Brittany's Blog

Yearly Survey Results! (a little late)

2009-02-06T11:31:27Z

Here we go people. You've been patient and I've been lazy. Enjoy!

>1. What is your full name? All embarrassing middle names expected!
MOLLY ELIZABETH BRADY
>2. How do you know me? YOU'RE THAT COOL GIRL FROM THE FRONT OF THE
YOUNG DEMS MEETINGS. I'M JEALOUS THAT YOU CAN WEAR COOL HATS.
>3. Where were you born and to whom? ALTOONA, PA... TO JOE AND ALICE
BRADY
>4. Where are you living these days? I know you're all world travelers.
RIGHT AT THIS SECOND I'M IN ALLEMANSVILLE. NEVER HEARD OF IT? NOT
SURPRISING. I MIGHT RELOCATE TO CLARION THOUGH, BECAUSE I LOVELOVELOVE
IT. =]
>5. Tell me about the reasons why your home town rocks. I want details
>people! Favorite haunts! The first town monument (this can be anything
>from a rock to a Wendy's) that makes you breath a sigh of "Yay! I'm
>finally home!" relief. All that jazz.
UM. ALLEMANSVILLE HAS A CHURCH, A TWO STOP SIGNS, AND A HELL OF A LOT
OF TREES. WHEN I'M HERE I USUALLY HANG OUT IN MY NEIGHBOR'S GARAGE OR
BASEMENT, THAT 70S SHOW STYLE. I SUPPOSE YOU COULD CONSIDER THE RUINS
OF THE OLD POST OFFICE THAT CLOSED IN LIKE 1930 A LANDMARK/MONUMENT.
HAHA. OTHER THAN THAT THERE SERIOUSLY ISN'T ANYTHING IN MY TOWN.
>6. Where would you live if money, obligations, and other frustrating
>obstacles weren't holding you back? THE ENGLISH COTSWOLDS. FOR SERIOUS.
I LOVE NANCY ATHERTON BOOKS, AND THAT'S WHERE MOST OF THEM TAKE PLACE.
=]
>7. What is your profession at the moment? COLLEGE STUDENT/TRYING TO
FIGURE OUT WHAT I WANT TO DO WITH MY LIFE.
>8. Semi-subquestion to #5: What do you do when you're NOT
>working/studying/sleeping? Hobby style. I READ. A LOT. AND FACEBOOK
CREEP.
>9. What was(were) the highlight(s) of 2008? I want great, awe-inspiring
>moments of pure, earth shattering joy people! HMMM. WELL, THIS WAS THE
FIRST YEAR OF MY LIFE THAT I STARTED AND ENDED WITH A BOYFRIEND. JUST
NOT THE SAME ONE, THANK GOD. HAH. ALSO... I GRADUATED, CAME TO COLLEGE
AND ACTUALLY MADE FRIENDS, AND MET TRAFTON. =D
>10. What made 2008 ... not so great? DRIFTING AWAY FROM SOME OF MY
FRIENDS, AND KATT TRANSFERRING THIS SEMESTER.
>11. What was your favorite_______ of 2008 (multiple answers may apply):
> -book THERE IS NO ANSWER. I SERIOUSLY CAN'T CHOOSE.
> - movie WALL-E/SAW V/EAGLE EYE/ST. ELMO'S FIRE. [HAHA I JUST WATCHED
IT FOR THE FIRST TIME THIS YEAR]
> -album/artist HOLLYWOOD UNDEAD, SWAN SONG. NO CONTEST.
>12. If 2008 was a ____ it would be (please include a short description.
>or not):
> -color EITHER BLUE, BECAUSE I SEEM TO OWN A LOT OF BLUE AND IT'S
TRAFTON'S FAV. COLOR... OR A BUNCH OF NEON COLORS, BECAUSE THEY'RE
BRIGHT AND FUN AND MAKE ME HAPPY, JUST LIKE THIS YEAR.
> -fruit TOMATO, BECAUSE I BECAME MORE CONFIDENT AND SIMPLY BY DECLARING
A TOMATO A FRUIT ARGUMENTS ERUPT ABOUT WHETHER OR NOT IT'S A FRUIT OR A
VEGETABLE, AND I NOW HAVE ENOUGH CONFIDENCE TO TELL PEOPLE THEY'RE
RIDICULOUS IF THEY DON'T KNOW THAT.
> -musical genre IDK. SOMETHING LOUD AND AMAZING.
>13. What were your goals for this year? TO NOT CRY AT GRADUATION
[DIDN'T HAPPEN], TO MAKE FRIENDS AT COLLEGE, AND TO GET MORE CONFIDENT.
>14. Who really inspired you to go for the gold this year (Michael
>Phelps is not an acceptable answer.... Neither is Kid Rock)?
BRITTANY!!!!!!!!!!!! I LOVVVVEEE MICHAEL PHELPS!!!!! HE'S ALWAYSSSS AN
ACCEPTABLE ANSWER!!!! FOR EXAMPLE... 2+2= MICHAEL PHELPS. LOVELOVELOVE.
=]
>15. Who would you like to banish from society based on their behavior/
>confusion over simple geography (I am not an acceptable answer =)
haha)? THAT MISS TEEN WHATEVER THAT HAD THAT HORRIBLE, RAMBLING,
HILARIOUS BREAKDOWN ABOUT "THE IRAQ" AND GLOBES. HAHA.
>16. What are your aspirations for next year? TO BE MORE FRIENDLY, I
SUPPOSE. MAYBE JOIN A CLUB OR SOMETHING.
>17. What's your favorite charity of the year? Basically, if you had
>$100 to give to one organization which would you choose and why?
MISSION CENTRAL... THEY USE ALL MONEY/SUPPLIES THEY RECEIVE AND
DISTRIBUTE IT TO THE LESS FORTUNATE.
>18. Describe a perfect day. UHHH. IT WOULD INVOLVE A LOT OF TRAFTON.
AND MY FRIENDS. AND FOOD. IT'D BE LIKE 75 DEGREES, PARTLY CLOUDY, AND
THERE WOULD BE SNOW. WE'D GO SLED RIDING FORSURE. ALSO, MY NONEXISTENT
PUPPY WOULD BE SOMEWHERE NEARBY BEING ADORABLE.
>19. Zombies or Unicorns? take from that what you will. UNICORNS. SHUN
THE NONBELIEVERS.
>20. Pose your own question and answer it. This is a space of total
>freedom so feel free to leave it blank as well. IF YOU COULD REDO ONE
DAY OF YOUR LIFE AND NOT HAVE THE REST OF HISTORY GET SCREWED UP, WOULD
YOU? AND WHAT WOULD YOU CHANGE? I WOULD. I WOULD LOVE TO GO BACK TO THE
DAY DEB OFFERED ME A HUGE BOX OF LURLENE MCDANIEL BOOKS WHEN I WAS LIKE
TEN AND I DIDN'T TAKE THEM...BECAUSE I THEN SPENT THE NEXT FOUR YEARS
OBSESSIVELY BUYING THEM.
>21. What was your first concert? KUTLESS AT CREATION 04.
>22. What was your best concert? #21 and #22 mean a lot to me as music
>is one of the only things on the planet that allows me to breath easily
>in times of franticness. Those of you who know me realize this happens
>quite often. SKILLET'S AMAZING CREATION SHOW THIS PAST YEAR/ THEIR
SMALL, NOT THAT WELL ADVERTISED SHOW IN ALTOONA IN NOV. 07
>23. Music : me as _______ : you. BOOKS
>24. Quote/ motto to live by of the year and/or for life in general.
WORK HARD, OR HARDLY WORK? YOU DECIDE.
>25. Summarize 2008 in no more than 5 words. MY LIFE GOT 100% BETTER. =]

=====================

1. What is your full name? All embarrassing middle names expected!
William Mark Concilus
2. How do you know me? Been there for the most part since the beginning
3. Where were you born and to whom? Pittsburgh, PA Georgia Woods
Concilus and Frank Concilus
4. Where are you living these days? I know you're all world travelers.
It's awesome. 4635 Clubvue Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15236
5. Tell me about the reasons why your home town rocks. I want details
people! Favorite haunts! The first town monument (this can be anything
from a rock to a Wendy's) that makes you breath a sigh of "Yay! I'm
finally home!" relief. All that jazz. The view of downtown from any of
the roads leading to it is breathtaking and the Pens oc
6. Where would you live if money, obligations, and other frustrating
obstacles weren't holding you back? Where I do
7. What is your profession at the moment? Pharmaceutical Specialty
Representative
8. Semi-subquestion to #5: What do you do when you're NOT
working/studying/sleeping? Hobby style. FOBW, run, read, listen to
music, the Net
9. What was(were) the highlight(s) of 2008? I want great, awe-inspiring
moments of pure, earth shattering joy people! Brittany and Caitlin
playing music together in the living room, both making the Dean's List
and generally being happy, Dean's List or not
10. What made 2008 ... not so great? the job
11. What was your favorite_______ of 2008 (multiple answers may apply):
-book Here, there and Everywhere
- movie 300
-album/artist Snow Patrol
12. If 2008 was a ____ it would be (please include a short description.
or not):
-color
-fruit
-musical genre hard rock
13. What were your goals for this year? sober and serene
14. Who really inspired you to go for the gold this year (Michael
Phelps is not an acceptable answer.... Neither is Kid Rock)? Brittany
and Caitlin
15. Who would you like to banish from society based on their behavior/
confusion over simple geography (I am not an acceptable answer =)
haha)? We all have a right to be here
16. What are your aspirations for next year? sober and serene
17. What's your favorite charity of the year? Basically, if you had
$100 to give to one organization which would you choose and why? The
Rebos House, it helps men with nowhere to go and my ego prevented me
from going there when I needed it
18. Describe a perfect day. Today
19. Zombies or Unicorns? Take from that what you will. Unicorns
20. Pose your own question and answer it. This is a space of total
freedom so feel free to leave it blank as well. Is there a God? Yes,
He is either everything or nothing so I choose everything
21. What was your first concert? pfft
22. What was your best concert? #21 and #22 mean a lot to me as music
is one of the only things on the planet that allows me to breath easily
in times of franticness. Those of you who know me realize this happens
quite often. Pink Floyd Syria Mosque 1972 (or 3 don't recall)
23. Music : me as _______ : you. better music ; )
24. Quote/ motto to live by of the year and/or for life in general.
One Day at a Time
25. Summarize 2008 in no more than 5 words. much needed growth took
place

===============

>1. What is your full name? All embarrassing middle names expected!
Stephanie Dale Green

>2. How do you know me?
Through Jessy at first, but i suppose we got to know each other in
Italy and Greece : )

>3. Where were you born and to whom?
Brookville Hospital to Carol and Bill Green

>4. Where are you living these days? I know you're all world travelers.
That is an interesting question... I suppose at the moment with my
parents, and in a few short days my address will be Wilkinson Hall, and
in a few short months it will be Liberty St.

>5. Tell me about the reasons why your home town rocks. I want details
>people! Favorite haunts! The first town monument (this can be anything
>from a rock to a Wendy's) that makes you breath a sigh of "Yay! I'm
>finally home!" relief. All that jazz.
Wow.. when you say it like that it's kind of hard to think of a good
story about my town.. I live in an area that has no name, but Sigel is
a mile up the road. I suppose My town rocks for me because I am in
love with trees and they are everywhere...but the entertainment factor
is limited... it isn't the busiest of places...I mean we have on
blinker light, and a couple of stop signs that are badly beaten by
bb-guns spray paint and rust bucket pick-up trucks all owned by the
hooligan children than infest the general area. The most interesting
story that I can come up with involves the blizzard of '96 and a ten
seater wooden toboggan that began down a hill and resulted in a cloud
of icy snow leaving its passengers in a heap of painful groans... but
that would take much too long to explain here..so just ask me sometime.
>6. Where would you live if money, obligations, and other frustrating
>obstacles weren't holding you back?
Honestly, I really don't know... My instincts scream Europe, but I have
never actually LIVED there as a citizen, I have only been a tourist, so
it would be silly to commit blindly I suppose... I think that I have
done a fair amount of traveling, and I find that when I come home i am
always relieved no matter how wonderful trip.
>7. What is your profession at the moment?
Student haha! I could argue RA..but that is a job..not a profession.
>8. Semi-subquestion to #5: What do you do when you're NOT
>working/studying/sleeping? Hobby style.
Read, write, watch movies, go for walks, hang out with the comedic clan
that is Braxton's friends. I like listening to music, but I usually do
that when I'm working on something... I dont usually just sit around
and listen to it unless I am in the car.

>11. What was your favorite_______ of 2008 (multiple answers may apply):
Seeing Braxton for the first time in 5 months

>12. If 2008 was a ____ it would be (please include a short description.
If 2008 was a kind of precipitation it would be rain
Rain might bring discomfort and darkness, but it helps the sun make
things grow.

>13. What were your goals for this year?
To be more grateful for the things that God has given me, and to accept
things that I cannot change. To lead a healthier lifestyle. To help
others be as happy as I'd like to be.

>14. Who really inspired you to go for the gold this year (Michael
>Phelps is not an acceptable answer.... Neither is Kid Rock)?
Braxton
My Parents
Libba Bray
and of course..Jim Morrison *I apologize anyone rolling their eyes just
now : )*

>15. Who would you like to banish from society based on their behavior/
>confusion over simple geography (I am not an acceptable answer =) haha)?
Umm...no one in particular comes to mind..but I suppose all of the
Debby Downers of society who thrive on making others miserable.

>17. What's your favorite charity of the year? Basically, if you had
>$100 to give to one organization which would you choose and why?
The Salvation Army.
A family very close to me lost their home to a fire, and the Salvation
Army helped them almost instantly.

>18. Describe a perfect day.
I'm afraid that answering this question would be like telling a wish on
a star... what if it doesn't come true?

>19. Zombies or Unicorns? Take from that what you will.
Unicorns...because they typically wont eat my brains..or the brains of
my loved ones haha! They are also creatures of peace and healing...so
yes..i vote unicorns.

>20. Pose your own question and answer it. This is a space of total
>freedom so feel free to leave it blank as well.
Why does the state want to get rid of the creative arts in secondary
level education?
Their answer: saves on funding... creative arts are unnecessary.
Real answer: they want us to be logic driven lemmings who have no
opinions, no depth, and no minds. *this last bit is completely
bogus..I'm just bitter...and of course will rant mindlessly for months
while cradling select copies of Brit Lit and American Poets and telling
them that everything will be ok...
PS..im sorry that I am particularly full of shit at the moment...im
very tired.

>23. Music : me as _______ : you.
Music to me is as a sedative to you?? I have no idea hahaha

>24. Quote/ motto to live by of the year and/or for life in general.
God helps those who help themselves.

>25. Summarize 2008 in no more than 5 words.
An emotional roller coaster of madness.

================

1. What is your full name? Lindsay Leigh Pingor
2. How do you know me? we met in beth and emilys room sophomore year and we are roomies and lovers
3. Where were you born and to whom? um PA... i think Magee Women's Hospital... to big d and wendizzle
4. Where are you living these days? clarion paaaaa
5. Tell me about the reasons why your home town rocks. all my loves are here and pizza pubs pretty delish. and we have a cool dirty river.
6. Where would you live if money, obligations, and other frustrating
obstacles weren't holding you back? london, boston, or cali
7. What is your profession at the moment? student / info desk worker/ some stupid office thing / sassmaster 08.. i mean 09
8. Semi-subquestion to #5: What do you do when you're NOT
working/studying/sleeping? Hobby style. sleepppp. and singing/theatre-ing.
9. What was(were) the highlight(s) of 2008? finding love. my first musicals at clarion. meeting new awesome bests.
10. What made 2008 ... not so great? an incident of bad judgement. roomie issues.
11. What was your favorite_______ of 2008 (multiple answers may apply):
-book: scripts for shows. i have little time for personal reading.
- movie...hsm 3.
-album/artist: across the universe soundtrack, a fine frenzy, flight of the conchords, or a musical.
12. If 2008 was a ____ it would be (please include a short description.
or not):
-color: yellow because it was new, fresh, and bright
-fruit: cranberry...cuz i drank a damn lot of cran juice and ate many craisins
-musical genre: is that really a question....musical theatre. duh.
13. What were your goals for this year? to do things i love and make myself happy.
14. Who really inspired you to go for the gold this year (Michael
Phelps is not an acceptable answer.... Neither is Kid Rock)? myself mostly. but best friends help.
15. Who would you like to banish from society based on their behavior/
confusion over simple geography (I am not an acceptable answer =) haha)? no one. live your life without them and just move on.
16. What are your aspirations for next year? attempting to keep stress levels down and keeping myself motivated and have fun in my last years of college
17. What's your favorite charity of the year? Basically, if you had
$100 to give to one organization which would you choose and why? save the music... because having the arts for children is so important to giving all students the chance to excel and find enjoyment through various mediums
19. Zombies or Unicorns? Take from that what you will. UNICORNS! i love them. i know weird.
20. Pose your own question and answer it. This is a space of total
freedom so feel free to leave it blank as well. How many people would you drop ANYTHING for? like i mean anything...for instance leave a trip early when they need you or skip a test or something of the sort...my answer is one.
21. What was your first concert? um nsync i think? fifth grade style. i think i went to a kids music show before that tho.
22. What was your best concert? either my first warped tour or ashlee simpson. dont judge me i was second row. and i wanna be a chick rocker, damnit.
23. Music : me as _______ : you. music. lol.
24. Quote/ motto to live by of the year and/or for life in general. everything happens for a reason, so dont regret anything.
25. Summarize 2008 in no more than 5 words. cold side of the pillow.

===========================

1. What is your full name? All embarrassing middle names expected!
Caitlin Nicole Concilus
2. How do you know me?
You are my sister!
3. Where were you born and to whom?
In Pittsburgh, PA at St. Francis Hospital. Mary Anne Concilus..you maye
know of her.
4. Where are you living these days? I know you're all world travelers.
Haha you're gonna get so many answers for this. I love in Hawaii!
5. Tell me about the reasons why your home town rocks. I want details.
People! Favorite haunts! The first town monument (this can be anything
from a rock to a Wendy's) that makes you breath a sigh of "Yay! I'm
finally home!" relief. All that jazz.
It is warm all the time, there are beaches everywhere, surfing is
encouraged, surfing is a job, there are sexy guys everywhere...in
bathing suits, flip flops and a summer dress over a bathing suit is
considered dressy, finding traces of sand anywhere and everywhere is
normal, I don't have to listen to beach sounds on a CD..I just have to
walk outside, hott boys!, I am tan all the time, life is so laid-back
and chill...almost everything you do brings on the response "no
worries," tourists visit here from EVERYWHERE and I get to meet and
hang out with them all..it's so interesting..and even though it's sad
when they leave, I'm probably over them and annoyed byut the time they
leave so it's perfect!, boys with accecnts everywhere DAMN, did I say
hott boys?, surfer boys, beautiful beaches and views almost everywhere
you go, North shore=amazing, I live on an Island..that is only 30 miles
around..how sweet.
6. Where would you live if money, obligations, and other frustrating
obstacles weren't holding you back?
I would live in Pittsburgh, Hawaii, and Italy. I love Hawaii but miss
Pittsburgh soso much and I am obsessed with Italian boys.
7. What is your profession at the moment?
I am a student at the University of Hawaii.
8. Semi-subquestion to #5: What do you do when you're NOT
working/studying/sleeping? Hobby style.
Beach, parties, running, exploring, swimming, hanging out with friends,
cruising with friends.
9. What was(were) the highlight(s) of 2008? I want great, awe-inspiring
moments of pure, earth shattering joy people!
I got to hang out with so many hott guys i liked in Pgh before I left.
Also, I got accepted to UH and moved to Hawaii. I met so many great
friends that I became close with.
10. What made 2008 ... not so great?
Leaving Pittsburgh was not so great because I left all of the people
(and Daisy) I love. Soo..the move to Hawaii was the best and worst
thing.
11. What was your favorite_______ of 2008 (multiple answers may apply):
-book- Breaking Dawn (I think it was in 2008)
- movie- Twilight. I probably liked other ones but I can't remember.
-album/artist- uh idk. I like All American Rejects right now.
12. If 2008 was a ____ it would be (please include a short description.
or not):
-color- White because all colors combined= white. So, this year was so
colorful and different and so much happened that would represent all
colors so this year is every color..or white.
-fruit- Pineapple because ever since the beginning of 2008, Hawaii was
on my mind and Pineapple is the fruit here. Also, I have made so many
new friends in Hawaii and from all over and still talk to friends and
family from home..so they represent all the little pokey things on the
outside of a pineapple. AND since on one pineapple, the like spikes are
different colors, the different ones are for the different people I
have in my life and for all of the experiences from this year.
-musical genre- rap and reggae. I spent time with different friends
before I left and new ones when I came to Hawaii and we party to rap.
And rap got me pumped all year. And reggae is everywhere here also.
13. What were your goals for this year?
2008 or 2009? Idk. In 2008 I wanted to get accepted to college, like
Hawaii, and spend time with everyone, I guess.
14. Who really inspired you to go for the gold this year (Michael
Phelps is not an acceptable answer.... Neither is Kid Rock)?
Lmao..my Physiology Lab teacher. The old man put "Go for the Gold" at
the end of EVERY email! No jk, not him but that's funny. IDK! Probably
all of my family. They supported me in whatever I did and it was good
because I knew I could do what I wanted and be happy with it. And
everytime I call a family member, they encourage me and praise me for
all that I have done!
15. Who would you like to banish from society based on their behavior/
confusion over simple geography (I am not an acceptable answer =) haha)?
This is a weird question. I don't really know?..I have no grudges right
now!
16. What are your aspirations for next year?
Um..do good in all my classes and get a good GPA since I need to do
really well if I want to get into nursing school. I want to go to
Pittsburgh and see everyone!, and go to Italy to see all my new
friends! lol. I want to make more new friends.
17. What's your favorite charity of the year? Basically, if you had
$100 to give to one organization which would you choose and why?
I don't know many organizations=[ so uh..since I have seen so many
homeless people here in Hawaii and it is very sad I would want to give
money to shelters or something for them. Or even a com,pany to help
homeless people get back on their feet alone..without being handed it
all, you know?
18. Describe a perfect day.
Wake up and have a yummy breakfast, it's very warm and sunny out, I go
to beach in waikiki or North shore and lay out/surf with friends, go
home for dinner already made then go out again and party! OR..get up
and get ready and get picked up by Kelly, go get stuff for tailgating,
pick up Melissa, Amy, and others, drive to Aloha stadium listening to
rap, get there and eat yummy barbeque and drinkk!, and meet hot boys,
then go "watch" game or stay out of game cause too drunk..so then we go
back home and party more. yaaa. With Britt here though then it's be
perfect. BUTTTT...that was before, and now, like right this second, a
perfect day would be wake up, eat, shower, go to beach and meet with my
new italian friends and the polish girl (love her), hang out and talk
on the beach..just enjoy their lovely accents and hilarious humors,
then all separate to go home and shower, meet up again, go to dinner
and drink wine and talk, go drink either at a club on wine on the beach
and just talk..then go to party at brazilian apartment and go back home
at 5 am..then wake up at 9am to see them again. P.S. that ALL really
happened.
19. Zombies or Unicorns? Take from that what you will.
Both. Zombies=ugly..Unicorns=beautiful. You just gotta have both. You
need to have the lamb and the lion=]
20. Pose your own question and answer it. This is a space of total
freedom so feel free to leave it blank as well.
What do you miss about Pittsburgh? Going to Gram's house and seeing
daisy, gram, britt, dad, uncle bill, tatiana, uncle mike..and eating
gramas delicious food (whether it be shells, kanadles with pork and
homemade gravy, broccle rice and cheese casserol, wedding soup..), and
watching tv/talking/fighting/listenining to everyone fight. Also, being
able to call/walk/drive to Molly's ANYTIME and hang out with her and
all our boys and party with our men of mys (haha idk if anyone will
understand), and be crazy/immature/ STALKER with molly. I miss going to
dada's and have breaded chicken with corn, green beans, stove top
stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce?, gravy in a jar..then
watching tv or going for wakl..then going out with britt and stalking
some more lol. I miss being able to tell a story and not having to
explain everything and give backround info because no one knows all the
facts about the story and my life...like i have to explain certain
stories to make them understand something, you know? Like if I say
Donny, Shawn, 6, 5, etc. people in Pgh get it! Here i have to like
explain every story ever. And how could I ever explain all the stalking
and songs we made up..I could explain it and my friends would think it
was fine but hearing it isn't the same as being there for it. And I
miss going places and feeling 100% comfortable because I know and trust
everyone and I don't have to go through small talk..I HATE small
talk.."what's your name, where you from, are you crazy, will you hurt
me, can I trust you?" okay I can't ask all those but I ahve to wnoder
about all those when I meet someone. In PGH i could go somewhere and be
able to have a comfy flowing comvo with people! And, when I was bored,
I could ALWAYHS go somewhere..Molly's, Dad's, Gram's, call Britt to
hang out, or just walk down the street and be able to talk to someone I
like and know. Here it's like yeah I can go to beach if everyone's busy
but it gets boring going alone sometimes. But it doesn't get old. don't
get me wrong..I love the beach.
21. What was your first concert?
IDK! maybe spice girls? You probably knwo better than I do.
22. What was your best concert? #21 and #22 mean a lot to me as music
is one of the only things on the planet that allows me to breath easily
in times of franticness. Those of you who know me realize this happens
quite often.
Green Day and Good Charlotte. OMG seeing Green Day was so amazing. I
could sing along to every song and watch my boys perform..and be with
my favorite people..Dad, Britt, Molly, Me=] haha. Best feeling ever.
Also, Good Charlotte because once again I was with those people I love
and GC said hi to us and looked at us and ah! and we got to meet them
and me and molly huggeg Joel then got yelled at haha and someone asked
Billy to sign their lacrosse stick..so they just handed it to him and
he goes "what the hell is that?!" and smoeone was like "that's a
lacrosse stick Billy" and his face was just like WTF. Plus, during the
concert we all screamed and sang and jumped together so much it was
crazy=]
23. Music : me as _______ : you.
I'm quite confused. Friends and family. I think that makes sense,
right? Cheesey, I know..but true.
24. Quote/ motto to live by of the year and/or for life in general.
Make new friends, but keep the old. One is silver and the other's gold.
I sing that to myself a lot when I think of friends from Pittsburgh and
Hawaii. And it applies to family as well. Also, do what makes you happy
and not anyone else. Sometimes I take other people's feelings into
account too much and although it can be a good thing, I have to do
what's right for me. And I feel that I have been doing what is right
for me....sooo yay for me!
25. Summarize 2008 in no more than 5 words.
Best and worst year ever.

===============

1. What is your full name? All embarrassing middle names expected!
Andrew Kishan Lander.
My middle name is Hindu.
It comes from Krishna who is the 8th avatar of Lord Vishnu.

2. How do you know me?
Through Jessy Clancy, although I am sure we would have some how met and become friends regardless.

3. Where were you born and to whom?
Calcutta, India and the rest is a mystery

4. Where are you living these days? I know you're all world travelers.
It's awesome.
Lucinda Pennsylvania, in my parents’ basement. whoo!

5. Tell me about the reasons why your home town rocks. I want details
people! Favorite haunts! The first town monument (this can be anything
from a rock to a Wendy's) that makes you breath a sigh of "Yay! I'm
finally home!" relief. All that jazz.
I like Lucinda because its small. We never really have to worry about locking our doors (except for that time a couple years ago when people found out there was a hobo living in the church choir loft; then people started locking their doors.) I really liked how all of my friends were around growing up, and we could all ride our bikes to each others houses and through the woods on trails and stuff. It’s the perfect small town with all the small town amenities.

6. Where would you live if money, obligations, and other frustrating
obstacles weren't holding you back?
I think Hawaii would be nice. San Francisco would be cool, next to the mellon arena would be nifty, aaand the I think I would also enjoy living next door to Zooey Deschanel (then we could be friends and I would eventually court her.)

7. What is your profession at the moment?
Student/student-worker/cook/waiter/cashier/busboy/dish washer

8. Semi-subquestion to #5: What do you do when you're NOT
working/studying/sleeping? Hobby style.
I spent a lot of time laying around in my room, playing guitar, listening to records, occasionally if I get bored I like to go on random drives. I like to watch a lot of garbage tv like rock of love and trading spouses/wife swap (for the record wife swap is far more superior and preferred). I also love Lock Up: Extended Stay on MSNBC.

9. What was(were) the highlight(s) of 2008? I want great, awe-inspiring
moments of pure, earth shattering joy people!
I reeeeally enjoyed the week I spent in Nashville back in May. I’m pretty sure I left part of my soul there because whenever I think about it I’m almost speechless.
Game 5 of the Stanley Cup finals was pretty great.
Spending lots of time with good friends was also pretty memorable ie: ignition Tuesdays, tavern Thursdays, and antiquing Fridays, also including random bar trips and penguin games.

10. What made 2008 ... not so great?
Game 6 of the Stanley Cup finals
Falling apart with a good friend (although we have now reconciled so that is pretty great)
The weather last February that prevented me from traveling to see friends

11. What was your favorite_______ of 2008 (multiple answers may apply):
-book: I only really read one book and it was Anthony Kiedis’ bio. It was good though.
- movie: The Dark Knight
-album/artist: I listened to a lot of music this year but some of my favorites were Modest Mouse, Neil Young (Harvest, Everybody Knows), Joni Mitchell (Ladies of the Canyon, Blue), and most recently The Beach Boys (Surfs Up)

12. If 2008 was a ____ it would be (please include a short description.
or not):
-color: I would say blue. I like blue and it has a lot of different shades that I think are all pretty in some way. This year I went through a lot of shades, feelings, experiences, emotions, and they were all very much worth while.

-fruit: pineapple! I don’t really know why? I ate A LOT of pineapple this year though.

-musical genre: for me, it was something along the lines of the beach boys middle period. Definitely more mature than past years, heading into a new direction, still open for experimentation, but certainly not burned out

13. What were your goals for this year?
I don’t really set goals. Maybe to do well in school. I made the deans list in the spring, so I was happy about that.

14. Who really inspired you to go for the gold this year (Michael
Phelps is not an acceptable answer.... Neither is Kid Rock)?
Wow, kid rock’s remix sampling of sweet home Alabama/werewolves of London, how is that not inspiring, Britt?!?! I don’t know if I’m really inspired by things. I will say that my friends are inspirational. They’re always there for me and knowing that makes it more than worth while for me to try and do my best.

15. Who would you like to banish from society based on their behavior/
confusion over simple geography (I am not an acceptable answer =) haha)?
Kid Rock
tools AND douche bags
marion hossa
dumb girls

16. What are your aspirations for next year?
get accepted into grad school
graduate with no problems and hopefully a healthy GPA
get good grades
meet more neat people

17. What's your favorite charity of the year? Basically, if you had
$100 to give to one organization which would you choose and why?
Probably the Ronald Regan Alzheimer’s Foundation. It’s a nasty disease that I think could be cured or reduced within the near future with the proper research

18. Describe a perfect day.
This happened over the summer and it was the perfect day.
My family was away on vacation my two best friends Frank & Adam came and stayed at my house for a few days. Day 2
I am awakened at 11am by them running into my room with guitars in hand singing Running Down a Dream by Petty but the lyrics are changed and are about us
We drive up to cook forest, walk around up to the fire tower and explore the woods
Come home around 4, play some guitar on the back porch
I start to grill and make dinner (burgers, chips, tater tots, corn on the cob, cookies, LOTS of beer) while the pirate game is on in the background
Eat dinner
Continue drinking and playing guitar into the night with a campfire

19. Zombies or Unicorns?
Unicorns

20. Pose your own question and answer it. This is a space of total
freedom so feel free to leave it blank as well.

21. What was your first concert?
Toby Keith
9th grade
Tippin Gym
Ooooh yah!

22. What was your best concert? #21 and #22 mean a lot to me as music
is one of the only things on the planet that allows me to breath easily
in times of franticness. Those of you who know me realize this happens
quite often.
Fuel, senior year of high school at the stadium in clarion was surprisingly awesome. It POURED rain and my friends and I were like 8 feet from the stage. It was a lot of fun.
The Dave Matthews Concert was a lot of fun too, randomly running into you and jessy there

23. Music : me as _______ : you.

24. Quote/ motto to live by of the year and/or for life in general.
Enjoy every sandwich

25. Summarize 2008 in no more than 5 words.
Star – phone – tin foil - ouch

================

1. What is your full name? All embarrassing middle names expected! Trafton Lee Clough
2. How do you know me? I believe I met you through Joel way back when you were a freshmen at Clarion
3. Where were you born and to whom? I was born in the hospital in Rutland, Vermont to Mary-lynn Wright and Gary Clough
4. Where are you living these days? I know you're all world travelers. It's awesome. I live in a little apartment in Clarion, PA
5. Tell me about the reasons why your home town rocks. I want details people! Favorite haunts! The first town monument (this can be anything from a rock to a Wendy's) that makes you breath a sigh of "Yay! I'm finally home!" relief. All that jazz. It rocks because it is Chester, Vermont. There are several things that it is famous for, but I love because it is small and where I grew up.
6. Where would you live if money, obligations, and other frustrating obstacles weren't holding you back? I would probably live back in Vermont, but I would have to bring most of the people I know here back with me
7. What is your profession at the moment? I am a MHT / Therapist / Counselor in the partial program at Clarion Psychiatric Center
8. Semi-subquestion to #7: What do you do when you're NOT working/studying/sleeping? Hobby style. I mess with I-tunes, watch movies and used to play basketball. Getting athletically involved in my free time is my biggest goal for right now.
9. What was(were) the highlight(s) of 2008? I want great, awe-inspiring moments of pure, earth shattering joy people! I met my girlfriend Molly, we got a new president whom I have high hopes for and the Celtics won the NBA championship in the spring.
10. What made 2008 ... not so great? Not making any money, friends moving away when they graduated in the spring and the Red Sox didn't win the world series.
11. What was your favorite_______ of 2008 (multiple answers may apply):
-book: Jurassic Park because it is the only book I read (I know that must kill you Brittany)
- movie: Probably the Dark Knight
-album/artist: For Those Who Have Heart by A Day To Remember
12. If 2008 was a ____ it would be (please include a short description. or not):
-color: Brown
-fruit: Pear
-musical genre: Hardcore
13. What were your goals for this year? Get more pay and in better shape.. two big failures so far
14. Who really inspired you to go for the gold this year (Michael Phelps is not an acceptable answer.... Neither is Kid Rock)? Molly will not like that you disallowed Michael Phelps, but I would have to say Eve Ensler
15. Who would you like to banish from society based on their behavior/ confusion over simple geography (I am not an acceptable answer =) haha)? George Bush, Rush Limbaugh.. my list of close minded people could go on forever
16. What are your aspirations for next year? Find a better paying job and find out if something is wrong with my thyroid still/get in better shape
17. What's your favorite charity of the year? Basically, if you had $100 to give to one organization which would you choose and why? That is so tough.. I honestly don't think I could pick one, I would probably send $1 to a hundred charities
18. Describe a perfect day. Nothing goes wrong in it... haha.. jk.. probably any day I get to spend with my girlfriend and my friends
19. Zombies or Unicorns? Take from that what you will. Definitely unicorns.. you can only see them if you believe in them
20. Pose your own question and answer it. This is a space of total freedom so feel free to leave it blank as well. Have you ever been a kumquat before? No I have not
21. What was your first concert? It was 311 and Hoobastank at UNH in on March 29th, 2002
22. What was your best concert? #21 and #22 mean a lot to me as music is one of the only things on the planet that allows me to breath easily in times of franticness. Those of you who know me realize this happens quite often. I would say it is a 3 way tie between any 311 concert I have seen. Matchbook Romance, Armor For Sleep, Silverstein and Bayside about a week after the drummer from Bayside was killed. It was very emotional and everybody had great sets. And finally a show I went to in November that rocked my socks of. It was Haste The Day, Norma Jean and Mychildren Mybride. It was intense
23. Music : me as _______ : you. Music
24. Quote/ motto to live by of the year and/or for life in general.: The longer I live, the more I realize the impact of attitude on life. Attitude, to me, is more important than facts. It is more important than the past, than education, than money, than circumstances, than failures, than successes, than what other people think, say or do. It is more important than appearance, giftedness or skill. It will make or break a company... a church... a home. The remarkable thing is we have a choice every day regarding the attitude we embrace for that day. We cannot change our past... we cannot change the fact that people will act in a certain way. We cannot change the inevitable. The only thing we can do is play the one string we have, and that is our attitude... I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me and 90% how I react to it. ~Charles Swindoll
25. Summarize 2008 in no more than 5 words. Got better with every month

===========
And, finally, my answers.

1. What is your full name? All embarrassing middle names expected!
Brittany Woods Concilus.

2. How do you know me?
I don't all the time but we spend every second together. I'll get there.

3. Where were you born and to whom?
Pittsburgh. Probably Magee Women's Hospital (not that I can spell the name). Bill and Mary Anne.

4. Where are you living these days? I know you're all world travelers. It's awesome.
Clarion but I have a time share in Pluto. I bought it after planet status was revoked. That's where I go when I want the right to say, 'Yeah? Well I live on a huge hunk of indescribable rock floating in the cosmos! Complain about your home NOW sucker!'

5. Tell me about the reasons why your home town rocks. I want details people! Favorite haunts! The first town monument (this can be anything from a rock to a Wendy's) that makes you breath a sigh of "Yay! I'm finally home!" relief. All that jazz.
I choose Pittsburgh as my home town. I love when you're on 79 and you round that one bend and the city scape pops into your vision. It's unparalleled.

6. Where would you live if money, obligations, and other frustrating obstacles weren't holding you back?
Right this second? Seattle. But it would be ROUGH leaving Pittsburgh. I'm a yinzer.

7. What is your profession at the moment?
Student, face melter, and professional juice drinker (only part time)

8. Semi-subquestion to #5: What do you do when you're NOT working/studying/sleeping? Hobby style.
Listen to music, go to Young Dems, read, watch an excessive amount of television, hug my friends.

9. What was(were) the highlight(s) of 2008? I want great, awe-inspiring moments of pure, earth shattering joy people!
Italy and Greece, seeing Caitlin again after a few months, New Orleans for that V-Day thing, Obama. I'm kind of forgetting 2008 already. Should have filled this out earlier. Darn.

10. What made 2008 ... not so great?
Caitlin moving away, seeing the not-so-pretty side of our country and some of the people I thought I could count on.

11. What was your favorite_______ of 2008 (multiple answers may apply):
-book: um. 'Paper Towns' by John Green as far as published books go. Persuasion by Jane Austen when it comes to books I just discovered.
- movie: The Dark Knight. Heath Ledger was breath taking.
-album/artist: Vampire Weekend - Vampire Weekend (released) but, according to iTunes, I listened to Transatlanticism - Death Cab for Cutie the most.

12. If 2008 was a ____ it would be (please include a short description. or not):
-color: Jazzberry Jam (a magenta crayola crayon)
-fruit: oranges. i ate an orange a week. plus, when you peel off the outer shell, there's a million different pieces inside. that's what i learned.
-musical genre: instrumental. too much went on in my brain for any lyrics.

13. What were your goals for this year? keep on keeping on.

14. Who really inspired you to go for the gold this year (Michael Phelps is not an acceptable answer.... Neither is Kid Rock)?
Caitlin. She's so brave with the leaving everyone, every place, everything. And she's a super genius.

15. Who would you like to banish from society based on their behavior/ confusion over simple geography (I am not an acceptable answer =) haha)?
I was a little jaded when I wrote this question haha. I'd like to ban aerial hunting. In Alaska.

16. What are your aspirations for next year?
Love my family, love my friends, love the dems, love myself.

17. What's your favorite charity of the year? Basically, if you had $100 to give to one organization which would you choose and why?
Change for the Children. They donate money to 5 different organizations that all help children: NothingButNets.net, American Diabetes Association's Diabetes Camp, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Children's Hospital of Los Angeles, and Summer Stars. It's kind of cheating cause I'd split it equally between all 5.

18. Describe a perfect day.
A huge hot air balloon (obviously a magic one) picks up everyone I love before picking me up. It has an unlimited supply of apple juice and only plays the best songs on it's magic radio. Every one gives you chest tinglys. Then we'd just fly around and stop in all the best places.

19. Zombies or Unicorns? Take from that what you will.
Zombies. Written into the original manuscript of Pride and Prejudice. It's real, people.

20. Pose your own question and answer it. This is a space of total freedom so feel free to leave it blank as well.
I posed the other 25. I might be out of questions. Hmm. What super power would you like?
The ability to shoot pens from my fingers and a number 2 pencil from my left thumb. I never have a writing utensil.

21. What was your first concert?
Word on the street (my Mom) is Santana when I was 2. The first concert I remember is the Spice Girls. Dad bought me a huge t-shirt where they all posed in front of the flag of England.

22. What was your best concert? #21 and #22 mean a lot to me as music is one of the only things on the planet that allows me to breath easily in times of franticness. Those of you who know me realize this happens quite often.
I hate most of these questions and I wrote them haha.
Death Cab for Cutie and the Flaming Lips. It was the first time I saw Death Cab and the Flaming Lips were insane.
That's my answer today, at least.

23. Music : me as _______ : you.
music. I am me.

24. Quote/ motto to live by of the year and/or for life in general.
'I think everybody should like everybody.' - Andy Warhol.

25. Summarize 2008 in no more than 5 words.
apple. music. love. me. world.

This was awesome guys. Thanks so much for doing it. I'm pumped for next years.

Blahh. Ocean sized blahhh.

2009-01-21T23:06:13Z

I never update this. Ever. That's kind of bad, I guess. Actually, it's not bad at all. No one reads this. It's basically a public journal entry. I am in NO WAY bitter about that. I like to pretend I'm insanely famous and adored.

I haven't been able to talk to the boy in days because I threw my phone into a snow drift. At least I'm assuming that's where I threw it. I actually have no idea. This probably wouldn't be a problem if Clarion weren't a close cousin of Antarctica and constantly buried beneath 75 million inches of snow. My new phone is supposedly on a FEDex truck in route to APT C but who knows if that is true. Here's to keeping the fingers crossed kids. I feel like a freaking social pariah.

Isn't that kind of sad? How bummed out and frustrated I am because I have no cell phone? True: I can only communicate with Eddie over the phone - which officially makes this the worst relationship of all time since I, you know, lost mine - but I need my phone to call Caitlin every 13 seconds too. And she is absolutely VITAL in my everyday life. I mean, I have no idea what is happening with her. She could have gotten married over the past week, but how would I know?

You're right. She would have at least messaged me first.

I do really want to talk to Eddie though. Why can't he be normal and subscribe to any other technologically based form of interaction? We have tons of options. Facebook, myspace (insanely lame but better than nothing), e-mail. I'm going to have to start writing him letters soon just so we can interact. Thus the 'blahhh's.

In other news, the Clarion Young Democrats took DC by storm yesterday for the inauguration. OK, it was more like a few drops of water by the end of the day. But I digress. We were there and it was awesome. I wasn't freezing - though some Dems were - but I was pretty tired of standing in a really small space and touching everyone around me. That tends to wear on you after awhile. Once everyone started coming out to get seated, however, it was pretty freaking cool. We saw Bill Clinton, Al Gore (I was in the same place as AL GORE), and, of course, PRESIDENT Obama. Not to mention: Hillary Clinton, Nancy Pelosi, Jimmy Carter, Bush and Cheney (hate them, but still), and basically every other politically minded individual of the past and present day. These are people blaring out of my tv everyday and gracing the front page of every newspaper - these aren't people who are anywhere within a mile of ME. It was mind blowing.

I got my moment, though. That was all I really wanted. I wanted to hear the sound the world made when Obama said those words; those words I've been hoping, praying to hear him say since April 2007. It was deafening, breath taking, life changing. You could feel a shift in the world. Complete and utter silence - the kind you would never expect to hear in a crowd of 2 million people - just exploded into sobbing and cheering. I will never forget that.

When my children and grandchildren and whoever ask me what I remember, this is what I'll talk about. I'll talk about working until my fingers hurt and I just wanted to sleep for a month - and then getting up and doing it again the next day. I'll talk about riding to DC in a van at midnight and standing in the freezing cold with 2 million people just so I can see the look on my best friends faces when Obama becomes our president. Their faces were worth it all. No matter how many elections I see (hopefully many) or how many candidates I support, this will always be the best one. It was my first and it was with CYD. That's all I need.

I love you guys SO much.

be GLAM, be YOU, be AMAZING.

Britt

'Blood & Chocolate' by Elvis Costello & The Attractions.

2008-05-21T05:38:25Z

Ben Gibbard is one of my favorite musicians of all time. For those of you who don't know he's the lead singer of Death Cab for Cutie and The Postal Service. He was also in All-Time Quarterback for about a minute. Good times. Anyway, Death Cab recently released a magical album dubbed 'Narrow Stairs' and the bands been pressing it up like CRAZY. They're being interviewed here, there, and everywhere else. The latest Rolling Stone interviewed Ben and asked him, "What artist/album/song did you spurn until adulthood?"

Weirdest. Question. EVER. Bet you know the answer, though. You betcha: 'Blood & Chocolate' by Elvis Costello & The Attractions.

Now, I saw Elvis Costello - with nothing but an amped up acoustic - in Pittsburgh last year opening for Bob Dylan. I was impressed because he commanded everyone's attention just with music; no muss no fuss. Not impressed enough, however, to check him out on my own time. Then today I was thinking, Ben Gibbard creates all of the music I love most in this world. His opinion must be pretty fucking solid, ya know? I downloaded the album, sat back, and considered.

The verdict? I fucking LOVED it. It was PERFECT. Numbers one through four intrigued me but number 5 'I Want You' captured me. I'm talking chest tinglys the likes of which I rarely see. I'm also partial to 'Battered Old Bird' and 'Crimes of Paris'. But it's one of those rare albums - like Coldplay's 'Parachutes' and anything by Death Cab (though, I am biased) - that's so much better as a whole. As soon as the last song switches off, you just sit there in awe thinking, "Wow. That really just fucking happened". And you can't even BREATH right for a few minutes.

Yeah. It's that good.

So listen kiddies, get out, get a copy, and enjoy. It might be hard to find because it's not the most popular Costello disk and it came out in '86, but I promise you, it's worth it. Actually, I'm so sure you'll enjoy it that I'll burn it and give it to you. How is THAT for service?

Peace out.

PS - I'm heading to Italy for a few weeks. If you really want me to get it to you, leave a post and wait until June. But I promise it will happen.

i'm going to hell...

2008-04-06T08:01:24Z

seriously. you don't get to sin this much and make it to heaven. no way.

Because he's not here...

2008-04-05T08:11:50Z

I like you. Ok?

I'm sure that's the wrong thing to say. I've never been one to say the perfect thing. Or even the imperfect thing, really. It's all rather mediocre in here. Nothing that hasn't been said before. Only this time it's coming from a place a little less hopeful and a little more desperate.

We're not perfect for each other. We don't have everything in common. Neither of us is particularly beautiful. Maybe we don't even make sense. What I know for sure is, you make me smile like few people ever have just by walking in the room. I look forward to hearing what you have to say and I know it's genuine. I'd never have to wonder if I'm just practice for the big game. Never have to deduce whether your words were meant for another her. I can see it in your eyes: you would only be mine.

The interest I created behind your friendly smiles haunts me sometimes. I imagine we're not just in my head. We are. And I have no idea how to change that. Honestly, I've never wanted to before. I want to write you a letter - by hand of course. You'd appreciate that. You're definitely the snail mail type in a facebook world.

I think I'd read a whole book about you. And I'm not talking about a pamphlet. I mean the whole kit and caboodle. I'm talking War and Peace kind of long. You fascinate me that much. I still remember the way you took my hand, flipping it over slowly: front, back, front, back.

"Nice watch," you said simply before meandering out of the room.

Nice Watch. I never knew two words could sound so poetic.

I wear that watch everyday.

weird topic.

2008-03-31T09:20:52Z

So I'm a sometimes insomniac. I admit it. I'm also a teeny bopper. A huge, hopeless, fairly pathetic, 20 year old teeny bopper. I blame it on my sucker-ness for quality love stories in any form. My most recent obsession comes in the form of Zoey 101. Yes. Jamie Lynn Spear's show on Nickelodeon. I watch religiously; tuning in every Sunday, patiently awaiting the return of Chase<3. I could lie and say I'm ashamed, but I'm not. I'm totally proud. Watch Goodbye Zoey: The Movie and tell me if YOU don't become obsessed. It's great.

Anyway, I youtube/fanfic all of my obsessions. Ask Em about this addiction. It's powerful. In my tubing, I've come across hundreds of videos bashing Jamie Lynn for being pregnant and keeping her baby. Most of the comments on the videos (even the rare positive video) are something along these lines: "Premarital sex is wrong! Jamie Lynn is corrupting the youth of America! They'll have sex and get STD's and have unholy demon babies! The horror! She should be shot!" Such gems seem to abound in our society.

This is where I switch into my "cause-searching" mode (as my dad loving puts it whenever I tirade on behalf of someone I feel is being wronged) and leave you all a rather lengthy blog post expressing my opinion. Here it goes. This is your last chance to escape.

I am a 20 year old female virgin and I wear a purity ring on the ring finger of my left hand. I pledged to 'purity' when I was 15 through a program called "Silver Ring Thing". At the time I planned on saving myself for marriage, but my views - on almost everything - have changed since then. I now wear the ring as a reminder to myself - a pledge to myself, if you will - that I won't have sex until it's right for me. Whether that means I wait for the right person, place, time in life, etc. I just want to ensure I do it because I want to - need to even. That time hasn't come for me but by 20, it's come for most people. Jamie Lynn was one of those people. Maybe she was safe, maybe she wasn't. That's definitely none of our business. It's none of our business that she did it at all, in fact. But she's in the public eye and people will have their opinions.

The argument has been set forth that she is young. Duh! She's 16! She's almost a baby herself! But she had sex, she got pregnant, and only she (and the father and her parents - who will inevitably have to help) really have a say in what happens here on in. I think that Jamie Lynn was incredibly responsible about the situation too. I'm sure she's terrified. All new mothers are terrified and she is very young. She made a decision though, got her GED, and attempted to put her show in order. Knowing that she'd be criticized by closed minded people, she came forward and accepted the ridicule gracefully. I respect her. I truly do.

I have a few friends who were born to young mothers and they've grown into great people. I think we should give Jamie Lynn a chance to bring her child into a world where it's seen as a gift, not a mistake. It's about the baby now, after all. Not the mother.

I doubt anyone has read this far (I probably would have dropped out 7 paragraphs ago) but it feels good to talk ad naseum about it. And Jamie Lynn: I support you. Good luck to you and your baby.

DEATHLY HALLOW SPOILERS

2007-07-28T19:06:36Z

1. What was the biggest surprise?: Probably the whole Dumbledore scandal. He spent the whole series on this pedestal and in one book I started completely doubting him.
2. Which would you rather have, Hermione's neverending beaded purse, or the Elder wand?: Hermione's never ending beaded purse. I have way too much stuff.
3. What was your favorite quote?: During Snape's memories when Dumbledore says "Still after all of these years?" and Snape says "Always." I loved that part because Snape seemed so human.
4. Whose death struck you the hardest?: Surprisingly, Fred's. I was sobbing so hard during that part I couldn't deal with it.
5. What is one theory you had that came true?: Hmm. I had so many. It's hard to pick one. Really obvious ones like Snape was good (or at least working for the good side) and I had hoped that the trio would live but I hardly dared to believe it.

deathcab4qt36 @ 2007-07-18T20:25:00

2007-07-19T00:26:19Z

Today was one of the best days I've had in a long time. Nothing obviously spectacular occurred. The day actually started off on an annoying foot. My boss posted the schedule this morning and had me scheduled to work at 3. Very cool of him to think I have no life. But that was soon solved and Jessy, Matt, and I went to the Andy Warhol Museum.

As I mentioned in an earlier post it was my first time visiting the museum (though I've been a long time fan) and it was truly amazing. I couldn't wrap my head around the idea that I was seeing his actual art. Pieces he actually created. I'm so accustomed to my posters that I felt I was poster shopping. Not to mention, museums are overwhelming to me in the first place. I love art and I truly enjoy spending time in museums but I also want to absorb everything around me. I want to examine each piece and allow it to affect me as the artist intended but that can be so humbling and overpowering. I would hate to miss a piece or not experience each piece in full because that's just the way I am.

After visiting each floor we went downstairs to the notorious photo booth. The three of us smooshed behind this curtain onto a little stool and inserted our two dollars. Suddenly the booth sprung to life and we weren't even ready. We were cracking up as we tried to fit everyone into the picture and change our facial expressions quickly enough. After our pictures expired we were sure that we'd done everything wrong and that the results would be horrendous. In all actuality, they were beautiful. I loved every last one.

Next we went for food at a little mexican restaurant called Moe's. Matt's burrito was massive and it was hilarious watching him eat it. We just sat around and talked and talked long after we'd finished eating. It was nice adding a new person to our normal duo outings and neither of us had seen Matt for so long. At least in this way. My throat was sore and my sides were killing me from laughing by the time we left.

I was reflecting on the day as I dropped Jessy off and that's when my "accomplishment" revealed itself to me. You may not understand this but trust me it's huge. I was completely and totally happy all day. I know, I know. So what? I had a good day. People have those all the time! Well, I don't. I rarely go a whole day without feeling out of place, depressed, or just plain worthless. Today I was content. I was around people who wanted to be with me and I didn't doubt that they willingly agreed to spend time with me. I didn't doubt myself at all. I almost wanted to cry (tears of joy, of course) because of how beautifully simple being happy felt.

Obviously the second I realized this I felt completely drained. Being happy is hard work! At least for me, I guess. I just wish I could thank Jessy and Matt without revealing how insane I am. Today I was happy to be me and they were apart of that moment. I really owe them one.

The Boring Life I Lead

2007-07-16T21:52:50Z

There is something that's been nagging at me lately as I've attempted to finish the second book in the Inheritence Trilogy by Christopher Paolini. The trilogy, for those of you who don't know, is about a young boy who finds a dragon and must use all of his new found power to defeat his kingdom's big bad. It is pretty good (although sometimes disturbing because Eragon and his dragon, Saphira, are kind of close - in that way) and I'm truly enjoying it. Plus, Christopher (I feel we are on a first name basis considering we are going to be good friends one day) wrote the first book when he was 15 years old and straight out of high school. You kind of have to read the book to understand how impressive that is.

The other day I decided that I was interested in the author and wanted to learn more about him. I looked up a couple interviews on youtube and some discussion pages on the series. I was very annoyed by what I found. People were freaking out because they said Christopher copied his story from Star Wars and Lord of the Rings. As I read on people claimed that he actually stole the story from Harry Potter which in turn was taken from Star Wars and LOTR. I was absolutely irrate when I read that. These people were obviously unfamiliar with these things! They are nothing alike.

Upon closer study I decided, yes, the general plots share certain qualities. These books are mostly about an orphan who comes into some kind of power and must use it to defeat any given big bad with the help of their posse of crazies and their exceptionally amazing skills. But the means by which they go about their individual journeys are completely different. They couldn't be more different.

Basically what I'm saying is almost all stories come from a few core plots. In romances or chick lit: girl moves to new school, assuming it will suck; girl meets boy and decides maybe it won't suck; girl assumes boy will never like her; something crazy and really weird happens; girl saves school; girl and boy make out. Same story! And every fantasy story has to have the force of good and the force of evil. Who wants to read about some wizard just skipping around doing magic? NO ONE. You want the wizard to completely ANNIHILATE some evil being. It's all endlessly annoying.

In happier news, I AM FINALLY GOING TO THE ANDY WARHOL MUSEUM!! Yay! I am so excited! Considering how long I've been a fan it was kind of pathetic that it took me so long to make it to the museum but on Wednesday that will all change. I'll have a full report of its amazingness soon.

HP 5 for July 13th

2007-07-14T03:55:21Z

1. How did you feel about the movie overall?: I loved it! I think it's a huge improvement from the first 4.
2. What were your favorite parts?: The scenes with Luna are pretty hilarious and I also am a big fan of the training sequences with Dumbledore's Army.
3. What were your least favorite parts?: The death of Sirius and caps lock Harry.
4. What was your favorite line?: "Guys this is Looney Lovegood" *crazy facial expressions* "Luna Lovegood."
5. Do you think this was an accurate representation of the book?: Mostly...

Harry Potter Friday Five

2007-07-13T08:41:58Z

For those of you who don't know there is a lj community that posts five HP questions every Friday. I am bored and a true insomniac so I'm answering a bunch of the questioned from the past right now. Here goes nothing!

Friday May 4th

1. Which character do you actually prefer the movie version of? : Maybe Hermione? I love Hermione in the book but Emma Watson's portrayal of the character really took it to the next level for me...
2. Which character do you usually love, but dislike his or her movie portrayal?: Hmmm. This is hard. The movies are really well done in my opinion so I'm not really sure. I really can't think of an answer right now.
3. What is your favorite moment/line/etc. added to the movies that doesn't show up in the books?: My answer is a spoiler for the 5th movie so I can't say...
4. In a perfect world, ________ would play _________.: Helena Bohnam Carter...Bellatrix Lestrange. I guess dreams DO come true!
5. What is your overall opinion of the movies?: I really liked them until I saw the fifth movie. Now I am completely obsessed.

Friday May 11th

1. Which is your favorite Triwizard Task?: The second task with the mermaids. It really kept me guessing. I had NO idea what was going to happen until it did.
2. What's your favorite HP reference in another fandom? : I don't know what this means. I am a horrible fan.
3. Which HP were/are you most like as a teenager? : I kind of hate to admit it but I guess Ron. He is kind of unspectacular. Harry is the hero and Hermione is the genius and Ron is just kind of there but he's funny and everyone (except Emily) loves him. I think I'm that way. I don't really stand out but I'm funny and people love me.
4. Which would you rather have: a niffler or a Pygmy Puff? : Niffler. Has cooler name.
5. You have enough Polyjuice Potion to last one day: who do you choose to morph into?: Hermione (post 6th book) so I could make out with Ron<3 and because she is gorgeous.

Friday May 18th

1. Who is your favorite HP couple? (And I mean ACTUAL couple, not ship!): Mer. Em and I were discussing how people like them don't really get normal, functional relationships. I have been a huge fan of Ron and Hermione from the beginning though. I just don't have much hope that things will work out.
2. Which would you rather see: a continuation of Harry's life post-Hogwarts, or a prequel about the original Order of the Phoenix?: Continuation. People are going to die and I want to see how everyone copes. Plus I'll be interested in seeing how anyone can possibly move on from this.
3. Who is the bigger jerk: Fudge or Scrimgeour? : Fudge drives me crazy but I don't know if I'd say he's a bigger jerk. I just despise him.
4. What form would your Patronus take? : I'd want it to take the form of a bunny I think but that's probably because of how much I love Luna.
5. Which of the Weasley twins' inventions would you most like to try?: I'm not really the kind of person who would try most of their stuff haha.

Friday May 25th

1. Work with dragons or treasure hunt for Gringott's?: Work with dragons.
2. Spend a day with the Order of the Phoenix or Dumbledore's Army?: Definitely Dumbledore's army
3. Visit Dumbledore's office or Snape's dungeon? Dumbledore's office
4. Give an old school detention to Filch or Umbridge?: Umbridge. Freaking hate that woman.
5. Have an Invisibility Cloak or a Time Turner?: Invisibility cloak. I'd be too tempted to mess with time if I had a time turner. Plus, it would be easy to spend and eternity obsessing over the good times in your life instead of moving on.

Friday June 1st

1. Who is your favorite character introduced in the book?: Luna Lovegood. I'm obsessed with her.
2. What is your favorite chapter?: 23? I don't know haha. I don't really have one.
3. Which storyline do you find most interesting?: Dumbledore/Draco. Dumbledore did so much for Draco even though he was plotting against him.
4. What is your least favorite part? I hated when Dumbledore died.
5. Do you still have any unanswered questions from this book?: Not that haven't been answered since.

Friday June 8th

1. Fred and George Weasley vs. Crabbe and Goyle : Fred and George.
2. Luna Lovegood vs. Sybil Trelawney: Luna...she kicks ass
3. Fenrir Greyback vs. Bill Weasley and Remus Lupin : is Lupin in werewolf form? because then yes.
4. The Fat Lady vs. Mrs. Black: Fat Lady.
5. Colin and Dennis Creevey vs. Uncle Vernon and Aunt Petunia Colin and Dennis. Good always triumphs over evil.

Friday June 15th

1. Have dinner with?: Professor Mcgonagol
2. Share an apartment with?: Luna. I want to be her best friend.
3. Be locked in a jail cell with?: Draco but hott Draco from Goblet not weird Draco from OOTP
4. Go camping with?: Ron, Hermione, and Harry. I want in on their world.
5. Go on a date with?: Ron because we're getting married.

Friday June 22nd

1. What is your favorite Book 7 theory?: Meg Cabot's where everyone lives happily ever after. It will never happen.
2. Which movie soundtrack do you like best and why?: Thus far? OOTP. The music was powerful and played well with the scenes. It intensified in the right places.
3. How long do you plan to spend reading DH?: As long as it take me to read, recover, and accept.
4. If you could have any character for a LiveJournal friend, who would it be?: Luna's would be hilarious and random but I think Harry's would be the most exciting.
5. Have you ever had a teacher/professor that reminded you of a Hogwarts professor? How?: I wish...

Friday June 29th

1. What candy from the books have you always wanted to try?: I've tried most of them.
2. What object would you turn into a horcrux, if the need arose?: Journal's taken and that's the most likely for me. A doll would be creepy. It couldn't be edible. Cinderella's Castle in Disney World. They'll never tear that down.
3. What ride would you like to see made at the new HP park that will be opening next year?: A quidditch game, complete with fully operating brooms.
4. What 3 characters would you be willing to be go on a roadtrip with?: Ron, Harry, and Hermione. You can't break up the three!
5. You're given an invisibility cloak for one week, what do you do with it?: Go about my normal life to truly feel what being invisible is like. Then maybe I can stop being all "poor me I'm invisible!".

Friday July 6th

What are the top 5 things you want to see happen in Book 7?

1. I want the Trio to survive because I can't bare to lose them and I want them to get a house together. Harry should teach and then go on to become Headmaster. Hermione should be the Minister of Magic. Ron should play professional Quidditch.
2. Sirius visits Harry in a dream to give him one last chat before the final battle.
3. Ginny and Draco have an illicit and inappropriate affair before realizing they are insane. Draco flees the country to become a starving artist and overcome his father's oppression and Ginny decides to marry Harry Potter - her love since she was 10 years old.
4. Neville completely destroys Bellatrix Lestrange. He deserves to avenge his parents. As a reward to himself he tells Luna they should run of and be losers together.
5. Hagrid is given an honorary diploma for kicking butt and being so loyal for all of these years.

8 days and Annonymous Live Earth dude...

2007-07-13T07:45:33Z

In 8 days I will finally have the final Harry Potter book in my hands. In 8 days all of the questions that have plagued me over the past however many years will be answered. Will good triumph over evil? Will Harry ever realize that even though his parents and Sirius were murdered he has never been a true orphan because Ron and Hermione have always been his family? Will JK take the Joss Whedon stance with her story and kill off everyone or will some characters live? Even if characters do survive how will they ever go on to live a normal life?

I know what you all are thinking: Yes, I am too emotionally involved in the story. True, I will bawl uncontrollably from the first page to the last. I will barricade myself in my room, avoiding the internet and television and shutting off my cell phone. I will mourn those lost in the final battle and I will be affected as if I am losing close, personal friends. A huge chapter of my life is about to close. Harry Potter has been more than a sense of entertainment. Every child who has felt alone, lost, or like an outcast has dreamed that their letter to Hogwarts would come and that they'd be whisked off to a life of magic and wonder unlike their own dull, predictable existence.

Sure, you can argue that there are still two more movies to go but the mystery will be gone. I'll know how both of those movies are going to end. I will say goodbye to those beloved characters forever. I'm so excited for this book but at the same time I dread it. I know all good things must come to and end but now that the end is here I'm not sure that I am ready.

In other news, there really isn't much other news. I haven't been doing much with my life other than reading. I've read 13 books in the past two weeks if that is any insight into how eventful - or I guess event-empty - my life has been lately. My sleeping pattern is still pretty messed from my stay in Hawaii (thus I am posting this at 4 am) but whatever. It happens.

To the dude (possible lady. I'm not really sure) who commented on my last post. I respect your opinion. I just don't technically agree. I've listened to both sides of the argument but I'm always up to investigate more. If you are reading this, feel free to post some sight, books, or movies that best support your view and I'll definitely check them out and post my thoughts.

Live Earth

2007-07-07T21:16:28Z

Today all over the world some of the biggest names in the musical world have come together. Their voices are going to blend together into the most beautiful harmony for change. Even though couldn't make it to the show I am ecstatic. I can feel what's happening. I can feel the effect of millions of people saying: ENOUGH IS ENOUGH! WE CAN SAVE THIS PLANET AND WE WILL.

Can't you feel it? Can't you feel that a day like today can change the world?

Project Brittany's-Going-To-Florida is underway...

2007-06-05T17:46:12Z

I am getting my car back today or tomorrow! Yayyyyyyy! After an agonizing month of being without a car Death Cab is finally healed and ready to come home. How we've missed her! My life will be SO much easier now that I don't have to depend on my parents (who still live 2 hours away from me) to do everything for me! I am the happiest girl in Clarion right now! Since my car has been returned my plan to go stay at my uncle's condo (aka my happy place aka heaven) in Cocoa Beach, Florida is actually a plausible possibility! Nothing in the world could bring me down!

Not even the really stupid book I finished reading yesterday! Well, it wasn't stupid. But when I lend my attention to a 400 page novel I expect to finish it feeling slightly pleased. The book is called "Prep" by Curtis Suttenfeld and I enjoyed the first half. I thought it was funny and witty and I felt connected to the main character, Lee. As the book began to draw to a close, however, I found Lee annoying and I absolutely despised most of the other characters - specifically a boy named Cross who was the biggest JERK that ever walked the planet. Those negative, depressed feelings are gone now because I have my car and all is right in the world.

Tonight is my third weigh in at Weight Watchers (wish me luck!). I've technically been on the program for four weeks but I had to miss the second weigh in due to the Philly Fundraiser for Barack Obama. Thus far I've lost 4.8 pounds and here is to hoping for more!

Speaking of Barack Obama and Philadelphia fundraisers, Chris and I were interviewed for newspaper article while there. Today I decided to track down said article and I did in the student paper for Drexel University. I was so excited when I saw my quote! Then upon looking at the name I realized I'd been credited as Brittany Boncilus from Wayne University. It was incredibly humorous. I saved the article and I'll definitely be printing it out and sharing it with my fellow Barack Supporters.

Coming Tomorrow: The Weight Watchers verdict and a car update.

So...Camping?

2007-06-04T14:26:55Z

Friday (after my mom left me sitting in the mall for four hours- which was actually ok because I was reading this awesome new book) my mom told me that she would not be bringing my mattresses after all. My Grandma was having her van fixed and there was no way of getting them here. A few hours later she shows up with my mattresses AND a table for my tv though so it was all good.

After Caitlin flirted with my neighbors for an unbearably embarrassing period of time we left for my camp. It was a great weekend. I read two truly entertaining books (Looking for Alaska by John Green and Girl at Sea by Maureen Johnson), I wrote in my journal, and I found human bones beneath a tree which I named The Great Perhaps (in honor of Looking for Alaska).

Wait...What?! Rewind and freeze! Human bones?! Spend a little more time on that one please! Ok. I'm a weirdo. Everyone knows this. Because of my weirdness status I decided to take a leaf from the Great Perhaps. Since I am too afraid of heights to even hang on a tree branch over a river I decided to get in the river and go around to the low hanging branches. As I'm walking towards the base of the tree I stumble on what appears to be a stick. Closer inspection reveals that the sticks were in fact a bone. Surrounded by other bones. I called my mother over since (being a nurse) she's seen human bones.

I said, "Um Mom? Did I just accidentally discover a dead body while trying to get a leaf out of a tree?"

She replied, "I surely hope not. But it's certainly plausible."

I decided not to tell anyone. Bad decision? Maybe. But why would I want my camp ground crawling with cops when it doesn't need to be? The next time I go back I'll take a look around again and see what I think. Maybe I'll even print out some pictures and compare. We'll see.

Even if it turns out that this is nothing I still got a story out of it. This reminds me of my Non-Fiction Prose teacher, Dr. Stemmler. He taught our class that you can find a topic to write about anywhere if you look hard enough. Well, this one dropped on my like and anvil but it's still pretty random.

Anyway, Today is my first true day of summer. I have no classes and nothing I really have to do. I'll probably wonder around Clarion for a bit and make up a few errands for myself but overall I think I'm just going to hang out and read. Maybe I'll work on my mystery series. And by work on I mean start over. We'll see.

Coming Tuesday: Update on my life doing nothing and the adventures of a apointmentless girl in Clarion.

Wikipedia! Where art thou Wikipedia?

2007-06-01T14:30:45Z

I'm posting a little early today because my mom, sister, and uncle are coming any moment now (or so the stories goes). They will be bringing my bed (as I mentioned yesterday) and I may or may not be going to my camp with them. I probably will be.

Anyway, I have always wanted a wikipedia site to be created about me. It's one on a list of many things I'd like to see happen before I die. Yesterday I decided I was tired of waiting and I created a Wikipedia article about the apartment. It was hilarious, charming, and (most importantly) about me (and em and liz and ping). I shared my work with Emily and immediately posted the link on all necessary facebook walls. About 30 minutes after the articles completion, I notice that Ping and Liz are both online. I immediately ask them their opinions. Liz is elated but Ping tells me the link led to a blank page.

!!!!! It can't be true! My beloved wikipedia article cannot be gone already! But alas it was. I guess wikipedia couldn't handle the awesomeness. In all fairness, they did say "do not create an article about you and your friends".

Oh well. At least I was able to live my dream for 30 minutes. Not everyone is so fortunate.

In other news, Jessy is not allowed to drive down to Florida with me so I will be making the trip alone. Hopefully the following things occur:

a. My car is fixed soon

b. My parents still let me go

c. I come up with enough money to even afford this journey

Maybe I can convince my parents to let Caitlin take her finals early! Then she can split driving with me and we can have one of those awesome road trip experiences! Maybe we can get apple pie ala mode in every state like in On the Road and we can make note of the differences as we move south! I am such a genius! Must talk to my parents immediately!

Arrive with my mattress. Now please!

Coming Monday (assuming I go to camp): A recap of my much needed trip to the country! (well, the countrier country)

"I should be studying!!!!"

2007-06-01T03:45:41Z

The title of this entry would be much more enjoyable, livejournal community, if you were familiar with Vag Monos. Anyway, I really should be studying. I have my math final tomorrow - which I will probably fail - and my final project is due - it feels rather pointless and time consuming. And don't give me any of that "with an attitude like yours of COURSE you will fail math. Well I went into the last test feeling ever so confident and I walked away from that one with an F. Maybe if I expect to fail I'll pass with flying colors. Who knows? As for the project, I'm supposed to spend and excessive amount of time drawing a picture so I can go in front of the class, hold it above my head, and proclaim "Look at how cool I am! I drew a bunch of lines!" Thus, I figured blogging was more important than homework.

Anyway, I promised a little update on my life. I'm very involved with Senator Obama's Presidential Campaign. I am currently serving as a researcher for the Philadelphia office and also I've just been appointed co-chair of the Clarion University Chapter. It seems like an exciting (and busy) year is before me. I love the Senator (even more so ever since I saw him speak in Philly) and I truly believe he can do amazing things for this country. I'm so proud to be involved with his campaign. However, one thing concerns me - how will my involvement affect my relationship with the Young Democrats. I plan to run for VP at the beginning of next year - which would have my first term beginning in the Fall of 2008. I REALLY REALLY want to be Vice President. I love the Young Democrats and I've wanted to serve on the E Board from day one. I know I'll be busy with the campaign and with Care (the environmental group on campus) but I feel I can handle more responsibility in Young Dems as well. I just truly hope it all works out because both of these things have my heart.

On a happier note, I am getting a bed tomorrow (or so the rumors on the street go). I know what you're thinking: "You're getting a bed tomorrow?! Britt, you've been in your apartment for 3 weeks already!" I know, I know. For the past three weeks I've been using two meditation pillows and a bean bag as my bed. It's actually not as bad as it might sound...but I'm excited for a bed nonetheless. It'll really make the move seem final when I have actual furniture (aside from the Little Mermaid desk chair that my mother made for me when I was 4 years old).

Speaking of bed - I am le tired.

Coming tomorrow: My 30 minute love affair with Wikipedia.

Updating the Page

2007-05-31T02:48:58Z

After all of this time on livejournal I think I've finally figured out how to customize my page. Yay! Hopefully it worked (hint, hint: comment me and tell me if it worked). I'm glad my page will have a little life to it now. I hated when it was so bland because I'm not bland (most of the time). And I want this journal to reflect me!

My random discovering of the customize feature may be why I am blogging after so long. Well, that and the blogs I frequent are failing me lately. You see, I have recently developed a blog obsession. I used to visit Meg Cabot's blog and that was it but now my blogging family has grown. I allow myself to become bored way to often and I spend those bored moments hysterically checking my bookmarked webpages, hoping for an update. Most of the blogs a visit (save one or two) haven't updated in a week or longer! I understand that these people have actual lives but my life is lived vicariously through the lives of those I deem cool. And these people are failing me miserably.

Anyway, if they ever stop being lame my I suggest the following blogs:

1. Meg Cabot (www.megcabot.com/diary): Meg updates all the time and her blogs are hilarious and entertaining. Plus she is awesome and (at least in my mind) a kindred spirit. By far my favorite blog.

2. Perez Hilton (www.perezhilton.com): Perez is possibly one of the most famous (and most popular) bloggers out there. He updates his blog almost as often as I check his blog, haha. Plus, it's THE place to get all the celebrity gossip and scandal news first. And everyone knows how much I love to live vicariously through celebrities. Le sigh. Go check it out now.

3. Michelle Jaffe (http://michellejaffe.blogspot.com): For those of you who don't know, Michelle Jaffe is the author of Bad Kitty. I've never read this book but the excerpt I read was hilarious. And so is her blog. It does not disappoint. Plus, it is the only "advice blog" I visit. She doesn't update often but when she does it' awesome.

4. Maureen Johnson (http://maureenjohnson.blogspot.com): No, not the character in Rent (I know I was a little disappointed too). But don't worry, she is just as awesome! This is another author. She wrote the book 13 Little Blue Envelope (among others) which I absolutely adored. I plan on mimicking the journey in that book one day. Also, one of her books is being censored for the lamest reason EVER (visit her blog to find out why;)) and she needs support from wonderful, open-minded readers like yourselves!

5. John Mayer (www.johnmayer.com/blog): This man has it all - good looks, musical talent, charm, and a fantastic blog. He discusses important issues (like global warming - LOVE this guy) one day and then the next day his entry will have me laughing to the point of tears! Trust me, he is much more than just a pretty face.

6. Jennifer Weiner (http://jenniferweiner.blogspot.com): This woman has some mysterious, hidden disease (not all the time, just presently) serious enough to keep her from her high school reunion yet she still finds time to blog! That is a true judge of character if you ask me! Jennifer is an awesome author who penned such classics as In Her Shoes (also a movie with Toni Collette (whom I love) and Cameron Diaz (who i could totally do without)) and Good in Bed. Her blog is quite entertaining as well.

Those are the blogs I frequent but I am always looking for new additions. If you have a blog you think I'll enjoy (or if you think I should check out your blog) drop me a line!

Coming tomorrow: What's going on in my life (outside of blogs).

Global Warming and Meg Cabot

2006-12-29T22:45:51Z

Yet another effect of Global Warming:

MONTREAL (AFP) - An enormous ice shelf broke away from Ellesmere Island in the Canadian Arctic last year, researchers said, warning it could be another symptom of global warming.

The 66-square-kilometer (25.5-square-mile) ice island tore away from Ellesmere, a huge strip of land in the Canadian Arctic close to Greenland.

The break occurred in August 2005 and was so violent that it caused tremors that were detected by Canadian seismographs 250 kilometers (155 miles) away, but at the time no one was able to pinpoint what had happened.

The Canadian Ice Service contacted geographer Luke Copland of the University of Ottawa, who reconstructed the chain of events by piecing together data from the seismic readings and satellite images provided by Canada and the United States.

"This loss is the biggest in 25 years, but it continues the loss that occurred within the last century," Copland told AFP, saying 90 percent of the the ice cover had been lost since the area was discovered in 1906.

"What is important and interesting is that it is sudden, quite large even," he said.

"In the past, we looked to climate change (and) thought perhaps ice shelves ... would just melt apart by losing a little piece day by day, but it now seems that when you reach some kind of threshold, when you reach that level, the whole thing just breaks apart."

Following the discovery, biologist Warwick Vincent of Laval University in Quebec, visited the icy waters of the Arctic to view the "new island."

Vincent said he had seen nothing like it in the past decade. "It really is incredible," Vincent was quoted as saying by the newspaper National Post.

"People talk of endangered animals -- well, these are endangered landscape features, and we are losing them," he said.

Louis Fortier, scientific director of ArcticNet, a Canadian Artic research network, said the massive breakoff signaled a rise in Arctic warming.

"This Ellesmere ice shelf was sheltering unique ecosystems on the planet; there are freshwater lakes which were forming above and under the ice shelf," Fortier told AFP.

"The breakup of the ice cover on Ellesmere Island has been going on for 12,000 years, but it seems to have accelerated in recent years which is another indicator, among many others, of warming of the entire Arctic cryosphere," he said, referring to low-temperature elements of weather such as ice and snow.

Canada conducts land, sea and aerial observations of the Arctic ice surface, but often these studies target certain areas and ignore vast, uninhabited areas, the environment ministry says, making satellite images crucial.

The sudden formation of a "new island" in the Arctic "is a symptom among a cluster of symptoms of global warming, the most important evidently being the spectacular redcution in the extent and thickness of the Arctic ice field," Fortier said.

In an article published in December, Canadian and US researchers predicted that by 2040 Arctic Ocean ice will nearly disappear in the summer off the north coast of Greenland and Canada, opening a maritime corridor that would reduce shipping time between Europe and Asia.

In better news, Meg Cabot and I are attempting to work through our problems. It's going to be a difficult road because when that much trust is lost and that much pain is caused it takes time to heal. I finished reading the final installment of 1-800-Where-R-U: Missing You last night and it was like I was being reintroduced to the Meg I thought was lost to me forever. I'm in the process of reading Size 14 is Not Fat Either and it is also going well thus far. Who knows what will happen between us - we have a lot of things left to work through. I don't think I'll fully trust her again until next December when Princess Diaries 9 (tentativly titled "Princess Mia") comes out. I still love her. PD8 was amazing but the break up of Michael and Mia will be a hard thing for me to overcome.

In even better news I am attending a rally for the Penguins (the Pittsburgh Penguins) on January 7th and it should be a blast. Come out and help us show the Penguins how much we love them at 3 o'clock (Gate 1).

deathcab4qt36 @ 2006-12-27T03:05:00

2006-12-27T07:55:21Z

I think I just broke up with Meg Cabot

grrr

2006-12-21T06:56:00Z

Yesterday (/today) totally blows huge chunks of bad stuff. I am very depressed about the turn of events Wednesday brought into my life. Here's why:

1. My mother is in the hospital for mysterious tests.

2. Grown ups are being shady about said tests.

3. J.K Rowling is having "weird dreams" about Harry Potter and has "no desire" to finish the last book yet. Although, she claims she will before we all die (unlikely).

4. The Isle of Capri didn't get the slots license. Bye bye new arena. Bye bye Penguins. Bye bye Pittsburgh.

5. I got yelled at by the inspector of Subway because he claimed I wasn't qualified enough in the art of sandwich making to show another person how to make a sandwich. I can totally understand why he is concerned. Making a sandwich is SO difficult.

6. I purchased tickets for yet another group of friends who suddenly decided they no longer want them.

7. This list is so stupid when I think about all the poor starving children, victims of war, and animals needlessly tortured for dumb reasons and I feel like an awful person for letting such petty things upset me.

7.5. I suck. A LOT.

I need a hug and some ice cream.

My Xmas Stocking

2006-12-15T04:15:45Z

Xmas Stocking

leave a gift for deathcab4qt36

get your stocking

deathcab4qt36 @ 2006-12-10T19:01:00

2006-12-11T00:01:58Z

Sono agitato.

Mio migliore amicos detestaremi.

Non lo so perhce.

Sono manmi.

Questo succhios.

deathcab4qt36 @ 2006-12-06T15:21:00

2006-12-06T20:21:41Z

finals suck.

Rent

2006-12-01T15:02:35Z

So today is World Aids Day. Wear red. Sing a song. Watch Rent. Show your support.

UNTIL THERE'S A CURE, UNTIL IT STOPS, UNTIL NO MORE PEOPLE HAVE TO DIE.

Actual Reality-Act Up-Fight Aids