When I was preparing to visit Emily and Joe for the weekend, I said I wanted to have adventures. Contrary to popular, i.e. one person's, belief, that does not mean I want to ride mechanical bulls. It just means doing as much fun stuff as possible without worrying about money or time or people's opinions.
And adventures we had! Emily and I went shopping for supplies on Friday, then went back to her dorm to carve Doctor Who themed pumpkins and watch Starship Ranger. I love the AVPM crew, but wow, that mess was all over the place. Still, I kind of loved it, and it was good enough that we quoted it throughout the weekend. Also I want the song where the evil Scorpion alien convinces Bug to infiltrate the human spaceship out of love and acceptance, or maybe to eat them. Yup, that's the kind of musical it was.
Joe came over for dinner; then we went to a Judson fall night somewhere down the road. We went on the most boring hay rack ride ever, during which students pointed excitedly to piles of smashed concrete and wondered whether anything scary was meant to happen. "Will someone with a chain saw jump out here? No? Look at that truck! Is he going to pretend to crash into us? ...no? Is anything scary going to happen?" Nope. But then I made a s'more and we left early. Also I wore my TARDIS hat and felt 100% cool. Ah, anonymity.
To watch 500 Days of Summer! And Joe stayed for the whole thing, which makes me believe in its awesomeness all the more. Emily's roommates and friends watched the end, then eight of us played Quelf! Until 1:30, which is maybe not outrageous for college students, but it is to me.
Sleep. Wake. We watched Young Victoria, and it was surprisingly adorable. Off to lunch with Joe, and this cute kid was dressed up as a cowboy but couldn't walk more than two steps before hoisting his lasso to his shoulder or hiking up his chaps. Then we went back to campus, where another fall activity was happening! Emily and I made a mediocre leaf painting, then drank hot cider and made s'mores.
I brought my fancy camera, so naturally we had to go around the fall-strewn campus and take pictures of each other. We found a blue emergency pole with a light on top, which we figured to be the modern TARDIS. I called for the Doctor, but I guess he doesn't want me as a companion. But I do not lose hope!
We started watching Sherlock so Emily could be introduced to its awesomeness. Then we ate dinner at Chiles and I went home. So much fall and so much Doctor Who! Always the best.
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
RTD Part Two
I flailed about how much I loved RTD's book The Writer's Tale, in which his emails about writing the fourth season of Doctor Who are bookified. When it was over, I was heartbroken, because what about the next thing!? I wanted to read all his emails for the rest of his life (me, a stalker?).
Then I found out there was a second print in which his emails through the Specials are recorded! An extra 300 pages! Naturally, I bought it, and I've been devouring it since it came in the mail yesterday.
Got to this part, where he runs into the actor who will get killed off in the script RTD is working on. "Yet again, that's one of those odd meetings where I want to say, "We're going to kill you!" I suppose only writers and hit men ever think that."
Hahaha! I love RTD. And it makes me want to be a professional writer. ...Mm, does that make me weird?
Then I found out there was a second print in which his emails through the Specials are recorded! An extra 300 pages! Naturally, I bought it, and I've been devouring it since it came in the mail yesterday.
Got to this part, where he runs into the actor who will get killed off in the script RTD is working on. "Yet again, that's one of those odd meetings where I want to say, "We're going to kill you!" I suppose only writers and hit men ever think that."
Hahaha! I love RTD. And it makes me want to be a professional writer. ...Mm, does that make me weird?
Pet Peeve
Coworker: Did you find anything for that lady about studies on fonts?
Me: Yes!
Coworker: I don't understand. Why would anyone make a study about fonts?
Me: Oh, that sort of thing fascinates me!
Coworker: Obviously, yeah. It's interesting. But what's the point?
Me: Graphic design is huge right now, and font is a big part of that. Makes sense to have studies on something so new.
Coworker: Of course, yeah, they should be done. But by the time any studies are made into book form, they'll be obsolete.
Me: Well...most books have to be printed without a full knowledge of the subject. There's always going to be new information in the world.
Coworker: Naturally, yes, that's the nature of books. But studies on fonts?
RAAARR. You obviously disagree with me! State your opinion with confidence rather than playing both sides. Oh, I hate that.
Me: Yes!
Coworker: I don't understand. Why would anyone make a study about fonts?
Me: Oh, that sort of thing fascinates me!
Coworker: Obviously, yeah. It's interesting. But what's the point?
Me: Graphic design is huge right now, and font is a big part of that. Makes sense to have studies on something so new.
Coworker: Of course, yeah, they should be done. But by the time any studies are made into book form, they'll be obsolete.
Me: Well...most books have to be printed without a full knowledge of the subject. There's always going to be new information in the world.
Coworker: Naturally, yes, that's the nature of books. But studies on fonts?
RAAARR. You obviously disagree with me! State your opinion with confidence rather than playing both sides. Oh, I hate that.
Emily
I'm going to visit Emily this weekend, and I am very excited! Mostly because I have fun with her, but also because our conversations are golden. She fascinates me, because while it has long been established that we have the same brain, our life experiences are completely different. We approach everything from opposite perspectives, but often come to the same conclusion. The how is the fascinating part!
I sometimes forget how different we fundamentally are. Her family is, well, I don't think any family is perfect, but when you have to strain to see cracks, you're doing pretty good. At the very least, her family is nearer the ideal than my dysfunctional mess (said with affection and stuff). And there's the fact that she's been dating the same guy since birth (or 14 or whatever), while I have not.
She tells me about a friend who is perpetually single, but creates drama with boys and tries to imagine a world where all the boys want to get with her milkshake (the rap references, I am not so good with them). And while I totally get how that comes across as annoying, mostly while she complains about said friend I am thinking, "lol I am that girl, I empathize with everything she does." However, as Emily pointed out, I know those habits are annoying, which is why I mostly shut my big mouth. No one likes to hear your deep personal pain when fun times could be had.
Or as I like to think, if you're going to have deep personal pain, at least have a sense of humor about it.
So we don't connect on many life experiences. And yet I enjoy her so much! She is like a window into another world. And also she fangirls about AVPM, and likes to go adventuring, and is totally up for making dance videos in a mostly danceless Peoria. I like my brain-twin. (Mm, I'm very aware that that makes me sound extremely prideful. But pride is something else I share with my brain-twin, so it still counts.)
I sometimes forget how different we fundamentally are. Her family is, well, I don't think any family is perfect, but when you have to strain to see cracks, you're doing pretty good. At the very least, her family is nearer the ideal than my dysfunctional mess (said with affection and stuff). And there's the fact that she's been dating the same guy since birth (or 14 or whatever), while I have not.
She tells me about a friend who is perpetually single, but creates drama with boys and tries to imagine a world where all the boys want to get with her milkshake (the rap references, I am not so good with them). And while I totally get how that comes across as annoying, mostly while she complains about said friend I am thinking, "lol I am that girl, I empathize with everything she does." However, as Emily pointed out, I know those habits are annoying, which is why I mostly shut my big mouth. No one likes to hear your deep personal pain when fun times could be had.
Or as I like to think, if you're going to have deep personal pain, at least have a sense of humor about it.
So we don't connect on many life experiences. And yet I enjoy her so much! She is like a window into another world. And also she fangirls about AVPM, and likes to go adventuring, and is totally up for making dance videos in a mostly danceless Peoria. I like my brain-twin. (Mm, I'm very aware that that makes me sound extremely prideful. But pride is something else I share with my brain-twin, so it still counts.)
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Wedding Plans
I was talking to a girl the other day, and she told me a boy had made a really bad mistake, but that he s sorry. She said she thought she was in love with him, so what should she do?? I mentally smirked and said, "You'll feel that way about plenty of boys in the future." I left the conversation feeling smug and mature, until I realized how right I was.
I still feel that way. "Oh look, a boy! He is very nice! Hm, and attractive. Oh look, I'm firting with him! THIS IS LOVE! Oops, he did this. And he said that. And, well, that's not ideal, but...I don't care, TRUE LOVE WILL PREVAIL!" Until the next guy, anyway.
All of this has naturally made me think of wedding plans! Lol. I've been told to make plans before they are necessary, so here goes.
I like fall weddings.
I have no idea what kind of dress I will have, but it will not be Strapless: Bane of my Existence.
I ike the idea of bridesmaids wearing a brightly colored dress and neutral cardigan or vice versa.
I want my husband in classic black or grey.
Bridesmaids promenade in with groomsmen.
I like the idea of family communion, but as my dad and brother aren't Christians, that might be weird. Maybe just a couple communion. Or whole church. Dunno.
Short ceremony, but long enough to be awesome.
No live music, unless I marry someone rich and have a string quartet.
Oh, lots of photographers and photographs! I will put my bridal party through every pose imaginable and it will be fun!
Reception will have food, maybe a buffet.
Cake will be mostly chocolate.
First dance will only last a minute before all couples are invited to join.
LOTS OF DANCING!
Maybe alcohol. Some people cannot drink responsibly and might ruin the event. Some people can, and will have fun! Will depend on who is invited.
Did I mention lots of dancing? That's all I care about. If people want to socialize with the bride, they will have to bust a move to talk with me.
Naturally, I will only marry someone confident enough to also dance and look foolish.
My thoughts on weddings can apparently be narrowed down to clothing and dancing. Planning done. Now all I need is a boy to irrationally love. No wonder I am perpetually single. I have the emotional maturity of a middle schooler.
I still feel that way. "Oh look, a boy! He is very nice! Hm, and attractive. Oh look, I'm firting with him! THIS IS LOVE! Oops, he did this. And he said that. And, well, that's not ideal, but...I don't care, TRUE LOVE WILL PREVAIL!" Until the next guy, anyway.
All of this has naturally made me think of wedding plans! Lol. I've been told to make plans before they are necessary, so here goes.
I like fall weddings.
I have no idea what kind of dress I will have, but it will not be Strapless: Bane of my Existence.
I ike the idea of bridesmaids wearing a brightly colored dress and neutral cardigan or vice versa.
I want my husband in classic black or grey.
Bridesmaids promenade in with groomsmen.
I like the idea of family communion, but as my dad and brother aren't Christians, that might be weird. Maybe just a couple communion. Or whole church. Dunno.
Short ceremony, but long enough to be awesome.
No live music, unless I marry someone rich and have a string quartet.
Oh, lots of photographers and photographs! I will put my bridal party through every pose imaginable and it will be fun!
Reception will have food, maybe a buffet.
Cake will be mostly chocolate.
First dance will only last a minute before all couples are invited to join.
LOTS OF DANCING!
Maybe alcohol. Some people cannot drink responsibly and might ruin the event. Some people can, and will have fun! Will depend on who is invited.
Did I mention lots of dancing? That's all I care about. If people want to socialize with the bride, they will have to bust a move to talk with me.
Naturally, I will only marry someone confident enough to also dance and look foolish.
My thoughts on weddings can apparently be narrowed down to clothing and dancing. Planning done. Now all I need is a boy to irrationally love. No wonder I am perpetually single. I have the emotional maturity of a middle schooler.
Sunday, October 23, 2011
Question
If you learn better one way, is it best to just go with that one way, or should you try a new way, even if it means learning less or learning slower?
Saturday, October 22, 2011
Doctor Who S1E01 "Rose" Semi-Live Blog
Since I have to wait a year for more Doctor Who (minus the Christmas episode), and since I want to learn to appreciate Moffat's takeover, I'm rewatching all six seasons of Doctor Who, and blogging my thoughts as I do so! For my enjoyment, if not for yours.
Yay old theme song! I want you for my phone!
Wow, no wonder I didn't get into this episode the first time. The music is all kinds of awful.
I really love the fast forward through Rose's day. It establishes her normal/boring life, gives us the first glimpse of the episode's baddies, and makes us relate to and sympathize with Rose--all in like, two minutes.
And in those two minutes, we can already tell that Mickey likes Rose far more than she likes him back...he's always trying to touch her, and she's always pushing him away.
RTD is kind of like Whedon here, subverting the classic "blond in distress" trope. Yes, Rose gets saved by the Doctor, but she is anything but a victim. By the end of series two, she is an absolute BAMF. Actually, that should be the Doctor's callsign: Turning victims into BAMFs since 2004!
Speaking of...there's the Doctor! Hello Christopher Eccleston! I missed you.
And there's the hand hold and the "run!", which basically defines the Doctor/Companion relationship.
Hehehe, Nine is so sassy. I MISS YOU.
Is it common for the Doctor to blow up buildings? I wouldn't think so....
Booo CGI. This is also why it took me so long to get into the show. Crappiest display of a building blowing up that wasn't created by a bunch of 10-year-olds.
BTW, hello Jackie! I didn't like you much the first time around, but I grew to love you!
And hello Mickey. I didn't like you much the first time around, and that never changed.
Hello Doctor! You never do anything normal, do you?
"I'm in my dressing gown. There's a strange man in my bedroom..."
"Yes, there is."
"Anything could happen."
"No."
So this is the first time Nine has looked at himself? Only later Clive shows a bunch of pictures of Nine throughout history. Did he just never come across a mirror? Oh well, I don't care, because this is the beginning of the ear jokes!
Geez, they are already rolling around on each other, and hahaha Rose hitting him on the arm. They already have great chemistry.
More sassy Doctor!
"Sort of."
"Doesn't work."
And they walk in tandem! I will find subtext in every scene!
Regardless of my rampant shipping, I think it's fairly obvious that while they are not yet in love, they are definitely intrigued by each other.
Oh, Doctor. You can't give an epic speech about clinging to the earth and falling through space, then say, "Now forget me."
YOU DON'T WANT TO BE FORGOTTEN. I see your manipulation.
And hellooooo TARDIS!
Rose theme music! Love it. Especially in the midst of the rest of the soundtrack mess.
And your tough face is obnoxious.
"His one constant companion is...death." Or Sexy, the TARDIS. But that's for a later season.
Mickey and the waste bin. If only he had ended there.
Rose is obviously not into Mickey if she can't tell there's something very wrong with him physically and verbally. She's so caught up in her life, and the mystery of the Doctor, that she doesn't notice that her boyfriend who she supposedly loves is made of plastic. Good sign that relationship is not going to last.
Hahaha, Doctor. You can't be discreet by pulling a guy's head off in a crowded restaurant, even if he is made of plastic.
Lookit you being so sly, inviting Rose into the TARDIS, for "saftey".
"The inside's bigger than the outside." Like Eleven, I really like when people say that.
"Yeah. That alright?"
"Yeah."
I LOVE THEM.
Oh Doctor, not remembering that her boyfriend is maybe dead. And not even caring when you do remember. Why do I love you for your callousness?
The grin! "Fantastic"!
And more handholding. Really guys, it's easier to run without holding hands. Get a room!
I'd forgotten how much initiative Rose showed in the pilot, figuring out the wheel and the entrance to the Nestene Consciousness. Makes sense why the Doctor asked her to join him.
I adore the Doctor's aversion to violence unless absolutely necessary.
First mention of the Shadow Proclamation!
More Mickey, booo.
More bad CGI, booo.
Ooo, and the first glimpse of the Doctor's grief. "It wasn't my fault! I couldn't save your world; I couldn't save any of them!"
:(
Mickey: "Just leave him! There's nothing you can do!"
Rose: saves the world
Yeah, girl. Don't listen to Mickey Babypants.
lol at the random gymnastics and swinging.
Apparently anti-plastic makes the autons break dance and do the Robot.
C'mon Rose, don't be rude, hanging up on your mother's trauma.
Oh, Doctor, trying not to show how lonely you are, or how desperately you want Rose to join you.
The Doctor and I agree on Mickey, at least.
"Is it always this dangerous?"
"Yeah."
And that quote is why I love this show. I see you pushing my wanderlust button!
OMG Mickey hanging on her waist like a child. At least TRY to be awesome, okay? You're making it so easy to dislike you.
Rose only agrees to go with the Doctor after he tells her it's a time machine too. That way she's not abandoning Jackie or Mickey. She can go off and have adventures, then return as if only five minutes had passed. Best of all worlds!
Of course, later she won't care about that at all. L'amore.
Worth noting the Doctor wanted Rose so bad, he 1) asked her to join him, and 2) Came back to reconvince her to join him. Must keep track of those things for future companions, because I'm pretty sure Rose is special.
HER FACE as she runs!
Yay old theme song! I want you for my phone!
Wow, no wonder I didn't get into this episode the first time. The music is all kinds of awful.
I really love the fast forward through Rose's day. It establishes her normal/boring life, gives us the first glimpse of the episode's baddies, and makes us relate to and sympathize with Rose--all in like, two minutes.
And in those two minutes, we can already tell that Mickey likes Rose far more than she likes him back...he's always trying to touch her, and she's always pushing him away.
RTD is kind of like Whedon here, subverting the classic "blond in distress" trope. Yes, Rose gets saved by the Doctor, but she is anything but a victim. By the end of series two, she is an absolute BAMF. Actually, that should be the Doctor's callsign: Turning victims into BAMFs since 2004!
Speaking of...there's the Doctor! Hello Christopher Eccleston! I missed you.
And there's the hand hold and the "run!", which basically defines the Doctor/Companion relationship.
Hehehe, Nine is so sassy. I MISS YOU.
Is it common for the Doctor to blow up buildings? I wouldn't think so....
Booo CGI. This is also why it took me so long to get into the show. Crappiest display of a building blowing up that wasn't created by a bunch of 10-year-olds.
BTW, hello Jackie! I didn't like you much the first time around, but I grew to love you!
And hello Mickey. I didn't like you much the first time around, and that never changed.
Hello Doctor! You never do anything normal, do you?
"I'm in my dressing gown. There's a strange man in my bedroom..."
"Yes, there is."
"Anything could happen."
"No."
So this is the first time Nine has looked at himself? Only later Clive shows a bunch of pictures of Nine throughout history. Did he just never come across a mirror? Oh well, I don't care, because this is the beginning of the ear jokes!
Geez, they are already rolling around on each other, and hahaha Rose hitting him on the arm. They already have great chemistry.
More sassy Doctor!
"Sort of."
"Doesn't work."
And they walk in tandem! I will find subtext in every scene!
Regardless of my rampant shipping, I think it's fairly obvious that while they are not yet in love, they are definitely intrigued by each other.
Oh, Doctor. You can't give an epic speech about clinging to the earth and falling through space, then say, "Now forget me."
YOU DON'T WANT TO BE FORGOTTEN. I see your manipulation.
And hellooooo TARDIS!
Rose theme music! Love it. Especially in the midst of the rest of the soundtrack mess.
And your tough face is obnoxious.
"His one constant companion is...death." Or Sexy, the TARDIS. But that's for a later season.
Mickey and the waste bin. If only he had ended there.
Rose is obviously not into Mickey if she can't tell there's something very wrong with him physically and verbally. She's so caught up in her life, and the mystery of the Doctor, that she doesn't notice that her boyfriend who she supposedly loves is made of plastic. Good sign that relationship is not going to last.
Hahaha, Doctor. You can't be discreet by pulling a guy's head off in a crowded restaurant, even if he is made of plastic.
Lookit you being so sly, inviting Rose into the TARDIS, for "saftey".
"The inside's bigger than the outside." Like Eleven, I really like when people say that.
"Yeah. That alright?"
"Yeah."
I LOVE THEM.
Oh Doctor, not remembering that her boyfriend is maybe dead. And not even caring when you do remember. Why do I love you for your callousness?
The grin! "Fantastic"!
And more handholding. Really guys, it's easier to run without holding hands. Get a room!
I'd forgotten how much initiative Rose showed in the pilot, figuring out the wheel and the entrance to the Nestene Consciousness. Makes sense why the Doctor asked her to join him.
I adore the Doctor's aversion to violence unless absolutely necessary.
First mention of the Shadow Proclamation!
More Mickey, booo.
More bad CGI, booo.
Ooo, and the first glimpse of the Doctor's grief. "It wasn't my fault! I couldn't save your world; I couldn't save any of them!"
:(
Mickey: "Just leave him! There's nothing you can do!"
Rose: saves the world
Yeah, girl. Don't listen to Mickey Babypants.
lol at the random gymnastics and swinging.
Apparently anti-plastic makes the autons break dance and do the Robot.
C'mon Rose, don't be rude, hanging up on your mother's trauma.
Oh, Doctor, trying not to show how lonely you are, or how desperately you want Rose to join you.
The Doctor and I agree on Mickey, at least.
"Is it always this dangerous?"
"Yeah."
And that quote is why I love this show. I see you pushing my wanderlust button!
OMG Mickey hanging on her waist like a child. At least TRY to be awesome, okay? You're making it so easy to dislike you.
Rose only agrees to go with the Doctor after he tells her it's a time machine too. That way she's not abandoning Jackie or Mickey. She can go off and have adventures, then return as if only five minutes had passed. Best of all worlds!
Of course, later she won't care about that at all. L'amore.
Worth noting the Doctor wanted Rose so bad, he 1) asked her to join him, and 2) Came back to reconvince her to join him. Must keep track of those things for future companions, because I'm pretty sure Rose is special.
HER FACE as she runs!
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Things I Love: Dd
Doctor Who
Doctor Who is not the most consistently awesome show. Some of the episodes are truly horrible, or worse, boring. But when it's good, it is fantastic. It makes me laugh, it makes me cry. Sometimes in the space of ten minutes (I'm looking at you, season 4 finale)!
One of the best things about the show is the fandom. It's so easy to get caught up in the Doctor Who universe. There's a corner of fandom for the humor in Doctor Who, and another for those interested in the drama, or the ships, or the philosophy, or the history, or the science fiction. And merchandise! You can basically buy anything in the shape of a TARDIS on etsy. There are daleks and sonic screwdrivers and bow ties to be had. It is shockingly easy to let your life become consumed by the Doctor. Says the girl who knows from experience.
Dancing
When I was little, I would find some old CDs of my mom's (especially the Beach Boys or The King and I), then dance around the living room like a boss. Then I got a bit older, and super self-conscious, and I stopped dancing. I never went to any high school dances. I never busted a move at parties or even for like, five seconds as a joke.
Luckily, college changed all that! I used to dance around Craig 3, and while my roommates made fun of me, I knew it was mostly out of love. Stephanie and I had the odd dance party or two. And then I moved to Senegal and lived with Liz, who is probably the danciest person in existance. We made dance videos, and by watching her, I slowly learned to stop spazzing and start moving with deliberation. Sometimes. My default is still to spazz.
I now live for weddings and the hours of dancing they sometimes offer. I love the freedom of dancing, and I love watching other people dance. It is, I think, the very definition of fun. When done right, which means not caring what other people think.
Darren Criss
I first fell in love with Darren Criss when he said Cho Chang was "supermegafoxyawesome hot" in A Very Potter Musical. Then I found out that not only had he starred as Harry Potter, he had also written the music and helped write the play! WHAT. A couple years later his theatrical company (aka his friends from college) came out with A Very Potter Sequel, and I fell in love with him again.
He has exactly my sense of off-kilter humor. I admit to stalking his interviews on youtube, and he is a genuinely adorable person. He's funny, confident, crazy smart (I love a man who naturally includes big words in ordinary conversations), and incredibly nice. I, um, have a huge crush on him.
Now he's on Glee, which is unfortunate because I am so over Glee, but I can't stop watching now that he's a main character! Ugh. But it's worth it, because his voice and his face (and his sense of style, see below) are my favorite.
Drawing
I go through stages of artisticness. And one of my favorite stages to return to is drawing! I love shading and the lines of clothing. I love drawing hair. I love finding that line between realistic and cartoonish. Okay, I don't really find that. I look for artists who do and then copy them. But it's not like I want to sell my drawings. I just love seeing a blank page turn into something beautiful.
Donald Miller
My preoccupation with relational and spiritual honesty is directly correlated to my discovery of Donald Miller's books. He taught me that knowing Jesus is a winding path of highs, lows, revelations, and apathy, not some list of "do this and this will happen." He encouraged me to live a life of adventure and meaning rather than succombing to ordinariness.
And I totally met him when he came to Union. He was charming even when I questioned his facial hair, and I am happy to have an autographed copy of Blue Like Jazz. Unless he or I go crazy, I can guarantee I will buy all of his books (I even bought the one he wrote for boys without fathers).
From Craig Ferguson's song he made up describing why Doctor Who is awesome.
Doctor Who is not the most consistently awesome show. Some of the episodes are truly horrible, or worse, boring. But when it's good, it is fantastic. It makes me laugh, it makes me cry. Sometimes in the space of ten minutes (I'm looking at you, season 4 finale)!
One of the best things about the show is the fandom. It's so easy to get caught up in the Doctor Who universe. There's a corner of fandom for the humor in Doctor Who, and another for those interested in the drama, or the ships, or the philosophy, or the history, or the science fiction. And merchandise! You can basically buy anything in the shape of a TARDIS on etsy. There are daleks and sonic screwdrivers and bow ties to be had. It is shockingly easy to let your life become consumed by the Doctor. Says the girl who knows from experience.
Also included in my love of things starting with D and related to Doctor Who is...David Tennant.
Dancing
When I was little, I would find some old CDs of my mom's (especially the Beach Boys or The King and I), then dance around the living room like a boss. Then I got a bit older, and super self-conscious, and I stopped dancing. I never went to any high school dances. I never busted a move at parties or even for like, five seconds as a joke.
Luckily, college changed all that! I used to dance around Craig 3, and while my roommates made fun of me, I knew it was mostly out of love. Stephanie and I had the odd dance party or two. And then I moved to Senegal and lived with Liz, who is probably the danciest person in existance. We made dance videos, and by watching her, I slowly learned to stop spazzing and start moving with deliberation. Sometimes. My default is still to spazz.
I now live for weddings and the hours of dancing they sometimes offer. I love the freedom of dancing, and I love watching other people dance. It is, I think, the very definition of fun. When done right, which means not caring what other people think.
Darren Criss
I first fell in love with Darren Criss when he said Cho Chang was "supermegafoxyawesome hot" in A Very Potter Musical. Then I found out that not only had he starred as Harry Potter, he had also written the music and helped write the play! WHAT. A couple years later his theatrical company (aka his friends from college) came out with A Very Potter Sequel, and I fell in love with him again.
He has exactly my sense of off-kilter humor. I admit to stalking his interviews on youtube, and he is a genuinely adorable person. He's funny, confident, crazy smart (I love a man who naturally includes big words in ordinary conversations), and incredibly nice. I, um, have a huge crush on him.
Now he's on Glee, which is unfortunate because I am so over Glee, but I can't stop watching now that he's a main character! Ugh. But it's worth it, because his voice and his face (and his sense of style, see below) are my favorite.
Drawing
I go through stages of artisticness. And one of my favorite stages to return to is drawing! I love shading and the lines of clothing. I love drawing hair. I love finding that line between realistic and cartoonish. Okay, I don't really find that. I look for artists who do and then copy them. But it's not like I want to sell my drawings. I just love seeing a blank page turn into something beautiful.
Donald Miller
My preoccupation with relational and spiritual honesty is directly correlated to my discovery of Donald Miller's books. He taught me that knowing Jesus is a winding path of highs, lows, revelations, and apathy, not some list of "do this and this will happen." He encouraged me to live a life of adventure and meaning rather than succombing to ordinariness.
And I totally met him when he came to Union. He was charming even when I questioned his facial hair, and I am happy to have an autographed copy of Blue Like Jazz. Unless he or I go crazy, I can guarantee I will buy all of his books (I even bought the one he wrote for boys without fathers).
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Bartering is My OTP
Librarian conferences are like Istanbul! Not so, you say? How would you know. I've just spent two days at one, so my opinion is law.
So after a bunch of seminars and yummy food, ILA put together a vendor extravaganza. And it was just like shopping in the Grand Bazaar! I basically went from stall to stall, saying, "Is this free? Can I have that if I listen to you? Sure, I'll take your business card. Now give me my swag!"
My favorite book distribution guy was also there. I saw he was reading Beauty Queens, and we bonded over how awesome it is. He demonstrated how it made him laugh out loud obnoxiously during a seminar by laughing out loud obnoxiously at the vendors. I want this man to be my father-in-law. People who willingly embarrass themselves in public, but aren't actually embarrassed by it = best.
Also we went to IKEA last night and I want everything there. Incuding the Swedish meatballs. Mmm.
So after a bunch of seminars and yummy food, ILA put together a vendor extravaganza. And it was just like shopping in the Grand Bazaar! I basically went from stall to stall, saying, "Is this free? Can I have that if I listen to you? Sure, I'll take your business card. Now give me my swag!"
My favorite book distribution guy was also there. I saw he was reading Beauty Queens, and we bonded over how awesome it is. He demonstrated how it made him laugh out loud obnoxiously during a seminar by laughing out loud obnoxiously at the vendors. I want this man to be my father-in-law. People who willingly embarrass themselves in public, but aren't actually embarrassed by it = best.
Also we went to IKEA last night and I want everything there. Incuding the Swedish meatballs. Mmm.
Monday, October 17, 2011
Weddings and Reunions
Ashley at a wedding is the funniest thing in the world. She hates getting fancy, she hates being the center of attention, and she's not big on overt displays of emotion or romance. So....basically everything that a wedding is, she is not.
Favorite moments: 1) After being complimented on her rehersal dress, she sighed and said, "I was going to wear pants, but social convention means I had to wear this. Thanks." 2) At her bachelorette party, before opening her sexy box, she said, "I'm not going to squeal. I don't do that." To which we all rolled our eyes, because duh. She's Attitude Ashley.
Despite it not being her thing, Ashley's wedding to Stephen was really gorgeous! I loved being in it, and getting to know her other bridesmaids. The free food was delicious. The groomsmen were mostly okay (Kyle was one, so we were reuinted, and another gave me his number, which...I've ignored). And best of all, we had a Craig 3 reunion (minus Jo)!
It's been awhile since Whitney, Ashley, and I have all hung out together, but it was wonderful. We looked through my Craig 3 scrapbook, cuddled on the couch. Whitney sniffed me and asked what deoderant I use. So, you know. Normal times. I loved every second.
Favorite moments: 1) After being complimented on her rehersal dress, she sighed and said, "I was going to wear pants, but social convention means I had to wear this. Thanks." 2) At her bachelorette party, before opening her sexy box, she said, "I'm not going to squeal. I don't do that." To which we all rolled our eyes, because duh. She's Attitude Ashley.
Despite it not being her thing, Ashley's wedding to Stephen was really gorgeous! I loved being in it, and getting to know her other bridesmaids. The free food was delicious. The groomsmen were mostly okay (Kyle was one, so we were reuinted, and another gave me his number, which...I've ignored). And best of all, we had a Craig 3 reunion (minus Jo)!
It's been awhile since Whitney, Ashley, and I have all hung out together, but it was wonderful. We looked through my Craig 3 scrapbook, cuddled on the couch. Whitney sniffed me and asked what deoderant I use. So, you know. Normal times. I loved every second.
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Depression Defined
Yay! I've always felt weird discussing my bouts of depression. They aren't deep enough or serious enough to be clinical, but they happen. And when they do, I...kind of enjoy it? It's a thing I haven't been able to describe, until I read this paragraph in "Lola and the Boy Next Door."
"...that's the thing about depression. When I feel it deeply, I don't want to let it go. It becomes a comfort. I want to cloak myself under it's heavy weight and breathe it into my lungs. I want to nurture it, grow it, cultivate it. It's mine."
Thank you, Stephanie Perkins!
"...that's the thing about depression. When I feel it deeply, I don't want to let it go. It becomes a comfort. I want to cloak myself under it's heavy weight and breathe it into my lungs. I want to nurture it, grow it, cultivate it. It's mine."
Thank you, Stephanie Perkins!
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
The Writer's Tale by RTD
I am now in love with Russel T. Davies. Well, no. He's far too gay for me to think of us having a future together. And apparently he smokes 80 cigarettes an evening while writing scripts. So not love. But he is so fascinating! He writes so elegantly and honestly about the despair and rapture that comes from creating. I never want his job; I was getting stressed just reading about the things he had to do. But boy, am I glad he does it. Did it. :( I love his era of Doctor Who best, but his respect for Moffat shone through in his correspondence, so I'm determined to rewatch seasons 5 and 6 with a more open mind.
How did I just read a 500 page book of emails and scripts in three days??
How did I just read a 500 page book of emails and scripts in three days??
Monday, October 10, 2011
Like Parents, Not Like Children
A few days ago, in the midst of a conversation with Roy, he said, "I like unique things simply because they're unique." My mind exploded a little bit, and I thought, "But that's my line!"
I've always idolized Roy, and hearing that we are so intrinsically the same was very weird. Partly it is awesome, because I am like my idol! Partly it is disappointing, because my idol is like me.
Then my psychology brain took over, and I've been wondering why we would both be so caught up in the pursuit of the odd. Tonight I found my answer.
Our parents are normal. They are content with the standard. I'm not talking politics or worldviews or anything. It's just when a decision has to be made, their response is likely to be, "What is everyone else doing?"
And that makes me want to vomit, unless the followup is, "so we can do the exact opposite." I'm a hipster at heart, and I love it, though I am fully aware of the hypocrisy in conforming with a group's desire to be non-conforming.
So apparently in embracing the status quo, my parents have caused their children to desperately attempt to be outliers. At least I know why I am this way, and that I have someone with me.
I've always idolized Roy, and hearing that we are so intrinsically the same was very weird. Partly it is awesome, because I am like my idol! Partly it is disappointing, because my idol is like me.
Then my psychology brain took over, and I've been wondering why we would both be so caught up in the pursuit of the odd. Tonight I found my answer.
Our parents are normal. They are content with the standard. I'm not talking politics or worldviews or anything. It's just when a decision has to be made, their response is likely to be, "What is everyone else doing?"
And that makes me want to vomit, unless the followup is, "so we can do the exact opposite." I'm a hipster at heart, and I love it, though I am fully aware of the hypocrisy in conforming with a group's desire to be non-conforming.
So apparently in embracing the status quo, my parents have caused their children to desperately attempt to be outliers. At least I know why I am this way, and that I have someone with me.
Greed
A book told me that greed is not being able to see past the monetary value of something.
I think...I agree? Maybe it is simplistic, but mostly I think it's correct. Seeing things as things to own, to hoard, to boast about. Forgetting that things are for a purpose, whether that be pleasure or work.
Hm.
I think...I agree? Maybe it is simplistic, but mostly I think it's correct. Seeing things as things to own, to hoard, to boast about. Forgetting that things are for a purpose, whether that be pleasure or work.
Hm.
This Took A Long Time
1. What's a question you’re afraid to ask? To whom?
Do you like me? To any boy I like.
2. What’s something you hide about your personality?
My mind automatically jumps to hilariously inappropriate comments. Sometimes I hide them, sometimes I don't.
3. What’s something other people think about you that you don’t agree with?
I dunno, what do people think of me? Any answer is simply what I THINK people think of me. I suppose some people might think of me as a "perfect little church girl" which is rubbish. None of those exist, anyway.
4. How do you deal with criticism?
By getting defensive, then very sad. I, uh, don't take criticism well? Because I'm perfect. Or I want to be. Or I want other people to think that I am.
5. What’s the sweetest thing anyone’s ever done for you?
Last year I had a really crappy birthday (23 doesn't even SOUND like a good year), but I got a package in the mail from no one. Inside were pink sunglasses with 'Darren Criss' printed on the side. I knew they were from Stephanie, and I was so excited she remembered my birthday and got me something even though we hadn't lived in the same place for over a year. I was touched.
6. What’s the sweetest thing you’ve ever done for someone?
I made a comic book of Jill and me in middle school, like painstaking thought of a plot and made squares and drew and colored. It was awesome, and I still regret not photocopying it before giving it to her. I'm pretty good at random creative crap like that. If I feel like it.
7. What’s something sweet you’d like someone to do for you?
Take me on a roadtrip adventure! But only if I'm feeling spontaneous and wanderlusty. Otherwise, give me food. And a book recommendation.
8. Describe your favourite texture.
As the new owner of a cat, I'm gonna have to go with fur. I'm the best pet owner in the world, because I can pet a cute animal for hours. So soft and fuzzy!
9. Trigger warning: Which national or global tragedy were you closest to and how did it affect you?
Union tornado. It made me terrified of wind at night, and I still internally freak out at tornado sirens. It was the first and only time I actually thought I was going to die. When I didn't, it made me think about God and his goodness and his plans for an entire semester, and opened up a lot of interesting conversations with friends and acquaintances.
10. Post a photo/draw a picture/write a poem (pick one) of a moment of personal significance.
I wanted to work with Asians,
And Vancouver seemed pretty amazin'.
But I knew no one on the mission team;
They were older and intimidating.
I was scared to go alone.
Would I step outside my comfort zone?
Yes.
And it increased my confidence
by 200%.
11. Which fictional character would you most like to have lunch with and why?
River Song. I think she'd be funny, and probably we'd have to escape some kind of alien threat, but she'd totally have it under control so I wouldn't worry. I would ask her how in the world her timeline works, and we'd fangirl over the Doctor, and at some point I would ask if I could pat her hair.
12. Who would you say is your “anti” role model? Someone who serves as a warning rather than an inspiration?
Everyone's relationships ever. If you've a bad one, at least. Every time someone breaks up or has a fight, I take mental notes of, "Talk about this earlier. DO NOT ALLOW THIS. Try to work on this personality flaw. Learn to compromise. Do not date people like this." Thank you, anti-role models, for maybe sparing me a bit of relationship pain in the hazy future!
13. What’s your least “politically correct” opinion?
I think Asian babies are the cutest. I used to call this "reverse racism" but um, no. It's straight up racism. Sorry. Working on it.
14. What kind of underwear do you imagine Sherlock Holmes wears?
Old time Sherlock totally wears long johns but sometimes forgets to do up the flap in the back because he thinks while he's going to the bathroom and gets so immersed in his ideas that it goes unnoticed. Modern day Sherlock, a la BBCs series, buys bulk bags of black boxer briefs (look at that alliteration, ooo la la!). Efficient, no thought. Who has time to worry about underwear when there are serial killers to gleefully track down?
15. What’s one of the most difficult things you’ve ever had to do?
Getting up to give a valedictorian's address in front of my high school was aboslutely terrifying, but I eased the horror by doing a joint speech with two friends. And it was cheesy and I spoke super fast. Pretty much any time I have to speak in public, it feels like the Most Difficult Thing EVAH.
16. If you were an element on the Periodic Table, which would you be and why?
Beryllium. Because it's the first element I thought of to BE. Ho ho.
17. What’s the most infuriating thing your parents (or caregiver) do?
Hi, Mom! They try to talk to me in the morning, when all I want to do is make coffee, eat breakfast, read my Bible, and slowly let my vocal chords and personality remember how to work.
18. Which Disney Princess do you most identify with and why? Which is your favourite and why?
I identify most with Belle. She reads a lot, which opens her mind to this beautiful, exciting world, but she's stuck in her poor provincial town with people who don't share her interests or passions. (This is not wholly true to me, thank goodness! But sometimes it feels that way.) Anyway, then she gets whisked into a story that starts off scary, but ends up awesome and magical and beautiful! Story of my traveling life, minus talking candelabras and love stories with beasts.
My favorite, however, is Jasmine. I always thought she was so beautiful, and she had a tiger, which was awesome. She married for love rather than political gain, and she used to sneak out of her privileged position to experience a common life. Plus she got to fly on carpets!
19. You’re an Action Movie Hero. What’s your weapon of choice and the line you scream when defeating your arch enemy?
I'd just use my fists of lightning, and scream, "GET AWAY FROM ME PLEASE!" I'm not really Action Movie Hero material, even in my fantasies.
20. What’s the silliest fan theory you’ve ever come up with?
I had some weird LOST theories, because nothing could be weirder than the show itself. I thought Sawyer/Juliet was a huge misdirect, because obviously Kate and Sawyer belonged together. I thought Jacob vs the Man in Black was some epic good vs evil thing, but they were just brothers with flaws. I thought Walt would come back and be important. My version of things would have been better, I think.
21. What did you think about before you fell asleep last night?
I was happy, because I'd just read an article in Relevent magazine about my generation, and they kept describing us as...well, me. And it was so freeing to realize a whole lot of people share my opinions, and I'm not completely weird.
22. What’s the oddest term of endearment you’ve ever used or that someone’s used for you?
When I was in 8th grade, I called this guy friend I had a crush on "my monkey" and he called me "his fawn." That was pretty odd.
23. What motivates you in life?
People's stories of awesomeness, usually involving travel to a poor or sad area, making it better, serving God, and/or adopting 18 kids. Like this girl Katie Davis, who Liz just told me about. She's crazy!
24. What was something you used to enjoy, but was ruined for you? What’s the story behind
that?
Skipping arm and arm with my friends. At a high school band contest, I did that with a friend, and some stranger yelled, "Dyke!" at us. I didn't even know what it meant at the time, so it had to be explained, and it just kind of ruined the carefree joy of it all. I still skip on occasion, but there's always the knowledge that people might judge me in the back of my mind. Loss of innocence, makes me sad.
25. How do you think you will fare when the Zombie Apocalypse arrives?
Oh man, I'll die so fast, unless I somehow stumble on a smart group of survivors. I'm not violent enough to defend myself, and I think I would get so stressed, I would just allow myself to be bitten so I wouldn't have to fight anymore.
26. Which mythological creature are you most like? Why? And if you could be any mythological creature, which would you want to be? Why?
I would want to be a Phoenix, because they are so super cool. But I'm probably most like a unicorn, gentle and peaceful until you rub me the wrong way and then Bam. Horn in the gut. Haha, no I'd totally just sulk with my other unicorn friends. No horn-gutting.
27. Write a brief story about an actual adventure you’ve had.
Brief? At the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, I lost my two teammates. I was only a little scared of being alone in this maze of market stalls, because mostly I was so excited to see if I could get out. And I did! Then my leader got mad at me, but I didn't care, because I was brilliant.
28. Describe one of the most awkward experiences of your life.
Building up a friendship with a boy because I wanted to date him, then hinting that I liked him. He said, "I hope you don't think I've been flirting. I'm still in love with my ex." I pretended I didn't care, and then I was stuck being his friend for another year.
29. What’s something that scares you about the future?
That I might not leave Peoria. Or alternatively, that I might leave Peoria. So the answer is: everything.
30. List 5 quirky things about yourself.
1) I really enjoy awkward situations. 2) I legit hate eating desserts before meals. 3) If I wear a skirt and ballet flats, I like to imagine I'm walking/floating on clouds or something, so I usually end up flouncing. 4) I want to be the sort of girl who loves stuffed animals, but I'm not, and never was. 5) I bought fake hipster glasses, and I love them.
31. Describe your dream library.
Perfect question is perfect! My dream library is in my house, with a sliding ladder and probably a spiral staircase up to another level of books. It would be in bright, sunny colors, and probably with a big window (or skylight?). There'd be an indention in the floor with a square of the comfiest couches ever, and also a minifridge in the corner. Somehow disguised to look fancy.
32. What’s the weirdest item you’ve ever mourned?
My tornado shoes. I had blue ballet flat Crocs that survived the tornado with me, and for years after I wore them frequently and always though of them as my tornado shoes. Last spring they broke, and it felt like a link to who I was then, and what I learned, was severed.
33. If you could design an amusement park ride, what would it be like?
It would be a 3D ride, because I don't do actual falling and flipping. It would be Harry Potter themed, and maybe involve flying over Hogwarts, escaping acromantulas, dementors, and dragons while seeing my favorite HP characters throughout. OH WAIT, that ride already exists, and I've been on it three times.
34. Do you have any “rules” about food?
Save dessert for last. Try to eat so that you finish everything at the same time. Do not eat green beans ever, under any circumstances.
35. What’s your opinion on age differences in relationships?
Snerk. I don't mind them at all.
36. What’s something you want to do that you’d be embarrassed to tell other people about?
I want to smoke pot in Amsterdam where it is legal. Hm. Apparently I am not so embarrassed as I thought.
37. Describe a time/event in your life that you’re nostalgic for.
College years in general. They were brilliant. Also Senegal, sometimes. Mostly recent things, though--I didn't really like myself until a few years ago.
38. How do you approach social situations?
With friends--as an adventure. With strangers--as a battle.
39. What is your ideal bed? Why?
I always liked Mercedes' king size bed. And I loved the duvets in Europe. So something like that, all cushiony and cuddly and warm.
40. Post a short excerpt from a fanfiction based on your life.
"Tricia ran down the gravel road to the lonely house hidden amongst the trees. She knocked on the door, ready to explain that all their lives were in imminent danger because of the flood! The door opened, and Charlie McDonnell stared down at her. Tricia stared up at him. They started making out. Charlie's mother came to to the door to find out why there was a draft, and so the kissing had to stop. Tricia told them all about the flood, and the three of them drove away. In the car, there was probably more making out."
This fanfiction is, sadly, an actual dream I had a few days ago. How creepy to dream of kissing a real person?? Okay, maybe that's not creepy, but it is because I only know him from youtube videos. Oh, also, I guess I blanked after the word "fanfiction." Obviously this is not based on my life. Sad.
Do you like me? To any boy I like.
2. What’s something you hide about your personality?
My mind automatically jumps to hilariously inappropriate comments. Sometimes I hide them, sometimes I don't.
3. What’s something other people think about you that you don’t agree with?
I dunno, what do people think of me? Any answer is simply what I THINK people think of me. I suppose some people might think of me as a "perfect little church girl" which is rubbish. None of those exist, anyway.
4. How do you deal with criticism?
By getting defensive, then very sad. I, uh, don't take criticism well? Because I'm perfect. Or I want to be. Or I want other people to think that I am.
5. What’s the sweetest thing anyone’s ever done for you?
Last year I had a really crappy birthday (23 doesn't even SOUND like a good year), but I got a package in the mail from no one. Inside were pink sunglasses with 'Darren Criss' printed on the side. I knew they were from Stephanie, and I was so excited she remembered my birthday and got me something even though we hadn't lived in the same place for over a year. I was touched.
6. What’s the sweetest thing you’ve ever done for someone?
I made a comic book of Jill and me in middle school, like painstaking thought of a plot and made squares and drew and colored. It was awesome, and I still regret not photocopying it before giving it to her. I'm pretty good at random creative crap like that. If I feel like it.
7. What’s something sweet you’d like someone to do for you?
Take me on a roadtrip adventure! But only if I'm feeling spontaneous and wanderlusty. Otherwise, give me food. And a book recommendation.
8. Describe your favourite texture.
As the new owner of a cat, I'm gonna have to go with fur. I'm the best pet owner in the world, because I can pet a cute animal for hours. So soft and fuzzy!
9. Trigger warning: Which national or global tragedy were you closest to and how did it affect you?
Union tornado. It made me terrified of wind at night, and I still internally freak out at tornado sirens. It was the first and only time I actually thought I was going to die. When I didn't, it made me think about God and his goodness and his plans for an entire semester, and opened up a lot of interesting conversations with friends and acquaintances.
10. Post a photo/draw a picture/write a poem (pick one) of a moment of personal significance.
I wanted to work with Asians,
And Vancouver seemed pretty amazin'.
But I knew no one on the mission team;
They were older and intimidating.
I was scared to go alone.
Would I step outside my comfort zone?
Yes.
And it increased my confidence
by 200%.
11. Which fictional character would you most like to have lunch with and why?
River Song. I think she'd be funny, and probably we'd have to escape some kind of alien threat, but she'd totally have it under control so I wouldn't worry. I would ask her how in the world her timeline works, and we'd fangirl over the Doctor, and at some point I would ask if I could pat her hair.
12. Who would you say is your “anti” role model? Someone who serves as a warning rather than an inspiration?
Everyone's relationships ever. If you've a bad one, at least. Every time someone breaks up or has a fight, I take mental notes of, "Talk about this earlier. DO NOT ALLOW THIS. Try to work on this personality flaw. Learn to compromise. Do not date people like this." Thank you, anti-role models, for maybe sparing me a bit of relationship pain in the hazy future!
13. What’s your least “politically correct” opinion?
I think Asian babies are the cutest. I used to call this "reverse racism" but um, no. It's straight up racism. Sorry. Working on it.
14. What kind of underwear do you imagine Sherlock Holmes wears?
Old time Sherlock totally wears long johns but sometimes forgets to do up the flap in the back because he thinks while he's going to the bathroom and gets so immersed in his ideas that it goes unnoticed. Modern day Sherlock, a la BBCs series, buys bulk bags of black boxer briefs (look at that alliteration, ooo la la!). Efficient, no thought. Who has time to worry about underwear when there are serial killers to gleefully track down?
15. What’s one of the most difficult things you’ve ever had to do?
Getting up to give a valedictorian's address in front of my high school was aboslutely terrifying, but I eased the horror by doing a joint speech with two friends. And it was cheesy and I spoke super fast. Pretty much any time I have to speak in public, it feels like the Most Difficult Thing EVAH.
16. If you were an element on the Periodic Table, which would you be and why?
Beryllium. Because it's the first element I thought of to BE. Ho ho.
17. What’s the most infuriating thing your parents (or caregiver) do?
Hi, Mom! They try to talk to me in the morning, when all I want to do is make coffee, eat breakfast, read my Bible, and slowly let my vocal chords and personality remember how to work.
18. Which Disney Princess do you most identify with and why? Which is your favourite and why?
I identify most with Belle. She reads a lot, which opens her mind to this beautiful, exciting world, but she's stuck in her poor provincial town with people who don't share her interests or passions. (This is not wholly true to me, thank goodness! But sometimes it feels that way.) Anyway, then she gets whisked into a story that starts off scary, but ends up awesome and magical and beautiful! Story of my traveling life, minus talking candelabras and love stories with beasts.
My favorite, however, is Jasmine. I always thought she was so beautiful, and she had a tiger, which was awesome. She married for love rather than political gain, and she used to sneak out of her privileged position to experience a common life. Plus she got to fly on carpets!
19. You’re an Action Movie Hero. What’s your weapon of choice and the line you scream when defeating your arch enemy?
I'd just use my fists of lightning, and scream, "GET AWAY FROM ME PLEASE!" I'm not really Action Movie Hero material, even in my fantasies.
20. What’s the silliest fan theory you’ve ever come up with?
I had some weird LOST theories, because nothing could be weirder than the show itself. I thought Sawyer/Juliet was a huge misdirect, because obviously Kate and Sawyer belonged together. I thought Jacob vs the Man in Black was some epic good vs evil thing, but they were just brothers with flaws. I thought Walt would come back and be important. My version of things would have been better, I think.
21. What did you think about before you fell asleep last night?
I was happy, because I'd just read an article in Relevent magazine about my generation, and they kept describing us as...well, me. And it was so freeing to realize a whole lot of people share my opinions, and I'm not completely weird.
22. What’s the oddest term of endearment you’ve ever used or that someone’s used for you?
When I was in 8th grade, I called this guy friend I had a crush on "my monkey" and he called me "his fawn." That was pretty odd.
23. What motivates you in life?
People's stories of awesomeness, usually involving travel to a poor or sad area, making it better, serving God, and/or adopting 18 kids. Like this girl Katie Davis, who Liz just told me about. She's crazy!
24. What was something you used to enjoy, but was ruined for you? What’s the story behind
that?
Skipping arm and arm with my friends. At a high school band contest, I did that with a friend, and some stranger yelled, "Dyke!" at us. I didn't even know what it meant at the time, so it had to be explained, and it just kind of ruined the carefree joy of it all. I still skip on occasion, but there's always the knowledge that people might judge me in the back of my mind. Loss of innocence, makes me sad.
25. How do you think you will fare when the Zombie Apocalypse arrives?
Oh man, I'll die so fast, unless I somehow stumble on a smart group of survivors. I'm not violent enough to defend myself, and I think I would get so stressed, I would just allow myself to be bitten so I wouldn't have to fight anymore.
26. Which mythological creature are you most like? Why? And if you could be any mythological creature, which would you want to be? Why?
I would want to be a Phoenix, because they are so super cool. But I'm probably most like a unicorn, gentle and peaceful until you rub me the wrong way and then Bam. Horn in the gut. Haha, no I'd totally just sulk with my other unicorn friends. No horn-gutting.
27. Write a brief story about an actual adventure you’ve had.
Brief? At the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, I lost my two teammates. I was only a little scared of being alone in this maze of market stalls, because mostly I was so excited to see if I could get out. And I did! Then my leader got mad at me, but I didn't care, because I was brilliant.
28. Describe one of the most awkward experiences of your life.
Building up a friendship with a boy because I wanted to date him, then hinting that I liked him. He said, "I hope you don't think I've been flirting. I'm still in love with my ex." I pretended I didn't care, and then I was stuck being his friend for another year.
29. What’s something that scares you about the future?
That I might not leave Peoria. Or alternatively, that I might leave Peoria. So the answer is: everything.
30. List 5 quirky things about yourself.
1) I really enjoy awkward situations. 2) I legit hate eating desserts before meals. 3) If I wear a skirt and ballet flats, I like to imagine I'm walking/floating on clouds or something, so I usually end up flouncing. 4) I want to be the sort of girl who loves stuffed animals, but I'm not, and never was. 5) I bought fake hipster glasses, and I love them.
31. Describe your dream library.
Perfect question is perfect! My dream library is in my house, with a sliding ladder and probably a spiral staircase up to another level of books. It would be in bright, sunny colors, and probably with a big window (or skylight?). There'd be an indention in the floor with a square of the comfiest couches ever, and also a minifridge in the corner. Somehow disguised to look fancy.
32. What’s the weirdest item you’ve ever mourned?
My tornado shoes. I had blue ballet flat Crocs that survived the tornado with me, and for years after I wore them frequently and always though of them as my tornado shoes. Last spring they broke, and it felt like a link to who I was then, and what I learned, was severed.
33. If you could design an amusement park ride, what would it be like?
It would be a 3D ride, because I don't do actual falling and flipping. It would be Harry Potter themed, and maybe involve flying over Hogwarts, escaping acromantulas, dementors, and dragons while seeing my favorite HP characters throughout. OH WAIT, that ride already exists, and I've been on it three times.
34. Do you have any “rules” about food?
Save dessert for last. Try to eat so that you finish everything at the same time. Do not eat green beans ever, under any circumstances.
35. What’s your opinion on age differences in relationships?
Snerk. I don't mind them at all.
36. What’s something you want to do that you’d be embarrassed to tell other people about?
I want to smoke pot in Amsterdam where it is legal. Hm. Apparently I am not so embarrassed as I thought.
37. Describe a time/event in your life that you’re nostalgic for.
College years in general. They were brilliant. Also Senegal, sometimes. Mostly recent things, though--I didn't really like myself until a few years ago.
38. How do you approach social situations?
With friends--as an adventure. With strangers--as a battle.
39. What is your ideal bed? Why?
I always liked Mercedes' king size bed. And I loved the duvets in Europe. So something like that, all cushiony and cuddly and warm.
40. Post a short excerpt from a fanfiction based on your life.
"Tricia ran down the gravel road to the lonely house hidden amongst the trees. She knocked on the door, ready to explain that all their lives were in imminent danger because of the flood! The door opened, and Charlie McDonnell stared down at her. Tricia stared up at him. They started making out. Charlie's mother came to to the door to find out why there was a draft, and so the kissing had to stop. Tricia told them all about the flood, and the three of them drove away. In the car, there was probably more making out."
This fanfiction is, sadly, an actual dream I had a few days ago. How creepy to dream of kissing a real person?? Okay, maybe that's not creepy, but it is because I only know him from youtube videos. Oh, also, I guess I blanked after the word "fanfiction." Obviously this is not based on my life. Sad.
Sunday, October 9, 2011
A bit PG13, If You Care
One time when I stayed the night at the Monahan's, Wendy and I stayed up very late, and we ended up talking about sex. I mentioned that it was weird I was so repressed and prudish in high school, and now I...will talk about anything and everything. Oh, the conversations I used to have with Erin and Tim! Comes from majoring in sociology and minoring in psychology, I guess.
But I firmly believe that people should talk about sex. Christians should definitely talk about sex! The best thing to make me want to wait until I am married was Wendy talking about how awesome it is, especially within the emotional safety of marriage. And anyway, sex just seems like this big hilarious joke to me that has taken over society, and I like discussing it! Even if the Monahans look at me funny when I say "penis" and "vagina" at the dinner table.
It is strange being a bridesmaid. Whitney and I are planning some low key bachelorette things, including a Sex Kit, which is cracking me up. Whitney is married and experienced, whereas I am not, so I'm deferring to her judgement. However, I am super excited to maybe go to a store and buy condoms! I will feel so scandalous, and inevitably, I will tell the check out person they are for my friend who is getting married, and they will be all, "lol, shut up, this is awkward."
Yay for marriage! I do really love weddings, and friens being stressed and happy and overwhelmed and changing their lives. It's all so exciting!
But I firmly believe that people should talk about sex. Christians should definitely talk about sex! The best thing to make me want to wait until I am married was Wendy talking about how awesome it is, especially within the emotional safety of marriage. And anyway, sex just seems like this big hilarious joke to me that has taken over society, and I like discussing it! Even if the Monahans look at me funny when I say "penis" and "vagina" at the dinner table.
It is strange being a bridesmaid. Whitney and I are planning some low key bachelorette things, including a Sex Kit, which is cracking me up. Whitney is married and experienced, whereas I am not, so I'm deferring to her judgement. However, I am super excited to maybe go to a store and buy condoms! I will feel so scandalous, and inevitably, I will tell the check out person they are for my friend who is getting married, and they will be all, "lol, shut up, this is awkward."
Yay for marriage! I do really love weddings, and friens being stressed and happy and overwhelmed and changing their lives. It's all so exciting!
Saturday, October 8, 2011
Vancouver Does Sweets Right
I meant to go to the store and buy five million sticks of butter so that I could make nanimo bars. But I didn't, so the world is a little sadder. And healthier.
Until tomorrow!
Until tomorrow!
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
We've Been Burgled!
Weird that just today Laura and I were talking about pain. I admitted that while I have pretty high pain tolerance, I am an absolute baby when it comes to anticipating pain. I think this probably applies to everything.
Last week, at the mere possibility of a break-in, I got a neighbor to come inside with me while I gathered my things and my cat, then spent the night at the Monahans'. Now that it has actually happened, I'm kinda meh about it.
There are other reasons why I can't seem to get worked up, of course. I'm not here alone. Nothing of mine was taken. I am more scared of nighttime rapists/thieves than simple daytime thieves. And mostly, it's already happened! Nothing we can do now, and it's not like they're coming back! So. Done.
Also, burgled is an excellent word.
Last week, at the mere possibility of a break-in, I got a neighbor to come inside with me while I gathered my things and my cat, then spent the night at the Monahans'. Now that it has actually happened, I'm kinda meh about it.
There are other reasons why I can't seem to get worked up, of course. I'm not here alone. Nothing of mine was taken. I am more scared of nighttime rapists/thieves than simple daytime thieves. And mostly, it's already happened! Nothing we can do now, and it's not like they're coming back! So. Done.
Also, burgled is an excellent word.
Monday, October 3, 2011
Breathing
You know anti-sighs? When you're chillaxing, and all of a sudden you breathe in super hard? I'm sure there's a biological reason for that, but I don't want to know it. What I think happens is this:
Your brain sees that not very much of it is needed, because you're spacing out to Youtube videos or whatever, so all that excess brainspace goes to solving cures for cancer. Upon seeing that your body didn't realize that the brain was occupied with super important things, it diverts instinctive brainspace toward creating 43 different ways to avert nuclear war.
But, you know, instinctive brainstuff is kinda necessary for living, and your relaxed body can only go so long without oxygen. When your brain realizes that you are about to die, it freaks out and forces a massive breath into your lungs, startling your body into awareness. But your brain feels so bad about nearly killing you that as punishment, it wipes all those brilliant things from its data banks.
So good job, couch potatoes! Your inattention to breathing has caused people to die of cancer!
This science lesson brought to you by a total expert.
Your brain sees that not very much of it is needed, because you're spacing out to Youtube videos or whatever, so all that excess brainspace goes to solving cures for cancer. Upon seeing that your body didn't realize that the brain was occupied with super important things, it diverts instinctive brainspace toward creating 43 different ways to avert nuclear war.
But, you know, instinctive brainstuff is kinda necessary for living, and your relaxed body can only go so long without oxygen. When your brain realizes that you are about to die, it freaks out and forces a massive breath into your lungs, startling your body into awareness. But your brain feels so bad about nearly killing you that as punishment, it wipes all those brilliant things from its data banks.
So good job, couch potatoes! Your inattention to breathing has caused people to die of cancer!
This science lesson brought to you by a total expert.
"We Are So Blessed"
I have two problems with the habit some people have of saying, "God is good because of beds/freedom/heating/food/etc! We are so blessed!"
My first problem is this. I cannot help but imagine my friends from Senegal or Mongolia sitting beside me. If they heard that message, they would have no choice but to wonder, since I am not materially rich, because I was born into a country where the majority does not believe in Jesus, does that mean God is not blessing me? Does he not love me as much as he loves you?
And obviously, no no no! That is disgusting.
Secondly, and most importantly, how in the world can we put a "because" after "God is so good"? No reasons are needed! God is good because he is God. He is majesty, he is love, he is justice. He is good. The end. Whether we are healthy, crippled, rich, poor, saved, or lost...God is good. A god who is good based on the circumstances of my life is not God.
My first problem is this. I cannot help but imagine my friends from Senegal or Mongolia sitting beside me. If they heard that message, they would have no choice but to wonder, since I am not materially rich, because I was born into a country where the majority does not believe in Jesus, does that mean God is not blessing me? Does he not love me as much as he loves you?
And obviously, no no no! That is disgusting.
Secondly, and most importantly, how in the world can we put a "because" after "God is so good"? No reasons are needed! God is good because he is God. He is majesty, he is love, he is justice. He is good. The end. Whether we are healthy, crippled, rich, poor, saved, or lost...God is good. A god who is good based on the circumstances of my life is not God.
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