1). Adjective vs. Verb : Adjective. Adjectives are fun to use and cool sounding. Verbs use general terms and typically add "-ing" to actions. Example: "During my fantabulous day under the bashful sun, I was sitting." Adjective. Verb. See what I mean?

2). Heels vs. Flats : Heels. Heeled boots are much more stylist and fun/comfy than wrap-around, slipper-like casuals that scrunch your feet.

3). Ghost vs. Alien : Ghost. Scary stories and tales of ghosts are so fun! Besides, are aliens even real?

4). Rose vs. Daisy : Rose. Roses are delicate and come in all different sizes and colors. Daisys are boring and mundane--all one color and shape.

5). Performance Art vs. Dignity : Dignity. I'm not a big risk-taker. I'd rather keep my dignity than perform in a show and run the risk of messing up.

6). Type A vs. Type B : Type A. I never "chill out" or follow others. I am a leader, a loud voice and am an organized boss. Type B's are too laid-back for my type. I like to get things done.

7). Lobster vs. Salmon : Salmon. Lobster when served is too buttery and rich. Salmon can be used in most any dishes to add flavor and spice. Lobster is a messy eat, salmon is delicate and visually appealing.

8). Highway 1 vs. Route 66 : Route 66. I tend to believe popular belief and recommendation, and give popular vacation routes a try first. Route 66 is the scenic, admired road trip route.

9). Mom vs. Dad : Mom. Just because I'm closer to her, not because she's better than dad.

10). Bacon vs. Sex : Sex. Bacon is meat... c'mon, that's nasty! Sex is more enjoyable than greasy meat... no pun intended. Sex wins over most disgusting foods, let alone food in general. Well, unless the sex is bad sex...

11). Judge vs. Jury : Judge. The judge has authority and a lot of experience in the courtroom. Putting someone's fate in the hands of random civilians is insane! Besides, judges always rule over all others in the courtroom - things are ultimately their decision a good portion of the time.

12). Lungs vs. Liver : Lungs. If I couldn't breathe, I would be no where! Most people refer to the liver as the "life saver" for alcoholics, or those who love to drink. So, I certainly won't pin pride with that. My lungs are my "champs" - I battled asthma since I was very young.

13). Front vs. Back : Front. I am an upfront person and like to confront instead of being talked about behind my back. Front is for smart ones, back is just for sissies.

14). Fixie vs. Beach Cruiser : Beach Cruiser.  I don't know much about these bikes, but how fun! I'd rather cruise around the beach and enjoy luxury than ride around with a stupid, beat-up antique.

15). Paparazzi vs. Starlet : Paparazzi. Paparazzi have the funner job. Stalking and following famous people seems like a lot less emotionally damaging than being the celebrity that is being stalked. Reporting celebrity activities and gathering images/stories seems ever-changing and interesting.

16). Death vs. Taxes : Taxes. I don't get what is so terrible about taxes--just fill out paperwork, do some calculations and pay! I enjoy a lot of life and the little interests within. I don't mind dealing with a bit of crap.

17). Don Juan vs. Don Quixote : Don Juan. I am a hopeless romantic, and while I do not like "womanizers" or "players", I would rather be seduced by a romancer than a guy who is far too optimistic or imaginative for his own good!

18). Circle vs. Square : Circle. Circles are pretty and easy to use mathematically, for example: diameter is the distance across a circle, and the radius starts at the middle and ends at the right (or left, theoretically) side, in other words: half of the diameter. How easy is that area!

19). White Collar vs. Blue Collar: Physically speaking, the white collar is super cute and matches with anything. Blue is a little too fancy and unmatching for my taste.

20). Insomnia vs. Infomercial : Infomercial. Infomercials are fun and can be interesting and informing.

21). Baby Polar Bear vs. Baby Tiger : Baby Tiger. Baby polar bears can be dangerous, and you can feed tigers the same way humans do.

22). High-Tops vs. Low-Tops. Low-Tops. High-tops may have been cute, but never in my book. I'd rather sport sneakers or low-tops than wear clunky shoes with an extra inch or two.

23). 80s vs. 90s : 90s. The 80s did have the best music, but the 90s had a few more perks. Computers were being developed further and Internet came to be. Less drug usage, more innocence and classy fashion sense = the 90s.

24). Mani vs. Pedi : Mani. People stare at your hands 24/7, and unless it's summer: who cares about feet!?

25). Period Heroine vs. Action Hero : Period Heroine. Someone who raises the bar for the next, not some make-believe, stupid toy/character.

26). Alice vs. The Queen of Hearts : Question omitted; I have never read or seen Alice in Wonderland.

27). First Blush vs. Forever : Forever. Your first kiss or love is beautiful, but more often than not, built upon lousy lust. It is special, sacred, and sexy! But - learning from your past mistakes to make "the one" greater, will cause your forever partnership fabulous!

28). Heaven vs. Reincarnation : Reincarnation. While I don't support such shaky belief systems (being either of these), I would hope that our human bodies could take on a different life form, if we were helping the earth function. I support keeping our bodies moving, changing and breathing.

29). Cash vs. Credit : Cash. Credit may be easier to keep track of and handle, but nothing beats the feeling of a surprise of cash at the end of a work day, or Christmas morning gifts. Cash gives me an adrenaline rush because it is right in front of me. When you ring your credit card up, it seems like you're getting your items for free.

30). Vampire vs. Werewolf : Werewolf. "This is thriller!" Vampires are already proven, as so by bats - nocturnal species with characteristics of vampires. Werewolves are sexy and enticing!

Remember this: none of my answers are intended to offend. Vs. encourages quick judgment and stereotyping to answer questions without spending a dragged out amount of time contemplating whether an orange is better than an apple!

...


This is part of the Mini-Series "A Realization of Life and its Quirks"
Read the rest here ....

Happy to be branching out in guided journals again, I picked up one of the KnockKnock group's humorous books: Vs.

Vs. is a journal based around your personal preferences, tapping in to your personality type and lifestyle choices. It simply prompts you to choose between two things, and explain your answers. Some practical, some witty and senseless.

I figured I would do a mini-series to help my readers develop an awareness of my personality type and what choices I choose for my ever-changing life. Each entry will include 30 of the 221 prompts, along with my explanation of each. So, here are the first 30!

1). Nerds vs. Jocks : Nerds. Nerds have more classiness and soft spots for people and their partners. Jocks are less intelligent and cocky, by social standard. I prefer nerds with smarts and humor, those that will take good care of me. Jocks seem less genuine and honest.

2). Reason vs. Emotion : Reason. Reasoning can come and go while emotions stay put. Reasoning can get very over-reasoned while emotions will always be there. However, emotions can have big impacting factors and are not always valid points of judgment when irrational. Reasoning will get you out of emotional heart ache a good percent of the time, even though feelings can help with instincts.

3). Mozart vs. Bach : Omit question; have not studied up enough on these subjects.

4). Drawing vs. Painting : Drawing. Drawing is an easy skill that can be picked up by anyone. Painting is irreversible and un-changable, in other words: permanent mistakes.

5). Blogger vs. Commenter : Blogger. I disable comments on my blog because I get personal feedback and don't need arguments, nor spam. Commenters have little life--they share insights, but not big ideas or full opinions such as the blogger. The blogger expresses and doesn't hold back - the commenter has restriction in length and explicitness.

6). Crab vs. Gerbil : Crab. Gerbils are weird lookin'. Crabs are beautiful, bright and tasty! ;-) Crabs are very agile and can keep themselves alive. Gerbils are good as pets, but are not very intelligent, in my book.

7). Smart vs. Sexy : Smart. Sexy can be smart! The unintelligent "sexy" is trashy. Smart is far more attractive, so if you cannot be sexy and smart, I'd rather be smart than sexy!

8). Summer vs. Winter : Winter. Winter is cozy and helps families come together. Summer is too hot, while winter is comfy. Winter has hot chocolate, snow and gifts, but summer has a break from studies. Summer is physically exhausting and winter is settling/rejuvenating.

9). Electric Boogaloo vs. The Macarena : Omit question; don't know enough about electric boogaloo.

10). Black & White vs. Color : Color. Both are nice effects for photography, but color brings out so much more life that black & white dilutes. Besides, I don't want to sound racist!

11). Mayonnaise vs. Mustard: Mustard. It is more flavorful and interesting than plain mayo. I'm a spice-it-up kind of gal.

12). Chess vs. Checkers : Chess. Checkers is boring and ugly. No point and not a lot of "Checkers World Championships". Chess is constantly challenging and interesting. Game is also nicer to look at vs checkers.

13). Expectations vs. Reality : Reality. Reality gets you everywhere - the truth is exposed so you may choose to live in the light or the dark - wishing for the things that may never come, or knowing what is real. I would rather know what is realistic to hope for and what is not, instead of pretending to myself.

14). Beer vs. Wine : Wine. I consider myself classy, small-portioned (or petite) and definitely NOT trashy!

15). Shock vs. Awe : Awe. I'd rather be amazed by something believable than have disbelief in something ridiculous. Awe is pleasant realization about something grand - shock is breath-taking unpleasantry, a good portion of the time.

16). MAC vs. PC : PC. PC is #1, in ranking and development. MACs are rip-offs due to their product line restriction--if you buy a PC, you can still use your iPod, but if you buy a MAC, you can't use a plethora of PC programs, let alone some MP3 players. MACs are built sleeker and stylish, so that is a plus for Apple junkies.

17). Quality vs. Quantity : Quantity. I unfortunately always go for my food, electronic gadgets and all other items including journals like these!) in quantity. It is such a bad habit to break, but maybe someday I will go for the "practicality" of items, as my mother always reminds me.

18). Girl Scout vs. Badger : Badger. Anything other than Girl Scouts, please! "Badgers" seem cool and tough. Girl Scouts are annoying, stereotypical Christian believers. Ignorant and innocent = not a good match for me!

19). New York vs. Los Angeles : New York. N.Y. is the social capital of everywhere! L.A. is filled with superficial gals and guys, jocks and way too much sun! The Big Apple is filled with pride, people, shopping, and if I haven't mentioned it already... legalized gay marriage. 8-) California just has Prop 8. Too bad!

20). Journey vs. Destination : Journey. My very own created motto is: "It's the journey that truly matters, not the destination." Once you reach your final destination, what else is there? The journey is what teaches you lessons and the sentiments you take along the way. If you pick destination, you might as well stop living. Life is constantly moving.

21). Sexy French Maid vs. Sexy Nurse : Sexy French Maid. Depends what mood I'm in, actually. Sexy french maid seems a bit innocent and classically sexy, while sexy nurse seems too trashy and class-less. Also, not too fond of the nurse's cap.

22). Dog vs. Cat : Dog. Yes, most cats are cuter and fluffier, but dogs can respond and understand their owners. Dogs are loyal and friendly companions that communicate with you, while cats sit on their lazy butts, purring, or scratching your eyes out. Dogs make bigger messes, but wouldn't get stuck in your backyard's tree.

23). Sleep vs. Party : Sleep. With all I do, I deserve rest! I know they say, "sleep is for the weak", but really, who parties? Losers!

24). Window vs. Aisle : Window. On a plane, for example, I like to have control. If I can't grab on to the side and see what's happening, I will freak.

25). Bungalow vs. High-Rise : Bungalow. Bungalows are quaint and cute. They can be mondernized and warmingly welcoming. High-rises have many people, floors, hazards, and elevators. I don't like the heart of the city - I want to live peacefully in a real neighborhood.

26). Minivan vs. SUV vs. Motorcycle : Minivan. Minivans are stylish and yes, I said it: practical! Big, but not bulky. Can you say, soccer mom? SUVs are chunky, gas-guzzlers. Gross-looking and stereotypically dirty. Motorcycles are for cocky men (and women) that think they are all that! Too smelly and loud.

27). Glove vs. Mitten : Mitten. Unless we're talking about Michael Jackson's shiny, silver glove, I'm gonna have to go with mitten. Why? Mittens remind me of good old winter!

28). Comedy vs. Drama : Comedy. Comedy fixes everything with a good laugh. Drama gives you that rush for a bit, until you're sad and need cheering up. Laughter is the best medicine... always.

29). Barbeque vs. High Tea : High Tea. My eating mannerisms fit BBQs, but soul and personality fit that of a high tea. The food is better at teas--more exquisite than meat slapped on bread. Conversation at teas is also more mature and advanced socialization.

30). Busy vs. Bored : Busy. I always adore a packed schedule and try to go out / keep myself moving when boredom nears. Good to let yourself relax with a magazine or book every now and then, but keeping active and social is best for my personality.

Remember this: none of my answers are intended to offend. Vs. encourages quick judgment and stereotyping to answer questions without spending a dragged out amount of time contemplating whether an orange is better than an apple!

...


This is part of the Mini-Series "A Realization of Life and its Quirks"
Read the rest here ....

Over my teenage years on this planet, in other words: the years I have been able to pick up on right vs. wrong, I have collected data from various incidents and individuals that make me cringe, helping to create this list of mannerisms that I think all humans should abide by. There are a few mannerisms that pertain to each category.

Basics:

* Keep your area (whether it be your bedroom or your luxurious condo) tidy so that other people (such as myself) don't feel tempted to clean it for you.

* Dress to impress, even when going out to the super market--in other words: don't wear belly tops unless you can pull them off.

* Be happy about your personal success and don't roll your eyes at others' happiness. There's enough to go around.

Social Skills:

* Don't mention your guilty habits - such as drug usage or crime record just to try and impress.

* If someone treats you out or advises you to join them on an outing, don't disrespect them or complain about the food / activities.

* Don't judge someone that is not your "task" to judge, especially not a friend's parenting skills or your child's friend's parents - very poorly received.

Family Skills:

* Don't belittle a member of your family, big or small. It will cause you to be resented, and them to carry around emotional baggage of judgment.

* Consider your partner part of your family if you have been dating over 6 months no matter how old you are. Vice versa, if your family member has a partner, accept them unconditionally and welcome them to family events, no matter how old they are.

* If you're the parent or older sibling, let your youngin' have freedom to grow in their own skin. Let them choose their own hobbies, passions and goals with no nudging. Don't live vicariously through your child.

* Outside family should not judge or try to control the parenting habits of distant relatives. For example: I'm not going to do what my uncle tells me to do, and my nephew is not going to do what my mom tells him to do. Know limits and boundaries of family status.

* Make an effort to stay connected with distant family - aunts and uncles must be friends with their nieces and nephews, at least enough for them to feel comfortable to confide when a serious situation arises. Cousins should be close as well.

Romance Skills:

* Trust is an expectation in the dating game. If you break your loyalty or trust, don't expect anything from the other person. Love is a two way street.

* Honesty is the second utmost expectation. If you make a mistake, expect to fess up, or don't expect to stay around.

* Expect to talk about the dirty details of S-E-X before you engage in it. Sure, heat of the moment stuff gets everyone weak-in-the-knees, but a stable, healthy relationship starts with open discussion.

* Flirting with other people can be harmless, but hinting at sexual encounters or thoughts is one step too far. If you want someone to flirt with, flirt with your partner.

Internet Skills:

* Everyone has a different demand from Facebook, but if you plan on adding family friends or strangers, expect to be commenting and "liking" their posts. Don't shut someone off, and don't add to be popular.

* When creating Events on Facebook, be sure to add everyone you could possible think of to include - don't exclude, and don't create private events without notifying your guests not to tell anyone else about that party on Saturday night.

* If someone emails you with a confidential, serious tone, it is customary to respond within 2-3 days. Even more important: if you're faculty, a boss, or an educator, it is better to respond within 24 hours.

*  Don't ruin sites like Omegle and Second Life for everybody - keep to pornography sites if you're there for the classless girls that will flash for you.

* Don't argue on a site such as Twitter with a person who you aren't yet well acquainted with. Facebook is for friendly debate and discussion.

* If someone states something harsh or opinionated on their account (example: Facebook), it is not your right, etiquette-speaking, to talk back to them or say something inappropriate. Also not okay to assume what they meant from a generalized statement. If they want to say something, they can. If you want to say something on your page, you can as well.

Outing Skills:

* At more upscale restaurants, eat with both your knife and fork, and always keep your napkin on your lap (I hope you already knew this international custom).

* Don't spit on the streets, it's not sanitary or "cool". Same goes for littering.

* When accessing free WiFi, always purchase a drink or snack from the cafe or nearby service. Very tacky to mooch.

* Dress for the occasion/activity. For example: if you're going to a theme park, wear sneakers, not high-heels. Think practically.

For my and Mark's 6 month anniversary, I created a photo gift for him to always have on his bedside table whenever he gets lonely or misses me.

I started by buying a simple photo album, which I lucked out with at Jo-Ann's Fabrics due to their cheap sale prices that day. I vowed not to spend more than $15.

Then, I went to RiteAid and printed out about 20 photos that we had taken over the months (which reminds me that I need to add the next 9 months!) and arranged sets in my mind that were to go into the album.

After I had the sets formed, I turned over the photos one-by-one, and with a permanent pen, I wrote down little sentiments that remind me of Mark, including letters, inside jokes, or words, and the little things he does that make me feel adored/why I chose him for my partner in crime!

Then, I layed in the photos, and let him do the exploring. To this day, Mark adores the photo album, and it will be cherished for years to come. I have been taking part in scrapbooking summer camps since I was 11 years old, and have found a quiet passion within keeping memories alive ever since. I encourage you all to make a photo album for someone you love, or about something you love. You won't regret it.


...




This post is part of the category "79 Things". Click to see the complete series of 79 Things.

So, about a week ago I began the search for a cheaper, equally worthy make up brand that would suit my needs--the needs that BareMinerals has fulfilled for the past year (see my article about it here).

Now, I'm typically not a drug store go-getter, but I happened to succeed in my search, and discovered Covergirl's spin off on clean, sensitive skin formulas for individualized skin tones. I went over my other options such as the newly released Perfect Match by L'Oreal, but trust Covergirl with their chemical content much more than L'Oreal.

What's the price difference between the Clean foundation sets by Covergirl compared to BareMinerals? A lot! While having a pure mineral-based make up for your healthy skin may be worth the extra bucks for someone in their 20s or 30s that needs repairable skin treatment and can chip in those extra bucks, for a teenager that desires to hide a few red spots without coating their face with crap, they need the bare minimum that will get the job done!

Starting with the foundation (#1), apply as much as you desire, as it is a liquid-base. Then grab one of the cases of pressed powder--depending upon your skin tone and which branch of foundation set you choose ("Clean", among other types) you will either grab the circular container with a brown or green lid (#2). Brush this on over your foundation to smooth the finish. If you're someone like me that does have red spots and the occasional zit, I'd suggest spending an extra few bucks and purchasing some concealer (#3). For my extremely visible birthmark that is bright red and smack-dab in the middle of my chin, I use a stick concealer (instead of liquid) by Physicians Formula. 

Foundation and powder start at around $6 a pop, and concealers come in a variety of price ranges and variety of bases. Look around and experiment to find which make up brand is right for you. Less is more, paying more does not mean you will get a award-winning product. I am not afraid to say that Covergirl is doing as much as BareMinerals does to my face for a fraction of the price. No shame here!

An age-old recipe discovered by my parents in 1986 is still alive and vibrant today, and will spice up any summer dinner spread with savory flavors.

Tortellini Salad with Veggies Recipe

1/2 pound dried cheese-stuffed spinach tortellini
1/2 dried egg cheese-stuffed tortellini
2 cups broccoli flowerettes steamed and chilled
1 large can small or medium-sized pitted black olives, drained
2 jars of marinated artichoke hearts, drained
1 medium sized sweet red pepper, cut into one-inch strips.
1/2 cup grated fresh parmesan cheese (alter this to your liking.
2 cups vinaigrette dressing of your choice (we use variations of garlics from brands such as Amy's)

Serving Size: A LOT! Perhaps 10 people.

Cook pasta in five quarts of rapidly boiling salted water about 15 to 20 minutes. Drain and chill thoroughly. Add remaining ingredients, mixing well, and chill. In making changes or additions, consider visual appeal. This is a good picnic dish, because the dressing holds more safely than mayonnaise. Our family cooks this dish different every time--it is a rare, delicious recipe we have cooked year after year. Make it your family tradition to experiment with different dressings, veggies and maybe even some sliced Italian sausage. Bon Appetite!

Last week, my sweetheart Mark graduated from high school. I cannot explain the glee inside of me and the happiness that came over me seeing him move his tassel and toss his cap. No matter how silly they may look in those caps, you cannot be more than proudly ecstatic for your graduate. He is mine.

For the last 8 months, my life has been touched by something quite bigger than myself. Something inspiring, and something much beyond ordinary.

This special thing is called PFLAG (Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays). PFLAG helps me and many others come together and fight for the rights they believe in. In my case, equality for LGBTQ.

Volunteering for a nonprofit organization enlightens my soul and gives me time to think about what I can do as a single human entity on this planet.

I help PFLAG host open meetings with films, discussion, and yummy food, and am a part of the national board for my city's chapter that makes the important decisions regarding events, money keeping and accessories for sale. I get to hold conversation with questioning youth and adults, and educate the families and friends. I am proud of us as a group and organization. The fact that one person can extend a hand and make everything a little bit easier is a wonderful thought.

I suggest that you all reach into yourself and figure out what makes you truly happy and content within helping your community. We all owe it to our communities.

Above is a photo of myself and partner Mark, tabling for PFLAG at our city's Pride weekend.

...


This post is part of the category "79 Things". Click to see the complete series of 79 Things.

Everyone has their little quirks, but everyone also has a list of the quirks that do not bode well in their personal relationships and partners. Above is a photo of my partner Mark and I enjoying a nice photography session at the beach in Lincoln City, Oregon. The reason I have picked Mark to be mine is because he fulfills all my dreams, and helps me realize what I need in my future family.

Here's mine in no particular order:

1). Cheating. Loyalty schmoyalty. Unless you're going to devote your heart and soul to mine, you're out of the "game".

2). Lying. Dishonesty is the biggest part of a relationship's pitfalls, in my opinion. If you're not honest with one another, it just isn't gonna work!

3). Bad hygiene. At least brush and shower regularly, and maybe keep up a little maintenance work here and there.

4). Lack of self-esteem. The most unattractive thing a guy or girl can do to push my buttons (in a bad way!) is have low self confidence. So icky! You are beautiful the way you are and are talented in your own ways. Me being with you is proof of that.

5). Dirty. Clean up your surroundings--at least keeping your bedroom and office space nicely neat. You don't have to be a neat-freak like me, I'll do that work around the house for you when we move in together. Make yourself look presentable.

6). Immaturity and irresponsibility. When you date me, you should be ready for a launch of lava - a crazed, but serious adventure. You don't know where the road will take you, but you should have a plan in case you get burned by la-de-da-ing. Know how to be a good friend, citizen, and have faith in yourself that you will one day become a great mother or father.

7). Drugs. Again with the immaturity and irresponsibility! Drugs are for kids and those not able to face the truth of reality - a harsh one, without a sedative or "help" to pull you along the cold, dark path. It doesn't hurt to have a little bit of fun, but an addiction can lead to an ever-lasting hell. A ride that I have been on while watching someone I loved suffer, and am never getting on again. Life is being able to feel and experience truth.

8). Unnecessary pressure. Whether it is from friends or family, I've had my fair share. No one should have to endure a judging, cruel "welcome to my lifestyle!" that makes them feel uncomfortable. If you're friends are lacking integrity or your family is one of those judge-before-they-know-ya types, I'm reluctant to make a safe home in your "hospitable" environment. To me, it's common sense to be welcomed by someone who you haven't hurt... or you know, spoken to.

9). Lack of thoughtfulness. I don't like individuals who are cold, lacking sentimentality and forgiveness when things don't quite go right. I like someone who will pull me in closer, whisper everything will be all right, and push aside senseless arguments and disagreements.

Okay, so as I mentioned before, we all have our problems and traits that make us uniquely goofy. I wouldn't really leave someone if they didn't clean off their desk after a work day or made one fib of a mistake, but these traits are some things I value and seek in a partner. I encourage you to jot down your own list, even if you already have a good idea of one in your head. This isn't being high maintenance or picky - it is being true to your values, what/who you are, and what you want for your future.

March of Dimes
A organization dedicated to the stronger and healthier lives of newborns, assisting mothers in delivering full-term pregnancies and researching the biggest problems that threaten them and their babies' lives.

PFLAG (Parents, Families, & Friends of Lesbians & Gays)
Organization dedicated to supporting and educating parents, friends, and extended family on the problems and spirit within LGBTQ individuals. LGBTQ are welcome as well to help educate or seek support. Chapters located across the U.S.

NOH8 
Campaign educating the American public on California's prop 8 law banning same-sex marriages, standing up in resistance with the help of Adam Bouska - celebrity photographer that trademarked the taped-mouth/cheek-painted NOH8 iconic photograph with the help of anticipated/less-anticipated celebrities such as Marlee Matlin, Kim Kardashian, Meghan/Cindy McCain, Tony Plana, Steve-O, Kathy Griffin, and Jane Lynch, among many more.

Planned Parenthood
Leading organization that provides medical assistance and support to young individuals, educating them on sexual reproduction and safe sex, abstinence, etc. Helps the hearts and faith of numerous innocent, and not-so-innocent human beings, with love and tolerance for all paths.

NBPC - PACER (National Bullying Prevention Center)
Organization raising awareness for the harmful affects and repercussions of childhood bullying, expressing ways to help your community and peers, including both emotional and physical examples. Gets kids, teenagers and adults involved in the situations at-hand.

"Carry yourself with a queenly grace. Carry the memory of an unforgettable moment. Carry a bag of food to someone who needs it. Carry a child as much as you can, as close as you can, yet stop the moment it begins to hurt or you begin to feel resentful. Carry a sign in a picket line to show you support the women whose jobs are on that line. Carry on a conversation only as long as you want; then end it. Offer to carry a sack for a woman who's carrying her unborn child. Carry a song in your heart. Stop carrying forty-seven suitcases of emotional baggage. Carry things to their natural conclusion. Allow someone else - another woman, perhaps - to carry you over an emotional threshold. Carry a bouquet of flowers into the kitchen on Tuesday. Or on every Tuesday. Carry the light of your own soul and let it shine, shine, shine."

I found this quote in the Words of Wisdom for Women book written by Rachel Snyder. It is a moving and beautiful message for us gals everywhere, tapping into the ever-so famous phrase: "To carry the weight of the world." While the physical examples given in this piece are just as valid as the emotional, I do see a certain kind of relation between my own life situations and the acceptance of letting go of "what I cannot change".

The past couple of months have brought up so much of this acceptance piece, one that is so hard to master, but carefully learned within the years of greatest growth. I constantly try to figure out the reason for why a certain occurrence came about - why that person judged me, why that person turned their back to me, and the list goes on and on. I will admit: I am lacking a bit of grace in my daily life. I have a loud mouth, and it's not so lady-like, but I will state the trait that does possess great grace: resilience.

I do my part in community service and volunteering for non-profits, schools, and libraries, raising my voice when activism calls to me. I have a soft spot for children, and consider myself very "maternal" in the way I treat human beings. I fight against ageism and the right for young people to have a solid voice without judgment.

I carry the message of love, compassion, and what I believe to be correct - a very simple thing to achieve. I compromise with my closest girl-friends, and help them through their trials, as they help me through my own. I understand who I am, what I am worthy of, and what I should stand for. I do carry the light of my soul for all to see, and hopefully accept. Sure, I'm not perfect, but when people do not accept my soul, I have a hard time carrying things to their assigned destination (with time), or understanding that I do not have to carry the emotional baggage and conflicting pain of others.

I want to "save" the ones around me, no matter how big or small their situation is. This leads me to a different, but equally helpful quote from the same poetry book: "Why plow through life when you can take in as much as you can? You can't always save a moment in time, but you can savor it." There is so much GOOD in life; so much to be savored. Negativity should keep none of us down when the negativity stems from something bigger than ourselves and what we cannot control.

If anyone, anywhere, puts you in an emotional state in which they have tricked you into believing that they hold the right to control your future, feelings, being, or dreams: fight by fighting for your right to be happy and live successfully in bliss. Climb when the mountain seems too high. Defy those disbelievers with the guilt of their unachieved dreams, lost in the dust of their crumbling valley. "Ignore them and do whatever you damn well please! Defy convention and wear what you want, love who you want. Turn a deaf ear to the culture and the busybody down the block. Just say NO. Go up against the odds, defy the naysayers and the dream destroyers and prove them wrong. Tell conventional wisdom to take a flying leap into an unconventional location where the sun never shines. Break rules that repress your freedom of expression and become more fully human in the process. Be willing to be ostracized for your defiance. Lose everything you ever thought was important and revel in all that you gain."

The amazing author and girl-power guru, Maggie Mason posted this life list on her blog about 100 things she wants to accomplish before she dies. This inspired me immensely to create my own. While I have already created minor goals, and a few major within that, I have never sat down with a journal and jotted down the 100 things I hope to do before I die. Please feel free to check back at this list to see how I've progressed!

Climb to the top of a mountain peak | Publish a teenage self help book | Publish a few children books | Take a spur-of-the-moment trip | Learn public speaking / be a part of a debate class | Live in Canada or Australia | Start or help charity group |  Join the movement against cancer | Vacation in Colorado | Meet my idol | Brainstorm an entire main course and cook it! | Learn to hip-hop dance | Meet Paul McCartney | Finally learn how to use my espresso maker | Try Chinese cuisine | Learn CPR / first aid | Study dog language | Go to a drive-in movie | Eat (more) meat | Take an art class for fun | Research my family tree (both bio and non-bio) | See either Wanda Sykes or Kathy Griffin's stand-up live | Meet a president | Honeymoon in the Bahamas | Stay at the Atlantis resort | Learn and implement eco-friendly habits in my life | Become hooked to a drink not produced by Starbucks | Be bi-lingual | Adopt a child | Take a couple writing-prompt classes | Design my own shirts | Meet Sean Covey | Have a cat as a pet | Attend at least two different colleges to broaden my horizons | Own an iPhone or Apple product | Make a montage with my own video footage | Take a long road trip | Live in an apartment | Invest in a good-quality, portable camera | Buy a dress from Nordstrom | Purchase a bag from Gucci | Spice up my relationship | Vacation in Newport Beach, California | Experience New Years in Times Square | Shop in 'The Big Apple' | Join an anti-bullying organization | Visit Mexico | Meet my birth mother | Vacation in Europe, stopping in Ireland | Dine in a Scottish cafe | Go zip-lining | Learn what it takes to create a social networking site | Take a culinary class for fun | Give birth at least once with a doula by my side | Take a self-defense class | Visit a foreign country | Dance in public | Follow through with a detox | Skate on 'the' Lake Placid, NY rink | Get my wisdom teeth removed | Learn to like spiders | Go blonde | Learn Russian after Spanish | Tend to an annual garden | Dive into the depths of journalism | Attend the Olympics in Russia | Visit Sergei Grinkov's grave | Learn Geography | See a Broadway play | Do something "risky" | Learn Japanese tea mannerisms | Attend a meditation retreat | Get a ground photo of myself near the Eiffel Tower |

(There are 73 here with more to come soon... !)

Last week, I discovered one of the most brilliant freewares I have ever used: Poladroid, the free polaroid-mimicking agent that clicks and snaps just like a polaroid camera on your computer desktop with both PC and MAC compatibility.



You start out with a free screen with the mini polaroid camera icon in the corner. Then, you simply drag a photo to the camera icon, and watch it develop. If you want to speed the process along, shake the photo icon across the screen in a right-left motion. It will develop within approx. 10 seconds if you shake fast enough, but will take a good few minutes if you do not.

... And BAM! You have a polaroid photo ready for prints and framing right before your eyes. In my case, I am starting a Flickr stream / blog posting category called "Poladroid-a-Day", in which I include little photography surprises in between every other blog post - ya never know when one will pop up!

I encourage you to start the "polaroid" journey with me, and download Poladroid for free here (no spyware or viruses - I promise!) :-)

(You can follow "Poladroid-a-Day" in my Flickr stream here...)

I was flipping through a book with ideas for blog entries, and came across one I do quite like (a lot!)... form an interview with a best friend or partner that explains why you chose them to be in your life as they are. So, for this entry, I will pull out the best in my partner, Mark, and prove why I think he is the perfect man.

Me: What are the top three personality traits you pride yourself on having? How do they help you in every day life?
Mark: Friendly, patient and caring. They help me focus on my work and be more productive because I'm not worrying about drama, or other nonsensical people. Being patient and caring also helps me compromise with loved ones and people within my community.

Me: What is your aspired career path, and why?
Mark: Some sort of an electronics technician, but I would love to work with communications on water. Some sort of boating. I have a background in these things, and grew up around them. You could say I have electricity in my blood!

Me: What are the top three personality traits you look for in a partner? Why?
Mark: Caring, respectful and tolerant. I want someone who respects me for who I am and what I do, and even though they may not understand what I do or why I do it, they still support it.

Me: As a graduating high school student, what advice would you give to freshman just entering the 4 year experience?
Mark: Get the hard classes out of the way first and don't slack off or screw up! If you are a good student and work hard, your senior year will be very easy. If you have a chance, go to a tech or vocational school - easy credits in quick time, and good work experience for future careers. Don't give in to peer pressure, and be your own person. Only you know who you really are and what you believe, so don't let others try to influence you.

Me: Through the multiple hardships you've endured in your lifetime, what is the biggest piece of wisdom you will take?
Mark: Everyone copes at different times and different ways. No one can speed up the coping process, nor will it hit the person right away all the time. Life goes on - I know that's a cliche, but it does get better. Remember that yesterday is history and tomorrow is never promised.

Me: What is the drive behind you helping out your community in multiple examples of volunteer service?
Mark: I suppose I instilled the drive in myself, with support from my friends and family. I found the community service type that was right for me and I think that everyone throughout their life should do something to help out their community.

Me: Whether negative or positive experience, what is one lesson you have come to understand about parenting that you will instill in your future children?
Mark: To let them have freedom and not be an overly-controlling parent. It also needs to be a two-way street of communication, not just the parent telling the child what to do or how something will play out.

Me: Some find it hard to follow their own advice and wisdom. After a variety of hardships, how do you continue on, besides the wisdom you have learned?
Mark: I generally move slow, and take it one week at a time.

Me: What are some of your favorite hobbies?
Mark: Photography - I like to see what I can do with my camera and experiment with at least one new setting each time I shoot, or angle something differently. Amateur radio, because I enjoy building and seeing how things work, and meeting new people all over the world. Hiking - I enjoy being outdoors and observing nature.

Me: What are some of your pet peeves?
Mark: People that jaywalk, people that don't attempt to use correct spelling or grammar in text messages,  people that don't try in school, but still show up.

Me: Who are a few of your idols or role models? Why?
Mark: You! I wish I had you as an idol earlier on in high school so I could have seen how good of a student I could have been. It gives me something to work towards. You are honest and you speak your mind, which I have never been that great at. Bud - one of the owners of Buddipole atenna company. He shows a small dream that you start building in your garage can turn into a huge company. He is in his early 70s and still goes into his office and works. I also look up to my friend Tom; he is energetic and full of new ideas or projects to work on.

I hadn't popped in Payless Shoe Source in quite some time, but did so today to search for sandals that would match my needed criteria - arch support when orthotics cannot be inserted.

What did I find? Two amazingly cute pairs of shoes by the Payless-supplying brand: Montego Bay Club. Right now, Payless has a buy-1-get-1-half-off deal on all shoes, so I scored a $30 deal from $40, and walked out of the store with some Mira Wedge Slides and flip flops with a nice, beaded trim. If I could have had one more pair? I would have purchased a pair of the Sammie Embellished Wedges.

I was a happy bargain hunter. It is so rare when you find a affordable, comfortable, and cute shoes all in one visit to the shoe store!

Towards summertime, I notice a shift in common 'tude; a different facade for many individuals. What's up with this buzz about people being "perfect"? I'm surely not! I am nearly positive you are sitting there with a smug grin on your face, reader, contemplating the depths of what's about to become my most embarrassing blog post ever.

In the society I live in, in order not to be conceived as thinking you are perfect, you have to express how imperfect you are. When I hear or discover others' imperfections, I start to feel better about how sane I myself can come across, and I am sure you experience the same, at least a majority of the time...

I am a flip-flopper. I typically stay on one designated path, but change my mind about the minuscule details encountered along the journey. "Should I buy this top? If I saved up, I could buy that wallet that I truly need to function day-to-day, and I already have like sooo many tops. But then again, if I don't, I could miss out on a top this cute.", or: "Should I buy this type of cheese? What if it's too spicy, and then I just spent like $4 on slices of cheese that are too spicy, but if I buy the other cheese that's just plain, I'll want to buy even more cheese! Either way, cheese is bad for me... but I really want cheese!" So, I admit: maybe some of this is the GAD talking, but my what-if mindset affects my family, partner, and self immensely.

I have my insecurities. While some are far too personal to discuss within a public blog, they are present. Perhaps I don't have burning self-esteem issues, but I'm still shaky around heights, and squeamish around spiders. Afraid of ending up alone, and screwing up my future child's life. While many of my irrational fears are just that - irrational, I have a lot that worries me and tugs at the heart strings.

I am a perfectionist type of person, one adjusted to routine and organization around the house. When I get out from taking a shower, I have to shake off the towel before I dry myself off. "For what purpose?", you ask. The answer? I have no freakin' clue! It's developed as one of those little, quirky habits that I have to conform to before the day starts off right. I also get pretty bad test anxiety and forget all of the information I have taken in over the months when I am faced with the possibility of getting it wrong (when we all know, I'm gonna get it wrong).

When I really, really, reaaalllyy want something: I whine. I use a persuasive, childish little voice to try and make my mommy think I'm cute, but we all know that's just annoying and probably isn't getting me anywhere. I have a hot temper, and become irritably "loud" quite quickly. Also annoying. I am TERRIBLE with directions! I barely learned any Geography in school, and it shows. Unless I know the route to the place I am going, or landmarks around it, I cannot make out a street address for the life of me.

I am somewhat materialistic, and certainly can't live without money. I calculated how many hours I would have to work on minimum wage as a College student in order to pay utilities and rent, while getting the extra, leisure "fixes" I would like to have per week, and it came out to around 4 hours per day, including weekends. Along with my relationship with money comes a little bit of spoiling from my family. I am certainly not a "spoiled brat", but growing up I did get what I wanted a majority of the time (props to being an only child, too).

I have high expectations of others. I will automatically accept you no matter what, and be your friendly acquaintance (what you do on your own time is your business), but if you're going to be a close friend of mine, I typically don't associate with druggies or "lowlifes", which is a good chunk of the teenage scene where I reside. When beginning a relationship, I'm not too picky, and expect full honesty/trust as a given. If you make a mistake, I'm quick to forgive, but never forget. We are all humans, but when people start to make excuses for compulsive mistake-making, I get a little ticked-off.

Did'ya like that rant? I thought so. Jot down a few of the things that make you specially YOU, imperfect, or perfect in themselves, and try to turn them into humorous facts or learn how to associate them with positive traits. Sure, I do want a lot of things in life, both material-wise and emotionally, and I am quirky and sometimes misunderstood, but it shows that I truly am living. I care enough about my life to ask for things, and not live in the dark in which every day I am expecting a surprise from people. I am not searching high and low for what I want - I know what I want. I push myself to the tallest heights and don't give up until somehow, someday I will ace the test.