I do this...

via PostSecret

Wow, almost 24 hours and I am OFFICIALLY obsessed with Jens Lekman. Best lyrics ever, like these: And the music is amazing, catchy and beautiful and all round awesome. Super thanks to my girl Sara, who posted one of his videos on my facebook wall. I was looking for a new musician to be obsessed with and now I have one! And thank God for Spotify for allowing me to listen to all three of his albums legally, for FREE!

"When I said I wanted to be your dog
I wasn't coming on to you
I just wanted to lick your face
Lick those raindrops from the rainy days"

And the music is amazing, catchy and beautiful and all round awesome. Super thanks to my girl Sara, who posted one of his videos on my facebook wall. I was looking for a new musician to be obsessed with and now I have one! And thank God for Spotify for allowing me to listen to all three of his albums legally, for FREE!

The World Food Programme has begun a massive food aid distribution in Haiti. The most interesting part about this article is that the aid will only be distributed to women. Over and over again in my course I have learned that aid programmes directed towards women are the most successful. If that's not a loaded fact, I don't know what is. Also, I'm pretty hopeful that this distribution will be successful, even though food aid has had a shaky start since the earthquake. I wrote an essay about the WFP (who knows how I did on it ughhh) and they've been able to deliver food through some pretty extraordinary circumstances, so hopefully the Haitians will be able to get food. However, long term we'll see because the WFP has not been so successful with developing sustainable food security.

Song of the Night

Thank you Sara.

Hot Bitch of the Day

Lapo Elkann, hottest Jew in the world.

From The Satorialist 19 January 2010

I first learned about Lapo several years ago when I read about his drug overdose (which occurred in the company of a transexual hooker) in Vanity Fair. He is a dream. Since that unfortunate overdose he seems to have cleaned up and is now one of the darlings of world fashion. Oh and he's famous because he's one of the heirs to the Italian Fiat brand. He apparently was instrumental in making Fiat "cool." He's also a real quirky cutie. In one of my most creative moments, I made my friend Sara a tote bag with his face on it (she's a fellow Lapo lover). And by made, I mean I used iron transfer sheets to put his face on a tote bag I bought at michaels. CREATIVITY HAPPENS THERE! But anyways, I would marry Lapo, but I don't think I'm fabulous enough for him. Plus, I think he's in a serious relationship with a hot lady.

British review of the Jersey Shore. What a wonderful show. I'm so sad it's over. A second season will probably just suck anyways unless they get a new cast or like throw in a random Harvard phd student. That would make things interesting.

ughhh I've let my food binge carry into today. Blahhh!

Last night: hot chocolate and oatmeal at 11pm (YEAAA!)

Today:

Oatmeal at Pret

Pain aux Raisen from Sweet

3 small pancakes with honey, jam and fruit from my flatmates.

Do you see a pattern? I guess tomorrow is a new day... Except that I'm supposed to get lunch at Pizza Express. Wahooo.

I woke up this morning to snow (a bit) and SUN!

Also, I had a dream last night that Simon Pegg was arrested, WTF. Oh em gee it's supposed to be sunny all day today! I don't know how to handle this... If only it wasn't also supposed to be close to freezing. Maybe the sun will make it feel really warm...

Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, a powerhouse of aid. Seriously, it seems like they're involved everywhere. Including in my field of interest, food security, where they're financing a pilot program for the World Food Programme. FUN TIMES.

Men I Really Like Right Now

-Marcus J. Borg, biblical scholar and one of my personal heroes whose books have introduced me to a form of religion that embraces life, not condemnation and exclusivity. xoxoxoxoxoxoxox Marcus

-Simon Pegg, Actor/ Writer. Simon is my favorite celebrity that I follow on Twitter. He's hilarious. Also, I just started watching Spaced and it is hilaaarious.

-Gok Wan, Fashion Genius- Life Coach. I really feel Gok Wan's How to Look Good Naked Series is inspiring and important television. He is a gift to women.

SO EFFING EXCITED

The Room. Tomorrow.

FOOD BINGE

I am on a serious, rampant food binge. Like I can't stop. It's just been one of those days I guess! I'll be really good tomorrow until my dinner at Gourmet Burger Kitchen mmm. I really do need to be better because if I keep this up I'll get on the scale next week and weigh enough to be on one of the TLC programs like Half Ton Teen (not really).

Phew.

I remain unemployed, but I passed my essay with flying colors! While I got a pretty low mark for having a sound argument (ouch), I did really well on the other points. This essay was 100% of my grade for a class, so I'm very happy I managed to earn a grade I'm happy with. Yeyy! And there were blue skies this afternoon! Wooo! And tonight I'm going to a wine and cheese party for UCL PostGrads that's FREEEEEE! YIPPY! I also ate a really good cookie today from Marks & Spencer. Things are okay. Though, I really need employment.

Also, Lianne arrives two weeks from today!

Bea's of Bloomsbury Scone Review

So I wanted to get a croissant at Bea's of Bloomsbury to continue the tradition. They didn't have Croissants, so I get an orange and cranberry breakfast scone. Here is my review:

I have only been to Bea's of Bloomsbury on one other occasion. For their absurdly sweet afternoon tea with Pamela. For 9.50£ you get a scone, clotted cream, jam, a cupcake and a variety of mini deserts plus obviously tea. I was super hungover that day and I just couldn't do it. It was just too much. However, I recognised that my judgement was probably impaired.

Note: I really need to be doing reading, instead I'm doing this. OH WELL.

So after my 9am lecture I walked to Bea's hoping for a croissant. No luck. I instead got an americano and a cranberry and orange breakfast scone. At home I heated it up and put it on a plate with a pat of butter and some jam. It was honestly perfect. Buttery and perfect on the outside, soft and flavourful on the inside. The butter melted into it and the jam was an excellent compliment. I may have had a terrible job interview yesterday, I may have within 10 hours sent 5 of the most awkward text messages of my life (sorry!), my body may be rejecting my decision to take an herbal mood lifter, it may be rainy and grey outside, my headphones may have died, an empty water bottle may have just exploded on my desk (well it jumped up on the air on it's own 1-wtf 2- call GHI!), and I may have not lost any weight this week (hopefully I gained muscle?), but Bea's has made everything okay, for at least a few minutes. Please, if you're in Bloomsbury go to Bea's. I can't wait to take Lianne there for their cheaper (£6) afternoon tea that comes with scones and jam. And I clearly need to start going there more.

Oh. My. God. And now my Peace and Security essay is ready for pick up. Ugh. I may need to go back to bea's later. FML. The last two days have been way too much.

Thank God they are showing this in America so it's not just one of those let's judge America programs. Also, pizza for breakfast? 1-Gross 2- That should be illegal in schools and 3- WOW. I don't think my parents are health nuts but they would be compared with the parents in this preview. I just people realize not all of America is like this! I eat salads and vegetables regularly! West Virginia, oyyy veyyyy.

ADDICTED

I think I seriously have a gum problem. I effing love gum. I could have a pack a day habit if I wanted. Now I'm trying to stick to a pack every two days habit. The corner shop closest to me sells a delicious variety of orbits for a mere 65p. My flava flav of choice is Strong Mint. Also, it's Orbit complete so it supposedly helps to keep my teeth clean and healthy in between brushings. I hope the additional calories from it aren't ruining my diet. I doubt it. I've been so good about eating today, but I bet tomorrow I'll have gained weight. Oh my life. My unemployed, poor, overweight, and single life. Once again, hold me!

J.D. Salinger has died at the age of 91. I actually think about Salinger frequently, just wondering what he's up to. I also wonder if he's been secretly writing all these years. I guess we'll see! He also seemed like a grump. But RIP.

FML of the Day

I had a interview today for a part time job that was soo unexpectedly hard. There was a computer test as part of it and I was thinking it would be standard, Microsoft Office, typing skills thing. No, it was more along the lines of the Foreign Service Oral Case Management. But harder because I wasn't expecting it at all. I'm sure the staff is laughing at what an idiot I am right now. FML FML FML. My poverty continues. I'll send out more CV's this weekend YEYYYYY.

May 9th 2007: the greatest thing I have ever seen in an elevator. Washington, DC

This is Why I'm Single

Today while getting froyo I listened to a woman in my program talk about her friends who have transformed into yummy mummy's. Hearing her describe their life I secretly was jealous of their designer strollers and BABIES. I then proceeded to dream about my future with my "astronaut Mike Dexter."

In a semi-related moment, a highlight of my day was learning that Brad + Angelina are STILL IN LOVE. LOVE EXISTS!!!!! GOD HEARD MY PRAYERS! Though not really because they never broke up soooo. The last time God really answered my prayers was during my Sophomore year of HIGH SCHOOL when my AP Euro final project deadline was extended for a week because a major ice storm hit the night before it was due. The last time God blatantly rejected my bargaining efforts, thereby crushing my astronaut mike dexter dreams, was Thanksgiving Day. Shudder. Wow, I'm a really fun girl.

Volunteering Fun

Yesterday was the worst day of volunteering eva! We had gone to this youth group last week and they were a huge challenge, so we knew today was bad, but I actually ended up shouting at the children this week. BTW, my volunteer job is working for a charity that in the UK goes into youth groups and talks to the kids about human rights. Usually the kids are challenging, but at the end I'm overwhelmed by how bright they are. They usually win me over by the end, making me hugely impressed, not these kids. These kids were awful.

Basically, they were awful. Yea. Awful. They held views so radical that I think that's how they actually felt, not like just statements they were saying to get a rise out of us. I won't get into specifics because of privacy and stuff but wow. My coworkers and I ended the session after an hour and stumbled to a delightful pub, shellshocked and numb. We shared a bottle of wine and like couldn't even talk. It was RIDICULOUS.

Luckily today I have lunch with some new friends, class and then FROYO to make up for yesterday. Also, I gained a pound since my last weigh-in. UGhhhh I need to get back on track! I want to lose five more pounds by the time Lianne gets here.

Three Wolf Moon T-Shirt News

Hahah I can't believe this news story is real. Apparently the state of New Hampshire is going to try and harness the power of it's most popular export (most likely). I <3 my Three Wolf Moon t-shirt!

Guardian article about 25 things to be happy about (in the UK). My favorite is number 15, about the days getting longer.

Rochester hairdresser to do hair for the Armani Collection at Paris Fashion Week.

"This sort of Recognition puts Rochester on the map, I think." I love that he included the "I think."

I think it was a sign that my course has made me cynical towards my country when I started reading this article and figured it was going to be about American imperialist motives in Haiti. I was wrong. Instead it was an article that reminded me that the United States can do some wonderful things. It also made me want to watch Band of Brothers....

Life is real! Life is earnest! And the grave is not its goal;

This poem has been in my head for a while now. I think it pretty much is my life philosophy. Nice work, Mr. Longfellow!

A Psalm of Life Tell me not in mournful numbers, Life is but an empty dream! For the soul is dead that slumbers, And things are not what they seem. Life is real! Life is earnest! And the grave is not its goal; Dust thou are, to dust thou returnest, Was not spoken of the soul. Not enjoyment, and not sorrow, Is our destined end or way; But to act, that each tomorrow Find us farther than today. Art is long, and Time is fleeting, And our hearts, though stout and brave, Still, like muffled drums, are beating Funeral marches to the grave. In the world's broad field of battle, In the bivouac of Life, Be not like dumb, driven cattle! Be a hero in the strife! Trust no Future, howe'er pleasant! Let the dead Past bury its dead! Act, - act in the living Present! Heart within, and God o'erhead! Lives of great men all remind us We can make our lives sublime, And, departing, leave behind us Footprints on the sand of time; Footprints, that perhaps another, Sailing o'er life's solenm main, A forlorn and shipwrecked brother, Seeing, shall take heart again. Let us then be up and doing, With a heart for any fate; Still achieving, still pursuing, Learn to labor and to wait. Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

My Lunch

Oh.Emm.Gee. Beef Sunday Roast at the Marquis of Cornwallis. Amazing. I recommend the pub in general to anyone in the Bloomsbury area, it has a great tap selection (including Old Rosie!) and fabulous food. While the Sunday Roast's are a little pricey, they're definitely a nice way to treat yourself every once in a while. My roast came with mash potatoes, Yorkshire Pudding, roast vegetables, kale, horseradish saucy, cheesy cauliflower and delicious gravy. A really magnificent meal. mmmmmm. I can't wait to go again when Lianne visits.

And then I ate three cookies for dinner. YEY.

WHY IS THE WORLD SO CRUEL? DOES LOVE EXIST? WHY WHY WHY WHYYYYYYYYYYYY!

My Crazy Night

" I don't think you're an idiot at all. I mean, there are elements of the ridiculous about you. Your mother's pretty interesting. And you really are an appallingly bad public speaker. And, um, you tend to let whatever's in your head come out of your mouth without much consideration of the consequences... But the thing is, um, what I'm trying to say, very inarticulately, is that, um, in fact, perhaps despite appearances, I like you, very much. Just as you are."

Just spent the night eating Tiramisu and watching Bridget Jones's Diary. Thankfully Pamela joined me, or else the night would be a little too stereotypical. When I was in 8th grade BJD made me obsessed with England, so I guess I can blame my presence here somewhat on the film. Now though I find Daniel Cleaver way too absurdly/annoyingly English and I can't believe Bridget actually holds down a job. And Mark Darcy just depressed me. Does anyone like him actually exist? I literally kept shaking my first towards my laptop (scaring Pamela) because of his perfection. I mean, the speech he tells Bridget in the hallway, oh em gee. I honestly would probably start sobbing if someone said that to me. No, more likely, I wouldn't believe them. Wahhh. I'm just as crazy as Bridget. Where is my Mark Darcy?

Well in unrelated news, my cold still painfully exists. Right now I have another blinding headache, I don't really know why I'm blogging right now. I need to go to sleep and rest up for tomorrow where I have to really perfect my CV for a part time job I'm applying for. Oy Vey. Also, I'm not eating until 130 so I can let my stomach digest for the Sunday Roast I'm getting at a pub tomorrow with the girls! Well, it might only be Pamela and I, but hopefully the others will come through. I'm thinking beef. mmmmm.

Hopefully I'll wake up tomorrow miraculously cured!

I share with you my favorite song ever involving Prostitutes, Drug Overdose and Bruce Springsteen:

Well hey(man), that's just a lie,
It's a lie she tells her friends.
'cause the real song, the real song
Where she won't even admit to herself
The beatin' in her heart.
It's a song lots of people know.
It's a painful song
A little sad truth
But life full of sad songs
Penny for a wish
But wishin' won't make you a soldier.

ONLY ONE MORE WEEK

So.Effing.Excited.

SICK

UGhhh I keep getting sicker and sicker. I thought yesterday I was getting better but noooo today my cold has mutated into a terrible head cold: Sinus Pressure, sore throat, stuffy nose, light headed, etc. Wah. So I guess today will be spent laying in bed, having soup and drinking tea. Why does my immune system suddenly suck? Also it's kind hard to breath. Am I dying??! I'm probably going to be fine.

20 Great Foods You Aren't Eating- article in the Times. I would like to point out that I regularly eat 9 items on this list so HA!

Music I Like to Play While I Walk Around!

I walk really really fast. I can in my mind only think of one person who can consistently out pace me (congrats Jonathan!), so I like music that's slightly snappy to help me keep up my ridiculous pace. Sometimes when I'm walking fast, I want to slow down but I literally can't. Sick. Anyways, here's a list of my current walking tunes:

-Walking on a Dream - Empire of the Sun

- Animal - Miike Snow

- Siren Song - Bat for Lashes

- Travelling Woman - Bat for Lashes

- Heads Roll off - Frightened Rabbit

- Single Ladies - Beyonce (yeaaaa)

- Lisztomania - Phoenix

- Hounds of Love - Kate Bush

- Hounds of Love - The Futureheads

- Staring at the Sun- TV on the Radio

- Halfway Home - TV on the Radio

- Daylight - Matt and Kim

- All my Friends - LCD Soundsystem

Daily Mail story of the mornin'

Lollypop Guild anyone?

Almond Croissant Review

Almond Croissant from Pret.

On Wednesday, starting to feel sick and definitely feeling depressed and starving I decided to indulge in my fav treat, an almond croissant. I've actually never had the Pret version so I decided to have that, with a mixed berry brunch pot for lunch. MMMM. The problem is, as my taste buds were starting to be dulled from sickness, I couldn't savour this croissant as much as I usually do. Nevertheless, it was pretty delicious. The pastry's outer wrapping was crisp in a good way and the center, the gooey consistency I love. So I definitely think the croissant was better than EATS, but as far as chains go, I still think Cafe Nero wins. However, since my tastebuds were dulled by my developing cold (which has since exploded into awfulness), I'll probably have to force myself to give the Pret one another try. Also, EEE I haven't written my Cafe Nero review yet, which gives me an excuse to consume one soon. WIN.

In related foody news, I have to weigh myself tomorrow. UGh. I hope I didn't gain and I hope I lost at least a pound. I've been so bad with this diet. So typical of myself!

Things to Look Forward to

1- Getting over this awful cold

2- LIANNE'S VISIT!

3- GLASGOW!

4- This weekend

5- Jenny starting med school so she can answer all my medical inquiries

6- LOST FINAL SEASON

7- Summertime in England

8- The new Iron Man Film

9- A new Frightened Rabbit Album

10- I can't think of a 10th thing SAD

I FINALLY watched ep 1 of Glee. I watched the preview ep last summer, but it hasn't come out in the UK until now. The first episode was pretty good. Rachel kind of annoys me. But there was one moment that really spoke to me:

OMG

My Favorite Foods in England at the Mo'

-Apples

-Yogurt Pots that include fruit and granola

-ALMOND CROISSANTS!

-Shortbread Biscuits

- Jacket Potatoes with Beans and Cheese OR Tuna and Cheese

- Crackers and Laughing Cow Cheese

- Gourmet Burger Kitchen's Camembert & Cranberry Chicken burger

- Pain Au Raisen

- Tesco's cinnamon rolls

SO HEALTHY!

Positive Thoughts!

Sorry this blog has been a debbie downer lately. I guess my life has kind of been a debbie downer lately of stress, grey skies, poverty and academic self esteem issues. Meh! But there are positives in my life! Like today my check finally went through so not only could I pay the rent for the term but I was able to book my vacation North. I'm going to Glasgow to visit my friend Patrick in March yeyyyyyyyyyyy! I find this kind of funny because I keep complaining about the horrendous lack of sunshine here, but it's surely 100% worse way up north. However, I think this is okay because Patrick is like a giant ray of sunshine, so this should make up for any adverse weather conditions. Last time I saw Patrick (in like October or November) he told me that I have really skinny arms, which honestly gave me a self esteem boost for months. Like I haven't thought my arms were chubby since. Also, when Patrick visited over the summer and I wasn't sure if I should wear my 3 Wolf Moon T-Shirt (best shirt eva!), he told me something along the lines to just be myself and not worry about other people. So right! Basically, Patrick is wonderful and a trip North to visit him will probably do as much good as a week in the sun, replenishing vitamin D, would do. So thank you Patrick, for making my life a little bit better!

Duhhhh but what a SCUMBAG! Seriously, I once liked John Edwards, thought of him as a pretty nice guy. Apparently he's just a sleazy old man who enjoys fathering children with other women while his wife suffers through cancer.

This Looks SOOOO much better than the Snuggie! Motivation for getting a job!

This blog post by Roger Ebert about his journey from losing his ability to speak to his finding his ability to write again is amazing. I really enjoy Ebert's blog and twitter and I stupidly did not realise his illness had robbed him of the ability to speak. It really says a lot not only about the power of written word, but also of social media. Anyways, have a read through.

I have no idea what this film is about. It combines a ghost story with a literary festival with a love triangle and it's set in Ireland. BUT it does involve Cieran Hinds speaking in her real accent and since I love Ciaran so much maybe I'll see it. But probably not... Though I'll see if it's actually released. Or I'll just watch Persuasion over and over again.

O.M.G. Apparently Farrah's mom on Teen Mom (and previously 16 and Pregnant) was arrested for assaulting Farrah! MAJOR DRAMA. Even though Farrah is the worst mom ever, I think her mom should deal with her major anger issues. I mean on the show it's hard deciding which one is the bigger bitch. Though, I hope Farrah is okay. I don't even think Butch would beat his children...

S.A.D

This is the view from my window around 1245. It looked like this from the moment I woke up until the sun started setting. And it will look like this again tomorrow, and the next day, and the next days, and on and on and on.

S.A.D. Music

My weather induced feelings make me suddenly relate to every Smiths song. FUN.

Mehhh

I volunteered all day today. The Youth Club workshop we were running completely fell apart when like only 3 people showed up. That being said, I think it really helped us to realize we need to be ready for anything. Also, it was really interesting talking to the kids and their youth club leader. Their perspectives on human rights were really interesting. Though, all forms of structure dissolved and we just ended up having an informal conversation, which I didn't think was so bad, though others in my group might have.

I feel so stressed this week and occasionally melancholic. Like I'm a complete life failure. I feel like my essay was shit, I have no work ethic and I'm concerned about my thesis. Oh and I'm being really stupid about finding a job. I just need to get on with it and apply for things. Wahhh. I honestly just want to crawl in a hole and eat chocolate. Or I want someone to hold me. But finding a large hole will probably be easier.

Take Note: This is exactly what I want to write my dissertation on.

Dislikes

- Procrastination

- Having work hanging over my head

- Winter

- Not having a current biological excuse for the carb binge I just had

- Poverty

- Not having a reading light

- When no one texts me

- The ease with which my room gets messy.

Hot Bitch of the Day

Julia Roberts, my new drunk hero:

Recent Things in my Life

1- I just turned in a terrible essay

2- There is currently a bit of blue in the sky and I'm hoping it'll give me a vitamin D boost. But, it also negatively makes me want to go outside instead of do work.

3- I deposited a check last week and thought it went through. It didn't. So I went into negatives. I cried about it. And now I can't pay bills/buy plane tickets for a Northern adventure until Thursday ARGH my life.

4- I drank an obscene amount of alcohol this weekend, well by my usually moderate standards. I obviously do not have money to be spending on such activities.

5- I went to Shoreditch for the first time, it was delicious.

6- This week is going to be so busy. Too tired.

7- I haven't gained weight, but I haven't lost any. Hopefully this will change (for the better) by Friday

8- I should be applying for jobs

9- I should be working on my thesis topic.

10- Instead I compiled this list. Sob

I didn't realize Jimmy Fallon did such a convincing Neil Young impression...

The Pure Products of America go Crazy.

really really funny. Team Coco!

Ridiculous Story of the Morning

This would probably happen to me. Aahahahahah. Can you imagine anything worse happening at Weight Watchers?

I really think I have this. Like really.

This is why donations to the red cross are essential.

The situation in Haiti is unreal. I know I have like 6 readers, but you all should donate to the red cross or your aid agency of choice. I can't imagine the destruction in this country that was already so troubled.

what my room looks like right now

epic fail. Hopefully it'll be clean by the time Lianne visits.

Instead of doing work (ughhh), I just went through the Modern Library's list of the 100 best books of the 20th century. I've read 20 on the Board's list and 16 on the popular vote's list (why are there so many L. Ron (a GW alum!) books on it!?). I really think I could do better than 20. Ughhh faillllll.

Rev. Pat Robertson explains why the Haitian Earthquake happened.

This is one of those videos that would be funny if Pat wasn't so sincere in what he's saying. For six minutes of the video there's coverage of the awful situation in Haiti and interviews with missionaries and disaster groups. Pat's Operation Blessing seems to actually be doing really good work in in Haiti. And then Rev. Robertson explains why Haiti is one of the poorest countries in the world, the poorest in the Western hemisphere and prone to terrible disasters. Because a long time ago they made a pact with the Devil to get their freedom. Yup. It's a fact!

Oy Vey. And here's Gawker's much more angry/better written post on the subject.

Wow This is Honest...

Annnnd it makes me want to try the supposed all new Domino's Pizza!

I Woke Up to a Winter Wonderland

Photo From my Archives

Banksy Tunnel, Waterloo, London 27 March 2008

Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.

Romans 12:9

UM This is Why I'm Single Song of My Life

Of course by Kate Bush. Whilst perusing Kate Bush lyrics online, yea whatever, I stumbled across a song called Never be Mine. I read the lyrics and knew without listening that Kate really is my James Joyce of music. Also, once I watched the video, I got to see dozens of inspirational photos of Kate. xoxoxoxo

These lyrics basically describe my perverse thoughts about any given male:

Ooh, the thrill and the hurting.
The thrill and the hurting.
I know that this will never be mine.

I want you as the dream,
Not the reality.

I LOVE YOU KATE!

Old, But Classic

Hastily made Cleveland Tourism Videos. Amazing. These go out to my girl Jenny and to my dad, for Detroit's mention in the second one (I had to link it because they won't let me embed it whyyy).

And here's a not as funny Detroit video. Though, as I have been to both cities, I definitely agree that Cleveland is a LOT better than Detroit. Annnd I should be doing work!

Things I have eaten yesterday and today (proper grammar? IDK)

Yesterday:

Coffee

Weight Smart Oatmeal

Protein Water

Shape Yogurt

Green Tea

Herbal Tea

Soup (lentil and vegetable)

Dark Chocolate kitkat bar

and then I cheated by eating an apple! So bad!

And I went to bed starving and woke up throughout the night, starving and paranoid because I'm CRAZY (not fulfilling my new years resolution!)

Today:

Coffee

Quaker Oats Oatmeal

Tropical Fruits Granola Bar

Jacket Potato with beans and cheese

EAT yogurt pot with bananas, grape nuts and honey

Americano

Crackers and laughing cow cheese

three shortbread and fruit biscuits

Crackers and hummus

Stir Fry with fake chicken and rice

Apple

to eat:

Dark Chocolate kitkat

hot chocolate

Ahhh up days are soo much better. But writing out all that food just signalled to me why I need to be on this diet. I know it's pretty healthy, but I've had like 6 snacks. Ughhhh. I guess I can blame my increased hunger on all the walking I'm doing, or something. But, I'll have to be really good tomorrow. I've almost lost 10 pounds from my holiday high. I just wish I felt skinnier because I don't at all and my clothes feel the same. So hopefully soon I'll start noticing something besides a drop in number.

This Is Why I'm Single

I have a habit of sending really awkward, perplexing, boarderline creepy text messages.

List of Republicans for gay marriage. Dick Cheney is on the list, which surprised me at first but then I remembered his daughter is a Lesbian. It kind of disturbs me that Cheney and I agree about something. Not shocking that my twitter friend Meghan McCain is on the list.

The NI Robinson crises has reached America. An article about Peter Robinson's decision to take a 6 week break is currently the 4th most read story on CNN, under stories about Avatar, most intriguing people of the day, and balloon boy's dad. So basically, it's the most read real story right now. I'm not surprised either, because this story has all the elements Americans love in a political scandal. There's also this very concise New York Times article. Aaannnndd I should be working on my dissertation topic instead of thinking about this.

TUCCKKKKERRRR

Tucker Carlson has created a new news website called the Daily Caller. Good to see my first douche bag crush up to something. Furthermore, everytime I hear/see Tucker Carlson I can only think of the time Lianne and I saw him in DC. Well I saw him first and when I told Lianne she said- "Tuuuuuhhhhkkkk errrrr!" really loud, not realising that he was literally right in front of her. CLASSIC.

My Gorgeous Journey to Iceland

I only bought a one-way ticket to London, since I don't know when I'll be going back. The cheapest ticket was on Iceland air, which meant I would have to fly through Reykjavik and fly through Reykjavik I did. In total I was in Iceland for an hour and a half and couldn't see anything because it was the morning and they have like an hour of daylight in the winter. But, I do now have entry and exit Iceland stamps in my passport! WIN! And I got to visit what is probably one of the oddest countries on earth. For example, their language has evolved so little over the last 1000 years that they can read ancient viking texts. CRAZY. Also, I direct you to this editorial in the Times about the character of the icelandic people.

Anyways, Iceland Air was fine. I was originally seated in the emergency exit row, which a thrill. Until I saw my seat, which was literally half a seat because the plane's door was blocking the other half. I don't even know if that's legal. Further, Iceland Air does not serve food on their flights, which was fine because my flight was late. But I would not want to fly it during the day, how hungry I would be! Also, they had a pretty good selection of TV shows and Films. Though, the films were really random and only had like two new releases. So I watched an episode of Lie to Me (pretty good!) and an episode of Always Sunny in Philadelphia (really funny, considering I didn't think I liked that show!) plus half a documentary about local sons, Sigur Ros and half of the film A Life Less Ordinary, which was alright.

Then we landed in the mythical nation of Iceland and I was way too tired to explore the airport. I would like to return to Iceland one day, during the summer, and explore, but I nevertheless can say that I've been there! I then slept like a little baby on my 3 hour flight to London. Why is Iceland so far from EVERYTHING!?! What a random place to live.

And now I'm back in London. I've pretty quickly gotten over my jetlag AND I finished my essay today! Although it needs intense editing. Wooooo!

Bliss

But, I still will always love love love the original version.

Ahhhh Nick Drake:

I feel my womb leap when looking at this webpage... BABBBIIIEEEEEEEEESSSSSSSSSS. Seriously though, where do I find a child to hold for an hour or so?

Elizabeth Taylor... Hottest Lady in the World... Ever.

Andddd I should be doing my essay.

My most played song according to itunes, despite the fact that I haven't listened to it since July:

It is a really great song. Amazing opening, haunting guitar and then the first lyrics:

Don't you know that I'll be around to guide you
Through your weakest moments to leave them behind you
Returning nightmares only shadows
We'll cast some light and you'll be alright for now

I have great taste.

This is the headline right now on the Daily Mail website. Annndd I'm back in the UK with way much to do. I spent today catching up with people, I'll spend tomorrow chained to my computer= lots of time to blog about my sojourn in Iceland!

Stereotypical Travel Song Marking my Return to the UK

In 15 hours or so I will be touching down in London (unless mother nature creates delays!). I leave Rochester at 330, JFK at 8pm and Iceland at 830am (330 am NY time). It's going to be a loooong day!

I PREDICTED IT!

Leap Year, apparently sucks. At least according to A.O. Scott of the New York Times. Bad film reviews are just so fun to read, right? The highlight of this one comes at the end when Scott writes, "“Leap Year” is rated PG (Parental guidance suggested). No sex. No jokes. No serious swearing. No violence. Nothing."

It's supposed to be 11 degrees and windy in Rochester tomorrow. Please please please let me flight be on time so I can make my flight to Iceland!!!

Super Hot People

Bradley Cooper, so so so effing hot.

Winner of the Week

This week I've been obsessed with this Iris Robinson scandal. For my non-British readers (aka most of you), Iris Robinson is an MP for Strangford, in Northern Ireland, and married to Peter Robinson, who is Northern Ireland's first minister. Iris is really really crazy. I wasn't going to write about her in fears of offending my Northern Irish readers (Yes, I do have an extensive Northern Irish fan base... NOT), also because I think she has some serious mental issues and I kindof felt bad.

But now Iris has gotten really really crazy. Well, more like this story has gotten a lot better.

Basically, the Iris saga started because she hates gay people. No, as she stated "love the sinner, not the sin." Oh yea, Iris is really really religious. So Iris made some public comments calling homosexuality an abomination and saying that she knew a doctor who could "cure" them. Naturally, many many people were horrified, but Iris kept being an MP.

Now a few weeks ago she resigned because of severe mental health issues. This week it turns out she tried to kill herself back in March because she cheated on her husband. When I heard this, I felt really bad for her family, but I felt she was kind of a hypocrite because while she was preaching about one kind of supposed "sin," she was committing a very serious (in my mind real) sin of her own. Also, Peter Robinson seemed really really devastated during the interview he gave for Northern Irish journalists, which is extremely understandable.

But now the story has verged into soap opera territory. Iris's lover was NINETEEN. She's SIXTY. COUGAR! I honestly figured he was an older very religious man who she met at church. This is a ridiculous twist! Her children are probably older than him. Also, she got her friends to lend this Kirk McCambley of South Belfast money for his commercial venture. Anyways, I realize this is very difficult for the Robinson family. But it's a pretty intense scandal given all the points.

Also, I suppose from a governmental stance she broke five codes of conduct. And when their relationship turned sour, she asked for the money back and then asked that he give half the money to her and half to a church in Belfast where her husband's sister is a pastor (via BBC). And as the BBC points out, prior to these allegations most people it seemed to be just a sad, private, family matter. But now the charges are of pretty serious breaches of conduct, particularly for such a prominent political family. But, no matter what, to state the obvious, this is a nightmare for the Robinson family.

Anywho, here's the Times article with the latest twist. Also, here's the BBC article, I'll give Iris credit, Kirk is pretty good looking.

DIET

So I'm on this weird diet called the up-day/down-day diet. It sounds crazy but thus far it's worked. Basically I eat normally one day and then the next day I eat only around 500 calories. I have to do this for two weeks and then I can push the down day calories up to around 600-700 calories until I reach my goal weight. I know it sounds crazy and kindof unhealthy/dangerous, but it was developed by a doctor and appears to be safe. Also, I learned about it in the Times, so it's legit.

The down-days are getting easier (today is my fourth, except I'm cheating for dinner tonight (see previous post) and I always get to look forward to an up-day. Also, I've seen really good results so far. Right now I'm at my lowest recorded weight since Freshman Year of college. However, I've hardly ever weighed myself so I may have weighed less at some point. I don't know if I feel skinnier though. I guess I need to start walking more and wearing clothes that aren't "lounge-wear."

Anyways, I really want to stick to it and I'm going to buy a scale at Argos once I get back. My goal is to lose 25 pounds, which I can't even imagine how that would be. I'm just sick of feeling occasionally gross and large. And also having those feelings to occasionally blame my perpetual single state on. Hopefully by writing it on here, I'll encourage myself to keep with it. WOOOOOOOO.

Goals for Today

Today is my last full day in Rochester. It both feels like I've been here forever and that I just got here, if that makes sense (I'm sure it doesn't). Anyways, here's a list of things I want to do today:

1- Get to 1,500 words on my essay, ie halfway done (I'M TAKING A BREAK RIGHT NOW!). Blahhh

2- Go to Cheesecake Factory for dinner and not feel guilty about cheating on my diet (more on that later)

3- Go to Marshalls and find something cute to buy with my gift certificate.

4- Watch the Jersey Shore tonight yyyeeeaaaa!

5- Pack

And that's about it. EXCITING day.

Losties Take Note: Doc Jensen's latest EW column where he interprets the latest Lost "Last Supper Promo picture. It's as always, a fascinating read.

Daily Show= Best Show Eva

While this clip may offend some, it gets realllyyy funny once Assif Mandvi shows up. Good for Jon Stewart (and writers) for keeping the show consistently funny over what, like ten years? It's definitely where I get my American news from while in England (sad? NO!).

The Daily Show With Jon Stewart	Mon - Thurs 11p / 10c
The Temple of Hume
www.thedailyshow.com
Daily Show Full Episodes Political Humor Health Care Crisis

oh.my.god. A man painted the golden girls on his face and then performed a sort of face dance. So weird/crazy/wrong/AMAZING.

People That I Love

As I'm sure you ALL KNOW, Ghost Hunters International's new season starts tonight and I am soo excited. So in honor of that, I present to you my ode to my fav ghost hunter.

Barry Fitzgerald, Ghost Hunter Extraordinaire:

Oh Barry, my sweet Barry. I don't know why I love Barry so much, maybe it's his enthusiasm for ghosts or his melodic brogue, but Barry is my fav affiliate of TAPS by far. I love the new methods he introduces to the show, like that time he played contemporary music to lure the ghosts out. Or the time when he ran away from the Irish elemental because he felt it's raw power. Also, FACT (in my mind): Barry single-handedly brought peace to Northern Ireland. According to his SyFy bio:

"Barry previously worked as the warden for the Southern Education and Library Board, where he arranged weekends away for youths and worked on conflict issues and cross-border projects, allowing communities from either side of the cultural divide in Northern Ireland to work together and develop friendships."

Magical! On a different note, I'm really interested to see how Barry will deal with the new English resident to GHI, Paul Bradford. I wonder what the episode in the Irish prison would have been like if Paul was there since the team famously (in my mind) debated whether a ghost was saying "rights" or "rice." Barry was convinced it was "rights" given the fact that the prison held Irishmen who were fighting against the British. Anyways, Barry is the best. I especially love his classy soul patch. <3<3<3<3>

Oh and here's Barry's amazing Twitter picture:

WHAT A MAN

Thanks for your expert opinion, Daily Express. Unfortunately, I don't think we should jump to such conclusions. Though, it has been the most frigid winter (in Rochester, not London since I've only experienced one other UK winter) that I can remember.

In other news, I must must must start my essay today.

Things I Look Forward to In England

1- Waitrose

2- Temperatures that occasionally venture above freezing.

3- Eat Yogurt Pots

4- Public Transportation

5- Having some semblance of a social life

6- On that note- my UK-UCL-Oxford friends

7- THQ

8- Cafe Nero- Sunday Times

9- ALMOND CROISSANTS! (I literally had a dream involving almond croissants last night SAD)

10- Jacket Potato place in the union

11- My upcoming beg fest at the union's job shop

12- Heat Magazine

13- Less snow

14- Lianne's VISIT!

image from Guardian homepage.

I'm leaving snow and apparently will be going back to snow. But hopefully, it won't be bad on Saturday morning when my plane lands. Plus, it'll be leaving from Iceland, so I figure icelandic pilots know how to deal with snow. We've had so much snow in Rochester that I'm kindof looking forward to rain.

Photos of Paris in 1962, found via India Knight's fantastic blog

Preview of V Magazine's "Size Issue" featuring a bevy of plus size models. There's also this spread, which features the fabulous Crystal Renn and Jacquelyn Jablonski, a "normal" sized model, wearing identical outfits.

Positive Thing

Well, after that rant, I feel like I should publish something uplifting. So, here's the most uplifting story ever told (involving an animal):

Effed Up Thing in the World of the Day

Here's an article by Rev. Kapya Kaoma, a Nigerian Anglican Priest, on the awful Anti-Homosexuality Act enacted in Uganda, which as of right now essentially legislates the death penalty for gay people. Rev. Kaoma helps to expose the American link at this blatant violation of human rights. Of course it was three uber-Conservative American "Christians" who preached to the Ugandans shortly before this act was formed. One of these men, Scott Lively (who is also a Holocaust denier), wrote a book against "militant" gays who are out to take over the world with their "perverse" values.

In a paragraph in the article Kaoma reveals this about Lively:

"Legalizing homosexuality is on par with accepting "molestation of children or having sex with animals," he said. As Lively puts it, LGBT issues cannot be considered human rights issues. "The people coming to Africa now and advancing the idea that human rights serves the homosexual interests are absolutely wrong," he said. "Many of them are outright liars and they are manipulating history; they are manipulating facts in order to push their political agenda." Lively even tarred abortion rights as "a product of the gay philosophy" meant to promote sexual promiscuity in order to "destroy the family."'

How is the blatant denial of basic human rights to gay people not a violation of human rights? Further, Lively's beliefs were clearly heard in Uganda. Most blatantly in a statement from Uganda's Minister of Ethics and Integrity who stated, "Homosexuals can forget about human rights (via this NYT article)."

I recognize that men like Lively are not a majority within the Christian faith. However, I can see how branches of the religion that speak against homosexuality can lead to such hateful and ignorant beliefs. That being said, a huge number, probably the vast majority, of Christians are progressive, knowledge-filled , and loving individuals. I actually really like progressive Christianity, particularly as seen in the work of Marcus Borg. But, I also recognize that Progressive Christianity is threatening to many people, no more than that, seen as not valid to many. It's just unfortunate that religion can cause such hateful occurrences in our modern world.

RANT DONE! Though, I'll expand on Progressive Christianity later, at some point.

Problems in my life at this second

cold.tired.bored.obesity.procrastination.poverty.overactive imagination

Things I Hate

I hate driving in the snow. I used to be fine with it, embracing every swerve, skid, and loss of traction delight. But that was back in high school before I suppose I fully developed a sense of mortality. Now I hate it. I clutch the wheel and grit my teeth praying to God that I make it. The worst was the other night when I drove home in a blizzard and the roads weren't properly salted, ploughed, etc. I almost swerved into a ditch turning onto the street that leads to my street. It was awful. I don't like driving in general, so snow makes it even worse. Also, it's been in the teens here, aka like -20 celcius. So pleasant! England is going to seem warm in comparison.

Now I get to go research an essay that I don't know how I'm going to write. Research today, write tomorrow, hopefully be half done by the time I leave to make my English return on FRIDAY.

This is absolutely disgusting.

My New Favorite Broadway Showtune

"Being Alive" from Stephen Sondheim's Company. AMAZING especially around 1:52 when he lets it all out. Boyfriend can sing. I'm going to start singing this to random men. Not really. But, I will start belting it out alone in my room and in my mind while walking. Such a this is why I'm single song!

FML of the Day

I woke up this morning feeling pretty normal in size. I weighed myself, it was fine. And all day I was feeling good. UNTIL, I tried to put on my previously loose jeans. It was a real crushing moment. I've been wearing sweatpants all break so I had no idea! I guess that's what two weeks of food and literally no minor form of exercise does to you. Fun!

This Is Why I'm Single

While watching Star Trek (the 2009 film) for the 4th time I thought up an elaborate final scene for the next film involving a space ship flying over the fields of France (I haven't worked out why) and a young boy looking up with wonder. Then his mother comes out and shouts- "Jean-Luc!" and the screen fades to black. Oh. My. God. If that doesn't explain why I'm single, I don't know what does (okay, I do).

Happy 2010- My New Years Resolutions

The Rochester Skyline last night via the Democrat and Chronicle

My Resolutions:

-Be less crazy/deranged/obsessive/delusional

-Lost 10 pounds (ugh)

-Learn to knit something besides a scarf

-Find a part time job in London

-Find a real job anywhere

-Stay up past 2 at least once a month (ugh so hard!)

-Complete Grad School with an acceptable grade

Meh those are enough. Hopefully they're acheivable. Well, the first two probably aren't.