A Blue Moon for New Year's Eve

A blue moon - the second full moon in a month - occurs once every 2.5 years, but only falls on New Year's Eve every 19 years. So in between your make-out sessions tonight, make sure to take a peek at the sky...and then go right back to sucking face.

Image: abcnews.go.com

Unfortunately, Moms Just Know Everything

Scene: Ramos living room on Christmas eve. We find Dorkys, Damaris and their mami singing and dancing away like maniacs. All of a sudden Mami Ramos stops and turns to Dorkys.

Mami: You're seeing someone.
Dorkys: What?! No, I'm not!
Mami: Yes, you are. You're way too happy.
Dorkys: What? Can't I just be happy?

Well apparently not. My own mom thinks that my happiness must surely be caused by a man. Awesome. Meanwhile I'm giving my sister discreet looks and asking, "Can she smell him on me??"

I'm still not dishing out the details with the parentals though. When Mom asked if I was seeing someone last month (because I'd been going out so much), I said, "Nope. And if I was I wouldn't tell you. You'd just meet him on my wedding day." Muahaha.

Finally! The First Gay Marriage in Latin America

Earlier this month, I wrote a quick write up for Latina.com about an Argentine couple's plans to have Latin America's first gay marriage and the last-minute monkey wrench that was flung into their dream. Well this morning I was happy to learn that they tied the knot yesterday!

And then I started reading the comments. It's frightening the way some people think. I get jokes and am not easily offended, but when I stop to think that some actually believe the crap they spew, it scares the bejesus out of me. (Just imagine how I felt when I attended an Ann Coulter event in grad school out of sheer curiosity. *Shudders*)

I just don't get what's so horrible about two people in love wanting to dedicate their lives to each other and gather the benefits a marriage provides. Why do people want to dictate everybody else's life?

I don't understand how those who jump for Jesus can be so cruel to their neighbors. It seems hypocritical to pick and follow only those parts of the Bible that sit well with you. If you're so quick to condemn, you'd be better be guaranteed canonization when you kick the bucket.

Gather everyone living with AIDS, ship them off to an island and leave them there? I mean really, who's the sick one here?

I don't even know why I get mad over ignorance. It seems like a waste of energy much better used elsewhere. Maybe because it's nearly 2010 and mentalities still haven't changed much. It's been incredibly slow-going and any lessons reaching our kids are just being undone once they get home to their parents.

That said, I have to add that although I wish for gay rights and all that good stuff, I get annoyed when a celeb or public figure comes out and makes headlines. I can't wait until being gay isn't this great big thing that needs to be plastered on the front page; that it doesn't send shock waves through a community. I can't wait until someone announces their sexual preference and the result is a resounding, "Yeah? Big whoop."

Until then, ¡que vivan los novios!

Image: news.yahoo.com

How Was Your Christmas?

I spent Noche Buena (the night of the 24th) eating, singing and dancing with the family. Presents came at midnight. Then A. and I spent Christmas Day together and between walking around Central Park, laughing at fallen ice skaters and making our way to a bar for dinner and the Lakers game, my toes froze over.

Fun, simple and a complete 180 from last year.
I'm still amazed at what a difference time makes...

Karaoke: Kelly Clarkson, "My Grown Up Christmas List"

Here you go guys! My little holiday singing telegram. I didn't have time to make this year's Christmas cards, so instead I sent along the link to my friends. Hopefully they got a little laugh out of it :)

Oh, No I Do Not Hook Up

For the better part of this year, a "friends with benefits" situation had a certain appeal to me. It allows you to be physically intimate without having to attach any meaning to it. It gives you the company without needing to put your heart on the line. Straight comfort minus the emotional vulnerability. And for someone who was ready for one thing but not the other, subscribing to the "In order to get over someone, get under someone else" philosophy sounded like a pretty tempting deal.

Too bad I'm not wired that way. The act still holds too much value for me to give it up at the drop of a hat. While I can admire and sometimes wish I had that carefree attitude the Samantha Joneses of the world possess, I know I'd inevitably catch feelings for the guy. A blog buddy recently said to me, "I think it's wrong to try and force yourself to be as free as others. If you've made it this far in life - and for young people these days that's a long way to go - while still having some solid intimacy concerns, then good for you. You're smart enough to know that heart goes with mind and mind goes with body. It's all connected...as much as women try and pretend to be like men." So I've stopped saying I want something casual when I know I wouldn't be able to handle it.

"I want something casual" is simply my way of keeping any interested guy at bay. "Something casual" means things will never progress, disappointments will never occur and this will never hurt. "Casual" means I can check out when the alarm bells ring. I'm still not even sure what scares me so much. Trusting perhaps.

Yet since A. and I started dating (and it took me several dates before I finally stopped calling it "hanging out"), it's been nothing but fun and sweet vibes from his end:

- Music's been major so far. He's introduced me to bands I've never heard of. We'll quietly sing to each other. He invites me to his friends' gigs. He'll pull out his guitar and play the only three chords he knows over and over just to make me smile and laugh. The cherry on top is when he hands the guitar over and teaches me those same three chords...over and over.

- He invited me to his company's holiday dinner Tuesday night. Talk about "Eek!" But I was actually excited to be his date for this event. I even started to get sick on Monday, but managed to fight through it and make it to the dinner. After I arrived, he took me around and introduced me to each of his coworkers. I had the loveliest night. (He's quite engrossed with the wine menu in the pictures below.)

- He's not afraid to stop and kiss me in the middle of the street even though he knows it makes me want to bolt. Though to be honest, I've taken a liking to sticking around.

So note to self: just trust...and enjoy.

Images: Daily Drop Cap by Jessica Hische, flickr.com

It's Christmas Time!

I just love "Do They Know It's Christmas Time?" I finally watched the video tonight:



And here's a much lighter version of the song:

Do They Know It's Christmas? from Scott Aukerman on Vimeo.

Avoid Holiday Debt

This could totally be too late for some of you, but I thought I'd send along some tips on how to avoid holiday debt anyway. If the damage has already been done, hey there's always next year. (But really, how bad is it?) I'm actually A-OK this year. My secret? I didn't buy a damn thing. Hooray for Christmas spirit!

Image: renovationexperts.com

When Dorkys Met Joy

So I finally met one of you for the first time: the lovely lady behind Joy De Vivre Design! She came to the city with her husband and mom and asked that I join them on Saturday. Of course, that was the day of the snowstorm (Thanks, Joy. Much appreciated), but it was so much fun despite the fact that my feet were frozen.* I always enjoy hearing out-of-towners gush about NYC; it reopens my eyes to how great this place is. Oh, and they were great tourists ;)

In the three hours that we spent walking around midtown we:

*Met up in Anthropologie. I'd never step foot in one before this.
*Caught a glimpse of the ginormous Rockefeller Center tree.
*Ate yummy cupcakes at Crumbs.
*Walked around the Mid-Manhattan Library (yes, the one from the Sex and the City movie.)
*Watched the ice skaters at Bryant Park.
*Tasted free popcorn!
*Checked out the bathrooms at Macy's. What? That was a lot of walking around!
*Ooh and aah'ed over Macy's elaborate windows.
*Stopped inside the Empire State Building lobby.
*Walked back to Grand Central Terminal were we mentioned how awesome we each were and then parted ways.

In person, Joy is definitely how she comes across on her blog: fun, sweet and super cute. In other words, a joy to hang out with. And I was relieved when she said the same about me. I mean how much would it suck if your cyber self were waaay more fun than the real you?

*Ok, leave it to the tourists to teach me how to cope with the NYC winter: mini heating pads tucked inside my gloves!

Monday Giveaway: Netflix...for a Year

That's right. Twelve whole months of DVDs delivered straight to you, which is pretty sweet when the weather sucks. Just leave a comment below and a random winner will be chosen on Christmas Day! Happy Holidays :)

CONGRATULATIONS: Ashley is this week's winner!

Image: telematicsnews.wordpress.com

Oh Christmas Tree!

I finally got my first tree! I had a little too much time on my hands so I went ahead and made my own ornaments this year. My inspiration came from Emariecreations, an adorable Etsy shop featured on Joy De Vivre Design several weeks ago. When I saw this Holiday Twist Cupcake Pendant it was love at first sight and I thought, "Man, I could totally do that!"

Well one thing led to another and pretty soon I was making all sorts of polymer clay goodies: golden pears, gingerbread men, candy canes, glazed sugar plums and presents tied up up in string. I think they came out pretty damn cute.

Oh, and I couldn't find a tree topper I liked so I grabbed a gift bow from Target and called it a day.

The Social Butterfly Effect

Like I mentioned before, a funny thing's happened since I was laid off: my social life has gone through the roof. Now I determine the days of the week by what activity I've got going that day. I say yes to most things - even if I'm dead tired - and have introduced spontaneity into my life. And somehow in between the blogger meet-up, party bus fun and holiday cocktails, I started hanging out with someone new.

A guy someone new.

And you know what? I haven't self-combusted yet. After all this time of closing myself off to the idea of moving on, I've finally realized that I'm ready for it. When I flirt (and man, does it feel good to do that again), there's no regret afterwards. When I receive a message from him, I don't wish it were from Mr. First instead. At some point in the last six months...something changed and I hadn't even noticed.

Yes, I've already freaked, the internal alarms have sounded and I keep wanting to keep my distance. But despite all that, I've also opened myself up, thrown care to the wind and decided to just go along for the ride. I'm enjoying all those little firsts you gather when you get to know someone new, the excitement that comes in discovering what makes this person tick.

So, I guess I'm dating again and let me tell you, stepping away from the fear I've been carrying all along feels so damn liberating.

Image: flickr.com

What's the Saddest Christmas Song Ever?

I challenge you to say anything other than "Christmas Shoes." I could be rocking around the Christmas tree having the time of my life and then take a sharp detour straight into Depressionville when this damn song comes on. And do I turn it off? Hell no. I pump it up and sing along! ¡Para sufrir con gusto!

So if you ever want to take your holiday happy down a notch or ten, give the song a listen. Seriously, it gets to me every single time.

Here's what comedian Patton Oswalt has to say about the jolly little song:

Wednesday Giveaway: Yep Yup

When I brought Toby home a year ago, I didn't give much thought to making his accessories fit in with the rest of my home decor. I just bought whatever would do the job and integrating this new addition - and all his stuff - into my apartment was the last thing on my mind. His crate and cushion stay tucked away in a corner and his toys are kept in Target bags. Cheap? Oh yeah. Clean and organized? No way. Appealing? Not exactly. And that's what led to the creation of Yep Yup, a line of pet products that are just as eye-catching as the rest of your home so you don't have to keep them out of sight.

This week one of you will win a set of two bowls and a treat jar in the design of your choice. Just browse through their catalog and comment on which one you love. A random winner will be chosen on Friday!

CONGRATULATIONS: Intense Guy is this week's winner!

Karaoke: Beyonce "Halo"

I actually recorded this one right after the first karaoke vlog (I don't love that shirt that much) and had planned to re-do the song in nicer clothes...and without copping so much attitude.

"You're my halo." *Snap, snap, snap*

Hot Guys and Baby Animals Calendar

When I read creator Carolyn Newman's e-mail about her Hot Guys and Baby Animals 2010 Calendar, only one word ran through my head, "Yes!" Freaking genius, if you ask me.

And many of the cuddly animals featured are in need of loving homes. I wonder if the same holds true for those yummy men...

Images: hotguysandbabyanimals.com

Precious: Based on the Novel Push by Sapphire

I'll start out by saying I did not plan to watch this movie (this week or ever). No, Tuesday was supposed to be all about Fantastic Mr. Fox and fun so when I got to the theater and found out it was sold out, I was let down. I wasn't prepped for what I did see.

Precious: Based on the Novel Push by Sapphire (good grief!) tells the story of Claireece "Precious" Jones, a 16-year-old Harlem girl growing up under the darkest of circumstances: her absent father raped her repeatedly causing a second pregnancy; her mother belittles and physically abuses her and blames Precious for her failed relationship; and somehow she managed to reach the ninth grade...without knowing how to read or write. And even though the situation seems absolutely hopeless, Precious holds onto her dreams of fame, fortune and love that help her push through every time her reality grows ever more bleak.

I'm not going to lie. This movie was tough. And for some reason, (though I think it's because we only caught glimpses of the sexual abuse) I hated Mo'Nique's character much more than the father's. How do you stand by and watch your little girl suffer? Better yet, how do you play a role in it and keep on living? There were moments when the hatred she shows Precious becomes too much to bear - I had to cover my face a couple times.

Still, I left the theater wishing I had felt the film more, that I had become a bit more entwined in the characters' lives. It also scared me a bit that I left thinking, "It was good, but...eh." Yes it portrayed a horrible situation, a story found in those neglected places we turn our heads away from and pretend don't exist. Maybe those sick stories in the news have desensitized me to this. Or maybe I just wish everyone still living in the dark also had a chance to push through, too.

Precious: 3/5 Toasties



Image: sidereel.com

Letterpressed Nordic Ski Sweater Tags

How cute is this Nordic Ski Sweater tag from Linda & Harriett?

Makes me wish I had a letterpress machine...

Images: lindaandharriett.com

Dear NYS Department of Labor

Why did you feel the need to schedule me for a mandatory workshop at 8:30 in the freakin' AM? I never had to be out and about this early when I actually had a job! I'm unemployed. Did you not think I'd had the ENTIRE rest of the day for this?!

Question for you, geniuses: What do you lose - along with a steady paycheck - when you're let go from work? Health insurance. And now, thanks to you, here are the lovely things I have to look forward to due to lack of sleep:*

1. Higher risk of catching a cold. In fact, I started sniffling on my way home and I don't think it was just because of the Arctic winds we've got going here.

2. Alzheimer's? Sure why not. My memory has already been going down the crapper for the past 10 years.

3. Why hello diabetes, heart problems, depression and obesity! And that stuff you guys were yapping on about? Totally did not process it.

4. I could die. Oh, awesome. Merry Christmas to you, too.

Seriously, it's like adding insult to an injury I can't afford. Work on it.

*These are obviously possible effects from prolonged sleep deprivation. In no way does this mean that I will not blame the NYS DOL for their insensitivity.

Tuesday Giveaway: Bobo Wrapping Scarf

Looking for an eco-friendly twist on wrapping for the holidays? Then grab inspiration from the Korean tradition of wrapping with fabric (known as bojagi) and tuck your gift inside a beautiful scarf. Not only will the recipient get an extra reusable present, it'll make an eye-catching statement as well. Plus, with a scarf, you can forgo a gift bag for those hard-to-wrap items. (Wine bottles anyone?) No scissors, tape or patience necessary.

Bobo Wrapping Scarves come in a lovely selection of prints and if you haven't a clue about the art of scarf wrapping, they have how-to videos for several projects. (Don't worry, they're easy. I received a how-to for a mini hobo bag and was done in less than a minute!)

This week two of you will win these goodies from Bobo. One will score a copy of The Wrapping Scarf Revolution along with an Amethyst Velvet Dot scarf. The other will receive a Zebra Print Medium scarf. Just leave a comment below and two random winners will be chosen on Friday! (Followers and e-mail subscribers gain extra entries.)

CONGRATULATIONS: Dariany and Maxie are this week's winners (respectively)!

Images: theleisureboutique.com, bobowrap.com and bobowrap.com

Happy Weekend!

I went to my first blog meet-up last night with a group of 20 Something Bloggers at Fat Cat. Of course I get there, the place is packed and I have no clue what anybody looks like! Thankfully, Andrew found me and we spent the night chatting it up. I wish I'd met the others who apparently were there somewhere, but I had a fun time regardless :)

My friend JK and I have a new hangout spot: Tonic. So far the two times I've been there have been pretty interesting/hilarious. Plus, ladies drink free Wednesdays 8-9PM.

I've been busy with a story due Monday (among other things) so I've been super behind on my holiday to-dos and blog stuff, but I'll get reorganized on Tuesday, promise. In the meantime...

The milk teefs are up to their cute little antics again.

This surprised kitty is soo stinkin' adorable!
The results of Slate's "Write Like Sarah Palin" contest = hilarious.
Know what else is funny? Josh singing "Leavin'." Or anything for that matter.

Amazon is giving away a new holiday song download every day til Christmas! (via Sugarlens)

Print your own holiday gift tags.
I want all my presents tied up in pretty striped string. (via How About Orange)

Are you guys all set for the season? I've yet to start, but I keep reading about people who
are ALL DONE!! What planet are they from? Please tell me you're procrastinating, too.

P.S. How magical do The Shops at Columbus Circle look?

The Lost Tribes of New York City

This little video made me smile :)

The Lost Tribes of New York City from Carolyn London on Vimeo.

How Much Experience Should Your Sex Partner Have?

You know how sometimes a question just pops into your head out of nowhere and instead of wondering where the hell it came from, you actually stop and ponder over it?

Yeah? Good, then bear with me on this one:

Would you rather date someone relatively inexperienced in bed or someone who's been around the block and back and can blow your mind between the sheets?

So last night I'm laying there in bed thinking, "Wow, good question, Dorkys. Which would you prefer? And what on Earth have you been reading these days?"

Who knows, but I think there are good and bad qualities to both sides so let's take a look:

Mr. Ain't Got a Clue

Yays: If he's straight up about his lack of sexpertise (womp, womp!), this could actually be endearing. He could be willing to try his best to please you and if you're in the same boat, how cute would it be to learn how to master those moves together minus the pressure and pretense? He probably hasn't had many partners (or partners willing to teach him), so if you have the patience to give this a chance, it could pay off down the line.

Nays: Is there anything worse than a cocky guy who doesn't know how to use the damn thing? Not to mention frustrating. Foresee a stream of bad, awkward sex before it gets any better. And if you're too hung up on protecting his ego (or he simply refuses to listen), there's also going to be a whole lot of counting the cracks on the ceiling and praying it's over soon. Fun times. (No, not really.)


The Man Whore

Yays: He knows exactly what to do. There's no need to guide his hand or present him with a diagram with arrows, x's and "Oh!"s. The sex will always be good - really, really good - and he's having it with you.

Nays: Consider how he came to learn all he knows and ask yourself how much this matters to you. If you can't get past his number, it could become an issue. Also, if he's much more experienced than you are, you might feel a bit insecure. But hey, you'll definitely pick up a thing or two from him. Let's just hope it's not Chlamydia.

Image: blogs.smh.com.au

Need to Call It Quits With Your BFF?

Sometimes you wish you were still close with people from your past and sometimes...well, sometimes you just can't run fast enough from those around you now. Here's when and how to handle the breakup.

Image: flickr.com

My First Advent Calendar and December Goodness

Man, did I become a PRO at folding paper sacks (out of magazine pages, of course). I wonder if there's a market for them...

Anywho, I got my advent calendar up and filled some days with treats (for the furball et moi) and others with little holiday activities to get me into the spirit of Christmas. Not that I need much help there since I've been listening to Christmas music on the radio since Friday. And no, I will not tire of it ever. Here are some of the things I'll be doing this month:

1. Sign up for a New York Cares volunteer project.
2. See the Rockefeller Center tree and department store window displays.
3. Finish up my homemade Christmas ornaments.
4. Buy, put up and decorate my first Christmas tree.**
5. Collect and donate used coats to the New York Cares Coat Drive.
6. Go ice skating for free at Bryant Park.
7. Donate a gift to Toys for Tots.
8. Buy apple cider from the farmer's market.
9. Finally listen to the Nutcracker CD Mr. First gave me last year.
10. Give those Salvation Army Santas the time of day for once.
11. Mail off my handmade Christmas cards.
12. Walk around the neighborhood with Toby at night to see decorated houses.
13. Watch holiday classics for the first time.*
14. Chocolate milk, candles, the couch and It's a Wonderful Life (for the first time).*
15. Bake a crumb cake and give it all away.
16. Post a Christmas carol karaoke on the blog.
17. Call friends and family. Beg them not to send me a mass text for Christmas.
18. Exchange goodies on Noche Buena at midnight!

*I've never watched all those holiday specials. Yes, for shame. What the hell did I do as a kid?
**We always had a tree though (I wasn't that deprived). This will just be the first one I get for myself.

Karaoke: Colbie Caillat "Bubbly"

Lately I've been doing a whole mess of singing around the house. Now I'd totally be down for a karaoke outing BUT my friends are too lame shy to sing along with me. So here's the first karaoke vlog because who couldn't use a laugh today?

(I figured I'd start off slow and easy so as not to scare the crap out of you. Hmm, that little serious face of mine might do it anyway though.)

Monday Giveaway: Maptote

I'm really feeling this fun New York City Grocery Tote from Maptote. They make environmentally friendly bags with silk screened maps, icons and landmarks (as well as Mapnotes!) so you can rep your city - or your dream hometown - with pride.

This week one of you will win a grocery tote of your choice. Just check out the site, shop around and comment on your favorite one. Followers and e-mail subscribers (give me a heads up) gain extra entries and a random winner will be chosen on Wednesday!

CONGRATULATIONS: Joy De Vivre Design is this week's winner! (Sorry I was so late!)

Image: maptote.com

Advent Calendar Round-Up

The countdown to Jesus' birthday is on! And unlike last year, this time I'm all in.
Here's how to spread the goodies and the love all month long.

This fabric calendar is so colorful and fun, I'd be tempted to leave it up year-round.
(via The Crafty Crow)

Or how about a paper cone version made by the little ones? (via Whip Up)

I'm also loving these simple little bags and recycled newspaper designs.

(So basically, I'm all over anything hung up with clothespins and thread!)

Nice Package has a how-to for a mini envelope advent tree!

Or head to Mibo for a free printable calendar. (via How About Orange)

How sweet is this one though? Jordan even offers up a list of special ways
to celebrate the entire holiday season. And this year I cannot wait :)

Thankful for the People I Still Know

ome people feel that because I currently don't have a full-time I should be blogging on this thing 24/7. "You should be having giveaways five days a week!" a certain someone said. "Bring back Biz Quiz and Where in the World!"

Sorry to disappoint you, Sis, but no. For as much as I'd love to dedicate my entire being to this blog (right), I've actually been playing the social butterfly the last few days and reconnecting with old friends.

- I really needed an outing last week so I went to Public House with my undergrad buddy JK and some of her friends. We made fun of people's dancing, were probably made fun of and made "friends" with a couple weirdos who joined me in singing "Living on a Prayer." That song always does the trick.

- On Saturday I was immersed in football after a spontaneous invite from JK to meet her at Central Park. Her friend was playing with some UCLA alumni and afterwards we headed to Cornerstone Tavern for bar food, drinks...and more football watching. Thing lasted life, but I survived :)

- I spent Monday in Brooklyn with one of my high school BFFs that I hadn't seen in over a year (til I ran into her on my way back from the press trip)! We spent three hours working away at Starbucks and another three hours talking over dinner. It was incredible discovering what we'd gone through in the past year and why we each kept to ourselves instead of reaching out for the other. I left her house overjoyed that we'd reconnected and that it had been as if we never lost touch at all.

- And then Tuesday I had dinner with my closest girls from grad school whom I also hadn't seen in over a year. We rehashed every outing, every guy we crushed over and played "Where the Hell Are They Now?" with practically every kid in our class (Facebook is good for that, you know). Midnight came too soon and I wish it didn't end, but I walked home laughing to myself thinking of all the memories I made that year.

These are just some of the little things I'm grateful for at this moment. The fact that I've had awesome people in my life and that time can pass and then revert just as quickly.

And, of course, I'm thankful for you. You keep coming back (for some odd reason) to leave me smiles and words of encouragement day after day and I truly appreciate it. So I'll leave you with one quote I received last week from a sweet e-mail subscriber:

"'Come to the edge.' 'We can't. We're afraid.' 'Come to the edge.' 'We can't. We will fall!' 'Come to the edge.' And they came. And he pushed them. And they flew." ~Guillaume Apollinaire

I hope you have a lovely Thanksgiving.

Image: Daily Drop Cap by Jessica Hische

Prepping for the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade