Fleet Foxes
Wednesday, September 03, 2008 by malita
Yeah, I know two blogs in one day - in fact in one hour - I need to unplug... But just this minute I found my new music obsession and wanted to share...
Drill Baby Drill
by malita
What is going on? Watching the Rep National Convention within the first few minutes I heard "drill baby drill and drill now" - saw a fat old white lady chanting "drill baby drill" - and saw a guy dressed as Abraham Lincoln - i thought the democrats were the flamboyant ones ??? Republicans are giving them a run for their money.
But back to this slogan "Drill Baby Drill" - do they not hear themselves, are we in a 70's porn?
Wax on Wax off... Warning Girlie Post
Tuesday, September 02, 2008 by malita
AARP Here I Come
Friday, August 29, 2008 by malita
This is NOT the email you want to get a few weeks before your 30 something birthday!!!
A "opportunity" to get a power scooter??? God where is the cyanide?Labor Day in the Yoga Studio
Wednesday, August 27, 2008 by malita
This is why I love Austin - every year at Labor Day it's city wide free yoga day. Just about every year I go to some of the really cool studios and it's just fun... So if your a local and want to expand your horizons a bit or just take advantage of something free. Here ya go...Butt Dust
Tuesday, August 26, 2008 by malita
You may have gotten this in your inbox once upon a time - it's so cute... reminds me of when I was teaching 4 year olds Sunday school and the verse was "children obey your parents" we later played a fishing game - pastor's kid went home saying the verse I taught them was "children obey your fish" - there was no changing his mind!
ACK (age 3) was watching his Mom breast-feeding his new baby sister.
After a while he asked: 'Mom why have you got two? Is one for hot and one for cold milk?'
MELANIE (age 5) asked her Granny how old she was. Granny replied she was so old she didn't remember any more. Melanie said, 'If you don't remember you must look in the back of your panties. Mine say five to six.'
STEVEN (age 3) hugged and kissed his Mom good night. 'I love you so much that when you die I'm going to bury you outside my bedroom window.'
BRITTANY (age 4) had an earache and wanted a pain killer. She tried in vain to take the lid off the bottle. Seeing her frustration, her Mom explained it was a child-proof cap and she'd have to open it for her.
Eyes wide with wonder, the little girl asked: 'How does it know it's me?'
SUSAN (age 4) was drinking juice when she got the hiccups.. 'Please don't give me this juice again,' she said, 'It makes my teeth cough.'
DJ (age 4) stepped onto the bathroom scale and asked: 'How much do I cost?'
MARC (age 4) was engrossed in a young couple that were hugging and kissing in a restaurant. Without taking his eyes off them, he asked his dad: 'Why is he whispering in her mouth?'
CLINTON (age 5) was in his bedroom looking worried. When his Mom asked what was troubling him, he replied, 'I don't know what'll happen with this bed when I get married. How will my wife fit in?'
JAMES (age 4) was listening to a Bible story. His dad read: 'The man named Lot was warned to take his wife and flee out of the city but his wife looked back and was turned to salt.' Concerned, James asked:
'What happened to the flea?'
TAMMY (age 4) was with her mother when they met an elderly, rather wrinkled woman her Mom knew. Tammy looked at her for a while and then asked, 'Why doesn't your skin fit your face?'
The Sermon I think this Mom will never forget.... this particular Sunday sermon...'Dear Lord,' the minister began, with arms extended toward heaven and a rapturous look on his upturned face.. 'Without you, we are but dust...' He would have continued but at that moment my very obedient daughter who was listening leaned over to me and asked quite audibly in her shrill little four year old girl voice, 'Mom, what is butt dust?'
ACK (age 3) was watching his Mom breast-feeding his new baby sister.
After a while he asked: 'Mom why have you got two? Is one for hot and one for cold milk?'
MELANIE (age 5) asked her Granny how old she was. Granny replied she was so old she didn't remember any more. Melanie said, 'If you don't remember you must look in the back of your panties. Mine say five to six.'
STEVEN (age 3) hugged and kissed his Mom good night. 'I love you so much that when you die I'm going to bury you outside my bedroom window.'
BRITTANY (age 4) had an earache and wanted a pain killer. She tried in vain to take the lid off the bottle. Seeing her frustration, her Mom explained it was a child-proof cap and she'd have to open it for her.
Eyes wide with wonder, the little girl asked: 'How does it know it's me?'
SUSAN (age 4) was drinking juice when she got the hiccups.. 'Please don't give me this juice again,' she said, 'It makes my teeth cough.'
DJ (age 4) stepped onto the bathroom scale and asked: 'How much do I cost?'
MARC (age 4) was engrossed in a young couple that were hugging and kissing in a restaurant. Without taking his eyes off them, he asked his dad: 'Why is he whispering in her mouth?'
CLINTON (age 5) was in his bedroom looking worried. When his Mom asked what was troubling him, he replied, 'I don't know what'll happen with this bed when I get married. How will my wife fit in?'
JAMES (age 4) was listening to a Bible story. His dad read: 'The man named Lot was warned to take his wife and flee out of the city but his wife looked back and was turned to salt.' Concerned, James asked:
'What happened to the flea?'
TAMMY (age 4) was with her mother when they met an elderly, rather wrinkled woman her Mom knew. Tammy looked at her for a while and then asked, 'Why doesn't your skin fit your face?'
The Sermon I think this Mom will never forget.... this particular Sunday sermon...'Dear Lord,' the minister began, with arms extended toward heaven and a rapturous look on his upturned face.. 'Without you, we are but dust...' He would have continued but at that moment my very obedient daughter who was listening leaned over to me and asked quite audibly in her shrill little four year old girl voice, 'Mom, what is butt dust?'
I Believe I Can Fly...
Friday, August 15, 2008 by malita
On this sweet ride I'm flyin...Well maybe not flying persay but when you hit the curb in your brand new bike and you fly over the handlebars only escaping with a lovely scrape... well maybe I can fly, just need to work on my landing...
Good thing I packed a first aid kit on the bike... as many bike injuries as I've had, I had a feeling I'd need one...
Know Your Audience
Tuesday, August 12, 2008 by malita
I'm a Craig's List junkie - have been for many many years now - not only can you find great crap but great stories - I mean hello let us not forget this is where I found the Erotic Handyman!
Well now I'm bike shopping - amazing how much these people think their bikes are worth but anyway - today I ran across a company selling messenger bags - this was their tag line...
Bag retails for $99 plus shipping. It is in perfect condition. Brown with bright reflective striping. Size large. You can fit a 30 pack of beer in this.
Well they are advertising to people in South San Marcos - home of "Texas State"* known by many as a party school.
A 30 pack of beer??? That's some bag! And now you have to get home with this giant bag of beer strapped to your back - let's picture the accident that could cause - man found laying in a pool of beer, story at 10.
*For non Texas readers, Texas State formally Southwest Texas State, it's a bit tongue and cheek that they were trying to shed the party school image thus changing their name , it is now a party school with a better name.
Well now I'm bike shopping - amazing how much these people think their bikes are worth but anyway - today I ran across a company selling messenger bags - this was their tag line...
Bag retails for $99 plus shipping. It is in perfect condition. Brown with bright reflective striping. Size large. You can fit a 30 pack of beer in this.
Well they are advertising to people in South San Marcos - home of "Texas State"* known by many as a party school.
A 30 pack of beer??? That's some bag! And now you have to get home with this giant bag of beer strapped to your back - let's picture the accident that could cause - man found laying in a pool of beer, story at 10.
*For non Texas readers, Texas State formally Southwest Texas State, it's a bit tongue and cheek that they were trying to shed the party school image thus changing their name , it is now a party school with a better name.
Remember the South
Monday, August 11, 2008 by malita
There are a few things that are more honored than life in the south.... Iced Tea, the word y'all, the phrase fixin to and clinging to the Civil War....
This from my favorite blogger in the world who if we ever met would be my best friend for life (well she and Casey and I that is, because we would easily entertain each other for hours on end without even trying)....
A Conversation with Her Dad
(Read her blog)
This from my favorite blogger in the world who if we ever met would be my best friend for life (well she and Casey and I that is, because we would easily entertain each other for hours on end without even trying)....
A Conversation with Her Dad
(Read her blog)
Daddy: “It’s been great having you home this weekend.”
Lincee: “Thanks Daddy! I’ve had fun.”
Daddy: “When are you coming back?”
Lincee: “I don’t know. I’m not sure of my work schedule this fall.”
Daddy: “You should come back for Hallsville Western Days.”
Lincee allows herself to reminisce for a few minutes remembering past Western Days. She recalls the energy restored in the small town as its citizens gear up for the rival football game, reuniting with old friends at the street dance downtown, the parade that consists of old cars, the volunteer fire truck and about a million tiny twirlers from the local dance school.
Daddy: “There’s going to be a Civil War re-enactment in our front yard.”
Lincee: stunned silence
Note to reader: We live on 15 acres.
Daddy: “I’m serious. The North is going to be over there and the South is going to be down there. They are going to battle right here in front of the house.”
Lincee: “Naturally.”
Daddy: “We had to move the chili cook-off to the west side of the property.”
Lincee: “Well that makes sense.”
Daddy: “There’s going to be an old-fashioned dance in the driveway and your Mother is hosting a tea in the house. She wants to dress up like Scarlet O’Hara.”
Lincee: “And she should.”
I’m going to go ahead and let you guess where I will be on October 3. Western Days can not come fast enough!
Twilight Series
Tuesday, July 29, 2008 by malita
To clarify, Breaking Dawn is the fourth and sadly the final installment to the Twilight Series. I and half of the female nation are highly addicted.
Would I recommend? Absolutely - Stephenie Meyer is a master author in my opinion, she knows how to suck her readers in and leave us shamelessly begging for more. I have also recommended The Host - which is her first adult novel.
The Twilight Series is categorized as young adult...but as Meyer says "categories should never keep you from reading a good book." And I agree.
However, it is about vampires - but just like The Host which is about alien invasion...it is really more about the relationships between the characters. The vampire idea is really more of a prop, a setting. But if you can't get passed that then I guess I don't recommend.
Would I recommend? Absolutely - Stephenie Meyer is a master author in my opinion, she knows how to suck her readers in and leave us shamelessly begging for more. I have also recommended The Host - which is her first adult novel.The Twilight Series is categorized as young adult...but as Meyer says "categories should never keep you from reading a good book." And I agree.
However, it is about vampires - but just like The Host which is about alien invasion...it is really more about the relationships between the characters. The vampire idea is really more of a prop, a setting. But if you can't get passed that then I guess I don't recommend.
It's the final countdown....
Monday, July 28, 2008 by malita
And applause to those that saw this title and actually sang the song... And a standing ovation to those that pictured Job and his magic trick excuse me his illusions while this song played in the background... Now on to the business at hand.I am going to be a major looser this week - first of all Breaking Dawn hits the shelves midnight Friday - and guess who is accompanying Elissa and Nory to Borders for the midnight book release - dork one, dork two and dork three...
But we've promised each other if it's lame and a bunch of suburban mom's and their teenagers we'll hit the bar instead. Stay tuned, I'm sure we'll end up people watching for at least an hour - I'm already making predictions on what we will see... $5 we have those that come in full Bella/Edward costume!
SO 4 days till I will be cloistered in my room until I finish!
Feeling my age when...
Sunday, July 27, 2008 by malita
(yes two posts in one day - get crazy)Who can keep up with the kids these days ;-)
I have recently had to either risk embarrassment and just come out and ask someone or consult my trusty UrbanDictionary.com for these crazy abbreviations for IM and text..which I then adopt and use and abuse - admit tingly....
Apparently...
ROFL is not a horrible spelling for ralphing as in throwing up...
LMAO is not a misspelled version of lame o....
420 is not an area code
and most recently DILF has nothing to to with dying in laughter forever
P.s when talking to someone else - unless you are genuinely kidding it is NOT I repeat NOT ok to speak in text - OMG or LOL are not verbal replacements for the actual words and actions - I refuse to take you seriously and will make fun of you to your face, just know you brought it on yourself and deserve it... Also if you are typing and can't bring yourself to type "you" and instead type "u" take a good look and the mirror and repeat these words "I am officially amongst the laziest people on the earth, pretty soon I will find myself Ebaying for a respirator so I won't have to breath on my own."
Anyway - TTYL...
Things that make you go hmmm...
by malita
Remember that song?
So driving to Central Market today I spy a guy - ooo great name for a game - anyway... I spy a guy, can't be more than 25, in a Toyota 4Runner (all things cool so far) jamming out to Cindi Lauper's "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun" (incidentally what we were jamming out to - on the radio) ...smoking... wait for it, no not a cigarette, not even a left handed cigarette (joint for you conservative cats ;-> ) smoking a PIPE!!!
A pipe - is that cool with the 20 somethings now???
It made us laugh - and then we quite literally went hmmm...
So driving to Central Market today I spy a guy - ooo great name for a game - anyway... I spy a guy, can't be more than 25, in a Toyota 4Runner (all things cool so far) jamming out to Cindi Lauper's "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun" (incidentally what we were jamming out to - on the radio) ...smoking... wait for it, no not a cigarette, not even a left handed cigarette (joint for you conservative cats ;-> ) smoking a PIPE!!!
A pipe - is that cool with the 20 somethings now???
It made us laugh - and then we quite literally went hmmm...
My Summer Treat
Tuesday, July 22, 2008 by malita
My skin is burning...My face is melting...My big hair is standing on end...Therefore I deserve this treat!! Plus it only has 2grams of fat - score!!!
Surely God was smiling on the creators of Haagen Dazs when they created this treat. Throw a biscotti wafer underneath and mmm mmm good!!
So far I love coffee (of course), dulce de leche, and raspberry vanilla swirl...warning though I forgot how much the coffee treats keep me up - I was up till almost 4am as a result - ooops!
Surely God was smiling on the creators of Haagen Dazs when they created this treat. Throw a biscotti wafer underneath and mmm mmm good!!
So far I love coffee (of course), dulce de leche, and raspberry vanilla swirl...warning though I forgot how much the coffee treats keep me up - I was up till almost 4am as a result - ooops!
Prince Charming
Sunday, July 20, 2008 by malita
Pretty sure this guy calls and IM's me as well, gotta love the single life, it is amusing!
Not Just For the Elderly Anymore...
Monday, July 14, 2008 by malita
So in order to keep my joints from going snap, crackle, pop because of spin etc. I have decided to go to hydro training class each week a.k.a water aerobics...I went to the "hard one" to avoid the elderly club.Remember when you were a kid and you could stay in the pool for hours and you and your friends just did stupid stuff to keep you entertained like...
-clapping under water
-holding hands in a circle and running as fast as you could
-pulling each other around the pool with floaties (or noodles these days)
-doing jumping jacks in the water
-seeing how high you could jump
-seeing how fast you could jump or run
You get the picture - well that's basically what today's class entailed (instructor said it was an easy day) - Shawna and I felt like we were 10 years old again. My abs got a great workout because we laughed so hard. It was especially fun to entertain the on lookers from the club, it was like they were mesmerized by our goofiness. Because let's be honest, a group of adults seeing how fast they can clap under water with webbed gloves on is entertainment. Especially when everyone is smiling from ear to ear because we are laughing at ourselves. We looked like we were going to be taking "the short bus" home.
And to those hotties in the steam room, you know the guys with the perfect 6 packs that were staring and smiling at us the whole time, possibly even laughing... you know you want this - you want to be 10 again and look ridiculous, you may even really want the webbed water gloves!
Only downside of the evening was I was in danger of loosing my bottoms the entire time - so we'll need to rethink that situation for next week.
Wanted...A Better Movie Please...
Saturday, July 12, 2008 by malita
Seriously - No wonder I rarely go to the movies anymore, they suck. I was in the mood to actually go to the movies, honestly I don't even really know what is out other than Get Smart and Hancock. So Shawna threw a few out and I said whatever....So we went for Wanted, she told me what it was about, who was in it...sounded pretty good to me. And thus mistake #1, I didn't look it up for myself.
Good God, help Hollywood!!! If you are a special effects junkie then this is a winner, if you aren't and want a decent storyline...well, next!
The assassins work in a textile factory and fate sends messages of whom they are to kill through a woven loom - I mean who the hell comes up with this crap??
And is it now a requirement that Morgan Freeman be in every single blockbuster movie?? I mean did he buy Hollywood or what?!
Oh and remember that major fear of rats, well rats, blood and gore were the featured performers in this little disaster....
Please oh please wash it from my brain!!!
My Plea for Dual Citizenship
Wednesday, July 02, 2008 by malita
This summer I have been absolutely MISERABLE!! I hate hate hate Texas summers with a vengeance, and the fact that it is hot till October really pisses me off!! But today only reached 86 degrees, can you believe it!!! I'm not even that tan this summer because I can't handle the heat! But today I had to take advantage of the weather, so I chucked the spin shoes in favor for the tennis shoes and hit the trail. Wow it was great, I really miss being outside and on the trails...sigh.My fantasy every summer is to pick up and move to Canada - and I am very serious here, if I could find a way to make it happen I would. Though I love winter I am not sure if I could handle their winters. I have always been attracted to eastern Canada because of the French Canadian culture and the Northern Woods, however as my friend from Ottawa informed me last night their winters average at NEGATIVE 40 degrees. I don't even know what that is, I have no concept of what negative 40 would feel like! He then informs me maybe I should live in western Canada because their winters only get to neg zero or neg 10 degrees, ummm excuse me!? Yeah thats a heat wave friend!!
So plan A still in effect, Texas January - May...Canada June - December!!! It's on...
You spin me right round baby round round...
Friday, June 27, 2008 by malita
So I've decided after a TWO year hiatus to get back into spin. It's a frightening thought because as anyone who's taken it will tell you it's an intense class and the instructors are usually certifiable insane.
So after much prayer, chanting and delay I finally got back into the saddle so to speak... One word "ouch".
You know you are out of shape when the last 10 minutes of class you are planning your throw up strategy. If I throw up in my towel will anyone notice, will I be able to finish the class and then sneak it out? Luckily I made it, without hurling. It was close though.
It will get better and I know this - it's so fun I can't believe I stopped doing it! It's also addicting.
I also have a tip for you - if you are going to take a core strengthening class it's definitely worth taking friends along - nothing makes you look more ridiculous than trying to get on a giant ball on your knees. I told my friends we looked like circus bears in training and if I get up I want a treat. Half of the class was spent laughing our asses off at each other, we even got in trouble by the instructor. That's worth the effort right there!!
The Erotic Handyman?
Sunday, June 22, 2008 by malita
So I was "shopping" Craig's List today trying to find someone that will come clean out my rat infested storage shed!! And I found this guy - I am still grinning...
I can perform basic handyman services around your house, ranging from installing ceiling fans, new shower heads, energy saving devices to cut on bills, carpet, refinish wood, basic electrical items, etc. At your request, I can do these services in the nude or semi-nude. Email to discuss. Very low and reasonable costs. I am in great shape, 12% body fat, proportionate, handsome. Please email me.
Mom, guess who I'm bringing home for Christmas!
I can perform basic handyman services around your house, ranging from installing ceiling fans, new shower heads, energy saving devices to cut on bills, carpet, refinish wood, basic electrical items, etc. At your request, I can do these services in the nude or semi-nude. Email to discuss. Very low and reasonable costs. I am in great shape, 12% body fat, proportionate, handsome. Please email me.
Mom, guess who I'm bringing home for Christmas!
Dear Blockbuster...
by malita
Can I have my money back?
Please, I swear I couldn't bear to watch half of this dreadful movie and thus feel we can easily work something out here - maybe a discount on the next rental, what do you say?
Fun Finds - Locally Speaking
Friday, June 20, 2008 by malita
I am a huge proponent of frequenting local spots - even when I lived in Midland and Bryan/College Station I'd far more prefer to visit a local restaurant, boutique etc than going to the nearest chain establishment.
Local places have so much more character and flavor, you tend to make better connections and have friendlier experiences than the chain places that rotate a new high school employee every week. Plus the local flavor is usually about the owner and their tastes and experiences rather than literally a cut out model that is being peddled all over the nation.
Anyway - it can be hit or miss - but this month I have had hit after hit of new finds - well new to me - so if you live in Austin or you are here visiting here are some great spots for you.
1. The Blue Dahlia - east Austin eatery (East 11th St)- everything is fresh and served on a cutting board over a bed of field greens with veges and fruits - it's spectacular!!! I highly recommend the chicken salad sandwich, the brie with preserves and walnuts and the hummus with avacado and tomato. Also the mint lemonade and bread pudding is mmm mmmlicious!
3. The CB Cafe - corner of 38th and West - close to Lamar - right by the Heart Hospital. CB stands for Compassionate Beans - it's all fair trade but the owner also makes great panini's and bagel sandwiches. Breakfast and lunch only - but he also has great smoothies. He's a runner and soccer player so his foods are pretty healthy but oh so yummy - my favorite is the turkey goat cheese and olive panini.
4. Sweetish Hill Bakery - 5th St this has been a favorite for a long time - but right now they have hill country peach tarts - oh so good.
5. Blue Lotus Skin Care - Bull Creek, I admit this is a 4 minute walk from my house and that's why I went but it was a great experience and was worth the bucks for a great facial - plus they live in my neighborhood - how much more local support can I give than going to a neighbors business. Oh and she does waxing at a very reasonable rate.
6. Bombshell Beauty -East 53rd St, speaking of waxing - Kerra is a riot and does a great job for quite a bit less than most - sorry guys most women do it, if it weirds you out just pretend I'm talking about eyebrows here. (she doesn't have a website and it used to be called The Strip Wax Studio - but this website will give you some reviews on Miss Kerra, everyone loves her! Email or leave a comment and I'll send you her #)
7. Teo's Gelato - since I gave one neighbor the shout out I should give the other right - if you like gelato visit here!
8. Sunset Valley Farmer's Market - produce to bread, jewelry to sweets, baby clothes to Agave Syrup (I'm addicted to agave syrup by the way, it's amazing!!!) This market is pretty big and so fun, and unlike most markets it stays active till about 1pm. Check out their vendors.
Best places to live - we're number 6!
by malita
Check out the cost of living index for Sacramento - YIKES!!!
Best Cities to Live, Work and Play
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
These ten great places will only get better.
Our approach this year to picking the ten best cities in which to live and work was simple: Look for places with strong economies and abundant jobs, then demand reasonable living costs and plenty of fun things to do. When we ran the numbers, some of the names that popped up made us do a double take at first. So we hit the road to meet movers, shakers and regular folks, experience the ambience and take in the sights.
We discovered that our numbers guru, Kevin Stolarick, hadn't steered us wrong. Stolarick, research director at the Martin Prosperity Institute, a think tank that studies economic prosperity, says: "Our formula highlights cities not just with strong past performance, but also with all the ingredients for future success." One key to a bright future is a healthy shot of people in the creative class. People in creative fields -- scientists, engineers, architects, educators, writers, artists and entertainers -- are catalysts of vitality and livability in a city.
The cities that made our list also represent larger surrounding areas. And because we understand that city living isn't for everyone, we've highlighted some great suburbs, too.
Pack a bag and join us on a tour of the Best Cities for 2008 and prepare for some surprises.
More Information from Kiplinger.com click here...http://which city is best for you
Best Cities Walking tour Video click here...http://Best Cities Walking tour Video
Top Ten Best Cities at a Glance click here...http://Top ten cities at a glance
1. Houston
Population: 5,542,048
Population Growth Since 2000: 14.9%
Percentage of Workforce in Creative Class: 31.3%
Cost-of-Living Index: 88.1 (100 being national average)
Median Household Income: $50,250
Income Growth Since 2000: 13.1%
2. Raleigh
Population: 995,662
Population Growth Since 2000: 19.9%
Percentage of Workforce in Creative Class: 36.1%
Cost-of-Living Index: 99 (100 being national average)
Median Household Income: $56,150
Income Growth Since 2000: 10.3%
3. Omaha
Population: 821,356
Population Growth Since 2000: 6.6%
Percentage of Workforce in Creative Class: 30%
Cost-of-Living Index: 89.4 (100 being national average)
Median Household Income: $51,627
Income Growth Since 2000: 15.1%
4. Boise
Population: 568,086
Population Growth Since 2000: 18.2%
Percentage of Workforce in Creative Class: 33.2%
Cost-of-Living Index: 95.5 (100 being national average)
Median Household Income: $49,833
Income Growth Since 2000: 16.6%
5. Colorado Springs
Population: 600,444
Population Growth Since 2000: 10.5%
Percentage of Workforce in Creative Class: 34.1%
Cost-of-Living Index: 95.3 (100 being national average)
Median Household Income Since 2000: 53,486
Income Growth Since 2000: 16.1%
6. Austin
Population: 1,506,425
Population Growth Since 2000: 17%
Percentage of Workforce in Creative Class: 36.5%
Cost-of-Living Index: 92.8 (100 being national average)
Median Household Income: $52,882
Income Growth Since 2000: 12.2%
7. Fayetteville
Population: 419,455
Population Growth Since 2000: 17.3%
Percentage of Workforce in Creative Class: 31.4%
Cost-of-Living Index: 90.4 (100 being national average)
Median Household Income: $42,267
Income Growth Since 2000: 17.6%
8. Sacramento
Population: 2,067,117
Population Growth Since 2000: 13.1%
Percentage of Workforce in Creative Class: 34%
Cost-of-Living Index: 121.7 (100 being national average)
Median Household Income: $56,953
Income Growth Since 2000: 19.1%
9. Des Moines
Population: 532,425
Population Growth Since 2000: 9.6%
Percentage of Workforce in Creative Class: 32.1%
Cost-of-Living Index: 90.6 (100 being national average)
Median Household Income: $53,384
Income Growth Since 2000: 16.3%
10. Provo
Population: 474,351
Population Growth Since 2000: 20.6%
Percentage of Workforce in Creative Class: 32%
Cost-of-Living Index: 97.7 (100 being national average)
Median Household Income: $50,583
Income Growth Since 2000: 12.2%
Best Cities to Live, Work and Play
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
These ten great places will only get better.
Our approach this year to picking the ten best cities in which to live and work was simple: Look for places with strong economies and abundant jobs, then demand reasonable living costs and plenty of fun things to do. When we ran the numbers, some of the names that popped up made us do a double take at first. So we hit the road to meet movers, shakers and regular folks, experience the ambience and take in the sights.
We discovered that our numbers guru, Kevin Stolarick, hadn't steered us wrong. Stolarick, research director at the Martin Prosperity Institute, a think tank that studies economic prosperity, says: "Our formula highlights cities not just with strong past performance, but also with all the ingredients for future success." One key to a bright future is a healthy shot of people in the creative class. People in creative fields -- scientists, engineers, architects, educators, writers, artists and entertainers -- are catalysts of vitality and livability in a city.
The cities that made our list also represent larger surrounding areas. And because we understand that city living isn't for everyone, we've highlighted some great suburbs, too.
Pack a bag and join us on a tour of the Best Cities for 2008 and prepare for some surprises.
More Information from Kiplinger.com click here...http://which city is best for you
Best Cities Walking tour Video click here...http://Best Cities Walking tour Video
Top Ten Best Cities at a Glance click here...http://Top ten cities at a glance
1. Houston
Population: 5,542,048
Population Growth Since 2000: 14.9%
Percentage of Workforce in Creative Class: 31.3%
Cost-of-Living Index: 88.1 (100 being national average)
Median Household Income: $50,250
Income Growth Since 2000: 13.1%
2. Raleigh
Population: 995,662
Population Growth Since 2000: 19.9%
Percentage of Workforce in Creative Class: 36.1%
Cost-of-Living Index: 99 (100 being national average)
Median Household Income: $56,150
Income Growth Since 2000: 10.3%
3. Omaha
Population: 821,356
Population Growth Since 2000: 6.6%
Percentage of Workforce in Creative Class: 30%
Cost-of-Living Index: 89.4 (100 being national average)
Median Household Income: $51,627
Income Growth Since 2000: 15.1%
4. Boise
Population: 568,086
Population Growth Since 2000: 18.2%
Percentage of Workforce in Creative Class: 33.2%
Cost-of-Living Index: 95.5 (100 being national average)
Median Household Income: $49,833
Income Growth Since 2000: 16.6%
5. Colorado Springs
Population: 600,444
Population Growth Since 2000: 10.5%
Percentage of Workforce in Creative Class: 34.1%
Cost-of-Living Index: 95.3 (100 being national average)
Median Household Income Since 2000: 53,486
Income Growth Since 2000: 16.1%
6. Austin
Population: 1,506,425
Population Growth Since 2000: 17%
Percentage of Workforce in Creative Class: 36.5%
Cost-of-Living Index: 92.8 (100 being national average)
Median Household Income: $52,882
Income Growth Since 2000: 12.2%
7. Fayetteville
Population: 419,455
Population Growth Since 2000: 17.3%
Percentage of Workforce in Creative Class: 31.4%
Cost-of-Living Index: 90.4 (100 being national average)
Median Household Income: $42,267
Income Growth Since 2000: 17.6%
8. Sacramento
Population: 2,067,117
Population Growth Since 2000: 13.1%
Percentage of Workforce in Creative Class: 34%
Cost-of-Living Index: 121.7 (100 being national average)
Median Household Income: $56,953
Income Growth Since 2000: 19.1%
9. Des Moines
Population: 532,425
Population Growth Since 2000: 9.6%
Percentage of Workforce in Creative Class: 32.1%
Cost-of-Living Index: 90.6 (100 being national average)
Median Household Income: $53,384
Income Growth Since 2000: 16.3%
10. Provo
Population: 474,351
Population Growth Since 2000: 20.6%
Percentage of Workforce in Creative Class: 32%
Cost-of-Living Index: 97.7 (100 being national average)
Median Household Income: $50,583
Income Growth Since 2000: 12.2%
So far so... (Updated June 19)
Monday, June 16, 2008 by malita
So, the summer reading list so far, some of been good, some great, some not so great...
The Great
I ended up devouring Stephenie Meyer's Twilight series and now have to wait till stinkin August 2nd to get the 4th and last of the series!!! I picked up the first with much trepidation thinking if I liked it I'd get the other two - I was about 2 chapters in before I high tailed it to Borders to buy the rest! (Twilight, New Moon, Eclipse and Breaking Dawn comes out Aug 2)
Leif Enger's Peace Like a River - this book is amazing, the writing is so poignant and I connected with the characters within the first chapter! I can't wait to read another one of his books.
Thomas H. Cook's Places in the Dark - not so much a who done it but how did it happen type of murder mystery. The mystery unfolds to the reader as well as the characters involved so you feel like you are apart of the mystery rather than watching it from a distance.
The Good
Water for Elephants, Sara Gruen - Peta lovers do not read, a bit dark in places but overall a very good book with a great story (this I would put between great and good)
Secret of Lost Things, Sheridan Hay - characters ranging from the odd to pathetic, of course that makes for an interesting story
The People's Act of Love, James Meek - challenging but really a good story, could possibly be classified as historical fiction...great learning tool.
The Not So Good
The Year of the Fog, Michelle Richmond - I will never read another child kidnapping story again, it's just too much!!
And New to the List
1. The Other by David Guterson
2. Unaccustomed Earth by Jhumpa Lahiri
Original list and recommendations
The Great
I ended up devouring Stephenie Meyer's Twilight series and now have to wait till stinkin August 2nd to get the 4th and last of the series!!! I picked up the first with much trepidation thinking if I liked it I'd get the other two - I was about 2 chapters in before I high tailed it to Borders to buy the rest! (Twilight, New Moon, Eclipse and Breaking Dawn comes out Aug 2)
Leif Enger's Peace Like a River - this book is amazing, the writing is so poignant and I connected with the characters within the first chapter! I can't wait to read another one of his books.
Thomas H. Cook's Places in the Dark - not so much a who done it but how did it happen type of murder mystery. The mystery unfolds to the reader as well as the characters involved so you feel like you are apart of the mystery rather than watching it from a distance.
The Good
Water for Elephants, Sara Gruen - Peta lovers do not read, a bit dark in places but overall a very good book with a great story (this I would put between great and good)
Secret of Lost Things, Sheridan Hay - characters ranging from the odd to pathetic, of course that makes for an interesting story
The People's Act of Love, James Meek - challenging but really a good story, could possibly be classified as historical fiction...great learning tool.
The Not So Good
The Year of the Fog, Michelle Richmond - I will never read another child kidnapping story again, it's just too much!!
And New to the List
1. The Other by David Guterson
2. Unaccustomed Earth by Jhumpa Lahiri
Original list and recommendations
SNAKE!!!
Sunday, June 08, 2008 by malita
(Click on the picture, it's even better)I was minding my own business, watering the plants on the porch (thanks Stephanie for the plants their lovely!) and next thing I know something is slipping his little head out of my watering can parallel to my arm! YEP!!! That's right, living in my watering can on my front porch a snake. And mind you I carried this can around a bit, watered a few plants and THEN he made his debut! Right by my arm.
Well needless to say I stood in the yard screaming snake, don't open the front door open the garage there is a snake. Yeah, blocking the front door now, thank God for the garage otherwise I was going to have to take a dive through a window!
An urban wild kingdom, 7 miles from downtown!
Summer Reading List
Tuesday, May 27, 2008 by malita
Ok here are some recommendations for those needing some great beach reads and what not. Items marked with an * are actually on my list to read but have come so highly recommended by so many people I feel safe putting it on the list. Also, you'll notice these are all contemporary books, classics are a whole other story I could list those for days - and honestly there are a lot more recommendations than this list but it would be a bit overwhelming, so these are the more recent discoveries.
1. Time Traveler's Wife, Audrey Niffeneger (amazing book I literally finished and flipped to page one to read it again immediately)
2. The Host, Stephenie Meyer (see comments on previous post)
3. Love Walked In, Marisa de los Santos
4. Belong to Me, Marisa de los Santos (not really a sequel to Love Walked In, but the same characters and I think is more fun to read after you read Love Walked In)
5. The Memory Keeper's Daughter, Kim Edwards
6. The Turquoise Mask, Phyllis K Whitney
7. Same Kind of Different as Me*, Ron Hall etc.
8. Water for Elephants *, Sara Gruen
9. The Osterman Weekend, Robert Ludlam (author of Bourne Identity etc)
10. The Book Thief *, Markus Zusak
11. Sundays at Tiffany's, James Patterson (I read this in one day, easy read, perfect for the plane or a day at the beach)
My personal reading list for the summer (not recommendations, this is my list if you are interested in picking up some extra books)
1. The People's Act of Love, James Meek (currently reading)
2. Water for Elephants, Sara Gruen
3. Same Kind of Different as Me, Ron Hall etc.
4. Twilight, Stephenie Meyer (and if I like that one I'll read the series, #'s5-7. It's Young Adult so surely it will be a fast read)
5. Eclipse, Stephenie Meyer
6. New Moon, Stephenie Meyer
7. Breaking Dawn, Stephenie Meyer
8. Cat's Cradle, Kurt Vonnegut
9. Man in the High Castle, Phillip K Dick
10. The Year of the Fog, Michelle Richmond
11. The Book Thief, Markus Zusak
12. Sheer Abandon, Penny Vincenzi
13. It's Only Temporary: the Good News & Bad News of Being Alive, Evan Handler (Harry from Sex in the City)
14. Death in Venice, Thomas Mann
15. The Secret of Lost Things, Sheridan Hay
16. The Stolen Child, Keith Donohue
17. Silas Marner, George Eliot
18. Peace Like a River, Lief Enger
19. Ivanhoe, Sir Walter Scott
20. Places in the Dark, Thomas H. Cook
PS if you have a Border's Bookstore take advantage of the FREE membership and get 40% off most new books - and they have a table for buy one get next half price - then when you check out you get 20% off next purchase. Barnes N Noble makes you pay for their membership and sadly shipping costs can really add up at Amazon!
1. Time Traveler's Wife, Audrey Niffeneger (amazing book I literally finished and flipped to page one to read it again immediately)
2. The Host, Stephenie Meyer (see comments on previous post)
3. Love Walked In, Marisa de los Santos
4. Belong to Me, Marisa de los Santos (not really a sequel to Love Walked In, but the same characters and I think is more fun to read after you read Love Walked In)
5. The Memory Keeper's Daughter, Kim Edwards
6. The Turquoise Mask, Phyllis K Whitney
7. Same Kind of Different as Me*, Ron Hall etc.
8. Water for Elephants *, Sara Gruen
9. The Osterman Weekend, Robert Ludlam (author of Bourne Identity etc)
10. The Book Thief *, Markus Zusak
11. Sundays at Tiffany's, James Patterson (I read this in one day, easy read, perfect for the plane or a day at the beach)
My personal reading list for the summer (not recommendations, this is my list if you are interested in picking up some extra books)
1. The People's Act of Love, James Meek (currently reading)
2. Water for Elephants, Sara Gruen
3. Same Kind of Different as Me, Ron Hall etc.
4. Twilight, Stephenie Meyer (and if I like that one I'll read the series, #'s5-7. It's Young Adult so surely it will be a fast read)
5. Eclipse, Stephenie Meyer
6. New Moon, Stephenie Meyer
7. Breaking Dawn, Stephenie Meyer
8. Cat's Cradle, Kurt Vonnegut
9. Man in the High Castle, Phillip K Dick
10. The Year of the Fog, Michelle Richmond
11. The Book Thief, Markus Zusak
12. Sheer Abandon, Penny Vincenzi
13. It's Only Temporary: the Good News & Bad News of Being Alive, Evan Handler (Harry from Sex in the City)
14. Death in Venice, Thomas Mann
15. The Secret of Lost Things, Sheridan Hay
16. The Stolen Child, Keith Donohue
17. Silas Marner, George Eliot
18. Peace Like a River, Lief Enger
19. Ivanhoe, Sir Walter Scott
20. Places in the Dark, Thomas H. Cook
PS if you have a Border's Bookstore take advantage of the FREE membership and get 40% off most new books - and they have a table for buy one get next half price - then when you check out you get 20% off next purchase. Barnes N Noble makes you pay for their membership and sadly shipping costs can really add up at Amazon!
The Host
Sunday, May 25, 2008 by malita
This book is incredible, I was devastated when it was over, I could read it again in a heartbeat.Disclaimer - it IS science fiction - but as the author's website states, it's science fiction for those that don't like science fiction. In other words, you can get past the sci fi pretty easily because really it focuses more on the relationships in the book more than anything else.
Some people have asked me for a summer reading list - I guess just recommendations. I'll get to that soon, I'm on my way to the bookstore now to pick up a new one because sadly I finished The Host last night.
Read the summary here.
Squirrelly Behavior
Sunday, May 18, 2008 by malita
Maybe someone can help me here - Is it squirrel Mating season or what is going on? These rodents are driving me nuts - as I type this it literally sounds like dogs are running on my roof - and I can actually see them leap to the trees then chase each other around the trees all the while their making this weird barking noise.
I was sitting in the front yard reading the other day and one BARKED at me, he won, I took my business indoors! I didn't know what that thing was going to do, and let me tell you from personal experience you DO NOT want a squirrel to attack you - one stuck in your hair is no laughing matter (that's a story for a different day)
So at this point they are mobbed (about 8 or 9 of them)in my front yard, they have me trapped in the house, I went outside to my car and their was like 5 or 6 under my car all trying to get at each other, two ran towards me - I just went outside again to read and their all up by my porch - they froze and looked at me as if to "uh uh it's our yard today, it's mating time". I gave up - I can read indoors!
I was sitting in the front yard reading the other day and one BARKED at me, he won, I took my business indoors! I didn't know what that thing was going to do, and let me tell you from personal experience you DO NOT want a squirrel to attack you - one stuck in your hair is no laughing matter (that's a story for a different day)
So at this point they are mobbed (about 8 or 9 of them)in my front yard, they have me trapped in the house, I went outside to my car and their was like 5 or 6 under my car all trying to get at each other, two ran towards me - I just went outside again to read and their all up by my porch - they froze and looked at me as if to "uh uh it's our yard today, it's mating time". I gave up - I can read indoors!
The Katy Cake Lady
Tuesday, April 29, 2008 by malita
I am so proud of my friend Alli - she is now the "Katy Cake Lady" - Her custom cakes are amazingly beautiful.... So if you are in the Houston area and need a cake - check her out! (she might do it for the BCS area as well)
Double Header
Tuesday, April 22, 2008 by malita
The Movie + The Soundtrack = Singing in the Shower for Days!
It's not often that I fall in love with a movie and the soundtrack all at once, in fact I downloaded the soundtrack before the movie was even over. Now if you are under the delusion the Beatles wrote happy little ballads without the use of some heavy drug induced hallucinations then not only have you never seen Yellow Submarine or many of the other acid tripping videos but I doubt you'll like this film. But if you truly love The Beatles, movies that go outside the box a bit, Bono & Jo Cocker all in one film then it's a must!
Think Pink Floyd's "The Wall" - a movie written around the music/lyrics and you got it.
Think Pink Floyd's "The Wall" - a movie written around the music/lyrics and you got it.
Yikes!
Thursday, April 17, 2008 by malita
This is not what you want circling your head when you are trying to enjoy a beautiful afternoon!!
For two days as I sat in my front yard reading while this thing circled my head, it finally landed and put on quite a show as you can see.
I think it just wanted his picture taken, he hasn't been back since.
Cell Phones & Grocery Stores Don't Mix
Tuesday, April 15, 2008 by malita
What are you thinking - are you in the middle of selling a Fortune 500 company here and unless you complete this call in the middle of a busy public place the deal's going to fall apart???? No your chatting it up with Kim about what's going on with Amy - and you sir just have to get this phone call in with Rick right now, even though this apparently means that you can no longer move forward b/c we all know you can't chew gum and walk much less grocery shop and talk on a phone at the same time.
And now you're blocking the aisle and you maam are holding up the entire line as your children try to escape the cart but you can't figure out how to make the debit card machine work in your favor while staying on the phone with Kim. Lord no, let's not put Kim on hold while the rest of us live through this torture, because that would be unthinkable.
Like I said, cell phones and grocery stores don't mix. And yes I just got back from the grocery store ;->
And now you're blocking the aisle and you maam are holding up the entire line as your children try to escape the cart but you can't figure out how to make the debit card machine work in your favor while staying on the phone with Kim. Lord no, let's not put Kim on hold while the rest of us live through this torture, because that would be unthinkable.
Like I said, cell phones and grocery stores don't mix. And yes I just got back from the grocery store ;->
Mass Transit Gone to Hell
Monday, April 14, 2008 by malita
One of many reasons why I have no desire to visit most Asian countries.
Mall Culture
Sunday, April 06, 2008 by malita
As I have stated before, I hate malls, particularly depressing are the mall rats. Droves of people that wander up and down the mall, just wandering. Not really shopping, not really doing anything - just wandering.
Every mall has it's culture - weather it's the teenage clique, the soccer mom and kids, or the ladies lunch and shopping club.
Saturday Casey and I decided to do a little shopping after lunch - specifically a brave venture to a shop called Forever 21. Brave for two reasons. One it is located at Highland aka "Ghetto" Mall, and two it is known for it's trendy yet very cheap clothing at the expense of quality.
Basically Casey and I stood out like sore thumbs. It was obvious we did not fit in. Apparently we were missing the following criteria.
1. Four inch high hills
2. Shorts or skirts where our buts were hanging out.
3. Bra's as tops or tops that could have been bra's, either way.
4. 5 lbs of makeup
5. VERY large jewelry
6. A cell phone attached to our ear at all times
7. Our bellys showing - rolls or no rolls it apparently didn't matter
8. Most importantly, there were only two of us. We really needed about 6 more girls with us to make our pack.
Conversation overheard inside the dressing room.
Girl A "I look like a Mexican"
Girl B "You are a Mexican"
Girl A "I mean I look like a senorita"
Girl B "You are a senorita"
I'm sure there was much more interesting conversations after that.
Every mall has it's culture - weather it's the teenage clique, the soccer mom and kids, or the ladies lunch and shopping club.
Saturday Casey and I decided to do a little shopping after lunch - specifically a brave venture to a shop called Forever 21. Brave for two reasons. One it is located at Highland aka "Ghetto" Mall, and two it is known for it's trendy yet very cheap clothing at the expense of quality.
Basically Casey and I stood out like sore thumbs. It was obvious we did not fit in. Apparently we were missing the following criteria.
1. Four inch high hills
2. Shorts or skirts where our buts were hanging out.
3. Bra's as tops or tops that could have been bra's, either way.
4. 5 lbs of makeup
5. VERY large jewelry
6. A cell phone attached to our ear at all times
7. Our bellys showing - rolls or no rolls it apparently didn't matter
8. Most importantly, there were only two of us. We really needed about 6 more girls with us to make our pack.
Conversation overheard inside the dressing room.
Girl A "I look like a Mexican"
Girl B "You are a Mexican"
Girl A "I mean I look like a senorita"
Girl B "You are a senorita"
I'm sure there was much more interesting conversations after that.
Finally I Tunes US is on Board
Thursday, April 03, 2008 by malita
Finally - ITunes US has Adele's full album for purchase - I have been waiting a month now for this - ITunes UK had it but apparently American's are not allowed to purchase from the UK sight - guess ITunes doesn't believe in world wide commerce.
Anyway - check out the album it is GREAT!! Pay particular attention to "Hometown Glory" and her version of "Make you feel my love"
April Fools
Tuesday, April 01, 2008 by malita
Basically I depend on a few institutions to regularly feed me- Central Market, ZuZu's and The Soup Peddler.
The Soup Peddler is awesome - you go online place your order, pay, leave a cooler on your porch and viola food delivered to you - various soups, casseroles, quiche, dessert and various other dishes.
So imagine my surprise when I get this disgusting menu today! (I'll give the highlights) PS they totally had me going for a bit - and luckily if you try to order a jester pops up with the April Fools message - b/c if you want any of this you would be a fool!
Buttered Toast - A bit of do-it-yourself culinary from the Soup Peddler brain trust. We think that Soupies should take an active role in cooking their dinners... we deliver fresh, already sliced white bread and pats of good old-fashioned pre-portioned butter and all you have to do is toast it and butter it up, et voila. Breakfast is served! Fat-free, gluten-free
Ambergris Bisque (Feeds 2-4)... $1,200
A Soup Peddler first... our entry into the Guinness Book for most expensive bowl of soup, eclipsing the record by over $200. One of the rarest, most incredible ingredients known to man is ambergris, or whale snot. Primarily used as a scent for cosmetics and perfumes, we use it to flavor this delicate and delicious bisque...
Primordial Soup (Feeds 2-4)... $11
Fresh from the bacterial pools of prebiotic Earth, we whip together the essential ingredients in the recipe for life... a carefully heated mixture of pantoyl lactone, beta-alanine, and the surprisingly delicious cysteamine yields us... anyone? anyone? Right! It yields pantetheine. Nothing like a little abiotic synthesis of biomolecules to round out your weeknight dinner... Enjoy!
Cat-Chatore (Feeds 2-4)... $13
Ever wonder how certain foods get their names? Sometimes the derivation comes from the most obvious source... you simply cannot imagine what sorts of deals you can get on protein down at the pound these days! We pass the savings on to you...
Pig Heads (Feeds 2-4)... $11
Everyone has leftovers, even butcher shops... however we believe in the waste not/want not ethic that is so integral to the soupmaking spirit. Admittedly, we're serving this New Year's tradition at the wrong time of year but what rational person can limit themselves to pigs heads just once a year?
Rhesus Feces (Feeds 2-4)... $11
And for dessert, an excellent culinary treatment of the original inspiration for the classic Reese's product... do not miss this! Surprisingly delicious...
The Soup Peddler is awesome - you go online place your order, pay, leave a cooler on your porch and viola food delivered to you - various soups, casseroles, quiche, dessert and various other dishes.
So imagine my surprise when I get this disgusting menu today! (I'll give the highlights) PS they totally had me going for a bit - and luckily if you try to order a jester pops up with the April Fools message - b/c if you want any of this you would be a fool!
Buttered Toast - A bit of do-it-yourself culinary from the Soup Peddler brain trust. We think that Soupies should take an active role in cooking their dinners... we deliver fresh, already sliced white bread and pats of good old-fashioned pre-portioned butter and all you have to do is toast it and butter it up, et voila. Breakfast is served! Fat-free, gluten-free
Ambergris Bisque (Feeds 2-4)... $1,200
A Soup Peddler first... our entry into the Guinness Book for most expensive bowl of soup, eclipsing the record by over $200. One of the rarest, most incredible ingredients known to man is ambergris, or whale snot. Primarily used as a scent for cosmetics and perfumes, we use it to flavor this delicate and delicious bisque...
Primordial Soup (Feeds 2-4)... $11
Fresh from the bacterial pools of prebiotic Earth, we whip together the essential ingredients in the recipe for life... a carefully heated mixture of pantoyl lactone, beta-alanine, and the surprisingly delicious cysteamine yields us... anyone? anyone? Right! It yields pantetheine. Nothing like a little abiotic synthesis of biomolecules to round out your weeknight dinner... Enjoy!
Cat-Chatore (Feeds 2-4)... $13
Ever wonder how certain foods get their names? Sometimes the derivation comes from the most obvious source... you simply cannot imagine what sorts of deals you can get on protein down at the pound these days! We pass the savings on to you...
Pig Heads (Feeds 2-4)... $11
Everyone has leftovers, even butcher shops... however we believe in the waste not/want not ethic that is so integral to the soupmaking spirit. Admittedly, we're serving this New Year's tradition at the wrong time of year but what rational person can limit themselves to pigs heads just once a year?
Rhesus Feces (Feeds 2-4)... $11
And for dessert, an excellent culinary treatment of the original inspiration for the classic Reese's product... do not miss this! Surprisingly delicious...
From one Photographer to Another...
Monday, February 18, 2008 by malita
I just stumbled upon my friend Kate's "new" photography blog. She has a special talent for shooting children in my opinion (pictures of her niece even make me want to have a child!). And since I don't enjoy shooting portraits I often refer her when people ask me to photograph their family shots. It's just not my cuppa tea...
Anyway - I want to pass this along - she's a "starving" artist and the photography road is a long and bumpy one, especially in an artistic community such as Austin where their are 2 of each form of artist on every corner.
But if you need a portrait done - you'll know where to find her. And p.s I believe her work is currently being locally displayed at Central Market.
Anyway - I want to pass this along - she's a "starving" artist and the photography road is a long and bumpy one, especially in an artistic community such as Austin where their are 2 of each form of artist on every corner.
But if you need a portrait done - you'll know where to find her. And p.s I believe her work is currently being locally displayed at Central Market.
Just Can't Get Enough...
Thursday, February 14, 2008 by malita
This is classic don't judge a book by it's cover - I am not sure why she is into children's colorings and making herself look like she is an adult trapped in a child's head - but her music is AMAZING. And it doesn't fit at all with this random image she is literally "painting". So check her out - I have literally listened to her album over and over.
Best U2 Concert for $12
Saturday, February 09, 2008 by malita
WOW!!!!! You'll catch yourself mentally saying "this is too cool"...
Official U2 3D Site
Bob Bullock IMax Showtimes
Laughed so hard I cried!
Friday, January 25, 2008 by malita
Favorite Alberto Moments
The flower in his toes
The Barbie Pencil
Living in his imagination a little too much - ya think?
The Nails
The Constant flipping of the hair
Simon - "Well I didn't have a great moment but you have to keep the two things separate"
Alberto: "I don't know you kept interrupting me Simon"
Simon: "Where's my fan?"
The running with the giant fan
The Spanish "march to the guillotine"music
NY Top Moments
Wednesday, January 09, 2008 by malita
Top Moments in the City I love!
1.
Spotting Erik McCormack (Will & Grace) in Times Square then following him to Sephora to snap this pic with my phone - he never knew....2. Running into Paul Giamatti while he was filming The Owl in Daylight - we're strolling down Madison Ave I believe and I see a camera crew then further down the street this guy is just standing there and I'm thinking, I know him - I realize who it is about the same time I hear "action Paul, Paul action"
3. Winning tickets to the Letterman show - Monday night show he shaved - that was pretty hysterical, guests were Mike Huckabee and Tom Hanks.
4. The apartment we stayed in had amazing views and was in the Theater District in the center of it all!!! (pictured to left is the actual view - great job Casey)5. Mamma Mia, Alter Boyz, Spamalot - all great!!! Alter Boyz definitely great for those that grew up listening to bands like DC Talk and going to summer camp (band members were Matthew, Mark, Luke, Juan and Abraham - "the Jewish One")
Side note: we decided we are magnets for drunken idiots or crazy people in the theater. Whatever show we went to they found us. Row behind us - singing and seat dancing along with the music, two rows in front of us at second show - loudly commenting on everything and repeating all the lines to each other. Row in front of us at the third show, repeating all the lines and full body heaving as they laughed. If you are any of the above types of people - DON'T do it - it's beyond annoying, everyone around these people hated them!!!
6. The Guggenheim - such an amazing museum - architect of the building and collections itself.
7. Restaurants and Shopping - Sarabeth's, John's Pizzeria (building used to be a Gospel Tabernacel Church in the late 1800's), H&M, Bloomingdales, Zara - so fun! (Two thumbs down on Serendipity - more hype than anything else I have to say - we were crammed in, it was so hot we ended up leaving and not even ordering)
8. Tribeca - loved this area of Manhattan- and it's near Chinatown - purse shopping in Chinatown was a bit of a low but made for a great story!! (let's just say following the Asian woman into her secret room with a steel door that is padlocked was an experience)
And the endless amount of laughter and stories, great stuff!!
I Heart Juno
Saturday, December 29, 2007 by malita
Great Gadget
by malita
Headphone cap - run, walk whatever all while your music is playing in your cap - how cool is that?!
To see click here
To see click here
The dream that became a nightmare...
Wednesday, December 19, 2007 by malita
Some of my first readers may recall when I giddily blogged over my new state of the art, coffee snob, coffee maker - The stainless steel Cuisinart with a thermal carafe (see story here).
I admit, it was ridiculous how excited over this gadget I was - and how I thought it would change coffee as I know it (kidding). But the fantasy quickly became a nightmare - the bloody thing was horrible to clean - and even worse it was very hard to keep it clean. Mr. Cuisinart also proved to be very high maintenance when it needed new water filters and constant deep cleaning rituals performed. And the coffee was never very hot.... I quickly became disillusioned with my gadget but found others that shared my disillusionment and thus felt resolved. Resolved to dump him and get a simpler model....
Therefore the Cuisinart has been buried and a newer far simpler coffee maker has been introduced into my life - wish us luck.
p.s. I also found a far different gadget that knocked my socks off today - I'll tell all about that later, a hint though - the music is in the hat...
I admit, it was ridiculous how excited over this gadget I was - and how I thought it would change coffee as I know it (kidding). But the fantasy quickly became a nightmare - the bloody thing was horrible to clean - and even worse it was very hard to keep it clean. Mr. Cuisinart also proved to be very high maintenance when it needed new water filters and constant deep cleaning rituals performed. And the coffee was never very hot.... I quickly became disillusioned with my gadget but found others that shared my disillusionment and thus felt resolved. Resolved to dump him and get a simpler model....
Therefore the Cuisinart has been buried and a newer far simpler coffee maker has been introduced into my life - wish us luck.
p.s. I also found a far different gadget that knocked my socks off today - I'll tell all about that later, a hint though - the music is in the hat...
That Macy's - He's so Polite!
Tuesday, December 18, 2007 by malita
I was doing a little online shopping - and went to Macy's.com - I suppose everyone else had the same idea tonight because their sever was a bit busy - and this is the message that appeared on my screen (rather than the customary website is down message)
How diplomatic and creative you are Macy's...
How diplomatic and creative you are Macy's...
We'll be right with you.
It's a little crowded in here right now, and to make sure everyone enjoys shopping with us, we're asking new visitors to wait here a few moments while other shoppers finish up. We'll refresh your browser and welcome you in momentarily. Thanks for your patience!
Start Spreadin the News...
by malita
I'll be in NY in just a few weeks - so I'm taking suggestions. Restaurant you think I'll die if I don't go - dept store, fun find, amazing gallery, great club - all suggestions send them this way.
Also we are in heavy debates (not really, just very indecisive or non committal) on which Broadway show to see - I've already seen Wicked - any other suggestions?
(disclaimer: I am not a tourist trap person - so if a swarm of tourists donning fanny packs and Lady Liberty foam crowns are within a 10 mile radius count me out, thus one reason I'll be sleeping while others are trying to catch a 5am glimpse of Al Roker's bald head)
Life is harder with long nails
Wednesday, November 28, 2007 by malita
You know the lovely women of Great Nails did such a fabulous job that the nail biting freak I am hated to destroy their hard work - since I was there for an hour and half (see story here)!!
Yes I am a nail biter - I have resigned myself to this - I doubt it will change - but I really tried - and I painfully went almost two weeks without biting my nails. And discovered my nails grow like they are on steroids. I swear every day I was filing away trying to not look like I was on Dynasty.
But I discovered life is harder with nails. It's harder to take my contact out without stabbing my eye. It's harder to dial my phone, to type on the laptop. And they are harder to take care of.
So as of today I decided I am a short nailed girl - they are gone and I couldn't be happier!
Yes I am a nail biter - I have resigned myself to this - I doubt it will change - but I really tried - and I painfully went almost two weeks without biting my nails. And discovered my nails grow like they are on steroids. I swear every day I was filing away trying to not look like I was on Dynasty.
But I discovered life is harder with nails. It's harder to take my contact out without stabbing my eye. It's harder to dial my phone, to type on the laptop. And they are harder to take care of.
So as of today I decided I am a short nailed girl - they are gone and I couldn't be happier!
Rock on NPR, Rock on ITunes
Tuesday, November 27, 2007 by malita
FREE concerts on ITunes Podcasts - Now you may have already discovered NPR's All Songs Considered - and if so, congratulations - you get the cool kid of the school award.
This is so flippin great - Concert's I have listened to this past week include:
This is so flippin great - Concert's I have listened to this past week include:
- (currently listening to) Death Cab for Cutie
- (just finished) Spoon
- Jose Gonzalez
- Travis
- Andrew Bird
- Au Revoir Simone
- Nickel Creek
- Broken Social Scene
- Neko Case
- The French Kicks
- The Frames
Was I dreaming of a white Thanksgiving?
by malita
No but I'll take it...
That's right - believe it or not Midland got several inches of snow for Thanksgiving - it was awesome.
Now flying out of Midland in the middle of a snow storm - NOT so awesome. They had to de ice the plane twice.
Love Southwest Airlines:
6:50 pm This is your captain speaking, bear with us as we de ice the plane we should be taking off momentarily.
7:30 pm This is your captain again, as you can see we have managed to find us in the middle of a snow storm, the wings may be icing over. I'm going to duck out of the cockpit here and check it out to see if I can see any ice.
- Me to neighbor - "did he just say he was going to try to see if there was ice - is that really the way we're going to handle this?"
-Neighbor - sniff sniff, blow nose and hack - yeah I guess so - man this just figures I really need to get home - hack hack
Pilot comes barreling down the aisle - looking out of the tiny passenger windows to see if he can see ice - now mind you it's DARK and SNOWING and the windows are all of 10 inches wide - great plan!
7:35pm - We're going to need to apply a level 4 de icer to the plane - now you may be asking why we didn't use a level 4 to begin with - simply put - it costs more.
8 pm - we finally take off - we were supposed to take off at 6:30 pm but who's counting. And it was a bumpy ride... but home at last!
That's right - believe it or not Midland got several inches of snow for Thanksgiving - it was awesome.
Now flying out of Midland in the middle of a snow storm - NOT so awesome. They had to de ice the plane twice.
Love Southwest Airlines:
6:50 pm This is your captain speaking, bear with us as we de ice the plane we should be taking off momentarily.
7:30 pm This is your captain again, as you can see we have managed to find us in the middle of a snow storm, the wings may be icing over. I'm going to duck out of the cockpit here and check it out to see if I can see any ice.
- Me to neighbor - "did he just say he was going to try to see if there was ice - is that really the way we're going to handle this?"
-Neighbor - sniff sniff, blow nose and hack - yeah I guess so - man this just figures I really need to get home - hack hack
Pilot comes barreling down the aisle - looking out of the tiny passenger windows to see if he can see ice - now mind you it's DARK and SNOWING and the windows are all of 10 inches wide - great plan!
7:35pm - We're going to need to apply a level 4 de icer to the plane - now you may be asking why we didn't use a level 4 to begin with - simply put - it costs more.
8 pm - we finally take off - we were supposed to take off at 6:30 pm but who's counting. And it was a bumpy ride... but home at last!
Me crying, no it's just something in my eye.
Thursday, November 15, 2007 by malita
I have to share this story with you - my good friend Casey posted it on her blog - it's her story but it made me cry - it's too sweet. I had also just finished a very teary section in the book I'm reading- that's my cover at least.
Casey's Story:
My students were analyzing their reading benchmarks today and looking for the correct answers on the questions that they missed. One student sat with me for 45 minutes and tried her best to make the corrections. Whenever I saw the frustration growing inside of her, I told her that we had done enough for today. I could see the tears starting to form in her sweet little eyes. I gave her a little pep talk of encouragement and with tears rolling down her face, she said, "Your job is to teach me. My job is to do my best. I'll keep trying." OH. MY. GOODNESS. Just let it be known that her teacher cried with her. All I could muster up to say was, "I know you can do it. We're going to get there. I promise."
Casey's Story:
My students were analyzing their reading benchmarks today and looking for the correct answers on the questions that they missed. One student sat with me for 45 minutes and tried her best to make the corrections. Whenever I saw the frustration growing inside of her, I told her that we had done enough for today. I could see the tears starting to form in her sweet little eyes. I gave her a little pep talk of encouragement and with tears rolling down her face, she said, "Your job is to teach me. My job is to do my best. I'll keep trying." OH. MY. GOODNESS. Just let it be known that her teacher cried with her. All I could muster up to say was, "I know you can do it. We're going to get there. I promise."
Nail Salon Time Warp
Friday, November 09, 2007 by malita
Man those nail technicians have to be the most savvy sales people around - little known fact I do believe.
Yesterday I popped into a new nail salon on Burnet to get my brows waxed - let's just say Oprah was just coming on when I came in and Tom Brokaw was wrapping up the news when I left.
It went a little something like this...
- You get brow done? You want lip to? - No no lip thank you just brow.
- Oh lip only $4, it be much better for you- $4 huh? Ok do lip too.
- You want manicure and pedicure - it's 40% off this week - it be much better for you.
- No thanks just the waxing please.
- Oh but it's 40% off and it be much better for you.
-40% off huh? Ok I'll get it.
- You want deluc? - Um excuse me what? You want deluc? Ummm pardon, one more time please. Deluc you want deluc?
- Oh deluxe? Oh no thank you.
-But it 40% off this week and it much better for you.
-Now the customer next to me chimes in - I think she was a plant.
-Really the deluxe is better, they wrap your legs in hot towels and everything.
-Ok I'll get the deluxe.
-You want design on toe? Maybe turkey for thanksgiving.
-My eyebrows quirk up - she and other technician begin to laugh hysterically.
This goes on for a while - I can't understand most of what she is saying but she decides to talk about all kinds of things with me - I fake it and try to have somewhat of a conversation - something about the weather, something about her living in Ohio and something about I really should start waxing my legs... Thank you for that last piece of advice!
Next thing I know it's dark outside - I came in at 4pm and it's almost 6pm and my $6 brow wax has now turned into $40 with a generous tip. But it was "much better for me."
As we get closer to election year...
Tuesday, November 06, 2007 by malita
Well it's that time - time to start bashing every political canidate running for President, Congressman and local dog watcher... My inbox has already been inindated with "reliable" material on the various canidates.
Right now the favorite canidates to bash in the good ol Bible Belt are Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton - of course. And yes often times canidates make it very easy for the gossip mill and bashers to get plenty of material out there against them.
Then latest being the "Barack Obama refuses to say the pledge, how in the world can he be our next President?" Just look at this picture - it's worth a thousand words. Well the full story has some worth too.
Well it wasn't the pledge, it was the National anthem - that was butchered by whomever was snging it. And you're also supposed to face the flag - which no one on this side of the stage is doing, at least not the one behind them. So what are they facing - we don't know - the now infamous 1000 word picture doesn't show us that.
But putting this story aside my point is - PLEASE DON'T base your political decisions and beliefs on junk email!!! Rarely are the emails valid or even verified - people are driving on emotion and they just forward it on blindly believing anything that is in front of them- along with some dumb pictures of animals dressed up as vegetables and humans and the latest and greatest inspirational story of the day. If these emails held any validity then the Prince of Niger does indeed need $2000 from you to save his life!
You can view the video here and read a bit more on this story.
What the?
Monday, October 29, 2007 by malita
Oddball observation for the day. I'm at my office, in the copy room... woman in front of me, very professionally dressed - Navy slacks, light blue blouse - but on her feet are very bright yellow flip flops - not just ordinary flip flops - the ones you wear when you get a pedicure and you are waiting for your nails to dry!!!!
First of all why bother - those have no soles, they aren't going to protect from a grass bur much less anything else remotely harmful - and second of all - woman what is your problem, do you really need someone to tell you that is a common sense much less a fashion faux pas! Where is Stacy and Clint when you need them most?
by malita
This is SUCH a great book, as soon as I finished it I started reading again! (The Time Traveler's Wife) Thank you Sherry for the recommendation!
And this little random find... What can I say, it just makes you want to put on the platform shoes and dance!
MySpace Page - The Black Ghosts
And this little random find... What can I say, it just makes you want to put on the platform shoes and dance!
MySpace Page - The Black Ghosts
High Heel Racing Men's Division
Tuesday, October 23, 2007 by malita
I love this!!
I live in heels - for the most part - and often wonder if I could do the high heel race held every year in Europe
But now a men's division!!! Great stuff!
Read it here
I live in heels - for the most part - and often wonder if I could do the high heel race held every year in Europe
But now a men's division!!! Great stuff!
Read it here
Party Foul
Sunday, October 07, 2007 by malita
What's NOT ok at any party - walking around with your fork and eating off all the platters as if it was your own plate!!!
So we're at the Blanton for the "B Scene" party - great atmosphere, great art, great music, and GREAT people watching.
And I'm sure great food had I not been completely repulsed by the Euro Trash that continually ate from the platters. I very much wanted to seductively walk up to him and say "I've been watching you...." and then hand him a plate and say "how bout you stop eating from the platters"
So we're at the Blanton for the "B Scene" party - great atmosphere, great art, great music, and GREAT people watching.
And I'm sure great food had I not been completely repulsed by the Euro Trash that continually ate from the platters. I very much wanted to seductively walk up to him and say "I've been watching you...." and then hand him a plate and say "how bout you stop eating from the platters"
Kodak Eyes
Monday, October 01, 2007 by malita
I have often wished my eyes were cameras. Sometimes, there just aren't words to convey the ridiculousness I see on a daily basis.
Take the last couple of days...
1. Standing in front of Stubb's last night for a CD release party - woman walking towards us looks as though she has a lei on - but as she gets closer we notice it's not a lei, it's a snake - a real live actual freakin snake around her neck... walkin down the public streets with a snake around the neck - and ladies you thought keeping up with your purse was a pain.
2. In a very rough South East neighborhood today delivering some papers for someone else's client (apologies for the side note but it was a bit of a disturbance in my day) and on my way back to my car I am faced with the overwhelming odor of pot - out of no where comes an eleven year old smoking a joint, just out in the open like it was no big deal....
3. So heading back home after that errand - I am now in Tarrytown, affluent neighborhood, worlds apart from South East Austin - and walking down Exposition (a main road, not a side road mind you) are two women in full work out gear enjoying there walk while each holding a glass of wine???? Now mind you when I am walking in workout gear I'm not thinking "man I wish I had a glass of Merlot right now..."!
Now don't you wish I had pictures of all of this!!!
Take the last couple of days...
1. Standing in front of Stubb's last night for a CD release party - woman walking towards us looks as though she has a lei on - but as she gets closer we notice it's not a lei, it's a snake - a real live actual freakin snake around her neck... walkin down the public streets with a snake around the neck - and ladies you thought keeping up with your purse was a pain.
2. In a very rough South East neighborhood today delivering some papers for someone else's client (apologies for the side note but it was a bit of a disturbance in my day) and on my way back to my car I am faced with the overwhelming odor of pot - out of no where comes an eleven year old smoking a joint, just out in the open like it was no big deal....
3. So heading back home after that errand - I am now in Tarrytown, affluent neighborhood, worlds apart from South East Austin - and walking down Exposition (a main road, not a side road mind you) are two women in full work out gear enjoying there walk while each holding a glass of wine???? Now mind you when I am walking in workout gear I'm not thinking "man I wish I had a glass of Merlot right now..."!
Now don't you wish I had pictures of all of this!!!
Ron Mueck, a Must See!
Wednesday, September 19, 2007 by malita
I love the Kimbell and the Ft. Worth Museum of Modern Art - if you haven't been it's a must - particularly the cafe at the Modern, it's one of the best!Anyway - this year a friend and I decided to purchase season tickets to the Ft. Worth Symphony - they have an outstanding symphony - therefore my Ft. Worth travel's will be quite often this and next year. While there I had to see the Ron Mueck exhibit at the Modern. I highly recommend it!! It's simply amazing!!! To say his sculptures are lifelike is a gross understatement.
To see more - visit this flickr site.
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