The Humble Pen

Auld Lang Syne

noreply@blogger.com (Christine) — Mon, 31 Dec 2012 19:05:00 +0000

Here we are - the last day of 2012. As I write this, some areas of the world have already turned the page onto a new year. For a few minutes, I'd like to think back on the year, good and bad, and make way for a better year ahead.

2012 was an eventful year. In my family, we celebrated the birth of my adorable nephew, and mourned the recent passing of my grandfather, a great man who left us after a long life and just two days after my grandparents' 74th anniversary. We survived the devasting Superstorm Sandy, and felt our hearts break for Sandy Hook Elementary and everyone in Newtown, CT. We watched the presidential election unfold after a year of mudslinging and now watch the minutes tick pass as Congress fights over measures to keep our economy afloat. And of course, the world made it through the supposed apocalypse. These are not to make light or ignore many of the other tragedies and triumphs seen around the world; these are just some of the things that were a part of my 2012.

A new year always brings the promise of hope and new beginnings. I will remember what I've gained and lost this year, and will count my blessings, which I've grown even more to appreciate. I will enter the new year with peace, love and forgiveness in my heart, and believe that next year will be brighter.

And I wish the same for you, a new year full of promise and love. From my home to yours, happy 2013!

Restore the Shore (Sandy)

noreply@blogger.com (Christine) — Wed, 14 Nov 2012 20:31:00 +0000

On October 22, my husband emailed me a link to an article on AccuWeather.com about a tropical storm forming in the Caribbean that looked like it would trek north. It appeared to be heading our way, but maybe not; the cone of uncertainty was a little wobbly. There was talk of snow. Perhaps another white Halloween, like we had the year before. Perhaps, at worst, it would be another Irene. Probably not.

By midweek, the storm was growing into a hurricane and would continue to move north. Word spread about a cold front moving from the midwest, and a developing nor'easter from the south, all of which would get wrapped into Sandy as she neared the mid-Atlantic coast. With every report, warnings were intensifying. How bad was this thing going to be? People living in New Jersey, New York and surrounding areas were doing what they could to get themselves ready: to stock up with supplies, board-up windows, get gas. We prepared as best as we could.

On October 29, Sandy pounded into NJ. Her strength would rival stories about the Perfect Storm, which ironically took place almost 21 years before, to the day. We have lived through a lot, but nothing like this - not in recent memory.

The storm took place over 2 weeks ago, but I can still hear that screaming wind - that 75+ MPH banshee wail that was so loud, we never heard the tall trees snap in half in our back yard, our chimney cap blow off to land two houses down, the full tree that uprooted and fell against a neighbor's house. I can still imagine how I closed my eyes and braced every time that wind pushed with all its might against our little house, rattling windows and creaking walls. Just after 10 pm, after lights flickered and faded earlier, everything went dark. The whole town was out. Lights flared in yellow, blue and green in the night as transformers continued to pop.

But we were lucky. We survived. Our house still stood with hardly any damage. We still had heat and hot water (thanks to gas and steam). Power was out for a week, but we managed. Others were not so lucky. Every day, we hear stories on the news about the worst hit areas. Loss of life. Loss of homes and all they contained. Loss of landmarks and summer retreats. Loss of transit infrastructure. This was our Katrina.

You may have seen the photos of Seaside Heights, NJ, and the famous boardwalk chewed and spit back into the ocean, or the devastation in Breezy Point, NY. These are only some of the coastal areas that were hit badly. For me, my heart sank when I saw photos of Manasquan Beach, NJ, where I've spent summer days for the last 15 years, and wondered if it would ever be the same again.

Anyone who has read my blog knows how much I love New Jersey, how proud I am to be from this scrappy little state. We may be down but don't ever count us out. You best believe we will come back. But so many people here, and New York, need help - and will probably need help for a long time.

I never ask for much from my readers, but I'm asking now - please be a hero to these people who lost everything. Whatever you can do is appreciated. Below are a few links that you can visit for more info:
American Red Cross
Salvation Army
New York Cares
Occupy Sandy Recovery
Community Food Bank of NJ

Day of the Girl

noreply@blogger.com (Christine) — Thu, 11 Oct 2012 14:58:00 +0000

Today is October 11, 2012, or, as it's more fun to say 10/11/12. It's also International Day of the Girl. It's the first day of its kind, and one that hasn't fully reached awareness yet. It was declared by the United Nations General Assembly last year as a day to "to recognize girls’ rights and the unique challenges girls face around the world."

Many people might think "what's the big deal?" - why should girls get a day? Because, every day there is a struggle to be seen as equal. Because girls around the world are being forced against their will into marriage or prostitution at tender young ages. Because girls who are still children themselves are raped and forced to bear children, which often results in injury or death. Because girls in certain cultures are denied an education, suffer poverty, and are not afforded the most basic of human rights. Because girls in China are often aborted before they are even born because boys are preferred under the one-child law. Because girls are still seen as "less than" and that all needs to stop - even here in the U.S., where there is still social suppression of girls and women.

Because girls could do a hell of a lot better running this world than the men, if given the chance!

And on this day, let's remember Malala Yousafzai - the 14-year old girl who was shot in Pakistan by the Taliban because she dared to speak out and fight for her right, and the right of other girls, to receive an education. Her dream is to become a doctor. The Taliban shot her because they felt she was promoting secularism and Western culture. I will say this once - and let's be clear - The Taliban are a bunch of unworthy cowards who could not, in a hundred years, with all their threats and suicide bombs and terror plots, have the strength and courage that Malala has demonstrated. She is an inspiration and her passion will not vanquish because a group of backwards-thinking people do not like what she has to say, nor should it.

It is because of Malala and all girls around the world that we need to refocus our sights on what can be done to help them, to elevate them, to remove these barriers. I don't know that blogging about it here will cause much change - but I hope to at least encourage you to be a part of the conversation. Get outraged. Get motivated. Now, let's get moving...

Summer Wrap-Up

noreply@blogger.com (Christine) — Tue, 28 Aug 2012 15:40:00 +0000

Being that I haven't blogged since April, you would think this should be something like the "Half-Year Wrap Up" and maybe in a way, it is. When you move from day to day, you think that nothing important or momentous happened that is necessarily worth blogging about. When you do a retrospective, and see what has transpired over a 5- or 6-month period, it gives pause to how quickly life passes.

With the approach of Labor Day, I lament the waning summer days and wish (as I do every year) that I did more to capture the essence of the season's freedom. Sure, we have a few more weeks before summer officially comes to a close, but here are the highlights (and low) of my summer:

May: I became an aunt for the first time, and I'm loving it. My little nephew is the cutest boy and, even though he is not my child, I cannot wait to watch him grow and change. I wonder what kind of person he will develop into. If he is anything like his parents, he will be intelligent, loving, outgoing - and tall.Will he play football like his daddy? Will he be involved in the community like his mommy? Will he create new paths and follow his own dreams? Either way, I vow to be the best aunt I can be for him.
June: A heart-breaker of a meeting for work, but lessons learned. Dad had emergency surgery for a detached retina. Summer Fridays spent in hospitals or doctors' offices. A beach day thrown in for good measure. Spent a Girls Night Out with my friends, catching up. Finished "So Cold the River." Spent a lovely day in NYC with hubby, and discovered a fantastic restaurant.
July: A series of health scares with my 93-year old grandfather. In and out of hospitals and related facilities. Preparing ourselves (over and over) for his final days. Each day feels like limbo, watching my 93-year old grandmother fear for the worst, losing her partner for almost 74 years. Having him come back from the brink, for the time being. Managed a low-key celebration of my birthday with hubby. Hot, hot summer.
August: Similar to July, minus the birthday dinner. More serious scare with grandfather and his placement into hospice. And again, back from the brink. Remembering the tropical storm that hit one year ago today, flooding our town and surrounding areas. Also remembering preparing for our trip to Germany, just a few days after the storm. Watching now, reports of Hurricane Isaac nearing New Orleans nearly 7 years to the day after Katrina and hoping for the best. Interested to see Republican National Convention this week and Democratic National Convention next week, and wonder with a little trepidation which direction our country will take. Either way, I have a few concerns.

So, there you have it. My little summer wrap up. Let's see what autumn brings!

Feeding the Fear

noreply@blogger.com (Christine) — Tue, 03 Apr 2012 23:32:00 +0000

Well, hello, April. When did you slip in?

So, there is this show on the National Geographic Channel called "Doomsday Preppers." Have you seen it? My husband and I have watched a few episodes, mostly in disbelief and with a chuckle. Are these folks for real?

If you haven't seen it, the show focuses on people around the country who, as the Website describes, are "...otherwise ordinary Americans who are preparing for the end of the world as we know it." They are convinced that the world will implode, metaphorically or otherwise, in their lifetime, and there will be food and supply shortages, mass riots, killing, and worse. Think The Road. They train themselves on survival skills and prepare earnestly for that unavoidable "doomsday."

I have to say, in some ways, I admire these preppers. As the suburban girl that I am, where most things I use are purchased, I can't say that I have developed many survival skills like sharp-shooting, growing my own anything (other than the tomatoes that seem to rot every year!), sewing my own clothes, camouflaging, digging bunkers or spider holes, etc. Other than the natural intuition to fight or flee, I don't know how I would hold up. So far, our plan for {cough} apocolyptic supplies include Spam (yuck), Slim Jims, Tang and Twinkies (provided Hostess doesn't go out of business). Not quite sustenance. And what could I throw into my bug-out bag (aka, my LL Bean backpack)? Chapstick?

Also, the preppers' fear that a doomsday is upon us is not totally unfounded. Our society - any society, not just in the U.S. - is frail. We see dysfunctional governments, skyrocketing costs and unemployment, never-ending wars, terrorist cells, nuclear threats, civil uprisings, environmental disasters. The way things are going, it's very likely we'll bring about our own demise unless we pull ourselves together. Soon. I won't even get into the Mayan prophecy that the world will end this December. I'm more skeptical on that, but we'll see. It would be a shame to have everything end just before Christmas.

So, I wonder, with everything going on in the world, whether this show is feeding the fear - or creating fear when there presently isn't any. Or should we be afraid? Should we all be more prepared for that elusive "doomsday" or is it just hype? Some let the idea consume them fully. Others feel that the Good Lord will take them when it's time so they are not scared. What about you? I'm just curious to hear other opinions on this.

Leaping Lizards

noreply@blogger.com (Christine) — Wed, 29 Feb 2012 13:00:00 +0000

Happy Leap Day!

There's something special about a day that makes an appearance on the calendar only every 4 years. Some think it's an extra chance to do something out of the ordinary; others think of it simply as extra time to get more done and cram more "life" into a year. Some expect the unexpected; some have no expectations and just see what the day brings.

Whatever you think of today, let's make the most of it. We won't see it again for another 4 years - and who knows what the world will be like then.

What are your plans this Leap Day?

It Ain't Me

noreply@blogger.com (Christine) — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 02:36:00 +0000

During my first trip to Germany, back in high school, I visited relatives of my host student. They were very kind to me and showed me the sights of the Black Forest and surrounding areas. When we got back to their house for dinner, the aunt asked me if I wanted McDonald's for dinner. I was stunned and confused, and said, no, I would eat whatever they were preparing. The aunt said that she thought all Americans eat McDonald's.

That wasn't the first time I realized that Americans are often misrepresented abroad...or even at home for that matter. It was just one of the first times it happened directly to me. Clearly, that had a resonating impact.

Now, I am aware of the unfavorable perception many around the world have about America and its citizens. Some perceptions are warranted, most are not. What's frustrating to me is that America isn't helping the cause, and it seems to be undermining us all the time by exporting the worst of American pop culture and politics, and much more. Unless you live in a particular society, you won't understand the intricacies of that culture. {This same philosophy applies to American perceptions about other cultures, too, 'k?} Stereotyping is just plain ignorant. Period.

A very simple example: When I hear ANYTHING about Snooki and her pals on Jersey Shore, I want to scream at the top of my lungs that "Not everyone from New Jersey is like that!!" We are as varied as the day is long.

Other examples: Not all Republicans are ignorant, bigoted Bible-thumping evil spawns of Satan (I can hear you mutter under your breath...you're not getting my point, are you?). Not all Democrats are ignorant, granola-loving, unwashed, unambitious, unemployed moochers. Not all Christians are born-again Tea Partiers and not all Muslims are terrorists. Not all Americans are overweight diabetics that only eat McDonald's. And one more for good measure - not everyone who is working class wants to be a part of the 99%. Strong words? Sure. I'm sure you've heard - maybe even said - worse. I don't mean to offend. But it's time that people (here and abroad) stop pigeonholing folks because they have only part - or a gross misinterpretation - of the story.

I don't let these people speak for me - or define me - and neither should America.

Merry Happy

noreply@blogger.com (Christine) — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 20:54:00 +0000

It's just a few days before Christmas. Where did the year go?

Last year this time, I felt like 2010 ran me over, backed up, and did it again. 2010 was a terrible, horrible, no good very bad year. I had great hopes for 2011 - it was going to be a better year. It had to be. It surely couldn't get much worse.

And better 2011 was. It started out a little shaky, but once it got some ground under its feet, it was off and running and barely looked back. It wasn't perfect. But it didn't have as much to apologize for, either. Except the Kardashian wedding, but that's another story. And as the year runs its final cool-down lap, it leaves me with a sense that, yes, 2012 will be an awesome year. Don't ask me how I know these things. I just do. And even if the world ends on December 21, 2012, we can go out like rock stars, knowing that we had at least one good year behind us.

So, even though it's just over a week away, I raise my imaginary glass and toast the end of one year and the beginning of another, and the sense that we may find ourselves in a place of happiness and contentment.

And for those celebrating the holidays now, I wish you a very Merry Happy!

Such Random Things (Inspirations)

noreply@blogger.com (Christine) — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 03:35:00 +0000

As I write this, I'm listening to Brooke Fraser's "Flags," a gorgeous song about the suffering we all experience but how there is still hope in this world. As I become more acquainted with her music and often Christian-themed song writing, there is a sense of peace. Now, I'm not one to listen to overtly religious music. I just can't. I'm sorry. But I'm a sucker for a tender song about hope and redemption, and this song brings to mind several friends I know who are "going through things" at the moment - maybe even you - and that we all can serve as that listening ear and provide a bit of inspiration.

So, with that - and with the celebration of Thanksgiving still lingering - I thought I would share some inspiring stories:

Just over a year ago, a very good friend of mine was in a horrible accident. It wasn't certain this person would survive, and if so, it wasn't certain what quality of life she would have. It's been a long, painful road over the last year for her and her family...and all of her friends who continued to pray for her. I saw her just a few weeks ago and she has made tremendous progress. I don't think it necessary to go into details, but let me tell you - to be able to be with my friend and talk like old times, to witness her strength and ever-present optimism and faith...she amazes me so much. Say what you want, but I truly believe Someone was listening to those prayers.
This past weekend, my wonderful grandparents celebrated 73 years of marriage. 73. I struggle to think what 20 or 30 years might look like, but 73? They have experienced war, death, caring for elders, illnesses, and so much more - things that would tear any couple today apart - and there is still so much love there. I think about how many people I know who have divorced or are in unhappy marriages and how easily people give up. It ain't easy, and my grandparents would be the first to tell you so. But it is a partnership, and it takes compromise from time to time. I continue to learn so much from them.
A couple I know recently gave birth to a beautiful baby...who was born with Downs Syndrome. It's one of those genetic disorders that, unfortunately, is not discussed much and is often at the center of gross misunderstanding. Public insensitivity and ignorance abound. Still, from day one, my friend and his wife fell in love with this bundle of joy and the love grows stronger every day. And from their corner of the world, they are trying to educate people a little more about this disorder. Their story is such an inspiration to me.
A few weeks ago was the famed New York Marathon. Being as how I haven't run any sort of distance since my cross country days about 17 years ago, I am always impressed by people who train and run marathons, half-marathons, Tough Mudders and such. I always feel a little bit...how shall we say...fat and lazy? These races are no joke, and neither is training, and when a friend of mine trained and ran the marathon for the first time - mind you, a person I did not know was physically fit in any way - I was inspired. No, I'm not preparing for a marathon. But it got me thinking that nothing is worth anything without a little pain and hard work. And although I push myself everyday to do the most I can do, do I really? Is it enough? It's time to step up.

These are just some of the stories from recent weeks that serve as inspiration to me.

What inspires you?

Only Half the Journey...

noreply@blogger.com (Christine) — Fri, 07 Oct 2011 17:52:00 +0000

I recently returned from a vacation to Bavaria, Germany. It was lovely, as one would expect, full of gorgeous mountains, centuries-old churches, small alpine villages, tourist destinations and all the bratwurst and beer your tummy could handle. It was an experience that I will always treasure.

However, the one image that keeps recurring in my memory is not one of the many wonderful sights we saw on land, but one seen from the sky.

Call me crazy (you wouldn't be the first) but - despite the growing inconvenience, cost and total lack of comfort these days - I love to fly. I always try to get a window seat and follow along like a child tracing a map - the winding roads and waterways; the thin, white edges of the sea's coast like a torn sheet of paper; the discernible landmarks; the mountains capped with snow; the pillars of Earth rising out of the desert, and so on. It's like taking a second trip.

Coming home from Germany, we went north - probably to avoid some storms that were pressing through France. Up across Belgium, across the whipping winds of the North Sea, over England's rugged coast. We flew over the Irish Sea, and then across Ireland above the legendary stone walls, so neatly arranged - gleaming the Emerald Isle of our imaginations. Hours over the open Atlantic, and then suddenly - icebergs, anchored so near the coast of Newfoundland and tiny houses and their weathered inhabitants.

Icebergs.

I never saw icebergs before. I didn't even know they could drift so far south (or were we that far north?) From 30,000 feet, it was difficult to tell at first what the white spots were below us. Caps of waves? Bits of clouds that were popping into view? Boats? Then they became larger. There was even one so large I think it must have been a glacier (or not) with the bluest core I have ever seen. To think how cold it must be there, how the hearty the local people must be (I could not imagine winter there), and how blessed they are to have such incredible natural surroundings. To be so connected to the sea.

[I didn't take photos, but look at these from Downhome Magazine.

Icebergs.

They serve as my reminder that the earth-bound destination is only half of the journey - there is so much of the world out there. And even if it is viewed from afar, enjoy. And I hope someday to take my earth-bound destination to Newfoundland and see those icebergs close-up.

Has it been 20 years already?

noreply@blogger.com (Christine) — Sat, 24 Sep 2011 18:40:00 +0000

"No sir, I don't like it."

That's a quote from one of my favorite '90s cartoons "Ren and Stimpy." (More about that in a minute.)

That's also how I feel about a sudden rash of 20th anniversaries that are cropping up. Not so much the anniversaries themselves - who doesn't love to celebrate important milestones? - but the fact that I've been around long enough to remember when the events were current...and that I was old enough even then to enjoy them. I know, I know: anyone older than, say, 30 is in this boat with me. But seriously. When did we get that old? Why do I find myself telling the "when I was your age" stories? Why do I find myself saying "oh {shoot} ! It can't be 20 years already? Wait, how old am I now? oh man."

20 years ago, Little Chrissy was in 8th grade (incidentally, a 20th class reunion was just scheduled), watching the world break open and events unfold that would define a decade and a generation, and influenced the quirky girl you know today. And now we're remembering, 20 years later:

Ren & Stimpy: This show on Nickelodeon was cutting edge, and I'm convinced it wasn't designed at all for children but, more likely, stoned college students. But I enjoyed it anyway, as did my best friend, and together we would burst out at random times with the "Muddy the Mudskipper" song or the fake commercial "Log" as a parody to the real "Slinky" commercials. And who could forget "Happy, happy, Joy, joy"? Go ahead - judge me. You know you love it, too.

Nevermind: The quintessential album of the '90s. You couldn't escape the urgency of "Smells like Teen Spirit" or the dark, flannel-wearing introspection that surrounded it. My older sister had the CD and played it a lot, and so I listened, a lot. Being the confused kid that I was during a poignantly dark period of my life, the angst of every song appealed to me. It didn't matter that my adolescent mind couldn't fully comprehend the context of the lyrics, nor that the majority of kids in my class were listening to R&B and had no idea "alternative" music existed. I didn't follow the trendy grunge look, nor did I understand at the time how important this album was to the sea-change that would befall rock music. It's only within recent years that I came to appreciate the poetry of the lyrics and genius behind the composition. Kurt, you are still missed.

Pearl Jam and Ten: Yes, the grunge scene was bursting open. As a kid of the sparkly '80s and more in-tune with sparkly new wave than the underground punk scene, grunge was...well, kinda grungy. I remember seeing the video for "Alive" and thinking, that's kind of a cool song. Who would have thunk that they would last 20 years? At the time, I thought they were trying to be a Nirvana knock-off. Boy, was I wrong. Eddie Vedder was like the modern-day storyteller (much like Bob Dylan or Billy Joel, if you will) that spoke to a generation. How many times do we think of "Jeremy" whenever there is a tragic school shooting? Unfortunately, too many.

Guns N' Roses Use Your Illusion I and II: Kids, I know it's hard to imagine that Axl Rose used to be cool...but 20 years ago, he was. And so was his band. And this double album made them maybe just a little more acceptable by pop radio - with the likes of "November Rain", one of the all-time top rock ballads. Who would have thought the crazy, alcohol-soaked "hair" band could create something so significant? Polar opposite of Nirvana? Sure. But no less important.

There are many, many other 20th pop-culture anniversaries being celebrated - the release of Thelma and Louise (I was too young to appreciate), Wiggles (I was too old to care), the launch of Lollapalooza (I'm still uber-jealous of my sister who attended), and some of the other events noted in this timeline. Still, as Tears for Fears once said, I find it kind of funny and I find it kind of sad to look back, think about our culture and our world 20 years ago, how far we've come and how far we still need to go. In 20 years, what culturally significant events will we celebrate? That Snookie was able to stay out of jail, or that anyone without talent could become an overnight star? Oh...Nevermind.

Rockin' in the Free World

noreply@blogger.com (Christine) — Mon, 04 Jul 2011 20:32:00 +0000

Two years ago, I blogged about one of the best radio stations I've ever had the privilege to experience: WRXP 101.9. I've been a faithful listener ever since.

But for how much longer?

News surfaced recently about the station's acquisition by Merlin Media from Ennis Communications. Now rumors are spreading like wildfire that the station's rock format will flip to either talk/news radio, or, less likely, a country music station.

For me and thousands of other listeners in the NYC area, this is tragic news. When I heard this news, I felt like Merlin killed a piece of my soul and will not be satisfied until my entire soul is dead. Maybe this seems like I'm over-reacting, but consider this:

1) KROCK and WDRE/WLIR changed owners/formats a few years ago, as did WHTG in New Jersey. There is WDHA, a classic rock station, also based in New Jersey - but without WRXP, fans of modern rock, alternative and new music will not have a place to call home. Once again, we will be disenfranchised. Once again, we will be told that we do not count. Once again, these station owners will be absolutely wrong.

2) People like to say that New York is not a rock-and-roll town. I can't think of a place that's more rock-and-roll. It's not just about the beat. It's not just about the music. It's the attitude. It's freedom at its rawest, in the shadow of the very symbols of American freedom. Trying to separate NYC from its rock roots is impossible. And it will not roll over and play dead for talk radio.

3) This article gives a quote describing Merlin Media's CEO, Randy Michaels, as "...a guy who loves radio. He adores it." Really? Which part? The money? Or transmitting absolutely useless crap that stirs no emotion to a sea of people who may only listen as a sleeping aid. Very sad.

I don't want my musings to come across like a kid whose favorite toy is being taken away. No. As a college-educated professional in my early 30s, I am representative of the very demographic that stations should be trying to reach, rather than kicking them in the stomach. One of the key things a potential Merlin Media employee must do, according to their own site) is "preserve and enhance the good will." Really? It would seem that Merlin - a company that's just a few weeks old - is tromping all over "good will." Way to build a legion of loyal listeners. Clearly, if Merlin flips formats, suspicions that they are only interested in money will be confirmed.

As the lowly peon on the bottom of the food chain, perhaps my words don't matter. Perhaps they will fall on deaf ears - tone deaf ears - and they will have no impact whatsoever. But perhaps a sea of words will create a flood of change and stop this format flip before it's too late.

I want to keep rockin' in the free world. Do you, New York?

Join on Facebook: Save Rock 101.9
Contact: Merlin Media

Let Love Rule 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Christine) — Wed, 29 Jun 2011 12:34:00 +0000

Just a few days ago, New York became the sixth, and largest, U.S. state to legalize same-sex marriage. I join in the millions of supporters when I say: "Way to go, New York!" This is exciting news and gives hope to many, many others who still do not have that freedom.

Just across the river, in my little state of New Jersey, our governor still say "No way." Normally, I would appreciate someone sticking to their guns, not giving up on their convictions or giving in to social pressures. But...this is different. This is about human rights, civil rights, and the freedoms that we should be able to celebrate in this awesome country of ours.

There was an editorial in my local paper yesterday briefly explaining who is permitted to marry in NJ and who cannot. Can you believe that first cousins can marry in NJ, as well as children under 18 years of age (with parental consent)? What is this - backwoods U.S.A.? Poor Arkansas is always the punchline of those jokes about cousins marrying, but guess what? It's prohibited in Arkansas! And still, gay couples cannot marry.

I know that not everyone shares my viewpoint or supports gay marriage. I appreciate that they have their own perspective. In fact, in a poll on CNN.com, public opinions were split 60% in favor, 40% opposed to legalization of gay marriage. But I cannot, for the life of me, understand how one can justify denying another human being liberties that they themselves are granted. And the arguments don't hold water. Let's try to break it down.

- Gay marriage defies the sanctity of marriage. What about heterosexual couples that cheat or divorce on a whim? Is that ok because they're straight? What about Arnold, John, Anthony and the countless others who have veered off the Golden Path? The public is outraged for about 5 minutes and then forget about it...maybe even forgive, especially if said-cheater makes a lame attempt at redemption via "rehab" or tries to rebuild via a talk show.

- Gay marriage goes against the Bible and God's law. Maybe. But after 12 years of Catholic school and religion classes, I don't recall reading anything of the sort in the Bible (although, as you can imagine, we received the proverbial "It's Adam and Eve, not Adam and Steve" lectures). And unless those who use this as an argument personally visited God at home and discussed this topic at length over tea, I highly doubt anyone can say with any certainty this is how it should be. And if that's not enough for you, think about the Golden Rule. Now think about the Ten Commandments. Now, repeat the line in either one that states that gay marriage is wrong. Go on, I'll wait.

I thought so.

- The purpose of marriage is procreation. Is that all? Man, am I in trouble. So are the countless others who either don't have children or can't have children. And all this time I thought I married my husband because we loved each other and wanted to spend the rest of our lives together. Boy, was I a dummy. What about those people who have children within the sanctity of marriage who neglect or abuse their children, or worse? Are you not outraged by that more so than if a gay couple married?

- Marriage is a sign of commitment and gay couples cannot commit. Really? I know gay couples that have been together longer than most straight couples. Also, do you realize that the divorce rate in the U.S. is 50%? That's a big number. Many people I love dearly are divorced, and I realize that there are a multitude of reasons for it. To assume that heterosexual couples are immune to these issues, or that gay couples are subject to them, is just plain absurd.

My point is not to offend. My point to make people think. Isn't it time that we move along with the times and realize that a change has to come?

Love Thy Self

noreply@blogger.com (Christine) — Mon, 16 May 2011 20:53:00 +0000

Ok, let's just get the obvious out of the way. Yes, it's been two months since my last post. No, I have not been wandering Bora Bora, been locked in a dungeon or anything of the sort. Just plain old busy.

Which is kinda a good segue into my post. Why do I feel the need to explain to my few wonderful readers out there why I haven't posted recently? Furthermore, how do I know it's just "a few" of you out there? Well...yeah, that's a little easier to quantify, but my point is...there's always that evil, little monkey in the corner of my brain that screams about living up to expectations...and feeling guilty about it when I don't.

Sure, most of the time, these are self-imposed expectations - things that should make me feel more confident about life, but more often than not, they make me feel worse. Way worse. To the point it changes-my-whole-disposition-kind of worse. I should live in a better home, have a better job, wear better clothes, weigh less, have perfect hair, be the confident, perky, radiant woman I'm meant to be. But then I realize "should" is not the same as "is" and that's when the trouble starts. There is a fear of admitting "failure". Even now, there is a sense "I should not post this", "what will they think?", "what if this sounds lame and my point isn't clear?" But that's also part of the shame and feeds into the perpetual cycle.

Which is why, when I saw this article about self compassion, I felt for once that I'm not alone in my experience. And reiterating that "the secret to success is the ability to fail." Not to say that failure is the goal, just - that we all fail from time to time, no one is perfect, and we have to be gentle with ourselves. Easier said than done. Bad habits are hard to break. But it gives me hope - and I'm posting this so that maybe I can pass along that hope to someone else.

Plastic Not-So Fantastic

noreply@blogger.com (Christine) — Sun, 20 Mar 2011 22:45:00 +0000

Some questions are asked so frequently that they kind of become a joke. A hackneyed, overplayed, not-so-funny-anymore kind of joke.

Think "Boxers or briefs?"

Or "Paper or plastic?"

In recent years, I have made a conscious effort to not use plastic bags when I go grocery shopping. I have a few reusable bags (which, for the record, always amaze me with how much they can hold) and if I don't have enough of my own bags, I prefer paper bags, which I can use for my paper recycling. No fuss, no muss - no piles of of flimsy plastic bags that always leave me wondering whether they really will be recycled properly or just sit in a landfill somewhere. {Here's a site that is semi-helpful when it comes to learning more about plastic bag recycling}

But...well, is it me, or does it seem like grocery stores are really pushing people to use plastic bags?

If I ask for paper, I am asked in return "Paper inside of plastic?" No. Just paper. Pa-per.

If I'm bagging, and the check-out person decides to help bag the last few items, what does he or she automatically grab - even though not a single plastic bag has touched my hands? That's right. Plastic.

Last week, knowing I would need a few paper bags in addition to my own bags, I watched in horror as the check-out person actually removed a stack of paper bags, put them in hiding under the counter and presented a fresh pack of plastic bags. I felt a barely-audible whimper slip out as I stood by, almost helpless as my choice was taken away. I had to wonder if this was a global initiative by the store - is it cheaper for the store to offer plastic instead of paper?

I got my paper bags in the end, but wonder how many people would just go with the flow and not notice or care what bags are used, just like I used to do. Who knows. But I came across this article that breaks down the issue of paper vs. plastic.

Maybe one day, there won't even be a question of "Paper or plastic?"

On the Move

noreply@blogger.com (Christine) — Tue, 15 Feb 2011 23:30:00 +0000

For the last few months, the predominant theme in my life has been moving.

First, my family helped move my grandparents from their home of 18 years to a place closer to the rest of the family. It was a big undertaking to say the least. We sorted, packed, tossed, sold, saved several decades worth of memories. Even the smallest item would hold some sort of sentiment. "I remember when your grandfather gave me this [item] when we first moved to [city] back in [year]." or some such phrasing. The mere act of holding some of the things churned memories that I had long forgotten and made me a little sad to watch things change. And it wasn't even my home.

Now, while not nearly as traumatic as moving from a beloved home, I face another move - at work. Our office is moving just a few miles up the road - not far at all, hardly enough to make a significant dent in my commute - but enough to be completely foreign after coming to work nearly every day for 8+ years to the same building. The process of sorting, packing, tossing, selling and saving things is in full swing. As a coworker said to me, "I never thought I would feel sad to see everything boxed up."

It will be a change for sure, on several levels. Still, as I sort through things I filed away years ago, I am reminded of the young adult I was when I started, the projects I worked on then and how I've grown professionally since. The "war stories," the memories of coworkers who have moved on, the clients who have changed. I will miss the familiar faces of others in the building, the town center at lunchtime on a warm sunny day, the gorgeous view from my office window. I realize how easy it is to get lost in the day-to-day, the frustrations, deadlines, and such, and how very easy it is to take for granted the little things that build memories. And how comfortable we become when in one spot for too long.

So, just like any change, it will take some time to get used to. I will need to start a new routine and adjust a little, but it's time to build some new memories and begin new stories. Until the next chapter of change is ready to unfold.

Such Random Things (Strange Brew Edition)

noreply@blogger.com (Christine) — Sun, 16 Jan 2011 18:05:00 +0000

Wikipedia is 10 years old already. That "free encyclopedia that anyone can edit" gained momentum over the years, and although I'm not sure it has earned respect as a legitimate resource, most people online have probably referred to it at least once over the last decade. And sometimes found reason to scratch our heads or laugh in the process.
The Book of Mormon - coming to a Broadway theatre near you! From the creators of "South Park"...so, yeah...it's probably exactly what you expect. Not sure how folks would feel if it was called "The Bible" or "The Qur'an." On second thought, I know exactly how folks would feel.
What lavishness will Kate and Wills plan for their wedding? I'm sure it will be lovely, but maybe they should avoid all that stress and just get hitched in Dunkin' Donuts like this couple. I wonder if the bride had wedding jitters {ba da bum}.
Romania is proposing a tax on witches, astrologers, and fortunetellers.And the response of those to be taxed? Why, casting spells, of course. Naturally. I wonder what would have happened if that tactic had been used in Boston Harbor in 1773...

Stealing Youth

noreply@blogger.com (Christine) — Tue, 04 Jan 2011 14:21:00 +0000

First, I want to start by wishing you all a happy new year! I have a good feeling about this year. I don't know what it is, but even at the very stroke of midnight, as 2010 vanished into 2011, I felt the heaviness lift. Let's enjoy this moment of hope while we can.

Second: it's time again to get down to business...and a new post, eh?

OK. So...recently, I was shopping in an "upscale" department store for a gift for a young child. A 4-year-old girl to be exact. Now, I'm not a mother yet, but I know a few children and still have a sense for what kids wear. Or do I?

Sure, there were the quintessential long-sleeve shirt with a kitty and rainbow on it, footy pajamas, ruffled sweaters. But there were also colorful tu-tus seemingly from the Lady Gaga children's fashion line; sequenced pants for that aspiring Solid Gold dancer in the family; a faux black leather jacket complete with a hoodie for the littlest biker chick; and the military-inspired jacket and newsboy cap that would do either Che Guevara or any coffee-house regular proud.

I understand that parents want their kids to look cool...maybe even to reflect the parents' own styles. But, when I saw those clothes, it made me realize that we keep pushing our children to be little adults - not children. And it seems to me that it's not just fashion, but also other products. A few months ago, I went to a restaurant to see a child around 7 years old playing with an iPad like a toy. An iPad. Really? Very few adults I know have one, let alone a child using it as a plaything. Music, TV, movies, the list goes on.

I guess I shouldn't be so judgmental. I mean, when I become a parent, maybe I will be sucked right along with these trends all in the name of making my child happy. Then again, I can blame all of these external sources for stealing the youth from our children, but isn't it the responsibility of the parent to guide and make the decisions for a child until he or she is old enough to make his/her own decisions?

What do you think? If you're a parent, what is your opinion on what is being offered for kids today?

My Christmas Wish

noreply@blogger.com (Christine) — Tue, 14 Dec 2010 14:27:00 +0000

Oh, 2010. What a long, strange trip it's been. I can't say that I'll be sorry to see you go.

This year, more than any others in recent memory, has brought personal tragedy to people I know and love, has brought drastic changes that should never have been, has piled on the stress, insecurity and instability to almost every one I talk to. But...as the saying goes, that which does not kill us, makes us stronger. And strong we are.

This time of year always fills me with hope and faith: Faith in the people of the world to love each other a little deeper. Hope that we have learned something from the previous year to find it within ourselves to carry on and make the world - or our little corner of it - a little bit better. Faith that the new year will bring a fresh start and better things for all. Hope that we realize the gifts that we have been given and not to waste them.

So, whether you celebrate Christmas or not, here is my wish for all of us:
Peace in our hearts, minds and souls. Love that will wrap us in its warmth always. Faith that there is always a light at the end of the tunnel and we will bask in that light soon. Happiness in celebrating life's treasures that cannot be bought.

Here's to a wonderful 2011.

Soul Pancake: Question to Ponder

noreply@blogger.com (Christine) — Wed, 17 Nov 2010 21:25:00 +0000

I haven't forgotten about you, dear little blog. Work has been hectic and hopefully after December 3, I will be able to breathe again and give you a little more attention. In the meantime...

So, my husband recently introduced me to Soul Pancake. What is Soul Pancake, you may ask? It's a quirky little Website, co-created by actor Rainn Wilson of "The Office" fame (US version) and it attempts to tackle "life's big questions." Or at least, totally random questions that you might discuss with your friends after several rounds of drinks. Either way, it's a lot of fun.

So...do you want to try it "Soul Pancake" style? Let's see how we do.

One of my favorite questions (so far) that I've seen on S.P. is "What do you wish you'd accepted about yourself sooner?"

For me, there is a lot, but I'll spare you the therapy session and say that I wish I had accepted my height earlier. I was always the tallest kid in my class and still am one of the tallest of my friends. I always wanted to be shorter, petite, cute, but instead felt like a hulking beast next to my girlfriends. It even got to the point where I would purposely slouch to look shorter...and in effect, looked even geekier than I already did. But now that I'm older, I certainly appreciate being tall. Somewhere along the way, I also accepted that I am, by nature, a quiet person - and that there is nothing wrong with that.

Now, it's your turn. What do you wish you'd accepted about yourself sooner?

Rock the Vote

noreply@blogger.com (Christine) — Mon, 01 Nov 2010 13:46:00 +0000

REMINDER: Tomorrow is election day in the United States.

I can think of very few excuses that would prevent anyone from voting...and since so many of you managed to get out to vote two years ago for the presidential election, there's no reason why you shouldn't continue to exercise your right as a citizen to make your voice and opinions heard through the vote.

This seems like a strange political year. Mid-term elections usually do not raise eyebrows...not like this year. The mud slinging has morphed into an all-out ugly brawl with metaphorical fisticuffs, low blows, name calling, chair throwing, hair pulling...I'm just waiting for the choke slam. "In this corner, we have the disenchanted left. In the other corner, we have the radical right." And the rest of us seem to fall in between as helpless spectators. But we cannot afford to be spectators. We count, too. This is our country, our state, our town. We need someone who will represent us. Not happy with the way things have been going and want someone new? Tell them so. Think your representatives are just fine. Vote to keep them around. Election Day is our day to speak up.

So - whether you are red, blue, checkered, whatever - now is your time to stand up and take action. You think your vote doesn't matter? Think again. Every vote counts.

See you at the polls.

Prayer of Healing

noreply@blogger.com (Christine) — Thu, 21 Oct 2010 23:13:00 +0000

I'm not a religious person, but I do believe in God. Recently, a tragedy occurred that involved one of my closest friends. I won't go into details, because those who need to know already know, but I don't believe I have ever prayed so hard in my life...joining so many other prayers. And I think those prayers are starting to help. I have to believe they are.

So, this song is dedicated to my friend who needs our healing thoughts and prayers right now.

It's a Jersey Thing

noreply@blogger.com (Christine) — Fri, 15 Oct 2010 13:24:00 +0000

This week, the folks at "South Park" aired the highly-anticipated, highly-controversial (would it be "South Park" otherwise?), and absolutely hilarious episode about New Jersey.

You could look at the episode two ways:
1) The creators of the show truly hate all things New Jersey, and like most people who have never been here, think we're all a bunch of idiots just like those seen on TV and in the movies, and this was a statement on how our state sucks - OR -
2) Like any intelligent person, they were mocking the idiots on TV and in the movies who "represent" New Jersey because the whole thing is so absurd. Either way, the creators of "South Park" show no mercy to anyone or anything, and NJ was just ripe for the plucking. Although the bit about a certain terrorist group helping out was just unnecessary.

I want to call attention to two sites:
Jersey Doesn't Stink - because, well, it doesn't. It rocks.
New Jersey Hall of Fame - because you would be surprised who calls/called NJ "home."

The "South Park" episode inserts the phrase "It's a Jersey thing. You wouldn't understand." throughout the show to insinuate that raucous fights, orange skin, slicked hair, gold chains and rings, and an overall obnoxious attitude is...well, a Jersey thing. It's not. Maybe certain pockets of people...who are also mocked by the rest of New Jersey.

You know what's a Jersey thing?
- The Jersey Shore, the Pine Barrens, the Highlands
- The Geraldine R. Dodge Poetry Festival
- Jersey Fresh produce and wine
- Dinosaurs (ok, not exclusively a Jersey thing, but still cool)
- Weird NJ
- Pride in our state
- Talent (see NJ Hall of Fame or this list for a taste)
- Music, music, and music:

And so, so much more.

My dad used to say "If you can do it, it aint' bragging." New Jersey can definitely bring it, so there should be no wonder why we carry such pride for our little state.

Or maybe it's just a Jersey thing. You wouldn't understand.

Book Crooks

noreply@blogger.com (Christine) — Fri, 01 Oct 2010 22:00:00 +0000

"If you resist reading what you disagree with, how will you ever acquire deeper insights into what you believe? The things most worth reading are precisely those that challenge our convictions."

~Author Unknown

This week was "Banned Books Week" here in the U.S. In essence, it's a week set aside to celebrate "the freedom to read" in the face of schools, libraries and bookstores that think otherwise. This Website, courtesy of the American Library Association, lists 10 of the most challenged books - meaning that schools tend to "ban" these books from their reading lists because, in one way or another, they are deemed inappropriate for school kids to read. Add to this list all of these challenged classics, and you have to wonder what exactly kids DO read in school.

The classic books on the more extended list are classics for a reason. Why on Earth would anyone ban Winnie the Pooh? Because he's a bear who doesn't wear pants? What bear does?

More seriously, I'll turn my attention to two books. To Kill a Mockingbird is an absolute MUST-READ, by children and adults alike. Of the many books I've read over the years, this one remains as my #1 favorite book. Harper Lee paints such a detailed description of the era, the racial tension and attitudes, the quest for morality, the curiosity and innocence of children. This year marks the 50th anniversary of this incredible novel, and has been celebrated by millions as the best novel of the 20th century...and even the best novel of all time. And still, it is banned by some schools for the language and themes, both sexual and racist. But they are not mere words plopped into the pages for shock value or disdain. They are part of the story, the characters, and the ugly truth of racism in the South in the 1930s...or for that matter, today.

Catcher in the Rye is another one that is often banned for language/situations, but it's really no worse than what your kids are watching on TV or hearing on the radio. I remember reading this when I was a teen, thinking it would really be some scandalous, juicy book since it was supposedly "banned." It really was tame. What's notable is the voice used by Salinger for the snot-nosed flunky who is lost in so many ways. It's the voice of a kid who feels alienated but tries to act nonchalant to everyone around him. The voice is not one that is going to turn your kid into a raging alcoholic or sex fiend, or whatever else scares you.

Fun Fact: Parents are the largest group of challengers to books (based on these reports), and they protest against sexually explicit material the most (yet, "inaccuracy" is almost the least reason for challenge.)

So, it's ok to read something totally inaccurate and have your kid remain ignorant than to have them learn from a celebrated novel because it may contain a brief moment of mild sexuality? I guess it's better that they learn about the birds-n-bees from Snooki. Unless kids are assigned Mein Kampf or Osama bin Laden's Messages to the World to read in class, is it really necessary to pull the plug on literature like this?

Maybe not all books are appropriate, but, in every great book, there is always something to learn. There are many ideologies and experiences in this great country of ours that should be celebrated through literature, and unlike many other places, we possess that freedom to do so. Is it really fair to our nation's youth to take that freedom away because of unfounded fear? When a book is banned, you are taking away so much more away than just a book.

Lack of Imagination - At a Theater Near You!

noreply@blogger.com (Christine) — Sun, 26 Sep 2010 23:40:00 +0000

Believe it or not, Americans can be clever and imaginative and creative. But you would never know that by watching our films. Well...most of our films. [I do not include indie films here, since those tend to be wildly creative or at the very least, attempt to push envelopes.]

The other films that hit American theaters are typically remakes of foreign films - sometimes, with little to no modification other than a script change from [foreign language here] to English - yet, they are heralded as the best thing since sliced bread. I have a major issue with this since those in the film industry are paid to be creative, but they stay afloat with the industry's equivalent of getting an "A" on a test by copying a classmate's paper. And what's worse? Most people don't even realize it.

Foreign films often are presented as metaphors. Not everything is so obvious. Just like life, there are subtleties; there are strange angles; there are colorful characters and figures that blend into the background. The directors respect their viewers. They don't believe that louder explosions, more sex and gratuitous blood are needed to boost the film where the script is weak...like many American films. I'm not saying all American films suck. They don't. There are many many fine films made here. But I'm also a purist. If the foreign - and original - version is outstanding, would a copy in English really be any better? I get that film studios maybe want to bring a good story to a wider audience with the remake...but with Netflix and such, where films are more accessible, is there really an excuse to not see the original?

Examples of recent remake offerings:

"Dinner for Schmucks" is based on the hilarious and smart French film "The Dinner Game." I have not seen the Hollywood version (although I'm a fan of Steve Carell) but I am not a fan of movies that try too hard. The original made me laugh effortlessly.
"The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" is a Hollywood remake of...well, this one is obvious. But as a fan of the books, I found the original film in Swedish to be true to the books in mood, plot and visuals. I don't think it needs an American copy since they got it right the first time.
"Let Me In" is almost a direct interpretation (or just a carbon copy) of another incredible film from Sweden, "Let the Right One In" about a boy and his new friend. The American version has received some great reviews - mostly because it resembles the original in so many ways.

American remakes of foreign films is nothing new. I haven't seen the three American films listed above, so - while I would view with biased eyes after seeing the originals - I would watch with an open mind. Maybe they aren't as dumbed down as I imagine. Still, I suppose my post is say, don't be afraid of the foreign film. Some are absolutely incredible and true works of art, and just because it's in English, there is no guarantee it will be better.