Book Review: The Shipping News by Annie Proulx July 26, 2010

I know this novel won the Pulitzer Prize back in 1993, but I was about 5 years old then so I opted to read it now instead. Upon completing the novel, I can safely say that The Shipping News is now one of my favorites.

I had seen the 2001 film adaptation before reading the book, and it was special. It followed extremely closely with what the novel presented, with few minor shifts (mainly the events were out of order). I was impressed; I usually dread the movie that comes with a novel, because they never live up to it. This movie just might come close.

The novel, however, comes with brilliant and beautiful prose writing by Proulx. To be honest, at first I was a bit put-off by all of the fragmented sentences, but then I noticed that it’s how the author paints exquisite scenes with so few words. There are sentences that you have to re-read multiple times because they’re just pretty. Striking similies are sprinkled throughout. Here’s one that definitely caught my eye:

Fog against the window like milk.

(That’s the entire sentence and it’s a complete image that knocks you off your feet!)

I’m telling you, this book is full of beautiful imagery like the example above. The main character, Quoyle, endures hardships and moves to Newfoundland, his native land, with his two daughters (in the movie he only has one). He becomes a reporter and begins anew with a second chance at life. He becomes very close to the people in Newfoundland, and they have stories to tell him about his ancestors, and of the land, and most of them include some sort of superstition.

I’ll give a little teaser simply because I think it’s brilliant: the main “thread” in the entire story is knots. Knots are in the Newfoundlander’s every day lives, even bring some superstition, and they become metaphors for the events in which Quoyle grows.

I can’t tell you enough about it. Perhaps this is the only story for which I’ll say “You can watch the movie before you read the book.” It might ease you into it. Give it a read; it’s beautiful. Or at least read it because it won the Pulitzer a while back.

Soulpancake July 13, 2010

I’m here to introduce you to a wonderful website you probably haven’t heard of. It’s called Soulpancake and its creator is a well-known and well-loved actor, made famous by the Office, Mr. Rainn Wilson.

Here’s Soulpancake’s Twitter bio: “SoulPancake is a place to speak your mind, unload your questions, and figure out what it means to be human.”

I found this website by following this funny guy on Twitter. If you take a look around the website, you’ll find questions of all kinds – from silly questions born out of boredom to spiritual and serious. To these questions you can comment your personal answer, or favorite it to think about it later.

With this website you also create our own profile, resembling a social networking site’s profile. The difference is, you can network yourself with people who share or contrast opinions with you, not only mutual friends like the other websites we’re all so familiar with. You can tell if you’re interested in someone’s way of thinking, by being able to see the kinds of questions they post for others to answer, and by their own answers to others’ questions. You can also “@ reply” someone and start interesting discussions.

It’s great for people who like to observe others’ opinions, people who are in a personal spiritual dilemma, anyone really. Although on the site there is some debate whether or not it’s a religious website, there’s no doubt you can find all types of questions to answer. The categories include questions about Everything (the home page), Creative Challenges, Explorations, Life’s Big Questions and Life’s Little Lists.

Try it out – answer a few questions. It will get your brain turning and you’ll start thinking about the deeper questions about life, you know, the ones that really matter. I hope you are inspired! (And if you don’t feel like answering any questions today, at least take a look at their awesome website wallpapers…)

Girly Music! [Part 2] April 29, 2010

Here are 9 more great female artists from opposite genres: electro pop and rock.

Listen for Electronic Beats:

Imogen Heap/Frou Frou – Imogen Heap is a solo artist but also sings in a band named Frou Frou, so she is essentially one artist and the music sounds almost identical. She has a breathy voice that goes great with electronic mixing and is also easy to sing along to. Once you learn the lyrics to her a-cappella song “Hide and Seek” you can’t help but to sing along trying to sound like a synthesizer.

The Ting Tings – These guys have made it into mainstream radio recently, with their singles “That’s Not My Name” and “Shut Up and Let Me Go.” Their beats are catchy and they also give a good performance. This band is always on my work-out playlist and they make me want to dance while exercising!

The Blow – This band has a very specific sound that is somewhat of an acquired taste. The electronic beats they use aren’t always consistent, but it’s quirky enough to be catchy sometimes. The two songs that attracted me to this band are called “True Affection” and “Hey Boy.”

(I would add La Roux to this list but she is mentioned in a previous blog.)

Listen for the Rock:

The Cranberries – This is an older rock band and their most popular single was probably “Zombie” which has developed into a classic. They are one of my favorite bands because the lead singer’s voice is timeless and she has an Irish accent! She can also flip her voice really well. This band is what comes to mind when the subject is “rock band with female lead singer.”

Garbage – This band might be a little mature, but they are also a great example of a rock band with a female lead singer. Her voice sounds older and it gives their songs a certain attitude. If you’re not familiar with older stuff like this, take a listen and form an opinion!

Evanescence – This band definitely has a different sound because the lead singer is classically trained in music and her voice is almost opera-like and it’s mixed with rock music. Some classify them as gothic metal but to me, the singer’s voice is too amazing not to ignore whatever genre they are placed into. Their lyrics are resonating and perhaps this is why they’ve had so much success – they’ve had several singles on the radio over the recent years.

Flyleaf – This lead singer’s falsetto is also amazing. She can make her voice soft and also harsh. They’ve been recognized quite a bit for their unique style and memorable melodies so they are worth the listen.

Paramore – It’s what the kids are listening to these days, and this chick actually has a decent voice for such a young age. What makes this band stand out to me is the fact that their lyrics and melodies are different enough to be memorable, and the accuracy of the singer’s voice. They seem to be doing well – they landed a song spot in the movie Twilight which I will not be discussing here.

Metric – This band is new to me and they remind me of a newer, more adolescent version of Garbage. Their single on the radio right now is called “Gold, Guns, Girls” and it inspired me to get the whole album, which sounds equally nice and I can’t wait to hear more from them.

Now that my list of 18 inspiring female vocal artists is complete, go make your playlist!

Girly Music! [Part 1] April 27, 2010

Here is the first installment of 18 inspiring girl singers and bands with girl members that I have enjoyed throughout my life. Ranging in genres, these artists are worth mentioning and checking out. These artists aren’t completely mainstream, so I hope I introduce you to something great!

Listen for the Voice:

Eisley – This band has been around for a while but I’ve only recently gotten into them quite a bit. They’re a family band from Tyler, Texas, and in my opinion, the best bands are the ones that are made up of family members. I love this band because their lyrics are full of images and you can’t help but sing along with the melodies and the pretty voices.

Feist – You may have heard this Canadian songwriter’s single “1234″ on a certain iPod nano commercial. The rest of her album is just as catchy and she has a nice indie voice to sing along with.

Sia – The cover of her 2009 album “Some People Have Real Problems” might scare you away, but there’s a reason why this Australian artist was named the Best Breakthrough Artist Album. Her single “Breathe Me” is one of my favorite songs of all time.

Adele – If you’re looking for pure voice, check this chick out. Every song I’ve heard of hers gives me chills. She demands respect with her powerhouse voice.

Brandi Carlile – Her single “The Story” is what drew me to this artist. Her music is classified in multiple genres and it all sounds good to me.

Listen for the Girl Power:

Lily Allen – This British pop singer has some catchy melodies and funny lyrics that are just fun to sing along with. Her two albums were inspired by her rebellious childhood, and they’re definitely worth the listen.

Avril Lavigne – I always think of Avril as a “girl power” artist because her lyrics and style set precedents for so many other artists. She might be a bit dated, but I have listened to her for a while because she helped me through some tough times.

Listen on YouTube:

Julia Nunes – This college student started out by playing covers of other artists’ songs using the ukulele and broadcasting herself onto YouTube. She has an extensive background in music and can play many instruments, which is admirable. She’s got a great personality that has sent her a long way; she writes a lot of her own music and is now booked with tours, signing autographs and selling merch.

Pomplamoose – This two-member band doesn’t tour, but the well-edited videos they post on YouTube make them stand out. The lead singer’s voice is very unique and they are fun to watch as a quirky duo making music (mostly covers) in their personal studio.

Get started on a playlist because there’s more to come!

Stuff to do With Old Stuff April 23, 2010

It’s time for Spring cleaning! Whether you need to make space for new clothes or you just need a change of closet, there are a few things you can do with what you don’t need.

Donate that! I sift through my closet about twice a year to get rid of clothes I’ve grown tired of, and it becomes an event. There are usually a lot of places around that accept donations, and it feels good to do.

Cut it up. Make something out of clothes too sentimental to forget about. If you’ve got a sewing machine and some free time, you’ve got a craft project that will immortalize the memories associated with old clothing. Measuring, cutting and sewing could be fun to do with a friend or you can really get into a quilting hobby. A personalized finished blanket is also a great gift idea. (Mother’s day is May 9.)

Sell it. Ebay or Craigslist can help you make a little bit of money if your things are worth more to you than charity, but don’t mean enough to keep forever. And you can even sell the things you make out of your old items (like blankets!). Plato’s Closet is a small company that buys gently worn clothing in the Dallas area, but similar stores are very common. Take advantage of them!

Give to someone that size. The word “hand-me-down” has somewhat of a bad rap, but most people would appreciate some cute, free clothing or shoes. The average woman owns around 20 pairs of shoes, so don’t forget to sift through them! Call it freecycling. Unload smaller sizes on your little sister or her friends and they’ll love you for it.

Happy Earth Day! April 22, 2010

Me: “So what are you gonna do for Earth Day?” My sister: “I dunno, recycle somethin’.”

Today’s a good day to do something for your fellow planet. Since most of the population believes we are responsible for global warming, today is a bigger deal than it has been in the past.

Whether you believe in global warming or not, bad environmental habits should be fixed, even if only for a day. Less landfill couldn’t hurt, right?

I recently watched a movie called “No Impact Man” and it’s about a man in NYC and his family who try to be as environmentally friendly as possible for a year.

Some things they tried included:

• Generating no trash: using re-usable bags and not buying food in packaging
• Saving energy: doing laundry in the bathtub, using a cooler for a refrigerator, no electricity for a while
• Transportation using human energy (bicycles!)
• Growing their own food in a garden

This film (and blog) inspired me to be more friendly to the planet, especially the one about using less garbage, because I think that’s something everyone can do. I also kinda want to try stomping on my laundry in the bathtub!

Although a year without using the things we normally do would be extremely difficult (especially in this fast-paced society), I think Earth Day is a good day to try doing some of these things and maybe some good habits will stick.

Since Earth Day feels like an actual holiday this year, some of my favorite companies, like Target and The Container Store are having free giveaways and promotions. Check to see if any of your favorite places are celebrating, and maybe you’ll get a free re-useable bag!

Some of my favorite things to do on Earth Day include planting flowers, carpooling, and going to the park and riding bike. But the least you can do is recycle somethin’.

10 Touching Stories April 20, 2010

MTV’s documentary series 16 and Pregnant comes to an end tonight, and our glimpse into the lives of 10 different teenage girls’ pregnancies leave viewers to form strong opinions and wonder what is to come next.

I have been following the season weekly, and I have noticed that although each girl is in the unfortunate situation of having a child (or children) at such young ages, their personalities couldn’t be more different. In my opinion, MTV casted an interesting selection of girls. Even though they weren’t all drama-filled (some were just plain boring), the various personalities presented on this show force viewers to relate somehow.

According to the questions MTV asks each girl on the aftershows and the reunion shows, the big message that is relayed pushes contraception. During “Life After Labor,” a summary show reminding viewers of everyone’s stories from the past 10 weeks, Dr. Drew mentions contraception and abstinence before and after each commercial break. This show is clearly meant to make examples of these girls in an emotional, intense way without exploiting their situations.

The show also does a good job at summing up the whole experience of teenage pregnancy, while making sure to highlight the downsides.

I often ask myself why I watch this show and I believe it’s because it forces strong opinions from the viewers and makes them strive to do anything to keep themselves from being in a similar situation. The series is highly relatable because a predicament such as teenage pregnancy can happen to any young girl, no matter how different your personality is. It even makes me want to wait to have babies, and I’m a little older.

My favorite girls from the show include Valerie, Chelsea, Samantha and Kailyn. I’m looking forward to the follow-up documentary series, Teen Mom! I hope MTV continues the series for as long as possible.

Fresh Starts April 1, 2010

If you’re feeling lethargic about responsibilities or are tired of the same routine, it’s time for some fresh starts. Here are 8 Things that’ll help you Spring-clean yourself.

Increase Sleep. The worst days are the ones following a restless night, the ones where you spent too much time doing everything but sleeping. Waking up after a good sleep usually guarantees a decent mood. This can be hard at first, but try to set a schedule and follow it as much as possible, and adjust your life to get 7-8 hours a night. For some people this might include turning off your computer at a certain time so that Facebook doesn’t distract you from sleeping. Try reading before bed instead. Unless it’s Shakespeare, which will probably require your full, non-drowsy attention.

Organize Your Room. Seems like this is a recurring theme for me and my blog, but it helps on so many levels. Living with siblings and parents leaves little room for privacy. With organization, your own space can be a place to relax in, not just for storing stuff and sleeping. Changing up the furniture in your room renews the energy of the room, while forcing you to clean up as you go along. Take down old posters and replace them with something newer and different, and perhaps more mature. Sort through things and decide what can be thrown out. This is an extremely refreshing process, especially for Spring.

Exercise. I’m not one that exercises often. I’m a college student and it doesn’t usually fit into my schedule or daily interest. However, simply walking a few blocks once or twice a week makes you feel good. Get a walking buddy and synchronize your iPods to step to the same beats. My sister and I do something called “dance-walking” (it’s a technical term) and you really get more of a work out when you dance while you walk, as well as a few funny looks from passers by. Go before you shower, so you have an extremely clean feeling after you shower.

Update Your Music Library/Clean Out Old Files. Take the time to go through your music and delete things you always pass by on shuffle; it will clear up space and leave room for new artists and tracks. It can also be fun to revisit music you’ve forgotten about from a certain time in the past. Ask around for new music selections. Find some songs that are inspiring, like Modest Mouse’s “Float On”. Also, cleaning out old documents and school assignments from your computer can be refreshing and even empowering.

Socialize With New People. Say HI to strangers. Talking and laughing are a sure way to turn a bad mood around, or at least distract. In fact, it’s [probably] proven that if you force a really huge smile your mood will go up at least 33%! Also, reconnecting with old friends can give new life to the old friendship. Call up a friend and ask them to grab a coffee. Accept invitations to go out and do things. Take initiative when saying, “We need to hang out soon.”

Focus on the Future. It is so easy to lose ourselves in the mentality that the future is far off, lusting for outcomes without taking the initiative to work for them. Things do not happen magically, but you can take control of the present for a better future by simply attending class and doing the work required. “Taking it one day at a time” is usually the best way to handle anything goal-oriented, while still taking initiative for your future.

Change How You Look. Even something as simple as painting your nails or doing your hair differently can have a great effect on your self-confidence. Buy a new piece of clothing, dye your hair or do something new with it. It doesn’t matter if it is fashionable, if you like it than you will feel much better. If people comment on how different you look, you’ll really feel like a “new you”.

Distract Yourself. Ultimately, holding on and obsessing over things will drain you. Have a movie night, play a board game, go for a walk in the pouring rain, start a blog, actually talk on the phone with a friend. Essentially, let go of whatever’s holding you back and allow yourself to enjoy the present.

Think of your own things to add to this list that make you feel refreshed, and do it.

10 Things Every Girl Should Learn March 24, 2010

Here are a few basics that I believe every girl should learn how to do. Most of them are for being prepared, and some of them are to help self-esteem. You should try to learn something new every day anyway! Start with these!

1. How to fix little things for yourself. It’s not a secret that some businesses will charge women extra for some things because they think we don’t know anything. It’s always helpful to know how to use tools to fix things around the house, but it’s understandable to not know how to fix a car. If you don’t, at least do some research about how a car works, then learn about your car specifically if you have one. This way, you can at least sound like you know what’s going on at the car shop, so you might bet a better estimate. It also helps to do price research before calling for services. You should also learn how to change a tire, because one day you’ll really wish you knew!

2. Self-defense. Your size doesn’t matter, it’s where you hit them. I recommend Just yell fire. The video is less than an hour but it’s very useful (it’s also downloadable for free). Even though it’s geared toward young girls, the lessons are useful for all women, and should be kept in mind when you feel you’re in danger of an assault.

3. Your rights. There are many places and employers that try to intimidate women and even deny them privileges because they think they don’t know what they deserve. Be honest about what pay you need from an employer; don’t settle, because they will give you the least amount they have to. Every American citizen needs to know their Constitutional rights as well.

4. Be assertive. Stand up for yourself if you think something is wrong. This way, you’ll have no regrets at the end of the day. It can be as small as sending soup back at a restaurant. Change what doesn’t make you happy. If you think your teacher has made a mistake in grading, it doesn’t hurt to at least bring it up. Who knows, you might get some extra points on your assignment!

5. Break stereotypes. Defy what people think women should look like, even for a day. For an extreme example, chop off your hair so you can know what it’s like to have many looks. Don’t try to fit in with a certain clique; experiment with changing and breaking the stereotypes placed on girls every day. However, if you choose to deny chivalries from a guy, like holding doors or paying for the movie, be sure to say thank you anyway.

6. How to live out of a backpack. Whether you’re staying over at a friend’s house or traveling around the world, you need to know your essentials for traveling. Short-term or long-term, you need to be prepared to live off of a small amount of your belongings because you never know what might come up. Going camping is a fun way to practice this! You could also learn how to build a tent.

7. Say no sometimes. A lot of us are taught to spare others’ feelings. This is evident when someone asks us to do something we don’t want to do; often we will allow ourselves to go along with it just to avoid an awkward situation or to save the other person from feeling uncomfortable. It’s important to learn to say NO when people ask us to do things that might not be in our best interests. It will free you from unnecessary burdens and prove how much strength you really have.

8. Be more independent: driving, working, doing important things on your own. Independence can start with a driver’s license. If you’re old enough to drive, do your own errands and get driving experience. When you are looking for a job or an apartment, you need to put your resume and applications into the world and not rely on anyone to help you or do it for you. I’m a strong believer in the phrase “If you want something done, do it yourself.” The most efficient way to bring change in your life is to get the ball moving yourself, without assistance. It’s a good way to gain life wisdom.

9. Become a better public speaker. If you have big career goals for yourself, it’s highly likely public speaking will be a key element in your success. Take advantage of your high school and college speech courses, and practice. Most people are afraid of talking in front of people, so it’s okay to be nervous. Once you master the art of public speaking, though, people will notice and you’re sure to go places.

10. Be proud of your smile and your laugh. Some of us have crooked teeth, and some of us have had braces. Some of us laugh like hyenas and others like mice. I always thought less-than-perfect teeth brought character to a person, and the more unique your laugh is, the more memorable you are and the more people want to make you laugh. Don’t be afraid to show that you’re genuinely happy!

New Things I Approve Of March 17, 2010

Here are a couple of things worth mentioning in the world of entertainment and media, according to me, and I’m a pretty picky person.

La Roux. This British pop band has a catchy single on the radio called “Bulletproof” and it caught my ear. Lead singer Eleanor Jackson’s interesting image is what makes the band stand out; she claims to be androgynous with her uniquely-shaped hair and masculine wardrobe that resembles 1980′s fashion.

It’s interesting to watch her play with femininity and masculinity with her pure voice and odd look. She has some interesting viewpoints about pop culture as well. The music itself is pretty catchy and refreshing – I’d definitely recommend the self-titled album.

Jessica Simpson’s ‘The Price of Beauty’ on VH1. Ms. Simpson isn’t my favorite person to watch on television, nor do I think she should be considered a role model. Her new show on VH1 might be for publicity reasons, but I really like its premise. At the beginning, she says, “People put so much pressure on women to be beautiful. There’s always a new diet to follow, a new beauty product to use… but is that really what defines beauty?” This is perhaps what drew me in.

She goes around the world asking women of different cultures what they consider beautiful, or how they feel beautiful. On the first episode (aired 3/15/10) on a trip to Thailand, she meets a lady who ruined her skin for the sake of beauty, a Buddhist monk tells her that beauty comes from within, and the Karen Tribe teaches her about golden rings they use to elongate their necks. The show is very culture-oriented, which means it has potential to be educational.

I can tell there will be a lot of infamous “chicken of the sea” moments from Jessica, but I think she’s doing something positive with a surprisingly interesting idea.

Staying Motivated Mid-Semester February 27, 2010

Mid-terms are approaching, and I know I get slower with schoolwork mid-semester. Here are some tips to be kept in mind and items to be kept on your desk to keep yourself motivated for schoolwork.

First of all, I love shopping for school supplies, especially notebooks. I want so many notebooks but don’t have enough to write in them. So pardon my mildly unnecessary excitement for mundane objects…

TIPS

Keep a to-do list (small notebook) and start the list with something already completed for the day and check it off. For example, brush your teeth and eat breakfast, then check that off of your list. You’ll feel like you’ve already done something for the day, and it will propel you forward, even if it’s something silly like eating breakfast and brushing your teeth.

Don’t be afraid to personalize binders, folders, and notebooks, or just buy some cute ones. Make sure to have a folder for every single class to keep separation of assignments and you’ll think clearer about each subject. Also, get a spiral with dividers in it to keep your notes separated.

Buy fun-colored pens to write your notes in. Different colors keep notes from becoming monotonous, and it’s also easier to study: you’re more likely to stare at pink, green and purple than at black. Also don’t be afraid to get highlighter-happy in notes and textbooks.

DESK ITEMS / SUPPLIES

Sticky tabs are great for marking your place in textbooks, remembering what’s important, and reminding yourself to re-read. The more they’re customized, the easier it will be to study. For example, get sticky tabs with quotation marks, arrows and asterisks already on them.

I’m always in high demand for utility clips. I put them on everything – books and bundles of paper. They’re really handy and I can never have enough of them. I used to have some that say “crap” on them, but I couldn’t find those. Instead I found some awesome folders using the same concept.

Use some humor and personalization to straighten up your schoolwork routine. Good luck studying for mid-terms!

On This Episode of: 21 and Furious February 23, 2010

In MTV’s second season of the “16 and Pregnant” series, this is the first time I’ve been shocked and appalled at the behaviors displayed by both teenagers becoming parents to a new baby boy. (Episode 2, aired 2/23)

Nikkole has about the personality of a cotton ball. She is bland and never opens her mouth, which is why her baby’s father, Josh, walks all over her and she blindly does what he asks. At the beginning of the episode, she reveals that she never used protection with Josh. Throughout her pregnancy she seems to go through the motions as if she’s not even present. When she speaks, it is a monotonous few words, and half of the words are “like”.

The male character is the opposite but just as infuriating; he is selfish but calls Nikkole selfish. He yells at her family and friends and expects love and attention. While Nikkole is in labor, he demands just as much special care. After a while of this, I had to pause the show on my DVR, and yell into a pillow.

At first, I wondered at MTV’s ability to cast interesting teenagers going through this tough time. Then I realized that this is probably the girl that best displays the example of “how NOT to be” – she could be considered a reverse-role model.

MTV could have also been hoping for a strong reaction from their quickly-growing audience. After all, I am 21 and was furious at what I saw on this week’s episode. Audiences seem to have the strongest reaction toward Josh, but Nikkole’s weak attitude should be just as criticized.

As frustrating as this episode is, it gets its point across and you’ll never forget how different you want your own life to be.

Inspiration: Movies February 17, 2010

We all have a few favorite movies, but have you ever asked yourself how they actually impact your life? Here are a few of my favorite movies and how they inspire me every day.

Amelie (2001) is a unique French film, which, at the beginning, lists the likes and dislikes of all the characters. Then their personality traits affect the plot in funny ways. Make a list of what you like and what you don’t like. There is a great book called My Listography: My Amazing Life in Lists, which provides different things for you to make lists out of and inspires you to search your brain for your own personality.

Lost in Translation (2003) inspires travel with its beautiful photography. I can relate to the quote by Charlotte: “I guess every girl goes through a photography phase. You know, horses… taking dumb pictures of your feet.” Make a list of where you want to travel, what you want to see, who you want to meet.

Everything is Illuminated (2005) always reminds me that family is the most important thing. Although the main character is a little too obsessed with collecting family items, it’s sentimental. If you watch this movie, be sure to read the corresponding book by Jonathan Safran Foer, and read the book behind any movie.

Science of Sleep (2006) is a quirky love story and it’s all about dreams. The main character gets dreams and reality confused, and the art and imagery used in this movie are beautiful. This movie makes me want to create a dream journal to see what kind of craziness I can come up with myself.

Out of Africa (1985), or any classic chick flick with Meryl Streep in it is always good for great quotes to live by.

And they all inspire a movie night equipped with popcorn!

What’s In: Restaurants February 16, 2010

If you’re tired of your usual restaurants or want to know what a picky eater I am, here are five restaurants that I go to often and highly recommend. Take a friend to the first two, and the entire family to the last three.

Panera Bread is what I’ve been craving most days, even though I get the same thing every time I go. I order their “You Pick Two” deal, with a caesar salad and broccoli cheddar soup in a bread bowl. It also comes with a side, and I choose chips because they’re the best chips I’ve ever eaten. All of their menu items are healthy and yummy, so it’s definitely a win-win.

Cafe Brazil is what got me addicted to grilled cheeses. As diverse as their menu is, I usually stick with their grilled cheese which has four kinds of cheese on it, and I also add avocado. It’s probably my favorite sandwich and I’m salivating now that I think about it. I try to make grilled cheeses at home but it just isn’t the same!

Macaroni Grill is a restaurant I’m never disappointed with. The bread they serve before your meal is absolutely delicious, and you can never go wrong their classic menu. I love sharing dishes with someone. You can also draw on the table with crayons here!

Steak-n-Shake is great when you’re looking for something cheep and filling. They have lots of meals for under four dollars, and the rest of their menu is quite diverse, although it sticks to basic American dishes. I just tried a shake for the first time – Hershey’s dark chocolate. I was in heaven and couldn’t believe I’d never tried it before.

For North Texas eaters, Aparicio’s is a nice and usually unnoticed classic Mexican food restaurant. There is one location in Plano and one in downtown McKinney. The one in McKinney has a great atmosphere with lots of art to look at. Their menu has everything you can think of in the Mexican food genre.

Also, dininghalfoff.com is great for coupons on dinner night to save a few bucks.

The Best Gift I’ve Ever Given February 11, 2010

If you’ve run out of creative gift ideas for a friend or a more-than-friend, here’s a great and fresh gift idea that they’re sure to love.

To get started, watch this video on how to make a simple box out of paper.

Here’s how to make it creative!

• Use different types of paper: magazine paper, old drawings, old notes, comics from the newspaper, or cute stationary, for a few examples.
• Stamps, stickers and markers are also good for decorating the end result.
• Once you make a paper box, add a small image at the bottom of the box. Or add text to the inside along the sides. This is a way to personalize it for the person you’re giving it to, and it will definitely make them smile.
• Put something in it. It can be as simple as a piece of candy or a small note – as long as it fits.

What makes this a good gift is making several paper boxes using slightly different sizes of paper. The picture shown here is an example of what sizes can be used to make 6 boxes.

Making several makes them lids for each other, turning them into something like a Russian nesting doll. The smaller the paper is that you use, the smaller the box will be.

Each box will take you about 2 minutes to fold. Remember to personalize it according to the person you’re giving it to. If they like puzzles, make the boxes out of Sudoku or crossword puzzles. If they’re a music lover, try making them from sheet music. Whatever they’re into, they will love these little boxes! I haven’t met anyone yet who hasn’t.

Personalized Feng Shui: Bedroom February 5, 2010

If you’re a student, your bedroom is perhaps your main residence and you’re probably not worried about the “sensual energy” resonating within it.

While traditional Feng Shui suggests precise guidelines which focus on spirituality and energy, most of the guidelines may be difficult to achieve for a student or younger person. Here are a few small and easy-to-achieve tips for your bedroom that will reduce stress and make you feel more peaceful in your own space.

• A bookshelf is a staple for any bedroom. It stores your books and textbooks, as well as knick-knacks if you have any extra shelves.

• A desk is important for a student. Keep all school- and business-related work and office supplies on or around the desk area. Avoid doing homework on your bed – it makes going to sleep more difficult.

• Your bed is the main purpose of your bedroom. Make it easily accessible from both sides. It shouldn’t hold anything other than pillows and blankets to make sure it looks comfy and inviting at the end of the day.

• Clutter and storage boxes should be hidden well; it keeps the visual noise in your bedroom at an ideal level.

• I would suggest that some clothes should be seen. The majority of them should be hung up or folded, but perhaps keep the closet door open to show a hint of life (although Feng Shui suggests all doors to be closed in the bedroom at night.)

• A few plants can liven up the room as well, but it’s easy to get carried away with them, especially if you’re not allowed pets. Try a bamboo plant to give it that Feng Shui feel.

• Open your window, curtain or blinds during the day – it uses less electricity and it keeps your plants happy. (Feng Shui also suggests multiple sources of lighting.)

• Minimal mirrors minimize distractions. I only have one small mirror next to my doorway at eye level. The same rule should apply to electronics.

Personalize your bedroom as much as possible! Choose a color scheme or decorate with art. Surround yourself with what makes you feel like yourself. This is ultimately what will make you feel at peace, which is what Feng Shui is all about.

Positive Role Model: Liz Lee February 2, 2010

There is no rule in life that says a role model can’t be a fictional character. MTV’s new show entitled “My Life as Liz” exemplifies just that.

Liz’s character is great because she is funny, and she talks about things that aren’t superficial. Although the show is scripted, Liz gives a realistic depiction of how high school isn’t suited for everyone, and makes you feel normal for feeling so awkward. Many things she goes through remind me of my high school years and how embarrassing it was at times.

In the first episode, entitled “Summer of Suck” (aired 1-18-10), Liz contrasts herself with the “cookie-cutter blonde”, which there are many of at her school. She has a serious aversion to them, because as her story details, she was once one of them herself. Most of the episode is about making them the enemy, which is funny, and then the show introduces the actual personality of the cookie-cutter. Liz becomes her “mold-breaker” and breaks her mold by taking her to a thrift store. As a personal side note, this is a great idea for bonding. If you give them a few chances, thrift stores can be a very cheap and sometimes fashionable alternative to spending loads at the mall. Take a cue from Liz – bring a friend and make it an adventure! Quite hilarious things can be found at thrift stores as well, so don’t forget a digital camera.

The first episode doesn’t end in an idealistic way, but Liz still brings the laughter and stays true to her character. The subsequent episodes have been just as entertaining; Liz is a positive character without the show emphasizing her physical appearance as important. This show could be considered the opposite of MTV’s The Hills. If that’s not reason enough to check it out, there are many positive points in Liz’s stories and helpful tips (such as thrifting) underneath her teenage angst and quirkiness.

Check your local listings, or click here to watch the episodes online.

Creative Organization January 14, 2010

Transforming a simple white box inspired me to get organized.

Organizing doesn’t have to be a dreadful experience. I happened to be in the Container Store over the weekend, and ran across two white letterboxes in the clearance section. I figured they’d be great because I have been wanting to move all of my memories from shoeboxes into something neater-looking. Plus, since they were white (and two dollars!), I decided to paint them to match the color scheme of my bedroom. I also happened to have some cheap acrylic paint and it took me no more than 45 minutes to:

1. Lay down a couple pieces of newspaper.
2. Set everything out: the boxes, the paint and the paintbrush.
3. Paint the entire white surface a magnificent lime green color.
4. Transfer my life memories from shabby shoeboxes into these colorful containers.

After I was done, I was on a roll. My memories were now neatly archived so I organized my entire bookshelf around my new green boxes. To say the least, it looks much neater and meshes well with my entire bedroom. So, if you have “organize something” in the back of your head, wander over to the clearance section of any retail store that sells containers (The Container Store, Hobby Lobby, Target, even Dollar General), and you’re bound to find something cute and cheap.

After that, customize it. Painting is not the only option. You can cut out pictures from a magazine and make a collage on the surface of the box. You can attach stickers or glue colorful beads. Do something to customize it so it doesn’t look like a sterile piece of furniture you found in the clearance section. You will feel much better about your living space and having checked “organize something” off your mental to-do list!