New Year means New You

For New Year's we always make resolutions, and usually they are the same as they were the year before. This post touches on my last post. About how to change when you procrastinate. I decided to try to do a daily project, since I was given a 365 art journal prompts by my brother. I'm hoping to be able to keep it up for a year! Starting New Year's day! Wish me luck! I plan to post my projects to keep me motivated!

:)

Procrastination, My Worst Enemy!

I haven't written for a long time, and I'm blaming my worst enemy, Procrastination! I stumbled upon this article that touches on how procrastination works and it basically suggests that it is not being lazy it is just being prepared for a mind battle. It is NowYou versus FutureYou, and sometimes you get back at FutureYou but they get back at NowYou! You make FutureYou do the dirty work, pull the allnighters, rush to out to get the last minute gift, and spend a whole weekend cleaning up the mess NowYou created during the week. But FutureYou gets back at NowYou, while managing to do the tough tasks in short amount of time, it penalizes you by having you fail your goals. What are your goals? FutureYou eats greasy pizza instead of a salad, FutureYou watches TV instead of working out, and FutureYou sleeps in instead of getting chores done. So how do you battle this foe? Especially when it is yourself, you have to plan. By sticking to a plan it makes it easier to make the right choice. So whatever NowYou wants the most you have to just go and prepare for it or do it!

That is why classes are helpful because the instructor sets deadlines for us, forcing us to do the work! So if you really want to learn a foreign language or instrument or improve your cooking skills it is good idea to sign up for a class today. I used to hate planing and hate scheduling. Mostly because I felt nervous about if it was a good idea, what if I didn't really feel like going out that day or what if I'm sick or maybe I should be working on something else. I hated to commit, it was easier to just not do those things. Nothing is less work than anything. But then New Year's is coming up and I realize I still have yet to accomplish many goals I set out for, and I'm sick of saying this year will be different when it is not. I really do hope I can make some improvements. Maybe it won't be a 180 but a 90 degrees isn't so bad! I was inspired by the article below, check it out!
http://youarenotsosmart.com/2010/10/27/procrastination/

Oh Batman: Cool Batman Art!

I found some cool Dark Knight inspired artworks which I thought I'd share with you guys. I always loved super heroes that are edgy. Which piece is your favorite? Do you guys like to do any fan art and if so of what? I'd definitely love to do some someday, I once made a Torchwood/Pokemon fan art for my friend, it was pretty awesome. It was Captain Jack Harkness coaxing her to bed while Team Rocket was freaking out on the T.V. I wish I had taken a picture of it to show you but it was few years ago. I used to draw Daria and other cartoons a lot when I was a kid. It actually was what made me realized I had some talent if I could make a good replica of Archie. :) I just might have to try to make a Batman piece now!I found this at Simple Stroke, link is below!
http://www.simplestroke.com/wp/?p=70

I love the playfulness of this painting and the big grin on Batman's face! I also really liked the use of colors, you typically don't think of green with Batman or Superman but it is good contrast to the red.
This piece is my favorite because I find it so breathtakingly beautiful! The softness, how it is dramatic and romantic, since it is fall now, I've admired myself the incredible moment of leaves falling together like a summer rain. I've always had big soft spot for Cat Woman! The first image above is also done by the same artist, Marc Tan.

Below is the link, I honestly thought it was a photograph and was impressed to know it was photoshop creation.
http://insanepoly.cgsociety.org/gallery/866214/

Do you see what I see? This is a clever poster print of Batman with the Penguin in yellow. It just goes to show you can create art that has an awesome impact with also being subtle and simple! It is by Simon C. Page a British Artist who also did a pairing of Spider-man and Green Goblin which you can see on link below.

http://www.jazjaz.net/2010/09/batman-vs-penguin-poster-print.html

Cute Stew, Hello Kitty and Open Books!

I was one of Cute Stew's lucky winners, and won a super cute Hello Kitty nail kit which came with nail polish and a sweet nail file. I love that it gives my nails a great sparkle! I love Hello Kitty's spunky don't speak face or at least its how I interpret it. I guess it could also be Hello Kitty blowing you a kiss, or Hello Kitty OMG! I'm big Hello Kitty fan so it is awesome to win a Hello Kitty prize! I loved the sticker (the dog sticker on my laptop) and the cute card Melly Kay from Cute Stew sent me! I think I might have to get a Blythe doll because of her blog, they are so cool and cute and awesome! I used to play Barbie dolls 24-7 as a kid but then I was "too old". My favorite part was the clothes, with Blythe dolls I can get back to minature stylin'.
I thought I'd also write about Open Books which is the other sticker next to the adorable doggy sticker on my lappy. I am a huge fan of Open Books starting about a month ago, the funny thing is I heard of them before, I even donated books at printer's row to them. A friend of mine wanted to intern there, it just so happened it was right by my other favorite shop Papersource. What is Open Books? They described themselves as "Open Books is a nonprofit social venture that operates an extraordinary bookstore, provides community programs, and mobilizes passionate volunteers to promote literacy in Chicago and beyond." I like to think of it as the awesome store where I can get $1 dollar comics and other books I've been dying to get but was always broke so it stayed on my wishlist.One of those books is A Child's Life and Other Stories by Phoebe Gloeckner, a graphic novel that is beautifully illustrated and written by Gloeckner. I was drawn to it by Amazon's sample of a girl that loves dolls but with a disturbing imagination, kind of like me! :P I also really wanted to get to know more female graphic novel writers/artists since I'm a big comic book fan and wanted to support my fellow womens. Girls like me, need more role models, I know gender is not everything but when it seems only boys are doing it, it seems harder to break through. A Child's Life and Other Stories shocked me because it was very graphic, like penis, pedophiles, drug use, rape graphic. However it is an amazing read because it reveals how girls do unfortunately get used and abused, she gives a voice to all the children and teens that were ever hurt by adults and by the world. One amazon reader wrote ""A Child's Life" by Phoebe Gloeckner is like witnessing a car wreck or a street fight: you are horrified and appalled, but you can't stop looking". If you want to buy it or see some samples click on link below!
http://www.amazon.com/Childs-Life-Other-Stories/dp/1583940286/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top
The second book is The Ice Queen by Alice Hoffman, I wanted to read this book for a long time after I became enamored by the fairy tale/legend of the Ice Queen. I will save that fairy tale/legend for later post. I read Skylight Confessions just because it was by Alice Hoffman, and I really love that book. She is such a good writer, she also wrote Practical Magic, one of my favorite movies as a kid! She is the kind of writer that can transport you to a new world! I picked Skylight Confessions up at Goodwill for a dollar, and I only thought it was fair to spread the joy and donated to nonetheless, Open Books! So when I saw they had copies of The Ice Queen it seemed perfect! I have just started it but won't be surprised if I read it all night. Be sure to check out Open Books if you are ever in Chicago or live near by! For more information about Open Books you can visit their website.
http://www.open-books.org/

My Go Roma Chance: I won pizza once a week for a year!

Go Roma is a Chicago based Italian restaurant chain, famous for their delicious pizza. They pride themselves on using hearty real ingredients for all there foods, from pasta, pizza to soup. They describe themselves as "real easy Italian". I was also happy to find out that they also offer curbside pickup, which means you can call in and order and get your meals to go when you pick it up. Also saw a sign advertising that they will soon have delivery for those close to their store locations.

How did I win pizza once a week for a year? Go Roma that was generous enough to offer the first 52 customers at all their locations on October 2nd free pizza once a week for a year! That is 52 pizzas! We were worried that we might not make it on time, you never know how many people might be camping out! It was very exciting, and we were thankful to realize we were safe. My mother and I participated at the Deer Park location and were number 38 and 39. They gave us these awesome reward cards which we use to access our free pizza deal. You don't have to be a pizza winner to get these reward cards, they work like other companies like Borders, where you get points when you make purchases. On their website they explain "Give us $2 and we'll give you $5 in delicious Go Roma food. Now you can enjoy Go Roma even more!" If you go online now and register for a real. easy. rewards. card you will get a temporary one, and a real one for free at the store! They even offer a $5 bonus just for just signing up! Be sure to check them out below if you're in the Chicagoland area.

http://www.goroma.net/index.html

Check out how yummy their pizza looks below! I also was inspired by Go Roma, which always reminded me of Lady Gaga's Bad Romance, so I took the liberty to make a parody/tribute to Go Roma. Let me know what you think. I didn't change too many of the lyrics to get it try to sound very similar. It was fun! Maybe I'll do it for a lot more products I love.




Go Roma Chance

Oh, got to win a Go Roma chance
Oh, got to win a Go Roma chance

Rah, rah, ah, ah, ah
Roma, roma, ma
Gogo, ohh, la la
Want your Go Roma chance

Rah, rah, ah, ah, ah
Roma, roma, ma
Gogo, ooh la la
Want your Go Roma chance

I want your parsley, I want your cheese
I want your everything as long as it’s free
I want your grub
Grub, Grub, Grub, I want your Grub

I want your pizza, the taste of your ham
I want your lightly breaded piece in my hand
I want your grub
Grub, grub, grub, I want your grub

You know that I want you
And you know what I need from you
I want it bad, Go Roma chance

I want your pizza, and I want your sausage
You and me could win a Go Roma chance
I want your pizza, and I want your sausage
You and me could win a Go Roma chance

Oh, got to win a Go Roma chance
Oh, got to win a Go Roma chance

Rah, rah, ah, ah, ah
Roma, roma, ma
Gogo, ooh la la
Want your Go Roma chance


I want your hot order, I want your white wine
‘Cause you’re a pinnacle as long as I dine
I want your grub
Grub, grub, grub, I want your grub

I want your prosciutto, your mozzarella sticks,
Want you in my car window, baby you’re real quick
I want your grub
Grub, grub, grub, I want your grub
Grub, grub, grub, I want your grub

You know that I want you
And you know that I need you
‘Cause I’m a foodie, baby
I want it, Go Roma chance

I want your pizza, and I want your sausage
You and me could win a Go Roma chance
I want your pizza, and all your pizza’s sausage
You and me could win a Go Roma chance

Oh, got to win a Go Roma chance
Oh, got to win a Go Roma chance

Rah, rah, ah, ah, ah
Roma, roma, ma
Gogo, ohh, la la
Want your Go Roma chance

Sautee, sautee, chicken ,baby
Fork it, move that wing, easy
Sautee, Sautee, chicken, baby
Fork it, I’m a foodie, baby

Sautee, sautee, chicken ,baby
Fork it, move that wing, easy
Sautee, Sautee, chicken, baby
Fork it, I’m a foodie, baby



I want your pizza and I want your sausage
I want your pizza, I don’t want any fried onions
J’ai ton pizza et je veux ton sausage
J’ai ton pizza, I don’t want any fried onions

No, I don’t want any fried onions
Oh, got to win a Go Roma chance
I don’t want any fried onions

Want your Go Roma chance
Oh, got to win a Go Roma chance
Want your Go Roma chance

I want your pizza, and I want your sausage
You and me could win a Go Roma chance
I want your pizza, and all your pizza’s sausage
You and me could win a Go Roma chance

Want your Go Roma chance
Oh, got to win a Go Roma chance
Want your Go Roma chance
Want your Go Roma chance
Oh, got to win a Go Roma chance

Rah, rah, ah, ah, ah,
Roma, roma, ma
Gogo, ohh la la
Want your Go Roma chance

Curves and Chaos Ultimate Swag Giveaway

I'm a curvy girl and sometimes it is just impossible to find cute clothes to fit my body! That is why I am a fan of Curves and Chaos for holding an Ultimate Swag giveaway,a mind blowing giveaway full of amazing prizes ranging from Torrid, Lingerie.com, Size Appeal, Carolina Pad and TJ Maxx! My mouth is drooling thinking about getting my hands on these goodies! Why are Curves and Clothes being so super generous, it is because of Full Figured Fashion Week(end) in Los Angeles. In celebration of this awesome event celebrating us sexy curvy ladies, Curves and Chaos is having this giveaway. Below is an image of the Torrid part of the swag! So what are you waiting for? Hop on over and enter before it is too late! The giveaway ends on 10/26/10.

http://www.curvesandchaos.com/2010/10/ultimate-swag-giveaway.html

Trick 'r Treat Cutie!

I was thrilled when I came upon this adorable first time giveaway by Quinn Lord, who was in an amazing Halloween movie, Trick 'r Treat! I highly recommend watching the movie that celebrates all that is fun about the most spooky and playful holiday! Quinn Lord played Sam, a character that is like the spirit of Halloween, he watches the unraveling of different townspeople's Halloween experience. He also played Peeping Tommy. For any True Blood fans, this movie will definitely be a treat because Sookie, aka Anna Paquin stars in this film as well. Curious yet? Well check out the trailer for Trick 'r Treat below. You must, MUST check out his first blog post/giveaway! Quinn is giving away a graphic novel of Trick 'r Treat for the best Trick 'r Treat drawing!

Trick 'r Treat trailer
http://www.imdb.com/video/screenplay/vi2906784281/

Quinn Lord Trick 'r Treat Giveaway!

http://www.quinnlord.net/wordpress/?p=211

Fluff my new most favorite accessories brand!

I was introduced to Fluff by Fashion Fling which did a review and giveaway of their Mermaid collection, be sure to check it out so you have a chance to win! Trust me you'll want to win, their collection of bags, wallets, luggage tags, t-shirts cards, etc are so darling! The cutesy kawaii faces will make your eyes bulge in desire! I am in deep love with Fluff, like Tom Cruise jumping on a couch love! I know I'll be asking Santa for some of their goodies for Christmas while buying them as gifts as well! Below are a few of my favorites, and the Mermaid tote will be part of Fashion Fling's Fluff giveaway!

Enter giveaway below!
http://www.fashionfling.com/forum/fluff-shop-review-and-giveaway-ends-9-30-t42219.html

Check out Fluff!
http://store.fluffshop.com/index.html

Stuff that makes you go AWWW

I found MiMi Paint via twitter, they had a cute icon and I was delighted to see there was much more from where that came from! I fell in love with these adorable witchy paintings which you can purchase on eBay! They are described as a "Pair of japanese kanji painting "Halloween" version and are the perfect size for a bookmark! I don't know if you are like me but I have a million bookmarks to help with all the books I like to read. I could always use more, perfect for a Halloween gift for your child or friend. Click on the eBay to place your bid!

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=130434843025&ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT


For more about MiMi Paint click below!
http://mimipaint.com/



I'm a huge Hello Kitty fan as many of you know so I had to share this great etsy shop, LICORICE & LOLLIPOPS FASHION ACCESSORIES! You can find many super kawaii Hello Kitty jewelry, she also has a large variety of jewelry themes from Alice in Wonderland, adorable deer,tasty desserts and vintage retro items. She is even having a Super Sale that started today! "180+ items priced 50-85% OFF original PRICES!! MOST ITEMS UNDER $10!!" is from her sale announcement! The Hello Kitty mini television necklace is one of the super sale pieces priced at $12.99. So don't wait, hop on over to buy some cute jewelry!


http://www.etsy.com/shop/missmercy


As you see above I did not forget about dogs! But if you prefer cats, you can find the kitty version on their website as well! Everyday Cute shares lots of adorable GIF and comics about their beloved furry friends, Carmen, the yellow lab above, and gray cat Pusheen! They also share the couple's life and pop culture well the title really describes it well, it is Everyday Cute!

http://everydaycute.com/

Losing My Voice

This morning I woke up and asked my mother what she was up to, she was doing her hair and ready to go out. I mostly spent the rest of the morning on my computer with the dog beside me. Only when my mother phoned and I tried to talk to her did it happen, my voice wouldn't come out right. At first I thought it was just a bit dry or I just had to clear it but it was really bad. It was squeaky it was difficult to get thoughts out. After her call I tried to talk more, at times nothing could even come out. I accepted that I was now without a voice. I told my mom about it when she got home, but she still questioned me about it later wanting to know if I got it from my boyfriend or his family. I had to explain that it can happen because of lack of moisture, and maybe it is my best friend's "fault" since I have been talking to her a lot lately. I had to tell my boyfriend too. But I am scared, it is really frustrating to not talk especially if someone calls you. I guess I have to text back. I have to just not say anything even if it makes people mad because I read that it can permanently damage your voice. I know this is true, there was a girl in my high school with this awful raspy voice and she told us, that it happened because she didn't take care of her throat properly when she had laryngitis. Some thought her voice was cool kind of dark and rough, or it was unique but I thought it was ugly like a rusty telephone pole or an aged chain smoker who was just ten packs away from speaking through a hole in their throat. I take this as an experiment. A vow of silence for at least a week. I'm not looking forward to the frustrated looks and anger thrown at me, the come on you can talk or it can't be that bad, or just tell me. Some people have no patience for these things. But then I just think of that girl's voice and I do not want that to be my future. I was always told I have a lovely sweet voice, to lose that so I can sound like Nancy from Sid and Nancy is cruel! Wish me good luck, and tell me if you ever lost your voice and what helped!
I read a lot about it and apparently there are a lot of myths on what is useful that are actually bad, such as tea with lemon, they are both acidic so it is bad. So is whispering, a "hot toddy" so I'm left to drinking a lot of water.

Back to School Movies: Sex, Greed, Lawyers and Education

A lot of fall movies are coming out that I'm excited to see! One of which is The Social Network, about the creation of Facebook and the aftermath for the creator, Mark Zuckerberg. The tagline is "You don't get to 500 million friends without making a few enemies". The Social Network begins with the transformation of outsider Harvard Student, Zuckerberg, to millionaire party boy with groupies. It makes me miss the glory days of Facebook, when you were required to have a college e-mail address.Facebook has managed to ruin many people lives so it is only fair that it even burns its creator, Mark Zuckerberg. Last month it was reported that a Massachusetts high school teacher lost her job after her Facebook wall became public, she had commented that the students were "germ bags" and referred to the parents as "snobby" and "arrogant". Even in just small ways Facebook complicates our lives by informing all of your friends that you were just dumped or costing job opportunities for whatever personal information that is considered offensive, you're Team Edward, they're Team Jacob. Some may want to see The Social Network for the sex, booze and partying, perhaps to be inspired, but I just want to see the backlash of greed. The release date is October 1st. Although I write of the ills of Facebook, I still have my accounts for now, Facebook is a harsh mistress.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=53OUHupfqws


Second is Howl, when I saw the trailer for Howl I literally felt a flicker in my chest! Howl is a Biopic about Allen Ginsberg being played by the very handsome James Franco, that alone is a good reason to watch! The plot centers on the trial for 1957 obscenity trial for "Howl" written by Ginsberg. "Howl" describes illicit drug use and homosexual and hetrosexual sex acts which was way too unsavory for the 1950's. Jon Hamm aka, Don Drapper, is in the film as well, so for all Mad Men enthusiasts you better watch it! Howl blends black and white and color film in such a manner you are reminded of the difference between a film and a movie. It has been a year since my Poetry class in college, I am hoping this movie will inspire me to write and try to get published. I always have the intentions to sit down and write poetry but never seem to be able to do it. I decided to make a challenge for myself, with my lovely readers being witness, to write a poem a day, starting tomorrow until Howl release date September 24! That gives me ten days to write!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ih_Eaodt0T8


Now I know you are thinking you are seeing a pattern, Biopic about a young man that is a talented genius with a crazy sex and intoxication but gets slammed with legal troubles! That is not back to school! Well I saved the best for last, this movie screams school because it is about education. Waiting for Superman is a documentary about the public education in United States, with personal struggles for parents and students to get the education that is deeply desired. Waiting for Superman is directed by Academy Award winning director,Davis Guggenheim, known for An Inconvenient Truth. By the looks of this trailer Waiting for Superman will make you many strong emotions from being thankful you or/and your children have a good education or frustrated because you face similar issues. Interested yet? By simply committing to see the movie you can get a code for $5 to pledge to a classroom of your choice. Check out the trailer to get a glimpse of this amazing movie and for more information on how you can make a difference in your community.

http://www.waitingforsuperman.com/

Cat Herding because its Caturday!

Today I wanted to share two awesome videos about "cat herding"! Don't worry it's not from that crazy new TLC show Animal Hoarding, they are cute videos!

1. Ikea U.K. Commerical that shows the process of making it.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vCB7RqGS684

2.) An EDS commerical that makes Cowboys look like wimps!


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m_MaJDK3VNE

Natural Beauty: Enjoying the Green of Summer Before the Leaves Change

It's already Fall but there is still some wisps of Summer, from the hearty trees, warm weather and bright blue sky. Yesterday I was outside a lot, when I was reclining on a lawn chair in my boyfriend's backyard, I felt that Summer Sleepiness, the church bells chiming, neighbor's children running around and the smell of fresh cut grass was wonderful. It made me sad to realize it would all end soon. In Illinois, it gets cold and snowy fast! So today, in honor of the fleeting season I am sharing some fun nature theme items tonight. I'll definitely try for each season, since nature is so beautiful and inspires so many it should be really easy.

Starting off, Summer is the Wedding Season, I am deeply in love with this Enchanted Forest Wedding. I spotted it on Offbeat Bride, the photos are indeed enchanting because the wedding is very whimsical starting with the setting and the lovely details like the cake that fit so well it is charming! For more details and wedding porn check out the link below.



http://offbeatbride.com/2010/09/california-sea-ranch-forest-wedding

When I think of summer I think of bright popping colors! You know the color of your favorite slushies and Popsicles. Surprisingly this tree has them all! The tree is called a Rainbow Eucalyptus and the scientific name is deglupta Eucalyptus. The link is to a collection of more photos of this truly unique tree.



http://www.divinecaroline.com/22163/96259-technicolor-tree--rainbow-eucalyptus#1

I was lucky enough to go to my local aquarium, Shedd Aquarium, this summer, it was fun because it was "After Dark" which meant less people, so it was more peaceful. I got to touch a starfish, learn about sting rays, but still felt uneasy to stand on just a thin piece of glass separating us, and watched little kids waddling in penguin suits, and I mean penguin suits! But, that is nothing compared to the Kuroshio Sea tank, which has the second largest aquarium tank in the world! The tank is located at Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium in Okinawa, Japan. The video is amazing to watch, make sure to make it full screen to fully get the experience!



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u7deClndzQw

Finally, I wanted to share two of my favorite pictures from this summer, it is at Lake Michigan.

Free Hello Kitty Wallet!

Free Hello Kitty Wallet when you purchase $50 dollars or more at Sanrio. For those of you that don't know it, I'm a giant Hello Kitty fan, so I was very excited to come across this deal and had to share it! The wallet is small which is great for those tiny purses. You can easily rack up 50 bucks by buying a few of the new arrival items I posted below!

Hello Kitty 6" Fruit Plush: Orange


A really refreshing plush design. Makes a great gift especially for a sick buddy, give them a shot of Vitamin Cute!

http://shop.sanrio.com/hello-kitty-6-fruit-plush/38195-201008,default,pd.html?cgid=new%20arrivals

Hello Kitty Tote Bag: Black Dots


I love this tote because it blendsa a modern pattern and the cute iconography of Hello Kitty into a fun but mature item which is ideal for older Hello Kitty fans like me. The tote is large so it is perfect for carrying all your other must haves and a good back to school bag.

Want to make Math more fun or are you a chic geek that loves the numbers! Either way you must get this adorable yet affordable Hello Kitty Calculator, that will have you smiling as you crunch

http://shop.sanrio.com/hello-kitty-tote-bag/73881-201007,default,pd.html?cgid=new%20arrivals

Finally, you have to get this adorable yet affordable Hello Kitty calculator that will make crunching numbers so much fun! Be Geek Chic with this bad boy sticking out of your front pocket!

Hello Kitty Die-Cut Desktop Calculator: Red White Bow



http://shop.sanrio.com/hello-kitty-die-cut-desktop-calculator/36369-201006,default,pd.html?cgid=new%20arrivals

Awesomness coming to you from Japan!

I have always been very fond of Japanese culture, starting with my huge love for Hello Kitty as a child. As a teenager I fell in love with Anime. I thought I would share some of my favorites with you guys, if you love them as well tell me a fond memory you have or another awesome Japanese product, art form or etc I should know!

1. Furoshiki Gift Wrapping, I stumbledupon this cool Japanese Art Form which takes gift wrapping to a new level, allowing the giver to offer the gift in an eco-friendly yet beautiful fabric. It is truly amazing process to watch in the youtube link below.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bn6zdyCAwJs

2. Ramune, A delicious carbonated drink that is well known for its unique design! Ramune is made of glass and sealed with a marble; in order to open the bottle, you must push the marble inside the neck of the bottle with a little device on the lid. Sounds complicated? It might be a bit tricky at first but its part of the fun! Well worth while since it tastes so good! Ramune is offered in a variety of places from your local Asian Market or Sushi Restaurant, but there is always Amazon!

http://www.amazon.com/Ramune-Japanese-Soft-Drink-Flavors/dp/B000VRLS5I


3. Botan Rice Candy, I grew up eating this tasty treat which is chewy and offers the unusual chance to eat rice paper! I loved it because it always comes with a little toy usually a sticker! I actually have one on my laptop right now, of Japanese Symbols, perhaps for yummy candy. You can also find this on Amazon but is very popular, you are bond to find it at your local Asian market.

http://www.amazon.com/Botan-Rice-Candy-0-75-Oz/dp/B0002656QK



4. Rinne (2005), Also known as Reincarnation is a Japanese Horror Movie, there are a lot of really great Japanese Horror movies but this one is my favorite because I love past lives and creepy hotels (Love The Shining). It is made by the people that brought you The Grudge, it is about a professor who videotapes a massacre in an experiment in hopes of revealing the truth of reincarnation. I am linking up a trailer but warn you SPOILER ALERT, as like many trailers it shows lots of juicy bits but some need that to be enticed! Perfect movie to watch for this coming Halloween!

http://www.traileraddict.com/trailer/reincarnation/trailer


5. Salux Nylon Japanese Beauty Skin Bath Wash Cloth/Towel, A popular item in our home, better than a loofah, why because loofahs seem to always fall in my shower because they are bulky! This wash cloth is perfect for reaching your back, dries quick and you'll have silky smooth skin! It comes in fun colors like pink, blue and yellow so you can have one for each family member. Also available at Amazon, because Amazon is amazing! However we were able to get it at our local Asian market, so keep your eye out!

http://www.amazon.com/Salux-Nylon-Japanese-Beauty-Cloth/dp/B000CSDDDG


Finally Try Flutterscape! What is Flutterscape? It may seem odd or complex but it is really fun! So it starts out with a random person in Japan, who take a photo of an item at store, they post it on Flutterscape, people bid on the item, once auction is over, they go back to the store purchase item and send it to Flutterscape Headquarters who send it to the recipient. You can find all sorts of crazy random merchandise that is fun to browse through and you might come across a dream item! It is where I got the top image,Nyanpire, and below are a two cute items I found there as well!

http://www.flutterscape.com/

The Unfortunate Comfort I Have for My Body: A Personal Reflection.

This blog is sort of a mix of everything, so I thought I would share something personal for once, a little note I was writing on my thoughts of my physical appearance and lack of inspiration to get fit. I thought it would be enjoyable to some, maybe they can try to motivate me, either to stay how I am or to get off the couch.

The Unfortunate Comfort I Have for My Body

I'm very comfortable with my body but it is unfortunate because as my mother constantly reminds me I am overweight or pudgy or whatever word it is for I'm supposed to be off my butt exercising and definitely not eating that cake or that shirt is too tight because it reveals my pot belly. I'm not mad at her and it is not that I think she is wrong, I have gained a lot of weight in college. It is also not a I love my body, real women have curves spiel. I just happen to have a high tolerance for my body's appearance. While my mother grabs at the flab on her thighs explaining how she "must" go on the treadmill after a long day of cleaning the garage, I just sit and type this on my laptop. I just don't have it in me at the moment. I mean I like my breasts and my butt and the rest, eh who cares? But seriously, until I look in the mirror and gringe in disgust I will not be hoping over to that treadmill. My butt will probably get fatter and plumper, and I think I might have to acquire a hump and some boils and a snaggle tooth in order for me to go "Oh man, I gotta change!". For now, I just get to enjoy the blogging world while my mother gasps for air as she runs on the treadmill.

Cute Stew! Cute Stew Readers RULE Giveaway!

I just found Cute Stew and the name does not lie it is CUTE! She is having an awesome giveaway over there to celebrate her readers! So be sure to head over and enter, it is not just one or three winners but 12!!! All giveaway items are super cool and adorable ranging from Hello Kitty to Harajuku Lovers! Click on the link to go to Cute Stew!
http://www.cutestew.com/2010/08/my-readers-rule-giveaway.html

PRIZES!

Prize No. 1Prize No. 3Prize No.11