I am on Facebook. I kind of don't know what I am doing and I feel totally inadequate that my calabash niece CC has over 900 friends and I only have 8.
I am also on Twitter but again, I have no idea what I am doing. I mostly signed up to pretend like Anderson Cooper is personally sending tweets to me and not to 4 million other people. Also, I get tweets from Ding of DingdaBell (my favorite podcast) but at least he knows who I am.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Random Rice-o-licious Rants
Embrace the Rainbow
I am really, really tired since I have been up since 5:30 am. The big kids had an orientation day for the new students coming to their school. It was really great to see that there is a diverse group of kids being added to the mix - a rainbow of colors, personalities, and nationalities. I met a bunch of new parents who I hope I will be able to be mental with like the ones I have been close to since day one. I bet when you think of my kids' school, the new group of kids are definitely NOT what you would expect and that is great.
I guess we will not be limited to Children's Day and Chinese New Year celebrations anymore. Time to bring on the kulcha!!!!
Yellow Men Can't Dance (Not This Season Anyway)
I love the television show America's Best Dance Crew and tune in every Sunday to see the performances. Because I have always been on the fluffy side, the art of dance has always been a physical impossibility for me. The closest I have gotten to kind of being a dancer is awkwardly doing a bon dance-y kind of move when I would have to do a solo in taiko. It just looks pathetic and totally unrhythmic. I mean, I am a child of Flashdance (yes, I did rip up all my sweatshirts and that may explain my unnatural attachment to a mastiff who bit my daughter) but I knew I would never be Jennifer Beals or the body double who actually did the dancing. Hell, I would not be Paula Abdul on the MTV awards for the "I'm in a Funky Way" performance where she wore that black rhinestoned leotard that was 10 sizes too small.
What is amazing about ABDC is that it has made Asian men totally hot and talented. Not in a mysterious kung-fu Shaolin master Chow Yun Fat way but in a very cool normal American way. Jabbawokkees and Quest Crew were winners period. They were the best dancers, not the best Asian dancers. Kaba Modern and Fanny Pak with Hawaii's own Cara Horibe (yes, the daughter of Hairscapes) also showed that you may have daikon ashi but you could get down with the best of them.
This season just started but it wasn't too promising for the yellow folk. I cringed when I saw the auditions. There was a group of Asian girls who wore short kimono like outfits and were waving fans. I think they were in the movie Kickin' It Old School too (they battled at the end).
The Asian group this year wasn't as sharp as the Asian crews from other years. I think that the standard for Asian crews is high as they are compared to the earlier teams. The words Kaba Modern were mentioned which will undoubtedly be the case whenever there is a co-ed crew. They were the first to get cut.
I am pulling for the gay team with the transexual lead dancer. You cannot keep your eyes off of them. They are powerful and beautiful. This week, they had to dance to a Beyonce song and they KILLED it! Their girl was the best Beyonce of all, she just nailed it but gave it her own twist. I wonder though if America is ready to embrace them? I hope so because they are fantastic.
Those hip hop line dancers are cool too but I don't think they will make it. Reminds me too much of those cloggers from last year.
The J Word
The Japanese American Citizens League and other Asian American groups are protesting the movie "The Goods" for the use of the J word in connection with an Asian character. This is from the Rafu Shimpo (a Japanese American newspaper from Los Angeles):
The new movie featuring “Entourage” star Jeremy Piven has angered Asian American groups with its depiction of the beating of an Asian character, which the groups say depicts a hate crime.
“The Goods: Live Hard, Sell Hard,” stars Piven as a used car salesman who hires a team of “car mercenaries” to boost sales during the July Fourth weekend. The film opened in sixth place last weekend earning $5.4 million.
In a scene from the trailer, the Piven character gives a pep talk to his sales team. The members of the sales team include Teddy Dang, an Asian American, and a man who views the Asian character skeptically. The Piven character says, “Don’t get me started on Pearl Harbor — the Japs flying in low and fast. We are Americans and they are the enemy! Never again!”
As the scene continues, Teddy Dang, portrayed by Ken Jeong, is then beaten by one of the salesmen. The Piven character then says, “Alright, stop! We have all just participated in a hate crime. Let’s get our stories straight. Dang came at us with a samurai sword, fire extinguisher and Chinese throwing stars.”
There has been a lot of discussion on the blogosphere about the protest. Lots of people saying that the movie is a satire and "can't you orientals take a joke". I for one don't think it is funny.
The J word is a powerful one for all Japanese-Americans. It should be treated with disdain like the N word. When I was in high school, there was a type of slipper (the ones with goza matting) that were commonly referred to as "J*P slaps". I would use this term all the time, giving little thought to what it meant. Then someone pulled me on the side and told me about the history of the word. How signs were placed in businesses after Pearl Harbor saying "No J*Ps allowed". That government documents were distributed instructing white people on how to tell J*Ps from other Asians. That Nisei soldiers who had fought in battle in Europe would be refused service (even though they were adorned with medals or even missing limbs or otherwise injured) when they returned home because they were J*Ps.
I have never used the word again.
I asked the veterans if it was true about being called J*Ps when they returned and they said that unfortunately, that is how it was when they landed on the Mainland. People would not rent to them and they would not be served at some restaurants. They would hear people refer to them as J*P soldiers. One veteran told me that he went to a restaurant - in full uniform with his purple heart medal pinned to his chest - and the customers were loudly saying J*P, J*P as he took a seat. The owner came up to him and he was expecting to be told he had to leave. Instead, the owner said loudly, "This is an AMERICAN soldier. He is a hero. If you don't like it, get out of my place.".
If you still don't get it, watch the documentary "Who Killed Vincent Chin?" Never forget that name whether you are white, yellow or whatever.
Please boycott he movie and participate in the twitter event the producer is having to discuss this issue.
Satire is one thing. Straight out racism is another.
My Top Ten Favorite Buddhahead Things
1) Giant Robot magazine and podcast - totally hip and cool. The first place we go to whenever we are in LA is to Sawtelle Boulevard to shop at the Giant Robot store and eat at GR Eats.
2) My new Yakuzette t-shirt
3) My taiko conference Iphone case that my friend LN brought back for me from LA.
4) The Go For Broke National Education Center 20th Anniversary Veterans Cookbook. I bought it because my friend BS's Mom was one of the contributors and there is a great photo of his late Dad (a 100th veteran). There are also photos of some of the veterans I know from Los Angeles. I usually don't use the cookbooks I buy as fundraisers but I have actually used this one quite a bit. Really good nostalgic recipes like your obaachan used to make. They are all autographed too. If you want to get one, you can order it on their website www.goforbroke.org or call the Hawaii Office.
5) The 100th/442nd citizen soldiers finally coming home. I know, they aren't all Japanese-American anymore but they are carrying on the Go For Broke spirit with pride and honor. They are the next generation of real American heroes.
6) Pokemon Ondo bon dance. Trying to learn this in time for Vegas. Did you know the mainland and the Hawaii versions are different? Check it out on youtube.
7) Instant udon with butter and potatoes in it from Nijiya Market. Kind of pricey ($4) but really delicious. I guess this is actually a bobora thing but it was sent from the Mainland so that counts.
8) The shave ice popsicles at Nijiya market. These are too die for. It actually has the consistency of shave ice on a stick with snow cap poured on it. If you cannot find parking at Waiola, drive to Nijiya and get a box of these goodies. ate three on the way home from Puck's Alley and hid them behind the freezer so the kids couldn't find them.
9) Going to the JANM appreciation event at the JCCH but being too chicken to speak to Senator Inouye. In my family, Senator Inouye is like the second coming of Kamisama. Here was my big chance to meet him but I caved. Just stood like an idiot totally frozen across the table, trying to take a photo with my wallet. The closest I got was reading his autograph on one of the veteran's nametags.
10) Manabu's misoyaki musubi on the days that I am really a Buddhist vegetarian and Manabu's spam lite musubi on those days when I want to be doomed to eternal reincarnation. It's so ono - really the food of onibabas.
I am really, really tired since I have been up since 5:30 am. The big kids had an orientation day for the new students coming to their school. It was really great to see that there is a diverse group of kids being added to the mix - a rainbow of colors, personalities, and nationalities. I met a bunch of new parents who I hope I will be able to be mental with like the ones I have been close to since day one. I bet when you think of my kids' school, the new group of kids are definitely NOT what you would expect and that is great.
I guess we will not be limited to Children's Day and Chinese New Year celebrations anymore. Time to bring on the kulcha!!!!
Yellow Men Can't Dance (Not This Season Anyway)
I love the television show America's Best Dance Crew and tune in every Sunday to see the performances. Because I have always been on the fluffy side, the art of dance has always been a physical impossibility for me. The closest I have gotten to kind of being a dancer is awkwardly doing a bon dance-y kind of move when I would have to do a solo in taiko. It just looks pathetic and totally unrhythmic. I mean, I am a child of Flashdance (yes, I did rip up all my sweatshirts and that may explain my unnatural attachment to a mastiff who bit my daughter) but I knew I would never be Jennifer Beals or the body double who actually did the dancing. Hell, I would not be Paula Abdul on the MTV awards for the "I'm in a Funky Way" performance where she wore that black rhinestoned leotard that was 10 sizes too small.
What is amazing about ABDC is that it has made Asian men totally hot and talented. Not in a mysterious kung-fu Shaolin master Chow Yun Fat way but in a very cool normal American way. Jabbawokkees and Quest Crew were winners period. They were the best dancers, not the best Asian dancers. Kaba Modern and Fanny Pak with Hawaii's own Cara Horibe (yes, the daughter of Hairscapes) also showed that you may have daikon ashi but you could get down with the best of them.
This season just started but it wasn't too promising for the yellow folk. I cringed when I saw the auditions. There was a group of Asian girls who wore short kimono like outfits and were waving fans. I think they were in the movie Kickin' It Old School too (they battled at the end).
The Asian group this year wasn't as sharp as the Asian crews from other years. I think that the standard for Asian crews is high as they are compared to the earlier teams. The words Kaba Modern were mentioned which will undoubtedly be the case whenever there is a co-ed crew. They were the first to get cut.
I am pulling for the gay team with the transexual lead dancer. You cannot keep your eyes off of them. They are powerful and beautiful. This week, they had to dance to a Beyonce song and they KILLED it! Their girl was the best Beyonce of all, she just nailed it but gave it her own twist. I wonder though if America is ready to embrace them? I hope so because they are fantastic.
Those hip hop line dancers are cool too but I don't think they will make it. Reminds me too much of those cloggers from last year.
The J Word
The Japanese American Citizens League and other Asian American groups are protesting the movie "The Goods" for the use of the J word in connection with an Asian character. This is from the Rafu Shimpo (a Japanese American newspaper from Los Angeles):
The new movie featuring “Entourage” star Jeremy Piven has angered Asian American groups with its depiction of the beating of an Asian character, which the groups say depicts a hate crime.
“The Goods: Live Hard, Sell Hard,” stars Piven as a used car salesman who hires a team of “car mercenaries” to boost sales during the July Fourth weekend. The film opened in sixth place last weekend earning $5.4 million.
In a scene from the trailer, the Piven character gives a pep talk to his sales team. The members of the sales team include Teddy Dang, an Asian American, and a man who views the Asian character skeptically. The Piven character says, “Don’t get me started on Pearl Harbor — the Japs flying in low and fast. We are Americans and they are the enemy! Never again!”
As the scene continues, Teddy Dang, portrayed by Ken Jeong, is then beaten by one of the salesmen. The Piven character then says, “Alright, stop! We have all just participated in a hate crime. Let’s get our stories straight. Dang came at us with a samurai sword, fire extinguisher and Chinese throwing stars.”
There has been a lot of discussion on the blogosphere about the protest. Lots of people saying that the movie is a satire and "can't you orientals take a joke". I for one don't think it is funny.
The J word is a powerful one for all Japanese-Americans. It should be treated with disdain like the N word. When I was in high school, there was a type of slipper (the ones with goza matting) that were commonly referred to as "J*P slaps". I would use this term all the time, giving little thought to what it meant. Then someone pulled me on the side and told me about the history of the word. How signs were placed in businesses after Pearl Harbor saying "No J*Ps allowed". That government documents were distributed instructing white people on how to tell J*Ps from other Asians. That Nisei soldiers who had fought in battle in Europe would be refused service (even though they were adorned with medals or even missing limbs or otherwise injured) when they returned home because they were J*Ps.
I have never used the word again.
I asked the veterans if it was true about being called J*Ps when they returned and they said that unfortunately, that is how it was when they landed on the Mainland. People would not rent to them and they would not be served at some restaurants. They would hear people refer to them as J*P soldiers. One veteran told me that he went to a restaurant - in full uniform with his purple heart medal pinned to his chest - and the customers were loudly saying J*P, J*P as he took a seat. The owner came up to him and he was expecting to be told he had to leave. Instead, the owner said loudly, "This is an AMERICAN soldier. He is a hero. If you don't like it, get out of my place.".
If you still don't get it, watch the documentary "Who Killed Vincent Chin?" Never forget that name whether you are white, yellow or whatever.
Please boycott he movie and participate in the twitter event the producer is having to discuss this issue.
Satire is one thing. Straight out racism is another.
My Top Ten Favorite Buddhahead Things
1) Giant Robot magazine and podcast - totally hip and cool. The first place we go to whenever we are in LA is to Sawtelle Boulevard to shop at the Giant Robot store and eat at GR Eats.
2) My new Yakuzette t-shirt
3) My taiko conference Iphone case that my friend LN brought back for me from LA.
4) The Go For Broke National Education Center 20th Anniversary Veterans Cookbook. I bought it because my friend BS's Mom was one of the contributors and there is a great photo of his late Dad (a 100th veteran). There are also photos of some of the veterans I know from Los Angeles. I usually don't use the cookbooks I buy as fundraisers but I have actually used this one quite a bit. Really good nostalgic recipes like your obaachan used to make. They are all autographed too. If you want to get one, you can order it on their website www.goforbroke.org or call the Hawaii Office.
5) The 100th/442nd citizen soldiers finally coming home. I know, they aren't all Japanese-American anymore but they are carrying on the Go For Broke spirit with pride and honor. They are the next generation of real American heroes.
6) Pokemon Ondo bon dance. Trying to learn this in time for Vegas. Did you know the mainland and the Hawaii versions are different? Check it out on youtube.
7) Instant udon with butter and potatoes in it from Nijiya Market. Kind of pricey ($4) but really delicious. I guess this is actually a bobora thing but it was sent from the Mainland so that counts.
8) The shave ice popsicles at Nijiya market. These are too die for. It actually has the consistency of shave ice on a stick with snow cap poured on it. If you cannot find parking at Waiola, drive to Nijiya and get a box of these goodies. ate three on the way home from Puck's Alley and hid them behind the freezer so the kids couldn't find them.
9) Going to the JANM appreciation event at the JCCH but being too chicken to speak to Senator Inouye. In my family, Senator Inouye is like the second coming of Kamisama. Here was my big chance to meet him but I caved. Just stood like an idiot totally frozen across the table, trying to take a photo with my wallet. The closest I got was reading his autograph on one of the veteran's nametags.
10) Manabu's misoyaki musubi on the days that I am really a Buddhist vegetarian and Manabu's spam lite musubi on those days when I want to be doomed to eternal reincarnation. It's so ono - really the food of onibabas.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
From the Bottom of My Broken Heart
Well, my wish came true. On Thursday morning, I got a call from SR of Hawaii Dog Foundation to see if we would be able to foster Walker. He hadn't been doing well and was very inactive and listless. He wasn't eating and was just down for the count. Of course, I immediately said yes which led to WWIII with Oscar the Grouch.
As is my way, I did what I wanted and drove to Ewa after work to pick Walker up from the vet.
The first thing I noticed is he was a lot bigger than I remembered and he also drooled a whole lot more than he did at the shelter. He was also incredibly strong and from the moment I took his leash, he stuck to me like glue.
Poor guy did not know how to get into the car or what to do when he was in. He just sat still and looked out the back window the entire time. No movement at all.
When he came home, Tiger immediately ran up to him and they became buddies. Big, drooling, rough playing pit bull buddies. It was hard to tell them apart by looking at them but personality wise, they were complete opposites. Tiger is, well, her ADD self - like a big mangy Tigger bouncing everywhere and Walker was a big mellow dude, very laid back and chill. Rayni just ignored both of them.
It was clear from the get go that Walker was a Mommy's Boy. He would not go anywhere unless I went first. He would look all around the house for me if I wasn't in the same room. He would plop down next to me and sit or put his giant head on my tummy if I was laying down. I really really tried not to get attached since I knew he was just a foster dog but I was doomed.
I feel madly deeply heartbreakingly in love with the big lug.
His only issue was that he was somewhat territorial about his food and his toys. He also had to eat a little from every bowl instead of just eating from his own bowl. He would take a few gulps from his bowl, walk into the other room and take a few bites from Tiger's bowl then Rayni's bowl. This didn't sit well with Rayni who growled at him and Tiger just looked at him in confusion but let him eat. Unfortunately, it didn't work the other way. When Tiger tried to go near his bowl, Walker would growl and bare his teeth. If Tiger continued to come close, he would snap at her. She finally learned to back off.
Unfortunately, this food aggression was not limited to the dogs. He would growl when the kids got too close when he was eating. The only person that could touch his food bowl or pet him while he was eating was me.
The Diva learned this the hard way as he bit her yesterday when she tried to pet him as he was gnawing on a new rawhide. It was a nip but because he is such a huge dog, she had a few very deep bites and lots of scratches from his teeth as she tried to pull away.
So, I drove the Diva to the ER and Oscar the Grouch had to come home to take Walker back to the OSPCA. I knew there was no way, even with what had happened, that I could return him to the shelter myself.
What kills me is that he is such a wonderfully gentle dog but with this incident, the odds of him being adopted by anyone just dropped from slim to nothing.
Even Oscar who was totally against Walker even coming home with us for a few days had mentioned that we should keep Walker and switch him with hyper Tiger instead. I was stunned when Oscar said he told the shelter volunteers that Walker was a real good dog who would be a welcome pet for someone without dogs.
I know in my heart that what happened was not out of viciousness or meanness. It is a result of poor Walker and the other rescued Nanakuli dogs living in a state of utter desolation and unintentional cruelty. Even though he is a big dog, Walker is very submissive and shy (he would softly growl in fear when any male approached him out of the darkness, his tail would be between his legs and he would be trembling with anxiety) so I am sure he would not be at the top of the pecking order when it came to fighting for food. With his size, he clearly would need a lot to eat but with all of those dogs around, it is unlikely he ever ate his fill or slept with a full stomach.
When I would look into his eyes, I could just feel the hurt, pain and loneliness that he experienced for who knows how many years. When he put his head on me, I knew that he desperately wanted someone to show him love and to show him how to give love back. He would have to lean on me or touch me with his paw or his nose even if I was sitting close to him, as if to assure himself that, yes, there is somebody there for me. There is somebody who loves me.
And now he is back to being alone in a big cage with only a towel as his constant companion.
I find myself wondering how he is doing back at the shelter. Oscar said he seemed to be okay and walked right in on his own accord. Part of me wonders if he thought I would be in there since that is where we first met. I think about him all day long and how sad he looked in the corner of his kennel the first time I saw him at the shelter. I worry about his mental state and hope that someone will see all in him that I did. I pray that someone will look beyond the drool and the fangs to see the sweet, kind boy that I still hold close in my heart.
Poor Tiger has been depressed and moping around the house all day. She goes around the rooms looking for him and walks around the house when a dog barks, thinking he is there.
If you know anyone who is looking to adopt a dog, please please please encourage them to go down to the OSPCA and meet Walker. Cuddle up with his fuzzy giant coconut head. Look deep into his sparkling eyes and see the loving soul that rests within him. Lean back and accept his slimy stinky kiss. Give him a chance like I did. Give him a chance to share with you all of the love he has.
My heart will definitely stay broken until I find him a home. I am hoping to go down this weekend to see how he is doing and to spend some time with him. Maybe that will make things better.
As is my way, I did what I wanted and drove to Ewa after work to pick Walker up from the vet.
The first thing I noticed is he was a lot bigger than I remembered and he also drooled a whole lot more than he did at the shelter. He was also incredibly strong and from the moment I took his leash, he stuck to me like glue.
Poor guy did not know how to get into the car or what to do when he was in. He just sat still and looked out the back window the entire time. No movement at all.
When he came home, Tiger immediately ran up to him and they became buddies. Big, drooling, rough playing pit bull buddies. It was hard to tell them apart by looking at them but personality wise, they were complete opposites. Tiger is, well, her ADD self - like a big mangy Tigger bouncing everywhere and Walker was a big mellow dude, very laid back and chill. Rayni just ignored both of them.
It was clear from the get go that Walker was a Mommy's Boy. He would not go anywhere unless I went first. He would look all around the house for me if I wasn't in the same room. He would plop down next to me and sit or put his giant head on my tummy if I was laying down. I really really tried not to get attached since I knew he was just a foster dog but I was doomed.
I feel madly deeply heartbreakingly in love with the big lug.
His only issue was that he was somewhat territorial about his food and his toys. He also had to eat a little from every bowl instead of just eating from his own bowl. He would take a few gulps from his bowl, walk into the other room and take a few bites from Tiger's bowl then Rayni's bowl. This didn't sit well with Rayni who growled at him and Tiger just looked at him in confusion but let him eat. Unfortunately, it didn't work the other way. When Tiger tried to go near his bowl, Walker would growl and bare his teeth. If Tiger continued to come close, he would snap at her. She finally learned to back off.
Unfortunately, this food aggression was not limited to the dogs. He would growl when the kids got too close when he was eating. The only person that could touch his food bowl or pet him while he was eating was me.
The Diva learned this the hard way as he bit her yesterday when she tried to pet him as he was gnawing on a new rawhide. It was a nip but because he is such a huge dog, she had a few very deep bites and lots of scratches from his teeth as she tried to pull away.
So, I drove the Diva to the ER and Oscar the Grouch had to come home to take Walker back to the OSPCA. I knew there was no way, even with what had happened, that I could return him to the shelter myself.
What kills me is that he is such a wonderfully gentle dog but with this incident, the odds of him being adopted by anyone just dropped from slim to nothing.
Even Oscar who was totally against Walker even coming home with us for a few days had mentioned that we should keep Walker and switch him with hyper Tiger instead. I was stunned when Oscar said he told the shelter volunteers that Walker was a real good dog who would be a welcome pet for someone without dogs.
I know in my heart that what happened was not out of viciousness or meanness. It is a result of poor Walker and the other rescued Nanakuli dogs living in a state of utter desolation and unintentional cruelty. Even though he is a big dog, Walker is very submissive and shy (he would softly growl in fear when any male approached him out of the darkness, his tail would be between his legs and he would be trembling with anxiety) so I am sure he would not be at the top of the pecking order when it came to fighting for food. With his size, he clearly would need a lot to eat but with all of those dogs around, it is unlikely he ever ate his fill or slept with a full stomach.
When I would look into his eyes, I could just feel the hurt, pain and loneliness that he experienced for who knows how many years. When he put his head on me, I knew that he desperately wanted someone to show him love and to show him how to give love back. He would have to lean on me or touch me with his paw or his nose even if I was sitting close to him, as if to assure himself that, yes, there is somebody there for me. There is somebody who loves me.
And now he is back to being alone in a big cage with only a towel as his constant companion.
I find myself wondering how he is doing back at the shelter. Oscar said he seemed to be okay and walked right in on his own accord. Part of me wonders if he thought I would be in there since that is where we first met. I think about him all day long and how sad he looked in the corner of his kennel the first time I saw him at the shelter. I worry about his mental state and hope that someone will see all in him that I did. I pray that someone will look beyond the drool and the fangs to see the sweet, kind boy that I still hold close in my heart.
Poor Tiger has been depressed and moping around the house all day. She goes around the rooms looking for him and walks around the house when a dog barks, thinking he is there.
If you know anyone who is looking to adopt a dog, please please please encourage them to go down to the OSPCA and meet Walker. Cuddle up with his fuzzy giant coconut head. Look deep into his sparkling eyes and see the loving soul that rests within him. Lean back and accept his slimy stinky kiss. Give him a chance like I did. Give him a chance to share with you all of the love he has.
My heart will definitely stay broken until I find him a home. I am hoping to go down this weekend to see how he is doing and to spend some time with him. Maybe that will make things better.
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Volunteers needed at the Oahu SPCA
THE OAHU SPCA NEEDS VOLUNTEERS EVERYDAY BUT ARE ESPECIALLY SHORT TODAY (SUNDAY). IF YOU CAN HELP, THEY ASKED THAT YOU JUST COME DOWN TO THE SHELTER. THEY ARE OPEN FROM 8 UNTIL 6. HELP IS MOST NEEDED FROM 4-6 WHEN THE ANIMALS ARE FED AND WATERED AND CAGES ARE CLEANED.
TAKE THE H-1 TO THE KAPOLEI EXIT THEN GO STRAIGHT TO KALAELOA. AT THE END OF THE ROAD, GO LEFT AT THE FOUR WAY EXIT. THE SHELTER IS IN A WAREHOUSE ON THE RIGHT SIDE (LOOK FOR THE ONE WITH LOTS OF CARS AND A CHAIN LINK FENCE IN THE FRONT).
VISIT THEIR WEBSITE AT WWW.OAHUSPCA.ORG.
I drove over again yesterday (Saturday) at the Oahu SPCA. I dropped off the towels and blankets I had washed (which unfortunatedly resulted in both my washer and dryer biting the dust) as well as the ones that my friend AS had donated. I hadn't planned to stay and help since the kids were all home with Oscar but they were very short-handed with volunteers (there were only 2 of us there). Thankfully, people started trickling in as the day went on and by the time we helped close up the place (I got there at 4:30 and left at 6:30), there was a good crowd of us there.
Bully Boy was moved into a bigger area and has a pen mate, an adorably friendly brown pit bull mix Girly Girl. I can't remember her name but she was very sweet and would do wonderful in anyone's home. The staff said they were trying to change Bully Boy from an "only dog" to a "pack dog" by having him live with other dogs so we would have to wait a while if we wanted to foster him. They said he was doing well since the Girly was an alpha female. He didn't seem to bother with her much but she was clearly as much in love with him as I was.
There were some new dogs and I was told that there was a litter of puppies since one of the dogs has given birth. Didn't get to see the puppies. I kind of didn't want to since I knew I would want to take them all home which would result in my kids becoming motherless pups themselves.
My heart ached for Grandpa Captain Jack who is so beautiful but because of his age and ailments, will probably never find a home. He also is incredibly shy.
There was a new fluffy dog who anyone would love except he is hearing impaired.
Lovely sweet Teddy Bear greeted me with her usual kiss and would not leave my side when I fed her.
One of the dogs I was too scared to deal with was Walker, a huge pit-mastiff male. His pen was surrounded by wooden planks to block his view of the other dogs. He was on my list so I went inside. Immediately, he came to my side and nuzzled me very gently. When I bent down to pick up his food dish, he started kissing my ear and stuck to me like glue. Very very gentle and very loving. I learned that the wood was needed because he is so strong, he would push against the chain link and move the whole kennel whenever he saw a person walk by. He so desperately wanted to have human contact. The kids liked him too since he looked like a larger version of Tiger.
I have a feeling that Walker was used in dog fighting since he is covered with scars. I think with his gentle demeanor, he must not have been very effective as a warrior and was dumped. He is another great dog.
We want to foster a dog to be Tiger's playmate outside. What they do is have you bring your dogs to the shelter and introduce them to the foster dog you are interested in. If the dogs get along, they will let you foster that dog. If not, they will find another dog that fits in your pack. All dogs are considered fosters for seven weeks and then you can apply to adopt them.
I am not worried about Rayni since she will just ignore the foster dog but who knows about Tiger. Rayni is Queen Alpha and Tiger is Wannabe Alpha. Hopefully, we will have a successful Three Dog Night soon.
TAKE THE H-1 TO THE KAPOLEI EXIT THEN GO STRAIGHT TO KALAELOA. AT THE END OF THE ROAD, GO LEFT AT THE FOUR WAY EXIT. THE SHELTER IS IN A WAREHOUSE ON THE RIGHT SIDE (LOOK FOR THE ONE WITH LOTS OF CARS AND A CHAIN LINK FENCE IN THE FRONT).
VISIT THEIR WEBSITE AT WWW.OAHUSPCA.ORG.
I drove over again yesterday (Saturday) at the Oahu SPCA. I dropped off the towels and blankets I had washed (which unfortunatedly resulted in both my washer and dryer biting the dust) as well as the ones that my friend AS had donated. I hadn't planned to stay and help since the kids were all home with Oscar but they were very short-handed with volunteers (there were only 2 of us there). Thankfully, people started trickling in as the day went on and by the time we helped close up the place (I got there at 4:30 and left at 6:30), there was a good crowd of us there.
Bully Boy was moved into a bigger area and has a pen mate, an adorably friendly brown pit bull mix Girly Girl. I can't remember her name but she was very sweet and would do wonderful in anyone's home. The staff said they were trying to change Bully Boy from an "only dog" to a "pack dog" by having him live with other dogs so we would have to wait a while if we wanted to foster him. They said he was doing well since the Girly was an alpha female. He didn't seem to bother with her much but she was clearly as much in love with him as I was.
There were some new dogs and I was told that there was a litter of puppies since one of the dogs has given birth. Didn't get to see the puppies. I kind of didn't want to since I knew I would want to take them all home which would result in my kids becoming motherless pups themselves.
My heart ached for Grandpa Captain Jack who is so beautiful but because of his age and ailments, will probably never find a home. He also is incredibly shy.
There was a new fluffy dog who anyone would love except he is hearing impaired.
Lovely sweet Teddy Bear greeted me with her usual kiss and would not leave my side when I fed her.
One of the dogs I was too scared to deal with was Walker, a huge pit-mastiff male. His pen was surrounded by wooden planks to block his view of the other dogs. He was on my list so I went inside. Immediately, he came to my side and nuzzled me very gently. When I bent down to pick up his food dish, he started kissing my ear and stuck to me like glue. Very very gentle and very loving. I learned that the wood was needed because he is so strong, he would push against the chain link and move the whole kennel whenever he saw a person walk by. He so desperately wanted to have human contact. The kids liked him too since he looked like a larger version of Tiger.
I have a feeling that Walker was used in dog fighting since he is covered with scars. I think with his gentle demeanor, he must not have been very effective as a warrior and was dumped. He is another great dog.
We want to foster a dog to be Tiger's playmate outside. What they do is have you bring your dogs to the shelter and introduce them to the foster dog you are interested in. If the dogs get along, they will let you foster that dog. If not, they will find another dog that fits in your pack. All dogs are considered fosters for seven weeks and then you can apply to adopt them.
I am not worried about Rayni since she will just ignore the foster dog but who knows about Tiger. Rayni is Queen Alpha and Tiger is Wannabe Alpha. Hopefully, we will have a successful Three Dog Night soon.
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Falling in Love with Bully Boy
Ever since the news broke the story about the hoarded dogs, cats and birds rescued from Waianae, the kids and I have wanted to get involved somehow. We kept watching the website to see when the call for volunteers would go out but it didn't come. I contacted my friend who is one of the founders of the Oahu SPCA as well as a member of the BOD of Hawaii Dog Foundationa and she said that they were not ready to open the doors to volunteers. The animals were still so traumatized by their experiences that bringing in a lot of people at one time would be too much for them to bear. Our option at that point was to sign up to foster a dog but as Oscar the Grouch gave us direct instructions not to bring any other animal into the house, we remained dog deprived for a while.
Eventually, with lots of whining from all of us, Oscar agreed that we could foster a dog during the time he was on the Big Island in trial. I think this was planned as he didn't say this the first week he left but only caved on the last week he was scheduled to be gone which pretty much guaranteed we would not be able to take in a dog since the organization is looking for long term and not short term foster families.
Last week, the call for volunteers finally came out. I bumped into my friend at an HDF event this weekend and she said they could use the help on Monday. She said they needed help in the mornings and afternoons and the kids could come and help too. So, we decided we would help on Monday afternoon.
Our plan was to get there by 3:00 but as usual, I was stuck at work doing something and we didn't get there until 4:00 or so. We had been instructed to wear closed toe shoes (the kids wore their old too tight tennis shoes from last year) so we knew we would get dirty. We took the long drive out to Kalaeloa and as expected, the Mad Cow passed out. Being the townie that I am, I expected to get totally lost but I had taken the drive out there last year to pick up patches from the 29th Brigade at Barber's Point so I was familiar with the location.
To be honest, I was really worried about what kind of situation we would be walking into. I was expecting something akin to a dark, crowded concentration camp based on the large number of animals rescued and the location of the shelter in a warehouse. However, this wasn't the case. Yes, the lighting wasn't the best but strangely, you felt a good vibe as soon as you saw the dogs.
The dogs are housed in chain-link fence kennels - some alone, some in pairs. What left me breathless with surprise was the feeling of hope and appreciation that emanated from each dog. I'm serious, you really feel good to be in their presence.
When you initially see them from a distance, you cannot help but notice evidence of the hurt that they have been through. Some have scars and wounds, some are recovering from surgery and other visible ailments, some have psychological problems and cringe in the corner whenever someone walks near. There was one large dog who would not leave the safety of his crate. I never saw him emerge once during the 3 hours we were there. When I saw his bright eyes peeking through the slats of the crate, it brought me to tears. It was like he was saying, "I want you to love me so badly but I am so so scared." Even as I write this and think of him, I am tearing up. I know in my heart there is a family who will be the ones to free him from his sorrowful prison.
However, every other dog walked up to greet us when we walked near their kennels. Their tales wagged, their eyes brightened and they gave big goofy doggy grins. Noses poked out and the message was clear: "Hey, come here and pet me!" I couldn't resist petting every dog within reach. I was rewarded with lots of gentle sloppy kisses. It was just great.
Because of the dogs are still psychologially fragile, only adults are allowed in the cages or otherwise come into direct contact with them. So, I worked with another volunteer to feed them, change their water bowls and then clean cages. Each dog had a chart to record when they ate, when their cage was cleaned and whether they pooped or peed. It was very efficient. The kids were in charge of hauling away the dirty waterm filling up the pitchers with clean water, washing dirty dog bowls and delivering clean dog bowls. The Diva was in charge of putting in new garbage can liners and the Professor was in charge of bagging dirty towels and blankets. The Mad Cow was kind of freaked out by the noise so he helped the staff check in volunteers at the entrance.
What impressed me was how welcoming and accomodating the staff was. The Mad Cow was not doing well because of the heat, the noise and waking up from a long nap. I expected that they would tell me to take him home and leave as he was very whiny and wanted to hang out with me rather than help the twins. But the staff and other volunteers were very understanding and friendly, finding things for him to do that would minimize the distress he was feeling. It was undoubtedly the best family volunteering experience I have ever had.
I expected that the Diva and the Professor would be very upset since they didn't get to work diretly with the dogs. I thought that this would be the first and the last time they would ever help out but surprise, they were already planning when they would help out again. They explained that they knew they were helping the dogs and were making a difference. Also, they got the okay to pet the dogs if there were other volunteers around. What they really enjoyed was helping put together a list of the dogs by category - writing names of those who were good with kids, not good with kids, needed to be indoor, etc.
I WAS AND AM STILL VERY PROUD OF THEM. They have spent the bulk of the summer being dragged to places that aren't very kid-friendly or fun yet they have made the most of it. I'm sure spending hours playing cards with seniors or hauling heavy pitchers of water was not how they planned their summer to be but they have put up with it. Not with mad faces or bad attitudes but with a genuine joy and with the knowledge that they are helping make the world a better place. I have to accept that they are growing up.
I'm sure they will make me pay for this somehow, someday.
Anyway, I tried to keep my professional distance and not bond with any of the dogs as I knew that the possibility of having a three dog night at our house was nil. However, as much as I tried to fight it, I fell in love with a few of these wonderful pooches. There were a pair of huge brown and white pit bulls (boyfriend and girlfriend) who were the kindest and gentlest dogs I have ever met. They always greeted anyone coming in and out of the water area with smiles and kisses. Just adorable.
There was an older senior named Captain Jack Sparrow who was very shy. He stayed in the corner on his pillow and gave the biggest, toothless smile you have ever seen.
There was a black shepherd mix who was so adorable and badly wants a home. He will roll over and do tricks whenever a person comes near. So cute. Unfortunately, he cannot be around kids or other dogs.
But the one guy I fell in love with was Bully Boy who is a big black pit bull. If he was a human, he would be one of those 1% body fat, no neck, built like a brick wall MMA fighters covered with tribal tattoos. However, he was a total sweetie - gentle, cuddly and full of kisses. He would run over when anyone came near and beg to be touched. The poor guy had been adopted but the people returned him after a day. Apparently, he is not an outdoor dog but wants to be an indoor dog and the family did not want to deal with this so they brought him back. How sad is that? I couldn't resist reaching in to rub him behind his ears and scratch his broad back each time I passed his cage.
When the kids and I finally left, we talked about the dogs and which we would foster if we could. Everyone said, "Bully Boy". I didn't think that they felt like I did since they didn't get to spend a lot of time with him but everyone agreed he was so loving and mellow. I was particularly surprised that the Diva liked him since she has been looking for another "purse dog" like Chaos.
The kids and I will be volunteering regularly on Saturdays. I may go and help this week too. It was a great experience for all of us. The kids may help at the Cat side since they can have furry contact there.
If you have any time, please consider volunteering. There is no minimum number of hours you have to work, they will take anyone for any length of time. Kids can help too. If you aren't a dog person, they also need help washing towels and blankets.
They need donations of used towels, blankets and sheets, especially sheets. They are also accepting Hi-5 donations. Of course, cash donations are always welcome.
Please visit their website at www.oahuspca.org for information and photos.
Eventually, with lots of whining from all of us, Oscar agreed that we could foster a dog during the time he was on the Big Island in trial. I think this was planned as he didn't say this the first week he left but only caved on the last week he was scheduled to be gone which pretty much guaranteed we would not be able to take in a dog since the organization is looking for long term and not short term foster families.
Last week, the call for volunteers finally came out. I bumped into my friend at an HDF event this weekend and she said they could use the help on Monday. She said they needed help in the mornings and afternoons and the kids could come and help too. So, we decided we would help on Monday afternoon.
Our plan was to get there by 3:00 but as usual, I was stuck at work doing something and we didn't get there until 4:00 or so. We had been instructed to wear closed toe shoes (the kids wore their old too tight tennis shoes from last year) so we knew we would get dirty. We took the long drive out to Kalaeloa and as expected, the Mad Cow passed out. Being the townie that I am, I expected to get totally lost but I had taken the drive out there last year to pick up patches from the 29th Brigade at Barber's Point so I was familiar with the location.
To be honest, I was really worried about what kind of situation we would be walking into. I was expecting something akin to a dark, crowded concentration camp based on the large number of animals rescued and the location of the shelter in a warehouse. However, this wasn't the case. Yes, the lighting wasn't the best but strangely, you felt a good vibe as soon as you saw the dogs.
The dogs are housed in chain-link fence kennels - some alone, some in pairs. What left me breathless with surprise was the feeling of hope and appreciation that emanated from each dog. I'm serious, you really feel good to be in their presence.
When you initially see them from a distance, you cannot help but notice evidence of the hurt that they have been through. Some have scars and wounds, some are recovering from surgery and other visible ailments, some have psychological problems and cringe in the corner whenever someone walks near. There was one large dog who would not leave the safety of his crate. I never saw him emerge once during the 3 hours we were there. When I saw his bright eyes peeking through the slats of the crate, it brought me to tears. It was like he was saying, "I want you to love me so badly but I am so so scared." Even as I write this and think of him, I am tearing up. I know in my heart there is a family who will be the ones to free him from his sorrowful prison.
However, every other dog walked up to greet us when we walked near their kennels. Their tales wagged, their eyes brightened and they gave big goofy doggy grins. Noses poked out and the message was clear: "Hey, come here and pet me!" I couldn't resist petting every dog within reach. I was rewarded with lots of gentle sloppy kisses. It was just great.
Because of the dogs are still psychologially fragile, only adults are allowed in the cages or otherwise come into direct contact with them. So, I worked with another volunteer to feed them, change their water bowls and then clean cages. Each dog had a chart to record when they ate, when their cage was cleaned and whether they pooped or peed. It was very efficient. The kids were in charge of hauling away the dirty waterm filling up the pitchers with clean water, washing dirty dog bowls and delivering clean dog bowls. The Diva was in charge of putting in new garbage can liners and the Professor was in charge of bagging dirty towels and blankets. The Mad Cow was kind of freaked out by the noise so he helped the staff check in volunteers at the entrance.
What impressed me was how welcoming and accomodating the staff was. The Mad Cow was not doing well because of the heat, the noise and waking up from a long nap. I expected that they would tell me to take him home and leave as he was very whiny and wanted to hang out with me rather than help the twins. But the staff and other volunteers were very understanding and friendly, finding things for him to do that would minimize the distress he was feeling. It was undoubtedly the best family volunteering experience I have ever had.
I expected that the Diva and the Professor would be very upset since they didn't get to work diretly with the dogs. I thought that this would be the first and the last time they would ever help out but surprise, they were already planning when they would help out again. They explained that they knew they were helping the dogs and were making a difference. Also, they got the okay to pet the dogs if there were other volunteers around. What they really enjoyed was helping put together a list of the dogs by category - writing names of those who were good with kids, not good with kids, needed to be indoor, etc.
I WAS AND AM STILL VERY PROUD OF THEM. They have spent the bulk of the summer being dragged to places that aren't very kid-friendly or fun yet they have made the most of it. I'm sure spending hours playing cards with seniors or hauling heavy pitchers of water was not how they planned their summer to be but they have put up with it. Not with mad faces or bad attitudes but with a genuine joy and with the knowledge that they are helping make the world a better place. I have to accept that they are growing up.
I'm sure they will make me pay for this somehow, someday.
Anyway, I tried to keep my professional distance and not bond with any of the dogs as I knew that the possibility of having a three dog night at our house was nil. However, as much as I tried to fight it, I fell in love with a few of these wonderful pooches. There were a pair of huge brown and white pit bulls (boyfriend and girlfriend) who were the kindest and gentlest dogs I have ever met. They always greeted anyone coming in and out of the water area with smiles and kisses. Just adorable.
There was an older senior named Captain Jack Sparrow who was very shy. He stayed in the corner on his pillow and gave the biggest, toothless smile you have ever seen.
There was a black shepherd mix who was so adorable and badly wants a home. He will roll over and do tricks whenever a person comes near. So cute. Unfortunately, he cannot be around kids or other dogs.
But the one guy I fell in love with was Bully Boy who is a big black pit bull. If he was a human, he would be one of those 1% body fat, no neck, built like a brick wall MMA fighters covered with tribal tattoos. However, he was a total sweetie - gentle, cuddly and full of kisses. He would run over when anyone came near and beg to be touched. The poor guy had been adopted but the people returned him after a day. Apparently, he is not an outdoor dog but wants to be an indoor dog and the family did not want to deal with this so they brought him back. How sad is that? I couldn't resist reaching in to rub him behind his ears and scratch his broad back each time I passed his cage.
When the kids and I finally left, we talked about the dogs and which we would foster if we could. Everyone said, "Bully Boy". I didn't think that they felt like I did since they didn't get to spend a lot of time with him but everyone agreed he was so loving and mellow. I was particularly surprised that the Diva liked him since she has been looking for another "purse dog" like Chaos.
The kids and I will be volunteering regularly on Saturdays. I may go and help this week too. It was a great experience for all of us. The kids may help at the Cat side since they can have furry contact there.
If you have any time, please consider volunteering. There is no minimum number of hours you have to work, they will take anyone for any length of time. Kids can help too. If you aren't a dog person, they also need help washing towels and blankets.
They need donations of used towels, blankets and sheets, especially sheets. They are also accepting Hi-5 donations. Of course, cash donations are always welcome.
Please visit their website at www.oahuspca.org for information and photos.
Saturday, August 1, 2009
Must See: Departures
Everyone I know told me I had to go and see the movie, Departures. Even people who normally do not go to the movies told me to see Departures. You know people like that, they are probably your parents or grandparents. People who only watch old Samurai movies that come out on KIKU on occasion. People who think mass media means watching lots of Korean soap operas. People who last went to the movies at the Cinerama or Toho theatres. People who last went to the movies to see James Shigeta star in Flower Drum Song.
Now, I knew about the buzz on Departures. It won the best foreign film at the Academy Awards last year. I read interviews with the actors and directors, including a great spread in my favorite magazine, Giant Robot, which is the arbiter of all that is cool in Asian-Americanville. Even the cowboy dude from Tampopo was in it. Yet I couldn't bring myself to go. I mean, how hyped can you get to see a movie about people who prepare dead bodies for cremation?
Now, I knew about the buzz on Departures. It won the best foreign film at the Academy Awards last year. I read interviews with the actors and directors, including a great spread in my favorite magazine, Giant Robot, which is the arbiter of all that is cool in Asian-Americanville. Even the cowboy dude from Tampopo was in it. Yet I couldn't bring myself to go. I mean, how hyped can you get to see a movie about people who prepare dead bodies for cremation?But my cousin LN came in from Washington DC and a group of my family were planning to go. I was in post-mental breakdown from dealing with the kids and my Mom offered to take them with her so I could go with the movies. So faced with the option of going to the movies, staying at work and trying to sort through 10+ years of unfiled papers, or going home and doing a Quickbooks tutorial, it was a no brainer. Off to the movies I went.
Being who I am, I was late and the theatre was completely dark. My friend AS had told me that when she went to Departures, everyone in the theater was a Japanese senior citizen. I found this to be true as I could not find my under 65 year old cousins in the darkness of the sea of Asians. So I just plopped down in a seat by myself. This was a good thing since I bawled during the entire movie, the ugly cry complete with rivers of hanabata. Also being who I am, I had no kleenix or anything to blow my nose on. I thought of doing what my Mom does (and what she has taught my children to do) and blow my nose on my shirt but I had a black shirt on and it would show.
This was a great, life changing movie for me. I was feeling very down since earlier in the day, we had gone to Punchbowl to have LN's father interned in his niche there. As I walked passed the names of veterans I knew and also those I didn't know, I felt very sad. I have been getting philosophical about life the past few weeks - wondering why the bad people of the world seem to be getting away with everything at the expense of the good people of the world. Here I was in the presence of heroes who gave their lives for our freedom yet those who are still alive are still fighting against evil in various forms and seemingly losing the battle.
It is strange but this movie about death really cheered me up and put things into perspective for me. It made me realize that there is beauty in everything and even when the sky is blanketed with darkness, a little light will sneak in and brighten the horizon. It gave me hope for the future and see the power of forgiveness. Those who are pure of heart will be able to pass through the gates of the next life with ease while those truly heinous souls will find the gates are premanently closed.
You MUST see this movie, if:
you had a dream and lost it
you had a plan for life but it changed
you thought your were talented but found out you were ordinary
you are married or in a relationship
you have a secret
you have lied to protect yourself or someone else
you have a job or lost a job
you are a parent
you are a child
you are a human being
So, go see this movie and don't mind the jijis and babas wondering out loud, "What kind of thing did he find?"
Movie Madness
Because it was so hot this week and because I knew I would not strangle the kids if we were in public, we went to the movies. Although we have Netflix, it seems like we only use it to get insanely cheery and inane anime series for the Diva or oscure foreign films for Oscar the Grouch. So, we still end up shelling out big bucks for movies and snacks (it would probably be cheaper to rent out the penthouse suite at Halekulani and watch movies on demand on the flat screen TV there).
The twins and I went to see the newest installment of the Harry Potter series, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. I heard someone on TV say that it was like Harry Potter meets Gossip Girl since the movie focused more on the characters' budding teenage hormones than magic, battling he-who-shall-not-be-named or anything that the franchise is known for. I know, as a parent, that sounds horrible but as an old lady who was stunned by the grown up Daniel Radcliffe posing nekkid on the Equus poster, it had promise.
Unfortunately, the object of lust in the movie was Ron Weasley. Yes, you read that right - Ron Weasley. You definitely know this is a work of fiction since Hermoine chooses Ron over the tall, hunky blonde jock - something that only happens in John Hughes movies and never in real life.
What I found interesting was that Harry Potter is a rainbow dater. In the last film, he had the hots for a Chinese student and in this movie, he is hit on by a black waitress. Poor guy is blocked from a "jungle fever" experience by Dumbledore though (clearly setting off all of those bloggers who ponder whether Dumbledore and Harry are members of the Man/Boy society). Does he end up with either of them? No, he sticks to the white way and ends up with Ginny Weasley, Ron's sister who thankfully does not look like anyone else in her family.
Now those of you who know me well know that I am a punk at heart and if I could, I would dress like I was going to an Amish funeral every day (all black from head to toe). This is why my favorite character an
d the love of my dark dank heart is Snape. I just ADORE me some snape. The way his icy eyes shoot out lasers of pure unadulterated evil, the way he hisses "Mr. Potter", everything he does is just so achingly horrific - I love it. However, it seems that middle age has caught up with him and I couldn't help but notice (if my kids are reading this I know they are getting ready to cringe) that he has grown an enormous set of man boobs! They were totally visible under his cloaks and with every profile shot of Snape, I felt like they were using a Pamela Anderson body double. It was disturbing and broke my heart. It was like flashing back to that moment on MTV when Kiss took off their makeup and you got to see what they really looked like. With the exception of Paul Stanley who looked totally the same with or without white face, you wished they would put the makeup back on so you could erase their images from your mind.
d the love of my dark dank heart is Snape. I just ADORE me some snape. The way his icy eyes shoot out lasers of pure unadulterated evil, the way he hisses "Mr. Potter", everything he does is just so achingly horrific - I love it. However, it seems that middle age has caught up with him and I couldn't help but notice (if my kids are reading this I know they are getting ready to cringe) that he has grown an enormous set of man boobs! They were totally visible under his cloaks and with every profile shot of Snape, I felt like they were using a Pamela Anderson body double. It was disturbing and broke my heart. It was like flashing back to that moment on MTV when Kiss took off their makeup and you got to see what they really looked like. With the exception of Paul Stanley who looked totally the same with or without white face, you wished they would put the makeup back on so you could erase their images from your mind. Speaking of disturbing, we went to see G-Force, the guinea pig super agent movie. Yes, it was about as good as it sounds by the premise. I was kind of looking forward to it since I really enjoy Tracy Morgan (Brian Fellow, Brian Fellow) but his guinea pig, Blaster, was such a stereotype. He had a pimped out hamster ball complete with a loud speaker system. The best part of the movie was Steve Buscemi who did the voice of a hostile and paranoid hamster. No, wait, the best part of the movie was when I fell asleep.
The villian was a Mole who may have been Asian. His alias was a Mr. Yanchow or something like that. Because he was Asian (or Asian-a
djacent which is my new favorite phrase coined by Margaret Cho who used it to describe Jon Gosselin), he was nearsighted, needed glasses to see, was disloyal, and was the computer geek. What was most disturbing about this character was the pink thing at the end of his nose that moved like a sea anemone. You half expected nemo and other clown fish to start swimming around it. It really was distracting.
djacent which is my new favorite phrase coined by Margaret Cho who used it to describe Jon Gosselin), he was nearsighted, needed glasses to see, was disloyal, and was the computer geek. What was most disturbing about this character was the pink thing at the end of his nose that moved like a sea anemone. You half expected nemo and other clown fish to start swimming around it. It really was distracting. G-Force was terrible. It was the first Disney movie that I took the kids to where they didn't immediately start nagging to go and buy the toys.
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