Selasa, 30 Desember 2008

-- the knife's finally gone

Not me anymore!

Thanks for asking, everyone who sent me such nice notes about my earlier woe-is-me post. My throat's better and the knife in my back is finally gone. It went from a full-scale kitchen butcher knife to a paring knife, shrinking further to a pocketknife until it finally disappeared. Now I have to figure out what I did to bring it on and correct that so it NEVER HAPPENS AGAIN. So I'm good. Have a great New Year, talk to you in 2009!

Senin, 29 Desember 2008

-- you voted: your favorite blogs


A while ago I polled my readers to find out what their favorite blogs were, in an attempt to populate my reader with good stuff. Here were their picks.

(Note: * = mentioned multiple times.)

Libby said...
i like hautepocket*, too, but she's already on your list.
kevin forgot said...
  • my own, obviously. i'm amazing and not cocky at all.
Michael Berman said...
hautepocket* said...
Kelly O said...

I love my friends' blogs best, I really do. It's a great way of keeping in touch with everyone. But other than that, here are a few favs:
Kimmers said...

Thanks for all the great material! Anyone else have a good blog to recommend?

ADDED 1/1/09: more blogs recommended by my readers (thanks, all!):

From Mindy of Mindy does Minneapolis:
  • Jack & Jill online
From Melissa of Melissa is Blogging:
Thanks for the great reading material, everyone. You're the best. :) --blogrollandroll

Lohans dad warns her girlfriend against putting bad influence on her

Lohans dad warns her girlfriend
Hollywood actress Lindsay Lohans father Michael has asked her lesbian lover Samantha Ronson to refrain from putting bad influence on his daughter, otherwise he will publicize her loopholes.

This comes after Lindsay Lohan stated on her blog that she was deeply devastated over the fact that Michael fathered a love child behind her mothers back.

However, Michael is not ready to believe that it is his daughter who criticized him on the blog, instead he is more than convinced it is Samantha, who wrote it.

He further threatened Samantha that he has extremely embarrassing evidence against her, and would make it public if she tried to influence Lohan against him.

“If one more blog or statement is made people will know the entire truth. I will release e-mails, texts, depositions and audio tapes that will prove everything I have been saying all along. If Sam wants to play, I am ready. But she better be ready too!” Contactmusic quoted him as saying.

Victoria Beckham's tattoo anger

Victoria Beckham's tattoo angerVictoria Beckham is furious with husband David for getting another tattoo.

The former Spice Girl had apparently told the soccer superstar to stop adding body art to his already heavily-inked frame, but he couldn't resist squeezing another onto his left arm.

A source said: "Victoria doesn't think David should have anymore tattoos and tried to stop him having another. She likes them but wants a bit of his skin to be left, but David went ahead with it anyway."

The tattoo - which was created by his regular artist Louis Malloy - is a biblical proverb written in Hebrew which reads: "My son, do not forget my teaching but keep my commands in your heart."

He has Victoria's name in Hindi, the number seven - his shirt number for Manchester United and England - in Roman numerals, a guardian angel across his back and a Michelangelo angel on his right arm

It accompanies another Hebrew phrase on the same arm which translates: "I am my beloved and my beloved is mine". Victoria has the same tattoo.

David, 33, is known for his obsession with tattoos and his upper body is covered in etchings.

He has Victoria's name in Hindi, the number seven - his shirt number for Manchester United and England - in Roman numerals, a guardian angel across his back and a Michelangelo angel on his right arm.

Victoria, 34, is said to be worried her husband is addicted and won't be able to stop adding tattoos to his already impressive collection.The source added to Britain's The Sun newspaper: "She is worried he is hooked and she doesn't know where it will all end. He is a very healthy guy. He doesn't smoke, barely drinks and looks after his body very carefully. But his outside is far from clean."

Minggu, 28 Desember 2008

-- all aboard the FAIL train

Is this what it's like every day? I'll never complain about my commute again.
From the FAIL blog.

Sabtu, 27 Desember 2008

Kate Winslet's porn defence

Kate Winslet's porn defenceKate Winslet says she is "not a porn star".

The British actress - who is married to 'Revolutionary Road' director Sam Mendes - has defended her choice to appear nude in some of her movies, insisting Sam doesn't mind her stripping off if it "enhances" the film.

She said: "Of course Sam doesn't get jealous. I'm not a porn star. I'm not walking out there and actually having sex with other people for my job. He doesn't get jealous at all, not in the slightest. It's really not a big deal.

"I feel that any level of nudity in films that I have been a part of has been absolutely relevant and actually enhanced the story."

He doesn't get jealous at all, not in the slightest

Kate recently revealed she struggled with her nude scenes in new post-war drama 'The Reader'.

She said: "It really took me to the brink in many ways. To bring my character Hanna Schmitz to life was an absolutely enormous challenge and a huge responsibility as well, because it's a much-loved piece of German literature. Many people have differing opinions of Hanna Schmitz - they love her, they loathe her."

2008 Celebrity Quiz

2008 Celebrity QuizAs far as shocking celebrity antics go, 2008 was a vintage year. It seemed never a week went by without a famous face announcing their pregnancy or inflicting yet another bizarre name on their newborn baby.

There were more make-ups, break-ups, divorces, drugs and alcohol-fuelled nights out than ever before, and this year the stars were desperate to reveal all to their fans.

1. Christina Aguilera and Jordan Bratman welcomed their first son Max Liron into the world in January, but what does Max's middle name mean in Hebrew?

a) My child
b) My love
c) My song
d) My heart

2. Which rapper's son died in August?

a) Dr. Dre
b) RZA
c) Eminem
d) DJ Jazzy Jeff

3. Which member of the 'Desperate Housewives' cast recently denied she was pregnant, saying her rounded tummy was a "food baby"?

a) Eva Longoria
b) Teri Hatcher
c) Felicity Huffman
d) Marcia Cross

4. Which famous actor funds a Scientology school in California?

a) Tom Cruise
b) John Travolta
c) Will Smith
d) Brad Pitt

5. The Fireman is the name of the band featuring producer Youth and which British music legend?

a) Keith Richards
b) Ringo Starr
c) Cilla Black
d) Paul McCartney

6. How much was Heather Mills' divorce pay-out from Sir Paul McCartney?

a) £24.3 million
b) £43.2 million
c) £825 million
d) £125 million

7. Which famous singer has been turning to 'The Simple Life' star Nicole Richie for parenting advice?

a) Ashlee Simpson
b) Britney Spears
c) Jennifer Lopez
d) Christina Aguilera

8. In which month did Isaac Hayes die?

a) August
b) November
c) June
d) March9.

How did Minnie Driver unveil the first photograph of her son Henry?

a) A billboard in New York's Times Square
b) Posting it on her MySpace page
c) Faxing it to the editors of the world's top magazines
d) Cards featuring photographs of the tot

10. Which herb did Australian actress Toni Collette and husband Dave Galafassi name their daughter after?

a) Dill
b) Sage
c) Oregano
d) Rosemary

11. What did Dame Helen Mirren do when she presented Daniel Day-Lewis with his Best Actor Oscar?

a) Knighted him with the statuette
b) Did the tango with him across the stage
c) Kissed him passionately
d) Settled for a handshake

12. When Katie Perry kissed a girl - and liked it - for her number one hit single, how did it taste?

a) Like chewing gum
b) Like cherry chapstick
c) Like banoffee pie
d) Like chicken

13. What injury did Daniel Craig sustain on the set of 'Quantum of Solace'?

a) Sliced off the top of his finger
b) Sprained his ankle
c) Broke his nose
d) Broke his leg

14. Where did Beyonce Knowles and Jay-Z tie the knot?
a. Bahamas
b. Gretna
c. Jay Z's New York apartment
d. Beyonce's Malibu mansion

What did Heather Mills throw over Sir Paul?

15. What month did 'X-Files' actress Gillian Anderson give birth to son Felix Griffiths?

a) December
b) October
c) August
d) September16.

What month was Amy Winehouse's husband Blake Fielder-Civil originally released from prison?

a) September
b) November
c) October
d) August

17. Which daughter of a famous rock star gave birth to twins in October?

a) Kimberly Stewart
b) Jade Jagger
c) Lisa Marie Presley
d) Stella McCartney

18. What did pop recluse Robbie Williams say he was thinking of quitting the music business to become earlier this year?

a) A Scientologist
b) A UFOlogist
c) A plumber
d) A supermarket checkout assistant

19. Which British actor was arrested in July for allegedly assaulting his mother and sister?

a) James McAvoy
b) Hugh Grant
c) Daniel Radcliffe
d) Christian Bale

20. On what day did Liam Gallagher wed his long-term girlfriend Nicole Appleton?

a) New Year's Eve
b) February 29
c) Christmas Eve
d) Valentine's Day

21. What did Heath Ledger die from, according to his autopsy result?

a) An accidental overdose of illegal drugs
b) An accidental overdose of prescription medications
c) Suicide
d) The test results were inconclusive

22. What shape guitars was blues musician Bo Diddley, who died in June, famous for making?

a) Round
b) Oval
c) Square
d) Star

23. How long did Helena Bonham-Carter and Tim Burton wait before choosing a name for their daughter Nell?

a) Three months
b) Five months
c) Eight months
d) Eleven months

24. Guns N' Roses finally released their long awaited 'Chinese Democracy' album this year, earning every US citizen a soft drink in the process, but what brand of soda was it?

a) Pepsi
b) Dr Pepper
c) Sprite
d) Panda Cola

25. What cartoon character was the inspiration for Ashlee Simpson's baby shower?

a) Mickey Mouse
b) Winnie-the-Pooh
c) Scooby-Doo
d) Homer Simpson

26. Which classic 80s film has 'High School Musical' star Zac Efron been cast in the remake of?

a) Dirty Dancing
b) The Goonies
c) Ghostbusters
d) Footloose

27. Where did Mel B renew her marriage vows with husband Stephen Belafonte?

a) Spiceworld
b) Egypt
c) Los Angeles
d) London

28. How old was 'Jaws' star Roy Scheider when he died?

a) 81
b) 68
c) 75
d) 79

29. Married Rolling Stones guitarist Ronnie Wood ran off with a Russian waitress in July. Where did they go?

a) Brazil
b) Ireland
c) Australia
d) Iceland

30. Which super-villain is Johnny Depp rumoured to be playing in the next Batman film?

a) The Penguin
b) The Riddler
c) The Joker
d) Catwoman

31. Which American female star met and fell for Prince William during their stay in the UK this year?

a) Jessica Simpson
b) Katy Perry
c) Beyonce Knowles
d) Paris Hilton

32. Britney Spears was rushed to hospital in January after she was found "under the influence of an unknown substance". What did she do as she was wheeled from her home on a stretcher?

a) She began shouting for her sons
b) She stuck two fingers up at waiting paparazzi
c) She was sick
d) She began pulling out her hair

33. Who called off her engagement to businessman Francois-Henri Pinault this summer?

a) Salma Hayek
b) Susan Sarandon
c) Sharon Osbourne
d) Sarah Jessica Parker

34. Who checked into rehab in August to receive treatment for sex addiction?

a) Amy Winehouse
b) David Duchovny
c) Kate Moss
d) Elton John

35. Paris Hilton split from Good Charlotte rocker Benji Madden in November. How long were they together for?

a) Nine hours
b) Nine days
c) Nine weeks
d) Nine months

36. Johnny Depp was paid Hollywood's largest upfront sum to star in the next Pirates of the Caribbean film. How much was it?

a) £28 million
b) £32 million
c) £70 million
d) £100 million

37. Whose boyfriend was jailed shortly after splitting from the Hollywood star this year?

a) Anne Hathaway
b) Jennifer Aniston
c) Angelina Jolie
d) Judi Dench

38. Peaches Geldof got married in Las Vegas in August. What is the name of her rocker spouse?

a) Max Payne
b) Max Drummey
c) Max Bassist
d) Max Guitarist

39. Which of these artists has not released a single produced by Mark Ronson in 2008?

a) Wiley
b) Kaiser Chiefs
c) Amy Winehouse
d) Adele

40. Who said "I'm going to have cute boobs until I'm 90. I'm going to have the best boobs in the nursing home!" after having a double mastectomy to treat breast cancer?

a) Christina Applegate
b) Sharon Osbourne
c) Kylie Minogue
d) Anastacia

41. What is the name of Jessica Alba's husband who she married in May?

a) Rich Warren
b) Cash Warren
c) Warren G
d) Rabbit Warren

42. Who accidentally revealed Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt were expecting twins Vivienne Marcheline and Knox Leon at the premiere of 'Kung Fu Panda'?

a) Dustin Hoffman
b) Jack Black
c) Jackie Chan
d) Lucy Liu

43. What did Scarlett Johansson claim she was planning to wear before she married Ryan Reynolds in September?

a) A pearl earring
b) A scarlet gown
c) Nothing
d) A beaver crown

44. Which Disney character provided the second name for Ashlee Simpson and Pete Wentz's son?

a) Simba
b) Aladdin
c) Mowgli
d) Dumbo

45. Which A-list star donned a fat suit and danced to Flo Rida's 'Low' in hit 2008 comic movie 'Tropic Thunder'?

a) Tom Cruise
b) Brad Pitt
c) Will Smith
d) Robert Downey Jr.

46. What did newlywed Ellen Degeneres say when California banned same-sex marriages?

a) I am saddened beyond belief
b) I fully support this vote
c) My wife Portia will be delighted
d) What is Proposition 8?

47. What type of cancer did Paul Newman die from?

a) Lung
b) Prostate
c) Throat
d) Colon

48. What did Heather Mills throw over Sir Paul McCartney's lawyer during their bitter divorce court battle?

a) A glass of water
b) A bowl of soup
c) A pack of crisps
d) A fizzy drink

49. Kings of Leon scored their first UK number one with a single from their fifth album 'Only by the Night' - but what was the title of song?

a) Hair On Fire
b) Sex On Fire
c) Legs On Fire
d) Lips On Fire

50. Which legendary actor was blasted by environmental campaigners after a restaurant chain he co-owns was found to be selling endangered species of fish?

a) Jack Nicholson
b) Clint Eastwood
c) Robert De Niro
d) Al Pacino

51. John Cleese announced this year he is getting divorced for the third time. What did he say about marriage?

a) I think a marriage should be like a driving licence
b) I think a marriage should be like the Holy Grail
c) I think a marriage should be like a dog licence
d) I think a marriage should be like Fawlty Towers

52. A video of Britney Spears trapped in a lift wearing glasses and a hooded top was part of the show for which artist's 2008 world tour?

a) Coldplay
b) Christina Aguilera
c) Madonna
d) Justin Timberlake

53. In which month did Charlton Heston die?

a) April
b) February
c) June
d) August

54. What did Jada Pinkett Smith reveal she calls her nitpicking husband Will Smith?

a) Captain Corelli
b) Captain Correction
c) Captain Jack Sparrow
d) Captain Birdseye

55. Who became the first British female solo singer to top the US Billboard Hot 100 Charts in over 20 years, in March?

a) Amy Winehouse
b) Duffy
c) Adele
d) Leona Lewis

56. Which non-actor did Sylvester Stallone originally want to cast in the new 'Rambo' film so he could "chase him around the jungle"?

a) David Beckham
b) Simon Cowell
c) Paris Hilton
d) Jerry Springer

57. Which classic rock n' roll band released their first album in eight years - 'Black Ice' - to rave reviews in October?

a) AC/DC
b) Metallica
c) Guns N' Roses
d) Spinal Tap

58. Which Glastonbury performer attacked a fan during their set?

a) Jay-Z
b) Amy Winehouse
c) Verve frontman Richard Ashcroft
d) James Blunt

59. Which sporting event did Jennifer Lopez take part in shortly after giving birth to twins Max and Emme?

a) A mud race
b) A 100m running race
c) A football tournament
d) A triathlon

60. Evangeline Lilly fell ill after her house became infested with what?

a) Wasps
b) Ants
c) Possums
d) Mould

61. How many MTV Video Music Awards did Britney Spears win for her song 'Piece of Me' at the US awards show in September?

a) One
b) Two
c) Three
d) Four

62. What was the name of the paparazzi photographer Britney Spears allegedly made a sex tape with?

a) Jack the pap
b) Adnan Ghalib
c) Darren Lyons
d) Annie Leibovitz

63. What month did Madonna announce she was splitting from Guy Ritchie?

a) March
b) August
c) October
d) December

64. How old was Britney Spears' sister Jamie Lynn when she announced she was expecting her first child with boyfriend Casey Aldridge?

a) 15
b) 16
c) 17
d) 18

65. In which month was it revealed Patrick Swayze was suffering from pancreatic cancer?

a) February
b) March
c) May
d) April

66. Which Academy Award winning actress revealed she keeps her Oscar in the bathroom?

a) Rachel Weisz
b) Halle Berry
c) Jennifer Hudson
d) Dame Helen Mirren

67. The title of Kevin Smith's new film was cut to 'Zack and Miri' in an advertising campaign due to censors, but what is the full title?

a) 'Zack and Miri Go Bananas'
b) 'Zack and Miri Make a Porno'
c) 'Zack and Miri's Excellent Adventure'
d) 'Zack and Miri and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull'

68. Which founding member of Pink Floyd died in September?

a) Roger Waters
b) Nick Mason
c) Syd Barrett
d) Rick Wright

69. What colour did Gwen Stefani and Gavin Rossdale paint new son Zuma Nesta Rock's nursery?

a) Blue
b) Yellow
c) Red
d) Black

70. Which grumpy northern English rock star said he was "not having hip-hop at Glastonbury" after learning of Jay-Z's inclusion on the bill?

a) Liam Gallagher
b) Noel Gallagher
c) Richard Ashcroft
d) Slash

71. What did Adam Sandler call his new daughter who was born in November?

a) Sunny
b) Rainy
c) Maddie
d) Sarah

72. Kendra Wilkinson announced her engagement to American football star Hank Baskett in November, but which ex-boyfriend has promised to give her away at her wedding?

a) Jack Nicholson
b) Hugh Hefner
c) Hugh Grant
d) The Hoff

73. Which pop star retired from touring with two shows named 'The Final Two' in August, only to headline a stadium concert in the United Arab Emirates in December?

a) George Michael
b) Cliff Richard
c) Robin Gibb
d) Meatloaf

74. How much older was Mariah Carey than her husband Nick Cannon when she married him in April?

a) 10 years
b) 11 years
c) 12 years
d) 13 years

75. Which pair of Hollywood beauties shared a same-sex kiss in Woody Allen's 2008 film 'Vicky Cristina Barcelona'?

a) Penelope Cruz and Jessica Biel
b) Scarlett Johansson and Eva Mendes
c) Penelope Cruz and Cameron Diaz
d) Scarlett Johansson and Penelope Cruz

76. Rod Stewart's ex-wife Rachel Hunter announced her engagement to athlete Jarret Stoll this summer. What sport does he play?

a) Ice hockey
b) Soccer
c) Water polo
d) Basketball

77. What did Harrison Ford do to raise awareness of deforestation?

a) Waxed his chest
b) Ate a cockroach
c) Ran a marathon
d) Performed an Irish jig

78. Which member of Take That became a father for the second time in November?

a) Gary Barlow
b) Jason Orange
c) Marc Owen
d) Howard Donald

79. Who did George Lucas say he wanted to replace Harrison Ford in the lead role in the next Indiana Jones film?

a) Seth Rogen
b) Shia LaBeouf
c) Zac Efron
d) Sean Connery

80. Which star of 'Sex And The City: The Movie' revealed she had secretly been fighting breast cancer?

a) Cynthia Nixon
b) Sarah Jessica Parker
c) Kim Cattrall
d) Kristin Davis

81. What was the full title of Coldplay's fourth album, released in June?

a) 'Viva La Vida or God and all his Friends'
b) 'Viva La Vida or Death and all his Enemies'
c) 'Viva La Vida or Bob and all his Friends'
d) 'Viva La Vida or Death and all his Friends'

82. David Hasselhoff's divorce from Pamela Bach was finalised this year. What did Pamela brand David soon after?

a) A fantastic lover
b) A Knight Rider
c) A falling-down drunk
d) A hunk

83. What did Simon Pegg do when he saw preview footage of the new 'Star Trek' movie?

a) Punched the air and shouted "Booya!"
b) Did a handstand
c) Texted William Shatner
d) Cried

84. Which sport did Matthew McConaughey say his son with Camila Alves was going to be able to do before he could walk?

a) Surfing
b) Tennis
c) Waterskiing
d) Football

85. Why did Steven Tyler go to rehab this year?

a) Sex addiction
b) Drug and alcohol addiction
c) To recover from foot surgery
d) To seek treatment for stress

86. What did Oscar-winning director Anthony Minghella die from?

a) Pneumonia
b) He was killed in a car crash
c) Cancer
d) A brain haemorrhage

87. Who said in 2008: "I didn't go to Cirque Lodge treatment facility for alcohol abuse or drug abuse, I went there for depression. I was struggling."

a) Britney Spears
b) Kirsten Dunst
c) Lindsay Lohan
d) Mary-Kate Olsen

88. What unusual gift did Jessica Alba choose to give guests at her baby shower, ahead of the birth of daughter Honor Marie in June?

a) A comb
b) A leather bracelet
c) A framed photograph of Jessica and husband Cash Warren
d) A notebook in which to write down possible baby names

89. What illness was Amy Winehouse rumoured to have this year?

a) Alzheimer's
b) Chicken pox
c) Emphysema
d) Alopecia

90. The opening lines to Pink's UK number one single 'So What' lament the loss of what from her life?

a) Her husband
b) Her pet dog
c) Her sister
d) Her favourite T-shirt

91. Which country singer did Jerry O'Connell joke he and Rebecca Romijin would be naming one of their babies after?

a) Jessica Simpson
b) Tammy Wynette
c) Dolly Parton
d) Johnny Cash

92. Who was crowned 'Best Ever Act' at the 2008 MTV Europe Music Awards?

a) U2
b) Christina Aguilera
c) Rick Astley
d) Green Day

93. What was Kelsey Grammer doing when he suffered a heart attack in May?

a) Hiking
b) Cleaning his car
c) Shouting at a waiter in a restaurant
d) Paddle boarding

94. What does Nicole Kidman credit for helping her conceive daughter Sunday Rose while she was filming 'Australia'?

a) An Aboriginal witch doctor
b) Her co-star Hugh Jackman's daily meditations
c) The local waterfalls
d) Eating the local honey every day

95. Oasis guitarist Noel Gallagher was attacked onstage by an over-excited fan in Toronto, Canada, during his band's 2008 world tour, but what injury did he sustain?

a) Broken arm
b) Broken ribs
c) Cracked skull
d) Sprained wrist

96. Which British actress caused outrage when she started dating married 'Brothers and Sisters' actor Balthazar Getty?

a) Sienna Miller
b) Keira Knightley
c) Gemma Arteton
d) Emily Blunt

97. Which hunky actor was named People magazine's Sexiest Man Alive in 2008?

a) Brad Pitt
b) George Clooney
c) Matt Damon
d) Hugh Jackman

98. In what city did Halle Berry give birth to daughter Nahla Ariela Aubry in March?

a) London
b) Los Angeles
c) Dubai
d) New York

99. Which member of the Jackson family refused to be part of a Jackson 5 reunion?

a) Jermaine Jackson
b) Randy Jackson
c) Michael Jackson
d) Tito Jackson

100. What did George Michael say in his apology to fans after he was arrested for possession of crack-cocaine and cannabis new a London public toilet in September?

a) "I want to apologize to my fans for screwing up again, and to promise them I'll sort myself out. And to say sorry to everybody else, just for boring them."
b) "The drugs weren't mine."
c) "I'm sorry, I'm just fascinated by toilets."
d) "I'm sorry, that Wham! split up."

Answers:
Q1 C Q2 A Q3 A Q4 C Q5 D

A Q7 D Q8 A Q9 B Q10 B

Q11 A Q12 B Q13 A Q14 C Q15 B

Q16 B Q17 C Q18 B Q19 D Q20 D

Q21 B Q22 C Q23 C Q24 B Q25 B Q26 D

Q27 B Q28 C Q29 B Q30 B

Q31 D Q32 B Q33 A Q34 B Q35 D

Q36 B Q37 A Q38 B Q39 C Q40 A

Q41 B Q42 B Q43 D Q44 C Q45 A

Q46 A Q47 A Q48 A Q49 B Q50 C

Q51 C Q52 C Q53 A Q54 B Q55 D

Q56 A Q57 A Q58 B Q59 D Q60 D

Q61 C Q62 B Q63 C Q64 B Q65 B

Q66 A Q67 B Q68 D Q69 D Q70 B

Q71 A Q72 B Q73 A Q74 B Q75 D

Q76 A Q77 A Q78 C Q79 B Q80 A

Q81 D Q82 C Q83 D Q84 A Q85 C

Q86 D Q87 B Q88 B Q89 C Q90 A

Q91 C Q92 C Q93 D Q94 C Q95 B

Q96 A Q97 D Q98 B Q99 C Q100 A

How did you do?76 - 100: Madonna. You truly are the king or queen of celebrity gossip. You know your Britney from your Whitney, and your Zuma from your Bronx. Whether it's a baby being born, a proposal being accepted or a celebrity being shipped to rehab, you always have the lowdown on who is hot and who's not in Hollywood. Only the most Z-list of celebrities drop off your radar, and who cares about them anyway?

51 - 75: Victoria Beckham. Well done, you're always up with the latest happenings in the land of celebrity. You try hard and strive to be the best, but let's be honest - you're not quite there yet. You know who's dating who and why, but you don't live and breathe showbiz gossip. A bit like Jennifer 'I'm lucky in love' Aniston, we're just not buying it. Still, with a little more work and bit more dedication next year you might just qualify to the A-list.

26 - 50: Hey Pete Wentz. You're trying, but it's still not enough. You're interest in the lives of the stars is much like Sienna Miller's interest in the media - it's fine when she's got a film out, not so good the rest of the time. Some hard work is going to be needed if you want to catapult to the A-list next year.

0 - 25: You are Tara Reid. It's no surprise you've done so badly, you've clearly been cocooned in a fog all year. The highs and lows of celebrity life have completely passed you by - there's more chance of Britney singing live, Amy getting clean or Jacko balancing his cheque book than there is of you recognising an A-lister. Spend at least an hour a day reading up on celebrity gossip, or forever be doomed to a life without stardom.

Anne Hathaway's Easy New Year

Anne Hathaway's easy New YearAnne Hathaway's New Year's resolution is to "push the easy button".

The 'Bride Wars' actress has vowed to continue working hard but enjoy herself more in 2009.

She said: "My New Year's resolution is to not slow down but to do things in an easier way, to push the easy button more in my life."

Anne, who split from Italian businessman Raffaello Follieri shortly before he was imprisoned for fraud earlier this year, also plans to ask her loved ones for help when she needs it.

The 26-year-old star added: I feel that so far, I've had a really good life but my approach has been to do everything myself

The 26-year-old star added: "I feel that so far, I've had a really good life but my approach has been to do everything myself. My resolution is to lean on other people more. You need to lean on people and let people lean on you. My New Year's resolution is to find a better balance between a give and a take."

-- Did someone stab me last night?

What the heck did I do yesterday to make my body so broken and sore? I woke up feeling like a knife was lodged firmly in my upper back. It hurts so bad I can't even breathe deeply. I would know it if someone stabbed me last night, right? *sigh*

I hate the idea of back pain. Honestly. It sounds so trashy. "I threw out my back!" Isn't that what happens to people when they hurt themselves heaving 20 lb tubs of ice cream into their laps? I work out almost every day and although I am not an athlete, I shouldn't be this frail. Between the stabbing pains and sore throat, I'm not exactly having the blast of a long weekend that I'd hoped.
Me, hoping the pillows would add weight and soothe my broken body. (They didn't, but I did at least laugh [which hurt] at the ridiculousness of thinking this.) Think I have a few books to finish reading on my bedside table?

Tycho joins me in bed.

Epilogue, posted 12/30/08: all better. whew!

Jumat, 26 Desember 2008

-- um, realtor needs a lesson in marketing.

Address and other details removed for their privacy... but really, couldn't you at least include the living quarters? You may as well drive down to Home Depot and take a picture of their door aisle for all this reveals.

Xmas killer Beyonce Knowles

Xmas killer Beyonce KnowlesBeyonce Knowles is worried she might kill her family when she cooks Christmas dinner.

The 'Cadillac Records' star - who is married to music mogul Jay-Z - has planned a festive feast for her closest relatives but fears her lack of culinary skills may prove to be a serious problem.

She said: "One thing I am doing for the first time is cooking. But I'm the worst! I've been working since I was 13. I've been touring. I haven't had the time to be at home and learn the simple things.

"My mother's like, 'You're 27 years old. This is a shame. You have to learn how to cook.' So this year it's going to be my first time. Hopefully, my family will still be well and alive after they eat what I cooked!"

My mother's like, 'You're 27 years old. The former Destiny's Child star also revealed she never sings over Christmas because she likes to have a break her job.

She is quoted by website Inquirer.net as saying: "Singing is the last thing I want to do. I just want to relax. Usually, I want to be spoiled. I can have my socks on and watch TV. But this time, I'm going to try to pitch in and make more than ice water - what I am very good at!"

Kamis, 25 Desember 2008

-- xmas

No Christmas tree because I'm Jewish, but here's a nice little pine.
My Dad & stepmom holding up their gifts: oatmeal and crackers! I know how to treat my peeps well.

-- all I got for Christmas...

Is a raging sore throat. Great. Happy Day, y'all.

Rabu, 24 Desember 2008

-- preparedness FAIL

See that distant yellow backdrop? That's part of the checkout counter. And this is me on line, 12 aisles back behind 47 other people. Why? Because it's Christmas eve. And I've decided to head out to the store for last-minute items, because I love being a ridiculous idiot.

-- the ghost(s) of Christmas (eves) past

I celebrate both Christmas and Hanukkah. And by "celebrate" I mean that I like to grossly overeat with loved ones. At multiple households.

So this is the first year in over a decade that I am not reenacting the movie "Four Christmases" (which I haven't seen, but really... do I need to?), meaning I am not driving hundreds of miles to see everyone in a car so packed I cannot see out the windows. Instead I'm staying home and (some) family is coming to me. It's awesome! (Though I'll miss everyone I won't be overeating with.)

When I was a student and extremely poor, the usual routine was extremely stressful. I didn't have time to get presents until after exams which usually meant ALL shopping was done Christmas eve. Yes. That would be me, in the 24-hour Walmart rubbing my red, watery, fatigued eyes and desperately searching for something both useful AND thoughtful among all the cheap crap and strewn merchandise. (This basically meant getting everyone pens and batteries.)

One year Dan and I finished shopping at 2am, hauled our loot noisily up the stairs to our apartment and began an epic present-wrapping session that didn't end until dawn. (Yes, I have a big family. All are on the list.)

I set the clock for 6am, one hour later, and fell into a coma, desperate for some semblance of rest after an exhausting week of finals, during which I built up a sleep deficit rivaling tortured prisoners. I remember nothing after bedding down.

I don't remember the clock going off. I don't remember the phone ringing. I don't remember getting up and answering it. I don't even remember saying "Hello?" but I must have done this because I found myself sitting straight up in bed with the phone somehow attached to my ear and my Dad saying, "You're still THERE?"

Holy #$@! I just missed my family event! They were two hours away and here I was, rubbing the beginnings of pinkeye encrustations* from reddened eyes in my terribly rundown state as I groggily processed the epic holiday FAIL that just happened. I still needed to shower, pack and eat and the car wasn't even loaded yet. Even if I'd gotten into it at that *instant*, it'd still be too late. He was soon leaving for his own version of "Four Christmases." FAIL. I missed Christmas morning.

Luckily my dad's a great guy and (after the initial disappointment) moved heaven and earth with his other plans so we could still see eachother later. He never held a grudge about it (did I mention he's awesome?) but I think everyone else whose plans got bumped is STILL irritated with me to this day.

If I only had this story, It'd be enough. But wait! There's more!

The next year brought another close call with the gods of FAIL that so enjoy meddling in my life.

As usual, we finished shopping on Christmas eve and came home for an epic present-wrapping session. This time we planned to hop in the car right then and there. (None of this sleep crap. Sleep is for the weak!) We began driving, this time a four-hour drive from Maryland to NJ. It was sleeting and snowing but Dan's aging Isuzu continued to impress us, pluckily carting us up the I95 corridor despite the terrible weather beating down from the sky.

And then... the windshield wipers died. THIS, to happen now, of all times. We curled our hands out the window and ineffectually pawed at the glass with fingertips and a scraper, courting frostbite, until we could safely pull over.

So there we were, stranded at a rest station in northern Maryland. It's not like you can easily find help on Christmas eve at 2am. Who do you even call?

So Dan did the next best thing. He attempted to fix it himself. Without even having all the right tools, he took out the motor, disassembled it and began scraping the electrical contacts. It took two hours but he fixed it! We got back in the car at 4am and continued north. Exhausted but determined not to miss this year's gathering.

The terrible snowstorm made the going slow so we didn't arrive until 8am. But we didn't miss it!

So there you go. Two years of hellish commuting I don't care to repeat. But tomorrow I won't even have to. Happy holidays!


*Beware of touching *anything* in Walmart and then rubbing your eyes...

Simpson's breast milk tastes 'weird', hubby says

Ashlee Simpson's breast milk tastes soury and weird
Pete Wentz says Ashlee Simpson's breast milk tastes "soury and weird".

The Fall Out Boy rocker is not a fan of his wife's milk, but insists his newborn son Bronx Mowgli enjoys it.

He said: "The baby loves it, it's the only thing he's had a chance to have."

The star has also revealed his plans to become a father again and hopes to have a sizeable brood.

He said: "I want to have six now. I mean not six specifically, but I want more. I can't imagine that we're stopping, you know what I'm saying?

"This is like a Journey song, it's like the chorus is just going to keep coming."

Pete, 29, has also confessed he thought he was going into cardiac arrest when Ashlee was having the baby, but soon felt better when he saw his son.

He added to US radio station Sirius: "I had a scared moment right before she went into labour - I thought I was having a heart attack for real, like my heart started doing like a weird thing.

"But, the first time I held him. I just knew everything was perfect. Like everything was good - it was like Lego, you know what I'm saying? Like it all fit together."

Japanese porn actress-turned-AIDS activist found dead

Japanese porn actress Ai IijimaFormer Japanese porn actress Ai Iijima, who campaigned for AIDS awareness in a nation where it is still widely seen as a foreign disease, was found dead at her home Wednesday, police said.

The body of the 36-year-old, who retired in March last year from a lucrative career as a television personality, was found lying in the lounge of her condominium in downtown Shibuya by a friend.

"There were few signs of foul play. We will conduct a post mortem tomorrow to determine if the cause of her death was an illness, suicide or something of a criminal nature," a police spokesman said.

Iijima, who was also known in the rest of Asia, gained popularity at home as a straight-talking character since her debut on television variety shows in the 1990s.

Her AIDS awareness campaign started around the time she published the autobiographical "Platonic Sex" in 2000, describing her younger days as a porn actress and club hostess.

The book has sold some two million copies and been made into a movie and a television drama.

Citing kidney problems and a lack of motivation, Iijima retired from the show and television business world but continued her AIDS campaign.

"In Japan, HIV-positive patients are increasing year by year and many people's lives are lost," she wrote on her blog on December 2. "Is your boyfriend alright? Is your girlfriend alright? Why don't you take an AIDS test to know yourself."

She stopped writing her blog on December 5 and was seen at an AIDS seminar in a provincial city the following day.

In a recent interview with the weekly Asahi, Iijima said she had just borrowed money from an investment back and would "open a shopping site dealing with cosmetics."

Madagascar Sequel Tops Global Box Office Chart

Madagascar Sequel Tops Global Box Office ChartAll-star animated film Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa has stampeded to the top of the international box office chart, taking in $33.5 million (£22.6 million) in 56 territories.

The DreamWorks movie, starring Ben Stiller, Jada Pinkett Smith, Chris Rock and David Schwimmer fought off competition from Keanu Reeves' sci-fi thriller The Day the Earth Stood Still, which finished second at $21 million (£14.2 million) in 92 markets.

Vampire lovestory Twilight, starring Kristen Stewart and Robert Pattinson, sucked $11 million (£7.4 million) in earnings in 27 territories

Rounding out the top five were Jim Carrey's new comedy, Yes Man at number four, and animated mouse movie The Tale of Despereaux, at five, which garnered $3.5 million (£2.4 million) and $1.7 million (£1.2 million) respectively

Britney Spears' sex disguise

Britney Spears' sex disguiseBritney Spears reportedly snuck out of her home in disguise for a secret sex session.

The 'Womanizer' singer apparently defied her father Jamie's ban on men to enjoy the saucy rendezvous with a mystery friend - and even bragged of her romp when she got home.

A source said: "She's been a prisoner in her own home and began to crave affection and attention from someone other than her parents, which is only natural.

"She told her dad she got a ride with the person she'd arranged to meet and gone to their house in Los Angeles for a few hours.

The source added to Britain's Now magazine: Britney told him that she was a grown woman and ordered him to get out of her room

"She told him not to worry and that it was someone she'd known a long time who was a good person and wouldn't hurt her."

However, Jamie - who is co-conservator of her estate following her public meltdown last year - was apparently furious over the incident.

The source added to Britain's Now magazine: "Britney told him that she was a grown woman and ordered him to get out of her room. She didn't come out for the rest of the day."

Selasa, 23 Desember 2008

-- letter to Burger King, from Andy

This was so funny I had to make a special post just linking to it: Dear Burger King employees from Andy at Wild ARS Chase.

Senin, 22 Desember 2008

Penelope Cruz Infuriates Harvey Weinstein

Penelope Cruz Infuriates Harvey WeinsteinPenelope Cruz's diva behavior has infuriated Hollywood mogul Harvey Weinstein.

The actress apparently upset the movie producer by arriving late for the 7pm London screening of their new film Vicky Cristina Barcelona at London's plush Mayfair Hotel.

But when she then went to her suite to change, she got a real dressing down.

A source tells Britain's Daily Mirror newspaper, "Harvey screamed, 'Tell her to get her fucking ass here right now!'"

Vicky Cristina Barcelona, directed by legendary movie maker Woody Allen, also stars Scarlett Johansson and Javier Bardem.

Madonna Jesus Love

Madonna Jesus LoveMadonna is reportedly having a fling with a Brazilian male model.

The '4 Minutes' singer met Jesus Luz in Rio de Janeiro while on a shoot for American magazine W, and the pair became so close she invited him to join her on the Sao Paolo leg of her 'Sticky and Sweet' world tour.

A source told the New York Post newspaper: "She was very interested in him. He's there with her now and photographer Steven Klein is helping him get along with everyone."

Madonna and Jesus reportedly struggled to keep their hands off each other when they met, and did little to hide their fledgling relationship from onlookers.

The pair also went to a star-studded Christmas bash over the weekend, where other guests included Stella and Mary McCartney, Lily Allen, Sir Mick Jagger and Kevin Spacey

Another source said: "Everyone knows they are ficando - which is a Portuguese expression that means they are kissing and doing other things but without any obligation of being faithful or getting into a relationship afterwards."

Meanwhile, Madonna is said to be "thrilled" at reports her estranged husband Guy Ritchie is dating Jemima Khan.

Guy and Jemima - who was previously married to Pakistan cricket legend Imran Khan and dated Hugh Grant - attended a dinner party together earlier this month. The pair also went to a star-studded Christmas bash over the weekend, where other guests included Stella and Mary McCartney, Lily Allen, Sir Mick Jagger and Kevin Spacey.

A friend of Madonna said: "It's not like she's asking him for details, but she's thrilled at the prospect of him moving on. It makes things easier for everybody."

Minggu, 21 Desember 2008

-- Lazy Sunday

There's a million things I should be doing, but darn if it isn't awesome to spend a few minutes lazing around with the dog...

-- the lie

Was not born around Christmas! All the other things are true.

US starlets are Bitchier than UK ones: Emma Watson

Emma WatsonBrit actress Emma Watson has revealed that she finds US starlets her age bitchier than the ones in UK.

Watson also said that life in Britain was totally different, and that a bitchy attitude was never tolerated there.

Gosh, I could never be that bitchy! I think that living in England, it’’s very disconnected from Hollywood, the Daily Express quoted her as saying.

There’s a very different approach and attitude towards it. Acting in a starry way is just not tolerated. You will just have the piss taken out of you. People will just laugh at you, she said.

The 18-year-old Harry Potter star admitted that she enjoyed visiting California and loved to go there for work.

She, however, said that a permanent move was something she had not thought about as yet.

Never say never, but I can”t imagine it. I think that it’’s a wonderful lifestyle that you have here - the weather is amazing and everyone seems very healthy. It seems like a really nice place to live, she told AOL’’s Moviefone.com

Obviously, if I had a film here or whatever, then that would be great. But I don”t really know a lot of people here, she added.

Hooded thief breaks into Hilton's LA home

Hooded thief breaks into Hilton's LA homeCelebrity heiress Paris Hilton's house was broken into Friday by a man wearing a hooded sweatshirt and gloves who forced open the front door and made off with belongings.

Hilton was not home during the early morning burglary, said Richard French, spokesman for the Los Angeles Police Department.

The burglary as reported by a security guard at Hilton's gated Los Angeles community, French said.

Police did not release the value of the stolen items. But French said the robber "ransacked" Hilton's bedroom.

Hilton, 27, a member of the family that founded the Hilton Hotel chain, is a fixture of the Hollywood social scene.

She starred in reality television show The Simple Life and has pursued a career as an actress and singer.

Jumat, 19 Desember 2008

Madonna to Planning to Adopt - Again?

Madonna to Planning to AdoptMadonna is planning to adopt - again, according to reports.

The Material Girl - who divorced husband Guy Ritchie in November - controversially adopted David Banda from Malawi in 2006.

And she is now to add 4-year-old Mercy James - whose grandparents are too poor to care for her - to her brood.

The singer, 50, has already signed the adoption papers - and is set to fly to the poverty-stricken country with her rumored lover Alex Rodriguez to pick up the tot.

A source tells Star magazine, "She's hoping to bring the toddler home by early next year."

"It breaks our hearts to know she will leave us, but adoption is best for her," Mercy's grandfather, Saxon Maunde, said.

Until the the star adopted David, Malawi had not permitted foreign adoptions. Madonna has since moved back to New York City with son Rocco, 8, and daughter Lourdes, 12.

Scarlett Johansson: 'I've Got Lots of Time to Have Children'

Scarlett Johansson is in no rush to have a child
Scarlett Johansson is in no rush to have a child.

The Vicky Cristina Barcelona star - who married actor Ryan Reynolds in September this year - insists she has plenty of time to get pregnant.

She says, "I'm 24 years old! I've got a lot of time for that.

"I love to work and I'm enjoying myself right now.

"Someday in the distant future I'm sure I'll want to enjoy that part of my life. But I'm not ready for that yet."

Fergie's New Year nuptials

Fergie's New Year nuptials
Fergie will marry actor Josh Duhamel in January.

The 33-year-old 'London Bridge' singer and the 'Transformers' star will tie the knot in Southern California over the second weekend of January.

It has been claimed many of Fergie's 'Nine' co-stars, including Kate Hudson, Nicole Kidman, Penelope Cruz, Sophia Loren, Marion Cotillard and Daniel Day-Lewis, will attend the ceremony.

The 36-year-old actor proposed to Fergie - whose real name is Stacey Ferguson - in 2007, after three years together.

They only plan on getting married once. At the time, friends said the singer was "the happiest girl on earth".

A source said: "She is working with Chanel designer Karl Lagerfeld on getting her fantasy gown. They are taking their time to get everything right. They only plan on getting married once."

After announcing the engagement, Fergie insisted she was in no rush to tie the knot and wanted to ensure everything was perfect for her big day.

She said: "I have a big stack of wedding magazines. I want to go home and spend time with my family and just take some time to think about everything."

Jennifer Aniston: "It's My Time"

Jennifer Aniston Its My TimeJennifer Aniston may just be the Hollywood's hottest celebrity.

Aniston is the subject of articles in numerous magazines -- GQ and Vogue, among them, not to mention pieces in seemingly countless tabloids.

She also stars with Owen Wilson in "Marley and Me," a touching romantic comedy based on John Grogan’s best-seller, about a young couple who buys a very behavior-challenged dog, and where life leads them. The movie opens nationwide Christmas Day.

Oh -- and did we mention that Aniston poses all-but-nude -- wearing only a tie -- for GQ's cover?

Aniston, 39, told Early Show co-anchor Harry Smith Friday all the attention tends to become a blur, as her picture leaps out at her from newsstands everywhere.

"It's funny," she explained. "I mean, I honestly see it as a different person. It's just -- well, because the (tabloid) headlines are just outrageous, so you usually get a kick out of that. But you just kind of go -- you try to walk past it as fast as you possibly can, honestly."

As onlookers on the street gawked at Aniston through the studio window, Smith remarked about how difficult it must be to have fans notice her everywhere.

"It's amazing how you can sort of start to tune them out," Aniston replied."

Smith said he "gets the sense" it's simply her time, and Aniston agreed, observing, "It's my time. I feel just really -- I mean, I just feel like, you know, every woman that's ever said -- or man -- that's said it just gets better. I just agree. I just wish we could have -- it's the thing: You don't know as much as you know in your 20s as you do in your 30s as you do when you are..."

Smith took it further, paraphrasing a line in the Bernard Malamud novel, "The Natural," that says, 'We live two lives: one we learn with, and the other we live with.' "So, you may be in the 'live with' one," Smith suggested.

"I'm startin' to live. It's good!" Aniston responded.

Turning to "Marley and Me," Aniston said it "packs a punch," evoking a full range of emotions as it follows a newlywed couple over 15 years, beginning as a light film, then yanking at the heart.

She says it tells the couple's story "from that early stage of being married and excited and your careers and futures and dreams are right ahead of you, and then, just sort of -- life!"

But in it, "I get to get my hands a little dirty. And it was also ... so nice to sort of not be in a -- your normal romantic comedy, where it's about getting the guy or getting the girl. This sort of starts as a -- at the end when they walk off into the sunset, and you get to actually tell the story."

Aniston says she saw "Marley and Me" with an audience at its premiere in Los Angeles last week and heard "audible moans and snorts" from people getting choked up."

She and Wilson "had a great time (working together). It was easy from the minute we met. We just had that, you know, very similar sensibilities. We worked very similarly. We kind of -- he's just so good."

Anne Hathaway dumped ex-beau over dead Flowers!

Anne Hathaway has revealed that she broke off with her ex boyfriend Raffaello Follieri over a bunch of dead flowers.

The ‘Rachel Getting Married’ beauty said that she realized that he wasn’t the one for her when he insisted to throw out an arrangement of wilting cherry blossom branches.

They lasted a month and were beautiful even as they died, The Sun quoted her as saying of the flowers.

She added: Raffaello always liked things fancier and perfect and told our maid to throw them out. That was when I knew we saw things differently.

And what looks like, Anne would have anyhow dumped the businessman after he was convicted on charges of fraud.

In October, Follieri was sentenced to four-and-a-half years in prison after pleading guilty to 14 counts of fraud, money laundering and conspiracy at Manhattan federal court.

Kamis, 18 Desember 2008

Nastia Liukin is a Gold Gossip Girl

Nastia Liukin is a Gold Gossip GirlGold medal gymnast Nastia Liukin poses for pictures while promoting the sports performance drink, PureSport in New York City on Monday.

Olympic swimmers Michael Phelps, Brendan Hansen and Aaron Peirsol all promote PureSport.

As reported on JJ, Nastia had a guest spot on Gossip Girl. Earlier in the month, Nastia had an encounter with Chuck Bass (Ed Westwick).

WHAT DID YOU THINK of Nastia’s performance - perfect 10 or flop?

Chris Martin Plays Down Divorce Rumours

Chris Martin Plays Down Divorce RumoursColdplay frontman Chris Martin has denied he is set to divorce his wife Gwyneth Paltrow.

The couple has been plagued by rumours of an impending split, speculation that increased after Paltrow was recently spotted partying in the U.S. with pal Madonna, while Martin tours the U.K. with his band.

But the singer - who has two children with the actress - is adamant their relationship is not on the rocks, insisting that life is good right now.

He says, "I'm trying to think of when the last bit of bad news was. Well there hasn't been anything for a while. I'm supposed to be getting divorced but those things aren't happening so don't really count as bad news".

"I'm trying to think of when the last bit of bad news was"

Eva Mendes plans bizarre nude pic sequel

Eva MendesNude Picture SequelEva Mendes wants to appear in a Peta advert naked with Morrissey.

The stunning Latino actress wants to team up with the outspoken vegetarian singer to raise awareness of animal rights and is prepared to bare all in front of Morrissey.

Eva - who has stripped off for Peta (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) before - said: "I really want to do a Peta ad with Morrissey, I'd be happy to do it naked if need be. I've done a lot of work with them and I know Morrissey is a big supporter of Peta, so here's hoping!"

The Spirit star - who is a huge fan of Morrissey's former band The Smiths - is hoping the Meat Is Murder singer will return the favour and go nude as well.

She added: "Whether Morrissey would want to get naked with me is another question. Maybe he could come up with something more creative than out-and-out nudity."

Eva, 34, admits she has had a crush on Morrissey, who has often stated he is celibate, since she first discovered The Smiths' music.

The actress - who is dating producer George Gargurevich - revealed: "When he sings it's poetry in motion to me. It completely speaks to me.

"I love Morrissey, but I don't think I'd want to marry him."

Rabu, 17 Desember 2008

-- three truths and a lie. Guess which!

Yesterday we had our office holiday party and played a game: three truths and a lie. Here was my favorite, from a creative and funny coworker. We were supposed to guess which one was the lie:
  • Once fell down the stairs at the Kennedy Center
  • Once fell down the stairs at Lawnfield (home of President James A. Garfield)
  • Once fell down the stairs at the National Archives in DC
  • Once fell down the stairs at Monticello
Ha!! So creative. So which one did NOT happen to him? (Hint: second before last... :)

My 4 items were:
  • I was on an emergency squad in college
  • I was born around Christmas
  • I once took a bus trip up the Andes mountains in Ecuador at midnight
  • I used an Asbury Park Press newspaper van to move all my furniture once
So take a guess. Which one's the lie? (answer -->)

-- three new bloggers I wanted to share

So I'm reading some more. Here are three bloggers I found through Penelope Trunk's Brazen Careerist blog and their words on why they started blogging and how blogging benefited them. Their words really touched me, all these things are true for myself:
Nisha Chittal
"The difference between me pre-blog and me post-blog is simple: I went from an invisible, hiding lurker to a real person, and an outlier. Seems simple, but that transformation is empowering in a way you’d never expect. I went from letting others define me to defining myself."

Milena Thomas
"It would be a bit of an understatement to say that blogging has changed my life. It's been the most important element in leading an examined life, because of the conversations and reflections other bloggers and commenters provide."

On starting:

"So eventually I began, without a plan or direction, because that’s what she said to do. She said to post, post anything, post daily, post until you have something good to post, post because no one is reading anyways. I trusted that. And I posted. And when my world fell apart, I kept posting, because there were some things I couldn’t say out loud, and there were some feelings that felt more appropriate to send into what I thought was a void because, well, no one was reading.

"And I kept posting. And soon enough I got my first comment. It was from someone who had lost her mother to cancer and reached out and showed me anger and irreverence was an appropriate response to grief. You didn’t have to be a shrinking violet in the face of death. You could hate it, or laugh at it. You could cry until you felt sucked dry and then post your thoughts to purge your mind.

"Blogging about being stuck, angry, and fearful can get you a lot of attention, but that’s not who I am. It is what I’ve been moving through. And blogging has helped me move forward, take action, and change. Blogging doesn’t happen in a vacuum - though it seems to begin in one – and pretty soon it sucks in everything it comes in contact with, because ultimately there is no blog unless there is a conversation."

Kathleen Argonza
"I created my blog, Tough Girl 101, to rekindle whatever spine I had before the marriage drained it away. I remembered being a tough girl once, I figured that I could be again… Blogging was the first step in getting myself back on track."

So what inspires you to blog?

-- tools for keeping track of stuff (repost from Neatorama)

I'm home sick today and useless for anything but reading. So I'm catching up on my email. I found this on Neatorama and it looks pretty cool. Maybe I won't want to track quite THIS much stuff but still...

Over at Kevin Kelly and Gary Wolf's Quantified Self blog ("Tools for knowing your own mind and body") guest blogger Alexandra Carmichael explains how she keeps a record of 40 different things in her life every day, and what she's learned about herself from studying the data.

I track these things about my health and personal patterns every day:

- sleep (bed time, wake time, sleep quality, naps)
- morning weight
- daily caloric intake (each meal, total calculated at end of day)
- mealtimes

- mood (average of 3 positive and 3 negative factors on 0-5 scale)
- day of menstrual cycle
- sex (quantity, quality)
- exercise (duration, type)

- supplements I take (time, dosage)
- treatments for vulvodynia (a chronic pain condition)
- pain of administering the vulvodynia treatment I take (0-5)
- vulvodynia-related pain (0-5)
- headache,nausea (0-5)

- time spent working, time with kids
- number of nursings and night wakings (I'm a mom)
- weather
- unusual events (text)

The mood factors I measure every day are:

1. Happiness
2. Irritability
3. Calmness
4. Sadness
5. Feeling beautiful / self-love
6. Feeling fat / ate too much

She's come to the realization that her mood is much better on days she exercises, and on days when her mood rating is low, she overeats.
I hadn't expected my tracking to unearth such deep, emotionally charged issues. I did expect the optimization which often accompanies tracking, but when striving for an optimized ideal, the question becomes how to decide what "ideal" means. I just don't have an intuitive sense of what the data "should" look like. Are such wild swings in caloric intake normal? What do other people's patterns of mood, sleep, and exercise look like? I'd love to see some kind of comparable, to get some sense of where my patterns fit on the distribution curve. Part of my motivation in sharing my data is to encourage others to do the same. Let's learn from each other!
It's fascinating stuff, and it will be even more fascinating when people start sharing this data and analyzing it in various ways. Quantifying Myself -->

Selasa, 16 Desember 2008

Naomi Watts gives birth to son

Naomi Watts gives birth to sonNaomi Watts has given birth to her second son with husband Liev Schreiber.

Watts, 40 and Schreiber, 41 welcomed their son in New York on Saturday, 13th December.

They have yet to reveal the name of their baby

The couple’s eldest son, Alexander, was born in Los Angeles last year.

The couple married in 2007 before Alexander was born, after years of dating

Senin, 15 Desember 2008

Leo DiCaprio & Kate Winslet: Titanic Together Again!

Leo DiCaprio & Kate Winslet: Titanic Together Again!Leonardo DiCaprio reunites with Titanic co-star Kate Winslet as they take pictures together at Paramount Vantage’s premiere of Revolutionary Road held at Mann Village Theater in Westwood, California on Monday Night.

Leo, now 34, was a mere 23 when he filmed Titanic! Kate is now 33 and was only 22 during her Titanic days. Where has the time gone?!?!

Madonna settles divorce for up to $166m

http://blogrollandroll.blogspot.com/search/label/Madonna?max-results=5Madonna paid her ex-husband British director Guy Ritchie up to £60 million (NZ$166m) to settle their divorce after eight years of marriage, her spokeswoman has confirmed.

Liz Rosenberg said the singer, 50, had given Ritchie, 40, between £50 and £60 million as part of their divorce, which was granted by a British court on November 21.

She said that sum includes the couple's English country estate, Ashcombe, which is valued at £20 million.

The couple's combined wealth has been estimated at about US$525 million, but Madonna accounts for most of it.

Rosenberg said custody arrangements for the couple's children have not been finalised.

Madonna and Ritchie have an eight-year-old son, Rocco, and three-year-old son David, adopted from Malawi.

The singer also has a daughter Lourdes, born in 1996, from her relationship with fitness trainer Carlos Leon.

Madonna, one of the most successful singers of all time with estimated album sales of more than 200 million, was married once before, to actor Sean Penn, in the 1980s.

Madonna and Ritchie announced their split in October, nearly eight years after their fairytale wedding at Skibo Castle in Scotland.

Ritchie is a British film director who is making Hollywood blockbuster Sherlock Holmes starring Robert Downey Jr as the Victorian-era super sleuth.

Bradman 'Invincibles' tour cap fails to sell at Australian auction

Bradman 'Invincibles' tour capThe baggy green cap worn by Australian cricket legend Donald Bradman at his final Test Monday failed to sell at an auction in Melbourne despite generating global media interest.

The cap, Bradman's when he captained the 1948 Australian 'Invincibles' on their Ashes tour of England, had been expected to fetch more than 600,000 dollars (400,000 US) at the Charles Leski Auction.

Ahead of the auction, Leski said the item was "the most valuable item to come on the market in the sporting memorabilia field in Australia".

But not a single offer was made at auction.

Leski said his auction house would be negotiating with a client who had previously made an offer and he was confident it would be sold within 24 hours.

The cap was given to the son of an English friend of Bradman's after the Australian cricketer noticed the boy playing cricket in a substandard hat.

"Sir Don said: 'We can't have that, we'd better get you a decent one', and a short while later in the mail the 1948 baggy green arrived," Leski told the Nine Network.

Leski said Richard Robins Jr eventually sold the cap, which comes with a letter of authenticity, to an Australian in 2003.

Bradman, who died in 2001 aged 92, played his last match in England in 1948 and retired with a yet-to-be-topped Test batting average of 99.94 despite scoring a duck in his final innings.

Notorious party girl enters rehab

Notorious party girl enters rehabActress Tara Reid has checked herself into rehab.

The notorious party girl, who makes headlines for her wild antics and plastic surgery-enhanced figure, had checked into the Promises Treatment Centre in Malibu, her publicist confirmed.

He did not say what Reid was being treated for.

"We appreciate your respect to her and her family's privacy at this time,'' he said.

Reid, 33, was infamously photographed topless on the red carpet when her dress slipped off, exposing one of her breasts.

Reid has starred in American Pie, and had a guest role in television sitcom Scrubs. She has admitted several of her cosmetic surgery enhancements were botched.

She last month dumped her manager in an attempt to clean up her image.

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