like on "Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind", I think I would. I'm sure he doesn't think about me anymore, so I need to just stop. I wish it was that easy.

Oh, something random: last week I went to Walmart to get my oil changed and tires rotated and when I got home I only had three hubcaps. So, mom and I retraced my route from Walmart to home and couldn't find it. I called them back and asked if they had it in the shop and just forgot to put it on, and he said they didn't have it. I went online and complained to corporate and they replaced it for me. All I had to do was buy the new one and give them the receipt and they paid me back in cash. No more ghetto car.

My mom and I are going to the movies tomorrow night to see "The Proposal", with Sandra Bullock and Ryan Reynolds. I'll let you know how it is, although I'm not going with high expectations.

Friday, June 12, 2009

The Reader

Usually I read the book before I see the movie. And usually I enjoy the book more than the film. In this case, however, I saw the film and just loved it, and read the book just now. I feel the film is stronger than the book, for reasons I'm not sure of. Maybe it's the way the book was written in a journalistic form. The narrator seemed bland, like he was leaving out necessary details for the reader to get involved sensually in the story. Maybe because I was comparing scenes in the book to scenes from the film. I'm not sure, but I know now that I'll stick to my former method of reading the book first and watching the film second.

I'm now moving on to a book I borrowed from the tiny library in town: Water for Elephants.


I didn't fall asleep until almost 5am. My mind just wouldn't shut off. But I think I know what I need to do. I need to stay here, I need to meet people, I need to find a job. I need to put down roots for a while, at least. And I also need to find out the status of my application to the ELCA Global Mission.

Austin?

Maybe I should have stayed in the Austin area. Last night my dad's boss told him that they were going to keep him on night shift. He's now looking for work elsewhere and told my mom if she wants to move back to Houston and get her old job back (it's still available and her boss wants her back) she should do it. So... I guess I'm looking for a job in the Austin area now and possibly moving back. (I hate moving, but I miss Texas!)

If anyone knows of someone who needs a roommate, let me know...

Wednesday, June 10, 2009

Australia and Albee

I finished "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?" in one sitting-- I just couldn't put it down! It's 257 pages, but it reads in 2 1/2 hours, really quick. I just loved it, and now I can see what all the fuss is about over this play. The way the characters just tear each other down until there's nothing left is just so... amazing. They don't even use physical force, except at one point, which I was very surprised when it happened. The verbal wit in the play is amazing and the dark humor made me laugh at parts. I want to see a full production of it live, now.

My mom and I watched "Australia" last night, and I must say that even though it was long, I really enjoyed it. I felt that it could have ended an hour earlier than it did, and when it kept going I was a little annoyed for a while. It was a good love story and a different view on World War II. The Northern Territory in Australia looks a lot like Arizona or west Texas. Kinda weird how that can be when they're thousands of miles away. Hugh Jackman was very cute in this movie, of course! I don't usually like Nicole Kidman, but I did like her performance in this film. Her character was very annoying at the start of the film, but she changed throughout the film, which was nice.

I got my thesis in the mail yesterday! It feels good to have a bound copy of my hard work. I'm really anxious to get my degree in the mail, if you haven't noticed. I think it's stupid that they don't give it to you when you walk across the stage. Isn't that why you have to apply for graduation in February? They don't even keep a list of names, we had to hand the guy a card with our name on it so he could read it. I don't understand why applying for graduation is necessary. I also understand that a lot of students graduate from Texas State, but you should be prepared for that. That's all I'm saying. GIVE ME MY DEGREE!!!

The sun is out-- it's been cloudy the last few days-- so I might hit the pool and swim. BUT it's been a little chilly at night so the water might be cooler than I want it. We'll see.

Monday, June 8, 2009

And when they're old enough we'll teach the kids to fly

North Korea is turning into a scary place. They need to brush up on their history and realize that people who tried crazy ways to take over the world were not successful.

I finally finished the book I've been reading for months: "Mrs. Dalloway" by Virginia Woolf. I should have read it in one sitting but the writing was all over the place that I couldn't focus on it. I appreciate that she used the unity of time in a novel (it takes place within one day) and time was a huge motif throughout. But... I don't know, I didn't really feel attached to it.

My next read: "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?", a play by Edward Albee. I didn't realize it was almost 200 pages... normally you are supposed to read a play within one sitting, with an intermission, as if you are in the theatre watching it. But I'm sure I won't be able to do that with this one.

I bought a new controller for the Wii so the three of us can play MarioKart together, and I found a new game that came with a controller. So we got a game for just 10 extra bucks with the controller. It's pretty sweet! I was skeet shooting earlier, and fishing.

I just went through YellowPages.com and did a search for all listed theatres in the area and looked at their websites for job openings, and found nothing. :( I'm getting pretty tired of this.

Sunday, June 7, 2009

Drum beats louder

So... Dave Matthews is a genius. Take a long look at the album art for the new CD, "Big Whiskey and the Groogrux King". Here it is, from http://www.antsmarching.org:


I just realized that this is a giant puzzle of lyrics from the new songs. I've only found a few because I haven't the patience to sit and look, but I've found a few: Alligator Pie, "snake in the woodpile", "boy chase the bird, so close but everytime, he never catch her, but he can't stop trying", "someone's house is burning down", and "cut the wings off a butterfly." I found out about this by watching episode four of the Fuse documentary, "Dave Matthews Band: the Road to Big Whiskey." Dave talks about Alligator Pie and "snake in the woodpile" on the show and I went "WHAT?!" So I ran to my room afterwards to have a look for myself and damn, it's a puzzle! And so now whenever I'm bored, you can find me in my room listening to Big Whiskey and staring at the album cover for more puzzles.

My parents really like the Wii! My mom and I have been playing every night and today was Dad's first time to play on ours. We all bowled for like 2 hours this afternoon and it was a blast. I bowled a 213!! If only I could do that in real life... not to mention the two chip-ins I had when I played Dad at golf!

I've been reading "Mrs. Dalloway" by Virginia Woolf for a long time and I just can't seem to get through it. I really want to because I have a stack of books that I want to read badly, and I'm not a quitter so I need to finish this one. Hopefully I can knock out a bunch of pages tonight, and this afternoon if it's too windy to swim after church.

We watched "Seven Pounds" tonight. My mom commented that it was a slow movie, and I partly agree. They're used to thrillers and action movies, but I enjoyed it. It had a very sentimental ending. The music was a bit off, but it fit the film. I was also confused about what he was doing in the beginning and what his actual job was, but it all came together by the end. I like that kind of movie.

Friday, June 5, 2009

WIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII!

I got my parents a Nintendo Wii for Mother's and Father's Day! It came today and I was surprised because the email said it wouldn't arrive until next week. But, I'm excited because it's super fun! I was going to wait for Dad to wake up before I opened it, but Mom and I were so bored so I opened it at 1:30 and we played until Dad woke up! We played more MarioKart after dinner, and mom is getting pretty good at it. Now we just need to get a Wii Fit and that new Active game so we can get in shape in this hot desert!

Seriously, it's been so hot lately, like 105! But it's going to cool off by tomorrow to the lower 90s so maybe I can get out and exercise OUTSIDE for a change.

The new Dave Matthews Band album came out on Tuesday and I received my copy in the mail on Wednesday, along with a t-shirt (that I'm wearing to bed tonight!) and a free 3-disc LiveTrax Volume 15 from Alpine Valley, Wisconsin! Also, they've been on TV a lot this week. We recorded a live concert from the Beacon Theatre in NYC broadcasted on Fuse, and they've also been doing a four part, 30 minute long documentary and part four airs tomorrow. DMB will also be on the Today show in the morning, but I'll be sleeping so it's set to record. :) They were on Jimmy Fallon last night and played two songs instead of one. They played Funny the Way It Is and Why I Am. Dave also came on during a skit called "Dave Matthews GPS" that was so hilarious! Here's the link: http://www.latenightwithjimmyfallon.com/blogs/2009/06/introducing-the-latest-in-navigation-the-dave-matthews-gps/

My mom is probably sick of them, but I'm loving it. I think my favorites from the album so far are Lying in the Hands of God, Baby Blue, and Alligator Pie. After seeing Alligator Pie on the Beacon concert I really want to see it live, I could really get down to that song at a show!

I was going to Wisconsin for my aunt's wedding, but it's next week and the tickets are too expensive now. Time slipped away while I was finishing my thesis, taking finals, graduating, and moving and now I can't afford to go. Oh well... I want to go up some time this summer. I also want to visit my friend Martha in NYC this summer, and my friend Beckie at her granny's in Lake Havasu, Arizona. I think I've got the travelling bug...

I need a job!! I'm so desperate that I'm considering Wal-mart. Damn this economy...

Wednesday, June 3, 2009

Viva Las Vegas!

My mom and I took a quick trip up to Las Vegas to visit some family and see the strip since we've never been there. We were there for two days and that was enough for us, I think! Vegas is nice, but you need money, and when you don't have it, it kinda sucks. I do have future plans to go back with a bunch of friends and just raise hell, though!

Here are some highlights:

The Hoover Dam was on the way, so we stopped to take pictures on the ride back. Here are my favorites:

And then we made it to Las Vegas! Unfortunately, I don't have any pictures of my family on my camera, my mom has them on hers. But we spent all of Monday afternoon walking along the strip and didn't even make it halfway! My favorite was the Bellagio Hotel. The art museum was pretty neat; I saw some of Andy Warhol's work. The artwork in the hotel itself was amazing, like this ceiling in the lobby. It's made of glass flowers!


I'm having trouble putting photos where I want them, so you're just going to have to look at them on Facebook. ;) It was pretty fun; we went back down the strip that night to see all the lights and hopefully the fountains at the Bellagio, but that didn't happen. We went to Freemont Street, which is off the beaten path and it was pretty dead on a Monday night. We did have fun walking around, though. Then we hit the road the next day and stopped at the Hoover Dam to take more pictures and walk around some more. We didn't take the tour because it was eight dollars and we didn't want to stick around that long. We got home at 8pm as it was.

When we got home we ate dinner and watched Dave Matthews Band: Live at the Beacon Theatre on Fuse that I recorded before we left. It was a good show, but the DVR cut off the last thirty minutes so I had to watch the end on Hulu.com. By the way, Hulu.com is my FAVORITE WEBSITE EVER. It even beats out Facebook. No longer do you need a DVR (unless you want to watch something on a bigger screen). No longer do I get upset when I miss something on TV due to having a life. I love it!

Still waiting for my degree and thesis to come in the mail... along with my DMB t-shirt, LiveTrax2008, and Big Whiskey CDs. And my parents' present for Mother's and Father's Day! I'm excited about that one! I'll fill you in once it arrives and I've given it to them (which will be the day it arrives since I'm so excited about it!)

Good night!

Saturday, May 30, 2009

Lying in the hands of God

I had a LiveJournal before this, but decided to switch because no one I knew used LJ anymore and I kept getting spam friends over there. But I kept most of my entries, and they mainly deal with my breakup from last summer. I can't believe it's been that long. Sometimes it feels like just yesterday, but now I see I could never be with him. Although, I still feel physcially sick when I think of him with his new girlfriend... which is why I completely blocked him on Facebook. I think breakups pre-Facebook were easier because his stupid face wouldn't pop up everywhere. Like now. No more! :)

I had my first response from an employer today-- and two hours later, my first rejection. I guess they don't like theatre at the University of Phoenix. Oh well... I guess I'll end up at Walmart or something. :(

I just watched Jay Leno's last Tonight Show episode. It's going to be so weird! Whenever I watched late night TV I always watched Jay and then (now) Jimmy Fallon. I love Connan, too, but it'll be weird. I hope Jay's new show is good, I'll be watching whenever I get back from Vegas.

Oh yeah! Vegas! My mom and I have decided to drive up to Las Vegas to visit some family before my cousin flies back to Wisconsin for her senior year of high school. It's only a five hour drive and I haven't seen them since I was a senior at TLU! I've never been to Vegas, and I don't think my mom has, either, so it should be fun. We're not gamblers, but it would be cool to win some money since we're both unemployed! Is it weird that I want to go to museums and the zoo in Vegas instead of bars and the Strip? LOL

It's hot here. SUPER HOT. My parents' thermometer outside said 108 yesterday. So I swam laps in the pool since it's too hot to run or rollerblade. The guy on the news says that people here usually gain weight in the summer since it's so hot, and I believe him! Even in the Texas summer heat I used to run after work. I lost 10 pounds at the end of summer of 2007. Then school started...

I went grocery shopping with my mom today just to get out of the house and see what's around and I saw the funniest thing! They're called "Wippity Wipes"! LOL! I took a picture on my phone and put it on Twitter. I couldn't stop laughing!

I'm playing fetch with my kitty right now. She only does this at night. I guess she likes the challenge of finding the ball in the dark, but she gets really hyper and makes noise. I hope she doesn't wake up my mom! Kitty's crazy!

I need a job... so I can make money and MEET PEOPLE! Maybe when I join a gym I can meet someone... someone cute. ;)

Good night!

Wednesday, May 27, 2009

Internet problems make for grumpy parents

Our internet went out for a while this morning, but when it came back on, it only worked on my laptop and not my parent's desktop. So, we spent the better part of the evening on the phone with tech support trying to fix it. After we thought we had it, we hung up, then tried the wireless and it didn't work. So... I tinkered with it and I think I got it to work (obviously, because I'm blogging right now from home) but we're afraid it's going to mess up again. I think it's good, though.

I drove today! I haven't driven my car since we got here until tonight. I have left the house, but my mom was driving because I have no idea where anything is here. And I'm really thinking about joining a gym soon. It's too hot to run outside here- it got up to 104 today!

We bought a desk for my room and put it together without any problems and it looks great! It's just a small desk with book shelves on the sides so I don't need to buy a new bookshelf. It fits really well in my room.

It's 9:30pm and I'm hungry again... I really need to stop being hungry at night! I don't know how to make it stop, though. I eat at normal times during the day.

Have you heard of that show on ABC called The Unusuals? Amber Tamblyn plays a detective named Casey. (I'm guessing that's how you spell it). It's weird hearing my name on TV!

Maybe I'll take a bubble bath tonight... :) And now that the internet is ok, I'll be able to do some online job searching in the morning and then go out and get applications at retail places. (my last resort!)

Now that this blog was completely all over the place, I'm going to see if there's guacamole in the fridge!

Just one of my favorite pictures. :)

Tuesday, May 26, 2009

I love the way you move!

I've been listening to the new Dave Matthews Band album from Pandora since it's not officially released until next Tuesday! I <3 it! Of course I would, it's Dave Matthews! I heard a few of the songs live in concert this year so it's not completely new to me. I think my favorites are Lying in the Hands of God and My Baby Blue.
I painted my room a few days ago! It's called "Quiet Meditation", and I'll post pictures as soon as I get everything on the walls. I still haven't completely unpacked and there are boxes everywhere in here, and I'm waiting for my degree to come in the mail so I can hang it on the wall!
Now that the weekend is over, it's time for the job search--- BOO. I dislike looking for a job because you fill out the same information over and over again. Why can't I just hand them my resume and be done with it? Also, I have this feeling that I'm going to be "over-qualified" to be a barista with my Master's degree. It sucks living in the suburbs...
I'm getting a tan! I've spent at least three days out at the pool and it's very noticeable now! Except yesterday my mom noticed a speck of paint still on my leg from painting a few days ago, and when I washed it off, there was a white spot-- so I have a tan mark on my leg from that stupid speck of paint! Kind of funny...
I haven't driven my car since we got here last Wednesday. I've been riding with mom whenever we go places since I have no idea where things are here yet. This week I plan on venturing out with resumes in hand and (while getting lost) filling out a lot of job applications. CareerBuilder worked for me once, but there's so much spam on that site these days.

Also, I watched Reservation Road last night and it was soooo sad! The entire thing was sad, from the very beginning! It was a good psychological film, but you start out crying and you hardly stop at all. Jennifer Connelly and Joaquin Phoenix were excellent, and you really hate Mark Ruffalo throughout the film. It's a Focus Features film, so I'd say it's worth watching.

Thursday, May 21, 2009

Ocean-front property in Arizona...

So, I'm here in (usually) sunny Goodyear, Arizona. We rolled in at about 3pm local time yesterday, unloaded the truck, and dropped it off by 4pm. My room is a giant mess; half of my stuff is still in the garage. However, I do have plans to paint my room today (or as soon as possible). Both my mom and I slept in- I woke up at 1oam and my mom was still in bed! I think it's because it's cloudy today, which hardly ever happens, so it's unusually dark still at almost noon. So, as soon as we get going, then we're going to Wal-mart to get some paint and then I can get started.

Sassy has been doing really well with the move. She was freaked out the first day we were driving, but when we got to the hotel in Las Cruces, New Mexico, she was bouncing off the walls. I guess she was glad to be out of her carrier. The second day she slept the entire way, or at least tried to. She follows me around the house mostly, but is exploring on her own, and still doesn't like my parents' dog, Rita. She'll get used to her, though.

I better get going, I have lots to do!

Sunday, May 17, 2009

I'm a Master of Theatre History!


I graduated from Texas State University on Saturday, and because I have my Master's, I got to sit in the front row!

Here's a quick run-down of my day yesterday: Woke up early, graduated, ate lunch, drank beer, shots, and champagne, took a short nap, dinner, Showdown (bar), Tray's apt, home at 4:45am. It was a good day!

Wednesday, May 13, 2009

Boxes everywhere!

I'm in the middle of packing-- which means I'm surrounded by boxes and junk. I haven't started packing my kitchen or closet yet... or bathroom. I probably should start that soon since my mom comes tomorrow! My closet should be easy; I just put my clothes in trash bags while they're still on the hangers. So easy! My kitchen is another story. I'm hoping my sister wants to take half of it, otherwise I'm going to Goodwill with a big load of stuff!

Theresa went to Wisconsin last weekend for her sister-in-law's college graduation and she brought me back some cheese curds!! I'm munching on them right now before I go out and get some food since I have nothing left.

Back to cleaning and packing...

Monday, May 11, 2009

Talk about extreme!

The other night, while playing Halo and drinking Shiner at a friend's apartment, three young girls met up with us. I did not know these girls, and I think they were freshmen. Anyway, one girl (bless her heart! haha) was very outspoken and I don't think she thought before she spoke. I know we all do this sometimes, but I'm sure she did not think before EVERYTHING she said. For one, she said she thought Obama was the anti-Christ. Holy... wow. First of all, you should know your audience before you speak, because all she got was a bunch of hushed laughter. I felt embarrassed for her. Secondly... really?? You think someone is really the anit-Christ? I did not vote for McCain, but I certainly do not feel he is even close to the anti-Christ. This is why I do not like politics- humans are taken out of it and politicians become these super-human, anti-Christ, figures. And it turns people against each other. Now, I'm sure she's a sweet girl (and also Baptist), but after that comment I did not feel the need to get to know her. If she can go to that extreme about our President, then what else can she stretch to extremities?

Don't get me wrong, I do enjoy a good conversation about religion and politics, but only if you have an open mind and know how to convincingly argue your point. Saying someone is the anti-Christ is not a valid argument. And I also realize that she is a freshman and has a lot to learn about the world in the next three or so years. So, I wish her all the luck in the world.

Sunday, May 10, 2009

The First of Many

I've always wanted to be a "smart" blogger, and after a couple attempts, I think I'm going to try to stick to it. Not only will this be a spot for me to reflect on day-to-day life, but I also plan on reviewing books, music, and movies here. And, of course, the economy is in a major slump, so you'll be hearing about my struggles in the job market as a recent graduate with a master's in theatre history.
In the past, I've usually been in a bad mood when blogging, therefore all of my posts were very melancholy. I'm going to try to avoid that, but hey, sadness happens and this is a good outlet to release those feelings.

I'm moving to Goodyear, Arizona, in less than a week. I've called this blog "A Rolling Stone Gathers No Moss" not to be cliche, but because that's what I've been my entire life: a rolling stone. I've moved across country several times and those times were hard, but also rewarding. I'm sad to leave Texas, but at the same time I'm very antsy to move on. Texas has been, by far, the best place I've lived in. (Besides all the SUVs and ignorant rednecks...) I don't think I'll fit in anywhere like I do in Texas. It's so laid back here. And for the most part, people are generally nice. The food and beer are awesome, floating the river is the best, and "Don't Mess With Texas" pride is everywhere. I will truly miss Texas, but I am excited for what's ahead of me.

I think this should be it for my first post... I just got out of a lovely bath and I am still in my towel!
Goodnight, all!