Wednesday, December 12, 2012

Say what??

Don't ask me why, because I haven't got a clue, but in the last three days I have received comments from coworkers about my fashion.

Complimentary comments.

I know, I'm still swallowing it myself.

It does not make sense why Bailey Kathleen, who was not ever fashionable in the Midwest, should come to a city like Los Angeles, where the bar for fashion is a tad higher, and receive these kinds of comments. 

I'm also not even trying. I basically put on layers until I'm warm enough and then leave the house. And yes, I require layers in Southern California, because I get cold easily -- why do you think I left the Midwest? I can hardly handle short sleeves when it's 60 degrees.  

But apparently it's working for me. 

Holler. 

New Year's Resolution: quit trying at other things? Hmm. Something to think on. 

Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Sup, homes?

I don't know about the rest of you, but when I'm out on the road there are a lot of homies out there with me. 

Several other drivers--save a selection who receive more choice names--instantly become homies when I talk to them from behind the wheel.

"Whatcha doin' there, homie? Let's pick a lane. There ya go."

"Homie! Watch it!"

"Really, homie?"

Sometimes the homies are nice, such as when one lets me over:

"Thanks, homie!"

Anyone else experience this phenomenon? Are you sharing the road with bros? Punks? Friends? 

Until next time, homies. See ya out there on the road. And please remember to hold your lane, and let the other homies over. 

Saturday, November 24, 2012

Looks

I would say I love living alone between 95 and 98 percent of the time.

However, there are times when a roomie would come in handy. For example,

When I need help finishing a large meal.
When I could use some company.

But the other times I most often think about having a buddy in my living space with me is when it comes to wardrobe. A roommate could say, for example:

Absolutely not. Take that off. You cannot wear that in public, I won't let you.

Or:

Let's see what shoes I have in my closet--perhaps I have some that would go better with that outfit.

Or:

Bailey, how sexy are you looking today?! Ow!

Today, they could help me out in determining:

A) Just how see-through is this dress?
B) Should I rethink the black bra?

I'm sure my parents are so proud of me when they read posts like this.

Happy holiday weekend, friends!

Saturday, November 17, 2012

Boyfriend

I met someone last weekend.

Some might say he looks like a "real dog," but I love me a goofball.

Tuesday, November 6, 2012

Jackpot

I found When Harry Met Sally on DVD for $7.50 at Target last night.

Retail STEAL, people!

I already have the VHS, which I got for 50 cents, I believe, which should almost be a crime considering the value of such cinematic brilliance.

In any case, now I have a backup copy, should the 80s decide to come back to us and make DVDs obsolete.

Sunday, November 4, 2012

Faves

Kids,

I am too exhausted -- physically, mentally, emotionally, spiritually -- to write you a really thought out post, so I am going to embrace the positive -- because there are so many positives in my life and I really, truly know that, even amidst the negative -- and share with y'all a list of some of my favorite things as of late.

Doing this will also provide me an excuse to post a Sound of Music video at the end of this post. I will say, in advance, you're welcome for that.

So, Bails' current fave list:
  • James Herriot memoirs. I love this writer and his books about animals so, so much.
  • While we're on that subject, I love that I share property with animals.
  • And I love animals, period. Duh. 
  • My spectacular friends, some of whom I already consider family, in my new city where I've lived for a mere 5 months.
  • Parenthood. (The show, not the life event.)
  • Ray Romano on Parenthood. Such a hunky, lovable character.
  • Cross stitching in the evenings.
  • Laughing with my coworkers.
  • Beer and Mexican food. Actually, beer is an ongoing favorite and Mexican food is not actually a favorite at the moment. But I just wanted to list those two things together, because they should get married already, am I right?
  • Coffee. Thank the good Lord for coffee. (This is also an ongoing favorite).
  • The sunshine in California. I love walking out of my home in 90 degree heat in November. I don't say this to brag, in fact several people out there wouldn't envy such weather, in November or any time. But the sun does so much for my spirit. 
  • My family and friends on speed dial. Theoretical speed dial, of course. As if I know how to set that up on my phone. 
  • The abundance of parking spaces in the Valley.
  • My cushy, spacious bed. 
  • Chick flicks. All about the chick flicks as of late. 
  • My church, with its incredible preaching and music. I am overwhelmed by it over and over again.
All right, kiddos. Now it's time to ask yourself: What are your favorite things? If you're having trouble getting started with your list, let Jules help you out:

Wednesday, October 24, 2012

Celeb watch, on my timetable

I did not know until today that Nick Cannon and Mariah Carey were married.

Or that they were a couple in the first place.

Or that her children were his children. (I did know vaguely, I think, that she had kids).

I'm all caught up now, people. Rest easy.

Tuesday, October 23, 2012

A song in honor of my return to La La Land

It's been real, KC. Until next time.

Meanwhile, my friends Corie and Cyle and I are working on establishing the Republic of Califansas. This effort will merge the states of Kansas and California so that travel between the two can be more convenient and frequent. I'll be drafting a flag prototype soon, and then we'll get going on a constitution. You're welcome.

Monday, October 22, 2012

That's me

The other night I was out with some grad school friends--and had a fantastic time, by the way--and below is a sampling of some of the ridiculous (although heartfelt) things I said while we were out.

Sample Conversation #1:

Danny: What's your all time favorite song?

Bailey: Mm, I don't think I really know...

Danny: What's your favorite Celine Dion song?

Bailey: Well, it's a tie between "A New Day has Come," "To Love you More," and "That's the Way it is," but "That's the Way it is" is really an anthem of mine, so if I had to choose, it'd probably be that one. But "To Love you More" is extremely beautiful, so...

Sample Conversation #2:

Michael: Who was your first celebrity crush?

Bailey: Mm, I don't really know...

Danny: Who is your current celebrity crush?

Bailey: Ray Romano!

...Yup.

Sunday, October 21, 2012

Buddy

My cat just put his nose on my toe.

I don't want to leave him behind again.

:( :( :(

Friday, October 19, 2012

There's no place like KANSAS!

I should really get myself into bed.

But it is only 12:30 a.m. in L.A. time, so...

Did I mention I'm reunited with my cat in Kansas?!?!?!

He is a little sore at me--fair, since I dropped him off at Grandma and Grandpa's for a very long time--but we're on our way back to being besties, I'm sure.

Over and out,
Ms. Up Past Her Bedtime

P.S. Oh, and to my L.A. peeps who might have read this post and deduced that I've moved back to Kansas: not the case! Just on vacay! Back soon!

Whoa, did I just make L.A. home with that above statement?

Ope, Dibbs is nearby, gotta go! Mandatory bonding!

Wednesday, October 17, 2012

Sorry for the dearth of recent posts!

Yes indeed I have not posted since Saturday.

Y'all are gonna have to give me some slack because I recently started a new job and moved to a new place, where my WiFi is not yet properly equipped.

I'll be back to it here soon, folks. Thanks for your patience.

--Bails

Saturday, October 13, 2012

What are the odds?

I just hopped on weather.com and apparently the temperature is the same right now in my current town and the two previous ones I lived in.

Interesting.

Friday, October 12, 2012

I wonder why they do that

Have you ever noticed how many movies start with someone waking up and/or getting ready to go to work or school?

Does this seem a little unoriginal to you?

I actually love it when movies start this way. I don't really care if it's unoriginal. It's just interesting to me that the starts of so many films kick off with the start to a character's day. Rather than starting with, say, lunch.

Maybe it's just a way to leave out a lot of dialogue while the opening credits are rolling? Or a way to throw some sex appeal in the movie right away (with shots of underwear, lipstick, etc.) so people won't leave the theatre?

By the way, no one's ever told me that I think too much.

:) That's not true. They tell me that a lot. And I don't argue with them.

Skylar Astin is cute

Sorry for the recent slacking on the posts, peeps.

Started a new job, things are a little cray-cray.

Crazy enough that I accidentally handed my editors a list of story ideas today with the term "peeps" in it.

Eek. Professionalism for the win, peeps!

In other news, enjoy this little vid (seriously, the music in this movie: stellar. You have to appreciate this harmonization on some level, even if you think a capella or pop music is uncool. And the little romance thread in the storyline of this movie put a big, unabashed, didn't-realize-it-was-there-right-away-because-it-was-such-a-natural-response smile on my face at the end of the flick):

Sunday, October 7, 2012

Phew! What a day!

So today was a pretty crazy full day.

First, I got to chat with this little munchkin on Skype:


(who used to look like this, by the way):


Second, I went to a Mizzou watch party with an alumni group here in L.A. We might've lost the game, but there was one pretty great interception-run-back-for-a-touchdown. And I made some new friends. Friends who like to watch football, I might add; something that is not all that big of a deal here in SoCal.

And finally, I went to a movie with an old college friend, met her friend who she brought with, and THEN, just as a little bonus, met someone who went to high school in the SAME DISTRICT as I did at a movie theatre in HOLLYWOOD.

Are you kidding me?! In huge L.A., I meet a guy who knows people I know??? From KANSAS??? WithOUT going to a pre-planned "people from Kansas" event, like the Mizzou alumni football-watching group?

Yup.

Looked him up on Facebook. One of our mutual friends is one of my really good friends.

And to top it all off, my pals and I (minus our newest pal, who felt our movie choice was not one he would enjoy--boy did he miss out) saw a quite enjoyable flick. Did it push some offensive buttons? On occasion. But that aside, great flick:



And in case you're wondering, Yours Truly (aka Grandma) was out past midnight. I know. It surprised me too. Worth it.

Thursday, October 4, 2012

Watch me make a grown up decision

I want to watch "The O.C."

I'm postponing my watch party to go exercise.

This is an example in self control, friends. I exhibit it on occasion.

Over and out,
B.

Monday, October 1, 2012

Ma fille Canadien

'Cuz she's my laaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaady

and I am her faaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaan!

(For those of you who didn't catch that reference, please educate yourself by clicking here)

Sunday, September 30, 2012

On the plus side I have some cute new duds

I went into Macy's this afternoon to go to the bathroom.

And came out minus $106.

Keep me away from Macy's!!! And drugstores for that matter. Kryptonite.

Friday, September 28, 2012

Always be prepared for fun!

Overpacking for my weekend adventure?

Perhaps.

What are you gonna do about it? Sue me?

Didn't think so. Happy Carmageddon 2012, people! And welcome to L.A., Courtney!

Wednesday, September 26, 2012

Men in glasses...SIGH

Matthew Perry looks so stinkin' good in glasses!

So does Ray Romano. Shoot.

Also, if you're not already, you should probably be watching "Go On." It makes me laugh out loud. It's also on occasion rather touching (and DUH, you should be watching "Parenthood"!!)

Tuesday, September 25, 2012

Monday, September 24, 2012

Sometimes I forget about things...

I just saw this ad and thought, "Betty Boop! I almost forgot about Betty Boop!"

Sunday, September 23, 2012

Sigh.

My brother just made two Facebook posts that greatly upset me.

The first: his new phone has texting.

Ugh.

The second: he can update his Facebook status via phone.

I thought he was with me for the long haul on this anti-technology train.

Just don't get an iPhone, Riley, and we'll be okay.

Saturday, September 22, 2012

How did that happen?

I just recently realized I haven't had any caffeine today.

I can't believe I don't have a headache. Not even an almost-here-I-can-feel-it-on-its-way headache.

Score. Although I'm kind of sad I didn't get my daily cup (or 2, or 3) of java.

Guess I'll just get to have extra tomorrow. Served with a side of Luke Danes, please! I mean, served by Luke Danes. Potato, potahto.

Wednesday, September 19, 2012

Mystery

I have been pretty lazy -- physically exercise speaking -- since moving to SoCal.

I've gone for some runs, some walks. But...meh. Not a whole bunch of working out.

Yet curiously -- oh so curiously -- I often find myself stopping to glance in the mirror at the surprisingly fit nature of my arms these days.

I've really got nothin' to explain this. I mean, I certainly can't say the same for my stummy.* Perhaps I'm doing push ups in my sleep?

If you know me semi- to quite well, you know that I have quite strong arms for a woman of my stature. It's true. But they just look so good these days, as good or maybe even better than they do when I'm bothering with some upkeep.

...Hmm. Stumped.

Meanwhile, I need to sign up for a race soon to get myself a-movin', but I'll be enjoying these toned upper limbs, you can count on that.

P.S. I get to see my baby kitty boy in less than a month. Yaaaaaaaaaaay.

*Not a typo. I call it my "stummy." Is that weird? Creative? Adorable? Not as original as I think?

Sunday, September 16, 2012

Winners in my life

I have pretty fantastic friends and family.

I am faced with a pretty big decision, and so many people have come to my aid this weekend to listen, offer advice, prayers, love and support. Even lunch, in one case. You guys are the best.

Over and out, peeps. Have a great week!

Love,
Daily Bailey

Saturday, September 15, 2012

Quick ramble, and a Giveaway!

Hey friends,

I am stitching white thread on white fabric. Goodbye, 20/20 eyesight...

And now for a giveaway!

Be the first to spot the latest change to the blog (hint: answer is not that this post is new) and win these awesome glasses. Comment below. Ready, go!

Wednesday, September 12, 2012

Huge love for this classic group

I

LOVE

Peter, Paul and Mary.

For the record, if you ever need to get me out of bed in the morning, bring me a steaming cup of coffee and crank this song real loud. You will experience positive results:



That harmony! The energy! The heart! And how beautiful was Mary?!

And if you're looking for my Christmas gift, here ya go.

Tuesday, September 11, 2012

My mind is starting to feel like alphabet mush (not soup)

Remember that time I went to my job during the day -- where I write, edit, rewrite -- then came home to edit an essay I'm submitting for contest?

Yeah, me too.

Might be break time soon, my friends...I love working with words and I'm glad I get to do it for a living, but I have my limits for a 24 hour period.

Prayers and thoughts for all those who lost someone 11 years ago.

This morning I was driving to the office and passed a flag at half staff. I wondered why, then my hand flew to my chest as I remembered what day it was.

Saturday, September 8, 2012

Saturday afternoon with Bails

I just got back from Jo-Ann Fabrics and Crafts, where I went a little crazy.

It's okay, because I mostly bought cheap or clearance items.

I was on a primary hunt for cross stitch materials, and a secondary hunt for beading materials.

Here's the thing with cross stitch. I love doing it. It's colorful, soothing, metric, etc. But a lot of cross stitch patterns out there are so grandmotherish and tacky.

Now, I am rather grandmotherish myself, as well as, on occasion, tacky. But when I finish a project, I never really know if someone will want it as a gift.

Today I decided to embrace the tackiness. I picked out one full price item, and then I found the clearance stuff. Oh boy did I get some tacky items (as well as some that could actually be decent gifts, depending on how young or forgiving the recipient may be). I ended up putting the full price item back, as I had amassed quite a few sale pieces to keep me occupied for some time yet.

Before I continue with my story, a sampling of what I bought:

I think this one needs to be hung up in the office cubicle.

Fun fact: my dad calls me Bling Bling. I'm not entirely sure why. He came up with the nickname around the time he was still carting me to my job, before I had my own car; I thought maybe it was because I was earning money?? You know, independent woman, making money to buy bling? It later occurred to me it might be because of my initals. I could put my journalistic skills to work here and solve the mystery, but meh--why ruin the fun?

(Meanwhile, back at Jo-Ann's) My goods were all packed up for me at the register in a brown paper sack, instead of something with the company name on it. I walked to the parking lot looking like I had just purchased some spirits and cigs. With my stitchery contraband, I imagined a run-in with law enforcement.

"Remain calm, Officer. It's just embroidery floss and beading thread in here. Nothing to see here, folks. You need to confiscate the threading needles? All right, that's fine. They came with the kits anyway, and I have more at home. This little thing that says "KOOL KAT"? Yes, under 5 dollars. Right inside there, go all the way to the back of the store, toward the left. I think I grabbed the last one, but you might get lucky and find another. Uh huh, you have a nice afternoon, too."

Am I excited about all my tacky crafting contraband?

You bet your bottom clearance dollar I am.

Friday, September 7, 2012

The gang from the (P) hood

Since you asked,

I have taken it upon myself to categorize the characters from Parenthood into my faves and not so faves. Now, I would never use my blog in this way to discuss real people, so you don't need to worry about me "rating" you in an upcoming post.

However, I have decided to leave kiddos and babies (Jabbar, Sydney, Nora, Max) out of it, because that's not fair. They might be fictional characters, but come on. Teens, meanwhile, are held accountable for their attitudes and actions, even if they are from a script.

I tried to make this a simpler list of love, dislike, and somewhere in the middle. As you will find, it got more complicated (this was really hard, I tweaked this list a lot*). Here goes. See you on Tuesday for the premiere!

LOVE:

     Sarah, Zeek, Christina

Love:

     Amber, Drew, Mark

Like quite a lot:

     Crosby, Millie

Somewhere in the middle (i.e., she's okay/growing on me):

     Jasmine

Tolerable, but let's be honest I wouldn't want to spend a lot of time with him:

     Adam

These two are in the category of: I liked them more at first, but now I'm not as big a fan. I do love that they represent a family with woman as breadwinner:

     Joel, Julia

Annoying, needs an attitude check:

     Hattie

How do you categorize these peeps?

*My brother, Patrick, is probably rolling his eyes times ten right now. He thinks I analyze TV characters way too much.

Thursday, September 6, 2012

Excel, the new distraction from colds

First, I am home sick today.

Go ahead. Feel a little bad for me.

Next, I wanted to share with you that, to occupy my time (I'm currently waiting to hit a conk out stage when my body is ready to take a nap) I am literally making a spreadsheet to help decide when I should take a trip to see family and friends this year. Obviously if I had endless money and freedom to travel, I would travel home more than once or twice this year, but for now I'm turning to Microsoft Office to help me calculate.

The spreadsheet involves columns of family members and my besties. The rows represent holidays or events, and in each cross section I indicate the likelihood that I will see each family member or friend at that event.

The final column is headed "yesses," and displays the current tallies for number of people (approximate, not counting spouses and kiddos) I will see at each event.

Do you think I should draw from a hat instead?

Oh my goodness, I just realized I didn't put Dibbs on the list. What is the matter with me?

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

Sneezerson

So, my allergies are being obnoxious, and I'm hungry for just about everything, apparently.

First one to bring me tacos and a soda wins a prize.

Prize equals a hug, probably. If you're a cute single male, we might talk about a kiss. ;)

Wow, that was forward. We'll blame that on the head fog. Also, who's really going to bring me a taco? I think you can safely send out flirtations via blog if you can largely assume they will be unrequited.

Going on that logic, first one to bring me a taco wins $100.

Of course, if you accept that prize, you might have to pay for the overdraft fee from my bank. You're probably safer accepting the hug.

Over and out, peeps. Clearly I am saying more than I should with this nasal distraction.

Tuesday, September 4, 2012

Almost!

One.

Week.

Til.

This:



Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhh!!!! Just around the corner!!!!!!!

P.S. Ray Romano!!! (I hope his character doesn't break up Mark and Sarah; but Ray Romano as a person and actor--yay!)

Monday, September 3, 2012

Love you, Lyds

I found some panda-shaped strawberry flavored cookies in the gift shop in the building where I work earlier this summer.

Thinking of my friend Lydia, who enjoys things like panda-shaped cookies (kind of the way I enjoy crayons and coloring books), I purchased a box for her.

I mailed them to her, and received this today in an email:

"OMG I GOT PANDAS IN THE MAIL!"

I wrote back and asked if she tried them and if they tasted good. Her response:

"Yes, they are good. When I was little, I used to get strawberry flavored 'Pocky Sticks,' which are like the exact same ingredients except they are sticks dipped in the strawberry stuff. Same brand, too. They had them at the Chinese grocery stores."

And, the clincher:

"These pandas must be a more recent evolution of the Pocky stick."

She's a riot.

Sunday, September 2, 2012

Important matter to discuss

I am sad to report that chocolate covered bacon,

(this next qualifier is important, please pay attention)

AS EXECUTED AT THE 2012 L.A. COUNTY FAIR,

was not great. Let's get even more specific: it wasn't good.

I'll get to the details in a moment. But first let me explain that I think the concept of chocolate covered bacon

(which I have creatively named "pork chocs")

is a great one. Among the pork-eating among us, of course.

My case:

Sweet and salty combinations have been satisfying those with working taste buds for years. I would say centuries, millenia, but I'm not that educated on the exact historic timeline of salty/sweet combos, so I'm going to keep it safe and say years.

People love bacon. People love chocolate. Sweet and salty have been proven to please, so how can you tell me that salty bacon and sweet chocolate combined could not also please?

In fact, this already exists in several forms.

Unfortunately, however, the bacon I partook of yesterday had several issues with it.

1. It was cold.

You're surprised by this, yes? Of course you are. I'd be willing to guess that 95 percent of people who are presented with the idea of chocolate covered bacon for the first time are going to think of something that is either warm or room temperature, but not cold. Show me the research against this and I'll humbly concede the point, but for now I'm sticking with this.

I've been known to eat leftover cooked bacon from the fridge without reheating it. I've enjoyed it. But there is a definite taste difference between cold and hot bacon, with hot clearly being the winner. As my favorite undergraduate professor taught me in our psychology sensation and perception class, temperature affects particular tastes. Why do we drink coffee hot? Because things that are bitter taste less so when heated. I believe the same is true for salt. Try and drink some tap water with salt added; um, no. Salty soup? Fried chicken? Absolutely. You don't notice how loaded up with salt something is when it's nice and toasty. Nor do you notice the taste and texture of fat in bacon quite so much when the bacon is warm.

2. The bacon to chocolate ratio was way too small, further disrupting the opportunity to taste any otherwise delicious bacon.

The entire strip was covered with chocolate -- which I was expecting, but wasn't expecting this to be a problem -- and the layer was rather thick around the bacon. So the bacon taste was not only underwhelmed but difficult to even pick out.*

I found this unfortunate. What I felt I was eating, essentially, was a lot of chilled chocolate, followed by very little bacon taste that I had to really concentrate on in order to notice. Also, in proving my earlier point, the fact that it was cold made the fatty taste more enhanced than that salty, porky taste bacon so uniquely offer us. In its warmer persona, of course.

I realize I said I had several issues to discuss, and then only numbered 2 items in the above list. But as you will notice there were several subpoints.

So I leave you with this. Again, I think the concept of pork chocs is great. I really do. I just think that the bacon needs to be no colder than room temperature. It also should be crispy. I think it should be lightly dipped in chocolate. We're just looking for a hint of chocolate, people, not a thick casing.

What's more, I think we should test this out, and in so doing we will perhaps find that just dipping a slice of bacon part way, so some of it is not dipped in bacon (the way one might dip a fry in a Frosty, for example -- you wouldn't douse the thing, would you? Of course not), is actually better than dipping it fully. We could get artistic about this, even, in the patterns we choose to coat the bacon with chocolate. Diagonal lines, dribbles of chocolate, etc.

But not too artistic. It's chocolate covered bacon, for crying out loud.

If you happen to see a fairground employee, please pass along these thoughts. Thank you for your time. Your opinions on the matter are important to us, and you are safe here to freely discuss them. Please join the conversation in the comments below. We (and by we, I mean I) welcome you.

*Do I sound like a food critic? Editors of the world, leave a comment and I'll be happy to pass along my resume. :)

Wednesday, August 29, 2012

Advertisement for a fellow writer (who doesn't know me; I'm receiving no commission)

I'm about to finish my third Bill Bryson book. That is, in full. I have read parts of several of his other books -- and the man has written quite a lot -- but haven't always had the schedule or attention span (not that the man can't hold one's attention, quite the contrary) to finish them.

Three years ago I blogged about my dear scribe, and should you care to peruse the post you may. Should you care to check a calendar you might note that I've been blogging for a while. Albeit occasionally intermittently, but...

Anyway, it's been nice to get back to ol' Bill. I guess I finished his autobiography last summer, so it hasn't been too long since I've paid him a visit, but even so, it's nice. I've missed ya, buddy old pal.

Oh, and you should get acquainted with Billy if you never have. My quick suggestion: start with A Walk in the Woods or In a Sunburned Country. But the man's written on all kinds of subjects, so if Shakespeare or science, for example, is more your thing, then he's got something for you there, too.

I'll let you get to the library now. A bientot.

Tuesday, August 28, 2012

How are we doing? Meh.

On Friday I was looking for a magazine. I headed to a couple of places that were close to my home to see if they had it. They didn't, but I wasn't necessarily expecting them to.

Before I headed over to a place with a more extensive newsstand, I called 411 first to double check if they carried it. I was connected to the store, I asked if they had the magazine, and I was asked to hold on.

I waited for about a minute, maybe a minute and a half. From what I could tell the employee was standing right there while I waited, I assume searching on the computer. I have no evidence of this, of course, but I don't get the sense that she was walking over to physically look for the publication (this assumption was, again, not proven, but largely confirmed for me later).

She reported back,

"We should have it."

Should.

I thought about asking if someone could go look, but decided against it.

Let me pause to note here that I had been to this location before I called. From what I remember, there are no employee kiosks on the second floor, so I assume this employee was talking to me from one of the phones behind the front desk on the main floor. The front desk is quite close to the magazine rack. In the amount of time she had me wait on the line, assuming she was not in a wheelchair or on crutches (even then, I think she had enough time; and yes, I realize I'm assuming a lot, but I think many of these particular assumptions are within reason), I believe she had plenty of time to walk to the rack, more than casually scan the selection, and walk back to the phone.

Also, while I was waiting on the line, I didn't hear a lot of typing, as if she were searching for information in the computer, although that is not to say she wasn't doing so. I don't think she was spending the time visiting the magazine rack, given her report back to me of "We should have it." But I also didn't hear her talking to a customer during this time, nor did I get the sense I was on hold--no spunky music, no recorded advertisements, etc.

Which leads me to assume that she was just searching a computer during that time (and typing quietly?). Or reading the last issue they had in stock of the magazine I was looking for, for all I know.

I drove myself over to the store, searched the most likely sections of the rack where the magazine I was looking for might be. I searched less likely sections. I didn't find it. Nor did I find an employee who was not behind the front counter or already helping another customer on the main floor (of these I believe I only saw one). So I got in line behind the customers who had something to pay for, waited, then got to the register and asked for help in finding the magazine.

A woman was recruited to help me. Without a lot of flair or pizazz in doing so, and by that I mean a lending a sizable smile, she looked for the magazine. It was not in the store.

Big. Surprise.

I asked where I could find it in town. She suggested I go to one of their other locations, neither of which was super close by, especially by L.A. traffic trends at that time of day.

Today I called another store entirely (I'll make this second story quick, don't worry) to ask if they had alarm clocks.

I was told they sometimes had them, but she couldn't guarantee that they did, and asked if I could call back in 30 minutes in order for someone to go look for me later.

I did not call back.

I would have rather been put on hold for 10 minutes while this employee finished up with a customer (if that was even the case; it was unclear; she told me that the other employees were busy with customers, but did not, if memory serves, speak for her own current hindrance in offering me assistance). Or, if I wasn't put on hold, I would have liked for her to offer to call me back. (I had already done my own research before calling by searching the website, but couldn't tell if they would have alarm clocks).

Now, I am not one to complain too much about customer service. If I am on a date with a man and he says something particularly rude about the wait staff, let me tell you that is a huge turnoff and quite telling to me about his character, or at the very least how I will evaluate his character for some time until he works pretty hard to reverse that evaluation. I don't like it when friends say rude things about employees who aren't doing a flawless job at every last moment. Etc. etc. I like people to give other people a break, and let them be tired and less than flawless sometimes.

But sometimes I've gotta complain.

People, get off your duffs, and go look for whatever it is I'm looking for when I call your store to ask if you have it. It is not that hard. It is your job. And it makes me super annoyed when you are not willing to do something very simple for me, your customer. Or maybe not your customer for long, if such service continues.

Currently I still plan to patronize these two businesses, and if service continues to be poor I would probably first patronize the same businesses at other locations, and then if service really went downhill would maybe stop buying from the business altogether. I don't foresee this happening, but I just thought I'd offer you my short and long term plans. But. I did largely stop attending a particular coffee shop whose staff became too nonchalant for my taste. I am not afraid to seek out other places to find magazines and alarm clocks, should it come to that. But like a first date with a man who maybe gives the wrong first impression but seems like a well-meaning guy overall, I will give you each another chance, two businesses who will remain unnamed here.

And in case you're wondering, I haven't tracked down the magazine, but I did find an alarm clock somewhere else.

Monday, August 27, 2012

Old lady is me

This evening I cross stitched in the kitchen while waiting for my lima beans to cook.

Is it possible for me to be more grandmotherly?

(P.S. Young single men of the world, please date me. I'm grandmotherly in a young, charming way.)

Sunday, August 26, 2012

Bedtime for Bailey

I am putting myself in bed at 9 p.m. tonight.

I had an early morning yesterday, followed by a late night (i.e. to bed in the wee hours this morning), followed by a not super-early morning today, but an alarm clock was involved.

Sleep depravity aside (which I realize is not contributing positively), my emotions are doing their thing. Can I ever request my emotions to cooperate with my desires? Let's see if we can work on that. For example: Hey emotions, can we be happy today? All day? Or calm?

Thanks to all the people who let me chat their ears off this weekend; y'all help me get out of my own head, and believe me, I spend way too much time there. Thanks to Minus Ned for playing a great set last night, always have fun listening to your tunes and getting my dance on. And don't forget my special request for a cover of "Hate on Me" next time. ;)

Friday, August 24, 2012

It's so fluffy!

I'd like to touch Roger Federer's hair. I pretty much think about that rather than his tennis game whenever I watch him play.

Admit it, you do too.

Thursday, August 23, 2012

That'll leave a bad taste in your mouth

This morning I was eating breakfast while watching the news (I can multi-task, but only in very small ways. I actually hate to read and eat at the same time. Serious.)

Anywho, on the news they started discussing a salmonella outbreak in cantaloupe.

I looked down and what was before me?

Yup.

I didn't eat the cantaloupe (assuming I hadn't already had some before hearing the news either this morning or yesterday when I bought it), but I did partake of the watermelon and honeydew that was in the same container, so I'm not sure I really protected myself from harm...

Tuesday, August 21, 2012

(Somewhat) little known fact (since a lot of people watch Ellen, and people have made similar comments on YouTube to what I'm blogging about)

Did you know Ellen can sing?

No, like for real.

I feel like she's trying to be funny in this video -- as well as show off her voice -- but her singing really beats out the humor here. She's got some pipes!

Here she is with Ms. Hudson, singing one of my favorite ballads. At first I called it a diva anthem, but I don't even want to put that title on it, because, as my brother recently reminded me that I like divas (it's true, I do), this song is more than that. It's too emotionally powerful to just be labeled with a "diva" description. It has diva talent and attitude, for sure, but it also has heart. Like whoa. Such a great song:

Monday, August 20, 2012

How to make me dislike your music

I was just listening to a song on Pandora.com. 

It was OK. 

Then a harmonica started playing.

The song then received a "thumbs down" from me. Harmonicas and Bailey are not friends. Unless maybe I'm at a really fun, and I mean really fun, show at some country bar, with dancing. No dancing, then no overlooking the use of a harmonica and my dislike of it. That's the deal. 

Oh, and CraigyFerg is excused from playing the 'monica, because he plays it usually only briefly and he's so cute and funny. Which reminds me I need to get tickets to his show. If you'll excuse me. 

Sunday, August 19, 2012

Some thoughts from a Christian who doesn't always feel confident about her faith

I am going to get a brain tumor with all the phone calls I've been making. I guess that's the consequence of moving far, far away from your family and friends.

Le sigh. Bittersweet.

I might spend my whole life trying to learn how to live by this: "I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances." -- Philippians 4:11

Written by a man who was in prison. Yeah, I could learn a thing or two from such an attitude. But something I have been learning and thinking about regarding faith is that you can't will yourself to adopt an attitude. You certainly can't adopt a feeling. You can change your actions to try and nudge your feelings from bad to better, such as my choice to go for a walk just now and to call my brother and his wife while I was out. But I don't feel 100 percent at peace right now, no.

You also can't adopt a belief just at any moment, in the sense that you can tell yourself you're going to believe something and then immediately believe it. You can choose the faith and beliefs that come with it that you are going to do your best to live by and at least try and believe in. You can't suddenly make yellow your favorite color if really your favorite color is green. I am of the camp, however, that believes that it's up to God what our favorite color, so to speak, our values, choices, beliefs, etc., should be, and He will make a way to get us there and it is our job to trust Him or at least try to trust Him. Or, just wait (while walking through life), hoping to feel that trust until suddenly we do feel that trust.

If you live by a certain faith, some days you are going to believe it fully. Some days you are going to feel that belief fully. But whether you're first coming to a particular faith, or have been in it for years, it's a struggle. Our emotions fluctuate and that reality makes trust and belief very difficult.

But that's what they say faith is for. You choose to do your best to believe in the teachings that you trust, or that you want to trust even when you're not sure that you do. People outside of a faith sometimes laugh at that, but to me I can't imagine abandonment of my faith as a solution. Weathering my way through doubt, fear, depression, not being entirely or at all sure of what it is I hope to believe in; it sometimes honestly feels like I spend a majority of my time doing that. Frustrating as hell.

But walking away? Absolutely not. Sometimes I walk through things, not experiencing feelings of trust, or peace, or calm, or happiness. In those times I may not be able to say with confidence that I believe specifically in something that might seem very out there, in things I can't explain. Sometimes it feels like my actions result in little to no change. That cliche of feeling like no one is listening to your prayers is cliche because it's a common feeling. Or wondering why you're praying about feeling confused and lacking in your faith while people are starving, abused, screwed up by drugs, more scared and alone than I can sometimes feel. Yeah, I feel it all, a lot.

But walking away would make me feel lost. Where would I go? It's better to worry and at least hope what I want to believe in is true than to just worry without holding onto anything.

Feeling badly at times is inevitable as humans. And believe me, folks, I feel badly a lot. I have plenty of moments where I'm fine, too. Confident, accomplished, happy, having fun. So I don't want you to get the idea that I'm always one way or the other. In fact for me one of my bigger fears is not knowing how I'll feel from day to day, because like I said feeling badly is inevitable, at some point or another. Some people are blessed to feel happy and calm almost all the time. Others are not.

Choosing to believe in something outside of ourselves can help. It helps me, anyway, and I do believe with certainty that it helps others. While I can't always feel things happening in my life, or can't bring myself to trust that things are working out for God's will, I have seen so many people changed by their faith in God, and in Jesus.

You may be reading this and it sounds totally foreign to you. Or it might sound completely familiar. I'm just glad you're reading it, to either find comfort in common ground or to learn of a perspective that so many people of faith have. Sometimes I think people think that people of faith are just arrogant, or kidding themselves. A lot of times we're just trying to be content whatever the circumstances, because a man who was once in prison found a way to do so. I don't know if Paul's faith was unwavering, but he certainly felt there was some reason to try and make it so.

Saturday, August 18, 2012

Ryan Lochte aka Bailey's future BF update!

Rumor confirmed, people!

This is indeed Ryan Lochte in the courtyard outside my office. Thanks for doing the research, Nicholas.

Thursday, August 16, 2012

Pool buddies

I am getting closer to dating Ryan Lochte.

When I got off the elevator this morning at the office, there were a whole bunch of excited people in the courtyard.

Through the grapevine (please note, the grapevine does not count as a legitimate journalistic source, but depending on who you consult it might be considered more accurate than Wikipedia) I heard that Ryan was filming a commercial in the fountain outside.

I did not go to check out the situation more closely. I figure Ryan sees enough over-enthusiastic, teenage style behavior from femmes. I need to let him know that I'm a more calm and cool gal. And, the fact that he showed up outside my office today makes me confident that his sense of direction is pretty good.

Wednesday, August 15, 2012

Let me play!

My friend Rosie was showing me around her home town recently and as part of the tour showed me where she used to make out as a teenager. Let me say that I appreciated that element of the tour. I mean it. That's a hilarious element of a tour. Don't argue with me on this.

I told her that since I didn't do any making out as a teenager, I find myself wanting to partake of the silly kissing activities of teenagers. Because while I don't have regrets about my late blooming, I don't want to miss out on things like Spin the Bottle and parking in cars to smooch.

And I realize I wrote about this not too long ago, but I introduce this subject matter as a segue into this video that I found. Per what you are about to watch below, should you choose to do so (you probably should), I just want to say that a)I want to be a part of an activity like this and b)this would SO not happen in the U.S. of A. Am I right, people?

Some highlights, for moi: the guy at 1:24, so casual! Which makes him endearing. Can you imagine seeing someone respond that way in this country? And the woman at 2:20, same question. I love their attitude! They're just helping out, like any good Aussie citizen. No big deal.

Tuesday, August 14, 2012

Shocker

I was telling a friend of mine -- who's a teacher -- that while I was generally a good student, I used to occasionally get in trouble for talking in class during my school days.

If he could imagine that, I added.

[Grin]

Monday, August 13, 2012

My taste was popular 8 years ago

I'll tell ya what I like about The O.C.

The cell phones they have on that show are high tech for the time (early to mid-2000's) and supposed to show off how rich and spoiled the characters are. So, you know, to show us what people are supposedly jealous of, materially speaking.

And those cell phones look like my cell phone. Glorious and flip-tastic.

Love it.

Sunday, August 12, 2012

A little help?

I am not that great at making eggs.

Dad, could you mail me some poached eggs? Thanks.

Oh, and send Dibbs over while you're at it.

Saturday, August 11, 2012

Day off to a good start

Second cup of coffee. Beautiful day outside with beautiful surroundings. Staying with a great friend from grad school. And watching The O.C. Hey, I can't forget where I came from while I'm on vacay north of Southern California. Okay, so I'm not from Orange County, but I am living in SoCal. So, ya know.

We're seeing the new Meryl Streep movie later. We're having a pretty good day here in Monterey.

Wednesday, August 8, 2012

This is really happening.

People, I have a gray hair.

I repeat, a gray hair.

Actually it appears to be white. I am not quite mentally prepared to pluck it for further examination to confirm the exact shade.

Yeep!

Tuesday, August 7, 2012

Smiting my forehead

So I've been on Goodreads.com for over a year now, and I just now added the Louis Sachar Wayside School series books to my "Read" shelf.

This is not because I just now read them for the first time.

Nor is this because I just recently started listing books I read during childhood to my Goodreads account.

No, instead, somehow I just blanked on these until now. Not to use a cliche term, but I am shocked and appalled at myself for this. I loved those books. Still do. And they were some of my faves, not just up there with some other books, say a top 40. The Baby-sitters Club books were definitely near the top of my fave childhood reading list, so perhaps I was distracted by that when developing my Goodreads shelves. But the Wayside tales were on certainly on par with Ms. Martin's accounts of fictional New England child care workers.

I mean, to this day when I hear a reference to Stonybrook College, you better believe that I think immediately of Stoneybrook, Connecticut. Duh. But mention the number 13 and, maybe not every time, but oftentimes I think of the nonexistent 13th floor of Wayside School and the teacher and the students who did not reside there yet were mentioned in every 13th chapter of every book.

My apologies, Mr. Sachar. Perhaps this was a case of "save the best for last." Your books were definitely an enjoyment for me as a kid--I remember highlighting some of the insults in one of the books with a yellow highlighter, on a family vacation to D.C., if memory serves. That may have been the first time I marked in a book, beyond a time or two I might have mussied up a book with some crayons before I understood that not all paper was for scribbling abstractly on. That's pretty significant, when you think about it. Do you remember the first book you marked in? I mean, I think the next ones for me might have been when I was in college. So the fact that 7- or 8-year-old Bailey was marking in a Wayside book is saying something. Seriously.

So again. Mr. Sachar, my apologies. And thank you, for the childhood entertainment.

Oh you have got to be kidding me, I hadn't added Holes either. Ridiculous. Bailey Kathleen.

Monday, August 6, 2012

New hobby

The O.C. depicts a high school life that has just about nothing in common with the one I led.

I'm also 27 years old.

But I keep watching episodes online.

Saturday, August 4, 2012

Makes it all worth it

I just went for a run. It hurt. I'm out of shape. I stopped to walk a lot.

But.

I found this:


and this:


in an alley. Jackpot. I'm thinking of hanging them up in my cubicle and calling them my cousins Charlene and Maggie, respectively.

Friday, August 3, 2012

Self esteem

I have been enjoying watching the Olympics (and, for the record, I think Gabby's my favorite of this year's athletes and...Ryan's a looker--phew!), but of course it makes me feel bad about myself, reminding me of all the things I cannot do and all the world records that I will never break.

But. I have been enjoying it. As this woman has been.

Kids Week on Jeopardy! on the other hand, makes me feel quite good about myself. When I got the answer right for what those things in croquet are called*, I did a little elbow pull down**.

*wickets
**What do you call that, when you congratulate yourself and make a fist, pulling your elbow in toward you?? Anyway, I did one of those.

Wednesday, August 1, 2012

Munch

Cinnamon Toast Crunch and Low Sodium V8.

Afternoon snack of champions, y'all.

Or, for people who can't decide if they're 5 or 85.

Tuesday, July 31, 2012

Spoiler alert: Glee Project latest episode result

No! Shanna! They sent you home!

I love you!

You have such a powerhouse voice, and a powerhouse spirit to match it. You will go far.

God Bless,
A blogger whose blog you've probably never read

Monday, July 30, 2012

My thoughts on Grey's

I'm going to tell you all a story. 

I called Nick to ask him to give me a topic to blog about. He told me to write about self control. We talked about some other things. 

Then he asked me if I watch Grey's Anatomy

Then we talked about some of the actors on the show. 

Then I started to tell him about my thoughts on Grey's Anatomy and the circumstances in which I watch that show. 

And he promptly cut me off and told me had to go. 

Rude. 

So I told him I would blog about it. 

So, for all of you reading this, here are my thoughts on Grey's

While in graduate school, and maybe before that, if I would catch Grey's during the day, I would sometimes stop on it, generally if there was not much else on that caught my interest. 

The scenes involving blood--there are many--make me queasy. 

The show itself is kind of boring. 

I like Katherine Heigl. 

The music is what I like the best. 

Jesse Williams--whoaaaaa, baby. Smokin'. Gorgeous and a half. 

But yeah. The music. I believe I've even put a 3-disc set of the Grey's soundtracks on my Amazon wish list. Great music. Parenthood has great music, too. But I love that show, and actually pay better attention to the plot. And don't get queasy. Except maybe when Jason Ritter is on screen. But that's a good kind of queasy. Like a Jesse Williams queasy. And by queasy in that sense, I mean swoony. 

So I guess Nicky Pie gave me a blog topic after all. Thanks, boo. 

Sunday, July 29, 2012

Pops & Mamacita

In case you weren't aware of how cute my parents are,
do yourself a favor and have a little look-see below.

Saturday, July 28, 2012

Shear...repetition

Remember when I got a haircut, requesting a trim so that I can grow my hair long, then left the salon with my hair as short as it was after my last haircut three months ago?

Sigh.

Ah, well.

Last haircut...


Today's haircut...


Okay, so maybe it's a little longer. But at this rate it's gonna take me a while to get my hair long enough to donate.

The stylist did a nice job, I don't mean to speak ill. The hair's just a little shorter than I really wanted.

Friday, July 27, 2012

Bailey learns to play tennis

Tennis--how tough could it be?

Pretty tough.

I had lesson #2 today. That backhand--man. I used to think--during the years that I played against my former teammate, the garage door--that I had a pretty good backhand. I would hear people say things (not to me, but about professional athletes) like, "Nice backhand" and so I thought it was this thing that was really impressive.

And it is. But it's more complicated than simply being able to turn your racquet to the non-dominate side of your body and hit the ball from an opposite angle. So as a kid the fact that I could hit a ball "backwards" against the garage door was, so I thought, a very impressive feat. And maybe it was for an 11 year old. But it wasn't, and isn't, mastered by any means.

Eventually we took a break from the backhand practice today and went back to primarily forehand shots.

The good news is I have a strong forehand (says Coach).

The bad news is I get tired after some time on the court. I am no spring chicken anymore, folks, smacking the ball against the garage door over and over.

The more I tried to improve my form today--making my swing more parallel to the ground, getting the racquet further behind the ball before hitting it--the worse it felt I was becoming. And that very well may have been. Oftentimes when you're mastering something I think you have to get bad--even if your beginner ability is impressive for a beginner--before you can get good. Like muscles tearing down and growing back.

My feet hurt. I expect to be sore tomorrow. And to be maybe better, maybe worse, at my next lesson. But I'll do my best to whack the crap out of that ball. Keeping low to the ground when I need to, firm footing, run to the ball but stop to get in position, eyes on the seams. Bounce, hit.

Thursday, July 26, 2012

Patty Mike

I talked to my brother Patrick tonight and I don't know if he was hopped up on medicine for his sinus infection or if the stress of moving is just getting to him, but he was extra hilarious. And he is quite humorous to begin with. Sometimes when people are stressed, their rants can be grab-the-popcorn level entertaining. And they usually feel better after complaining, so ya know--win win.

In other news, my internship employer offered me a part time job this week...You know, taking the pictures down from the wall in your cubicle is just annoying, so I told them I'd take the position.

:)

Just kidding (to the cubicle comment). Of course I took it! Excited to learn more as a business reporter! I was pretty nervous coming into this gig, but no one knows what (s)he can do until (s)he tries. Read that in a fortune cookie once, I think. No, seriously. Only minus the gender-equality friendly language; I added that. You're welcome.

Tuesday, July 24, 2012

We interrupt the telling of this story for a giggle

I love it when I'm talking to Nick and we both start laughing long before the story that one of us is telling is over. It happened tonight while we were on the phone. We weren't laughing hysterically, but enough that when I started giggling Nick paused from his telling of the story to chuckle a little himself. That feeling of, "I don't know what the punch line is but I can already tell this story is going to be comical" is a great one. 

In this case the story Nick was telling wasn't that funny in itself but he and I both could relate to other experiences like the one he was telling me about, in which he and I would take the situation lightly while those around us might be more uptight. Relatability paired with humor can enhance the type of laughter you have, even if it isn't full out hysteria.

Giggling in general is like being at a childhood sleepover, which probably evokes some subconscious sense in many of us of the hyperactivity surrounding raiding the fridge late at night, getting in your sleeping bag and sliding down the stairs, sneaking out to jump on a trampoline, having a parent tell you to pipe down only to raise the volume of your antics minutes later.

Laughing mid-story is something I'm somewhat famous for. When I was younger and there were enough of us at home to still gather around a table for dinner, I would recount happenings from school and start losing it during my telling of the story. The funnier the story, the harder I would start laughing, and the longer my recovery time would be in order to keep the laughter at bay long enough to return to the telling of the story. And usually if the story was really funny I would lose it, then recover, several times during the telling.

Maybe I should start telling really funny stories, even if they're not all that recent, more often to get that awesome giggly feeling. Giggling is usually contagious, so really, if you think about it, to tell a story that has you spending more time giggling than actually telling the facts is kind of a little gift to those around you. Or a big gift, depending on how much you all need a boost.

Monday, July 23, 2012

Hangin' out with MK & Ash

Yep. I may have settled in to watch "Billboard Dad" for the rest of the evening.

Hmm, I wonder what would happen if someone made a billboard-sized personal ad for moi...I'd like to think I'm not yet to that stage of desperation.

Sunday, July 22, 2012

A+ for Disneyland

Disneyland, I did not expect to like you that much. Oh I like you all right. Had such a fab time yesterday!

Things that Disneyland has going for it, in no particular order:

1. It's clean. You know how a lot of amusement parks don't smell great? Disneyland, by and large, smelled pretty good. There was not a lot of trash on the ground, and you could actually smell either nothing (i.e., air), fragrant smells (from the plants? Not sure), or food smells (not just pizza smells, but things like garlic).

2. It's pretty. The grounds, all the flora--very nice. It has the fact that it's in Southern California working to its advantage, because plants love it here, and the variety of things you'll find growing is outstanding. I don't know how long I'll be here in SoCal, but one thing I really love for the time being is how many different things you can see growing all over the area, with seemingly little maintenance. The climate does a lot of the natural maintenance.

3. It's not entirely cheesy. It's just not. I thought things would be more gimmicky, things that kids could fall for but that are lost on adults. Now, mind you, I know that Belle is not an actual princess and that Mary Poppins is not an actual nanny with a bottomless handbag, but the off-screen versions of characters and props are very polished. Granted, Walt Disney Co. has the budget to make things polished, but as an industry giant it also has the freedom to arrogantly choose not to make things polished. It's choice to do the former gives me some faith that the company still cares about quality entertainment.

4. The Fastpass system. Using your park ticket, you can go to rides and get a "Fastpass" that tells you when to come back to the ride to jump the line. You can go do other things, including riding rides that aren't as crowded, then come back later and wait 5-10 minutes to get on the ride. Not only genius, but it actually works, and probably makes regular wait times shorter too.

5. The staff is nice. I paid with my check card for most of the day, and several of the people who processed my transactions called me by name upon reading it. I'm sure they're trained that way, but still. The point is that they do it.

During our dinner, a woman named Sheri came over to our table offering buttons for specific celebrations (wedding, anniversary, birthday). I already had my "1st visit" button on, and she made a comment on that. She asked where I was from, Rosie and I told her about ourselves. Rosie realized while talking that we actually had recently celebrated something--our graduation--and Sheri went and got us "Just graduated" buttons. She also wished me luck in my career.

Um, tell me the last time you had such a conversation with a staff member at an amusement park. I'm not saying it hasn't happened. And to be clear, I haven't had terrible experiences at other amusement parks, and I believe they are often staffed with upbeat people. I'm just saying, I think this was a first for me.

6. Space Mountain. It's very important that we discuss Space Mountain. This was arguably the element that won me over at Disneyland. I had been on Space Mountain before at Disney World, and as a result I wasn't too excited to go on Space Mountain at Disneyland. Why? Because it wasn't that great at Disney World. It may have been my debut ride at D. World, actually, and I don't remember it being anything too special. Nick and his dad and myself are all thrill seekers, and it wasn't until we rode Expedition Everest at Animal Kingdom later in the day that we felt we had gotten an adequate thrill.

After riding Space Mountain yesterday, I wondered if maybe my memory from the D. World version was warped in some way. But I told Rosie that me and Team Nick would have been more excited about Space Mountain if it were on par with the Disneyland version. Today I was prompted to look up information on it online, where I feel pretty well confirmed in my belief that the two rides are not identical.

Space Mountain at Disneyland is faster and more intense than the D. World version. Also, at D. World, the ride isn't as dark, so you can see more of the track and know where you're going. At Disneyland, it's pretty dark and there are projections of star images all around you, making for a very disorienting environment. Then it whips you around in completely unpredictable directions. The first time we rode it yesterday I instinctively laughed during the ride. That type of adrenaline that just makes you laugh based purely on your physical state without listening to any sort of comedic conversation or watching human antics is a rare and mysterious one that is incredibly satisfying.

We rode it twice. It was very important to me that we ride it twice.

7. Let's be real: Some childhood fantasies are fulfilled at Disneyland, regardless of age. First, I rode Splash Mountain for the first time, after watching DJ Tanner ride it years ago (during my 2008 trip to D. World with Nick and fam, Splash Mountain was closed, much to my disappointment).

Second, sure, it wasn't as "magical" for me to see the princesses dancing in the parade as it might be for a six year old, but I'd be lying if I said I didn't sing along with Belle and Ariel during the evening "Fantasmic" show. I could imagine things being extra impressive to me were I to attend this park at age 10, but nonetheless I was quite impressed with a lot of things. During Fantasmic, the cast of Peter Pan was acting on high ropes atop a large ship that was moving as they were performing. Corners were not cut. It was an impressive show.

8. There is variety in activity. Throughout the day, we rode rides, saw fireworks, listened to a barbershop quartet, watched a Michael Jackson film (raise your hand if you're a Disneyland virgin and were aware of that little element of the park), watched candy being handmade, watched a parade, looked at souvenirs. It wasn't just rides and playing games to win prizes. In fact I don't think there are any carnival games at Disneyland. Not that those are a bad attraction, but I think their absence adds another point of uniqueness to Disneyland. I guess what I'm trying to say in a lot of this analysis is that I expected Disneyland to be more predictable, given Disney's ubiquitous placement in culture worldwide.

9. The rides are more fun than you (or maybe just cynical, grumpy me) might think. It's a Small World, Storybook Land, those are a little more tame. But the Indiana Jones ride kind of throws you around. It's fun. And Space Mountain--holla.

10. It's friendly to those who get tired. All amusement parks have places to sit and eat your hot dogs, of course. But Disneyland has several restaurants, and where Rosie and I had dinner there was a cafeteria-style setup. Yes, this is also a way to get you to spend more money--and cynical me would focus on this--but it's also a nice way to take a legitimate break and feel like you're somewhere other than just an amusement park during your full day.

11. It's family friendly. This might seem like a "duh" comment, but: no, really. I heard very little swearing all day. Think about it. Where can you go anywhere anymore--besides houses of worship, maybe--where you don't hear someone around you cussing? I think it even cleaned up my mouth for the day. I can be a bit of a potty mouth, but was not so much yesterday.

Good work, Disneyland! Thanks for a great Saturday! And thanks to Rosie, my fab tour guide! Today I am recovering quietly--with sore muscles that evoke "worth it" memories--by drinking coffee and being economical with movement about the house. It's also after 3 p.m. and I am still in my p.j.'s.

Friday, July 20, 2012

Disney bound!

Soon I will be the only member of my immediate family (per a rough survey completed by my father and I via telephone; survey results do not include my sisters-in-law, as we did not consult said participants for data) to visit both Disneyland and Disney World. Holla!

Headed to the park with my girl Rosie in the a.m.! Excited for a day of playful fun, complete with breaks to sit and take a breather to satisfy the old person I am becoming. Slowly aging and young at heart--that's me!

Also. Question: Why is Disneyland one word and Disney World two?

Who's got the answer? I want it.

Thursday, July 19, 2012

Sit back, let me find some things for you to read

Just a couple of things I've been reading lately...

This article was super interesting, with its thoughts on social psychology and the Internet. I was in a total zone while reading it:

BuzzFeed, the Ad Model for the Facebook Era?

And this one was so funny. To be clear, I don't think that getting angry to the point of hitting things or people is funny. What was hilarious to me from this article was the comedic timing of the writing and some of the quotes. The quotes! Read it and you'll see what I mean:

Failing to Hit Jackpot, and Hitting Machine Instead

Wednesday, July 18, 2012

Lots of musing about a typically teenage game

Party people, listen up.

I have never played spin the bottle.

And I want to play it. I think I might put this on my bucket list. Should this be an event at my next birthday party?

Is that appropriate? Childish?

They have those "proms" for adults (one of which I attended this spring with my fellow grad students), isn't that kind of the same thing--giving people a chance to do something over again from adolescence? I never played spin the bottle as a teen--let's cut to the chase here and mention that I wasn't kissing anyone, period, in my teen years--so now I want to play!

Is this totally weird that I'm discussing this here?

Is it weird that I've talked about this subject on the radio?: (Skip to the 6 minute mark)

One more question: which of you gentlemen will be showing up at my birthday party? ;)

Tuesday, July 17, 2012

Polka faux pas (?)

Scale of 1 to 10, how bad would it be if I layered my:

white shirt with black polka dots

on top of

my red tank top with black polka dots

on top of

my black dress with white polka dots?

If you'd like to vote that this is a good idea, you can vote on the negative scale (-1 through -10), as I've  already designated positive 1 through 10 for bad idea scoring.

Sometimes I can be the most confusing person. Who uses negative numbers as a scale to indicate that something is deemed positive? Bailey Kathleen, that's who. Glad to see all those research courses are being put to good use.

If I were with Nick right now, I'd make this outfit a reality and have him take a picture of it, to make the voting easier. However, for now you're all going to have to live in the 80s with me (i.e., without digital cameras*) and use your imagination.

Anywho, I'll let you get to voting.

I'd also like to point out that if a celebrity wore this outfit she would probably be applauded for her innovative fashion sense.

*Were there digital cameras in the 80s? On professional photo/film sets?

Sunday, July 15, 2012

Banging my head against the wall

Literally (well, I guess it wasn't a wall, if we want to get technical).

And unintentionally. 

Being the genius that I am, today as I was doing laundry, I turned my head away from the washer back toward my laundry basket, and WHACK!

I smacked my head against a hard wood cabinet. Hard. 

It was loud enough that my friend in the kitchen said, "What was that?!" and later her husband, who had been on the other side of the house, told me he had heard the impact. 

We are all pretty sure it's not a concussion nor needing doctor attention, but I am sporting a nice goose egg. If it's still there tomorrow I'm going to let people at work guess what happened. Not sure if you can see it super well in the pic below, but I've photographed it so you can feel extra bad for me. 

I took some ibuprofen and iced my head. First with a bag of beans, then with an actual ice pack that is usually reserved for my migraines or plantar fasciitis. Yeah, I've got medical issues. Luckily they can mostly be treated with OTC anti-inflammatory drugs and ice. Count your blessings, yo. 

Prior to the impact, to which it will hereafter be referred, I had plans to go for a run (after putting clothes in the washer...) and then go meet with friends for some beers. Needless to say neither of those activities will be happening today. I am soldiering through with the laundry, however, moving a little more slowly this time...

Seriously, when you get these needless injuries, don't you feel like an idiot? Share your how-did-that-happen? injuries in a comment below--it'll be fun! Then send a friend over to the site to share his or hers!

Was that shameless plug shameless enough? When you hit your head, you probably gain a little tolerance for shamelessness.

I'm planning to rearrange plans for the evening with some salty chips, some Coke Zero (also known as Cozo, which I nicknamed it last summer), maybe some ice cream. Snuggle in with my latest read. If you want to feel sorry for me and tell me how much you like me, I will accept phone calls. And emails and flowers and chocolates. But no texts. 

That's how I know my consciousness wasn't altered during the impact, because I'm well aware that my communication preferences still lie within the twentieth century. As they should be for this girl, who is newly adorned with a stylish (final color to be determined) goose egg.

Friday, July 13, 2012

Take a deep breath. Regroup.

(Also press play on this video. That will help with the regrouping)

Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhh:

Thursday, July 12, 2012

Grating

I might lose some fans in saying this, but the sounds of the following instruments irritate me, pretty greatly:

Ukelele
Steel drum
Harmonica

There. It's out there. Go ahead and be annoyed with the information. I don't have to like those instruments, yo.

If this posts proves popular, perhaps I'll tell you some other things I don't like--such as certain films that are quite popular among the general public...

And if this post proves quite unpopular, maybe I'll pacify y'all with an up to date post on all the junk in my car.

Smooches,
B

Wednesday, July 11, 2012

Lazy bean

I should really pick up my clothes in my bedroom.

Ah well, that's what (next) weekend is for.

:)

Tuesday, July 10, 2012

I need to up these stats

I bought two kinds of candy and a soda this afternoon. I mocked my choices and made a quip to the cashier about my "nice healthy snack."

He told me that I still look good, despite my snack choices.

I would assume this was me being hit on, but it's been a while, so I'm hesitant to really call it that as I'm not sure I would recognize being hit on if it happened. Meanwhile, I'll take it. Kind of like that time a barista told me I looked like Celine Dion.*

*That blog post was almost three years ago to the day. Yep, that sounds about right for my rate of being hit on. Just kidding. Kind of.

Monday, July 9, 2012

Evening thrills

The journalistic researching doesn't stop at the office, y'all. At home weighing my options for various checking accounts.

Hold on to your seats, friends. This is pretty exciting.

Ope, Bank of America's website is struggling to load the page that can show me further details about accounts. Probably getting taken off the list as a result. Oh snap. Time is money, Bank of America. You should know that; c'mon, you're a bank.

Sunday, July 8, 2012

Tennis and Tweedle Dee

This weekend is one for the history books.

Or, for my journal. Which is a book, that keeps records of history. So ya know.

Yesterday I had a tennis lesson (I have wanted to play tennis for years), followed by beer and snacks by the pool, followed by dinner out with a delicious tuna melt and another beer. All in the company of a fabulous couple who I am getting to know. So laidback and delightful. Really, really enjoy their company.

Today after church (where I sat with another dear couple) I went to my friend Sue's house where we sat out back with her mother and ate grilled cheese sandwiches with avocado and tomato. On the sandwiches, not on the side. Sue doesn't mess around.

Joining Sue and myself and Sue's mom were Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum. Cats? Nope. Yorkies? Nope.

Tortoises.

Yessssss. They are so precious. They just lumber around like, well, slow pets. And it's still so interesting and surprising to me that they respond to your voice. They slowly turn their heads toward you as if to say, "Yes?" Sue would put her finger by their eyes and move it in the direction she wanted them to go. And they would follow. They would eat grass and hay and they almost looked excited as they came upon it. "Ooh! Hay!"

They were quite excited about my shoes, which are some pretty out of control purple sandals, as well as my red-painted toenails, which they apparently thought were strawberries or cherries.

I was there long enough that I ended up staying for dinner, complete with ice cream.

Great weekend. I am blessed. Great friends, who take care of me, and a God who puts them in my life.

Friday, July 6, 2012

Yay for a happy Saturday to come

Me so excited to hang out with wonderful people and have a tennis lesson tomorrow.

:) :) :)

Me new shoes:

Thursday, July 5, 2012

Cuddle monsters in the streets

Sometimes when a man is in a zip-up hoodie, I just want to hug him.

I won't name him here, but I saw someone today wearing a zip-up hoodie and I suddenly wanted to hug him. Or cuddle. Potato, potahto.

This is not the first time I have been caught suddenly by such an urge when sighting a man in a zip-up hoodie.

And yes, it makes a difference if it's a zip-up hoodie. No zipper, no urge*. I can't explain physics, I'm just reporting the facts. Like a good journalist does. Over and out.

*Generally speaking. A great personality and/or darling looks can override the zipper clause.

Tuesday, July 3, 2012

Precious man

All Creatures Great and SmallAll Creatures Great and Small by James Herriot
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Mr. Herriot is a delight. He's so articulate, and humble to just the right amount so that you're not annoyed by him. I laughed out loud more than once while reading. I immediately recognized his talents as a writer but thought I wouldn't want to read beyond the first book of the series because the books are pretty lengthy. After finishing this book, however, I think I will, in time, read the remaining four.

I would have been honored to accompany Dr. Herriot to a farm in the middle of a wintry night, soap my hands in a bucket of steaming water*, and assist him in treating an animal in need.

*an image forever in my mind thanks to this gift of a book

View all my reviews

Monday, July 2, 2012

I'm okay. God's got my back. He's got yours, too. FYI.

Hmm.

So being lonely and feeling lost is just a part of life, then. Bummer.

I say this like I haven't already known that for a while now.

This is not supposed to sound like I'm always sad and lonely. Just kind of an on and off emotion of my life right now. I actually had a pretty great day at work today. Sometimes after all the work and busyness stops you start to feel the other stuff.

This delicious song takes the edge off. I was with my dear friend Shelly this winter at her place for dinner and I turned on this song and we just laid/sat there and listened to it. So soothing. If I recall correctly it was after a rather rough night for me, not sleeping part of the night. Being awake and alone when the rest of the world is sleeping can sometimes be the worst. But God took me through that night and the next day and then took me to Shelly's, where she fed me and we listened to Bon Iver.

And watched The O.C., I think.

:)

I just got up (just now, not in the winter when I was with Shell) and closed my blinds. It's dark outside and light inside and I caught my reflection. Do you ever check yourself out in a reflection and then realize people might be able to see you on the other side of the glass?

So back to what I was talking about. God brought me through that rough night and other rough days and He brought me to Cali and here I am after a good day at work, don't know what I'll be doing in a month, no cat. Roof over my head, food in my belly, grateful for friends even if they're not right here with me at this exact moment.

This weekend some plans fell through with a friend and I started to race ahead in my head, thinking, "What am I going to do next weekend? When will I get to hang out with a friend next? Will I make friends here?" and as I put clothes in the washer or took them out I told myself to slow down. Don't race ahead. God will give you friends. You will make it through. Psalm 68:6: God sets the lonely in families.

And I finished my laundry--I love doing laundry--and watched the Kardashians and Nick called and we talked and I laughed heartily. He told me about the outfit he saw a woman wearing and we talked about the appropriateness of wearing tight clothing at work. For the record: not appropriate.

I slept hard and long that night--might have woken up once or twice but when I was asleep it was pretty good sleep.

Last night I woke up around 4 a.m. and read from my book, All Creatures Great and Small by James Herriot, to fall back asleep. After about 2 pages I was ready to sleep again. Things could be worse than reading about animals in Scotland in the 50s when you're up in the middle of the night.

So many times when I was living in the 'burbs with my 'rents (and abbreviating words to imitate street talk) I would freak out about being alone, not knowing what to do with that next hour of my life, or day, or weekend. Then I would go to the grocery store and see someone I hadn't seen in years, or months. And I would remember, His eye is on the sparrow.

Yesterday at church (this church I go to is awesome, by the by) our pastor read to us from Psalm 84. I'm in love:

"Blessed are those whose strength is in you, in whose heart are the highways to Zion. As they go through the Valley of Baca they make it a place of springs; the early rain also covers it with pools. They go from strength to strength; each one appears before God in Zion." --Psalm 84: 5-7

So I guess what I'm trying to say is, I'm not exactly comfortable. But I'm okay. And actually after writing this I'm feeling a little better. More vibrant, like the pink is back in my cheeks.

I forget that this writing thing is restorative for me.