...is at a Death Cab concert, which I will be going to in April. OHHHHH YEAH! I haven't been to a concert in quite some time (unacceptable), so buying tickets was a must! I haven't seen these boys in concert yet, so I am stoked! (how can you not love Death Cab? They are true poets...)
Speaking of tickets, I am racking my brain trying to find a way to get a plane ticket to London. Yes, London. My friend Colleen is going to visit her sister there in August (and possibly visit Ireland and France too) and asked if I wanted to join her. AHHHHHHHH!!!!! I must find a way. Plane ticket, why must you be $1,000?!?
I'll find a way. haha. Traveling is the demise of my savings. But worth it.
2.28.2009
2.24.2009
I Can't Complain
I realize that the majority of my posts are happy, sunny, shiny posts. Maybe I even disgust myself with these posts sometimes. haha.
I just can't help my optimism.
Maybe cause if you would have visited this blog merely a year ago, you would have read about a depressed, hurt Ashley getting over a boy that broke her trust. Now that I've broken free from that sadness, why would I want to go back?
Thinking in a positive manner makes you freeeeeeeee--free to make a decision, instead of being trapped. I don't mean thinking in an unrealistic manner, so don't confuse the two. (i.e. I believe I can fly, so let me jump off this roof). I'm not crazy or foolish, I just choose to see the bright side.
I don't know. Maybe I'm too utopian, but I don't care.
It's an over-used line, but I have to say it, "You may say that I'm a dreamer, but I'm not the only one."
Yes, well, I am a dreamer. And damn proud of it.
Life is great, life is fantastic, life is smashing...open up your eyes, and you will see it too.
I just can't help my optimism.
Maybe cause if you would have visited this blog merely a year ago, you would have read about a depressed, hurt Ashley getting over a boy that broke her trust. Now that I've broken free from that sadness, why would I want to go back?
Thinking in a positive manner makes you freeeeeeeee--free to make a decision, instead of being trapped. I don't mean thinking in an unrealistic manner, so don't confuse the two. (i.e. I believe I can fly, so let me jump off this roof). I'm not crazy or foolish, I just choose to see the bright side.
I don't know. Maybe I'm too utopian, but I don't care.
It's an over-used line, but I have to say it, "You may say that I'm a dreamer, but I'm not the only one."
Yes, well, I am a dreamer. And damn proud of it.
Life is great, life is fantastic, life is smashing...open up your eyes, and you will see it too.
2.22.2009
The Midnight Society
Does anyone else remember Are You Afraid of the Dark?
That show was ballin'! But seriously now, they don't make kid shows like that no mo'! Disney and Nickelodeon have become too PC and uninteresting now-a-days. Like...Hannah Montana. I mean, come on! How stupid can a show's theme get?
What happened to outstanding, weird, out-there shows like:
It's just so sad.
On a happy note, my friend Ali and I came across a site that still had Are You Afraid of the Dark? episodes posted. ( I say this because Viacom snatched almost every illegally posted video off the web...like they don't have enough money!)
Visit if you dare...mwahahaha!!! Ali and I watched the doll one. I was one brave child to watch all that scary crap! What the hell happened?
That show was ballin'! But seriously now, they don't make kid shows like that no mo'! Disney and Nickelodeon have become too PC and uninteresting now-a-days. Like...Hannah Montana. I mean, come on! How stupid can a show's theme get?
What happened to outstanding, weird, out-there shows like:
- Rocko's Modern Life
- Doug
- Pete & Pete
- Salute Your Shorts
- Chip & Dale's Rescue Rangers
- Eureka's Castle
- Fraggle Rock
It's just so sad.
On a happy note, my friend Ali and I came across a site that still had Are You Afraid of the Dark? episodes posted. ( I say this because Viacom snatched almost every illegally posted video off the web...like they don't have enough money!)
Visit if you dare...mwahahaha!!! Ali and I watched the doll one. I was one brave child to watch all that scary crap! What the hell happened?
2.20.2009
Go to My Happy Place
Man, I am so exhausted today...at least it is Friday.
I haven't been posting as often as I was a few weeks ago, guess I have been busy, going to events...just going, going, going, but content with that. I like livin' life and going places.
Speaking of going, I forgot to mention where I'm going for my b-day (which is in a week-and-a-half)...
DISNEYLAND!!!
Do I have to say anything more? It will be smashing and I will have a damn good time. Oh, how I love that place...
K, just wanted to post on my excitement over that. Let's hope we all have great weekends full of debauchery and blackouts. Kidding, guys. Kidding.
I haven't been posting as often as I was a few weeks ago, guess I have been busy, going to events...just going, going, going, but content with that. I like livin' life and going places.
Speaking of going, I forgot to mention where I'm going for my b-day (which is in a week-and-a-half)...
DISNEYLAND!!!
Do I have to say anything more? It will be smashing and I will have a damn good time. Oh, how I love that place...
K, just wanted to post on my excitement over that. Let's hope we all have great weekends full of debauchery and blackouts. Kidding, guys. Kidding.
2.18.2009
Don't pass the doobie.
I felt an urge to post on this, it may seem random, but here we go.
I have never tried marijuana. never. I've been asked, no badgered, almost bullied into trying it a million times. But I have not.
And why won't I? Simple, I don't want to try it and like it.
There are too many people I know, close friends and friends of friends, that use drugs (even drugs as harmless as marijuana) as an escape from the world. This goes for alcohol too; however, I don't want to focus on alcoholism, because for some reason people seem okay with the idea of a stoner, but not okay with the idea of an alcoholic.
Maybe because stoners=hippies, free love and peace, while alcoholics=violence.
I put these two abusers on the same level, because both are victim to the same tragedy: a life unlived due to substance abuse taking over. Not every story is the same, but the people I know use pot as a way to not feel. They've had it with life, and opt for a way to avoid life all together. The bad part about this plan is that they miss the pragmatic process of feeling. We must feel (the good and the bad) in order to live our lives properly.
There is a quote that ties in with this, it goes, "We are never closer to defeat than in our moments of greatest victory." I think back to all of my greatest moments in my short life, and realize how true that is. All of my greatest victories have been breakthroughs from the greatest pain, fear, anxiety and sadness I have ever felt. And it was crippling, at the time, to feel those things. But overcoming those feelings were the defining moments of my life.
The point is, if I would have placated my feelings with the use of drugs (any drug) I would have remained in a stalled state. I would have never left the pain aside, but only pushed it away for the moment. My life would not be lived, but would be put on pause.
Yes, it's true that I use certain things to de-stress: baths, walks, music, dancing, etc. But these are not my main solace in life.
When I am truly in a state of disarray and distress, I turn to God. This may sound silly, crazy and weird to some of you. That's alright, I've been called all those things in my life. All I can do is tell you what has worked in my experience, and that is God.
Do I condemn all drug-use to the depths of hell? No, I know people are going to do it, regardless. But do I think drugs are the high point of life? No, and you know that as well as I do.
I simply want to state that there is so much more to life than smoking, drinking, snorting and escaping life. You can choose, to instead, live it.
I have never tried marijuana. never. I've been asked, no badgered, almost bullied into trying it a million times. But I have not.
And why won't I? Simple, I don't want to try it and like it.
There are too many people I know, close friends and friends of friends, that use drugs (even drugs as harmless as marijuana) as an escape from the world. This goes for alcohol too; however, I don't want to focus on alcoholism, because for some reason people seem okay with the idea of a stoner, but not okay with the idea of an alcoholic.
Maybe because stoners=hippies, free love and peace, while alcoholics=violence.
I put these two abusers on the same level, because both are victim to the same tragedy: a life unlived due to substance abuse taking over. Not every story is the same, but the people I know use pot as a way to not feel. They've had it with life, and opt for a way to avoid life all together. The bad part about this plan is that they miss the pragmatic process of feeling. We must feel (the good and the bad) in order to live our lives properly.
There is a quote that ties in with this, it goes, "We are never closer to defeat than in our moments of greatest victory." I think back to all of my greatest moments in my short life, and realize how true that is. All of my greatest victories have been breakthroughs from the greatest pain, fear, anxiety and sadness I have ever felt. And it was crippling, at the time, to feel those things. But overcoming those feelings were the defining moments of my life.
The point is, if I would have placated my feelings with the use of drugs (any drug) I would have remained in a stalled state. I would have never left the pain aside, but only pushed it away for the moment. My life would not be lived, but would be put on pause.
Yes, it's true that I use certain things to de-stress: baths, walks, music, dancing, etc. But these are not my main solace in life.
When I am truly in a state of disarray and distress, I turn to God. This may sound silly, crazy and weird to some of you. That's alright, I've been called all those things in my life. All I can do is tell you what has worked in my experience, and that is God.
Do I condemn all drug-use to the depths of hell? No, I know people are going to do it, regardless. But do I think drugs are the high point of life? No, and you know that as well as I do.
I simply want to state that there is so much more to life than smoking, drinking, snorting and escaping life. You can choose, to instead, live it.
2.16.2009
Baby, Let's Stay Together
So, I forgot to post this yesterday, oops...
As of February 15, 2009, I have had this blog for 4 years. That's actually pretty good! How have I had 4 years worth of crap to say? Oh yeah, I guess it comes with life. Sure, I've thought about deleting this thing before, but I keep around for some reason.
4 years...well, that's a long relationship!
Thank you all for listening to my insights, nonsense, dorkiness and...well, just thanks for listening...er, reading.
Happy blogiversary to me!
As of February 15, 2009, I have had this blog for 4 years. That's actually pretty good! How have I had 4 years worth of crap to say? Oh yeah, I guess it comes with life. Sure, I've thought about deleting this thing before, but I keep around for some reason.
4 years...well, that's a long relationship!
Thank you all for listening to my insights, nonsense, dorkiness and...well, just thanks for listening...er, reading.
Happy blogiversary to me!
2.13.2009
The Brilliance of Hornby
Besides the fact that I'm reading High Fidelity, and it's my favorite movie ever, I've also just seen About a Boy (also based off of a Hornby novel). I absolutely, positively loved it. And in a different way than I loved High Fidelity, but almost as much. (High Fidelity is more poignant to me because of what I was going through at the time).
I realize what I really love about Hornby's writing is that he's so honest, you can't help but crack a smile with every line he writes, because you know it's so damn true. And there's something about the pursuit of truth that humans are fascinated with...I know I am.
Another thing I like about Hornby is, despite his realism, he's hopeful. But not hopefully romantic. Although books like Twilight can be addicting, they are a load of bull. Hornby's books completely reflect real life. He clearly does not believe in fairytales, but hopes for the good outcome, in a realistic sense. He still somehow delivers a nice ending, in a way you can accept, without saying "That would never happen in real life!"
This makes his books/movie adaptations so very endearing to me that I adore them. ADORE.
Keep on with the stellar writing, Hornby! I simply must read/see everything that has to do with your creativity!
I realize what I really love about Hornby's writing is that he's so honest, you can't help but crack a smile with every line he writes, because you know it's so damn true. And there's something about the pursuit of truth that humans are fascinated with...I know I am.
Another thing I like about Hornby is, despite his realism, he's hopeful. But not hopefully romantic. Although books like Twilight can be addicting, they are a load of bull. Hornby's books completely reflect real life. He clearly does not believe in fairytales, but hopes for the good outcome, in a realistic sense. He still somehow delivers a nice ending, in a way you can accept, without saying "That would never happen in real life!"
This makes his books/movie adaptations so very endearing to me that I adore them. ADORE.
Keep on with the stellar writing, Hornby! I simply must read/see everything that has to do with your creativity!
2.12.2009
Teach Me to Love
I've always liked Sheryl Crow. She's got this interesting, raspy, soulful voice. And I like her lyrics, as I like them in her song, "Detours" :
Mother can you hold me together
It's so dark and I'm losing my way
It took all of these detours to find love
But when I did it just faded away
Now what do I do with this sweet love of mine
Do I give it away, and hope someday I'll find
Someone half as awake as the moon and the stars
Mother teach me to love
With a paper thin heart
Nicely done, Sheryl. And although I think she's talking mostly of romantic love (she usually does), I see this song in another way.
Each day, I do have to teach myself to love everyone I come across. When I say "love," I mean showing kindness and goodwill to others.
That's easier said than done. It's difficult for this girl to break a smile at 6:30 am when I am not a morning person what-so-ever. (I loaaaaaaaathhhhe the morning).
But I want to put forth the effort of thinking of others, cause frankly, I get so bored and exhausted of only thinking of myself. Again, difficult when we are trained to be selfish beings.
To loosely tie this into the lyrics of the song, often I take detours to find happiness--ways that I think will make me happy, at least. Often times, we overlook the fact that we can create our own happiness in the here and now. To "love with a paper thin heart" is to open your heart, and to love life in the present, not a fantasy, or "detour" in the future.
And what is love? I believe love is to be unselfish, to live for others; therefore, I believe my happiness can be found in living for others the best I can. (to try to live the way God informs us to live, for humankind, and not just ourselves).
Was that a stretch? Maybe. But it was an avenue I wanted to take. Maybe all these hearts I'm seeing around me (i.e. decorations for Valentine's Day) are getting me to contemplate the idea of love...and true love.
How about you chew on that, instead of one of those "tiny, heart-shaped antacids." Thanks, Jim Gaffigan.
Mother can you hold me together
It's so dark and I'm losing my way
It took all of these detours to find love
But when I did it just faded away
Now what do I do with this sweet love of mine
Do I give it away, and hope someday I'll find
Someone half as awake as the moon and the stars
Mother teach me to love
With a paper thin heart
Nicely done, Sheryl. And although I think she's talking mostly of romantic love (she usually does), I see this song in another way.
Each day, I do have to teach myself to love everyone I come across. When I say "love," I mean showing kindness and goodwill to others.
That's easier said than done. It's difficult for this girl to break a smile at 6:30 am when I am not a morning person what-so-ever. (I loaaaaaaaathhhhe the morning).
But I want to put forth the effort of thinking of others, cause frankly, I get so bored and exhausted of only thinking of myself. Again, difficult when we are trained to be selfish beings.
To loosely tie this into the lyrics of the song, often I take detours to find happiness--ways that I think will make me happy, at least. Often times, we overlook the fact that we can create our own happiness in the here and now. To "love with a paper thin heart" is to open your heart, and to love life in the present, not a fantasy, or "detour" in the future.
And what is love? I believe love is to be unselfish, to live for others; therefore, I believe my happiness can be found in living for others the best I can. (to try to live the way God informs us to live, for humankind, and not just ourselves).
Was that a stretch? Maybe. But it was an avenue I wanted to take. Maybe all these hearts I'm seeing around me (i.e. decorations for Valentine's Day) are getting me to contemplate the idea of love...and true love.
How about you chew on that, instead of one of those "tiny, heart-shaped antacids." Thanks, Jim Gaffigan.
2.10.2009
Of Slumdogs and Soul
I saw Slumdog Millionaire on a whim. I'm so glad I did! What a well done movie, seriously--it is a film that will truly touch you. And I love movies/books that have a plot that goes back and forth between the past and present. It keeps things interesting. And how fitting that the underdog film winning all these awards is about an underdog triumphing!
I also watched the Grammys this year (something I haven't done in ages!). I was glad I did. Two outstanding performances:
Yet ANOTHER reason why I LOVE Justin Timberlake and his appreciation for SOUL. (Unlike the Jonas Brothers, who totally disgraced Stevie Wonder while performing with him...they SUCKED).
"Do you have soul?"
"That all depends..."
If you can tell me where that quote comes from, then you get bonus points (you can't play raindog).
The next BEAUTIFULLY DONE performance by no other than Radiohead:
Lessons from this post: Slumdog Millionaire=good, Justin Timberlake and Al Green have soul, Jonas Brothers have NO MUSICAL TALENT, Radiohead are musical geniuses!!
I also watched the Grammys this year (something I haven't done in ages!). I was glad I did. Two outstanding performances:
Yet ANOTHER reason why I LOVE Justin Timberlake and his appreciation for SOUL. (Unlike the Jonas Brothers, who totally disgraced Stevie Wonder while performing with him...they SUCKED).
"Do you have soul?"
"That all depends..."
If you can tell me where that quote comes from, then you get bonus points (you can't play raindog).
The next BEAUTIFULLY DONE performance by no other than Radiohead:
Lessons from this post: Slumdog Millionaire=good, Justin Timberlake and Al Green have soul, Jonas Brothers have NO MUSICAL TALENT, Radiohead are musical geniuses!!
2.07.2009
Can weekends last forever, please?
It is raining today. Love it, love it, love it.
Because I work at a school, and Honest Abe's B-day is on Monday, I have a three-day weekend. This pleases me.
I started off this three-day weekend being productive on my car. I fixed my headlight, switched my windshield wiper blades and changed my oil. Yes, I did all of that. And I say that because all the chicks out there should know that it's all super easy to do...and you don't need to get ripped off by paying some fool at an auto shop to do it!! *snaps finger in air*
So now that I've gotten that "being productive" nonsense out of the way, it's time to be indulgently lazy and possibly have a movie marathon on this delightful rainy day. Then a housewarming party to go to later with a smorgasboard of food...mmm...wait, I lost my train of thought...oh yeah! I was talking about my weekend.
Well, I won't break every activity down for you, but hope your weekend goes as well as mine.
Because I work at a school, and Honest Abe's B-day is on Monday, I have a three-day weekend. This pleases me.
I started off this three-day weekend being productive on my car. I fixed my headlight, switched my windshield wiper blades and changed my oil. Yes, I did all of that. And I say that because all the chicks out there should know that it's all super easy to do...and you don't need to get ripped off by paying some fool at an auto shop to do it!! *snaps finger in air*
So now that I've gotten that "being productive" nonsense out of the way, it's time to be indulgently lazy and possibly have a movie marathon on this delightful rainy day. Then a housewarming party to go to later with a smorgasboard of food...mmm...wait, I lost my train of thought...oh yeah! I was talking about my weekend.
Well, I won't break every activity down for you, but hope your weekend goes as well as mine.
2.03.2009
I Wish
Does anyone remember this song???
(sorry the quality is bad)
SKEE-LO - I Wish - SKEE-LO
I still love it.
(sorry the quality is bad)
SKEE-LO - I Wish - SKEE-LO
I still love it.
2.02.2009
5 Reasons...
...why I am happy today:
- Working with children, there are bound to be girlscouts in the mix, which = girlscout cookies; therefore, I just bought 2 boxes today (Somoas and Tagalongs), and I'm bound to buy more. Is this is a good thing? They are so delicious, I don't care!
- I went and fed the homeless again on Saturday. Again, it was a great experience (although sometimes it is a scary experience). This is something I think I will continue for a while because, a) It brings me closer to God, b) It makes me appreciate what I have, and c) helping others really gives me the sense that I'm not wasting my life (because I think we all feel that way sometimes).
- I may go visit the Getty (a HUGE, AMAZING, STUPENDOUS Museum) in L.A. this month. I've never been, and I loooooooooove Museums. Hopefully I can work it out :)
- Tonight, my church's cafe events start up again, and one of my favorite artists is playing. I LOVE hearing musicians play live! And in an intimite cafe setting, that's the best. His name is Trevor Davis, if you are interested...
- DAFFODILS ARE IN SEASON!!!! THEY ARE MY FAVORITE FLOWER!!! AND THEY ARE EVERYWHERE...YAAAAAAAY!!! WHY AM I YELLING?!? *Ahem* 'scuse me.
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