Walking!! (While pushing chair)
13 years ago
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
My next 40 Days Without?
I'm starting to wonder if I should be thinking of the next think to take a break from... I'm thinking it might have to be taking on new projects but that's no fun. Especially when HDTV is calls out of the blue...
Sunday, April 12, 2009
I DID IT!!! I DID IT!!!
I made it 46 days without watching television! That's a month and a half!!! It was soooo incredibly worth it! At this point I really have no desire to start watching television and I'm not afraid of slipping back into old habits. The benefits have been so rewarding that I can't wait to see what else will come to fruition from not watching television. In the last 46 days instead of watching television I:
- attended a wedding (congrats again Brenda!)
- went to the Austin Kite Festival
- helped friends with film stuff (twice!)
- went to see musical 'theater' (Warpstar Sexy Squad)
- offered my first continuing education class for therapists (Smart Marketing for Therapists)
- attended South by Southwest (watched 15 movies in one week!)
- visited the Texas Capitol to lobby for Marriage and Family Therapists
- read the book Social Intelligence for book club
- doubled my therapy practice
- attended a "How To" for making a documentary film
- started getting things in order to make a documentary film
- auditioned for ComedySportz (my first audition EVER!)
- made the ComedySportz troupe and had my first rehearsal
- joined an "Alternative Softball League" with Ben (for local businesses)
- saw Adventureland and hung out with Martin Starr and his brother Paul
- took PugPuggy to the Annual Pug Luau
- saw Bruce Springsteen live in concert
- started working with a personal trainer
- hung out with friends on multiple occasions (duh!)
- saw the Master Pancake Theater show of Lord of the Rings
- and much much more...
Saturday, April 11, 2009
One...More...Day...
I think I can, I think I can, I think I can...
Man, I truly feel like the little engine that could. I've wanted to watch television so badly yesterday and today. I figured my 40+ days were up, why not? And then I thought, yes, but I haven't made it to Easter which really was my original plan. Urgh! I have Season 4, Disc 1 of Project Runway just taunting me at home saying, "You know you want to... What harm will it do...?" One more day Project Runway, one more day.
Man, I truly feel like the little engine that could. I've wanted to watch television so badly yesterday and today. I figured my 40+ days were up, why not? And then I thought, yes, but I haven't made it to Easter which really was my original plan. Urgh! I have Season 4, Disc 1 of Project Runway just taunting me at home saying, "You know you want to... What harm will it do...?" One more day Project Runway, one more day.
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Less than a week to go....
Hooray!!! I'm sooo close!
Yesterday I wanted to flip on the television so badly. It was the second time during these 40 days that I really just wanted to 'check out' by watching television. I started craving an episode of The O.C. I was very aware of the reason. There was a lot going on with me emotionally yesterday - I was watching a super-heavy documentary, reading A New Earth (I *love* it!), and working through the emotions of starting with ComedySportz. Plus Aunt Flo is due for another visit any day now. Maybe if I had watched some TV I wouldn't have ended up having nightmares last night. Who know.
The ComedySportz rehearsal was awesome! It is amazing to me how much being an "improver" is bringing up for me emotionally. When I first started taking classes at Salvage Vanguard (Note: different than ComedySportz) in September I would leave at the end of class on the verge of tears and sometimes even had to excuse myself from class to have a good cry in the bathroom.
Doing improv has (gently) forced me to let go of the incredibly high (and unreasonable) expectation of perfection I have for myself. It continues to teach me that it is OK to take risks, to live in the present moment, to be OK with not knowing the end result, and ultimately, to fail. I am better able to play with commitment in a scene I have no idea where it's going because if I fail it's usually a lot funnier than if I were to be hesitant and played it safe. People are paying to see improvisers take risks and dare to do things that the audience might never try.
Because I am now much more forgiving with myself, I am much more forgiving with others. My expectations are not so high. I've embraced that judging myself and others really is a waste of energy. My new mantra is: "It is what it is." The minute I label something or someone as "good or bad" or "right or wrong" I immediately place limitations on it or them. When I prescribe these limitation it makes me the one in control. I realize I don't need as much control as I once did. In fact, I've gotten in the habit of trusting that the Universe/Source/God will provide me with what I need in each moment. Plus it isn't fair to the thing or person I have decided to control or labeled. It doesn't allow for that thing or person to reveal its/her/his- self to me in each new moment since I have already made up my mind what they are.
This is an incredibly freeing place to be. So much so that now I have energy to spend in areas I've dreamt of exploring. My creativity has been off the charts. I can't help but think my sabbath from television has had something to do with this also. By not watching TV I created space for something else. I didn't have any expectations of what that would be but the things that have presented themselves to me seem thrilling! My business is thriving, I'm taking my performing skills to the next level, I'm researching making a documentary, and I'm dreaming of painting. Plus I am calm, relaxed, centered, and grounded. I am at peace. I no longer feel the anxiety that once imprisoned me. I am free.
Yesterday I wanted to flip on the television so badly. It was the second time during these 40 days that I really just wanted to 'check out' by watching television. I started craving an episode of The O.C. I was very aware of the reason. There was a lot going on with me emotionally yesterday - I was watching a super-heavy documentary, reading A New Earth (I *love* it!), and working through the emotions of starting with ComedySportz. Plus Aunt Flo is due for another visit any day now. Maybe if I had watched some TV I wouldn't have ended up having nightmares last night. Who know.
The ComedySportz rehearsal was awesome! It is amazing to me how much being an "improver" is bringing up for me emotionally. When I first started taking classes at Salvage Vanguard (Note: different than ComedySportz) in September I would leave at the end of class on the verge of tears and sometimes even had to excuse myself from class to have a good cry in the bathroom.
Doing improv has (gently) forced me to let go of the incredibly high (and unreasonable) expectation of perfection I have for myself. It continues to teach me that it is OK to take risks, to live in the present moment, to be OK with not knowing the end result, and ultimately, to fail. I am better able to play with commitment in a scene I have no idea where it's going because if I fail it's usually a lot funnier than if I were to be hesitant and played it safe. People are paying to see improvisers take risks and dare to do things that the audience might never try.
Because I am now much more forgiving with myself, I am much more forgiving with others. My expectations are not so high. I've embraced that judging myself and others really is a waste of energy. My new mantra is: "It is what it is." The minute I label something or someone as "good or bad" or "right or wrong" I immediately place limitations on it or them. When I prescribe these limitation it makes me the one in control. I realize I don't need as much control as I once did. In fact, I've gotten in the habit of trusting that the Universe/Source/God will provide me with what I need in each moment. Plus it isn't fair to the thing or person I have decided to control or labeled. It doesn't allow for that thing or person to reveal its/her/his- self to me in each new moment since I have already made up my mind what they are.
This is an incredibly freeing place to be. So much so that now I have energy to spend in areas I've dreamt of exploring. My creativity has been off the charts. I can't help but think my sabbath from television has had something to do with this also. By not watching TV I created space for something else. I didn't have any expectations of what that would be but the things that have presented themselves to me seem thrilling! My business is thriving, I'm taking my performing skills to the next level, I'm researching making a documentary, and I'm dreaming of painting. Plus I am calm, relaxed, centered, and grounded. I am at peace. I no longer feel the anxiety that once imprisoned me. I am free.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
ComedySportz Here I Come!
I'm beginning to really enjoy NOT watching television! It shocks me to have that sentence come out of my fingertips! Not having television to rely on to entertain me (gently) forces me to get off my rear and get out of the house!
Speaking of which... Ben and I caught the ComedySportz show at Cafe Caffeine on Saturday night. It was hilarious! I got a Brown Bag Foul and had to wear a brown paper sack over my head. While we were there someone mentioned the auditions that were taking place the next day to be a cast member of ComedySportz. I turned to Ben and jokingly said, "Hey, maybe I should try out." I think it stunned both of us that I said it. The minute it passed my lips I thought, "Well, I guess this... is... the natural progression."
I've been taking improv classes with Merlin-Works since September. When I began the classes I was adamant that I would NEVER perform in front of a crowd. That was not my motivation in signing up for the class. But as I think about beginning my first class of 301 (the last in the series) this week I began feeling sad at the thought of not having a group of people I'm playful and silly with every week (other than Ben!). There truly is no better medicine than laughter!
On Saturday during the day Ben and I had tried to get in for a spa day at The Crossings on Sunday but they were booked. We were disappointed but figured we'd spend the day doing yard work and going to the dog park. Instead, Ben came with me to my audition (the first audition I've ever done IN MY LIFE!).
There were 17 people trying out and the competition was fierce! I gave it my all and was pleased with my performance. Ben had given me helpful advice before we got there. He told me to never perform for the crowd. ONLY PERFORM FOR YOURSELF! That made sense to me. The more people TRY to be funny the less funny they are. I crack myself up all the time (and Ben too) so I figured if I cracked myself up at the audition, I'll crack the audience up! Easy enough... or so I thought. There were a generous handful of people there who were semi-pro improvisers and others that were just stinking hilarious. I did my best to not psych myself out and kept telling myself I could hold my own.
They didn't make decisions about the cut right away and I fully anticipated not making the cut. I was mentally and emotionally preparing myself for the news. Last night my phone rang around 9:30pm but I was already in bed so I didn't answer it. This morning I listened to the message and I heard Les McGehee's voice saying he wanted me to join the troupe. I started shaking a bit. I told Ben and he got super-excited and asked me how I felt about it. I couldn't think of anything. I was truly in shock!
I called Les to get the details and to make sure he didn't accept me just because Ben is a performer and one of his good friends. He reassured me that I made it by my own merit. He did acknowledge the large amount of semi-pro improvisers that were there as well as the talent that showed up from the community. Because of the latter they decided to take more people than they originally planned but were excited about the group chosen.
I think I am still a bit in shock. The thing that's blowing my mind is that I've never thought of myself as a "performer". In 32 years that word has never been in any description I would use for myself. Times are 'a changin'... I guess I'll have to get used to it!
The moral of this story: Never say NEVER!
Speaking of which... Ben and I caught the ComedySportz show at Cafe Caffeine on Saturday night. It was hilarious! I got a Brown Bag Foul and had to wear a brown paper sack over my head. While we were there someone mentioned the auditions that were taking place the next day to be a cast member of ComedySportz. I turned to Ben and jokingly said, "Hey, maybe I should try out." I think it stunned both of us that I said it. The minute it passed my lips I thought, "Well, I guess this... is... the natural progression."
I've been taking improv classes with Merlin-Works since September. When I began the classes I was adamant that I would NEVER perform in front of a crowd. That was not my motivation in signing up for the class. But as I think about beginning my first class of 301 (the last in the series) this week I began feeling sad at the thought of not having a group of people I'm playful and silly with every week (other than Ben!). There truly is no better medicine than laughter!
On Saturday during the day Ben and I had tried to get in for a spa day at The Crossings on Sunday but they were booked. We were disappointed but figured we'd spend the day doing yard work and going to the dog park. Instead, Ben came with me to my audition (the first audition I've ever done IN MY LIFE!).
There were 17 people trying out and the competition was fierce! I gave it my all and was pleased with my performance. Ben had given me helpful advice before we got there. He told me to never perform for the crowd. ONLY PERFORM FOR YOURSELF! That made sense to me. The more people TRY to be funny the less funny they are. I crack myself up all the time (and Ben too) so I figured if I cracked myself up at the audition, I'll crack the audience up! Easy enough... or so I thought. There were a generous handful of people there who were semi-pro improvisers and others that were just stinking hilarious. I did my best to not psych myself out and kept telling myself I could hold my own.
They didn't make decisions about the cut right away and I fully anticipated not making the cut. I was mentally and emotionally preparing myself for the news. Last night my phone rang around 9:30pm but I was already in bed so I didn't answer it. This morning I listened to the message and I heard Les McGehee's voice saying he wanted me to join the troupe. I started shaking a bit. I told Ben and he got super-excited and asked me how I felt about it. I couldn't think of anything. I was truly in shock!
I called Les to get the details and to make sure he didn't accept me just because Ben is a performer and one of his good friends. He reassured me that I made it by my own merit. He did acknowledge the large amount of semi-pro improvisers that were there as well as the talent that showed up from the community. Because of the latter they decided to take more people than they originally planned but were excited about the group chosen.
I think I am still a bit in shock. The thing that's blowing my mind is that I've never thought of myself as a "performer". In 32 years that word has never been in any description I would use for myself. Times are 'a changin'... I guess I'll have to get used to it!
The moral of this story: Never say NEVER!
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
SXSW Saves The Day!
I've been without television for 28 days now, can you believe it? Only two more weeks (and 3 days) to go... HOORAY!
SXSW Film Festival was A-W-E-S-O-M-E! I am so proud to live in Austin! I am just now getting over that overstimulated, tingling sensation that happens when all your senses have been engaged for waaayyy too long.
Here are the movies I saw (in no particular order):
MBB, over and out -
SXSW Film Festival was A-W-E-S-O-M-E! I am so proud to live in Austin! I am just now getting over that overstimulated, tingling sensation that happens when all your senses have been engaged for waaayyy too long.
Here are the movies I saw (in no particular order):
- I love you, Man
- ExTerminators
- Sissyboy
- The Last Beekeeper
- Wake Up
- Sin Nombre
- Artois the Goat
- The 2 Bobs
- Observe and Report
- Humpday
- Sons of a Gun
- My Suicide
- The Eyes of Me
- Winnebego Man
- 500 Days of Summer
- Music: Artois the Goat - Brian Satterwhite is a genius!
- Violence (not a big fan but was essential to the movie): (tie) Sin Nombre & Observe and Report
- About Ghosts: Wake Up
- About Non-Drag, Drag Queens: Sissyboy
- Cried the Hardest/Most Moving: The Eyes of Me
- Laughed the Hardest: Winnebego Man
- Best Overall Film Production: My Suicide
- Best Actor: Gabriel Sunday in My Suicide
- Cutest Actor: Mark Duplass in Humpday
- Favorite Overall Movie: 500 Days of Summer (it was the last one I saw of the week so I may just remember it the best)
MBB, over and out -
Friday, March 20, 2009
The First Day of Spring
I have always been a fan of new beginnings. One of my most favorite holidays is New Year's Eve. While I don't always stay up late and wait for the ball to drop, I love the collective excitement and enthusiasm over something ending and something new beginning. But now I have another favorite "holiday" to add to my list - the first day of spring.
Before 2008 ended I was putting a lot of pressure on myself to debut some business ideas. I thought that January should be the debut month of these new business ideas since it's the first month of the year. Then a wise, wise person said to me (this is how I remember it, obviously), "Huh, that's interesting that you believe that. I would think you would want to start something new in the springtime when the world is coming out of its hibernation and ready to bloom."
This was one of the biggest revelations to me in the last few months. It was especially telling because I had be talking incessantly about the fact that wintertime has always been a time for hibernation (the actual word I'd been using) for me. Beginning in late October/early November I begin hunkering down, spending less time outside the house, going within myself, and reading. For years I thought there was something wrong with me but now I realize how natural and necessary it is.
Plus, with all that I read and thought about I realized how much I had slowed down and was really observant of things in a way I hadn't been in a long time. This felt good. One thing I became very observant of was the amount of television I was watching. It started to disturb me and was a major impetus to my 40 day without and this blog.
Once I had the "o.k." to wait until spring to debut new business ideas I let go and noticed that I began getting more clear about my ideas. My energy and excitement began increasing. So much so that my (and Austin's) spring started about a month ago. I debuted some of these ideas and tweaked my thinking about some things and now business is booming! I love it! It feels great! What really feels great is that I'm not forcing anything. It's all happening organically and naturally. Just as years begin anew every 12 months and seasons turn every 3 months, so too does every day, hour, minute, moment give us the opportunity to begin anew. How exciting!!!
Before 2008 ended I was putting a lot of pressure on myself to debut some business ideas. I thought that January should be the debut month of these new business ideas since it's the first month of the year. Then a wise, wise person said to me (this is how I remember it, obviously), "Huh, that's interesting that you believe that. I would think you would want to start something new in the springtime when the world is coming out of its hibernation and ready to bloom."
This was one of the biggest revelations to me in the last few months. It was especially telling because I had be talking incessantly about the fact that wintertime has always been a time for hibernation (the actual word I'd been using) for me. Beginning in late October/early November I begin hunkering down, spending less time outside the house, going within myself, and reading. For years I thought there was something wrong with me but now I realize how natural and necessary it is.
Plus, with all that I read and thought about I realized how much I had slowed down and was really observant of things in a way I hadn't been in a long time. This felt good. One thing I became very observant of was the amount of television I was watching. It started to disturb me and was a major impetus to my 40 day without and this blog.
Once I had the "o.k." to wait until spring to debut new business ideas I let go and noticed that I began getting more clear about my ideas. My energy and excitement began increasing. So much so that my (and Austin's) spring started about a month ago. I debuted some of these ideas and tweaked my thinking about some things and now business is booming! I love it! It feels great! What really feels great is that I'm not forcing anything. It's all happening organically and naturally. Just as years begin anew every 12 months and seasons turn every 3 months, so too does every day, hour, minute, moment give us the opportunity to begin anew. How exciting!!!
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Television, Smellivision
I - don't - miss - TV - AT - ALL! Go figure! I think the major reason for this at the moment is I've been consumed with balancing the SXSW Film Festival (entertainment galore!) and my growing private practice. I'm not complaining, believe me! I'm just very, very distracted!
They say behavior change takes three to four weeks of consistency. It has been three weeks, one day, and a dozen or so hours since I last watched television. It has been much easier than I thought it might be. With 23 days to go before Easter (the day I can begin watching television again) I'm beginning to wonder if I even want to start watching TV again.
The big question for me right now is: Will I be able to watch TV in moderation? As I think of that question today my heart starts to race a little and I feel short of breath. Fear starts to creep in. But what is it exactly that I'm afraid of?
I'm afraid of losing what I've gained in the last three weeks, one day, and a dozen or so hours. Clarity. Energy. Creativity. Business. Connection. Purpose. Not that I didn't have these when I was watching TV, but not to the extent I have them, or rather see them, now. I like this feeling. I don't want to lose it.
My mission now is letting go of the attachment (belief) that if I begin watching TV again 1) all self-control will fly out the window and I won't be able to moderate my television consumption; and 2) I will lose this amazingly freeing feeling I feel with my increased clarity, energy, creativity, business, connection, and purpose.
Mission accepted!
They say behavior change takes three to four weeks of consistency. It has been three weeks, one day, and a dozen or so hours since I last watched television. It has been much easier than I thought it might be. With 23 days to go before Easter (the day I can begin watching television again) I'm beginning to wonder if I even want to start watching TV again.
The big question for me right now is: Will I be able to watch TV in moderation? As I think of that question today my heart starts to race a little and I feel short of breath. Fear starts to creep in. But what is it exactly that I'm afraid of?
I'm afraid of losing what I've gained in the last three weeks, one day, and a dozen or so hours. Clarity. Energy. Creativity. Business. Connection. Purpose. Not that I didn't have these when I was watching TV, but not to the extent I have them, or rather see them, now. I like this feeling. I don't want to lose it.
My mission now is letting go of the attachment (belief) that if I begin watching TV again 1) all self-control will fly out the window and I won't be able to moderate my television consumption; and 2) I will lose this amazingly freeing feeling I feel with my increased clarity, energy, creativity, business, connection, and purpose.
Mission accepted!
Saturday, March 14, 2009
My Visitor
My Aunt Flo came to visit me this week. Thursday to be exact, the day after the full moon as is typical. I always look forward to her visits since she reassures me of my health and vitality. However, I usually get a little irritable anticipating her arrival. My body tenses up, my chest becomes tender, and tears threaten to fall at any moment.
The first day of her visit is always dismal, as it was this time around. My irritability fades into all out reclusive social avoidance as my body becomes one giant knot that only warmth and handfuls of Motrin can subside. I noticed during this visit all I wanted to do was lay on the couch wrapped like a huge burrito in a down comforter and WATCH T-V! The desire got so strong I almost gave up on my 40 Days Without just 15 days into the process. Now that's saying something!
I was curious about how strong this desire was and I've been thinking about it ever since. I was initially annoyed and overwhelmed by my visitor and instead of telling her so all I wanted to do was "check out" and be distracted from the matter at hand. I knew she would be here for several days but reassured myself that after the first couple of days things would be fine.
And they are. The overwhelming desire to watch TV is gone. The movies I've rented aren't that appealing. Even my SXSW Film Festival Pass is only being used moderately.
That being said, South by Southwest (SXSW) Film Festival is this weekend and all next week. The music portion starts the middle of next week. There is a *ton* of stuff (mostly all free) to do. Just knowing that is overwhelming. I saw two movies last night - I love you, Man with Paul Rudd and Exterminators with Heather Graham. Tonight I'm planning on seeing Sissyboy and Alexander The Last. It is so cool seeing people in from all over the world. Austin is such a chill place and people are usually extremely welcoming of all the out-of-towners. It makes me proud to live here.
Plus it has me starting to think of movies, entertainment, and even television in a different way. More on this later...
The first day of her visit is always dismal, as it was this time around. My irritability fades into all out reclusive social avoidance as my body becomes one giant knot that only warmth and handfuls of Motrin can subside. I noticed during this visit all I wanted to do was lay on the couch wrapped like a huge burrito in a down comforter and WATCH T-V! The desire got so strong I almost gave up on my 40 Days Without just 15 days into the process. Now that's saying something!
I was curious about how strong this desire was and I've been thinking about it ever since. I was initially annoyed and overwhelmed by my visitor and instead of telling her so all I wanted to do was "check out" and be distracted from the matter at hand. I knew she would be here for several days but reassured myself that after the first couple of days things would be fine.
And they are. The overwhelming desire to watch TV is gone. The movies I've rented aren't that appealing. Even my SXSW Film Festival Pass is only being used moderately.
That being said, South by Southwest (SXSW) Film Festival is this weekend and all next week. The music portion starts the middle of next week. There is a *ton* of stuff (mostly all free) to do. Just knowing that is overwhelming. I saw two movies last night - I love you, Man with Paul Rudd and Exterminators with Heather Graham. Tonight I'm planning on seeing Sissyboy and Alexander The Last. It is so cool seeing people in from all over the world. Austin is such a chill place and people are usually extremely welcoming of all the out-of-towners. It makes me proud to live here.
Plus it has me starting to think of movies, entertainment, and even television in a different way. More on this later...
Sunday, March 8, 2009
Needing a Fix...
Before I stopped watching television I started observing the effects it was having on me. I noticed the crime shows I used to love were now making me cringe and I would change the channel immediately. The stars of dramatic sitcoms were sucking me into their drama and I'd finish an hour-long program with my heart racing, along with my mind. Since I am often surrounded by people in the entertainment business - writers, performers, directors, producers, etc. - I realized that the whole point of entertainment (movies, television, theater, etc) is to tell a story in a way that the audience can connect to it and be moved by it. The more I heard this the more I realized how successful television had been at moving me emotionally, but not always for the better.
Our subconsciousness is way more powerful than our consciousness. When we absorb things subconsciously it has an impact on us that we don't always recognize which in my mind seems much more dangerous. For example, when I used to watch crime shows I thought what I loved about it was the psychological component of figuring out "who did it" and why (my conscious thinking). In the last few months I realized what I was really absorbing from it was a negative energy filled with murder, rape, blood, and guts. While consciously I can tell myself "it's OK, this isn't happening to me" those images have an impact on me subconsciously whether I like it or not.
As I began noticing this I started asking myself, "Why am I inviting this negative energy into my body?" I started feeling like TV was my drug and I couldn't live without it. But I wanted to, desperately. I felt like it was eating up all my creative energy. So I did what any person who thinks they can "recover" all by herself does - I went cold turkey.
The withdrawals haven't been all that bad. I notice it more on specific days of the week and/or times of the day. Sunday night was tough. I really wanted my fix of 60 Minutes more so than Desperate Housewives or Brothers & Sisters. I also notice the withdrawal in the mornings. I used to *love* watching The Ellen DeGeneres Show while I was getting ready for my day.
I wonder if, when my 40 days are up, I'll be able to "use" recreationally and responsibly or if I'll go back to my old ways. I guess I won't know until I try.
13 days down, 27 to go...
As I began noticing this I started asking myself, "Why am I inviting this negative energy into my body?" I started feeling like TV was my drug and I couldn't live without it. But I wanted to, desperately. I felt like it was eating up all my creative energy. So I did what any person who thinks they can "recover" all by herself does - I went cold turkey.
The withdrawals haven't been all that bad. I notice it more on specific days of the week and/or times of the day. Sunday night was tough. I really wanted my fix of 60 Minutes more so than Desperate Housewives or Brothers & Sisters. I also notice the withdrawal in the mornings. I used to *love* watching The Ellen DeGeneres Show while I was getting ready for my day.
I wonder if, when my 40 days are up, I'll be able to "use" recreationally and responsibly or if I'll go back to my old ways. I guess I won't know until I try.
13 days down, 27 to go...
Weekend #2 Without Television
What a wonderful weekend I've had. It has been full of fun and adventure. Friday night my friend Brad came over and brought his Boston Terrier, Haley, for PugPuggy to play with. It was hilarious. They chased each other non-stop for two hours straight!
Saturday I laid low and did some reading. I'm currently trying to finish Social Intelligence by Daniel Goleman (same guy who wrote Emotional Intelligence). It's a great book about how humans interact. It is my book club's read for this month so I need to finish it by March 18th.
Saturday night we went to Cinematic Titanic which is the spin off of Mystery Science Theater 3000 (or MST3K for die-hard fans!). This is the show that Master Pancake Theater (the show Ben does at the Alamo Drafthouse) is similar to. It was super-cool to see the MST3K cast perform! Mary Jo Pehl is a friend of Ben's (and the Pancake boys) so she and her husband Ron came out for a drink with us after the show. What a fun night! (To find out how much fun you might want to check out Ben's blog. I won't say anything else about it.)
Sunday was another lazy day. Ben and I took PugPuggy to the dog park where she can run free and chase the big dogs as they chase after the tennis balls their owners throw them.
With all this said, relaying back what I'm doing to keep busy so I'm not tempted to watch TV was not the original intention of this blog. Instead I had hoped to reflect on my reasonings for watching so much TV in the first place and the emotional toil of being without it for 40 days. So with this said I plan to be more observant of the emotional effects of not watching television from here on out and record my findings on this blog.
If you liked the play-by-play of how I was spending my time you can catch those reports on www.bartbarley.blogspot.com along with pictures of the events listed in this blog. We'll see how this goes... I'm not judging the process, just putting some parameters around it... Hope you enjoy...
Saturday I laid low and did some reading. I'm currently trying to finish Social Intelligence by Daniel Goleman (same guy who wrote Emotional Intelligence). It's a great book about how humans interact. It is my book club's read for this month so I need to finish it by March 18th.
Saturday night we went to Cinematic Titanic which is the spin off of Mystery Science Theater 3000 (or MST3K for die-hard fans!). This is the show that Master Pancake Theater (the show Ben does at the Alamo Drafthouse) is similar to. It was super-cool to see the MST3K cast perform! Mary Jo Pehl is a friend of Ben's (and the Pancake boys) so she and her husband Ron came out for a drink with us after the show. What a fun night! (To find out how much fun you might want to check out Ben's blog. I won't say anything else about it.)
Sunday was another lazy day. Ben and I took PugPuggy to the dog park where she can run free and chase the big dogs as they chase after the tennis balls their owners throw them.
With all this said, relaying back what I'm doing to keep busy so I'm not tempted to watch TV was not the original intention of this blog. Instead I had hoped to reflect on my reasonings for watching so much TV in the first place and the emotional toil of being without it for 40 days. So with this said I plan to be more observant of the emotional effects of not watching television from here on out and record my findings on this blog.
If you liked the play-by-play of how I was spending my time you can catch those reports on www.bartbarley.blogspot.com along with pictures of the events listed in this blog. We'll see how this goes... I'm not judging the process, just putting some parameters around it... Hope you enjoy...
Friday, March 6, 2009
Warpstar Sexysquad
What the hell?!? Right!?!
Warpstar Sexysquad is a musical theater comedy production that a friend of ours and PugPuggy's trusty pug-sitter, Erin, is in. She invited us to the show and we decided to go, not really knowing what to expect. I thought it was some sci-fi thing that I wouldn't get at all. Instead is was an incredible production of all the sci-fi and not-so sci-fi popular references that you can think of - including an amazing Christian Bale-esque rant - packaged beautifully and hilariously into one of the most entertaining theater productions I've ever been to. And I've been to a lot! I mean a lot, a lot!
If you're an Austin resident you should definitely see it. If you live outside of Austin you should DEMAND that it come to your town!
Bravo Erin! Bravo!
Warpstar Sexysquad is a musical theater comedy production that a friend of ours and PugPuggy's trusty pug-sitter, Erin, is in. She invited us to the show and we decided to go, not really knowing what to expect. I thought it was some sci-fi thing that I wouldn't get at all. Instead is was an incredible production of all the sci-fi and not-so sci-fi popular references that you can think of - including an amazing Christian Bale-esque rant - packaged beautifully and hilariously into one of the most entertaining theater productions I've ever been to. And I've been to a lot! I mean a lot, a lot!
If you're an Austin resident you should definitely see it. If you live outside of Austin you should DEMAND that it come to your town!
Bravo Erin! Bravo!
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Wrestling Raccoons
OK, so I wasn't actually wrestling it, but it felt that way...
This morning, while I was NOT watching television, I got an email from my friend Wendy who said she might be late to the 3:30pm meeting we had planned for this afternoon. Her reason was that she was at home waiting for Animal Control to come and remove a raccoon that was hiding, or rather stuck, behind her desk. Animal Control was already backed up at 9:30am and quoted her the 3:30pm time.
Being Superwoman I emailed her back and told her I'd swing by and help her get the raccoon out of the house (easy enough). At the time I didn't know anything about how to get a raccoon out of a house but figured there's no time like the present to learn. So I hopped online and found some websites with tips on the issue. I prepared my arsenal - a broom (weapon/swatter), dry dog food and chunks of apple (to lure it out - by throwing it and making a trail out the door, not handing it to the raccoon), and baby powder (to act as a boundary/barrier). It turns out raccoons don't like to get powder on their paws because they don't like the feeling.
So I cruise up to Wendy's house in my trusty SMART car, grab my arsenal, and make for the front door. Wendy stands there looking at me like I'm crazy for even offering to help her get the raccoon out of the house let alone showing up and having supplies. "Do you know what you're doing?" she asks. "Sure," I say thinking about the websites I just read.
We open all the doors closest to the desk, make a trail from the desk to the closest door with the dog food and apple, and then I move the desk slightly to give the raccoon space to get out from behind the desk. AND OFF IT RUNS - straight for the french doors furthest away that are still locked shut. Damn!
The raccoon, attracted to the light and outdoors, climbs up the french doors like Spiderman. It was pretty impressive. Realizing it's not going to get out that way it comes back down and trys the next closest light source which is a locked-shut kitchen window. Window shutters act as a ladder as it scurrys up the window. It perches at the top balancing between the shutter and the window sill. Shit! How are we going to get it down from there? I try pushing the shutter open further with the broom but raccoons have some amazing balance!
After staring at it for 10-15 minutes trying to be quiet so it calms down and gets up enough courage to leave it's perch we give up and go outside. "Maybe if it thinks no one is around it will make a move," I say. We wait outside another 5-10 minutes and head back inside to think of a new plan. Within minutes the Animal Contol guys show up with a net and cage. They grab the raccoon without a struggle and have Wendy fill out some paperwork. I'm not sure I would have been available for such an adventure had I been at home watching TV...
Moral of the story: Lock your doggie door before you go to bed at night!
BTW: Who knew raccoon had two "c's" in it?!?
This morning, while I was NOT watching television, I got an email from my friend Wendy who said she might be late to the 3:30pm meeting we had planned for this afternoon. Her reason was that she was at home waiting for Animal Control to come and remove a raccoon that was hiding, or rather stuck, behind her desk. Animal Control was already backed up at 9:30am and quoted her the 3:30pm time.
Being Superwoman I emailed her back and told her I'd swing by and help her get the raccoon out of the house (easy enough). At the time I didn't know anything about how to get a raccoon out of a house but figured there's no time like the present to learn. So I hopped online and found some websites with tips on the issue. I prepared my arsenal - a broom (weapon/swatter), dry dog food and chunks of apple (to lure it out - by throwing it and making a trail out the door, not handing it to the raccoon), and baby powder (to act as a boundary/barrier). It turns out raccoons don't like to get powder on their paws because they don't like the feeling.
So I cruise up to Wendy's house in my trusty SMART car, grab my arsenal, and make for the front door. Wendy stands there looking at me like I'm crazy for even offering to help her get the raccoon out of the house let alone showing up and having supplies. "Do you know what you're doing?" she asks. "Sure," I say thinking about the websites I just read.
We open all the doors closest to the desk, make a trail from the desk to the closest door with the dog food and apple, and then I move the desk slightly to give the raccoon space to get out from behind the desk. AND OFF IT RUNS - straight for the french doors furthest away that are still locked shut. Damn!
The raccoon, attracted to the light and outdoors, climbs up the french doors like Spiderman. It was pretty impressive. Realizing it's not going to get out that way it comes back down and trys the next closest light source which is a locked-shut kitchen window. Window shutters act as a ladder as it scurrys up the window. It perches at the top balancing between the shutter and the window sill. Shit! How are we going to get it down from there? I try pushing the shutter open further with the broom but raccoons have some amazing balance!
After staring at it for 10-15 minutes trying to be quiet so it calms down and gets up enough courage to leave it's perch we give up and go outside. "Maybe if it thinks no one is around it will make a move," I say. We wait outside another 5-10 minutes and head back inside to think of a new plan. Within minutes the Animal Contol guys show up with a net and cage. They grab the raccoon without a struggle and have Wendy fill out some paperwork. I'm not sure I would have been available for such an adventure had I been at home watching TV...
Moral of the story: Lock your doggie door before you go to bed at night!
BTW: Who knew raccoon had two "c's" in it?!?
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Keepin' Busy!
Wow! The last few days have flown by. Monday night Ben and I went and saw The Reader. It was the only movie nominated for an Oscar we hadn't seen yet. While I think Kate Winslet did a fantastic job I'm still ambivalent about the movie overall. Any thoughts from those of you who have seen it?
I have also created my first two short films (wait for it...) starring the one, the only: PugPuggy! Natch! They are sort-of monologue pieces. They are hilarious and for some reason would not upload to this page... I'll have to figure that out and get them posted somewhere so you can see them.
What the heck happened on The Bachelor? I am thoroughly confused. Please, someone, anyone let me know!!!
Today, day 8, is another busy day with no thoughts of television lingering... Hooray!
Peace out!
I have also created my first two short films (wait for it...) starring the one, the only: PugPuggy! Natch! They are sort-of monologue pieces. They are hilarious and for some reason would not upload to this page... I'll have to figure that out and get them posted somewhere so you can see them.
What the heck happened on The Bachelor? I am thoroughly confused. Please, someone, anyone let me know!!!
Today, day 8, is another busy day with no thoughts of television lingering... Hooray!
Peace out!
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Busy Weekend.... YES!
Thank God this weekend flew by! I really didn't think about watching television until tonight. I don't watch much TV on the weekends. Television watching on the weekend seems to coincide with being bored in the evening - I guess that's true for the weekdays too. Sunday evenings I like to start with an appetizer of 60 Minutes, followed by a starter course of Extreme Home Makeover. Then I move on to the entree: Desperate Housewives. I complete my meal with a delicious serving of Brothers & Sisters for dessert. Damn! That's 4 straight hours of television - of my life I will never get back - YIKES!
Instead of television, this weekend consisted of other things I love: taking PugPuggy to the off-leash dog park; going to weddings (congrats Brenda & Bill!); watching movies - La Vie en Rose (Best Actress Oscar 2008 - well deserved!) and Man on Wire (Best Documentary Oscar 2009 - incredible!); sitting in coffeehouses reading, writing, and people watching; spending time with friends (Cynthia, the Kite Festival was awesome!); and napping and reading (two things I do A LOT of also).
One new thing I did this weekend was participate in a script read-through. Ben's filmmaker-friend, Kat, held a read-through of the first draft of her new screenplay. Ben read a part and I got to listen and provide feedback as an "expert" since the screenplay was about relationships, marriage, and infidelity. It was great (not the infidelity part...)! I thoroughly enjoyed myself! During the reading I got inspired and my creative juices began flowing. I've been wanting to write a screenplay and earlier this weekend I got an idea for one that I really like. I think I'll work on that instead of watching television. Thanks Kat!
5 days down, 35 more to go...
Instead of television, this weekend consisted of other things I love: taking PugPuggy to the off-leash dog park; going to weddings (congrats Brenda & Bill!); watching movies - La Vie en Rose (Best Actress Oscar 2008 - well deserved!) and Man on Wire (Best Documentary Oscar 2009 - incredible!); sitting in coffeehouses reading, writing, and people watching; spending time with friends (Cynthia, the Kite Festival was awesome!); and napping and reading (two things I do A LOT of also).
One new thing I did this weekend was participate in a script read-through. Ben's filmmaker-friend, Kat, held a read-through of the first draft of her new screenplay. Ben read a part and I got to listen and provide feedback as an "expert" since the screenplay was about relationships, marriage, and infidelity. It was great (not the infidelity part...)! I thoroughly enjoyed myself! During the reading I got inspired and my creative juices began flowing. I've been wanting to write a screenplay and earlier this weekend I got an idea for one that I really like. I think I'll work on that instead of watching television. Thanks Kat!
5 days down, 35 more to go...
Friday, February 27, 2009
Ellen Degeneres, Why Do You Have To Be So Funny?
When I initially thought about the amount of television I watch on Fridays I thought I'd be alright today. But then I woke up. I realized Friday mornings I like to watch The Ellen Degeneres Show (on in the a.m. here in Austin) and The View (not my favorite show, but the sheer fact that Whoopi Goldberg is on it makes me laugh) while I'm eating breakfast, cleaning the house, doing laundry and getting ready for the day.
Normally I don't even think through the decision to turn on the television - it's just a given. Today, though, I thought, "Hmmm... I could use a good dose of The Ellen Degeneres Show." I think I even made a few steps toward the living room where the TV is. Then I realized, "Nope. Can't do it." I was a little sad, but got over it quickly as I turned the radio on.
Speaking of radio. Thank God I didn't give up music for 40 days! I don't think I would survive without it. In the mornings I listen to "The Bobby Bones Show" on 96.7 KISS FM. I usually can't take more than an hour of it though since they are always bickering and complaining and whining. Still, it's mildly entertaining. Plus, I won Sarah McLachlan concert tickets from them years ago when they were brand new on the radio, so I might find another contest I want to try to win.
My dad always gets a kick out of this story: The contest was between me and Lunchbox (one of the d.j.s on the show). He's a total guy's guy and wildly chauvinistic (not the same thing in my mind, mind you!). I sometimes throw-up a little in my mouth whenever I hear him speak. Anyway, the contest was: the person who answered the most questions won. They were random questions like "How many ounces in a cup?" or "Do desciduous trees have leaves?" The game hinged on the last question: "Toronto has a professional sports team called the Blue Jays. What sport do they play?" The moment I heard the word Blue I buzzed in (by yelling my name, remember I'm on my phone being broadcast on the radio) and yelled, "BASEBALL!" Lunchbox was stunned. Bobby Bones was stunned too. Finally he said, "Lunchbox! I can't believe you lost.... to a girl.... on a baseball question!" Hooray for me! Plus the concert was A-W-E-some!
Friday evenings are also a big TV watching time for me. When "Friday Night Lights" is on I like to watch it (Cody, I saw you last week on the show in the party scene! Hooray!). When "Lipstick Jungle" and "Las Vegas" were on I liked those too. Lately I've been watching "The O.C." (moment of silence please.... ) on NetFlix back-to-back-to-back-to-back. Keep in mind for the last month or so I've been a Master Pancake widow (Jodi, Kristin, and Joann, you know what I'm taking about). This means that Ben has been performing with Master Pancake Friday nights (and Saturdays too!) so I don't have my built-in playmate to skip around town with doing fun things (sniff, sniff...). I don't mind it thought once in a while. Plus they're mocking "The Matrix" and it is HI-larry-ous! You get to see Ben on stage in his "tighty whities" although they aren't white, they are an array of fruit flavors courtesy of American Apparel.
But do not fear... tonight I have plans. I will be going to Shannon McCormick's "LOLA" show at 8pm at Salvage Vangard Theater and staying for Shana Merlin's "Austin's Next Top Improvisor" show at 10pm. Shannon and Shana are my improv instructors (you did know I was taking improv classes, right?!) and they are *super* HI-Larry-ous! Come out and join me if you want! The more the merrier...
Normally I don't even think through the decision to turn on the television - it's just a given. Today, though, I thought, "Hmmm... I could use a good dose of The Ellen Degeneres Show." I think I even made a few steps toward the living room where the TV is. Then I realized, "Nope. Can't do it." I was a little sad, but got over it quickly as I turned the radio on.
Speaking of radio. Thank God I didn't give up music for 40 days! I don't think I would survive without it. In the mornings I listen to "The Bobby Bones Show" on 96.7 KISS FM. I usually can't take more than an hour of it though since they are always bickering and complaining and whining. Still, it's mildly entertaining. Plus, I won Sarah McLachlan concert tickets from them years ago when they were brand new on the radio, so I might find another contest I want to try to win.
My dad always gets a kick out of this story: The contest was between me and Lunchbox (one of the d.j.s on the show). He's a total guy's guy and wildly chauvinistic (not the same thing in my mind, mind you!). I sometimes throw-up a little in my mouth whenever I hear him speak. Anyway, the contest was: the person who answered the most questions won. They were random questions like "How many ounces in a cup?" or "Do desciduous trees have leaves?" The game hinged on the last question: "Toronto has a professional sports team called the Blue Jays. What sport do they play?" The moment I heard the word Blue I buzzed in (by yelling my name, remember I'm on my phone being broadcast on the radio) and yelled, "BASEBALL!" Lunchbox was stunned. Bobby Bones was stunned too. Finally he said, "Lunchbox! I can't believe you lost.... to a girl.... on a baseball question!" Hooray for me! Plus the concert was A-W-E-some!
Friday evenings are also a big TV watching time for me. When "Friday Night Lights" is on I like to watch it (Cody, I saw you last week on the show in the party scene! Hooray!). When "Lipstick Jungle" and "Las Vegas" were on I liked those too. Lately I've been watching "The O.C." (moment of silence please.... ) on NetFlix back-to-back-to-back-to-back. Keep in mind for the last month or so I've been a Master Pancake widow (Jodi, Kristin, and Joann, you know what I'm taking about). This means that Ben has been performing with Master Pancake Friday nights (and Saturdays too!) so I don't have my built-in playmate to skip around town with doing fun things (sniff, sniff...). I don't mind it thought once in a while. Plus they're mocking "The Matrix" and it is HI-larry-ous! You get to see Ben on stage in his "tighty whities" although they aren't white, they are an array of fruit flavors courtesy of American Apparel.
But do not fear... tonight I have plans. I will be going to Shannon McCormick's "LOLA" show at 8pm at Salvage Vangard Theater and staying for Shana Merlin's "Austin's Next Top Improvisor" show at 10pm. Shannon and Shana are my improv instructors (you did know I was taking improv classes, right?!) and they are *super* HI-Larry-ous! Come out and join me if you want! The more the merrier...
Thursday, February 26, 2009
DETOX: Day 2
Yikes! I'm starting to itch... Shaking... Sweating... Definitely ITCHING!
Thursday night is a toughie! I got home from yoga class around 7:15pm, sat down (at the table!) and had a bite to eat with Ben, and then... Um... Hmmm... What to do... What to do...
Normally I'd settle in for a night of mindless television. I like to catch Ugly Betty but I don't watch it religiously. The Office is one of my very favorites but I usually watch them all back-to-back in the summertime when the whole season gets released on dvd. 30 Rock is entertaining but it's not a show I can't miss. So I guess I'm not really missing much... Just a time-filler.
And so I write. I write to keep my mind off of television. And to fill some time.
I had an interesting thought today, a little twisted and warped in some ways but I thought I'd share. If you've read the previous entries you are familiar with my current obsession with the television show "The O.C." Which brings me to my "interesting" thought (I can't believe I'm about the type this...): "Huh... I wonder what they're up to?!" And this thought wasn't in the "I wonder where the stars are now" sort-of way. No. It was in the, "I wonder what Ryan and Marissa are up to since I haven't had contact with them in a few days" kind-of way.
Oh..... My..... God....! Am I delusional? Maybe. Probably. Oh well, at least I'm sane enough to recognize it, right?
Obviously television serves some sort of social purpose for me (or lack thereof). I can observe them interact and feel a part of the action but I don't actually have to assert any energy myself. This makes sense since I haven't had a lot of energy lately and "winter" (if you can actually call it that here in Austin where it was near 90 degrees today) puts me into hibernation mode (as it naturally should!). Maybe these 40 days come at just the right time - to break me of my hibernation and get me back into the "real world" and socializing with "real people" in time for spring. Who knows!? I'm just trying to kill time...
Thursday night is a toughie! I got home from yoga class around 7:15pm, sat down (at the table!) and had a bite to eat with Ben, and then... Um... Hmmm... What to do... What to do...
Normally I'd settle in for a night of mindless television. I like to catch Ugly Betty but I don't watch it religiously. The Office is one of my very favorites but I usually watch them all back-to-back in the summertime when the whole season gets released on dvd. 30 Rock is entertaining but it's not a show I can't miss. So I guess I'm not really missing much... Just a time-filler.
And so I write. I write to keep my mind off of television. And to fill some time.
I had an interesting thought today, a little twisted and warped in some ways but I thought I'd share. If you've read the previous entries you are familiar with my current obsession with the television show "The O.C." Which brings me to my "interesting" thought (I can't believe I'm about the type this...): "Huh... I wonder what they're up to?!" And this thought wasn't in the "I wonder where the stars are now" sort-of way. No. It was in the, "I wonder what Ryan and Marissa are up to since I haven't had contact with them in a few days" kind-of way.
Oh..... My..... God....! Am I delusional? Maybe. Probably. Oh well, at least I'm sane enough to recognize it, right?
Obviously television serves some sort of social purpose for me (or lack thereof). I can observe them interact and feel a part of the action but I don't actually have to assert any energy myself. This makes sense since I haven't had a lot of energy lately and "winter" (if you can actually call it that here in Austin where it was near 90 degrees today) puts me into hibernation mode (as it naturally should!). Maybe these 40 days come at just the right time - to break me of my hibernation and get me back into the "real world" and socializing with "real people" in time for spring. Who knows!? I'm just trying to kill time...
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
TV Detox Begins!
BEFORE
AFTERToday is the day that I will stop watching television for 40 days. I have to say I'm actually quite excited about it. I thought I'd have the shakes and not know what to do with myself, but I'm doing alright (so far). I've got a busy couple of days so that's good.
I've included pictures of my living/TV room as it typically looks when I veg-out and watch TV. My spot is on the couch. I like to lounge and cuddle up with a comforter. If you actually took a picture of me in the act of watching television there would also be some beverages (most likely non-alcoholic, water and tea are my favorites) and food on the ottoman. Ben's spot is in the rocking chair (yes, that overstuffed chair has rocker feet on it, it's awesome). That's his laptop. I usually can't watch TV and surf the web at the same time. I actually try to spend as little time as possible on my computer (who'da thought with all the blogs I'm attempting). The second picture is of the living/TV room straightened-up and the TV cabinet closed. At least I won't have to look at the television and listen to it call my name... Megan... Megan... you know you want to... just once... not one has to know... I won't tell anyone... you can trust me...
The "O.C" dvd update: I did receive the final dvd of the second season of The O.C. yesterday. I was so excited you would have thought I'd just won a weekend of massages and mud wraps at Lake Austin Spa Resort. I popped it in immediately and started humming along to the opening credits theme song: "Doooo do do do do, Doooo do do do do..... California here I come, California here I come...". And then I realized it was the bonus dvd! Man that sucked! I exhaled defeatedly and my body slumped over in grief. Attention Filmmakers/TV producers: Do not do this to your fans! They will be terribly disappointed! But I figured "What the heck... I might as well watch it anyway." So I pushed play and settled in on the couch. It wasn't too bad. I don't normally watch the bonus features on dvds (Ben's loves them and learns a lot about filmmaking this way). It was mainly blooper reals and the cast talking about the show. It was endearing. Once I was finished with the bonus dvd it dawned on me that this meant I had already finished the entire second season. This revelation brought me contentment knowing that when my 40 days are up I can start fresh with the third season. Phew! Crisis avoided.
I've included pictures of my living/TV room as it typically looks when I veg-out and watch TV. My spot is on the couch. I like to lounge and cuddle up with a comforter. If you actually took a picture of me in the act of watching television there would also be some beverages (most likely non-alcoholic, water and tea are my favorites) and food on the ottoman. Ben's spot is in the rocking chair (yes, that overstuffed chair has rocker feet on it, it's awesome). That's his laptop. I usually can't watch TV and surf the web at the same time. I actually try to spend as little time as possible on my computer (who'da thought with all the blogs I'm attempting). The second picture is of the living/TV room straightened-up and the TV cabinet closed. At least I won't have to look at the television and listen to it call my name... Megan... Megan... you know you want to... just once... not one has to know... I won't tell anyone... you can trust me...
The "O.C" dvd update: I did receive the final dvd of the second season of The O.C. yesterday. I was so excited you would have thought I'd just won a weekend of massages and mud wraps at Lake Austin Spa Resort. I popped it in immediately and started humming along to the opening credits theme song: "Doooo do do do do, Doooo do do do do..... California here I come, California here I come...". And then I realized it was the bonus dvd! Man that sucked! I exhaled defeatedly and my body slumped over in grief. Attention Filmmakers/TV producers: Do not do this to your fans! They will be terribly disappointed! But I figured "What the heck... I might as well watch it anyway." So I pushed play and settled in on the couch. It wasn't too bad. I don't normally watch the bonus features on dvds (Ben's loves them and learns a lot about filmmaking this way). It was mainly blooper reals and the cast talking about the show. It was endearing. Once I was finished with the bonus dvd it dawned on me that this meant I had already finished the entire second season. This revelation brought me contentment knowing that when my 40 days are up I can start fresh with the third season. Phew! Crisis avoided.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Two More Days of Freedom
I am currently hooked on watching The O.C. We get the dvds through Netflix and I usually go through 8-12 episodes per week. Having Netflix has been an interesting phenomenon for me. There is a whole strategy behind planning your dvd watching around getting the dvd in the mail so you can get the next dvd in a timely fashion. For someone with a history of anxiety, this doesn't help!
After deciding to go 40 days without watching television I realized that I was only a few dvds short of finishing the entire second season of The O.C. Needless to say I've been furiously watching as many episodes as possible. However, there is one more dvd left in the second season that I haven't received yet. As I realized this yesterday I began to panic a little (deep breaths, deeeep breaths). Ben was furiously trying to figure out which post office we could return the dvd to so that he could get the next one by Tuesday. Yes, you heard me right. Ben is a huge enabler to my TV watching. Thanks Ben! Love you!
The most exciting part of this weekend is the fact that the Academy Awards are today - Sunday! Thank God they are this weekend and not next! For the last few years Ben and I have made a point to watch the Oscars. We imagine ourselves walking the red carpet, being interviewed and asked who we're wearing, and sitting in the audience waiting for Ben's name to be called. One day Ben, one day...
Go Slumdog!
After deciding to go 40 days without watching television I realized that I was only a few dvds short of finishing the entire second season of The O.C. Needless to say I've been furiously watching as many episodes as possible. However, there is one more dvd left in the second season that I haven't received yet. As I realized this yesterday I began to panic a little (deep breaths, deeeep breaths). Ben was furiously trying to figure out which post office we could return the dvd to so that he could get the next one by Tuesday. Yes, you heard me right. Ben is a huge enabler to my TV watching. Thanks Ben! Love you!
The most exciting part of this weekend is the fact that the Academy Awards are today - Sunday! Thank God they are this weekend and not next! For the last few years Ben and I have made a point to watch the Oscars. We imagine ourselves walking the red carpet, being interviewed and asked who we're wearing, and sitting in the audience waiting for Ben's name to be called. One day Ben, one day...
Go Slumdog!
Friday, February 20, 2009
Why am I doing this?
A few weeks ago Ben and were talking about Lent. Both of us grew up religious and celebrated Lent as children by giving something up - soda, chocolate, fish on Fridays (Ben) - and this got me thinking. Although I am currently not currently religious and attending a particular church, I do like the idea of challenging myself to go without something. I'd like to say I thought long and hard about what it is I'd be giving up, but really I just put it out of my mind for a few weeks and then all of a sudden *ding* the light bulb came on (that's what mine sounds like by the way). I will take a sabbath from watching television.
Now you have to understand something. I watch A LOT of television. I don't even want to begin to think about counting up the amount of hours I have watched in the last several years. While I have naturally begun to ween myself from watching network television over the last 6 months, I have increased the amount to televisions series I can get from Netflix. I will attempt to remember all the series I've either completed or am waiting for the most recent past season to be released:
Shows I currently watch/follow are:
So beginning Ash Wednesday, February 25th, I will not watch television (network, Netflix, whatever...) until Easter Sunday, April 12. Instead I will do what I've been wanting to do for quite some time now but never seemed to have (or make) the time - WRITE! Hence, the blog. I am hoping I will have more accountability to writing if I know people might tune in to see what I'm learning about the process. Plus I'm hoping to also do fun stuff with all my new found free time like go to museums, listen to live music, hang out with friends, spend quality time with Ben, etc.
So if you're curious how this will go for me and what mystery I uncover I encourage you to become a "Follower" of this blog. You can sign up on the lefthand side of the page and you will get an email when I update the blog.
Thanks for reading!
Now you have to understand something. I watch A LOT of television. I don't even want to begin to think about counting up the amount of hours I have watched in the last several years. While I have naturally begun to ween myself from watching network television over the last 6 months, I have increased the amount to televisions series I can get from Netflix. I will attempt to remember all the series I've either completed or am waiting for the most recent past season to be released:
- Arrested Development (Genius! Why did they stop?!)
- Nip/Tuck
- Weeds (Also genius! Keep it going!)
- The Office (This show kills me it's so funny!)
- Sopranos (I can only take this one is small doses)
- O.C. (I'm currently on the second season and will have to halt the progression for this sabbath.)
- Project Runway (I'm obsessed with Heidi Klum. Did you know she has her own jewelry line? What can't that woman do?)
Shows I currently watch/follow are:
- Ellen
- Oprah
- The View
- Gossip Girl (*love* it)
- 90210 (The new one. It's not as good but it's something to occupy my time.)
- Privileged
- Lost
- Ugly Betty
- Grey's Anatomy
- Friday Night Lights
- The Bachelor
So beginning Ash Wednesday, February 25th, I will not watch television (network, Netflix, whatever...) until Easter Sunday, April 12. Instead I will do what I've been wanting to do for quite some time now but never seemed to have (or make) the time - WRITE! Hence, the blog. I am hoping I will have more accountability to writing if I know people might tune in to see what I'm learning about the process. Plus I'm hoping to also do fun stuff with all my new found free time like go to museums, listen to live music, hang out with friends, spend quality time with Ben, etc.
So if you're curious how this will go for me and what mystery I uncover I encourage you to become a "Follower" of this blog. You can sign up on the lefthand side of the page and you will get an email when I update the blog.
Thanks for reading!
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