Sunday, October 30, 2011

Ice, Ice, Baby!

It's one of those days that I find it hard to come up with 5 things. Especially since I slept most of the day but I'll give it a shot.
  1. I enjoyed being at the tournament and seeing some of our league members coming out to support us.  That was really cool.  While we didn't win anything it was a great time getting to know folks better.
  2. I went to Chipotle for lunch and realized that I don't need to get that burrito bowl any more - Why?  - because you can get a quesadilla with beans and chicken and only pay less than $5.  Granted, you won't have the rice (that I don't like anyhow) and the salsa, sour cream, lettuce, etc - but when you're on a budget, this meal does the trick!
  3. Waking up this morning there was a TON of ice on my car and I had to use the scraper.  Before I did that, I noticed the beauty of the ice formations on my car and had to take pictures of it.  It's amazing how it forms in these patterns.
  4. Being in a "WTF am I doing?" state of mind really causes you to think of the "Why?" aspect of my choices.  A lot of choices I make are because things feel good - but I have enough sense to ascertain when things no longer feel good. I love that I have tools and the knowledge to really "get" that for myself.
  5. On my way home tonight I thought about how I might raise joy in others. I love seeing people super excited.  I want to bring some excitement to someone's life and surprise them. I love coming up with ways in which I can let the joy rise in others.

Somethin' Evil is Lurkin' in the Dark...

  1. I went to a party tonight and met my neighbors parents.  They're from Trinidad.   The mom is a riot! Such a great spirit.  During the night she said a saying in her thick Caribbean accent.  The phrase is, "Buy me for one but don't take me for one." Such a great saying.
  2. I participated in a great in-depth conversation at the party that took us until the wee hours of 3AM.  Time really flies when you're enjoying yourself.
  3. Usually I never do too much for Halloween. I was invited to a party and was planning to go as a zombie.  I wasn't sure how I'd make the look happen but I took a $1.97 make up kit from Walmart and some Mod Podge glue and made it work!
  4. The bowling tournament began today and I bowled a 184.  Only did it once today.. but I love that the one time happened!
  5. Today I got to know several people a lot better. 

Friday, October 28, 2011

Super Joy Fantastic!


  1. American Horror Story continues to get SO GOOD! I am wondering how they will keep this up!
  2. I love the sign I posted in this blog! 
  3. I'm gettin' pretty good at this supervising thing. At least I seem to think so.
  4. Watching Oprah's Lifeclass tonight about "Joy Rising" made me think of a song that I ABSOLUTELY LOVE. Check it out here!
  5. I got a compliment on my outfit today from two students. That made me smile.

Thursday, October 27, 2011

What's in Your Bucket?


  1. Wegman's Carrot Cake.  AMAZINGLY GOOD!  I'm not a fan of raisins but this cake was so book that I ate it with the raisins in it!
  2. I love how there's always a solution to your dilemma. Yeah, it sounds so simple, doesn't it?  Sometimes the solution isn't what you want but today... the solution worked out to my liking!  I thought I was going to have to refund a buyers money because I didn't have what I needed to complete the order. Well, after a day of thinking and a visit to two stores that ended without the item, I realized I always had what I needed at home. I just needed to look for it. I love how that can be applied to so many things. You've always had what you needed - you just had to look for it.  Wow.
  3. I went to the gym even with me being tired. I felt great afterward. Now I feel exhausted which means I'll get to sleep really well. That's something I really love!
  4. Family Guy and The Cleveland Show is a good escape from reality. I love the randomness of these shows.
  5. I loved this item in the picture.  The Bucket List. I think I may make something like this. Found it on Pinterest.com.  What's on your bucket list?  

Wednesday, October 26, 2011

You Better Believe It!

Integrity.  Now there's a word. I'm not sure if people really understand that integrity is part of your Human Being Score - kind of like a credit score.  The more you exhibit integrity, the more people will place a higher value for your friendship, the work you do in your career, and in your relationships. When people show and/or tell you who they really are, believe them.
  1.  A friend of mine showed me a website called Pinterest.  I have to say - it's REALLY cool. 
  2. I was able to have a good time at bowling tonight and the support of friends made it exceptional. We all are responsible for the energy we accept into our lives and the energy we put out in the universe.
  3. I love Maya and Oprah!
  4. My Etsy Shop is on fire! I got another sale today. I love it when the sales roll in.
  5. I had a great impromptu brainstorming session with a student about an event.  I got excited about the possibilities and he did, too!

Tuesday, October 25, 2011

You Are Responsible for the Energy You Bring into this World

It's Tuesday and things are getting back to normal. Karma is gonna reach around and knock someone upside the head.  Now back to our regularly scheduled positivity because I believe that the energy you surround yourself with is detrimental to you feeling good.
  1. On the way to work I saw a license plate that said ICHZJOY - That's a great thing to think about. We make choices every day. Do we ever choose to be happy?
  2. In less than 24 hours, I sold two bracelets.  YAAAAAAY! I even made some new photo projects for breast cancer awareness month. 
  3. I love that I ran for 3 minutes straight. Yeah, that doesn't sound like much but when you haven't run that long in many months, that's a major feat! :0) Go Me!
  4. Let's just say that I am glad I keep my spare change in a jug. 
  5. The weather was excellent today. Just the right amount of "chill" in the air.

I Am a Conquerer

Today I took steps to conquering a couple of fears - It's like, once you conquer one, you're off looking for the next one.  You feel so much better for challenging yourself to do something that seems scary.
  1. I was afraid to take the leap and start the process of creating a new website.  Well, I took the plunge and now own a domain. That's a start and I'm glad I stepped out into the unknown.
  2. I made a phone call tonight that I volunteered to make.  I wasn't exactly sure how it would go.  I made the phone call and it wasn't at all how I imagined.  I loved that I challenged myself.
  3. I'm not much of a church person and I'm pretty skeptical about religion but I LOVE some Gospel music. 
  4. Today brought lots of clarity.  I love when I finally stop stressing out and start taking action.
  5. While listening to my iPod in the car I heard a song by Michael Franti and Spearhead called, "Love Don't Wait".  Great upbeat song. 

Monday, October 24, 2011

I've Learned...

  1. “I've learned that no matter what happens, or how bad it seems today, life does go on, and it will be better tomorrow. I've learned that you can tell a lot about a person by the way he/she handles these three things: a rainy day, lost luggage, and tangled Christmas tree lights. I've learned that regardless of your relationship with your parents, you'll miss them when they're gone from your life. I've learned that making a "living" is not the same thing as making a "life." I've learned that life sometimes gives you a second chance. I've learned that you shouldn't go through life with a catcher's mitt on both hands; you need to be able to throw something back. I've learned that whenever I decide something with an open heart, I usually make the right decision. I've learned that even when I have pains, I don't have to be one. I've learned that every day you should reach out and touch someone. People love a warm hug, or just a friendly pat on the back. I've learned that I still have a lot to learn. I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”― Maya Angelou 
  2. A great stress reliever is exercise.  Today I went to the gym and walked/ran 2.71 miles. I was tired when I got there but I conquered my work out.
  3. I appreciate the phone call I had today. It put things into perspective and helped me not to stress. 
  4. My new favorite show: Once Upon a Time.  That was good television! It's written by the same folks who wrote LOST - that's why I love it!
  5. I have a great idea for a website. I'm following my passion. Tomorrow I make the first move.

Sunday, October 23, 2011

Power of Intentions

Sometimes I wonder what the intent of others really is.  Do they intend to bring joy to the day or do they intend to upset the day? Do they intend to make someone happy or do they intend to piss someone off? Do they intend to bring peace or do they intend to rattle the cage? There's a lot of power in intentions. By setting an intention, you make it clear to yourself and others, just what you plan to do. What are your intentions today?
  1. Some of my favorite quotes come from Maya Angelou.  When I read her words I can hear her wise, grandmother-like voice speaking to me as if she's sitting on that wing back chair like my Grandmother did. Spewing wise words from a soul that has seen so much in the world. It is those moments that I remember and cherish.
  2. Over the course of a few weeks I've developed new friendships. 
  3. I love the new Alpha Sigma Phi t-shirt.  I haven't worn anything fraternity related in years!  I loved the price, too. Only $10.50.
  4. Another quote - "Success seems to be largely a matter of hanging on after others have let go." - William Feather
  5. In all the craziness there really is a silver lining in it all. I just have to work harder on making sure my inner Pollyanna gets her time to shine each day.


If you don't like something, change it. If you can't change it, change your attitude.
Maya Angelou
 
When someone shows you who they are, believe them the first time.
Maya Angelou



Friday, October 21, 2011

T.G.I.F.

  1. Having someone get me coffee in the morning and knowing EXACTLY how I like it to be made is awesome. Hmm.. Someone remembers details.  I love that!
  2. Oprah's Lifeclass just keeps on teaching me great things and causes me to be self-reflective. I love that.
  3. I got a lot done today at work but not everything but to understand that Rome wasn't built in a day is the real message for the day.
  4. It's funny, but JUST when you REALLY need something is when you get it.  You just have to trust in that.  I trusted in that and it just worked itself out.
  5. It's always good hearing from my brother. Our conversation just seemed to solidify that I need to follow my passion and continue to feed it. Giving it time and care will allow it to flourish.

A Better Me

  1. Today I learned the basics of meditation and love how simple, yet profound it can be in your life.
  2. I made another "It Gets Better" video and I have to say that this one is done WAY better.  I hope that it serves to be helpful to those who need to hear the message.
  3. I love how the iPhone 4S is super fast.  It served to be helpful as I found my way through DC tonight.
  4. Someone noticed that I looked as though I've lost weight. Well, I have gone back to running and it's only been two weeks but, hey, I'll take the compliment because I love compliments!
  5. I wore a purple shirt and tie to work today and forgot how much I love the color purple. And it's NOT because I grew up being a big fan of Prince!

Thursday, October 20, 2011

The Bend in the Road is Not the End

Today I really tried to keep my cool.  Between a regular visit to the doctor about blood pressure (which is fine, BTW) and then the events during a night of bowling.  WOW... That was more stress in a matter of two hours than I have experienced in a long time.  Now I know how some politicians feel. The only problem is, they can hold the emotions together and I can't. hahaha Nevertheless, I refuse to linger in negativity so here I am continuing on with 5 things I loved about today.
  1. I love my Doctor. Actually, she's a Physicians Assistant. She is so easy to talk to and shows a lot of care.  I told her that if she should ever leave this place, she MUST call and let me know.. 
  2. I love that things like the Sustainable Living Roadshow exists.  They bring a great awareness to things and the Chapstick lip balm I bought is the bomb!
  3. Stouffer's makes a damn good mac and cheese. If you haven't tried it.. I suggest you do.
  4. I appreciate the individuals that volunteered to hold positions on the bowling league and appreciate everyone who exhibited a LOT of patience as we were trying to sort things out.  I can't even fully articulate nor formulate in words what their volunteerism means to me.
  5. I'm happy in the way I managed myself through one of the toughest situations I have experienced in the last year. To withstand this is a sign of growth and maturity. Resiliency.

    "The bend in the road is not the end of the road unless you refuse to take the turn."
I had more to add so I added the additions to the Inspiration page.  Reading inspirational and motivation quotes really help me to get through difficult situations. Check out the other items here.

Tuesday, October 18, 2011

Talk About the Passion


Today was a slooooooooooow day.  I don't know if I actually have any worthwhile things to list - but I'll give my best shot. 

  1. I was really moved by the idea of "finding and honing your passion".  I ended up asking several people if they knew what their passion is. There was one person that was able to answer that. I love when something that inspires me cause me to share that inspiration.  What is YOUR passion?
  2. Speaking of passions, I've been very passionate about my artistic creations.  I mentioned it to someone that I was in need of lined paper.  I received a box of lined paper.  How awesome is that?  I think that's pretty amazing of her to do that for me. 
  3. Going along with the topic of donations to my artistic endeavors, a co-worker of mine has brought in two cereal boxes for me to turn into journals.  I appreciate her thoughtfulness. 
  4. The G-Men got their shoes delivered today.  That's very exciting! Who are the Mason G-Men?  Check 'em out.
  5. I love when there's someone who likes to engage in deep, introspective discussions.  Thanks, DM!

    Monday, October 17, 2011

    Use Your Heart as a Weapon and It Hurts Like Heaven


    1. What a way to kick off the day - by watching this YouTube video a student posted on Facebook. It made me smile and chuckle. 
    2. Another funny video to make me smile and chuckle today.
    3. I have to toot my own horn.  I'm not sure whom I learned this from (parents, Oprah, watching 80s sitcoms because they all had a moral to the story), but I love the fact that I can remain calm in so many situations. Today would/could have been very challenging to some and for me, it's like, "Ok. So what steps do I take to move forward?"   No meltdown or freak-out, just a lot of laughing (because of the initial shock the began with an "Oh Shit Moment") then you bring it all back together and put it in perspective. 
    4. “Choose to be kind over being right and you'll be right everytime.” ― Richard Carlson. Such an awesome quote I read today. 
    5.  I heard one of the new Coldplay songs tonight. It's called Hurts Like Hell.  I love the energy of this song.  I wouldn't be surprised if it were used in a trendy commercial soon.

    Sunday, October 16, 2011

    Unspeakable Joy in ...


    1. Okay, I'll admit it.  The show Hot in Cleveland is pretty funny!  I've watched the TV Land marathon this morning and love the characters. 
    2. The Walking Dead. Will this be a replacement for LOST? Either way, I love the show!
    3. Kim English sang the hell out of this song back in 1999.. and you know, it STILL is the jam!  Are they even making mixes like this anymore?   I love it!
    4. By George, I think I've got it!  I've figured out how to make these upcycled journals! LOVE IT!  Now I just need to create an assembly line.
    5. I love that I almost got through the weekend without spending any money.  Had it not been for Chipotle, I would have succeeded. 

    Fitness and Funny CAN Coexist


    1. I love Siri on my iPhone.  That's some amazing technology.  
    2. I didn't want to go to the gym today - however, when I finally made the decision to get off my ass and go, I felt so good for having done so.
    3. Nicole and I went to see Wanda Sykes on campus today.  Such a funny show.  We sat in the front row and never got picked on.. That's a good thing.  Loved both her and the warm up act.
    4. I have peace and quiet in the house this weekend.  My roommate is gone and it makes it ultra quiet and peaceful.
    5. I love this t-shirt that I bought a couple weeks ago. It has the word "COEXIST" on it. You've probably seen it before on bumper stickers.

    Saturday, October 15, 2011

    It's All About Expression

    I guess I've been really introspective. Well, I don't guess I am. I know I am.  This is a sign that I'm about to embark on a new path.  I'm not sure what that path is but I know whenever I get really cerebral, something remarkable, noteworthy, exciting, life changing is going to happen to me. It's like I begin to prepare myself mentally for it to take place.

    1. I read this on a blog today - pretty simple.
      Here are the facts of life.

      1.  You only get one life.
      2.  Life is short and death is long.
      3.  There is virtually no reason that you should not be living your dreams.

    2. "You find a way to allow the truth of yourself to express itself. We're all looking for the highest, fullest, expression of ourselves as human beings." Oprah said this on her new show, Life Class. That is powerful.
    3. I got the new iPhone 4S today.  After the initial shock of not being able to sync it to my Mac, I was able to sync it to my Dell Laptop.  I have to say, so far, so GREEEEEEEAT!  It's a huge leap from the 3G I had. I love the dictation feature for texting. It works so well.  I'm excited to try Siri next.
    4. Tonight the Spirit Squad that I advise, The G-Men, were out and about at a campus event.  It was so awesome to see how people reacted to them.  Great job fellas!
    5. It's exciting to be embarking on a path I haven't been on in over 4 years. :0)

    Friday, October 14, 2011

    Pollyanna Prowess

    The day started off rough - Lots of knee pain from running and body aches from bowling and running but it's turned out to be a pretty good day.  How could it not when you always look for the positive things in life that surround you?  I guess I've fully channeled "Pollyanna". 

    1. Today I said farewell to a good friend at work.  Luckily she's not leaving the area though, so we can still hang out. I'm definitely looking forward to kickin' it with her in DC! I may not like the fact that she's leaving but I love the reason she is.  She is being FEARLESS and I love it!
    2. LOL, watching American Horror Story tonight and a line from Jessica Lange's character cracked me up. She is a mess! LOL "Christ on a stick... " They can pretty much say whatever they want on FX.
    3. Paisano's Pizza - that's some DAMN GOOD PIZZA (and they make a good salad, too).
    4. I had a great conversation tonight and I'm liking what became of it. Good stuff! (big grin)
    5. I love the lyricism of Burt Bacharach. I guess that makes me "old school". hahaha I listened to his music on my way home from work.

    Wednesday, October 12, 2011

    Tired - Definitely Not Wired.

    1. Today I tackled cleaning off my desk and taking care of a few projects that have been lingering. I am certainly excited to have done that and I love that I have cleared off spaces on my desk.
    2. Since it was raining, I wasn't sure that I'd run at the gym... then I decided I had better do it.  I'm glad I did. It felt good and who doesn't love feeling good about what they've accomplished?
    3. Orders in my Etsy Shop seem to be rolling in regularly. This is a good thing!  I hope it keeps up. 
    4. My team bowled against another fun team.  That's always a good thing.  Too bad not all teams are the same. I even got recognized for bowling a 214 in September. Tonight I bowled one great game - a 172.
    5. My teammates went to California Pizza Kitchen for dinner. It was Herb's birthday.  I had a delicious Thai Salad. It was 1155 calories though... Not a good look! HAHAHA However, I was still under 2500 calories for the day. That's pretty good.. and running at the gym took off nearly 800 calories.. so I'm in good shape!







    Tuesday, October 11, 2011

    D. Hicks' Deep Thoughts

    Today I have been very cerebral.  Just a lot of awesome moments of thought and happenstance.  I took advantage of the opportunities so they would not pass me by.

    1. Today I am really thinking about my post from yesterday about FEARLESSNESS.  I think this is something to really think about as an individual.  What holding you back right now?  This was a question posed on Oprah's Life Class.  My response was: "The fear of things not working out.  I hope to experience more of my own FEARLESSNESS as opposed to FEARFULNESS. I'm loving these thoughts.
    2. What I found amazing today was that nearly every conversation I had was surrounding the word FEARLESS.  I reached for a Dove Chocolate - you know, the ones with the little messages under the wrapper - and written on the foil was "Be Fearless". VERY PROFOUND! 
    3. Today is National Coming Out Day - I mentioned this to a friend and it wasn't as well received as I had hoped and that's okay.  It caused me to understand how far I've come in my own journey. Following the fearlessness theme, I created an "It Gets Better" video on campus as part of a university project. I wanted to show some level of my own fearlessness and share with whomever watches it. In the video I stated that no matter what, they must persevere and be fearless in the life they've been given so that they can be the most amazing person they can be. It most certainly can get better. Just trust in yourself. Trust in the thought that you will never be given anything you can't handle.
    4. I love that I keep finding more and more inspiration in my daily life.  It's like I'm having a mini Harlem Renaissance in Manassas!  I created this graphic today because the word "fearless" kept coming up.

    5. Tonight I was waiting in the express line at Super Walmart and the customer in front of me paid and the cashier didn't have enough money in the till to give her so she had to go to the service desk to get more change.  It probably took a good 10 - 12 minutes and other people were leaving her line to go to others.  Finally, the cashier returned and gave the customer her $3.64 in change. The cashier greeted me and apologized for the wait. She also commented on how she noticed that I didn't yell at her or complain.  I said to her, "Well, I wouldn't ever do that because it wouldn't have made any difference because you still had to get change and I am a very patient guy."  She smile and said, "God bless you. Thank you." That gratitude was enough to make me feel great and it was enough to make up for the wait - hearing her gratitude and seeing that she had a positive attitude during the entire time.

    Monday, October 10, 2011

    Fearlessness is Nirvana With a Spoonful of Nutella

    I wasn't anticipating that today would be filled with such deep thoughts. I guess some higher being is speaking to me so that I can speak to you.  Who really knows? Today's list just came to me so easily and is all kind of link together without intention. 

    1. Today's list is brought to you by the word, "DADGUMMIT!!!!!". My friend, Roy, said this on Facebook today and I thought, "Now there's a word you don't hear every day."  It's one of those words that makes you think of Bugs Bunny and the Looney Tunes gang and causes you to smile quietly to yourself.
    2. I guess I wasn't into rock/modern rock too much in the early 90s and I wasn't able to fully appreciate the Nirvana album, "Nevermind".  I'm listening to it on Spotify and I have to say, it's pretty good. In fact, I love about 80% of this CD.
    3. I love that this video gets right to the point and talks about honoring the indigenous people as opposed to a man who "supposedly" discovered America.

    4. Did I ever mention how much I really love Nutella with peanut butter?  
    5. I just had a thought about life.  I love when these moments happen.  The thought was this, "Why do we care what people think or believe if we know our truth?" The follow-up thought was, "And when we're old and frail (if we're lucky enough to reach that point) what is there to really be afraid of?  If you're fearless, how much freer do you think you'd feel? It's the fear that holds us back from being the most amazing human beings we can be. Oh yeah, people can be amazing and still have fear but to be the most amazing Dennis Michael Hicks is what I want to achieve."

    Sunday, October 9, 2011

    Oh the Horror (and the Zombies)!

    1. I think I've finally figured out how to make these sketchbooks using re-purposed cereal boxes.  I even added a flap with a clasp tonight! By the time I make one more I should have it totally figured out. Woo HOo!
    2. I looked outside of the kitchen window and spotted a hummingbird hovering around one of the flowers in the front yard.  Pretty cool! This is the second one I've seen in the yard in the last month.  I guess they like what's in the yard. :0)
    3. Today I found another show that I am excited for, The Walking Dead.  This show is a good mix of creepy, sci-fi and drama.  I like how each episode leaves you wanting more.  Reminds me of how the show LOST made me feel. I'm also excited to start watching American Horror Story - Jessica Lange plays "creepy" really well. Oh, and they sure say the word, "shit" a lot!
    4. Scored a great deal on an item at Super Target - I love shopping the clearance racks. I also love Super Target in general.
    5. Peace and quiet.  That's what I will have for the next few days and I will love every minute of it.

    Chili, Mac, Cardboard and a Little Revenge

    Today was planned to be a "lazy day" but it definitely didn't turn into that.  I ended up doing yard work, running errands, walking the dog, cleaning up the kitchen and making a new craft project.  So much for a lazy day!

    1. Today I made a pot of chili and let me just tell you... it is GOOD.  If it were Campbell's, it would be Mmm Mmm Good. Since it's mine, it comes with a hand so you can slap somebody!
    2. I saw Big Mac (my dog) smile today. We went for a walk this morning and you could tell he were just happy as hell! 
    3. The post office has an automated mailing machine. I was a little apprehensive to try using it but I took a chance and I am loving that I did.  It was pretty easy - although I do think I paid a little more than I would have normally because I didn't pick the right type of package.
    4. I am finally watching the first episode of Revenge.. Oh yeah, I'm going to love this show!
    5. Today I started an art project that was long overdue! Making sketchbooks from cereal boxes.  The first one I made tonight wasn't so hot but the second one definitely shows great promise! It's just too bad that I cut myself while making this book.

    Saturday, October 8, 2011

    It's the Little Things in Life

    Being under the weather slows you down quite a bit. However, I'm here to make the list!  I vow not to miss a day.


    1. Woo Hoo!  I was able to navigate the NYC subway system without a glitch this morning. This is good preparation for my trip during Thanksgiving. 
    2. I arrived to the Bolt Bus 2 hours early and was able to do standby seating on the first bus out that morning.  It was a little bit nerve wracking but I made it on the bus and even better - I go a row all to myself again!
    3. I love Popeye's Chicken (and the onion rings) and I was craving it all the way home on the bus.  I definitely got me some Popeye's!
    4. That new show on ABC, Revenge, is pretty good!  It's very reminiscent of the night time soaps of the 80s where something majorly dramatic happens at the end of each episode.  This might be a new guilty pleasure! 
    5. I love seeing people I knew as a kid doing their thing. Just reminds me that while where I grew up had it's negatives, these women I went to high school with are definitely a positive. Keisha and Kwaun Music Ministries

    Friday, October 7, 2011

    Empire State of Mind

    They say the city never sleeps but I sure as hell did!  Maybe someone slipped me an Ambien! LOL

    1. While in Chelsea, I was by the Apple Store and saw the memorial for Steve Jobs (Apple Co-Founder).  I loved that it was done so organically with Post-it Notes and apples with a bite taken out of them.   
    2. Had lunch at a great Thai restaurant in Chinatown called Pongsri Thai Restaurant  on 106 Bayard Street. Check it out! Great prices, too!
    3. We walked over to the World Trade Center Area.  The new buildings look amazing.  There was a museum/shop there that had some moving displays.
    4. I had my first Century 21 experience.  It's a store that has name brand clothing at a discount.  I lucked out and found a nice wool driving hat for only $10!!  Good buy!
    5. Walking through a park in Chinatown, we saw how awesome the Asian community is there.  They were all older (50s and up) and sitting at tables playing card games, checkers and other games. They also sat on benches playing music and watching their grandchildren.  It was an awesome sight to see.

    Thursday, October 6, 2011

    Taking a Bite of the Big Apple

    Ugh... being sick, SUCKS!  I'm just glad it's not as bad as it could be.  I could be shivering, headache, stomach ache, etc.  Luckily it's just a sore throat and the sniffles for the most part.  I won't let it damper my day!  Now on to my daily 5!
    1. I took the Bolt Bus to NYC. It's awesome to be able to sit on the bus that has a power outlet and free internet!  I love that. 
    2. Oooh the memories of Tootie, Natalie, Jo, Blair and Mrs. Garrett.  I have been watching The Facts of Life on DVD. Every episode REALLY DID have a life lesson.  At least the early seasons did.  The jokes for today's youth probably wouldn't fly but it's still a great show to me!
    3. Tonight as I was waiting on my friend to meet me at Penn Station a guy walked up to me and asked if I were Sinbad, the comedian.  How funny is that??  This is the second time in my life where I've been mistaken for Sinbad. Do I really look like him? It was a cool feeling...
    4. I bought a cupcake at a restaurant tonight and the icing was amazing!  Love a good buttercream frosting.
    5. There's something to be said about the energy of NYC.  I love the excitement of the city and that there is so much to do.


    Wednesday, October 5, 2011

    Gleeful Tuesday

    So who knew that Seth McFarlane from Family Guy fame was a good singer?  I know I didn't. Gotta love nice little treats like this.  Anyhow, on with the list!

    1. I listened to his CD today and heard a song from one of my favorite movies, The Sound of Music.  He covers the song, "Something Good".  It's definitely worth a listen - he's channeling Captain von Trapp!
    2. OOOOOMG!!! The new iPhone seems amazing and I'm excited to pre-order so that I can get rid of this iPhone 3G that I've had for 3 years.  They have put a new feature on the phone called Siri.  Definitely check that out.  I have the video riiiiiight here: SIRI 
    3. Tonight I had my first ever bread bowl soup. I was at Panera Bread and thought, "Why not?" and took the leap.  I got chicken noodle soup.  Next time I'll try the chili!
    4. I LOVED GLEE TONIGHT. 
    5. Seeing students get excited by an idea is energizing when your career centers on event planning.

    Monday, October 3, 2011

    Music Monday

    Today is just one of those days where you don't want to really do anything but live in the lyrics of songs.   It's not to say these songs express how I am feeling today... it's just that I'm feeling these songs.  I heard them today and made me feel good (even if it's a sad song).
    1. Kelly Clarkson is coming back strong with this new song and video.  Way to go Kelly!


    2. Adele's "Someone Like You" video is very simple and beautiful.  I like how it's just her walking the streets of Paris.
    3.  There's nothin' like listening to some old school Prince - Especially when it's one of his classic albums.  Today I enjoyed listening to the Sign o' the Times album.  Amazing double album.  He's probably put out more double, triple, quadruple albums than any other artist.  It's unfortunate that he doesn't allow his videos to be on Youtube without being altered.
    4. Let me just say how I just LOVE Spotify!  You can pretty much think of any type CD and you'll find it here to listen to, FOR FREE!  It's great! 
    5.  Okay.. Susan Boyle... Cover of Depeche Mode's "Enjoy the Silence".  I love that she's attempting to be relevant in pop culture by putting her own spin on a tune.  

    Sunday, October 2, 2011

    Do Ya Wanna Have Fun? How's About a Few Laughs?

    I've noticed that it's pretty hard to list 5 things for the day when you don't leave the house. hahaha It was one of those days where I just needed to catch up on laundry, create things in the "creative suite" of my home, and watch TV.  Now, let's attempt to come up with a list of 5 great things that I loved about today.

    1. Today I was able to print stickers with my new 5 Loves logo on them.  After a few tries I was successful!
    2. I'm glad that I was able to finish all of my laundry today. There was a TON of it.
    3. The show, Pan Am, is growing on me more and more.  I turned off the last 30 minutes of Sweeney Todd for it for crying out loud! hahaha
    4. I booked my Bolt Bus ticket to NYC.  Very exciting and VERY inexpensive. Only $42 for a round trip ticket.
    5. You can tell that I'm getting older. I find that I can appreciate many things that came before my time. One of those things is the soundtrack to the musical, Sweet Charity. I really wanted the soundtrack that had Shirley McLaine playing the lead but couldn't find it.  This one has Gwen Verdon in it. I guess she must have been big time back then. hahaha  Lots of familiar songs in this show - the biggest being "Hey Big Spender" and "If My Friends Could See Me Now". To make up for it, I found a YouTube clip from the movie featuring Shirley McLaine!

    Rainy Days and Saturdays Won't Keep Me Down


    1. There are certain things that remind you of certain people.  This morning I turned on the TV and saw that the movie Cocoon was on. This movie (as well as many others) reminds me of my mother.  We probably sat through this movie a dozen times as it came on cable when I was 10.  Another movie I remember seeing with her and my older brother was Coming to America.  Talk about being embarrassed!  That scene when the line, "Your royal penis is clean, your Highness" is said. It made me feel so uncomfortable considering I was 13 when that movie came out. I wonder if Bryant felt uncomfortable during that scene. They're still great movie memories though.
    2. I've been on a quotes kick lately. Just took this from my friend's Facebook page. 

    3. I sold an item today after a drought of no sales. I'm glad it rained on my shop today!
    4. My roommate came back from Florida and brought me back a magnet from Key West.  It's cool that he thought about me on his trip.
    5. While discussing "hustles" with Joya tonight at Icons, we can up with a new hustle for me.  A website where I create pre-designed graphic projects for events/programs. BRILLIANT!!
       
    6.  
       

    Saturday, October 1, 2011

    Or, As I Like to Call it: "A good day"

    1. I've kicked off the day by watching this movie trailer for "Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close" starring Sandra Bullock and Tom Hanks. The trailer tugged at some emotion and I love it when I can "feel" emotion although I rarely tap into the teary eyed emotions unless I'm laughing REALLY hard. Check out the trailer and let me know if you tear up: Movie Trailer