Love and Tomato Sauce

Have you ever been to Heaven on Earth?

2010-04-17T15:11:00.003-05:00

Apparently, Offspring and Selfridges have.
Via freshness.

なんで。

2010-04-07T22:16:00.001-05:00

I do not miss this about Japan.

Yo hum YUM.

2010-03-31T20:39:00.001-05:00

These are a few of my favorite things!

Tokyo Glow

2010-03-01T22:45:00.001-06:00

Gorgeous.

tokyoglow from Nathan Johnston on Vimeo.

"Tokyo Glow" by The Generic Man.

Perfect.

2010-02-21T18:46:00.002-06:00

Sometimes I forget that life is not about
what city you're in or how prestigious your job is,
what you wear or who you're dating.

Then I visit a certain group of friends, or FAMILY shall we say?
Today was that day,
and it was just in time.

After waking up to red Sharpie on my face
and birds attacking my sanity,
we pulled ourselves together for some quality time.

We talked feminism over brunch
and pieced together the conversations of last night.

I earned yet another nickname
while we acquired two new family members.

There were trust and honesty,
mixed with ideals and aspirations.

I laughed 'til I cried,
which made everyone laugh...
'til I cried some more.

We reminisced
in between dreams.

And we loved.
Isn't that what life is truly about?

Japanda No. 2

2010-02-18T22:57:00.000-06:00

I hope Kazuhiro Kokubo wins a gold medal.

Whatever You Think I Am, That's What I'm Not

2010-02-18T22:14:00.003-06:00

Should I go to church?
God's with me now.

Should I take pictures of myself
in my latest, zany outfit
and post them on my blog?

Should I wear heels more?

Should I watch TV?
I think mine's broken.

Should I cook and clean
while he goes to work?

Should I lose weight?

Should I support the war?
People are dying
and I'm out dancing.

Should I drink less?

Should I drink more?
Because it's so frustrating.

Should I be me?
Or who you think I should be?

Neon for Spring?

2010-02-04T21:42:00.003-06:00

These are just what I need, although then I'd also need a new wardrobe.

Or maybe something a little more subtle?

Nike Vandal High VNTG Supreme
Via Freshness!

When It All Falls Down

2010-02-01T19:59:00.006-06:00

It's crazy how we're touched by certain things in life. I've never set foot in Baseline Studios or even heard much about it, but when I read about its closing, a somber fog descended upon my reality. Despite my being all but unaware of its existence, the studio and the art created within those walls has shaped my world for the past six years. It's not that Just Blaze, Kanye and Jay-Z were left homeless a few days ago or that they won't be able to make music anymore; it's more that this is just another symbol of the end of an era. Maybe it's that I could already feel a change in the air; the wind had already shifted directions and now it's gotten a few degrees colder.

Via 2dopeboyz.

Naomi Campbell Walk!

2010-02-01T19:26:00.003-06:00

Me too, girl, me too.

You see me.

2010-01-21T22:17:00.006-06:00

I like the way you read my eyes,
like an open book
without sunglasses.

You can feel me blush through the phone;
Or was that what you were aiming for?

I like your soft but manly hands
and your swagger
when you dance.

My style is yours
the next day
when you show up in my clothes.

Your cockiness pulls me in
right before
it lets me down...again.

I enjoy movies more
when I'm with you.

You see me
when I am blind.
I think that's the way you like it.

Boom! POW!!!

2010-01-21T21:11:00.003-06:00

I haven't bought any new sneakers in over a year....

Spike Jonze x Absolut

2010-01-21T20:29:00.002-06:00

I'm Here from Clark Magazine on Vimeo.

Trailer for I'm Here. It's a love story.
Via Highsnobiety.

I Still Love Everything Grey

2010-01-12T21:50:00.002-06:00

I would rock this new backpack from Louis Vuitton's Spring/Summer 2010 collection.....everywhere and with everything.
Via HIGHSNOBIETY.

To Carry or Not to Carry

2010-01-11T18:52:00.002-06:00

Inspired by an email from A.P. today, I wonder again if I should make this purchase.
Pietro Alessandro Medium Foldover in Tan

Flocks of Feathers

2010-01-10T19:57:00.004-06:00

My newest accessory is a bird.
P.S. My camera is possessed (it happened about a year ago), so the effects are attributable only to the phantom behind the lens.

Leather and Hardware

2010-01-09T00:19:00.003-06:00

I've been looking for a great leather jacket for years now, and I stumbled upon this today. I think it might be....the one. (gasp)
Motor Bomber by Alpha Industries Inc.

And another one...

2010-01-06T21:36:00.003-06:00

I swear he touched my soul with cold hands many years ago.

Kid Cudi ft. MGMT and Ratatat - "Pursuit of Happiness"
This is perfect.

It's getting late, but I don't mind.

2010-01-06T17:36:00.004-06:00

Check out Cudi and Johnny Angel partying in Miami on New Year's Eve. Kid Cudi has THE best swagger in the music industry right now, but I admire the camera-person's focus in making John Legend the centerpiece of Kid Cudi's performance. I think Cudi and I were connected in a previous life, because he has too much insight into my world.
Via the ILLionaire.

Japanda: Week 1

2010-01-03T22:13:00.004-06:00

Favorite Japanda I've seen this week. I'm gonna try to keep this weekly installment going all year. The same goes for my blog, though..... First things first.

Via style-arena.jp.

The Music's for the Sad Man

2010-01-03T12:24:00.003-06:00

If you love me, this is how you let me know: don't ever let me go.

Jay-Z ft. Mr. Hudson- "Forever Young"
Directed by Anthony Mandler.

May the best of your todays be the worst of your tomorrows.

This Is It

2010-01-03T12:10:00.003-06:00

Will this always reach into my body and grab at my heart?
Michael Jackson - "This Is It"
Directed by Spike Lee.
Via Kanye.

Happy New Year

2010-01-02T00:13:00.002-06:00

I love this. Look at the power it conveys. Nothing can stop her.

Heavenly Couple

2009-10-14T17:35:00.002-05:00

Now wouldn't THEY be a cute couple! I wouldn't even be jealous of this one.

Sunglasses Is A Must

2009-05-11T20:34:00.004-05:00

Although I just bought a new pair of Initium sunglasses, I am already DYING for these "Prototypes" by Yohji Yamamoto for Linda Farrow Gallery. My birthday is in 2 months and 18 days. I'm just sayin.

KAWS

2009-02-27T17:21:00.000-06:00

I love this dude. I got this magazine when I was in Japan.

Sayonara

2008-12-01T07:08:00.004-06:00

I've started to say goodbye to all of the amazing people I've been blessed to know in Japan. Yesterday I went to my Japanese family's house for the last time to have dinner and play with the young kids, MoJo. This was the cake they got to celebrate my farewell:
"Keito" is how you say my name in Japanese, and since my friend's sister doesn't know English she didn't know how to spell my name correctly. She got bitched at a little by my friend, Kuniko, but I like this MUCH better than regular old "Kate". And the part in Japanese says "Gambattene!" which means "Do your best" and is often used in situations that may be difficult for the person. Joy and sadness ensues.

It's A New Day

2008-11-19T09:25:00.005-06:00

I've been overjoyed for the past two weeks because of one nation supporting one man. "Stop to cherish this moment. Stop to cherish this time."

It's A New Day - will.i.am

Yes We Can

2008-11-05T10:10:00.006-06:00

I'm so proud to be an American right now, and I look forward to returning to the States to witness the change promised to that great nation by the new President-elect, Barack Obama!
Click here to watch his speech.

Happy Halloween...

2008-10-30T10:07:00.006-05:00

Japanese style!

Willy Wonka and my flower children:
Japanese vampires are soooo kawaii!
Flamers atop a house dance party:
Dressed as a kabuki actor:

Riff Raff on Crack

2008-10-21T11:06:00.001-05:00

I guess I've seen this video twenty times but I can't help but tear up laughing every time.

I see ya T-Baby!

Marley Love

2008-10-17T09:42:00.001-05:00

One of my faves is at it again.

The Mission - Damian Marley and Stephen Marley

Somethin Goin On

2008-10-13T19:41:00.002-05:00

Check out my public relations professor's new protest song. I had the coolest professors ever at MTSU.

Somethin Goin On by Beth Raebeck Hall

Oktoberfest

2008-10-08T10:50:00.004-05:00

This past Monday, we put on our game faces and took to Yokohama to partake in the city's annual Oktoberfest celebration. The variety of German food and beer was decent, although expensive(around $15-$25 for a nice sized beer). We got German flag ribbons for every beer we bought, so I took two and made a headband. Later I glanced around and found that a couple of older Japanese party heads had followed my lead and were sporting their black, yellow and red in true hipster fashion. Then a sixty-something Japanese blogger came over to ask if he could take my picture...I obliged and then got his contact info so we could check it out online. He has much better pictures on his blog than I do.
Part of our crew:
Me and my cousin Matt at karaoke at the end of the day:

Bam Chicka Wah Wah

2008-10-08T10:31:00.010-05:00

Here are a few pics from a beach dance party I went to back in August. We rocked our bodies to house and techno all day, while sipping vodka Red Bulls alongside the great Pacific. Okay, actually I wasn't doing too much body rockin' cause I was out til dawn the night before, gettin' down to the latest hip-hop joints.

Train wreck vision of the day:
Closing time:

Bring your green hat!

2008-10-07T19:32:00.002-05:00

"Let's go streakin' through the Imperial Palace." I visited Japan's current Imperial Palace in Tokyo for the first time on Sunday, but it looks like I was a couple of days early as I missed all the good stuff. Like this foreigner skinny dipping in the moat.

P.S. This is so typical of Japan's police force. Dudes, the man only has a long pole.

Perfect Impression

2008-09-15T08:01:00.001-05:00

I knew Sarah Palin looked pretty familiar....Tina Fey as Sarah Palin on Saturday Night Live:

Good Ass Job

2008-09-06T17:08:00.001-05:00

God has smiled down on me from Heaven at 7am on a Sunday when I haven't gone to sleep yet. The perfect ending to.....anything.

Bottom of the map.

2008-09-02T10:38:00.002-05:00

This CNN video clip of Anderson Cooper interviewing Barack Obama is good for several reasons:
A. Two engaging, commanding, extremely intelligent, confident men in a discussion on the welfare of a great American city.
B. Obama has obviously forgone a haircut to deal with more important things at hand. Where's Michelle when he needs her? Maybe he's trying to prove that he is indeed "real" too, despite his daughters not being old enough to have baby daddies like Governor Palin's.
C. Obama said he'd be in New Orleans "in a hot second" if it was decided that his presence there would help things. Anyone who can so easily slip in a little 'hood flava on CNN most definitely has my vote. We need more ghetto slang on respectable media outlets.

Obama x Tribe

2008-08-31T08:37:00.003-05:00

I'm pretty sure I need this in order to live for the next three months. Sooo.....if you wanna buy it, click here.

My sex is on fire!

2008-08-27T11:52:00.002-05:00

New album, Only By The Night, out September 23.
Sex On Fire

Sex On Fire - Kings of Leon

Red Light, GREEN LIGHT

2008-08-23T21:21:00.002-05:00

I need this in my life....24/7.

Green Light - John Legend ft. Andre 3000

His name ain't 'Bolt' for nothin'.

2008-08-21T11:18:00.004-05:00

While shattering America's gold medal hopes, Usain Bolt from Jamaica sprinted his way to the front in both the 100m and 200m, the first to do so since Carl Lewis. Oh, and he broke both world records. Do you think it's roids? Is that question gonna follow super-speedsters from here on out? I mean, I totally thought Marion Jones was telling the truth about being clean. Sigh. But for now I'm ultra-happy for Lightning Bolt. Also, I'd be a fan, even if he came in last, cause his kick game is on point. Even at that speed, I could see the gold glistening as it hit the track. AND he dances. I couldn't find the more extensive 200m victory dance, so here's the 100m groove:

Emo in Japanese is prettier.

2008-08-21T10:55:00.003-05:00

Here's a video of a performance from the Tokyo Design Festa in May. I didn't film this....just found it online, and remembered the eery performance. But this wasn't the music they used, and the editing is bad. Okay, this is really for me....to jolt my memory....not for you to enjoy.

Samurai Dave is lame.

Sightseeing at Fuji Rock

2008-08-13T09:34:00.012-05:00

Here are some of the visuals stationed throughout the festival grounds:

Candles in the Field of Heaven:
Discoballin' on the Boardwalk:
Dragons in Orange Court:
Starry starry night created by a high-flying disco ball in the forest:
The mechanical shark swimming in the river while unsuspecting Fuji Rockers play in the water:
Being watched, or watched over, depending on how you look at it:

Singh is King

2008-08-12T20:15:00.002-05:00

The new Bollywood blockbuster features none other than the D-O Double G in, arguably, his best look ever. If you can weather the first four minutes, the last minute and a half contains the true treasures:

- Snoop in a turban.....and the traditional Dickies khakis.

- The Indian king being served chicken and waffles while Snoop is dished up some naan and saag paneer.

This is real good.

Brang me some grapes over here, baby. Ya dig?

Fuji Rock Festival 2008

2008-07-28T03:37:00.011-05:00

On Friday, Saturday and Sunday I experienced a side of Japan that many people miss. Thanks to Angie Gore and the guys at Superfly and Smash, I danced all weekend at Fuji Rock Festival at Naeba Ski Resort in Niigata. There was music galore, food from around the world, camping in the mountains and elaborate props designed to mesmerize and wow.
The shinkansen, or bullet train, that took us to and from the festival:Me with my partner Fuji Rocker, Lindsey:I enjoyed lots of music: new(The Rascals from the UK) and old(Bootsy Collins' tribute to James Brown), local(Ben Folds, who currently resides in Nashville) and foreign(the gypsy funk band, Gogol Bordello, led by Ukrainian front man). Spoon was one of the first bands we saw this weekend:
The natural views of the mountains were amazing. Here's a shot from the Dragondola that carried us to Day Dreaming and Silent Breeze on the top of the mountain....total hippie party:
Colorful Fuji Rock people were lounging randomly throughout the festival but mostly in the river with the mechanical swimming shark:Artists working on a canvas while the band played across from them:
Roaming performers served as alternative entertainment. Ya girl wasn't playing:
A friend we made while packing up to go home:

Purple Drank Kicks

2008-07-28T03:08:00.001-05:00

Would you ever give up your citizenship?

2008-07-23T12:26:00.004-05:00

NO!!!!!
I was born in the greatest country in the world.
I AM AMERICAN.
My lineage is great. It's comprised of men and women who've fearlessly fought for what they believed in. Revolutionaries determined to make a new life for themselves and live by their own laws. Men and women who withstood cruel and unjust treatment under slavemasters for centuries. People who crossed the unknown wilderness in search of promised riches. Writers and poets who believed they could make a difference though their words. Musicians who sought to escape injustice though jazz, blues, rock 'n' roll and hip-hop. Natives who suffered and lost what was rightfully theirs. Women who were not content to be governed by the decisions made by their husbands and fathers. Immigrants who left everything and survived the most severe conditions in order to give their children better opportunities in the New World. Men not satisfied with the world they knew, who set out to conquer the unknown of the universe through space exploration. Men, women and children who still engage in the daily struggle to put food on the table and gas in their cars, even as prices rise faster than the money can be made. These are my people and I wouldn't forsake them for all the riches in the world.
Being in Japan for less than eight months has created in me a respect and love for my country that 23 years in America couldn't. Now, as we wage this new war for change, I watch from afar as a man in unjustly ridiculed for a name he was given at birth and for a simple fist jab given affectionately to his wife, mother of his children and number one supporter. Yet, despite the adversity, he has managed to gain the support of a nation hungry for new principles, eager to see one man turn the page in America's history books.
America, are you ready?

The World's Greatest

2008-07-23T10:28:00.002-05:00

First, peep the REAL doorknockers I received this morning as a birthday present. My mom took my beloved but cheap, ATL vintage doorknockers to the jewelry store and upgraded.

Second, I received this pic of my dad from a recent annual picnic with his college buds. This stuff makes my day.

The joker IS wild!

87 Types of Wrong

2008-07-23T09:31:00.004-05:00

We'll number 'em, cause there can't be as many as I originally thought.
1. DJ Khaled opening the video in a black garbage bag.
2. Akon sangin' bout being raised in the streets, despite numerous claims that he came from a nice, middle-class family.
3. Akon's head blendin' in with his jacket.
4. Ricky Ross's 'Singin' in the Rain' dance combo, complete with backup dancers and red umbrellas.
5. Plies' debut in the vid, lookin' like he's bein' detained at a dog fight. Where's Mike Vick?
6. T-Pain's 'Mad Hatter' cameo.
7. Boosie doin' one of his 'Alphabet Song' remixes that he's recently made popular.
8. The whole scene of Boosie barely escaping that ginormous flame.
9. Ace Hood photoshopped into the Grand Theft Auto game.
10. Baby girl lookin' quite serene under a car in the middle of a tornado.
11. DJ Khaled sippin' Wal-Mart's Pearberry Passionfruit body spray straight from the bottle.
12. Plies' reappearance lookin' like......he looked. I don't know how else to put that.

I'm just sayin'. Also, I like Trick Daddy blowin' smoke in the wind better than Militant Trick.

Giirrrllll BYE!

2008-07-20T21:39:00.003-05:00

I imagine that's what this kitty is saying with his paw gesture. I'd like to have one of these over the entrance to my home or place of business one day. Anyone else?

Hanabi Matsuri

2008-07-20T21:27:00.003-05:00

Yesterday I went to my first hanabi matsuri, or fireworks festival. These are very popular in Japan in the summer, and put 4th of July shows to shame. Yesterday's festival in the Yokohama bay lasted over an hour, with images of smiley faces, cherry blossoms, hearts, and Hello Kitty lighting up the sky. And it saw so many people that I couldn't call or email from my phone for almost an hour due to the busy network. These summer festivals are also fun because Japanese men and women of all ages dress in the traditional yukata, which is an informal summer kimono often made of cotton. Here's a pic of a couple in yukata:

R.I.P. Dilla

2008-07-20T21:13:00.002-05:00

J Dilla's younger brother, Illa J, pays tribute to the late legendary beatmaster with cameos from lots of Dilla's followers.

"Won't Do" by Illa J

Graduation Kicks

2008-07-17T20:27:00.002-05:00

Custom kicks featuring album artwork from Kanye's latest, Graduation.

Be KANYE

2008-07-04T18:02:00.006-05:00

The new drug of choice turns ANYone into Kanye West. I may need to stock up on a couple of packages for those friends who just aren't cool enough. But don't worry.....they "are not tested on animals. That would be weird."
www.bekanyenow.com

Genius At Work

2008-06-08T09:12:00.001-05:00

My favorite of the Flashing Lights trilogy:

Kanye West - "Flashing Lights"

Shabu-shabu

2008-06-08T02:57:00.005-05:00

A couple of weeks ago I went to dinner with my co-workers for my first shabu-shabu experience. You pay a set price for an hour and a half and they bring trays of thinly sliced beef and pork, which you cook at the table in a hot pot of your desired broths, along with tons of vegetables from the vegetable bar. It was a fun eating experience and the most meat I've had since I've been in Japan.

Upper MGMT

2008-06-03T11:53:00.003-05:00

I love them and this video...much better than the original. Reminds me of of love. AND he's rockin' a Mexican blanket print vest.

MGMT - "Electric Feel"

Kamakura

2008-06-01T08:58:00.005-05:00

Okay, these pics are old now, but here are a few from the A.P.-Skittles Ferrari Reunion Marathon that aired in Japan during Golden Week....for you numb skulls, that would be 'Alex's Trip.' All were taken in Kamakura, which was our day trip outside the city to see the giant Buddha and hike.
Japanese garden at Hase-Dera Temple:

My first beach in Japan:

Familiar Faces in Random Places

2008-06-01T08:37:00.005-05:00

I was just Facebook stalking.....I mean, browsing through a friend's pictures, and I came across these beauties! Well, if it isn't Andrew and Lauren who are in absolutely NO way connected to the friend whose Facebook pictures I was admiring.
I've loved this guy since the first moment I met him, because not only did he compliment me before we were introduced, but the exact compliment was "Sweet Kicks." If you know me, you know how this must've made me feel. And the first time I met this gal, she puked on my parents garden patio at a family Halloween party. Yeah, they're keepers. It's a small world after all.

Eye Candy

2008-05-15T11:19:00.002-05:00

Check out the new Pierre Hardy kicks.
Via the cool hunter.

All up in my Kool-Aid

2008-05-07T09:10:00.005-05:00

I'mma need these glasses when I come back to the States. They're real glasses designed to look like the plastic cups you use for Purple Drank at your cousin's grill-out. Terrell musta thought these up while listenin' to Three 6 Mafia and DJ Screw and chewin' on a chicken wang. I love them.
Copped from Kanye's blog.

Feliz Cinco de Mayo!

2008-05-05T09:23:00.003-05:00

May you all toast with margaritas and Dos Equis. Salud!

Gold Digger

2008-05-05T09:20:00.004-05:00

New Gold Court Force Highs just in time for Golden Week.

Shoulders, Chest, Pants, Shoes

2008-04-20T19:41:00.002-05:00

Any presidential candidate that will brush the haters off definitely has my vote. Can you just imagine the hype for a Wipe Me Down Party on Pennsylvania Avenue? Talk about CRUNK Ish!

She's Dead, So Get Over It.

2008-04-14T06:18:00.002-05:00

I love innovative advertisers.
From Australian t-shirt brand, Goatboy.

Hanami 2008

2008-04-14T06:04:00.003-05:00

It's been so long since I've posted any pictures of Japan, I'm sure you forgot that I was even in the Land of the Rising Sun. So here are a couple of Kodak moments from my school's hanami party last weekend. (A hanami party is basically a group of people posted up in the park for a day of eating, drinking, and looking at the cherry blossoms...and playing frisbee and soccer if you were with our camp.) Anyway, it was warm and gorgeous last weekend, and I thoroughly enjoyed my first hanami.

One day...

2008-04-13T06:02:00.002-05:00

I'll go to sleep in Paris and wake up in Tokyo, hit up Carnival in Rio and Oktoberfest in Germany, watch the Cup of Nations in Africa and the Running of the Bulls in Pamplona....and still make it home for Thanksgiving. Until then, there's this:

"Paris, Tokyo" by Lupe Fiasco

Birthday Request

2008-03-31T08:13:00.003-05:00

Orange Gazelles by Claw Money
For those early bird shoppers looking for the perfect gift, these are only for the Fly Babies. It came to me in a dream, or an email....same thing. They won't replace the Jeremy Scotts, but they will certainly find a place in my wardrobe. Sick.

Hip-Hop Saved My Life

2008-03-23T07:17:00.004-05:00

If you haven't seen it yet, Lupe's new video is killin' everything out right now. Mad props for featuring Texas's finest in the vid.

Lupe Fiasco ft. Nikki Jean - "Hip-Hop Saved My Life"

One Loaf of Bread

2008-03-20T19:08:00.002-05:00

Damian Marley's new video:

Damian Marley - "One Loaf of Bread (Something for You)"

Santogold

2008-03-08T06:27:00.002-06:00

Finally a genius video to accompany this diamond of a song. She's holding steady for a few months now as the number one object of my obsessions.

"L.E.S. Artistes" by Santogold

Identity Crisis?

2008-03-02T08:14:00.003-06:00

Whenever I question my whiteness, all I have to do is head over to Stuff White People Like, read a couple of entries, and it's confirmed that I am, indeed, white. For example, I love coffee, Mos Def, vintage anything, and recycling. I own a Mac and use it to scour for new independent musicians that no one knows yet. I want my children to be bilingual. I'm living in Japan. I enjoy having expensive sandwiches with A.P. and breakfast at trendy breakfast spots. I think marijuana should be legal, and I could easily be a vegetarian for the rest of my life....except for sushi. There you have it....definitely white.

Whaddya do?!?

2008-03-02T08:04:00.004-06:00

From the looks of this photo, I'd say Chris Farley has an illegitimate child whose mother is a fan of Sears Portrait Studio. I'm just saying.

Click on the image for the full effect. Props to K.Shep for this.

We Can Change The World

2008-03-01T08:19:00.001-06:00

Another gem from Will.i.am and his hopeful Obama endorsers:

No More Murses!

2008-02-26T09:53:00.002-06:00

Tired of seeing grown-ass men carrying purses and playing their PSPs on the train ride home? Well, I am. And the video hit just in time. Nothing interesting, but it's at least worth listening to this song again. And Johnny Boy's pretty face is in the video.

"American Boy" - Estelle featuring Kanye West

I WANT CHANGE

2008-02-04T04:07:00.000-06:00

Looks like I'm not the only one.

New Amerykah

2008-02-04T03:37:00.000-06:00

The new album from Erykah Badu, New Amerykah, drops on February 26, 2008. If only the title was a literal promise. Oh well, the music can keep our spirits alive until November, when her prediction may be realized.

"Honey" by Erykah Badu

She is the ultimate Fly Baby!

Crew Profile: Taradactyl

2008-02-03T07:56:00.000-06:00

Occupation: Panda lover

Zodiac sign: Virgo

At a restaurant: Orders everything "with cheese, please."

"I'll have a hamburger, with cheese, please."

"I'd like a slice of chocolate cake, with cheese, please."

"Vodka tonic. With cheese, please."

Lifestyle: CRUNK....it chose her.

At a party: Always toasts to Ne-Yo. I didn't even know she liked that kind of music.

Charity of choice: Pandas International

I Get By With a Little Help From My Friends

2008-02-03T07:51:00.000-06:00

So, the least I could do is tell all my friends about each other...kinda like the cheerleader in high school, but not as mean. Check back occasionally to see if YOU are in the spotlight, or to read about another one of my friends...or maybe even a NEW friend, although those are few and far between these days. Damn language barrier.

Glow in the Dark

2008-01-31T09:01:00.000-06:00

No need in me even trying. Let's go straight to the source for this one.

I need dates. And I need Japan to be on the list.

R.I.P. Heath

2008-01-23T08:22:00.001-06:00

Heath Ledger was found dead in his New York apartment on the afternoon of Tuesday, January 22. Speculations are favoring an overdose or suicide, although no note was found. What a shame this is....I thoroughly enjoyed staring at this man on the big screen...even when, in Brokeback Mountain, it was clear he was not interested in this, or any, woman. I don't really get into movies or actors but I'm sincerely gonna miss this one.
Details from The Times

Winehouse x Marley

2008-01-23T07:43:00.000-06:00

There are only two syllables that can single-handedly excite me more that those two last names, and we all know what those two syllables are....Kan-Ye. But this is not about him, this is about the two voices that can stop me dead in my tracks, even when my tracks are leading to a shopping spree:
Amy, who sounds like a woman in love, drunk on red wine AND
Damian, who seduces me with vocals that shout "Bob Marley taught me how to smoke."

Word is that Amy Winehouse is hoping for a trip to Jamaica to free herself of her massive burden of problems at home, but, most importantly, to have a little reggae infused into her music by none other than Damian Marley. If this is true, I'm going to be in heaven. I can't think of a better collaboration right now. I'm still virtually speechless after reading the news, via the Melody Makers' website. I'm gonna pray this happens.

Recommendations:
Welcome to Jamrock - Damian Marley; he made me dance on the daily with this one
Back to Black - Amy Winehouse; if you haven't heard this, you must be living under a rock

Paparazzi In Training

2008-01-21T08:28:00.000-06:00

Sometimes, I try to take pictures of people in the train without them noticing. Sometimes it works; sometimes I try to act like it was an accident, or maybe that I'm texting and that noise they heard did not come from my phone. Either way...here's a picture of a girl that had no idea. I just liked her kicks.

View From the Afternoon

2008-01-21T07:57:00.001-06:00

My 'hood...from the platform at the train station.

Papa was here.

2008-01-14T06:53:00.000-06:00

I saw this and immediately knew I was being taken care of. On a street in Harajuku while shopping.

To hell with all that ruubbbish...

2008-01-09T10:27:00.000-06:00

I'm already missin' the American boys and this didn't help. Japanese boys aren't quite as nice.

Estelle ft. Kanye West - "American Boy"

One of the best collabos Ye has done recently.

Happy New Year to me.

2008-01-09T07:44:00.001-06:00

Now I can count down the days in style, thanks to this fierce calendar I just downloaded from M.I.S.S. Props to my Around The Way Girls for puttin' me onto the freshness. So, men, you can have your skanky calendars with dumb blondes in bikinis laid out on the hood of an American-made car.

I, on the other hand, will start each month with new nails did and fresh kicks.

I'm telling you, Year of the Rat. Don't mess with us.

Johnny Angel

2008-01-06T05:32:00.001-06:00

Ugh. Disappointed to see that John Legend is still with this girl, model Christine Teigen. But, on a positive note, she IS gorgeous and compliments him well. Still.

This one does give me a little hope there...see the slight pull away from the kiss. Wishful thinking.

Where is....?

2008-01-05T09:17:00.000-06:00

Wayne Wonder

I know he's not still working at the Grille at UTK. I need some Wayne Wonder in my life.

Fine Cuisine

2008-01-05T09:14:00.000-06:00

Which is better: Eating babies or eating kittens?

With babies, there's no hairball.

Late Kate strikes again...

2008-01-04T05:09:00.001-06:00

Just a few pics from the BON VOYAGE party. Better late than never, ay?
The hosts.

Kelli and Josie.

Kunle...I love that face.

CRUNK Famlay in da house!

Neighbor love.

Diamond and Purple Ice makin' an appearance.

Since I can remember.

Photos courtesy of Sharbel Photography.

There are lots more where those came from...just didn't want to overload you with cool people. I'll make at least one more installment.

The Year of the Rat

2008-01-03T21:32:00.000-06:00

Obama won Iowa! 2008 is already off to a great start....as it should be - it's my year!

The Year of the Rat

After two Fire years, life may seem calmer during this Earth year. That could be deceptive, however, as the Rat never stops moving -- especially when it comes to mental activity.

Unfortunately, Earth has a destructive relationship with the Rat's fixed element, Water. This is not disastrous, but it does mean you should not rely too much on luck this year.

On the other hand, the combination of Earth and Rat means this is extremely positive year for achieving results. The Rat tends to take a lot of risks, while Earth is associated with practicality and stability. This creates balance and can lead to good profits, increased productivity and all other accomplishments. Additionally, under Earth's influence there could be fewer scandals than in other, Rat, years.

The Rat is the first sign of the Chinese zodiac and signifies new beginnings. That makes this year an appropriate time to start new ventures and break new ground. This includes new ideas, directions and ways of doing things. It is a time to experiment and put plans into action, as there will be plenty of opportunities to achieve success. Remember that things began during this year are likely to have long term consequences, so choose your actions wisely to enrich your life.

This year is also an equally good time for thinking and all manner of intellectual endeavors. Planning, scholarship and research, for example, are favorable activities. It is also an auspicious time for the arts; although, under Earth's influence, applied arts such as design and graphics may do best.

Earth favors those who are tied to the land, do a lot of routine work, deal with practical matters or perform work of a spiritual nature. Based on the characteristics of both Earth and Rat, it could be a very good year for those with careers in business, construction, engineering, academia, planning and the clergy.

There is likely to be a focus on career and self-improvement this year, to the detriment of family. Therefore, you need to be attentive and creative so that the family area of your life does not suffer. It is, however, a relatively good time to begin a new romance. Those in a relationship may want to consider raising it to the next level, including marriage.

Since this is an Earth year, those people born in a Metal year will generally fare better than others of their animal sign, while those born in a Water year are likely to do worse than those born in Wood, Fire, and Earth years.

Health issues vary not only by sign, but also by individual. Your best bet is to visit a Chinese doctor to have your balances checked and get personalized advice for the coming year. It is an Earth year, so one thing we can say in general is to get enough exercise and be on the alert for unwanted weight gains. Inactivity could lead to problems.

In closing, 2008 will be a year of possibilities, a time of progress -- although not very spectacular. Those who take the biggest risks could be disappointed. Everyone should, nevertheless, add something new to their life during this year of fruitful new beginnings.
(Taken from astrology.com)

CRUNK is a lifestyle...

2008-01-02T09:01:00.000-06:00

MY lifestyle.
New Years 2008:
First pic of me without my hair...

Santa and ??? and Stitch and me...Pokemon was running around somewhere....Japanese Riff Raff.

In Shibuya after the countdown.

Merry Christmas from Japan

2007-12-26T08:18:00.000-06:00

I hope everyone had a very Merry Christmas and is now out taking advantage of some major sales back in the U.S.

Mariah Carey - "All I Want For Christmas Is You"

This little piggy

2007-12-24T08:01:00.000-06:00

Last Saturday we went to an izakaya (a pub) for a farewell party for the teacher I replaced. It was my first real introduction to social Japan and it went nicely, if I do say so myself. The drinks were flowing and the food was great, except for this...but they sure were cute!

My co-worker for a week, Warren, with the cutest food ever. Presentation is everything.

Keep the Old

2007-12-24T07:51:00.000-06:00

Shopping in Asakusa last night:

Fun fact: Asakusa is the more traditional area of Toyko. Beautiful, even at night...can't wait to see it during the day.

Louis x Murakami

2007-12-24T07:43:00.000-06:00

For my favorite brand-whore, A.P., I captured a building in Ginza on my shopping trip yesterday to grab some last-minute gifts:

Fun fact: Ginza is the area of Toyko famous for it's numerous high-priced designer boutiques. Careful, they rape you before your second foot is in the door. When I walked past on my way back, a line of people had formed outside that wrapped around the building.

Flashing....Lights....

2007-12-24T07:36:00.000-06:00

Shibuya at night:

Neon gives me energy. Who needs sunlight when there is this much neon?

Fun fact: Shibuya is a district of Toyko that is popular for it's fashion forward young people and the numerous places to hear and buy music....basically my heaven on Earth.