Rapper's Delight Rules!

I spent 2 hours last night watching VH1's top 100 hip-hop songs.

Rapper's Delight by the Sugarhill Gang was number one....and LL Cool J was probably awarded more than he should have been.

elena.

The McCain-Palin Mob

Pathetic Palin

The more Sarah Palin speaks the more frightened I become for our country. A candidate who would suggest that the Vice President should be granted more power (Dick Cheney anyone??) has no business holding the office. The Vice President presides over the Senate and supports the President....period. Our government is set up the way it is for a reason. It's to prevent individuals from holding too much power. Just thinking about Palin's suggestion makes me furious. Not only does she approve of more power to the VP, but she freely expressed her support during her debate against Joe Biden. I know. She's crazy.

Also, if I hear the term "maverick" come from her mouth again I will reach through the television screen and rip out her hockey mom hair. Please stop with the bullshit, and stop pretending like you know what's it like for a single parent struggling to pay for their child's college education. Maybe she could have a chat with my mom sometime.

If the Republicans want to win this election they better have more than Sarah Palin in their arsenal. Other than being somewhat entertaining to watch, and being an initial momentum starter for McCain, Sarah Palin has proven to be a pretty pathetic Vice Presidential choice. When running for President one should choose a running mate with Presidential quality. Sarah Palin is not fit for the Presidential role, nor is she fit for the Vice Presidential role.

Things are finally looking up for the Democrats. It's about time.

A Plan That You and I Should Read

Wanting Change is Patriotic.

Signs of Hope & Change.

I just watched the most horrible movie EVER created in the history of film making. The basic story wasn't bad, but the acting and script were both terrible. The film is called Juncture and "stars" Kristine Blackport, who I've never heard of, and was directed by James Seale. The general storyline is about this woman (Anna Carter) who goes around the country bringing to justice all the criminals who get away with horrible offenses.....of course there's more to the story, but that's it in a nut shell. Don't get me wrong, I love the idea of putting murderers and rapists to justice, but I just couldn't get over how bad the acting was. I seriously felt like I was watching an SNL skit, and Tina Fey was gonna walk into the scene at any moment. Yes, it was that bad. I almost started laughing during a couple of the very serious/dramatic scenes.

So, if you want to waste and hour and a half of your life I would definitely recommend this movie. Otherwise, steer clear.

I guess one good thing about the experience is that I prevented myself from eating the entire box of Milk Duds that I purchased at Hastings....instead I only ate half the box. Progress. It's encouraging to see "35% Less Fat Than the Average of the Leading Chocolate Candy Bars" on the side of the box. Don't worry, I'm not going to start using that as an excuse to start eating Milk Duds for breakfast, lunch, and dinner....................however, that sounds lovely.

Yes, Milk Duds at every meal is a nice concept. However, I would most definitely look like a hippo.....and that is not a concept I want to experience.

Until next time, Elena.

Hurricane Ike

I think the magnitude of what Hurricane Ike is capable of has finally sunk in. I found out today my mom decided to stay at our home and ride out the storm despite pleas from relatives who live in higher areas of Houston to stay with them. Family friends were supposed to come by today and help her board up the windows along the front of our house. They never showed up. Our home was built in the 50s so it's not necessarily the greatest structure for hurricane force winds and all the debris that comes with it. Houston has been very lucky in the last couple years, and has been spared the devastating effects of some powerful storms (Katrina, Rita, Gustav). I'd say a bit over do. So, I guess this is nature's way of evening out the playing field.....putting everything back into balance. Maybe. I really don't know. The fact that I have no control whatsoever is the hardest part. My house could be gone tomorrow, or it might be fine.....there's no way to tell until the storm passes. I would love to say that "I leave it in God's hands", but to be honest I don't. Instead I become frustrated and angry that I have no control.

I'm tired and not wanting to think about this anymore. Tomorrow will tell me what I need to know. Till then, sleep well.

Elena.

I need encouragement!

Evening, kiddies.

It's Friday.  Finally.  The week has been a long one.......I am in much need of a relaxing weekend.  My hands and wrists are sore from printmaking and ceramics; they just might fall off.  It could happen.  I apologize, I'm being a bit negative.....it must be in the air somewhere, I know it's not just me.

I hope everyone remembered that today was National Encouragement Day........barf.

It's been discussed....Janelle would look hot with green hair.  I told her that we could make it happen.  She hasn't replied.  I'll keep you updated on the situation of her hair color.

Ok, my stomach hurts....damn seafood.

Peace.

e.l.e.n.a

The Power of Peer Pressure

A kind friend recently expressed her lack of interest in my blog. She claims it is because all I talk about is music. I, being a fan of obscure music, was a little disturbed by this comment. Seeing as I don't get my music from the radio (because it sucks ass) I don't understand how other people can live with themselves by not using such music libraries as Mixwit and Pandora (to name a few).

So as not to lose subscribers (haha), I will succumb to the peer pressure and no longer devote my blog to purely discussing awesome music....however, I might mention a good band that you need to look up......for example, you need to look up Kimya Dawson (sp?). If you don't already know, a lot of her music was featured in the critically acclaimed teen pregnancy movie Juno. There, that's all I going to say about it.

Umm....this goes out to Harding students, specifically art majors....the art department is cleaning out the gallery and are GIVING AWAY a lot of FREE frames and used canvasses. So, if you're interested I'd get my tail down there quick, I don't think they'll be there much longer. I also overheard Keller and Adams talking about possibly selling them for 5 cents later on....save a couple of nickels or dimes and get them while they're free! Janelle and I had first dibs and got all the good ones....suckas!

Anywho, it's about time for me to get my knowledge on, and by that I mean study *wink*. Procrastinate no longer my friends.

Elena

Belaire

I guess it's time for a new post.....I truly think I am wasting my time, seeing as no one reads this thing. Oh well....I tell myself it's for my own personal satisfaction.....

...and here we go!

My newest musical love affair is with Belaire, an attractive group from Austin, TX. They're good...it's fun and catchy. I'm lame and so I'm posting the URL....cause I'm lazy....and lame.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PLF2VZwGFaY

The Greenhornes

If you haven't heard of The Greenhornes shame on you!

They are a band based out of Cincinnati, Ohio with one of the freshest sounds around. Their style is very similar to the garage rock of the 1960s and 70s. Obviously, it's not the exact same sound, but i definitely think they possess a very smooth and chill style. If I had to go and compare them to contemporary bands I'd probably go with The Libertines or The Vines. The Greenhornes have actually been around for a while, with their first single debuting in 1998. It's unfortunate more people don't know about them. So....take some time to enjoy the tunes. The mixtape below has a couple of their songs on it....take a gander.

Musik

So I recently decided to dedicate my blog to all things music. I'm particularly interested in new and upcoming artists, therefore my blog will mostly be comprised of such. That is all.

Here's a preview of some of tunes that I'll be showcasing. Happy Listening.

Ducks Fly Together!

Within the last 2 days I've watched all three of Disney's The Mighty Ducks. What an inspiring tale....of hockey playing brats. It was definitely a walk down memory lane.....of bad clothes, and ridiculous insults like "cake-eater". I still have no idea what "cake-eater" means, but I'm using it. I seriously feel like busting out the old rollerblades. Who's with me?

Shank Hit

May-Treanor & Walsh going for the GOLD!!!!

May-Treanor & Walsh defeat the Brazilians!

Recent Annoyances

1. Sold out soda machines. It's probably a sign that I should stop drinking Nestea.
2. Telemarketers who call while you're eating dinner.
3. People who talk extremely loud when you're standing 2 feet away from them.
4. Television and Radio static.
5. Traffic light cameras....barf.
6. The fact that a box of Milk Duds has 510 calories.
7. Office co-workers who suck up to the boss lady.
8. My mother's incompetence with her cell phone.
9. Working.
10. My horrible bout of procrastination.

May-Treanor & Walsh are Unstoppable

Since the Olympics began the one sport that I haven't missed a minute of is Beach Volleyball. I am so blown away at the athleticism and endurance that these teams possess. Especially impressive are Misty May-Treanor and Kerri Walsh of the United States. Last night May-Treanor & Walsh defeated the Belgians 24-22 and 21-10 in an exciting comback in the first set. The US was down 20-17, but came back from 5 set match points to win the first set. The second set showed a much more characteristic style of American play, with May-Treanor & Walsh winning the set in 15 minutes.

May-Treanor & Walsh previously defeated:

Japan: Teru Saiki & Kusuhara 21-12 21-15
Cuba: Fernandez Grasset & Larrea Peraza 21-15 21-16
Norway: Nila & Ingrid 21-12 21-12

The defeat of the Belgians marked the American's 105th consecutive victory. They have also advanced to the quaterfinals of the Olympic Beach Volleyball tournament.

I Really Hate Files.

Boredom has taken over.

Two and half weeks ago I was hired by a company to re-organize their filing system......why someone would hire me to ORGANIZE anything for them is beyond me, but whatever. Friday is my last day and they have yet to get in all of the supplies for me to actually convert their files into the new system. In the twenty two years I've graced this planet with my presence, I don't think I've ever been so incredibly bored. Other than making copies for people and reading CNN.com I don't really do much.....at first it wasn't that bad, but one can only surf the Internet for so long. I usually end up making like four pots of coffee everyday.....and I also usually end up drinking all of it on my own. I'm pretty sure the coffee is the only reason I haven't gone insane....or just taken a nap on the floor.

All I have to say is good luck with the filing room!

Elena.

Hi, I'm Just A Temp.

Why am I such a moron? Seriously, I am baffled by some of the things I say.....in public. I was in the staff room this morning making toast, and one of the new physician assistants came in. She introduced herself like a normal person would do and shook my hand.....instead of saying my name I said, "I'm just a temp". I didn't say my name....not even a nickname....we both just stood there awkwardly. I started to re-introduce myself but my toast popped up and I became preoccupied. "Well, it's nice to meet you.....", as she walked out of the room quickly. Let's just say that everytime I see her I become slightly embarrassed.....maybe tomorrow I'll re-introduce myself. I doubt it will do any good....gah!

I apparently value toast more than my social interactions with people.

Sincerely,
Temp

Advocate Peace

Yay, the Olympics are finally here! I absolutely LOVE watching the Olympic Games, next to The World Cup, it's my favorite sporting event. It's amazing to see athletes from over 200 countries around the world competing with each other, but also showing such sportsmanship and compassion towards each other. Despite what politicians and governments would like us to think, we are not so different.

It was especially heartwarming to see Russia's Natalia Paderina and Georgia's Nino Salukvadze embrace each other after the women's air pistol competition. Salukvadze took home the bronze medal, while Paderina took the silver. "This medal is good for Georgia, especially during times like this," Salukvadze said, according to the Associated Press. "I am very nervous today. It's very difficult for my people." Salukvadze went on to say that it meant a lot to her for Paderina to embrace her after the match. There was much buzzing before the match between the two women due to the surge of violence between their two countries. Over 1500 people have been reported dead by the Georgian government. Georgia sent troops into South Ossetia on Thursday to counter the uprising of the separatists in the region. South Ossetia declared independence from Georgia in the early 1990s, but is not internationally recognized as it's own country. The United Nations still regards South Ossetia as a part of Georgia. South Ossetia either wants to be united with North Ossetia (a federal republic of Russia), or to be granted it's independence from Georgia. Russian troops were sent in defiance against the Georgian government's position. According to http://www.time.com/, the Russian government has also closed all transport and postal communications along the Russian/Georgian borders. No trains, flights, ships, vehicles, or mail can pass through the border. The recent violence between these countries is nothing new; it was not until 1991 that Georgia gained it's independence from the former Soviet Union....since 1922 Georgia had been under the control of Russia. Russia's unwillingness to kindly accept Georgia as it's own country has fueled much of the bitter turmoil that has recently exploded.

It's disheartening to once again see innocent civilians caught in the cross-fire of power hungry government "leaders". Countries are at odds with each other because of their governments. Countries go to war with each other because of their governments. Maybe our governments could take a few pointers from our Olympic athletes and learn to be promoters of peace, rather than dictators of war.

I don't know about you, but I am tired of hearing about war. I am tired of waking up in the morning and being bombarded with an array of stories about people killing other people, and countries dropping bombs on their "enemies". How long will God let this world continue in it's destructive ways? I'd say, not long. However, amidst the darkness their is light. Paderina and Salukvadze are testaments to the hope that we still have in humanity. As simple as it might have seemed and appeared, their display of respect and compassion for each other, even with their countries at odds, proves that borders are simply in our minds. We are all human beings, and that makes us one. We should be united as a single force for one single goal.....to improve the life of all human beings.

Let's spread peace.

Elena.

P.S. I meant for this post to be solely about the Olympics, but it turned into a rant. Sorry.

I Drink Too Much Coffee

I buy a Grande Caramel Macchiatto almost everyday for $4.07. Ridiculous? I think so, but it's something I can no longer control. Don't be so dramatic, you say? No drama here, my friend....this is serious. I feel out of step if I don't purchase my grande coffee every morning. It's as if I've forgotten to brush my teeth or put on my underwear......I just can't function properly without it. I get terrible headaches and I become the biggest biatch if I don't have that warm cup between my fingers. If you have any ideas on how to cure this obsession/addiction please let me know. I can't continue to spend almost $1500 a year coffee.



Elena.

P.S. Don't tell me to brew my own at home...i've tried that....yeah.

Things you should not buy.....EVER.

1. Air Force One's for Barack. Looks a bit like someone took acrylic paint to them. I've seen other "Obama" shoes and these definitely suck in comparison.


2. Overalls. Nuff said.


3. A DVD copy of The Fountain. The most horrible movie ever made. I still have no idea what it was about.

If you haven't seen this movie be very thankful. An enormous step down for Rachel Weisz...not really for Hugh Jackman. It's a mixture of flashbacks and creepy outer space scenes that leave you completely confused about what is going on.

4. Rayban's

Never were a good idea. Still aren't. Only if you are Zac Efron should you wear these.....cause he's a douche, and only a douche would wear them.

5. Bratz Dolls

Ewww.

A tattoo on your face is not cool.

Why someone would do something like this is beyond me. Don't get me wrong, I love tattoos....but I draw the line when they cover your ENTIRE FACE. It could just be me, but waking up to this every morning would be incredibly depressing.

If you have half a brain, don't tattoo a life size skull across your face....it's really bad for appearances.

Elena.

Ice Cream Expedition

I spent 30 mins today trying to find an open ice cream parlor. Marble Slab was closed because of the Tropical Storm....which turned about to be a giant poser; definitely not worth closing Marble Slab over. Then I went to Hank's Ice Cream and it was closed also.....McDonald's ice cream machine was broken...i finally just went to Chick-fil-A.

I think the universe is trying to tell me something. I dunno.

What do you think?

Elena.

Well That's Ridiculous!

Wal-Mart is a Sneaky Bitch

I read this story on AOL, and I found it amusing. Apparently, Wal-Mart recently held mandatory meetings for it's store managers to discuss lobbying against unions, thus lobbying against Democrats in November. Last time I checked, it was not okay in any way to encourage your employees to vote any such way in a political election. Wal-Mart of course made it clear that they were not trying to tell their employees who to vote for in the upcoming election, but were just "informing" them of the dangers of supporting Barack Obama in November. Umm....that sounds like they are being told who they should vote for. I dunno, maybe it's just me. The artcle went on to explain Wal-Mart's fears in allowing it's employees to unionize. Wal-Mart claims that if it's employees unionize they will have to pay hefty union dues and get nothing in return. Nothing in return? Correct me if I'm wrong (seriously, cause i'm wrong a lot), but my understanding of labor unions is that they are representatives of the worker and represent them if management attempts to violate any contract terms. Why would that not be beneficial to a worker? If you have insight please enlighten me. Go to http://money.aol.com/ if you wanna read the entire article.

Poisoned Gerber?

I'm not sure if I want to laugh or just be completely disgusted by this next article. A man in New York was arrested after he claimed to have poisoned millions of bottles of baby food with cyanide/rat poison because he wanted to kill black and Hispanic children. That makes perfect sense....because white parents don't feed their children Gerber products, right? What the hell? Oh it gets better. He apparenty posted his scheme on the Internet (YouTube) and claimed that "Our main reason for doing this is we're trying to cut down on the black population." Did I mention that this guy, Anton Dunn, is himself African American? I am seriously baffled at this man's insanity. Not to worry, it was a big hoax...big surprise. Dunn was arrested and charged with being the biggest dumbass in the history of the universe.....actually, it was falsely claiming to have tampered with a consumer product and and sending threats in interstate commerce. Just when you think people can't stoop any lower........you can find the article at http://www.cnn.com/CRIME/.

Have a great weekend....it's finally Friday.

Elena

I Really Should Be Working

I'm beginning to think that I may have developed an intolerance to lactose. This recent discovery is highly disappointing--for a lover of dairy, I'm not so sure I'm ready to convert to soy products. I'm sure this is just as upsetting for you as it is for me. Bring out the lactaid, I think it's come to that.

So as not to bore you with my unfortunate circumstances, i'll move on to a more interesting topic....like public restrooms with automatically flushing toilets.

Is it just me, or are they louder than normal "manual" toilets (i didn't know how else to refer to the "old-fashioned" kind). I'm pretty sure they are 10 times louder than traditional flush it yourself toilets. I've never been so caught off guard and down right frightened by a flushing toilet before than these new contraptions. I'm gonna start plugging my ears after I pee. Yes, I think it's come to that.

This just in: I have no idea what I want to do with my life. Fantastic. Sometimes I wonder why I decided to major in art, and then I remember that everything else is just boring. 1. I'm not smart enough to be a Nursing or Medical student (big surprise) 2. I'm not really a fan of kids so I could never be an Education Major. 3. I thought about Communications.....I apparently didn't think about it again. 4. I hate politicians, so Political Science was out of the question. 5. Psychology or Art Therapy would be depressing.

So, really what I've done is allowed myself 5 years (yes, 5 years...don't judge me) of doing what I love, for a follow up life long struggle to find work. Damn. I feel sorry for my mom.

Elena

Low Standards

To think that McCain's recent political ad against Barack Obama is just the beginning of a nasty battle between the two candidates is somewhat depressing. If there's one thing I detest most about politics it's the slanderous and bitter commercial advertisements that interrupt my evenings. Personally, I care little to nothing about what most of the ads say, especially if they are created solely to make one's opponent look bad.

Bottom line: Tell me what you stand for and quit worrying about the other candidate. The point of a political campaign should be to get one's message out to the public, not to make the other guy look worse than yourself.

Unfortunately, I think our political system and government have become so corrupt that it's hard to tell what anyone truly stands for. Deals are made, and promises are broken in order to get things accomplished....even if it means going about it in an unethical or shady kind of way. Call me naive or old-fashioned, but when did this become acceptable? When did backbiting and hatefulness become ok? Granted most people would agree that such behavior is not okay and would never condone it in their everyday lives. However, most tolerate it when they see it or come into contact with it. The term tolerance according to Merriam-Webster means: 1. a sympathy or indulgence for beliefs or practices differing from or conflicting with one's own. 2. the act of allowing something. 3. the allowable deviation from a standard. What standard do we hold for our political representatives? Obviously, not a high one.

As the political campaign between McCain and Obama gains momentum, the negative attacks will only become stronger and more frequent. If it's possible, ignore the hatefulness and do your best to sift through the rubbish and discover the truth.

Have a happy Thursday.

Elena

The Beginning

Well, I finally decided to take a crack at one of these things (and by "things", i mean a blog). I figured since I enjoy reading other people's blogs so much I should start one of my own. Plus, I feel like I have a pretty worthwhile opinion, and I should therefore enlighten others with my brilliance. I know, I should have done this long ago.

Happy reading.

Elena