MoneyPenny's Hot Spot

The Adventure Continues...

2008-10-12T10:28:00.000-07:00

Friday night, I was invited by a friend to the NY Rangers game, where there were box seats on the table...so of course, I went--not even a question. I must admit, it was quite nice--there were a couple of interesting characters in the box...attractive characters...but, so young...Although, maybe that's what I need...to pull a Demi Moore and date a zygote...maybe not.

Saturday night, I headed out to Queens for my alma mater's Homecoming...soccer game. So about soccer...it was about 8 hours long! I was there with a few friends, and while my body shivered because it was cold, I laughed with friends, and thought of how much I needed a drink...and my leather jacket.

Later on, a friend and I headed out to Bell Blvd. where we drank loads and chatted up cuties, including a pro-soccer player. I must admit, there was a lot of fun to be had. The single life definitely has its perks...

So as I sit here, slightly hung over, I contemplate going to the Dallas Cowboys football sunday bar, where I would walk in alone. Is it considered slightly desperate, even though a bunch of people are going for one collective reason? The whole point of the new adventures blog is to, well, have new adventures. There's still time--if I go, you'll be the first to know. In the meantime, I want to talk about what is happening on the subway these days...

Last week, I was headed to work, and hopped through the doors to the D train right before it closed. There were two seats available, and so I quickly sandwiched myself between two women sitting closest to the door. Once I squeezed in and got settled, I realized why this seat was available. As I sighed, and started to get lost in my thoughts, I realized that what I was inhaling was not the recycled air of the wonderful MTA D train subway car, but was the acetone in the nail polish bottle of the woman next to me--who was painting her nails. Yes, that's right, painting her nails...on the subway...in the morning. The best part, was that there was a second coat--yes, a second coat. Not a touch-up...which still is bizarre, but multiple coats? Wild. To make matters worse, it was a hideous brown...didn't do anything for her complexion...if anything, it made her look more pale. Sigh...the subway is so odd...

Until next time, kiddies!

The New Adventures of MoneyPenny Vol. 1

2008-10-08T19:49:00.000-07:00

So, before I get into the adventures of getting my mojo back and dating, I should probably tell you about how I got to this point. I've skirted around the messiness of breaking up, but in order for you to get the true oddity that is my life.

For the past almost two years (1 year and 9 months) I was dating a Jewish guy. We met at work, and while things were just going along on a simple path, about a month ago, just four days before his parents and I would be at the same event in his hometown cheering him on, he confessed that he was confused about us, and about whether I was the one with whom he wanted to spend the rest of his life.

What makes the situation so perplexing, is that just a few weeks before, we were talking about religion, and if I would convert; things like "When we get married" were said by him. Seven days before "the event", I looked him in the face and asked him if he still wanted me to attend, to which he looked me in the face and said "I promise". Just weeks later, I was sitting across from him when he said things like, "an interracial couple {in his hometown}would stick out like a sore thumb", and "When I thought about having kids, I always thought they would be like me, but if we had kids, they wouldn't be "like me"". The killer statement, came after I mentioned how diverse his life was, and how it differed from his parents, when he replied, "It's one thing to be friends with...it's another to be married and have kids...".

While I was distraught for days, going back and forth, trying to understand why I didn't see it coming, trying to understand how someone could be such a failure in my eyes--I was asking myself "What relationship was I in?" It was pretty awful.

Then I got a grip. I got angry-- I was angry at his long, drawn out email reiterating things I had already said, ignoring things I had said---and then wishing at some point we could be friends- as if I could ever be friends with a man who basically told me that it was Ok to sleep with me and play house for two years, but marriage, oh no-- not for the black girlfriend.

I'm over him, and the hurt, and the feeling like a fool for falling in love with a man who was never going to be the man with the backbone I thought he had. Overall, I'm sure he's a good person, and he felt that he was doing what was best for him-- he's moving on, as am I.

I say all this, to bring all of you up to speed about the fact that for some reason, at some point, I became a magnet for Jewish men. It doesn't matter where I am--I go to a party in Williamsburg, of all the people, I'm found by that guy...work, there he is--it's actually pretty funny.

So I decided to be different, and try new things, and created a profile for online dating. So I create the profile, keep it simple...throw up a picture, put some words on the page and see what happens!

So while I thought my mojo was gone, I realized, never let a man take away something that was your before you even knew he existed. Today, a guy in a range rover eyed me up and down, then pulled over in traffic just to talk to me. Mojo: check. As for the online thing, I've been getting responses from guys who don't seem crazy! The best part--- one of the first guys who emails me...oh just guess- of course, he's one of the chosen people. At this point, I'm looking up to God, thinking, "really?"--

All of my friends and family, who were all saying that it was an issue not meeting my ex's parents, all they could say was, "maybe you should stay away..." which I completely agree with...sort of.

I know what you all are thinking--maybe it's what she's into. The thing is, it's not as if I'm trolling around Synagogues on Saturdays, looking for a good time. My landlord seems to think I have a Jewish soul, and that maybe in a past life I was a Jew...I don't know about that--although I did learn courtesy of the NYC Department of Records that my grandfather wasn't actually my biological grandfather, and my grandmother's maiden name was Furman, which is of Polish origin.

Back to the guy at hand...so while chatting with other interesting prospects, I've been chatting with this guy...let's call him..."Jay". "Jay" is really a nice guy. He's funny, makes me laugh, and he knows a little bit about my story...girl coming out of a 2 year relationship, doesn't want to sit on the shelf for months just because some guy didn't realize what he was giving up...We chat, and it's actually nice to be in that place.

Obviously, I don't know what I want right now... I don't want to live in the past--that is done. I don't know what is in store for the next chapter in my life, but I have to believe this guy is in my life, chatting with me, for a reason. Who knows what that reason is, but I'm all about finding out-- maybe it will answer some questions. Maybe he'll just be a nice guy, who has some insight I didn't see. Maybe he's just a good looking guy who makes me laugh.

Case in point- I tell him about how I'm recently getting out of a almost two year relationship, and that I wanted to take things very slow, and just chat back and forth for a while. I completely wrote him off, and figured he would simply move on, and this was his response:
"Sorry about your past, that was a pretty long relationship. Hmmm, maybe I shouldn't be the rebound guy - go out first with the shnook listed next to me, then get back to me."
How can you not laugh at that? If anything, he knows how to keep me intrigued...although, so did my ex....no matter what happens, and heaven knows, I have no idea what will happen, I am on a new adventure ladies and gentlemen, and I'm not looking back. As always, I'll keep you posted!

Next time: The world is going to hell in a handbasket: Wild stories of crazy subway adventures, and wild new yorkers doing crazy things. Until next time!

TV Talk - Your Guide to the Fall Lineup

2008-09-30T14:32:00.000-07:00

Months ago, probably almost a year, I had a fortune cookie. I expected something silly, but instead got a statement so poignant, I kept it, and as I look back, I think, how could a stale, crunchy little cookie be so smart?

The statement was this: "Cut your losses. You waited long enough.". While it could apply to anyone, or really anything for that matter, I knew then, what it meant for me. I knew then what it meant, but I didn't want to face it. I knew then, that the man I loved would never love me enough to do what was necessary for us to really go the distance. Alas, I was happy, and in love, and now find myself in a topsy turvy tin of emotions, anger, sadness, loss, regret.

But all of this has lead me to the real theme of the blog this evening, Fall television. Now that it's just me, the kitty, and the DVR, I thought I would help you lost souls with relationships and those with lives find the best programming to watch. For other loners like myself, just compare my notes with your mental ones, and feel free to comment!

MONDAY NIGHT
8P
Big Bang Theory/How I Met Your Mother (CBS)
Chuck (NBC)
Terminator: Sarah Connor Chronicles (Fox)
Dancing With the Stars (ABC)
Gossip Girl (CW)
My Pick: If you are solo (and female), it's a no-brainer. "Gossip Girl", which premiered on Labor Day, is off to quite the juicy start. Chuck and Blair and their twisted, ruthless, cutthroat characteristics make the show exciting, and if this season is half as naughty, intriguing, and decadent as the marketing ads, we're in for a treat!

8:30P - For those who think Gossip Girl is going a bit too far, "How I Met Your Mother" is a great show, starring the man who makes it worth watching, Neil Patrick Harris. It's quirky and accessible, and makes you feel like you could easily be a part of their funny little world.

9P -
Two & a Half Men/Worst Week (CBS)
The Closer (TNT)
Heroes (NBC)
Prison Break (Fox)
One Tree Hill (CW)
My Pick: Mondays at 9p, as if there was any other choice, I am fully backing "Heroes". It's really the only respectable option. It's different from any series on television, bringing out the comic book geek in all of us. This season, the theme is Villains, which means, of course the evil baddie we love to hate, Sylar makes quite the appearance. With new characters and interesting twists and turns just in the first few episodes, I'm definitely in for the long haul.

10P
CSI: Miami (CBS)
Raising the Bar (TNT)
My Own Worst Enemy (NBC)
Boston Legal (ABC)
My Pick: The 10p hour is tough to call, since I haven't seen Christian Slater in My Own Worst Enemy yet. For now, I'm pushing the underdog, Raising the Bar, with a really great ensemble cast (Mark Paul Gosselaar, Gloria Reuben (e.r.), Jane Kaczmarek (Malcolm in the Middle), and J. August Richards (Angel) just to name a few). It's good drama, one that reminds me of Law & Order, in the way that happy endings don't always happen; justice lives in the realm of shades of gray, and the answers aren't always easy. It's emotional, but quality, and until I get a whiff of My Own Worst Enemy, it's my pick du jour.

TUESDAY NIGHT
8P
NCIS (CBS)
Biggest Loser: Families (NBC)
House (Fox)
Opportunity Knocks (ABC)
90210 (CW)
My Pick: It's obvious--90210. Well, of course I'm going to pick 90210! I was from the generation who watched the original, but was probably too young to truly understand the themes (I was young, but have an old soul, so I totally understood the themes). It's not as decadent and distant as those crazy "Gossip" kids, but it does the trick for Tuesday. AnnaLynne McCord (psycho LA vixen spoiled daughter on Nip/Tuck) plays Naomi, a spoiled LA vixen daughter, while Brenda plays a changed woman...or is she? I'm totally down to find out.
I should add that since I own a DVR, I record "House", because even though the general point of the show remains the same, I love him, and the cast old and new. I've been hooked since the season 2 finale, and I'm loving every minute of it.

9P
The Mentalist (CBS)
Fringe (Fox)
Dancing With the Stars (Fox)
Privileged (CW)
Real Housewives of Atlanta (Bravo)
My Pick: Privileged at 9P is an easy watch. Starring Joanna Garcia (preggars teen from Reba), as a tutor for Palm Beach high society brats with redeeming qualities (I guess we find those out later), and is surrounding by extremely sexy suitors. As a female, it's a really easy series to sit through, and I'll be watching.
PS- thanks to the wonderful world of DVR, I've been recording "Fringe". I haven't actually watched it yet, but it's got Joshua Jackson, so I'm sure I'll tune in sooner or later.
Also, The Mentalist is worth taking a look-- the series stars Simon Baker (Something New, The Guardian), and the first episode piqued my interest.

10P
Without a Trace (CBS)
Law & Order: SVU (NBC)
How to Look Good Naked (Lifetime)
Rachel Zoe Project (Bravo)
My Pick: Um, quite obvious answer here..."Law & Order: SVU"!!! Every season is even darker and grittier than the previous year. The best part is, even though there are special guest stars up the wazoo, the series is still churning out quality product. It's almost as if big stars stopping by causes them to step up their dramatic acting skills. This season, it looks as if it's taking a darker turn, pushing all of our beloved detectives to the edge-- I'm there!
PS- For all of you who live for fashion and style, the "Rachel Zoe Project" is the show for you. I love Rachel and her expressions that will live only on her show, but my absolute fav is Brad, who is the best friend I always wanted. Each episode is a fun ride of shameless name-dropping, loads of fashion, and buckets of drama. If you live for labels you can't afford, this show is right up your alley.

WEDNESDAY NIGHT
8P
New Adventures of Old Christine/Gary Unmarried (CBS)
Knight Rider (NBC)
Bones (Fox)
Pushing Daisies (ABC)
America's Next Top Model (CW)
My Pick: Yes, we know I'm all going to be all for Top Model, but I'm going to be picking Bones. It's an entertaining show, that's quirky without being over the top. One show I'm SUPER-anti, that would be Knight Rider. I watched a chunk of it, and I don't know what's more sad; the show's bad dialogue, or the fact that my one time super crush Val Kilmer is playing the voice of KITT...that's right, I'll repeat it: Val Kilmer is the VOICE of KITT.

9P
Criminal Minds (CBS)
Til Death/Til Death (Fox)
Private Practice (Fox)
90210 encore (CW)
Project Runway (Bravo)
My Pick: Since the sudden (but not so surprising) departure of "Do Not Disturb" has left a hole in the Fox schedule...one they are currently filling with, um another episode of Til Death (ugh), and CW is airing encores of "90210" until "Stylista" starts 10/22, my pick is "Private Practice". The Grey's Anatomy spin-off is in its second season, and it seems they plan to throw a wrench into the hip medical practice's dysfunctional family dynamic. The medical side of the series, seems to also be taking an interesting turn, questioning medical ethics, and taking us on the ride. I'm quite intrigued.

10P
CSI:NY (CBS)
Lipstick Jungle (NBC)
Dirty Sexy Money (ABC)
Top Design (Bravo)
My Pick: Personally, I'm going to go with "Dirty Sexy Money" for a couple of reasons. The first, is that it's such a caricature of the wealthy elite, it's quite amusing. The second, is that really, it's the only option. "Lipstick Jungle" is terrible ( I remain loyal to the fallen series "Cashmere Mafia"), even though I love the return of Andrew McCarthy as a younger, sexier version of Donald Trump; "CSI:NY" is a parody of the original. The truly awful accents, alone keep me away from the wannabe carbon copy of CSI. With no decent options, I'm left with no choice but to tune in to "Dirty Sexy Money"...and the return of the sexy Blair Underwood.

THURSDAY NIGHT
8P
Survivor: Gabon (CBS)
My Name is Earl/Kath & Kim (NBC)
Hole in the Wall (Fox)
Ugly Betty (ABC)
Smallville (CW)
My Pick: Personally, out of this bunch, I think "Ugly Betty' is clearly my pick out of this bunch. Whether you're a man or woman, the quirky heroine in this series has appeal for all. Also, a point to help sway the dudes, Rebecca Romijn (Mystique in X-MEN, you know, the naked blue chick) is in...and she wears tight skirts...(gals, just forget to mention that she's expecting...)

9P
CSI (CBS)
The Office/Various (NBC)
Grey's Anatomy (ABC)
Kitchen Nightmares (Fox)
Supernatural (CW)
My Pick: Ok, personally, I'm going to fully endorse "Grey's Anatomy". I think the ensemble cast really is outstanding, and the show displays diversity seen nowhere else on TV. I really enjoy the fact that Seattle Grace looks like the hospitals real people visit everyday. The drama is delicious, and I like to tue-in to see what "Mc" they'll come up with next.

10P
Eleventh Hour (CBS)
E.R. (NBC)
Life on Mars (ABC)
Tim Gunn's Guide to Style (Bravo)
My Pick: This is a tough hour...What I can suggest to avoid-"Eleventh Hour", like Fox's now defunct "Vanished" is an hour of deep, complicated, convoluted...I think I'm running out of things to say that truly explain the difficult web that is this show...and that's just based on the extended preview trailer I saw.

FRIDAY NIGHT
8P
Ghost Whisperer (CBS)
Crusoe (NBC)
Are You Smarter Than A Fifth Grader? (Fox)
Wife Swap (ABC)
Everybody Hates Chris/The Game (CW)
My Pick: If you're my mom, then you'll be all for "Ghost Whisperer" starring Jennifer "Yawn" Love Hewitt. If you are younger than 60, I suggest checking out the CW tonight. "Everybody Hates Chris" and "The Game" (although not so much "The Game") are funny shows that find a way to break through their supposed "niche"(a.k.a Black) appeal. Check it out, and you may be pleasantly surprised.

9P
The Ex List (CBS)
Are You Smarter Than a Fifth Grader (Fox)
Supernanny (ABC)
America's Next Top Model encore (CW)
My Pick: Yeah - this is a tough one...luckily, "Californication" is on Showtime at 9:30p, so I'll cruise the internet for an hour...or get away from the television!!!

10P
NUMB3RS (CBS)
Life(NBC)
20/20 (ABC)
My Pick: Ok...if you're home, I'm going to say "Life", since it's a show with a quirky sense of humor, and it really grows on you. A different type of cop show, it finds the funny side of life, and an outside the box thought process. Think "House" but much, much, lighter.

I'm going to skip Saturday...My pick? Go out. Then, come home, and watch SNL. The end.

SUNDAY NIGHT
8P
Amazing Race (CBS)
Sunday Night Football (NBC)
The Simpsons/King of the Hill (Fox)
Extreme Makeover: Home Edition (ABC)
Valentine (CW)
My Pick: Well, clearly, I'm all for Sunday Night Football. Okay, that probably wasn't a given, but I love football, so that's my pick...if not that, then I'd say go for "Valentine". Seriously, anything is better than "Amazing Race".

9P
Cold Case (CBS)
Family Guy/American Dad (Fox)
Desperate Housewives (ABC)
Easy Money (CW)
Rock of Love Charm School with Sharon Osbourne (VH1)
Army Wives (Lifetime)
Dexter (Showtime)
True Blood (HBO)
My Pick: While I am a big Dexter fan, I'm spoiled by the fact that it comes on at 11p, has 7 other replays throughout the week, AND it's available on-demand. So, with broadcast being so limited, and streaming is only a first choice for 30 Rock (I don't believe I've seen an episode on the TV), I pick "Desperate Housewives". It's dramatic and dark and hilarious. I absolutely love it! I don't love Eva Longoria's five-year-later makeover, but the show as a whole is absolutely clever.

10P
The Unit (CBS)
Brothers & Sisters (ABC)
Californication/Californication (Showtime)
Entourage/Little Britain USA (HBO)
My Pick: Ah, again, my pick would be "Californication" if it were not for the ample ways I could watch the show. Instead, I'll pick "Brothers & Sisters", the family drama that makes everyone else's family look tame.

Well that wraps up my lineup picks for each night (phew!). Tomorrow, I'll begin to chronicle my adventures in new experiences, including new activities I'm getting involved in, and oh yes, dating. Yes, folks, it's going to get very interesting.

The Highs & Lows of this Rainy Football Sunday

2008-09-28T19:51:00.000-07:00

So, today has been quite the day. It's raining here, with highs and lows. First, the Mets can kiss the playoffs goodbye. How is that you say? Weren't they first in their division? Ah, well they were, and then they weren't. Well, they were a lock for the wildcard position, right? Nope. So, for the second year in a row, the Mets choke. Go Brewers! You haven't seen a playoff since a year after I was born (1982). Ah well. Maybe next year. To add insult to injury, my beloved Cowboys lost to the Redskins. What a crazy day.

I also started thinking about the next stage of getting over an ex: the "anger" phase. I started thinking about why I didn't see it coming. Why is it that women get so caught up in doing everything for men, and focusing on the good times, that we overlook the blaring "SOMETHING IS WRONG" sign. I should've given him the boot months ago, but I didn't, because I was too focused on how great things seemed to be. I knew deep down something was wrong, and that it was a problem, but I figured it would resolve itself.

Why do women do that? While I'm sure there are men out there who mean well, to be honest, they're kind of useless. Think about it-- from birth, a guy has it so easy. Violent and tortures dogs, he will totally find a chick. Fat, schlubby, bastard? Totally will find a woman who will love and support him. Think about it-- we live in a world where Brad Pitt, Tyson Beckford, and Jonah Hill can all have women up the wazoo. I'm sorry, but it's just ridiculous. A man makes more money, has to worry less about hygiene and physical upkeep, grooming, just because he has a penis.

Look, I like Jonah Hill as much as the next Judd Apatow fan who's getting tired of the same people playing the same characters with different names, but let's be honest; if he were a chick, we would know nothing about her, because she would be in her studio apartment in the valley eating ho-hos on the couch curled up with her cat.

Women make less money (77 cents to a man's dollar), have to deal with body and weight issues, put on us by the rest of society and men. We have to look forward to breast cancer, and if that doesn't get us, stress and hypertension will, and oh, I forgot about that pesky little thing, childbirth. It's insane! Why do we put up with all the sh*t that we do?!? Just the monthly upkeep of a woman is outrageous, and we do it willingly, for them. Unbelievable.

I can't believe, that after a life of being constantly let down by the men in my life, I do something so stupid, I fall for a boy, who while in general said he was different, turned out to be just like every other. I'm angry now, but smarter, because like the Who says, "we won't be fooled again".

Starting next week, I'm going to focus on primetime programming, and what you should be watching, since I'll have seen everything there is to see on TV, since my heart was broken by a useless boy...but seriously, I'm not bitter...not too much (wink).

Ah, the Possibilities...

2008-09-27T10:11:00.000-07:00

So, today I taught my dance classes...the little ones who have a whole future ahead of them, all they can think about is eating their snack when the class is over. Oh how cute...it's especially cute since they're not my kids, I can give 'em back to their mamas and papas. Yup, I'm still not in a place where I fully like children.

So, I went to the movies last night with a friend-- we went to see "Righteous Kill". It was OK...obviously, DeNiro and Pacino were good, but the story was fairly predictable, and I was really in a mood to see more people get brutally murdered. I wish I could be more descriptive about the movie, and tell you why I felt the way I did about the film, but if I say anything, I'll ruin it for you. It's an OK movie...I'd say, if you've recently had your heart broken, or you are obsessed with De Niro and Pacino in the same movie and have been waiting with bated breath since "Heat", then go check it out. In terms of serious carnage and excitement, Max Payne will have to fill that void when it comes out.

So, the theme of this blog is "possibilities". While I'm not ready to jump into a new relationship, I do think that I need to focus on the possibilities in my life. When I think about the life I had with my ex, it was fun, and special, but I realize now, that it wasn't the be all, end all I thought it was just weeks ago.

I wonder if its better to fight with a guy, be passionate, get angry, and come together, and be involved with his parents and his friends. I think that may be more of what I want. I think about other couples who let parents get in the way of being happy, and I thinkits so so sad, and pathetic. I love my mom, she is EVERYTHING to me, but she will never get in the way of my happiness. The thing is, she loves me, and would never want to stand in the way of my progress. In the past few days I've heard so many stories---we don't go over to his mother's house because...His mother won't even go downstairs to see the grandbaby because...They cut him off because she married...

It's crazy! First of all, the one common thread, I saw, was that mommas of boys, can be major bitches. Yes, I said it. Sometimes they aren't, but yikes...when they are, look out! Whatever, I can't even deal with people who haven't evolved. If you think it's one thing to be friends with someone, but it's another thing to date them and marry them and whatever, that you are part of the problem, not the solution. Those people are hindering our theme of "possibilities", and that is UNACCEPTABLE.

I think of the possibility of being with a man who loves me just the way I am, my silliness, my competitive side, the chattiness, the love of TV, film, loving me, and laughing with me. I think about the possibility of not being hurt or bitter, and being able to have a conversation with my ex, and being able to talk about our relationship without that sting, being able to speak to him when our paths cross.

I don't think about the possibility of being friends, because right now, I think it's important to move forward, and while it was great, and there were really good times, I have friends who are great. I have amazing people in my life who have impacted me and will continue to help me develop into the person I am becoming. Imagine if you were friends with every single ex? Ugh. Pass.

I like focusing on the good things in my life right now. Good friends, good family. Good pet cat, Sebastian. I have a great job, and I'm going to focus on those things, and really focus on what makes me the little special, quirky, weirdo that I am.

For others out there, who have had their hearts broken, I say this: While I still think it's better to have never been in love than to be in the pain that I was in, I do feel that it makes me stronger. Never let a man -- or woman for that matter, break you. While my ex is a good guy, he is just a man, just human. He is no better or worse than any other man or woman in his position. I laugh at the thought that someone out there would think that my silence would mean the end of me, or that I am crouching in a corner, scared to live my life because of this small bump in the road.

We are strong, and capable, and while it may hurt now, and he or she may never walk through the door again., and that's OK. I was fine before my ex, and you will be too. I think getting through this wee has really taught me a lot. It's taught me about what I can accomplish when I just believe in myself, which I didn't have a problem doing before I had a man in my life, and I definitely won't have a problem doing after.

Change is upon us, people! It's time to put up, or shut up. I plan to "work it" everyday. Keep it moving. Don't think about how your ex is doing. If you can't get him or her out of your head, and you wonder if you made the right decision, then maybe it's time to grow a pair and re-examine your life. Otherwise, move on...and while you're at it, leave me the hell alone.

So people, thanks for your comments, and your input. I appreciate all the stories and concern. Just remember, while it is a blog, it's MY blog, and I write what I feel. If you don't like the entry for the day, um...just like a TV show, check out something else. Otherwise, keep reading, and keep passing it on to others!

Go Cowboys!!!

Blog Therapy 211: The Other Side of Crazy

2008-09-24T17:17:00.000-07:00

So I was on the elevator this morning. Another guy, completely normal looking, regular attractive also got on with me. He looked a slightly disheveled, like maybe he was out the night before, or maybe it was the overall Hump Day worker bee syndrome. Either way, totally not the point. On the elevator, he was having this conversation with the other guy (whom I didn't mention due to lack of importance until this sentence) about his long night. Turns out, his girlfriend saw a moth at their apartment last night, and since she has OCD, they had to turn out the place like a pair of NARCS on an episode of COPS, looking for the source of the moth. After the Indiana Jones Quest of the Moth King, they have to turn around, and make the place all "spiffified".

It was at this point I realized, this chick is crazy! But the worst part, she has a man!!! A man who says, "yes, let's tear it all apart looking for a moth, and then, rearrange everything and whatever you want, because I love you, and I am dedicated". I just wanted to vomit.

Do I need to develop a neurotic personality? Maybe I need to be a high maintenance super BIATCH, because clearly, being low maintenance and real, and fun is just not cutting it at all.

I guess sometimes I get so frustrated at how unfair life can be. Why is it that the most dysfunctional, or needy women seem to find these knights who want nothing more than to whisk them away, fully commit, and marry them?? I don't even know what to think anymore. I am completely thrown. Men truly baffle me, and I may just be done with them. Lord knows, the good ones have seemed to be done with me for as long as I can remember.
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Um, so as I type this, I am begrudgingly watching "Lipstuck Jungle", since the much more stylish and clever and sassy "Cashmere Mafia" was cancelled, and I don't know what city this show is set. Yes, I know, it's supposed to be NYC, but, um...who are these men? Where are they? Someone show me the part of the city where about 12 hot shirtless, single guys play basketball... Where are all these fabulous, successful, vanilla people? I guess they're living in an area of gotham that is outside my paygrade.

This show is pretty over-the-top and ridiculous, but being that I'm all on my own now, and life is sad and lonely, and it's just 'lil 'ol me and the cat (who is also completely uninterested in this goop, sprawled out on the foot of my bed), this is what I have to look forward to every night. Ah well...that's life I guess.

So my recommendation is to stay away from "Lipstick Jungle", unless, like me, you've had your heart ripped out of your chest and kicked around like David Beckham with a hacky sack. If that is the case, then saddle up for some of the most unrealistic, drivel ever, where great men are everywhere, and they can't wait to hook up with these women who, of course, never seem to have a shortage of wonderful adventures and available suitors. Ugh...sometimes I seriously hate TV. I should totally stick to "Heroes" and the whole end of the world scenarios.

Blog Therapy 101: Coping when Life Stomps on Your Throat

2008-09-23T17:00:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I wrote a blog, but now that I have significantly more time on my hands, and people say that writing is therapeutic, I figure I'll have a go.

So life (very) recently stomped on my chest-- I am knee-deep in break-up mode. Ah, heartache, the suckiest of pains, has descended upon me, and like Jimmy Kimmel holds on to a bad joke, it won't let me go.

So after you go through the days of weeping at your desk, wailing in the streets, cursing God and thinking you will never know love again, what next?

Well, right now I'm immersed in sadness, but at least I'm eating (somewhat) again. Two good things that come out of it are, 1: I have lost several pounds, & 2. The sadness is so heavy it makes me tired, thus curing my slight case of insomnia.

So now what? I splurged on Rock Band, which actually is pretty fun. When I'm not crying into the mike while singing Audioslave, I rock. I purchased some clothing items, from shirts to dresses down to new underwear (all on amazing sales of course). I've done the sappy long emotional letter thing, but after all that, after the troops are called in to force you to be an active person in the world, and now that you're semi-functioning, what happens?

Well, I don't know. If I did, I would've written a book, and it would've made millions, and this blog wouldn't matter. But right now, I'm at a point of self-examination. Why is it that I find myself constantly in this situation? Why does any woman for that matter? Today, on my way home, I realized that the question I always ask myself is, "Why am I always falling for men who can't give me what I need/deserve?" I think about past relationships that weren't serious, where I crossed ethnic boundaries, thinking this is what my heart wants, I owe it to myself to explore things. That seems to backfire, with each time being worse than the previous. This time I really did myself in, because I opened myself up, and fell deeply in love. I think, deep down, I always thought there was a boundary in his life that I could never cross. While I was fully involved in his day-to-day life, I was never exposed to this whole other world, which consisted of his parents, other family, and close friends.

The problem, I realize, is that while it sucks that I was never apart of that world, I let it pass, knowing deep down that it hurt, and that it bothered me, I always offered up excuses, like, "he needs time", and "he doesn't see them that often", etc. Even typing this, I realize that I offered up so many excuses, because I was happy on the surface, and scared to make waves.

I was an amazing girlfriend, who cooked for and supported him, laughed and cried with him, was a caregiver who could rock his world, and then watch football with him, because I loved the sport too. I believe he appreciated and loved the insides, but it was just the packaging that he never fully could accept. Maybe if I came in different packaging that could be accepted into his family, I wouldn't be writing this blog.

The issue is, why did I walk into this situation? I look at other couples, interracial couples, and I wonder how they make it work. How do these people find each other, love each other, and build a life? Of course, that begs the question, "Why can't I find my (insert race/ethnicity/religion) counterpart? If that is what is supposedly the natural choice, why can't I find it?

But when I think of all the arguments, all the talking heads who say things like, not finding yourself constantly attracted to someone who "looks like you", you find yourself in a form of self-hate...is that really true? Then I think about how for hundreds of years, people have "mingled" with other races, is there such a thing? As much as I am an idealist, and I think that we as a people have come such a long way, it seems that I am always reminded of how far we still need to go.

Personally, I think I'm drawn to men who are on some level or another unavailable. Whether it's because he's not ready for a long term relationship, is involved with a girlfriend that I never knew about, or, is not ready to include me in all aspects of his life. The more I think about it, I always feel as if I get it right, but then it turns out, I've got it all horribly wrong...you know, at this point in the movie of my life, isn't this when I go grab coffee at the shop with the coffee guy who is hot and has been pining for me for years, and then hope is restored? Bah, I hate romantic comedies...well, they are DEFINITELY more entertaining when you have someone in your life...when you don't, you hate them and eat bon bons.

In the end, I think the heart wants what it wants. I don't know what mine wants anymore, because right now its broken. Hopefully my heart will lead me to a man who can give me what I need--to be accepted in all aspects of his life; to be a unit that leads to him telling me he wants to spend the rest of his life with me...that he'd rather fight with, laugh, and love me over any other woman. I truly hope I am done with men who are on some level unavailable.

I guess the thing that annoys me, is, men are always in the drivers' seat. They decide if they're ready to commit, and isn't that total bullshit? They can settle on a woman who they may sort of love, who fits in with what seems acceptable, and we just go along with it.

I think about people who are in long-term relationships, and people who have been married for decades. I think about how sad it is when a couple settles on one another, out of respect, appreciation, and duty to family. I think about how when the kids are gone, and there's no one left in the home, how sad it is when two people are so distant, because they were either never fully in love to begin with, or they just grew distant because they settled. I hope that is a fate I will never have, because I think I would rather be alone, than unhappy with someone.

I hope that I find the relationship I am currently getting over, only an upgrade. I want to live my life in love with the man I'm with, and he loves me puts me first, just like I will, with him.

Ah, but only time will tell what life has in store for me. So far, life, or higher powers that be are getting off on making me suffer...I mean, it's not like darfur, or slavery or anything, but it's still difficult...I mean, it's not exactly a hanged nail or one of those mac/pc commercials. It's actual pain. One day I'll be able to look back on this and laugh, and my boyfriend/fiance will laugh and say, "you're weird"--to which I'll reply, "well, you're in love with a weirdo"...to which he'll respond- "then I guess I'm marrying a weirdo". I know it sounds like a corny romcom movie, but I had something close to that, and I'm not going to settle for anything less.

Until next time folks...and since I have A LOT of time at night on my hands...when I'm not out partying and living la vida single life (right...aka watching Heroes and Gossip Girl)...you can bet your sweet little bottoms there will def be a next time.

Fashion 101: Back to the Basics

2007-09-27T18:42:00.000-07:00

Well, slightly overdo, but not a moment too late, it's time to dive into fashion. I'm going to start with the men, because, let's face it-- they need it the most. Okay, I take that back- it's not true, but let's face it, it seems as if some of them have given up. Ok ok- so you wanted to go for that lower east side, I'm from a rich family, but I want to pretend I'm a poor NYU student who thinks I'm so above fashion-- guess what- the look is old-- much older than those converses you're wearing. You look like ass on a stick with dirty sneakers. Get over yourselves. As for the rest of the men out there, get it together. As women, we have to shave, wax, go to the gym, buy make-up, get our hair done, make sure its luxurious, and make sure we wear sexy underwear. Now, that's all fine and dandy. I'm a leo. I like to look good. I like fashion, and I care what I look like, as do millions of other women. But dudes, really. You need to step up. Start buying GQ, Mens Vogue, and Details. Maxim is not going to help you find a woman, and Jessica Biel is not going to sleep with you...ever.

Look- you're not all lost causes. No one's saying to change everything you do, just to um, make it seem like you, you know- give a crap. Pink is a color-- if it looks good, wear it. Argyle is nice-- embrace it. If Kanye can wear jeans that fit with a nice shirt and a sweater, so can you. Trust me, if anyone questions your manhood over a color you wear, you've got bigger problems, because those people thought those things about you before you even thought about buying that shirt. If it's another dude, or a friend, well look at his wardrobe and his life. If the last time he got laid was in 1992 with sloppy drunk girl named Betty who no one else would touch with a 10 foot pole without 2 gallons of mr. daniels, well maybe you need to drop his opinion of what you wear a little lower on the "I give a damn" meter. Discover an iron--it works wonders. Also, I'd ditch anything patent leather, or too over the top. Unless you're P. Diddy, stay away from the fur. Look, the main thing is to be yourself. My guy wears clothes that fit, and he looks good--no, great. He's a man's man, and he's sexy at it. He doesn't look like he fell out of a GQ magazine, but that's okay, because he knows what works on him (polos and t-shirts) and what doesn't (fedoras and leather bracelets). Big basics you need to have in your closet: A black suit, a good pair of jeans, shoes that aren't sketchers or timberlands, and a classic crisp dress shirt that doesn't look like you stole it from your father's closet. Also important, like GQ stated, dress socks need to be long enough so that when you sit or cross your leg, the world doesn't need to see your stupid, unshaven (yeah, still a little bitter about that one) leg. I remember the guys at my high school---in the inner city of Paterson NJ, and they looked good. They dressed like men, they did preppy-- but made it their own. If a guy had braids, he made shure they looked good--shape-ups were always up to date, and everyone was turing Tommy Hilfiger into the brand he is today...well, until he went stupid and allegedly said some un-educated things, and everyone moved onto the next brand you needed to own, Eddie Bauer. My point is, the boys looked good, and they did it well. Even the guys (ok...like 3) who went punk did it with style. Like I said, guys- get it together. I bid you good day.

Now ladies-- there is craziness in the streets. Yes, craziness. Bubble minis that look like they're made out of a down comforter, white stockings with brown boots...in July, and a whole bunch of ugly that I can't even get into. New York City...center of the universe...for fashion anyway. That's what I've been hearing, but I don't see it-- I'm not really seeing it at all. I know we're supposed to be the thinking woman, who's smart, quick, and can do it all (boys eat your heart out). That's fine-- but I've been looking around in the stores, on the streets and subways, and out and about in the city, and ladies, we're looking a bit rough. I was on the coming from Hoboken the other day, and I swear on all that is holy, I saw women who looked beat at 9am...now, come on! After work, ok. Long day, you're tired, and you put on the flats because after your boss' BS and the stress with your girlfriend, and we won't even get started on your man, you're tired. But 9am? Stop it. You can't look beat at 9am...you just can't. If you could barely pull yourself out of bed and shower and get dressed, maybe you need to just take the day to rest. Wet hair squished up in a clip? a shirt half tucked with a skirt that looks like it used to belong to your mom? And then you have the nerve to be reading a Cosmo? Stop it. Look, I have my days, everyone does. Believe me, there are days when I totally miss. But, I go down swinging. I make an attempt to look presentable, and if I don't have it in me to be over the top, I keep it basic. Long white tee with a chunky belt and skinny (straight leg fit, because true skinny jeans make me look ridiculous) jeans and some peep toe flats, and I'm out the door. Most times I'll throw on a cardigan or blazer to complete the look. All I'm saying is, if you don't have the energy, keep it simple. And please, take the 10 minutes to dry your damn hair- you look insane.

Lets start with the wrap dress. I like them, they look good...just not on me. I take that back- they don't look horrible, I just don't think I'm woman enough for the wrap dress. I'm not old enough yet. It's not edgy fashion- very classic, it screams 30 something ann taylor loft shopper. I've decided that if Vanessa Williams can wear it (and look amazing), I need to hold off for a few years. A look I'm liking a lot is funky tights. Lots of stores are carrying them, and I think they'll always spice up the cold season (if we ever actually get to a cold season). Keep it funky, and stay away from white-- they scream little girl going to church.

As for work attire, ladies, let's stop looking like we just graduated, and we're going on interviews. eh? Find a brand of suit that works for you, and wear that one. Stop shopping at ann taylor if you look like you're mom. That doesn't make you look professional, it makes you look like you don't have any style of your own. Check out great places like Macy's, where there is a variety of suit fits and styles. Take a day, and see what works for you. When you figure it out, then go out to other places and take that knowledge with you. Pencil skirts are great, as are A-Lines. Try them on, and see what works. Button down wovens are classic. Try to spice them up a bit every now and again. Also, I love turtlenecks, but that's because I have a long neck, and I look good in them. If those don't work for you, look into some other sweaters that are out now-- this season (if it ever gets cold enough) is going to be GREAT for stylish sweaters, all styles. A little tip, I try to stay away from items that you can instantly tell are from a specific store--very bold items such as the old navy sweaters in the new commercial-- not because I don't think they're nice, but places like The Gap, Old Navy, H&M, and Banana Republic are so widely shopped in, you'll no doubt see that piece on at least 12 other women...and that's just on the walk from your apartment to the train station. The exception, however, is the hounds tooth coat from Sarah Jessica Parker from her Bitten line at Steve and Barry's. I don't care how many women are going to be in it this winter....I love it, and I'll be rocking it too...and it'll be fabulous!

Other great trends I like are the booties. Ladies, grab a pair you love, because they'll be in style for quite some time. Rider boots are also a very sexy classic. I'm currently stalking a pair of Steve Madden riding boots. One style I would definitely lose is the colored jeans. Honestly, I don't think this could look any more ridiculous. First of all, if you don't have a classic black dress in you closet, or a classic trench coat, you have no business trying to prance around in purple skinny jeans. What else am I liking? I think this season, make sure you pick up one decadent item to add to the closet. I'm thinking an over-the-top boot, but that's for me. Find a really great over the top item such as a coat with fur trim or a great bag, and you're set.

With so much going on for the Fall, it's easy to get overwhelmed. Look at it like this-- if you are like me, and you love the cropped capelets and jackets, but due to abnormally long arms and a urkelesque short torso (thanks mom), leave them in the store, and on the pages of the magazine. They weren't meant for you. Stores I like to venture into at least once a week are Express, Gap, and DSW. Be sure to check out Forever 21 for cute, quick, cheap finds. Zara also has some great pieces this season. For those who are clueless, or who want some truly great style tips, watch Tim Gunn's Guide to Style. That show is great...except for Veronica Webb...I could do without her. I'm sure she means well, but she's not really a style icon...or fashion maven for that matter...there were no other models? Eh whatevs. It's not about the girl with no edges (for those not familiar, that refers to the edges around her hairline), it's about Tim. If you want to "make it work", read this blog :-), and then set your DVR for Tim. Until next time, that's all, folks!

Preview for the next entry: Fall TV...What do you need to watch live? What can be set on the TiVO? What should you just stream on the internet? And, which shows should you forget about (because they're already as good as cancelled)?

The Comeback

2007-09-12T21:06:00.001-07:00

Well folks, I've been gone for a while, but I'm back, and there's SOOO much to talk about---for instance, reasons why people are still SO SLOW in the mornings...(I touched on this before, but it's in full effect now)...I mean, seriously, don't you have to get to work? Move up the damn stairs! That sound you hear is two things: the train that we're about to miss because of your slow butt, and it's also my foot about to kick you down the stairs! Go! Anyhoo, other things to talk about, like, how Bruce Willis is like 60, and still hot (props to Lindsay Lo for tapping that). Maybe Lindsay's spiral down Drew Barrymore lane at the cross-section of Robert Downey Jr. Avenue---why men are into anal sex, and what that's about...even the condom/balloon perched on the handle bar across from me that promotes safe sex (seriously, the sentence "Have safe sex"is written on said condom/balloon in either lipstick or a sharpie)...but I want to talk about something that I've been seeing in this non-season between summer and fall when fashion looks confused and the city is running rampant with fashion victims.

I want to talk about comebacks...what is going on? Britney, 50, Kanye, the Primetime Fall lineup, leggings. Everything is coming back this fall, or at least making an attempt. Even Shar Jackson found herself in a couple of the gossip rags...seriously-- the last thing Shar Jackson did was pop out one of K-Fed's illegitimate kids. Is there anything wrong with that? No. I'm a bastardo baby myself. But, really, she should just be stripped of any celeb "status". No one cares about Shar Jackson's input on, well, anything...I bet half of you reading this don't even know her...so, I'm moving on to other things. Like, Britney, but just for a moment. Still reeling from her catastrophe also known as the opening "performance" at the so-called "award show" also known as the VMAs. The weave, the "dancing", the lip syncing-- it was all so so so atrocious. And what was with Sarah Silverman? I mean, it's one thing to poke fun at people when you bring it full circle, and, um you're famous. Sarah Silverman isn't really funny, and she's not that famous either. It's almost sad that the most famous Sarah Silverman will ever be is for schtupping Jimmy Kimmel, and being the princess of the now flailing Comedy Central.

Ah, that brings us to the thing that has been kind of bugging me. Justin Timberlake. Yeah, I know-- he brought sexyback, in the form of three-piece suits and vans, or whatever over-priced sneaker he wears with the aforementioned attire. His new restaurant, Southern Hospitality is, well- how should I put this-- blech. His clothing line, William Rast, is over-priced...seriously-- do you really see him in the middle of it, planning out looks for fall and spring, and color schemes and measurements and whatnot? I think not. To be honest, I'm kind of over him. Jessica Biel, Scarlett Johansson, Cameron Diaz- who cares. His record was a hit because of Timberland...don't believe me? Case in point; Robin Thicke. Robin has that same falsetto, white guy who's cool and is all about being on Hot 97, with a suit and sneakers. Listen to the albums-- both good in their own right, with one small exception- Justin is the apparent golden child. All I'm saying, is they are the same person, and since Robin wasn't in a boy band, wearing shiny metallic suits, and sleeping with Britney Spears pre-spaced out looking dirty kids and a shaved head, he should be in the spotlight. Really, this just screams to the importance of having great producers....poor Robin. Maybe the next album. Well, it's past my bedtime, kiddies-- but I'll leave you with these 2 nuggets; JC Chasez (the better singer in N*Sync, who seems to have the worst songwriting and producing skills ever) is producing a track for the new Backstreet Boys album, titled "Unbreakable". Yeah, I said it- Backstreet Boys and new album in the same sentence, and that guy from Fall Out Boy, Pete Wentz...um, well he's apparently a designer now. He's doing a line under DKNY, that no doubt, will be many unaffordable dollars...his muse? Ashley Simpson...ugh. Discuss among yourselves. Until next week-- That's all folks!

Peek at Next Week's Topic: Fall/Winter Fashion 101: WHAT NOT TO WEAR (This will be for EVERYBODY, i.e. gals, dudes, shorties, the folks with the curves, blessed up top, or down below and all inbetween)- good stuff!

"They"

2006-09-27T06:37:00.000-07:00

While there is certainly a lot going on that could be put on the discussion table, I had a conversation with a good friend of mine yesterday that got me thinking. There is a group of people in the world today, with so much power and influence, that it is scary to think about who and what this group has control over. This group has infiltrated every magazine, men and women of all ages and race. This very group has even worked its way into the government. Am I talking about stupid people? Not really...Now you're thinking, Opus Dei?--Negativo, Da Vinci fans. It's not Mormons or those people who try to force the Watchtower and Awakening on you...it's not even...Tom Cruise and the Scientologists.

The group I'm talking about is "They", or as my friend likes to call them, "The People". I'm sure everyone at one point or another has been a member, but there is a difference between, say the general comments one may make with friends, and someone trying to make you be something other than who you are, because of what "they" are saying.

Now, I think it's obvious that a lot of people don't take what "they" say to heart...if they did, no one would be overweight, have bad highlights with roots, clothes would be ironed and would match...and so on and so forth. So why does this group have so much power? I don't know. Personally, I don't like brown and black together. I don't think it matches. No matter what Dior or Von Furstenberg, or Armani say, I don't like it. They will never be able to get me to accept those two colors together...and as I say this, I know someone who wears those colors together like its designer couture. Would I ever say it's bad? No. If the person asks, I say "I don't like it, it's not for me"-- the same could be said about drugs, or say, locking up my hair. Are they bad? Depends on who you ask. But, to try to convince someone one way or another in the name of "they" and "it's because I care-- I know what they'll say" is a form of control, and that my chicadees, went the way of that TV show Joey and Heather Locklear's marriage...and Nicole Richie and DJ AM's relationship...and Paris Hilton's virginity and self-respect.

I guess the point is, nobody's perfect. I have a friend who has amazing skin I would kill for, this chick looks like she's wearing makeup all the time and yet-- she has self image issues. Can you just imagine what she would look like if someone told her that she needs to put on makeup because "they" or "the people" think she would be prettier? She would probably look like a crazy bag lady or high price hooker...which is never a good look, or at least that's what I think...Maybe next year the whore look will be in. While I have very pretty friends, I don't know anyone (myself definitely included) who is perfect enough to try to tell someone anything other than where's the best place to get a philly cheese steak sammich (um, which if you're in the W. Village is Wogies, hands down) or the hot spots to go to at night, and how to look like you enjoy yourself and your company. I like to surround myself with people who don't starve themselves for kicks. I, along with the people I like to associate myself with, just try to "be" ... Plus, hungry people are just sad...and very fragile.

So I say, folks--- wage the war on "they"-- You know who you are. You like salads, he likes chips. She wears a bikini, and you know she can't--well guess, what--- she's knows she shouldn't either. People know deep down what's going on with them. I know my thighs are big. I want to work on it. That's my thing...having the stray hairs in my eyebrows ripped out from above my eyes because "the people" think it's a good idea, well that's just crazy...and while it may not be the "eat people you meet on the internet" (Happened in Germany...recently) crazy, it's not the fun crazy that makes you unique from the "they" who just want you to conform to "their" idea of what is beauty. I say pass...and pass me the sammich. I'd rather just be happy.

...Then again, I'm not married and I live with a cat...so what the hell do I know?

Oh, Why Can't People Just Give You Some Space?

2006-09-26T14:17:00.000-07:00

So laziness has kept me away for a couple of weeks. For that, I suck. But in those short couple of weeks, I have seen a few things that I felt the need to share with my 'lil community of readers. Here goes.

I'm on the elevator, going upstairs for breakfast in the cafeteria. Now, the elevator had people in it, but it wasn't full. In fact, there was plenty of space on the other side of this woman, who was practically pressed up against me as if we were in some lesbian Spanish telenovella. All I could think about, was Why won't she move!? I just didn't understand why do these people insist on standing up under you? It's ridiculous. There's room just 1 foot away. We're not lovers, and even though I've showered and I'm "Sure", I still don't want you underneath my left breast. Next time, I suggest everyone just give the close elevators standers (C.E.S.) a little elbow nudge nothing quite WWE, just enough to let them know that you don't want to know what kind of shampoo they do or don't use.

So I was in the store the other day, and I swear, it was $5.00 for 2 light bulbs--that's right, folks, $5 smackeroos for 2 40 watt light bulbs. I just want to say, I don't know when the wild shortage of glass or metal or whatever else a light bulb is made of happened, but I don't want to be a part of a world where the price of a # 2 at McDonald's is the same price as 2 low watt light bulbs. I'll just live in darkness, thank you very much.

Last, I must say, I am having a little bit of trouble with religious zealots lately. I don't understand it. It's everywhere, from Isaac Hayes and Scientology to the weirdo yelling Born Again Christian on the subway on my way to work. In a side note, I know crazy doesn't take a break, but really? 8:45AM? Take a nap or something. Anyway, back to crazy religious zealots. Remember when Tom Cruise was cool? He was an actor, who happened to be a Scientologist. Great for you Tom, really. But, you didn't decide to go cure cancer, or put up dry wall. You wanted to be Maverick, and the guy in Minority Report. You wanted Mission Impossible, and you got it. Isn't it enough that I spend my little entertainment budget on going to see your movies? For pete's sake Tom. Leave me alone. It's enough that you're rich. Just be religious on your own time not while I'm trying to watch the Today Show. As for Isaac Hayes, I have a bone to pick with him. I would just like to say, Isaac, you SUCK. I spend my hard earned money on tickets for your stupid show at the Irving Plaza for my parents Christmas presents. Out of all of the artists, I knew you were one of their favorites. But you get a bad back and postpone. Then, you cancel the show outright. Now, my Christmas present is crap, because you were exhausted. Not too too exhausted to go on a little mini- rant about your beliefs and why you're quitting South Park. Just like I don't care what anyone's sexual preference is, I could care less about your Scientology beliefs actually, I couldn't care less. You sir, are a douche, and not because of your religion, (because I'm sure there are normal everyday members just wishing folks like you and Tom Cruise would stop embarrassing them) but because you're well enough to bitch, but not well enough to do your job singing at concerts. As for that crazy Born-Again guy on the train, well, um you just keep doing what you do brother. As for the rest of us, I suggest we all set our iPods on Play.