GOOD MORNING HOMETOWN!

Just a quick hello to let everyone know my flight went smoothly and I made it home alright- SUPER surprised my grandma (there were tons of tears- her part) and then snuck back into my house and snuggled into bed with my mom and woke her up. We cuddled and chatted for a bit and it was fantastic. My dad's on his way home from work soon and doesn't know I'm here yet!!! I'm especially excited to see him since he leaves tomorrow morning! Right now I need to go shower, and then I'm hoping for a 'Big Lots' run with my dad to start christmas shopping (it's a tradition we have together, haha, we're thrifty and love gag gifts). I've already gotten a promise from my mom for dinner at my favorite Italian place with just the two of them (which I happen to have a coupon for!) so I'm looking forward to that already! 

Gahhh, SO excited to see my dad!

After my shower I'll show you guys some pictures of Thanksgiving #1 (on saturday with the roommates- I still wasn't really being spoken to except by one of them... but it was still good eats...)

Best Humpday Ever!!!

two souls

HELLO!!! I exist. thank you SO much to all of you who commented/cared. It meant so much to me. Well, I took a hiatus because my world has turned a Bit upside down here. I feel like I'm being torn in two.

I GET TO SEE MY DAD EARLY! I leave on a plane for home at 7a.m. tomorrow and get there about 830 which gives me an Entire day to see him- it's a surprise, so keep it on the down-low ;) It's one way, so I'm still driving back up with my roommates.

However; like I hinted at there is a very ugly side to this. My roommates are furious with me. I was meant to ride down with them, thus splitting gas. The $ isn't an issue, I was going to give it to them anyway since I backed out of the plan- that's just a common decency thing. But apparently the only reason their father (they're brother and sister) was coming up in the first place and they didn't look for flights home was because they thought that, if they didn't drive, I wouldn't be able to afford to go home for Thanksgiving.

That may or may not have been the case; either way, I emphasized to them initially to Not change or make plans with me in mind as life has been known to change dramatically. Though I said this, they are really caring people and, apparently, made the decision Solely for my benefit. Also, I asked if it would be alright to book a flight and only ride one way with them before I booked the plane ticket- the answer was 'sure, go see your dad.' They are also now saying that their father 'has trouble driving and swerves uncontrollably' so it's dangerous; making me feel doubly guilty.

I really care about this family and would Never do anything to put them out in any way, and Certainly not to put anyone in danger! They've been great friends for a long time and have pulled through for me when I was going through an incredibly traumatic roommate situation earlier this quarter and needed to move off campus, taking it upon themselves to take me in early. However, now I am not being spoken to or looked at. I don't know what to do. While I guess I understand where they are coming from, I did everything in my power to make sure that I was making a good decision. I did not realize that my action would hurt or really even affect them; but apparently I've inadvertantly really caused their family pain. It's been Really tense which has affected not only my mood/perception of myself, but my food choices.

Hence the lack of posting. I was just so lost that I didn't really know how to articulate it.

Thanks for accepting me back into the fold! There are definitely some pictures worth seeing that will be spread throughout later posts, but right now I'm at the computer lab.

Hope everyone is getting ready for a relaxing thanksgiving and/or just a calm happy day! You guys are amazing ;)

Missing family...

Hey guys, I'm taking a semi-hiatus today (other than commenting on others blogs, of course!) to mope a bit. Haha, well, not mope exactly but I don't feel super in the mood to chronicle everything.

I just found out that my dad is working over thanksgiving. I don't get home until about 1a.m. and his flight leaves at 7 a.m.... that, combined with the fact that I'll only be able to see him Maybe 4 days over christmas break has me pretty down. My father and I are Really close and he's been the only constant support in my life. He always ends every conversation with: "I love and support you in everything you do" and it's become more of a joke, haha. He's also the guy who drove me to school (in the sidecar of the vespa!) Every single day of my youth and I could always cry in front of. Even though we talk all the time, there's nothing quite like a hug. Anyway, I'm hoping Something works out. I mean, I'll get over it because I know I'll see him at some point; but I'd rather have more than a couple of sleep deprived hours!

Thanks for understanding, guys. Your constant positivity and support means a lot!

Tired Tuesday; and Tuesday's Tip

Good evening!! I'm not sure why but I have been incredibly tired all day! I actually dozed off for two minutes at work until someone wanting to use the gym nudged me awake, haha. I'm really hoping it's just the lack of sleep from the last 4 or so nights catching up with me; I don't think I slept more than a couple hours straight due to schoolwork and general tossing and turning. So, in the interest of keeping this short but interesting so that I can go to bed, I'm veering away from today's eats (practical and boring) to bring you: Tuesday's Tip! Now, I'm definitely not sure whether or not this will be a 'weekly feature' or anything, it just happened to be awesome alliteration for right now ;)

How to shop on the cheap (skate):

I'll admit it freely: I'm pretty cheap. Heck, I work for my money and don't work enough to make a lot of it, having other educational priorities. In these times of economic crisis, everyone is looking at the little things that they can do to help 'trim the fat'- and with the holidays coming up it'll be in more ways than one ;)  How do you shop healthily, on a budget, at different stores?

New Leaf is fantastic. It's very similar to Whole Foods (which we don't have anywhere near) but doesn't have as appropriate a nickname as 'Whole Paycheck,' though I'm trying to come up with one! (any ideas?) They specialize in local and organic products. Because of this, it tends to be a bit pricier; but you really can tell the quality!

Here are the goods!

Tip 1: I know a lot of people say that their healthy/cheap tricks involve going to the grocery store with a plan. I disagree. Sure, I write down things I know that I need (this trip I needed frozen veggies); however, I just make sure I don't go in hungry! I also write down generalities ("tea," "yogurt," "fresh vegetables," etc). This way, I can go into a store and shop based on not only what is on sale, but what looks fantastic. FYI- Everything but the Oikos was on sale; and All of the winter squashes were 89 cents a Pound! I knew I needed a vegetable so I decided spaghetti squash, being on sale and the right size/price, was absolutely the way to go. Also, I wanted tea and the seasonal teas were on sale- why not try something new?

Spice-Tastic! Seasonal things always get me into the spirit.

Tip 2: coupons, Coupons, Coupons! Seriously, sunday is one of my favorite days of the week just for the paper. Also, a lot of these more specialized stores will often send out their own newsletters or flyers and/or have them around the store. New Leaf, in particular, has a "Healthy Clippings Catalogue" free to pick up which includes coupons for popular items (I grabbed a 'winter' And a 'holiday' one-shh!). 

Nope, that's not a typo.

From a bill that began at $10.02, I managed to coupon and 'on sale' my way down nearly half! Part of that is great thanks to the amazing Jenn- thanks to her Oikos win the yogurt was free. 

Tip 3: The most lucrative tip? Combining 1 and 2! Look at what is on sale, and then look at what you have coupons for. I chose that particular brand of frozen vegetables because I had a coupon for them (plus they're amazing); the holiday teas were all on sale but I happened to have a coupon for the Celestial Seasonings brand; and I knew Oikos was in my future when I opened my amazing care package. In fact, the only thing that I did not have a coupon for was the Spaghetti squash which, I think, ended up being the most expensive thing I got. Still, it was a sale item as well.

So, sorry for the potentially boring post, I was just amazed at the store the other day and felt the need to share my tips. These may sound time consuming, but it honestly takes all of five minutes to look through the paper, another five to make a list, and once you're at the store looking around it's a snap to combine the two together. What are your healthy budget tips?

Happy cheap shopping!

Sigh.... And AWARDS!

of relief! I really hope everyone's week started off with a bang (in the best way possible). 

Just a quick note to let you all know that I miss you! Just finished my big midterm/final that's been distracting me and I'm going to whip up dinner- but then update this post.

 I cannot wait to get an hour of me time to relax and blog (sad, or what? haha). What can I say, I thrive on the mutual support in the community ;) Catch up with ya soon!!

Update:

First off..... 

Thank you JENNGIRL!!!

I definitely wore my beanie proudly all of friday and, lucky me, that was also the roommates and I's 'grocery night'- I just grabbed 1 oikos to try because we were in a rush but one was enough to know that they are AWESOME! 

I highly recommend this brand of yogurt for the amazingly thick and creamy taste while still managing to be non-fat. It's truly incredible. Greek yogurt Is the ambrosia of the gods ;)

I just tried the plain version but I cannot wait to look through the coupons and try Lots of stoneyfield products. There's some great information on the pamphlet that I promise I will update this with later, but at the moment I'm sitting comfortably with a mug of tea- but a review will follow; I've put a ribbon on my finger. 

Second of all....

I'm a superior scribbler!!! :)

Thank You Jenngirl And Megan!  

It really means a lot to me that I was in your thoughts. I know I've been lacking on the food related posts lately, but I really try to come on each day and say hello, as well as comment to support all you ladies. This blogging community has been so accepting and I'm so thankful for the connections I've made already and really hope to strengthen them in the future. You ladies are so incredibly strong, inspirational, amazing and creative with not only your food choices but your Life choices. I feel blessed to be among you!!

Rules:

1. Post the award on your blog

2. Link those who gave it to you 

3. Link the original posts by Jenn and Megan

4. Pass it on to five deserving people

5. Post these rules for your recipients

Well well well, this award has been making the rounds a bit, but there are definitely special ladies who either deserve to get it for the first time- or Again!!

1. Veggiegirl for seeming to find time for Everyone always- she is the most thoughtful amazing multi-tasker I've ever 'met'

2. The Biggest Diabetic Loser for coming up with incredibly creative and delicious recipes. Apparently I'm her #1 food fan and, I'll admit, I've copied a few of them down into my own recipe book (I won't take credit, promise!)

3. Julia from SBfitness for having great workout as well as food advice. I know that I can go to her with any questions, fitness related or otherwise; especially now that she's just passed her certification exam (congrats!!)

4. Megan at the fitnessista for staying so strong in the face of hardship and longing. I feel for you girlie. You are such an inspiration to me (being in a long distance relationship, though Not with your obstacles) and I enjoy reading every one of your posts; no matter if it's positive or if you're looking for a bit of support!

and, last but Never least

5. My opposite/twin Lara from Thinspired. I love that I've found someone who I feel like I have so much in common with, yet so many subtle differences also. Your relationship (both with matt and with food! haha) inspires me daily and your struggles with acclimating to a new life and area really make me curious about my own future. Can't wait too stay friends; even if we're Not crossing airport paths ;)

Independence day (minus the aliens...)

With it being my first quarter away from home, though I am a Junior, the question of what it means to grow up has been circulating. Is it defined by a certain age? A locale change? Or just an inner feeling?

Lost on the 'tube,' except not really ;)

Some people go and seize the day in an effort to prove independence. My dad, not knowing a direction, joined the Marine Corps. My sister chose a school she felt was an appropriate distance from home. A cousin got married.

Hey there Paddington!

My family has always loved to travel. Because I did not get the opportunity to go away to college straight away and lived at home while going to community college, another opportunity presented itself. I worked, I went to school, and I saved. With this money, I decided to go backpacking... however... 

Hanging with cows...

I went alone. Why? Well, I suppose it was a way to assert my independence; but really it came about more organically than that. I wanted to use my own money and had seen more than enough of my parents the past two years that I knew I wouldn't be homesick for five weeks. My friends, though ambitious, prefer a more high-maintenance aspect of traveling than I do (focusing on spas and nightclubs as opposed to hostels and museums). It also bears mentioning that not a lot of people had funds available for a trip, nor the right timing. 

Right before they attacked- the bike survived, but with copious amounts of slobber

So I had an amazing 5 week hostel experience through the United Kingdom. It was amazing and, while inadvertent, became a really important tool in learning infinitely more about myself. Because of this trip (as well as various other amazing experiences and/or traumatic events too numerous for this post, haha) I became a more confident person which helps me assert my independence each day. 

Was there an event that (intentionally or not) helped you learn about yourself? Did you have any show of independence? How do you define being grown?

(p.s. thanks so much for your guys' patience with the change of pace/posting the past week or so- I cannot wait till midterms are over. I have a few pictures of some yummy eats which bear mentioning.... all in due time!)

We Are Lucky

This is the same highway that runs outside my house 500+ miles away!

Good evening blog pals! Well, just because I'm still on midterm/finals hiatus doesn't mean I'm off posting completely (I was thinking about it, but it's far too addicting! Haha). 

For the first time, I live somewhere different from the area where I grew up. I was both extremely excited and nervous to move. There are things I love about my home town, but for the moment I'd like to focus on the present and future.

Do you have a favorite bike route? What's the longest bike experience/hike you've taken?

I absolutely love Santa Cruz. I love that I'm within walking distance to the beach. I love that the weather is still relatively mild (though generally much cooler than I'm used to, but it's still California!). I love that I'm within walking distance to school. I love that strangers smile and say hello just by virtue of living in the same town and loving life. I love that there is an emphasis on health if you look for it, and farmer's markets. 

Hello rollercoaster at the warf!

I love that it is an incredibly diverse and varied area. Basically, anything or any type of person you would want to find is out there; you may have to look a little bit. On the same note, anything you would like to avoid (for instance, I'm not big into the 'party' scene) there are plenty of places to feel comfortable. My mother was worried about the area being "sketchy" (we're from small town southern california, remember) and, while there are areas with homelessness and drugs, it is most definitely not dangerous or trashy! I mean, anywhere can be dangerous if you don't have your head on your shoulders!

The forest meets the ocean.

So what do you love about the town that you live in right now? We are all incredibly lucky to have health, and (at most times!) sanity and happiness- so let's remember just how fortunate we are! Happy thursday ;) Back to some elbow grease!

mag-tastic!

I'll admit it, I like reading magazines. Sometimes, even a literature major needs a break from dense material (or really any novel material)! There's something about quick stories and quips that is so satisfying- especially on a treadmill or a walk when my mind can't quite process long detailed information. Unfortunately, as a college student my disposable income has decreased significantly and I can no longer build up stacks and stacks of recyclable fun. So the question remains, which one to invest in?

fitness? (NOT my gym, haha)

I have such a wealth of interests that it's hard to narrow it down (note the, partial, sarcasm, haha). Of fitness magazines I tend to prefer Women's health (although sometimes a little dense, very interesting- the women's version of "Mens Health"), Fitness, or Shape (although sometimes a little fluffy). Self just doesn't do it for me. 

nutrition?

I'm also a big fan of nutrition. The company that accredited my Nutrition and Wellness Consultant Certification has a newsletter with lots of tips; Health is usually interesting although I feel may cater to an older (i.e. over 20) crowd; Women's Fitness usually has some interesting information regarding nutrition also and Nutrition Today is always a good read, albeit a little high-brow. Lastly?

cooking

I salivate over Cooking Light and, for Valentines Day last year, my grandma got me the cookbook, haha! There are plenty of others to choose from too: Vegetarian Cuisine, Bon Appettit, etc. etc. Some of the fitness magazines usually include a few good recipes, but no where near the wealth and variety of these gems.

Question: Are you a magazine fan? What are your favorites? I may invest in a subscription to one and, with holiday season coming up... who knows! I would love some opinions...

bad busy blogger

Hey guys, I feel like I super don't deserve This amazing acknowledgement: 

But I was so excited to get it! Thanks so much Sabrina, it meant more than you know.

 I've been overwhelmed with assignments lately (and may very well be until about Monday- yikes!!!). I'll definitely still be checking and commenting on you ladies' blogs, it helps keep my sanity! I can't promise any thorough or super food related posts though because it's all I can do to keep up with midterms/finals while remembering/keeping healthy eating in check without thinking about taking pictures or taking the time to post.

My health and school just have to come first (I know ya understand!) and this is the easiest way: BRIEF hiatus, haha. 

In the couple minutes I actually got to step outside today between reading and paper writing (on the walk to school! what a life, haha) I spotted my favorite flower: Daisies! They may be simple, but something about daisies and their power to make people smile through their simplicity makes me so happy. My boyfriend makes fun of me, but all I say is "hey, at least it would be a cheap outing if you ever actually got me flowers!" :)

What's your favorite flower?

I'm it!

Ah, to be tagged, yay I'm excited. Thanks Amy!
Rules?
-link the person that tagged ya and post the rules
-share seven random/weird facts about yourself
-tag seven random(/weird, haha kidding!) people at the end of your post and link them
-let each person know they've been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog

7 Facts?
- I cannot stand pickles- if one is on my plate the entire meal has been contaminated, haha.
- I can sing holiday songs in perfect swedish but, most of the time, have no idea what I'm saying
- My two favorite jobs were (1) a barista- although it turned me off coffee, not tea! and (2) 'socializing' kittens when my grandma used to breed maine coons so that they wouldn't be afraid of potential owners- Best job for a 3rd grader Ever
-I do crossword puzzles daily and love scrabble and scattergories
- I'm a fan of really cheesy 80's hair metal and think bon jovi is sexy
-My mom has been reading Lord of The Rings to me since I was a baby and I read it every summer as tradition (it's meant a lot to our family)- you bet I was excited about the movies (though the books are better ;) !!)
-Both my parents and grandparents are divorced but live together (sometimes happily)- my sister and I are determined to break the cycle.

Hmmm, I will taggggg..... (this is tough cause I just started and don't actually Know that many bloggers!)

-Maggie from Say Yes to Salad

-Julia from Santa Barbara Dreaming

-Kristin from Kristin's Nibbles

-Sarah from Our Kitchen Adventures

-the little engine that totally can from Little Engine that Could

-Melissa from Trying to Heal

-Melissa from Melissa's Journey (cause it's her bday!!)

Thanks so much amy! This was fun (totally helped me procrastinate on my midterm... good/bad thing!? haha)

Update:

p.s. I'm a huge cheater- I'm adding one more fact, but one more tag so it all evens out ;)

Fact? I just did a yoga podcast from yogadownload.com and it was AWESOME- thanks so much to Julia for introducing me to it! I highly recommend both the site and poweryoga#3

Tag? Uhh, my Favorite So.Cal. sista across the pond Lara from Thinspired

Farmer's Market- Organic vs. Local?

Let me just start by saying that I love Farmer's Markets. One of the reasons I was so excited to move into the specific apartment complex that I live in? There's a weekly market on Sundays One block away- ideal!

There is such a sense of community and happiness associated with getting out and socializing with the actual growers and they are usually more than passionate and willing to speak about their products and what they believe is the most delicious preparation method.

Produce Love!!! Yeah, I'm thinkin' of You Julz :)

Plus, check out the colors on those babies- You know they haven't been sitting in a grocery store or moving van for days on end; the quality is obvious. 
These apples are gorgeous. They have my favorites which I'm sure to pick up each week (Newton Pippins!). What is your favorite type of apple and why? These little embodiments of deliciousness and love also happen to be Organic And Local.
Which actually leads me to my next point: There is a huge debate about the benefits of Organic and Local food and whether one is preferable to the other. I have pretty well thought out opinions on this matter. While, ideally, one would be able to buy produce that is both organic and local, working on a student budget (or any budget, really!) that is simply not always feasible. But what do these terms really mean?

Asking growers and consumers at the Saturday Farmer's Market located on Mission and Western, I found the general definition of local food as that which is produced or grown within 100 miles of a consumer's place of residence. 

Organic food is produced without the usage of any kind of preservatives or artificial pesticides.
These are both incredibly beneficial and important practices to support; however, there are a few things to keep in mind:

While having the assurance of knowing they are picked at the peak of ripeness and nutrient potency, Local foods may have traces of pesticides. The practice of using pesticides is continually debated as it may encourage mutation of insects and decrease soil nutrients- basically it messes with ecological harmony. Does knowing the farm where your food came from justify the potentially environmentally detrimental farming practices; do the enhanced nutrients guaranteed by the short travel time from land to table outweigh the consumption of pesticides?

Organic foods will lack the pesticides and work with the land in which they are grown. However, many organic foods come from all over the world. They are picked up to weeks in advance of their maturity dates and left to ripen on planes. How often is it that you pick up an organic onion and read "product of India?" Do the benefits of a product being organic outweigh the nutrients lost in long transport; does the positive effect that organic farming has on the soil outweigh the negative effect the pollution given off by the fuel used in transportation is causing? 
My verdict? I try to shop smart. The Environmental Working Group, a "not-for-profit environmental research organization dedicated to improving public health and protecting the environment," compiled a list of the 43 most common Fruits and Vegetables ranked by their pesticide content. (View the full list here.)

The top offenders:  

Of the fruits, peaches, apples, nectarines, strawberries, cherries, imported grapes, and pears all fall within the top ten most contaminated fruits and vegetables.

Veggie lovers should be wary of bell peppers, celery, lettuce, spinach, potatoes, carrots, green beans, hot peppers, and cucumbers.

When I am stocking up on apples and strawberries I am far more likely to choose organic over local. I do not want to be ingesting copious amounts of pesticides with my afternoon snack; our bodies have enough pollution to fight off without it- especially during cold and flu season!

Foods requiring peeling, such as grapefruit, bananas, pineapple, avocado and onions, tend to be relatively pesticide free. For those items ranking in the bottom twenty or so of the contaminated food list I opt for locally grown. It is more personally important that I know my food is at the peak of freshness and contributed as little air and water pollution as possible during transportation. Naturally, a thorough cleaning with a diluted vinegar solution is necessary with all food products- especially those which may harbor pesticides. According to NPR, this cleansing technique has actually been proven to eradicate 98% of bacteria.

The bottom line: Buy locally or organically whenever possible- either is a safer and more environmentally conscious option than shoving the cheapest produce into your metal grocery cart. Be an educated consumer and value your body. And, everyone, shop at farmer's markets!

Plus, you get to sit and listen to great music...
Not to mention indulge in incredibly fresh samples (yes, it was the last week for stone fruits :( alas, seasonality does play an important role- as it should)
Was anyone aware that this is how brussell sprouts are grown?? What with their recent popularity in the blog world (and on my plate!) I had to share. Looks like a mutated Jack and the Beanstalk extravaganza!
There are usually also lots of vendors selling fresh local products. I allowed myself to be tempted by a decadent organic apple gallette along with it's buddy, an even more delicious butternut squash gallette. They were the perfect combo of savory and sweet.
I started taking a picture of this because the mini loaf pan was so adorable and I just might need one for holiday baking (but where to find?!); however, when the man offered me a loaf at half price because they were "gonna get cold and won't be as good in five minutes" I could not refuse. The vendors at markets are so helpful, friendly and really love their products- it's apparent in the quality and taste.

Support your local farmers- it's doing something great for your body and community!

Lazy like...

Sunday Morning!

Guys... I Slept! Okay, usually sleeping until 930 on a weekend would not be a big deal for me; however, the past two weeks I don't think I've gotten more than 4 hours of sleep each night so it feels so great. Now I'm just waking up enjoying oatmeal (with applesauce, cinnamon and almonds) and tea (sometimes I like to make my oatmeal with tea and/or pour some on top instead of milk- odd? but delish!)

Yesterday was pretty darn good. I went to the farmers market (pictures to come later today on a specific 'market' post) and did some reading and had a couple Amazing organic tartletts and mini banana bread loaf (and samples ;) it was the last day for stone fruits and I couldn't resist).

din dins

Hung out with the roomies. Lunch, didn't do as much reading as I should have so Really have to catch up today because my midterm's due Wednesday (And then I have another next monday- sheesh they keep 'em comin) but, as a study break, I cooked :)

I stirfried some 'fairytale eggplant' from the farmers market with mushrooms, red lettuce, onion, garlic, and leftover pasta and had it along-side baked tilapia (topped with marinara sauce and a bit of soy cheese). It was fantastic- (except I think I'm just not a fan of the flavor or texture of cheese in general! I've tried regular, non-dairy, everything but it's just not for me :( It almost makes me sad because the people that like cheese seem to Really love it, haha.)  The flavors were both strong and different, and kind of battled each other. Usually I make dishes that compliment each other, at least in the same meal (!) and I think I prefer that, but this was a nice italian/asian combo! Haha.

Later my roommates and I had a marathon of Clue and Scattergories. I love boardgames and, though perhaps not 'traditional' saturday night festivities, it was a great night. 

Hope you guys all have a relaxing sunday! 

On my list? (partially inspired by the great santa barbara dreaming fitness guru herself!)

-blog a bit

-check out yoga download

-quick/light strength training

-Reading! (for School, NOT pleasure)

-Start on midterm essay!!

-figure out whatever being 'tagged' means and participate :)

-laze around in pj's All day (even if I have to run errands/go outside... no shame! I challenge All of you! Bwahaha)

What's on your list?

Sex and the body

Okay, before you read the title of this post and scoff and/or leave, hear me out. It's not just the gratuitous nudity of tonight's movie talking, I promise.

The other day in lecture we were speaking about the election. My teacher was mentioning the historic significance and the fact that, though it is an amazing stride in the right direction, we would be naiive to think that race relations are going to be perfectly smooth all over the country or that racism doesn't exist anymore. 

However, I'm getting to my p

oint in a very roundabout way. It's important to realize that, even in actions that seem like huge, positive societal changes, there are still damaging aspects. The feminine/sexual revolution is one of these instan

ces.

Women became more aware and educated. Contraception became widely available. Women achieved much progress including the eventual right to vote and (we're still workin on....) job equality. However; my professor mentioned something I never considered:

This time period also brought us Twiggy. My professor left it simply at that and told us to think about it. Well, I thought all right. What's the deal? Once we're able to safely have sex we become commodities? Now that women are able to sexually declare independence, body image and appearance become important. We were forced to appeal to men now that the emphasis changed from house and home to freer demonstrations of love. 

Or is it predominately a control issue?  It seems that as soon as women felt they had the ability to assert themselves in the sexual aspect of their life, all of a sudden appearance thrust it's way to the forefront. Women are able to be strong in their personal and political lives: love, vote, work- now this sense of perfection pervades the physical as well and we assert control over out bodies. Since we all have the opportunities to show our power in these non-physical ways, it seems as if it has become a competition or show of strength assert will power through physical appearance. Women now show how strong they are through their fitness/lack thereof, and I don't know about you, but that seems a bit skewed to me.

I could be rambling and getting this wrong because it's about half past midnight and I've had a long day- but shouldn't us women band together to accept our bodies and find better, more powerful ways to assert our abilities and independence? 

How do you show your strength?

annoyed/great

Started off great! We went to a mexican food place that seemed really authentic- one of their meat options is Tongue and another is Brain... intense. I had just eaten lunch a couple hours earlier (as I had thought we were doing movie/wander first) so I got something I always get anyway when it's an option: 

A ceviche tostada!! I absolutely adore good ceviche; it's had to do right and have it taste fresh, but this one was ideal. I also split a side order of black beans with my roommate. Not too many veggies tonight, but I've been pretty good about getting them throughout the week. Plus, it's the farmers market tomorrow which will be produce love!

Tonight has been full of 

ups and downs. I guess that not everyone was raised with the same idea that if you tell someone you're going to be somewhere, you stay there so they don't worry- or at least have your phone on! This happened to me today when one of my roommates and I stopped by New Leaf. 

This store is awesome and being expanded, by the way!

I needed to go next door to look at vitamins really quick and asked if he would still be wandering the store in about five minutes... he said sure, just look for him, he'd be there. Literally three minutes later I came back (the woman at the vitamin store creeped me out) and he was no where to be found! I called his phone 8 times, stalkerish i know, called his sister who said "oh, I thought he was with you" and this went on for about 15 minutes. 

I mean, it's just about courtesy and respect at that point. I don't know, it sort of hurt me and felt like he didn't respect my feelings enough to let me know- especially because I worried. Then when we found him later he refused to acknowledge anything and said he had been at the store, didn't see me, so left for a different store we had talked about going to. I was pretty upset (and my have started tearing up- it's been a day where I've felt pretty disrespected) so I just asked him to next time let me know if he decides to be somewhere different that he said he would be and he staunchly insisted that he had been there the whole time. I mean, is it so hard to just say 'okay, sorry?' 

Oh well. I shook it off by having some "African Red Bush" tea from starbucks (I had a gift card!). Can you believe that they already use holiday cups? It almost makes me sad- what happened to thanksgiving?

 Also, story: my mom and I both got African Red Bush tea once and, when the baristo (what do you call a female barista... I should know this, being a barista, haha) called our order he just yelled "Ladies, I've got your Red Bush riiiight here!"

Ummm, yeah that sounds a little.... off, haha! We couldn't stop giggling about it for about an hour as we were wandering a book store- ah memories.

We went to go see Role Models and it was so funny!!! Seriously, I was laughing nearly the entire time-literally- my cheeks hurt. There was definitely gratuitous nudity (in these types of movies, when are there not?) but also witty banter and a touching side. I highly recommend it. Not to mention I'm SO glad Paul Rudd is in a ton of films again because I had the biggest crush on him in Clueless!

We've just gotten home and now I'm settling down with a Caramel Apple yogurt with a couple heaping tablespoons of sliced almonds stirred in. Nice dessert after a light dinner. I'm off to watch "The soup" (I have a huge crush on Joel McHale, alas, he's taken-and so am I, haha) but I promise I'll be on later to get to your comments and maybe do a little post on women/body image that I've been thinking about. Thanks so much for everything before- you girls are so sweet and make me feel so welcome and, well, that my feelings were kind of justified and I wasn't just being crazy. I guess I just haven't lived with other people (other than my parents) before and it takes a bit of adjusting, on Everyone's part.

Q: What was your first experience living with roommates and/or away from home like?