crista from the block* ...goes blog

i had a moment

2009-07-07T17:33:00.004-05:00

yesterday was my BFF's birthday, sooo tonight we are going to dinner at a restaurant of her choice: Estrella Negra.

while out shopping for THE perfect birthday card, and princess-inspired birthday balloons, i had a moment. i realized that we are no longer "young." we are closer to 30's than we are to 20's. we can no longer show up at a restaurant with glitteratti, balloons, and party hats to celebrate birthdays. we are mature, classy women (ha) who sip on wines that appropriately pair with our dinner.

fuck. i mean.... what would you think of two grown-ass women accompanied by glitteratti and unicorns as they dine contemporary latin style?

....wauh.....wauh.....

from the "Complaint Box"

2009-06-16T16:05:00.007-05:00

This article was written in the New York Times and seriously made me laugh out loud. Reminds me of my life in Chicago travelling from salon to salon.... looking for some place ((safe)) to put my car.

The other day on Fifth Avenue in the 50s, I was confronted with one of those ubiquitous red warning signs with a snowflake: “Snow Route / No Standing During Emergency / Vehicles Towed.” Underneath it, another red sign said: “No Standing Anytime.”

So there was no standing when there was a snow emergency and there was no standing when there was not a snow emergency. Like, no standing ever. But sometimes really no standing.

If there was no standing anytime, why did I need to know there was also no standing during a snow emergency? Did the Ten Commandments say also no adultery on Hamptons weekends?

Luckily, I was on foot. You would not want to be driving and trying to decipher the esoteric code of New York City’s parking signs at the same time.

On East 47th Street near the United Nations, twin signs announce: “No Standing Anytime” and “No Standing / 6 AM-6 PM / Wednesday / Except Farmers Market.” Definitely too much information.

In the West 40s, another pair presented an intriguing puzzle: “No Standing / 3 AM-5 AM / Except Sunday,” and just below, “Other Times/No Standing Anytime/Taxi Stand.”

So you could stand there weekdays and Saturdays before 3 a.m. and after 5 a.m., and all day Sunday. Except when you couldn’t. Which was all the time — unless you were a taxi. Did street cleaners come around in those two wee hours? Deliveries? Or was there some other mysterious reason the street had to be free of cars before dawn?

A parking pole in the West 40s posed another riddle. Underneath the standard “No Parking Anytime” was a sign saying “NYC Parking Card Available.”

Huh? A card not to park anytime?

Some signs just took a little time to decipher. Along First Avenue in the 50s, there was “No standing 7-10 AM/4-7 PM/Except Sunday.” Simple enough: Sundays you could stand all you want. Weekdays and Saturdays, only between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. and after 7 p.m.

But oops, not so fast. “Other Times / No Standing / Except Commercial Vehicles / Metered Parking / 3 Hr. Limit / Except Sunday” read another sign below.

Hmmmm. Only commercial vehicles could stand there — for three hours, if they bought a meter ticket. Maybe.

I was contemplating the nuanced difference between standing and parking when I spotted a pair of signs on 40th Street near Avenue of the Americas. One said, “No Standing/7AM-7 PM/Except Sunday.” Fair enough. You could leave your car there any night and all day Sunday. Wrong. Because the other sign said, “No Parking/2 AM-6 AM/ Mon Wed Fri.” So, as I figured it, three days a week for four hours in the middle of the night you could sit (uh, stand) there in your car but you could not leave it parked, not without risking a ticket.

In Midtown, a pole — virtually a sign tree — spouted an array of proscriptions requiring consultation of a calendar if not an astrological chart. The first banned standing from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday. The next said no parking for street cleaning from 8:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. except Sunday. Then came a sign allowing Muni-Metered one-hour parking weekdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. And finally another permitting parking from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturdays.

My head was still spinning when I peeked into a garage near Times Square to see how drivers might avoid the confusion of street parking.

For up to half an hour, the rate was $9.29 (plus, of course, 18 percent parking tax.) For two hours, $17.74. Twelve hours, $29.57. Twenty-four hours, $34.64.

Except if you enter in the 24 hours starting at 4 a.m. Saturdays, when the rate drops to $11.83 for 12 hours, or the 24 hours starting at 4 a.m. Sundays, when the rate is $8.45 for up to 12 hours, or if you enter on Mondays through Fridays between 4 a.m. and 10 a.m. and exit by 8 p.m. …

Paris Hilton a.k.a The Little Mermaid a.k.a Siren

2009-05-30T23:01:00.003-05:00

sooooooooo obsessed with this image. soooooooooooooo jealous it is not me.

this image will be used with Paris Hilton's new fragrance, Siren.

some people can't be changed.

2009-05-28T11:19:00.007-05:00

We zipped up our hoodies, tied up our converse, and headed out the door. With my neighbors, I walked over to a movie theater in the 'hood which claims to have the best popcorn in the city. I digress.... only because of the multiple flavors available to add to your popcorn does Landmark Theather stand at the top of my list.

Movie tickes sold for 4$ at our local theater. We saw The Soloist. Although I assumed the movie to be predictable and without creativity, I was surprised at the outcome of this movie. The movie was full of interesting information that I was before ignorant to and did not disappoint.

I was never aware of the LAMP Community in LA that houses poor and homeless people with severe disabilities, until I saw this movie. Los Angeles is home to over 90,000 homeless people, more than New York, Chicago, and San Francisco combined. Often times, the homeless people of LAMP's community are harassed by cops who perform twice-daily sweeps and trash the residents' belongings. Read more about it here.

Years ago, when I still lived in Fort Wayne, I was dating a guy who got weekly haircuts at a barber shop in our neighborhood. One day while at the barber shop, he noticed a guy sweeping hair and performing other small jobs around the shop. Turns out this guy was homeless, had been hired by the shop for small amounts of cash.

Barry [Mr. Homeless] was hired by [guy I was dating at the time] to clean and paint his basement for a mere 40-50$. Eventually we introduced Barry to a few neighbors in the 'hood, many who also hired Barry for odd jobs around their homes. Barry moved into an apartment owned by one of our neighbors, and they hired him full-time as their handy-man. For quite a while, Barry enjoyed the improved lifestyle and took advantage of ordinary things like sleeping in a warm bed, and shopping at the grocery store for food. BUT although Barry had a house to live in, he still had the mentality of a homeless person. Eventually, he moved back in to the streets. We have not seen or heard from him since.

Who were we to assume that Barry was not living the life he loved?
Who were we to tell Barry that there was more to life?
Who were we to attempt at changing a person unwilling to change?

In and Out

2009-05-23T09:47:00.005-05:00

3 dudes.
......at my place
.....in my space.
.....Friday night.

And I had planned to spend the weekend alone.....

After being bombarded with guests this weekend, I realize how much I truly value my "me" time.

My recent move to Chicago has attracted two different groups of people back into my life: Friends of mine living in Chicago that I have not seen in 2 years, and Friends in Minneapolis that need a place to stay when they visit Chicago.

Years ago, while working at a salon in Chicago, I became pretty good friends with a few of my guests. One of those friends resurfaced this weekend. He made an appointment and paid a visit to the salon I am currently working in. After cutting his hair, we decided to do dinner and catch up. We ended up at the Earwax Cafe for burgers (black bean), fries, and milkshakes (vegan).... and then over to a Wine Cafe for 2 flights of red wine. We caught up on our lives... work... relationships... friends... dogs... workout regimines... and family. As the night was coming to a perfect end with a good friend, he asked to crash at my place.

What is up with guys that think they can crash at your place just because you went 'out' with them?

You see, the problem is: A. He knew I already had out of town guests this weekend. B. I am not attracted to him in any way, shape, or form (and he knows it). and C. I had just got done telling him about my Mr. McDreamy.

The weekend has progressed. I've got two guys staying with this this weekend... guys who were at one point in time really good friends of mine. They promised the weekend would not be full of gayness, but the weekend HAS been full of flying fucking rainbows, cockrings, inflatable gags, and anal beads. I was promised shopping, and I got International Mr. Leather. I was promised a nice Sushi dinner... but instead, I got dinner with International Mr. Leather.

My friends have changed.
Or maybe... it is me that has changed?

I just know that I opted out of the gay bars last night and stayed home (when I finally got home.) There are 2 guys sleeping (snoring) on my living room floor... still in the clothing they wore out last night... and I hope to play on my own schedule today... instead of waiting around for other people the entire day...........

public transportation, skinny jeans, and a pair of converse.

2009-05-19T07:55:00.003-05:00

dreams vs. reality

2009-05-19T07:40:00.010-05:00

My dream is to be free of guilt and regret.
Reality is... we are all surrounded by controversy, circumstance, and error.

My dream is to remain 26 years of age forever.
Reality is... I am becoming older and wiser with each passing moment.

My dream is to never deal with money again.
Reality is... I work to make money and I make money to pay bills.
Reality is... There will never be enough money.

My dream is to sense satisfaction.
Reality is... I am never quite satisfied.

My dream is to travel the world, explore new places, learn new cultures...
Reality is... I travel often to places I have already been (most often).

My dream is live on a white sandy beach... in a major city with beautiful 75-90 degree weather everyday.... surrounded by raw food restaurants and organic farmers markets.
Reality is... I live in Chicago.... a city that I absolutely love.

My dream is to be whisked away to some far away place by the man of my dreams, never to be returned.
Reality is... I hover in this wonderful world of dating.

My dream is to live an Organic Raw lifestyle 100% of the time.
Reality is... Junk Food is everywhere.... temptation is hard to resist.

My dream is to devote every day of my life to rest and pleasure.
Reality is... I devote a good portion of my life to work and survival.

If you had the choice between living reality or a dream, what would you choose?

who is the sexiest vegetarian alive?

2009-05-14T20:59:00.003-05:00

VOTE

for 2009's Sexiext Vegetarian

(feel free to write in my name in the "other" tab)

fabulous

2009-05-13T18:36:00.011-05:00

Confessions Of An Heiress. Hilarious

Her hair is fucking amazing. Her hairstyle changes as often as her clothing.

She is highly photogenic. ALWAYS looks amazing.

She twitters.

How could you not ♥ Paris?

. . . .i want hair like hers. . . .

i have a slight obsession. if i were paris hilton, i would be exactly like her. don't judge me.

♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥

this economy

2009-05-12T09:25:00.007-05:00

don't trash your business cards

the southwest airlines dilemma

southwest airlines seeks passengers. pet airlines seeks pawsengers

music fans let go of cd's

has the recession affested the sex industry?

thrift stores running low on stock

now hiring! twitter throws the economy

the financial crisis as told by this American life

dedicated.

2009-05-11T20:13:00.007-05:00

I drove my car in the middle of the night
I just wanted to see you so bad
The road was dark but the stars were bright
I just wanted to see you so bad
It didn't matter what my friends would say
I was gonna see you anyway

I just wanted to see you so bad
I just wanted to see you so bad
You were staying in a big hotel
I just wanted to see you so bad
I didn't know you very well
I just wanted to see you so bad
We'd always talked on the telephone
But I'd never been with you all alone
I just wanted to see you so bad
I just wanted to see you so bad

I got off on the seventh floor
I just wanted to see you so bad
I couldn't have asked for anything more
I just wanted to see you so bad
I saw your face so clear and bright
I must have been crazy but it sure felt right

I just wanted to see you so bad
I just wanted to see you so bad
I just wanted to see you so bad
I just wanted to see you so bad

[Lucinda Williams "I just wanted to see you so bad]

circa Spring 08 Bryant Park

still bitter.... from being dissed on mother's day.

2009-05-10T18:21:00.000-05:00

a reminder to myself

2009-05-10T08:57:00.001-05:00

"Dating should be less about matching outward circumstances than meeting your inner necessity."

[Unknown]

excess baggage

2009-05-09T11:44:00.014-05:00

If you travel at all you know that the airlines are now charging a fee for checked baggage. Quite interesting since this incentivizes all of us who fly to try to avoid checking bags and attempt jam as much in the overhead compartments as possible. Where if they run out of room they will check your bag at no charge....... hmmmmmmmm. As a frequent traveler it amazes me that the airlines need to turn to this "excess."
I seldom am on a flight that is not completely full. While I am lucky enough to avoid most of these fees due to my stature with a couple of airlines..... that and a couple of hundred dollars will get a bag of trail mix..if your lucky.....I most recently traveled with three bags and while I escaped the fee on the first two.. the third bag cost me $100 each time I checked in. I was so frustrated I just left my third bag at my second destination..... it was my golf clubs which certainly deserved to be left behind, but the point is excess baggage can be costly. I know because I too come with some excess baggage. It is part of who I am today and while I certainly comfortable with the "extra fees" that come with it, it certainly can test the patience of those close to me. While I certainly try to leave it behind some times, there are some "trips" where the baggage accompanies me....and I ask for patience from those who it may effect because I do see where it can fill up the overhead compartment . It's part of that obstacle course I spoke of earlier, a course that I am determined to succeed at without the loss of the one I love. So while my bags will always be with me, I know I can be more sensitive on how I "carry on" with them. Everyday I learn and thats why life is so fascinating.

[This is a blog post written by him some few months ago]

He's got baggage. He works a ridiculous amount of hours every week. He's got a son in rehab, and 2 girls he doesn't see often enough. He's is emotional and sensitive.... overwhelmed.

I am certainly not equipped to handle excess baggage, I have tried my best to be patient and supportive... encouraging and compassionate.

It wasn’t good enough

I am suffering. I am in need of a friend. My best friend. And he is gone.... busy.... distracted.

Amazing that my best friend has not been willing or able to be encouraging...supportive... compassionate in my time of need.

Finally,I know what it feels like to be a single girl desparate for attention. Desparate to talk to someone that will listen. Desparate for a hug.

Before I met him, I would have considered myself an independent person... un-emotional.
That has changed.
I trusted him and counted on him. He was always right where I needed him.
He brought out the best in me and is now exposing the worst.

So I find myself back in the pool of "dating." It's sink or swim and I am determined to become a skilled swimmer and an expert diver.

[http://elenakalis.carbonmade.com/]

The dating scene is whack. I share with you an e-mail I received via Loopt:

From: Ethan
Subject: My nest

Is where bird will pass out from exhaustion from a strenuous jackhammering of your sultry love orface. My passionate thrusts will only be followed by leaving your angelic face looking like a painters radio

Alluring, isn't it?

healthy doggy

2009-05-07T22:34:00.004-05:00

According to fruitnut.com, the World's longest-living, healthiest dog was a vegetarian. Read more:

[[ According to the Sunday Telegraph, Bramble, living in Bridgewater, Somerset, UK, has just (August 2002) celebrated her 27th birthday, possibly making her the world's oldest living dog and a contender for the "Guiness Book of Records".

How exactly does a dog live to be 189 (in dog years)? - Anne Heritage, 43, describes how Bramble survived at least one near-death-experience right at the outset in February 1977: "The day after we brought her home, the [New Quay rescue centre] kennels flooded and the other dogs drowned," says Ms. Heritage. "So she's been incredibly lucky."

Aside from luck, Bramble's secret to longevity is a vegetarian diet. Ms. Heritage is a vegan and has brought up her pooch on the same diet regime she herself follows.

"She has a big bowl of rice, lentils and organic vegetables every evening," says Ms. Heritage.

In addition to healthy eating, exercise is a must. Last year while recovering from a back injury from a fall, which doctors said could have paralyzed her, Bramble began taking swimming lessons at a canine hydrotherapy pool in Stolford. She now enjoys a a half an hour at a canine hydrotherapy pool, where Anne's partner Roy Franklin takes her weekly on Fridays..

She's still alert and active and goes for a walk four times a day. ]]

go veg.
♥peace, love, & lentils.

still drenched in tears.

2009-05-06T18:41:00.002-05:00

This is BJ. In a concrete kennel with a wooden slab to sleep on. This is the space he has been forced in to for 10 days straight. The only time he leaves the cage is when I show up to walk him. Otherwise, he is expected to shit, piss and vomit in this cage. The people at this facility/vet refuse to bathe my dog, and if they were to bathe my dog they would sedate him. I refuse to allow my dog to be sedated just to have a bath. After being at this place overnight, my dog is filthier than he has ever been. No one can explain what happened. The vet THANKS me for coming to walk my dog... as if I am going to allow him to sleep in his own shit.

This is Animal Cruely.

what used to be

2009-05-06T11:37:00.013-05:00

He treats me better than any man ever has.... and better than any other man ever will.

He is my mentor and my hero.

He is an amazing father and has a good heart.

He enjoys long walks on the beach and home-cooked meals.

He pays attention to me.

He has a juicer and uses it! (SO cute)

He is soooo adorable.

He gives the best hugs.

He is thoughtful and generous.

He supports everything I say... every move I make.

He opens the door for me every time.

He is funny and laughs often.

He has a sexy voice.

He likes to go shopping with me but is not materialistic.

He never criticizes me.

He never argues with me.

He is honest and has nothing to hide.

He prefers that I wear no makeup and often reminds me how beautiful I am.

He is adventurous and brave.

He is easy-going and never challenging.

He is not judgemental and strives to do the "right" thing.

He listens.

He reminds me of what True Beauty is.

He is my best best friend.

He is nothing short of amazing.

I am proud of him. I am proud to be his girl.

..........but I feel like I am losing him. I am naseaus, anxious, teary-eyed, and I can't sleep.

because i am doing hair for a wedding this weekend.

2009-05-06T09:18:00.006-05:00

Spring/Summer Aisle Style: A Look for Every Bride

If The Bride is wearing a…

One-Shouldered Gown…

…she likes to make an undeniably chic statement. Amy Abramite, Creative Director for Maxine Salon in Chicago, says to stick with the asymmetrical theme if your bride chooses to bare a shoulder during her nuptials. “An asymmetrical bun with the bang smoothed straight back and off the forehead would look beautiful,” Abramite says. And virtually any hair texture will work for this look. Straight, wavy or curly--it’s all appropriate!Abramite suggests making the bun visible on the side where the shoulder is bare, keeping the bulk of the weight below the ear in the nape area. This will balance the hair and the dress so the overall look isn’t too heavy on either side, she notes. “If an asymmetrical bun is too unconventional or ‘trendy’ for the bride, suggest a symmetrical bun that sits in the center of the nape of the neck just below the occipital bone instead,” she says. With either style of bun, the fringe can be worn smoothed back off of the forehead or swept to the side. If the bride chooses to go with a side-sweeping bang, it must sweep toward the direction of the bare shoulder to offset the look for balance, Abramite notes.

Dress with Short Hemline…

…she probably has great gams and wants to show them off on her wedding day! Or she wants to keep the event on the casual side. Just about every designer sent a short dress down the runway this season so be prepared with plenty of options for those brides who like to go against the norm. Celebrity, editorial and television stylist Charles Dujic says that if your client plans to wear a short dress, keep the look casual but soft and pretty. If she has short hair, a side-swept, piecey fringe is a great option, he says. “Add a slight bit of volume at the crown by back-combing, but make sure to keep the hair soft and loose,” suggests Dujic. “Then try adding a headband to give it a whimsical vibe.” For long haired brides-to-be, Dujic suggests creating random waves that bounce naturally off of each other for a beautiful effect. Use 1- and 1¼-inch curling irons to create soft spiral curls, alternating the direction of each curl and the irons. “Don't curl the ends of the hair, but instead give them a slight bend so the whole look feels organic and natural,” he advises. Next, ask your client to flip her head over so you can separate the curls by running them through your fingers. Add styling crème for definition, then have her flip her head back over so you can finger place the hair. “This look is polished, yet casual enough for the shorter length hemline of the dress,” Dujic says.

Strapless Gown....

…she’s versatile, sophisticated and (hopefully) has toned arms! A strapless gown lends itself to dozens of hairstyle options, but the first thing to note is the texture of the dress, says celebrity and editorial stylist John Francis of Chris McMillan Salon in Beverly Hills and Argyle Salon in West Hollywood. If it has a lot of embellishments and textures, opt for a cleaner, sleeker look with the hair. For simpler dresses, add an accessory to the hair to give the overall look more interest. If your client has short hair and is wearing a strapless gown, Francis suggests blow drying to produce lots of body and some texture. Dujic suggests a soft, sculpted look with waves for brides with chin length hair or shorter. To create this chic look, he says, first make a deep side part. On the heavy side, shape wet hair with styling gel into openly spaced finger waves. On the other side of the part, slick hair into a simple C shape around the ear, then dry it completely under a hood dryer. Then gently brush it out and add a bit of silicone to the finished look. Comb it back into shape. “The waves will move and be soft, and will have incredible shine,” Dujic says.

Dress with a High Neckline...
…she might be channeling Grace Kelly or Audrey Hepburn. This style calls for a look that’s playful but sophisticated and doesn’t interfere with the beautiful neckline of the dress. “One thing to remember is that the style you create will be in the bride’s photo album the rest of her life,” says Ginger Boyle of Planet Salon in Beverly Hills. Boyle suggests styling hair into a chignon to keep the look sophisticated. “You can create luxurious textures, with more or less detail depending on the type of dress,” she says. Another option for long hair is to style it into a sleek, classic shape that sweeps upward for a stunning effect. “The exquisite simplicity of uniform curls can add a sense of ease and nonchalance to the look,” Boyle says. You can also add detail with braids as long as you’re strategic with their placement. It’s important to maintain balance, she advises. For brides with short hair, a dress with a high neckline frames the face, so the best approach is to keep the hair higher up on the crown, Boyle says

For clients with long hair, Dujic feels that the bare shoulder look of a strapless gown is the perfect opportunity to style hair into a 1940s-inspired look. Start by setting sections in barrel curls with a 1¼-inch curling iron, and pin each curl into place until cool. Remove pins and brush out the hair with a cushion brush, forcing the waves back into place after brushing. For a fuller look at the bottom, back comb underneath then smooth over the hair to disguise. Loosen up the bottom of the hair a bit to give the look a modern spin.Francis agrees that long hair looks great with a strapless gown, but you have lots of styling options for long-haired brides. You can pull the hair into a classic updo, into an updo with texture or you can create a half up-half down style. A beautiful accessory can add the perfect finishing touch, he adds.

♥More Hot Bridal Hair Trends

If your client likes to be the first to wear a trend, there are plenty of modern styles you can offer. The French twist is making a big comeback, says Boyle. “Instead of at the back of the head, the twist is placed on top of the head or in pairs for a more modern look,” she says. Accessories like fishnet-patterned hairnets in white or scattered jewels are all the rage on the runways today. For your really daring brides, looks that are reminiscent of the eighties are also on trend; bigger hair styled higher up on the head was a prominent runway look. Anything that harkens back to the 1920s or 30s, like the Louise Brooks bob, is another strong catwalk trend. “Visible hairpins and hair that is a touch messy and undone is also really trendy,” Boyle adds.First and foremost, every bridal expert stresses the importance of a great consultation. The hairstyle depends so much on the bust line, texture and cut of the dress as well as the texture, color and length of your client’s hair. “Work with your bride to determine what she likes, her initial ideas and how you can make her feel most like herself,” Francis says. “Remember first and foremost she’s a bride and should always look her best without looking like someone else. Beautiful and classic is always a great way to go.”

[Source: http://www.behindthechair.com/] [pics courtesy of http://www.bride.com/]

drenched in tears

2009-05-05T19:57:00.003-05:00

Due to this Law.......

Dog Bite Law consists of Dog or other animal’s bites and requires observation of the animal involved in the incident. Whenever the administrator finds out of any person that has been bit or attacked by a dog or other animal, he or she will be able to legally confine the dog and place it under the observation of a licensed veterinarian for up to a period of ten days. The department might also reduce this confinement period to less than ten days. The veterinarian doing such observation will be responsible of reporting the clinical condition of the dog right away and give a written confirmation to the administration within 24 hours after the dog has been given an examination and will also provide information such as the sex, age, breed, description, address, name of the owner or owners etc. and will be required to fill out specific forms for this. After the veterinarian has finished doing his or her observation on the dog he or she will then need to fill out written report on the dogs confinement period. In cases where the dog has been inoculated against rabies for example, the dog may just be required to be confined to its owners home or will need to be kept at all cost away from people so that it does not attack again for a period of ten days. Again the time for this type of confinement can be reduced depending on what the case is. And in the end the dog will always be examined by the administrator or a licensed veterinarian. There is obviously a lot more on the Illinois Dog Bite Law and if you are interested in finding out you can speak to a lawyer concerning your specific case. [http://www.seefido.com]

.....my dog is confined to a small concrete cage where he must poop and pee on himself for 10 days. he is not allowed to go outside. he is not allowed to leave the cage.

he did not attack. he simply snipped at someone that scared him. he meant no harm.

this treatment is inhumane. disgusting. sad.

spotted

2009-05-04T20:25:00.002-05:00

You are on camera an average of 10 times per day. Are you dressed for it?

[Kenneth Cole]

Mow The Lawn

2009-04-30T20:48:00.001-05:00

I think this is great....

♫♪ ♫ ★ ♫♪ ♫ ☺ ♫♪ ♫ ★ ♫♪ ♫

2009-04-25T12:29:00.009-05:00

This AM, I spent a fair amount of time updating iTunes and downloading new music.

A few of the songs downloaded from a mix Reggae CD that I heard on the islands, some of the songs picked up by Shazam , and an entire sumer album courtesy of Flavorpill's Mango Mix.

I couldn't help but share a few of the songs I downloaded:

Passion Pit :: Live To Tell The Tale

Lykke Li :: Little Bit

Pete Philly & Perquisite :: Time Flies

Alaine :: Deeper

Groove Armada :: Get Down

A. R. Rahman :: Jai Ho!

Mary J. Blige :: Just Fine

Aswad :: Don't Turn Around

The Gap Band :: I Don't Believe You Wanna Get Up and Dance

N.A.S.A. :: Gifted

Chikita Violenta :: Laydown

Curumin :: Caixa Preta

Santigold :: Your Voice

Libretto :: Volume

Lady Sovereign :: I Got You Dancin'

Divine Brown :: Old School Love

I Wayne :: Life Seeds

Karrin Allyson :: Samba Saravah

Lollapalooza. Chicago. Grant Park. Summer Time.

:::smiles:::

A few of the reasons my heart was pounding with excitement after seeing the 2009 line-up:

Zap Mama
Santigold
Passion Pit
Kaskade
Kid CuDi
Lykke Li
Depeche Mode
Beastie Boys
Snoop Dogg
Thievery Corporation

♫♪ ♫ ★ ♫♪ ♫ ☺ ♫♪ ♫ ★ ♫♪ ♫

Six Degrees Of Separation

2009-04-23T11:24:00.006-05:00

When I was a small girl, still playing board games and Barbies, the Ouija Board always promised that I would eventually marry a guy named Troy.

Just a few years ago, I met a guy named Troy, who at the time was in a relationship. When that relationship proved failure, Troy and I "hooked up." [I have no intention on marrying Troy, and we are no longer "hooked."]

Troy resides in the Logan Square, a community located on the northwest side of Chicago.

I just recently moved to the Logan Square neighborhood and live on North Troy Street.

In Minnesota, there is no shortage of Co-Op Grocery stores to shop at. In fact, within a 5 mile radius of my place there, I had 2 Co-Op Grocery stores to choose from.

Logan Square will soon be home to the only Co-Op Grocery store in Chicago.

Clean & Green ....not just because it was Earth Day.

2009-04-23T07:59:00.011-05:00

Yesterday was Earth Day. A day to continue thinking about creating a new earth, putting an end to global warming, reducing our pollution, recycling, taking our health back into our own hands.

*deeeeeeep breath*

Just recently, I noticed a flyer hanging out of my mailbox. It was originally hand-written and had obviously been copied. It read:

Chicago's Clean & Green
Help Our Neighborhood
This Saturday is our Wards Clean Up
April 25 2009
Let's make our neighborhood more attractive. Keep it Clean and Green. Lend a hand to sweep up the accumulated litter and trash of winter on our block.
Bring your shovels and brooms. We will supply the bags.
We will meet at 10AM.
SEE YOU SATURDAY

Time to step up to the plate and DO something to make the world a better place.

Huffo Post On how becoming a Vegetarian has potential to save the Earth.

The Raw Divas say that it doesn't matter if it's diabetes or cancer or arthritis or asthma... People change their lives every day by changing the food they put in their mouth. Getting people to transition toward a vegetarian, vegan or raw food diet is without question the fastest way to improve the environmental conditions on this planet.
Not just for the obvious reasons related to waste, consumption and toxic overload, but because when you improve the health of the people on this planet--when you inspire them enough to believe that they can thrive, they'll start doing a lot more to make sure that future generations can, too.

The Guide Girls The hilariously creepy duo puts on the hot (their word, not mine) for online instructisodes that teach people how to lead more ecofriendly lifestyles.

Dig N’ Swap is the easiest and fun way to swap fashionable clothing and accessories with people who share your passion for fashion.

Urban Fox provides Dainty burlesque-inspired undies and tops made of bamboo and organic cotton blends.

No Impact Man wrote an open-discussion blog about our purpose on this Earth.

To celebrate Earth Day and our beloved planet, Evite and your favorite BRAVO celebrities have created these exclusive invitations to help you get eco-friendly for your next party.

Up on the Roof A lofty idea is blossoming in cities around the world, where acres of potential green space lie overhead.

Make Juice Not War. Take the Adventure Cleanse with me and the gang. DO IT.

♥peace. love. raw foods. and green grass.♥

exposed. completely.... and i brought it upon myself.

2009-04-21T20:38:00.007-05:00

On May 6th I watched Slumdog Millionaire ....again. On May 7th @ 5:07 AM CT I was boarding a flight to San Juan. I have a strong passion for my profession with interest in educating others, at the same time allowing myself to continue my growth as a person and a professional stylist & facilitator. I do not watch TV. I graduated from South Side High School in 2001. I need to read A New Earth Again. One of my favorite quotes: "...the most exciting, challenging and significant relationship is the one you have with yourself. And if you find someone to love the you you love, well, that's just fabulous."-Carrie, Sex and the City.I am a Redken Certified Haircolorist and I work at Aniko Salon. Vegan Girls Taste Better, Beach Babes, Shoe Addicts Unite, and Pandora are a few of the groups I have joined. I voted for Barack Obama.I exist in a world that exceeds my surroundings. Raw food, recycling, skinny bitches, high heels, lip gloss, world news, music, traveling, mascara, creme brulee, bling, flirting, skinny pants, converse, W Hotels, Chicago, amazon.com, and good books are a few things that interest me. Rude, mellow, organized, unpredictable, shameless, bizarre, gentle, curious, versatile, and approachable are a few words that I would use to describe myself. I am a fan of Shades EQ and Sam Villa.I read City Magazine. Duluth, Maui, the Caribbean, New York, and LA are among many of the places I visited last year. I attended the Redken Symposium. The next time I visit Atlanta, I will have dinner at Il Localino. I have attended the Summit Salon Business College. I gave 5out of 5 stars for the Ice Wine @ Rum Jungle.

As long as sites like Myspace, Facebook, Linked-In, and Yelp exist, none of this information is secret. Model Mayhem and Twitter, Classmates and Tumblr. TripAdvisor and Blogspot. Our lives have been posted to the WWW via social networking site after social networking site for the whole world to see.

Just recently I met a new friend. Within 24 hours of meeting this person, she found me on 5 different social networking sites, 3 of which I do not update regularly. The only way to feel was Exposed. slightly Violated. and Embarassed. I was excited about the opportunity to create a new first impression for myself, but I was never allowed that opportunity. I have portrayed myself in such a way that could be interpreted so many different ways. I will never know what runs through a persons mind as they discover page after page of status updates, personal information, and profile pictures of myself.

It's time to make a choice: Do I continue to maintain profiles on all of these various sites? Do I continue to accept friend requests by people I don't even know? Do I continue to join groups whose forums I don't even visit? Do I continue to update a profile page that is viewed mostly by people I don't even like?

OR.... have I outgrown this?

All of a sudden, I would prefer to have a conversation face-to-face with my colleagues rather than e-mail via Facebook.

All of a sudden, I am not interested in updating a profile which is viewed mostly by people that I went to high school with.

All of a sudden, I would prefer to keep personal moments captured by film to myself rather than sharing with people that will never know the story behind the image.

All of a sudden, I seek mind stimulation rather than gossip material.

All of a sudden, I simply don't have time.

Product Whore - Must Have's For The Moment

2009-04-14T20:32:00.027-05:00

Go Smile Lemonade Whitening Toothpaste: This deliciously fruity toothpaste contains beneficial, natural white cranberry powder and lemon extracts. A dose of fluoride prevents tooth decay and strengthens enamel. I don't dig the taste of mint & cinnamon (in fact it makes me barfy) SO this stuff is perfect! It tastes like candy, and will help whiten your teeth, AND clean the chops.

Pureology Colourmax: Fortify and help repair hair while delivering extra colour protection and radiant shine. This lightweight, daily-use mist envelops hair in the highest concentration of the exclusive AntiFadeComplex® to maximize colour retention, while restoring softness and manageability. I want my haircolor to last, therefore I use ColourMax. There is nothing else that works quite like it. It's bomb.

Redken Color Extend Shine Enrich: Protects haircolor while helping to seal split ends, smooth flyaways, and impart mirror-like shine. This new product is AMAZING. After I've blow-dryed volume into my hair, I use this product to soften my hair back up. This product is super light-weight and really does impart a mirror-like shine.

Vera Wang Princess: Created for the playful, unpredictable, independent woman who treats every day like an event and adventure. This is a woman who likes to make her own magic, this sheer, flirty blend of water lily, lady apple, mandarin meringue, and golden apricot skin are melded with sheer floral notes, accented with dark chocolate, and finished with a pink frosting accord, amber, warm woods, musk, and vanilla - a whimsical treat. Subtle but YUMMY. I use the fragrance and Body Butter.

Dermalogica Skin Renewal Booster: An exfoliating complex of hydroxy acids and smoothing plant extracts to actively loosen dead surface debris, smooth the skin and improve texture. Must stay pretty. Refuse to get old. Taking care of my skin is the most important part of my day.

Urban Decay Baked Bronzer: Baked Bronzer is no ordinary pressed powder bronzer. It starts as a cream then is baked on a tiny terracotta dish to create a totally refined powder. This high-tech, streak-free bronzer gives you a perfect, lightly-toasted look. Bronzer with bling... has a teeny weeny amount of glitteratti/sparkle for a perfect glow.

H2O Poolside Moisturizing Body Balm: This fresh, fragrant body lotion drenches skin with water-rich moisture leaving it smooth, supple and lightly scented with green melon, camellia and magnolia blossom. Marine extracts combine with emollient shea butter and soothing aloe vera for an all-over healthy radiance. This lotion smells YUMMY. Even smells delish on men..... the scent is subtle but last all day. Ladies, I encourage you to gift this to the BF. seriously.

OPI Log On To Love: Part of OPI's e-romance collection. This shade is a shimmery red that’s a digital darling. This color looks good with Reds... it looks good with Oranges... it looks good with Pinks, therefore it is the perfect summer color. It looks good with everything, damnit. (was perfect on the cruise)

Redken Urban Experiment Velvet Gelatine: Contains a silk infused formula that achieves surreal velvet texture with luscious body. Enrobes hair with dense cushion and softness. Gives a velour, cushioned finish. I blow dry this product into my hair every day. Smells delish and provides just enough volume which is a cushy volume, not a blown-out volume. love, love, love it.

Victorias Secret So Sexy Brilliant Shine Mist:This extra-fine aerosol mist gives hair a high-gloss finish and soft, silky feel without weighing it down. Lightweight silicone- and vitamin-enriched formula with hydrating silk amino acids adds brilliance while infusing hair with moisture and a sheer, fresh scent. Spray lightly on wet or dry hair for instantly sexy, super-shiny style. I love this product mainly because of the scent. It smells delish and last all day.

The Hair Files

2009-04-14T14:14:00.012-05:00

To inspire not only you, but myself as well... I am (finally) going to begin blogging about information relevant to the industry that I work in:
Hair & Fashion.

For the hottest hair trends straight from the Runway visit: Fashion Week

[all images borrowed from Redken.com]

As of this week, I am joining Aniko Salon & Spa in the South Loop as a Redken Certified Haircolorist and Stylist.

You can catch me at the salon every Friday rockin' the locks of hott-ees.

bunny food

2009-04-12T07:28:00.002-05:00

Brother: "Dad has always made the best
cupcakes. I don't know how he pulls it off."
Dad: "I follow the directions."

ambivalence

2009-04-10T09:19:00.006-05:00

u-haul trucks and furniture pads. movings boxes and busy work. class requests and paperwork. new neighbors and long-lost friends. conference calls and bio pages. missing items and ill-functioning light sockets. a salon search and a photographer hook-up. a busy social life and insufficient alone time. dunkin' donuts and portillos. cb2 and trader joe's. google maps and new paths. picture hanging and office organizing.

i was ill-prepared to get what i asked for: a move to the city. the city that has caught my intrigue for years. Chicago. home.

maybe i thought that my friends were longing for the day that i'd be back. they haven't called much.

maybe i thought i would live in a small one bedroom condo with beautiful granite counter tops and stainless steel appliances, hard-wood floors and street parking. instead, my place is intrinsically quaint. a jacuzzi tub, berber carpet, and a fenced-in back yard.

maybe i thought i needed to be closer to my family. i have contemplated NOT going to see my family for Easter.

there are days that i don't a minute to spare. not a second to process a thought. there are nights that i am alone.... unsure of what i should be doing.

i got what i asked for. Chicago. home.

ambivalence: the coexistence within an individual of positive and negative feelings toward the same person, object, or action, simultaneously drawing him or her in opposite directions.

a house is not a home

2009-04-06T22:27:00.002-05:00

Goodnight Chicago, you have skies
As red as any summer
Goodnight Chicago, you are mine tonight
Goodnight Chicago, you have eyes
As bright as any child
Goodnight Chicago, you are mine tonight.
[Lucy Wainwright Roche]

Chicago Craigslist > City Of Chicago > Pets

2009-03-31T15:33:00.003-05:00

Cute Shih Tzu puppy needs doggy-sitter (North Side, Chicago)
I have a small 11lb. quiet, clean, well trained, well-groomed Shih Tzu that is in need of a doggie sitter. I travel often for work and need a reliable sitter for the pooch to be with while I am gone. I travel anywhere between 2-20 days a month.
This job is really for the person that wants a pooch of their own without the expense, as I will provide all food, toys, vet bills, grooming, etc. BUT I do not have $$ to pay someone to watch the pooch. I can offer Hair Services (color, cut) for you and your immediate family/friends in exchange for your service.
The pooch enjoys a quiet home, and is fairly independent. He only barks occasionally and is very low-maintenance. Serious inquiries please contact me @ clashbabi@gmail.com with some information about yourself your work/living situation, why you would like to watch my dog, etc.)
I arranged this deal with someone in Minneapolis when I lived there, and it worked out quite well. She loves the dog as if he is her own, and borrows him on weekends when she will be alone.
Location: North Side, Chicago

This is reality, people. HELP!

Dear, Loved Ones

2009-03-27T08:20:00.007-05:00

Dear Mikey,

Thank you for being openly excited and willing to fly to Minneapolis simply to help me move to Chicago. Unfortunately, my friendships with big strong (gay) men have all gone to shit which has left a little bit of NOBODY to help lift furniture.

I know you will enjoy your first flight out of the Fort Wayne International Airport that consists of only 6 gates. You will be sure to find your way around, no problem. I am almost positive you would have been upgraded had there been a First Class cabin on your flight. Take drugs and chew gum on the plane, I can guarantee it will be a shitty flight.

Please do not bring your gun, it will not pass security. Don't bring any cigarettes either. If you smoke, I will get grossed out and make you sleep on the floor.

I look forward to seeing you as long as we don't have to discuss politics and religion. We will NEVER see eye-to-eye on either of these subjects, so why debate? Big Daddy looks forward to meeting you as well... er... as long as you handle yourself with politeness and tact.

OK. So, honestly, we are nervous. Will you please move boxes and keep quiet next weekend?

See you early Thursday morning.

♥ Love, Your Sister a.k.a Baby Girl

Dear Big Daddy,

I freakin' love you man. You've always got my back.

THANK YOU for your support.

THANK YOU for your help (ALL of it.)

THANK YOU for being you.

THANK YOU for an amazing friendship.

THANK YOU (in advance) for putting up with my family. You will be a great inspiration to my brother, and a form of entertainment to my mother.

♥ Love, Your BFF

Dear Mom,

Thank you for passing on the Shopping Gene. We can both celebrate the fact that the shopping scene in Chicago does not suck.

I know how often you like to go shopping - which tells me how often you will be in Chi. visitng. Thank goodness I am renting a 2 bedroom place with an off-street parking spot (for the Benz.) If you come too often, I may have to charge you rent.

What goes on while shopping stays between you and I. Never will we reveal how much money we actually spend... ok? (Not that I have anyone to answer to, but I know you do.)

See you on Friday (don't forget to stop by Trader Joe's to pick up some groceries.)

♥ Love, Your Beautiful Daughter

Dear Daddy,

Thank you for helping me move 8 times in the last 8 years whether it be across the street or across the country.

You're off the hook this time. Instread, I have recruited your son.

I look forward to being close enough to come home for the holidays again. I can even bring BJ!! (Maybe a boy??)

See you Easter Weekend.

I love you daddy,

♥ Crista

links that caught my attention

2009-03-24T01:16:00.004-05:00

you can't NOT visit these links.

The Aquarium, Grenada is plastered with amazing artwork. They claim it's for sale but couldn't come up with a price. Kitchen, Bedroom, & Bath by H&M? whoa. Michelle, let's meet over some peas & carrots. World Envy: Dubai. RUN! Amateurs among professionals: Travel Envy. Subscribe. View previous issues. You'll thank me later. Barbie turns 50. Hot Damn! Goin' Detox.

I wish I were a Sleepyhead... instead I am up blogging at 2 AM.

Peace, Love, & Unicorns

got my mind made up.

2009-03-22T20:43:00.003-05:00

a.k.a Ariel (the sexed-up version)

2009-03-19T11:53:00.003-05:00

A mermaid is a mythological aquatic creature that is half human (torso), half aquatic creature (e.g., a fish or dolphin tail).Various cultures throughout the world have similar figures. The word is a compound of mere, the Old English word for "sea," and maid, which has retained its original sense. The male equivalent is a merman.

Much like sirens, mermaids would sometimes sing to people and gods and enchant them, distracting them from their work and causing them to walk off the deck or run their ships aground. Other stories have them squeezing the life out of drowning men while attempting to rescue them. They are also said to take humans down to their underwater kingdoms. In Hans Christian Andersen's The Little Mermaid it is said that they forget that humans cannot breathe underwater, while others say they drown men out of spite. [wiki]

Goin' Green

2009-03-17T19:45:00.012-05:00

On St. Patty's Day, Chicago paints the river green. Irish Americans celebrate with song and dance (err... bagpipes). Corned Beef & Cabbage is consumed by the majority of the population. Green Beer is poured at every Irish Pub. McD's produces the Shamrock Shake.

I celebrate the green smoothie. Inspiration: Green Smoothie Blog.

Sweet Irish Creme Recipe
2 Bananas
1 Kiwi
Couple Handfuls o' Spinach
Handful o' Green Grapes
Couple o' Mint Sprigs
Dash o' Vanilla
1/2 cup o' Soy Milk
6 ice cubes

I stepped off the plane in MSP at 6 PM. By 7 PM I was at the co-op filling up my re-usable bag with fresh greens and fruits.

Baby Spinach, Dinosaur Kale, Wheatgrass, Bananas, Green Grapes, Asian Pears, Kiwis, Ataulfo Mango, Cherimoya Apple, Blood Oranges, Tangerines, Avocados, Mint Springs - all smoothie ingredients.

Butternut Squash for roasted sweet goodness.

Whoever said the food on Cruise Ships is good was lying. It's nasty. The only hope you have is to find fresh fruits hand-picked off the trees & vines on the tropical Carribbean islands. Due to over-consumption of frozen, processed, not-so-fresh, not-so-organic foods, I am goin Detox. Ridding my body of the garb food that I was served day-in and day-out on the boat.

Barf bucket anyone?

vulnerability

2009-03-16T08:15:00.004-05:00

GRENADA

Nauseated, as we rode up and down the rocky streets in the mountains of Grenada traveling 85 miles per hour at the very least.

Relieved yet discontent as we approach the Balthazar Estates, a destination for tubing through the flowing rivers high up in the mountains of the island. Instantly, a group of 5-6 young men approach, immediately instructing us to leave all of our personal items in the taxi cab and to strip down to our swimsuits.

“You will need your flipflops,” they said’ “The river is rocky.” They instructed me on how to connect my flipflops to the life jacket they asked me to wear.

We had to trust that after tubing a few hundred feet down the river, the cab driver would meet us at our final destination, where we will be served a Run Punch and recollect our items. Uneasiness flowed through our bodies, as we knew little about the cab driver that had approached us at the Port in town 30 minutes prior, soliciting work for the day, and bargaining a price.

Apprehensive, we crossed our fingers that we would see our wallets, jewelry, cash, and credit cards at the rivers end.

--------------------------------------------------

DOMINICA

As we step off the ship in Dominca, we are instantly greeted by locals soliciting work for the day. “Hello ma’am, how are you? Would you like to visit a beautiful beach today?” “No Thank You,” we respond over and over and over again.

We had expected to be greeted by a guy holding a sign: eXteme doMinica. We would get in this strangers car and ride to the Cocoa Cottages which is home to a small guest house that sits deep in the rainforest. That is, prior to canyoning in an area of the island not many people get to see. He finally showed... 10 minutes late.

After being served fresh fruits and homemade juices at the guest house, we were sent to the outdoor changing area with wet suits, life jackets and harnesses. Again, we were asked to leave all of our belongings in a common room, there would be no room for them in the canyons.

Swimming through pools of fresh spring waters, rappelling down waterfalls, and jumping off 15 foot cliffs, we had put our lives and our safety into someone else’s hands.

For some reason, I had never felt more safe with these guys.

--------------------------------------------------

HOTELS

Completely aware that the maid will spend time in your room... cleaning... changing towels.... turndown. Your jewelry, laptop, ipod, favorite clothing and belongings left vulnerable to her envy, want, and greed.

I have only discovered one item missing out of a hotel room. Straight off the docking station in my room at the W Hotel, my IPOD disappeared. Not only MY IPOD, but my roommates IPOD as well.

Often times, I wonder which (if any) items have come up missing that I have never found out.

--------------------------------------------------

CABS

Often times, when flagging a cab, we do not look a cabbie straight in his eye and never bother asking his name. Ignorant to the color of the cab and the company name boldly written on the side of the car.

My first trip to New York City (alone) I found myself in a taxi cab whose driver decided he would not accept my credit card. He demanded cash that I did not have. We argued. He insisted that I take money out of any ATM in a convenience store while he wait across the street and around the corner with my bags, my belongings, all of my favorite items locked in his trunk. With the cab out of site, I bolted across the busy streets of Manhattan to withdrawal money I did not have.

After losing my iPhone in a cab in Vegas, I realized that I knew nothing about the person and the vehicle that had been responsible for getting me back to the hotel. I had no idea what color the vehicle was, whether it was a van or a car, or what the driver looked like. BUT my receipt did show what company the cab was with......

Needless to say, I never tracked that guy down.

--------------------------------------------------

Naturally, I write this post while lodged at the Sheraton Gateway LAX, half of my life packed within a few pieces of luggage. I have not been home since Feb. 28. Vulnerable to the outside world. My life constantly put in to someone else's hands........

5 Dresses

2009-03-15T08:03:00.013-05:00

Dress: Forever 21 Handbag: Hype

Dress: Forever 21

Dress: Twelve By Twelve Jewelry: Handcrafted in Maui

Dress: BCBGeneration Jewelry: Zida

Dress: BCBG

envy

2009-03-03T20:30:00.014-06:00

I may officially be labeled a brat.

Here I am bashing those people who are not supportive of me, and make no attempt to even pretend to be happy for me in my new position... and yet, I can not hide my jealousy over a co-worker of mine that held the same position I do (in a different market) and just received a promotion. Contradiction.

While sitting poolside at the Sheraton LAX last spring, I was approached by this girl who was indecisive as to whether she was interested in taking this position that was being offered to her. She knew I currently held the position and had questions. Sought out a dose of reality. I explained to her that the job is not a Mon-Fri, 9-5 as it is proclaimed to be. I explained to the reality of working for a manufacturer but being paid by the distributor. I explained to her a few of the up's... and a few of the down's.

Shortly after our conversation, she accepted the job and we were one in the same. This was March of last year.

Recently (after holding the same position as me for less than 1 year) she accepted a position as a Director which probably means she is going to be making 3 x's as much $ as me (even after my raise) and could possibly be my boss someday.

And while I should be happy for her, and I should be focused on my big move back to Chicago, I am resentful and painfully desirous of her advantages.

I never knew about the open position. I never saw a job posting come through my e-mail box.

I am still happy. Opportunity lies ahead.

Upgrade Me.

2009-02-28T11:44:00.004-06:00

From: NWA Info
Subject: Elite upgrade notification - upgrade confirmed

Dear Crista :

The status of your complimentary WorldPerks Elite upgrade is as follows:

Flight: NW 438
From: Minneapolis - St Paul, Minnesota
To: Tampa, Florida
Departure Date: February 28, 2009

First Class Upgrade Status: Confirmed

Seat: 04C (Seat changes may be available at nwa.com.)

Your complete reservation and flight details are available at nwa.com. If you have further questions, please contact Northwest Airlines.

My condo is spotless (see: full of moving boxes) because the realtor is coming over this weekend to list the property. Crossing my fingers that is sells before April 1st. (Slightly creeped out that people will be in and out of there while I am gone)

I am wearing a short sleeve shirt, long shorts, and K. Cole flats despite the 16 degree weather in MN.

I am full on fresh organic fruit smoothie , NOT looking forward to the meal being served on the plane this afternoon. (see: CREEPY)

Just got word: Possible skydiving activities on my trip. I hope I packed a pair of appropriate shoes.

All of the fresh food in my refrigerator was gifted to a friend this morning. I can not stand to see fresh, organic, pricey food go to waste.

Praying to baby jesus, teenager jesus, AND grown-up jesus that MN will be snow-less upon my return.

That's all.

She Gone.

Starting Over @ 26 - Take 5

2009-02-27T10:06:00.004-06:00

Last night, I sent a farewell message to my co-workers & colleauges, celebrating my last day on the job. It read a little something like this:

....Peace Out, I'm on to new beginnings.... xo Crista

(not really... but kinda)

In response, here are a few e-mails I received:

--------------------------------------------------

;] You will be missed however I look forward to keeping in touch and coming to see you next time I am in Chicago! Luv you lots and thank you for all that you did here as well…You definitely made an impact in more ways than one.

--------------------------------------------------

Congratulations on your exciting move Crista!
I dreamt about you last night!

I will miss you more that you know, however I’m so thrilled for you.
You are so young in your career. Keep moving forward & excel.

I’ll see you soon!

--------------------------------------------------

dear crista, my very best to you in the new step in your career. its been my joy to work with you, and i hope we cross paths from time to time to catch up. you deserve the best. sincerely, DHC ps keep in touch!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

--------------------------------------------------

Crista,I wish you much luck! Thanks for all you did for me any my salons, you will be missed!

Please keep in touch-as I and my salons will be thinking about you!

--------------------------------------------------

You will be missed!:). I wish you well- lots of happiness and success! You deserve it! Take care and we'll see you out and about!

--------------------------------------------------

Crista,

Thank you for all of your support to not only the MN team, but also the support you gave me.

Best of luck, M

--------------------------------------------------

Best wishes to you too!!!

--------------------------------------------------

I am currently unemployed, and will be for the next two weeks.

:) :) :) :) :)

Starting Over @ 26

Shoes A-Go-Go

2009-02-26T22:13:00.010-06:00

In preparation for my 18-day tropical get-away, I have been forced to make one of the hardest decisions of my life:

How many pairs of shoes will the girl attempt to fit into 3 bags (full of an un-godly amount of clothing)???

My prediction was that I would NEED to pack 20 pairs of shoes to get me through 18 days, but somehow or another, I was able to narrow it down to 11 pairs.

Below are Shoes A Go-Go and ....the Rejects.

♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥

SHOES: A GO-GO

#1DOLLHOUSE: These sandals come complete with a low heel and a blingin' jewel mirrored and angeled in such a way that they provide a view up my dress... if one is looking hard enough.
#2CHINESE LAUNDRY: My mother passed these strappy silver sandals down to me. They will accompany me to evening dinner.
#3DOLLHOUSE: Due to the fact that high (or low for that matter) heels do not work on soft white sandy beaches and in crystal clear waters... one must come prepared with the Flips.
#4BCBG MAXAZRIA: Silver Flats that whore attention. Comfort & Style uncompromised.

#1KENNETH COLE REACTION: Loafer-style, mahogany flats. World-wide travelers. Within the next 18 days these flats will cruise through: MSP, ATL, TPA, San Juan, and LAX airports. I may also wear these to a meeting in Tampa.
#2CARLOS SANTANA: Red, Strappy, Corked heel. Hottness. Cruise wear. Possibly, meeting-friendly.
#3J CREW: Hawaiian-inspired flips. In rememberance of my trip to Hawaii last June. Chaka!
#4BCBG MAX AZRIA: Jelly egyptian sandals purchased in Wailea, Maui. Does it get any better than these?

#1GUESS: Be-jeweled strappy gold sandals. Evening Wear.
#2CHINESE LAUNDRY: Black strappy sandals. I refuse to wear the same pair of shoes two evenings in a row.
#3XOXO: Pink! Be-jeweled comfy slippers. These go everywhere I go. (there were in Duluth, MN two days ago)

♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥

SHOES: REJECTED

#1GUESS: Again, purchased in Hawaii. These ALMOST made the cruise, BUT I made the decision to NOT wear a little black dress on the cruise. I am going all out tropical colors & patterns. Busy dress + Busy shoes = ...eh... tryin too hard?
#2BEBE: Chunky wedge? Maybe when I was 19. Give me a spike.
#3RAMPAGE: Again, busy shoes. Made for daytime. Daytime = Beach. Heels + Beach = Do Not Mix
#4BCBG: Closed Toes? Not on this cruise. BUT these do happen to be my most favorite and the most reliable pair of shoes I have ever owned. I have had them for years.........

#1STEVE MADDEN: Chunky Wedge? eh.......
#2GUESS: Silver HIGH heel? Love em, but they didn't make the cut.
#3BCBG: Love this low-heeled strappy sandal, BUT the strappies are becoming fragile. I will not tolerate any mis-haps on this trip.
#4MOSSIMO: Love em. BUT a girl can only carry so many pairs of closed toes shoes to the tropics.

The Surreal Life

2009-02-25T18:27:00.010-06:00

I spent the last two days in Duluth, MN, a small city that sits on Lake Superior 2 1/2 hours North of the cities.

The challenge with Duluth is the restaurant selection. There are no Panera Breads, no Chipoltes, no Starbucks, no organic grocery stores in existence in Duluth. Food options are limited to: Applebee's, Perkin's, Old Country Buffet, and The Great American Grill... a lil Wendy's and Burger King..... ick.

As I have said before, traveling is not always glamorous. In fact, here are some of the things I was exposed to within my 2-day trip to Duluth:

a girl blow drying her hair with a hand dryer in the restroom of a gas station. she was literally flipped upside down with her head under the hair dryer. (i must add that the gas station was located in no-man's land minnesota)
toilets filled with yellow water. no, not pee-pee. YELLOW water.
in a room full of 20 chicks, at least 10 of them were wearing white sweat socks with black pants and black shoes.
a lack of food that was raw & fresh. a lack of Naked Juice. ok, absolutely NO FRESH RAW FOOD.

While on the road, I had some time to reflect on the last 6 months of my life. I have spent 5-6 months filled with anxiety, disappointment, & dissatisfaction. I have been back-stabbed, & I have been the subject of people's laughing matter. I have not been supported, and have been ignored. I have not been encouraged to follow my dreams, but instead led down a different path.

A glimpse of what I have experienced:

....my coworkers- the ones that I work closely with... all happen to be women. Women that THRIVE on gossip....

....my job could often times be compared to a bad joke....

....i spent the last two days driving to Iowa* and driving back home from Iowa. in a snow blizzard....

.....I want to be happy. I want to feel excitement. Instead, I am often reminded of the disappointment I am causing others to feel......

......my work life becomes more and more unpleasant every day. i am on the verge of tears more often than not these days.....

....I just told my boss that I do not feel she is supportive of me.....

....accused of being appointed this job that i have been interviewing for since october....

Tomorrow marks the last day in this chapter of my life. Tomorrow is my last day with my current job. Tomorrow is the last day I will work in the state of Minnesota. Tomorrow is the last day that I work for people that do not support me living out my dreams.

Saturday marks the first day of the new chapter of my life. Saturday marks a new beginning . On Saturday, I fly to Tampa and I will not come back to Minnesota until March 18th. I will come back to a condo filled with boxes.... my life packed in those few boxes.... all ready to make a move. A move that will fulfill one of my dreams.

Now, time to focus on that Cruise................

Those who risk, win.

xox ♥Happy Me.

Starting Over @ 26 - Take 4

2009-02-23T21:54:00.006-06:00

NOTE: I entered my 26th year more aware of my health and well being than I had ever been in 25 years. Because I started a new life then, and continue new beginings, I thought I would share this post that was originally written on 9.23.08 just after my 26th birthday party... in a different blog that no longer exists. enjoy :)

In an attempt to have a vegan birthday party (with 100% carniverous attendance), I refused to supply meats and non-foods to my friends. This also meant I, and I alone prepared all of the food.
I made Fruit Sushi Roll-Up that consisted of red bell peppers, carrots, mango, pear, and apples wrapped in Nori and drizzled with a fig coco sauce. They were to die for - and a big hit, might I add. The recipe was inspired by the RAW Cookbook - the un-cook book.

I also offered Hummus & Tabouleh. Garlic Hummus topped with Red Onion, and Regular hummus topped with olive tapenade. -Of course served with a variety of pita breads and crackers. I will admit that I offered chocolate covered edamame and a small variety of cheeses served with grapes. eek! -I have extra cheese left-over sitting in my fridge. Trash it?I also offered a black bean dip w Jalapeno chips, marcona almonds, and a variety of wines. No birthday cake. :)

Another Birthday Post

Starting Over @ 26

I'm Not The Only One

miPhone

2009-02-22T11:36:00.008-06:00

this is the post where i share most of the applications i have downloaded into my iphone. MOST are free, although i did pay a minimal amount of ching for a few of them. my favorites are marked with a ♥ .

NEWS
BBC Reader - BBC News
♥ NY Times - the New York Times... on the go.
Tribune News - Chicago News
NPR Mobile - NPR. Free. This American Life not included.

REVIEWS / TRAVEL
Local Picks - by tripadvisor.com (my fav website for finding estaurants, hotels, vacation destinations) plenty of reviews to read. i'm simply bummed that ONLY restaurants are featured in this app. it would be nice to have access to all of the information on their website.
Where - restaurant, starbucks, movie, zipcar, gas, and concert finder. it's ok. i don't use it much. but, it's free. if i were forced to delete any one app on my phone, this one would be the first to go.
Yelp - online reviews ala yelp.com. kinda cool. free.
Urbanspoon - randomly selects restaurants for you to try based on your criteria. it's ok. it's free.
SitOrSquat - a place to find and record restrooms all throughout the US. find a clean restroom near you. report a dirty restroom. sitorsquat.com
Metromix - find restaurants, bars, clubs, music, movies in most major cities. metromix.com
Citysearch - restaurant, hotel, bsalon, shopping reviews. free. citysearch.com it's ok.
♥ BlackBook - insider reviews of the hottest, most fashionable restaurants, bars & clubs, hotels, & shopping worth checking out. includes most major cities. free & beautiful app.
Grub Hub - discover restaurants that deliver. view menus, ratings, and reviews before placing your order. available in four major cities: chicago, san fran, boston, and new york. free & necessary on a lazy sunday.
♥ Veg Out - a vegetarian restuarant guide powered by happycow.net. this app actually categorizes the restaurants in to 3 categories: vegan, vegetarian, and veg friendly.

SOCIAL NETWORKING
Facebook - yeah yeah.
Myspace - yeah yeah yeah.
Loopt - i downloaded this app after being invited by a fellow iphone user. share your exact location with friends, and see their exact location. update your status twitter style. you can share your status with verizon, sprint, metro PCS users as well as at&t users. free.
My Snaps - although i have not used this app much as of yet, it seems cool. organize your photos into different collections & catagories. share photos with your friends. also available, celebrity gossip, news, fashion, beauty, etc... free. limelife.com

MUSIC
♥ Pandora - internet radio that allows you to create your own stations by entering artists or songs that you like. you can create more than one station. pandora.com. free & amazing.
♥ Shazam - this app will listen to any music that is currently playing and instantly tell you what the name of the song and the artist. it's free.

SHOPPING
♥ Amazon.com - i shop amazon.com often so this app come in handy. my wishlists, shopping carts, and payment information are all included in the app. i can purchase any item from my phone, and add items to my wishlist at any time.
Craigsphone - the free version of craigslist.org. browse classifieds, or post.. even upload pics to your posting! there are other versions of craigslist for cost, i am satisfied with the free version.
Carries Closet - a la sex & the city, create an online version of your closet. pair items together, create outfits, & accessorize. share with friends. enjoy music from the sex & the city soundtrack while wardrobing. free.

REFERENCE
Go Green - go green. get green tips that are saved to your green list. a new green tip every day. free.
♥ Wordbook - not free, but the best dictionary app for ihpone. worth it.
Inspired Ones - inspiring quotes. a new quote every day. free. inspirational.
Who Called - reverse phone lookup utlity. i haven't used it yet.... free.
♥ Google - google anything ala voice search. google while you drive ala voice search! get directions to any destination straight from this app. free.

LIFESTYLE
Style.com - men's fashion, parties, fashion shows, style file blog, style videos. free.
Yum Yum - vegan recipe book. the blog: http://www.veganyumyum.com/
Green...LITE - information from The Green Book ....the everyday guide to saving the planet one simple step at a time. free.

RANDOM?
Darkroom - a photo app that will only take pictures when your hand is steady therefore eliminating blurry pics.
Art Camera - turn your photos into a work of art, or just make a funny picture with lots of different vivid photo and art filters. i love it.
Flixster - movie finder. good ish. free.
♥ Backgrounds - this app is free and allows you to download as many backgrounds as your little heart desires. all images are beautiful. there are 40+ categories of pictures. i believe the pics are pulled from flickr.com.
Wi-Fi Finder - need i say more?

obesessed? not quite. missing anything? let me know............

xox bird*

life is precious.

2009-02-21T17:44:00.004-06:00

my best friend has a son who is suffering from severe anxiety, depression, and addiction to Rx drugs. my heart dropped and my stomach turned when i heard the news today. his son made the decision to purchase a gun. a glock. we got word through a friend of his.........

Depression is a medical illness that involves the mind and body. It affects how you think and behave and can cause a variety of emotional and physical problems. You may not be able to go about your usual daily activities, and depression may make you feel as if life just isn't worth living anymore.

Addiction is a primary, progressive, chronic disease with genetic, psychosocial, and environmental factors influencing its development and manifestations. The disease is often progressive and fatal. It is characterized by impaired control over use of the substance, preoccupation with the substance, use of the substance despite adverse consequences, and distortions in thinking.

my brother carries a gun daily.... every where he goes. it makes me nervous to be in the same room with him. there is no comfort in sleeping in the same house as him. i worry that he will loose his temper in an argument and pull his gun on someone. i worry that something will happen on accident.

until now, i never worried about my brother using his own gun to shoot himself.... but he currently has a shitty job, can't pay his bills, car reposessed, has no vision of the future..............

during my high school years, i dated a guy that chose to shoot himself with his best friends gun..... in front of all of his friends. he had an alcohol problem and quite possibly, suffered from depression. no one saw it coming...... in fact, his closest friends still call it an "accident" ... "he wouldn't do that to us," they say.

within the last year or two, i have come in to contact with so many people that have been through "the program." due to the fact that the salon owner at the salon i work in is a recovering addict, recovering addicts are prevalent guests of the salon. after 6-7-8 years of being sober, these people still attend meetings every week. these people are happy. the salon is a safe and positive place. they are recognized as being recovered and encouraged to continue moving forward in a positive direction.

personally, i have never had an addiction to anything. i have never suffered from depression. at the most, minor anxiety. i do not understand. i can not relate.

i am sick. my stomach is in knots. i need to know that everything is going to be ok.

Starting Over @ 26 - Take 3

2009-02-19T05:58:00.003-06:00

Despite a lack of support, contrary to what many people believed would actually happen... I received a formal job offer in Chicago. i win. accused of being appointed this job that i have been interviewing for since october. multiple interviews. interview after interview after phone call after meeting after phone call after question after interview after phone call after meeting. i have given a formal departure notice to my current boss. he later yelled slash screamed at me... told me to grow up. i did not yell and scream back. i still win. no emotion. no emotion. no emotion. simply, reality. they can no longer bring me down. it's a done. deal. job starts march 1. moved to chi april 1. done. deal. i win. i greatly appreciate those who have supported me from day one. i highly despise those who worked diligently to slow me down. to back me up. to bring me down. i still win.

i ♥ chicago.
i ♥ chicago.
i ♥ chicago.

i'm headed back home. Starting Over @ 26

xox Happy Birdie

just another THURSday...

2009-02-15T18:33:00.007-06:00

3:15 am Alarm Sounds
4:00 am Smoothie in hand
4:20 am Pack my laptop/books/notepad into my laptop bag
4:22 am Hop in the car - headed to the airport
4:45 am Arrive at the MSP airport
4:50 am Discover the security line is long. VERY long. with no shortcut for Elite/First Class Passengers
4:55 am I manage to cut t least 50 people in the security line
4:59 am I hurriedly rush through the airport (in heels) in order to make my flight on time
5:00 am I am discovered by a shuttle driver and am basically thrown in to his shuttle as it is moving and am transported to my gate at the other end of the airport
5:06 am In line for a bottle of water and a not-so-organic banana
5:11 am Board plane to ATL
5:40 am With Paris Hilton's Confessions Of An Heiress
8:49 am Via the BBC Newsreader iPhone app., I discover Chicago is in the lead for Olympics 2016
8:59 am Deplane in ATL
9:00 am Rushing through airport in order to catch my connecting flight to TPA
9:19 am Bitched out by some woman sitting in MY seat. she thought she was right. I knew she was wrong.
9:49 am With Paris Hilton's Confessions Of An Heiress
11:04 am Arrive TPA
11:34 am @ Marriot Airport Restaurant meeting with my new (potential) bosses for a final interview
12:30 pm Did my interviewer just order a second plate of food??
1:00 pm Did one of my interviewers just get up in the middle of our conversation to make a trip to the gift shop, only to return with a Valentines Day Gift for his wife?
1:15 PM Giving my interviewer instructions on a DIY Valentine's Day card
1:30 pm Meeting over. On tram back to Delta Gates
2:00 pm plugged in at a station in the business center, I scour tripadvisor.com for things to do while on cruise in March
4:00 pm Board a plane back to ATL
4:06 pm Plane smells like piss and sweaty socks
4:20 pm With Confession's Of An Heiress
5:45 pm Deplane in ATL
5:50 pm Rush to the opposite end of the airport to catch connecting flight
5:59 pm Just in time for the attendant to not close the aircraft door in my face. last one to board the plane
6:02 pm Seat 39A? Fuck.
6:15 pm I am reminded for the FOURTH time today that my seat cushion doubles as a flotation device
6:20 pm I need to quit my job and become an heiress
6:35 pm With The Secret Life Of Bees movie
7:59 pm Steadily watching every move the plane makes on Delta GPS, counting down the minutes unil I can get off the f'n airplane
8:11 pm Arrive in MSP.
8:23 pm Deplane.
8:40 pm Shuttle to long-term parking, blue ramp, Acura parked in the first row.

cruisin'

2009-02-15T18:23:00.004-06:00

Mid-March, I am headed back to the Caribbean Celebrity Cruise style ..... a 7 day trip that will be squeezed between divisional meetings in Tampa and an artist training in LA. I will be gone from home a total of 17 consecutive days.

[image yanked from DailyCandy]

Upon arrival to San Juan, I anticipate shopping, and delish vegan puerto rican food (does it exist... COULD it exist??) Due to the fact that I am boarding a CRUISE SHIP and can not stay in Puerto Rico (for very long) and PLAY, I will am thoroughly disappointed in missing an opportunity to swim amongst the jellyfish in the BioBay at midnight.

Maho Bay is located at the Southwest shore of St. Maarten and has a feeling similar to that of the Las Vegas Strip. The beach sits on the southern end of the airport runway and warns that "Low Flying and Departing Aircraft may cause injury." Seriously.

In the Dominca, we will put on a wetsuit and helmet... and prepare ourselves for rapelling through waterfalls, scrambling over logs jams, and wading through rivers and pools Extreme Dominca Style.

Nestled between the exotic and magnificent tropical rainforest, flora, fauna and history of the Balthazar Estate, Grenada offers a river tubing experience that is sure to be the "thrill of a lifetime." While aboard a glass-bottomed boat, I will be sure to check out the underwater sculptures.

In Tobago, how do you choose between beachin' at heavenly Castara Bay or snorkeling in the Nylon Pool which is an off-shore sandbar, a swimming pool in the middle of the ocean?

I have passed up the opportunity for surfing lessons one too many times, In Barbados, I will not pass up the opportunity to ride the waves.

Saint Valentine

2009-02-13T22:42:00.004-06:00

February 14th & Juno Fructifier or Juno Februata:
The Romans celebrated a holiday on February 14th to honor Juno Fructifier, Queen of the Roman gods and goddesses as well as goddess of marriage. In one ritual, women would submit their names to a common box and men would each draw one out. These two would be a couple for the duration of the festival (and at times for the entire following year). Both rituals were designed to promote not only fertility, but also life generally.

February 15th & Feast of Lupercalia:
On February 15, Romans celebrated Luperaclia, honoring Faunus, god of fertility. Men would go to a grotto dedicated to Lupercal, the wolf god, located at the foot of Palatine Hill and where Romans believed that the founders of Rome, Romulus and Remus, were suckled by a she-wolf. The men would sacrifice a goat, don its skin, and run around, hitting women with small whips, an act which was supposed to ensure fertility.

St. Valentine, Christian Priest:
According to one story, Roman emperor Claudius II imposed a ban on marriages because too many young men were dodging the draft by getting married (only single men had to enter the army). A Christian priest named Valentinus was caught performing secret marriages and sentenced to death. While awaiting execution, young lovers visited him with notes about how much better love is than war — the first “valentines.” The execution occurred in 269 CE on February 14th.

St. Valentine, Second and Third:
Another Valentinus was a priest jailed for helping Christians. During his stay he fell in love with the jailer’s daughter and sent her notes signed “from your Valentine.” He was eventually beheaded and buried on the Via Flaminia. Reportedly Pope Julius I built a basilica over his grave. A third and final Valentinius was the bishop of Terni and he was also martyred, with his relics being taken back to Terni.

Christianity Takes Over Valentine’s Day:
In 469, emperor Gelasius declared February 14th a holy day in honor of Valentinus instead of the pagan god Lupercus. This allowed Christianity to take over some of the celebrations of love and fertility which had perviously occurred in the context of paganism. Pagan celebrations were reworked to fit the martyr theme — Christianity did not approve of rituals that encouraged sexuality. Instead of pulling girls’ names from boxes, both boys and girls chose the names of martyred saints from a box.

Valentine’s Day Turns to Love:
It wasn’t until the Renaissance of 14th century that customs returned to celebrations of love and life rather than faith and death. People began to break free of some of the bonds imposed upon them by the Church and move towards a humanistic view of nature, society, and the individual. Moving towards more sensual art and literature, there was no shortage of poets and authors connecting the dawning of Spring with love, sexuality, and procreation.

Valentine’s Day & Divination:
As with so many other holidays that have pagan roots, divination came to play an important role in the development of modern Valentine’s Day. People looked to all sorts of things, primarily in nature, in order to find some sign about who might become their mate for life — their One True Love. There were also, of course, things which came to be used to induce love or lust.

Commercialization of Valentine’s Day:
Today, capitalist commercialism is the biggest aspect of Valentine’s Day. Hundreds of millions of dollars are spent on chocolate, candies, flowers, dinners, hotel rooms, jewelry, and other gifts used to celebrate February 14th. There’s a lot of money to be made from people’s desire to commemorate the day. Only Christmas and Halloween come close in the way that modern commercialism has transformed and adopted an ancient pagan celebration.

Valentine’s Day as a Pagan, Commercial Holiday:
Valentine’s Day is no longer part of the official liturgical calendar of any Christian church; it was dropped from the Catholic calendar in 1969. It’s not a feast, a celebration, or a memorial of any martyrs. A return to more pagan-like celebrations of February 14th is not surprising — and neither is the overall commercialization of the day. Millions of people all over the world celebrate Valentine’s Day in one fashion or another, but it’s unlikely that even one of them celebrates it in an even remotely religious manner.

This has resulted in some backlash among reiligious leaders in some societies. Some of the negative reactions are due to the pagan and commercialized elements, but some must be attributed to the long-term Christian character of the day. In India, Hindu nationalists threatened anyone caught observing any Christian holidays, including Valentine’s Day. Some young lovers caught in public together on Valentine’s Day were even assaulted. Government officials in Saudi Arabia prohibited Muslims from doing anything at all associated with Valentine’s Day.

A few Christians seem to be interested in restoring some semblance of religion to Valentine’s Day, though not in any traditional sense. They don’t want to use it as a means for memorializing saints, but as a means of evangelization. In Kansas, for example, Christians sent roses to high school girls that were accompanied by Bible verses. It’s not clear whether they were trying to reclaim a lost Christian holiday or merely trying to appropriate a secular, commercial holiday for their own purposes.

The truth, though, is that American culture has so taken over Valentine’s Day that no amount of Bible verses will be able to change things. Commercial interests make so much money from Valentine’s Day that they aren’t going to accept any changes that won’t lead to even more profits. Christians helped make Valentine’s Day a cultural holiday, and now it’s entirely out of their hands.

[source: http://atheism.about.com/]

love is... never forgetting....

2009-02-10T13:41:00.002-06:00

love is... following your heart

love is... being there to share in their achievements

love is... an empty space when they are gone

love is... helping to make the world a more caring place

love is... seeing them larger than life

love is... a labyrinth

Starting Over @ 26 - Take 2

2009-02-09T12:56:00.008-06:00

anxiety anxiety Anxiety Anxiety anxiety anxiety Anxiety anxiety Anxiety
anxiety anxiety Anxiety Anxiety anxiety anxiety Anxiety anxiety Anxiety
anxiety anxiety Anxiety Anxiety anxiety anxiety Anxiety anxiety Anxiety
anxiety anxiety Anxiety Anxiety anxiety anxiety Anxiety anxiety Anxiety
anxiety anxiety Anxiety Anxiety anxiety anxiety Anxiety anxiety Anxiety
anxiety anxiety Anxiety Anxiety anxiety anxiety Anxiety anxiety Anxiety
anxiety anxiety Anxiety Anxiety anxiety anxiety Anxiety anxiety Anxiety
anxiety anxiety Anxiety Anxiety anxiety anxiety Anxiety anxiety Anxiety
anxiety anxiety Anxiety Anxiety anxiety anxiety Anxiety anxiety Anxiety
anxiety anxiety Anxiety Anxiety anxiety anxiety Anxiety anxiety Anxiety
anxiety anxiety Anxiety Anxiety anxiety anxiety Anxiety anxiety Anxiety

"Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you have imagined."

[Henry David Thoreau]

Starting Over @ 26 – Take 1

rise & shine

2009-02-07T19:11:00.008-06:00

the alarm clock rings. 6 AM. the world is still dark as my eyes slowly open. my hands feel around for my buzzing phone to cut the ear-piercing sound.

as i hop out of bed and turn a light on, i immediately begin my search for the pooch. i am never quite sure where i will find him in the morning.

that's right folks, last week i spent the WHOLE week (5 consecutive days!!) waking up to an alarm clock at the crack of dawn.

as long as i am in bed at a decent hour, i do not have a problem waking up early in the AM... not even in bone-chilling temperatures. my condo stays warmer than necessary. the pooch, on the other hand has no desire to be up at the crack of dawn. often times, i have to pick him up, carry him outside, and demand he potty as i already struggle to be on time.

by the time i drag myself (and all of the things i need for the day) out the door, the morning crowd is buzzing. i look around at other people in their cars and wonder what time they got up this morning and what time they hit the road. how is it that they had extra time to hit Starbucks, and i hardly had time to take the pooch out for his morning relief??

traffic is heavy in the morning and requires that i leave extra early. you see, when you don't ride morning traffic often, it is a challenge to predict how many cars will be headed in the same direction as yourself.

i enjoy CNN headline news, BBC Radio, and NPR on XM in the morning. i am always curious as to what time those people have to get out of bed in the AM to be at the station ready for broadcasting the news straight to the speakers in the Acura.

it doesn't matter how early i am forced to wake myself and rise from the bed... there is always someone that has experienced the rise and shine earlier than me.

i am certainly not a morning person, but will admit that it feels good to get up and get a move on the day.

monday morning... tomorrow... i will be forced out of the bed at 6 AM for the 6th consecutive work day. february is going to be a productive month for me.

Crista From The Block*

2009-02-07T09:11:00.008-06:00

1PHOTO taken in my (cluttered with cosmetics/accessories) bedroom. Diesel Boots. Authentic (?) Rhinestone-embedded Cowboy belt from Tony's Saddle Shop in Valparaiso, IN (I used to stop by when driving between my hometown and Chicago, IL). I purchased this belt in 2005 just before heading to the Redken Symposium in Vegas. Happened to be Show Season, therefore the store was full of glitteratti inspired Cowgirl Garb. Hoodie by BCBG.

2PHOTO taken by MartiniVision at his home studio in NYC. & illegally altered by myself on my iPhone via the ArtCamera App. The original copy of this photo is amazing.

3PHOTO taken in the Acura. Aviator Shades from ALDO. Puma scarf which is not visible.

xox

Join Flavorpill to win a trip to New York

2009-02-07T07:13:00.002-06:00

I dig Flavorpill and think you will too. Flavorpill provides great info on events in the cities you love. When you sign up, you'll be entered into a contest for a weekend in NYC, where you'll get an exclusive tour of our NYC.

View >>

Fruity Tooty

2009-02-06T06:56:00.009-06:00

.........fruit in its raw form is exactly what your body needs for energy. It is easy to digest and the sugar from fruit (glucose) is in the form that your body can easily turn into energy. Instead of your body putting a lot of energy towards digestion and turning the food into a useable form of fuel, it is already in an easily digestible form. The energy goes straight to you. Eating nothing but fruit until lunchtime – however much you want, is a sure fire way to lose weight and become more healthy, almost immediately.............. {www.rawplus.com}

Following the Skinny Bitch admonition, I have disciplined myself to a fresh organic fruit smoothie every morning.

Currently, I am sipping on a combination of:

Strawberries
1 Kiwi
Green Grapes
1 Avocado
1 Mandarin Orange
2 Blood Oranges
Coconut Water
Soy Milk

{fruit photographer}

Happy Friday!

xox Peace, Love, & Unicorns

boy + glitteratti + cosmetics = not gay

2009-02-04T15:19:00.007-06:00

Guy Working In A Cosmetics Store/Salon: I wish I were a hairstylist.
Girl Working at Cosmetics Store/Salon: Maybe you should pursue that career. The schooling doesn't take long.
Guy Working In A Cosmetics Store/Salon: WHAT!!?? Everyone would think I am gay...
Girl Working at Cosmetics Store/Salon: And... they don't have any suspicions when you wear chick's denim and a sparkly, rhinestone encrusted star-shaped belt buckle??
Guy Working In A Cosmetics Store/Salon: oh... right.

Starting Over @ 26 - Take 1

2009-02-03T18:43:00.008-06:00

I just told my boss that I do not feel she is supportive of me.

I told her that I am not comfortable communicating with her due to the fact that she blows me off and is unwilling to hear me out when it comes to certain subject matters.

I told her that I feel somewhat sabotaged by her concerns and motive.

I meant what I said.

She took offense.

I can only hope that she will change her outlook just as I did today.

---------------------------------------
Leadership is not something that you learn once & for all. It is an ever-evolving pattern of skills, talents and ideas that grow & change as you do.

----------------------------------------

post title inspired by: SO@24

Crista Chinese Babi

2009-02-02T17:42:00.015-06:00

100% white girl

Call me, Paris... I'll let you know what’s up.

with grma at my brothers baptizing. my father got really sick this day and had to be rushed to the emergency room.

the picture still painted in my mind is one of my dad in a wheelchair being wheeled down the middle of the street very quickly.....

note: the Jellies .

Me little bro.

3 things to take note of:

the Diet Pepsi bottle (making a come back in Obamanation),

the wallpaper (i amcurrently lusting over wallpaper after all of these years...),

stonewashed denim (the bro is a trendsetter fo sho)

i've never been shy about exposing a little nipple or panty shot

my life is centered around my hair.

this shot was taken when i was a sophmore in high school...

attending my best friends bachelorette party... she was also a sophmore in high school

Me. 2008

at the Night Hotel. New York. Panty Shot.

inspiration.

xox

Salon Whore

2009-01-31T08:55:00.020-06:00

Every Friday (well, most Fridays), I work behind the chair at a Salon.

The daily happenings of the salon are inevitable and never change:

straight boys that act like gay boys (or vise versa --we have yet to get it all figured out),
someone's mom wearing pink hair,
chicks complaining about their weight as they stuff their faces with Jucy Lucies & French Fries,
someone rockin' the Frye Boots,
at least one chick crying (over a stalker boyfriend OR a scandalous remark made about themselves),
a chick that farts (loudly),
AND multiple guests that are currently in or just out of the recovery program.

Every month(ish) the salon features a local artist, by hanging their artwork throughout the salons massive white walls.

Last night, the artist currently being featured hosted an opening party to kick-off his "I'm-being-featured-at-the-Tease-Salon-and-I-want-all-my-friends-and-family-to-see" night. To prepare for the lavish affair the salon closed it's doors early, which meant that instead of doing hair and making money, we (the stylists of Tease Salon) were expected to clean the place from top-to-bottom.

Due to the fact that I am not in the salon every day, it happens quite often that I am not in-the-know with all of the happenings at the Tease Salon. When I walked in to the salon Friday morning, I had NO idea that we would be closing our doors early, and expected to pull out our Maiden Aprons to prepare for 5 artists that would be displaying their artwork to approximately 200 guests that evening.

Despite my saltiness, I would declare the evening a great success.....

MINUS the SHIM (she/him/it) heedlessly discussing his(?)... errr... her(?)... flogging/bondage/fetish hobbies with any and everyone ....whether they were ready to hear it.. or not.

AND Mr. Important in the Art Community... who's retired and rich, spends a lot of money at Nordstroms, and who's body has not changed since college.... who blatantly said (among plenty of creepy things that came out of his mouth) that if I were wearing a swimsuit, dark tan, and coral lipstick that he would be stalking me.... in a good way. (Oh god, the visuals in his mind.... he did want to clarify what type of swimsuit I would be wearing. eek) Mr. IITAC made a few attempts at positioning himself as my sugar daddy. I think. Did I mention Mr. IITAC wears cashmere?

Never a dull moment at the Tease Salon.

veggie porn

2009-01-27T16:27:00.008-06:00

[photo yanked from DailyCandy.com]

Veggie Porn During the SuperBowl?

“Studies Show Vegetarians Have Better Sex” — coupled
with the fact that one of the lingerie-clad models is seen “licking pumpkin” and “touching her breast with her hand while eating broccoli” ruffled the Peacock’s morally-staunch feathers.... as shown in a PETA commercial that was denied Superbowl airtime.... [flavorwire.com]

me against the world

2009-01-27T11:32:00.008-06:00

stab me once. stab me twice. then call yourself my coach. my mentor.

my work life becomes more and more unpleasant every day. i am on the verge of tears more often than not these days...

have you ever watched a movie that contains characters that are referred to as"bad guys"? have you ever found yourself crossing your fingers that the bad guy would pull through and come out on top? The Score, for instance. DeNiro and Norton, playing characters that are working together to rob a bank. i know that anyone robbing a bank would be considered a bad guy, but throughout the entire movie, you are hoping they will be successful at the robbery, and find relief of anxiety when they pull through.

for the simple reason that i am relocating to chicago against my boss's will, i have become the bad guy. the one causing controversy. the one everyone is talking about, but not talking to.

i am not robbing a bank, i am not killing anyone, i am not committing any crime, i am not stealing.

yet, i am ignored, i am snubbed, and my situation is talked about as if it were the juiciest bit of gossip this year. it's almost as if everyone is anticipating every move i make to prove i am the bad guy.

i am simply RELOCATING. working for the same company in a different division. (heavy gossip material, apparently)

my boss, and my boss's boss consider themselves my coach's, my mentors. one of them actually made the statement that she only cares about the future of my career. yet, she is full of lies and deception. she will do anything within her will-power to hold me back from relocating to chicago, the exact place she pulled me from.

it's me against the world. just me fending for myself. there is no one left to turn to. no one to support me through a decision that is absolutely right for me.

if i don't look out for me, who will?

In a land far away where the sun doesn't spare a soul
and a twisted tradition has a girl in a strangle hold
Lies a desert with the footprints of little girls with a secret
of a pain
that you and I could never know

Little feet running fast as they can like the bird in flight
through days of sand with a fire in the sky
And through indigo nights
she runs away from a life spent
Being witness to other unwilling participants
of a pain
that you and I will never know

[Chorus] Your'e a bravebird (bravebird)
of the rarest kind (kind)
You may be one of the
walking wounded
but still you fly
You're a bravebird (bravebird)

you put yourself on the line

When you shared your secret with the world
You saved another mother's child

As she speaks, you can tell that the words are not easy to say
They hold the power to transport
her back to that impossible day

but she hasn't any regrets
'cause' she won't become a woman with a secret
of a pain
that you and I could never know
you and I could never know
you and I could never know
[Bravebird by Amel Larrieux]

this is a the time that losing my phone (i did last weekend in vegas) or laptop (my best friend did -at an airport yesterday) would be nice -- disconnect my connection to the outside world for a while....

It will all work itself out... but not without a little heartache and stress

"Don't be afraid of death so much as an inadequate life." - Bertolt Brecht

Sin City + Wonderlust

2009-01-23T01:53:00.005-06:00

I heart the W

new news to me, but old news to some:

DEVELOPMENT: W hotel takes Sin City spin $1.7 billion luxury condo-hotel aims for hip clientele

Starwood Hotels and Resorts plan to make its W hotel in Las Vegas a flagship property for the upscale brand's "global footprint," W Hotels Worldwide's president said Tuesday while giving details about the $1.7 billion project.

The hotel at Harmon Avenue and Koval Lane will have a mix of 3,000 hotel and residential units, more than 10 restaurants and nightclubs, a 75,000-square-foot casino, 300,000 square feet of meeting space and a spa and gym, W's Ross Klein said. It's scheduled to open in 2008.

Klein said Las Vegas has been at the top of W Hotels' development strategy for years, ranking No. 1 or No. 2 on the request list of W guests along with South Beach in Miami, where a W Hotel is already under construction.

"It's also an opportunity for us to redefine and reinvent what an urban oasis is," he said. "The W in New York came into an urban environment with a different point of view. When you come in off the street in New York, it's a retreat, an escape. That's going to be the same design point of view we put into the W in Las Vegas."

Adam Frank and his partners at Edge Resorts started talking with Starwood about developing a W hotel in Las Vegas at the site of Bourbon Street casino on east Flamingo Road. Even after acquiring an adjacent apartment complex for a total of 8 acres, it wasn't enough land. Edge Resorts sold the Bourbon Street property to Harrah's Entertainment last month and bought 21 acres at Harmon and Koval, including the existing Ice nightclub and two separate parcels from Fort Worth, Texas-based home builder D.R. Horton, for $108 million.

Edge Resorts entered a joint venture with Starwood Hotels and Resorts and will be a 75 percent owner of the W hotel. Starwood owns the remaining 25 percent and will manage the hotel.

"They wanted a bigger property and they really wanted to be on Harmon," Frank said. "Twenty-one acres really gives us a lot more flexibility to do what we want to accomplish. We want to build a destination resort, but at the same time, we want to have an intimate feel to it, that signature W feel with great night life and a blend of restaurants."

Frank said the project combines the hottest, most sought-after hotel brand in the world with one of the most vibrant hospitality markets in the United States.

"We really think that location is the future of Las Vegas," he said. "There's so much happening right around us."

With some $20 billion in planned development, from the Hard Rock Hotel
expansion to MGM Mirage's Project CityCenter to the Palms' new hotel and condo towers, the Harmon corridor is poised to become a hip, happening location, Klein said.

"I think it's going to be a destination with a very specific offering, sort of a pop culture, and I think we're going to be sort of an anchor," he said.

W Hotel Las Vegas will offer guests "extraordinary experiences" at every turn through the brand's lifestyle elements, including indulgences and experiential surprises that will be unheard of even for Las Vegas, Klein said.

Klein said he expects the new resort to compete with the Hard Rock Hotel, Mandalay Bay, the Palms, Wynn Las Vegas and Four Seasons.

Deutsche Bank analyst Marc Falcone said it was important for W to finally land in Las Vegas. "I think W needs exposure in Vegas given what the brand stands for," he said. "It's going to be a strong fit for Las Vegas. This is a very powerful location."

Condo-hotel and residential units will go on sale in the fourth quarter, priced from $550,000, offering a combination of poolside cabanas, studios and one- and two-bedroom condominiums, all attached to the W hotel.

Klein said the project is in the final stages of architectural plans and design reviews.

The first W hotel opened in New York in December 1998. There are now five hotels in New York and 20 more around the United States and worldwide with another 20 under development, Klein said.

PROJECT CANCELLED as of 5/12/07

W was coming to town. (no, not Bush) Edge Group and Starwood's 'W Hotel' brand of chic-modern-hip-ultra cool resorts has confirmed that they have cancelled their plans of building a 4000-room resort and casino at the NE corner of Harmon and Koval.

FUCK.

Obamanation

2009-01-23T01:01:00.001-06:00

Barack The Vote

Mr. Obama goes to Washington

Green Inaguration

REAL Issues

ReMiX

Obamicon.ME

No More Mr. Eloquent

FlavorPill

what goes on in Vegas. . . .

2009-01-21T19:56:00.003-06:00

After 5 days in Vegas with 8000 hairdressers, The Mix, 5 nights of heavy drinking, tequila shots, Natasha Beddingfield, Redken Platform Artists, Fremont Street, Japonais, The Fashion Show Mall, serious shopping (much better than in the minne city), all of my co-workers, a lil Gossip, room service, table service, runway shows, beautiful hair, a few good workouts at Spa Mandalay, a lack of privacy, and a lost cell phone, it is tough to step back in to the redundance of my little life in Minnesota.

My mailbox is overstuffed, the bills are unpaid, the money in my bank account in untouched, my clothing is unpacked, laundry is undone, and the pooch finally came home.

I am forced to face my move to Chicago. To face the people that are unsatisified with my decision. My boss is not happy, my co-workers are not happy, they would all love for me to stay in Minneapolis. Me moving to Chicago complicates their lives. They will be forced to find someone to replace me - which (all jokes aside) will not be an easy thing to do.

I want to be happy. I want to feel excitement. Instead, I am often reminded of the disappointment I am causing others to feel. I am letting my team & my friends down.

Since my move to Minneapolis almost 2 years ago, my friends in Chicago have been sitting on the edges of their seats awaiting my come back.

You win some, you lose some.

I watched 2 people cry this weekend, in anticipation of my departure from the Twin Cities.
On the flip side, I watched people celebrate with excitement due to my relocation back to the Chicago market.

This is not going to be an easy year for me.

I opened my e-mail to find this:

Hi Crista,
It was so nice to spend a little time with you at Symposium- Im as sooooooooooooooo excited to bring you on board in Chicago . Please keep in touch with me and let me know how I can help you with any transition. Im looking forward to working with you and I just know you are going to be amazing for us in Chi town. If you ever want to spend some time with me in the field, please let me know.

However I can help you – Im there for you.

Crista Takes On The Minne City

2009-01-17T15:31:00.003-06:00

Shopping

No doubt, I am an avid consumer of material goods.

The Mall Of America (MOA):

is the second largest enclosed mall in terms of retail space but is largest in terms of total enclosed floor area
has a gross area of 4.2 million sq ft., with 2.5 million sq ft. available as retail space
over 520 stores are arranged along three levels of pedestrian walkways on the sides of the rectangle, with a fourth level on one side
opened in 1992, the mall received 40 million visitors in 2006

All that being said, you would think that one would be beside themselves to reside downtown Minneapolis, within 10 miles of this absurdly gigantic shopping center.

In view of the Redken Symposium happening this weekend, and a lack of spare time, I found it necessary to take a quick shopping trip to the MOA* – in search of a few swank & voguish pieces/accessories to wear.

After all, RS09 is THE place to be noticed, being that there will be 10,000** hairdressers in attendance. I am unwilling to show up unrehearsed and ill-considered, providing a perception of the mid-western Minnesota girl that is flourishing within me.

*Options for shopping in the Twin Cities:

Mall Of America - the LARGEST selection of shopping
downtown Minneapolis -which includes Macy’s, Off Saks, and Banana Republic
the Premium Outlet Mall in Albertville -Puma, Banana Republic, BCBG, K. Cole
Southdale/Edina that provides the option of Len Druskin.
TJ Maxx
OR Buffalo Exchange (the Minneapolis edition)

Plenty of money in hand (OK, daddy’s credit card that I am responsible for paying), I was ready to purchase any and every voguish item that caught my eye.

After hitting Bloomingdales, Nordstrom Rack, H&M, AND Forever 21 – using ALL of my resources @ MOA- I walked out of the mall empty-handed, forced to head back home to my closet full of yesterdays clothing.

(There was NO DOUBT at the very least, I would find a few disposable, on-trend items at Forever 21. WTF )

I went ahead and packed every piece of yesterdays clothing I own, and will make do.

**give or take a few thousand – we’re in a recession.

Chi-Bound

2009-01-14T13:04:00.002-06:00

Although nothing is official, I am 100% sure I am moving back to Chicago before the summer hits. Just in time to enjoy the lake ....

It is impossible to forecast what my exact moving date will be, as dates are being thrown around between all of the people who have control over my life - Big Boss Daddy # 1 & Big Boss Daddy #2 & Big Boss Momma 1 & 2... seriously, there are that many people in control of my life.

In order to show enthusiasm (uh...) about my return to the Chi... I received this note (via facebook):

Hey, good to hear back from you. Thta's cool that you're in the CHI. Great time to be here..... What kinda job are you looking to get here? Tired of the minnie city? It would be nice to have you back in the CHI even though I'm sure I wouldn't see you. How's BJ* doin? Tiger** is doing great...he's really grown up and maturing. He'll be in 5th grade next year! :)-K

*BJ is the pooch. my pooch

** Tiger is the cat. HIS cat.

RS09

2009-01-13T13:33:00.003-06:00

The Redken Symposium is the industry’s premiere educational event and gathers over 10,000 Redkenites from all across the world!

The REDKEN SYMPOSIUM atmosphere is unconventional and unrivalled by anyone else in our industry. This time, there are no rules to hold you back… no formalities that tie your need to twist tradition and adjust reality. Our talented artists will work without rulebooks to encourage you to entertain your innermost aspirations. Using your mind over attitude, you’ll sharpen your intellect with focus that inspires you, network with individuals who can think on your page, bring creativity from the outside in… and exhibit whatever you feel, whenever you feel it without judgment, attitude or compromise.

Las Vegas, a city which reinvents itself daily- and where color, energy, innovation and nightlife never end - will once again host the Symposium.

Join us at its most eclectic hotel, the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in 2009. redken.com

This is a small visual of what my world will look like as soon as I step off of a plane in Vegas on Friday. The Redken Symposium only happens every 2 years and is probably the largest event I will ever attend. Year after year, the Symposium is voted the #1 Educational Event by hairstylists across the nation.

I am proud to be a part of it.

But what the hell am I going to wear?? I will dress simply and let my personality do the talking. . .

ALSO, I apologize for the lame content of my blog since the turn of the New Year. I'm feeling slightly understimulated and I've been in a funk. The Symposium will drag me out of the funk I have been in and will be sure to load me with content to spill Crista From The Block* style.

Please do not forget to check your reactions at the bottom of the blog.

Peace, love & unicorns. xox

north bound

2009-01-13T07:52:00.003-06:00

Unwillingly, and not without kicking and screaming, moaning and complaining.... I am headed to Duluth this afternoon. Driving. Here is the weather forecast:

Today: Sun and clouds mixed. Cold. High 2F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph.
Tonight: Variably cloudy with snow showers. Low -6F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 80%. Snow accumulating 1 to 2 inches.
Tomorrow: Variable clouds and windy with scattered snow flurries and snow showers. Cold. Dangerous wind chills as low as -25F. High 2F. Winds NNW at 25 to 35 mph. Chance of snow 40%.
Tomorrow night: Bitterly cold. A few clouds from time to time. Dangerous wind chills may approach -40F. Low -19F. Winds NW at 15 to 25 mph.

WTF (in bright red to represent my terror)

The only thing that I am moderately excited about is scoring a pair of Minnetonka Moccasins while cruising the lands of Minnesota. Nina Garcia recommends that every stylish woman should have a pair of MM in The One Hundred.

I will not fail to mention the recent headlines:

Minnetonka moccasins soar in fashion world
By Sara Glassman,
MINNEAPOLIS STAR TRIBUNE
Monday, November 24, 2008

MINNEAPOLIS -- When it comes to shoes and boots this season, fringe is on top. Soft Minnetonka Moccasins, with their signature hanging strips of suede, have inspired designers and urban bohemians for decades. Over the past year, their popularity has been soaring.

In light of the uncertain economy, they are relatively affordable -- basic shoes start at $30, and more elaborate boots with three tiers of fringe are $86. Plus, every style is completely flat, making them far more comfortable and practical than stilettos.

With these populist perks, it's not surprising that moccasins are having a fashion moment. But even trendsetters who theoretically would be able to afford much pricier versions by Jimmy Choo ($495) and Michael Kors ($475) favor the Minnetonka brand. Fashion muse Kate Moss has been sporting them for years. Last month, she was spotted in brown knee-high Minnetonka mocs with a pair of denim cutoffs in London. Young stars Lindsay Lohan, Blake Lively and
Mischa Barton also have been photographed in them.

That said, the footwear-of-the-moment isn't a one-season wonder. In the recently published "The One Hundred: The Guide to the Pieces Every Stylish Woman Must Own," authors Nina Garcia and Ruben Toledo identify must-haves such as pencil skirts and red lipstick, but recognize Minnetonka Moccasin by the brand name. They wrote: "Many people have made fashion versions of the original, but the original is still the hands-down favorite."

Those originals, as the Minnetonka implies, have Minneapolis roots. However, there are a few misconceptions to be cleared up about them, starting with the fact that the company is headquartered in Minneapolis and never has been based in or even affiliated with the city
identified in the moniker.

"Minnesota, Minnehaha, Minnetonka ... the name sounds Native American and local in origin," says David Miller, president of the family-owned shoe business.

His grandfather, Philip Miller, started Minnetonka Moccasins in 1946, after World War II, as a
gift supplier for resorts. "There was more automobile traffic because of the growing highway system in the United States," David Miller says. "Wherever people went, from Yosemite to northern Minnesota, they would buy trinkets, and the moccasins were part of that."

Tourist souvenirs aside, are there any authentic Indian roots? "No, we've never associated ourselves with a Native American product or been made by Native Americans," Miller says. "Moccasins are part of the Native American culture. I'm sure at one time there was an authentic product being sold, but not by us."

Specific styles of Minnetonka Moccasins have had moments in the spotlight in recent years: In 2005, it was the classic with beaded eagles, and a few years before that, it was the lace-up boots.

Many of the styles, from shoes to ankle boots to knee-highs, are hot now, especially in Los Angeles and New York. "We've been involved in fashion cycles, but this is very broad," Miller says. "We're honored, amused and flattered."

Much of the credit is because of the celebrity connection. Miller is very familiar with the impact that model Moss has had on business. "Kate will be in a magazine, wearing boots identified as Minnetonkas, and our distributor in Japan will call the next day," he says. "That's the world
today -- small and instantaneous."

EDITOR NOTE: Jan. 13th 1:30 PM update: I NEVER made it to Duluth. My garage door would not open due to -19 degree weather. it only gets better with time....

i'm going down.

2009-01-12T21:01:00.000-06:00

i just spent the last half an hour attempting to de-frost my freezer with a blow dryer.

i spent the last two days driving to Iowa* and driving back home from Iowa. in a snow blizzard.

i have spent the last 3 days with my freezer hanging open, hoping that it would thaw it.

i came home to an open, frozen freezer after being in Iowa for 24 hours.

i experienced two mondays this week. sunday was monday and monday was monday.... and it is still monday.

tuesday means that i am obligated to drive to Duluth**. wednesday means that i will still be in duluth.

forget getting off of work at 5 and going home to the fresh food that is spoiling in my fridge, the pooch, or the boyfriend. this week, i have no time for a personal life.

friday means that i fly to Vegas. for the biggest Redken event on this planet. i should be excited. but instead, i am exhausted.

i just spilled a bottle of water all over my bed. the bed that i so badly want to cuddle up in and cry myself to sleep.

and it is still monday.

*No Man's Land

**No Man's Land

amazon.com

2009-01-06T11:59:00.000-06:00

i heart amazon.com. i fully understood that feeling shortly after the purchase of my iPhone. the amazon app. was one of the first to be downloaded in to my phone.

i have an obsession with books. amazon allows me an oversized wishlist full of books, dvd's, and an occasional handbag or iPhone accessory. the iPhone allows me to add items to my wishlist all day every day (via the app.)

i will not fail to mention that i am a habitual list-maker.

despite the many amazon purchases that i make on a monthly basis, the list keeps growing.

for my own entertainment (not necessarily yours), i blog my amazon.com wishlist (as of Jan. 06, 2009 12:06 PM - by the time I have completed this blog entry, there is a major possibility that more items will have been added to the wishlist):

Flipping The Switch...: Unleash The Power of Personal Accountability using the QBQ by John G. Miller

Dreams from my Father: A Story of Race & Inheritance by Barack Obama

Vintage Fashion: Collecting and Wearing Designer Classics, 1900-1990 by Emma Baxter Wright

New York Look Book: A Gallery Of Street Fashion by Amy Larocca

Street: The Nylon Book of Global Style by Editors Of Nylon Magazine

Haircutting for Dummies by J. Elaine Spear

Real City New York City (REAL CITY GUIDES) by DK Publishing

Real City Chicago (REAL CITY GUIDES) by DK Publishing

Dreamgirls DVD

Beverly Hills Cop (Special Collector's Edition) DVD

Naked Ambition: An R-rated Look at an X-rated Industry by Dave Navarro & Larry Flynt

Toilets of the World by Morna E. Gregory

Monday Morning Choices: 12 Powerful Ways to Go from Everyday to Extraordinary by David Cottrell

Covert Persuasion: Psychological Tactics and Tricks to Win the Game by Kevin Hogan & James Speakman

Building a WordPress Blog People Want to Read by Scott McNulty

The Devil in the White City: Murder, Magic, and Madness at the Fair that Changed America by Erik Larson

Darkside Zodiac by Stella Hyde

Sex and the City - The Movie (Special Edition) DVD

The 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene

Transsiberian DVD

Junior Drake Zip Wallet -Denim*

The iPhone Book: How to Do the Most Important, Useful & Fun Stuff with Your iPhone, 2nd Edition by Scott Kelby

Hair Heroes byMichael Gordon

Daily Candy A to Z: An Insider's Guide to the Sweet Life by Editors of DailyCandy

The DailyCandy Lexicon: Words That Don't Exist But Should by Editors of Daily Candy

Fictionary: Words That Don't Exist But Should by Editors of DailyCandy

Vintage Fashion: Collecting and Wearing Designer Classics, 1900-1990 by Emma Baxter Wright

*randomness

naturally, all books on my "to read:" list have been put on hold until the Twilight Saga has been fully completed.

told you it was completely ridiculous and out of control.

i can feel you judging me based on the information that i have just revealed.

Sweetest Things of 2008 according to Me

2008-12-30T22:01:00.003-06:00

2008 represented living the way I want to live without any apologies....

Lifestyle Changes:

Going Vegetarian/Vegan-ish. I feel good - better than ever. It is certainly an addictive lifestyle.
Becoming n NWA Worldperks Silver Elite member. Upgrade Me.
Finding a Dog Sitter. Last year, I struggled with travel due to lack of places to put my dog while I was gone. My dog sitter/good friend has relieved that anxiety and stress.

Books:

Skinny Bitch by Rory Freedman and Kim Barnouin
The One Hundred by Nina Garcia
A New Earth by Ekhart Tolle
Twilight by Stephenie Meyer

Movies:

Slumdog Millionaire best movie ever.
Sex & The City The Movie

Trips Taken:

Maui, Hawaii
STVI

Hotel Stays:

W Hotel Chicago, IL & Minneapolis, MN there is no place like home. the W should be my home.
::Night Hotel NY ::
Ritz Carlton Kapalua
Blackhawk Hotel Cedar Rapids, IA very unique hotel in the middle of nowhere Cedar Rapids. every room is different - you choose your room from a list online

Restaurants:

Ecopolitan - Minneapolis, MN vegan.
Mafolie - STVI best grouper ever
Scalintella - Manhattan, NY
Japonais - Chicago, IL best sushi ever
Acadia - Minneapolis, MN black bean buger. mmm

Nights:

@ Hard Rock Cafe Maui w/Marty Dread i remember dancing the night away....
@ Dakota Jazz Club w/ Amel Larrieux in Minneapolis this accounted for two nights. back-to-back
in New York on Broadway w/Chicago best show yet.
My Golden Birthday
NYE @ The W Hotel Minneapolis *smiles*

Purchases:

Furniture from Room & Board
the '05 Acura TL
Marciano Jacket
the iPhone. the ONLY thing I am not sold on with this phone is the fact that you can not text & drive. I KNOW! Not Safe. BUT with the Blackberry, I could text by feeling the keypad - without using my eyes....
Shuella. Talk about saving lives... the lives of my Stilettos!
Big Soft Fuzzy Grey Blanket

Discoveries:

Lemonade Flavored Toothpaste did I ever mention that anything mint or cinnamon gag me?
Blogspot
That I am moving back to Chicago

"If you wait to do everything until you're sure it's right, you'll probably never do much of anything."

Vegans Taste Better

2008-12-26T13:51:00.002-06:00

People seem to be amazed at my ability to cut meat, dairy, caffeine, and processed foods out of my lifestyle. These are all items that I consider non-foods and think twice before the consideration of consuming any of these items.

Most of the food I eat consists of fresh, organic, pure, raw food that has not shot, slaughtered, bleached, processed, canned, or preserved. Forgive me now for the un-willingness to let go of creme brulee, sushi & cheesecake. On the other hand, non-food items such as doritos, soda, store-bought cookies, and milk are snubbed upon.

Christmas is a holiday of indulgence. A time of the year that people are willing to sacrifice their slender or not-so-slender figures, and their strict diets to over-stuff their faces with all of the traditional holiday dishes that knowingly will contribute excess weight around the waistline. Commonly, the guilt eventually sets in, a New Years Resolution is made... and then never followed.

My family, being of no exception, makes the same holiday meal every year: turkey, ham, beef, canned green beans drenched in cheese sauce, buttered rolls, mashed potatoes and gravy, cheese cubes, and summer sausage... blah blah....

My family could not wrap their minds around my decision to not eat most of the foods served. It is challenging for me to give an honest answer to the sarcastic questions being asked by my over-weight family members. Honestly, I tried to ignore the questions (although tough) and simply reassure them that I feel good and am not going to lose weight to the point of anorexia. On my way out, they offered me a plate of ham to take home. Funny.

Last night, an old friend re-surfaced - they always do during the holidays. Although we have not spoken to each other in months, he decided to wish me a Merry Christmas via text message.

I can vividly remember a night last winter that him and I decided to step out and take on the city. On that chilly evening, prior to drinks and dancing at Lumen, we decided to start our evening over Sushi. At that restaurant, he made a few comments that have never left my memory. "I hate picky eaters. I need a girl that is willing to try new things." he said. I nodded in agreement, and reassured him that I was always willing to try new things.

Things have changed since that night. I HAVE tried new things. Plenty of new things - but not the type of 'new things' he had in mind. What's new to me this year is conciousness. Conciousness about the food I feed my body, and better yet the non-food I don't feed my body. I also have a new standard with the guys I will date. He will be concious of the food he feeds his body and will always remain meat-free.

When I informed Bachelor #1 that had re-surfaced of my new vegan-ish lifestyle, he immediately informed me of his dis-interest in me. It's all good - hours earlier, I had informed him of my dis-interest in him. I win.

To meet my standard, Mr. McDreamy must be willing to transform in the form of a Veg.

Afterall, vegans do taste better. No dead, rotting, decomposing flesh in our intestines. At most.... some pineapples and strawberries.

To take it one step further, without laying it all on the line... Did I mention that I frown down upon anyone un-willing to recycle?

*I understand that I contradict myself in this blog calling myself vegan, but admitting to eating foods such as Creme Brulee (OBVIOUS I'm not giving THAT up) & Sushi. I do not attest to being 100% vegan - but I have adapted a lifestyle similar to that of a vegan, and carry the same morals & conciousness.

xox Skinny Bitch

gone home

2008-12-23T12:09:00.000-06:00

Fort Wayne. "Home." not 'home' to me, rather 'home' to my family.
nothing fancy about this place... besides my mothers car and the piano player at Von Maur.

i grew up here. from the age of 6 to the age of 21.

everyone moves so slow. nothing changes. everything stays the same. upon entering the Fort, i am perceived as the same person i was 5-10-15 years ago. a flawed teenager. that could not smoke a cigarette, dropped out of high school for a month, and dated all of the wrong guys. i will also always and forever be labeled as bric's ex-girlfriend.

i see the same people, shopping the same stores, at the same mall- all of the people slightly pudgier than in the past. i take a double glances as if trying to remember what interaction (if any) i had with these familiar-looking people.

i shop with my mother -giving her the opportunity to show off the daughter that she seems so proud of, that she is proud to have be-friended. she trots me in the bank, the nail shop, the coffee shop - these places that she visits frequently. she takes the opportunity to introduce me to the bank teller, the barista, the manicurist, the chinese lady. she receives plenty of compliments - she thrives off compliments.

i am reminded of the distance between my mother and i when her husband refuses to show his face the entire 36 hours i visit their home. he keeps himself locked in the bedroom. my mother takes him a plate full of food... and returns with an empty plate.

pops. he's a good guy. a man of honesty. messy, yet systematic. he appreciates the simpler things in life. he provides highly intellectual conversation during road trips to grandpa's place. content included: Colorado Snow Tire Chains Laws, Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar, ”Santa Baby” by Taylor Swift, Sunflowers grown in Colorado, The rice production in Sacramento, & ”a 40 Caliber Glock.

both of my parents homes are still filled with gifts that i have given them in prior years: elephant candles, picture frames, angel ornaments, george foreman grills, and spoon rests. both of their refrigerators are still filled with diet cokes. pops still keeps 24 packs of sams choice water from wal-mart... for me.

Fort Wayne is a dark place, one that i do not associate with positive happenings. the young boys carry guns and weapons... while at work... while at the club... while holding their babies. my brother, being one of these boys has become a product of his environment. he is impossible, stubborn, a heavily-opinionated jesus-worshiping republican.

On Sunday, I will leave Fort Wayne via the "Fort Wayne International Airport." And I will not be back for another year.

there is no place like home... right?

Tis The Season - Take 2

2008-12-22T10:58:00.004-06:00

Naturally, when I went to start my car this morning, it would not start. Remember how I just purchased it, AND I park in the garage? No one / no car is immune - not even the Acura.

Whatev.

Instead of working, I was confined to my condo with unpacking, re-packing, and gift wrapping to handle.

I am headed 'home' to Fort Wayne, Indiana tomorrow for the first time in one year. I only go 'home' once a year for various reasons including: airfare, driving time, lack of interest, my busy work schedule, AND I live in the middle of BFE with no outlet to the outside world (not really, but it feels that way sometimes.)

I went back to Fort Wayne last year, and the trip turned in to a complete disaster. Flights were cancelled, luggage was lost, I was trapped in an undesirable location: The Airport (for hours and hours and hours.)

I got a phone call from pops this morning only to find out he has been without power since Friday afternoon- him and 50,000 + other people in Fort Wayne!

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) - December 2008 Ice Storm Update: 3:00 PM, 12/21/2008

Indiana Michigan Power continues to make progress on restoring power despite hazardous weather conditions.

However, some customers
are experiencing repeated service interruptions today as a result of strong winds in the area. I&M is advising customers to ensure alternate living arrangements either through American Red Cross shelters (listed below) or with family and friends, if they are in need of housing.

Weather forecasts for the remainder of today and into the evening call for sustained winds of 20 -25 mph with gusts up to 40 mph.

As of 3 p.m. Sunday, about 54,400 I&M customers are awaiting restoration of electric service, primarily in the Fort Wayne area.

I&M has brought in more than 1,200 additional personnel to restore power to the Fort Wayne region and is expecting more assistance to arrive today.

Property owners must make sure that the service entrance attached to their structure is prepared to be reenergized.

I have spent the last 2 weekends in airports that are notorious for flight delays and cancellations. Out of the 4 flights I had scheduled, only one was cancelled and I was able to hop an earlier flight out that day (not without DRAMA.) My flight tomorrow with mark my 5th & 6th flight out of Minnesota in the dead of winter. Remember: Traveling is not always glamorous.... especially when 50,000 + people are without power in -2 temperatures, and another ice storm is anticipated at your final destination.

So, tomorrow marks the day for Crista's Holiday Adventure 2008.

WoW

2008-12-22T10:49:00.003-06:00

W Hotel
+
Voss Water
+
Acura
+
Liquid Metal
+
Puma

♫♪ ♫ ★ ♫♪ ♫
=

(seriously. I could swear the W Hotel caters to my EXACT needs and wants)

W Hotel = My Love

Tis The Season

2008-12-17T09:15:00.001-06:00

The holidays are a time of year for bright lights, bling bling, snow-topped trees (and cars), glitteratti, gift wrap, overwhelmingly large ribbons and bows, ice skating, shopping, and gift giving. Oh, and ...pumpkin pie.

Gift-giving is by far my favorite part of the holidays (the EXACT reason there will be no Hannukah celebrating for me this year.) I equally enjoy wrapping paper (and bling.) Despite my previous anxiety over the fact that "thoughtful" gifts can be quite challenging to 'think of', I have made my final decisions and am confident in the gifts that I am gifting this year.

Although gift-giving is much more important to me than receiving, I need you to refer back to my Christmas List. There are important updates to share. (updates are hi-lited in red)

My Official 2008 Christmas List:

a remote car starter (...no updates at this time)
The Little Mermaid II (I purchased this for myself - could not wait!!)
A new mobile phone (anything but a blackberry. must have GPS) (CHECK...100% sold on the iPhone. I have gotten wind that I will be receiving some $$ towards my new iPhone ..thx mom!)
a gift certificate to MAC (this was a just in case kinda thing... a girl can always use more MAKEUP!)
a new bed frame (...hm.. no updates)
a blingin watch (I am ALWAYS looking for a watch that outblings my current one) (i just received a new watch for my birthday. gucci. out-blings the DKNY's that I'm always rockin....)
a filing cabinet from West Elm (CHECK. i am staring at an un-assembled filing cabinet sitting in the middle of my living room... thx dad)
book shelves from West Elm (CHECK. 250$ GC to West Elm arrived in the mail. whoppee!)
for my (new) car to be fixed because someone backed in to it last night!! GC to the auto body shop? (...yeah... my car still sits with a slight amount of damage. makes me sick to my stomach to think about.)
OR a vacation home in Bora Bora ((drool)) (yeah... no updates... maybe that will be the grande finale surprise.)

Did I mention the rice cooker and pots & pans that Santa will be leaving under the tree for me?

Originally, I created my Christmas list as a joke...

On a more serious note, here are a few items that I would like to add to my Holiday slash Everyday List:

The diminishment of all ego
A world full of vegans
A new perspective
Wisdom
Children Who Behave (other peoples children -of COURSE my children would be angels)
Parents who discipline
Alternate identities
Freedom from guilt and regret
Every day to be a vacation day
One of everything
World Peace
a 6 pack
Vegan Dog Food

seriously.

xox. Bird*

you had me at 'hello'

2008-12-11T16:36:00.001-06:00

I have dated many different types of guys throughout my 26 years of life. ('Dating' being a word used very loosely.)

-Seriously... Jaguar Drivers, truck washers, former exotic dancers, home owners, fathers, republicans, co-op shoppers, ice cream eaters, BMX riders, city slickers, salesmen (the worst!!), small town boys... you get the point.

My mind was stirred after reading a post written by one of my favorite bloggers, titled "What's your type, baby?." While reading the post, I realized that we all have our own standard of person we are willing to date. Do we always follow that standard to ensure that our Better Half falls within the guideline of our "type"? I had to think long and hard about "my type" of guy. But here it goes.....

He's Heavily Opinionated (im not saying judgemental) yet Open-Minded. He's Intuitive and Ambitious. He's Independent and enjoys living alone. He is a Man Of His Word and does what he says he's going to do. He's Humorous in a dry smirkish kind of way. He's Moderately Stubborn, and Cautious (non-committal?!?) He's Non-Materialistic and does not own an Xbox or Wii. He is Clean and Tidy - but no perfectionist. He throws away holey underwear and socks. He enjoys being home and can entertain himself in the absence of a television. He is passionate but doesn't have an overwhelming desire for intimacy.

I have realized that an amazing personality is much more attractive than a pretty face (although he MUST have an amazing smile - and smile often). I would much prefer to hang with someone that will stimulate my intellect through topics such as:

Nutrition: I am veg ...therefore he MUST be veg... and healthy. We need to be able to share meals during an occasional restaurant visit. and let's face it, I will not allow dead rotting flesh in my kitchen.

Culture: He would come well-equipped with a natural concern in matters such as the arts, manners, religion, music, worldly news, and conciousness of this earth.

Music: An eclectic taste in music is crucial. I would expect him to introduce me to music I had never heard. No gangster rap, bubble gum pop music, or head banging obnoxiousness on my guy's IPOD.

Travel: No second date for the guy that has not travelled out of his home state. No First date for the guy unwilling to travel outside of his home state.

Although looks are not of high importance when it comes to choosing my Potential Better Half, An amazing ass (especially in jeans) is a Bonus - borderline crucial. (i'm just sayin..)

He may be spotted wearing Sport Coats & Pumas. Straight leg pants or Diesel Jeans - accessorized by a fancy belt. A cashemere sweater, or a v-neck t-shirt smothered in the scent of a man. My man. He dresses simply and let's his personality do the talking.

*Immediate action given to the man hiding tightie whities and a wife beater
underneathe his outer layer of clothing. (Wanna come over tonight??)

His style would be subtle, but unique.

Perfection would entail bottling all of this up and transforming him in to the form of creme brulee.

Although, I would claim to be willing to overlook this criteria for the man that has an excessive amount of dough $$ in his bank account, BUT I am not swooned by offers of cash advancements and expensive material goods. I am simply turned off by the exterior vulnerability and the willingness to exchange "love" for $$.

kiss my wounds
love me tender
buy me flowers i've never seen
wake me up from my dreams
to bring me french toast and tea
in the morning light
fly across country to spend
the night
you said you'd steer a boat across the
atlantic
cuz you're so f*ck'n romantic
i can't stand it
when i look in your eyes
unconditionalness sweetness
uncompromised
you set the standard for many things
i wasn't sure what it would bring
you're so f*ck'n romantic
other men wouldn't call
just to say "i love you"
take your time
but i miss you
is it okay
if i see you
i'll kiss you everywhere anywhere
damn sure, me
please let this moment be
you're always tempting me
cuz you're so f*ck'n romantic
we say the same words
at the same time
i start a sentence
you finish mine
laugh at my jokes when i wanna cry
and when i feel lost
i look in your eyes
even in front of your boys
you wouldn't lie
you say"i gotta see my baby tonight"
cuz you're so f*ck'n romantic
kiss me 'til i'm frantic
-goapele-

PS. Did I mention that I will only settle for a domesticated man? One that cooks, cleans, does dishes, AND laundry? i'm just sayin'

xox

: : : NEWS FLASH : : :

2008-12-09T08:35:00.002-06:00

MINNEAPOLIS — A number of young Somali men in Minneapolis have gone missing in recent months, and some fear the youths are being recruited to return to their homeland to fight with terrorist groups.

One of the men who disappeared is believed to have killed himself in an Oct. 29 suicide bombing in northern Somalia, according to a U.S. law enforcement official who spoke on condition of anonymity because the official was not authorized to speak publicly about the case. That official confirmed the FBI and Justice Department were investigating.

Another U.S. law enforcement official, also speaking on condition of anonymity, said authorities are calling it one of the first instances in which a U.S. citizen has acted as a suicide bomber.

The Oct. 29 bombings included a series of five seemingly coordinated attacks in the breakaway republic of Somaliland and the Somalia's Puntland region. More than 20 people were killed.

"We're aware of the circumstances in Somalia right now and the events of the Oct. 29 bombings. And we are aware that a number of individuals from throughout the U.S. and Minneapolis have traveled to Somalia to potentially fight for terrorist groups," said Special Agent E.K. Wilson, an FBI spokesman.

Members of the Somali community in Minneapolis said small groups of young men have been disappearing over the last year. Anywhere from 15 to 20 have left Minneapolis in recent months, said Omar Jamal, executive director of the Somali Justice Advocacy Center.

"We know for a fact this is happening, but we don't know who is doing it," he said.

Osman Ahmed, a Somali activist, said his 17-year-old nephew is among a group of at least seven people who went missing Nov. 4.

The Associated Press is honoring Ahmed's request to withhold the name of the teen for the youth's safety. Ahmed said the teen came to the U.S. as a young child and was an American citizen, like the others who left that day.

Ahmed said his nephew was a high school senior and had a normal routine of going to school, going home then going to the mosque.

"He was a very nice guy," Ahmed said. "He was very clever. Very shy. Very cool."

On Nov. 4, he told his mother a friend would pick him up from school, but he never came home.

"We started checking hospitals, we went to the police station," Ahmed said.

The family then realized that the teen's U.S. passport was missing, and Ahmed said authorities found a flight itinerary showing the teen arriving in Nairobi, Kenya, on Nov. 5.

Within two days, the teen called his mother, saying only that he was alive, safe and in Mogadishu, Somalia, Ahmed said. The teen gave no other details and has not been heard from since.

"We are praying to see him one day," Ahmed said.

Ahmed, who has been talking with other relatives of missing young men, said the families received similar phone calls.

Some members of the Somali community are concerned the young men are being recruited to go to Somalia and fight. The impoverished nation on the Horn of Africa is caught up in an Islamic insurgency and has not had a functioning government since 1991.

"It has to come to an end right now," said Jamal. "It has to stop. ... We have so many families grieving. We don't want any more kids to get brainwashed and programmed."

Jamal and Ahmed said it is suspicious because someone is providing money and transportation for the men to fly from Minnesota to Africa.

"My nephew, he doesn't have money for a ticket," said Ahmed. "None of these kids do."

Jamal said he hopes the situation isn't a black eye for the state's Somali community, which the U.S. Census numbered at more than 24,000 in 2006. Local activists claim the actual number is higher than that.

"We hope that this won't be an issue where the community will be looked at differently," Jamal said. "Somalis at large are very peaceful people. ... We don't want the Somali community to be looked at as a group of suicide bombers."

Source: Fox News
----------------

Remember how I live in a predominantly somalian neighborhood?

Here is another piece of news (almost as serious):
You can utilize the check boxes below my posts to "react" to the post.
(told you it was serious)

Bird*

Jet Setter

2008-12-07T13:54:00.003-06:00

Fact: I travel much more often than the average person.

Myth: I live a secret life while away from home.

Most people get very excited when it comes to taking a trip far away from home.

An airplane ride is a big deal, and is booked several months in advance. A 6 hour road trip is thoroughly planned. Days and days are spent laying out the items being considered for packing. Money for the big trip is saved for months and months. Numerous thoughts & images of the mysterious destination flood the mind. The trip's itinereary is carefully thought through, only after reading numerous online reviews.

My traveling experience is slightly different. MOST of the time, I am on the road for some type of work event, being a Hair Show, Meeting, or simply to visit salons in markets outside of the Twin Cities. My boss lives in a different state than myself, I have a home office, and am only accompanied by one other co-worker in the Twin Cities. The only way to connect with my co-workers is through travel. Pack the bags, hop a plane, meet up with them in a new city. We have become so accustomed to traveling, we have learned to navigate through any city, and make whatever city we are in 'our life' for that period of time.

When I am on the road, the activities I involve myself are similar to those of the average working-class american: Shower, Iron, Makeup. Breakfast. Coffee. Text friends. Meeting. Work. Lunch. Text. Happy Hour. More Work. Dinner. Text more friends. Hit the streets. OR lay in bed, remote in hand, blogging. There is a slight chance, that I may have FREE TIME in the evening after work to meet up with a friend or two local to the city I am visiting. A slight chance.

Often times, I share a room with a co-worker of mine, have no privacy, no alone time, and am caught up in the presence of people that I do not see often. Catching up on the 411 is an obligation. Did I mention that I rarely see the outside of the hotel?

Being away from home for 10+ days, booking a flight less than 3 days in advance, blowing off a flight, navigating large airports, losing my luggage for 2+ days, being caught alone in cities overnight due to bad weather, hopping in random cabs, making friends with cabbies, staying the night in hotels ranging from boutique to Marriot to Days Inn, hopping a flight to New York, or catching a plane jumper from the islands to San Juan are all daily activities for me.

People often associate my traveling with this sort of 'mysterious life' I live. It is hard for them to visualize exactly what it is that I am doing while I am off in what seems like some luxurious place where I have tons of free time to explore the city, meet people, and add names to the list of people I have screwed.

I can remember back to the very first vacation I took with friends-no parents involved. We stayed in a condo on Treasure Island, and spent our evenings running the streets of Ybor City. As we were preparing for our trip, people kept saying to just be careful. "Be careful.... just.. be safe..." was said in the most solemn of voices. People assumed we were going to Tampa to meet guys and get laid. I was taken aback by these ridiculous assumptions. We were headed to Tampa simply because we were offered a condo at an amazing price. Our agenda was sun-bathing, wave crashing, and drinking at the bar. We had no idea Ybor City even existed. We found it though... and this pretty much sums up our time spent there:

We never did shack up with any guys... and that was never our intention.

Fact: I am able to travel more often for leisure due to Miles earned while flying across the country for my job.

Fact: I DO get to see some cool ish and I DO visit some beautiful places.

Fact: I do NOT enjoy living out of a bag.

Fact: Clothing gets lost, shoes get damaged, and luggage gets torn while en route.

Fact: I am in and out of a buttload of Public Restrooms

Fact: Hotel Food disgusts me. (i would much prefer a home cooked vegan meal)

Fact: Staying home is a small luxury. (as far as I'm concerned)

Fly, Birdie, Fly

2008-12-05T19:50:00.001-06:00

Driving home from work tonight I could feel my body tense... uncomfortable. The snow is thick, the roads are slick, and traffic is slow. I felt unsafe. I could not get home soon enough. Due to my recent car accident, I trust no one. Not even myself.

Although the snow is dangerous to drive in, and causes life to slow down, it IS beautiful. Tonight, even as I stare out my window now, the snow is still falling.

As I was walking the dog this evening, up above, I noticed a flock of Black Birds all gathered in the naked, snow-tipped trees. There were hundreds of them. Every few moments, they would all at once fly out of the trees causing a commotion and find a new tree to gather in. As I looked above to watch the birds, the snowflakes were dropping right in to my eyes wide open. As I blinked them off, it was hard to keep my eyes open to watch the activity of the birds. I had a camera ready to take pictures of these black birds that had become an instant fascination. Unfortunately, I could only capture the white snowflakes. The blackness of the birds blended in with the dark sky up above.

The dog was oblivious to the swarming birds and the commotion they were causing. He was busy creating the first footprints in the snow and pushing his face through the fluffy snow. When he finally lifted his head out of the snow, it was completely covered in the white fluffy mess. Was pretty cute.

As the pooch was taking care of his business, I heard a noise. ::PLOP:: I looked up and realized that I was standing directly underneathe a bare tree filled with birds. I looked down, closely at the mess that had plopped down on to the wet groud and realized that it was bird poo. Close call - as I was only standing a few inches from where the poo had plopped.

Right then, I knew it was time to get back inside where we are safe. From the slickness of the snow. The bitter coldness against my face. And the plopping of bird poo up and down the street.

Although the air was bitter cold... it was refreshing. And, I have yet to de-cipher my fascination with birds....

Emotional Cowboy

2008-12-03T19:51:00.001-06:00

I received a text today from a good friend. He asked that I blog it.

"Being emotional is borderline crazy... Heart won't follow the facts
or guide lines.... Cross the line and find yourself insane."

"Heart can drive you to victory, it can take you to the top. But once it's broken, it becomes your anchor."

-cowboy drew

I worry about him....

i am mermaid.

2008-12-02T19:52:00.002-06:00

The 4 Steps to becoming a Mermaid:

#1. strip down to minimal clothing and allow artist to paint fins with glitteratti blingin acrylic paint

#2. Photographer snaps shots in multiple "mermaid-like" positions

#3. artist sketch (see below)

#4. the final image including iridescent gliteratti fun. (coming soon)

I was reminded today that i was still eating hotdogs, porkchops, burgers, bacon, and bologna when the early stages of my mermaid-ness were taking place. nasty.

in this photo, i was a carnivore. blah.

xox Bird* a.k.a Ariel

let's... go... SHOPPING!

2008-11-30T16:43:00.001-06:00

I have expressed my frustration with the challenge of Thinking of Thoughtful Gifts to give in celebration of Christmas.

This year, I will be going home (back to Indiana) for the first time in a year. I have not been back to see my family since Christmas of '07. For this reason, I would like to present my closest family members with some nice gifts.

I enjoy gift-giving, and most importantly I enjoy shopping. Gift giving requires I shop.

This past weekend, I took on my first round of "holiday shopping." My purchases included: 2 DVD's, 3 books, a bling license plate, multiple items from Victorias Secret (only to receive the GWP's,) and makeup. All for myself.

Round one of holiday shopping ended up to be a mini personal shopping spree. It just happened that I had to keep a few of those items that would have made great gifts for myself. I NEEDED them. I was tempted to purchase MORE items for myself but tried to stay on track - keeping my eye exclusively on gift items.

Oh well, technically, I still have 23 days.

Can anyone recommend "thoughtful" gifts for dads and brothers?

: : : : : sighs : : : : : :

xo bird.

Protein Overdose

2008-11-27T13:07:00.002-06:00

As a vegetarian, the #1 question I am asked is: "How do you get enough protein?!?!"

This question is especially annoying because the people who ask are obviously un-educated as to what a well-balanced meal really looks like (their idea of a hearty meal is steak/pork chops/meatloaf, fried potatoes, a dinner roll, and a diet coke.)

For those of you curious; vegetables, soy, legumes, fruits, nuts, seeds, and grains all contain protein.

Vegetarian Protein Reality:

Over the last few decades, wide spread practical experience of vegetarian diet, knowledge of traditional cultures, and hundreds of health/diet studies, all tell a different story.

Too much protein is as harmful as too little, and is linked with shorter life expectancy, increased cancer and heart disease risk, widespread obesity and diabetes, osteoporosis, kidney stress, and bad digestion

High protein-diets bring about temporary weight-loss, at the expense of overall health, and people quickly regain weight once they return to a normal diet

A varied vegetarian diet with a balance of protein, fats & carbohydrates, and adequate calorie intake provides more than enough protein

Complete animal protein is not superior to complete protein from more than one plant source – they give the same result in different ways

Protein from plant sources doesn't include excess calories from fat, toxic residues, or an overabundance of protein, which stresses the kidneys

Protein deficiency is very rare in the US and is generally diagnosed in people living in countries suffering from famine. It's been estimated that the average person in this country eats two - six times more protein, usually from animals, than is needed for good nutrition.

So then comes the question on Thanksgiving. Am I REALLY NOT going to eat TURKEY on Thanksgiving. And to be completely honest, if i WERE going to eat meat, TURKEY on THANKSGIVING would be the last piece of meat on my list because I know the facts:

There are 300 million turkeys killed each year—more than 40 million during the holiday season alone—for human consumption. Turkeys on factory farms have their beaks and toes cut off without pain relief. They are crammed by the tens of thousands into dark, stifling warehouses where disease, smothering, and heart attacks are common. Today's turkeys are genetically bred to grow so quickly that their bones and leg muscles often give out under the stress of supporting their huge upper bodies. Millions of turkeys die every year from heat exhaustion, freezing, and accidents during transport.

Thousands of free-range turkeys are raised in a single warehouse-like structure forced to stand on accumulated fecal waste and breathe in ammonia fumes. These turkeys are then taken to the slaughterhouse through transport containers where they are hung upside down in shackles. There they cry out in fear and pain as they await their own slaughter. Think of how much it hurts when we get a little speck in our eye, and we might understand the degree of suffering that the turkeys are been forced to endure day after day.

And in an earlier post, I pointed out that the Union of Concerned Scientists points out that 70 percent of the antibiotics sold in the United States are used to treat healthy livestock...

Anyhow, due to my family being hundreds of miles away, I am spending Thanksgiving at home, alone, with the pooch. I have resorted to the couch, in boy shorts, un-showered, with Forrest Gump on the tube. I will take the opportunity to work on my Weekend Commitments

Oh, and did I mention the house next door was on fire this AM? 5 Fire Trucks parked outside of my window, Channel 5 news, & LOTS of firemen (including the Chief.)

Throughout the week, I have been busy creating my very own little Thanksgiving meal. On the menu: Sweet Potatoe Souflee, Apple Crisp, Butternut Squash Soup, Black Bean Salad, Minnesota Wild Rich & Squash, Spinach Salad, Jalapeno Cornbread, Apple Cider, Cranberry Fruit Salad, and Pumpkin Pie - mostly made from scratch. THAT's enough to be thankful for. (did i ever mention that i LOVE cooking in my kitchen??)

I rarely get excited about the holidays, for various reasons. The #1 reason tends to be the many obligtions that come including: being expected to showing thanks, thinking of thoughtful gifts, (gift-giving is no longer natural - it is EXPECTED), the consumption of garb foods, the guilt of gathering with relatives ONLY once a year , and a years worth of the positive & negative life stories (I feel guilty telling a positive story, when everyone else is living in the negative.)

I DO enjoy Gift Wrap. (actually, obsessed. I have a collection of wrapping paper, bows, string, glitteratti, need I go on?!?!)

And I DO enjoy receiving gifts. Refer back to my Official 2008 Christmas List

OH AND, I do enjoy sending Holiday Cards.

I have been humbled on this day, Nov. 27th, 2008.... Thanksgiving. I will pour one for all my Turkey homies that were literally plumped to death for your dining pleasure.

**Facts Found at: goveg.com, articlesbase.com, savvyvegetarian.com, peta.com

the best things in life are found on Craigslist

2008-11-26T14:11:00.002-06:00

Determined to find a decently priced apartment to look at in December when I visit, I am now spending a good portion on my time browsing ads on Craigslist. I have not announced it to the world yet, but I plan on moving back to Chicago in Spring of '09.

I couldn't NOT share this ad that I came across while browsing through the Apt/Housing category.

$30 / 3br - -------------House Wife Wanted....All Expenses Paid.....SAVE $$ (Just South of Wicker Park)

You Provide: Laundry and house chores.

I Provide: All Housing Expense Paid......You Live For Free....And a chance to get ahead in life by living for free.......

Me: 28 M White, Attractive, Business Owner, Wicker Park

--I am Looking for a house wife

--You wash my laundry/ cook/ clean....I pay all of the bills....

-- I work 90- 100 hours a week, and am sick of spending my small amount of spare time doing house chores......

--Be my house wife and I'll pay all of the rent/ utility / tv / phone / internet / food / drinks / parking expenses you are currently paying!! You can save up $$ and get a jump start on life !!

--Please include your picture and #.....I'll call to answer any questions you may have.

-- And yes, this is a real ad, and no this is not too good to be true. I would just rather not spend my only day off washing clothes (10 loads per week of work clothes) / cleaning up the house and my office....

dogs are OK - wooof
Location: Just South of Wicker Park

Tempting. I think I am the right person for the job. (If not, Phil, I will find out if he would be open to a "house husband.")

Lipstick & the City

2008-11-25T15:35:00.000-06:00

I decided to venture out of the house today and treat the pooch to a nice afternoon at the dog park. Although it is cold outside, it was not unbearable... and the pooch has been slightly anxious to get out of the house ( I know this because he whines at me CONSTANTLY.)

Little did I know, the pooch (who was wearing the cutest little black jacket) would become the center of attention at the dog park.

When we visit the dog park (frequently in the spring/summer) we typically go to the park for big dogs, not small dogs ALTHOUGH my dog is only 11 lbs. He enjoys the big dogs, and gets himself in to less trouble. He gets waaaay too excited around the other small dogs.

Today, after roaming around by himself for quite some time, he found a gorgeous lassie-looking dog (50-75 lbs) to focus all of his attention on. Lassie was laying down chewing on a stick, when my pooch decided to take the opportunity to get behind Lassie and mount her. Lassie didn't even notice, but EVERYONE ELSE in the dog park did. There was one point in time that 3-4 people had their camera phones out not just taking pictures - but recording the dominatrix (a.k.a my pooch) in hump-mode. It WAS quite the site. Quite embarassing. The pooch has a reputation of being "romantic" but has also been referred to as Duece Bigalow.....

Eventually, I had to pull my dog off of Lassie and carry him out of the park. He is currently sprawled out on the couch with all 4 legs in the air. Relaxing after his big super-star day at the dog park.

On the lighter side of dog talk I got an e-mail from my grandparents and read this: "...We took Hunter (their dog) to the Mall yesterday in his stroller. He really enjoys that...."

wow.

(((change of subject)))

In less than 24 hours, my dreams of celebrating Hannukah this year have been shattered.

I was not aware that Hannukah is one of the best known holidays simply because of it's proximity to Christmas, It has become part of "The Holidays." Hannukah is often referred to as the "Jewish Christmas" and has adopted many of the Christmas traditions such as gift giving and elaborate decorating - although this is not traditional for the jews. Basic tradition is the lighting of the candles, spinning a dreidle, and eating fried food. Not much for celebrating.

SO I am back to celebrating the Holidays just like the Christians do, just like I did growing up. Santa Clause, Reindeer, and GIFTS... oh... and baby jesus!

To begin my holiday celebration I am going to create a Christmas list. (don't make me get out the JCPenny catalog)

My Official 2008 Christmas List:

a remote car starter
The Little Mermaid II
A new mobile phone (anything but a blackberry. must have GPS)
a gift certificate to MAC
a new bed frame
a blingin watch (I am ALWAYS looking for a watch that outblings my current one)
a filing cabinet from West Elm
book shelves from West Elm
for my (new) car to be fixed because someone backed in to it last night!! GC to the auto body shop?
OR a vacation home in Bora Bora ((drool))

xox bird

interesting. . .

2008-11-24T18:27:00.000-06:00

"...........using the word "interesting" allows you to keep your distance, play around with ideas and concepts in your mind, agree or disagree........" eckhart tolle

hmm..... interesting....

xox bird

that's how i roll.

2008-11-24T17:35:00.000-06:00

It is currently Monday eve and my work week is just about over. (*smiles*) I may choose to work in the salon on Friday just to get out of the house. To fill all of my free time, I have committed myself to a few things over the next week and a half:

I will not eat out. I will eat home cooked (vegan-ish) meals at home.

I will finish a book that has taken me waaay to long to read (it's deep): A New Earth by Eckhart Tolle AND I will start a new book. Not sure which book. I will have to make the decision between: The Hour I first Believed by Wally Lamb, Wasted Beauty by Eric Bogosian, Freakonomics by Steven D. Levitt, OR finishing The 48 Laws Of Power by Robert Greene. I would really like to start a novel.

I will learn everything I need to know about Hannukah - I will be celebrating this year (no, I am not jewish - just trying something new) I will also celebrate the Hmong New Year
I will meet my friends at 1029 Bar for another round of Karaoke on a traditional Wednesday night.... and I will sing my heart out. fa la la la la la la la la

I will probably spend Thanksgiving alone, BUT I will go see a good movie on Thanksgiving eve... which is tradition for me.

I will attend the Annual Holidazzle Parade.

I will complete my gift-giving list (why are thoughtful gifts so hard to think of??) I don't give many but I do give some.

I will unpack my beautiful Celebration Barbies (yes, I collect BARBIES) and place them under spotlight for the next 5 weeks.

I will NOT set an alarm clock... I will wake up when I feel like.

That's it. That's all I've got. I am really looking forward to my week, although I will not be with family, I will not be with my closest firneds. I will be alone. Alone with a good book and some good vegan-ish food.

xox Bird

*image yanked from Daily Candy

everything you say can & will be used against you.

2008-11-23T18:10:00.002-06:00

Very early in my career, I learned that everything you say will eventually be repeated - and you must be 100% comfortable with every word that leaves your mouth. If you choose to talk negatively about someone behind their back, eventually that person will get word of what you have said.

Everything you say can and will be used against you.

I can remember the exact moment that I realized ALL of the gossip I was spreading, all of the rumors, and hate messages I was throwing around WAS being repeated - repeated back to the people I was gossiping about!

(Why, for so long, did I think the rumors I was spreading would stay only with the one person I told them to??)

Travel Back In Time about 6 years:

Waaaaaay back in the day ;) I was working at a salon in Indiana. The salon was busy, I worked with my friends, and knew most of the guests that entered the salon. I viewed most of my guests as friends, not just paying clients.

One of my guests (we will leave her name out of the blog for obvious reasons,) would come to the salon every 4-6 weeks faitfully for a cut & color. She brought her 13 year old daughter to the salon for cuts & color as well. They became good $$ customers of mine.

I remember before I knew her well, SHE would always make comments about working at night and being exhausted during day time hours. Eventually she pushed me to ask a simple question: "Oh, you work at night? What do you do?"

She was a stripper. A 44 year old stripper with a 13 year old daughter. And a dramatic love life. Oh, and flourescent green fingernails. A stripper that thought I was pretty which probably meant I had a good looking father. She wanted to know more about my dad.

Whoa. (i know!) A stripper step-mom?!?!?!

Each time she was in the salon, she would ask to see pictures of my dad. Each time she was in the salon I would tell her "Maybe next time." Of course this was always mixed among her stories of lost love, broken hearts, rich guys, boyfriend #1, and boyfriend #2. I could never focus on her stories of broken romance, instead my mind would race a hundred miles a minute - wondering if her 13 year old daughter watched her walk out of the house at night in fishnet stockings, lacy thongs, and stripper shoes!! AND I wondered what her daughter thought of those loooong green fingernails... and the playboy bunny imprinted on her thigh, and the fake tan! AND I could just not visualize thhose 44 year old saggy boobs jiggling around in anyone's face... for $$$!!

Nothing against strippers. I'm just sayin. That's where my mind went - it was completely riduculous and out of control.

This whole situation blew my mind (obviously!!) soooo I talked about it. I told my co-workers of the stripper with dreams of being my step mother. I told my friends, and I told salon clients of mine.

In fact, I can remember the day (very vividly) that 2 of my favorite clients/friends were in the salon shopping for some shampoo. They stopped me to chat... asked about life, updated me on their life... asked about my dad... (gasp) I had a GREAT story to tell them!!

I told these girls everything about HER. E-V-E-R-Y-T-H-I-N-G. In the middle of the shampoo aisle in the salon.

We said our good-byes, deciding we would all see each other soon. I walk away. Turn the aisle. And come face-to-face with HER. The stripper. In the next aisle. I knew instantly that SHE had heard everything. E-V-E-R-Y-T-H-I-N-G.

Instantly, I was nauseated. And looking for a story. Justification. Lies. EEK!~

SHE mentioned that she was in the salon just shopping for shampoo, and... that she had heard everything. Of course, she knew I was talking about HER. With lines like: "Like, Who wants a stripper for a mom" and "Isn't she too old to be a stripper anyway - plus she has a 13 year old" There was no doubt SHE was the person I was referring to.

Not sure how I got myself out of that situation, it's all a blur. I'm pretty sure she never came to see me in the salon again.

And, I'm pretty sure I have watched what comes out my mouth from that day forward.

Back to the present:

Unfortunately, gossip happens quite frequently in the beauty business. I happen to be employed in the beauty business. For various reasons, lately, I have been at the butt end of other peoples gossip. In fact, 3 different people, from 3 different sides of my work life have been heard talking smack about me. Interesting enough, that all 3 of them don't know me very well at all.

My plan of action is to not retaliate although, eventually, I may (discreetly) let them in on the fact that I know what they have said. Of course, I would allow them to know everything I know. I would allow their minds to always wonder exactly what it is that I do know.

Typically, I am not one to draw attention and drama, but lately I have been in the spotlight. What must the girl do to remove herself from the attention of others?

"...When you are seemingly diminished in some way and remain in absolute nonreaction, not just externally but also internally, you realize that nothing real has been diminished, that through becoming "less," you become more...." - Eckhart Tolle

i got out of bed for... THIS?

2008-11-18T19:31:00.001-06:00

My job could often times be compared to a bad joke.

Often times, I am placed in front of groups of people, ready and willing to help them earn a better living and live a better life. Unfortunatley, most of these people would prefer to stay wrapped in a broken misery. Most of the time, I care more about their personal growth and success than they do.

Yesterday, I was placed in front of a group of *special* people. Here is what I mean by *special* During my presentation they:

wanted to know my ethnicity (they screamed the question... rudely)

laid their heads on a table and slept - apologized later.

chomped on Jimmy John's Sandwich & pickle

made the announcement that they had no idea that I was coming to present to them and had no idea what I would be presenting. they could have cared less whether i was there or not.

Although this may not sound extreme, a group of professionals that are interested in growing their education & successes would not have acted this way.

So, yesterday, this little situation happened to about 6 or 7 of my coworkers and myself. It is called "mis-communication." This mis-communication caused my boss to call me on the phone, scream at me, threaten my job with his company, and hang up on me. Of course, he blamed the situation on me, and believe it or not, the situation was not my fault at all (victimizing myself.) I was looking for solutions to the problem we encountered. I offered solutions to the problem and no one could seem to agree on the same solution. I never did understand why 6 people needed to be a part of the situation in the first place OR why it was so hard to get respondence from all parties involved.

The outcome of the whole situation ended with me in front of a small group of people that could have cared less about their careers, let alone the positive message that I had to pass along to them.

By the end of the day, I was reassured that I should not fear losing my job - Not that I ever DID fear it.

BUT the whole situation left a bitter taste in my mouth. Did I deserve to be screamed at and hung up? AND told that my side of the story will never be heard? You would think that your employer (who is an ADULT) would have enough respect to hear all sides of the story prior to BLOWING UP. As an employee, I do not feel valued. I do not feel that my opinion matters. I do not feel that my employer has my back and and looks out for my best interest. I do not feel that my employer is willing to GROW ME as his employee .....although I have shown loyalty to his distributorship.

-------------------

Today, on the other hand, I realized that there ARE people that respect me, value my opinion, hang on to the words that I say, and understand that I work with them to help them grow their business.

I was in front of two different groups of people today that look forward to seeing me in their salons. They thank me every time I come in. They hang on to every word I say. The ideas/systems/techniques that I provide are immediately put in to action. In return, they are experiencing growth within their business.

These are the people that I enjoy working with. Working with these people allows me to be productive within my job. So why is it that Big Boss Daddy can't see this and continuously kicks and screams about me working with nobodys that will always fail miserably in life??

It feels good to be respected and appreciated, and I am now facing a the point in my career that I will seek out an employer that RESPECTS and APPRECIATES the work that I do.

On another note, I got on the phone with a long time friend of mine tonight. He called to give me an update on his not-so-great relationship. He made the statement that although I am so far away from him right now, he still considers me one of his best friend. *smiles*

Tomorrow, I will not be getting out of bed.

*image yanked from Daily Candy

XOX

Must Have's

2008-11-17T20:55:00.000-06:00

I MUST have plenty of lacy socks before next spring. ((drool))

(this is not the best pic of lacy socks.)

look at the socks and metallic heels

i found this pic a while ago, but came across it again and am now drooling over lacy socks

se-xy

"ZIP UP YOUR PURSE!!"

2008-11-15T10:12:00.000-06:00

Last night, we ventured out to Edina for the Ultimate Suburban Experience: Trader Joe's (grocery shopping), Panera Bread (soup, sandwich & green tea), The Gap (argyle socks & the original khaki), AND the Landmark Theater (Now Playing: The Secret Life Of Bees).

Oddly enough, it was a great way to spend a Friday night.

As we were sitting at Panaera Bread we made a mutual decision: We needed to purchase a few bottles of water to smuggle in to the movie theater. This is especially crucial because much of our movie theater experience evolves around artificially flavored popcorn (artificial flavors include White Cheddar, Jalapeno, and the occasional Parmesan & Garlic)

After Dinner we went straight to the mall (The Gap.) As we were exiting the mall, we found a vending machine full of Dasani water. I stuck 2 bottles of water in my purse.: Smuggling Plan completed.

We proceeded to the movie theater with a few moments to spare. As we walk from the parking garage to the theater, we notice that the bottle of water in my purse were highly visible. This made HIM nervous.

HE suggested that I zip up my purse, and I non-chalantly blew him off because I was not worried about anyone noticing. Even if someone were to notice, I felt that it was no big deal - that they wouldn't even pay attention to the water in my purse! I have smuggled plenty of food/drink items in to movie theaters over a period of 10-12 years.

HIM: "ZIP UP YOUR PURSE!"

ME: "It's not a big deal!"

HIM: "Crista, really, Zip It Up!"

ME: "I'll do it when I get inside."

As HE purchased our tickets, I did not bother to zip up my purse, as promised. As he purchased the popcorn, I STILL did not bother to zip up my purse. In fact, I boldly placed my purse on the concession counter flaunting the 2 bottles of water in my purse to the cashier.

HIM: (disgusted at my boldness) "GET.. WHAT.. THE.. PUT THAT DOWN!!"

ME: (foolish grin on face) "Sorry" wink wink

Although, the bottles of water were spotted in my purse, they were never questioned. The common rule at movie theaters: Outside food/drink is Prohibited, did not apply to me.

---------

AFTER MOVIE DISCUSSION:

Apparently my experience and HIS experience with movie-going has been slightly different. Me, being a white female, have always felt comfortable carrying food/drink items in to the theater and have never been asked not to do so. HE, being a man, has had the rules more strictly enforced.

This lack of consistency with the enforcement of rules extends beyond the movie theater. White females tend to be the least threatening members of society. There is a lack of fear they possess due to the continuous free passes they are handed. The small free passes may seem insignificant at times, but the resulting boldness/fearlessness/confidence that white females possess is profoundly different from the learned behavior of minority women and men to strictly follow the rules.

Although being a white female has it's advantages, there are certain arenas where being perceived as the least threatening member of society has it's disadvantages.

3 Words: Hillary Rodham Clinton

We want our US President to be strong, and confident, therefore any presidential candidate that has the additional baggage as being perceived as the least threatening member of society (white woman) has a huge obstacle to overcome. The one thing this alleged non-threatening candidate is prohibited from doing is to show signs of emotional weakness. Emotional weakness (crying) reinforces the sterotypical pereption of women.

Hillary Clinton cried as she began to lose momentum in the race against Obama. She showed vulnerability, frustration, and weakness. It was soon stated in NewsWeek that "anyone who needed to carry Kleenex in her purse was unfit for the highest office in the land."

In contrast, Sarah Palin has overcome this additional baggage of being perceived as the least threatening member of society by creating the image of being a Pit Bull in liptick. She is tougher than tough. Her boobs are made of stone. She has taken all of her feminine qualities and has used them to her advantage by flirtatiously manipulating men to gain an edge. She is a true feminist. BURN YOUR BRAS WOMEN! !

-------------
In closing, I will admit there is no END to this discussion or thought process. Please note that this is one person's perception. It was thought about, discussed, and then BLOGGED. Please feel free to add to the discussion.

*I thank HIM for:

A. Suggesting that I write this blog

B. For making his opinions/POV's available for this blog.

"They're called boobs, Ed."

2008-11-14T16:36:00.000-06:00

Seriously, is this picture inappropriate to post on my webpage?

Why are people so threatened by this picture? I am COMPLETELY comfortable with it.

You can find nude pictures of ANY celebrity on the internet or on TV (please refer to Brittney's new video, Womanizer

and plus... this is FAR from NUDE.

Haters only love you when they're hating.

Feedback PLEASE.

THAT just happened.

2008-11-13T10:35:00.001-06:00

Wow. I could not help but to share this e-mail that I just received in my Myspace e-mail inbox:

Wow, you are gorgeous! Say you're wanting to be spoiled
and you like older guys. I'm a good person and have a great paying career :)
Really, I'd break my neck to give you the world ;)
Have a great day!

To keep confusion down, I do not know this person or where he would find the information that I need $$ and older guys. BUT, Sounds he's got a great plan for me and will ride out do or die. It is not tempting, in fact is IS creepy. Did he really just say that? Is this why I remain single? Does this prove what I say about love? I should forward his contact information to HER

:::sighs:::

you can plan a pretty picnic, but you can't predict the weather

2008-11-13T10:01:00.000-06:00

9 AM. Finally home. After 6 tough days in Lake Geneva. Hair Show. 2000 Hairdressers. I worked. And Worked. and worked. And sat through meetings. And was never NOT in someone else's face. There was no free time. No time alone. No time to step away. No time to be a friend. My mind drove me crazy the entire week for various reasons. My guard was let down. I have experienced anxiety among many other emotions, which rarely happens. It feels good to be home. I can relax, deal with my life, and escape the madness. Reflecting on the weekend, Here are a few things that I re-realized:

I am uncomfortable with people that are insecure and uncomfortable with themselves.

You never know when someone is going to change their mind.

I DO have feelings.

I DO NOT appreciate people fucking with me.

I do not respect weakness and vulnerability

Often times, when I develop a crush, it is based on personality and conversation rather than looks (I don't develop many crushes)

Love is a battlefield.

"What is most commonly called "falling in love" is in most cases an identification of egoic wanting and needing. You become addicted to another person, or rather to your image of that person. It has nothing to do with true love, which contains no wanting whatsoever. The Spanish language is the most honest in regard to conventional notions of love: Te quiero means "I want you" as well as "I love you." The other expression for "I love you," te amo, which does not have this ambiguity, is rarely used-perhaps because true love is just rare."

-Eckhart Tolle "A New Earth

A Former Pain-Body: RECOGNIZED

2008-11-10T19:59:00.000-06:00

Because of the human tendency to perpetuate old emotion, almost everyone carries in his or her energy field an accumulation of old emotional pain, which I call "the pain-body."

pain-body: this accumulated pain is a negative energy field that occupies your mind and body. If you look on it as an invisible entity in its own right, you are getting quite close to the truth. It's the emotional pain body. It has two modes of being: dormant and active....

Tonight, I have focused my energy back to Eckhart Tolle's book: A New Earth. It is taking me quite a while to get through this book, for a few reasons. It is deep. It requires a open mind and time to process each paragraph. I knew it was time to pick it back up after talking to a friend of mine about the pain-bodies that he is dealing with. I have also been reflecting on the moments of my life that my pain-body were apparent.

The past lives in you as memories, but memories in themselves are not a problem. In fact, it is through memory that we learn from the past and frompast mistakes. It is only when memories, that is to say, thoughts about the past, take you over completely that they turn in to a burden., turn problematic, and become part of your sense of self. Your personality, which is conditioned by the past, then becomes your prison. Your memories are invested with a sense of self, and your story becomes who you perceive yourself to be. This "little me" is an illusion that obscures your true identity as timeless and formless Presence.

For some reason, as I read about pain-body's again, (which are triggered by situations that arise that are similar to something you experienced (negatively) in the past), I recalled a heavy pain-body that I once experienced.

When I was young-er, I dated a guy for a very loooooong time. Early on in our relationship, I would get soooooooooo mad at him for drinking beer. It didn't matter what the situation, if he had a beer in hand, I was PISSED. My attitude would completely change, and I would get mean. I would allow his beer drinking to ruin my day, even if he was just having a beer to cool himself down after mowing the grass on a hot day.
Today, I realized why I got so upset when he would drink a beer. My dad was an alcoholic when I was young. And when this guy would open a beer, my pain-body would go in to full effect and I would be taken back to that dark place.

Why that particular situation sticks out in my mind so much after reading that particular chapter in A New Earth, I do not know... but I can say that I learned something new about myself this evening....not only through my own experiences, but from friends experiences as well. What an honor it is when a friend allows you to advise them on the next step they should take to continue moving forward with their lives. I thank them for that opportunity. Win/Win.

A friend told me that a friend told him about an experience she had at the Cincinnati airport. While approaching the moving walkway she read a sign above: "DON'T STOP. DON'T LOOK BACK. KEEP MOVING"

Cheers to a few moments of free time to step away from the rest of the world and lose myself in a book.

XOX

Quoted is Eckhart Tolle in A New Earth.