text:
On October 4, 2013 I flew one-way to LA from NYC. This is a thrilling and crazy time, and I am excited to share the experience and lessons I'm learning with you! I am as prepared as I possibly can be, for all of the ups and the occasional and inevitable downs, that I trust will ultimately lead to more ups.
Each entry will have a "Lesson of the Day". They are written from my perspective, because I realize that not every lesson works for everyone. But read them, see if they apply to you, and let me know!
Let's do this. Yeah.
Tuesday, March 18, 2014
Today I'm slowing down… in every sense of slowing down… I'm doing it. Because my loves, I've simply had enough.
I've had enough with rushing myself, enough with telling myself I should be "there" and not "here"… Frankly, I've had enough with telling myself anything! Sometimes the introspective inner dialogue can be a great thing – check in with myself and say, "Hey, how ya feeling? Well you're doing great, and I'm proud of you…" But then there's the kind that gets in the way, that makes me have strep throat for… yes, the 3rd time since I moved 5 months ago. So this morning, when I got up and felt MUCH better than I have in almost a week, I decided to take a walk and get my nails done, and then the plan was to drive somewhere like a beach or a trail, so that I could just slow down to take in the beauty… And then something cool happened.
I walked out of my house, got in my car, and then decided to *walk* some errands (instead of running them). I got out of my car and realized it smelled sooo good outside. Flowers. Spring. Birds chirping. When I saw flowers, I stopped to really LOOK at them, to really SEE them… and they were gorgeous.
Then I walked to a nail salon near my house and got my nails done. The manicurist was so, so nice. She was born in Vietnam but grew up in France. That's where she met her husband. Then, 8 years ago, they moved to California for her husband's job. She told me that she spoke no English at all when she moved here and had no friends at all, so it took her a little while to settle in. Smart lady… Now fluent in Vietnamese, French, and English. As I was leaving, she gave me a hug and welcomed me to California.
Then I walked to CVS. I had a bunch of coupons, and I'm sure we all know how freaking awesome coupons at CVS are! I feel like I make money every time I shop there! So anyway, I went and I got some new lip gloss and eyeshadow, a 4-pack of toothbrushes, and some new vitamins (B-12 for energy and Acidophilus as a probiotic since I've been on antibiotics). When I got to the register, the cashier was as nice as could be. She was singing and happy about all of my savings and earnings (lol I made bank at CVS today. Jus' sayin'), and she told me she loves the customers.
When I walked home, I stopped to look at some flowers, and while I would have just walked past them – if I even noticed them at all – this time, I took a step back to take a closer look, and then I stepped closer to really see these beautiful flowers. And I realized that I could go to a beach or a trail if I wanted – that's one of the really awesome things about California… But I didn't need to go to any of those places to see the beauty in life.
So I sound like a hippie right now, and some of this *everything is beautiful* stuff might sound a little extreme. But I think I'm starting to get it! The reason all this stuff is so cliche, is probably because a long, long time ago, some people discovered these beautiful things in the world for the first time and started talking about them… and then, unfortunately, over time, maybe it got old… and people started to go, "blah blah blah the pretty flowers…" But man! If you watch a little kid notice a bee on a flower for the first time, you'll see the magic in that kid's eyes. Have you ever watched a little kid just look at something for minutes? It's seriously magic.
So I'm learning some lessons. I will be totally straight up with you right now and say, I wanna go home. I want to be back in New York City. That's where I love to live. But I'm here now. And it's beautiful. And I'm going to slow down and stop trying to speed up my trip back east, my career, and my life in general.
My awesome boyfriend offered to bring Mexican food to my house tonight, and then we decided to get food somewhere and walk around the neighborhood instead of staying home. It'll be a beautiful night
LESSON OF THE DAY: I'm simply going to stop and smell the roses. Literally.
Monday, March 10, 2014
This weekend was a lot of fun! I took a much appreciated break and went camping with my boyfriend. This state is so incredibly beautiful – watching sunsets on the beach, seeing the mountains right behind us… it makes me feel so lucky and happy to be living here.
But this morning, I woke up feeling a little homesick, and New York, I will be home to see you soon!
I'm so happy that I made this decision to move, but it's interesting to see when feelings of homesickness come up. They creep up, so I never know when to expect them. This is all part of the process, and if I didn't feel these things, I would actually wonder what's going on for real! I would rather the real feelings come to the surface, than wonder if I'm missing something.
LESSON OF THE DAY: I'm so grateful for all of the wonderful things I have in LA… AND it might be time for a little visit *home* to NYC
Monday, March 3, 2014
The past couple of days have been a little rough! Not too, too bad… I'm just learning some lessons in pacing myself. It's so important to take care of yourself, and I'm starting to be able to see when I need to take a break. In reality, breaks should be taken often I think. It's a good way to keep things going but regroup at the same time. Well I didn't do that so much, and the exhaustion hit me as soon as I sat down yesterday! I also learned a big lesson in pushing through… I'm so glad I went to the co-writing session I had last night. It ended up going great, and I think a really wonderful song is going to come out of it. I'm ready to start rolling again, after good sleep… and spin class tonight before my show is going to be ridiculously awesome
Tonight I'm singing with a bunch of other performers at Kings Row Gastropub in Pasadena. We hit at 8pm and I'm so excited! It's a Beatles-themed night, and I've wanted to sing "Across the Universe" forever. It's such a special song…
This week is nuts! I'm singing at a private event tomorrow night and then off to Las Vegas on Wednesday for another one. I'm so happy to be singing with such cool people. That's definitely the best part about all of this… It would be nothing without the awesome players I get to hang out with. I think in anything you do, it's so important to be surrounded by supportive people that you can learn from. I feel very fortunate to have that in all areas of my life.
LESSON OF THE DAY: I will maintain a well-rounded lifestyle. Burning the candle at both ends doesn't work. Finding the happy medium between burning that candle and pushing through exhaustion is key (I learned this from my amazing boyfriend/best friend yesterday). I will stay positive and make sure that I pace myself and enjoy every little thing. Gratitude Gratitude Gratitude.
If you're reading this, I am so grateful for you
Friday, February 28, 2014
It's finally raining in LA. Man… people treat it like it's a blizzard! My friends here have been telling me that everything shuts down when it rains in LA, and they were NOT kidding! I guess it's a nice excuse to take a little break and curl up on the couch with a movie
I've been playing more and more shows and meeting more and more awesome people. On Wednesday night, I sang one of my songs during my friend Jenni Alpert's set at Witzend in Venice. Jenni is a beautiful person and extremely talented singer/songwriter. I love seeing other artists do their thing! It helps me learn so much… (Tweet #neverstoplearning to @DevynRush – www.twitter.com/devynrush)
I'm really, really getting the hang of this place. I'm feeling more alive and in the rhythm, now that I've been getting a workout routine down in the mornings and playing more music. Plus… what I'm learning the most, is that having love in my life makes it feel that much greater. Not just a love relationship, but friends. And myself. I have to be honest and tell you that when I moved, a very big part of me stayed in New York, and I was trying so much to get "her" over here, so that I could feel whole. Just recently, I've started to feel like a complete person. During the time of feeling like I wasn't all "here", I had a hard time feeling the love from the people I have in my life. And it reminded me, again, how important it is to stay with myself at all times…
LESSON OF THE DAY: I am continuing to find more ways to stay with myself, so that I can always give love and feel it being given to me. It's a challenge, especially in times when things feel new and up in the air (I get flustered kind of easily!), but every day in every way, I'm learning to #neverstoplearning.
Wednesday, February 19, 2014
I had a great conversation today with Betty Hoeffner, the founder of *Hey U.G.L.Y.* (Unique.Gifted.Lovable.You.). Whenever we talk, I feel so good for the rest of the day. She is so special to me, and I'm so happy that I get to work with her toward such an important goal – to end bullying, to prevent bullying before it starts, and to let everyone know that they are important, special, and NOT ALONE. This organization is continuing to save lives and do good. Unfortunately, along the way, there are some losses… And I want to take this moment to honor Michelle Gipson. Michelle was a very special member of Hey U.G.L.Y.'s team and incredible friend to us. She took her life a couple of weeks ago. Words cannot explain the pain that we are all feeling, and speaking to Betty today, I know how much she is suffering and missing Michelle.
If you are having a hard time, please please please listen to me when I tell you that you are not alone, and that this pain can and will get better. That is what we are here for! We are here to help you and to help make your life good! Life IS good! There is just a lot of crap that comes with the good sometimes… Life is filled with so much beauty and light. If you don't know where it is right now, please email email@example.com. You will speak directly with Betty Hoeffner, and let me tell you, that woman is magic. You can also get in touch with me through that email address. If you're in school and being bullied, and you don't know where to go, this is also a great place to go! AND I WILL COME TO YOUR SCHOOL and personally give you a huge hug and look you in your eyes and tell you that EVERYTHING WILL BE ALRIGHT.
All my love, my beautifuls!
LESSON OF THE DAY: I'm counting the things that I'm grateful for, especially when I feel anything negative. I'm taking in each day with love and gratitude, and I'm making every effort to help people understand how beautiful they are.
Monday, February 10, 2014
I think I might be getting officially kind of settled in here! lol You guys… it's been a whirlwind of a change the past few months. But a few weeks ago, I was reminded of how important exercise is to me. I've been getting up early in the morning to go to spin or yoga, and it's been really jump starting my day and keeping my energy up and positive. Music is known to be the ultimate and universal stress reliever. Lyrics are so important, and I feel so grateful to be able to sit down and write as often as I do. But I think it's extremely special and important to have multiple outlets for self-awareness and self-love. Sometimes I judge myself like crazy, because even though being a musician should never be competitive and should always be about art first… in a time when so many people want to get their art out there, competition is inevitable and sometimes unavoidable. Fitness can absolutely be the same way – we sometimes look to the person next to us and wish we could kick as high or go as fast, or whatever else it may be that we are telling ourselves. But this is MY brain and MY body that I'm working with – not theirs. These are MY words and MY actions and thoughts. As much as I need to separate myself from the person next to me or the other musicians in the world, I also need to realize that we don't ever need to turn this world into a competition! We can just motivate and congratulate each other on our work. This is how there can be a fine line between inspiration and jealousy.
But on a more serious note… I'm sitting in a coffee shop and can't figure out who this person near me is! I think there should be a Shazam for faces, so that when I see a celebrity that I can't place, I can just quick run up and snap a picture in his or her face, say "ShaZAM!" and run away…
LESSON OF THE DAY: Today I will choose inspiration over jealousy. There is enough art, music, fitness, and love to go around. I will look for every opportunity to be inspired and motivated, and most of all, I will stop saying mean things to myself and continue to practice self-acceptance. Also, I will stop staring at this person in the coffee shop and pray that Shazam makes an app for faces…
Monday, January 27, 2014
Words cannot thank you all enough for your support. Any words I write here or in a song or that I say would be understatements. Because of you guys, my birthday rocked and the release of my new EP, Funky Organic Soul, has been SO exciting! So thank you thank you thank you!
More soon! The EP has been released on CD Baby, but we're still preparing a couple of little details, and then it will be available on iTunes as well. I can't wait to share this music with you!
A very special Thank-You to everyone who poured your heart into the making of this EP and helped me to make it everything I wanted it to be!
LESSON OF THE DAY: Gratitude Changes Everything
Tuesday, January 14, 2014
Tonight I am just grateful. So, so grateful. My day started early, as I hopped in my car and drove down to San Diego for the first time. One of my closest friends, Jonathan Walsh, lives there. Jonathan and I were singing servers at Ellen's Stardust Diner together (takin' it back to the American Idol days! "The Singing Waitress") and always had such a close bond. He moved to the west coast 3 years ago, and it was so good to be able to visit him today. He is someone who truly appreciates life and music and the beauty in everything, and with the crazy ups and downs of my move, I really needed the balance that he provides just by being him. Jonathan is part of a SERIOUSLY kickass band called "The Yes Team" and you should definitely check them out: http://www.yesteamgo.com. Just a quick plug for a group of people I love very much
After visiting Jonathan (or "Jojo" as we call him at Ellen's… or my personal favorite, "Jerkface"), I drove up to Anaheim and saw Janelle Monae play at the House of Blues with a very new friend, who is definitely a keeper We had such a great time. The show was PHENOMENAL. Meeting some of the guys from the band after the show and being able to spend time was very special. I loved every millisecond of the show. The entire band was so soulful and present, and the energy they brought to it was just ridiculous. It made me feel so connected and present, and THAT is what music is for.
So… after a very crazy and emotionally unpredictable past couple of months, the past couple of days are starting to bring me back into the ME that I know and want to be. But this is just it – We have so many dimensions. We are not just one way and that's it. We all have layers, and it's important to notice when the not-so-hot layers come out. We may not like them, but we gotta breathe inside of that discomfort and sometimes wait it out until we're through the clouds.
LESSON OF THE DAY: I am practicing loving the things I am AND the things I am not (I wrote about this in my song, "The Alchemist", but I'm re-learning it and re-living it now). I appreciate the ups, and I will continue to let go of fear and just believe that everything is working out exactly the way it's supposed to, to make my life positive and fulfilling.
Monday, January 6, 2014
Today was SO. much. fun! I did a photo shoot with photographer Angela Torres. So many fun outfits… and Nutella!! Can't wait for you guys to see the pics! It's all in preparation for my birthday/CD Release party on Saturday, January 25 at AMPLYFi in West Hollywood (details below and on the home page of my website).
This transition has not been the easiest the past couple of weeks, and the photo shoot today really put me in a good mood. I'm writing this blog for this very reason – I had no idea how this whole move would affect me when I started writing these entries, but I'm glad I'm doing it. It's definitely showing me that there are ways to get through the crazy roller coaster of life. The past couple of weeks have felt a little down, but I'm ready for the new year and ready to embrace the positive changes, that I must remind myself ARE positive!
LESSON OF THE DAY: I will take each emotion as it comes. I will recognize that feeling overwhelmed by change is actually a step toward clarity and comfort.
Thursday, December 19, 2013
Ooo it's a cold winter day in LA today! It's 52 degrees and sporadically raining. Gotta put on my parka and UGGS! I love it here…
One week, a little bit of music, and some yoga made all the difference. I'm back! I love it when the clouds are lifted and I feel energized again! Of course, I would love it if the clouds would never come in the first place – I mean, I am in sunny California after all - but sometimes they do come, and I'm learning how to ease through them without too much resistance.
Time and time again, I hear how good meditation is. And all of my friends who do it are the happiest and most fulfilled people I know. 3 Days ago I got back on my meditation routine, and I feel AMAZING. It's not in my head. I mean, it is in my head, but it's not just in my head. Know'm sayin? It truly truly works. It counter-intuitive though. Like, how can being still and doing NOTHING for 20 minutes make you productive? Well I'm no guru. But I can tell you that it works. I feel it every time I fall off and get back on again. Something about taking that time for myself and starting/ending each day with it, energizes me in this real, balanced way. It helps me to make more careful and focused choices, and it makes me feel motivated.
So funny thing – I was at the yoga studio today, and 2 people separately told me they could tell I was from New York, that I just looked like I was from there! haha well, I guess you never lose your roots! And I am more than ok with that. I miss New York so much. Part of me wishes I could be in 2 places at once. But I'm happy here. And it's not all completely perfect here, which you can see if you read a few blog entries before this. But it's good. And it's getting better. And I'm learning and growing. And THAT is why I came here. I keep reminding myself why I moved. It was to get out of my comfort zone. And here I am! Very out of it. But now that I'm gaining a deeper sense of self again and feeling more connected to me, I'm feeling more at home in LA.
LESSON OF THE DAY: I am home. Everywhere I go, as long as I stay connected to myself, I am home.
Thursday, December 12, 2013
Wow. Ok. Lesson learned. Jeeeez.
You know how people say that you should think positively? Umm well people are onto something. You guys, I got strep again! For the second time in a month! And as I'm downing Penicillin every 8 hours – again – I have to stop and check myself, because it looks a liiiittle bit liked I wrecked myself. But I'm coo, I'm coo
The doctor said that it's because of the move and stress. She said my immune system just isn't what it usually is because of all the change, and that makes sense. She's absolutely right. I've been crazed!
So I moved here 2 months ago, and ya know the whole ups and occasional/inevitable downs thing? Yeahhhh basically it's been the bumpiest, weirdest roller coaster ever. Every time I think I'm down the hill and the roller coaster is coming to a stop, there's another hill! And sometimes it just feels like too much! But on days like today, after the Penicillin has kicked in and I'm back in my right mind, I can realize that it's not too much – It's truly and simply… what is.
I believe in the power of positive thinking. I also believe that our brains are innately negatively biased (I read that in Buddha's Brain: The Practical Neuroscience of Happiness, Love, and Wisdom by Rick Hanson – kickass book). And even though there is this crazy thing that seems to be a curse on all of humanity, we can accept the challenge of actively turning our frowns upside down and finding the opposite of our negative thoughts to replace them with positive ones… It's not easy to do. I mean, wait… IT'S SO FREAKING EASY TO DO! haha see?
I'm learning. I'm learning. And I will keep on learning. And if I all I ever do in my life is learn, then I have lived a very full and rich life.
LESSON OF THE DAY: Today, now that I am feeling like I'm getting back into *me*, I will explore the opposite of every negative thought. Additionally, I will observe myself and my surrounding without judgement. Simple observations.
Namaste, my loves <3
Sunday, December 8, 2013
Los Angeles! I am so excited to announce that on my 24th Birthday – Saturday, January 25 – I will be having a Birthday/Album Release Partayyy! It will be at Amplyfi, starting at 8pm… and I have a NINE-piece band backing me!!! This is a dream come true. Oh wait, AND… Did I mention there will be Nutella cupcakes?! Heck yes there will!! This night can't come sooner… and at the same time, I've got A LOT to do to get ready!
Amplyfi is an all-ages venue (adults over 21 – Stay tuned for after-party details), so EVERYONE is welcome, and I will be so happy to have you there! Please help me spread the word. The more, the merrier my loves!
LESSON OF THE DAY: Life is a party. Today I am letting go of the expectations I have for myself and others, releasing judgment, and just living this party!
*Wanna be on my mailing list, so that you can find out about upcoming shows and exciting news? Just email email@example.com, and we'll get you on there! No annoying spammy stuff, I promise
Monday, December 2, 2013
Well, I'll never complain about 70-degree weather on December 2! But I will complain about how stupidly dry my skin is! What is with this whole dry heat thing?! I could definitely use a little humidity in my life, but if I have to choose between constant sunshine/palm trees and a moist face… I'll take the sunshine. Also, the word "moist" is gross, but you get the point.
I will never lie to you. So I will be honest right now and tell you, I haven't been having the easiest time recently. Man! When I got here, it felt PERFECT. And here we are, with the ups… and the downs. But as I said when I first started to write this blog, I trust that these occasional and inevitable downs will lead to ups that are even higher than the ups I had before… I trust. Because I have to. But truthfully, it has been hard to smile at times, and crying has been very cleansing. I just start to miss New York sometimes. And I start to miss feeling comfortable. I miss my every-day routine. It really just goes to show me that I can breathe in ocean air and look at mountains and palm trees from the freeway, and I can get myself into the swing of things here, but at the end of the day, my emotions are contingent upon my perspective. Thanksgiving and the holidays in general, are a time of giving thanks. Well, sometimes it's a challenge to FEEL thankful. So today, in the car by myself, I started saying affirmations out loud:
"I am happy. I am safe. I am comfortable. I love myself. I love myself. I love myself. I am living in abundance. I am receptive. I am proud of myself. I love myself. I love myself. I am grateful. I love myself…….."
And even though I was saying these simply on a cognitive level, I know that the repetition is so effective. I have repeated myself into this funk I'm in, and now I'm going to repeat myself out of it, until the positive thoughts sink in so much, that I FEEL them with every ounce of my being.
Last little story before I say good night and shut the computer:
So I was driving out of a parking lot today, about to make a left turn onto a HUGE street, and I realized that this was not a good idea. The street was too busy, and it didn't feel right. So I decided that I was going to back my car up and turn around to go another way out of the parking lot. Well. My wonderful car that I do love SO much, is very tall. And since I was coming out of the parking lot, my car was on a bit of a downward slope, which made it so that I couldn't see the smaller car behind me, and next thing I know, I'm yelling profanities and shaking because I can't believe I just hit that car! Well, it ended up being my lucky day…
The sweetheart of a driver behind me got out of his car and said it wasn't a big deal at all. He made light of the whole thing, and I felt so much better.
I do believe in signs. I do believe that there are people and events that come into our lives that help us and teach us… and sometimes remind us TO CHILL OUUUUTTTT :-) And I'm not mad at myself for hitting his car. I know exactly why it happened and how to prevent it in the future. And I feel very, very lucky.
LESSON OF THE DAY: I will repeat positive affirmations to myself until I FEEL them. I will view my surroundings and myself through beautifully-colored glasses, and I will keep cleaning the lenses
Wednesday, November 27, 2013
I like to listen to Krishna Das in the car and when I do yoga… and all the time. He's so peaceful. Sanskrit is known to be a sacred and powerful language. It is said that every sound in Sanskrit opens a different chakra… and if you don't know this about me yet, I'm very into this stuff Part of the reason I love it, is because there is no ego. Music is ancient. And when it started, it is assumed that people used what was naturally available to them – their voice and things they could bang on to create a rhythmic sound. How beautiful is that – that one of the first instrument known to man was the voice? It really makes me stop and think, especially sitting here writing as Krishna Das sets a peaceful and mystical tone, using dynamics and a chorus of singers to chant these beautiful mantras. I don't even need to know what he's saying. It's very interesting to read translations, and I love being able to pick out certain words, but it's so much more than that. It's about the FEELING. It's about how he's just SINGING. No riffs or stylistic notes unless they come purely out of spirituality… And you can definitely tell.
I've been singing since I could talk. And when you're a little girl who sings, everyone wants you to perform all the time and says things like, "Ohh, someday I'm gonna say I knew you when…" And that's so sweet and so kind, and the attention feels nice. But then, if you're like me, as you grow up, singing starts to become this thing you do because you think it's going to lead you to a place where people can say they "knew you when…" and it begins to come from such a conscious place. This isn't necessarily a bad thing… I like awareness. I like consciousness. I appreciate mindfulness. But in this situation, sometimes you start to get away from the real reasons for singing… the spirituality of singing. I want to get back to the root, always. And no doubt music came from a place of FEELING good. People would sing and dance when they were happy or hopeful or sad, and it healed. And it still does, especially when it is coming from such an authentic place, that all it can possibly do is heal.
I want to heal people. I believe that I was put here to help and to heal. And when I notice myself singing to fit a mold and fill an image of what I think I'm supposed to be as an "artist", that's when I have to stop and really reflect on what is REAL.
I believe in music as a healing, no-ego, safe realm to sit in. And I am striving to constantly create that. I am getting ready to release my new album, and I really couldn't be more excited. My producer, Matt Anthony and guitarist/very close friend Andrew Miramonti came into the studio every day with no ego, creating music with me that is real and from our roots. I appreciate them so much for being constant reminders of why I love to make music.
Have a WONDERFUL Thanksgiving! There is so much to be grateful for
LESSON OF THE DAY: Today I will sing from my soul. Today I will only do what feels good, right, and real. And I am thankful.
Friday, November 15, 2013
No more strep throat! Phew! It's been a crazy week, but I'm feeling much stronger and better than I was… Umm… Can we talk about Penicillin for a minute? Ok, awesome.
So put yourself into this *hopefully* very hypothetical situation: You come down with a case of strep, and the back of your throat is ridiculously swollen… and what are you given to treat it? A huge, pointy pill! Oy! The first couple days of that were ROUGH. "Jagged Little Pill" by Alanis has been stuck in my head all week. I'm ok with that part, cuz I think she's pretty much so much better than sliced bread…
Anyway, I'm feeling MUCH better and had a very productive and emotional co-writing session today. We're writing one of those songs that sometimes when you write, you just really need to write it. Even if no one ever hears it. I don't know if it will end up on my album or not – still deciding. But no matter what, it's a song that is personal and strengthening.
This week has been a slower one, because most of it has been spent healing. And I couldn't sing. And that sucked. BUT… good realizations:
Every once in a while, I have the realization that my purpose in life is to be happy, make other people happy, have fun, enjoy simplicity, and make other people's lives fun and simple… And every once in a while, I let that get away from me and take my life too seriously. I let this go on, until I finally get to a point where I say, "DEVYN! What is the point in all of your goals and all of the things you're doing if you're making them stressful for yourself??" Life is supposed to be FUN. Life is supposed to be SIMPLE (not always easy, but mostly simple).
LESSON OF THE DAY: Today I am making a promise to myself that I will stop and allow things to be fun! I'm going to smile and laugh whenever I have an opportunity to, and I am going to create my own opportunities. I am going to sing from my soul, simply and fun. And I'm just going to enjoy life as much as I possibly can, recognizing that if the root of all things is either Fear or Love… I'm choosing Love.
Tuesday, November 12, 2013
Betty Hoeffner, the founder of Hey U.G.L.Y. (Unique.Gifted.Lovable.You. - www.heyugly.org), likes to use the analogy of a sore throat when it comes to the pain that we often go through when we are bullied or depressed. We can't imagine feeling well again, but when we get to the other side of it, we can look back and know that the pain was temporary. And we CAN get to the other side of it and feel AMAZING.
This is a subject I'm messing around with a bunch right now, since I went to the doctor today and was told that I have strep throat and have to start taking antibiotics every 8 hours to get those bad bacteria – those bullies – out of here. I know that this ridiculous pain I'm feeling when I swallow is temporary, but it's so hard to imagine it going away… I'm sure that tomorrow or the next day, I'll be a new lady, writing about how great I feel!
But here's something I'm thinking a lot about today… In order to treat this strep, I have to get rid of the "bad guys" by resting, having compassion for myself, AND… taking an ANTI-biotic, which is the ANTI-bacterial (or ANTI-bullying) medicine that gets rid of the bacteria. What would happen if I went to the doctor and she said, "Yes. You have strep. I'm going to prescribe a dose of strep to fight it off"? Um… I think I would probably get really sick, huh? Also, in treating this sickness, what would happen if I said to myself, "Devyn, YOU'RE NOT GOOD ENOUGH! Get off your butt and work!"…….. That hurt me just thinking about it! Now is the time to stop self-bullying, have compassion and self-love, and get rid of those bullies in my body by using a loving dose of antibiotics… Hm… Maybe this is how we should handle regular bullying situations…
Now there is one flaw that I can see in this analogy. After I am done with these antibiotics, the bad bacteria will no longer exist. What would be awesome, is if the antibiotics made the bad bacteria good instead, but that's unfortunately not how it works when it comes to strep throat… In life, we must "fight" the bullies with compassion and love, or we must drop the bully ball that was thrown at us. Feel free to expand on this analogy. I'm interested in your thoughts!
LESSON OF THE DAY: Today I recognize that pain is temporary. Also, I am extremely grateful for my friends in LA. Being sick 3,000 miles away from my old home would not be as easy if it weren't for them. And lastly… I am so happy to be the national spokesperson for Hey U.G.L.Y. Betty is incredible, and I love all of the students I get to meet, who have a huge impact on the way I choose to live my life. Feeling grateful… and temporarily sick. Good night
Monday, November 11, 2013
I'm finally getting back to writing! Wow, they're not kidding about this Mercury-in-Retrograde stuff. A few weeks ago, I was on my computer and it just blacked out! Lovely… Thanks to Apple, it is as good as new, and I'm happy to have it back!
Aaand now I'm sick. I always think that sickness is the body's way of saying it needs to chill out. So I'm taking this as a sign, and I'm taking it easy today. I did go to yoga at 7 this morning because I made a promise to myself that I would go, and I thought it would make me feel better. It did, but ultimately, this just needs to ride its course, and I kind of have to force myself to relax, so that I can get better and give 1000% again soon.
But More importantly… Happy, Happy Veterans' Day! I am so grateful to all of the veterans out there and especially think of my grandfather today. My "Pop-Pop" passed away a year ago. The stories he used to tell us about World War II were just fascinating. My favorite thing that he told my family and me, is that they put him in charge of the weapons during the war, because they knew he could handle it… But he never used them. The way he said it was so beautiful and genuine… "They gave me the big guns, but I never hurt no one! I never hurt no one!"
There's something to be said here about power. Power is… well, it's very powerful! We all have it, and it's up to us to make the right choices with the power we have. Some people loudly use their power against people, out of insecurity and the need to prove themselves. Some people quietly use their power against people, by anonymously posting mean things on the internet, out of fear… And some people use their power to help people and to teach by example. Power doesn't always have to be a loud thing. In fact, I think quiet power is sometimes the most powerful. My grandfather was quiet and secure in his power. He knew that he could use those weapons, but every day that he was armed, he made choices out of a deep understanding that, just maybe, the most powerful thing he could do was not to hurt anyone.
This is a message that I want to get across to every school in America. People who bully other people have an insecure sense of power. It is up to the victims of bullying (which means, BOTH the BULLY and WHAT WE CALL THE VICTIM) to find their own power INSIDE of themselves. True power is deep and can change the world.
I am grateful for our troops and for all of the veterans. Thank you for your strength, bravery, and undeniable power.
LESSONS OF THE DAY: Today I will CHILL OUT. I will allow my body and mind to heal so that I can give my all as soon as I am back to feeling 100%. I will also be aware of the power inside of myself and all of us, and I will quietly use my power for good.
Friday, October 25, 2013
This week has been so much fun! Super productive and a lot of learning.
On Tuesday night, my friend Jackie and I went to a songwriter/producers-in-the-round seminar at the Grammy Museum. The featured writer/producers were Christina Perri, Makeba Riddick, Lauren Christy, Deana Carter, and Claudia Brant. They all shared their beautiful stories and insights, and it was very inspiring.
After the seminar, I went to Hotel Cafe to see bassist Zach Rudolph play with singer/songwriter Ernie Halter. If you haven't yet, Check. It. Out. (www.erniehalter.com). Such a kickass show.
The rest of the week has been meetings and singing. Last night I sang at Don't Tell Mama. It felt so good to get up and sing in this new environment. If you're in LA, check out "Taking Back the Cabaret" at Don't Tell Mama on Thursday nights, starting up again on November 14!
Oh Oh Oh! AND I got a bed!!! I love me a good deal, and I got one! Sweden is just the best place ever. Swedish Fish, Max Martin… And IKEA! I found a REALLY comfortable mattress, and bed frame, and all that good stuff there. So glad everything fit in my new car. Thank you very much, Ella! (Ella is my car's name, in case you're just starting to read this blog now). I have to say, it would have probably looked pretty funny if you saw what I must've looked like, loading all those huge things onto the cart by myself…
LESSON OF THE DAY/WEEK: From now on, I will take friends with me to IKEA. It's more fun that way, because we can jump on the beds together. Also, I can let them do the heavy lifting while I go order Swedish meatballs and cinnamon buns. THAT's teamwork
Monday, October 21, 2013
I am SO tired today! Maybe it's the couch I am definitely buying a bed this week! But so far, today has been awesome. I had a couple of meetings this morning – I love starting my day that way! It really motivates me.
But whoops! I have been so focused on other things, that I didn't properly plan for my visit to the DMV to get my California State Drivers License today, so now I have to reschedule the appointment. That's ok. I forgive myself. I think the little lesson there, is that I have to allow myself to settle in more, instead of expecting to have EVERYTHING done in the first 2 weeks (or even month) of living here. There have been a ton of moving parts, and I still don't even have all of my boxes here yet! This continues to be a bigger move than I realized it would be, but it's allll good. I am allowing everything to keep falling into place!
I'm going to check out a yoga class, followed by meditation tonight. I think that will be good for the body/mind/spirit. I could use that connection again. It's crazy how I notice this pattern. I really do start to get tired, cranky, and disconnected if I go a little while without yoga. But I'm so thankful that I have found that as my solution! It's good to know the cause of emotions, so that I can take steps toward changing them if they're negative. Yoga definitely gives me a connection to myself, unlike anything else, because it is solely for me and nourishes all of the other things I do in my life. I'm really looking forward to it tonight.
LESSON OF THE DAY: I will no longer equate exhaustion with sadness! Just because I'm tired, does not mean I have to feel sad or annoyed. I can except the fact that I am tired today and do things to utilize that feeling, instead of fighting it and letting little things bother me. I'm sitting at a coffee shop (NOT a Coffee Bean – I switched it up today! haha) with a chai latte, slowly and calmly going through my to-do list for the day. I will not force anything, but instead I will trust myself to get everything done and allow myself to be tired… and happy
Sunday, October 20, 2013
I spent the beginning of today relaxing and getting back into the swing of things. I don't know if my brain has any idea what time it is! Coming back west is easier for me than going east when it comes to the time differences, because I gain an hour coming this way. But WHOA. Just a bunch of traveling and change the past couple of weeks.
Tonight I finished recording a new song with Jordan Higgins, a kickass producer that I am so happy to know in West LA. We had so much fun figuring out what sounds to put on the track, and recording is my absolute favorite thing in the world.
Do me a favor, and remind me that I MUST get a bed this week! The couch in my room is actually super comfortable, but I think that buying a bed for my new room is going to make me feel like I live there more. I'm still transitioning… One step at a time…
LESSON OF THE DAY: At the studio today, I learned that I have to TAKE MY TIME. There is no rush when it comes to creating a product that I'm satisfied with and proud of. Jordan and I have a great time working together, and I learn a lot from him. I really appreciate how meticulous he is. He doesn't settle for something that sounds *almost right* or *OK*. I appreciate that in a person, and it reminds me to slow down and create exactly what I want to create.
Saturday, October 19, 2013
SUCH a fun Saturday night! I'm continuing to meet wonderful, smart, positive people in LA. Tonight I went to dinner with some good friends, all people I met in LA a few months ago, with the exception of my friend Heather (my VERY patient friend who spent 9 hours at the car dealership with me). We went to Cafe Gratitude – my favorite vegan restaurant in LA so far. I have to check them all out, but this one ROCKS.
After dinner, Heather and I went to a party with some of her friends. It was so good to spend time and unwind after a very beautifully emotional few days in Michigan. We all went to IHOP at 12:30am and had every pancake you can imagine! It was pretty rad I'm talkin' red velvet pancakes, cinnamon bun pancakes, chocolate chip pancakes, and… it wouldn't be Fall without pumpkin pancakes! I really, really loved every minute of tonight.
LESSON OF THE DAY: I'm giving myself permission to take nights off to just have fun. It is a necessary part of the journey, and there is so much opportunity to meet other people and find out more things I love about life that way!
Friday, October 18, 2013
I am forever changed after the few days that I experienced in Michigan. I am still reflecting on the questions and comments that I heard from the students that I am so thankful to have met.
Last night I flew back to LA. I am so happy to be back *home*. Now I think moving here will feel REALLY real
So yesterday was awesome. I got to the airport for my 6:15pm flight, and when I got there, I found out that my flight was delayed 2 hours. I found out that there was another flight to Los Angeles leaving in a half hour, and they told me that if I ran to the other gate, I could give them my name for Standby. So I ran. I ran like crazy to Concourse C, got to the other gate, and gave them my name. In the back of my head, I was hearing, "Devyn, what are the chances of you making this flight? It's going to be full. Plus, there are 5 other people who want seats on this flight!" But I chose not to entertain those thoughts. After the lessons that I taught and learned this week, I chose to entertain the OPPOSITE of those thoughts and brought those to my mind: "Devyn, you're getting on this flight. It's gonna be awesome! You'll sit down and get to LA sooner than you would have if your original flight had been on time!"
3 people traveling together gave their names as well, and they were called. In the back of my mind, I thought, "There's no way they have more than those 3 seats available. I'm so jealous of them. Why do they get to go on this flight instead of me? Ok… I'll just go back to my gate and wait for my plane…" But I chose to entertain other thoughts: "Oh, I'm so happy for them! That's great. Whatever happens for me will be meant to be. I'm just glad they made it." And next thing I know, I hear, "Rush? Devyn Rush?" I yelled, "YES! I'm right here!" And that was it. I was the last person to get on that plane, and I landed earlier than I would have if I had been on the original flight. Wow. The power of positive thinking!
Once I got on the plane, I sat down with a huge smile on my face, wearing my Hey U.G.L.Y. shirt (I didn't have time to change my outfit after my last assembly earlier yesterday). The man next to me asked me about my "very interesting shirt", and I told him why I was wearing it. His name is Sam, and he is from Ghana. Sam and I talked about bullying, bully prevention, his government and the evolution of his economic system back home. Such a smart, kind man, and I was so lucky to have him on this 4-hour flight to keep me entertained. The time went by so quickly!
Then the sweetest guy in the world picked me up from the airport, and here I am, back in LA with a new found appreciation and love for everything and everyone around me. I'm excited to continue the beginning of this amazing journey!
LESSON OF THE DAY (and week!): When I have a negative thought enter my mind, I will STOP and think, "What is the opposite of this negative thought?" Then I will CHOOSE to entertain that one instead. The more I repeat a thought, the more I will believe it, so I am choosing the positive thought to believe in
Thursday, October 17, 2013
Today has been an emotional, empowering, inspiring day. I'm still nearly speechless, but I think I'll be able to write a little bit about it, since I was able to express some of what I'm feeling on the phone with my mom. Hey U.G.L.Y. is reminding me and helping me to be a gentle, accepting person. I'm emotionally drained and exhausted after this morning's assemblies, but I know it's because I had a chance to give so much of my Self to these incredible students.
I knew that Hey U.G.L.Y. was a special organization (www.heyugly.org – firstname.lastname@example.com), and I knew that going to these schools to speak and perform for the students was a fun and fulfilling thing to do… But I had absolutely no idea what was in store for me this morning, when I walked into a school in Michigan that would change my life forever.
During my assembly presentation, we talk about bullying – we talk about WHAT it is, WHY it is happening, and HOW to end it. There is a solution, and so much of the solution has to do with learning how to become aware of your emotions, accept them, and fill yourself up with so much love, that love is all you have to give to other people. You can't give somebody something you don't have. Anger is the Cause of Anger. Love is the Cause of Love. Bullying is the Cause of Bullying. So I gave my presentation, and I sang for the students… and then it was time for the Q & A. And these brilliant and open students got on the mic and asked/said things that I would have never expected.
I heard some heavy, terribly sad stories. I answered questions (and sometimes didn't have answers to questions) about what should be done if someone just can't love him/herself, about what should be done if someone just can't look in the mirror and imagine feeling worthy… about what should be done if someone feels like life just isn't worth living. My 45-minute presentation ended up being 2 hours long this morning. The wonderful principal of this school recognized that allowing the students to express themselves was going to be more important than sending them back to class on time. There were so many tears and so many hugs and so many SPECIAL, BEAUTIFUL, WONDERFUL, POWERFUL people in this assembly today. Never in my wildest dreams did I expect to witness something as life-changing as this. I can't even explain it to a point that will give it justice. It was truly an experience, and I am so thankful that I was able to be there to see these students break down walls and open up to each other.
Just remember: We can tell ourselves anything 3,000 times, until we believe it. We have the power to CHOOSE what thoughts are put into are brains. We are POWERFUL, and we can CHOOSE to use our power for good – to help and heal ourselves and others, or for bad – to contribute to ruining our own and others' lives. What do we want to choose?
LESSON OF THE DAY: So many. I learned that self-expression is so important. Giving someone the floor to express and be heard is one of the best things you can do for another person. I think we really do have 2 ears/2 eyes, but only 1 mouth for a reason. I was also reminded of the power of a hug. I think the best thing about a hug, is that when you give one, you also get one! I also learned that we must constantly remind ourselves and each other about the importance of our existence on this beautiful earth. We are all making a significant contribution, and we are all worthy of love and respect – from ourselves and from others. We must always remember that and never take each other for granted.
Thank you so much to the school that I visited today! You taught me so much, and I will always remember you. KEEP LOVING YOU. I DO.
Wednesday, October 16, 2013
This has already been an incredible trip, and I haven't even gone to the schools yet!
This morning, Mike Cortson – sound engineer and a very kind and generous friend to Hey U.G.L.Y. – recorded "I Am Enough (How to Love)" as my bonus track for my EP! I'm so excited about the way the recording came out, and my biggest wish is that the story I tell in the song helps tons of people.
THEN, Matt Anthony – my awesome, spectacular, badass producer in NYC – sent me the final mix of "4 o'clock", which is also one of the songs on my next EP! It's really coming together, and I seriously couldn't be more excited.
This time away from LA is allowing me to take a step back and just appreciate… Appreciate where my life has been, Appreciate where my life is heading, and most importantly but most frequently overlooked – Appreciate where my life is RIGHT. NOW. I'm such a past and future person. That's why so many of my songs are about time (e.g. "Time", "4 o'clock", "Too Soon to Know"… there's a pattern there!) – My head is constantly spinning. Sometimes it's spinning backwards, and sometimes it's spinning so far away from me that I can't catch up and just feel like Regan from The Exorcist! :-P
I'm learning about *The Now*. I'm learning about the little details. I'm learning about exploring. This is an exciting time in my life. And so was last year, when I moved into my studio apartment in NYC. And so was the year before that, when I was on American Idol. But right now… Right now is particularly exciting… because I'm getting to experience it RIGHT NOW! I mean, how cool is that?! I don't have to look back on *Right Now*, because it's happening RIGHT NOW. What? Am I gonna wait until next year to feel it? Absolutely not!
LESSON OF THE DAY: I am so thankful for the past, because it has led me to where, what, and who I am right now. And I am so thankful for right now, because I am able to experience and feel it in this moment. I am so thankful for the future, because soon the future will be my new now, and I will get to experience and feel that too. Also, in all honesty, what just came up for me when I wrote the line about being thankful for the future, is that I'm scared. But fear is the opposite of love. And gratitude is based in love, not fear. So I am choosing to change my fear, to replace it will love and gratitude.
It's 8:50pm Central/9:50pm Eastern/6:50pm Pacific. My brain has no clue what time it is. No clue. At all! So I'm just gonna go to sleep now… so that I can wake up refreshed and ready to perform for 2 schools tomorrow! Let's prevent bullying. RIGHT NOW.
Tuesday, October 15, 2013
I'm on my way to Chicago O'Hare Airport for my "I Am Enough" bully prevention school tour this week. Everyone at LAX seemed to be in a really good mood today! I witnessed some amazing acts of kindness before I boarded the plane.
I always love when people say, "Pay it forward" after doing something good for someone else. That is what we are all about as a society – we pay forward what we have received. If we receive kindness and good deeds, we are usually way more inspired to pass that kindness to the next person in our path. And if we are the brunt of someone's anger – or as Sara Bareilles puts it so, so well in her new single, "Brave", if you are "the backlash of somebody's lack of love" – you are more likely to pass down what you have received, the same way he/she passed what they received down to you. (You go, Sara!)
We are a Domino Effect society. It's up to us to decide which way we want to tip the dominos that fall on us. And the beauty of it is, even if a domino of negativity, frustration, and anger falls onto us, we can make the choice to say, "Uh Uh Domino, I'm going to lean back toward you with kindness and change the direction of this."
WE HAVE THE CHOICE, you guys! And it might not be easy. But it is very, very simple. (Read yesterday's Lesson of the Day!)
Now look, we are imperfect, and we have to accept the FACT that we are not always going to wake up feeling chipper and ready to start a brand new day with love and kindness. Sometimes we wake up and want to go back to sleep. Sometimes we're angry at something or someone! Sometimes we're just angry for no reason at all! No matter what, these emotions are part of who we are; they are our many dimensions, and we must accept them. "What you resist, persists", so there is no need to resist negative emotions – There is simply a need to acknowledge, accept, and choose.
I'm so excited to meet all of the students I'm about to meet! This school tour fills my heart in an indescribable way. By the way, for more info and to book me at your school, feel free to check out www.heyugly.org and email Betty Hoeffner at firstname.lastname@example.com. Betty is the founder of Hey U.G.L.Y., and she's the coolest, most spiritual, and kindest person you can imagine. And to think she used to be a bully…
1. Acknowledge: I will acknowledge what I'm feeling, with the idea that if I give my emotion an identity, I will be able to level with it and look it in the eye.
2. Accept: I will accept that this is how I'm feeling IN THE MOMENT (all emotions are temporary, because we are not them and they are not us). Once I have accepted the way that I'm feeling, I can get to the root of the emotion so that I can either make it last if it's good… or kick it in the butt if it's bad
3. Choose: I will make the choice to pass down my positive emotion, or sit with myself and get to the root of my negative emotion, so that I can change it. "Choose to Change" – Betty Hoeffner, Founder of Hey U.G.L.Y. – Unique.Gifted.Lovable.You. – www.heyugly.org
Side Note – The girl in the seat next to me on this plane is flying for the first time. I just got to see her face LIGHT UP when we took off. Super cool. She said it gave her butterflies. We should never get so used to something, that we take it for granted
Monday, October 14, 2013
I think I should give up my apartment and just live at this Coffee Bean, I'm here so much! Loving my new neighborhood and all of the people in it so far. I'm home
I'm getting ready to fly to Michigan tomorrow for my Hey U.G.L.Y. (Unique.Gifted.Lovable.You. – www.heyugly.org) bully prevention school tour. I will be there Tuesday through Friday, speaking and singing to students. Representing this organization and giving this assembly presentation mean the world to me. I have been finding out a lot about myself the past few years, and one big passion I have found, is doing my part to make sure every child (AND adult) feels heard, listened to, and emotionally aware. We are all capable of kindness, no matter what age we are. Bullying DOES NOT have to be an inevitable thing, you know? It's just something that our society accepts, with the idea that "Boys will be boys" and "Oh, girls are just catty at that age", but it doesn't have to be that way! If we learn about our emotions and are taught how to utilize our minds and hearts to do GOOD at an early age, it will lead to a lifetime of true happiness and kindness toward ourselves and other people.
You can't give somebody something you don't have. That is my motto. Think about it. When you squeeze an orange, do you ever get apple juice? When you feel angry and anger is all that is inside of you, what do you give to yourself and to other people? It is up to us to TAKE control and keep ourselves happy! It's not always easy, but it can be simple…
That is a huge lesson that keeps coming up for me: Ease vs. Simplicity. "If it were easy, everyone would do it" is often a very true statement. But so many times, we make things more difficult and complicated for ourselves than they have to be. I am… so ridiculously guilty of doing this. Plus, I'm a control freak, so any bit of remaining sanity gets thrown out the window when I try to take control over a situation that I'm already making too complicated for myself… But aaanyway… It's not always about making things EASY, because sometimes they're not. But so many times, things can be made SIMPLE. Moving to LA from NYC was definitely not easy, especially in the little amount of time I allowed for myself (Early May is when I made the decision to move, and early October is when I moved). But moving to LA from NYC was very, very simple. And I realize that now, looking back. Everything just fell into place, and I think that's because it was right. I think that when something is right, it requires very little or no force, which is why we can allow simplicity!
LESSON OF THE DAY: When something seems difficult or "off" in some way, I am going to re-evaluate it and find the simple solution. I will take my time, and I will stop to breathe and make decisions out of positive simplicity, rather than negative chaos that drives everyone crazy!
Sunday, October 13, 2013
I saw Smokey Joe's Cafe at the Pasadena Playhouse with my friend (and beautiful singer/songwriter/actress) Malynda Hale (www.malyndahale.com - Check out her music!). The show was amazing. I admittedly haven't been to a show like that in a long time, and this show was FLAWLESS. I selfishly am so glad that Malynda's husband had to work, so that I could go to this with her lol (We missed you, John!!) This little Jewish girl felt like she was at church the whole time, let me tell you! It was like a religious experience – 9 people on stage, singing their faces off, 1000% from their souls. You can just tell when someone is singing from his/her soul vs. to get a reaction. And these people were ALL soul. It was inspiring and invigorating.
LESSON OF THE DAY: Get up and do things spur of the moment! If an opportunity presents itself, I'm going to have an open mind and heart about it. And when I take those opportunities, I'm going to do them with every ounce of my BEING, from my SOUL. Because that's where true life comes from – our soul.
Saturday, October 12, 2013
It has officially been one week since the move! Life feels good here. I'm continuing to meet people who are so generous and so real. It goes to show that there is no need to believe the stereotypes when you go to a new place. So many people like to give their opinions about things, based on their personal experiences. I think we all do this, and a lot of the time, it's because we care and want to protect each other. But sometimes it doesn't work and ends up hindering a friend's experience rather than helping it along. So many people told me that people in LA are so fake and that driving in LA is so scary… And no doubt there are people and other cars to watch out for (this is the same wherever we go)- but I really believe that you can find your place anywhere you go, if you have a sense of stability and a ground within yourself.
LESSON OF THE DAY: I am listening to advice with open ears, an open mind, and an open heart. With that, I am also open to creating my own experiences and viewing my life through my own lenses, so that I can form my own opinions.
Friday, October 11, 2013
Getting settled. Today was a fun, very chill day. I had brunch with my good friend, beautiful singer/songwriter Malynda Hale, who is kicking butt out here! I love catching up with friends that moved from NYC to LA before I did. So proud of her. Then I stopped by Paul Gregory's house – He is my go-to guy for head shots, and he is such a cool person (www.paulgregoryphotography.com). It was great to see both of these awesome people today, and comforting to know that I have these friends in LA.
I was finally EXHAUSTED today. I have had so much energy this week, and I finally crashed a little bit today… which led to feelings of guilt. Ugh. I hate that! I always feel guilty if I'm tired or just want to relax. In my head, I know that's ridiculous. But I have an incessant fear of laziness, which is dumb. If I'm living and feeling and breathing and going and HAVING FUN WITH MY LIFE (making life fun – what a concept! haha), then that IS ENOUGH. The work comes. The doing part of life happens. I'm glad I had my friend Evan to remind me that it is not only OK to take breaks, it is necessary.
LESSON OF THE DAY: I am a human being, NOT a human doing. And human beings get really energized and motivated, and human beings also get tired and need to just sit and watch the Dodgers play against the Cardinals from their couch… Wait. Hold on. I'm sorry, did I just say that I was watching *the game*? WHO am I??
Thursday, October 10, 2013
Here I am. Sitting at a Coffee Bean in my new neighborhood. People are so nice here! I have this theory, that when you're in a new place, your head gets into a new place too, and your energy changes to let in the new space. And when that happens, you end up somehow emitting a frequency to the people around you that screams, I'M THE NEW GIRL!!!! So it's nice. I'm meeting a lot of new people by sitting in a coffee shop. I think they smell fresh meat and want to help me. And it's great! I'm loving the conversations! My new friend, Cat, is a barista here. We went out on her 30-minute break and I got to talk to her. Super cool girl. She was born and raised here, so she knows a thing or two about being comfortable in LA.
LESSON OF THE DAY: Be real with people! When you're new to something, TELL PEOPLE. They'll want to help and be a part of your journey. And that, my friends, is what the journey is all about
Wednesday, October 9, 2013
I drove on the freeway today, in the rain (which, I'm sorry – what? Rain? In LA? I did NOT leave the East Side for this!). And I breathed and drove – AT THE SAME TIME! I am… quite the multi-tasker.
I FINALLY got to a yoga class tonight. It was exactly the fun challenge that I needed. Having that mind/body/soul connection should never, ever be taken for granted. Going 2 weeks without a class can never happen again! But it definitely felt good to be there. Whenever I want to find a comfortable community in a new place, I find my yoga studio, and I always feel more at home. I think it's important to find a space for that, no matter what you do.
LESSON OF THE DAY: It's great to find a space that gives me freedom and a sense of community. Human connection is the best thing ever, and I really appreciate it.
Tuesday, October 8, 2013
More great meetings with more great people. I'm loving this city!!! Now if I could just breathe, that would be great. It's getting a little bit easier. And the more I practice allowing myself to be accepted and accepting myself in each moment, the easier breathing is becoming. I've also been taking a few minutes each morning to collect my thoughts and let myself think. If FEELING isn't happening right now, I will at least sit with my thoughts and listen to what my brain is saying.
I went to a show at the Viper Room with my friend Matt Linsky (of Hunnypot Unlimited - www.hunnypotunlimited.wordpress.com), and it was great. So much talent here! We saw Western Bells (www.twitter.com/WesternBells) and then Guardian Ghost (www.twitter.com/guardianghost1) – Both really really awesome, soulful, spiritual bands.
It feels good to get out and experience everything here!
LESSON OF THE DAY: When people walk across the street while you have a green light and are trying to make a right turn, they reserve the right to walk as slowly as humanly possible.
Monday, October 7, 2013
Ahh Mondays… I love Mondays. I can feel productive and get stuff done! And for me, since it's Day 3, that means getting things in order in my new house… and going clothes shopping!
My friend Lisa is AWESOME. When I told her I was moving, she said, "Well come live with me! There's an extra room in my house!"… And here I am! Unpacking all of my stuff. Woohoo!
Something weird that's happening, is that I'm having a hard time breathing. Do you ever have that anxiety that doesn't necessarily make you constantly feel stressed, but that you know is there because you can't breathe? Ugh. It sucks so much. I know it's stress, because it comes up every time I drive, every time I'm on the freeway, every time I meet someone new, every time I'm in a new place… so that's… Oh. That's all the time. Also, I haven't been to a yoga class in 2 weeks, and my body and mind feel like they are completely separate from each other, and I'm not sure where either of them are.
LESSON OF THE DAY: In LA, wearing a tank top with UGGS and a beanie is not only accepted… it is correct.
Sunday, October 6, 2013
My friend Jackie invited me to her house tonight. She had some girlfriends over, and they are AWESOME. And… it kicked in. Finally.
My sister told me it would. She said not to worry, because there would be a day when I finally felt it – the fact that I moved here and that I live here. And it did.
I realized that *my car* was parked outside and that I was in a brand new environment, with brand new people… And I was the new girl. It actually felt a little bit like middle school all over again. And I'm so glad I experienced that, because I'm heading to Michigan in about a week for my "I Am Enough" bully prevention school tour on behalf of *Hey U.G.L.Y.* – Unique.Gifted.Lovable.You. – www.heyugly.org. There I was, new, awkward, and feeling out of place… and a little self-bullying. There was nothing holding me back from fitting in with these girls. They were so sweet and so smart – like, really the type of people I like to be around. The type of people that nourish you. But MY problem was that I was holding MYSELF back from allowing myself to be accepted!!
A good friend and sensei in NYC, Jonathan, once told me that acceptance is a two-way street. It's not just about being accepted – IT'S ABOUT ALLOWING YOURSELF TO BE ACCEPTED. And I was having a hard time with that tonight, listing reasons why I wasn't worthy of being a part of their group. Telling myself I wasn't as pretty. Telling myself I wasn't as successful. Telling myself that I WASN'T Enough. Taking it all in with this negative energy… That is NOT me… Or is it?
Ya know what? Yes. Yes, it is! And I accept that! Because it's ONE OF MY DIMENSIONS. And if I am going to love myself unconditionally, I BEST be lovin' every single ounce of every single part of my being! And that's what I'm going to do.
LESSON OF THE DAY: I am practicing self-acceptance and allowing myself to be accepted by these new friends in my life.
HEY U.G.L.Y. "I Am Enough" Bully Prevention School Tour!
Saturday, October 5, 2013
And… now I really feel at home. You know when you're in a place that just feels right? That's what this feels like right now.
I spent the ENTIRE day at the car dealership with my friend Heather. My very smart and PATIENT friend Heather "No no, I'm staying and waiting with you!" is what she said when, after hour 9 at the dealership, we were STILL waiting for my new baby (my car's name is Ella, and I refuse to refer to HER as "my car", but I don't want any rumors about me having a new baby to be floating around the internet lol) to be detailed. They must have scrubbed her with the smallest toothbrush EVER. But there she was, and she is so pretty and I love her…
And I'm terrified, because this means that I have to drive on the freeway. Every. Day. Ahhh!!!
I'm looking at this as an empowering experience though. A few months ago, when I was visiting LA, I swore I would never live here because I didn't want to have to get a car and drive. And then I realized…
Well that's dumb! To hold yourself back out of fear, Devyn? Is that something you do? Do you base a decision on fear? Uh uh. I don't think so, lady!
And here I am. Home after a looong day, feeling accomplished and empowered… and very, very scared
LESSON OF THE DAY: I am allowing my fears to nourish my journey, rather than feeding into my fears.
Friday, October 4, 2013
I'M MOVING TO LA TODAY!!!!!!!! I can't fully put into words what I'm feeling… because I feel numb. I think my brain is doing this thing where it makes itself numb so I don't have to sit inside of the fact that I'm leaving everything I have ever known. I understand this and can say it out loud, but the emotional awareness doesn't feel like it's fully there yet. Wondering when it's going to kick in.
There were definitely tears when I hugged my mom and sister goodbye. My mom just kept repeating, "You're gonna do it. You know that right? You're gonna do it." That made the feelings sink in a little more, in the best way possible. It makes me think, Do What? What am I going there to do?
… So many things.
Mostly, I'm leaving NYC and flying to LA to make a change in my life and get outside of my comfort zone, to eventually make this "discomfort zone" my new comfort zone. I'm not doing it to run away. I'm definitely NOT doing it because I'm unhappy in NYC. New York is my HOME. But let me get super cheesy for a minute and remind myself that "home is where the heart is"… and one beautiful thing that New York has allowed me to do, is to find my home inside of myself. That means that wherever I am is exactly where I AM (those are the brilliant words of my beautiful friend and amazing songwriter, Anna Krantz – www.annakrantz.com - who moved to Nashville just a few months ago).
LESSON OF THE DAY: I AM home.
Can I have both??
Thursday, October 3, 2013
I've been waiting for today for such a long time! Today is the day I can officially say… I'M MOVING TO LA TOMORROW!!!!!!!!
LESSON OF THE DAY: I have to experience the present moment, no matter how slow the time is going, no matter how much I'm anticipating something. Because eventually, even if slowly, that moment will be gone, and what I ultimately want WILL come.
^^ This is how I said goodbye to my Mom-Mom before I moved…
Ok, but really, how cute is she?


text:
Sun, Apr 15, 07 at 12:27
What's the best way to clean a wool oriental rug? My two rugs are good quality machine made and get little traffic. I vacuum them regularly and wipe up any spills immediately. I'd like to deep clean them every so often but I'm suspicious of the spray on foam-type cleaners. It seems to me they just add a layer of sticky goop and don't really clean. I'd like to clean them myself--not hire professionals. Any advice appreciated, and thanks. |
Follow-Up Postings:
The best advice is "don't"....if you don't want to hire a pro, they will be a lot better and stay cleaner if you do nothing....just keep vacuuming well, turn them over on a hard surface, with the pile down and vacuum the back with an upright with a beater bar....you will be surprised at what shakes out! Wool is self cleaning....that is the wool ised for carpets is coarse...slippery and stuff doesn't stick to the fibers. My mother would occasionally take a damp cloth, dampened in a very weak vinegar solution and wipe the rugs with the grain of the weave...she felt better about it. Linda C |
Linda, this seems like good advice. Thanks! |
Is dry cleaning bad for them. I think that is what I would do but the advice above sounds good. Carla |
Only if you don't have a cleaner expecienced in fine hand made oriental rugs is it bad. I remember when I was a kid, the Oriental rug dealer always had a rug out on the sidewalk for passersby to walk on. Perhaps that's one of the reasons I fell in love with them...and realize how sturdy they really are. Linda C |
Before you wipe down a rug with a weak vinegar solution....know what the dyes are. One of my rugs a Hamadan, is made with vegetable dyes ( at least I think that's what they are) that run when wet. Before you do anything, take a damp cloth and wipe one colored spot to see if any dye comes off on the white cloth. Perhaps my rug has been redyed? Don't know... Linda C |
I take mine to a professional rug launderer - very rarely. Otherwise just vacuum and spot clean with plain water. Occasionally I spot clean with a Stainmaster rug cleaning kit but not very often. I have dark patterned rugs for a reason - so they don't show stains. |
Please Note: Only registered members are able to post messages to this forum. If you are a member, please log in. If you aren't yet a member, join now!
Return to the Cleaning Tips Forum
Information about Posting
- You must be logged in to post a message. Once you are logged in, a posting window will appear at the bottom of the messages. If you are not a member, please register for an account.
- Please review our Rules of Play before posting.
- Posting is a two-step process. Once you have composed your message, you will be taken to the preview page. You will then have a chance to review your post, make changes and upload photos.
- After posting your message, you may need to refresh the forum page in order to see it.
- Before posting copyrighted material, please read about Copyright and Fair Use.
- We have a strict no-advertising policy!
- If you would like to practice posting or uploading photos, please visit our Test forum.
- If you need assistance, please Contact Us and we will be happy to help.
Learn more about in-text links on this page here

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Euro RSCG Worldwide Named Largest Global Advertising Agency for Fifth Year in a Row
December 6, 2010
Euro RSCG Worldwide has been named the largest global advertising agency for the fifth year in a row, as measured by total number of global accounts, according to the 2010 Advertising Age Global Marketers Report. Euro RSCG Worldwide maintained its top position in large part due to its continued success in adding global business including the addition of the AMD business, the appointment to Unilever's first global digital roster, new and increased duties on Pernod Ricard, the expansion of key accounts like Peugeot in China and the recent win of the Durex and Scholl business from Reckitt Benckiser.
With 72 global accounts, Euro RSCG Worldwide surpassed the likes of Ogilvy & Mather, McCann Erickson Worldwide, and Young & Rubicam for the top spot.
Of the Top 100 Global Marketers listed in the report, Euro RSCG works with 83 of these brands including Coca-Cola, Danone Group, General Electric, Heineken, Kraft, L'Oreal, McDonald's, Merck, Pernod Ricard, PSA Peugeot Citroen, Reckitt Benckiser, sanofi-aventis, Sony and Walt Disney. These responsibilities are handled out of multiple offices across Euro RSCG's 233 offices globally.


text:
Sign In
Create Account
Rooster Teeth
Achievement Hunter
AH News
AH Blog
RT News
Cool Stuff
Change My Store
Achievement HUNT
Imaginary Achievements
Let's Play
Things to do in
Five Facts
Fails of the Weak
Play Pals
Rage Quit
Trials Files
Game Fails
This is...
Behind the Scenes
Achievement HORSE
Trials Pig
Quick Bits
A Look Back At
AH Predicts
Submit Video
All Series
Rooster Teeth
Xbox 360
Xbox One
PlayStation 3
PlayStation 4
Windows Phone
PC Gaming
My Homepage
The Forum
Community Spotlight
Top Posts
8133 Users Online
Buy Sponsorship
Sponsorship Perks
Gift Sponsorship
i have literally read too many books to list every single one of my favorites i just cant
Alistar Reynolds
drawing nudes, portaits, and still life, listening to 50s-90s music, and reading novels and fanfiction
Any and all, from Jazz Fusion to Death Metal ill listen to and love just about anything. Drummer of 13 years.
or listening to a podcast, AH video, how to video, or something of the sort on RT where I don't necessarily have to watch m
TV Show
Reading, writing, drawing, playing video games, listening to music, watching TV, and using the computer
What ever I want to listen to at the time.
List of Pokémon: Diamond and Pearl: Sinnoh League Victors episodes
List of Pokémon: The Johto Journeys episodes
List of Pokémon
The Shinlers List
Holistic medicine
Rainbow Six Vegas - Equipment Specialist Achievement Guide
Rainbow Six Vegas
How to get the Equipment Specialist achievement for Rainbow Six Vegas.
4 years ago
Chapter 15
Red vs. Blue Season 8
Grif and Simmons find some interesting equipment.
4 years ago
Community Video: The Duelist Guide
Fable II
Site member "NewfieKeir" shows us how to get the "Duelist" Achievement in Fable II.
6 years ago
Community Video: The Artiste, The Photojournalis
t, Free Fall, Costume Party, Group Photo
Dead Rising
Community member "Dizzavy" shows us how to get five Achievements in Dead Rising: The Artiste, The Photojournalis
t, Free Fall, Costume Party, and Group...
6 years ago
Whoa Nelly! Speedy of the Colossus & Minimalist
Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts
Three achievements from Banjo Kazooie Nuts and Bolts
5 years ago
Spot Monopolist (Downtown)
Skate 3
Jack and Geoff are cruising around Port Carverton finding all of the "Own The Spot" locations so that you can pick up the fancy Spot Monopolist achievement...
4 years ago
Spot Monopolist (Industrial)
Skate 3
Jack and Geoff take one more stroll through Skate 3 and find the rest of the Own The Spot locations in Skate 3. Hooray achievements! Hooray skating!
4 years ago
The Pugilist & Free Fallin' Guide
Mortal Kombat vs DC Universe
Community member "Fatalpath" shows us how to get the Pugilist, and Free Fallin' Achievements in Mortal Kombat vs DC Universe.
6 years ago
Spot Monopolist (University)
Skate 3
Jack and Geoff go back to school and show you the locations of all of the "Own the Spot" challenges in the University area of Skate 3. Get to learnin'!
4 years ago
Bulletstorm - Barber & Envoirmentalis
t Achievement Guide
NightHawk673 shows us how to get 2 new achievements in the newest bulletstorm DLC pack
3 years ago
Don't Stop, Look or Listen - Group Hug
Ray and Mike show you how to get the "Don't Stop, Look or Listen" and "Group Hug" Achievements in NeverDead for the Xbox 360.
2 years ago
FK Specialist Achievement Guide
Pro Evolution Soccer 2010
John shows/gives us some tips on how to get this pain in the ass achievement.
4 years ago
Can anybody give me a list of how to get Rooster Teeth Milestones and Awards and how to get them?
4 years ago
Wow - Watchlist
Wow I now have 50 users watching me... Its been stuck on 10 for a long time then all of a sudden it just jumps to 50 well i didn't know Or you guys...
5 years ago
just whats been happening recently
ok where to start...um in 3 days time i'm having my yousession with the australian defence force...this is where they conduct a simple interview...
4 years ago
weird things I've said for no reason
I'm a real boy! Look! I have genitalia! Introducing, the man with no penis! So stick with us, cause Phineas and Ferb are POOPING! POOPING ON THE FLOOR!...
5 years ago
Deans list
guess who made the deans list at college.... this guy! *wink*
3 years ago
Super Productivity
Today I: 1) Reached level 40 on ACB (4/5 of the way to achievement heaven) 2) Unlock professor portal and friends list with benefits 3) Finished reading...
3 years ago
If You Were A Billionaire...
What would be the first and/or second thing you'd do? And I'm not talking, like, "buy a house" or "go to hawaii". Those...
3 years ago
Things to Look Forward to in 2010
• Halo: Reach • Final Fantasy XIII • Final Fantasy Versus XIII • Pokemo
n Heart Gold/Soul Silver • Iron Man 2 • Green.
5 years ago
My Top 6 Favorite Anime Series
In no particular order: Cowboy Bebop Trigun Blue Gender Outlaw Star Elfen Lied Samurai Champloo As far as their soundtracks that I could track down,...
3 years ago
Vans Warped Tour n HPDeathly Hallows pt2
On the 14th i had the privilege of going to Warped Tour at Montage Mountain. it was FREAKING AWESOME! Got to meet: Ionia Sick of Sarah Cold Forty Three...
3 years ago
Not That You Care...
But here are my top 100 played songs in my iTunes, in order from most played to least played: Song Title Artist Name Album Name Traffickers The Reflecting...
3 years ago
Story list
Chicken Wars (Book 10 part 2) (speed up!) The Hawk Why I Paint? Who's That Knocking? (needs finishing) Area 616 (needs to be started)
3 years ago
I watch AH just to listen to Jack and Geoff talk.
You know you do it, you don't care about the game, you just love those guys.
Anti Environmentali
Because E85 is destroying Mexico. But why should we care about that?
idealistic idiots
give ideas and we will see what rt thinks (and do a bunch of random crap in the mean time like make fun of pasifists like doc and the french)
yugioh duelist
join if you like to play yugioh or just to watch the show
What I'm Listening To (The Music Review Group
A group where and and other users will give reviews of music albums and discuss them.
Wasteland Survivalists
you've conquered the wastes, and now you want to brag
Drunk Tank listeners who own an acoustic guitar!
Just listen to Drunk Tank #35....
What Song Are you listening to?
Name Says It All
Gamers Wish List
Gamers Wish List - Organize your gaming experience!
Duelist Academy
Yu-gi-oh fan club and CCG resource
The Mentalist
like to hypnotize people? then come here and talk about it.
The Blacklist 15
Hardcore gamers at their finest
Blue threads
This is a list of blue related threads that are not inside the blue group. Church Fans The Caboose Discussion Thread Tucker Official Blue Team Thread...
5 years ago
ME3 News Round Up
Apologies for the lack of ME3 lately. Getting the Q&A sorted with Bioware has been taking a lot of my free time in these last few days. I'll post...
2 years ago
Vista SP2 change list
Lynda33 was asking about the things that are changing in SP2 and while I did find this: LINK it is only the list of updates that are in the SP, not the...
5 years ago
Big lists
Here are some links of web comic lists to help you find new web comics to read. www.thewebcomi
.com/ www.webcomicz.
com/ belfrycomics.n
4 years ago
Extended Trailer & War Assets List Leak
The extended version of the 'Take Earth Back' trailer is now online. Also, a leaked list of ME3 'Galaxy at War' War Assets has emerged....
2 years ago
David's Word List
Here are the words I have recorded @teken09 saying. It will be added to as times go on: - snipey rifle - brain sack - ridankulous - adrenalenaleen
11 months ago
Ballistik for Pinballs.
Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell: Blacklist
Now with terrorists.
What are you listening to right now?
I love music all forms and genres and am always looking to broaden my horizons and collection so hit me with your tunage. I am currently listening to Scary...
1 week ago
Games Added List Recommendation
Did anyone contact support and asked if there could be a list of games on your profile that you added to the achievement hunter games section? I have a...
3 weeks ago
Photo-realistic Skyrim
aphy/... Tamriel, also known as Dawn's Beauty in Aldmeris, is a gorgeous continent of awe inspiring and diverse...
3 weeks ago
List of ALL Let's Plays done by RT&AH
I made a playlist of ALL the Let's Plays done by both Roosterteeth and Achievement Hunter from Saints Row 3 in 2011 to now. This also includes the...
1 month ago
What podcasts do you listen to?
I'm always looking for new podcasts to try - my current favourites (aside from Roosterteeth ones obviously) are Hello Internet, Internet Box and Danny...
3 months ago
What music would your kid listen to?
I rewatched that let's play and i thought about the question rather than Ryan's answer, and i thought about what music would be good for a kid...
3 months ago
Kingdom Hearts 2.5 Trophy List
These are the non story related trophies. KINGDOM HEARTS II Master Obtain all trophies. Critical Competitor Clear game on Critical. Proud Player...
3 months ago
[RT First Listen] The Last Of Us Remix
Gustavo Santaolalla - The Last Of Us (Jayeson Andel 'Sample Smash' Remix) https://soundc
4 months ago
What's everyone listening to?
Just curious as to what everyone's listening to, be it podcast/music/
m... Currently I'm going with Blue Stahli - Corner
4 months ago
Morals and Ethics on listening to Music
The title might be confusing and if it is I apologize but I couldn't think of a better title. Anyway it is a common talking point between my friends...
6 months ago
Here is my playlist of RTX2014
6 months ago
What do you listen to when you're angry?
I listen to Max Payne: Bloodbath, it's a remake of the max payne theme by Sam Gorski, really good. Max Payne: Bloodbath: soundcloud.com
7 months ago
Fantasia: Music Evolved
Made music with 7 different instruments in a single visit to The Workshop.
Power Playlist
Just Dance 2015
Play a 40 minute playlist.
Fantasia: Music Evolved
Collected all of the journal pages.
Defense Grid 2
Using only level 1 towers, Win any Chapter 4 (or later) mission.
Defense Grid 2
Using only level 1 towers, Win any Chapter 4 (or later) mission.
Gold Medalist
Pac-Man and the Ghostly Adventures 2
Win a Gold Medal on every level.
Outstanding duelist
Styx: Master of Shadows
Kill 20 enemies in duel
Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel
Had an enemy frozen, corroded, ignited, and electrocuted at the same time
The Duelist
Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel
Won a duel
Shadow Warrior
Kill 100 enemies using katana special attacks in campaign mode
Power Playlist
Just Dance 2015
Play a 40 minute playlist.
Free Kick Specialist
Score from a direct Free Kick at a distance greater than 30 yards.
Rooster Teeth
Achievement Hunter
AH News
AH Blog
RT News
Cool Stuff
Change My Store
My Homepage
The Forum
Community Spotlight
Top Posts
8133 Users Online
Advertise with us
Privacy Policy
Terms of Use
Contact Us
� 2004-2015 Rooster Teeth Productions, LLC.


text:
The 5 E Learning Cycle is about anchoring learning in your personal experience.
Think of a trainer who had a really positive impact on you.
He or she may have encouraged you to reflect on your own experience, draw lessons from it, and then extend these lessons into a whole new area.
Instead of simply being presented with the information you needed to learn, you explored it, and understood it on your own terms.
The 5 E Learning Cycle is a training framework that harnesses learners' curiosity in exactly this way. It encourages them to explore their own experience, and understand information in ways that resonate with them. As a result they can retain information – and apply it – more effectively.
In this article, we'll explore how you can use this tool to develop more effective learning experiences for members of your team.
The 5 E Learning Cycle, shown in Figure 1, was first developed by Robert Karplus and his colleagues in the late 1960s. They based it on the work of Robert Piaget, a pioneer in student intelligence and learning.
Mind Tools Club members, click here.
Join now for just $1, first month
"When I started using Mind Tools, I was not in a supervisory position. Now I am. Along with that came a 12% increase in salary." – Pat Degan, Houston, USA
This ensures that you don't lose your plan.
Please enter your username or email address and we'll send you a reminder.
Your log in details have been sent to the email account you registered with. Please check your email to reset your login details.
Please check your Inbox, and click on the link in the email from us. We can then send you the newsletter.


text:
February 20th, 2012
Roger Federer: I Can't Believe How Many Titles I Have! [Video]
Roger Federer is all smiles after winning his 71st career ATP title.
Posted by Tom Gainey @ 9:57 am in Videos | 160 Comments »
February 19th, 2012
Federer v Del Potro For Rotterdam Title; Raonic Returns To San Jose Final
Roger Federer and Juan Martin Del Potro meet for the Rotterdam indoor title on Sunday.
Posted by Sean Randall @ 12:15 am in Doha, San Jose | 125 Comments »
February 18th, 2012
Roddick Upset; Scary Del Potro Blasts Berdych in Rotterdam, Awaits Federer?
Andy Roddick is upset while in Rotterdam Juan Martin Del Potro is looking scary good.
Posted by Sean Randall @ 9:40 am in Doha, San Jose | 118 Comments »
February 17th, 2012
Federer Tries To Join Del Potro, Berdych In Rotterdam SFs; Roddick Tests Ankle In San Jose
Roger Federer returns in Rotterdam where rivals Tomas Berdych and Juan Martin Del Potro have already reached the semifinals.
Posted by Staff @ 10:35 am in San Jose | 50 Comments »
February 16th, 2012
Roddick Nearly Tumbles Out Of San Jose; Federer Wins; Caroline Continues To Crumble
Andy Roddick turns his ankle in San Jose but gets a win.
Posted by Sean Randall @ 10:28 am in Doha, San Jose | 49 Comments »
February 13th, 2012
Roger Federer: I Would Never Blame Stan, It's The Press Creating Something From Nothing [Video]
Roger Federer says the press got it wrong, he would never blame Wawrinka for the Davis Cup loss.
Posted by Tom Gainey @ 1:26 pm in Davis Cup, Videos | 84 Comments »
May 1st, 2011
Roger Federer Announces 2012 Schedule Changes, Will Play Rotterdam [Video]
Roger Federer will play in Rotterdam in 2012.
Posted by Tom Gainey @ 9:21 pm in Videos | 8 Comments »
February 13th, 2011
Soderling Repeats in Rotterdam; Verdasco Bids to do Same in San Jose
Fernando Verdasco will try to match Robin Soderling's effort and win his second straight San Jose title.
Posted by Sean Randall @ 12:32 pm in San Jose | 65 Comments »
February 12th, 2011
Monfils Withdrawal Sends Raonic to First ATP Final, Awaits Verdasco or Del Potro in San Jose
Milos Raonic is into his first ATP final.
Posted by Sean Randall @ 10:43 am in San Jose | 166 Comments »
February 11th, 2011
Del Potro, Hewitt Clash in San Jose, Raonic v. Berankis; Clijsters Two Sets From No. 1; Tennis Notes
Juan Martin Del Potro and Lleyton Hewitt clash in the San Jose quarterfinals.
Posted by Staff @ 2:08 pm in San Jose | 124 Comments »


text:
I received a demo game about a week and a half ago and couldn't wait to play again. So my daughter volunteered to give the game a try, so we took some time out of her snow day to play a game. This was our first real game, so I thought we should play the Quick Start Rules for starters. I was surprised at how much of the rules that I retained from my demo, but it just goes to show how easy this game is to learn.
So as per the Quick Start Rules, we used two TIE Fighters (Obsidian Squadron Pilot and Academy Pilot) against one X-Wiing (Rookie Pilot). My daughter selected the Imperials hoping to use her strength of numbers to win. She was able to knock out my shields before I could destroy her first ship. Her Academy Pilot was able to score a hit on my unshielded X-Wing, but I was finally able to wax her last TIE Fighter for the win.
X-Wing Miniatures is definitely the funnest game I've played in a long time.


text:
Last week we shared a clip from Sophia Jurksztowicz's wonderful conversation with Brian Burke, in which the Leafs GM told the story of nearly having a barn fight (like those are a common thing?) with then-Oilers GM Kevin Lowe.
Today we bring you the rest of the highlights from their hour long talk, which our wonderful video team has parsed down to about 23 minutes of reduced awesomeness. Topics include: being unable to trade with Darcy Regier, wanting to punch players who complain about ice time, and most importantly, his take on gay rights and homophobic slurs in hockey.
Enjoy Brian Burke as you've never seen him before. We know we did.


text:
- http://d2ob0iztsaxy5v.cloudfront.net/product/197727/1977275450_exlg.jpg
- Suede upper
- Breathable accents
- ENCAP sole unit
- Heel stabiliser
- Rubber outsole
- Get it Free & Fast
- UK Standard Delivery
Delivery between:
Tue 3 Feb - Wed 4 Feb FREE! - schuh Store Pick-up
Delivery between:
Tue 3 Feb - Wed 4 Feb FREE!
- Get it Faster
- UK Next Day Delivery
Delivery on: Sat 31 Jan £4.99
Get your shoes the next working day! - Choose your day delivery
Choose your day - Incl. Weekends
* choose a day to suit you - 7 days a week£4.99 - UK Sunday Delivery
Delivered on: Sun 1 Feb*
* if ordered before Saturday 5pm £4.99 - Shutl (from 90 minutes)
Delivery within minutes or choose a time that suitsVaries
- Local Convenient Pickup
- Collect+
Delivery between: Tue 3 Feb - Wed 4 Feb
Collect your order from a convenience store local to youFREE! - UPS Access Point
Delivery between: Tue 3 Feb - Wed 4 Feb
Collect your order from a variety of convenient local shops and locations FREE!
- International
- International
Delivered by: Tue 10 FebVaries
All we ask is that you return your purchase back to us and in the condition that you received them.
There are 2 ways to return shoes to us:
- David @ Marble ArchSTAFF REVIEW
Absolute classics! Running, walking, dancing, skipping, hopping or even moon walking....these are perfect for anything! Love them!
- anonymous//True to size?Perfect06/10/2014
- Julia Doubko//True to size?Perfect06/09/2014
love them, read other reviews about the sizes, that helped a lot.
- Summer WU
real comfortable and lovely. This is what I want.
- Emma Dobson
Fab trainers! Took advice from previous reviewers to take the next size up and perfect fit! Comfy & great service.


text:
I had booked to stay at this hotel for my birthday weekend, and unfortunately was unable to make the first night of my reservation due to bad weather conditions. However I did ring the hotel the night before and they said it was not a problem to arrive the next day. On arriving the next day, after travelling 4 hours... More
- Reservation Options:
- TripAdvisor is proud to partner with Booking.com, Travelocity, Expedia, Priceline, Despegar.com, Hotels.com and Odigeo so you can book your Estalagem Do Porto reservations with confidence. We help millions of travelers each month to find the perfect hotel for both vacation and business trips, always with the best discounts and special offers.
- Also Known As:
- Estalagem Do Porto Arraial Do Cabo, Brazil


text:
With summer just around the corner, a Lifesaving Society team is touring local elementary schools to press home water-safety awareness.
The WaterWise boat safety team is out to encourage all boaters, young and old, to behave safely, but they're focused on grades 3 to 6 on this tour, said Kim McKinnon.
"I think we're targeting young audiences to spread the message as well," McKinnon said. "They want to do the right thing, and they want to tell other people to do the right thing."
A lot of people take to the water, thinking that an accident will never happen to them, she noted.
More people are enjoying boating, but they're not making safe choices.
"One of our main messages is not to drink and boat. That's a huge issue nowadays." Consumption of alcohol is involved in more than one-third of boating fatalities.
Their safety message is timely considering the number of water-related accidents and fatalities in the region in recent weeks.
Last weekend, a missing drain plug was blamed for a powerboat sinking off Pioneer Park. Everyone managed to swim to shore safely. They didn't have time to put on lifejackets.
The law requires only that boats be equipped with personal flotation devices for each person aboard - they don't necessarily have to wear them - but having PFDs available is no consolation in a split-second accident. Eighty-five per cent of drowning victims are found not wearing them.
The WaterWise team is in town until Thursday.
© Copyright 2015 Kamloops Daily News