Can I Get a What, What?

You too can reinact Ghostbusters

2011-05-11T12:35:00.000-05:00

I've recently become quite obsessed with daily deal websites. One of the sites Zulily has lots of boutique store sales. While I really thing most of the kids stuff is pretty awesome, I found the following item on the Knited Drove sale for the "Clay Take the Helm Top". I know this is supposed to be a sailor inspired top, and it is a bit reminiscent of Japanese school girls, but my immediate reaction was what? This looks just like the Stay Puft Marshmallow man. You might want to think about it for this year's Halloween Costume. All you need is a sailor hat, some white pants and white moon boots and voila. You're ready to rock it.

If you really want to own this, you can find it here

What?

2009-12-20T09:23:00.003-06:00

Those who know me, know that I used to participate in synchronized swimming as a swimmer and more recently in my past, as a coach. In recent years, some international competitions have introduced an event called the thematic team routine. I am torn as to what I think of this. Instead of the swimmers just jumping into the pool and getting their routine on, they have costumes that they wear before entering the pool, a longer deck work, and even the use of props during the routine.

Synchronized swimming has come a long way from the Esther Williams days, and although I am often entertained by these routines, I can't help but think they may be a step back for the sport as a whole. Synchro has longed worked hard to battle against the stereotype SNL helped create in the 80s. I feel like the pageantry in the thematic routines may be detrimental to the steps the sport has made in establishing itself as a true sport.

I am also confused about how I feel about the Canadian routine that I am posting below. It's a Cowboys and Indians routine and is a good example of a thematic routine. Don't get me wrong, I am a huge fan of the Canadian team and think that their choreography is up there in the top three; however, I think this routine is a bit culturally insensitive. What's next swimmers preforming in black face? Maybe I am reacting like a typical knee jerk liberal, but I didn't expect something like this from Canada.

Aunty Ollie $100 Gift Card GUEST GIVEAWAY!!!!

2009-11-21T21:56:00.000-06:00

Aunty Ollie $100 Gift Card GUEST GIVEAWAY!!!!

Entertainment Weekly and Me

2009-11-01T07:58:00.003-06:00

I am obsessed with Entertainment Weekly. Saturday is my favorite day of the week, not just because I have the day off, but because I can indulge in reading my favorite magazine from cover to cover. I've been traveling quite a bit this month, so I had three news zines to cover. Two items really captivated me.

1. Diablo Cody has met with Francine Pascal and is working to bring the Wakefield Twins to the big screen in a Sweet Valley High Movie. I am thirty-years-old but this made me extremely excited. I can't wait to see it. View the article here.

2. Regretsy.com Etsy.com is a place for crafters to sell their homemade items. Regretsy.com shows you the worst of the worts. This blog is awesome.

Phantom 2

2009-10-08T19:39:00.003-05:00

Word on the street is that Andrew Lloyd Weber is working on a Phantom of the Opera sequel. Wow, he must need some money. I was a bit obsessed with the original as a kid, but I am not sure if I'm ready for this.

Check out the story:
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/33226635/ns/entertainment-arts_books_more/

There's a He Wolf in the Closet?

2009-10-03T21:05:00.002-05:00

Have you all seen the semi-new Shakira video for She-Wolf? Well this student made his own very closely followed video, called He-Wolf. It's pretty amazing and you should check it out!

Original

He-Wolf

What is my dog doing?

2009-09-29T19:13:00.006-05:00

I was listening to Fresh Air on NPR a few weeks ago during their "animal week", and there was a scientist who had been diagnosed with autism early on in life. Her research centered on animals who performed repetitive moments. She likened this to the repetitive movements that some autistic children revert to as a coping mechanism, and believe that there was something troubling these animals. You can find a link to the story by clicking here

Cut to my own home, my pitt bull/beagle mix Cimarron (Cimi for short) does this nightly routine on our futon. I don't think we could classify it as repetitive like a pacing movement, but can anyone tell me what she is trying to do? Please note that this isn't the most elaborate dance she does, but it's the one I was able to catch on tape.

Obi-wan Obama?

2009-09-17T12:19:00.003-05:00

This may be the funniest moment I've seen so far in the Obama administration. I love me some President Obama, and this photo makes him all the more endearing to me. You can see the clear geaky delight on his face! Here he is pairing two of my favorite things, Star Wars and the Olympic Games. Rock on Barack, and show your support for the Chicago bid for the Olympic Games.

Single Friends, Married Friends

2008-09-14T21:39:00.003-05:00

Has this happened to you? You're married, you go to a wedding, and you've been seated at a table with all of your married friends. Seated at a table next to you, or across the dance floor from you is a table full of your single friends. Sound familiar?

Let, me begin by stating that I am totally against this train of thought. I've just started to notice this great schism occurring increasingly the older I get. I happen to be part of the married brigade; however, beginning to think my attitude and resolve never left the world of the single woman.

First off, let me point out that in the 50's and 60's there was this wonderful thing that was fought for called Civil Rights. One of the main tenants is that people from different groups should not be segregated. Then why the heck do we separate married people from single people all the time? Those who are newly dating, from the not yet coupled, or SHOCK, may never be coupled. And that may not be such a bad thing. Hey, I'm married, I can tell you that first hand.

I've actually heard people say, well, were going to plan a weekend with just us couples to their single friends. What the heck does that mean? You can no longer hang out because I got the rock?

This makes me want to hang out with the single gals even more. Perhaps this tells me
something about my own life more than the rest of the world, but I still can't figure out why your single friends would become less important after getting hitched than they were before.

Married people definitely don't need to do everything together. Gag me with a wooden spoon. If you need to, then you should sell your identity on the internet, because I know loads of crooks would love your social security number.

The Cowboy Church

2008-09-07T14:02:00.003-05:00

Over labor day weekend, we had the opportunity to go to my husband's mom's wedding. It's really the second wedding, no one could really get to the first one in Hawaii last year, so they decided to have one locally in the states over the long weekend.

The ceremony was held in the Cowboy Church in Centerville, TX. It was pretty interesting for it's come as you are attitude. They even have some interesting decor, complete with a buck's head on the wall.

See the pics below.

Screaming at the TV

2008-08-10T22:41:00.003-05:00

Every four years the Olympic games graces my television for just over two weeks. (Two years depending on what Season's Olympiad is on.) This has been a tradition since I was a five years old. I'll admit. I am an Olympic nut. I will watch anything. Badmidton, handball, curling during the Winter games. If it's on and I can find it. I'll watch. If there's a personal interest story on about the Ulvang brothers (one of them skied into a river when training for cross country skiing and froze to death), I will put down whatever I am doing and give my undivied attention to it.

Every once in awhile, I will give it my usual reserved watching style, and really get into what's going on. I have to examples. One event happened back in 1996. In the 100 meter dash. Linford Christie of Great Britain was disqualified because the starting mechanism identified him as "starting faster than humanly possible". Although the judges did not identify him, the mechanical equipment, did. My family and I, after watching the replay, decided that perhaps Christie was the fastest ever person to start a rate. Faster than people could have though someone could start a race. We started a chant of "Let, Christie run." This did nothing to keep him from being disqualified, but it did strike me that my family was very enthusiastic regarding the games.

Tonight, the men's 4 x 100 freestyle relay team of Michael Phelps, Garrett Weber-Gale, Cullen Jones and Jason Lecazk claimed the world record and gold medal in one of the most exciting relays I've ever seen. They claimed the title over a trash talking French team in a very close race. Jason Lecazk swam the fastest relay split of all time, and came from so far behind. It didn't look like he was going to catch him, but my husband and I took turns yelling at the top of our lungs. And to our pleasure he touched out Bernard!

Truly worth my sore throat! Amazing.

US Olympic Trials

2008-07-05T15:35:00.004-05:00

Andy and I are in Omaha this weekend and the US Swimming Olympic Trials. Since last night was the Fourth of July, USA Swimming treated us to American flags and T-shirts, giving each aisle in the QWEST center red, white or blue t-shirts. Someone was nice enough to swipe Andy's but I got a nice navy blue USA Swimming Foundation T-Shirt.

The crowd was alive with plenty of enthusiasm. We got to see Cullen Jones in the 50 free semi's, Aaron Perisol tie Ryan Locte's 200 backstrock world record, Amanda Beard qualify for her fourth Olympic team in a row, Michael Phelps break the 200 IM world record, and Dara Torres in her come back making her fifth Olympic team.

The arena was awesome. Those who broke records were lauded with fireworks launched right out of the pool deck. The aqua zone was buzzing before and during the meet with autograph signings, the history of the swim suit, the Speedo store, art projects, and various other programs.

I can't wait for round two tonight!

Istanbul was once Constantinople...

2008-05-26T05:00:00.005-05:00

Andy and I just returned from a week long adventure in Istanbul in which we got to visit and enjoy the great hospitality of Andy's best friend Jeff. The vacation was great, save for a few days of sickness, and Jeff was great at putting up with the Fullerton's idiosyncrisies.

The Turkish citizens were warm and friendly, even though we arrived knowing absolutely no Turkish. We are now able to say, thank you, water, ok, two, no, yes, how much, bathroom, and my Turkish brother. I don't think we would probably use the last one in communicating with anyone just yet.

It appeared to me on my visit that Istanbullus have a great love of yogurt, working hard, beautiful roses, quickly clearing your table, smoking, tea, the Bosphorus, creating their own traffic lanes, beeping, and the bad eye (or the Eye of Sophia as I like to call it). Apparently the church/Mosque is called the Ayasophia not the Eye of Sophia. I am quite literal.

It seems weird to be at home and not hear pray calls five times a day, to enjoy some tea at a nice cafe, or not to have a lovely few of the Bosphorus from my own back yard.

Somethings that are nice-knowing that their is a full service bathroom in most places, having our pets back, smogless days, and ice.

Anyhow, traveling was great. Seeing good friends is great. Home is great. Enjoy some beautiful pictures.

Funny Wedding Video Dances

2008-05-11T21:17:00.003-05:00

By now, most people have probably seen the following video. The Baby Got Back dance that took the nation by storm. But I've added a few more that were also Honorable Mention. Enjoy:

Thiller with the wedding party!

Johnny and Baby.

Medly of Hip Hop (including family Soulja Boy)

Mo' Town Philly

Napoleon Dynamite

California Love

Robot Action.

Spanish Choreography

2008-05-11T20:51:00.001-05:00

Spain's synchronized swimming team has got some hot choreography going on. They are probably my favorite in that department right now, and if you ask me they get jipped. Here are some videos displaying how crazy good they are:

The first video is their Junior Team. The footages isn't that great, but I am mostly interested in their first lap.

The second video is of their National Team that will be representing them in the Olympics. This is an older routine, so I am hoping that they will wip out something new in July.

Torch Bearer

2008-05-04T16:29:00.006-05:00

I'm a huge fan of the Olympic Games. I just can't wait for 8.8.08. A couple of years ago, I had the opportunity to work on a regular basis with Jill Savery who won gold in the team event of synchronized swimming. Jill was selected as one of the San Francisco torch bearers based on her essay.

Check the 1996 Olympic Synchronized Swim Team's Olympic Performance here.

World Record

2008-05-03T13:09:00.003-05:00

I love swimming. No not going to the pool like your average recreation swimmer. I mean actually doing a work out. I like to race. I love synchronized swimming. I follow the world of both sports avidly. I also used to coach.

This you tube clip is funny. It's an add. But it's amusing. Enjoy.

And as a freebie....

My Manicurist and Me

2008-04-30T21:44:00.002-05:00

I've never understood that old adage of the woman and her hairstylist who enjoyed an bond and saw each other on a regular basis. The relationship where the customer could complain about their spouse, their work, whatever. I think this is because I never had a hair cut until I was ten years old (and let's face it, that one was done by my mother who was very excited I finally folded and let her cut off a whole two feet of hair). Even then I never went to the salon regularly to get my hair "maintained". I prefer to make drastic changes and let my hair grow out for a full-year before returning. While I tend to return to the same place, I always had this guilty feeling that I was a "poor" customer in their eyes, and knew I wasn't at all like the customer next to me. The one that they seemed to know all about.

Since moving to Stillwater, I have to confess, I have one of these relationships now. It's with my manicure/pedicurist. I'm a regular. Payday hits, and I am out that door with a swing in my step out to the New Wal-Mart to Da Vi Nails. However, I have a troubling confession. I stole her from one of my friends. Not very nice, but I can't let go now. I was told that she was the "it" girl in the salon. That you had to get her because she was the best. Unfortunately, this information was correct. Now when my friend and I go together, I get the I know you are going to get so and so. The thing is, I know I am too :) She's my person. I really don't want anyone else. And I know that they all probably do a good job as well. But I want the one I have developed a raport with, and now that I know what it's like to have a monthly service relationship-I'm not going back!

The American Pit Bull

2008-04-27T16:22:00.007-05:00

I love pit bulls. There I've said it. I currently own a beagle/pit bull mix. She was advertised as a beagle mix when we adopted her from the pound last July, but while her initial puppy pics show her beagle side, her mature size had proved her lineage to show that genetics have won out to the American Pit Bull Terrier. Cimmi is pretty great, and now that we know that she is really a pit cross, I've done some more research on this misunderstood breed. And, I will admit that I didn't even like dogs before we got her. I've learned my lesson.

I've added a link about pit bulls on the side. And this fun video for your enjoyment, this dog has kept this flock of chicks for quite awhile now, but here is from some earlier days:

Lazy Recovery Sundays

2008-04-27T12:00:00.003-05:00

This week my parents are in town, and just my luck I was able to get a nice case of bronchitis. On the one hand, this could be considered a problem. I am not really able to show them a good time. They pretty much can take my car around a town that they aren't familiar with; however, it is also nice to have your parents around to take care of you when you are sick.

While I am laying around the "sick" couch that I have taken over, I can make sure that they are aware of the dangers of robots that those near or at retirement age may face. What am I talking about you may ask? Old Glory Insurance of course. Watch and be enlightened.

A Classic Night at the Harbor

2008-04-21T20:52:00.007-05:00

Did you ever have one of those nights you just felt was going to be a classically good time from the get go? Saturday night was one of those at the Harbor. I met my girls around 10. Late for an old lady like me, and I didn't even get a nap in before heading out to the local watering hole. But something in me felt that we were in for a good time.

First, we had the opportunity to initiate three Harbor newbies. All of whom agreed that they were ready to become regulars. We started the night on the back porch, but the night quickly cooled off, and we were on our way in to serve up our night with some some old-time Harbor goodness.

Our first brush with fun was our witnessing of the Soulja Boy classic Superman dance by an oldie but goodie on the dance floor. That woman had the moves. We gave her some mad props. She told us she used to work with gang members and they gave her her props by teaching her the steps. Homegirl never looked so good.

Then it was off to the dance floor as we got down with the Cuban shuffle. I am not sure if Castro knows this one, but it got loose from the island nation. It's like the electric slide got loose with some kicks.

Then we witnessed a very manly looking woman, quite possibly the funniest rendition of Stayin' Alive ever sung in public, a little pole dancing action, a first-timer's boyfriend, the co-ed bathroom, that Girls Who Just Wanna Have Fun might not want to sing about it, and if the do should probably try to keep time with the music, that everyone should have a back up dancer, not just a singer, that not only people on tv talk about butt implants, and that sometimes ST sings back up for other people.

Oh, and everyone can give up and obnoxious Yea!!!!! after someone is done singing. And flea likes a good purse. Don't fret ladies. He's married.

Let's Go to the Mall...

2008-04-08T20:40:00.003-05:00

One of my favorite shows on the tele, is How I Met Your Mother. My husband, Andy, often thinks I might be secretly Canadian because of my pronunciation of certain words. Okay, I know you are thinking how do these two statements have anything to do with each other. Well, this video clip that I have embedded for you, shows Robin one of the main characters in her "Let's Go to the Mall" video. A take off of those late 80's early 90's, Tiffany and Debbie Gibson songs, that apparently hit Canada a bit later.

Enjoy!

The McGriddle

2008-04-07T21:29:00.003-05:00

Several weeks ago, some people I work with got to talking about breakfast foods. If you really know me, you may know that I love me a McDonald's breakfast and the full day's worth of calories it provides the body.

I especially love the McGriddle meal. I've been told by some, that my eyes just light up talking about the tasty goodness of the bacon, egg, cheese and maple syrupy goodness of the pancake it's laid upon. C'mon, you can't top that. Plus it comes with a nice hash brown, and instead of healthy orange juice, I prefer to finish it off with a medium coke to kick start my day.

However, I was really put off by this picture I found, when I was looking for a picture of the tasty McGriddle to show people what they might be missing. Do you really think that Jessica Alba partakes in the wholesome goodness they provide? I don't think she can even eat one, let alone three. Why are they just floating around her?

They can't trick me into thinking I am going to look like her by indulging. You are probably going to look more like me if you partake in their tastyness. They need to rethink their celebrity spokes model.

The Home and Garden Show

2008-04-06T19:05:00.000-05:00

This weekend Jayme and I conquered the Home and Garden show, where free fly-swatters were abundant to say the least. We stocked up, since when I moved here last summer, I was unable to find any on sale at the local stores.

Stillwater has been growing on me, but I must confess that I fell in love with this town at the Home and Garden show. For $3.00 dollars, I was able to abscond with the following items:

(1) pretty awesome water bottle (and the guy giving them out was nice enough to run us down because we didn't quite make it to the end where his table was set up. I am going to have to give him mad props for his efforts.

(2) fly swatters. These will come in handy when the flies come on strong in May.

(1) roll up tape measure. This will come in handy for measuring all types of things including my flab. My New Year's resolution to eat lots of junk food probably wasn't one of my wisest decisions, but I digress.

(1) yardstick. I'm just gonna say it. That is freakin' awesome. I am always in need of one, for various projects, and I didn't have one. Cheers!

(2) flower bulbs for my new garden

(2) new trees for my back yard, and I got the phone number to call before I did :)

(2) two verbena plants to put in the garden

(1) disinfecting hand wipe

(1) totally awesome plastic safety hat. Okay, so it was for the kids, but aren't we all kids at heart?

(1) Police sticker and noise complaint handout. Handy for the A-man, who hates noise. I should have asked for a box to deliver to the James Creek housing development.

(1) bag of freshly popped pop corn, yum!

I also got a few pens, and coupons, and have entered countless drawings and contests. Maybe I will get to remove my underarm hair for free. Who knows.

And I learned about the most amazing invention, the converting picnic table, bench thing that I am going to order with my economy pumping check I am getting from our friends at the federal government. Now stick that in your pipe and smoke it.

All, in all, a good time in Stillwater.

Black Splash

2008-03-01T17:49:00.002-06:00

The International Swimming Hall of Fame has created a new exhibit in honor of black history month:

http://cbs4.com/video/?id=51081@wfor.dayport.com

2008-01-19T14:50:00.002-06:00

Don't you wish Chuck Norris was hot like me?

To DC and Back Again

2008-01-19T14:05:00.000-06:00

This past week, I got to travel to my old stomping grounds in Arlington, VA and DC for a conference on international transcript evaluation. The conference was actually tres beneficial, and I got to stay with one of my best friends and see a bunch of the peeps with whom I went to college.

Monday, I was able to witness the creation of a new word "lushslut" inadvertantly credit to a friend of mine who was telling us that a former roommate of hers thought at the beginning of their roomie relationship that she was a lush / slut, although it didn't quite come out like that. Now the oxford dictionary can add a new word to it's lexicon.

While visiting I enjoyed some fine Indian and Lebanese cuisine. I haven't eaten that well in a long time! We even got to see what of the skinniest, most Arian looking belly dancer that I have ever seen. She was pretty good at the finger cymbals, but I think needed to add a few pounds and shed a little stiffness to reach master class status as a belly dancer.

Also, I would highly suggest that you go out and see the movie Juno this weekend. It's by far one of the funniest, smartest movies I have seen this year. Thunder Cats, Go!

Thursday Night Lights

2007-10-18T21:45:00.000-05:00

I decided I better post something since I just wandered over here, and I saw that Jayme is razzing me for not posting frequently enough. Tomorrow is the start of homecoming, and I am going to see the house decs for the first time. I'm actually pretty excited about it, so that will be something I'm looking foward to!

moving on up

2007-08-23T22:53:00.001-05:00

So I got a promotion at work last week, and I'm no longer managing students, but full-time workers now. Apparently, OK is a good move for me, as the psychic I saw at Gail's predicted before I left the State of Connecticut.

AB gave the greenlight for a visit to So. Cal this November, so I've put my request for a day off in November to add to the three day weekend OK's 100th anniversary is granting us Oklahomans, and hopefully grabbing my $182 roundtrip, non-stop airfare to San Diego.

This week at work I invented the Panhandle dance to show people what OK looked like. It met with great success. I also finally discovered the home power base of IT on Wednesday's field trip to see some people that are kind of a big deal on campus.

Wednesday's discoveries were darkened with my ordeal of trying to find healthcare for the A-man, since his new insurance doesn't kick in until Sept. 1st, and unfortunately, no one will take our HMO. I finally ended up sending him to the ER, for a visit, so that we could pay a co-pay. Good grief. I can't wait unit 9/1/07.

Rachel Raye's So-Called Experts

2007-08-19T21:20:00.000-05:00

I don't have to go into work until 11a.m. (for now, I just got a promo and I will be going to work like a regular person at 8a.m. in the very near future), so I've been less than fortunate to view Rachel Ray's day-time talk show. I've noticed that she doesn't bring in experts, but gets these people that are her "friends" to read up on assignments and that come back with the answers for her audience. That's all well and good, but I'm not sure if they have the educational background to the give advice on certain topics. Like, I'm pretty sure Hemroid cream does do the trick on puffy eyelids, but her friend tried it every day for a few days and it didn't do anything. Well, that's because your beat sister, not because you have puffy eyelids, you don't. It works for things like crying, or swollen under eyes. Grr.

Rachel is not a self-help guru. Nor is she really a chef, she's just a crazy woman hopped up on caffeine who likes to cook. Oh boy.

The Harbor Revisited

2007-08-14T21:44:00.001-05:00

Saturday night I returned to the Harbor with a larger entourage. Someone actually remembered that Jayman and I were there the night before, and yelled out "hey, your back". I guess you can't really keep a low profile in Stillwater.

Saturday night was not quite as popular at the hole in the wall establishment, but entertaining nonetheless. ST the karaoke singing sensation was back for some more tunes, and some other singers provided lesser quality talent. There was also an uncomfortable moment where myself and two of my barmates accidental made eye contact with a sketchy guy going into the men's room. Not quite sure what that moment was all about.

Then we were approached by the groping dancer. He asked if we wanted to dance, and we politely declined. Good thing, we later saw what dancing met, as he placed his hands on some girls on the dance floor that could have resulted in lawsuits a la the Playboy Mansions current problems...

Other interesting events of the night included the concept for the "IT Prom" now the "Orange Ball" which will be in full swing this Saturday from 4-7p.m. for those that know they are attending. I'll be wearing my best 80's dress, and making sure no one spikes the punch in my role as coordinator since it looks like everyone is after my original date. Oh well. (Sorry I know only about five people got this last paragraph, but lets keep it that way).

Signing off. I hear Jayman wants to check out a new fine establishment. I'm sure I'll write about it later. Peace out.

The Harbor and Self-Imposed Puppy Punishment

2007-08-11T09:31:00.000-05:00

Last night my friend, who shall be known as Jay-man (she's a girl, don't let the name fool you), took me on my first outing to The Harbor, a local Stillwater watering hole. Friday nights, as well as Saturdays feature Karaoke, and last night did not disappoint in this arena. The bar is a blend of Stillwater's working class, some of OSU's more adventurous college students and working professionals. In essence, it's just fun.

Highlights of the night included the a man with brightly colored shorts and a whole bottle of polo's soulful country ballads. I think this guy should get signed, he's awesome, but they should take away his polo, I probably wouldn't have had to wash my hair from the smoke if I stood next to him for any length of time do to his febreeze like fragrance.

The best group rendition of Gangstas Paradise I've ever heard, and some of the best middle-age female drunk dancing I've ever seen. If Nikki is reading this she better take note. When you come to Stillwater, you need to witness the dancing, because this may be what we look like in 20 years. And the guy that patted me as we were leaving, an interesting move if I say so myself. And apparently I think that the two-step looks like two people wrestling.

Earlier this morning, after I returned home, and Jay-man tried to run me over..... I opened the door and my dog had escaped from her puppy play pen! She actually knocked the 5 cubic feet of fencing over. But surprise, surprise she apparently realized the error of her ways and put herself in time out as soon as she did this, because not one thing was chewed up, and evacuated on! And she ran right back into the crate when she saw me and wouldn't come out. Apparently, she knows who the boss lady is.... And the training continues.

OOOOklahoma and this blogs resurgence

2007-08-10T09:10:00.000-05:00

Hello there. I recently (May 2007) relocated to Stillwater, OK. I've decided to return to blogging and have rechristened my blog as "Can I Get a What, What?" I just wanted to change it up a bit. Give it a little twist as I'm in a new region, and am adjusting to life here out on the plains.

Andy and I recently adopted a new puppy. Our original decision for her name was Cimarron Turnpike, after the name of the road that leads from Tulsa to Stillwater, but Andy is now lobbying for Rudy Huxtable.

Stillwater is a very nice college town. Home to OSU-The Cowboys, and Orange Fever. People enjoy driving a lot slower, purchasing copious amounts of pick-up trucks, and cutting you off. However, few people curse or rock out the finger when this occurs. Strange behavior for someone that grew up on the East Coast.

I am adjusting to the new terminology out here. No one asks you if you want a bad. They call all bags, sacks at the stores. This makes me laugh every time I here it. Perhaps only my MU family gets that right off the bat.

I have started calling tag sales (good grief) yard sales, even though I was against that terminology for so long. But I have to roll with the common vernacular.

I've started swimming, and have entered my first meet in Tulsa for next weekend. It will be my first time in Tulsa, in which I haven't been there simply to use their airport. A big step for this knew Oklahoman. I may stop to pick up some other supplies that the local Wal-Mart doesn't have.

Alright signing off for now.

Kirsten

PRIDE

2007-01-09T16:43:00.000-06:00

There is a new movie coming out this March called Pride. It's inspired by the true events of the life of swim coach Jim Ellis in Philadelphia, and the team he build P.D.R. (Philadelphia Department of Recreation). The team exists to this day, and Jim Ellis is still coaching.

USA Swimming's 20 Questions with Cullen Jones

2006-09-19T21:38:00.000-05:00

USA Swimming recently did their 20 Question Tuesday with Cullen Jones. The more interviews I read with this guy, the more I am staring to like, gasp!, a sprinter.... :)

Swimming for Youth

2006-09-06T07:29:00.000-05:00

http://www.active.com/donate/swim4kids2006

Cullen Jones

2006-08-21T19:57:00.000-05:00

There's a new black man on the swimming scene. Cullen Jones. He's awesome. I don't even like the sprint events, but I'm always happy to see a little more diversity in my favorite sport. He won the 50 at US Nationals, and just won Pan Pacific's last week. Read more about him here.

He is now a world record holder, as he swam on the 4 x 100 meter freestyle relay.

Identity Angel

2006-08-09T17:43:00.000-05:00

So I was driving home, with everybody else, from Hartford today, and I caught this interesting story on NPR. Identity Angel is a software program developed at Carnegie Mellon that searches the internet for personal information about someone that could be used in the wrong hands to steal someone's identity. The program then emails the person, and tells the where the information is located, and the best way to remove it from the internet so that they avoid the risk.

This is an interesting program, but my immediate reaction is, how do I know that they are emailing the right person. What if it's someone else's email? Email can get screwy? I know that I have receive other people's emails. What if a website has been hacked, and the email address changed? What if the program starts inadvertently emailing this sites with this information directly to identity theives. Weird.

Ned Lamont, Summer Nationals and National Team FOSS

2006-08-08T17:43:00.000-05:00

Today I got up, had a leisurely breakfast and then headed down to New Britain High School to vote in Connecticut's Democratic Primary. I really don't think the people lobbying for their candidates were standing the requisite 75 feet from the voting vacinity, but I kept my mouth shut to save time.

So after standing in the booth for a long time, and trying to figure out why they placed the candidates in the columns they did, I marked the little boxes and yanked the big red lever. I voted for DeStefano and Lamont. I am sure my choice of Lamont is much to the chagrin of the rest of my family, but I've been bitching about Joe's decisions for a long time, so I couldn't bring myself to vote for him. It started long before Lamont was even a candidate.

Meanwhile, at USS nationals...
Brendan Hansen broke both of his world records in the breaststroke events. That is crazy. And Cullen Jones won the 50 free, with the fastest time in the world this year, establishing himself as one to watch in upcoming international competitions. Jones is especially interesting to watch since he comes from NC State, a non-traditional school, as far as producing swimming powerhouses. Jones is the latest African American to make waves in the traditionally white world of swimming. Hopefully, this trend continues, and we see a greater array of diversity in the sport.

Finally, the WCA alumni beach trip occurred over the weekend, and a new Master's swimming team was formed: Team FOSS Aquatics. Fairly Optimistic Swimming Stars.
If you would like more information about how to join this team please contact FOSSaquatics@gmail.com

We are a loosely organized team that practice on our own, or with others if you can work our a plan to meet some of the other swimmers, but who represent one team at Master's swimming Meets. We have a goal to swim at the 2008 Spring Master's National Championships.

Is Your Hay In Your Barn?

2006-08-02T22:21:00.000-05:00

Here is an interesting article on coaching motivation in swimmers, or if it's possible?

There are many athletes that want to achieve great things in their respective sports, but a coach can only take you so far. I firmly believe that an athlete needs to have their own motivation to achieve their ultimate potential in any sport, and a good coach can help channel that motivation. But too little or absolutley no motivation will take you no where.

Where've You've Been?

2006-08-01T20:12:00.000-05:00

create your own visited states map

I totally stole this off of Rachel's Tavern's blog, but it's really neat. You can map out the states you been in. Here's where I've been.

WCSN to Broadcast Summer National Swimming Championships

2006-07-29T12:09:00.000-05:00

I am pleased to announce that the World Championship Sports Network is going to offer a free broadcast of Summer Nationals next week. Nationals start next Tuesday, and you can sign up for the free broadcast by going to their website WCSN and registering. This is generally a website where you have to pay to watch, but they are offering the nationals broadcast for free to generate interest about their site.

The Road to Hell is Paved with Cobblestones Bearing Ann Coulter's Resemblence

2006-07-27T17:26:00.000-05:00

I don't know if there is a single person (okay maybe there are a few) that I hold more disdain for than Ann Coulter. This blond floozy thinks she has a brain, yet everytime I listen to her speak on any range of topics, I feel like I am listening to a has been centerfold that was captured from Hugh Heffner's home and brainwashed by the Republican party. Last night while watching MSNBC, Coulter was asked whether she had any gay friends. She responded that of course she did, who do you think cuts my hair. What an ass.

Everytime I see her interviewed, she espews four word sentences, flips her hair over her shoulder and then smiles at the camera. Ainsley Hayes, the only convervative (fictional) women I've ever respected she's not. Anyway, I definitely think she is on my top ten list of people who think they are, but are definitely not going to the promised land.

In other news, the series 30 Days is back on from the creator of Super Size Me, Morgan Spurlock. Last night we met a legal Cuban immigrant minuteman who spent 30 days with a family of illegal Mexican immigrants. It was pretty interesting that a Cuban immigrant had such strong feelings against the illegal immigration of the central and south americans.

Finally, here is the latest FHM interview with Amanda Beard. If I have sons, this better be their pin up.

Hello Kitty Won't You Frost My Wrist Up!

2006-07-26T17:08:00.000-05:00

Many that know me, know of my undying love for all things Hello Kitty. Today I came across this article. Apparently Kimora Lee Simmons is now designing Kitty bling bling sold exclusively at Neiman-Marcus. Although I love Hello Kitty, I'm not a huge fan of the price tag or Ms. Simmons. I'm pretty sure I am not getting one of these watches for my anniversary this year. Oh well.

In other news, Lance Bass has announced that he's gay. Looks like I won't be able to believe his character in the blockbuster hit On the Line anymore. I wonder if it really would have hurt N'Sync if he had come out while the band was still together like he says he believed. N'Sync hasn't been around in some time, how come he didn't let the cosmonaut's know?

Finally, this article about Nelly Fertado is a bit odd. Don't bite the hand that feeds you Nelly. In it she describes how she really wanted to make it in the music biz by using a lot of instruments before going back to her love "hip hop" and that her last album 'Folklore' didn't sell well in the states because it was too "political" and too "cerebral". Sounds kinda racist to me. Hip hop might not always use traditional instruments, but the amount of improvising that occurs is often truly amazing. The use of non-traditional instruments is abundent. In addition, describing one's music as cerebral and political makes me think that Nelly believes that Hip Hop artists are unintelligent, and cannot express political statements or detailed thoughts. I think the song Promiscious is pretty catchy; however, I think that Nelly labels Hip Hop as something that is simply for fun, and not "real". There are too many well respected Hip Hop artists that use this music as a vehicle to express the same sentiment you tried to on Folklore, and guess what, their albums sold Nelly. So bring it.

Stupid Songs

2006-07-25T20:46:00.000-05:00

This a post to open a forum for my friend Stacy who would like to go into a tirade about stupid songs. Feel free to add what you think might be the stupidest song ever.

2006-07-25T20:04:00.000-05:00

I have some new blogs that I think are worth mentioning. The first is Colin McEnroe's. He has his own column in the Hartford Courant and is one of the hosts of the Afternoon Show with Bruce and Colin show on WPOP AM 1080. I bet you can't guess which of the two hosts he is. Anyway, I've been a big fan of his for years. He's funny and smart, and I've enjoyed his show since I was just a kid. As I have been tucked in a tiny office at my place of employment, I have started listening to talk radio again since it's so quiet in the back hallway where I work. I've heard the argument for years that almost all talk radio is very conservative, and I must agree. I usually try to stomach the morning programs but Mornings with Ray and Diane sometimes leaves me seething. I simply find Sound Off Connecticut a total hoot. Jim Vicevich is a complete moron who says he listens to the opinions of anyone who wants to call in, and then proceeds to get all crazy when they do. I can't stand him and his own croonies who call themselves "republitarians". There are nuts. He spends so much time ranting and raving over the legislation to remove vending machines from public schools, he never deals with bigger issues such as how big a dolt he is. I find myself turning the radio off more often then not during this "show".

Anyway, Bruce and Colin are very refreshing from 3-6p.m. when I turn my radio back on after the three hour Rush Limbaugh hiatus I take daily.

The other blog that I have found to be of interest in light of the upcoming political battles in the State of Connecticut is My Left Nutmeg. I'll admit, I did find this through Colin's blog, and the name alone is completely hilarious, but it does offer some interesting commentary on the political races in CT.

I'm Back

2006-07-25T17:48:00.000-05:00

I have a renewed interest in blogging today, so I am going to try to keep this site up this time. This is one of my favorite article headlines from the USA Swimming Magazine. I've had it for quite some time.

The WCA Alumni beach trip will be held on Aug. 5th at Dunes Park Beach in Rhode Island. If you are interested in attending, please contact me.

Hello

2005-09-05T08:45:00.000-05:00

Hi. I know I haven't posted in awhile. I will try to do better. I have been away, and freaking out about my job. Anyway, my friend Rachel has started a blog called Rachel's Tavern. It's actually a really good read. She's a professor of Sociology at Long Island University and she has some interesting comments about sociology in today's society. Good anlayis of the Katrina tragedy. Also has some good hip hop links. Check it out. www.rachelstavern.com I'll put it a link to the side as well.

Kirsten

1.21 Gigawats

2005-06-10T08:51:00.000-05:00

I ran across the following story this morning about a girl giving birth in a car doing 85 mph.

85 mph is somewhat close to the infamous 88mph of Back to the Future Fame. I am wondering if the driver was trying to reach 88mph just to go back to the time of conception, and say hold up!!! This is what happens to your kid in the future.

These kids must watch too many movies!

Urinating Babies

2005-06-06T19:31:00.000-05:00

I ran across this story today. Now this is pretty rediculous. A baby got a fine for peeing in public. What was the baby supposed to do? And why wasn't the baby wearing any undergarments? Hmmm. Maybe next time, you should try pampers.

In other news, my man Russell the love muscle, has been a bad bad boy! Why can't you stop throwing phones, Maximus!

How Come Ben Stein Isn't Deep Throat?

2005-05-31T21:47:00.000-05:00

I am very bummed over the fact that "Deep Throat" isn't Ben Stein. Instead it's this dude, W. Mark Felt. He sounds like a new type of dry erase marker. I can't tell you how unimpressed I am with this man. Wouldn't have been cool if Ben Stein really was Deep Throat, as several people in and around the Beltway have whispered for years. Instead it's this guy. Oh Mr. Felt. Why couldn't you have kept your secret to the grave. You gave up Nixon to save the country, and now you are making a whole lot of money on the book deal. I guess it's the American Way. But I would have enjoyed thinking it was Mr. Stein for the several more years. Who wouldn't want the man behind the Checkers speech to have been Deep Throat, honestly!

I'm in a glass cage of emotion!

More on SuperFans

2005-05-31T21:38:00.000-05:00

This is the real reason I started blabbing on and on about Star Wars the other day. Back when the first prequel came out, I had the experience of attending a showing of Episode I: The Phantom Menace with a "superfan", my sister. She dressed up like her hero Qui-Gon Jinn. But let's begin by saying this was not the opening night of the movie. No, it was about four weeks into the release. A Saturday matinee nonetheless. I attended the show with my friend Brian and his younger brother Aidan. Unbeknowst to them, my sister was planning to attend in full Jedi garb. While Brian may have found this amusing, Aidan was aghast that someone would actually do this is broad daylight. He spent the entire time staring with open mouth in disbelief of the vision in front of him.

I must say that unlike other "superfans", my sister did not engage in badly choreographed light sabre duels. This may have been because no one else in the theatre had a light sabre, but I'd like to think instead that her "superfandom" had not progressed that far.

I, myself, has never had the personal experience of dressing like a "superfan". I once almost dressed in all black to see Matrix Revolutions, but my husband called me out on it. Anyway, I don't think the "superfan" will die. I am sure it will manifest itself in other cult shows/movies that have yet to be invented, or are already coming to a theatre near you.

Superfans

2005-05-28T16:24:00.000-05:00

***Warning, there are a few spoilers in this edition about Revenge of the Sith.

Yesterday, I saw Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith. It's definitely the best of the prequels, but I am unsure if it's because it's really better than the first two, or if it seems better because, let's face it, this is the one for which we've been waiting. Don't get me wrong, the only decent acting in the whole movie came from Ewan McGregor, (Obi-Wan Kenobi you definitely are the only hope in this film) but the film overall was much better. Lucas didn't get too caught up in the overwhelming battle scenes that plagued that last two. The story stayed on track a bit better, and we only have to deal with Jar-Jar Binks at Padme's funeral for about three seconds. The battle between Kenobi and Vadar was pretty good, but some of the CGI effects are still a bit shabby. Bobbing up and down in a lava river was a little shaky. Overall it was decent. I'd see it again.

One thing that I am still trying to decide if I liked was the transfer of the prequel film look to episode IV: A New Hope. You can tell that all of the control have been switched at the end of the movie in the space crafts to resemble the ships in the later movies, and the staff in Siddious' ship has changed over to the SS look. I can't tell if I liked it because it gave some briding, or if it looks rediculous because it's so brief, but I digress.

Tom DeLay and the biggest Catfish Ever!

2005-05-27T09:40:00.000-05:00

In today's news, Tom DeLay is all upset about a recent episode of Law and Order: Criminal Intent. http://www.cnn.com/2005/POLITICS/05/27/delay.law.order/index.html

Tom DeLay needs to get a sense of humour. You can't trash talk federal judges 24/7 and expect people aren't going to take notice. We aren't all members of the crazy "compasionate" conservative moment. Mr. DeLay, I think you've got bigger problems than having your name mentioned on the worst Law and Order you could be on (since Trial by Jury got pulled). Not many people were watching sir.

In other news, that huge catfish that was caught the other day is now dead. Apparently he died of the stress of being transported to an aquarium. Hello. Maybe he died from not breathing. How long do you think this dude was holding him up for pictures? 1 minute, 2 minutes, 10 minutes? Humans start going brain dead at 5 minutes. Plus did you see the gut on that thing. That catfish was probably getting an oxygen tank in the catfish retirement home of the Mississip!

Also, they should have learned that fat marine creatures don't transport well. Remember Bubba the lobster? http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2005/03/02/earlyshow/main677483.shtml This poor guy didn't make it either. Oh well.

I still think it's funny there is a group called PETA, People for the eating of Tasty Animals :)

Welcome

2005-05-26T21:16:00.000-05:00

Hello. My name is Kirsten Fullerton, and I just created this blog. Hopefully, it will be somewhat interesting, but I just kind of created it on a whim. This weekend is Memorial Day weekend, full of picnics, extra sales, and some other stuff to do that you don't normally do, like march in parades. I will be marching in a local parade on Monday with the synchronized swimming team I coach. I've never done it before, always getting out of it somehow. But this year, I don't have an excuse. I heard we get to hurl candy at the audience as well. Should be a good time. Parades are kind of weird things. Just a bunch of people walking around and waving. I guess it raises public awareness of some organizations, but if you aren't really doing anythign fun, it's kind of weird. Like marching bands, I can see their point in a parade, but you really can't do synchro if you are walking down the street. Unless they got a pool that they pulled along. I can see all the sloshing on the sidewalks now.

I will update you on the parade.