It's Unrequited Love, Charlie Brown!

We've all been there... we think someone is cute or we go on a date or two with someone and we're super enamored and then, nothing.  Well, that's at least nothing on the other person's end.  You're totally all about it.  Too bad that doesn't help your case.  Congratulations, you now have a case of unrequited love.

I've got to thinking recently that this unrequited love is something that although we hate personally in our own lives, we sort of gravitate toward in the stories that surround us.  This thought really hit me last night as I was watching (for the 20th time) the 25th Anniversary Cast of Les Miserables Concert.  The character Eponine lives a life of unrequited love with Marius - she even sings the favorite song, "On My Own" and poetically describes his life, "without me, his world will go on turning, a world that's full of happiness that I have never known." Sad, but relate-able right?  Often times I feel like Eponine speaks to me and the many failed what ifs I've had in my life.  It feels nice to relate to someone about these things... even if the character is fictional.  She gets it, and in a way gets me.

The other weekend I was able to travel to the Museum of Science and Industry to meet my folks and attend an exhibit about Charles Schultz.  If you're a Peanuts fan, you know that Schultz wrote his entire comic based on unrequited love.  Charlie Brown loved the little red head girl, Lucy loved Schroeder, Linus loved Sally, Peppermint Patty loved Charlie Brown... and none of the love was ever returned.  Why do we find this type of love to be so endearing?  Or, why is it in our own lives we drive ourselves until we're blue in the face thinking about that person who doesn't like us back, or at least doesn't reciprocate the feelings we have for them back?  Is the only way to get over unrequited love is to find another person that's better than the one you're pining for?  What if that person never comes along?

Could it be that we spend too much time focusing on this unrequited love and fail to focus on those relationships that truly matter?  Although we do hope to partner with someone at some point, it's an energy suck to sit and pine for someone that doesn't want to be there for us.  But why do we do it?  We want to feel wanted.  And even though our unrequited love most likely will never happen, the important piece here is simple. Hope.  You better believe Charles Schultz was able to write these love stories for 50 years because his characters always had hope.  And I guess a little hope never hurt anyone.

A Night with Glen Hansard Only Happens Once.

Flash back to my junior year of college.  A small theater at my undergrad advertised that they were showing an independent film, a modern day musical called Once.  As a lover of all things musical, I decided to attend with some friends.  This moment opened my world to the musical talents of Glen Hansard.  Although Glen has had long standing career, this movie brought Glen into the lives of many who may have not had the pleasure of hearing his tunes.  I became and instant fan, and have been listening to his music ever since.  Side Note: As a bonus, Glen also happens to be an Irishman, and well, I just have a soft spot for that country.

So, when I heard that Glen's North American tour was bringing him to Milwaukee, I had to attend.  And I'm so very glad that I did.  Opening the show was this amazing duo called The Lost Brothers - talented musicians from Northern Ireland who's harmonies are incredibly smooth.  They set the tone for the night, the audience enthralled with every song.  I highly encourage you to consider taking a listen to their music, I have a feeling they could be the next big thing.  I ensured that I would take advantage of this thought, and met them post set and got an autograph in addition to buying a few of their albums.

Then, came the performance we were all waiting for: Glen Hansard.  If you haven't experienced Glen's music - he has this energy that's captivating.  You can just tell he loves what he does and he's good at doing it. And when he belts, you can't help but get a shiver down your spine as the music moves within you. He gave one hell of a show - playing for about 2 1/2 hours.  He covered music from his newest album to a few from the movie, Once.  There were a few covers in the mix, including some Van Morrison and a great Bob Dylan cover featuring The Lost Brothers.  The night was nothing short of amazing.  He even played unplugged, just him and his guitar.  No mic or amp.  Just Glen.  It was magical.

So as I awoke this morning I had a thought... a piece of Ireland came last night to Milwaukee and I want it back.  Absolutely brilliant. 

Give Me Some Real News.

I had a moment today where I had to ask myself... "Why is the news covering the fact that Snooki had her baby?"  I mean, seriously.  Is this really what the American majority really cares most about?  They'd like to make me think this to be true.

Now, don't get me wrong, I'm not an always listening to NPR and reading BBC World News type gal - I do on occasion enjoy some celeb gossip here and there (probably because our society is so curious to find out more about the lives of these people and often include it in our news sources).  But, I'm curious as to why I would be interested in learning more about Snooki's birth experience.  Maybe I'm slightly annoyed with the fact that she makes way more money than I do by making a fool of herself on national television.  And then I wonder why people are so interested in this type of television - I guess people feel like they want to escape their own reality to see what crazy thing she's up to next...

I just feel like news stories such as the one above, tend to overshadow real news events that deserve the attention.  So, here's my plea to American news sources to include some more news with substance.  If I want to know more about the Jersey Shore, I'll watch MTV.  

I Want to Be English.

As the flames were extinguished to officially end the 2012 Olympic games, I couldn't help but think I want to at least for one day be English.  And this is why:

• The Music. The Beatles, David Bowie, and Queen have all been products of a good English upbringing.  I mean, this in my opinion, includes some of the greatest rock music of all time.  Can you really argue that Freddie Mercury has one of the great singing voices of all time?  I rest my case.
• Harry Potter.  JK Rowling created one of the greatest children's stories ever and really got me into reading as a kid.  So, thanks JK.
• The Royal Family.  I'd like to think I was ahead of the game thinking Price Harry was a looker.  Fun Fact: I had a picture of him hanging in my locker in the 8th grade.  Overall, I just love the royals in general - I mean, the national anthem is dedicated to the Queen.  She even was a good sport for the opening ceremonies and agreed to do a segment with James Bond. And I just happen to think her grandson is extremely attractive.
• English Comedies.  Right?  Such funny flicks.  And my personal favorite, Love Actually (maybe not a comedy in total, but some very comedic parts throughout) states it well..."We [England] may be small, but we're mighty.  Home to Harry Potter, The Beatles, David Beckham's right foot.  David Beckham's left foot come of that."  
• Shakespeare. Some of the greatest phrases of all time come from his work.  We may say, "love is blind" but its really all thanks to Two Men of Verona.  Thanks, Bill.
• Jane Austen.  She made all women want to find a Mr. Darcy.  I both love her and hate her for that.

So, as you can see, this is only a starting point as to why I would love to be English and I appreciate that the London 2012 games strengthened this desire by doing such a phenomenal job opening the doors of their city and countryside to the world.  And as the English proverb says that "all good things must come to an end", I want to send out my personal thanks to London for hosting such a wonderful Olympics.  Bravo.

London 2012.

If you haven't already united with the world in cheering on its best athletes, I ask that you join. The Olympics kicked off officially this past Friday with the beloved tradition of the opening ceremonies.  London did good - honoring British history that included special cameos by James Bond, Her Majesty the Queen, JK Rowling, Becks, Mr. Bean, and Sir Paul McCartney.  What a spectacular event it was - topped off by the torch lighting ceremony where metal leaves brought by each represented country created the Olympic cauldron.  One word can only describe this tradition - epic.


As we entered the first week of the games, I was able to witness some outstanding moments - a man from Kazakhstan winning the gold in his last professional race as a cyclist, Missy Franklin proudly crying as the US national anthem played during her medal ceremony, and the bittersweet moments with the women's gymnastics qualifying round.  I was speaking with some colleagues about this earlier today - that as we celebrate the best athletes, we do so from sitting in the comfort of our home.  That's right, sitting.  I know I'm guilty of spending hours sitting on my couch enjoying the games.  How ironic, eh?  We celebrate athleticism by being in a state of laziness.


So, if these Olympic games have inspired you in any way shape or form, challenge yourself to increase your personal fitness.  It doesn't have to be something grandiose, it can be as simple as going for a walk.  Not someone who typically works out?  Download a couch to 5k plan to get yourself in a race!  Played a sport back in the day?  Join a rec league and get back out there!  It's time we make a commitment to fitness like the athletes representing us at the games.  I think it's the very least we can do as supporters.

If Bella Chose Jacob.

A Note to the Reader:  Do not take anything in this post seriously.  Seriously.

Now, that I've cleared that up... I thought Kristen Stewart's moment of indiscretion deserved some attention.  Not really - as this is flooding entertainment magazines and television screens, I can't help but think about maybe some other things happening in the world... you know, the Olympics kick off officially tomorrow with opening ceremonies, and the terrible shooting that occurred last week for the Dark Knight Rises have now been forgotten, thanks to KStew.  If you really have no idea what I'm talking about with the craze of this news, take a look at this YouTube video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NKKF3Ho1ZlY I'm seriously baffled on how people can just cry over celebrities (we don't know them personally and yet people think they know what's really going on), but I think that's a whole other post in its entirety...

For those of you who have read the Twilight series, you are aware that in the end, Bella chooses Edward.  (If I just spoiled it for you, do not be mad at me - these books have been out for years and you could rent any of the movies to find this out.)  In real life, Kristen Stewart chose her co-star Robert Pattinson to be her man.  What if Bella chose Jacob instead of Edward?  Would we be in this hott mess in real life?  The answer would still probably be yes... but you can't help but think if Bella chose Jacob what her life would be like.  And so, here's a glimpse into her human life with Jacob Black:

• Bella would never need a blanket - thank goodness Jacob's natural body temp is over 100 degrees so she could just always cozy up to him to feel warm.
• Bella would age - I know, getting older is a terrible thing.  But so is remaining 19.  Forever.
• Jacob would never imprint - leaving Bella to being his #1 gal.
• Bella would've never gotten into that mess with the Vulturi in the first place.
• Jacob and Bella could live in peaceful harmony on the res with all of the other members of the wolf-pack.
• The Cullen's would have just left Forks early on and found some other town where they could be the weirdly beautiful family of adoptive siblings that date one another... except for Edward.

The list really could go on and on... So, I have to admit that I too was totally a team Edward, but maybe I should have been rooting for Jacob all the way.  You live and you learn.

Happy Anniversary, Milwaukee!

This past week in Milwaukee has been nothing short of amazing.  I promise to go into intense detail (not really) on why my week has been what I consider to be the best week (thus far) of my summer.  As I was reflecting yesterday with a friend on this week, I was also reminded that it was exactly 1 year ago this weekend that I settled into my new home of Milwaukee, WI.  Like any move, I thought I was ready for the transition, but ultimately was a bit scared for what was to come.  I was being uprooted from my home of two years to unfamiliar territory.  Don't get me wrong, I like Milwaukee, but like any transition I've had to get adjusted to the rhythm of a new city, making new friends, and feeling apart of the greater community.  So, what I've come to realize is that I think it truly takes a full year to feel acclimated to a place.  Now that I have been living in Milwaukee for a year, I have a better understanding of the little nuances of the city - I also have a greater understanding for cheese curds, the Brewers, and Spotted Cow.  But, that's an entirely different blog post.
So, here are the reasons I considered this week to be among the best I've had in Milwaukee, and am anticipating more to come - I mean, it is just the very beginning of July.


1 Chill on the Hill.  This event was actually named the best summer music event in 2011.  The concept is simple: bring food, drink, blanket, friends, and come sit on a hill and listen to a local artist perform.  Yes, the concept may be simple, but the event itself is magical.  This past week's chill was epic due to the amazing group of friends that I met at the event.  


2. Big Bang Fireworks. After playing some beach volleyball on Wednesday night, I stuck around with a friend to watch the Big Bang Fireworks - basically the kickoff to the Summer Fest celebration. I mean who doesn't like fireworks on on Wednesday night?  


3. Jazz in the Park. A Milwaukee summertime staple that takes place in Cathedral Square.  You could say it's a more main stream version of my beloved Chill on the Hill in a much smaller green space.  This week featured some Latin inspired music - and we danced our booties off.


4. Shakespeare in the Park. Although the production itself was not the best I've seen - I just love the idea of a group of young people bringing a classic to life in an outdoor space.  The show was Two Gentlemen of Verona, where I feel as though the Bro code was invented out of this play.


5. PBR Street Festival.  Yes folks, PBR started in Milwaukee and sponsors small street festivals including Burnharts Street Party.  This festival hosted a great brass band, local artists selling their merchandise, and of course plenty of opportunities to shake my tail feather.


6. The Roots. Summerfest is well underway in Milwaukee and I took my first of I hope a few trips to the festival last night to see the amazingly talented band, The Roots.  I had seen them once when I went to a taping of Jimmy Fallon, but a live concert experience is out of this world.  Somehow, my friend and I were able to get great seats and just enjoy the show.  An overall great end to a Saturday night.


I guess what I've come to realize that not only am I celebrating my anniversary with Milwaukee, but also I've finished my first year as a full time professional, my first year as an official grown up.   This past year has marked some interesting moments, but overall this it has been one of fulfillment and I'm looking forward to my next year in this city.

TheSixtyOne

I think one thing that connects us all together is music.  Let me explain - think of when you're in the shower, or taking a drive, or at a social gathering with friends.  I can bet there's got to be at least music going on in the background, right?  Or think of pertinent moments of your life... you hear a song and it makes you think of ______ moment.  Let me explain further - my father's mother has had Alzheimer's for years and although she has had few moments in recent years where she truly knows our family, I can tell you one thing... music is still alive and well within.  One Christmas, we had carols playing in the background, and although she didn't really know why we were there with her, she could sing along.  My point being that music is a truly unifying thing.  And what's so fascinating is how truly unifying it is across cultures.  One summer, I was on holiday in Rome and enjoying a pleasant evening with my sister on the Spanish Steps.  A group of younger Italians were sitting only a few steps below us and began to sing the Oasis classic, Wonderwall.  Every time I hear that song, I am immediately transported back to that spot, a perfect early summer evening.  


As we embark on the summer season, we get closer and closer to opportunities to enjoy music in unconventional venues.  Here in Milwaukee, we have my favorite music night on Tuesday's called Chill on the Hill.  It takes place in a local park a top a hill featuring a local artist.  It's the best.  Milwaukee is also known for SummerFest and in August our nearby neighbor of Chicago will host the infamous Lollapalooza.  Basically, I can't wait to get a taste of some new music during these upcoming months.


And speaking of new music, I needed to share something that I don't think I've shared before.  Like I've stated earlier, I love music.  There are a few people in my life I would consider to be my music gurus... people who over the years have introduced me to the sounds of Ben Folds, Beirut, Blind Pilot, City and Colour, Bon Iver and many more... One of these gurus pointed me in the proper direction of a website called thesixtyone.com thesixtyone's concept is easy - let's play a bunch of independent music for free - people can join the site and vote on songs to keep them on the site, they can also have the opportunity to create their own playlist, and heck - if they really like the songs, we'll let you download them for a low price. A few year's back, I was introduced to a band called Beautiful Small Machines through the site.  Their song Robots in Love is one of my favorites.  Seriously, listen to it - I think you'll like it too.  Tonight, when I got home, I naturally put on some music and instantly, that song played.  So, naturally, I had to share.  Because what is music worth if it is not shared and enjoyed by others.  Just like books, or banana splits.

The Wild Rompus

One of my favorite courses in college was a children's literature course where we studied and analyzed picture books, children's poetry, fairy tales, and classic books.  One of the books was the beloved story of my childhood: Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak.  Forever I will cary with me how incredibly intentional Mr. Sendak was in creating this magnificent work of art.  Not only are the words to the story appealing - an idea to escape from our current world and be transported to another, but also the images of the story truly take you away from the hustle and bustle of daily life.  


Let me get super nerdy and share with you some analysis from the book that I learned forever ago at Western Michigan University.  You start the story with our main character, Max, parading around in costume around his home - a few items scattered around, but what takes up the most space on those first few pages is this: white space.  That's right, blank white paper consumes you.  This is because Max is in the real world.  A world of reality and practicality.  As we move from page to page, the white space decreases as Max begins to use his imagination and we get tag along for the journey.  As he delves deeper, so do we - we take the boat to get to the place where the wild things are.  We are so involved that we eventually reach the point where we too are so enthralled with the tale, words do not even need to describe the great and wonderful Wild Rompus.  This rompus takes place for pages, no dialogue or white space needed, we are 100% using our imagination.  And although Max likes being in this place, he needs to get back to reality.  So, as he begins to move toward going home, words and white space appear again, until he's safe at home.  


It's truly a remarkable tale that I think serves as one of those stories that as a child you instantaneously cling to...  "I want to go where the wild things are!" you may say to your caretaker.  This is exactly what author Maurice Sendak did so perfectly - he created a world that one could only imagine, but everyone wanted to visit.  He created a world that will be forever preserved perfectly in our minds.


I was saddened to hear that this morning, Mr. Sendak passed away at age 83.  And although I'm sure he lived a very long and fulfilling life, I can't help but be a bit saddened that the man who contributed so very much to my childhood imagination has passed.  Thankfully, he gave us a world that we can always visit, and have a wild rompus of our own.

Throwback Thursday

This morning as I was getting ready, my Pandora station (Lady Gaga radio, naturally.  No judgment. I felt like dancing this morning as I got ready.)  played a little bit of Usher.  Yes, folks - Usher Raymond.  One word can only describe my love for him - yummy.  


Not only is Usher a great singer, performer, and dancer he has also brought about some iconic trends like the roller shoes - you know what I'm talking about... those sneakers with the wheels on the heels.  I remember this guy I went to high school with had a pair and he also frequently chose to wear a black trench coat unbuttoned and as he turned corners would glide on his shoes and the coat would billow in the breeze...


Back to Usher - he is amazing.  I think my love also stems from the fact that I associate Usher with certain times in my life like the song "Yeah" makes me think of freshman year of college and riding in my friend's car around Kalamazoo, MI.  So as Usher was singing about how the DJ got him falling in love again, this little jam popped into my head and I needed to share.  It's a throw back for sure, and an absolute Usher classic.  It also has a West Side Story/Beat It sort of feel to it with a bit of a rumble and Tyrese is featured, which makes the video one of my all time favorites.  So, join me on this Throwback Thursday and enjoy the song "My Way" by Usher.

#Trending

It's funny how certain words get placed into our vocabulary as if it were like fashion trends - coming and going with each season.  Anytime I think of "trendy" words, I often reflect on our good pal Gretchen Weiners who tried oh so very hard to make the word "fetch" happen, and it never did.

When I joined the Twitter in the spring of 2009 (weird to think I'm nearing my 3 year anniversary) I didn't fully understand how it all worked.  I got it that I was supposed to update those who followed me about what I was up to, or sharing interesting things I found in the news or online.  What I didn't catch onto right away were the #s (hashtags as we call them, not pound).  So, when I finally understood that these #s could also serve as a tool to help people search for the latest information on Twitter, I began to use them.  I remember one day, probably in 2009, talking with some friends about #s and them saying, "How do you know what to put? Is there a menu you choose from?"  In some ways the answer is yes, but the greatest things about these #s are we have the power to make them up.  Some #s are even used as professional development tools to reach out and share information about important topics in one's field.  Some people don't event follow others on Twitter, instead, they choose to follow #s as a way of staying connected.

Working with college students, I feel as though I get the opportunity to always know the latest trends and have an understanding of what 18-22 year olds are buzzing about.  It's funny to hear them using such language as "hashtag winning" or "hashtag fail" in a number of their conversations.  To know that sort of language is #trending just goes to show the power of social networking.  Just as Joey Lawrence got us to say WHOA!  through the power of Blossom, Twitter has created something powerful that I believe is only just at the starting point of its impact nationally and even worldwide.  Now, that's fetch.

May The Odds Be Ever In Your Favor...

Tonight is probably one of the most anticipated evenings I have had in some time.  As some of you know who have followed my blog, and are also friends of mine... I love midnight premiers of movies.  And I love the Hunger Games book series.  Together, it makes the ultimate combination and the recipe for one amazing evening.


Toward the end of my time at Ohio State, one of my students had mentioned that I should really look into the Hunger Games - she was obsessed with the book series and thought I would love it just as much.  Flash forward a couple of months and another friend told me it was the most enthralled he's been in a book since the Harry Potter series.  After these few positive reviews, I had to check them out.  So, last Fall, I read all three books in the matter of weeks.  I was instantly hooked.


Now, for those of you who have no idea what I'm talking about, I strongly suggest you borrow the first book from a friend and get to reading!  Picture this: an America like we've never known - it fell at some point and now is an absolute dystopia.  The Capitol continues to demonstrate it's absolute power by hosting the annual Hunger Games - choosing 1 male and 1 female aged 12-18 from the 12 districts, making an even 24.  They are treated like kings and queens while they prepare to fight to the death in an arena where the entire nation watches the competition unfold on television.  I won't give more away because, well, you should just read it.


On top of all of this action, there is a love triangle in the midst of it all.  Katniss - Peeta - Gale.  I personally am Team Peeta.  Now, some argue that this is not Twilight and there shouldn't be a team, but you have to choose one guy over the other, and I just choose Peeta. So, when you go to the movie tonight at midnight (hint hint...) you too should choose Peeta.  Don't let that dreamy Liam what's his face that dates Miley Cyrus fool you. 


So, this weekend, if you're looking for something to do, I suggest you grab a friend, a large bag of popcorn, and attend the Hunger Games. See what all the buzz is about - join in!  And may the odds be ever in your favor!

St. Patty's Kickoff

Every year around this time, I get super excited for the holiday in which I can proudly support my favorite color in the most obnoxious sense and everyone is OK with it!  That's right folks, I love the color GREEN and I love the Irish.  It's a win win situation when it comes to St. Patrick's Day.

Last evening, I recieved a phone call from a friend to head to the local botanical gardens, creatively named The Domes (not at all in the sense of creativity - the darn building is literally made of 3 dome shaped greenhouse environments, and it was built in the 70s, so you can imagine the lack of beauty of the architecture).  Apparently, the Domes periodically host concert series in the infamous "Show Dome" that houses a garden that made me feel as though I stepped into Shakespear's A Midsummer Night's Dream.  At the far end of the Dome (can there really be a far end since it's a round room?), there was a stage and upon that stage, an Irish Band belting out some tunes.  What increased the cool factor even more: they have a man performing Irish dance to the beat of their tunes.  Very Michael Flatley.

Honestly, listening to that music made me reminice over the few times I've been able to travel over to the beautiful country of Ireland and made me want to very strongly watch the movie, Once.  Side Note: If you have not watched this movie, I suggest you do - in a sense it's a modern musical, but not in the jazz hand, jazz square sort of way.

The Domes have kicked off my weekend of everything Irish and now I'm going to top it off by making a little trip back to the Eastern side of Pure Michigan to ring in the holiday with my best friend from college.  So, here's to the Irish!

Quarter of a Century

Turning 25 on Fat Tuesday pretty much makes it the best day ever.  Not only are you allowed to eat an absurd amount of food on your birthday, it is also reinforced by the fact that today you are supposed to be a glutton.  So I ate cake, two pieces - and a lot of yummy delicious meals with some of my closest friends in Milwaukee. I truly felt so full after dinner tonight that my body believed it was November and Thanksgiving.

Now, I think in my 25 years, I've been very fortunate to have some wonderful life experiences including but not limited to: being a Bronco, Buckeye, OSL, singing in Ireland/Poland/Czech Republic, camping on the shores of Lake Michigan, runs on the Dish, NYC musicals, almost dying riding a donkey in Greece, trips to Taho Falls, and many many more.  

So, thinking back to the first quarter of my life, I wanted to create a list of 25 things that I want to accomplish in the next 25 years.  A bucket list of sorts.

1. Run a marathon (I'm signed up for one in October - here's to hoping it happens)

2. Read at the very least 12 new novels a year (one a month shouldn't be too difficult)

3. Climb Machu Picchu - this would also require me to travel to South America

4.Travel to South Africa - I've always wanted to see the Cape of Good Hope

5. Become confident with my cooking skills.

6. Go for a run in 25 US cities that I have not yet visited

7. Perform in a community theater production

8. Graduate with another degree

9. See at least 1 concert a year

10. Complete a triathlon

11. Re-read the Harry Potter series at least 5 more times

12. Live abroad.

13. Visit London town. (I have a fascination with the Royal Family and I want to take a trip to Kensington Gardens to view the statue of my favorite childhood story, Peter Pan)

14. Go to every Midnight showing of the Hunger Games movies. (slightly joking, but read the books)

15. Become more crafty - as in making gifts for others or nifty things for around the house (TGFP - thank God for Pinterest)

16. Get a dog - take dog for runs, lay with dog most days, and play with dog most days

17. Buy a pair of Christian Louboutin's and rock them (after all, nothing, in my opinion, is better than a tall woman rocking heels).

18. Feel successful in my career

19. See at least 5 musicals a year 

20.Plant and tend a garden successfully

21. Make my own compost (and us it on my garden!)

22. Become a certified fitness instructor.

23. Dye my hair.  Believe or not, it's never been done before.

24. Learn a language (preferably Italian - sounds like you're singing when speaking!  Bella!)

25. Learn to play the guitar.

I think I have some exciting times to look forward to.  Thanks for the birthday love.  Only the best is yet to come.

Forget the Derby. Race Turtles.

I know what you're thinking.  The title of this post is absurd.  And it is.  But, let me tell you, you should invest some time in turtle racing - I highly recommend it.


This past Friday, I made the trip to Chicago to spend an evening with friends.  The evening was carefully planned - attend the Tony Award winning musical, Spring Awakening at Northwestern University followed by going to an establishment called Big Joe's in Lincoln Square for turtle racing.  That's right - racing turtles.  Talk about an oxymoron. But, we do know the story of the tortoise and the hare and we learned that slow and steady wins the race.  And that is exactly the experience at Big Joe's.


So, this is how the night works - there are 7 races.  The first 6 determine the winners for the final 7th race at the end of the evening.  You are given tickets throughout the evening and those tickets are placed into a bucket.  By the last race - you have a ton of tickets and you hope and pray that the odds are ever in your favor (yes... that is a shameless plug for the Hunger Games...).  If a ticket is pulled that you posses - you then represent a turtle in their race.  There are 6 turtles, all ranging in size and skill.  My favorite is a turtle named Yolanda. She is also affectionately known as the slowest (insert profanity) turtle in the world.  She is my home girl.  Never once did I see her move an inch throughout the 4 races I bore witness to.  Talk about going against the crowd, and I respect that.


The numbers for the 6th race began to be called and sure enough, one of our groups' numbers was called.  My friends had me go to the race table and I was the personal cheerleader for turtle #6 - Lucky Dan.  What an exciting race - after some time of Lucky Dan being a little lazy, he picked it up to bring us the bronze.  And although it seems a bit odd to get excited over watching turtles race, I have to say it's one of the most strange yet one of the most interesting things I have done in recent times.  And extremely American.  

Give Me That Strawberry!

I will be the first person to state that I'm OK that this year I don't have an official Valentine in the way Hallmark intended.  I did not go on a fancy date with someone and exchange expensive gifts.  This year, I did something better: I spent Valentine's Day with some of my closest friends in Milwaukee.


Some people look at Valentine's Day as a dreaded day because they aren't in a relationship.  But that's not what today is about.  Today is about telling those around you that you care about them.  Yes, this year, we have 366 days (it is a leap year, ya know!) to tell others we care for them.  But, isn't it nice to take time out of one day to really let others know how much you truly are thankful for them?  


Now, society makes it seem like you have to be in a duo to make this day extra special.  Today, I spent Valentines with one of my closest friends, her wonderful husband, and my little niece.  Couldn't get much better than that.  At the end of dinner, we got dessert which were some chocolate covered strawberries.  When they were brought out to us, they came in a pair.  Needless to say, after an exhausting dance off, I got one of the coveted berries.  Clearly there's an assumption of how one chooses to spend this holiday.  Clearly, I like to go against the trend. 


Nevertheless, tonight was a great reminder of why I love living here in Milwaukee, and it's in part due to the wonderful friendships I have surrounding me every day.

Fear the Deer

Last evening, we took about 50 of our students to a Milwaukee Bucks game.  This happened to be my first time seeing the Bucks play and probably my first NBA game I had gone to in years.  I really didn't know what to expect, but I was interested to see what the Bucks had to offer.  It makes sense that Milwaukee's team is named for a deer.  I mean, what else do Wisconsinites like to do in the Fall other than go deer hunting?  And the best part about it is their catch phrase of "Fear the Deer."  I mean, I was for sure intimidated.


Once the game began, I was even more impressed with my half time experience.  Walking out to the lobby area, I witnessed a drum line.  How cool is that. I never was in band, but I have to say, I've always appreciated a good solid drum line.  Then, upon my return to my seat, the half time show began.  Words cannot describe how awesome and strange the performance was: A One Man Village People.  No joke.  This guy stood in the middle, dressed as the Native American character and had four life size puppets - two in front and two behind, hooked up to him with this interesting contraption that made them look almost real.  They danced around the court to the YMCA, In the Navy, and even to some classic MC Hammer and Vanilla Ice.  It pretty much was epic and something I had never witnessed before.


To top it off, the Bucks beat the Magic.  Great first trip to see my local NBA team.

Like Two Crickets Chirping in the Night

Last night, I was fortunate enough to get to see the amazing band, City and Colour play a show at the Pabst Theater here in good 'ol MKE.  One of the many things I love about a good concert is a great opener.  This concert did not fail to disappoint.  The opener's name: The Low Anthem.  They are a group based out of Rhode Island.  For me, this was my first in person encounter I think with anyone from the state of Rhode Island.  So, initially I was very excited to learn this fun fact, and then on top of it, their music was pretty much epic.


They were very experimental with a lot of their music, and it led to some of the most creative sounds I've heard from a group in a while. They even used a saw to create some eerie tones - they basically played it like a violin, using a bow to rub on the side of the tool.  For another song, they basically were unplugged and performed a sweet four part harmony with the lead singer from City and Colour.  To top it all off, their final song, they had us create a sound with our cell phones that basically sounded like crickets chirping in the night. How do you create this noise at home do you ask?  Well, it's very simple.  Find a friend. Stand next to said friend.  Call said friend.  Said friend answers phone call and places call on speaker phone.  You also place your call on speaker phone.  Bring phones together facing one another.  Listen.


Now, once you do that, think of an entire theater with that sound.  It's epic.


To top things off, City and Colour was just phenomenal.  If you don't believe me, check them out for yourself:

Superbowl XLVI: Who Are You Excited to Watch?

We are down to two teams: The New England Patriots and the New York Giants. And although I am excited to head over to a friend's home tonight to watch the game, I can't help but to think of the real reason I want to watch the Superbowl.  Last years battle for the coveted title included the Steelers (makes me think of this) and the Packers.  So, really, it was just made to be a good match up (I'm referencing last year's performance from both teams...).  Anywho, I enjoyed going out to a local establishment and actually wanted to watch the game. 

For me, this year actually serves as a year where I'm more excited for the Half Time Show more-so than anything else.  I mean, who doesn't love the Material Girl?  No joke, last week, I had a dream where I got to go to a Madonna concert.  Even my subconscious was excited to see the pop culture icon rock it out live.  It made me think of how big a production this whole thing really has become.  Sure, it's about who wins - but really, it's a celebration of consumerism.  We anticipate the commercials to see who has the best advertisements - and who knows, it probably will lead to an increase in sales.  News coverage all week has been focusing somewhat on the Giants and the Pats, but also on the city of Indianapolis.  Talk about a great way to increase tourism in that Midwestern town.  They even get the biggest names in show-business to perform with the hope to increase the audience size to then watch said commercials to increase consumerism (see the pattern here?).

So, who are you really excited to watch tonight?  With the Lions and the Packers losses early in the playoffs, I have to say I have no preference for who wins the game tonight (although the Giants were my defense for my Fantasy Team...).  But you better believe I will be eating lots of great food, hanging with great friends, enjoying commercials, and jamming out to the Material Girl.

Yoga and Relationships

This weekend marked an important realization - I can't do hot yoga two days in a row.  It's just not possible.  I had developed this theory after my very first class, and today my theory was proven to be what researchers call valid.  I thought I was tough, I thought I was invincible, my body told me otherwise.


My friend and I tackled a weekend of fun with some Bikram yoga.  We went to the 8am session Saturday and Noon today.  During the noon session, only minutes into the class, I had the thought of just picking up my mat and leaving the room - I just physically couldn't do it.  My friend was very astute and asked after our 2nd posture if I wasn't feeling well... we still had 24 more postures to go and we were in 100 degree heat.


Somehow we made it through and I'm alive to tell the tale. I actually am very proud of myself for mentally toughing it out.  After class, my friend and I were discussing how terrible we felt this during class and we couldn't help but to draw upon the parallels of hot yoga and relationships.  Confused?  Let me explain..


Hot yoga (specifically Bikram Yoga):
You walk into a sweltering room.  You think.... not so bad.  You lay down on your mat, waiting for the class to begin.  The instructor comes into the room and we begin a familiar series of poses, fluidly moving with a guided script.  As we begin, sweat begins to pour.  I mean pour (I literally looked like I jumped into a pool after today's class).  You then begin to question why you decided to come to the class.  You then remember that you have gotten through the class before and know what to expect.  If you keep calm and focused, you'll get through the class.  Then, somehow, through shear determination, you reach the final Savasana.  You leave the room with a soaked through towel and a smile, knowing you just did the inevitable.  You immediately feel the rush of adrenaline and contemplate when you will go back for more. Repeat.


My thoughts on Relationships: 
You walk into a room.  You catch someone's eye (or at least this is always how it works out in the movies) and it turns into a lovely time of getting to know one another.  You begin to learn the cute quirks of the other person and maybe their vices.  You think of when you want to spend time with this individual.  You also tend to disagree with this person on occasion and although the fighting isn't ideal, you know how to work through it.  There may be moments when you want to throw in the towel, but you know that through perseverance and determination you'll get through it.  You resolve the conflict.  You feel happy about where you are at that day with your relationship.  You wonder how long this feeling will last until the next hiccup will occur. Repeat. (except for the always walking into a room and catching someone's eye part...)


We often contemplate at times why we put ourselves in these situations.  We think that the grass is always greener on the other side.  I could have up and left yoga today, but I didn't because I know the overall benefits it provides me.  Relationships at times can be a pain in the butt (I've experience a lot of that), but there can be moments of joy that keep us wanting more, or keep us wanting to go back. But what we do know, is that through some perseverance and a little hard work, in the end it's worth it.


[Note: Know that this can be perceived negatively for an unhealthy relationship - thinking we know how to fix things to make it better instead of recognition when to actually throw that towel in. That's a whole other blog post in its entirety.]  

A Moment of Nostolgia

Do you ever have those moments of nostalgia that bring you back to your childhood?  For me, it can be when I'm playing certain board games, or even eating a certain treat that I enjoyed growing up.  Another way that I am brought back is through the magical power of Disney.  That's right, folks. Disney owns the world and is the staple of American childhood.


This past weekend, I was fortunate to have a date night with a friend of mine from college.  She too shares in the love of Disney as she thought at a young age that she was able to control the wind like our gal Pocahontas.  So, when I suggested after dinner to head to the movies to see Beauty and the Beast in 3D, it was a go.  Now, since I can remember, I've loved Beauty and the Beast.  I don't know why exactly, partially because my big sister liked it so much, but also because it's just a remarkable story - learning to love people for who they are instead of what they are. Now, that is a bit sappy, which is not my style, but it is Disney after all.


Now, the film originally came out in 1991 when I was 4 years old.  So really, I don't fully remember that first experience of going to the theater and seeing the actual movie on the big screen.  That's why I love that Disney has been releasing some of it's classics in 3D. (Side Note: I absolutely love Lion King as well, so I was also excited for that to be re-released).  Being in the theater - which also, I think it's a funny concept that we pay a lot of money to sit in a dark room in silence to watch something that we will eventually be able to watch at home - was an epic experience.  Nothing like watching it on my little 22" TV.  And as the credits rolled and we were singing the Celine Dion version of "Beauty and the Beast," I felt like I was back as that 4 year old, excited for the newest Disney classic.

Half Tops are Fresh?

This morning while at the gym, I bore witness to something that I have never seriously seen in person.... a half top. And not just any half top... a male half top.  This guy was wearing a neon yellow tee cut right across the middle to reveal his abdomen.  To top off the look - he wore biker shorts.  


My only half top encounter prior to this occasion happened back in the day when I lived in Pure Michigan.  A friend of mine from back home had a t-shirt that once read, "half tops are fresh."  It had an image of a man wearing a half top on it.  He then made the shirt itself a half top - irony at its finest.  And that individual now works for Funny or Die.  Totally makes sense.  


And this isn't the only interesting expression in clothing I've noticed while working on my fitness.  Since I've been on my yoga kick, I've noticed plenty of interesting outfits while at the studio.  When you're in a room of approximately 100 degrees (once again, I wish I was joking), you tend to be a minimalist when it comes to clothing.  My favorite fashionista: Tiger Short Man.  This man dons a large fro sometimes worn completely picked out, other times worn half up - and short shorts with a tiger design.  He is amazing.  He is my favorite.  


Both Half Top Man and Tiger Short Man prove that the gym serves as another venue for one to express themselves through clothing.  So what if a half top looks a bit out of place and tiger shorts went out of style in the 80s?  It's a free country - dress how you want.  

Today, I Became a Yogi

Today was a great day.  Why, you may ask?  Well, it's because, today, I became a yogi.  And no, I'm not talking about a bear.  And in some respect, the phrase makes me think of a bat/bar mitzvah.... Ok, back to what I'm really talking about.  And that folks is YOGA.  Not just any type of yoga, Bikram Yoga.  Or, as some like to call it hot yoga.

Holistic methods have always been of interest to me, as I even minored in Holistic Health in college.  Often times in these courses, we were able to do yoga or participate in guided imagery.  I've done other forms of yoga before, but nothing like this.

Bikram is a method of yoga that focuses on 26 various poses coupled with warm air to increase blood circulation.  And they don't just mean warm, they mean hot.  Like 100 degrees hot.  I'm seriously not joking.  The belief is that heat = perspiration = detoxification.  

 

Yes, I chose to enter into a very hot room and practice my flexibility and balance.  And it was awesome.  And also probably one of the most challenging workouts I've had in a while.  If you want to get an accurate depiction of what a hot yoga experience is like, read this Craigs List Ad. A friend had shared this link with me a while back, it basically was an ad someone wrote to sell their yoga mat for $1.  Really, what they created was a stream of consciousness ad.  Doesn't hurt that it's hilarious.

Moral of the story is: if you're looking for a New Year's resolution, try Bikram.  Not only is it a great experience, it's also a great way to stay warm in these chilly winter months.