tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-44764262647298079582024-03-05T09:36:44.325-08:00ILikeItEMCzajkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729304400201692429noreply@blogger.comBlogger111125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4476426264729807958.post-84839096394921872232016-04-21T13:07:00.002-07:002016-04-22T06:55:33.894-07:00All Because of a Boy...This post is going to start of rant-y but it's for a good reason I promise you. It's all about more stuff I like. <br />
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I was talking with my friend yesterday about what to get her son (my nephew) for his Birthday. She told me he was really into the Avengers right now (I nearly cried!) and that even though he's only turning two, he somehow developed an obsession with them and knows each character by name. I couldn't be prouder!<br />
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So as we continued talking about what to get him, I asked if he had any of the action figures? She sent me the following picture of the set they bought him for his Birthday:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcmIrjSq6OG3BbUddM0RrpIaUFHB8PRtVGHeOsAhLiYUEb79xRbXALaakSkEocaj_8LjYrYGkttdPh8STHk1Q_CcFpGCeJkRb9ktUoZdPl1j6J_HRAa3n19U7ut97biXy4gBWssrV4XaSU/s1600/set.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcmIrjSq6OG3BbUddM0RrpIaUFHB8PRtVGHeOsAhLiYUEb79xRbXALaakSkEocaj_8LjYrYGkttdPh8STHk1Q_CcFpGCeJkRb9ktUoZdPl1j6J_HRAa3n19U7ut97biXy4gBWssrV4XaSU/s1600/set.jpg" /></a></div>
"That's awesome!" I said, "But the we can't forget Black Widow or Scarlet Witch, we've gotta represent the ladies!" and she completely agreed. So I started trolling Target's website to see what individual action figures cost and couldn't find any figures for Black Widow and only one, smaller version of Scarlet Witch (not suitable for a 2 year old and wouldn't match the set he's getting). In fact the only Black Widow toys available online are her wig and costume for Halloween. But I had planned to make a run to Target that afternoon anyway so I figured maybe they just weren't available on their website, no big deal. <br />
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Friends, I must say, my favorite store of all time has completely let me down!<br />
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Target currently does not make either of those female heroes available to purchase individually. Black Widow only comes in a different set with the other male characters and Scarlet Witch isn't available in stores (at least not mine) at all. This really bothered me because Target had recently made a big deal about how they were going to stop segregating toys by gender. No longer would their aisles say "Boys" or "Girls" as they recognized both male and female children liked a variety of characters and toys. Great right? Well, not if you're a fan of super heroes apparently. <br />
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I decided to Tweet Target right then and there because, as you'll note in the picture, what really killed me, was the fact that Black Widow was clearly represented in the stores display to attract kids to the toys, so why the heck can't these same kids get her action figure??<br />
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I also walked further down the aisles and noted that DCs character, Wonder Woman was sold in the same fashion. You can't get the Amazon on her own, she only comes in a set with the other male heroes. Again, I called bullcrap and tweeted the following image to Target:</div>
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I know you're thinking, "Hey, there's empty pegs". True, and I did give Target the benefit of the doubt and checked the tags for those empty pegs- sadly, they were not for Wonder Woman figures.</div>
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I think it's also important to note that Black Widow has been in more of the Avenger films then any of the other characters, she's kind of a big deal guys.....</div>
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To their credit, Target replied to my Tweet almost immediately and I hope they remain true to their word:</div>
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But I thought I'd share this with my Facebook friends as well because I know many have children who love the current films, television shows and comics and wanted to know what they had to say about this. I was not disappointed:</div>
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Do you see where I'm coming from? I mean, it's 2016. Target and toy companies in general are missing out on an incredibly big market. And for what reason? Even boys want to play with the female heroes, they're a part of the gang!</div>
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But please pay special attention to the comment my friend Amy made won't you? Her daughter LOVES the Hulk! She also loves hockey and for some reason, it's still next to impossible to find sports gear and comic book clothing in the girls section. And if you're lucky enough to stumble across some, guess what? That crap is pink and covered in glitter! What the shit is that??</div>
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I may not have read every comic book out there, but I watch Agents of Shield, Jessica Jones, Daredevil, Arrow, The Flash, Agent Carter and every single comic book film including all from the XMen universe (I grew up watching the cartoon, Rogue will always be my favorite heroine) and there ain't no pink up in any of that!</div>
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Why? Why do companies and designers do this to us? I talked to one of my coworkers about this today as well. She repairs cars and likes to hunt and fish and for some reason 50% of the gear she finds in the women's section is pink. What exactly is pink camo going to do for you in the woods?? This needs to stop.</div>
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Now, This isn't a rant against pink. Currently my lunch bag, water bottle and gel nail polish are all shades of pink. My sister and I had our rooms painted pink when we were little (my progressive mother was very distraught about it). This is about boys and girls being forced into these boxes, these stereotypes since birth and it's not okay. </div>
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Months ago a friend posted about how she was struggling to find clothes for the daughter she's expecting:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUTgfbIIXc6bDSCtgqL0u-qZYhJvnKzL6HWSg78JuODDSSI-z4jZW-nV_8BMlcJ83vp4LqUg7zby-5CyWGi3fRKhn-9-TpBSvITcUOs58UH-q32dd-rECtEaNshI5rvOLXmU9nXMlbDXMs/s1600/kat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUTgfbIIXc6bDSCtgqL0u-qZYhJvnKzL6HWSg78JuODDSSI-z4jZW-nV_8BMlcJ83vp4LqUg7zby-5CyWGi3fRKhn-9-TpBSvITcUOs58UH-q32dd-rECtEaNshI5rvOLXmU9nXMlbDXMs/s1600/kat.jpg" /></a></div>
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I couldn't believe it. I messaged her right away telling her to try a different Target or Target online because I had recently been shopping for baby clothes and recalled they had a wide variety of colors. I had been shopping for my nephews at the time though, so I might have misspoke. Fore, on my next trip to my beloved store, I thought it would be nice to pop into the babies clothing aisle and pick out some sweet, non-pink items for my friend. Once again, I found myself being severely let down. I found lots of clothes that weren't pink, however they all came in a set with other items that were. Picked out a cute top, the pants it came with were pink. Nice onesie, the other two onesies in the set were different shades of pink. Thankfully I managed to find a couple of things for her but still, one of the sets I sent along did have a pink item paired with it, for which I vehemently apologized. </div>
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The struggle is real people and I didn't realize just how real it was until I started really looking. </div>
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I didn't see it because it wasn't so bad when I was little, at least, I don't think so.</div>
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I watched the Ninja Turtles: April wore a yellow jumpsuit. </div>
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XMen: Storm was in white or black, Rogue in yellow and green, Jean Gray in blue. </div>
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Sailor Moon: All wore different colors, none in pink except for the little girl who was one of the characters' daughters. </div>
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Star Trek: No pink</div>
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Ronin Warriors: No pink</div>
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Star Wars: Leia wore white and the occasional khaki. Yes, she wore that freaking gold bikini but girlfriend shot a bunch of dudes and choked out her captor in it too so your argument is moot. </div>
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Sea Quest: No pink</div>
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VR Troopers: No pink</div>
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Yes, I know Power Rangers had the Pink Ranger but they literally used every color of the rainbow so I'mma let them have that one. You'll remember that the evil Queen wasn't rocking pink though, so there. </div>
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You see where I'm going with this? </div>
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Every few years people bring up the "pink tax". A phrase used to describe how women are typically charged more for the same items men use. Usually our stuff comes in pinks and purples but a razor is a razor; shaving cream is shaving cream, etc. You going to tell me pink dye is a dollar more then black dye? Yeah, bull. But it's all around us, everyday and we let it happen. </div>
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So I responded to Target with this in mind and started a hashtag that I hope catches on:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuwO2_fbRE1JKbLfzFjMrzArLKZvfY4cHfe2-Zrf12T3PqLXCnJUE7T4T-wkc7vmP96wGwmEtPe9ceIGXSZiSwg0VfVHo5CMjRUE7PGv-eonKTgCqojzWbq6Sm1iEbM-kI4S8kJcoDwL4Z/s1600/nopink.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuwO2_fbRE1JKbLfzFjMrzArLKZvfY4cHfe2-Zrf12T3PqLXCnJUE7T4T-wkc7vmP96wGwmEtPe9ceIGXSZiSwg0VfVHo5CMjRUE7PGv-eonKTgCqojzWbq6Sm1iEbM-kI4S8kJcoDwL4Z/s1600/nopink.jpg" /></a></div>
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#IfItAintBrokeDontPinkIt</div>
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We don't need pink camo, we need clothes that are durable and appropriate for what we're doing that fit us properly. </div>
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We don't need a picture of the Hulk printed on a pink cotton tshirt. We like our characters the way they are because of who they are, not because they rock a costume that appeals to us. That only matters when we decide which team to root for when sports are on (kidding)</div>
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This isn't some feminist movement, this is a nerd asking those who sell me nerd stuff and happily take my nerd money, to give me what I want. </div>
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I hope to have girls one day and I don't think I should have to search EBay or have something custom made on Etsy because big companies can't get this stuff right. I love super heroes, I love television shows of all kinds, I love music of all varieties and I love every color of the rainbow. It would be awesome if I the things I bought in stores reflected all of that for every age and every gender. </div>
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#IfItAintBrokeDontPinkIt</div>
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<br />EMCzajkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729304400201692429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4476426264729807958.post-32938597051599008132016-04-21T12:07:00.001-07:002016-04-21T12:07:26.829-07:00A Very Happy Birthday!Thank you Queen Elizabeth II for making me realize I seriously need to set up my color game! A very Happy Birthday to you, you classy monarch you!!<br />
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<br />EMCzajkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729304400201692429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4476426264729807958.post-62823179650662416762016-02-12T04:23:00.000-08:002016-02-12T04:23:02.715-08:00Who Run the World?<div style="text-align: center;">
Girls.</div>
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EMCzajkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729304400201692429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4476426264729807958.post-84976833687032316572016-02-09T11:16:00.000-08:002016-02-09T11:16:15.618-08:00I'm Okay, You're Takei.....<br />
I'm not a real "Trekkie". I wish I were, but I'm not. I don't know enough about the franchise, the ships and the cast to be able to actually call myself one. And it makes me sad. <br />
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However, I LOVE Star Trek enough to post about it. So here you go.<br />
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It's kind of hard to explain why I love it so. I think it's like anything, you like what you like and if you like something enough, you'll stick with it forever. <br />
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I grew up watching the occasional episode of the The Next Generation (it's my favorite series) with my father. We didn't sit around and watch it religiously each week, but it piqued my interest enough that eventually I started watching it on my own if I happen to land on a channel that was playing an episode. <br />
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My good friend Ryan was big into Trek but he and I shared a nerdlove for X-Men and didn't really talk a lot about Klingons and Vulcans. Now that we're older, we share fun little Trek related things over FB here and there. It's awesome. <br />
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My first real relationship just so happened to be with a fellow that could definitely be described as a Trekkie. But he was like, the cool, hip millennial Trekkie. You know, the type of nerdy guy that has become socially acceptable and admired over the past decade. He didn't walk around wearing Vulcan ears or get into screaming matches with guys about whether Kirk or Picard were the better captains while in line at the local coffee shop; he just grew up enveloped in the franchise. He had seen every episode of every series, knew episodes by name, actors by name, could tell you what year each film debuted. And I thought he was so freaking cool.<br />
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I touched on this briefly in another article (am I calling these articles? The thing itself is a blog so I shouldn't call it another blog, right?) but, when the time came for us to drive out to my best friends wedding, we made it our mission to stop in Riverside, Iowa: The Star Trek Capital of the World. It's considered as such because that is the town James T Kirk was from in the series. (This does not automatically make him the better Captain, for the record)<br />
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Again, I'm not a bonefide Trekkie but this was one stop I was really looking forward to and I'm really glad I can say I've visited. </div>
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You see, Trekkies are a really special kind of person. The series itself was created by people who saw the world differently; imagined our world thriving, people getting along for the most part, but at the end of the day, a world in which we all still wondered, still searched for more. And I think something like that really resonates with folks, it's a timeless notion really. </div>
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A few weeks ago, my roommates brother had come over. I had never met him before but they decided to keep me company while I was cooking in the kitchen. We talked about all manner of things but at one point he made a comment about the Cardassians. I replied to what he said and he thought I misheard him. I told him I heard him right and then proceeded to elaborate on my comment. He stared at me for a beat and then said "Wait, and your single?! How the hell are you single?!" </div>
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It was definitely a proud nerd moment for me! It's that kind of fandom that I've always admired and apparently I made the cut. </div>
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I mentioned that I met most of the TNG cast at Comic Con in another post. They were all so freaking cool. They all got along, or so it seemed and everyone was very kind and didn't give me shit about making sure my name was spelled with 2 Z's, most of them actually complimented me on it. </div>
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People talk about meeting their heroes, wondering what they'd be like and I was not disappointed. I have a few cast members to check off my meet and greet list but I look upon my wall of fame everyday and I'm so happy I got the opportunity to connect with these larger then life stars. </div>
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If you find yourself looking to pick up a "new" series to binge watch, might I suggest a Trek series or two? They're all wonderful and groundbreaking in their own right (yes even DS9 with the damned Pah Wraiths-ugh). </div>
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Go ahead and live long and prosper-you'll like it.</div>
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EMCzajkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729304400201692429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4476426264729807958.post-31007347449290463842016-01-29T12:46:00.001-08:002016-02-09T10:38:01.303-08:00An adult momentI don't know how I'm going to write this. My head has been all over the place about this for awhile so there is an extremely good chance that this is going to be one hell of a rambling hot mess of words. Bare with me. Or don't, you're under no obligation to read this dreck, like, ever, so it's completely within your right to abandon ship now.<br />
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My father passed away in 2008. He was 61 years old and a total pain in the ass. I say that like he was my problem, he wasn't. He was the least of my problems which, is probably a problem.<br />
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Growing up my father and I had a great relationship. I remember watching wrestling with him, laughing at ridiculous sitcoms with him and running around outside while he did yard work or worked on the family cars or cleaned the pool or grilled on our back porch.<br />
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The man could fix anything. He wasn't a skilled craftsman per say, but he was a master of the patch-job. He could MacGyver a bandaid for anything and he always knew exactly what needed to be done. He knew about cars, basic plumbing, lawn maintenance, pool maintenance, I mean the list goes on. He was a no frills kind of guy. Literally, frills made the man visibly uncomfortable. You want information from my father? Make him wear a suit for 18 hours, he'll sing like a canary if it means he gets to put on shorts. His idea of a good day is one in which he could get his hands dirty and then drift off to sleep in front of the tv.<br />
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When he first met my grandmother and one of my aunts, he came to the door shirtless, sweaty and wearing ripped, paint-stained jean shorts. That was my dad.<br />
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He was the Crew Leader for the custodians at the local middle school and I used to love having the privilege of walking around the school after hours. It was seriously the coolest freaking thing. Everyone knew my dad because he was the one they would need to contact if anything happened. The lunch ladies used to fawn all over my sister and I and give us free cartons of chocolate milk whenever we went into the kitchen to say hello. All of the teachers knew him and loved him and my sister and I felt like a couple of badasses 'cause we were his daughters. <br />
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It was when he got injured at work and was forced into retirement that things changed dramatically. I was just entering into puberty; the asshole teenager stage and he was around ALL the time. Mind you, he wasn't a dick, he really wasn't. I had heard stories from friends about how their dad removed their bedroom door because he didn't trust them; listened as kids at school would gossip about someone's dad hitting them or hearing how someone's dad walked out on their family. Dad wasn't like that.<br />
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He was just home all the time. And he was bored. So when the rest of us were around, he was all up in our shit just looking for a little attention. But as an asshole teenager I wanted none of it. Combine that with the normal crap families argue about: money, homework, chores; and things suddenly became very tense.<br />
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My father had two children from a previous marriage that he really had no relationship with. He was told to stay away and so he did; but that gave him the desire to try harder, I think, with my sister and I. He didn't want to be "the dad" he wanted to be that cool guy that everyone liked. And he was-he was called "Smiling Ron" by everyone that had worked with him-they even gave him a hat proudly displaying the nickname. But I just thought he was annoying, not fake but, I just wasn't on the bandwagon. People would always tell me how much they loved him, how funny he was, what a great guy they thought my dad was and I totally took that shit for granted. It's cliche to say it now, it really feels cliche to say it, but I did. I completely took him for granted and now I miss him, terribly so.<br />
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Right after he passed away, my mother had spoken to me about some things my sister had gone through a few years earlier. She mentioned that while my sister had been diagnosed with and was working on living with Bipolar disorder, my mother came to realize that my father most definitely had it too. That realization completely sucked for me. My father was Bipolar and that would have been a game changer had we only discovered this before he died. I would've approached things so differently. I would've understood why he said and did the things he had done, rather than find them annoying and get pissed off and dismiss him altogether like I did all too often, But it was too late and holy hell does it suck to think about.<br />
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The past two years have been insane for me, a lot of change and a lot of ventures into things I know fuck-all about. And all of it has done nothing but make me think of my dad. I started working at the local mill in town in 2012 and discovered that one of my coworkers had actually worked with my father back when I was in elementary school. His name was Dwight and though he and my father worked together for only a year or so-two tops, he still remembered my father and spoke fondly of him. Dwight was killed in a totally random accident when he was out riding his bike one day and it broke my heart. He was a really nice guy who worked really hard and saying goodbye to him felt like saying goodbye to my dad again.<br />
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The following year I moved into my first home and went through 12 months of typical first time homeowner stress that everyone faces in their lives. Everytime something new would come up, a new issue, a new bill, and new repair: I thought of dad. He would've been the first person I called to handle any of it. The first person I would've asked for advice. I like doing things myself but I hate knowing that he's gone and that I have to struggle and figure it all out on my own when he would've known what to do immediately in every situation. And he would've loved it. He would've loved every phone call, every text, every Facebook update (holy shit my dad would've gone crazy with Facebook!) and he would've shown up if and when I needed him every time.<br />
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I got my love of gossip from my father. My social-butterfly gene. Also my love of all things pop culture. And my love of arguing. Not arguing to be some asshole, but saying what needs to be said regardless of who can hear you because, most of the time dammit, it's regarding something everyone should hear. I also inherited his no frills attitude. Sure, I like to feel pretty and put together, but I'm most uncomfortable in formal settings of any and every kind. <br />
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I was speaking with a friend of mine about Comic Con and my love for celebrities in general and she asked me who the one celebrity was that would make me just lose it and I told her I came really close when I was in line to meet Hulk Hogan. I watched him wrestle Sargent Slaughter in New Haven when I was 8 on a trip with my dad and Dwight. I grew up with him. He was the ultimate to my father; dad thought he was cool and tough and loved that everyone loved him. I know his rep is marred now, but growing up he was a God in our household.<br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">He's short but still gigantic!</span></div>
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So I'm standing in line waiting to meet "God". I had met some cast members from the Star Trek series already and I was thinking about my father. About how excited and amazed he would be to know I had spoken with LeVar Burton and William Shatner and Jonathan Frakes and that here I was, waiting to shake Hulk Hogan's hand. I thought about the house and everything I had to deal with over the past few months and I just started to tear up, right there in line surrounded by hundreds of strangers. I thought about what I would say to Mr. H once I got to the front of the line; about how I would tell him I watched him wrestle since birth, had his action figure, saw one of his matches in person and about my dad. I called my mom and told her what was going on and thankfully, she did the crying for me.<br />
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I finally got closer to the tanned giant that is the Hulkster and realized that Jimmy Hart, the self proclaimed "Mouth of the South" was up there with him too. This guy hadn't been involved in the WWE in years, I hadn't seen him on TV since I was ten or eleven and holy shit, there he was. I met him first, shook his hand and told him that I grew up watching him as he signed my autograph. I then met Hulk Hogan. I told him how much I liked him, that I watched all of his shows and asked him about his family which he genuinely seemed to appreciate. As I was leaving he made sure to mention Jimmy was signing autographs too and when I told him I had already received one he told me to "make sure I still had my wallet" and I walked away beaming and thought, oh man, dad would've thought that was hysterical!<br />
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Now, my father was still a pain in the ass. But I'm grown and going through grown shit, and I do wish he were around to talk to and to see who my sister and I have become. I know he'd be pretty proud. <br />
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<br />EMCzajkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729304400201692429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4476426264729807958.post-31546826724452400542014-11-13T23:25:00.001-08:002014-11-15T21:35:32.154-08:00And now for something completely different.I'm going to get personal with you for this post. I never intended to get "deep" or emotional on this blog, and certainly not about anything that wasn't completely trivial like my love of chocolate or how much my sides hurt after watching an episode of <a href="http://www.fox.com/brooklyn-nine-nine/brooklyn-nine-nine/full-episodes">Brooklyn Nine-Nine</a> (which you all should totally be watching!). Especially considering I haven't posted a thing (I have about five incomplete posts saved I swear, I'm working on it!) in about a year (over a year?! Ugh I'm the worst!!).<br />
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But recently I posted <a href="http://mic.com/articles/104030/here-s-what-it-feels-like-to-be-fat-in-public-in-america">this article</a> on my personal FB page that might have seemed like some kind of cry for help, attention, maybe even the need for compliments. My friends responded kindly, most explaining that they understood that was not my goal at all which I completely appreciate. But still, the topic at hand was one I had considered writing about for sometime.<br />
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I'm fat. No really, I am, it's alright. Actually I'm obese by medical standards. Albeit "mildly", or is it "moderately"? I don't know what the term for, a-hair-beyond-fat, is these days. Regardless, I am. Always have been; okay, since the age of 5. But even at 5 I don't think I'd be considered eligible for any <a href="http://www.gap.com/products/girls-clothing.jsp?tid=gpps021858&kwid=1&ap=7&sem=true&mkwid=695IKyGR_dc&adid=tnc+xvqf&creative=23798920155&adpos=1t1">Gap Kids</a> modeling contracts.<br />
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It's something I never really talk about. I mean sure, maybe with other "fat" friends and family members. Maybe sometimes I talk about my body in a negative way as a means of highlighting how good others have it; but I've never been the kind of person who takes a look in the mirror and can't see beyond the superficial. I'm pretty fucking great. No, really, I love myself, who I am and what I stand for. I can honestly say I'd be best friends with myself. I mean, who wouldn't want me in their corner?!<br />
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But nonetheless, this fat body of mine still overshadows all that awesomeness upon first meeting. Again, that's never been something I've talked to anyone at length about but it's something I'm glaringly aware of. In fact around age 9 or 10, a family member (who was and is still fat!) told me they'd give me cash if I lost weight. I was in elementary school and told by a loved one who had been with me since birth that this pudgy shit just wasn't going to cut it. <br />
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So, being 30 now and still fat, I saw that article and it struck a cord. It's something that I feel often but never talk about. So here goes.<br />
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Growing up I was always the largest girl in my class. And back then, my friends, one was hard-pressed to find "cute" and "trendy" clothing for pre-pubescent chicks with my waistline. Everything was stretch pants, sweatshirts and old lady clothing. You should see my school pictures-thank God I'm not famous or you would have by now!<br />
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My first real honest to goodness relationship didn't happen until I was 24, but I'll get back to that.<br />
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My first honest to goodness "sexual encounter" happened when I was 13. I didn't lose the Big V or anything but that was when I met my first penis and decided right then and there that there was no possibility I was gay. After that, most encounters with the opposite sex went pretty similarly. I was always the great friend, you know? The one that no one wanted to date but that guys were okay with hooking up with every so often. I was the chick they'd fool around with while they were between girlfriends. While it's kind of shitty to say that was "my thing", I can admit now that it really was.<br />
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I wasn't the town bicycle or anything like that, I just mean to say that I never got beyond friends with benefits. The only experiences I had ever had with someone who was even remotely interested in me was purely as a hookup and under no circumstances were we to ever move past that. Again, I'm okay with this now. I'm 30 for goodness sake who gives a shit? But back then I did. It sucked. It hurt. It was confusing. Why wasn't I good enough? Oh, right, because I was fat. Again, that's what I believed.<br />
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I met the man that would be my first real boyfriend when I was 21. We became friends and though he was in a relationship, granted a shitty one with someone else, we started to hook up. He eventually broke up with her and we started hanging out regularly and I gave up the V that next year when I was 22. I don't regret it, let me make that clear. I loved him at the time and considering we ended up together for a total for 7 years, I think it's safe to say I could've done far worse.<br />
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Unfortunately during those seven years, he never once told me he loved me. This is because he didn't. I knew that, he was always very clear about it and felt truly guilty that he didn't feel the way for me that I felt for him. However, this knowledge not only made me want to fight harder to prove how great I was, it also caused my personal insecurities to run rampant at all times. The girl he had been in a relationship with before me was a size "0". When I met him I was a size "20" and over the course of our relationship, ballooned up to size "26". To be fair, his waist line grew as well but it never once mattered to me, I always (and honestly still do) found him to be incredibly good looking. And as part of my attempts to prove my worth, was constantly praising him and complimenting his looks and physique. Never once receiving that same feedback from him.<br />
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He complimented my skin, always reveling in how soft I was. He loved my tiny feet and liked the smoothness of my hair. But I wasn't beautiful in his eyes. It pains me now to write this but it's true. Again, it's something that bothered him because he did care about me at least to some degree but, for some reason, he never felt the need to compliment me like I so desperately needed. Instead, for seven years I felt like an embarrassment. Like he wished he could introduce someone prettier to his friends and family. I knew he was pressured from some of his friends and even one of his close family members to leave me; they all thought he could do better and to them that meant someone thin. The only compliment I ever received from that family member of his was that I had a huge rack, "sweater mittens" he called them. That was pretty much where my worth began and ended in his eyes. They had all been waiting until someone better came along and I lived with that knowledge for seven years.<br />
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This is the only picture my ex had ever told me I looked "hot" in. We had been together for five years at that point. Immediately my response to him was "that's because I look thinner" and his reply, "yeah."</div>
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That was it, that was my worth. I was nothing more to him and if I was, for some reason he could never put it into words. </div>
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I'm not angry, no honestly, not at all. I loved him and I needed to love him. I needed that experience like we need every experience we will ever go through in life. Through that relationship I learned who I was as a person and what I brought to the table. I understood how to show someone I loved and cared for them and I learned what I needed from a partner. That I'm deserving of a real relationship. That I'm more then some friend with benefit to be kept secret but a person deserving of a real "status" to be promoted and appreciated.</div>
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I posted that article as a kind of PSA of sorts. Reminding people that everyone's got something going on, you know? That, before we scroll through the 'People of Walmart' page on our lunch breaks, we remember that these <i>are people</i>. <i>Real life</i> people with <i>real life</i> insecurities and needs like the rest of us. </div>
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Again, I'm not mentioning any of this stuff because I'm looking for sympathy. This is my journey. This is my explanation as to why I have the insecurities that I have even now as a 30 year old gal with a hella-good job and a sweet new house to renovate. People that don't walk in my shoes won't understand. But I know everyone out there has something similar.<br />
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You go shopping and a stranger makes a funny face at you. Hell, that face could have been about something entirely different, they might not have even been looking at you; but you went right to that shitty place in your head that made you question what it was about you that merited that kind of look from them. It still mattered to you to some degree and you had to second guess everything all over again.<br />
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Well I can happily tell you all that, you know what? You look good baby! Go 'head with that fine ass and <a href="http://www.barbie5x5.com/blog/2014/5/24/take-a-lesson-from-the-indelible-rupaul">shashay-shauntay</a> all damn day! We may not tell ourselves that all of the time, but if it's so easy for us to say it to others, why can't we take a moment and look into the mirror and say it too?<br />
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So here's my "mirror moment". A few of my FB friends did this "5 Pictures Where I Feel Pretty" post on their pages and because it's important that everyone know that I really don't look upon myself negatively (at least not a lot!), here are my five "pretty" pictures:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz138ZYr9ZyCRhfF-nrCG-8jppdsjWvGmXC3URKh4K8x-4VVczu1iCP_bWMQfjoQy9gtuGpOmhKDWvtJZ74guRAgJT3TVz-nDHU80ZpWKDn-fuMXcuh_roIk_Rl5XBRlKKV1i7vMejfVIK/s1600/face.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz138ZYr9ZyCRhfF-nrCG-8jppdsjWvGmXC3URKh4K8x-4VVczu1iCP_bWMQfjoQy9gtuGpOmhKDWvtJZ74guRAgJT3TVz-nDHU80ZpWKDn-fuMXcuh_roIk_Rl5XBRlKKV1i7vMejfVIK/s1600/face.jpg" /></a></div>
I know I'm making a funny face here but I honestly adore this picture. This was taken fairly early on in my relationship with my ex and I used it as my profile picture for ALL of my social media sites for years!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-ItCGjTP9TaUjJTbfuvOSMZETjxwvv9v6FZN_tqukx8TCmVUZT4eb6SEg2P8MaDcoMQRJy6GIZKpvR-67zCyfpR4aE9yVbEyb81YuEmUNfDrb4lJmtY6auKBruwIq9isi9WKN0fsVlKYV/s1600/chicklove.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-ItCGjTP9TaUjJTbfuvOSMZETjxwvv9v6FZN_tqukx8TCmVUZT4eb6SEg2P8MaDcoMQRJy6GIZKpvR-67zCyfpR4aE9yVbEyb81YuEmUNfDrb4lJmtY6auKBruwIq9isi9WKN0fsVlKYV/s320/chicklove.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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This was taken right before I cut my hair to donate. I had just changed up the style, parting it diagonally and adding side bangs. My eyebrows were just done and my nails were manicured that week. I felt on point!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH7pnJrMZg0W4H8wG6CaXUC_FJQuNU7bhvv_VC7oBpJ0nxH7WaxdPQIJs5NwbAZBIvdlcRa2XlMr_I51mUfD37LD1HJFW1xGc7ji32nBfTfBsZOcH_zpVRAixmexVsxUvYiduWD3G59Jr2/s1600/fancy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH7pnJrMZg0W4H8wG6CaXUC_FJQuNU7bhvv_VC7oBpJ0nxH7WaxdPQIJs5NwbAZBIvdlcRa2XlMr_I51mUfD37LD1HJFW1xGc7ji32nBfTfBsZOcH_zpVRAixmexVsxUvYiduWD3G59Jr2/s320/fancy.jpg" width="238" /></a></div>
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First function I had ever attended with a "new man". I was wearing my favorite dress that I had just gotten tailored and was pretty pleased with the way I put myself together.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhunqUNh8SGVMMdZocxGsTeqzzvJQgapZvCUKxhjI8tdT8p6ZQD95Mo_JWNGa8rWWwaCAf3Xr4BcaoRwGA9qcIbR1wN96jmg57of5rRSzj9Sp92Eqo4g32pj0Y5aX14ZEB4z4L6PA71l-lv/s1600/smooch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhunqUNh8SGVMMdZocxGsTeqzzvJQgapZvCUKxhjI8tdT8p6ZQD95Mo_JWNGa8rWWwaCAf3Xr4BcaoRwGA9qcIbR1wN96jmg57of5rRSzj9Sp92Eqo4g32pj0Y5aX14ZEB4z4L6PA71l-lv/s320/smooch.jpg" width="188" /></a></div>
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This one was a selfie-which I NEVER take because I don't think I can do "sexy" or whatever faces so I don't even bother. But I was having a great night at a friends party and decided to play around. I totally felt like hot-shit (in a good way!) that night and dammit I was going to flaunt it!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkYs1pfKSOxMdmHeNCZCo51roqaCEKgmxsxhNGYl7y6c-jxnmE_GcMu9Q4RJ6HR7NOuI49RiZnhYcbsRAzi6iv7g9CAxbK5OBNoSCOpUquuvaQoUzg9xUIL3-hzzin7VUYY4mhfUfdNEBs/s1600/IMAG0571_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkYs1pfKSOxMdmHeNCZCo51roqaCEKgmxsxhNGYl7y6c-jxnmE_GcMu9Q4RJ6HR7NOuI49RiZnhYcbsRAzi6iv7g9CAxbK5OBNoSCOpUquuvaQoUzg9xUIL3-hzzin7VUYY4mhfUfdNEBs/s320/IMAG0571_1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The quality of this one isn't great because it's a picture of a picture. But I'm including it because it was taken right before I participated in my town's annual 5k walk/run event. I never would have participated in anything like this three years ago. I knew I would finish dead last for the event, which I did (there was an 8 mile going on too so thankfully it wasn't like people were waiting for my to roll over the finish line) and who wants a bunch of strangers watching them sweating and breathing heavy in a not-in-any-kind-of-sexy way? But I did it and I finished and I was surprised by how good I looked when I got a copy of this picture the following week.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA62iqmVI9h82aoU8OElp25Z1rghyphenhyphenwq7ul6G37dDJTyVf0oddwe5C0fQS8eKinrT3qMYSNHhejNGySI94EsD-RmDp2h7bWjmUg9VkX4YP-RKRerR0J6ciQLXOrzIO23_hxSCEZX4pJBzaf/s1600/bige2014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="310" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA62iqmVI9h82aoU8OElp25Z1rghyphenhyphenwq7ul6G37dDJTyVf0oddwe5C0fQS8eKinrT3qMYSNHhejNGySI94EsD-RmDp2h7bWjmUg9VkX4YP-RKRerR0J6ciQLXOrzIO23_hxSCEZX4pJBzaf/s320/bige2014.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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And bonus picture. This one was taken at the Big E with my favorite friend Tammy. This girl is my rock and I spend the majority of my free time with her and her incredible family. We took a picture the year before in the same spot and I loved that one too so I made it an annual tradition.</div>
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Being me, big booty and all, I like it <3</div>
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EMCzajkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729304400201692429noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4476426264729807958.post-77471651909365908822014-04-25T19:14:00.001-07:002014-04-25T19:14:21.090-07:00You know, for funsies...I saw an ad that said "Browse Rings". The ring depicted in the ad was real purtty so I clicked on it. The site then had a "Design Your Own" option.<br />
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Apparently this is my "ideal" ring and apparently it's going to cost my future hubby (TBD) around 25K<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTkRhDcAV0qUSsdTB-SQqL4AqfVItw7vqzKPRoqBv0rIJdzMI4xh0PhMU_MlI5KNjpE7ukwplmnt7U2VxTlzp7D3ykeRyDqfmFjlZAGxyVH1Gi1OFI5vQFfTiEcvK4KdLOZS1d5KnYDRmq/s1600/sopretty.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTkRhDcAV0qUSsdTB-SQqL4AqfVItw7vqzKPRoqBv0rIJdzMI4xh0PhMU_MlI5KNjpE7ukwplmnt7U2VxTlzp7D3ykeRyDqfmFjlZAGxyVH1Gi1OFI5vQFfTiEcvK4KdLOZS1d5KnYDRmq/s1600/sopretty.jpg" height="346" width="640" /></a></div>
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I know you can't buy love, but you can certainly buy real shiny things. I Like It :)EMCzajkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729304400201692429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4476426264729807958.post-32413093418491912952013-10-01T05:28:00.000-07:002013-10-01T05:29:25.995-07:00TributeWe always had pets growing up. My mother had two cats, Isis and Max, that were around since before I was born. They were awesome pets, but they were hers. When they passed away my sister and I went to the Animal Welfare Society here in town to see if we might be able to find some cats to fill the void in our hearts. I was 14 or 15 and Kat was about 10. We didn't know what we would find but we went in feeling excited and hopeful, my dad, being a typical dad, was a little less than thrilled. It was understandable of course, we had a family dog that my sister and I promised to take care of (I was like 10 and Kat was 6, oh yeah, the sense of responsibility was flowing) which of course meant mom and dad had already spent a number of years cleaning up and taking care of one animal, why would my father now be interested in repeating this all over again, times two?<br />
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But he was a good dad, and my mom told him to suck it up, so there he was with a grumpy look on his face and two daughters who were really excited about the idea of getting new pets.<br />
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I really wanted a female cat. Isis was my favorite growing up and I figured a girl was the way to go. I don't think my sister had a preference as long as it was fluffy and snuggly. We also didn't care about the age of the cats, ours lived for nearly two decades, I just knew I wasn't getting anything with a ton of fur, no, thank, you.<br />
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At the time the AWS only had one cat room-they were all about dogs then so there was a good chance we were going to walk out of there without any four legged friends. It just so happened that the AWS got a new litter of kittens a few weeks before our visit and all of them had just been spayed and neutered.<br />
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My sister found an UBER fluffy, long haired cat she positively adored and I found a few grey and brown tabby kittens that looked a little bit like Isis. I asked the volunteer which of the group were female and after she pointed them out, I picked one up that I thought would be a nice companion. Being tender from her recent spaying, she was not happy about being handled and squirmed and meowed her way out of my grasp. She was not the snuggly friend I was looking for. I looked at the other short haired tabbys from her litter and this sweet, tiny little male cat caught my eye. I picked him up and he sat happily in my arms. No squirming or complaining. He let me pet him and hug him and he didn't try to claw my eyes out or nothin'. He was my guy. <br />
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I was getting into art and really loved the works of Norman Rockwell so I decided on Norman. (My best friend, Christine, loved Hitchcock films so she always called him Norman Bates but that was NOT his name Christine!) My sister named her cat Chester, I'm not sure why but the name fit him well just the same.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinTY4J0BoNjYhMlW8rJsBpMcOxSBBAKCZwYQcmZGb67sT1plaBiOBmvTc7rHtz70e22meVg41RiDCFCZ14cEEpnoLmQ0QTDj2rqcbEjSymJe0kV6RSvwGKmJ3sErqFcpgtx5Zjb4zCtYNU/s1600/c&n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinTY4J0BoNjYhMlW8rJsBpMcOxSBBAKCZwYQcmZGb67sT1plaBiOBmvTc7rHtz70e22meVg41RiDCFCZ14cEEpnoLmQ0QTDj2rqcbEjSymJe0kV6RSvwGKmJ3sErqFcpgtx5Zjb4zCtYNU/s320/c&n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">This is one of the few pictures I have of our two cats together. Norman and Chester as kittens, exploring the yard for the first time. Look how tiny Norman is!</span></div>
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We brought our cats home and the snuggling began immediately.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSrPBJsg3l9VWB_WwPWdD7qP-_orakDpFGE4h48NyCLPPic3qFp3I-8IRHBuDaqkW3_cNgEKjWvLJQtwM8ycnm5sbMs307UjQoLAQmQ26QtJK26k4vm3JFq_a63cbojEelX-iTmrGsp-FR/s1600/first.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSrPBJsg3l9VWB_WwPWdD7qP-_orakDpFGE4h48NyCLPPic3qFp3I-8IRHBuDaqkW3_cNgEKjWvLJQtwM8ycnm5sbMs307UjQoLAQmQ26QtJK26k4vm3JFq_a63cbojEelX-iTmrGsp-FR/s320/first.jpg" width="304" /></a></div>
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I mean, look at this guy</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRdvtvJC4WFcpoHyhSAtBjNNCpLyczl8pivPKW19Al-bI2EQkQi-WoDSLFmAqoStpckx9Vm24_MS5jOgjigFaKTVX4V1cXoQ91_7kjWi3zT8Jm0bNTCCdWpnCtAcYGrX6v7-Fo7TV_7YVr/s1600/baby.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRdvtvJC4WFcpoHyhSAtBjNNCpLyczl8pivPKW19Al-bI2EQkQi-WoDSLFmAqoStpckx9Vm24_MS5jOgjigFaKTVX4V1cXoQ91_7kjWi3zT8Jm0bNTCCdWpnCtAcYGrX6v7-Fo7TV_7YVr/s320/baby.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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How could you <i>not</i> love that face!</div>
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Everyone who visited since that day has fallen in love with my Norman. He was just one awesome, laid back kitty. He snuggled like no other but was still independent and did his own thing. </div>
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As I grew up, so did my cat. He and Chester protected the house from "intruders" and they just loved showing off their handy work, like any proud kitty, by laying their "presents" at our front step every once and a while. And, I can't speak for Chester, but Norman was one hell of a mouser!</div>
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I went off to college and came home about once a month each semester. Though we didn't see each other often, Norman was always waiting to snuggle with me whenever I was around for a visit. He loved spreading out on "his half" of my king sized bed and was your classic lap cat. He had a meow that would melt your heart too. Even as he got older, his sweet little kitten meow never changed. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNBbeNqSgKl4D7_QZUdm_6HTlgwK5rrvsbW-X8LsiGUmooniL-3-CIy0AqAWivZYgU0YrSLEbb5JSiIJgo736N6QO3t3QRbxqaja7mD9D2b18RHuQZEBGDf9ahwMBwop_7XnKkZ35cf7Do/s1600/office.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNBbeNqSgKl4D7_QZUdm_6HTlgwK5rrvsbW-X8LsiGUmooniL-3-CIy0AqAWivZYgU0YrSLEbb5JSiIJgo736N6QO3t3QRbxqaja7mD9D2b18RHuQZEBGDf9ahwMBwop_7XnKkZ35cf7Do/s320/office.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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After college, Joe and I got together and when Joe came to live with us, Norman found a new friend. His favorite seat in the house was either on top of Joe's desk in front of his keyboard or on Joe's lap in front of the television. He could sit with Joe for hours and I don't think Joe would have had it any other way because, like Norman, Joe was pretty laid back himself. The picture above is Norman in Joe's office chair, I think he liked to keep it warm for his "daddy".</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVUKX0gTb7sKbED4l7UTk9zusAFkc0oIDlLjDftFYY6KFOum4NSR_vQXxxuCEFDuxwBhUthOytvCE_ldiFoC1Zw31GmNBGJ1wCkLp0LAYO6i0bW6KDh3kRwPYyRXyBWiYqpQtKqtTQIK0R/s1600/peanut.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVUKX0gTb7sKbED4l7UTk9zusAFkc0oIDlLjDftFYY6KFOum4NSR_vQXxxuCEFDuxwBhUthOytvCE_ldiFoC1Zw31GmNBGJ1wCkLp0LAYO6i0bW6KDh3kRwPYyRXyBWiYqpQtKqtTQIK0R/s320/peanut.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Norman in his favorite spot....with a packing peanut on his head....thanks Joe.</span></div>
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This cat also had a thing for people's cars. Whenever I'd come home, he'd come right up the my driver's door and try to get inside the car. He did it to everyone, me, Joe, even my friend Dave. Yet this silly cat never actually enjoyed going for rides. One time he climbed into Dave's car just as we were about to run a quick errand. I jokingly suggested we bring Norman along and that poor cat meowed and meowed for the entire 7 minute trip. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvtQSkkG4xO1wqcItzRSaRWkP_5D2oUuyY8M2Rvj9kLTt7iBuwEmZi3idJT3JzFW-AT_Ak7AdT54vX3mZwS7C2ID377xHnz6zcYMR6xxF8dDD5wpPCVaGjYKgEy4F2CG5rvLd2sWkqPTXZ/s1600/car.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvtQSkkG4xO1wqcItzRSaRWkP_5D2oUuyY8M2Rvj9kLTt7iBuwEmZi3idJT3JzFW-AT_Ak7AdT54vX3mZwS7C2ID377xHnz6zcYMR6xxF8dDD5wpPCVaGjYKgEy4F2CG5rvLd2sWkqPTXZ/s320/car.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Relaxing in my Jetta after thoroughly exploring, silly Norman, you can't nap in cars.....</span></div>
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A lot of my friends used to tease Norman about his "sad eyes". A lot of (dumb) friends used to say he looked like he was stoned but one of Joe's friends met Norman for the first time and immediately thought, I still don't see it, that he looked like a dinosaur. He quickly came up with the name Lil D and never called Norman by his actual name after that. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEfrklWiVaTYYqy0ZDCGJ6iDDrHcm9uupqI8eWbauTNxNqEtyT5FK7BfOrCn6qqFfjihNpi6zo6oP0KYlg4HHjbfzVS0XDSitnV4ebTPCDLXT-SXfRg1kbY7rrsETpOzXQzJRcl3PvppA8/s1600/stretch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="163" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEfrklWiVaTYYqy0ZDCGJ6iDDrHcm9uupqI8eWbauTNxNqEtyT5FK7BfOrCn6qqFfjihNpi6zo6oP0KYlg4HHjbfzVS0XDSitnV4ebTPCDLXT-SXfRg1kbY7rrsETpOzXQzJRcl3PvppA8/s320/stretch.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Roar!</span></div>
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This cat also LOVED boxes, he used to shove himself in boxes that were far too small for him and would, uncomfortably, sit in them for hours, even days. He liked to do the typical cat thing and find one spot in the house to lounge in for an extended period of time and then move on to another completely random (to us) spot. No matter what I was doing, the moment a box or container was open, Norman would find his way inside and did not enjoy having to leave before he was good and ready. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTnHIumQ-BFSxlw2R7a6hPyS7oyxwyKhdFs4gadk3HPRd6vSprmTx41qYByb8qKc1TjLnChowrRQqwvBqVfMz_aMVZjyTbRVHBFIAOUFwnztS8TS-zhje1z4QqJ63dGYnua6-xHLE1vyNV/s1600/suitcase.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTnHIumQ-BFSxlw2R7a6hPyS7oyxwyKhdFs4gadk3HPRd6vSprmTx41qYByb8qKc1TjLnChowrRQqwvBqVfMz_aMVZjyTbRVHBFIAOUFwnztS8TS-zhje1z4QqJ63dGYnua6-xHLE1vyNV/s320/suitcase.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I know everyone has or has had a pet that changed their life and for me, it was Norman. He was the first pet that was ever really MINE. And I'm sure his manners and behaviors are very similar to those of other cats, but he was my boy. </div>
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I've had him for half of my life and this week we had to say goodbye. I don't know how to condense 15 years of love into a blog post so I'll end it here. Saying goodbye is always the hardest part and this is one incredible friend I'll never be able to forget. </div>
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He was an amazing first pet. He never caused any trouble and just wanted to hang out and be loved and give some love of his own. Other pets have a come and gone, a lot in fact. But I'll never be able to thank you enough for the wonderful years of companionship and comfort Norman, but thank you just the same. I love you and you'll always be in my heart and the hearts of our friends and family. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigYsVni0E71IxAfVQLZ1q4P4P9iB6EIALCP7BeWl8P5Gvm6BMhD8DQFSG6j6K3gde0oCRPSPOdToLFOzdHC7ftaqw2r_k9rIwC7ucAgTecPuIuDzB1QPINbT3ImMXthLOEi-LPjcR-P4M8/s1600/nheart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigYsVni0E71IxAfVQLZ1q4P4P9iB6EIALCP7BeWl8P5Gvm6BMhD8DQFSG6j6K3gde0oCRPSPOdToLFOzdHC7ftaqw2r_k9rIwC7ucAgTecPuIuDzB1QPINbT3ImMXthLOEi-LPjcR-P4M8/s320/nheart.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">I don't just like you sir, I love you, I will always love you</span></div>
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<br />EMCzajkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729304400201692429noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4476426264729807958.post-63721927723165246742013-07-05T11:28:00.000-07:002013-07-10T16:11:16.503-07:00Hi, welcome to Starbucks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My Dunkin Donuts friends might be annoyed with this one. Well, sorry, this chick didn't receive the "Friends with Everyone" superlative in 8th grade for being choosy or picking sides. </div>
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I hate coffee. Don't like the smell, the flavor, I don't even eat coffee cake. I go to Dunkin Donuts for the bagels (don't really like donuts either-never bought one for myself, ever.) and I go to Starbucks for one thing and one thing only: The Double Chocolaty Chip Frappuccino. I have, quite literally, never ordered another beverage from Starbucks. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdXj1GNN8GFrWYK3Hgv7txQOk7DuYq3nzur1-DQP5qA-86WX-iScyR1UDJiBBCwjqKqr8RQweITeza0PpEJSYBSaJpBvnwtBRtKVK4Yda-FXIJM-im04zUTL_HCZ8jBTvMqfrOG0rr5IF3/s1600/601762_10100132596961649_697492006_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdXj1GNN8GFrWYK3Hgv7txQOk7DuYq3nzur1-DQP5qA-86WX-iScyR1UDJiBBCwjqKqr8RQweITeza0PpEJSYBSaJpBvnwtBRtKVK4Yda-FXIJM-im04zUTL_HCZ8jBTvMqfrOG0rr5IF3/s320/601762_10100132596961649_697492006_n.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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See how happy it makes me?</div>
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Today, I went to the Starbucks drive thru, all amped up for my delicious liquid treat. I sat in line behind a lovely '64 Mustang that stunk up to high heaven (and we wonder how the Ozone could be crumbling..), but was still SUPER pretty and observed the woman in front of me being handed an ice water and having a little chat with the Barista at the window. I thought, surely she didn't hit up the drive thru for a glass of ice water, that's just silliness. After another beat, the Barista came back and handed her what appeared to be some sort of venti latte, soy and half calf concoction (whatever it is you weird coffee drinkers order) and she drove off with a smile on her face. How nice.</div>
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Then I get up to the window, pay for my beverage and wait patiently for the frozen cup of yum to emerge from the window. Before my drink was finished, the Barista (a lovely, outdoor/hipster/type gentleman) came back with a cup of ice water in his hands and asked me ever so politely, if I might like to take an extra ice water with me. </div>
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Now I don't know if ya'll have stepped out on the face of the sun this morning like I did, but it's hot as shit today. I did not hesitate when answering and gladly accepted the complementary refreshment as I knew I would greedily consume it once my Frappuccino was finished. But I thought, wow, how freakin' considerate of them to do that! I was so impressed, I was immediately compelled to blog about it and tell all of my friends :)</div>
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Then it got me thinking about Starbucks, or at least "the Starbucks I've come to know" over the past decade. I don't know what the standard company policies are. I don't know if anyone has ever worked at a Starbucks ad found it to be the worst job on the face of the planet. I can only go by my own experiences and the experiences my friends have had while working there. From what I've seen and heard, Starbucks is fucking great.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-k4QlY2AYX-oYZW_hvQDiDb7LfmdSeuB9LnfmEeRqfClEyANLeyd1zFY_iSi2NRUsVNw00b2ehIdDkDYDSChZ5MizmwFBSPNw4ROcyEdLs-rbAyIBaH-Nd0X6QPU-8uCqbC7goU18mcxT/s1600/starbucks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-k4QlY2AYX-oYZW_hvQDiDb7LfmdSeuB9LnfmEeRqfClEyANLeyd1zFY_iSi2NRUsVNw00b2ehIdDkDYDSChZ5MizmwFBSPNw4ROcyEdLs-rbAyIBaH-Nd0X6QPU-8uCqbC7goU18mcxT/s320/starbucks.jpg" width="314" /></a></div>
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Sure hate on them for being some huge trendy company. Call them fascists for making a shit ton of money by selling overpriced coffee and having the gall to open locations directly across the street from one another. Is it silly, yes, we know it's silly, but are we in America? Will people gladly stop in the Starbucks conveniently located on the side of the street they happen to be walking along so they don't have to cross the intersection? You bet your lazy American ass they will. So I won't come down on them for makin' moves, it's our fault they get away with it. </div>
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But again, let's focus on the awesomeness shall we? </div>
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I had a friend in college who worked for the Starbucks a few blocks away from campus. he loved the job. She liked coffee and all of those weird trendy drinks and was a people person so that job was a great fit for her. But I remember her taking about how happy she was, and how nicely they treated their employees and thought, wow, Starbucks sounds pretty neat. She said employees were encouraged to take the old, used coffee grounds home at the end of each shift so they could be used in their gardens and compost heaps. That the company, rather then add to our countries ever-growing waste problem, provided each employee with reusable mugs so they weren't throwing away dozens of coffee cups each day (saving the company money in supplies as well I'm sure). I also heard that some locations give leftover food to local homeless shelters in their area (something other popular food places are doing as well), so thumbs up for giving back to the community!</div>
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I also had a cousin who worked there for sometime, at one point it was the only job she held and she was thankful that, while so many others were being laid off, or struggling to find some steady work (herself included, she was let go from her full time job), that she held a position at a place who seemed to value her as an employee. Now I know it's not the most glamorous position, essentially retail with scones, but when you're struggling and things seem helpless, sometimes it's that "regular job" that can keep you feeling upbeat and positive about what's to come. </div>
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For example, I had another friend who worked at a Starbucks in the neighboring town from me and he LOVES hi job! He gets to talk to different people all day, see his friends and drink a ton of coffee (dude loves coffee) each day. He loved the job so much, they started promoting him. First he was a trainer, then a shift supervisor and now a manager. Again, to folks with a 9-5 office job, this doesn't seem like a great direction for one to take in life. But if you're happy with what you're doing and your bills are paid-what's the big deal? I say, thanks Starbucks, for making lots of people happy!</div>
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Again, I don't know what the national (international?) company policies are, but the fact that they allow their individual franchises to do good within their communities and give back to their employees, makes them stars in my book. </div>
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So git yourselves out there, order some freakin' weird beverage and throw a coin or bill into the tip cup at your local Starbucks, they appreciate it more then you know.</div>
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Oh and try one of those Frappuccinos if you haven't tried it yet, I like it :)</div>
<br />EMCzajkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729304400201692429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4476426264729807958.post-38959071237348591642013-05-27T11:31:00.002-07:002013-05-27T11:31:24.875-07:00The Happiest Place on EarthFor me, that's The Bronx Zoo. Once again I find myself amazed that I haven't blogged about this glorious institution of education and wonder yet. I talk about it all the time to the point where people tease me about my love of this place.<br />
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If you mean anything to me, you have been or will eventually come to the Zoo with me. It makes me so very happy. The Bronx Zoo is the one place I can remember going to all the time as a kid. The facility has changed dramatically over the years, all in the name of conservation and education. Last year I finally purchased a membership and visited the zoo four times that summer (the membership paid for itself in two visits!).<br />
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<a href="http://www.cryptomundo.com/wp-content/uploads/bronx7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="209" src="http://www.cryptomundo.com/wp-content/uploads/bronx7.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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This is an image of the Elephant enclosure the way it was decades ago when the Zoo first opened. Depressing isn't it? </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyTG53kLj1njPbXLIabqBT4oF_s3ZNKB3EVnhZGJkX4hq_p_q_tXFYDyl55ji43cKzQeVgB6z1NaR_Kp9-0ZP0Yt2q0OcAaQH4lRKoIowMFCrl-GybnCaZftQ13FevHIufKjmHI4dPVTTK/s1600/elephants.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyTG53kLj1njPbXLIabqBT4oF_s3ZNKB3EVnhZGJkX4hq_p_q_tXFYDyl55ji43cKzQeVgB6z1NaR_Kp9-0ZP0Yt2q0OcAaQH4lRKoIowMFCrl-GybnCaZftQ13FevHIufKjmHI4dPVTTK/s320/elephants.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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This is how the Elephant enclosure looks now. These two ladies are over 40 years old and have lived together in this spot for awhile. There's no iron bars and plenty of space to roam. I took this from the monorail. It's an electric tram that goes through a section of the zoo. The Elephants don't have to worry about being bothered by folks or having any snot-nosed kids throw peanuts at them or what have you. They just get to hang out, play in the pool and do their Elephant thing. Progress, you can't stop it, and the Zoo doesn't plan to. </div>
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I don't even need to Google images for the place, I've got plenty of my own!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0WzgxlgWKNTgSAY2AwONhwJ9py5S5LQfYjpBjL4GQ9IEOqu2u8oti2wA9fFkHMwEjC8EJm8fT87dMOUfdX06hyoAtTv_6-KYerqws_zVDkenlxAAbJwteY6KRGMTsUAUm2C-UxxOVGS66/s1600/compliation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="136" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0WzgxlgWKNTgSAY2AwONhwJ9py5S5LQfYjpBjL4GQ9IEOqu2u8oti2wA9fFkHMwEjC8EJm8fT87dMOUfdX06hyoAtTv_6-KYerqws_zVDkenlxAAbJwteY6KRGMTsUAUm2C-UxxOVGS66/s640/compliation.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Just look how happy we are</span></div>
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If you live in the Northeast, you have no reason for missing a day at the zoo. They're open from 10am to 5pm and I'm telling you right now, it is absolutely impossible to see everything in that period of time-believe me, I've tried!<br />
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<a href="http://mappery.com/maps/Bronx-Zoo-Map.mediumthumb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="372" src="http://mappery.com/maps/Bronx-Zoo-Map.mediumthumb.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Here's a map of the Zoo, sucker is huge!</span></div>
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One thing I must warn you about though, is the Peacocks. Sure they're beautiful and majestic but you will soon discover after walking through the gates of the Bronx Zoo, the Peacocks are total jerks. They can jump really high and therefore are constantly escaping from their habitat. They roam around like they own the place and eat everything they can get in their beaks. You will find them literally everywhere throughout the Zoo.<br />
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A few years back one actually got out and was found on the second floor balcony of an apartment complex! What a butthead!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR4wNHV3I9HW4v-0Gx3KQBbXCMHZBoAEG4Mf6NJkBK59be7tgG5u4r9TDUY2dQiOdJC2ZrSLPg-eeomOrP7Vp5RGuJ8otWrEtVLPmclP-0945h-nOPDh8YuNPxRL6VZUCwu0Bh2T8Lo40Q/s1600/DSCN1730.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR4wNHV3I9HW4v-0Gx3KQBbXCMHZBoAEG4Mf6NJkBK59be7tgG5u4r9TDUY2dQiOdJC2ZrSLPg-eeomOrP7Vp5RGuJ8otWrEtVLPmclP-0945h-nOPDh8YuNPxRL6VZUCwu0Bh2T8Lo40Q/s320/DSCN1730.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Doesn't he look comfy? Yeah, that's <u><i>not</i></u> his habitat! He's chilling in a section for the Children's Petting Zoo, go home Peacock!</span></div>
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Like I said, you can learn a lot here. Education is extremely important to the folks in the Bronx. For example: did you know mother Rhino's carry their young for 18 months?! It's true, learned it at the Zoo. I also learned that Zoos "lend" out animals to prevent inbreeding. They want to keep the species going, but they're being smart about it. You won't find Tigers making babies with <i>their</i> babies anymore, no siree, that's just icky. So when the breeding season begins, Zoos will trade their animal residents and track the gene pool using a very important and elaborate charting system. Conservation is about quality, not quantity. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMcG0SyN5OrMKhP-GmaFmXnhrIjxgqn94bXBytu9Hkpevu7qVIQaw1NAv1uzjPLbLStdda0FwH21F5IcdhLwv8Twjuqfx1C3wrNFaz51RH3jzqGBrRu5Bums6OQAfYJosGspWAtZHYRUTY/s1600/baby!.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMcG0SyN5OrMKhP-GmaFmXnhrIjxgqn94bXBytu9Hkpevu7qVIQaw1NAv1uzjPLbLStdda0FwH21F5IcdhLwv8Twjuqfx1C3wrNFaz51RH3jzqGBrRu5Bums6OQAfYJosGspWAtZHYRUTY/s320/baby!.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">The result of a love connection-baby Giraffe!</span></div>
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This summer brings something all new and super exciting to the Bronx Zoo-Dinosaurs! Visitors are going to get the chance to dig for fossils, ride on an educational safari through time and meet the authors of some very popular children's books about Dinosaurs. Visit the <a href="http://www.bronxzoo.com/dino/">Zoo's website</a> for details. </div>
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If you don't live in the Northeast, please check out the local Zoo's (and Aquariums!) in your area. You have no idea how hard these facilities work to keep the various species (both endangered and domestic) around for everyone to enjoy. No matter how big or small, all Zoos strive to educate the public about these wonderful creatures. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7fCpN-DfuIk6G564qHPIlwnKIHz28bgjUVZDoUUhbu0OI9doG9eYOZcEXrO-5yKuWP2I7rzwcSmVXCOqSBJ7wqVjx02PthCdtyV8Bxxt_hz5dMQRhsG_mWAWISmYH1b_nA8ySvYbf4-Z-/s1600/collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7fCpN-DfuIk6G564qHPIlwnKIHz28bgjUVZDoUUhbu0OI9doG9eYOZcEXrO-5yKuWP2I7rzwcSmVXCOqSBJ7wqVjx02PthCdtyV8Bxxt_hz5dMQRhsG_mWAWISmYH1b_nA8ySvYbf4-Z-/s640/collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">I took all of these. Ain't the Zoo grand? :)</span></div>
EMCzajkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729304400201692429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4476426264729807958.post-48345454655323348822013-05-13T20:02:00.000-07:002016-02-09T11:02:35.895-08:00It's the Final CountdownMy Birthday is on Friday.<br />
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I have been asked constantly by various friends and family, what I would like to receive.<br />
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I hate this question. A) I don't enjoy asking people to spend money on me for things. B) I want adult presents, meaning stuff that costs money which makes point A even more of an issue. And finally C) At the end of the day, I rarely ever get what I ask for.<br />
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This being my blog, however, and being a blog about things I like, here's everything I can think of that I want off of the top of my head. Get your wallets out and enjoy.<br />
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Hotair Balloon Ride:<br />
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I've always wanted to do this, is there a weight limit for this though? I know there is for Ziplining and Skydiving, as those are also things I'd love to do one day....<br />
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I'd also like a boy to give me flowers.</div>
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I realize this one is completely do-able as flowers can be easily stolen from a grumpy neighbors yard but still, it's been a girly wish of mine forever. </div>
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<a href="http://www.ftdimg.com/pics/products/FFGD_200x225.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.ftdimg.com/pics/products/FFGD_200x225.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">It's trivial, but I've never been given flowers by a guy so it'll be a big deal when that day finally comes. For those of you keeping score at home, those are Gerber Daisies, my favorite flower. Just sayin'.</span></div>
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I also want this fabulous ring from Tiffany & Co. I believe I mentioned it in a previous post:</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Size 7 :)</span></div>
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I would also love any number of incredible charms made by the likes of Tiffany & Co, Pandora, and Brighton:</div>
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<img border="0" src="http://media.tiffany.com/is/image/Tiffany/EcomItemL2/tiffany-blue-box-charm-26524946_924493_ED.jpg?defaultImage=NoImageAvailable&&" height="400" width="400" /></div>
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I want to be one of those cool kids that gets to feed a Giraffe. Get to work Bronx Zoo:</div>
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I would not be upset if Gwen Stefani surprised me this year, and allowed her husband to have a little snuggle time with yours truly, just a thought:</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Gavin, call me! <3</span></div>
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It would be awesome to have a wind turbine in my backyard:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGdaGyvidfKAsolJ-iAr8KhRN8KHFv91w2ysFCtbKW5QyRGB7P659JB3g_qZqZWLl1JEEOz1OGk-qJSSnGf3Cx572iNfxZ6b7BhnTfGRbhTiImj69uCbqBej2wXi33NqU2Y0MA3GCKmj6I/s1600/016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGdaGyvidfKAsolJ-iAr8KhRN8KHFv91w2ysFCtbKW5QyRGB7P659JB3g_qZqZWLl1JEEOz1OGk-qJSSnGf3Cx572iNfxZ6b7BhnTfGRbhTiImj69uCbqBej2wXi33NqU2Y0MA3GCKmj6I/s320/016.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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A pair of Toms would be awesome, however, there are sooo many to choose from!!</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">I'll start with these Avengers pairs though :)</span></div>
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And who doesn't love a puppy?!</div>
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<a href="http://www.tehcute.com/pics/201110/beagle-puppy-wants-to-go-for-a-walk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.tehcute.com/pics/201110/beagle-puppy-wants-to-go-for-a-walk.jpg" height="320" width="239" /></a></div>
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Being a sunglasses freak, I would die for a pair of Tiffany shades:</div>
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<a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/236x/b9/8a/c5/b98ac559d37b5e96f3a1bc912b933cf2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/236x/b9/8a/c5/b98ac559d37b5e96f3a1bc912b933cf2.jpg" /></a></div>
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When I own my own home, I think it would be baller to have one of these bad boys:</div>
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<a href="http://www.source1rentals.com/images/inflatable-movie-screen-rental.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.source1rentals.com/images/inflatable-movie-screen-rental.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Unicorns are awesome, you should definitely get me one:</div>
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<a href="http://www.mediabistro.com/prnewser/files/2012/11/unicorn2-231x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.mediabistro.com/prnewser/files/2012/11/unicorn2-231x300.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">I will also require a Unicorn poop-picker-upper to accompany this gift, thanks :)</span></div>
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Somewhat related, I really want to go on one of those carriage rides that are so popular with tourists in NYC:</div>
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<a href="http://www.ski-epic.com/2011_manhattan_new_york_trip/p11b_carriage_ride_central_park_manhattan_new_york.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.ski-epic.com/2011_manhattan_new_york_trip/p11b_carriage_ride_central_park_manhattan_new_york.jpg" height="246" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Gavin, call me ;)</span></div>
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I feel like that's a long enough list for now. Though, don't get me wrong, I could go on for days but that's just rude don't ya'll think? Anyways, my Birthday comes around once each year so if you can't manage everything this go around, you'll have plenty of chances in the years to come :)</div>
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Happy Birthday to me!</div>
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<br />EMCzajkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729304400201692429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4476426264729807958.post-58038390235949841812013-04-23T16:11:00.002-07:002013-05-27T10:02:07.246-07:00Hey!This one is going to be hard to put into words. How do you properly talk about something you are completely obsessed with in a concise manner that doesn't make you look like a raging lunatic?<br />
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<b><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Duck_Dynasty">Duck Dynasty</a></b>.<br />
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I'm actually shocked I haven't talked about this fantastic piece of television greatness yet.<br />
There are movies you can watch over and over again. They're timeless and classic and all of those wonderful descriptive words we associate awesome cinematic gems with. But never with a TV show.<br />
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I actually never understood why people bought full DVD collections of tv shows, are you really going to watch every episode, or even single episodes over and over again to the point in which you would actually need your own personal copies? I never believed it was possible. Until the day my life changed forever.<br />
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I don't hunt. Never eaten deer or duck meat. I'd make a gag face if you told me squirrels, frogs and crawfish, affectionately nicknamed "mud bugs", were delicious.<br />
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But then Duck Dynasty comes along and my world has been expanded.<br />
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<a href="http://stocklandmartelblog.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/art-streiber-_-duck-dynasty.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="204" src="http://stocklandmartelblog.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/art-streiber-_-duck-dynasty.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">You can't even see John Luke in the back corner-brilliant!</span></div>
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This is the only show ever to be put on television with the exception of <b><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Are_You_Being_Served%3F">Are You Being Served</a></b>, <b><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fawlty_Towers">Fawlty Towers</a></b> and <b><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Keeping_Up_Appearances">Keeping Up Appearances</a></b> (yes, all British but none in the reality genre) that I can watch, over and over and over again and still be thoroughly entertained. Sure, I was obsessed with certain shows, but would I ever have a desire to watch them all over again on more than one occasion? Nope, not really.<br />
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Duck Dynasty. I wish I could really and truly explain it. It just makes me Happy, Happy, Happy. I always tell people who haven't seen an episode that I worry I might be overselling the show, but I genuinely don't believe it's possible to oversell something this spectacular. My mother is a Vegetarian, you could even say hippie, who has real issues with people spending a lot of money on outlandish "toys" and even <i>she</i> enjoys watching the show with me and the rest of our family.<br />
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I may not feel the same way they do about certain things, but I appreciate their general philosophy on life, love, education and the pursuit of happiness.<br />
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That was Phil, the patriarch and creator of the Duck Call. He started the business over 40 years ago and his sons took over the company, Duck Commander/Buck Commander and made it the Worldwide success that it is. He used to be a teacher and also played football for Louisiana Tech alongside Terry Bradshaw. This is a small compilation of his views on life but the show is way more than that. </div>
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There's one clip in which he compares his plump wife to the marble statues and nude portraits of the Renaissance Era that I wish I could find. It is truly a wonderful clip that says a lot about his love for his wife. It also sums up exactly how I felt, being a big girl, sitting in Art History class and looking at all of these models that I share a similar body type with. Just makes a girl feel good.</div>
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The show follows the entire family, including three of Phil's four sons, their families, his wife Miss Kay, his brother Si and some of the companies employees. I could give you a history on all of them but that would be a little much. </div>
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Si has come out as one of the shows biggest and most popular stars. He's over 70 years old and as the saying goes, says the darndest things:</div>
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My personal favorite is Jase. He designs the duck calls and runs the shop where they get assembled. Willie is the CEO and tries to keep everyone in line while taking care of promoting everything they do-the man loves making money and how American is that?</div>
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There's much more I could say, but you really need to see the show for yourself. I have yet to meet anyone who has watched an episode and not laughed or better yet, become immediately hooked. So if you haven't checked it out yet, go on YouTube and A&E.com for clips and episodes. A&E replays the show constantly too so you'll be able to DVR most of the last two seasons. </div>
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As I said, I neither hunt nor fish, nor do I eat duck or deer. But I do own two of their Duck Calls and a Duck Commander sweatshirt. It's pretty great. </div>
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<a href="http://www.ammoland.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/DuckBuck-Commander.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://www.ammoland.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/DuckBuck-Commander.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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And Happy Days have come our way....This was my 100th post!!!</div>
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Thanks for reading these guys! And if you haven't subscribed yet, please do so and you'll have direct access to my next 100 posts!</div>
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<br />EMCzajkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729304400201692429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4476426264729807958.post-23693015309672650752013-04-02T01:36:00.001-07:002013-04-02T01:36:42.808-07:00My Date with AndersonLast week I was fortunate enough to get to go to a taping of the Anderson Live show!<div>
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I had wanted to go since the show first aired last year but couldn't fit it into my schedule until recently. Then when I was doing my research on the tickets I learned that the show was actually ending this summer! Now I was determined to get my hands on some tickets! </div>
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Thankfully I was able to get tickets to one of the tapings at the end of March and took my dear friend Hannah with me to NYC. </div>
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We were instructed to arrive at the studio at 10:30am and that filming would begin at 12:30pm. We also found out that the guests that day would include Stephanie Meyer and the cast from her recent film <b>The Host</b>!</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Stephanie is on the far right and the blonde on the left wasn't at the show.</span></div>
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Oh thank goodness! Some people Hannah knows! I was so worried we'd be at a taping with someone she could care less about like Mike Tyson or Richard Simmons. (I don't think Anderson would have Tyson but Simmons is a definite possibility)</div>
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The co-host for the day was Kathy Griffin and while I don't think Hannah really cared about her, she was at least entertained enough to make the experience worth while. </div>
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I've wanted to go to the Anderson Live show for awhile because it seems like he has a great connection with his audience, sometimes going right into the stands to meet and greet with those there to see him. He even has this photo booth set up on the side of his sound stage for him and his guests and he'll occasionally take pictures with audience members too. </div>
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While that didn't happen for our taping (the schedule was extremely tight), I was fortunate enough to get to meet Anderson's executive producer Terence Noonan. </div>
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Now, if you're not someone who watches the show regularly, you won't consider this a big deal. But Terence is a huge part of the show, often times being seen bantering back and forth with Anderson about silly things. I just love Terence! </div>
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When I tried to get my picture with him, my cell phone had died. I asked Hannah if she could take a picture of us with her phone and before she could even get the thing in her hand, Terence said "Oh your battery dead? That's okay, just use my phone and I'll send you the pic"</div>
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Excuse me, what?!? This guy who's super powerful and on TV is actually okay with sending his fans something with his personal cell number attached?!? Holy crap! </div>
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So we take the picture, he sends it to me and we leave. I was so blown away! As we were leaving I quickly texted him saying "thank you!" and confessing my love for him (I found out later I spelled his name wrong-so embarrassing ) then saved the picture and deleted his text and with it his phone number. We left and I thought nothing more of it. </div>
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We spent the rest of the day walking around the city, stopping at the <a href="http://www.centralparkzoo.com/">Central Park Zoo</a> randomly, picking up boxes of <a href="http://www.sprinkles.com/cupcake-bakery-locations/new-york/">Sprinkles</a> cupcakes and then making out way to Grand Central for the train ride home. </div>
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As we're getting on the train, my phone buzzes. It's a text from Terence saying "Great seeing you at the show"!!!! What a flippin' sweetheart! I mean honestly, how many times do you hear about a "celebrity" doing something so simple and thoughtful for a fan? I mean this man sees over 200 different faces each day in that studio yet he still thinks nothing of taking a moment to send a text back to one of them. It really left me feeling like the luckiest person in the whole world. </div>
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I can't wait to see the show again and hopefully get another picture with Terence and maybe even this time, Anderson! I'll make sure my cell phone is completely charged though! Don't want to get a reputation as "that fan that never has a working camera phone"!</div>
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Here's a shot of me in the audience! I made the TV mom!</div>
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Sorry, it's a bad picture taken of my tv but you can clearly see me (I look tired) in the bottom left hand corner!</div>
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If you've never seen the show before, definitely check it out! It airs Monday through Friday at noon (check your local listings). The man has two other shows on CNN as well so I can't be mad at him for cancelling his daytime show-when does he sleep?!</div>
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EMCzajkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729304400201692429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4476426264729807958.post-88773230936283404902013-03-18T21:01:00.002-07:002013-04-27T17:07:02.691-07:00RelativesMine are amazing.<br />
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My cousin is never on Facebook. She's hates it actually, refused to join. Her friends made a page for her and she still hadn't touched it for years.<br />
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Today she posted the following:<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Don't go on FB much, but today I'm on a soapbox! Don't get me MAD!</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Our United States Constitution says that everyone is created equal. Jesus hung out with prostitutes and lepers and ALWAYS treated them with the utmost respect - read you</span><span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; display: inline;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">r Bible - he washed their feet. Would you? Our new Pope Francis HAS. Mary let her Son "consort" with them - "those people". </span></span><br /><br /><span style="color: #333333; font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">If married Catholics can have a divorce rate of 54% (and only have an 18% annulment rate - go to the Catholic register), what is the problem? Mike and I have been together for 30 years. We've been married for 24. I see couples break up their marriages before that, while "those other couples" surpass that. Seriously? My religious beliefs shouldn't be above what Jesus dictated in the New Testament - read it. It's not about any of my narrow beliefs - it's about Jesus' big picture of "can't we all just get along?" Our Bible says we're all made in God's image. So YOU'RE saying GOD was wrong? You really think you're that almighty????</span></span><br /><br /><span style="color: #333333; font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">To all of my gay friends in happy relationships - welcome to our fresh relationship hell! (Y'all know what I mean!) We all know the Bible says marriage is for procreation - that's always the big talking point they use to prove that being gay is wrong; But, if you are married and decided not to have children or can't, then you are wrong in the eyes of the Church, right? You shouldn't be married if you can't have a child, right? Again, seriously? If you use artificial insemination are your children then an abomination? Really? NO! Each life is a blessing. And every child that has a parent to love them is truly blessed. That is what I have learned from reading my Bible. </span></span><br /><br /><span style="color: #333333; font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">I will now get off my liberal Jesus (just read about Him, He was the FIRST Liberal) soap box and deal with all of my "friends" who will quote me inane passages telling me how wrong I am. How I need to reevaluate... Haters will always be around to "help" us. Just ask the slaves.... oh wait... that Liberal Abe Lincoln stopped that. Huh... </span></span></span><br />
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<span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; display: inline; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">This is who I'm related to. These are the type of people who made me who I am. I have never been more proud. Go Kris, go-you are the best!</span></span><br />
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<span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; display: inline; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">Sidenote: I spell-checked this for you, love you baby!</span></span>EMCzajkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729304400201692429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4476426264729807958.post-23412354689479862882013-03-15T15:23:00.001-07:002013-03-15T15:23:51.241-07:00Give a little bit<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We all know about the tragedy in Sandy Hook, CT, about 20 minutes from where I live; and the damage the events of that day did to the community of that small town. We've heard about the various charities and groups formed to assist those who lost loved ones, and organizations set up to handle the memorial and restructuring or rebuilding of the school. But what most people don't know, is that in addition to those families, there were other victims that day, the surviving students who witnessed first hand, the attack on their classmates and members of staff.</div>
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I'm ashamed to admit it, but I never thought about the bystanders, the "casualties" if you will. Maybe it's due to the fact that the media focuses solely on the victims, meaning those who had either been killed or wounded and their families; but again, there are other victims in all tragedies like this.</div>
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I won't single out any of these children or their families as they've asked to be kept out of the spotlight, but thankfully The Sandy Hook Healing Fund was created to assist these folks in anyway they need. Providing child advocates, connecting families with therapists should they need any one on one care, and even helping with the small, day to day tasks like providing groceries or arranging activities for the kids. Again, I won't go into specifics, but these families could really use our support.</div>
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The group has already received some donations, but they just went public and could use some extra help. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrdFcIt4eV2-rWqtZUaHkaTamlym2YGNT8BseIIHEWKuJcC_-CTrAVoibPB2rSVF_uWhPPIQ3oevPnF73AcYHK1Ku23OzQ4JGwNkKqLbMyscTV_g4xps4AfNCpbpmvYV5ciQ7Y6BxLR4nK/s1600/wrist.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="134" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrdFcIt4eV2-rWqtZUaHkaTamlym2YGNT8BseIIHEWKuJcC_-CTrAVoibPB2rSVF_uWhPPIQ3oevPnF73AcYHK1Ku23OzQ4JGwNkKqLbMyscTV_g4xps4AfNCpbpmvYV5ciQ7Y6BxLR4nK/s320/wrist.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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If you would like to donate, or are interested in picking up one of the charity's wristbands, please check them out on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheSandyHookFamilyHealingFund">Facebook </a>or visit their page on the <a href="https://www.everribbon.com/ribbon/view/11080">EverRibbon</a> website. </div>
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(just click the links to be connected directly to their pages)</div>
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<br />EMCzajkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729304400201692429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4476426264729807958.post-10664928621677294932013-02-26T20:33:00.000-08:002013-02-26T20:33:04.347-08:00Don't Call it a CrushIt's love. Pure, absolute, gushy love!<br />
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Ya'll know about "Thrift Shop" by Macklemore; at least, you should know about it. Well, I'm obsessed with this silly song and recently Joe sent me a text that read "Go on YouTube and check out "Same Love" by Macklemore, have your tissues ready", the dude gets me, what can I say.<br />
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Sure enough, I'm curled up with my iPad a few minutes later and crying my eyes out.<br />
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Later on in the week Joe played the rest of the album for me and I just cannot help myself, the man is a God to me now. He's handsome, can rap-and raps about stuff that MATTERS, believes in the same stuff I believe in, and has a sense of humor. How can I <i>not</i> be in love?<br />
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Here's "Thrift Shop" for those of you living under a rock:<br />
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So fun!</div>
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Here's the song Joe told me about that lead me to fall head over heels, "Same Love":</div>
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"I might not be the same, but that's not important. No freedom til we're equal, damn right I support it"</div>
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I wish more rappers would put this kind of stuff on wax. Yes, there are plenty of important issues that rappers wave the banner for, but those songs usually get overshadowed by the hits about bitches, hoes and rims. I wish songs like "Same Love" could get the same kind of radio play that songs like "Back That Ass Up" gets. Just sayin'.</div>
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I like that he collaborates with different people and again, while he raps about important issues, also takes the time to have a little fun. </div>
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Here's a song I found while creepin' Macklemore's YouTube videos. It's not his, but it's funny, smart and obviously supported by my man Ben (that's Macklemore's name ya'll). "Pot Shop":</div>
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Now, I'm not saying he's the greatest rapper of all time or anything like that, but he makes me smile. I hope he blows up in a big way so he can get his positive messages out there. I know Lady Gaga is all about equality, but I personally feel like the more support certain issues receive from a diverse group of people, the easier it is to spread that message to every corner of the Earth. </div>
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Check out his album, <i>The Heist</i>, he has some other really nice songs about childhood memories, and also some silly "typical" rap songs like one where he talks about everything being gold or the one about his castle. </div>
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Oh my goodness, how I like him!</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">And he's my age! Ben, call me!! <3</span></div>
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<br />EMCzajkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729304400201692429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4476426264729807958.post-57258579767720254452013-02-12T20:33:00.001-08:002013-02-12T20:33:12.656-08:00No shoes or nothing'It really is insane how happy this makes me. Just can't stop!<br />
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PS-Going to the Die Hard Marathon tomorrow! Five movies!! #BruceWillisAllDay!EMCzajkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729304400201692429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4476426264729807958.post-56250310278390308562013-02-08T14:06:00.000-08:002013-02-09T19:22:47.670-08:00It's Only Paper....This past year has brought a lot of stress but also a truck load of awesome. I've traveled, spent more time with friends, spent more time doing stuff I'm interested in and slowly started getting my financials on track.<br />
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Part of this new found awesome has been hitting up the movies as often as possible. I'm going to be starting a new blog in which to focus solely on movie reviews and once that baby is up and running I'll post the link here so ya'll can check that out. I currently write movie reviews for the newsletter at work but it only gets published once every four months, as you might recall me mentioning a few posts back. So I thought it might be nice to have little more room to write up these reviews and the blog will make it much easier to post on a more regular, "real time" basis so people might actually be able to look to my reviews before heading out to the box office. I average about two movies per week so you can also look forward to some actual-consistent postings on that blog (cough, sorry this one sucks, cough).<br />
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But this past year has also made it possible for me to "dream big" or at least "have more realistic hopes". I can now afford to pay bills, save a little cash <i>and </i>occasionally treat myself to some material goodies. Nothing crazy, a few $20 items here and there, but enough to make me feel a little less like a pauper and more like a princess. While this is completely shallow, I know, I also think it's important to treat yourself every once in awhile because frankly, there's nothing wrong wit looking yourself in the mirror and saying "Hey you, nice job kicking life in the ass, here's a little something to acknowledge how well you're doing".<br />
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Back at Christmas time, I posted a picture of a gift I received and mentioned that it was something I had wanted for quite some time. A friend commented and asked why I simply didn't buy it for myself at this point. Here's the deal, I'm poor and live paycheck to paycheck. From 2006, after I graduated college to the present, I was laid off twice and for a number of years could only get part time work. The bills kept coming and I could do nothing to get myself out of the mountain of debt that had amassed. I understand a lot of people don't have the same problems, but I was so annoyed by my friends post. Buy it for myself? I'm sorry, I don't have the luxury of dropping nearly $100 bucks on myself "just because".<br />
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But thankfully, my new job has made it a little easier to breathe. So I'm managing my budget, working on getting my life back on track and can now "dream" a little bigger. So, since this blog is called "Lizz Likes It", here's the list of "gifts" I'd like to give myself sometime in the near future. Every year for Christmas people ask me what I want and I always say "Oh don't worry about me" or "Oh you know I like anything" well darnit not true, here people, here's what Lizz actually, seriously wants.<br />
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<a href="http://www.ckb.uk.com/ekmps/shops/ckblimited/images/live-long-and-prosper-genuine-ohm-925-solid-sterling-silver-charm-bead-wh1032-2674-p.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.ckb.uk.com/ekmps/shops/ckblimited/images/live-long-and-prosper-genuine-ohm-925-solid-sterling-silver-charm-bead-wh1032-2674-p.jpg" /></a></div>
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I've joined the "Pandora" band wagon in a major way and found this little beauty for 40 bucks. Yeah, what nerdy girl wouldn't want this one their bracelet?</div>
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Tickets to the Newsies on Broadway. It's my favorite musical of all time (not a fan of musicals at all really) and when I heard they were finally turning the movie into a real live production, I seriously cried buckets of fanfilled tears. </div>
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A super kick ass laptop. As I don't know which laptop I'll eventually be getting, I simply typed in "Super Kick Ass Laptop" in Google and came across this sweet baby. All I really require in my personal robot is that it allows me to play Minecraft and can hold all of my pictures (girlfriend has a lot) and can finally get me every song I've ever desired. Ever. </div>
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More Diamond Candles. Yes. I'm still obsessed and they have too many damned scents that I just MUST discover!</div>
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Fossil handbags. This Christmas I discovered the amazingness that is Fossil accessories (they make way more then watches people) and for the first time, I find myself drooling over handbags that cost a stupid amount of money. I'm not going to go nuts though, Ebay will still be my go-to for these babies, girlfriend may like to shop but she doesn't like to spend unnecessary amounts of money.</div>
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Toms. I don't care that they're "trendy" or "hipster" fashion or whatever. They are super cute and work for an incredible cause. So call me a yuppie, but also make a point to compliment my super cute shoes.</div>
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A boat-load of XBox games. Seriously, I'd play and possibly get better if these babies weren't stupidly expensive. I mean I'm seriously interested in playing but just cannot justify the cost!</div>
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Here's another item I've wanted for years and am still pining away for. Tiffany & Co.'s Silver Interlocking Ring. It's $200 bucks and there's certainly no way I'm spending that on myself. Also checking EBay every so often for this one.</div>
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A new car. Yes, it's a Chrysler 300 and yes, I have been told time and time again from my lovely mechanic Mike, that I must not buy American. But dammit I freakin' love this baby and he comes in 4WD! I wanna be the female Jay-Z of New England!</div>
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Big Pimpin' baby!</div>
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<br />EMCzajkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729304400201692429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4476426264729807958.post-56252193925988557422012-12-07T19:44:00.001-08:002013-06-19T03:24:26.018-07:00Lizz and the Family Awesome Okay, why is it so easy to spill your guts when you're upset? I mean, I can rant all day long about someone that 'done me wrong yet I find I have the hardest time putting to words how I feel when I have something positive and uplifting to say.<br />
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I have had the good fortune of meeting an incredible group of people six years ago that have changed my life dramatically. It sounds silly when you consider this group consists of people that are both at least 10 years younger and 20 years older then myself but you can never predict these kinds of things can you?<br />
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Now, I have a sister. I have a mother, aunts, cousins, a grandmother. I'm set for unconditional love and family support. But there's always room for more wouldn't you say? I didn't think I needed any extra love and attention and then I met these people.<br />
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I've found true friendship with five beautiful girls who I admire and adore and cannot imagine going a week without seeing or speaking to any of them. We have the relationship I always grew up wishing I had with my own sister. We go on errands, grab meals, go to attractions and movies together, everything I wish I did with my sister. When I talk about them I refer to them as my cousins and they usually refer to me as their sister. I have the same relationship with their mothers and grandmother as well. It's incredible. I've never been close with a group of women before, only ever really talking to my mom regularly, and now I find I have 8 women I can spend time with and confide in no matter what is going on. They're a second family I never knew I needed and now I can't imagine living without any of them.<br />
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Ask anyone, my coworkers always ask what I'm doing on my days off and I always talk about who I'm meeting for lunch and where I'll be going with the "Newtown family". I was just out to lunch with one of my "aunts" and I was joking that while some people at work have second jobs because we get so much time off, my second job is meeting them for lunch! Honestly, we can easily spend two to three hours at lunch just chatting and laughing and "counseling" one another. I'm seriously blessed.<br />
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This Thanksgiving, my "cousin", Miranda wrote everyone in the family a letter and I've copied her letter here, it really touched my heart and made me cry. Here's a picture of her and I last summer at a family cookout:<br />
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Dear Lizz,<br />
Happy Thanksgiving!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!<br />
You are super duper funny, and awesome, and cool, and awesome. You spend a lot of your time with me and you take me to the movies a lot and you take me to the aquariums. I am thankful for everything that you do for me, and everything that you share with me. Though we fight over stupid things and we...well that's just it, we only really fight over really dumb things. Like the zombie apocalypse and movies and other things. I am thankful that I met you and that you are basically my sister, I am thankful that you can take a joke, and that you can love me even though I am a pain in the butt. I don't know what I would do without you, you are one of my best friends and a sister and I love you.<br />
Love<br />
Miranda</blockquote>
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She also included a fabulous stick figure drawing of us in which we're driving my the car, singing our favorite song (I changed the lyrics-it's an inside joke cause I'm hilarious), but yeah, she's awesome. </div>
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Me with all of the girls, don't we look cute?!</div>
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I know I'm not doing these women any justice, I could go on and on about how much I care for and appreciate having them in my life but I simply can't get all of my thoughts together. There's just too much to say. With Christmas right around the corner, I find myself getting more and more giddy about giving everyone their gifts, I try really hard to make sure everyone gets what they want while also throwing in some surprises so the wait is killing me! I can't wait to see everyone's reaction!</div>
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I don't just Like them, I Love them <3</div>
EMCzajkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729304400201692429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4476426264729807958.post-74313103974795745352012-10-10T18:45:00.001-07:002012-10-10T18:45:41.819-07:00I Feel PrettyI'm overflowing with silly girly happiness right now! <br />
I wish there was an emoticon that could properly translate into excited giddiness, cause I'd so be using it right now. <br />
Instead, try and picture that scene in Mary Poppins when that old guy floats to the ceiling from laughing so hard.<br />
Yeah, that's kind of where I'm at. :)EMCzajkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729304400201692429noreply@blogger.com0New Milford New Milford41.59664 -73.410087tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4476426264729807958.post-22718980039928694592012-10-08T12:59:00.000-07:002012-10-08T13:02:54.949-07:00Coyote EXTREMELY UglySo I went to Las Vegas for the first time in my life last week. My best friend moved out there and I finally got the chance to visit and see the strip. During one of our outings, my friend thought it would be a good idea to bring me to one of his favorite bars because the beer was extremely cheap and the hot bartenders dance on the bar singing various Rockabilly songs badly. Sounds fun right? Right.<br />
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I'm not a drinker though so I didn't see the point in stopping but I've also never been to a waterin' hole in which the ladies dance around on the bar so I thought I'd indulge my friend and check it out. Just one more experience to check off the ole "Life List".<br />
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Again, I'm NOT a drinker. In fact, the last alcoholic beverage I had was a few months ago and I didn't even finish it because it was something I hadn't had before and I wasn't really feelin' it. Now here I am at a biker bar, being handed a 24oz. car of beer after taking a shot of my favorite whiskey. Oh boy....<br />
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I won't give the full account of that night but when we first got there I did text one of my other best friends while intoxicated and I find the conversation so amusing I thought I'd at least share that with you. That and I'd like to have a permanent record of it for myself because it makes me giggle, especially my last text before I was completely annihilated for the night. Yes, girlfriend got messy, super, duper, Jersey Shore style messy. It was not pretty. I look back and laugh about it now and tell the story to anyone who will listen but again, not my finest hour for sure.<br />
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Here's the conversation. I won't reveal the name of the person I'm texting but at certain times my friend Dave, the one that took me to the bar, does take over and type a few things as well. Mind you, my friend and I are in different time zones and we're texting them in the middle of the night so the conversation ends abruptly because they fell asleep. I am also copying this EXACTLY as it was typed out. Enjoy.<br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Me</b>: At a biker bar and im going to be forced to dance on the bar. But its cool the bartender is extremely EXTREMELY hottttt</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>203</b>: Ummmm</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Me</b>: Dave will be taking pictures cause hes mean but he isnt gonna post them</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>203</b>: Good</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Me</b>: Seriously you need to see her-sooooo hottttt. Andddd in drunk alreadyyy</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Me</b>: This is dave....she is drunk....and the bartender is hottest woman ive ever seen. Thank you and goodnight.</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>203</b>: Hahaha</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>203</b>: Goodnight</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Me</b>: :( whaaa whaaaaa</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Me</b>: whaaaaOmg im soooo drunk</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>203</b>: Hahhaha</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Me</b>: Supid drinks</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>203</b>: Stay off Facebook!!</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Me</b>: Dave again....thank you. Thank you. Thank you.</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>203</b>: Lol</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Me</b>: Whatever that post was funny. C'mon, im in vegas... and its daves fault anyways cause he said i couldnt check in</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Me</b>: I had to say something</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>203</b>: No not at all. Stay off Facebook! You'll regret that in the morning!</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Me</b>: Nopeee</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Me</b>: I just said that one thing-its cool.</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Me</b>: Dave said im buying the next round! The next round!? Im already drunk!</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>203</b>: Yea but what you said is pretty risque</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Me</b>: Hahaha...dave again...shes a fucking mess. She wants me to tell you youre classy...so..uhh...stay classy bro. Class it up. I have no idea.... dude. move to vegas.</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Me</b>: Hes a retard fo sho</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>203</b>: Hahahaha</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Me</b>: :)</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>203</b>: So classy</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Me</b>: Yes hou are baby</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Me</b>: I got you a presnet today :)</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>203</b>: Awwws</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Me</b>: I got your uncle an ashtray lol</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>203</b>: Haha</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Me</b>: I got your roommate gum that says. 'Im a dick' hehe</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>203</b>: Hahha</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Me</b>: I spent 70 bucks at the gift shop like no lie. Like 30 on postcards! Im crqzy!</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>203</b>: Aw</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Me</b>: Its cool the postcards are boss!</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>203</b>: Cool</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Me</b>: :)</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>203</b>: :)</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Me</b>: Dave again.... :)</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Me</b>: Daves annoyong</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>203</b>: Haha</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Me</b>: Daves making her trip to vegas possible = awesome</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>203</b>: Heh</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Me</b>: Daves a retardl he dong pay me. My job made my trip possible. I fucking love my job</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>203</b>: Aw</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Me</b>: Dude. I'm ending this by no longer participating. Goodnight. Hahaha</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Me</b>: He sp lame...for reals</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>203</b>: Haha</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Me</b>: My limbs dont work i swear to god</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>203</b>: Awww</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Me</b>: Holu fuck drunkest oive ever ben ever, Im typing decent tohugh for reals</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>203</b>: Kinda</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>203</b>: Haha</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Me</b>: :) so great :) i hate dave for getti g me all drunk thoughs</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>203</b>: Don't hate</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Me</b>: Omg youre so awesome even when im retard drunk are you honestly qjestioning why i love you so goddamn much? Fuck" youre amazing!;</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Me</b>: Holy fuck im the du0runkest ever roght now and they instpist on playing country. Like fuck you</span></blockquote>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Hope you find this as amusing as I do. If not, sorry for wasting your time. But hey the blog's called "I Like It" for a reason. Also, sorry for using "retard" so often, I've been working on that, but obviously not thinking about it when I was drunk as a skunk. Seriously though that last line just kills me! Ha!</span></div>
EMCzajkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729304400201692429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4476426264729807958.post-1373730709018705192012-09-26T18:40:00.000-07:002012-09-26T18:40:02.598-07:00I'm in Love with My CameraI'll let the shots explain:<br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Thanks Joe :)</span>EMCzajkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729304400201692429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4476426264729807958.post-20793632872147031662012-09-20T20:03:00.001-07:002012-09-20T20:03:35.683-07:00Get on Out There!Okay so I LOVE Giraffes. I never thought I'd be one of "those" people. You know, the ones that have like fleece blankets with Wolves on them or tattoos of Tigers on their arms; crazy people. But I just cannot help myself. It's the Zoo's fault really. Their Giraffes keep having babies and now the Roger Williams Park Zoo has a <a href="http://www.rwpzoo.org/279/giraffe-cam">24-hour Giraffe Cam</a>! What?! Granted I'll never get a Giraffe tramp stamp or carry around a Giraffe-print purse but I am shopping around for the perfect Giraffe bracelet charm and my best friend and his wifey did give me a gorgeous Giraffe sculpture for Christmas, so you can call me a little obsessed.<br />
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Well friends, no one told me about Six Flags Safari!!! Holy crap! Check this place out:
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Okay, we did not go on the off-road adventure. That crap costs extra and girlfriend ain't about to pay to be squished up next to strangers in some rickety van climbing over man-made hills and whatnot. We did drive through on the regular paved trail though and that was enough! Check this out!</div>
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Hi, I'm a Giraffe just, you know, hanging out in the road as people drive by...No big deal...</div>
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Is that not the awesomest sight you've ever seen!?!?! Imagine rolling up on this big guy! I know you've all driven by deer and geese in the road but hello?!? Giraffe!!!</div>
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You have no idea how hard it was for me to allow our to continue through the park-I would have stayed right next to him (okay I didn't check but it actually might have been a her) all damn day! Just look! Look!</div>
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Are you getting the awesome?</div>
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Well here we go, let's see if this shot I took for the soul purpose of showing how close he was, gets you excited:</div>
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How can you drive away?!</div>
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If Giraffes aren't your thing just wait, they have TONS to see! Elephants anyone?</div>
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Or possibly Exotic birds?</div>
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Yes, those guys are right outside my door. They actually pecked at my side door mirror. So cool! If you get the chance, go and visit Six Flags Safari in New Jersey. Yes, you have to go to Jersey for the awesomeness (I'm so sorry) but it'll be worth it in the end. It's a little pricey but trust me when I say you will not be disappointed. While you can't drive through with your windows down, you are allowed to take your time when driving through the park; we went around in two hours time from start to finish and I came away with over a hundred pictures! Afterward we went into the Amusement park itself and spent the rest of the day riding rides and eating terribly expensive and fattening foods-such fun!</div>
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I wish I could post all of the pictures but most of you are friends with me on Facebook and can see them all there so go do that. Also, for funsies, go on YouTube and type in Six Flags Safari to see the videos other people have taken while driving through the park. It's a great time waster and will definitely make you want to get there as soon as you can!</div>
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<br /><br />EMCzajkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729304400201692429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4476426264729807958.post-51392153865305432732012-09-06T11:16:00.002-07:002012-09-06T11:16:33.946-07:00For Your ConsiderationOkay so I'm not going to turn this blog into one giant movie review, just want to get that out first thing. I did promise to post the two reviews I had written for work though so here they are. I'm posting both just as they were written, two months apart. There might be some repetition so again, please consider the time frame.<br />
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First article (first stab at writing for the newsletter), June:</div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">So far the summer has provided us with a lot of blockbusters full of action and excellent storylines. Folks heading out to the box office this year will certainly not be disappointed. Between action-packed literary adaptations like <i>The Avengers</i> and <i>Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter</i>, and the fun-filled family pictures like <i>Men in Black 3</i> and <i>Brave</i>; movie goers will find there's something for everyone this summer. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">We've already had a few typical summer films; full of stars and really big action, not a lot of actual content, i.e. </span><i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Battleship</i><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> featuring the new "it" star <a href="http://ia.media-imdb.com/images/M/MV5BMTgxNTI3MjcyNV5BMl5BanBnXkFtZTcwNTYwMjAyMg@@._V1._SY314_CR11,0,214,314_.jpg">Taylor Kitsch</a> (in three summer blockbusters so far). And the rest of the summer seems to be promising a lot of the same with the sequel to the </span><i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">G.I. Joe</i><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> franchise and the </span><i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Expendables 2</i><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> (this time with <a href="http://www.crazysparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/chuck_norris-1.jpg">Chuck Norris</a>!) expected to overwhelm fans with giant guns and huge explosions to mask the not-so-great acting and script writing. But honestly, who cares if <a href="http://blogs.houstonpress.com/artattack/sly-stallone-born-powerful1.jpg">Sly Stallone</a> can act? The man has put every well known action star into one film and has them all doing what they do best-kicking butt and blowing things up-there's really no need for good writing too!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">So far the comedy category had been slightly hit or miss with movies like <i>Ted</i> featuring <a href="http://images.zap2it.com/images/celeb-43431/mark-wahlberg.jpg">Mark Wahlberg</a> and <i>21 Jump Street</i> keeping fans rolling in their seats; while <a href="http://www-deadline-com.vimg.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/sacha_baron_cohen-cc.jpg">Sacha Baron Cohen</a>'s <i>The Dictator</i> and <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BJRLNNTzm8s/UDe4awqmORI/AAAAAAAALe0/ccmJhiCl6TQ/s1600/adam-sandler-you-dont-mess-with-the-zohan-world-premiere-arrivals-0eRvqW.jpg">Adam Sandler</a>'s <i>That's My Boy</i> had then wondering why anyone would think half of those "jokes" were funny. But the upcoming summer flicks look promising. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The big movie that will no doubt over shadow all the rest this year is the final film in in the <i>Batman</i> franchise, <i>The Dark Knight Rises</i>. AMC theaters was actually hosting a viewing party before the midnight showing. For $25 fans will be able to watch all three films back to back on the big screen opening night, July 19th. For IMAX tickets it only cost $40 and for all three films, that really isn't too shabby. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The fourth installment of the family movie franchise <i>Ice Age: Continental Drift</i> will be out soon as well. All of the original cast is returning to voice your kids' favorite characters and this latest edition will also be featuring the voice-over work of <a href="http://www.picgifs.com/celebrities/j/jennifer-lopez/celebrities-jennifer-lopez-721233.jpg">Jennifer Lopez</a>, <a href="http://derickg.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/drake1.jpg">Drake</a> and <a href="http://www.nickiminajphotos.com/data/media/169/nicki-minaj-boa-2.jpg">Nicki Minaj</a>. I know a few 10 year olds who just can't wait to see it! If your kid was disappointed with <i>The Lorax</i> (and who wasn't?), Ice Age should more then make up for it. Don't forget about <i>Paranorman</i> and <i>Frankenweenie </i>coming out soon too!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">This week I'll be checking out <i>Batman: The Dark Knight Rises</i> and <i>Ice Age 4: Continental Drift</i>. If you have any questions about any of the films on this list or are interested in seeing something coming out soon but want me to check the movie out for you first (I wouldn't blame you, ticket prices are insane!), send me a message. Happy Watching!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Okay so that was the first one. Now fast forward to three weeks later, here's the second article I wrote after seeing another 10 movies. I'm going to provide the full list from both reviews at the end of this whole thing. Here's article #2:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Overshadowed by tragedy, <i>Batman: The Dark Knight Rises</i> was arguably the most anticipated movie of the summer and it certainly did not disappoint. The final installment in the <i>Batman</i> Trilogy, <i>The Dark Knight Rises</i> included elements from the first two films and gave the film franchise the send-off it deserved. While it wasn't the best of all three films, <i>The Dark Knight Rises</i> certainly capped off a legacy that left most fans satisfied. Personally, as a well-known crier, I can tell you if you are a die hard fan of the films, you will not be able to walk away without shedding a tear or two. Make fun all you want, but after wiping my own tears, I looked around the theater during the end credits and observed grown men teary-eyed and sniffling. Of all the movies I'vs seen in my lifetime, <i>The Dark Knight Rises</i> had one of the best endings I've ever seen. Now I don't want to over-hype this for those who haven't seen it; it did have some elements that made you scratch your head and wonder why things played out in the manner they had. And I will say there was one part of the film I definitely did not agree with at all (message me about that, I don't want to give anything away). But personal opinions aside, if you like these kinds of movies, I suggest you get yourself to <i>Batman: The Dark Knight Rises</i>. I will tell you though, it's a good idea to watch the first two films before heading tot the theater, just to give yourself a little refresher as this film does go back to parts in each of the other two. I'm not saying you have to see the first two in order to see this film, but you will be confused in certain parts if you don't. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">As you might have gleamed from my last article, I have been extremely excited for <i>The Expendables 2</i> to hit theaters. Well it's finally here and did not disappoint! This flick is the ULTIMATE action film. If you like gratuitous violence, cheesey one-liners and a tone of action-run, don't walk to <i>The Expendables 2</i>. With EVERY major action star in attendance, this is a movie by guys for guys. Now don't get me wrong, women, myself included. like action movies too; but this movie is every guys dream! If you were a fan of anything these actors have done in the past, you'll love this movie!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Now the rest of the summer, while full of promise, will most likely be relatively slow to deliver some serious action; feeding us the big movies at a small trickle to finish off the season. But if you like action, I promise you it's worth the wait! Coming soon: <i>G.I. Joe 2</i>, <i>End of Watch</i>, <i>Dredd</i>,<i> Looper</i> and <i>Gangster Squad</i>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The kids will have a lot to look forward to as well, starting with <i>Ice Age 4: Continental Drift</i>. The same great group of actors is back to voice the kids favorite characters and this most recent edition to the franchise has provided us with even more stars! So while your kids are giggling away at the silly jokes about Sloths who haven't showered in decades, you'll be kept entertained with the challenge of trying to place all of the additional voices. The rest of the summer will also provide the kids with endless entertainment with films like <a href="http://images.forbes.com/media/lists/53/2010/adam-sandler.jpg">Adam Sandler</a>'s <i>Hotel Transylvania</i>, <i>Diary of a Whimpy Kid</i>, <i>The Odd Life of Timothy Green</i>, <i>Paranorman</i> and <i>Frankenweenie</i>. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">For comedy right now you can check out <i>The Campaign</i> with <a href="http://fogsmoviereviews.files.wordpress.com/2012/03/will-ferrell-producer1.jpg">Will Farrell</a> and coming soon, <a href="http://www.hotmommagossip.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/Kevin-James.jpg">Kevin James</a> in <i>Here Comes the Boom</i>. Recently I went and checked out <a href="http://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Ben_Stiller.jpg">Ben Stiller</a>'s latest film, <i>The Watch</i>. This movie finally gives us <a href="http://topnews.in/light/files/ben_stiller_01.jpg">Ben Stiller</a> back at his best. This silly, locker-room style comedy is the one in which every high schooler will certainly enjoy. If you're a <a href="http://celebritywonder.ugo.com/picture/Vince_Vaughn/VinceVaughn_Granitz_6639034.jpg">Vince Vaughn</a> fan, you'll want to check this out too. While it certainly isn't on the level of <i>Wedding Crashers</i>, it did provide for a lot of laughs. I will give you fair warning though ladies, you probably won't find this as funny as the</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> guys will so keep that in mind when deciding if you'll go check it out. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Now I realize this article will come out long after these movies have left theaters so again, if you have an interest in a movie and would like me to see it first for you, just send me a message. Also, if you're a fan of <a href="http://t0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTmW-jSSKboKCXo_HXb6_I2kzw3suuYZ9_EIK0xsk2dK9UCKi81qA&t=1">John Goodman</a> or <a href="http://beerslugger.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/Elisabeth-Shue.jpg">Elisabeth Shue</a>, get excited because because they are coming back in a big way! John is going to be in a number of upcoming films including <i>Flight</i> with <a href="http://t0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQeuBVxNwmOMRvpe_ZhkLxhQvfRJYWKJZzvJUYtlWKaDsR9pOo5ug&t=1">Denzel Washington</a>. Elizabeth had a small role in <i>Hope Springs</i> and will also be in the upcoming scary movie <i>The House on the End of the Street</i> with <a href="http://collider.com/wp-content/uploads/the-hunger-games-jennifer-lawrence-katniss.jpg">Jennifer Lawrence</a>. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">So those were my first two reviews. I hope you liked them. At the end of each I also included a full list of the films I had seen up until those points and small reviews for each and as I simply wouldn't have the room to write in depth reviews for all of them. Here's the full list from both articles:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Battleship ***</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Great action-not the best storyline. Visually spectacular!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter *****</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I know the concept is crazy but the movie was amazing! Full of action and a fabulous storyline! I'm mad I didn't read the book first-check it out!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Magic Mike ***</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Interesting because it mirrors true events that happened to actor <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg22qJKaF9RjrW0odKl8j2FUtKJ36Sc0frszcviOW3FG03hMzeJcyCg9BXzacQleE5zPTExBe_6AWDks_dOd2TBTfwAdxnTzHzy113bbPxwPaFxGCM6FWUdfK2rHGbmLWBtgZSdO2Z7CoE/s1600/channing-tatum.jpg">Channing Tatum</a> before he went to Hollywood but the overall delivery was a little strange. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Ted ****1/2</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Laugh out loud funny but very off the wall, the guys will love it!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Brave (saw it 2 times) ****1/2</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Great family movie and finally a Princess flick where the little lady kicks butt!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Men in Black 3 *****</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Best of all three films-really enjoyable!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>The Dictator **</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Do not waste your time. It had it's funny moments, but not enough of them to save the film. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Savages ***</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Full of star power but disappointing storyline overall-not nearly as action packed as the trailers would have you believe.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>The Avengers (saw it 4 times) *****</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Best comic book flick of all time! If I could give it 100 stars I would! Go see this movie!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Snow White and the Huntsman ***1/2</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Visually stunning but a snoozefest in some parts. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>That's My Boy***</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I feel like I would have liked this more when I was in High School, funny but not great. Guys would love it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>21 Jump Street (saw it 3 times) ****</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Not anything like the original TV show but absolute fun none the less! Surprising cameos and some side splitting comedy-this is one you and your kids (over 14 though, seriously) will really enjoy. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>The Artist****1/2</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Wonderful visuals and storyline. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>The Hunger Games (saw it 3 times) ****1/2</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Great adaptation of the book, if you or your kids read it, they won't be disappointed. If you or your kids haven't read it, you might be confused during some parts you'll still walk out happy. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>John Carter (saw it 2 times) ****</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Great movie adapted from a novel but you don't need to read the book first. Another visual wonder, this movie was a real surprise, check it out. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>The Lorax **</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Snoozefest or was a friend of mine put it, "What have you done with my childhood?!" The kids will probably like it but certainly won't ever consider it a favorite. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>The Amazing Spiderman ****</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Truly amazing! Best <i>Spiderman</i> film of all! This version's <i>Spiderman</i> make <a href="http://ia.media-imdb.com/images/M/MV5BMTYwMTI5NTM2OF5BMl5BanBnXkFtZTcwODk3MDQ2Mg@@._V1._SY314_CR3,0,214,314_.jpg">Toby Maguire</a> look like a wimp! Such a blast!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Moonrise Kingdom ****</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">If you like <i>The Royal Tenanbaums</i> and <i>The Life Aquatic</i>, <a href="http://t0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSNdnLqGB3YTdqYE5kp-UWRtBMkFR9zFWXk03foHQa-60uvYy7aVg&t=1">Wes Anderson</a> delivers yet again with this quirky film. Visually stunning and really a joy to watch. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Prometheus ****</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This is one I have not seen. Friends of mine enjoyed it and while it looks great, I was told it is slightly confusing for some. Don't go in there thinking Alien, you'll be disappointed and that much more confused. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Madea: Witness Protection ***</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Again, one I have not had the chance to see but two good friends of mine have seen everything from Tyler Perry and both agreed this was not his best. Funny, but not the best. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Batman: The Dark Knight Rises ****1/2</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Not the best of the three but certainly the most moving. Go see this film!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>The Watch ***1/2</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Really funny if you're 15, mildly funny if you're over 25. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Ice Age 4: Continental Drift ****</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Another one your kids will enjoy for sure!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Rock of Ages ***1/2</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Quirky and lighthearted-this is exactly what fans look for in a musical. <a href="http://www.heyuguys.co.uk/images/2010/07/tom-cruise.jpg">Tom Cruise</a>, while insane, is still one heck of an actor!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Bourne Legacy ***</b><br />No <a href="http://img2.timeinc.net/people/i/2007/specials/sma07/mag/matt_damon.jpg">Matt Damon</a>, no real story or action. Great chase scene but overall disappointing when compared to the other films. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Step Up Revolution 3D **1/2</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Extremely cheesey. Dancing not nearly as good as the first two films. Nice visuals, great soundtrack. See it if your kid really, really asks you to go. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Hope Springs ****</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Very cute! I don't know what to say other then that; if you like <a href="http://images.zap2it.com/images/celeb-45093/meryl-streep-1.jpg">Meryl Streep</a> and <a href="http://ia.media-imdb.com/images/M/MV5BMTI1NTUyODkzMF5BMl5BanBnXkFtZTcwNDk1NDA2MQ@@._V1._SY314_CR2,0,214,314_.jpg">Tommy Lee Jones</a>, go see this movie. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>The Campaign ****</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="http://assets.thehairstyler.com/images/celebrity/Celebritym_349.jpg">Will Farrell</a> at his best! This movie is goofy and full of guest stars. If you like <a href="http://content8.flixster.com/rtactor/42/20/42202_pro.jpg">Will Farrell</a>, you'll like this movie. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Total Recall (saw it twice) ****1/2</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">While I was disappointed <a href="http://blogs-images.forbes.com/marcbabej/files/2011/05/300px-Arnold_Schwarzenegger_2003.jpg">Schwarzenegger</a> couldn't be bothered to make a cameo, I still loved the film. If you like action and futuristic awesomeness, you'll want to go see this movie! (Take me with you! I'd love to see it again!)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>The Expendables 2 ****1/2</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">While it certainly isn't a masterpiece, this movie delivers non-stop action, charming character interaction and a ton of loud, unnecessary shoot-outs, knife fights and chase scenes. You'll absolutely love it!</span></div>
EMCzajkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729304400201692429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4476426264729807958.post-6687115405957456142012-08-31T21:44:00.002-07:002012-08-31T21:44:15.331-07:00Snoozefest 2012I know, I've been dragging my feet. One of these days I'll have a computer of my own and then I'll have no reason to stay away this long!<br />
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I have been keeping busy though so get excited for what's to come. I've got a 3 foot stack of books I took down since February and have now decided to give in and get myself a digital reader, now I've got to figure out which one I want!<br />
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I've been going to the movies at every opportunity, so much that now I'm the official movie reviewer for the annual newsletter at work! Unbeknownst to me, the news letter only comes out once every four months! Not cool when I'm seeing an average of four movies per week....<br />
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So I figured I'd post a nice big movie review here every few weeks to get it out of my system as I'm going to have to limit my reviews for the newsletter at the "office". So get excited, the next post will contain the two articles I've already written plus an update on the films that are currently out this week. Earlier today I saw <i>Sparkle</i> and <i>Premium Rush</i> and I plan to see <i>Hit and Run</i> and <i>Lawless</i> next week. Oh! AND <i>Indiana Jones</i> is going to be back in theaters for one week only! Get yourself to an AMC between September 7th and 13th! I'll see you there!<br />
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For now, please enjoy these two trailers, one is for the original <i>Judge Dredd</i> film staring our pal Sylvester Stallone and the other is for the upcoming remake of said film. If you haven't seen <i>Judge Dredd</i> (or <i>Demolition Man</i> for that matter), please do yourself a favor and find this movie! It's terrible, yet so very terrible, it's wonderful! Trust me, it's a guilty pleasure you'll tell your friends about. Enjoy!<br />
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Dear Santa, </div>
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I've been very good this year. Please include a copy of the original <i>Judge Dredd</i> (and <i>Demolition Man</i>) in my stocking. </div>
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XOXO, Milk and Cookies, </div>
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Lizz :)</div>
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Nothing like to original you say? Fools! Who cares?! It's going to be badass! And have you checked out that soundtrack?! Oh man! Cannot wait!!</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Also, go find the <i>Demolition Man</i> trailer. It's even WORSE then the original <i>Dredd</i> but oh so wonderful!</span></div>
EMCzajkahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11729304400201692429noreply@blogger.com0