UrbanAddiction.com: August 2004 Archives

August 30, 2004

A Sports Injury?

While my comrades were marching at the RNC in NYC on Sunday, I stayed home and enjoyed democracy in action, on C-Span, from the comforts of my air-conditioned house. Evan called and talked me into going to play kickball in the city with a group of people who were getting up a game.

I really liked kickball as a kid and decided, why not go and hang out, meet some new people. I put on my Jane’s Addiction concert tee-shirt, sweat pants, my shades and off we went. I think the last time I played kickball was 7th grade or was it 3rd?

When we arrived at the field, every part of me said I should grab my book from the car and relax safely on the bleachers while everyone re-lived there own kickball nostalgia. I debated with myself about sitting out but as they read off the rules, I decided to live a little. Big mistake. When I finally got up to "bat", I kicked the ball all right and ran for first. Suddenly, I felt like I was on a treadmill that ran out from under me. I couldn't stop myself and fell, splat! Face down in the dirt. I actually have an extensive history of falling. I have tripped, slipped and fell everywhere from London to Miami. I’m notorious amongst my friends for landing horizontal on just about any type of sidewalk. Now it was a dirt field.

Someone was yelling to me to get up, so I did. As I stood on first the blood poured down my face. The scarf I was wearing on my head flew off when I landed on the ground and I felt my hair sticking to my bloody face. I asked the first base man if my nose was bleeding and he said yes. Funny I really didn't feel any pain, but the blood scared me. I headed to the bleachers and some concerned teammates came over to check me out. Kym shoved an aspirin at me as Evan took out a wipe and started cleaning blood off my hands and face. Evan dressed the wound, as people asked if I felt dizzy or was seeing double.

As if all of this wasn’t embarrassing enough, a Philadelphia Inquirer photographer, who was covering the game for the paper (Adults play kickball: Re-live childhood fun- angle) jumps in my face for a picture. Hair hanging, blood dripping, stunned look on my face. Now I know how front page Enquirer celebrity paparazzi victims feel. I don’t think he will use the picture and I did ask him for it, but he ignored me.

Once I was able to ice my face and look in a mirror, I saw that I didn’t break my nose, but simply my sunglasses smashed into my forehead on the fall. I don’t have a picture of the initial gore, but I will post a picture of the mending gash. Thanks to some anti-bacterial ointment and everyone that so kindly assisted me, I won’t be disfigured for life. (Thank goodness, what a dumb story this is to tell over and over)

Anyone up for a stimulating game of oh say checkers?

Once, my eyes had a sparkle

A mere shell of my former self
Click below to see some gash art

Posted by Liz at 12:57 PM | Feedback (11)

August 28, 2004

END OF SUMMER PILLOW SALE

Starting today, all pillow prices are slashed! Click on the UA SHOP. Now, only $15.00 for one and $25.00 for a set (when available). Price includes shipping. Purchase now for holidays and beat the crowds! Contact me at ERMFINE2(AT)AOL(DOT)COM

Posted by Liz at 05:22 PM | Feedback (0)

August 27, 2004

World Champion

I want to be the world champion Solitaire player. I love the game and I'm good at it. I play Microsoft's version all the time, it relaxes me. I move the cards from row to row in highly technical moves that are stunning.

Solitaire was originally installed as a way to practice mouse skills. All those business managers, like my former employer, who went into their employees' computers and deleted SOL.EXE were depriving those people of needed professional development opportunities. I'm overjoyed to no longer toil for such an apathetic company.

I would love to be in some foreign country playing a Russian or Czech Republic champs. The crowd gathers around breathless as I deal and each card appears. Slow consideration is the best strategy. I pause and consider my options. I don't just mindlessly flip the cards over. The tension builds and the crowd is enthralled.

In the elite winners circle the competition would be grueling. Opponents would invite one another out for drinks the night before the tournament in an effort to psych each another out. Big money would be at stake. I'm referring to millions in cash prizes and endorsements awarded to the world champion solitaire player. Naturally, there is the prestige and recognition that goes with being a first class player. Everyone would comment on what a phenomenon I am, and how I possess a God-given talent. I would be interviewed by magazines from all over the world, like oh say, Princess Diana.

There is nothing like a rousing game of solitaire. Now I have to finish this hand.

Click below for a cool Solitaire pic

Posted by Liz at 11:04 AM | Feedback (4)

August 25, 2004

Marie Antoinette: The Film

Sofia Coppola is directing the film version of my favorite book, Marie Antoinette: The Journey. I just read in the recent issue of Rolling Stone that Kirsten Dunst is slated to star. She is one of Sofia's recurring actress'. Certain directors have there favorite actors and they use them frequently. It's a new version of the old studio system. A steady gig if you will. Quentin Tarantino is director who uses his favorite talent over and over, Spike Lee is another. We all enjoy working with people who make us feel productive and happy. I'll keep you posted if I hear anymore on this.

Posted by Liz at 10:43 PM | Feedback (2)

August 23, 2004

What Is A Weblog?

People ask me this question all the time. I try the best I can to explain what I think is a weblog. Usually, I just come off sounding flaky. I started a weblog because I was addicted to other people's online journals. I read their thoughts and followed the daily workings of people who wanted to disclose. If they suggested a book I thought sounded interesting, I would pick it up. Clearly, I was being influenced by this burgeoning form of self-publishing.

I had a vision for my weblog and I viewed it as a creative process which made it stimulating for me. The first thing I realized is the most interesting blogs were written by people who were actually living their life. I was stuck at a job I really disliked, OK I hated it, and every one knows that. Even though I was traveling, nourishing old relationships and building new ones, I wanted more for myself creatively. I wanted to do something and feel proud of the end result. I wanted to have some control over my productivity rather than being stifled by some authority figure.

Since starting Urban Addiction.com, doors and windows have flown open for me. I have gotten job interviews and made new friends, but I also found a rewarding endeavor. I stumbled on my ability to just try something new. The outcome doesn't matter to me; it’s the fact that I made the attempt that fortifies me. I take risks and that started here, with UA. It's ironic when I think back to before I was writing online and just reading. I'm growing into what I most admired in others.

Posted by Liz at 11:57 AM | Feedback (1)

August 21, 2004

Love Letters

Today I received a love letter. Not the kind you’re thinking of, this was a real love letter. Sex and desire had nothing to do with it. No one was trying to win me back, or get me to forgive him. The letter wasn't sent to impress, just to express.

My friend Lisa sent out the following email to a few of her closest friends and family. It said the following,

"I'm working with a career coach and got an assignment to ask 10 people for their perspective on my assets. I'll need to "turn this in" sometime next week.

I don't need a paragraph or anything - more like a list of what you see as my "unique abilities" (that's what the assignment is called). As a friend, family member or co-worker, what do you think I'm good for/at? It doesn't have to be work related and it probably should be something you know about me first hand.

Anyway, thanks for your help. I know this isn't easy, and I really appreciate your taking the time to think about it and get back to me."

I jotted down a few things off the top of my head, because I felt it would be more authentic. I wanted to compose what came to mind. I sent her what I felt was a very truthful list of her most endearing traits.

Today, my friend decided to return the favor. I received an email of what she sees as my "unique abilities". I was stunned, humbled and honored all at once. Click below if you would like to read what I consider to be a superlative love letter.

So here goes:

You have such an adventurous spirit! I really admire your blog, the pillows, your travels, the groups you've hooked up with lately. And I love that you share your adventures so generously.

You are a great storyteller and talker. You have a natural rhythm that comes across in your speech and writing and makes what you have to say very engaging. You use detail and repetition very artfully to craft powerful and entertaining stories.

You have a young heart. You're on top of the latest styles and trends, and you're a very stylish woman. Also, you are drawn to younger people who you mentor without making them feel less than in any way.

You work hard at becoming a better person, and are extremely honest about your character defects. Your willingness to tell stories about how you used to be - without judging yourself for not knowing better at the time - makes me feel so much better about my own foibles.

You're always there when I need someone to talk to. You never treat me as if I'm crazy to feel the way I do, and you always have something really positive to say.

Hugs to you too,

Lisa

Posted by Liz at 11:09 PM | Feedback (4)

August 18, 2004

Bush At Boeing

My brother who is shop stewart at his job, asked me to pass along that fact that when Bush visited Boeing yesterday, just outside Philadelphia, all the union employees were given the day off with pay. Only managment was there to greet the president. Nice huh? I guess they thought the peasents would ask too many hard questions.

Posted by Liz at 02:37 PM | Feedback (3)

August 16, 2004

Frida bag

Walking down the street I spot this store that sells Mexican and South American imports. I love imported handcrafted things as most of you know if you read this blog on any kind of regular basis. I have been eyeing this Frida tote bag for about three weeks. Today, I had time and decided to investigate further. I walked in the store, asked the price and presented the plastic. Who is Frida and why is she on a bag? I guess the bag wouldn't catch your eye unless you know who is Frida Kahlo. I love her work and this bag was dirt cheap.

Frida Hangs Out At My House Click to enlarge

Posted by Liz at 07:00 PM | Feedback (0)

August 15, 2004

Success

What is success for you? For me its not money, thats for sure. I was talking with a friend tonight and he asked if I were doing any of the things I'm doing now a year go. Hell no, no way I was busy being trapped. I was a prisoner plotting and waiting for my escape. Feeling like shit everyday that I sat there, not knowing how to make it stop. Trapped is the best word to describe it. Then when I was released in a way that was supposed to hurt me, it was like the sky opened and the limits were lifted all in a matter of minutes. I took every chance that I had been wanting to take. It was like I had nothing left to fear, no more approval to seek, everything to be gained from trying. I became less judgemental. I decided to go on a road trip with my life.

Posted by Liz at 01:10 AM | Feedback (3)

August 13, 2004

Closet Cases

How about Jim McGreevey, governor of New Jersey, being in the closet? Closet cases always think no one knows when really, everyone around them knows. They tend to be generally out of sync with everyone else. There conversations are guarded at best. People feel the urge to speculate behind their backs, not that its kind, but that’s what happens. I think of my old boss, XXXXXX, and her "room mate". Every new employee would ask the inevitable question in the lunch room, "Is she gay?" It was awkward considering she played it off with the ambiguous terms, you felt like you shouldn't state the obvious. I think McGreevey's wife had to know, I mean come on. Apparently his lover was very important to him if he offered him the homeland security position in the wake of 9/11, right? Until the GLBT community is able to live freely and openly express themselves, the straight community will have to deal with the repercussions of the closet. Think what this McGreevey "scandal" is costing not only his family and co-workers, but the tax-payers of New Jersey.

Posted by Liz at 12:48 PM | Feedback (1)

Bill Maher on the American Prison System

The following is an excerpt from the August 6th broadcast of Real Time with Bill Maher on HBO.

"New Rule: You can make fun of Lynndie England all you want, but when it comes to prisons, we are all holding the leash. Now this week, America's anti-Sweetheart, Private Lynndie England, faced justice for her part in the Abu Ghraib prison scandal. Or as Rush Limbaugh calls it, "The Sleepover." Now, a lot of people think Abu Ghraib happened because, as Americans, we're comfortable asking our horny hillbillies to fight our wars. And we are. But we're also comfortable with pretending that anyone in America who winds up in prison for whatever reason somehow deserves not just loss of freedom but a brutalizing, terrifying trip to hell.

It's no coincidence that the guard described as the ringleader in Iraq, Charles Graner, worked before the war - where? - in a prison in America. He didn't learn to torture from the CIA or Special Ops. He picked it up right here and took his skills of abuse to Iraq. Outsourcing at its worst!

Now, we are all Lynndie England because we know what's happening in our prisons and we don't care. We tell ourselves - we tell ourselves the convenient lie that anyone who bears the label "criminal" or "terrorist" is irredeemable, sub-human, psycho scum, and so whatever happens to them behind bars is justified. When the truth is, millions of non-violent Americans have been traumatized for life in prisons simply because they either did drugs or made a bad judgment, usually when they were young, stupid and drunk. You'd think President Bush could relate.

There are over two million Americans behind bars, and that is not including the people who work at Wal-Mart. America, the nation that always has to be number one, is number one in percentage of its citizens in jail. Two million people. The equivalent of locking up all of Miami, which is not a bad idea until at least the election is over.

It costs $40 billion to house this many prisoners. Do you know how many countries that had nothing to do with 9/11 we could attack for that kind of money?

So, in conclusion, if your response to this is "not my problem," remember this: there are monsters and animals in our prisons, yes. But most didn't go in that way. But that's how they'll come out. Or to put it another way, if you think Martha Stewart has an attitude now... "

Posted by Liz at 11:53 AM | Feedback (1)

Peace, Love and Understanding

If we are ever going to achieve world peace in any form, it will have to begin with understanding. As an American I'm really sheltered from other cultures other than that of my European grandparents (Irish and Italian) however, I have the means to learn and freely research, if I so desire and I do. Last night HBO was showing a documentary called Death In Gaza. It was about the civilians caught in the middle of the fighting and its director who was killed while filming. Frankly, the children are taught to fear and hate and pick up arms, ON BOTH SIDES. These ancient religions don’t seem to have changed with modern times and women are limited at to what they can contribute other than acts of "martyrdom." It is a sad and hopeless life for the people of the Middle East. One by one, we all try to learn and understand the other side. We share our experience, strength and hope (what little we may have) with one another. One such extraordinary person is The Religious Policeman. What an incredible humorous blog this man risks his personal freedom to craft and impart. His grasp of western culture amazes me and his wit is right on. Open your mind, have a read through and laugh at what is an otherwise frenzied and horrifying situation for the people of the Middle East and our soldiers who are away from there loved ones here in the United States.

"I've said before, the idea of attracting tourists here, apart from pilgrims, is a total nonsense. Yes, we have a few old ruins, but nothing like as good as in Jordan and Egypt. We have excellent diving in the unpolluted Red Sea, but you can dive in the Red Sea from Egypt. We have lots of desert to trek in, but you can do that also from the Emirates or Oman. And we have good shopping, but not as good as Dubai. And overlying all of this is the fact that Saudi Arabia, in spite of the basic friendliness of its people, is so unwelcoming to tourists. Imagine a trip to Orlando where Disneyworld ejected its visitors at regular intervals for prayer time; where the Muttawa, no doubt dressed up as Mickey Mouse, asked to see your marriage certificate; where your wife was forced to dress in black, head-to-toe artificial fabric. The only possible group who might be attracted would be "cultural tourists", but it would definitely be a case of "look but don't photograph", unless one wants to sample the cultural experience of a Saudi Jail." ~ The Religious Policeman

Posted by Liz at 11:00 AM | Feedback (1)

August 08, 2004

First Impressions

Last night's topic featured a chat about first impressions. First impressions are an intriguing thing. Only time tells as to whether or not your first impression of a person has fed you any tangible information. Evan and I conveyed our first impressions of one another. Needless to say they were favorable as we are still friends and continue to associate. Over dinner and a bus ride, more was revealed. Funny, the things you have in common with people who orbit in your space. There are no coincidences. The people you are drawn to are the people that are drawn to you. Have you ever noticed that? I’m not talking physical attraction, I’m talking friendships that sometimes can be even more intimate. I reiterate, there are no coincidences.

Photo by Charlie Buffie
Do you compare your insides to others people's outsides?

Posted by Liz at 03:32 PM | Feedback (6)

August 07, 2004

War

A member of the Mahdi Army(a group that has been a source of worry to U.S. authorities since the fall of Saddam Hussein’s regime. If it can convert its street popularity into votes, Iraq’s first democratically elected Parliament could have a distinct Islamist slant), a militia loyal to radical Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr brandishes a weapon as he prepares to fight Thursday in Baghdad.

Iraqis flee from homes in Najaf during clashes Friday. With 300 dead Iraq's vice president said this in a television interview on Friday, al-Jafari expressed dismay over US claims that up to 300 Mahdi Army fighters had been killed in Najaf and said it was hardly the civilized way to rebuild Iraq. Mahdi Army claims most of the dead were civilians.

Information and pics taken from US and Aljazeera.net sites.

Posted by Liz at 09:07 AM | Feedback (0)

August 06, 2004

My First

"She's a very kinky girl
The kind you don't take home to mother
She will never let your spirits down
Once you get her off the street, ow girl" ~ Rick James

The very first concert I ever went too was Rick James at the Philadelphia Spectrum. I know I'm dating myself here, but its just part of my history. I went with three friends and we saw The Mary Jane Girls and GrandMaster Flash and the Furious Five. It was a great show as I recall. Rick James lit up what appeared to be a joint on stage and called it the real Dr. J (as in the 76'ers). Of course, in later years Rick's drug and legal problems would be akin to those of Richard Pryor and several others. Now the self proclaimed king of punk funk is dead. The funny thing is, today I found myself enthralled listening to the Clash and Sex Pistols. Back in the day it was all about George Clinton and Parliament and Rick James for me. Tastes change and life goes on.

RIP

Posted by Liz at 11:46 PM | Feedback (5)

August 05, 2004

BroadMinded Designs

Last night I connected with some new friends for dinner and drinks. One of the people in attendance was Tammy. She was wearing a beautiful earring and necklace set, that while I noticed, in retrospect, I failed to comment on. We had interesting dinner chitchat and Tammy shared that she is an avid biker. (She has the athletic shape to prove it.) Dinner and conversation lasted for a few hours, but finally they were turning the lights out on us. The gab fest continued out on the sidewalk as we exchanged pleasantries. Tammy handed me her card and we agreed to keep in touch. Her business card said BroadMinded Designs.com. I checked it out today and had no idea Tammy created the striking jewelry she was wearing! I'm keen on the colors of the beads as well as the combination of shapes. I appreciate the taste level of the pieces and most of all they are amazingly affordable for handcrafted jewelry. Need a gift, or just need to treat yourself, check out this site and get something unique from talented Tammy.

One of my personal favorites!

Posted by Liz at 02:36 PM | Feedback (1)

August 03, 2004

Sitting and Surfing

Monday was a slow day at work, so I surfed my way around the net all day. I came up with a couple of interesting things.

I've always been a big Weezer fan and I knew frontman, Rivers Coumo went to Harvard (as did guitarist, Tom Morello) but I had no idea he wasn't finished his degree. I actually came across Rivers readmission letter to Harvard where he talks about the struggles of recording a hit album and a spiritual awakening.

I'm always on the search for cool indie pop music. While I experiment listening to everything else, indie pop remains a favorite. I found this site for a New York band, called Dopo Yume'. I want to buy their CD and check them out the next time they hit Philly.

I found this comprehensive list of New York clubs and the authors pictures of different bands. JenyK.com covers it pretty well and remains an excellent resource for where to catch indie favorites.

Ivan sent me this bit of wonderfully hopeful news about those corporate nazi's Walmart. Viva La France!

Finally, I would say that normally rants bore me, but Josh came up with a great one! I have never seen a person rant about people who don't love MATH!!! Way to go Josh, rant on brother.

Josh rants

Posted by Liz at 09:23 PM | Feedback (0)

August 01, 2004

Summer Fun

I heard from two friends tonight who shared with me their summer adventures thus far. Aaron traveled 1700 miles up and down the East coast from Detroit Motor City. He loved NYC and was really moved and overwhelmed by it all. I know what a thrill that town is your first time out and Aaron made it all over from Wall St. to the Bronx. He promises to come back this way so we can hangout.

Evan from Swarthmore College who has been on tour all summer, emailed to say we might push back the Fuime Party on Aug 21st. Everyone, make sure you don't miss that night. I'll be sure to post the date and flyers will be sent out. Lots of live music and a good time for sure! Evan will be going on "significant portions" of the dnc2rnc march and I look forward to hearing all about that. Maybe we should make the Fuime gig an end of summer adventures party? If that's the case I better squeeze in a few more adventures.

Posted by Liz at 11:26 PM | Feedback (0)