I am a folllower on occasion

" The good fuck" You are 63 fuckable!

You're about as fuckable as most people, which is not bad. Actually, it's quite healthy! You know how to act and what's appropriate. You know when it's the time and place for what. And people can use that to see you erotically. It's no surprise that you can attract a good number of people. You're what they want! A realistic babe who knows when to get a bit wild! Yeah, I'd fuck you!

My test tracked 1 variable How you compared to other people your age and gender: You scored higher than 20% on humpers

Link: The how fuckable are you? Test written by ShizzleBitch on OkCupid Free Online Dating, home of the The Dating Persona Test

They're baaaaaack

Well, the all at once dreaded and anticipated Gilmore Girls season premiere has come and gone. Beth has a decent assessment of last night's episode on her blog. I am willing to agree with her on most points. Honestly, I know a lot of people in Stars Hollow world were concerned about life without the Palladinos but I think it's safe to say I wasn't one of them. So far David Rosenthal has got me. Like Beth, it seemed like a toned down version of GG. Which, when compared with the stupidity that was last season, is fine by me.

I loved that the girls played some racquetball. Although, they proved my rule of always wear goggles. I loved that Logan is clearly over the moon yet playing it safe with Rory. It gave me a chuckle to see Rory not holding all the cards in the relationship. I loved that Lorelai blew Christopher off, although previews tell me that won't last for long. I loved the parallels between the Luke/Lorelai fight and the ruination of the diner.

I think we are in for a different season, probably the last season. But in this case, I don't think change is bad. I am going to keep my fingers crossed that Luke and Lorelai go their separate ways and then find their way back to each. Until then, I am along for the ride.

My addiction: television

As Beth discussed on her blog, there are several new shows that have caught my interest this television season. I don't know how I am going to keep all these new shows in addition to the stuff I already watch.

Last night, I watched Brothers and Sisters. Beth liked it and so did I. However many critics seem to hate this show. I found it pretty believable in the way siblings relate. Plus, Ron Rifkin was creepy even when he wasn't Sloan. I've said it before and I will say it again, Greg Fucking Berlanti. I actually squealed when I saw his name on the screen. I will follow this man anywhere. So, this one is a keeper.

I also watched Six Degrees this week. Like Beth, I am slightly on the fence about this show but I do like Campbell Scott. And, I think my J.J. Abrams love is well known on this blog.

I feel like I am completely copying Beth here but I am really looking forward to Heroes tonight, the premier of Gilmore Girls tomorrow, and Ugly Betty later this week. I have noticed that I am watching more ABC than just about anything these days. Let's do a tally:

ABC: Grey's Anatomy, Brothers and Sisters, Six Degrees, Ugly Betty
CW: Gilmore Girls
NBC: Heroes, Studio 60

Also, I am curious to see what is going to happen with What about Brian and I am not sure how I can watch The O.C. at the same time as Ugly Betty as I only have one t.v. and I haven't figured out how to watch a show and tivo another. Sigh.

Also, for all you t.v. lovers out there Everwood begins syndication on October 2. My tivo is already set. In fact, I am thinking about buying a tivo specifically dedicated to Everwood. I'm totally serious, y'all.

The one where I get inspired

Last year most of you followed my progress at the gym and on my diet. I was pretty proud of myself for doing all the work. But somewhere along the way I fell off the horse. I have reasons or excuses; whatever you want to call them. And now I find myself back at square one. Back where I was before I did all that work, before I felt good about myself again. I was sitting in my apartment earlier this week wondering what it would take to get me back on the wagon. I was waiting for someone to light a fire under my as that I myself couldn't light.

It's strange to think about how the internet brings people together who should never really be together. I mean you "meet" people in chat rooms or on blogs or on random web sites and these people affect you. You read about them or you read their stories and it changes you. It makes you think you know them and it makes you think they know you. Even though that is not often the case.

The point of all of this is to say that Pamie has inspired me. On her blog she discusses in detail her first marathon run. As I am reading this entry I am crying at my desk. This woman, who I have never met and probably never will meet, has reduced me to tears and at the same time has give me the final push I need to get up off my ass.

Tomorrow morming I begin my training. I don't plan to run a marathon. But I do plan to run Hanover's Race to the Point in May. I don't want to walk/jog it like last year. I want to run it and maybe even place in my age range (so, look out, Robyn). I have a title to defend after all.

Dear Fall, It's me, Jalehlabad

I love Fall; it's my favorite season. It's perfect jeans, tees, sweater, and converse weather. I love when the leaves change colors and makes everything orange, yellow, and red. I can't wait to see my new neighborhood under Fall's influence. You might think that since I live in a city now that I don't see many trees but you would be wrong. My neighborhood is tree filled and I live by several parks and a botanical garden. So, I am not too far from nature.

Anyway, for the last few mornings things have been a bit chilly. It generally warms up in the afternoon but I am liking the chilly mornings. Of course, that is until I have to start scraping my car windows. But that is winter and I never said I liked winter. I am ready for fall. I am ready to shut off the a.c. and have the windows and the patio door open. In fact, minus the patio door, that is the condition of my apartment right now.

In other news, Project Runway was a repeat last night. Thanks for the head's up, Marissa. So I spent the evening with my second favorite vamp, Angel. He's not Angel anymore though. Now he's big, bad Angelus. I can't help but think things are going to get worse before they get better. Anyway, I like that David Boreanz seems to have fun playing Angelus. Also, Wesley just gets hotter and hotter as the show goes on. I don't really like the triangle of Wes, Gunn, and Fred but whatever. I can live with it if it means less Connor on my screen.

Finally, I am going to buy some OK GO/Death Cab for Cutie concert tickets at lunch. Who's jealous?

Meow mix

So, first of all, thanks for all your well wishes for my nutty cat. It turns out she doesn't have, in fact never had, a urinary tract infection. What she actually has is stress induced inflammation of the bladder. Yeah. Who would have thought that my cat (who is only four) would be so stressed out? Apparently the move wasn't as smooth for Zaria as it's been for me. Anyhoodle, she didn't need surgery but she is on meds for the next three weeks and she has a new, special diet.

On the work front, my office is being renovated today so I am surrounded by drywall and noise. It's a lot of fun. I also had my first reference question and, of course, it had to be a difficult one from a ph.d. candidate. But I am trying to muddle my way through it. Also, I just put in a request to attend a conference in Boston this November. I've never been to Boston; so those of you who have need to give the goods on the nice places to eat.

ETA: Holla to my pal Marissa for getting a book review shout out on pamie.com. I am so jealous.

Otherwise, I am leading the boring life of looking forward to Project Runway tonight. It's truly exciting this life I lead.

I am Aaron Sorkin's bitch

Last night I caught the pilot of Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip. I am hooked. I knew it was going to happen.

Aaron Sorkin just writes so well. I already care about a few of the characters. Bradly Whitford and Matthew Perry have great chemistry as best friends and as a writing team. I have always liked Sarah Paulson and I think she's good but I could see Emma Caufield in that role really doing a great job. Steven Weber plays a great bad guy.

ETA: Plus, Lauren Graham is going to have a two episode guest appearance this season. As herself! I am so glad she is pals with Matthew Perry.

Anyway, it's a great mixture of poking fun at politics and Hollywood. Two things which I enjoy very much. If you missed the pilot, you can get it from Netflix and then catch the new episode next Monday.

In other news, if you hadn't noticed, I changed the blog layout. I just wanted a change. I am not sure how long I am keeping this one but it's here for now.

I am continuing my foray into Angel season four and have been truly grossed out by the Connor/Cordy hookup. I am kind of glad I have a few days until the next dvd comes. Not sure I can handle more of the ick factor. I have also finished the first half of the Forsyte saga. I am now looking forward to the divorce of Soames and Irene. I know he did a horrible thing that is really unforgivable but I cannot stay mad at Soames. I really feel sorry for him and I pretty much loathe Irene. I am interested to see how this ends.

On the home front, I have a very sick kitty. I know most of you have no love for Zaria and she really has no love for you. But I love her and I am her person so she loves me. Right now my cat is at the vet awaiting x-rays, urine sampling, and possible surgery. All because of a urinary tract infection. It hasn't been fun giving her medicine twice a day for two weeks and it's been even less fun finding bloody urine on the bathroom floor multiple times a day. But really, I just want her better. Because I can't imagine it's been all that fun for Zaria either. If you've ever had a urinary tract infection, I think you can sympathize with my cat. All I am hoping for is no surgery because surgery = $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$. And to think, just a few days ago I was mocking those who had insurance on their pets.

It's Friday but I am not in love

This morning I woke up fairly scared. I had this horrible dream about some dear friends of mine dying and then they left me their child to raise. Not that I don't love kids but the dream really freaked me out. So, if you get a call from me later on today to make sure you are all right then you know my death dream was about YOU. Also, you might need to have a kid so that sort of excludes about 99% of my readership.

As I was showering this morning, to get my mind off my terrible dream, I started to compile a list of the things I don't miss about living in Indiana. Since I am sure you are just dying to know what that list is I am going to take the liberty of typing them out for you.

1. Slugs in my apartment. Since moving to a second floor pad and not living in such close proximity to a river I had been able to rid my home of slugs.

2. I only have to drive for 5 minutes to get to Target. I could walk it in about 15 minutes. Now, I know Beth (who lives in Indiana) has me beat on this one but I don't care.

3. Cecil Whitaker's Pizza. It's fucking good pizza.

4. My old hairdresser. I found her. Daniele is going to work her magic on my hair on Saturday. Needless to say, I am stoked.

About this time my cat tried to jump into the shower to say hello and my list went away. I am sure I could add more but I really don't feel like it. Now, this is not to say that they aren't things I miss about Indiana because there are some of those as well. For example, I forgot how noisy people are. My river town place was so quiet and private. It is very different from my place here. Also, knowing a barista at the local coffee shop was nice. I miss free iced teas and chatting when I should have been doing other things. Most importantly, I miss WNSC. Wednesday night social club was just awesome. It was a great group of folks who knew how to drink and have a good laugh, even when they contemplated kicking me out for watching Alias. I am missing that here. I mean, drinking alone on a Wednesday night seems kind of pathetic. Not that this has ever stopped me before.

One final note...I have been listening to some Buffy podcasts on itunes. This guy Revello does a decent job talking about Buffyverse. I don't always agree with him but it's nice to get another perspective. One thing that really stuck out to me is that he commented on all these people who liked Willow and Kennedy as a couple. All I have to say is who are these people? And do they have any common sense? Do you, my fair readers, know anyone who likes Kennedy? Because if so, please put them in contact with me so I can ask them how such a thing is possible.

On being a student again

You know, languages are funny. Not everyone can learn them. I am finding this out very quickly as I am currently enrolled in a language course.

I should clarify something here. I am not talking about myself; rather I am talking about some of my classmates. Studies show that people have a hard time learning a second or third language after the age of about 12. Now, I know I am older than 12 but I am also faring a lot better than others in my class; it probably has something to do with knowing the language as a child and having it rolling around in my subconscious. It's week two and I can already tell you the two people who are going to keep this class from going at a fast pace. Not to be an agist, but it's the two women over 50. Don't get me wrong; I admire them for even attempting to learn a language so vastly different from their native tongue. But Christ, they can barely say hello without getting confused. And when writing a three letter word takes almost four minutes, well, it's an issue. Or at least it is for me.

My professor must have the patience of a saint because I don't and I am annoyed. Luckily for me, I got paired with a girl who just returned from a country where this language is the native tongue. She and I are getting along really well, especially since we started the mocking last night. Granted, it was quiet, only we can hear it mocking but it was fun.

Also, I forgot how tedious language homework can be. And how time consuming. I spent the better part of Saturday morning and Monday night doing homework. It's a good thing I have tivo for the upcoming news seasons. I won't be letting homework stop me from watching hours of mindless television.

Speaking of television, I saw the new Gilmore Girls promo last night. It looks promising. Luke seems shocked by the events of last season; though mostly because his head has been up his ass. Sigh. Anyway, here's to hoping it's a good season. Oh, and this Sunday night check out the final night of the WB. They are showing the pilot episodes of Buffy, Angel, Felicity, and Dawson's Creek. Guess how many of those are on my tivo to do list.

I'd rather be dead than red in the head

I finally sat down to watch the newest version of the story of Queen Elizabeth I. Elizabeth I starring Helen Mirren as the aging queen in need of a husband and heir. I thought the film was excellently done. The costuming alone would make it wonderful but the acting was also superb. How could it not be with Ms. Mirren and Jeremy Irons? Also, Hugh Dancy is as cute as he was in Ella Enchanted. Hee.

I have sort of always had a fascination with Elizabeth. She intrigued me as a fellow red head. In college when I was able to really study her I found her to be even more compelling. Here is a woman who grew up without a mother and with a father who basically hated her. Her siblings weren't exactly what one would call close what with Mary trying to kill her and all. But this woman ruled England well. Better than either of her siblings for sure. Although, on Edwards behalf he never really had a chance thanks to being so damn sickly. Anyway, in this version of the story Elizabeth doesn't ever have sex; she is the virgin queen. Not sure I totally buy into that theory but I suppose the times were very different and Elizabeth pregnant with an illegitimate child wouldn't have been so kosher.


Anyway, if you have HBO you should totally check this two part movie out.

Because Mike said so

The Wikipedia meme:

Birthday: February 12

Events: (I had to do four events)

1554: A year after claiming the throne of England for nine days, Lady Jane Grey is beheaded for treason.

1870: Women gain the right to vote in Utah Territory.

1951: Soraya Esfandiary Bakhtiari marries the Shah of Iran Reza Pahlavi at Golestan Palace in Teheran at the age of 17.

2004: Mattel announced the split of Barbie and Ken.

Births (besides Abe Lincoln):

1938: Judy Blume, American Author

1980: Christina Ricci, American Actress

Deaths:

1804 - Immanuel Kant, German philosopher (b. 1724)

I want to know what love is; I want YOU to show me.

This weekend I was lucky enough to have the plesure of going to see the rockin' duo of Foreigner and Styx. There is just about nothing better than a nice psuedo-Fall evening outside with a warming, over-priced Bud Lite in your hand; surrounded by dirt rockers and listening to Classic Rock. Seriously.

Although I went mostly for the mocking that I knew would happen (plus the free ticket), it was a great night. My pal Selena and I made fun of several dirt rockers. We were sickened by the couple on the blanket next to us, and were rocked by Foreigner. Styx left much to be desired as they did not play Mr. Roboto. Bastards. I was kind of shocked at how many Foreigner songs I knew as I couldn't name a single tune they sang before heading to the concert, mostly because the songs of theirs I knew I had attributed to other bands. What can I say? If you weren't Poison or Def Leppard I didn't pay too much attention to you. Unless you were Color Me Badd or Too Live Crew or Garth Brooks. Yes, I had ecclectic tastes even as a child.

One of the coolest parts of the evening was running into a pal I hadn't seen in years. I saw my old Political Science sparring buddy, Joe. That was good times. Who knew that Sytx and Foreigner could bring people together like that?

Gilmore Girls and memes

I think that the impossible has happened. I am Gilmored out. I am tired of those Gilmore Girls or at least the episodes in syndication on ABCFamily. I deleted my tivo season pass for the syndication episodes. I am done. I can't bear to watch the season six episodes that will begin on October 2. I am a little scard to begin season seven (which starts on Spet. 27). Damn you, Amy Sherman Palladino for filling me with such sadness and dread. I am hoping that Rina Minoun (from Everwood) will help breathe some new life into this season. And speaking of Everwood, it begins in syndication on ABCFamily on October 2. PLEASE WATCH this fabulous show. If you aren't hooked after three episodes then you can mock me unmercilessly for loving this show. Let the tears and laughter begin.

And now on to this meme from Ali P, Bill and Mike.

1. Elaborate on your default icon.

I don't understand this at all.

2. What’s your current relationship status?

That's a funny one. Single. I am perpetually single.

3. Ever have a near-death experience?

Two actually. Both of them involve car accidents. Does that shock anyone?

4. Name an obvious quality you have.

Gosh. I don't know. Shyness. Hee.

5. What’s the name of the song that’s stuck in your head right now?

I've Got a Theory ~ Cast of Buffy the Vampire Slayer

6. Any celeb you would marry?

I would marry Michael Vartan if only for the sweet French nothings he would whisper in my ears.

7. Has anyone ever said you look like a celebrity?

Yeah once when I as drunk at a bar but I don't remember which celebrity I looked like.

8. Do you wear a watch? What kind?

Nope. I started to develop rashes on my wrist when I wore a watch.

9. Do you have anything pierced?

Several ear piercings and the nose.

10. Do you have any tattoos?

Yep. Three of them.

11. Do you like pain?

Sometimes. Mostly when it's related to the gym.

12. Do you like to shop?

Yes. A lot. Too bad I don't make more money.

13. What was the last thing you paid for with cash?

Haagen Das fat free mango sorbet.

14. What was the last thing you paid for with your credit card?

Gasoline.

15. Who was the last person you spoke to on the phone?

Squater

16. What is on your desktop background?

A cast pictrue from Arrested Development.

17. What is the background on your cell phone?

An artsy pic I took of paint chips.

18. Do you like redheads?

Yes. Otherwise I would be self-loathing and that is no fun at all.

19. Do you know any twins?

Yep. My friends Kellie and Josh have twin daughters. They are cuties.

20. Do you have any weird relatives?

Seriously. Is this a real question? Most of my relatives are strange while I am oddly normal.

21. What was the last movie you watched?

Embarrassingly enough, it was Monster In-law.


22. What was the last book you read?

Herland by Charlotte Perkins Gilman.

Welcome Back, Kotter

After a long hiatus I return to you all. So, how's it going?

I have been very busy with painting and unpacking and spending money I don't have on furniture and other items to fill my apartment. I'd post pictures of my new pad if I had thought to take any. Maybe I will do that this week some time.

I am currently at my new, temporary desk at my shiny new job. It's a bit strange as the training here is a little lax compared to the training I had at my old place of business. Right now I am getting ready to go through the supply catalog to order up some goodies.

It's strange since so much has happened at and yet it feels like there isn't all that much to tell you.

I have been watching The Forsyte Saga from Netflix. It's good on a variety of levels. First there is the Captain Winters aka Damian Lewis level. I say that makes it good even if it was bad. But it's not bad. I think you are supposed to hate the Damian Lewis character but I really pity him. Anyway, I am hoping that disc two comes soon. Also, I have officially watched every episode of Arrested Development. And now I am even more sad that the show is not getting a fourth season. This show is not only hilarious in a laugh out loud and pee you pants way but also in a sly making fun of our political structure way. It's excellent. Go rent the dvds today.

Anyway, I am glad to be back. I hope you are happy to have me back.

Going away again

You know, this whole moving your whole life and leaving your job for a new job situation is a bit time consuming. Sorry I haven't been talking much but packing boxes isn't something I think any of you want to read about. So, I will be back soon with more tales of books and music and movies and such nonsense.

Before I go though, I am giving out big props to The O.C. for hiring Chris Pratt (better known as Bright from Everwood). You can read all about his new role here. All I can say is, SQUEE! Bright! and I am pretty sure I will be watching The O.C. come November. It's a good thing that I have such an authoritative source to tell me all about The O.C.

I'm back

After my long hiatus, I return to you fair readers. You will hopefully be happy to know that I have found a place to live. I will be living in the neighborhood known as The Hill. I found a great one bedroom with hardwood floors, stained glass windows, a dishwasher, off-street parking, washer/dryer hookups, and I get to paint it whatever colors I want. It's pretty fab.

The movers are coming to pack up my house on August 23 and I will be leaving Indiana on August 24. It's pretty exciting and nerve wrecking all at the same time.

So, who's coming to visit me?

I-tunes: what do you think of me

From Bill:

I've been meaning to do this meme for a while but just haven't gotten around to it. So, it's what I will leave you with until I can post something sometime in the future.

What do you think of me, iPod?
Boughetto ~ Ali
Dude, I think that says it all. I am bougie and ghetto. Holla!

Will I have a happy life?
Is this Love ~ Bob Marley and the Wailers
I hope this is not a sign that I will be on some eternal quest for love. Yikes.

What do my friends really think of me?
Spend Some Time ~ Eminem
Aww. My friends like to spend time with me. You guys are sweet.

Do people secretly lust after me?
Love Song for No One ~ John Mayer
I think that says it all. Nobody lusts after me.

How can I make myself happy?
No Memory ~ Stone Temple Pilots
So if I forget myself and my past, I will be happy? You are fickle, I-tunes.

What should I do with my life?
Kingdom Come ~ Coldplay
Sweet! I always wanted to rule the world. Muahahahahahahaha!

Why must life be so full of pain?
Asking Too Much ~ Ani DiFranco
Yes, we are too materialistic; aren't we? Even Mike agrees.

How can I maximize my pleasure during sex?
I Got A Woman ~ John Mayer Trio
I-tunes, am I gay?

Will I die happy?
The Bagman's Gambit ~ The Decemberists
Well, at least I know they will never catch me. Hee. Bill, you may be the only one who gets that.

Can you give me some advice?
Dance of the Seven Veils ~ Liz Phair
Okay, don't fall in love with dead men. I can do that.

What do you think happiness is?
Oragami ~ Ani DiFranco
I am an all powerful, Amazon warrior and not some sniveling girl. Also,saving men and then telling them to fucking figure it out themselves is happiness? Actually, you might be right, I-tunes.

What'’s my favorite fetish?
Last Night ~ The Strokes
Hmmm. Watching Buffy and Spike have hot sex really isn't too far off the mark.

Hectic

Life is getting to be a little crazy these days. There is so much packing to do and so many appointments to make.

I am heading west on Friday to find a place to live. If I find something, I will post pics. Assuming I have time for that and computer access. Posting here is going to be sporadic, if it happens at all, from now until August 14. I can't promise that August will be anything close to chatty.

Tonight I get to meet with a moving company. I hope they will give me a decent quote since they are my only option as of right now. My parents are looking at an apartment for me tonight. I can't thank them enough. Especially since this place is in the right neighborhood, cheap, has a washer/dryer hookup, off-street parking, and close enough for me to walk to work everyday. I keep thinking that it must be rat infested because otherwise, where's the catch?

While I am totally excited about all of the changes that are happening, I really hate chaos of this level. I don't like the not knowing. But hopefully that will all be over soon.

Memeville

From Bill:

1. Are you named after anyone? If so, explain?

I am not named after anyone. Sorry to disappoint.

2. Do you have your children's names picked out already? If so, is there any significance?

I have lots of names picked out for my future children. Mostly, they are names from the Middle East, keeping with the tradition of my name. But the middle names are of the more traditional variety since they are the names of people of I love.

3. If you were born a member of the opposite sex what would your name have been?

If I had been a boy, my name would have been Abraham. A good Muslim name and the name of one of my uncles. Funnily enough, Abe Lincoln and I share a birthday. So, in a way, my biologcal dad got his way.

4. If you could re-name yourself what name would you pick and why?
When I was a kid all I wanted was a normal name and blonde hair. But now, I couldn't really imagine being named Jenny or Sue or something "normal" like that. I will keep Jalehlabad; thank you very much.

5. Are there any mispronunciations/typos that people do w/ your name constantly?

Yes. A million. Too many to type here in this space. In fact, the only time I even listen to a telemarketer is if they pronouce my name right. That has happened twice and one of those times it was an obviously Middle Eastern voice on the line.

Signs

Dear Readers,

Do you believe in signs? Do you believe in fate? Or do you think that it all just happens the way it's supposed to and that signs and fate are crap?

I can honestly say I am on the fence about signs and fate. Do I think some things are destined to happen? Maybe. But I do think that sometimes the universe tells us things that reinforce decisions we make.

For example, this weekend I packed up my office. I put all my books in boxes. Wrapped picture frames with tissue paper. I cleaned out my desk drawers. This is when I noticed something remarkable. I don't know it any of you remember a post I wrote on my old site about a ring that I lost. Why would you? This ring meant nothing to you but it means a great deal to me. This ring was a gift from my deceased aunt who was like a second mother to me. When I lost the ring I cried for a day. I remember crying while writing that blog post. I was angry at myself for losing such an important item. But alas, the universe is on my side after all. I found my ring in the bottom of my desk drawer. It must have been there for almost two years. I was so happy when I found the ring. It was like the ring was waiting for me to move again. A sign that I am making the best choice for myself. It completely made my weekend.

I am wearing my ring now. I don't plan on taking it off anytime soon, excepting for washing dishes and taking showers.

So, how was your weekend?

Love,

Jalehlabad

The perplexing of Jalehlabad

Last night was a rousing Wednesday Night Social Club since I told everyone that I am moving back to the Lou. Everyone was so nice and wished me well and some of them even brought me bottles of alcohol. Sometimes it's very good to be liked and it also proves my point that you cannot have too many pals. I assured the crew that they would see me; it's not like the Lou is so far from Cutesville. Plus, someone is throwing me a big going away bash. I even had two offers last night; although I am starting to think I should throw the party myself.

I got home around midnight and this is where things go pear shaped (as they like to say in England). First, I made a little phone call to Squater. I am sure it will bring him joy when he finally hears my message. Then I sat down to watch Project Runway. I loved the dog idea. It cracked me up to see Tim with all the dogs. Anyway, I had several WTF moments and I don't think it had anything to do with the many beers I drank. First of all, WTF was up with judges loving Bradley's outfit? While I think it was nice since it was his birthday, his outfit was just not my taste. I thought it was kind of fug. But the biggest WTF moment was them not kicking off Angela for the second week in a row. That chick needs to go. She's a horrible designer. And what is up with her skirts? Just no. Stop. Step away from the fabric.

Heidi, Vera, Nina, and Ivanka, you have disappointed me. Now go to your room and think about that.

SexyBack

I am sure to get mocked for this but, to be honest, I don't care. Take a look at the Justin Timberlake video SexyBack. Thanks, YouTube!

Anyway, I loved JT's first solo disc and I will be sure to get his new one when it comes out. Something about that kid's music makes me want to dance.

Good Night And, Good Luck: Lived up to the hype

Often times I am the last person to see the latest hit film. It was, I think, the last person on earth to see Titanic. I still want those three hours of my life back. More recently, this was the case with Brokeback Mountain. I know I am supposed to be obsessed with that movie and, don't get me wrong, it was good. But it was basically a love story. A love story involving two hot gay men but a love story none-the-less.

Last night, I watched Good Night and Good Luck. Whatever your political leanings are; I think it's safe to say that this movie makes you think. I loved the usage of black and white film and the music, sung by Dianne Reeves, was fabulous.

I was a little scared to watch this movie. It had so much hype that I thought it wouldn't deliver. I was wrong. If you haven't seen this movie, do yourself a favor and go rent it tonight.

Irreverant t-shirts: I love 'em

I don't know how many of you read Preshrunk but I like to peruse that site every once in a while to find cool t-shirts. Preshrunk turned me on to Threadless.

I have sort of become addicted to Threadless. I am on their mailing list so I know when they have sales, etc. This is good and bad. It's good because Threadless t-shirts are really high quality and well made. Also, they have funny shirts and arty shirts. It's bad because I could easily drop half a pay check on t-shirts some months. Like this new shirt, for example. Or this old fave, The Communist Party, which always seems to be sold out of my size everytime I can afford it (I found the link! Woot!). With my new Pirate obsession, I have been debating whether or not to buy this shirt. Anyway, I love it when they have their $10 sales.

In many respects, I am not sure I should be telling you all about Threadless since I have been looking there more and more often for gifts for loved ones. It's where I found Squater's prezzie last Christmas.

At any rate, since Glarkware denied us Everwoodians a Now or Never shirt, I am a little sad and I need some other t-shirt to fill the hole that I was prepared to fill with an Everwood tee. So, which shirt should I get? One of the items listed or is there some other Threadless tee that screams Jalehlabad to you?

Mail Carrier Blues

For some reason my mail carrier never takes my outbound mail. I don't know why my mail can be dropped off but not taken away. I put proper postage on everything. I even have a little clip so that the mail box looks like it's open and yet nothing. Normally, this doesn't bother me. I have even adjusted so that I never mail out my bills from home. I just drop them off at the post office. However, now that I've joined netflix, this is becoming an increasing problem. I put the discs in my mailbox all proper like. And my mail carrier just ignores it. But, I will not be ignored. In fact, I have entered into a showdown with my mail carrier. I am just going to leave that disc in my mail box until he or she takes it. If that means I have to wait a week to start Scrubs season one, well, so be it.

Do you think I am taking this to extremes? Because I don't. Is it so much to expect my mail carrier to, I don't know, do their JOB? Isn't this what my tax dollars pay for? Because my tax money sure as hell doesn't fund any mass transit or salt for winter roads.

Maybe I just need a beer. Or to get out of this small town.

UPDATE: For some reason, who knows why, my netflix dvd got picked up yesterday. Thanks for the comments. I think I will go have a chat with someone down at the post office.

Chanda's Secrets

This week I read the book Chanda's Secrets by Allan Stratton. While this book is young adult literature (it won the Michael L. Printz Honor Book award), it deals with a very serious topic. The story revolves around Chanda, a sixteen year-old girl living in an unnamed Sub-Saharan African country. Chanda has a hard life. Her father and brothers die, then her sister dies, then AIDS hits her family and her community. Along the way Chanda learns to deal with the horrible realites of life while trying to make the best life possible for her family and friends. For Chanda this is often difficult since life has given her a huge sack of lemons and few ways to make lemonade. Ultimately, this story is about not being afraid.

It took me longer than it should have to finish this book mostly because it was so sad. Allan Stratton does an excellent job of describing the phobias many Africans had and have about HIV/AIDS. I would suggest that you go out and by this book, especially since proceeds from the sale go to help Africans suffering with HIV/AIDS.

Books Read in 2006:
Chanda's Secrets by Allan Stratton
Digging to America by Anne Tyler
Princess in Training by Meg Cabot
Princess in Pink by Meg Cabot
Project Princess by Meg Cabot
Princess in Waiting by Meg Cabot
Princess in Love by Meg Cabot
Sorceress by Celia Rees
Princess in the Spotlight by Meg Cabot
The Princess Diaries by Meg Cabot
A Fine Balance by Rohinton Mistry
Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte

The one where I randomly discuss movies, television and other things

Well, B-Mart will be happy to know that I just finished Angel season one. She'll be even happier to know that I started season two last night. But before I get to far into season two, I want to make a few comments about Angel's first season.

• Why did they kill Doyle? I really liked him. I did some digging on the guy only to find out a)he's dead and b)he was Mark (Becky's boyfriend) on Roseanne. WHA? Anyway, I really liked the character of Doyle and the season felt strange after his departure. Also, they barely mention him in the extras. So, BOO!


• I like Wolfram and Hart as the Big Bad but I feel like something was missing in terms of an overarching, season long, cohesive story.


• Faith! B-Mart, I can admit when I am wrong. I think that these episodes with Faith do really redeem her character. Her actions in Buffy's last season make a lot more sense now too.


• The Elizabeth Rohm character is just off. I don't get her silly hatred towards Angel especially when he has only helped her. It's not Angel's fault that her dad was an ass. Anyway, I don't like her character at all. I hope she isn't on as much in the coming seasons.


• I am interested to see how this whole Darla thing plays out. And really, how is that even possible? I know, I know, suspend belief.
  

Overall, I would say that though they try very hard, Angel is no Buffy. This show is missing something but I will keep watching since I said I would and I really want to get to season five and Spike!

Onto movies....I saw Pirates of the Caribbean 2 over the weekend. I thought it was pretty good. I was entertained for sure. I don't think this movie was as good as the first film in terms of story line. However, that isn't to say it wasn't a great flick. Also, the special effects are pretty cool. Plus, I just love Bill Nighy. I won't give away any plot twists but Will Turner is a much more calm person than I would be.

Seeing that movie made this cool History Channel special True Caribbean Pirates even more interesting. Bill can attest to my new fascination of all things piratey. Or well, books about pirates anyway. You all should check out the special. I learned all kinds of cool things about the history of pirates.

I decided today that Terry Gross may just have the world's coolest job. I listen to Fresh Air most days over lunch. But for some reason, while she was talking to Thom Yorke, I just thought, man what a cool job. She gets to talk to all sorts of people involved with entertainment and books and I am super jealous. If only I had been a radio broadcast major! Also, check out the Thom Yorke interview; it was pretty good.

Praise Jesus for Project Runway

I am so geeked up about tomorrow night. Some of you may ask why; others of you already know why. It's the start of Project Runway Season Three.

There is so much to look forward to. There are TWoP recaps. There are Tim Gunn podcasts. There is the burning desire to know who is this season's Wendy or Santino or Chloe or, even better, Jay? Who will be this season's Kara Saun or Daniel V.? Enquiring minds want to know.

I know that B-Mart and Miss Marissa will be watching. Any other takers?

You gotta have friends

Late last week a friend of mine dropped by my house. As she and I were talking I was lamenting the fact that I was a bad pal for forgetting to call my friend, Andi, on her birthday. I had no good excuse. And, we have been friends since I was five so it's not like her birthday is a recent thing I have celebrated. I just forgot to call. Anyway, this really isn't the point of all this. The point is my friend who stopped by mentioned, pointedly, that perhaps I have too many friends. I balked at this assertion but I am still thinking about this conversation days later. Is it possible to have too many friends?

I will be the first to admit that many people I count as friends, including many of you fair readers, are not people I converse with daily, weekly, or monthly. At least not in the conventional way of calling or visiting. But does that mean we aren't friends?

I guess this all comes down to I don't believe you can have too many friends. I feel like I have a lot of disparate friends. Friends from different times in my life but with whom I am still able to connect. Friends whose time in my life overlap but they don't know each other or at least aren't friends themselves. I tried to hash this conversation out with my pal who dropped by and her conclusion was that I drop a few pals so that she could keep my friends straight in her head. As though that is a good reason to get rid of a friend. I informed my pal that she may not like the list I construct if I have to start losing friends. Hee.

In all seriousness, I honestly cannot imagine getting rid of one of the people who I consider to be a friend. Friends shape us and help us and yell at us and laugh with us. Even people who I would never choose to be friends with again have taught me valuable lessons about trust and about who I am and who I want to be.

I hope, if you consider me a friend, I have done the same for you. So, in my mind, the more friends, the better.

X-Men The Last stand: Only slightly crappy

I went to see X3 on July 4th. It was worse than I hoped it would be but it wasn't nearly as horrible as The Davinci Code. I have to say, I know that the X-Men movies are supposed to be action packed, etc. but would a little character development have killed you, Ratner? I mean, why do I even care that Rogue and Bobby seem to be having issues? You give me zero context. Also, the whole film was just flimsy. I barely cared about the forced cure. Also, you cured Magneto. I mean, that is just lame. Yes, you left it open ended; there could be an X-Men 4 but unless you make it a little more about the characters, I won't be watching.

Move, B***h, Get out the way.

Per Mikey T's request I feel almost obligated to post something.

I want to thank everyone for the good wish comments and emails. I have some of the best pals in the world.

Some crazy happenings went down in Cutesville this weekend. In my town, we have a boat race every summer. They even made a movie about it. From what I understand, this race used to be quite the thing to do but apparently popularity has waned a bit. I've been told that the place is crawling with Hoosiers. Hee. But in all seriousness, something quite terrible happened. This weekend, some kid drove his speeding car onto the banks of the river plowing through a crowd of people. Here is an account from one of the rescuers. Luckily, no one was killed but the town was given quite a scare.

Fortunately for me, my holiday weekend was not as exciting as a car crash. And with my crash record, that is saying something. My pal, Tricia, came to visit. We watched lots of Alias, ate too much food, and drank too much beer. All in all, a very fun time. I really enjoy it when I can meet up with my friends from SIUE. In my mind, these are some of the people who know me the best because that time period, in graduate school, is when I feel like I really blossomed into Jalehlabad. So, it's always good to hang with those kids. We even looked at old pictures where I had short hair. It made me miss my shorter hair. For those in the know, I have a picture of Kuhn cake that will be forthcoming.

Alas, all is well for now. I am currently awaiting some big news which I hope, unless my hopes are dashed, to share with you all very soon.

I am currently reading nothing. That needs to change. Any suggestions?

Opportunity is knocking

You may recall that I mentioned some possible big life changes coming soon. This week, specifically, on Thursday and Friday the possiblilty of those changes comes to a head. Again, I hate to be so cryptic but I am scared of the old jinx. I won't be posting anymore until this weekend or early next week. So, I am asking all my blog pals to think of me and send me good wishes on Thursday and Friday.

Have a great 4th of July.

Reading, etc.

I had a nice, relaxing weekend in Cutesville. I am hoping that you, my dear readers, also had a nice weekend.

I finished Buffy season seven. It was an oddly satisfying ending. I was sad that Anya died and that Spike is supposedly dead. (Thanks, B-Mart and Tricia for letting me know that my dear Spike does live on.) Anyway, I thought that they left the show with a very open ending. I mean, now that Buffy isn't the "Chosen One" what will she do with herself? It's not like she could go from killing machine to something normal. Maybe she becomes the Slayer Trainer? I don't know. I guess I am going to start Angel now. I am not sure if I am ready to do that just yet. I think I need to mourn Buffy just a little longer.

I also finished a few books in the past week. I ploughed through two more of the Princess Diaries series. So now I have read Books V and VI. The series is still funny and cute. I am realizing now how much the movies really are missing something. Although, when reading these books I do see Anne Hathaway as Mia. Anyhoodle. Cute stuff!

The other book I read last week was Digging to America by Anne Tyler. Digging to America is the story of the Yazdans (and Iranian-American family) and the Donaldsons. These two families meet when they both adopt children from Korea and the babies come to America on the same day. While a friendship blooms between the families over several years, their differences are apparent from day one. This book is a nice story about change in its many forms and about how one can feel very alone even when surrounded by a loving family. I thought the book was pretty decent but the ending could have been a bit better.

Books Read in 2006:
Digging to America by Anne Tyler
Princess in Training< by Meg Cabot
Princess in Pink/span> by Meg Cabot
Project Princess by Meg Cabot
Princess in Waiting by Meg Cabot
Princess in Love by Meg Cabot
Sorceress by Celia Rees
Princess in the Spotlight by Meg Cabot
The Princess Diaries by Meg Cabot
A Fine Balance by Rohinton Mistry
Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte

Burning Down the House

This week has been a bit wonky. Monday night there was a huge storm that rolled through town and caused a bit o' damage in my neighbothood. Here's the 411:

I came home from work on Monday night to begin my Buffy season seven marathon. The sky just kept getting darker and then it was full on storm time. I didn't think much of it since the storm seemed to mirroring the darkness of Buffy. But then came all the lightening. It was pretty intense and I was getting concerned about all of my lovely electronic items. Then out of nowhere it felt like lightening struck my house. I saw sparks flying in my front yard. My brick house, built in the 1800's, shook. My house never shakes. I started to freak a bit. So, I go outside to see if my house is on fire. It's not. So, I go about my business. I restart Buffy. I see my neighbor so I go to ask him for some matches since I am out and I really want to grill. I tell him about how I crazily thought the house was hit by lightening. He takes a walk around the house to make sure I wasn't wrong, especially since the apartment above me is empty.

After my talk with Jeremy I headed to the back yard to start the grill. Then Desiree, Jeremy's wife, starts banging on my door. Our house isn't on fire but the abandoned house next door is. CRAZY! Luckily, the firefighters were there in a flash and no one was injured. It was a nutty mess. All I could think about was B-Mart and her fire endeavor and I was grateful that my house was safe.

Now, on to Buffy talk. I have been plowing through season seven. I only have seven episodes of the series left. It makes me sad to think this will all be ending. And then I wonder how will they end it? And will Buffy ever tell Spike she loves him? Because she totally does.

And what is up with Principal Wood? I cannot figure out if he is evil or not. Although, he better not try to kill Spike. Or at least, he better not succeed.

Also, Kennedy annoys me. Like when did she become a Scooby? Or do you get to be a Scooby if you french Willow? Because if I was a fellow Potential I would be pretty pissed that Kennedy gets to know all sorts of things that the other Potentials aren't privy to. Also, don't mock the magic, silly girl. You have no idea what Willow is capable of. Though she got a taste of that in the last episode I watched.

Thankfully Giles is back. I missed Giles.

Anyway, I may just marathon on and finish it all. Especially since certain people spilled the beans about important plot points. Damn all my friends for being Buffy converts years before me.

Blogging Buffy

So, I had myself a bit of a Season Six Buffy marathon last night. I watched Smashed through As You Were. Also known as seven freaking episodes. I plan on pushing through and finishing the season this week. Maybe even by tomorrow.

I am really loving this season although I am beginning to have real issues with some of the characters, namely, The Summers Girls. I swear to whatever higher being you believe in that I would be driven mad by the whiny Summers women. Dawn and Buffy are just so annoying sometimes that I actually wish Spike would kill the both of them. But I know that won't happen. It's Buffy's show after all. I just want to scream at them that the world does not revolve around them. Especially Dawn. Just shut up. Her screams are like fingernails on a chalkboard.

Another thing I am really not liking about this season is the loss of Giles. I miss him and his ability to ground all these really high strung and stupid people. I mean, they sort of need a parental figure. Plus, with the exception of Willow and Anya, these people aren't all that bright. They need Mr. SmartyHotLibrarianMan.

Also, Buffy working at Double Meat Palace? I mean, really. Couldn't they have gotten her a job as a trainer or something. I get that she is supposed to be at a low point but in a world where very little is believable; I find it ludicrous that Buffy would sling "burgers."

I do love this seasons Big Bad. The dork trio is too damn funny. Plus Jonathon/Doyle! Love him! And, of course, I am loving Spike, even if he is a little sad in his Buffy love. Those sex scenes have been HOT!

I cannot wait to see how this season ends.

P.S. Riley, never come back again! Thanks!

Stuff and Things

I don't have too much to write about these days. Lots of things are happening that I can't talk about because I don't want to jinx anything. But, big changes could be coming for Jalehlabad. So, send good vibes my way.

I was asked to write about my final thoughts on Everwood by a reader of this blog. I am sorry but I just can't do it. I am still too upset about it. I would like to give a big shout out and thank you to the cast, crew, writers, producers, and Berlanti. They came together to make a wonderful series. I hope some of you will take the time to watch Everwood this fall in syndication on ABC Family. I know I will be watching and tivoing all the old episodes. Also, bravo to me. In the past week I got two pals hooked on the show with just the pilot episode.

All of this canceling of shows and such has gotten me thinking about Nielsen ratings. I recently dated someone who had a Nielsen box, and I have to say that this was the sexiest thing about him. How does one get a Nielsen box? Because I really want one. I did a little digging and I guess they have to approach you. Hey, Nielsen people! Jalehlabad really wants a box. Hell, I will even take the paper form you fill out. Just let me and my obsessive telly watching somehow do good for humankind. Hee.

In other news, I read a few more of The Princess Diaries series. I read Volumes III, IV, and IV 1/2 in the life of Princess Mia. They just keep getting cuter and more fun. I am currently awaiting Volume V. Why does media mail take so long?

Also, I recently joined Netflix. I currently have Arrested Development Season 1 at home. I watched the first disc last night. Oh my god, that show is so funny. I am only sorry I never watched before now since it was also cancelled. I was laughing so loud last night. Anyway, I am sure you all know what Netflix is. If you are a member, let me know and I will add you to my friends list.


Books Read in 2006:
Project Princess by Meg Cabot
Princess in Waiting by Meg Cabot
Princess in Love by Meg Cabot
Sorceress by Celia Rees
Princess in the Spotlight by Meg Cabot
The Princess Diaries by Meg Cabot
A Fine Balance by Rohinton Mistry
Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte

I know; I know. Shut up about Everwood

Mo Ryan, writer for the Chicago Tribune has written this eloquent article on Everwood. My heart is breaking about Monday's series finale. I know how I sobbed alone on my couch this week and how I will be sobbing alone on my couch next week. Probably for two straight hours. I wouldn't ever invite anyone over to see the blubbering mess that will be Jalehlabad. It will be so sad and wrong.

In other news, I have a pal here, who I will call Barista. Anyway, she doesn't own a television but she knows all about my telly obsessions. Barista wants me to pick any television show and she is going to watch a season with me. I am picking Everwood Season One. I think I shocked her with that choice since she hears me talk so much about Alias and Gilmore Girls. While my heart was sad by the end of Alias, I understood it's ending. It made sense for the show to end; although I could go on and on about all the unanswered things but I won't for Tricia's sake. And well, don't even get me started on the way Gilmore Girls was this season. ASP, you, well, you know what you did. Everwood, though, has been taken away before all the stories could be told. I feel like I have been robbed. It sounds crazy but those characters do feel real to me. They are characters I would love to be able to actually interact with. Anyway, I don't think enough people watched my beloved Everwood so I am going to force Barista to watch it. I think she might be pleasantly surprised at how good my favorite show is and was.

Sorceress

Sorceress by Celia Rees is the sequel to Witch Child. Witch Child details the everyday life of Mary Newberry, a young girl in 17th Century New England who is accused of being a witch. As Witch Child ends the reader has no idea what happens to Mary when she escapes certain death at the hands of the Puritans. Sorceress tells us the rest of Mary's story through her distant relative Agnes. Agnes is a modern day Native American girl who has recently discovered her ability as a healer. Through Agnes the reader learns the details of Mary's life after fleeing her town.

Even though these books are YA literature, they tell an amazing story. Check them out.

Books Read in 2006:
Sorceress by Celia Rees
Princess in the Spotlight by Meg Cabot
The Princess Diaries by Meg Cabot
A Fine Balance by Rohinton Mistry
Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte

My first 5K

Saturday morning I got up very early and walked/jogged in my first 5K. I didn't break any records but I am pretty proud of myself for getting out there and, as a friend put it, beating the course. I finished it in about 40 minutes which isn't bad when you consider my only form of training was drinking a lot of beer. The funny thing is, now that I have finished this 5K, I feel compelled to start training and jogging more often. I mean, I can only improve my time in the next 5K I do. Also, I got a decent looking t-shirt out of it. More importantly, by virtue of my named being picked out of a hat, I was named the "Undisputed Winner" of the whole race. I even got a stone plaque to attest to this. Pretty cool, no? My body feels a bit sore today but overall I am extremely happy about my accomplishment.

In other news, while in Bloomington I went a little crazy at Borders. I bought a few books. I even finished reading two of them on Friday and Saturday. B-Mart just posted about reading Book V in the Princess Diaries series. Well, I picked up Volumes I and II, aptly named The Princess Diaries and Princess in the Spotlight. These books are cute and pure fluff. I mean, I read them both in maybe 4 hours. But they are wonderful in making you laugh out loud. Especially if you are a girl; because seriously, inside every woman is that girly teenager who had a crush on the wrong guy while the right guy was in front of you the whole time. Hee. Anyway, very fun books to read on a Saturday afternoon with a growler of Bloomington Brewing Co.'s Weisse Ale next to you.

Books Read in 2006:
Princess in the Spotlight by Meg Cabot
The Princess Diaries by Meg Cabot
A Fine Balance by Rohinton Mistry
Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte

Fuck off, CW

My fears have come true. It looks like Dawn Ostroff has decided that Everwood won't make the cut on to the CW lineup. I can't really put into words how sad this makes me. It borders on ridiculous as I sit at my desk, at work, and try to not cry or throw something.

Kiddies on the internets are putting up a hue and a cry over the renewal of 7th Heaven, one of the worst acted, written, and, in my mind, sadistic shows on television. Yet it's Everwood that gets the axe. Personally, I think Everwood got cancelled because it was too good. I dare you to find a more stellar cast of actors on television. I dare you to find a family drama, on television now, that deals with the realities of life better than Everwood. You can't. It doesn't exist. If the CW wants to pander to the lowest common denominator, I suppose I can't do anything about it. I am giving Gilmore Girls four episodes to turn shit around. If that doesn't happen, then the CW can go fcuk itself.

A Fine Balance

Have you ever read a book that made you feel so sad and depressed yet hopeful at the same time? I am talking seriously depressed here. I finished Rohinton Mistry's A Fine Balance yesterday and it's still haunting me.

The story, taking place in India in 1975, revolves around Dina, a widow and former seamstress who hires Om and Ishvar to work for her. Dina also has a paying rentee in her apartment; named Maneck. The story revolves around their pasts and presents as they become friends and then family. It sounds uplifting, no? But it's not; the trials the writer has these people endure are so heartbreaking.

I don't want to make the book sound all doom and gloom because there are moments of utter happiness in the book. Also, Mistry is almost Dickensonian in his tale telling skills. The reader finds out intricate details of the lives of many side characters but Mistry always comes back the four main characters.

Books Read in 2006:
A Fine Balance by Rohinton Mistry

Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte

Beer can equal bad

Last night I went to Wednesday Night Social Club even though I was still a bit miffed about last week. It actually turned out to be a very fun night. I had possibly one or two beers too many. Here's how I know this.

I woke up and got ready this morning. I was heading out to get my oil changed when I noticed that my wallet was not in my purse. Nor was my wallet in my awesome knitting bag, Nor was my wallet anywhere in my house. I begin to freak.

Since I walked home from the bar, I decided to retrace my steps. It's only about a block so it wouldn't take but a few minutes. Alas, nothing. The bar doesn't have my wallet, neither do the police. My day has consisted of calling credit card companies, going to the bank, calling the BMV, and generally freaking out and being totally pissed off at myself.

On another level, I am pissed because someone has obviously found my wallet and has chosen to not return it. It's not like it would be hard for this person to find my house in my incredibly small town. Sigh. Anyway, why be a good samaritan when you can be a meth head seems to be par for the course around here.

I am afraid to ask if this week can get worse, you know, just in case it can get worse.

Curiosity? Please kill my neighbor's cat.

The last few weeks have been somewhat hiss and growl filled in Jalehlabad's world. It all started with my landlord fixing the screens for my windows. Finally, I am able to have fresh air in my house. It was blissful for about four minutes.

Maybe I should back up. My neighbors brought home a new cat last fall. The kitten was nice and seemed to integrate well with their other cat and also never bothered Zaria. Zaria likes to hang out in the windows and since Buddy arrived there hasn't been an issue. Until the screens.

I think Buddy may be in heat. I don't know; maybe he smells Zaria? I do know that he has taken it upon himself to hang out in or under any window Zaria is in. This has resulted in about 300 fights. And it's driving me and my neighbors nuts. My neighbors had been letting Buddy stay out all night but I put a stop to that after two nights of cat fights at 2, 3, and 4 am. I don't like being woken up.

Needless to say, the fighting ensued. I have found Buddy outside scaling my new screens. Ruining then with his fucking claws. And then the kicker came.

Stupidly, apparently, I have been leaving my windows open during the day since it's been warmish here. Yesterday I came home after work. I was piddling around the house and then I went back to my bedroom to get some laundry together. That's when I see it. All over my bedroom floor are chunks of cat hair. And it's white. Zaria is all grey. Buddy is white and grey. I go to the window to find the screen completely busted open. My cat is no where to be found. I start the freak out. I find the good treats to bait Zaria out of potential hiding spots and after a few minutes she comes strolling out of my closet. She seems fine; no major injuries. I can't find any bite or scratch marks.

However, I am pretty pissed. I mean, there is really nothing I can do to keep this cat away from my place. I refuse to close up my house. At the same time, I can't really ask my neighbors to coop their cat up, can I? I just don't know what to do. All I do know is that if I see that cat crossing the road, I may just have to speed up.

I finally finished a book!

Unlike last year, I have not really been reading many books lately. In fact, it was only this weekend that I finished a book I read for pleasure. I have to say, I really missed reading books and articles that I wanted to read.

I know I am a little behind in some of the classics, so, my pal Angie went about trying to fix that. She sent me Charolette Bronte's Jane Eyre for my birthday.

I really enjoyed this book. I am not so sure I found the ending believable but Angie says this is due to my being a modern woman. I am not so sure about all of that. I am just not big on men who lie. However, if you haven't ever picked up Jane Eyre, it is a fascinating read.

I am compelled to go to see M:I:3

So, even though I think Tom Cruise is a nut job; I really want to see Mission Impossible III. Why, you ask? Well, here's why:



1. Keri Russell being a bad ass.
2. I think Philip Seymour Hoffman might get to punch, kick, and/or bite Tom Cruise.
3. Jonathon Rhys Myers.
4. Did I mention that Keri Russell (aka Felicity) is going to kick some ass?
5. J.J. Abrahms. I am kind of his bitch.

Also, I don't know how many of you read GoFugYourself but if you don't read it, you should. Because it's funny. Especially this post on Mission Impossible. Hee. I have read this post at least five times and everytime I crack up. God, that Jessica is funny.

Anyway, against my better judgement, which says do not give Tom Cruise any money or support, I am going to see this flick probably next weekend.

Jomeh kahley khoob hast.

It's Friday. I am going to let yesterday's pissiness go and move on with life.

So, I leave you with a little happy! Enjoy!

I don't know why I feel compelled to post

I don't really have much to say. Life has been pretty boring and yet I feel like I should say something in this space. I would talk about Alias but, from the lack of commenting, no one seems to care. Which brings me to last night's Social Club.

Apparently, my participation in last week's Wednesday Night Social Club was debated after I left. Apparently, I am some freak of nature because rather than have "human interaction" I went home to watch Alias. Apparently, I am a bad person because of this. Since you all know me and my obsession with Alias, I had to defend myself. Which I have to say, kind of pisses me off.

Don't get me wrong; I really enjoy Wednesday Night Social Club. I think all those people are super cool and fun but they are mere mortals. On Alias, well, people don't die. And people are cloned. And there are hot guys. And serious back stabbing and intrigue. And SpyDaddy kicking ass. And for 45 minutes I don't have to talk or think about work. Or how much I hate living in such a small place. Or how I miss culture and diversity. Or all the other reasons I have for wishing I didn't live here.

Now, I didn't say all these things as my defense because, honestly, these people are all married with kids so how can they relate to what it's like to be single here. They just can't. So, instead I said something to the effect of, "Look. Alias is going to be on for four more weeks. I don't really care if you think I am a freak. In fact, I am such a freak that I have rewatched the episode two more times. And now, I am going to go home and watch the new episode so I can email my friend, B-Mart tomorrow and we can squee like fan girls." Oh and, piss off. Kinda sound like me, no?

A day late

Oops. What can I say? I had things to do yesterday. That does not mean that I didn't watch Alias. In fact, it was pretty damn awesome. B-Mart alluded to some good things over on her blog.

First of all, making it a two hour extravaganza was perfect. I am not caring so much about the missed Lost. Okay, here is the breakdown...

The Great:

Spy Family goodness! I love it when they get to spy it up together. It was such a good reminder of season 2. Sigh. And then Syd finding out about SpyMommy's betrayal. Even bigger sigh. You knew it had to happen.

"You can't be a mother and an agent. Watch me."

Is Tom EVIL? I don't know but I am dying to find out.

Marshall figuring out the code. Hee! I love Marshall.

Weiss! Weiss! AgentSean is the best.

VAUGHN IS ALIVE. I knew it. No one dies on this show, except Lauren. Thank goodness that bitch is dead.

The Good:

Okay, I was totally creeped out by that fake hospital on the ship. Irina, why totally freak out your child?

Peyton's nondeath. Although, Jack should have shot her in the head a few times just to make sure she was dead.

EvilSloane. What's not to like about Uncle Inappropriate?

The Bad:

There was no bad. Alias is back, baby.

Oh except, what is that baby's name?

Next Week: WILL!

I am just getting too damn excited

So, a week from today I will be able to post my loves and hates about the new Alias episode. I am just getting a little too geeked up for this I think. I am already planning on not grading that night as a prep. For, Erin, who I have never met and yet I know she and I would bond over our Alias love and red headedness, I will have Vodka and my dance ready.

Speaking of getting my dance ready, did you know that you can get the Alias themesong as a ringtone for your cell? Sweet Jesus, I think I may have to buy this for myself.

All I can say is that I have put up with some pretty silly storylines from this show so there better be some damn Rambaldi conclusions, some kick ass fight scenes, a shirtless Vaugh and Will scene, SpyDaddy and SpyMommy confrontation (also, they just have to like show up to kick ass), some seriously EvilSloane, and maybe the return of the Francinator. Oh and Sark! How could I forget Sark? Good news is that Moronen is not coming back at all! Yippee!

And the countdown begins.

It's been a year...

So, a year ago I decided to make some changes in my life regarding health issues. I dedicated myself to eating better and working out. And, for the most part, I have done that. We all have bumps in the road and losing weight is one of the hardest thing to do. It takes serious determination and slacking isn't tolerated.

Lately, I had fallen off the workout/good diet habits wagon. I was in a bit of personal funk in late February and then came the sickness that shall not be named. Then my grandma died. What can I say? I am a stress eater. It happens.

Anyway, I am proud to say that I have lost 34 pounds* this last year. I didn't reach my goal but I have accepted that and moved on to my next goal. My new goal is an upcoming, in 6 weeks, 5k walk/run. I am going to attempt to jog the whole thing but we will see.

I only returned to the gym yesterday and it was, in a word, brutal. I had forgotten how easy it is to lose all the gains you made. I had been jogging for almost two miles and now, well, I am not close to that anymore. Alas, all there is for me to do is to embrace my current situation and improve it. Look out treadmill and free weights; here I come.

*It would have been closer to 45 but once I started eating again all that sickness weight loss went away. Freaking sickness weight loss.

Glarkware Love

To go along with my "Who's Your SpyDaddy?" t-shirt, I will be buying Sydney's wig outlet set. I love Glarkware.

ETA: Quelle horror! This isn't a shirt at all but magnets. Sigh and sob. I am still making the purchase. I think my frige could use some more clutter; don't you?

Is it April 21st yet?

In two weeks my class ends; the students take their final. The final grading begins. I won't be Professor Jalehlabad anymore. I cannot wait. I want to do all sorts of things I am currently unable to do. Things like finish reading Jane Eyre. Things like finishing a scarf that I promised my friend Cheryl she would have a while ago. Things like learn to knit on a round so I can make these really kick ass Christmas prezzies for lots of my gal pals. Things like not read stuff for lecture prep instead of watching Everwood. Things like not being at work for 15 hour days because I have to show a film. Granted, it's a good film, but still. When I go to the coffee shop I don't want to grade papers. I want to take a stupid People magazine and read about Lindsey Lohan and not have a care in the world.

Really, I should stop complaining. I have actually enjoyed teaching for the most part. It's tiring but I like the interaction with the students. I even like the profs I team teach with. They are smart and funny. They are the kind of professors I would have sought out as an undergrad. But I am tired. And I am ready for this semester to be over. I feel like I haven't done my actual job in a long time and projects I wanted to work on have been pushed aside for far too long. I am ready to be a librarian again.

Otherwise, things are decent here in the land of Jalehlabad. The parents came to visit last weekend and that was nice. But now reality is creeping in. I am here, writing this entry, because I am procrastinating writing my last lecture (that I am giving tomorrow). And I have an ass ton of grading to do. And all kinds of other work. Does it ever end?

Anyway, tonight is a new Gilmore Girls. Yippee. Also, who else is doing the Alias countdown? Those promos look freaking awesome.

Hope all is well in your world.

And I am going away again

I have a good excuse for my absence this week. My grandmother died yesterday. I am off to St. Louis for the funeral and such. I'll post again next week sometime.

Nothing feels better than not being sick

I am not going to comment about my long absence, except to say, uh, deal. Hee. Love you, Beth-o-rama!

For the past two weeks I have been in serious, full on, sinusitus hell. I am not a baby when it comes to being sick; I leave that to men. But when you have a fever of 103 degrees for multiple days, a headache from hell for over a week, three visits to the doctor, a very bad reaction to prescribed medicine, no appetite, and a loss of 11 pounds in 14 days; well, you deserve to bitch a little bit.

However all is mostly well again in Jalehlabad land. I am no longer fevered and the headaches are gone; my lymphnodes are almost normal size again and I don't contemplate smashing my head against the wall to give myself a new pain to focus on. Who knew the power of nasal steroids? Not I, until Wednesday, my friends.

The one good thing about my two week hiatus from work was that I became a HUGE fan of the new show Hustle. Do you like cute, British boys and a hot Brit chica? Do you like seeing people get scammed? Do you like CUTE, BRITISH BOYS? If so, check out this show. It's funny, smart, and has some good guest by some of my fave British telly actors. Faye Ripley played a bad cop brilliantly in last week's episode. Anyway, it's on AMC on Saturday nights so set your vcr or tivo, kiddies.

That's all I have for now.

I have perfect lips!

So, last week I went to my local salon to get my eyebrows waxed. (Damn you, hairy Middle Eastern father and your hairy genes!) The ladies at the salon know me well. I have been there many, many times. I sometimes feel like Norm on Cheers when I walk in. They all smile and yell "Jalehlabad!" It's really smart on their part since it does make me stay loyal to them. Anyway, after the self-induced toture of getting hair ripped off my face; Patsy, the receptionist, asked if I wanted to enter the contest they had going on. I am all for contests so I agreed.

Here's what happened: they did up me lips with some very nice Aveda lipstick. Then I had to kiss a piece of paper. All week long they would collect these kissed pieces of paper and then display them so people could vote on who has perfect lips here in Cuteville. Apparently, I have the most perfect lips in my hamlet. Isn't that fabu? Now, at lunch I get to go and pick up my free makeup winnings. And really, who doesn't like free Aveda makeup.

As I read this post, I realize it makes me sound kind of vapid and dumb but really, who cares? FREE MAKEUP!

It's my birthday and I'll meme if I want to

So, today I am 30. I know I am supposed to feel all sad and horrible and old. But, I don't. In fact, I am excited to embark on this new decade. What will I learn about myself this year? I hope it's all good stuff.

Anyway, I am finally getting around to do this meme that Maire asked me to do.

4 jobs I have had in my life:

Produce stand worker
Target team member
Teaching assistant
Government Documents Libraria

4 movies I can watch over and over:

Office Space
Seven Brides for Seven Brothers
Like Water for Chocolate
Old School

4 T.V. shows I love to watch:

Everwood
Gilmore Girls
Grey's Anatomy
Alias

4 places I have lived:

Abadan, Iran
Collinsville, IL
Edwardsville, IL
Bloomington, IN

4 places I have been on holiday:

Florence, Italy
Jamaica
Portland, OR
New York City

4 of my favorite dishes:

Pizza with mushrooms
Steak and a baked potatoe
Grilled chicken salad
Veggie lasagna

4 websites I visit daily:

Television without Pity
Darren McLikeshimself
Tomato Nation
Pamie.com

4 places I would rather be right now:

Hanging out with Christian
Scotland
The Cayman Islands
Sitting on my couch watching Buffy

4 songs I can't get out of my head:

Ruby Blue ~ Roisin Murphy
Touch the Sky ~ Kanye West
Touch, Feel, Lose ~ Ryan Adams
Brown-eyed Girl ~ Van Morrison

Friday Night's Alright for Figthing

Beth, I have to say that I am just going to flat out disagree with you on some things.

One, I have to say that I found Logan somewhat endearing. I mean, he clearly knows how a newspaper runs and he wanted to help. Did it get him some Rory points? Sure. But I thought it was a nice showing of how they make a good team. He really seemed to appreciate Hard Working Rory. Give the dude a break. Plus, without his name drop the whole paper would have been screwed. I also don't think the foot rub thing was serious. Is he a little smarmy? Yes. But I could totally see falling for him. He has a charm that I cannot deny; even when I want to dislike him I end up liking him.

Two, we completely agree on the Luke issue. This is whole not talking thing is going to screw up the relationship. I get him wanting to get to know April a bit on his own but April should know about Lorelai exists and there should be some phasing in timeframe. How can he not see how upset she is?

I loved the Friday Night Dinner. It was so real and true. It felt like maybe there wasn't resolution but now they all understand each other a bit more. I like that there is always going to be some tension there. WE WERE SIXTEEN! Hee.

Also, Sookie has just gone off her rocker. Enough already. More Lane; less Sookie.

I am concerned about next week. Is Rory preggers? God, I hope not. Anyway,