It all goes down in my dreams...

Let's talk about: comfort...

2009-03-10T22:50:00.006-04:00

As a transitive verb comfort is defined as:

1 : to give strength and hope to : cheer 2 : to ease the grief or trouble of : console

as a noun:

1: strengthening aid: a: assistance , support comfort to the enemy> b: consolation in time of trouble or worry : solace
2 a: a feeling of relief or encouragement b: contented well-being comfort>
3: a satisfying or enjoyable experience
4: one that gives or brings comfort comforts of home>

Okay. Comfort is something one seeks through their whole life. often many go on this journey of life and never find someone they are comfortable with. however, on the other hand many people find comfort in numerous things.

alright that was a lie. people do find things. things they are comfortable with. everyone. because even wallowing and sadness we find comfort. because unfortunately it is familiar. it may be negative and more harm but it is superficial comfort. but SOMEONE they are comfortable with is hard to find. that is what we are searching for.

comfort.

it is good though to stretch outside our comfort zone reach beyond what we know. that is when we learn what we need. we can take an outside look at what we need. comfort is just one thing i want to provide for someone. because once that is reached then the world is open to explore and find what one wants.

comfort.

it is the stepping stone. maybe the search should be for more than comfort.

maybe it should be for solace. maybe for affection. maybe for laughter. maybe for support. maybe for joy. maybe for pleasure. maybe for happiness.

but is it just for comfort?

words of wisdom

2009-02-24T10:50:00.002-05:00

Hope is belief in the plausibility of the possible, not only the necessity of the probable.

- Moses Maimonides,
Jewish philosopher (1135-1204)

Musical genius of the day: Antje Duvekot

2009-02-18T08:40:00.005-05:00

www.antjeduvekot.com

By way of Heidelberg, Germany Antje creates beautiful imagery with her lyrics and emits a feeling of comfort, atleast for me. Her lyrics are also extremely relatable and simple enough for universal interpretation. Vocally, she is extremely unique creating a sound the moves just enough and moves at just the right moments and give an appropriate punch to the sound almost forcing you to listen. I love her music.

Albums: 5
Favourites:
Album- Snapshot
Song(s)- Milk and Trash, Dandelion, Dublin Boys

words of wisdom

2009-02-10T12:09:00.002-05:00

The final word is love.

- Dorothy Day,
The Long Loneliness

words of wisdom

2009-02-06T22:12:00.002-05:00

Love needs to be proved by action.

- Saint Therese of Lisieux,
Story of a Soul

words of wisdom

2009-02-06T22:10:00.000-05:00

Deep peace of the
running wave to you.
Deep peace of the
flowing air to you.
Deep peace of the
quiet earth to you.
Deep peace of the
shining stars to you.
Deep peace of the
gentle night to you.
Moon and stars pour
their healing light on you.
Deep peace of Christ,
the light of the world to you.

- John Rutter,
arrangement of a Gaelic blessing

Musical genius of the day: Uh Huh Her

2009-01-28T14:31:00.003-05:00

www.uhhuhher.com

Comprised of actress Leisha Hailey of "The L Word" fame and musician Camila Grey. Their voices are extremely beautiful together and create a sound that is unique. They combine electronics with an acoustic approach on their album. I however, love the acoustic recordings of their music.

Albums: 2
Favourites:
Album- Common Reaction
Song- Wait Another Day

it's a new generation...

2009-01-21T13:42:00.001-05:00

Never before have i ever wanted to walk through the streets, jumping, with an american flag....

Music of the moment: Kindermusik...

2009-01-18T00:05:00.002-05:00

My class begin in February.

words of wisdom

2009-01-14T12:43:00.001-05:00

As an artist I come to sing, but as a citizen, I will always speak for peace, and no one can silence me in this.

- Paul Robeson

Musical genius of the day: Andy McKee

2009-01-11T15:43:00.003-05:00

www.andymckee.com

Being introduced to Andy McKee about 3 years ago his talent was immediately evident. Playing a harp guitar as well his songs are extremely melodic and flowing just like the tide. His talent is extremenly under appreciated but for me, it is sometimes what one needs. Beautiul music that they can call their own.

Albums: 4
Favourites:
Album- Art of Motion
Song- Into the Ocean

words of wisdom

2008-12-23T21:23:00.000-05:00

Blessed is the season which engages the whole world in a conspiracy of love.

- Hamilton Wright Mabie

Let's talk about: (the) breeze...

2008-12-14T23:53:00.003-05:00

I walked outside this evening. into complete darkness. with the rushing sound of the wind. and that was a instant, vivid and tangible feeling of our own breath. the breath of our life that keeps us going. the breath that helps others during CPR. the breath that helps up obtain oxygen. i took chemistry and for a moment knew the percentages. and i believe we exhale largely nitrogen. but far greater than the science breath in other cultures describes who we are.

for maori, it is the ha, and it must be exchanged by the touching of noses so that one is not a stranger any longer. you are then one. we have an emotionsl connection to air at the point it becomes spiritually and emotionally connected to our lives. no longer is it merely nitrogen and oxygen but life. love. feeling. joy.

but the breeze is beautiful. it is a constant. a constant soothing motion much like waves. there is a musical rhythm that we cannot deny. one that we have from thetime we are in mothers womb ingrained in us to seek.

it eases your mind. it makes a blank page. and supports your life.

Musical genius of the day(HOLIDAY EDITION!!! ): Sufjan Stevens

2008-12-14T23:36:00.003-05:00

www.sufjan.com

I love him. I love his last name. I love his banjo. I love his wings. It is such a non-traditional sound i can do nothing but like it. His voice is soothing and his banjo playing is utterly and strangely calming. But his music is sincere and it comes from a good place...so what else could one want.

Albums: 7
Favourites:
Album-Illinois
Song-Chicago (acoustic) and multiple others

Let's talk about: running...

2008-12-11T14:47:00.002-05:00

I used to think that i couldn't run and would say "god did not make me to run". However, i am evidence that you can do anything you put your mind to. I know how cliché that sounds however it is true. I began this by running intervals of 2 min, then up to 4 mins. Now i am running for 20 mins straight. As i told my dad when i ran for 15 min, i haven't done this.... and his reply was... since elementary school. And you know what it is true.

Running is something i have always wanted to do. My dad did it all the time and i thought why couldn't i. So with a little motivation, grueling minutes, lots of sweat, and immense gratification. I run now. I love it. It is addicting.

I push myself like i never have before. Not only does it strengthen one physically but it strengthens ones mind.

And my mind is certainly stronger than it has been in about 8 years...and i love it!!

Musical genius of the day: Tegan and Sara

2008-11-28T10:43:00.004-05:00

www.teganandsara.com

Tegan and Sara Quinn come to us from the great white north a.k.a. Canada. These girls have been around for awhile and have quite the cult following. They create a unique sound and melodies. With that they are also sisters, if you couldn't tell. Check out there other music because it is different that this song, "Call it Off". However, that is just another plus to there diverse library of compositions. Much of their early music has the sound of an early Ani Difranco, but with about 9 years of separation. Just support.

Albums: 5
Favourites:
Album- The Con
Song- "Call it Off" "Back in Your Head"

Let's talk about: beliefs...

2008-11-19T12:58:00.001-05:00

alright. at this current time beliefs. a persons beliefs. those that often align with a religious thought. are in the forefront. someones beliefs are just that. theirs. not mine. not yours. not my parents. not the church. and hopefully not someone elses. one should have ownership in their beliefs. there must be a foundation and a reasoning. and someone in opposition can feel that. opposite. but remember they may feel the same way about your beliefs.

this however takes a radical turn for the worse. that being when someone's beliefs harm another person emotionally or physically. if we are truly supposed to love one another as we would like to be treated and loved whatever your doctrine says....it is there. then taking rights away. then not giving rights. then killing, harming, and emotionally scaring someone for a belief is totally out of line. either way. opposition or not. both sides MUST take RESPONSIBILITY for who they are, what they think, and what they believe. yes what they believe.

begin to re-examine what you believe. what is it truly saying. read it in context. or not read it in context. see it from both sides (now), joni mitchell reference. be aware of both sides. and live. live knowing you have that knowledge and understanding. and are truly caring for the human race.

and just help to better your fellow man ...or WOman.... please

words of wisdom

2008-11-19T12:50:00.000-05:00

Peace is not the product of terror or fear.
Peace is not the silence of cemeteries.
Peace is not the silent result of violent repression.
Peace is the generous,
tranquil contribution of all
to the good of all.
Peace is dynamism.
Peace is generosity.
It is right and it is duty.

- Archbishop Oscar Romero

Musical genius of the day: The Be Good Tanyas

2008-11-16T12:15:00.005-05:00

www.begoodtanyas.com

Inlcuding Frazey Ford, Samantha Parton, and Trish Klein and hailing from Vancouver, Canada; this all girl trio brings you a touch of bluegrass and folk never heard before. The vocals, from ford are beautiful and like no other. This definitely makes for a great sound, creating upbeat and sometimes penetrating melodies. A band one should have in their collection

Albums: 3
Favourites:
Album-Chinatown
Song- "in Spite of all the Damages", "It's Not Happening", "The Littlest Birds"

Let's talk about: friends...

2008-11-11T17:24:00.005-05:00

we all have those friends, who when they're dating someone that person makes your friend a better person OR sadly worse. i always strive to surround myself with people who make me a better person. granted me as a person also has an influence on how a person is going to affect me.

a person that not only makes you light up, feel butterflies, and long for that little touch but also one who can carry on a conversation with your friends without you around, when you're in a public place they are perfectly okay with NOT touching the whole time, and merely more engaging than an empty chair. and i think this all lies in respect.

respect for a group that you are with and not secluding yourself. respect for friendships that have lasted longer than a 2 month relationship. and respect for another human being you want to spend your hours with no matter in what way and not just being a fly on the wall observing. someone who jumps into the middle of the situation and understands that friendships are more important to you.

and to have a relationship, friendship is key first.

respecting all love, romantic or unconditional, pure love for all the relationships in life

find that person who respects your love for others.. and makes you a better person for that love...

special comment...the greatest of these is love...

2008-11-11T09:51:00.002-05:00

really!?

2008-11-03T21:53:00.002-05:00

but watch this to make you feel better....

words of wisdom

2008-11-02T14:27:00.000-05:00

You are a Christian only so long as you constantly pose critical questions to the society you live in ... so long as you stay unsatisfied with the status quo and keep saying that a new world is yet to come.
- Henri Nouwen

Let's talk about: tears...

2008-10-26T22:57:00.004-04:00

for the last hour or so, on a sunday night, i have been looking through photos. through memories of what has been. what my life entailed for so many years. it was like seeing old friends for the first time in a long time. it is not that i want what life was like during 2001 but that i could feel what it felt to live like that again. almost as if you were able to smell the same scent, or fit the same shoe size, or feel the same way you did, or even at that time be able to see someone through the lenses you have today.

it is not a sad thing it is just a recognizable difference. one that brings tears. almost similar to that of jo in little women when she is looking out the window as beth dies, but honestly more like dottie in a league of their own when she realizes how much she truly loves the sport of baseball. something that is ingrained in you. something that makes YOU who you are. i have begun to recognize those things in my life. find my niche. and whenever we do, i know i am guilty, we try for something else. but besides that, i had tears.

good tears. crying and emotional connectivity is always hard for me so to feel that is wonderful, no matter in what manner. it is the outward and visible sign of the connection to someone, of something, for someone. it is so overwhelming and is a feeling one themselves only truly knows.

but it is also a feeling of satisfaction, that things are okay...

words of wisdom

2008-10-22T12:19:00.000-04:00

The very least you can do in your life is to figure out what you hope for. And the most you can do is live inside that hope.

- Barbara Kingsolver,
Animal Dreams

Music of the moment: how beautiful upon the mountains

2008-10-21T22:17:00.003-04:00

This is a piece of music I have sung numerous times and i sang it again this past sunday at the Presbyterian church. Recently I have been told that the sound produced has matured, which is a very good thing. This version by F. Flaxington Harker is my favorite. There is so much emotion capable to be move and connect with an audience in a beautiful way that is only visible on the spectrum of what a human can feel.

"open up your eyes...."

2008-10-14T10:44:00.005-04:00

i finally saw "across the universe". so very intricately done using beatles music. but it also speaks farther than that, it speaks to multiple generations and allows for so much interpretation on looking at life. acknowledging who your true friends are, redefining family, being who you are, and pushing the envelope on "trust".

on a musical note the vocals in the movie are AMAZING. perfect for the movie. granted it is not the likes of hannah montana, jesse mccartney, or any other popular artist on the radio. but from a vocal stand point and well produced genuine sound that is going to last and have an effect on touching ALL people, and not tweens like the earlier stated only do, musically it is far above what is out there, and credit must also be given to the beatles. that is the true measure of an amazing musician and artist... when you write music that all people can perform and interpret in numerous ways.

my favorite song in the movie was "Dear Prudence" especially because of the warmth of the voices, mostly shown from Dana Fuchs ...who voice distinctly resembles that of janis joplin at times but in this song has a warmth that women always strive fore.

another song from Evan Rachel Wood in "if i fell", shows yet again another warm female voice.

the male voices are all wonderful but it is good to point out that these voices from the female are very true, genuine, full and warm in sound, which make it definitely something to listen to.

awards

2008-10-10T12:34:00.005-04:00

Anika Moa took home the award for Best Female Solo Artist at the Vodafone New Zealand Music Awards 2008 (also known as the Tuis)

concert

2008-10-09T10:50:00.008-04:00

on tuesday night i went to one of THE best concerts i have been to. it was the Missy Higgins with Joshua Radin concert at the basement in columbus. i originally heard joshua radin about... well lets check itunes:

Purchase Date: 29/11/06 11:08PM

so about two years. the first album i bought was his live session EP which is really good. since then he has released three albums that last of which he bought himself out of his deal with sony and created his own record label Mom and Pop Records. On that label he released "Simple Times". Joshua Radin's music is very melodious with his almost ocean like finger picking of the guitar under the melody line. his voice is unique and has a great depth to it.

missy higgin which i bought about a year and a half ago, her australian single was "scar", brought her much acclaim and many accalaids winning numerous ARIA awards, the australian version of the grammy. her sophomore album also came with acclaim and another ARIA. her (australian) single was "steer" and her (american) single was "where i stood" for reason only known to those who release them.

all this aside the concert i attended was by far one of my favorites. but it brings me to a point that drives me insane. when someone listens to a song and says "this is soooo my life" really is it? it is exactly your life? i understand you may relate to it, that is the point of music to relate to the audience. i would be more comfortable with people saying "i love this song" rather than "this is sooo my life" saying that discredits millions of people who also listen to it and also relate to music. music is for the masses so in that case one song that i LOVE by missy is:

secret

the lyrics to this song are pretty self explanitory for those who know what she has been through, by what has been said through the media etc..... and this ....she is sooo very honest in her music. often times that is hard to find, but she has it.

one of the most amazing things for me during a concert is when the audience sings the lyrics solely... on their own. when i was younger i remembering watching a carole king concert on PBS. the audience began to sing her song accapella, i said "that is the coolest things" to have hundreds of strangers, only friends through the music, sing your music at the top of their lungs for YOU the artist. and that happened on tuesday. when missy was singing "scar" ... in a room of people who relate to the song in SOOO MANY WAYS!!! began to sing.

in total control of an audience, hearing your voice echo and reverberate through the room....and the audience hanging on every word you utter. man... that must feel like nothing else.

i will leave you with one more video from the concert:

you got growing up to do

music touches everyone. all people can love it!! don't try to make it solely yours. share the love. and remember at a concert you have that one thing in common with a hundred other people, and maybe more, but if that is all remember you are not alone....

music of the moment: "the lord bless you and keep you" and "mighty fortress"

2008-10-09T10:29:00.004-04:00

these are videos of two of the songs i am singing with the presbyterian church on sunday. it is there kirking of the tartans service and they have asked others to join them for their service.

the first, "mighty fortress" is a arrangement of the martin luther theme by Mark Hayes. at times the song reminds me of "jesus christ superstar". there is large amounts of syncopation and great rhythms.

the second, the lord bless you and keep you, is one we sang in high school but is always beautiful to sing. great harmonys and fugue like entrances.

Musical genius of the day: Patty Griffin

2008-10-09T10:01:00.002-04:00

Patty Griffin

Albums: 7
Favourites:
Album- Living With Ghost
Song- Moses

What can one say about one of the most popular and talented folk artist. She has a very distinctive voice, when paired with either piano and guitar, both which she plays, you get a beautiful, unique, and melodic combination. Her influence on singer/songwriters of our time is massive and tons of musicians cover her beautiful songs.

Just a side note, and 3 degrees of separation, at the concert i attended the other night.... missy higgin's covered the song "moses" ... which by the way was amazing.... missy's concert was with joshua radin .... and on joshua's recent album.... patty griffin sang with him on "you got growing up to do"...

Let's talk about: honesty...

2008-10-04T23:40:00.006-04:00

"honesty is the best policy and spinach is the best vegetable"

that is one of those movie lines that sticks with you from the ever popular movie Airborne. either way honesty, we only know when someone is not being honest when we find out hey have lied. therefore, there are two sides. knowledge of what they are specifically honest about and what they are not saying or what one has strayed from. it is not one sided and it is definitely defined by certain knowledge that certain people know. with that it is also something that i have great respect for, especially musicians, as a musician honesty is indeed the best policy. however, to quote from another movie, my favorite "Little Women" , "we must write what we don't know"

So is it true must we follow was jo said and write the obscure and unknown, or be honest in our writing and write about what we know for the whole world to hear. For me i wish i could be more honest, and in turn more vulnerable....it is what i like about listening to music and subsequently would like to portray to others. honesty.

that certainly takes vulnerability and openness one must work at. but for me is certainly the best nourishment...or vegetable.... as humans...

words of wisdom

2008-09-30T15:18:00.002-04:00

There can be no happiness if the things we believe in are different from the things we do.- Freya Stark
The Lycian Shore

New Song: weatherman

2008-09-27T15:33:00.001-04:00

got to my links and click my music.

or

or click here

what i do with my time now

2008-09-26T20:29:00.001-04:00

New Releases: Kings of Leon and Joshua Radin

2008-09-23T16:17:00.006-04:00

MUST BUYS!!!!!!!!

Let's talk about: touch...

2008-09-22T16:45:00.007-04:00

how you ever told someone to hold you? have you yourself ever been asked to hold someone?

yes. and once

it is nice to be able to give something as little as a hug. a hug that is all engulfing and creates such warmth and care as you hug with both arms and a hand behind their head. it creates vulnerability and allows for emotion also to be touched within the surface shallow nerve-endings that are engaged.

It is human nature to want to be near someone. to have contact with someone. to hear them breathe.

From infancy we long for touch, physical touch. we then start using more of senses and we begin to hear, see, taste, and smell... all things around us. We are then "touched" in more ways than just physical. Our emotions are now a variable in this ever evolving equation of being "touched". in our lives

yes sometimes the word may create bad connotations and leave us worse than when we started off. but we must recognize everyday we are touched.... even if it is merely by the new day sun. and yes people in the world hate hugs, or handshakes, or eye contact. but let me tell you, the music you listen to, the "www.perezhilton.com" you read, and the orange juice you drink... you are touched in one way or another.

don't be ashamed of being touched in all ways. it keeps one sane and allows for connection on this journey.

so "reach out and touch someone" it is the least you can do.

NZ Music Happenings

2008-09-19T10:39:00.005-04:00

2008 NZ Music Awards Winners/Finalists announced

APRA Silver Scrolls 08 Finalists Announced

apple

2008-09-19T10:39:00.002-04:00

ONE

2008-09-19T10:39:00.001-04:00

Let's talk about: routine...

2008-09-12T23:20:00.004-04:00

everyday i wake up. eat breakfast. brush my teeth. floss my teeth. listerine my teeth. watch ellen. go to the 'y'. get subway. come home. eat subway.

everyday those things are for sure going to happen. there is even more routine when i am at the 'y'.

but you know what routine is good for us. it makes thing familiar. it makes things comfortable. it makes things OK for a certain period of time. we need consistency in our life especially now.

so the times i think of not working out, i think about the next day, because we all know i am going to go then so why not just go that certain day. it all seems very mundane but for me it is a hope for a different routine. the routine of more to come.

maybe i will have the routine of a waking up going to work. maybe i will have the routine of teaching someone something new.

and even maybe...i will have the routine of a person....a person to share my routine... and more importantly my days with...

words of wisdom

2008-09-12T17:25:00.001-04:00

Our being Christian today will be limited to two things: prayer and righteous action among humanity. - Dietrich Bonhoeffer

hippies

2008-09-05T21:30:00.002-04:00

there was a time when people actually stood up for some things. however, in this day and age we do not, unfortunately...

music of the moment: esto les digo

2008-09-05T00:00:00.008-04:00

Esto Les Digo

this was sung at church in oxford. i sang the solo at the end.

nothing can really compare to when we sing it in a solely cement and wood church...... it is amazing.

also, it is the best compliment to be told you gave someone goosebumps and or tears brought to their eyes, it is truly amazing.

just take a listen.

Musical genius of the day: India.Arie

2008-09-02T15:05:00.002-04:00

www.indiaarie.com

Albums: 3
Favourites:
Album- Voyage to India
Song- Ready For Love, Complicated Melody

India.Arie is one of the best musicians around. Her music is extremely genuine and diverse in the way that it ranges from great back beats to acoustic guitar. Each album is a journey. It is definitely a tribute to the Album being a complete compilation and each song held accountable to the other. I am sure many of you know her, but she deserves recognition and check out her singing at the James Taylor tribute.

Musical genius of the day: Damien Rice

2008-08-24T15:01:00.003-04:00

"dogs"

by far one of my favorite songs ever by anyone.

Musical genius of the day: Joshua Radin

2008-08-22T00:40:00.004-04:00

"lovely tonight" feat. ingrid michealson

He has much in common with another favorite of mine Makana, you need to check him out as well. This music, i need to listen to more, and not listen with my ears. I need to listen with my heart more. I need to take to heart the sounds and poetry being expressed. I need to step back and enjoy this again. Where i am emotionally it is a must, not even now, and not even just me, everyone needs to. Think of the blood pressure level one can have...i know that is lame, but think of the joy of life you can have ...please, just do it!

No more needs to be said.
There are other albums and songs etc. but this music says it all...

you CAN close your eyes....

2008-08-15T16:11:00.005-04:00

James Taylor & Carly Simon
Uploaded by Pitoucat

This is by far one of my favorites. It is beautiful and lyrics create such imagery.

It has been an amazing 3 months, possibly the best in a long time. Things are comfortable, joyful, loving and happy. I have a job working with kids and music. Very cool.

Just imagine driving through the country, the sun setting to you left, the cool breeze from the right, and nothing but a journey ahead of you....

Now is as good a time as any....

2008-05-29T17:21:00.004-04:00

Alright, another journey ended. College. it took awhile but i enjoyed it greatly. I learned about myself and that I can study what I love. Who knew it would turn out like this? Not I. Anywho, time for GRE, purpose letters, etc. We will see what happens.

Also, I really need to work on my music. There is so much more potential than I am allowing for. I just need to focus.

'To be nobody but yourself in a world that's doing its best to make you somebody else, is to fight the hardest battle you are ever going to fight. Never stop fighting."
-e. e. cummings

Musical genius of the day: TJ McCloud

2008-05-29T16:58:00.004-04:00

tjmccloud.com

Albums: 4
Personal favorites:
Songs-- Out of My League, All These Things
Album-- Long Live Love

He is by far one of the best singer songwriters around. Originally under the name Stephen Speaks, this album does not disappoint. It has a crisp sound and wonderful lyrics and melodic lines. For me it is perfect for driving on a summers day. A must for anyones collection. Also, on his album "Kind of Life" All These Things, one of my all time favorite songs. Check out all his music. It is worth it.

For the Bible tells me So

2008-04-18T22:54:00.004-04:00

You must see this documentary, it is amazing. it touched me in in such a way that it was joyful and filled with want for change. i am surrounded by people that accept gay people in religion but you know there is still hate today.

it gave sources that supports acceptance and understanding. it it crazy to think that the Bible has been used for years for discrimination.

just remember that god is love! and that we can make a difference with that love.

3 weeks

2008-04-07T19:55:00.002-04:00

really?

3 weeks is all i have left of my undergraduate degree. excited. uncertain. not really scared. but knowing i am going to have to make decisions. ones that will have an influence on my life dramatically. it seems as if there should be a lot i need to do. but in reality there is not. or maybe i am just fooling myself into thinking i don't have a lot to do. either way it is emptying. physically and emotionally.

along with that i am falling into a person that i truly love. i am honest with myself and i am focusing on aspects academically and personally that are important to me.

i have been asked by bigtimeentertainment to fill out a booking sheet so they can book me for shows. how cool is that? one of there people found me on myspace and what do you know! i thought it was pretty cool. we will see what comes of that.

but for now i am reveling in the enjoyment of friends and finally beautiful weather. taking time for myself and thinking about the future but in all honesty how different is it going to be if i get a job. we will see...

Beautiful!

2008-01-02T19:17:00.001-05:00

P.S. 22 holiday concert
Uploaded by flost40

Musical Genius of the day: Gomez

2008-01-02T09:41:00.000-05:00

www,gomeztheband.com

Albums: let's just say 10
Favourites:
Song- See the World
Album- How we operate

I would have to thank vicki for introducing me to them. They are such a fun band. Upbeat and cheerful, and fun! Especially "see the world"

Musical Genius of the day: Anika Moa

2007-12-12T09:39:00.000-05:00

www.anikamoa.com

Albums: 3
Perosnal Favorites:
Songs-- Lies in this Land
Albium-- Stolen Hill, In Swings the Tide(for the meaning behind it)

Pretty sweet as kiwi! Loved her music and bought Stolen HIll. And then read some more about her. she is a sweet songwriter and performer, check out her videos.

home.

2007-12-10T14:18:00.000-05:00

i love my home. i love my family. i love my friends.

it is wonderful to be home. i was thrown straight into the madness that is my life. spending time with friends and at church has been wonderful. of course things change and places are different but those you love are all around.

no too sure...

2007-11-08T08:30:00.000-05:00

alright, so i am not sure if it is the male population or the female population i am angry with. is it the fact that females give into the male want or is it the female need that drives me mad. it is mind blowing...or maybe i am jealous...or maybe it is just the fact that at times i feel lonely. and you know...i am only doing it to myself. we will see if i make a change once i hit american soil...lets find out shall we?

Musical Genius of the day: Missy Higgins

2007-11-04T15:44:00.000-05:00

http://www.missyhiggins.com/

Albums: 2
Personal favorites:
Songs-- Special two, Scar, Forgive Me
Album--On a Clear Night

I am trying to remember exactly how i found her, hailing from Australia, but she is amazing and he new Cd On a Clear Night is so very good! I wasn't able to purchase it in the States but you better be sure the first week i was here, in NZ, i bought it. So very good. A warm voice and great lyrics and music. On a Clear Night is now available in the states on the itunes music store. Beautiful music and a wonderful person with a great outlook on life, atleast from what i have read.

NZ update: installment #9

2007-10-23T06:14:00.000-04:00

Kia Ora!
Hi all!!

it has certainly been awhile! but lecture is over and exam period has begun....and less than a month....and i will be in the "heart of it all" aka Ohio. The past two weekends have been so fun!! Last two weekends have been a blast and some amazing times. two of my friends and i rented car. Yes we rented a car where they drive on the other side of the road and the steering wheel on the other side as well...it is a good thing it is or it would be even more confusing. Well, actually it wasn't that confusing. but it was good. Last weekend we went to the Coromandel (ending like "handle") Peninsula. I drove the whole way there, me and my love for driving, and the others not having their drivers licenses We drove through beautiful scenery on the Pacific Coast Highway. And arrived in Coromandel after the holiday park closed. So uncomfortably we rang the doorbell to get a campsite because the office closed at 9 and we arrived at 9:30. Woke up the next day. Went shopping at the grocery store and then drove to hot water beach. Now we arrived at hot water beach at about 11 o'clock i believe. the whole point to go to hot water beach is to dig a whole in the beach and sit in it. Yes what i said is correct. The ground/sand has thermal activity underneath it, so people at low tide, come flocking to this little area on the beach and begin to dig. It actually is quite a sight to see! people digging these holes like mad. We were told about the holes, however, the person we talked to failed to mention that we should take a shovel. so we sit on the beach for about 3 hours then we go over and see the people digging and we waiting til we could commandeer a hole after someone left. Some of that water was really really boiling but it was awesome. So then that night we drove to Hahei beach, which is right near hot water beach, and the worst wind storm hit. Our tent was eating us it seemed. At about 1 in the morning when the pole hit me in the head i went to sleep in the car and i was driving and thought it would be a good idea to sleep while to other two stuck it out in the tent. The next morning we went to cathedral cove. It was beautiful but quite the walk in slippers/ flip flops. But then we drove to Orere, a holiday park that had a trampoline, and it was not nearly as windy, and spent the afternoon skipping rocks, and the next morning drove back to auckland.

That was a nice weekend and cathedral cove and that area are places where captain cook landed and meet maori people. It is really cool to think of it that way.

this weekend we went somewhere i wanted to go before i left and that is raglan. beside the fact ben harper is building a house there it is primo surfing spot. and it is pretty sweet as to say you learned to surf there. And that is what i did. I learned to surf!!! FINALLY!!! raglan was lovely! on friday we went into town to a takeaway place which is small and cute and i got burgers. then the next morning went to bridal veil falls. Now when we went to Europe we were told not to expect good water falls like Niagara so i was expecting the same thing, but this was actually pretty awesome! Then back into town to walk around and get a free sausage and walk through the market and then go to the information center...and lesson learned buy patches when you have a chance because they will be closed the next morning when you go to buy them.... anyway got to the information center and decided we should just sign up for lesson...and went to the lady and she said how is 2 o'clock. So we walked around for a bit more then to take a nap. After the nap we headed to the Raglan Surfing School. This place was the cutest thing ever. There is a hostel there too and lots of trails and ropes courses and a flying fox, which it was really fun, but man i left there wanting to work their. But we got our lessons with about 9 of us and i stood up really well on land. good form! so we then all piled into a car with our instructor. Drove to the beach, and got wetsuits etc. Our two instructors Zen and the girls name has left me at the moment, but we did more land work, and Zen gave me the thumbs up no corrections. So i was ready. we go out into the water, mind you no sun and still spring time aka REALLY COLD! But after being plummeted with wave after wave and the help from Zen i got up about 6 times it was great! So much fun! and now i have one more thing to do when i visit HI.

Anyway things have been great! Ready and complete here! however things about moving out kinda stink but i think i have them under control! and i will put up new photos! however, the most beautiful one of me, that is the one is the wetsuit is on someone elses camera so it will be there soon! Also, i have continured to play at the bog! it has been awesome and such a great experience. I have my first exam on the 25th then the 31st and two on the 8th. Then off to OZ!!! YAYAYAYAY!!!

Hope all is well and love you heaps!!!

so be it!

2007-10-03T18:51:00.000-04:00

http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x30vw9_pressconfsm_politics

Pressconfsm
Uploaded by sanderspressconf

Let's talk about: shoes....

2007-10-03T07:50:00.000-04:00

alright so...you can tell a lot about a person and the shoes they wear. their job. their sexuality. their hobbies. their religion. their shoe size. ha! anywho....shoes are amazing i love trying to firgure out someone buy the shoes they wear. i even wear certain shoes to attract people that will like the shoes....whatever that means...but shoes matter! atleast for me....this is a ramble...while in NZ at 12:53AM after having an evening of sidereel and wine....but still i have been thinking about it for awhile. it is totally something anyone can relate to. shoes. honestly. i like a nice loafer, or a van or a converse or a heel..goodness any shoe really...you can tell country. americans always have the shiny white New Balance with jeans and the europeans have the pumas with the tight pant. and the NZ has the vans or converse with the tapered jean or the polynesian with the slipper....whichever...you can totally tell....

NZ update: SPECIAL EDITION!!!

2007-10-02T04:04:00.001-04:00

That is right folks. All these years of singing in the crowd while the band plays, and making eye contact, HA:) , i played my own songs during someone elses set!! it was awesome! we were at an irish pub, called the bog, it was the best time!! i was just sitting there and one of my friends went up and asked if i could play some songs. and she came back over to me and said "anny they said you could play" me being really confused and wondering when this happened. so i played!! and people were recognizing me and telling me to come back next week etc. So i played i think 5 songs, on a beautiful martin guitar. thanked the band over and over and over, felt somewhat bad for taking there set, but come to find out, they have been there for 7 yrs...so i am not too worried about it, they told me to come back and play more. so i guess next thursday, i should work on that this week...i mean write my papers this week...but it was sooo much fun and now not only am i big in Lucerne, Switzerland (for my yodeling skills), but i am big in New Zealand. And yes "Give it up for Anny" was said a few times!

hope all is well, love you heaps!

NZ update: installment #8

2007-10-02T04:01:00.000-04:00

Kia Ora!!!
Hi All!!!

Well things are starting to whined down. Classes are finishing up and papers and assignments galore. but things are GREAT!! This past weekend i want to motutapu island with vicki and michelle. It is connected to one of the most visited volcanoes around here Rangitoto, however, you have to walk all across both islands to get to the place that you can camp. It was AWESOME!! we got to walk through sheep pastures with some sad and disgusting sights, but beautiful scenery and a great walk! but other than that life is pretty normal. Have a few trips i want to get in before i leave for Australia then eventually home! I am very excited for Australia.
Last week a few of my friends in my maori studies class, i was speaking with them, and they said when do you leave, and i told them November 9, they said "that is sad!" and you know, it is! but, my friendships and life have just grown so no need to be sad!! and one can have wonderful experiences no matter where you are....not gonna lie though....it does sometimes help to be in a beautiful place!

Hope all is well and i love you heaps
all my love!!!

Let's talk about: sex...

2007-09-29T05:43:00.000-04:00

Alright, growing up in the 21st century(and 20th) i am bombarded everyday with sex. everything . everyone is influenced by sex. or the appeal of it. cars. clothes. shoes. people. animals. furniture. food. and the list goes on. but why? call me someone who lives in 1957 but get this, it was selling then too. it is the same deal no matter what era we are in. personally, i don't get it. i mean i understand what it is and how it works etc. etc. blah blah blah. but, why are we as humans driven by it. are we wanting to make this race perpetuate. i personally have nothing wrong with it. it is a gift from god, however, for what purpose. to share with a partner you connect with, it is the ultimate showing of love, it is such a beautiful thing, sure i suppose it feels good, there are lots of things in life that do, even artificial things. but this is emotional, one of the things that makes us humans, makes us different from over protective sea lions. emotion. and why in life would one want to ruin that emotion so that you do not enjoy it as much, and are hurt. there is also the other side why let such a good thing hurt you. why would it be wrong to be with all these people if all it is, is sex? right? so what make it so important, what makes it so controversial. i am not positive what it is. is it the people that judge. is it the ones not having it. is it the religious ideology. is it politics. is it the media. it is all of the above folks and i just don't want people hurting. i want life to be enjoyable. i want love. i want to have a happy life. and do things at my pace. i want to have a good time playing cards and listening to music.

music is an art. painting is an art. people are an art. but i suppose i just don't get it...but be smart.

why?

2007-09-28T17:40:00.000-04:00

i am honestly gonna have to do something about this....

Musical Genius of the day: Feist

2007-09-23T18:43:00.000-04:00

http://www.listentofeist.com/

Albums: 3
Personal favorites:
Songs--the park
Album-- the reminder

NZ update: installment #7

2007-09-15T18:46:00.001-04:00

Kia Ora!
After about 10 meat pies, playing the tractor game about 700 times, heaps of card games, 2 great bus drivers, and amazing scenery...i have made it back to busy Auckland.

My magic trip, was just that, magic. but it was all real...hmmmm...i will just give you an overview. We started in Christchurch after flying from auckland. Lets just say i need to learn to take change out of my pocket or i go through security about 3 times. Arrive in christchurch late at night and are greated by a man playing recorder in front of the church. Find our hostel, which in the process i dropped my meat pie on the ground...but it was not harmed...they are very durable. Spend the night and catch the shuttle in the morning to the train. On the train we took beautiful photos and met some fun people. Arrived in greymouth, enjoyed pizza then walked about 2.5 km to our campsite, but it was worth it and found a beautiful beach. Watched the sunset (i think i may have written this) and saw the sunrise...then got on the bus with greg. And headed down to Franz Josef, where i did one of the most amazing things in my life...i hiked a glacier...after totally being scared when the lady was saying and explaining the route. Met some interesting people at the pub there, all 5 of them, but it was a good time. Then headed down to queenstown for two days, which is where i believe i wrote last. In queenstown, i personally didn't do much except luge down the mountain and ride a gondala to the top, which was so fun and beautiful. From queenstown they took us to Dunedin and we stayed at the cutest hostel in the world, it was adorable, it will be in pictures, but we went on the elm wildlife tour, which i thought was going to be like the zoo. but no...we hiked through the pastures to the water and walked down to the fur seals , sea lions, and penguins in their natural habitat...i think that was my favorite, then teh next day head to lake tekapo, i like to call pekaboo, but that was beautiful as well, however, our star gazing observatory got cancelled and we ended up playing cards all night with the English girls we met, while we were getting stares from teh people watching Titanic, we all knows what happens, and leo well his hair is greasy. From there we went to Christchurch again, and stayed at another really cute hostel and got to see the town during the day. But then had to wake up at about 5:15 to get the shuttle to the train up to picton. We got the train, and of course, the mormon missionaries sit down next to me, and we chat it up and it was so fun. the one elder made me sing for him cause it was his birthday, we have it on video. it was very fun. We then got into picton and stayed in teh town for a bit...i made friends with some ducks, ha!! Then we boarded the ferry at about 6. Now the ferry, was the worst experience EVER!!! it was the chopiest weather, people were getting sick, coming around offering ice chips, and it was storming out and dark, oh man i was so happy to get off the ferrry and into wellington. We only spent the nigh in Welly but then boarded the bus, this time with a new driver, rob. From Wellington, we drove to napier, the art deco capital of new zealand. It was very cool, i somewhat felt i was in the birdcage. But then it started raining, so michelle and i spent the afternoon playing backgammon, chess and cards. Needless to say i won all. then went downstairs and had dinner with our bus driver...he and some other guy where the only two in the place, but magic bus got a $10 meal including a drink, which is cheap. After that, we went to bed, woke up the next day and went to Mt. Mauganui, (big mountain), it was very beautiful there, got there in the evening and went to chinese dinner with the bus driver again. Got back watched American Beauty with other magic people, ha, and then off to bed. Then Boarded the bus for Auckland. And i am now home. that was somewhat of a quick overview, cause i am not much for the world anymore, and i need to sleep, so i will end here and catch up later...maybe even put some photos up!! But for now...

I love you heaps and hope all is well!

Journey

2007-09-13T19:15:00.000-04:00

Alright, New Zealand has been amazing! i am at the halfway point on this sidetracked journey, from the continual journey of everyday life. I have seen places experienced life in a place i have dreamed of since i was little. To say i haven't changed is a lie, but i am ready for home. I love the people i am surrounded by, and they will always be around me, i hope, no matter where in the world i may be. I make new friends and they are jsut more people i keep in contact with. Isn't that one of the main purposes on this earth? relationships. relationships with everything and everyone. people. animals. nature. money. machine. it all boils down to that. It is what i look for in life, and in other people that are around me.

But i will say it is not what i expected at all. This country, atleast Auckland is so very western you sometimes forget "oh yeah i am in new zealand". you have to get out of the city to remember why you came to this beautiful country. the people and the landscape are truly unexplainable until you are smacked in the face with them. it is somewhat overload.

tha magic bus was possibly one of the best experiences i have ever had in my life. I met amazing people, traveled throughout a beautiful countryside, and experienced things i may never experience again. It was truly awe-some...filled me with awe!!
this whole time here has not only changed me but i have lots of time to think...which has been very nice. we will see where i turn next on this journey ...

my absolute favorite

2007-09-13T19:14:00.000-04:00

Keep watch, dear Lord, with those who work, or watch, or
weep this night, and give your angels charge over those who
sleep. Tend the sick, Lord Christ; give rest to the weary, bless
the dying, soothe the suffering, pity the afflicted, shield the
joyous; and all for your love's sake. Amen.

Desiderata

2007-08-23T22:29:00.000-04:00

Go placidly amid the noise and haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence. As far as possible, without surrender, be on good terms with all persons. Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to others, even to the dull and ignorant; they too have their story. Avoid loud and aggressive persons; they are vexations to the spirit. If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain or bitter, for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself. Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans. Keep interested in your own career, however humble, it's a real possession in the changing fortunes of time. Exercise caution in your business affairs, for the world is full of trickery. But let this not blind you to what virtue there is; many persons strive for high ideals, and everywhere life is full of heroism. Be yourself. Especially do not feign affection. Neither be cynical about love; for in the face of all aridity and disenchantement, it is as perrenial as the grass. Take kindly the counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth. Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings. Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness. Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself. You are a child of the universe no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should. Therefore be at peace with God, whatever you conceive him to be. And whatever your labors and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life, keep peace in your soul. With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.

"Desiderata" was written in 1927 by Max Ehrmann (1872-1945). In 1956, the rector of St. Paul's Church in Baltimore, Maryland, used the poem in a collection of mimeographed inspirational material for his congregation. Someone who subsequently printed it asserted that it was found in Old St. Paul's Church, dated 1692. The year 1692 was the founding date of the church and has nothing to do with the poem.

NZ update: installment #6

2007-08-22T07:18:00.001-04:00

Kia Ora!!
Hello all!!!
As i sit here, having two papers mostly done, and by that i mean one done and one almost done...i cannot help but think how excited i am about leaving monday evening for christchurch. Not a lot of things have been happening except school. One thing though did happen last saturday night. A bunch of us went to mission bay for dinner. It was so very fun!!! It was however tough for about 8 people to make a decision, i finally had to just say "i am going to fish n'chips if anyone wants to join come along" maybe it was rude, but i feel i always have to make the decisions, well i don't have to but it frustrated when people go back and forth a lot. It wasn't the most expensive place, and lets face it i can get better italian in buffalo than new zealand. Anywho, i had calamari and rice and then we went for ice cream afterwards. Then the best part...we went to the ocean at night!!! it was beautiful, i mean the darkness, and the waves. I blame being an aquarian on my loving the sound of waves. I just stood there for a bit taking it in, and wondering how vast the darkness is when you look out...but then it was quickly interrupted by steven, one of the boys with us who was knee deep in the freezing water with his slippers/flip-flops on. He is a funny cat! So i picked up some shells and then we continued on down the water to a fountain which was really fun, and then...the swing set....it was really fun!! We played on it for at least an hour. Chasing each other and swinging and riding the zip line type thing...and taking pictures...that is what i will do put some of those up...i think that is all...we then got the bus back. Also, i forgot on friday night at the fat camel, it is part of one of the hostels here, i hula hooped...it was sooo fun!! We met up with some people that night and just sat around at the fat camel, but then later the hula hoops were brought out, needless to say that is one of the things that i never learned....Mrs. De i think you should totally add that as a summer class, it would be perfect....hula hooping and there should be shave ice afterwards...but i wouldn't be able to teach it, but i can make the shave ice....(maybe agg can do the hula hooping, or maybe just the hula....hmmm...nevermind)

talking about my cooking skills....wow that is weird how my mind works with these topics....anyway...i have been cooking very well...tonight i cook beef schnitzel with ramen and onions, and last night it was somewhat of the same thing but with veggies...it is soooo good! i am getting a good handle on this cooking thing. but the other night i had like 3 people watching me cook and i ruined it royally, then one of the boys preceded to tell me i cooked my rice wrong...so now i know!! and i haven't cooked rice since...but it was a nerve racking learning experience.

ALright, i think that is all for auckland, it is not raining as much, and classes are flying by, just as i thought. For everyone that went back to school i hope classes are going well and for those who are not or retired *cough*uncle mark*cough* my fathers older brother*cough* and not going back to school...(but you probably will be playing more golf than i...anywho) and safe travels for everyone...i know some of you are going places...and everyone still working...and 25 candlewood make some pictures so i can photoshop myself in....i am thinking of ALL of you ALWAYS!!!

i love you all heaps!! and hope all is well!!!

Musical Genius of the day: Sara Bareilles

2007-08-16T07:42:00.000-04:00

http://www.sarabmusic.com/

Albums: 1 (major) (EP Love Song)
Personal Favorites:
Songs--many the miles, gravity, one sweet love
Album--Little Voice

So a new idea i put my ipod on shuffle and one artist the sticks out is the winner...

A beautiful person and voice. A little guitar. A little piano. A little soul. Something that makes you warm inside but with a tuneful and lyrical joy that our thoughtful at times. Also a little funky at times. there is definitely california in her... you can hear it in her songs. I believe i first got a song by her from a free itunes download. then her EP only had 3 songs...i bought them...then her full album was alvaiable...with a few of the same songs...i think it was worth it.

NZ update: installment #5

2007-08-16T07:26:00.000-04:00

Hi all!!
No captains log necessary;)
Things are speeding up so much. Next week is the last week before my two week semester break. I am taking a magic bus, a backpackers bus that takes you around the north and south islands. I am really excited for this. But i need to get a lot done before i go so i can enjoy it even more. I have two papers due next week and a test the monday i return from break. So, that has kept me busy. Not a lot has really happened except it rained AGAIN when we were going to go to rangitoto. OH YEAH!! i bought a guitar off trademe.co.nz I was pretty pumped about it. It is nice. It is only a 3/4 guitar but it was 50 dollars and better than nothin!! It was however an adventure to go pick it up. Some people went with me to get it but on teh way home it started to rain! And the rain always makes it interesting in one way or another. But other than that not a whole lot. Just hanging out with people here, sitting downstairs in the lobby talking for hours. it is actually really nice. meet so many people! If i remember anything else exciting i will let you all know, but for now, it is time to get some sleep and dream of my maori paper, pacific music paper, and NZ music paper...oh yeah and geology...i think i am going to do volcanoes, it sounds exciting!!
Hope all is well and I love you all heaps!!

Aotearoa

2007-08-15T19:34:00.000-04:00

As I sit here on campus eating my thai chicken curry, which is always amazing. I just wonder what kind of influence this time here in aotearoa is going have on me. I mean we always want some kind of change right? Or help in growing. But will that happen…I am so happy right now. 1) being my mother put money in my account so when I go back I am booking my semester break. SWEET AS!!! 2) I have wonderful people in my life all over this planet how crazy

But also not going to lie, I got a little sad this morning, not sure if it was I was worried about my ticket to Christchurch, or I tried calling every phone yesterday, and no one called back, or I was homesick. Any one of those is okay. I am okay with that. But I have always been thinking, no matter where you are in the world you are esssetially and genuinely the same person inside. You have certain influences on your life that have shaped you and no matter how hard you have tried to change them, you can’t they are always there. And personally for me I am happy with that.

Musical Genius of the day: Nick Motil

2007-08-08T05:49:00.000-04:00

www.nickmotil.com

Albums: 4
Personal Favorites:
Song--Nightwalks
Album--My Dreams

This crazy cat is amazing. I was first introduced, and yes personally about 4/5 years ago, whenever i started this college thing. He signed my CD case and all. His lyrics are so prevalent and yet he is awesome at the guit. His wittiness live is even better. I feel i have grown though his music even as close in age and...yes location...well not anymore. for either!!! O-H-I-O!!!

NZ update: installment #4

2007-08-08T05:46:00.000-04:00

Kia Ora!!

Things are going very well! Mostly just classes and a little exploring on the side ;)!

Last week was pretty work oriented. Classes and tutorials are going well though. Just need to get more organized like usual. In my Anthro class we have moved on to Samoa from tonga. It is pretty awesome! And in Maori, i am going to do my paper on the first maori bishop. New Zealand Music i may do my essay on Flying Nun records. It seems the most interesting so far. they were founded in Dunedin. And geology i just have an assignment due on monday. Almost done.

But Friday in Geology, steven came in and said "bubbles, wanna go on a brewery tour? there are four tickets left." i thought for a second and said "yes". After class we went to ispace, the international space and got our tickets, i cancelled my DELNA appointment which is to see if i can speak english and we went and got the bus to the lion brewery, convieniently named lionzone. We get there and wait for awhile then onto the tour.

We first went into a room where animatronic people talked to us as did holagram oh the past president of the brewery. we were then taken into the hops room through to the malt room and then into a room where we watched a video of brewing. Then from there we had to go outside across the street to the packaging room. Sadly there was no packing going on, it was still cool to see. Then back outside across the street and up to the "Brew Hall" in the brew hall we had 20 minutes to drink all the beer we wanted. No worries the only obnoxious ones were the Germans, but i suppose that comes with the territory, not sure what territory that is but it sounds nice.

We left the brewery, and hopped on a (hopped-->hops go into beer, sometimes i am not so clever) bus that ended up being an hour long. But finally got home.

On friday night i was going to with the Maori Student Association to some pubs. Michelle and Vicki were going to come to and i had 7 o'clock written down. But we went to meet them, and no one was there...it had started at 6. So we had to find our own "trouble". Not trouble just excitement. We went back to railway and waited then went back out and ended up at the ever popular and lovely QF tavern. We walk in and there is a short chinese man singing with is MacbookPro, like his own little Karaoke. For some reason, yert(the fire alarm just went off) back now....yet again i walk in the man singing during a part of his song points to me. I start singing. So the whole time he was coming over to me and making me sing the songs. And he kept saying he was going to be out of a job. So when we left we were walking down the street, and this group of people came up to me and said "you're the signer" i was very confused and they said "at the pub" i was like "Oh yes that was me" we had a good conversation. then headed out.

Saturday was somewhat of a work day.

Then Sunday the ZOO!!! yayay!! that was fun! Saw lots of animals. and saw another Kiwi, tried to get its picture but it didn't seem to work. It was a nice Zoo!! it was a good day.

Came back and made dinner.

All in all it has been a good week!

love you heaps!! hope all is well!!

Arm Pit Hair

2007-08-06T23:04:00.000-04:00

So i think this is the longest my arm hair has been in a long time, or ever been. How do the French do it. I really don't mind having long arm pit hair, but what i do mind is the itchiness, if that is even a word. Props to you French women out there. I tried i really did, but i bought razors today, that doesn't mean i am shaving my legs...ha...no worries...it is not going to happen!

itunes

2007-08-02T18:32:00.001-04:00

GO GET YOUR FREE DOWNLOAD!

Musical Genius of the Day: Stephen Speaks

2007-08-02T07:20:00.000-04:00

http://www.stephenspeaks.com/

Albums:2
Favorites:
Album--(i suppose) no more doubts
Song--Passenger Seat or All These Things

AMAZING lyrics! I could listen and relate to all day! definately worth a download. Atleast one song.

NZ update: installment #3

2007-08-02T07:09:00.000-04:00

Kia Ora!!
Hello!
I don't think this one will be too long because, it has been a lot of school, but i just want to let you know things are going FABULOUSLY!!!

Classes are going very well. Working on a few papers for my lectures. My Maori Society class i have decided to write on the Maori People and the Anglican church, i am most likely going to have to choose micro topic within that, maybe the first Maori bishop...something of the sort. Also, i went to Wellington this weekend. Wellington was amazing!! I think i am in love with the place!!

Left Thursday after class for a 12 hr bus ride down to Wellington. I think it was that long because of all the stops we too, but still it is kind of far away. it is on the very lowest tip of the north island. Arrived in the morning on Friday. I met Laura, a girl that was in the AustraLearn program for internships. She is a friend of another girl in the program here. I did not want to intrude the first night until michelle got the after classes so i stayed in a hostel directly next door. But it was mainly just a place to stay. i spent the whole day walking around the city. got some places i should not miss, thanks roger!! so i headed of to the Te Papa, museum. It was free. I could and did spend all day their. It was a beautiful place. The Marae was wonderful, there was no ceremony, but there was a poetry reading, sadly i left after the first one was read. there was a lot more to see. I blame my mother for my now like of museum, she still can out due me on time spent reading things. it is definitely a good thing! :) There was a exhibit for the Treaty of Waitangi. Which was really cool. Then, during this time i was picture taking fein, til the ever popular "No Photographs" sign so i was done. A lot of cool exhibits: one about those that emigrated to New zealand (side note if a person was a single female your travel was free), another about New Zealand made items more contemporary. Another more like a traditional art gallery from NZ artist. Downstairs in the museum was a kids area with information on the earthquake that was in Wellington and another exhibit which was a movie called "the glory days" i believe that was the name. After the museum got something to eat. And went to the war memorial. It was beautiful. It was 1914 and 1915, so i believe that is WWI, it had all the different branches of service and a beautiful chapel. In front there was a tomb of an unknown soldier that was recently placed.

On Saturday laura and i went to the bus station to pick up michelle. We get back and michelle and i went to breakfast, and on the way back we found a music store, i was very tempted to buy $145 guitar that they had. But i resisted. got back and we all went walking on the harbour. It was so fun. Stopped at a few galleries and Plimmer's ark. http://www.museumofwellington.co.nz/inconstant/

that night we went to a movie for the film festival, it was "death of a president" it was a somewhat disturbing film, one i am sure will not reach the US. Went to dinner, and with my help started talking to some kiwis next to us. The two other girls were like "anny how do you do that, just strike up a conversation" i told them it was in the eye contact. Who knows what it is, but that was fun we got shhhhhd by the waitress. Stayed at lauras and jons, one of her roommate.

Woke up the next day, jon made eggs and toast. He was soo sweet! such a nice guy. took us hiking and introduced us to geocaching, WHICH IS MY NEW FAVORITE HOBBY!!! it helps if you have a gps but there are also clues if you have an account. Lets just say if you are somewhere and there is a little box of treasure, don't mess with it, someone is searching for it. It informs you and you get to see cool sites. Also, he told us about Help exchange which is a program that you sign up for, you have to pay for it and you go and work for someone and in return you get a place to stay and food and an amazing experience!!! i would love to do that!! We hiked up Mt. Victoria we literally went from one end to the other. We saw a spot where in The Lord of the Rings, in the first movie, where they have to get off the road, we walked right through it. ANd there was a pretty sweet swing hanging from a tree that was a lot of fun. That lasted all day and then i was on a bus back to auckland. Got in, in the morning and on my walk back to my flat, i saw a seagull get hit by a car,(sorry... :( ) it was a sad experience cause then all the seagulls from all the corners of the area came flying in and started circling. It was a sad but cool site i suppose. Not so sure why i felt that you needed to know that but anyway... Also side note, the birds here are crazy. Whenever i eat outside i feel i am going to be attacked.

All in all it was an awesome weekend!!! I love wellington!

I hope you all are well!!! and i love you heaps!!!
all my love

NZ update: installment #2

2007-07-30T05:28:00.000-04:00

Kia Ora!!!
Hello all!!
(long again..my apologies)

The first week has been pretty sweet! A lot of classes mostly but wonderful. I love all my classes. Maybe Geology is a little below the radar of my favs but definitely everything else is AMAZING!!! And we have our tutorials this week so smaller groups of people and get to meet more people, always good!!!

On Friday the 13: (when we last left our faithful hero..)
A girl from AustraLearn,Heather, Australearn is the program I came through, has been here awhile so she has a car etc. Heather and her fiance took us to dinner at a Kebab place on Queen St. It was good, and cheap. Cheap is very key, granted it mus be good for me but i didn't even buy cheese the other day cause it $3.94, but maybe one day i will splurge on cheese but as for now it is chicken and vegetable which is a key dish at the "S-G household", so no worries here, but enough of my eating habits, lets get back to the story at hand. Went to kebabs, came back to Railway showed them around and it was then off to bed. (Actually i think we walked around Ponsonby)

On Saturday the 14:
headed over to school, "tramped" over the hills to put money on my card and ended up going to a BBQ on the quad, how cliche yeah? Sounds like "Saved by the Bell: the college years". Met some cool people came back and looked up things for class and wrote some notes and then it was time to go watch the Rugby match. All Blacks vs. South Africa, Rory (the fiance) and Heather came and picked us up and we headed to the Cavalier. I would say that the the four of us were the only Americans there. We met some of Rory's friends from work, but it was the cutest pub. White and somewhat New England Cottage House looking, but PACKED!!! and of course i get stuck standing behind the tallest man in the room. We watch the game which has no commercials A-MAZING! So fun Conrad, a new friend explain it a little more than i roughly new how it was played. But it was a good game and we won!!! SWEET! Then we went to Ponsonby, where the night before we found Wisconsin Burger, and had some food, it was a really good burger. And then came back and off to bed.

Sunday the 15:
went to church, it was good, a benedictine sister spoke for the sermon. It was very good! i thought. Here is a link to the video of the sermon, the camera just misses me. I was right in front of it but to short to be in the shot! I was next to the man next to the lady in the camel coat. Oh well!!: http://www.stmatthews.org.nz/news.php?nid=105&sid=88

Walked around the city for a long time, saw someone jump off the skytower. Finally got back after getting some food that was not very good and way too expensive. Did some work and there was another BBQ here at railway.

Monday the 16:
Classes begin and lots of RAIN!!! (oh man getting fancy with the fonts etc.) I head over early to pick up my readers for my classes. Figured out where my classes are and so forth had some lunch went to my geology class which seems pretty cool, and Steven from the program ended up in my class. So we sat next to each other in class walked home and on the way i opened and account at The National Bank. Got back, talked to Agg for a bit and thought my class was at 5 and when i checked at for to make sure of the room, it was 4-5!!! PANIC!!! My Maori Society class, the one i was really excited to go to i was already late! I booked it up the hill (and through the woods, not really but makes for a better story) to the human science building. I got to the class at about 4:10 so it wasn't tooo bad i guess. It was a big lecture hall and the professor Dame Anne Salmond, was telling stories. She has aided and worked for, Maori's in New Zealand. Agg is going to turn into her one day unless she has already become her, the Hawai'ian equal. She tells stories, it is a great class. We are learning about the voyages throughout the Pacific and where people traveled.

Tuesday the 17:
Second day of class. First class at 9. My anthro class, Musics of the Pacific. Only American in the class. At the end of class introduced myself to the professor because he is the Ethnomusicology professor and Agg met him in Hawai'i when the Ethno conference was there and i have had some e-mail contact with him. Talked for a bit and thanked me for making myself known. Another BBQ, Another Sausage. Then to Geology. Got back to railway and had an e-mail saying i could pick up my All- Black tickets for the Bledisloe Cup vs. Australia's Wallabies. Then went shopping bought a lot of things all for under $40. Came back and made chicken, rice and vegetables. Sooo good!! http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bledisloe_Cup

Wednesday the 18:
Another fun class and not til 12 but for two hours...Studies in New Zealand Music!! It is a good class. We had listening examples and were to write down what we thought when we heard the piece. They were all connected to New Zealand in a one way or another it was really fun. Then had my Maori class and it was wonderful yet again. Came back and cooked more chicken and vegetables sooo good! Then went and watched Spiderman 3 in the lounge downstairs.

Thursday the 19:
Had Anthro and talked about Tonga and watched videos from Polyfest and looked at the different dances. Such much fun too!! Probably another favorite, actually i love ALL my classes sooo good!!! Then to Geology til 1 o'clock and i was done for the weekend. Came home had some dinner then went to the Pub and met some old men who explained Rugby a little and then headed home.

Friday the 20:
NO CLASS!! Michelle and I went to Heathers and made a cake. Came home, had some dinner and bed.

Saturday the 21:
Day of the game. Went and got the trash bags to be shielded from the rain. Came back and had some food. And headed on he train to the game. Had to meet the AUT people so I could give stephanie her ticket. Waited in line. Then it began to DOWNPOUR!!!! but everyone waited it through it in line. Finally pushed our way through the line got in the stadium, right by the grass just in time to watch the Haka!!! Taped the haka and found our seats. We were by an Aussie, South African, Irishman, Kiwis and we Americans. It was a good game. WE WON!!! We were two rows from the field. So fun!! Left the stadium walked around to miss the mass of people. ANOTHER BBQ, ANOTHER SAUSAGE. on the side of the road of all the BBQ, this was the best sausage, maybe it was because i was freezing and wet, but it was good, i think mutard had something to do with it. Went to try to get on the train. INSANE!!! decided to walk and see if we could get a bus but nay, and we just kept walking. I map quested it this morning and it was 3.5 miles!!!! Not too bad. Came home and went to bed!!

Today the 22:
Did not go to church, oops. I just wanted to stay dry and did not feel like walking all across the city in the rain. I was also going to go to rangitoto island, but yet again the rain. So i figured it was time for another joyous e-mail.

I love you all heaps!! And I love the e-mails back. Isn't that what communication is for? not to totally forget everyone but to keep them informed!!!

NZ update

2007-07-17T05:30:00.000-04:00

Tuesday July 3:

I landed last Tuesday at 5:30 AM. The plane ride over was awesome!!! Air New Zealand is a pretty kickin' airline. So the flight was no problem. My group, Australearn, was all seated together so that was fun and got to know a few people while on the plane. A few people lost there luggage but I was lucky to get mine. I went through customs and security and passport etc. Changed some money and wen to the lobby area where i was met by my program. My leaders Eleanor and Bob and the rest of my group which was 23 people. We called home, needless to say i had to leave a message, ha! , and got on the bus with our driver "lefty", whose real name is Trent, who is a Kiwi. We waited outside for a bit till everyone got there, talked met eachother. Got on the coach at about 6 and were informed we couldn't go to sleep until 9 so we could adjust better. On the way to the Kiwipaka, which is a really nice hostel, we played games on the coach and told eachother about ourselves. I sat of course in the very front of the bus, i didn't want to miss out on anything. We arrived at the Kiwipaka and had lunch and them am intorduction session. After lunch most likely we played soccer or tossed the rugby ball. We were very self motivated in learning eachothers name and keeping ourselves entertained. Then we toured around rotorua, smelliest city of all because of the geothermal pools. Also, went to the warehouse which is like a target, for people to pick up some things. Then had dinner at the Kiwipaka and went swimming in the geothermally heated pool. Very fun! Not sure if by the end of that day was when i recieved my nickname: Bubbles. It has stuck. We would go places and people running programs would ask "So bubbles what is your real name"

Wednesday July 4:

We went to breakfast and there was a "happy fourth of July" sign for us, it was cute. We had a morning session and then went to Rainbow Springs. Which is a zoo type place. Where we saw a tui bird(who gets drunk off nector) , emu, and the Kiwi bird, among other fish and birds. It was really cool to see the Kiwi, it is a nocturnal bird so he sometimes hides behind the trees as well as the fact it was very dark in the house it was in, but i believe i have a picture. We then returned to Kiwipaka and had lunch. And in the afternoon we went into townish to do things such as Zorbing, swooping etc. I went zorbing. I was really fun they stick water in a bit plastic ball and puch you down a hill and you slosh around on the way down. it was fun. After we all did our exciting things lefty dropped us off in town. While in town it began to rain not just rain...POUR!!!! It was crazy, so we had to walk back to kiwipaka abouta mile and a half in the rain! but it was fun. That evening we attended the Tamaki Village "Living Maori Village Experience". It was probably my favorite thing yet. Our driver Mark was awesome!!! Probably the best it was rumored he was requested by Kat our local guide. On the ride there we chose a chief, who ended up being from Queensland OZ , he was quite the character with his ugg boots. Mark greats us in about 58 languages and tells us beautiful stories. We get to the Village and the chiefs of all the "coaches" are met by warriors. We enter and songs are sung and then the warriors come out. There are three. One was chosen to recieve the peace offering, sadly Jono (queensland) was not chosen. We walk into avery cool village with wood carving weaving food cooking. Then walk into a performance. MY FAVORITE!!!! it was awesome!!! They used guitars, did the kapa haka, and poi. It was so great! then on to the hangi, dinner. We returned back and got in the pool yet again. The pool was a big hit with us.

Thursday July 5:

This was the earliest day. We had breakfast at 7 and then when we were done, we drove to Waitomo to the caves. On the way we played battle of the sexes on the ride and we won because I know there are 8 bits in a byte, that is miami education for you!!! :) We get to the caves and I go on the dry cave. We are met by our guides Eddie and Luke. I believe Eddie is Samoan, but his real name is something hard to pronounce so he chose Eddie, it seems to be a popular one! We drive through beautiful scenery i wish i had taken my camera but we were advised not to. We get our gear on our gumboots jumpsuit things harnesses and helmets with lights. I felt like i was one of those fake manicans they have at the Cincinnati Museum that are "escavating" in the attraction. We then drive some more to a random whole in the ground, but we have to walk to it. So re practice abseiling and then we hook on to a line, then hook on to a rope and down the hole one by one we went. we get down the hole and we had entered another world. It is the coolest thing i have done in a long time possibly my whole life. Most of these structures were thousands on thousands of years old. I learned many names for the formations: curtains, angel wings, flow rock, straws... i am sure there are more but i figured my mother would be proud to hear some of them. We continue through looking at the most beautiful scenery underground. We get to a point and they talk to us about the fossils underground. We sit and have some juice and and marshmellow fish. And we talk about the man who found the cave. The story continued and ( i am getting goosbumps just writing it) the man got to the point we were at but he knew there had to be more so he continued on, his wife went back and he knew there was soemthing to this cave and as he got through the area we were in he found (at this point luke shined a flashlight on what he found) thousands on thousands of stalagtites stalagmites and straws. It was beautiful. That is when we are told that we are not allowed to touch the formations and are going to have to zip line accross. Me being bubbles, i was always the first volunteered, so i go first, zipline in the dark over. It was so fun! and got to the other side and waited for the rest. That was basically the end of the cave. And we get into this sewer type thing and luke and eddie pretend it was a time machine. We were all so very amused that we couldn't stop laughing and it was hilarious. At one point luke opened the door and said "Anyone Middle Ages....ah a knight and slmed the door" guess you had to be there. So we get back and eat some awesome gourmet pizza and walk around a bit. On the bus ride home we play, blind date, and yet again bubbles is volunteered to be the one loking for a blind date. It was a fun time. We got back and everyone was whiped out. We were gonna go to the poly(nesion) spas, but we all just went swimming into the early morning.

Friday July 6

We have breakfast and an introduction session before we wait around for people to get on buses and planes to go to palmerston north and wellington. Then we get on the coach for one last ride. That ended being about 4.5 hrs to auckland. Traffic was horrible. Got there/ here rather. We all went looking for dinner, and were gonna meet the AUT (Auckland Uni of Tech.) but it started rain really hard. So we just went looking for dinner. We had originally told Bob and Eleanor we were gonna meet them at the Fat CAmel. We found them. But didn't stay long. Michelle and i did find a coffee shop and had hot chocolate and checked e-mail and such. Got back, walking in the rain, unpacked and then bad.

Saturday July 7:

Went shopping, came back and made lunch with Michelle. Went out to the warehouse and dick smiths (electronic) store, hook up and pay for internet. Went to dinner at a cool pizza place around the corner then a movie with Michelle and lara who are both part of australearn.

Sunday July 8:

Went to church at St. Matthews-in-the-City, that the lady at st. james to me to go to, with Michael, Steven and Riley. It was a nice service, we said the Lords Prayer in Maori. I really only recognized the last song but it was nice. We walked back and ate lunch with everyone. then we all walked around the city. I bought a CD and we went looking for posters to hang, but they were all like 30 dollars. So my room is very barren.

Monday July 9:

Wen to International Student Orientation. Somewhat painstaking but informative non the less. Walked to the museum which was really cool! Saw another Maori performance and met a lot of other people living at Railway Campus. it was stevens birthday so we went out that evening. Me and a few othe people ended up just staying at the cool quiet pub on queen st.

Tuesday July 10

I woke up to a knock at my door which was my "roommate". A male from South Korea. Needless to say within an hour he was no longer my roommate. I spent most of the day doing my classes. I am taking Introduction to Maori Society, New Zealand Music, Musics of the Pacific, and Geology. I cannot wait to begin classes. We then went to Quiz night. My team i think got about 8th place out of like40 some odd teams, but we did not win the bungee jump off teh harbour bridge, which probably makes atleast my mother happy :)! That night was the windiest they said it gets in like 150 years. People were blown off the harbour bridge and tornadoes man it was crazy. Then for dinner we went to a Mexicali place, probably the onyl one in NZ, it was good kind fo like Chipotle and Qdoba. walk home in crazy wind. Watched fame downstairs with a few other people.

Wednesday July 11:

If you are still reading now you truly love me and you deserve a prize. Woke up and really had a roommate. She is pretty cool. Her name is Johanna and she is from malaysia. Went to another orientation and went on a tour of the uni with our uniguides it was cool. There is a lot too the campus, 3 pubs, which as an american baffles my mind. And then went to a living in Auckland seminar. Which was cool. More for those who are staying longer but yeah it was still good. Got back and went downstairs for pizza, apparently the signs lied an dpizza was not coming til 6 so Michelle and i went to Hell (name of the pizza place) and got pizza cause we were gonna go to AUT to see some people. got to AUT and me some awesome people plus seeing people that were in our Australearn program. it was fun.

Thursday July 12:

Spent the morning talking to mia famiglia for about 3 hrs., showered, and then went to a travel in NZ seminar which was really cool. They were giving away awesome prizes too but much to my dismay i did not win anything. Came back to the Railway played some table tennis, pool , and fuzz ball; then out to International Pub Night, at 6. Very early to be going to the pub, but there were prizes and a free drink. We got there and I tried to make people dance, and it did not work until the others finally got some liquid courage in them. But by 8 o'clock my efforts were noticed. the dancing was hoppin. I know some of you would have joined me right at 6 :)!!! so by the time it got to 10 i was pooped. So some of us came back and watched the end of Count of Monte Cristo Downstairs in the Sky Lounge.

Musical Genius of the day: KIngs of Leon

2007-05-01T08:35:00.000-04:00

www.kingsofleon.com

You will be thrown into 1978 with a happy crazy kick. The vocal stylings of caleb followill with his three brothers, Jared, Matthew and Nathan,; is definately a musical treat. Definately a must!!

Albums: 3
Personal Favorite:
Song--Soft, King of the Rodeo
Album--Aha Shake Heartbreak

no place like home...

2007-04-30T23:46:00.000-04:00

i used to have a reoccurring dream of being chased by a tornado, if i look it up on a dream dictionary it tells me:

TORNADOES

To see a tornado in your dream, suggests that you are experiencing some extreme emotional outbursts and temper tantrums. Is there a situation or relationship in your life that may be potentially destructive?

To dream that you are in a tornado, signifies that you are feeling overwhelmed and out of control. You will be met with a series of disappointments for the next week or so. Your plans will be filled with complications.

To see several tornadoes in your dream, represent people around you who are prone to violent outbursts and shifting mood swings. It may also symbolize a volatile situation or relationship.

now since i was a bit younger, in elementary school i would agree with the first one, i would say that there were situations that were not good. I think that dreams really do tell what we feel. lately i have had some interesting dreams that really do help me understand things. but it is really nice to know what is being thought, and it is okay.

on another note. i had the best weekend. surrounded by my best friends and knew so many people. it was just a wonderful feeling. to walk around in such a large place and at every turn to see someone i knew. a lot of thoughts that have been in my head are very clear now. not that i am confident in it but okay with it. also, there are so many more things in life that are important, and one of these things is not botany.

on Friday night. i had someone play the piano for me and two of my closest friends, who i have worked. after he was done playing his beautiful song, i said "it doesn't matter i am failing botany" know botany is not gonna help me change someones life, or have an impact on them as a person. to live life as a better person and to treat others with respect, justice, and strive for peace. now i know that last line was a little cheesy but it is true. what do we have in this world if we cannot relate to others or understand and have relationships and live in harmony

the weekend was just emotionally fulfilling in more ways than one. religiously, spiritually, and helped me grasp aspects of my life that have been confusing.

thank you all
and i love you.

2007-04-09T14:20:00.000-04:00

just because you do not agree with or have the same lifestyle of someone else, does not mean you have the right to harm them physically or emotionally. it doesn't make sense to me. a hate crime law seems so simple, honestly why wouldn't, actually why shouldn't it pass, but there are people out there that think it is wrong and makes one less of a person...just because someone is gay, bisexual, transgender does not give someone the right to hurt them because of their sexuality without punishment...hmmm just think about it...

i will leave you with some beautiful lyrics:

Every time I look at you the world just melts away
All my troubles all my fears dissolve in your affections
You've seen me at my weakest but you take me as I am
And when I fall you offer me a softer place to land

You stay the course you hold the line you keep it all together
You're the one true thing I know I can believe in
You're all the things that I desire, you save me, you complete me
You're the one true thing I know I can believe

I get mad so easy but you give me room to breathe
No matter what I say or do 'cause you're to good to fight about it
Even when I have to push just to see how far you'll go
You wont stoop down to battle but you never turn to go

Your love is just the antidote when nothing else will cure me
There are times I cant decide when I cant tell up from down
You make me feel less crazy when otherwise I'd drown
But you pick me up and brush me off and tell me I'm OK
Sometimes thats just what we need to get us through the day
-Sarah McLachlan

...

2007-04-01T23:09:00.000-04:00

...I saw a couple holding hands... and I realized we'll never do that. Never anything like it. No picnics or unguarded smiles. No rings. Just... stolen moments that leave too quickly.

thankful...but still mad

2007-02-27T01:51:00.000-05:00

man i think i have hit my breaking point emotionally...but anyway i just have to put it in perspective...people are dying and living homeless lives...i am thankful...but still pissed

musique

2007-02-12T13:07:00.000-05:00

Alright, so music...i realized last night while watching the grammys (sadly the grammys had to trigger this) but i am so happy with the direction my music is going. I want to have an impact on someones life i want to know people i want to make a difference and music can do that. But i do have to say that it was nice to see music with a purpose making an influence on popular culture finally, no discredit to drop it like it's hot and sexyback, because those effect ones person as well, but music that touches the emotion atleast for me and makes a statement that can change the world is huge. Yes rap can have a message, that is basically where it started and acoustic and country, but it just needs to be made. I am just tired of children being told that it is okay to become ..... i don't know strippers not that they can't but there is more self worth in this world, but that children know that they are beautiful and can speak their voice for whatever reason they feel.

Now that i feel bad for kind of discrediting other music, but taps into the emotions, i just want it to be a positive emotion be it sad or happy, slow or fast, funky or rhymed ha! anyway, i got teary eyed during the grammys, cause i was thinking, those people that make those historical videos about the artist and musicians,that is my circle and i love it!! Alright.
pacè

Musical Genius of the day: The Weepies

2006-12-20T23:13:00.000-05:00

www.theweepies.com

Albums: 3
Personal favorite:
Song--Gotta Have You
Album--Say I Am You

A beautiful song. Wonderful instrumentation. The harmonies are simple the lyrics simple yet full of meaning, and the melody line is very singable. Definately recommend this song for any folk or acoustic lover.

On another note i passed all my classes granted some were a given, but others such as *cough* italian...i passed and only one more semester and i guess i will work harder next semester. which i always say but i would like to follow through with this time..

just keep swimming

2006-12-16T20:18:00.000-05:00

alright...i do not understand how people go from person to person on after another. did the person ever feel anything for the first one. do they really need to be with someone all the time. like your relationship with that person is going to go somewhere. why put the effort into a relationship when you know that most likely you are going to break up. i think people should work on a friendship and learn about a person, then date. but then really what does it mean to "date" someone anymore today. there are all these levels that hardly mean anything anymore. i don't know but knowing someone is much more important i feel.

i think that is what i cherish in my life that i know my friends so well. atleast the ones that i feel close to and are my true friends. i feel it is important to know someone before getting your emotions all involved...

take a deep breath...

2006-12-08T13:29:00.000-05:00

alright, so i understand people get frustrated. i understand how things may notgo with what you think they should. however, if you have a problem then tell that person. the music is baroque, non-western baroque music. it is not that hard to finish. you look at your notes. honestly, where else are you goning to get this information and experience to deal with music over 200 years old and have an influence on its preservation. also, it bothers me when someone makes fun of me for not making a big deal out of it. i honestly how am i supposed to respect someones opinion who plays spider solitare, sudoku, and mine sweeper ALL class. i certainly hope when you have a class that your students do not pay attention to you, wait that was harsh. but it does not give one a comfortable outlook on life, and an eye that you can understand who you are trying to become in life. that is extremely disrespectful but maybe you didn't respect him in the first place.

anyway, moral of the story folks, respect people for who they are, atleast when they are respectful in the first place. if you respect others you will respect yourself.

throw back the starfish

2006-12-04T19:53:00.001-05:00

Things in life are so beautiful:

The sweetest honey to the brightest flower
The largest planet to the smallest atom
Snowflakes and the bird kingdom
Smaller thatn the eye can see bigger then the mind can conceive

Heard a man on the radio today
(spoken)i mean Im not going to believe in anything that I cant see and ive
Been through a lot of hardships in my life ya know ya know in my life
Must confess I disagreed with what he had to say
How he could he not believe that God is real
I dont understand how
He could feel that way

When theres earth, air, water, and fire
So many different flowers
Sunshine and rain showers
So many different crystals
And hills and volcanoes

Chorus
Thats how I know that God is real
All of this is not by chance
Thats how I know that God is real
All of this is not by chance
Thats how I know that God is real
I know this is not by chance
Thats how I know that God is real
Thats how I know that God is real

In st. lucia I jumped in the water
(spoken)it was like I was seeing it for the first time. it literally changed
My life.
For the first time I understood its power
As I swam I was cleansed
If I had any doubts
This experience cleared them
Now I know for sure that God is real
I know that its the truth
By the way it feels

Cause I saw starfish and sponges
Fish shaped like trumpets
So many different colors
I stayed out there for hours and I only saw a fraction of a fraction of the
Deepest of the deep of the great blue wide
It brought a tear to my eye

Chorus
Thats how I know that God is real
All of this is not by chance
Thats how I know that God is real
All of this is not by chance
Thats how I know that God is real
I know this is not by chance
Thats how I know that God is real

Were made of the same stuff
As the moon and the stars
The oceans saltwater just like my tears are
You feel me
The sunrises and sets everyday without fail

Chorus
Thats how I know that God is real
All of this is not by chance
Thats how I know that God is real
All of this is not by chance
Thats how I know that God is real
I know this is not by chance
Thats how I know that God is real

-india. arie "God is Real"

cannot wait until July.... ;)

2006-11-30T12:00:00.000-05:00

so things are actually going very well... got a call yesterday and was accepted here:

yay that makes me very very happy. Also, i think i am in love with music history not the class but the thought of learning as much about it as i can. it makes so much sense to me, it is so nice. Maybe it makes sense cause i understand it or cause i care about it, one of the two HA! but i like it

Also, tomorrow and saturday is ceremony of carols, it is always nice. It just means the season has started, and something scary, only a week and a half of classes left and I DON"T HAVE JURIES!!! yay! it is such a nice feeling. but funny thing is i kinda wish deep inside i did have juries but it is much better this way.

all for now!

pacè

break is too short...

2006-11-25T21:43:00.000-05:00

So thanksgiving is over and it is back to school, a few things to get done and i cannot wait....first i have music history, counterpoint, ITALIAN....oh italian how much i love it i cannot wait for it to be done, i am not even sure i want to take it next semester but i have to take it through 202 so i have to get it done, that problem is i have to pass. HA! i mean i won't fail like with an "f" but not so good..we will see

things

2006-11-12T22:25:00.000-05:00

so this is a new space...yet one of many...i am sad again and i may just ignore the feelings i have..but i do feel i want to perform again, i need it, not just yet but it is still inside me.

i may fail italian, and i cannot wait for thanksgiving better yet i cannot wait for the end of the semester. but school is seeming normal, i need to definately get things done but it will happen.