When I read this, I laughed so hard I almost peed in my pants (Allie Mac-style)

A typical Asian girl from Montebello:
kkwonger14: he looked mexican and thats why i liked him

I don't even remember the last time Gabby and I have been apart for more than a month, much less than an entire summer! Partner-in-crime, I miss you already! And it's only been a week!!! I wish I was a part of everything that's going on in her life right now... well, maybe not everything. I'm sure she wouldn't want me tagging along as the 3rd wheel. Haha. I guess it was about time we started experiencing things on our own, separately. Though having a friend by your side through all the scary and strange moments never hurt. Love you, Gabbo. I'll miss you. Try not to have too much fun without me.

WHAT A RUSH!

So, obviously the Lakers won tonight... and I'm in a great mood! But I've still got a bone to pick with all the Laker haters out there. Recently, I have heard that the #1 reason why people dislike the Lakers so much is because of the way we "build" our teams... mainly in reference to Gary Payton and Karl Malone. The Lakers have been called the New York Yankees of basketball because, apparently, we "buy" our players.

But wait a minute... isn't that the reason why players become "free agents"? Isn't that the reason why we have drafts and trades? Players should be able to move around and play on whichever team they want to. And it just so happened that Gary and Karl wanted to play in LA. We didn't BUY them... if anything, the Lakers got the best of the deal; two future Hall of Famers for pennies!

But here's something else to chew on... to all those people that rooted for the Minnesota Timberwolves because they hated the Lakers, YOU ALL ARE HYPOCRITES. Out of their roster of 14 players, only 4 are returning veterans. Which means, you all "bought" 10 (YES, 10!) new players! Out of those 4 original players, only 1 was a starter, your precious MVP. You did what the Lakers did... times 5! That's right, Sam Cassell, Trenton Hassell, Fred Hoiberg, Latrell Sprewell, Michael Olowokandi, and even Mark Madsen, former Laker... ALL NEW PLAYERS TO THE ROSTER!



Yes, let's talk about Mark Madsen. I have NEVER liked the guy. I don't care how much "enthusiasm" he brings to the team, I don't like him! He's such a disgrace and mockery to the sport of basketball. I have NO idea what he's doing in the picture. But that's all he did in Game 3... throw Shaq's arms around his neck. Strange, no? Might he have been posing for a prom picture??? I'm 100% sure that's NOT how you play defense. Hey Stanford, if you wanted to go to prom, go buy one with Daddy's money! So glad you're not with the Lakers anymore... you were nothing but a distraction.

I AM DOOMED

Feeling very neighborly, I engaged myself in a very long conversation with Grandpa Bill and his handsome baby grandson this afternoon. The timing of this conversation is highly ironic. Grandpa Bill apparently is very talented in reading astrology. Because his baby grandson took such a liking to me, Grandpa Bill decided to give me a free reading. Upon hearing my birthdate digits, he quickly gave me the bad news: The key to my happiness will be to marry a GENTLEMAN, or else suffer a life of misery.

Given my track record, I think I'm probably going to live a life of misery. It also doesn't help that I was born at 1:32 am, which falls under the Ox Lady's domain. According to Grandpa Bill, the Ox Lady is not a good judge of character... she usually picks the worst ones. All these new revelations leave me wondering, how many Mr. Wrongs do I have to go through before I find Mr. Right? Or maybe the question I SHOULD be asking is, will I EVER find Mr. Right? The Chinese zodiac never lies...

Disclaimer: To all my future suitors, if I try to make you into a "gentleman," it's only because I really like you and actually see a future for us. Don't hate me for it.

And it was done as easy as that: May 26, 2004.

"IF IT'S TOO SHORT, CHOP IT OFF"

...and yes, my professor was referring to the male genital. Welcome to Sociology of Gender. Now, I understand that I'm technically supposed to be on summer "vacation" and making students take classes in the summer is just flat out wrong, I can't help but LOVE my classes!

On the first day of class, we talked about intersexed infants - babies that are born with both the male and female genitalia. (This is the one time I'm going to be against the advancement of technology.) To decide the gender of the baby, they test the length of the penis and its capabilites for reproduction in the future. According to the author, John Money, "A penis is, by convention, designated as a micropenis when at birth its dimensions are three or more standard deviations below the mean." At that point, they chop it off and turn the micropenis into an enlarged clitoris. Never mind that somewhere in their genetics, there is still a Y chromosome swimming around... talk about a blow to the ego. Imagine if they put ALL baby boys through that same test!

And for today's thrilling adventures... a film about a naked bearded lady that joined the circus. There was even a bath scene... OooOOoo... Pablo has trained me well for this class.

I'm not scared of "bad boys" like you.

Just came to the realization that I've got one more year of college left... where does the time go? Academically, this year sucked. But mentally... wow.

I AM AN USER

Do you remember the kid in your neighborhood that had all the cool toys? All the newest Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle accessories? The talking robots? My-Size Barbie? I never had cool toys, so I'd throw parties and invite all the spoiled kids with the best toys to come over. Then I'd play with their toys.

Flash forward 15 years later...

I have not gone to my classes all semester. I have no knowledge. What do I do? I invite all the kids with the "cool toys," now known as knowledge, to the office and suck their brain dry. Currently waiting for my next victim (next one-on-one review session)...

As requested by Gabby, these are my men... in order of preference.



Kobe Bryant, Los Angeles Lakers


Mark-Paul Gosselaar, Saved By The Bell and NYPD Blue


Tony Reali, Around the Horn


Andy Pettitte, Pitcher from the Houston Astros


Dan Miller, O-Town


Ivan Sergei, Formerly on WB's Jack and Jill

Doesn't this just melt your heart? Despite all the bad press, I still love this guy... and I'm positive this guy loves his daughter.





And just for the record, the Lakers ARE the champs, and Kobe WILL be MVP. Take that, Barkley!

I usually don't post song lyrics just cuz I feel like it is a waste of space. If you wanted to read song lyrics, you can easily search for them with Google, right? But my girl Tamia does it again with another heart-breaking song, and I just had to share. Her songs always hit the spot, as if she knows just how I'm feeling. I have no idea where she finds her inspiration for these songs, considering that her husband is the one and only Grant Hill!

Questions by Tamia

I noticed you ain't been around lately
I recognize there is a sudden change
I notice you haven't been calling me
I'm starting to see, that things are not the same
Lately I have been reaching out to you
Boy you haven't been returning my calls
And even when I say, I love you
I notice there has been a slight pause

[Chorus]
Please tell me what do you think it could be
Headache, tired, or cheating on me?
I'm tired of all this up and down mystery
Please answer questions one, two, three
Do you love me? Lost Interest? Is he cheatin'?
Ooooohh ladies, help me out
Do you love me? Lost Interest? Is he cheatin'?
Said I'm tired of all these ups and downs
Do you love me? Lost Interest? Is he cheatin'?
Fellas tell me what you're thinking
Do you love me? Lost interest? Is he cheatin'?
Here's the reason why I ask these things....

I was giving him the best of me
But my best stopped being good enough
I'm telling you I will do anything
Talk about a woman who loves tough
And now he's coming home real, real late
I let him know it's starting to bother me
He never once even touched his plate
And no response he just went to sleep

[Chorus]
Please tell me what do you think it could be
Headache, tired, or cheating on me?
I'm tired of all this up and down mystery
Please answer questions one, two, three
Do you love me? Lost Interest? Is he cheatin'?
Ooooohh ladies, help me out
Do you love me? Lost Interest? Is he cheatin'?
Said I'm tired of all these ups and downs
Do you love me? Lost Interest? Is he cheatin'?
Fellas tell me what you're thinking
Do you love me? Lost interest? Is he cheatin'?
Here's the reason why I ask these things....

Used to take me shopping, all the time
Used to go club hoppin', all the time
Where you were I would be, all the time
Now all you do is leave me behind boy
Used to be your best friend, remember?
We were close like cousins, remember?
Used to give me lovin', and now...
All you're doing is trippin', ladies, what do you think?

[Chorus]
Please tell me what do you think it could be
Headache, tired, or cheating on me?
I'm tired of all this up and down mystery
Please answer questions one, two, three
Do you love me? Lost Interest? Is he cheatin'?
Ooooohh ladies, help me out
Do you love me? Lost Interest? Is he cheatin'?
Said I'm tired of all these ups and downs
Do you love me? Lost Interest? Is he cheatin'?
Fellas tell me what you're thinking
Do you love me? Lost interest? Is he cheatin'?
Here's the reason why I ask these things....

F.ck. What is wrong with me? Things used to be so perfect.

Words of advice: writing e-mails when I'm completely tired and pooped is a dangerous thing. Certain people may think I'm hitting on them, hence the, "I wish I can be more social, but right now, I need to be judicial." Might that be how we won? Hmmm...

THE ONLY MAN I CAN EVER COUNT ON

Yup, it's turning into an obsession. I look forward to those rare chance encounters where we share fleeting moments together. I wish we had more time to spend together, but it's just a shame that we both work so much. I hate that you make me wait for you all the time. You tell me it's part of the chase, but I'm done playing hard-to-get. This time, I want the real thing...

I DON'T WANT TO BE A DICTIONARY!!!

You're The Dictionary!
by Merriam-Webster

You're one of those know-it-all types, with an amazing amount of knowledge at your command. People really enjoy spending time with you in very short spurts, but hanging out with you for a long time tends to bore them. When folks really need an authority to refer to, however, you're the one they seek. You're an exceptional speller and very well organized.

Take the Book Quiz at the Blue Pyramid.

You're Vietnam!

After years of muddling through on your own, you've finally repaired yourself to a point of respectability. You would have been much better off had people you didn't like not kept insisting on spending so much time with you. But those times are fading quickly and these days you're pretty sure you won't get burned. Star power!

Take the Country Quiz at the Blue Pyramid

A GIRL OF MANY HATS

In class today, I was asked to label myself. Asks my professor, "How do you identify yourself to others?" This is what I wrote down:

-Chief-of-Staff
-campaign manager
-defense attorney
-politician (ugh!)
-mom/teacher/mentor/eternal nag

Though I'm proud of the work I do, I'm too tired to give anymore. Mind you, my life is like living 5 full-time jobs! Which is probably why each night I come home so exhausted that I can't even say hello to my roommates before passing out on my bed, still fully clothed. I've been pulled in so many directions lately, when what I really need to do is go back to the basics. I need to stop pretending I can do it all.

This is who I want to be:
-roommate
-sister
-student
-friend
-understanding partner

There hasn't been anything that I CANNOT do, but I finally realize that there are some things I SHOULD NOT do if I am to be the type of person I want to be. And therein lies the conflict, I never want people to doubt my ability to conquer a task... and so here I go chasing after another challenge.

LOVE OR LUST?

It's definitely gotta be lust, right? I know you're so wrong for me. I can think of a dozen other guys better than you... but you always leave me wanting more. You say you like me, so what's the problem? Damn you for making me sweat you all the time. You know we could be so perfect, so stop being so DAMN SCARED. Yet again, chasing after the unattainable and untameable...

Just one of many pictures taken this break... my ladies know what I mean. I took this picture off Gabbo's site. This picture is only a preview of what is to come... meaning, how dark I'm going to get. And the madness begins...

By the way, Tony Reali is so hot! And super smart! Watch him everyday at 2pm on Around the Horn!

SACRAMENTO QUEENS

Lakers rule. 'Nuff said. I also met James Worthy last night. Was good.

This is turning out to be a very star-studded break. Last night, I do believe Caroline and I mingled with some former NFL players. Like we know the difference of one football player from another... but they did roll up in a beautifully stocked limo. (Ask us about NBA players. We know them all.) As for me... I've got basketball games lined up Wednesday (Lakers v. Kings), Friday (Lakers v. T-Wolves), Saturday (Clippers v. T-Wolves), and maybe Sunday (Lakers v. Jazz)! Staples Center, here I come!

SPRING BREAK!

I'm finally back at home... my much delayed trip back to LA. This year, I vow to have a spring break. No more campaigning... no more chalking... no more being locked up in Chi Phi from morning til night... no more being stuck in Berkeley.

THE DUALISM OF HUMAN NATURE

Remind me to go to class more often. Soc 1 - Introduction to Sociology. It's supposed to be an easy class. So easy, that I figured I never had to go. Leave it to the professor to editorialize and make up new terms and vocabulary words for concepts not covered in the reader! If I can pull through this class with a good grade, then sociology will definitely be my calling. Now I go back to reading about the difference between what is "sane" and what is "insane." Some believe that the line is so blurred that they are one and the same. Maybe I'm insane? Clinically depressed? (According to the statistics given by the Tang Center, almost all students at Berkeley, at one point or another experiences depression, but just doesn't realize it and know to treat it.)

And just for kicks... a wonderful quote by D.L. Rosenhan:

Whenever the ratio of what is known to what needs to be known approaches zero, we tend to invent "knowledge" and assume that we understand more than we actually do. We seem unable to acknowledge that we simply don't know.

Hmm... interesting...

BLAST TO THE PAST

I normally don't post song lyrics... but I revived some old songs today, and found this song more fitting than ever.

I thought that I knew about 'em
Thought that they would never do me wrong
Well well they smile in your face
When all the time they wanna take your place
Them backstabbers
Same old scene that
You've seen for so long
Always want to be around you
But as jealous as they come
Well don't want you to win that race
'Cause if you do it's gonna lessen their space
That's when I decide to say

Goodbye, goodbye
To all the fake people in my life
I never wanted you around me
So be on your way now
You better think twice
Before you let people in your life
Because when you put down
No one is around you
You got a case of the fake people
A case of the fake people

I thought that I new about 'em
The only ones that really care for me
Oh yeah
But they shouldn't be that way
Only down for as long as
You can give security
Same old scene that you've seen for so long
Always want to be around you
But as jealous as they come well
Don't want you to win that race
'Cause if you do it's gonna lessen their space
That's when I decide to say

Goodbye, goodbye
To all the fake people in my life
I never wanted you around me
So be on your way now
You better think twice
Before you let people in your life
Because when you put down
No one is around you
You got a case of the fake people
A case of the fake people

-TLC, Case of the Fake People

PICK-UP LINE OF THE WEEK:

This week's winner goes to the "transfer student" who won my heart with, "Wow, you look old!" Err... thanks?

"I'M GONNA BE A SUPERMODEL"

Who ever thought I'd actually be a runway model?! Bizarre... but Mengly made it happen for me tonight. Fashion For A Cause... sounds shallow, but I'd like to think it's not entirely so. All the proceeds went towards Room to Read. Hopefully Cambodia will soon have a new elementary school. And as for me, for one night, I looked "beautiful."

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL: A LEAP OF FAITH

At the risk of sounding like a new escapee from an insane asylum, I think I'm finally at a place where I'm mentally stable and almost at zen. My life still resembles a whirlwind tornado that provides little time to myself, but given all the trying moments of this week, I think I've done quite well for myself. I'm glad that I can go back to being the buttress for other people, instead of being the one in need of a prop. There's already too much misery in this world for me to get caught up in my bubble of perfection.

It also doesn't hurt that I have my own live-in shrink to help me sort out my life. How easily I forget what a tremendous confidant Miguel was for me back in high school. And though the boy has problems of his own, ones that I don't condone, he's always been there to slap some sense into me. He's dependable, trustworthy, and best of all, FREE!

All the "free" counseling has allowed for me to reflect on a lot of things... one of them being intimacy. I remember Juan once asked me, "Why are you so afraid of intimacy?" Indignantly, I shot back with, "I ain't afraid."

Now I know how wrong I was... based more on observations than past experiences (the soc major in me comes out), be it emotional or physical, the first shot at intimacy is damn scary. It makes us vulnerable. Intimacy forces us to present the other person with a gift - a gift filled with emotional attachments and the risk of letting go of any and all safety nets to catch us when we fall. It's a gift because we only do it when we finally find that special person that allows us to let go. Intimacy challenges and pushes us to emotions so deep that they take over conscious and coherent thinking. And when we do fall... we fall hard. Yet, somehow we find a way to stand up, but the time it takes to heal is indefinite. When all is said and done, we all really wanted the same thing. It's just too bad that we couldn't see things eye to eye to make it all work out in the end. It's very interesting to see the same plotline played out, but this time, with different characters. This time around, I see both sides, but I can't say that I empathize with both. If only we can all step back and see the other side, things wouldn't be so hard... they really don't have to be. Love is what holds us together, but it's also what tears us apart... 'Til then, I will wait for that all-consuming, don't-want-to-live-life-without-you love that we all somday hope to find.

GOOD MOMENTS OF THE DAY

-Standing on Sproul for 15 minutes and getting a bit of sun. Being able to pretend like I'm lounging when I really have a ton of work to do.

-Garnering respect in Senate and holding my ground, despite unruly people. Seeing what it REALLY means to mobilize and the power of a community.

-Seeing 4-D Stars in action and REALLY helping people, not like the lies that people tell about "wanting to make a difference," yet just doing things for their own personal gain. Seeing Brent with Alexis, age 12, was truly an inspirational experience for me. There are still good guys out there.

-Being able to sit with Gustavo and Karina over dinner and NOT talk about work. Story of the night: Gustavo and his big dog running into the jungle and getting shot at by big crazy drunks.

-Knowing that whatever people may say about me, at the end of the day, I'm still me, and I'm still the same person. Say what you will, but I know who I am, and I'm sticking to it.

People talk a lot of wack sh.t. Word to the wise: check yourself before you check me. If I'm the way I am, don't think you didn't have an influence on where I am today... be it good or bad.

*gasps* My sweet brother is good in volleyball??? When did THAT happen??? I didn't even know he KNEW how to play volleyball! But apparently, he might be bumped up to varsity cuz of the last game. My brother... the MVP of the game... go figure. What happened to basketball?

It must be a high school fantasy, cuz it's damn exciting! Everything about it screams "home" and nothing else compares.

Wow, this week was such a blur... after Tuesday's midterm, I have no idea what else happened, but I DO believe it was fairly good. Gabbo, I'm sticking to our pact and making good use of it!

An Addendum

This was stolen from Elaine's blog... I thought it captured my Saturday quite well, post-work, of course.

saturday... i headed out... and the afternoon was spent catching up and getting ready for dinner at pyramid brewery. dinner was fabulous... and all went pretty smoothly... except for the losing of miguel for a little bit... some random acts of affection in the parking lot and it was back to the apt.

off to sf.... ALL of sf. we pretty much drove around SF for like an hour and a half... we had no idea where we were going since mapquest is just so messed up.... and even though our two cars got separated... we somehow managed to find each other...just to lose each other again. we had given up... stupid sf defeated us... and it was off to the apt again. like the saying... if you can't bring mohammad to the mountain... bring the mountain to mohammad. SO... since we couldn't find the party... we brought the party to us... and boy, did we bring the party. (i apologize to the neighbors downstairs...eek) nothing like drunken haiku writing... seeing old shs people... yellling "gabby is so hot" and breaking wine glasses... dancing in the dark (with all like 9 of us)... bouncing quarters into an ice tray... all in the privacy and comfort of Russell B... temporarily known as "hook up central" for now.. all in all... it was a good time.

other things will be left unmentioned... but, left for the memory to keep.

happy 21st birthday jamie! love ya lots girlie! (and you totally worked that tiara and feather boa... you should wear it everyday!!!)

oh... and is it just me... or are we looking older? since when did we not get carded anywhere??

:: lainey 7:59 PM

Haha. What a CRAZY f.cking birthday weekend! I only turn 21 once, but that doesn't mean the celebration only lasts for a night... try 3 days! It was great! Thanks to everybody that made it special: Caroline, Gabbo, Elaine, Natalia, Teresa, Pabs, Alex, Marky Mark, Caleb, Alfredo, Miguel, Eiji, and Taka. I promise not to forget a single moment of it all.





And now for pure enjoyment... drunken haikus... remember everybody, 5, 7, 5!

Pablo
I wanna go backdoor
So that fudge gots new meaning
Not so innocent

Taka
Everyone sittin'
Chillin' out to the Merlot
My panties are red

Eiji
Miguel is spaced out
The potential is present
He needs to believe

Gabby/Becky/Jude
I am so not drunk
I want more hot wings right now
Who mistook the booze

I like Eiji Fuj
He is super cool always
Eastmont Intermediate!

Caroline/Hillary
The Great Charles Shaw
Poor college students' best friend
Two buck Chuck is gold

Teresa Loves Jamie
Why do guys wear plaid?
Does Old Navy rule the world?
I just live in sweats

Sha Sha Sha Shayna
Miguel is buzzin'
His mohawk is pretty cool
Beer is def' his fave

Happy birthday, J!
You are outside now with Al
Hope you're having fun!

Gooby (The boy cannot spell his own name!)
Gabby cooks chicken
They were robust and spicy
Much like the ladies

And my personal favorite... also a "Gooby" classic.

White walls in this house
Much like me, the WASPy WASP
My name is Gooby

It's okay, Mark, you can be whomever you want to be... Goob, Goobie (Gooby), Goober, Marky Mark, WASPy WASP, or Gruber. Thanks, guys! These were hilare! I'll treasure them forever! You all are VERY talented!!!!

But the most talented of all... Miguel. Thank you for being the first person to ever write something for me! This was the best present ever!

Crazy Fuckin Jamie
To we're gettin' old, product of the 80's
Though I didn't know you 'til we were conversation trading
Schurr High parking lot on the people we were dating
Half how much we loved them and half was player hating
That's where you went from associate to friend
From person who I knew to person I respect
Who had an effect knowledge to contribute and dissect
You are a smart motherfucker, you'll be president-elect
That's when I'll vote and stop being this renegade
And you've always been good to me, refreshing like spiked lemonade
Everyday you demonstrate with this I wish to reciprocate
How much I appreciate your company
With the problems you alleviate
So with much love, that's all I got 'cause I'm too poor
Happy 21st and may you get 60 more.

For anybody that's ever tried to get me drunk, I was there last night. Many many thanks to Natalia, Sarah, and my lovely roommates, Caroline and Gabby, for watching over me and buying me rounds and rounds of drinks. Happy birthday to me!

Surprise phone calls are great! Surprise visits are even better!

PLAYING HOOKY IS FUN... AND EDUCATIONAL!

I'm a pretty responsible girl. I think that would probably be the best way to sum me up in one word. But sometimes, being bad can feel so good! What classes? What work? Just give me more Senator John Edwards!!! I loved him in DC, and I love him even more now. He is exactly what we need to beat Bush in this upcoming election. Which is why these five Berkeley students took the day off to go campaign for Edwards all over San Francisco! And I do believe we did a VERY good job!





I shook the future U.S. President's hand!!! For an almost 21 year-old girl, I think I've done damn good for myself. I've already schmoozed with two U.S. Presidents and one former California Governor... and I have their autographs to prove it!!!!

Lakers/Kings games has new meaning to me. *smiles*

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME AND CAROLINE!

Here's to our weekend getaway... thanks, Elaine!!!



Off to Club Rio
Remind me NEVER to go clubbing two nights in a row. Good for the mind, bad for the body!




The new Laker Girls!
As witnessed by Caroline and Elaine, I too, can shake my hair like the Sun Dancers.




My new Laker buddy!
Isn't he a cutie?! Little Tomas, age 2, is a die-hard Shaq and Kobe fan. Here he sits big pimpin' surrounded by beautiful women... after flirting with us during the first half of the game. What a stud!




The ultimate cutie... Kobe for MVP!
Sadness, we couldn't make the big signs that I wanted... but Kobe came up big anyway, dropping 40 points in the game. Kobe, you're my #1, I'll never stray again.




Our hosts
Thanks, Det and Todd! There are some guys that can still manage to surprise me. You guys are great!

It was a great weekend. What can I say? I LOVE my Lakers! Kobe played beautifully, the Lakers dominated, and I had wonderful friends to share the whole experience with. There couldn't have been a better game.

To my airplane buddy, James... here's wishing you the best in Spokane, Washington. Things will be okay, because they just gotta be... hang in there, cuz you're a good kid. You're my inspiration.

WITHOUT FURTHER ADO...

The pictures, as I promised.











Check out Elaine's Scrapbook for all the pictures. There are a lot more fun ones! And for the full story, consult my counterparts; Gabby, Caroline, and Elaine.

FOUR YEARS LATER...

Four years later, I still find myself sharing the same conversations with Pablo as I did in high school involving: hope, instant gratification, and delayed gratification

The latter two can be explained in much simpler terms. It involves wanting something NOW versus LATER. Yet, taking it one step further, the two can also be differentiated through categorizing between the two genders. Instant gratfication is something that is more inherent among males, perhaps because of the testosterone factor... and maybe dating back to cave-men activities. When men see something they want, they go after it, hence the club-n-drag technique of our homo sapien cousin.

This leaves females with the characterizing factor known as delayed gratification. Why women torture themselves is still quite the mystery. From high-heel stilettos to fab diets, it's quite a known fact, women do strange things. My only conclusion (embracing my woman-ness) is that we partake in delayed gratification with the notion that the longer we wait, the better it'll be (whatever "it" may be).

Which leads me to HOPE, and the question, what if waiting won't make things better in the end? Hope is a dangerous thing, and false hope is the worst of all. Life would be so much simpler if when things come to a dead-end, a sign would pop up (like in real driving) and tell you, "GIVE UP NOW, THIS IS THE END." (In red would be nice, thank you.)

And so the point to my ramblings... if this is the stuff I was thinking and talking about 4 years ago, and I'm still thinking and talking about it now, where am I going to be 4 years from now? Perhaps still thinking and talking about the same things...

It's exactly 15 days 'til I turn the big 2-1. My parents have already started the annual, "What do you want?" For the past 20 years of my life, I've never been able to give an answer to this question. I don't NEED anything... I think I'm one of the luckiest girls in the world, and I have everything that I could possibly dream of...

But this year seems different. I DO want something. But it can't be bought, or wrapped, or even served in a shot glass. This year... what I want is STRENGTH. I need the strength to endure and overcome the few weeks to follow...

Since this semester has started, I've witnessed human nature at its worst. There's already too much fighting in this world for us to be adding to the problem. If this is life, it ain't pretty. I commend Gabbo for doing what she does every Tuesday and Thursday. Next to her, this stuff should all be a breeze... yet, it's still hard.

But in the end, roommates (both Russell B and extension) are the lifesavers. Thanks to all for a wonderful All-Star Weekend and our "Single and Fabulous" soiree. (Pictures to come.)

"I Wish I Wasn't."... but I am.

What may seem true at night doesn't always reflect what happens during the day.

PEOPLE ARE SHADY AS F.CK.

I've always been real trusting. I've always been real optimistic. Somewhere along the way... I think I lost all that. Not in a I'm-so-desensitized-that-I've-stopped-caring kind of way... it's more like having to re-evaluate and process everything that people say or do to me. It's like what Tony always says, "Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me." Words of advice: if you're gonna do shady sh.t, don't let me catch you! I take solace in knowing at least one thing... that in the end, I'll know who my real friends are.

I guess my former "sex-pert" roommate hits it right on the dot... I'm positive you never stop caring about the things that are important to you... unless they were never important in the first place...

There will always be hard times, but how we deal with those moments is what makes us stronger in time.

And the problems get bigger... is there no sanity???

Why are when things bad, they're REALLY bad? I think all I need to end this day is to be run over by a garbage truck... that would be a fitting end. Is there no goodness left in mankind?

It's been a strange and crazy and tiring day... hahah, much like every other day of my life. But seeing this picture brought a bit of joy to my day. Just wanted to share...

ONLY IN 'BERZERKELY'

After a long day of walking around in SF, nothing beats the joy of being able to take off your shoes, prop your feet up and relax. But you don't always get what you wish for...

Ben and I had BARTed over to meet Mike in SF for some dim sum. We walked off all the food by window-shopping around. Chinatown never ceases to amaze me. I guess I'm easily amused by all the random junk that they sell in the "Bazaars." And the boys and I had a good time laughing at all the expensive crap that Louis Vuitton sells... "Only $425 for a change purse!" Being in Chinatown reminds me a lot of Bill Murray's character in "Lost in Translation." I'm about a good head taller than everybody. One lady even accused me of pushing her cuz her head came up to my purse and thought I had shoved her intentionally.

Trying to get back to Berkeley was the hard part... apparently the BART police noticed some "suspicious activity" going on at the Berkeley BART station. They commanded all the BART lines to bypass the Berkeley station, leaving Ben and me riding back and forth, jumping from BART to BART, going from Ashby to North Berkeley, and then back. After trying to figure out which station would bring us closest to home, we finally decided upon Ashby, where Pabs picked us up at the corner. We never found out what the "suspicious activity" was... we only saw lots and lots of people at the Berkeley station, each watching the trains whizz by. *shrug* Maybe somebody wanted to bomb the Berkeley station? Watch for it on the 10 o'clock news.

MY CRAZY FRIEND MO

So after a long escapade in Pakistan, Mo (AKA Chicken-Suit Guy) is finally back in the States... this time, maybe, as an engaged man. See, while running amuck in Pakistan, he met a girl, and now he's got about 2 months to decide if he really wants to marry her, or else cut her loose and let her marry somebody else. He tells me nonchalantly, "I'm 25, it's about time I settle down anyway." Funny that he never mentions the word "love" when referring to this maybe bride-to-be. Crazy Mo... he's always up to something. This whole marriage thing is a bit more complicated, but his intentions are good. All I can say is that it's a cultural thing... I guess you gotta be Pakistani to understand...

Aside from the early wedding bells, Mo's always been a smart guy. When Mo speaks, people listen. And yesterday, he spoke to me. After a very loOOoong dinner conversation, I'm left going on a quest to do some soul-searching. I don't know why I'm a workaholic. I don't even know who I really am. All I know is that I've got a lot of growing up to do...

A PCITURE IS WORTH A THOUSAND WORDS



Ain't it the truth?

No better way to ring in the new semester with a bit of partying on our first night back in Berkeley. Though it's been fun, I can't help but miss the boyfriend in LA.

I've been pretty anti-social lately. Sorry Roomies, especially Caroline. I promise I'll be more in the mood to go out sometime next week. *wink* This downtime is much appreciated after a crazy semester. Been doing the whole family thing... staying at home and hanging out with the sibs. New Years' wasn't a night of drunken debauchery for me. But, let me add, to all the people that have tried to get me to drink... I only drink with my brother. Yes, I drank with a 15-year old. We had a bit of champagne and red wine (but mostly sparkling apple cider). Then we played poker games. I forgotten how much fun he was. It was a night of laughs as we counted down with Clay Aiken on MTV. (No Dick Clark for us, thanks to Gabbo and Bowling for Columbine.

The sister and I have been getting along just peachy, too. We still get into the occasional scream-fests, (And yes, she still always beats me.), but for the most part, we've been cool. Tomorrow, we go shopping for shoes!!!

ROADTRIP!!!

Like the good little Bears that we are, the roomies (plus an Aggie/Bear) and I hopped into "Big" (Caroline's Pilot), and drove out to Phoenix for a bit of football and George Lopez. The weekend was a good one, to say the least. It was exceptionally wonderful that Cal won the Insight Bowl!!!! On a field goal!!!! With 2 seconds left!!!! George Lopez was funny, as always. And Club Rio was "bumpin.'" But I'll let the pictures do the talking.


Show your Cal Pride!



Watching football in a baseball field! Hahah!



That's just the cowgirl in me...


photos curtesy of Elaine

Can't get enough? Click here for the complete Phoenix Extravaganza.

3, 2, 1...

I'm finally done with this semester, which means... that's right... 3 more semesters left for me. Unfortunately, these past couple of months have been a complete bust for me, in terms of my academics. I've basically studied my eyes out for the past 8 days for just TWO DAMN CLASSES!!! Oddly, my finals went really well. Unfortunately, I think my grades are still gonna be in the pits and I haven't exactly played the part of the exemplar student. Contrary to popular belief, I WASN'T always this stupid. There was a time when my report card read like a bunch of shooting arrows... none of these curvy-letter nonsense that I now call grades. Everybody always asks what I'm up to these days. (Apparently people have noticed me missing as a "Sproul Celebrity." Hahaha.) My response? I've been doing the same thing that I've been doing... taking care of the ASUC. Though I don't learn very much inside the classroom, my learning growth outside of the classroom has been exponential. And as much as I complain about the stress, I really do love my work. For the first time, I'm really happy making all these social changes, one person at a time. As big or as little of an impact that I've had, it's a great feeling for me to have empowered 40 other people to think differently. Think globally, act locally. It's a powerful tool, and I have my work to thank for it.

Speaking of work... why is it that people only consider it "work" if you hate what you do? If I love what I do, is it no longer considered "work"? Is it only "work" if you do it for the money? It seems like a sad existence if I have to wake up each morning and, instead of being happy about starting off my day, DREAD the idea of going into work. If that's the case, I must be the luckiest girl in the world, cuz I actually loved each job that I've held... even if they didn't seem very "work-like."

TRICK SHOT MAGIC

Lately, I've been so addicted to Trick Shot Magic. For those of you that don't know what it is, it's creative billiards playing, filled with crazy shots involving jumps and combinations. My favorite player is still Tom Rossman. He kinda reminds me of Mr. Feeny from Boy Meets World. He's so energetic about his pool-playing all the time and commentates while he's taking shots. The best match I ever watched was Rossman against Mike Massey. Massey is usually the favored one in any Trick Shot Magic competition, but Rossman beat him in a tie-breaker. I saw that match on the plane on the way back to LA from Washington DC. Every since then, I was hooked.

Today's match was the qualifier for the championships. The person that won, Andy something or other... a 35-year old Trick Shot Magic pro beat out this other boring, old guy and will be playing Massey in the finals. Crazy thing is, Massey was Andy's mentor. Hmm... I wonder who will win, the teacher or the student. Since Rossman got knocked out early in the competition, I'm going for the underdog. Go Andy! Plus, he has a really cute baby girl. After he won today, he ran out to the audience and kissed her. What a great dad!

So lost. So alone.

SCAREDY-CAT STEVE

For everybody unfortunate enough to know the infamous Republican Steve (no last names, in case he ever decides to google himself), with the red hair... (Poor Eric had to live with him the ENTIRE summer!!!)

I had the unlucky chance of walking all the way down Telegraph with him this morning. (Yeah, I know... what a GREAT way to start off the day.) It was that really uncomfortable scenario where both Person A and Person B happened to be walking at about the same pace, but because Person B was trying to hurry on over to class, Person B trailed ever so slightly too close to Person A, making Person B look like a complete stalker. I was Person B.

Anyway, we both got to the corner of Telegraph and Bancroft, right in front of Subway. The man that always sits by the newspaper stand asked him if he could spare some change. Get this... Steve says, "F.ck you. Get a job." Says man, "Thanks, have a good day." Steve bolts off running.

Steve. What a f.cker.

JONNY MOSELEY!

Two months ago, I was chilling with the President of the United States... tonight I was chilling with Olympic Gold Medalist Jonny Moseley. This guy was the same dude that sold himself to MTV so that I was able to watch him every Tuesday night on Battle of the Sexes.

Tonight, both Kris and Jonny were in the Battle of the Brains competition, a low-budget Jeopardy-type game held in Wheeler Auditorium. And amazingly, the students actually won!!! Jonny and I had a brief but meaningful conversation... and I even managed to NOT sound like a stupid fanatic! Hahah, and yes, he is just as good-looking in person as he is on TV!

WELCOME TERESA

So I suckered the old roommate into being a new blog member. Teresa's one of the best writers I know... and one of the funniest around. (Though, Aaron's not too bad either. You two can duke it out.) As a former Sex on Tuesday columnist, Tuesdays just haven't been the same without her this year. So for my selfish purposes, Teresa... please write often.

"BYE BYE BERDIE"

True do my DC-esque days from this past summer, I have mastered the art of smoozing at receptions. Last night, Kris and I attended a beautiful outdoor ceremony for all the "Builders of Berkeley."

Builders of Berkeley – rich, old, white men that donate millions of dollars to the campus

I have learned to carry around a glass goblet and pretend to sip a fancy drink. I have learned how to eat oysters in style. And I have learned how to make rich, old, white men laugh – at me, with me – they laugh just the same. Apparently, Kris and I were the life of the party last night. EVERYBODY wanted to talk to us. Kris and I tag-teamed and managed to wow them with our witty remarks.

It seemed all too convenient that the Chancellor just so happened to announce his "surprise" resignation as Chancellor just hours before his big soiree with a bunch of rich alum. However, what's more ironic is that at every school that I've attended, the top administator always quits long before I graduate. It started with Mr. Jepsen at Potrero Heights Elementary. Then Mr. Monsour left Macy Intermediate School. Then in high school, Mr. Devney left the school, letting us senior basically run amuck at school. And now, Chancellor Berdahl's leaving, too. Coincidence... maybe? Or maybe it's because I run them out of town...

REPORTED MISSING APPLE PIE

The day would've ended so beautifully with a nice warm slice of apple pie, left to me by my favorite guy. Unfortunately, no trace of it found... not even an empty box. It sounds like a case for Unsolved Mysteries. I shall write to Robert Stack. Meanwhile, I keep looking in the fridge, hoping that it'll somehow turn up.

I AM A VISIONARY

For every wrong turn, something always goes right. How easily I lose focus on the wonderful things in life. Thanks to my cheesy 80s music, my Amy Grant songs, and my "Dreams need hope to run free" poster, I'm back to my optimistic ways. Things are going to be good... cuz they already are. "As long as I can dream..."

RIO HONDO... HERE I COME

Whoo-hoo... "I am so smart, S-M-A-R-T." And my cumulative grade as a community college student continues to stand at a beautiful 4.0. Wish I could say the same for Berkeley... Much thanks to Gabbo for my A, who wrote numerous "constructive criticism" replies to my fellow classmates. I may have been banned from any future on-line English courses and will from hereon be known as the Rio Hondo b*tch.

Whoa... so exhausted. Here I stand, my 3rd year of college... 2 classes away from a Political Science major, 5 classes away from a Rhetoric major. I think I've made good time considering my joke of a schedule each spring semester for the past two years.

What have I learned?

Am I a more skilled writer? Not really.
Am I smarter? Not by much.
Am I a better person? Perhaps...
Have I changed? Definitely.

I've been back in Berkeley for only a matter of 2 weeks and already, I've been challenged like no other. I've been forced to have to think on my own, more specifically, think about things I never had to deal with. It's strange... I often feel out of place with my friends from back home. I think I've probably become more left of center than they last remember me and more caught up in politics than ever.

All throughout high school, we were forced to think a certain way – forced to take the fast track of APs and Honors to get to where we are. But it's only now that we're truly allowed to develop a sense of individualism and find who we really are. All I know is that my thoughts and ideas are different from "high school Jamie", yet my values and my morals haven't changed. The latter two run too deep and are perhaps permanently ingrained through my parental/cultural upbringing. But have I changed for the better or worse? That's yet to be decided. At least I'm not doing anything bad, like robbing liquor stores. But then again, being couped up in an office from 8am to 8pm isn't good, either. I guess this is one question even a Magic 8 Ball can't foretell... only time will tell.

My internship in D.C. has quickly come to an end. When I first arrived, I couldn't wait to leave. And now that they're kicking me out, I kinda don't want to leave. *shrug* (Yes, I'll be the first to admit that I tend to be a walking oxymoron at times.)

D.C. has been fun, lots of chasing after big name politicians. On today's list was Senator John Edwards and Reverend Al Sharpton. I didn't really understand why the Congresswoman supported Sharpton at first. He's basically like a shot in the dark. However, in hearing him speak today, I think I'm starting to understand. So what if he's not the favored Democratic presidential candidate? It's about getting the ideas and values represented, and for that, I respect Sharpton. Edwards was great, too. I'm torn between my choices now. The North Carolina accent really did it for me. Hahah.

A NATIONAL PASTTIME

Ahh... the joys of playing baseball in pouring rain for 2 hours! I was soaked from head to toe, starving, and cold. It's definitely not a good combo. And usually this makes for a very grumpy Jamie. (Just ask Gabbo, she knows all too well.) Yet, for some reason, I couldn't find any reason to complain about the whole experience. Despite being on a Congressional softball team ranked 151st (out of 151 teams, I think), this Far Left Fielder found some sort of tranquility to the whole experience. There's something very patriotic about being able to play baseball between two of the most revered monuments (Washington and Lincoln) and right next to the Reflecting Pool. So what if I got rained on... it's just water.

CHILLIN' WITH THE PRESIDENT

Nobody will ever believe me... but Gabbo, Arezo and I watched a baseball game with the one and only G Dub this afternoon. Apparently the President hosts 4 tee-ball games a year out on the South lawn of the White House for disabled children. I just happened to be at the right place at the right time and managed to get us in for some up close and personal attention with the President. We literally sat less than 10 feet away from him the entire time and even got to shake his hand and get his autograph. *shrug* We all felt a tad traitorous to our political views, but then again, how often do you get to watch a baseball game with the President??? If there's one thing I learned today, being within the gates of the White House is a marvelous place to be. I'll be back... I know it... this time, on my own accord...

YELLOW FEVER, ANYONE?

Leave it to me to get hit on by every badge-flashing colored folk in this small district... and they get older and older by the day.

I just HAD to steal this off Elaine's blog. It's too funny...

:: Monday, July 21, 2003 ::
what is the common factor...?

abercrombie model + ucla pre-med student + up and coming entertainer/artist + cal swimmer/olympic hopeful + secret service agent..?

*smug smile* yeah, we're bad... we know it. =)

:: lainey 11:58 PM ::

"The Postman Always Rings Twice"... what a strange movie. I can't even begin to describe it, it was just weird. All in all, my night ended on a high note.

Despite what Caleb says, I am LOVING this picture.

As told to me by a wise friend to pass along to all the other smart and independent ladies out there:

"Why bring sand to the beach?"

It's worth thinking about...

And the work starts again... I'm feeling nervous and queasy. Somebody please give me the strength to get through this upcoming year alive. I'm too young to get wrinkles and gray hair.

Happy birthday to the Congresswoman. Price Club in DC is so cool. They have models of the Capitol made out of Belgian chocolate!!!! Getting sick off of vanilla cheesecake and brownies while at work is great.

The Girls of 708



(from left to right: Gabbo, Natalia, me and Adrian)

"Money and all that stuff doesn't equal a ring, because you'll always be in the books as winning a championship and being on one of the best teams ever to play the game," Payton said. "And I've been in the league 13 years. I've already gotten the big paychecks. I'll be fine."

For some reason, Payton's comment made me feel all warm and tingly inside. What a concept: less money for a championship? The Dynamic Duo is slowly evolving into the Fantastic Four. I can hardly contain myself... the Lakers are gonna DOMINATE! It hardly seems fair anymore... we've got such a staked team. Oh well, the guilty feeling has passed. GO LAKERS!

After months of going without any steak, I finally got my fair share of it tonight. The Cheesecake Factory had excellent food as always, though the service sucked. Caleb's refills kept changing, but he finally got his Diet Coke in the end.

Work was surprisingly great today. Since I was the only intern around for most of the day, I had a lot of work, which kept me really busy the whole day. They also made me collect quite a few signatures from Cannon. After the story that Gabbo told me the other day, walking up one flight of stairs was enough to send chills up my spine. Apparently a man fell and died on the stairs of Cannon two weeks ago. Granted, Cannon is a pretty big building with several staircases. I had no idea which staircase the man tripped and fell on, but man, I was scared. Gabbo told me that you can still see the blood stains on the staircase. I only walked up from the basement to the 1st floor, but the whole time, I was trying not to look down for fear of seeing blood stains. Yet, wearing heels, you kinda gotta look down to keep from tripping. I certainly didn't want to be the 2nd victim on those stairs. *shudders* Next week will be good though. I'm scheduled to tag along with the Congresswoman's Press Secretary and go to several press conferences. Plus, on Monday, I'll be sitting at the front desk all day, greeting all the smiling faces that walk into the office.

Mark the date: July 9th, the day I realized that the White House and I are one. My Congressional Intern White House tour lasted 3 hours!!! (For the average intern, the tour ranges anywhere from 10 minutes to half an hour.) I swear they must have had tracking devices on Natalia and me. "They're in the Red Room.... now they're on the move... going into the Blue Room. Copy? Over." All I know is that if I ever wanted a private tour of the White House, there are several Secret Service Agents that I could hit up.

Very random... so I was walking back to the office after a wonderful lunch when I happened to run into Congressman Mike Honda. I politely said, "Good afternoon, Congressman." I think he was shocked that I recognized him and so he proceeded to ask me what school I went to and where I worked. Stupid me, I always act like the biggest spaz when I meet politicians I really admire. I rambled on and on about how I knew Patrick... without ever giving my name. Hmm, sounds oddly like my encounter with Governor Gray Davis. Regardless, Congressman Honda was such a sweet man. I wanted to say, "Hey, I know EVERYTHING about you. I read Patrick's paper." Thank goodness I didn't. I think he would've called security on me. My conversation with Congressman Honda was longer than all my combined conversations with Barbara Lee. Tomorrow, the interns and I have a photo shoot with her and then we're supposed to do tea. Funny how I don't hear about these things 'til the very last minute...

I've lost my friend... I'm a really bad person.

... and life makes sense again...

Can things be great and not so great at the same time? Maybe I'm greedy, but life has been leaving me wanting more as of late. Wanting what, I'm not so sure. Perhaps eating 1.5 meals each day could be the reason... I'm still trying to decide if coming to DC this summer was the best move for me. Kristopher seems to think I've matured much more within the short 4 weeks that I've been here than the 2 years that he's known me. What does that mean? Mature in a good way? I'm definitely not the same Jamie that people remember from high school. For once, my weekends aren't packed with tournaments, conventions, projects, or meetings... which leaves me with a lot of options on how to fill my free time. I've never spent the 4th of July waking up to champagne. I've never had to sneak in vodka anywhere. I've never gone dancing more than 3 times a year. Now I go dancing 3 times a week! Huh... which brings me back to this whole idea of growing up and "maturing." Maybe this IS what college students do and I'm just finally figuring it out. I'm having fun, BELIEVE ME, it's been a blast. Yet, part of me thinks that maybe I should've stayed home this summer. Jerry's finally going into high school and Terri's going to be a Senior. That's important stuff to me. Maybe I feel guilty for having so much fun. I usually have fun working. Right now, I hate work... I have fun NOT working. I am in dire need of some Amy Grant advice...

HAPPY 4TH OF JULY

What better place to celebrate the birth of our nation than at the Capitol? Hmm... it sounds great, but for some reason, I'm still longing to be in Mammoth with Kris. Last year was such a blast... fishing, swimming, tanning, eating (a lot!!!!), hot-tubbing, and even a really crappy laser show. Plus, I just miss Kris... I think we've spent the 4th of July together every year since high school. *sigh* Just commiserated with a drunken Ted about how the West Coast is still nicer than the East. But drunken Ted also insulted my Gray and is a staunch Arnold Schwarzenegger supporter. *yech*

Marry me, Gray. I'm better than the one you've got.

Guess what I learned to do...

I feel drunk, but I know I'm not...

Tonight, I played, and got played...

I have stalkers and they steal my friends...

THE END.

4 guys, 4 girls + one pillar = impromptu pole dances!!! Whoa. And today we prance around in pajamas, out for lunch and then shopping at Burberry. The life of a working girl is great! I just wish they'd double my monthly pay of $0 to $0. *shrug*

**UPDATE***
Darn it... my hopes and dreams of meeting Kobe Bryant dashed... the Lakers picked up Luke Walton. Who the heck is that?! He better be good... no Joe Shipp... *sadness*

It's almost time... just three more teams before the Lakers decide who their second draft pick will be. Their first pick was Brian Cook. There have been rumors that Joe Shipp might be picked up by either the Warriors, Clippers, or LAKERS!!!! I seriously hope the Lakers get him. I think he would be an asset to the team, considering that the team is lacking in defense, as well as a good forward. Laker ball will be THAT much more interesting... though I'll still always be loyal to my Kobe. But having Shipp on the Lakers should give me some sort of bragging rights. I DID call him all the time my Freshman year at Berkeley AND I stood behind him in a Safeway line one time... think that'll score me some free Laker tickets??? Here's a proposition... I'll marry any guy that can supply me with a lifetime's worth of front row tickets to every Laker game. Anybody? Anybody?

Double score!!!

Yes... score!!!

I just got charged 9 bucks for a 4-block drive! I would've walked, except the sky opened up and big drops of rain poured down (Summer Solstice my @$$.) Damn cab drivers in DC, always trying to rip people off!!!!!

Random outing tonight: I ended up going to some internet/sushi bar that also sells hookahs. One of the girls with us decides to smoke an apple-flavored hookah. Honestly, it smelled pretty darn good... but I'm a stickler about not defiling the ol' temple (my body). It's been an interesting night, to say the least...

If Thursdays with Natalia aren't super enough, I am just LOVING my Fridays! I had such a GREAT day!!!! Walking to work with Amit and Gray was fabulous. I got to work 5 minutes early (always a plus!). Cassidy greeted me with a smile. I opened mail and then Gabbo called me around 10am, asking me to go help out her office with constituent tours. I'm always down for meeting people from my district, so I was very excited.

Solis' office had 31 people come in from some middle school that I've never heard of. Talk about strange and crazy encounters. For all you sappy folks out there, check out this story. So I'm checking out the crowd, seeing who these people are. I spy this lady amongst the crowd and was immediately attracted to her animated way of speaking that I just HAD to talk to her. I asked if she was a teacher. She replied with, "Yes, but not with this school." Said me, "You remind me so much of my old kindergarten teacher." Said she, "I never taught kindergarten, except a long time ago at Potrero..." Together in unison, "HEIGHTS!" I then burst out with, "Mrs. Hernandez!!!!" Three thousand miles away from home, and out of some random turn of Fate, I am reunited with one of my FAVORITE teachers... from kindergarten!!!! I used to never believe that people could cry tears of joy, but today was one of those days. I lost contact with her sometime after my 4th grade year, and I'm one of those students that periodically go back to visit old teachers. Apparently, she had taken some time off from teaching to take care of her two little boys and so nobody really knew how she was or how to get in touch with her.

It was great telling her about how I've been in the past decade and how she influenced my life. All the other teachers were very touched that we found each other, too. It's like one of those stories on Oprah... and I know how cheesy this entry is gonna read to everybody else, but for me, it was stupendous.

Fridays are also great because it's the only day that Natalia, Gabbo and I all work. We were able to catch lunch together and exchange stories about what we did last night. I live with Dumb (Gabbo) and Dumberer (Natalia). (I'm Dumber.) It's cool to give sandwiches soulmates and walk down 17th Street singing the theme song to "Pinky and the Brain" in a round, while marching in unison.

When I got home, I found not one, but TWO care packages waiting for me. Star Buddy and I have been reunited!!!! Thanks to Caroline and my momma, the care packages were like the cherry on top of the sundae.

All in all, a wonderfully great day... reunited with Mrs. Hernandez, good day at work, silly but wonderful roommates, and a lovely reminder that I am loved at home (both in Berkeley and LA).

This entry, taken from Gabbo's blog, has been one of THE funniest thing I've ever read. (I literally laughed out loud for 5 minutes in the computer lab.) For record keeping purposes, I have decided to include this into my blog so that I may reflect on the silly memories that we have shared.

Sunday, June 15, 2003
WEEK 2: ADJUSTING

Ohhhhhh.... I understand what Caroline said about blogger having a new format. I "likey" too. This past week has been a lot about self-discovery, and achieving a social balance in this political ambiance. Week 2 in DC Summarized (others): Jamie has developed a "questionable reputation" thanks to former speech boy Amit, and is juggling an MC (Most Compatible), MD (Most Desperate), and a MW (Most Wanted.) Natalia managed to remove her Heinneken wristband while at her congressional office and has found her soulmate, Maximo. She styles his hair. Together they are a combined age of 6, says Natalia. Adrian is dating "Reagan," Caleb's flannel pillow. She also formed ties to Lou Pearlman (creator of BSB and NSYNC to edify the non-pop-inclined) and was liberated by France. Caleb discovered Dupont Circle fashions for men: mesh muscle tees and Lebow shorts. Week 2 in DC Summarized (me): I have become a bit of an observer this past week. Long days shape me/the working girl routine is definining my daylight social life as my role as DC Intern Extraordinaire is on display at the Longworth HOB nine hours a day. Hard nights break me/ I have slept through my nights knowing work starts early each morning, missing out on Jamie dancing on blocks, Natalia fending off overeager 18-year-old clubgoers and Adrian making up names for people in CITC after $70 Long Island Iced Teas, like "Bah-HAHA," "Tsunami," and "Subaru." Next week I won't need to stay home while they party. Granted they all have days off during the week, but like I said in high school "sleep is for sissies!" I'm adapting. In all shapes and forms. The freak weather: no problem. I bought a $10 umbrella off a shady looking character off of Farragut West. The self-doubts: I have learned this past week to dismiss snide comments from jealous people. While I never wish anything bad upon anyone it was something else to witness someone fall down some slippery stairs after making some comments to me that made me feel, honestly, inferior. While I usually do not have a self-esteem problem, being in this city of high-caliber backgrounds and high-powered agendas for only one week it was all too easy to fall victim to such mindgames. Memo to self: If this were an episode of "DISMISSED" those 15-minutes of drama are now over, you are happy and in love and that corroded third-wheel has been kicked off the show. Furthermore, the California longings: I ate at CPK with Caleb. One BBQ Chicken pizza later I felt tons better. And finally, on Father's Day to complement Mother's Day and something that made my mom happy is that I attended a Catholic Mass with Caleb today at the first black Catholic church of DC--in Latin. Unfortunately, I took only one quarter of Latin my first semester at Berkeley (Latin school dropout, yup that's me)-- so, hodie latinae gaudium non est--meaning (I think) Latin is not (no longer) fun today. It was 10 AM. I felt just a bit lost. Caleb's singing in Latin was a highlight though. Go neumes. There is no music in this lab so the whole "what I am listening to" thing is defunct for the summer unless I figure out how to integrate sound into this machine. Until then have a quote:

Troy Dyer: There's no point to any of this. It's all just a... a random lottery of meaningless tragedy and a series of near escapes. So I take pleasure in the details. You know... a quarter-pounder with cheese, those are good, the sky about ten minutes before it starts to rain, the moment where your laughter becomes a cackle... and I, I sit back and I smoke my Camel Straights and I ride my own melt.

posted by Gabby | 7:27 PM

I gave my first tour of the Capitol! Oddly enough, I still have not received any training... I didn't even know where to take the people on the tours. I had to stop and ask other interns where to go... quite embarassing. My only experience with sightseeing is when I ran amuck with Natalia on our day off (Thursday.) Just think "Dyck" or "Legally Blond 2," that's how we were. I seriously think our pictures are up somewhere, blacklisting us from ever working for the government again. Yep... that's me, "Jamie: Troublemaker." But as of late, I seem to have taken on the reputation as "Jamie: Drunken Whore." Funny this is, I didn't even drink! Nor am I a whore... at least I don't think I am...

We went to go visit Dr. McGinnis' house today, OG Cal in the Capitol director. He actually founded the program... very nice guy. Is now filthy rich and lives in a beautiful house with a beautiful wife, beautiful kids and a beautiful Golden Retriever. Kinda makes me want to up and move to DC to partake in the "American Dream." Though it's not LA, there are things about DC that I really love... and I've only been here for a week!!! I've still got lots of sightseeing to do...

Not the first time I went to a bar, but definitely the first time I had a friend so drunk, she blew kisses to every guy that she passed as she stumbled home. When asked where her ID was to get into our UC Center, she said, "Will my fake ID work? If not, we'll leave." I regretfully had to inform her that we weren't going to another bar, but going home to sleep. Interestingly enough, we all had a good time. We even had a guy try to walk us home. *shrug* Boy, do interns know how to party...

My first day day interning, here in Washington, DC... Gabby and I keep getting lost! Ironically, we always manage to stumble home. Instead of walking towards the UC Center from the Metro station after work today, we somehow walked in one big circle and ended up right where we started from at the station. We have yet to make it to the Safeway... we're told that it's about 4 blocks away. (The sad part is that we've tried to find the darn place twice already!)

I just found out tonight that Mr. Hayami will be in town in July... and he wants to meet up with me! Amazing, the man is driving cross country in a RV with his family. I'm supposed to be trained in giving tours around the capital on Wednesday, so when Mr. Hayami actually comes to visit, I should be a pro. Emphasis on SHOULD. We'll see how far I actually progress.

I met with Congresswoman Barbara Lee today. The Members were in session, so it was difficult to talk to them for very long. I'll update more as I attempt to take over the government. (Just kidding.) Crappers... ever seen "Enemy of the State"? (I know Caroline has... hahah.) I'm probably going to end up on some blacklist for that comment.

Contrary to all the other Capitol Hill interns, work hasn't been too boring... nothing that I haven't done for Wally: cutting newspaper articles, editting speeches, faxing, xeroxing and tons and tons of filing. Oooh... I even get to open Barbara's mail. But that's the one thing that worries me... Republicans totally hate her. I think she's even known as a "traitor to America," according to one website She's received tons of threatening mail and phone calls... with even a couple of suspected anthrax incidents. I think I am in the most high-profile, targeted office in Longworth... hmm... make that of all the Congressional delegates. Oh well, if anything happens to me, Gabbo will be right there with me in the office next door. Muhahahhaha.

FYI: People who search for "Jamie Raves" often end up at my site. I did a search today and discovered that Jamie Raves is actually a very famous male gay escort. *shocked* We are NOT to be confused.

Moving sucks... if anybody questions why, please read this.

Am loving LA life. Where else can you catch a movie and then get a breakfast burrito 24 hours of the day? The Italian Job was excellent. Great action... very much a thinking movie, like Spy Game. But for some reason, nobody else seems to like Spy Game as much as me. So if you didn't like Spy Game, the Italian Job was better than that. And if you DID like Spy Game, the Italian Job was just as great.

Never in my 20 years of existence have I ever felt as sh.tty or as beat down as the past couple of days. I've been attributing my negativity to the multitude of things that have gone wrong; from housing drama to internship problems to ASUC staffing to more housing drama (and now sore limbs). But alas, my partner in crime knows me best... I'm stronger than all that. Those weren't the reasons why I was in a slump... just the scapegoat. My one weakness is in dealing with emotions, and that was the root of it. I tried to fool myself into thinking that I'm independent enough to not let these things get me down. But when it comes right down to it, I'm just like every other person. I'm no Raskolnikov – the rules of the heart pertain to me, too. The one person that I wanted and needed the most didn't want to be there for me... and that's what really hurts. Mrs. Wellenstein was right. You make time for the things that are important to you... and apparently, I wasn't important enough...