Maundering Me

I have moved!

2009-12-02T09:56:00.000-08:00

I have moved my blog to wordpress... check out my new location at:

http://maunderingme.wordpress.com/

I'm really excited about my new look/new inspirations! Check it out.

Get Inked.

2009-09-28T11:39:00.000-07:00

Although I am terrified of anything permanent, I eventually want to get a tattoo (hopefully sooner rather than later. tattoos on younger people are WAY more attractive). I've been thinking lately of getting a key hole on the back of my neck, right below my hairline. I also love dandelions and have considered getting a tattoo of them somewhere- the blowing seeds and suddenly ending stem make that one a little harder to find a suitable place for it, though. I DO love the behind-the-ear tattoos but am anti-cliche tattoos in that spot (in any spot, really) such as... oh... STARS (very cute... just dont want it, myself).

If you are considering getting a tattoo, I recommend you do your research. Find a tattoo artist in your area that has good reviews- get referrals from friends and people you meet who have tattoos that are similar to the style you are looking for. There are also some good websites that might lead you in the right direction (and have done the leg work/research for you and me). These websites include eHow.com, About.com, as well as tattoo blogs such as galadarling.com and needled.com.

Heck, if you're not sure if you want a tattoo,

take a quiz that may help you figure out if they are right for you (yes, its a little bit teeny-bopperish but may still help!) Or... get a henna kit and enjoy a longer term temporary tattoo! OR just have some fun with photoshop and add that tattoo anywhere you like- shock friends and family with the crazy body art they never knew you had (thats what this baby did... or DID he?!)!

Cook Like A Pro

2009-09-21T12:34:00.000-07:00

At this point in my life, I am pretty much the worst cook ever. I definately have my specialties: scrambled eggs, grilled cheese, maybe some green beans- but ANYBODY can cook that kind of food. I would love to learn how to cook like a pro... or at least pretty well.

I know that the only real way to learn how to cook is to do it- I would love to sign up for a cooking class- maybe even make it a couples cooking class- how romantic :) I just think it would be great to be able to whip up an entire meal from scratch.

I think the first hurdle that I run across when even considering cooking is pretty crucial: I don't know how to grocery shop. I tend to buy everything that I need for one or two planned meals and then, once those meals are over, I'm stuck with nothing to "whip up" and another trip to the grocery store. I HATE the grocery store.

My second hurdle comes when I get so excited about stuff that I haven't bought in a while that those are sometimes the first to go. You just never know with me. One week I will crush a bag of baby carrots and the next week they will sit in my fridge rotting. On the rare occasion that I buy orange juice- its gone within days. Frustrating.

Anyway, I would love to learn to cook/grill before I die- hopefully WAY before I die for both me AND my boyfrien's sake (don't worry he's a great cook!). And I think that a cooking class would help. Find a cooking class near you! Or try WINNING a free one: click here!

Mimick Michelangelo

2009-09-14T10:42:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite past times is to check out interior design ideas on websites and in magazines. Sometimes the room has a BEAUTIFUL mural (or at least some kinda design) painted on the wall. I definately want to do something like that in a room in my house (once I get a house). Or... maybe it's not a mural that I want exactly- I don't want an entire landscape scene taken out of a child's Mother Goose book, I would just like some pretty design whether it is a big tree silhouette or perhaps some dandelions (my favorite) or maybe something as simple as a headboard.

I even know someone who painted their dining room a dark, FLAT, purple and painted a vine/flower design over it with clear, SUPER SHINY, gloss... GORGEOUS!!!!! I think that's what I want to do.

Anyway, you may be thinking to yourself... "I don't have the skills/ability to paint a mural (no matter what the size) on my wall!" Have no fear! Art-o-Graph as well as many other companies sell projectors (maybe you can even get one from a local school swapping them out for "smart karts") that allow you to basically trace your entire image on your wall- making it flawless! LOVE IT!

Here is also a video series on how to create an entire wall mural if you so desire- perfect for a child's room or play room!

If you don't want a wall mural simply because it is too much work and way too permanent, perhaps you should try wall decals. There are PLENTY available online for surprisingly cheap. Just Google "wall decals" or look at cool websites such as Etsy.com.

10 Inches Is All it Takes--- of HAIR, you perv ;-)

2009-09-07T09:32:00.000-07:00

I would LOVE to be able to donate some of my hair to Locks of Love before I die. Maybe even more than once. There are some questions/myths that I definately want to clear up for those of you who would even maybe SLIGHTLY consider donating your hair.

First of all, it is NOT true that you can't donate hair if it has been colored or permed hair. However, if your hair has been BLEACHED, Locks of Love is not able to accept it. This is because the bleach can cause "a chemical reaction that occurs during the manufacturing process."

If you are planning on shaving your head to give every last inch of your hair to Locks of Love, that is a very sweet idea but, semi-ineffective. Locks of Love asks that, instead, you bundle your hair into multiple pony tails (as close to your head as you can) and then cut off the chunks and shave as desired.

If you have dreds, you simply can't donate your hair... sorry. Buuuut.... I know for a fact that there are people out there that will actually PURCHASE your dreads! So have no fear! Your hair will still benefit someone- it just may be yourself!

It doesn't matter if your hair is layered, as long as it is at LEAST 10 inches long.

If you don't have long enough hair to donate (like... if you cut 10inches off, you'll look like G.I. Jane), you can still donate your hair to Locks of Love. "Shorter hair will be separated from the ponytails and sold to offset the manufacturing costs. Although the shorter hair cannot be used in the hairpieces, it still greatly helps to reduce costs." AND, if you don't want to cut your hair at all, you can still contribute to this great cause.

For more information on how to donate hair, visit the Locks of Love website. You probably won't feel quite as bad the next time you have a "bad hair day."

Check out this video of a young girl donating her locks! Get inspired!

1, 2, 3 JUUUMP!

2009-09-07T09:07:00.000-07:00

Just like most people, I would LOVE to sky dive before I die. How can you resist the feeling of weightless-ness, the wind blowing through your hair, your lips, your every crevice... it sounds just titillating (what a FANTASTIC word!)!

Some Frequently Asked Questions include:

What is Tandem Skydiving?
How does Free-falling Feel?
What if I do not open the parachute?!
Will I be scared?!

These questions can be answered at many informational websites including Skydiving.com

Skydiving usually begins at about $200 and can go way up from there depending on the type of job (freefall vs. accelerated fall) and where you jump (ex: Vegas will be a lot more $$ than say... the middle of No-Where, for example). To find a dropzone near you, click here.

Unlike the first two items in my bucket list: adopting a pet and getting a tattoo, it is clear that skydiving is perhaps... oooh... 93% more risky(depending on the dogs and needles involved in the other two). This is not a surprise or a secret for anybody (I hope) but there is plenty of information out there about the dangers and statistics behind this risky activity/hobby. A good, unofficial, website full of information and statistics is dropzone.com. This website even breaks down fatalities by year and by category... putting your mind at ease... don't worry! Collisions only result in 13% of fatalities (ha)!

If you are afraid of jumping OUT of a plane, and your budget is practically endless, an alternative to skydiving could be a ride on a zero gravity plane. Check it out! Its TOTALLY RAD! But way more expensive and... safe. Buuuut... I believe that I will make this officially item #3.5 in my bucket list.

Want to feel the wind through your hair without risking your life? ... parasailing? Or something even safer like... driving with your windows down or riding a bike (with a helmet, of course).

Master a Marathon

2009-09-07T08:37:00.000-07:00

I have recently decided that I want to run a marathon before I die -or at least... PARTICIPATE in one (maybe a little running/jogging/walking/crawling).

I chose today to highlight this particular bucket list item because, unfortunately, I was informed last night that Erik Wellumson, one of my acquaintences, classmates, brothers in Alpha Kappa Psi, actually passed away while running a half marathon- the Rock'N'Roll Marathon- in Virginia Beach yesterday morning. The whole thing is so shocking- he was a young, super nice, good looking guy who was a GREAT athlete- I'm talkin' quarterback of the football team his freshman year in college. And he had suffered a HEART ATTACK! How is that even fair?

Anyway, in order to run in a marathon, you obviously can't just- run it that day with no prior exercise, training & etc. eHow.com has some great articles about how to train for a marathon. Not only should you (and I) probably follow these directions, but perhaps seek the advice of a professional (whether it's a doctor or maybe a very experienced marathon-er). Also... train with a buddy! That way you can encourage eachother and run together/celebrate come time for the marathon!

To find marathons near you, visit http://www.marathonguide.com/

Good running/jogging/walking/crawling! xo

Share the Love

2009-09-01T11:09:00.000-07:00

I definitely want to adopt a pet sometime before I die. Hopefully I will as soon as I stop living in limbo, both house and job-wise. If I could I would have brought home a dog months ago- years ago- I would have.

Although I LOVE cruising the “pets” section of Craigslist, I think that when I finally adopt a dog, he/she will be from a pound or a rescue group. This is because, often, the people on Craigslist are willing to hang onto their pets they find the perfect owner/home for them. Pounds, however, are not as willing and often cycle WONDERFUL dogs through simply to make room for others (whether they’re just as wonderful or not).

Adopting a pet is not as easy a process as many people think. There are Questions to Ask Yourself Before Adopting including: Are you ready to make a long-term commitment? Are you prepared to deal with an animal’s health challenges? What is the right pet for you? These questions are often reasons why pets (like those on Craigslist) are given up in the first place.

Websites such as ASPCA have lots of advice on adopting animals. Definitely check them out and do your research before you open your doors to a lifelong friend! (Don’t forget animals other than cats and dogs need homes, too!)

Find an animal shelter near you today!

If you can’t have a pet, don’t want a pet, or just need some practice before adopting a pet, try a virtual pet!

Great Animal Adoption Resources:

Everyone should make a bucket list

2009-08-31T18:21:00.000-07:00

I, along with my good friend, A Breath of Frake-Air, have decided to write one blog entry for every week in September in order to get back on track in the blogging world.

The theme for the of September month is going to be my bucketlist (yes, kind of like the movie). I will list one thing a week that I want to do before I die. For each activity, I will research how to go about doing it so that you can do it too, if you feel so inclined. This list is not meant to be a totally outlandish, unattainable list that includes things like climbing to the top of Mt. Everest or curing that really rare form of a really rare disease found in the deepest jungle; instead this list is meant to contain activities that I think help create a more well rounded, interesting person. Even if my bucketlist isn't for you, get inspired! What do you want to do before you die?! *Image courtesy of seattletimes.nwsource.com

Why Job Searching is Like a Marathon

2009-07-14T09:42:00.000-07:00

I found an article on MSN a few days ago that I thought was rather interesting. It compares job hunting to running a marathon. Definately agreed and liked the twist on it. It says:

You have to be patient
You must put in the effort
You don't have to go it alone
You should set goals
You need the right gear

"Training for a marathon and looking for a job can both take a long time and require a tremendous amount of effort. But keep in mind the feeling you get when you cross the finish line or are offered a job you want; it's clear then that all the hard work has been worth it."

To check out my resume/website, visit www.emtier.com

TOMS and their peers. Love it.

2009-06-01T13:53:00.000-07:00

My previous post discusses TOMS Shoes, the world's coolest company- one that sells shoes and gives shoes in the very same transaction! This company has inspired me to turn my job search in a totally different direction. It has allowed me to realize that I want my career to make me feel good about what I am doing. I want more than a paycheck (although I do have to live...).

With that said, I did some research and have compiled a list of companies that I feel are (almost) as awesome as TOMS Shoes and have similar business models and goals:

One Laptop Per Child (OLPC)

Mission: "To create educational opportunities for the world's poorest children by providing

each child with a rugged, low-cost, low-power, connected laptop with content and software designed for collaborative, joyful, self-empowered learning."

This company gives people the opportunity to donate used laptops or buy a new one for children in need in developing countries! (Check out this link to see pictures of OLPC in

action)

Because Clothing

This company's "garments aim to inspire, raise funds and awareness for the beneficiaries, and are manufactured responsibly in the USA. San Francisco’s Ashbury Images, whose social mission is to provide employment, job training, and support services to individuals recovering from substance abuse and homelessness, did many of the T-shirt screen-printing."

Choose Your Cause
"Through the sale of high-end, luxury bracelets, 20% of the proceeds goes toward causes championed by The Hollyrod Foundation." The four causes that the company focuses on are: Breast Cancer, Children, Autism and Parkinson’s disease.

Peacekeeper Cause-metics
Peacekeeper Cause-metics is "the first cosmetics line to give all of its after-tax distributable profits to women’s health advocacy and urgent human rights issues. Peacekeeper builds a bridge between extraordinary women in the land-of-plenty with extraordinary women who just by chance of birth don’t have our resources or opportunities."

EDUN
"EDUN specializes in Organic Clothing, Graphic Tees, and Eco Clothing with a mission to drive sustainable employment in developing economies."

FEED Projects

This company's goal is to reach hungry children through the sales of their FEED bags. These bags raise much-needed funds for WFP school-feeding operations and awareness of the problem of child hunger. They distribute the funds through the FEED Foundation which gets the money from the bag sales to hungry children as efficiently as possible. Visit the FEED Foundation at http://www.thefeedfoundation.org/.

I won't bore you with any more blurbs, so here are a list of even more companies who are doing good things. Check them out. Seriously.
Rosa Loves
The Hunger Site
I'm Tired Free Rice
Project Have Hope

Want to find charities to get involved with? Check out this great resource: Charity Navigator

TOMS Shoes- An Awesome Company.

2009-05-21T12:50:00.000-07:00

So yeah. Job hunting is a job all in itself- if you've read my previous postings, I make it pretty clear that it can be rough. What I didn't mention was that, at least for me, it can lead you to companies you never even thought of working for.

I first Came across TOMS Shoes in a magazine a little less than a year ago. I thought that their cause/business idea was ingenious but quickly forgot about the blurb I read in that magazine. Then the AT&T commercial started coming out about TOMS. I became reinspired by this innovative company! I looked them up online and was SOLD.

The way TOMS Shoes works is... they sell people like you and me (or at least me- I'll speak for myself) these awesome shoes. The shoes are based on traditional Argentinian shoes called alpargatas. With each pair of shoes that they sell, TOMS gives a pair to a child in need. These children don't have shoes and are at risk of catching diseases like Podoconiosis (Podo).

"Wearing shoes prevents feet from getting cuts and sores on unsafe roads and from contaminated soil. Not only are these injuries painful, they also are dangerous when wounds become infected. The leading cause of disease in developing countries is soil-transmitted parasites which penetrate the skin through open sores. Wearing shoes can prevent this and the risk of amputation.

Many times children can't attend school barefoot because shoes are a required part of their uniform. If they don't have shoes, they don't go to school. If they don't receive an education, they don't have the opportunity to realize their potential." (taken from www.TOMSShoes.com)"

Anyway, totally converted, I bought a pair the day I looked them up. I got the Ash Canvas ones (dark gray) and LOVE them! Plus, it was an awesome feeling knowing that I had just bought TWO pairs- giving one to someone who really needs it. Now THAT's a BOGO deal if I've ever heard one (in this case, it could stand for Buy One Give One).

I currently work for a non profit and, while that is definately a rewarding, awesome job, it is hard for my company to make ends meet every single month. What I find intriguing about TOMS Shoes is that this is a company doing good without having to struggle to keep itself afloat (at least from what I can tell). What a clever business plan! Make money and help people! Who Knew!?

And that day, on their website, I applied to be an intern with TOMS Shoes... Unfortunately, I fliled out the surprisingly long application the morning of my HARDEST final exam. So I'm not entirely sure all my responses were my buest- but I was so excited! The internship runs semester-long: August through December or January. So its official. I want to work for TOMS or a company just like them.

Wish Me Luck! (and check out my website)

I Graduated!

2009-05-19T16:29:00.000-07:00

Five years, two double majors, a minor, and some great life experiences later...

And the Job Search Continues...

2009-04-07T09:16:00.000-07:00

I know that I have discussed it before but... let me reiterate....

Job searching has to be one of the most brain frying activities I have done. It takes so much time and energy that by the end of an hour-long stroll through Monster, I am exhausted. Mentally, emotionally, and maybe even a little physically exhausted.

I am mentally exhausted from trying to decipher job descriptions. Companies have a variety of strategies when approaching this critical six sentence, five bullet paragraph. Some make it sound like they want the head marketing person from a company like Coca-Cola or something and will not settle for less. Others take a more middle-ground approach and actually give the viewer some hope for qualifying- until the fourth bullet point, where they throw in "5+ years in a related position" - What!? They want an assistant's assistant to have half a decade of assisting under their belt?! Finally, there are some companies that make it sound so easy to get a job with them that the viewer is convinced that it just be a scam (and sometimes it is- I've heard stories). It's like "No experience necessary! We'll give you all the training you need! Start TODAY!" - nobody went to college for this kind of job. They write key words like... "promotional, marketing, sales" & etc... I see door-to-door sales person selling perfume, magazines, or steaks out of a red wagon. Scary.

Job searching is emotionally exhausting because, after hours on job websites, you begin to regret going to college for X and wishing you had gone for Y - "oh if only i had studied zoology instead of marketing, then I'd be so perfect for that job at the zoo!" Okay. So, at least for me it usually goes along the lines of I went to school for business and art- should have added computer science- and maybe Spanish! But after a few moments of regret and imagining how things could be different, I pull my self back to reality. I have a double major. In a diverse(ish) fields. I'll make it. Hopefully.

Job searching is physically exhausting simply because I have the world's smallest, cheapest, crappiest computer chair and it hurts.

Click Here to Consider Hiring Me! (Or to simply visit my website)

*Disclaimer... all of the compliants about job searching has been slightly exaggerated - the process is not as bad as I make it seem.... but almost.

Business doesnt have to be boring.

2009-04-01T06:39:00.000-07:00

Okay so I am a huge fan of this website called Photojojo.com... its basically a giant compilation of cool things they've found on the internet... basically it saves me some time from having to louis & clark it up and also leads me to even newer (to me) and exciting (to me) websites!!! Check Photojojo out! If you're artsyfartsy like me, you'll love it.

Anyway... I get Photojojo's newsletters about once a week and recently I received one that happened to be awesome AND relevant (to me)! It's all about cool business cards! You don't have to have boring, white, 2"x1" business cards... Why not show the REAL you!? (this is relevant to me because today is my "sit down and apply to marketing jobs day.")

CLICK HERE to check out some examples and get inspired!

Recent Grads Are Ideal Employees.

2009-03-21T07:48:00.000-07:00

There are a few things that us college kids have over those exceptionally experienced (and therefore usually older ((and settled))) people:

a) We are Flexible

Recent grads or soon to be grads are usually (and if they're smart) open to "relocating." They don't have to worry about things like what school district their kids will be in which also cuts out on the distance of their commute. College grads can live in that crappy, over priced one room apartment on the 10th floor. Try doing that with a dog, a few kids, and all their crap.

b) We are Cheap

Yes, college grads don't have the experience- this has been made very clear. Because of this, however, we will ask for, and get paid, way less $$ than people who have been in the real world longer. We also have the excitement of actually being in the real world (and, ideally, in our field). So not only are we cheap, but we're enthusiastic, ready to learn, and eager to please. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THIS!

c) We are Technologically Saavy

Every college kid I know has at least two email accoutns and two social networking accounts. This generation probably spends more face time with their computer than actually people! I admit, I've "IMed" my room mate on (more than) a few occasions. We can find out pretty much anything (what a word means, where the closest drycleaner is, how to get to Kansas the most efficient way, and Nancy Jacobson's (totally made up name) phone number) all in a matter of seconds. We have the knowlege (or can gain it in a matter of seconds) and we KNOW how to use it. We are CONNECTED.

d) We are Quick Learners

Not only do we have the intuitive knowledge about computers and the internet that people even just a few years older simply do not have, we are not afraid to jump into something and TRY IT. In fact, we often teach ourselves. An example of this in my own life is seen with this database system my work has. It has been with us for a little less than two years and, in that time, I have taught myself how to do everything from data entry to pulling financial reports. I 'm not giong to deny calling up the customer service people for more help on complex tasks, but I would say that about 95% of what I know has been self-taught. Technology requires you to get your feet wet! You can have the worlds most expert on computers come in and tell you how to do something but... it's like telling someone how to drive. It will do you no good til you get behind the wheel yourself... and maybe make a few mistakes (although messing up on the computer will most likely NOT put someone's life at risk). Older generations are scared of jumping into a computer because they are afraid they will mess things up.

And that's the difference between older generations and the one graduating right now.

In summary, recent or soon-to-be graduates are flexible, cheap (and eager), connected, and computer saavy. Sounds Like A Good Hire If You Ask Me.

(Click Here To Consider Hiring ME!)

Job Applications- a job all in itself.

2009-03-17T12:42:00.000-07:00

This blogging thing can get complicated sometimes! I always have lots to say but it's just a matter of will I have TIME to say it? Things have been super busy with school and such. With the official launch of my website, I have also started applying to jobs. I am looking all the way up to the Baltimore area and all the way backdown to North Carolina. Even a few in Florida (who doesn't love the sunshine state? plus, my brother's there).

Because of my recent trip to Baltimore, I had done research on marketing firms in the area. The economy is so bad and most of the firms were pretty small (something that I think could be great! I love my small office now), that I am kind of afraid that they will just laugh at me for trying to apply to them. But hey, worth a try, right?

The whole job application is WAY more exhausting than I ever imagined. Searching through lists and lists of jobs on sites like Monster and Careerbuilder for hours at a time, seeing plently of jobs that I'm like "Oh! That sounds great!" just to find that they want me to have a decade of experience with multiple Fortune 500 companies.... And the process starts all over. Back to searching thinking the whole time... hmmm maybe a burger flipping job at McDonalds doesn't sound to shabby. Someone's got to flip those glorious burgers.

Sometimes it feels like everything is stacked against us soon-to-be college grads! (unfortnately accurate cartoon courtesy of CartoonResource)

I'll keep on keepin on though. Someone somewhere out there hopefully wants what I have to offer! I think that I make a great employee and marketer, if I do say so myself.

And to continue the tradition, here is an "FML" from fmylife.com. And just like last time and the time before, please note that this is NOT about me. It is about some poor soul that was having a particularly rough day.

"Today, I was running to my car, slipped, and slammed my head on the car door. I started driving to the hospital because it was bleeding profusely and I was dizzy, I called my mom to tell her what had happened. She said I was grounded for "goofing off" and that she was "sick of my shit. FML"

Most Random Post of My Life

2009-03-13T08:06:00.001-07:00

So.... Here are some very random things that I am going to share with you. Just because they are awesome!

First, check out this link. Popular songs made completely out of video game sounds!! Someone had a little too much time on their hands but... oh well. It's still cool.

http://www.shotthen.com/2009/02/04/8-bit-hip-hop-medley/

Then, there's THIS video (also seen below). It's a picture of a girl everyday for THREE YEARS! Such a cool experiment. Makes me want to do it except... how did she get her head in the very same spot everyday!? That's true talent right there (and she did her own little mini makeover through the years! You Go Girl!).

Finally, this video was pretty funny. And although I don't think that my generation is IDIOTIC, I do think that people, in general, take WAY too much technology for granted, myself included. I mean, I'm communicating to whoever will listen all around the world RIGHT THIS MOMENT! AND you're watching videos from TV from a few weeks ago! It's AMAZING! (I love the part about flights... because you know that's so true. everyone bitches about traveling but really its real-life science! and you're taking part!)

That is all. Just had to share my latest and greatest random findings.

Oh. And here's an FMyLife (NOT MY fml. just some poor soul's fml.)

"Today, I was cleaning my room and opened my closet to spray febreze on all of my clothes. After they were fairly soaked, I placed the bottled back in the cleaning drawer, and realized that it was bleach. FML"

And if you still haven't checked that site (www.fmylife.com) out, you should consider it. Because you thought YOU were having a bad day...

It's official!

2009-02-21T15:32:00.000-08:00

I am officially a website owner. Although it is not much, I am TOTALLY psyched! Who knew I would own a space on the Internet! I love it! I am slowly adding more and more examples of my artwork but it will certainly suffice for now.

Check it out!www.emtier.com

oh. and just for your reading pleasure... an "fmylife"... and since I just mentioned art... we'll stay with the theme:

"Today, in art class we finally had the critique for the self portraits we've been working on for a month. We critique a few and come to mine. Everyone is silent. Finally, one girl says "I'm just going to be blunt. It doesn't look like you. You're not that pretty." Everyone nods. FML"****

OH! ps... I'm already up to 142 swagbucks!! You should really consider joining.

Click Here to sign up

Click Here to see a previous post on Swagbucks.com and why you should join.

****NOTE: the "FML" posted above is NOT mine... it is some unfortunate "not that pretty" girl. my poor grandma thought this was my story. I think thats an "FML" all in itself.

Super Bowl=super[Lame]bowl.

2009-02-02T13:28:00.000-08:00

Okay. Before any of you readers out there get mad: Yes, the game was pretty exciting.

But just like everyone else and their mom, I would like to take a moment to discuss Super Bowl VLIII.... I don't know about you but I was thoroughly disappointed by the superbowl commercials. Being a huge marketing fan, I could really care less about the game (I mean, afterall, that is the time to use the bathroom and top off my drink)... instead, similarly to me reading magazines for the ads, I watch the Super Bowl for the commercials.

My first and (practically only) favorite commercial was Pepsi's first one... the one featuring Bob Dylan & Will.i.am. I loved the song and how they managed to compare "then and now" popular things- things that have stayed the same or come back in style (sunglasses for instance) and things that have changed dramatically (like that hip dancing... haha). Its fun to see the comparisons and really summarizes our culture. Oh, Pepsi. Genius.

Another commercial that I thought was funny/memorable was the Doritos commerical when the guy has a "crystal ball" snow globe that he uses to see if there will be "free Doritos at the office today?" His voice when he says "I think thats a YES!" is just PERFECT. The commercial definately caught people off guard and caught their attention. Nicely done, Doritos.

Finally, one of EVERYONE's favorites (mine included) is that E-trade baby (and his singing friend). (I love that baby... and those parents must be mega rich.) I think that although this commercial has always been memorable, the brand hasn't always been. My favorite one of these commercials is when he's like "Hey girl, can I hit you back?" Love it. People are finally starting to connect the two, though, which is great! Go Babies!

Here's my favorite and then the superbowl one.

Unfortunately, with the good comes the bad.

Budweiser, for instance... come on!

A couple years ago, they had those little green frogs belting "bud" "WEIS" "er." Everyone loved it (and, more importantly, remembered it- and the brand.)! Or, someone at the party I was at, mentioned the ferrets. Now all we have are clydesdales fetching sticks and falling in love. They had potential, I'll give them that... but they never peaked. Couldn't the horse have dropped the stick ON the dog? (or the dog's foot at least... although PETA would not have been happy...). That would have been funnier and would have given the commercial more closure at least. Or don't have closure and keep the story going all through the game so people are waiting on the edge of their seat to find out what happened next to that damn horse. (If you forget any of the commercials I just mentioned, they're linked. I did not want to dirty my blog by including them here... ;-)

Another commercial that kind of bothered me was the GE "Wind Energy" ad. Don't get me wrong... Love me some wind energy, but it was the same commercial as LAST YEAR! who DOES that?! It's a cute commercial and obviously I remembered it so it was at least somewhat effective but the superbowl is not only the biggest day of football, but also MARKETING. I found that very disappointing.

To summarize, Superbowl XLIII was an exciting game. I was cheering for the Cardinals and although the outcome was disappointing, I believe the overall quality of the ads were even more disappointing.

Better luck next year, guys.

Second (and hopefully final) Look at the Economy

2009-01-28T10:25:00.000-08:00

In that same class where my instructor is "the smartest man you'll (n)ever meet," we had to do a paper on corporate ethics in light of our recent economy. It was interesting because my initial thesis was along the lines of "desperate times make desperate people (or call for desperate measures, if you prefer. same gist). I figured that when people and companies were under stress because of the economy, the would be more likely to act unethically. Instead, what people were finding is that that is simply not the case. As one article puts it "With the economy's current troubles, many people assume a crime wave is just around the corner. But criminologists say that's just an American myth...Experts say there will always be some people who take to robbing liquor stores in tough times. But those people were already likely to rob stores even in good times, making it a statistical wash. And there's something else: When the economy goes bad, many people move in with parents or relatives, and they stay home more — both of which appear to have a calming effect, experts say." Basically, instead of the economy CAUSING unethical behavior, it is merely REVEALING preexisting unethical behavior. Think about it. When things are running smoothly, corporations are flourishing and it is a lot easier to skim off money or commit fraud & etc; nobody notices "chump change" is missing. When things are tight, however, it is more difficult to stay on the "DL." That is why Madoff and all his unethical peers are finally being found out. It was amazing how many influential, well off people would risk their future, their family's future, employees' future, and company's future just so they can afford the coolest new personal jet or island. It's nice that all these people are getting caught but, at the same time, rather disheartening. I guess the economy i seven hurting the people who would normally be rather "recession proof." Karma's a bitch, huh.

Quick Chat on the Economy- everyone's doing it.

2009-01-25T20:06:00.000-08:00

Okay so I'm not one to watch video blogs but I ran across Chelsea OMG the other day and, although she thorougly annoyed me at first, I found myself watching a whole lot of her videos and unbeknownst to me, became a fan.

What initially caught my attention to even click on the link to her video was the title "What's on My Mind- Economic Crisis"

Although I haven't really been directly affected by the economy yet, (I came {THIS} close though), that is all that seems to be on the news and on people's minds. And I'm aboutu to get a HUGE, GINORMOUS dose of reality. As a girl who is supposed to graduate and enter the real world very very soon, I am legitimately terrified that I will take my double degrees (markeitng and art) and go don the classic red and khaki attire as I stock shelves at Target. Don't get me wrong... LOVE LOVE LOVE that store and would LOVE LOVE LOVE to work for them but... at the headquarters. Unfortunately, it's located in Minnesota. I've lived in MN and MAN does it get cold. Anyway, my [use your imagination here] of a professor, who takes up an entire class period giving us "advice" (aka telling us how smart he is- talking AT US), told us that he bets that only 40% of graduates will have a job. FORTY. that's like.. failing in terms of grades... thats like.... DEVISTATING in terms of life. I need a job. And, although I will look for my "dreamjob" (whatever that is...) I am aware that, in this economy, "beggars can't be choosers"- and college grads have become the "beggars."

F My Life.

2008-09-21T20:15:00.000-07:00

Okay so maybe not MY life persay... but I just discovered this website... www.fmylife.com. its pretty much the funniest, most messed up website. People merely post reasons why their life sucks. for instance:

"Today, I walked past a girl in the cafeteria and she threw up. Naturally, a crowd was drawn. Her friend asked her what was wrong. She pointed at me and said, "Get him away from me!" I had never met this girl. FML"

"Today, I was looking down at my paper in class and my spanish teacher asked if I was sleeping or not. I'm Asian. My eyes were open. FML"

hahahahhahaha

You almost feel bad reading them and laughing at them but... I would bet you money that you will laugh. A lot. The site is genious. and kinda reminds me of a "Twitter." I guess it's just the way that it is set up.

But check it out. It will at least give you something to do during those clock-stopping hours after lunch.

No one on the corner's got swagger like this.

2008-09-12T12:42:00.000-07:00

After sharing utalkback.com with one of my coworkers (she's a believer now!), she returned the favor and introduced me to www.swagbucks.com Although I am an entire newbie at this one, I'm already sold. What swagbucks.com does is simply reward you for using them as your search engine and spreading the word. It rewards you not only when you search, but when you buy something off one of the stores that they sponsor (legit stores. they have a list) ((they'll give you swagbucks for every $x that you spend!)). I mean... how hard is that?! You're buying stuff and searching stuff anyway- just do it through swagbucks.com and get some points toward free stuff! The best part is, you don't even have to give up your beloved Google (I'm obsessed with Google so if I'm telling you this, its serious). In fact, Swagbucks has combined Google and Ask.com to give you your search results- what is there NOT to love?! Unfortunately, I am fairly new and don't have any swag secrets yet but I will definately let you know what goes down. Meanwhile, check out the video below, sign up and get started. (For those of you who are afraid of spam and junk main, my trusty gmail has yet to deliver any such message to me :-)). I know that this blog has seemed like a total promotion but I'm just... excited about it :-) I'm trying to save up for that iPhone!! (ha. good luck, Emily.)

But anyways... Click here to sign up! (or just visit www.swagbucks.com)... but if you want to help a sister out (did I mention they give you swagbucks for recommending people?) and let them know that I introduced it to you, sign up via this link:

http://swagbucks.com/?cmd=sb-register&rb=318655

Now go swag it up!

Maybe I'm More of a Lewis & Clark

2008-09-08T20:48:00.000-07:00

I discover things that have been discovered before... but are just not common knowledge.

Another great discover I've made (not all that recently) is utalkback.com. It's an online surveying company- and as a marketer, myself, I just love it. Basically what this website/company does is dispurse big-named companies surveys (I've filled them out for large phone, TV, washer/dryer, fast food & etc. companies) to their appropriate target audiences (you fill out a lifestyle-type profile/questionnaire when you sign up). It's a great way for companies to get more information on their market! Plus, because it's voluntary, they are more likely ot get legit information versus someone who puts "3. Neutral." for everything- totally skewing results and wasting time. I know you're thinking "yeah yeah whats in it for me?" (its okay. EVERYONE asks themselves that.) Well, when you fill out the survey, you earn points towards prizes from places like American Eagle, Ticketmaster, Starbucks, & etc. These companies then offer gift cards, free products, and discounts that you can "purchase" with the points you have earned through survey-filling-out. I am 8... yes EIGHT points away from the two prizes I've been working for. I can't decide though. Would I rather have a $25 gift card to Starbucks or iTunes? iTunes is slightly less... perishable (and bad for you) but Starbucks is just so darn good! You should look into it- earn points while killing time in class, at work, in a meeting, wherever! Plus, you're helping companies better satisfy your every desire. www.utalkback.com.

I'm like an Online Christopher Columbus!

2008-09-01T19:45:00.000-07:00

Okay... so maybe not... but lemme tell you, I'm pretty much obsessed with finding new/weird/unusual things online! I find myself discovering new products and such through my favorite website of all times...www.ThisNext.com (Check it out!!! But be careful- it will suck you in). I'm actually so into that I am in the top 25 or 30% of all thisnext-ers (not sure if I should be bragging or keeping that to myself...)! I've told people about ThisNext and although they all like it, the navigation takes some getting used to. Here's the rundown....

The homepage features different products that ThisNext-ers have recently recommended. When you click on the product, you will find the recommendation, more pictures, a link to where you can find/buy it, and a whole bunch of other products that are related/similar! (You can also type key words into the search box to find stuff! The most recent search I've done was for "engagement gifts." Everyone seems to be getting married these days!) This site is just FULL of awesome things- and, honestly, you can find just about anything there... sexy lingerie, sinks, toilets, clothing, decorations... the list goes on and on and can go any direction you please. One of my favorite parts of this website is finding new products (or ones that other people have recommended that I like, too) and creating themed lists. I have "I love home decor," "I love boots," "I love dandelions," and "His and her gifts." His and her gifts are probably my favorite. Mostly because I think that most His and her figts are just BEYOND tacky. Most of the things I've found are minimally tacky/obnoxious.

To sum it up, check out this ThisNext.com and befriend me! Careful though, you might get obsessed and maybe even earn the title of "Maven '09" (a very prestigious title, might I add).

On a lighter note

2008-08-26T13:14:00.000-07:00

I've had some time to collect a few interesting/random things this week. Let me emphasize: RANDOM. Lets begin with a quick highlight of blasts from the past. If you were a child in the 80s and early 90s you so recognize this stuff. I mean... Stirrup pants?! So hot. To switch it up sometimes I wore the stirrups outside my frilly/lacy socks and sometimes underneath. I tried to keep 'em guessing.

Then there was always the TV shows watched while wearing those charming stirrup pants (and giant sweatshirts with iron on teddy bears donning real bows)... Fraggel Rock, for instance- classic (thanks for sending this to me, Alison!). But you can NOT forget Zoobilee Zoo! That show- looking back: TERRIFYING! I mean these people were like.. freaks in animal makeup. I LOVED that show... until I saw the weeping willow episode- scared those frilly socks right off! Don't ask my why. I'm not sure. This is the same child who would cut the tag out of EVERY shirt because it hurt my neck and wore my socks inside out bc the line over my toes dug into them and hurt (I know. I'm weird).

On a more... up-to-date note, I wanted to share some more... mature? findings. I was looking at msn.com (my favorite place to start my finding while at work... you get some education about whats going on in the world then after that, I hit all the links on the main little box and then right over to the lifestyle section- in that order- everyday).

I found this super cute purse while checking out the story of the day the other day highlighting the "Rules of the Season". They had a few good rules... like the flowery dress and the big leather bag... but this purse DEFINATELY caught my eye. I love clutches but would put mine down and never pick it up if i had one. I have a few with a wrist loop but this one is way better. WAY. Better.

THEN... on ThisNext.com I found these AWESOME shelves. They look like they're floating! Like they're something out of a Dr. Seuss book! I just loved them. They're so expensive though that if you want a shelf, you have to call them up and tell them- this is not something that you'd find at your local IKEA (although it does remind me of that.)

One last thing.... don't you just LOVE these hangers? I mean... if I had a cute/hip bookstore/coffee shop I just might have to have these. They would make the place way more airy and how cool are they!? I also like the idea of having them in your closet- as a "behind the doors bookshelf" although my closet is WAY too packed for that.

Okay that is all. Until next time...

Slightly different

2008-08-26T12:41:00.001-07:00

Well school started yesterday so my unique and oh so interesting summer thoughts have been replaced by boring, stressful ones involving extensive group projects and other oh so thrilling topics. I will try to spare you details of the classes and will avoid lame blogging highlighting what I ate for lunch and what the weather is like..... and with that, I continue.

I work for a very small nonprofit organization that works with kids in orphanages and detention centers outside the US (I think I'll refrain from naming it at this point... I don't want something I may say in the future to hurt this organization in any way)... I think that what we're doing is awesome and so worth it - kids, who may not have otherwise had a chance, are getting the love and support they deserve. - - - On Friday, a woman came into our office and tried to drop her kids off- we are not an adoption agency, a foster care place, or social workers. The poor woman was bawling as she explained that she was a wife of a military man (who was gone) and not a US citizen. She simply could not afford to care for her children (around 3 and 6) and wanted us to take care of them for her for a while so she could get herself back on her feet. It was SO sad and reminded me of something that you might see on TV- NOT something that happens (or should be happening) in the US in 2008! That situation got me thinking... and I'm not sure that I have completely sorted things out... Was she clean out of options? Move into a smaller house/apartment? Work longer hours? Perhaps even go to a shelter that could take in the small family? I am by no means blaming the woman for her desperate actions - simply pondering the situation- and thinking what I may do if I found myself in the same awful situation. It was clear she had reached the end of the rope - not many (normal/stable) people give up their children out of mere inconvenience.

I know that there are tons of nonprofits out there helping people in the US and that countries need our help. It's just sad. And it's life. Everyone does the best they can - and should help someone else if they are capable even if its something small- kinda like that movie Pay it Forward or those insurance commercials.

Some good organizations doing good things... check 'em out. get inspired.

I was thinking about creating a blog for my work- so people who have gone on trips to see the kids can share stories and pictures with not only eachother but also donors and volunteers/ people who want to get involved. I thought it would also be a great way to share some of the children's stories and allow people to see what is going on - on a more personal/upclose level. What do you think? Let me know.

Change is good

2008-08-21T07:46:00.000-07:00

I think that part of this sudden desire to make things comes from the fact that I am simply starved for change. My mom has always said (reminding herself, of course), "Change is good." My life has become rather routine- but that's not even it. I just want something new. I started small- decorated my room a little different, moved some furniture slightly, added some things to the walls... it just wasn't enough. I need to change myself too.

I've been in dire need of a haircut so - why not do something different? Honesty, I would love to get one of those "scene girls" aka... emo (I know. I said it.) haircuts... I just... am slightly too old- especially to do a 180 on my style; plus, I'm not sure I quite have the "emo" attitude for crazy hair. So, after I came to that conclusion, I just keep telling myself "Maybe next time." I do that a lot. You would think that I believe in reincarnation with that thought pattern, but I do find myslf thinking just that: "Maybe next time." I guess it just shows what a procrastinator I am. I even procrastinate when considering my own... being. I am constantly having to remind myself, "Hello! This is IT." So it's time to compromise with myself. Instead of going totally emo, I'll just change something minor- maybe add some thicker bangs or a streak of pink- I am trying to avoid looking trashy or totally emo, however. I do want to hold a job. We'll see I suppose. Hopefully I won't put it off much longer or I might go Britney Spears on myself.

I just need an entire makeover- hair, clothes, makeup, the works. Maybe I should apply for "What Not to Wear" - I could get my friends to tape me wearing heinous outfits and when Stacy and Clinton jump me, I'd make sure to act surprised.

Meanwhile, I'll just stick to online pretend-shopping, something I have become particularly good at. I have listed some of my favorite and most frequented sites to the right and will try to share some of my findings. I've found I'm rather good at finding the coolest, most expensive things. To start off, check out this crucial table (below, too) it is SO going in my future dining room. It's a table, pool table and ping pong table. I mean, who needs a formal dining room anyways?

There is a hunger for cooking

2008-08-20T18:26:00.000-07:00

Going along with my recent crafty mood, and against my theory that buying things is cheaper than making, I have also had this desire to cook things. I actually don’t even like cooking (I’ve heard hate is a strong word) but I think I might try to be more open to it. Recently I tried this recipe for curry chicken. It was so good and so easy (I’m talking minimum ingredients and effort)! My kinda cooking! The only thing I would suggest for this recipe is that you might want to up the chutney and curry to add more “zing.” Other than that, it was really good- kinda like making your own delicious hotpocket! I think my next cooking adventure will be apple pie! I mean... who DOESN'T like apple pie?!...

While we’re on the topic of cooking, let me recommend a super easy and delicious chicken dish- pretzel chicken poupon- it’s a fave. That, and the salsa chicken recipe on the back of the Pace Picante jar. I wish I could say I thought of it myself – kinda like that Friends episode (see below) where Phoebe and Rachel are trying to figure out Phoebe’s grandmother’s secret chocolate chip recipe- Nestle Tollhouse (said in a very obscure accent, of course).

There is a need for creativity

2008-08-19T14:33:00.000-07:00

I have had this creative itch recently that I just can NOT scratch! I just have this need to MAKE stuff! The problem is, things these days seem way cheaper to simply buy than to make them from scratch- everything from children's desks to apple pie. I say a desk because I have been casually looking for a new desk (since I put my cheapo one together and found that it was designed for a child around the age of 6 - or a person under the height of about 4'5"). While killing time at work the other day, I came across this great DIY desk project- and whattya know? It costs up to $650 to build! A desk for petesake! If you take all that money you would spend on wood, glue, nails and such, you could buy a crucial desk! So to reiterate, why make what you can buy for way cheaper? I know, to get the satisfaction of making something with your hands. Believe me, I get that part, but blowing money is simply not MY kinda satisfaction. Anyways, so here I was trying to come up with a craft... and then it hit me... flower pens! (I know. random). Off I went to that dreaded mega-store on a Saturday afternoon. I got some floral tape, a pack of pens, and 11 fake flowers in a bouquet (for only $2.50!) (Hint: the flowers come off the stem, resulting in the ability to make your own, ideal, bouquet- the pre-made ones were ugly. --- Note: this hint is most likely not supported by management- be sneaky). It's really easy to make these rather cliche and tacky pens- you simply wrap the tape around the stem of the flower and the pen. I found that this is kinda ugly and weird looking so instead I just popped the cap off the top of the pen and shoved the stem down there with a little super glue. It makes the flowers look more "real," if you will. Check 'em!

And it begins..

2008-08-18T14:03:00.001-07:00

Okay. Here I go... I'm officially a blogger! Although I'm sure there will be about.. oh... one person reading this, I'm excited to share my thoughts and things that I have found interesting/inspiring. I'm not sure where this will take me- maybe i'll get bored of this by next week or maybe this will stick and something will come of it - even if its just a way for me to put down my thoughts and findings. I'ts going to be a very random journey (hence maundering - look it up) but I'm excited! I pertty much always have something to say so we'll see how it goes!