cercelata

Jim Henson a Professional Puppeteer Pictures

2011-09-25T22:55:00.001-07:00

Jim Henson
It was 75 years ago today that Jim Henson, creator of the Muppets, was born. There can be no dobut that he is the most famous puppeteer of the 20th Century. And his creations, the Muppets, are still promoted and merchandised to this day. Indeed, in November the Muppets will star in a new theatrical movie, The Muppets.
Jim Henson was born on 24 September 1936 in Jackson, Mississippi. He spent his early childhood in Leland, Mississippi. It was in the late Forties that his family moved to Hyattsville, Maryland. As a child he was heavily influenced by ventriloquist Edgar Bergen and his dummy Charlie McCarthy, who were very popular on radio in the Forties. After his family bought a television set he would be influenced by Burr Tillstrom, the puppeteer who created Kukla and Ollie on the series Kukla, Fran, and Ollie, as well as Bill Baird, the creator of Charlemane the Lion.
Jim Henson was still very young when he received his first job as a professional puppeteer on television. He was still attending Northwestern High School when he created puppets for the WTOP-TV children's series The Junior Morning Show. He was a freshman at the University of Maryland, College Park, in 1955, when he created the five minute puppet show Sam and Friends for WRC-TV. Sam and Friends starred a balding, human puppet named Sam, as well his friends Yorick, Harry the Hipster, and the earliest version of Kermit. The original Kermit had been made from turquoise coat that his mother had thrown in the waste can, with ping pong balls for eyes. Although today Kermit is known as a frog, at the time he was more or less a lizard like creature of an indeterminate species. It would be ten years later, in 1965, that Kermit would officially became a frog after Johnny Carson referred to him as "Kermit the Frog."
The term Muppet had also yet to be coined either. That would come about in 1956 when Jim Henson created the term for his creations which were not quite hand puppets, but not quite stick puppets either. Precisely how Mr. Henson came up with the term is a bit of a mystery. He has often told the story of how he developed the term by combining the words marionette and puppet. That having been said, on other occasions he has said that it was simply a term that he liked and as a result used for his act.
Regardless, Sam and Friends would prove very popular. In its earliest days the puppets primarily lip-synched to current songs. As time went by, however, the puppets would perform in written sketches, many of which were parodies of current television shows. Working with Jim Henson on the show was his future wife Jane, as well as Jerry Juhl, later the head writer on The Muppet Show. Sam and Friends proved very popular, lasting for six years.
Despite the success of Sam and Friends, it would be some time before Jim Henson found sustained success on a national level. Much of the Sixties would find Mr. Henson and his Muppets making guest appearances on various television shows. It was in 1956 that he first appeared on The Tonight Show, then starring Steve Allen. He would also appear on Steve Allen's primetime show, The Steve Allen Show, in 1956 and 1957. One of the earliest breakthroughs for the Muppets would come in the form of The Jimmy Dean Show in 1963. Rowlf the Dog would be a regular on the show and proved so popular that he even received more fan mail than Jimmy Dean. While Kermit may have been the first Muppet, Rowlf was the first one to enter the national consciousness.
Much of the rest of the Sixties would spent making guest appearances on various shows. The Muppets would appear fairly frequently on The Ed Sullivan Show starting in 1966. Muppets also appeared frequently on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. In fact, it was on the 31 December 1965 episode that Johnny Carson referred to Kermit, still an indeterminate creature, as "Kermit the Frog." Muppets would also appear on The Hollywood Palace, The Mike Douglas Show (which they co-hosted for a whole week in 1966), and Perry Como's Kraft Music Hall.
While much of Mr. Henson's work in the Sixties consisted of guest appearances, two pivotal events would occur during the decade that would guarantee the Muppets' success in the future. It was in 1961 that Jim Henson first met then 17 year old Frank Oznowicz. In 1963 Frank was hired by Jim Henson to help bring Rowlf the Dog to life on The Jimmy Dean Show. It would be Jimmy Dean who was the cause of Frank Oznowicz becoming Frank Oz. Unable to remember his name, Mr. Dean introduced him by saying Oz and mumbling the rest of his name. Mr. Oz kept it as his stage name. Frank Oz would prove pivotal to the success of the Muppets. On Sesame Street he introduced the characters Bert, Grover, and the Cookie Monster. On The Muppet Show Frank Oz was the Muppeteer behind Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear, and Animal. He also became one of Jim Henson's closest friends. While Mr. Oz would branch out to other projects beyond the Muppets, he remained friends with Mr. Henson until Mr. Henson's death in 1990.
The second pivotal event in Jim Henson's career would come in the form of a children's show that debuted in 1969. Mr. Henson was asked to participate on the show Sesame Street. He brought Kermit the Frog to the show, and was also responsible for the creation of Muppet characters specifically for the show. Among these were Ernie, Oscar the Grouch, and even Big Bird. It was while Jim Henson was working on Sesame Street that he created and directed a series of specials under the umbrella title of Tales from Muppetland. Among these specials were Hey, Cinderella; The Frog Prince; and The Muppet Musicians of Bremen.
By the mid-Seventies Jim Henson worried that because of Sesame Street the Muppets might be regarded simply as a children's act. Producer Lorne Michaels invited Jim Henson and the Muppets onto the first season of Saturday Night Live as regular performers. This took the form of a series of sketches known as "The Land of Gorch." Unfortunately it would not prove to be a good experience for Jim Henson, Frank Oz, and the rest of the Muppets team. None of the Muppets' writers were hired to write the sketches on Saturday Night Live, and the Saturday Night Live writers were not particularly happy to write for the Muppets. Fortunately, the Muppets would not have to remain on Saturday Night Live for long, as their biggest success was just ahead of them.
Concerned that the Muppets were being typecast as a children's act, Jim Henson conceived of a variety show that could be enjoyed by people of all ages. He shopped the idea to the various networks, and ABC even ordered two specials that could serve as pilots for the prospective series. The first was the The Muppets Valentine Show. The second was The Muppet Show: Sex and Violence. ABC ultimately passed on the series. Jim Henson had not considered syndication, for fear that the show could fail without a networks backing. Fortunately, Lord Lew Grade of ATV in the United Kingdom came to the rescue. Lord Grade proposed to Mr. Henson that he could finance the show and so it would be able to enter syndication in the United States and other countries with very high production values.
The Muppet Show debuted in 1977 and proved to be a smash hit. It introduced a whole new generation of Muppets who would become superstars all their own, including Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear, Gonzo, Dr. Teeth and the Electric Mayhem, and others. Because of the show's success it was able to get many big time guest stars, including Vincent Price, Milton Berle, Edgar Bergen and Charlie McCarthy, Steve Martin, George Burns, Elton John, Alice Cooper, Danny Kaye, and Gene Kelly. No guest star ever appeared on the show twice. The success of The Muppet Show would also lead to a huge amount of merchandising.
It would also be the success of The Muppet Show that would lead to the Muppets' first feature film, The Muppet Movie, in 1979. The Muppet Movie would prove very successful and it was largely because of that success that the still popular Muppet Show ended its run in 1981 as Jim Henson decided to concentrate on feature films. Over the next several years the Muppets would appear in such films as The Great Muppet Caper (1981), The Muppets Take Manhattan (1984), The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992), The Muppets Treasure Island (1996), and Muppets From Space (1999). Since then they have appeared in the television films It's a Very Merry Muppet Christmas Movie and The Muppets' Wizard of Oz.
It would also be largely because of the success both The Muppet Show and the various movies that Jim Henson was able to expand beyond the Muppets. From 1983 to 1987 he produced the children's fantasy show Fraggle Rock for CBC. He would later produce the series The Storyteller for HBO. Still later he would produce the short lived Jim Henson Hour for NBC. Mr. Henson also worked on two non-Muppet fantasy films: The Dark Crystal (1982) and Labyrinth (1986).
Sadly, Jim Henson would die only four years after Labyrinth and almost a year after The Jim Henson Hour. Mr. Henson fell ill and on 15 May 1990 was admitted to New York Hospital. On the morning of 16 May 1990 Jim Henson died. The cause was organ failure resulting from Streptococcus pyogenes. It was a mark of Jim Henson and the Muppets' popularity that there was an enormous outpouring of grief rarely seen even for the best known actors. Jim Henson and his creations were not simply legends. They had become icons.
As to why Jim Henson achieved such superstardom, that is a difficult question to answer. It was not simply that Jim Henson had created puppets that could be enjoyed by young and old alike. Burr Tillstrom (who had been a huge influence on him) and Bob Clampett (creator of the puppet show Time for Beany) had both created puppet shows that were very popular with adults in their day. Burr Tillstrom's puppet shows, with Kukla and Ollie, relied on very sophisticated wit and word play. Bob Clampett's Time for Beany relied on a sophisticated blend of satire and irreverence. The Muppets would be different from both in that they were much more visual. In some respects the Muppetry of Jim Henson and Frank Oz could be compared to the comedy routines of Ernie Kovacs, relying heavily on sight gags. Example of this are the early "inchworm" sketch (in which Kermit is chewing on what he thinks is an inchworm, but which turns out to be the tongue of a large monster) and the various "Mah Nà Mah Nà" sketches. At the same time much of the humour of the Muppets could be very absurdist.
Of course, much of the reason for the success of the Muppets is the same reason as the success of Kukla and Ollie, and Beany and Cecil. All of them were such well developed characters that it was hard to believe that they were merely puppets. Indeed, children have been known to address Muppets themselves as real individuals, even when the Muppeteer is visible. Even adults tend to treat the Muppets as if they are real--Jim Henson and Kermit the Frog each have their own stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Because the Muppets are actually fairly sophisticated characters, they achieved success that had lasted literally decades.
Another factor in the Muppets' success could also be the fact that, both on The Muppet Show and in their many films, they have consistently been portrayed as underdogs. On The Muppet Show the ragtag troupe was always scurrying to make sure the show went off without a hitch. In their movies the Muppets were often struggling to put on some show or another, or they were at the mercy of villains with far superior resources. No matter what happened, however, the Muppets would always succeed in the end. At the same time that the Muppets were always portrayed as underdogs, it must also be pointed out the Muppets were a diverse group. The Muppets troupe consists of everything from frogs to pigs to dogs to humans. Despite these differences (or perhaps because of them), it is very clear that the Muppets are all friends who care very much for each other.
That a ragtag troupe of diverse performers could overcome incredible odds perhaps should not be surprising coming from Jim Henson. He was a man with an incredible amount of hope and positive attitudes. He once said, "Life's like a movie, write your own ending. Keep believing, keep pretending." In a guest post on the Official Google Blog his son Brian Henson said of his father that, "One of his life philosophies was that we should love people not for their similarities, but for their differences." Jim Henson always looked for the best in life and always appreciated people for not how much they were like him, but for how different they were from him. It was reflected in his work with the Muppets, who could come together to put on a show each week despite disparate personalities and a good number of obstacles. Jim Henson also said once, "My hope still is to leave the world a bit better than when I got here." There can be no doubt that he did.
Jim Henson Pictures

Jim Henson

Hot Actrees Claire Sinclair

2011-09-25T10:32:00.003-07:00

Claire Sinclair
First "The Playboy Club" announced the obvious promotion of planting one of the show's stars, actress Laura Benanti, on the cover Playboy's October edition. Now, in keeping with the lessons from Crossover 101, it appears a Playmate may soon appear on the NBC show.
Claire Sinclair, Playboy's 2011 Playmate of the Year, took to her Twitter page to announce she read for a role in upcoming series.
"Just auditioned for the NBC Playboy Club show," she writes. "I would love to be part of it!!"
This would be Sinclair's first venture into scripted programming, however she has made frequent appearances on the E! program "Holly's World" starring former Playmate/Hef girlfriend Holly Madison.
The 20-year old Sinclair retro style should a good match for the period drama that takes place in 1960s Chicago. Her look has often been compared to pinup icon Bettie Page and even Hugh Hefner's ex-girlfriend and former Playmate Barbi Benton.
Claire Sinclair’s profile
Born : May 25, 1991 (1991-05-25);Born: Los Angeles, California; Measurements: Bust: 36D; Waist: 24; Hips: 36; Height: 5 ft 8 in (1.73 m); Weight : 125 lb (57 kg).
Hugh Hefner introduced Playboy’s 2011 Playmate of the Year, Claire Sinclair to the media at the Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas, Nevada. At 19 years old, Claire also appeared for the first time as the youngest headliner in Crazy Horse Paris at MGM Grand. He chose Sinclair for Playboy’s annual #1 girl. After unveiling the new Playmate’s June cover and pictorial, Claire received her prizes, including a lifetime supply of Playboy Fragrances and a set of The Playboy Fragrance Collection adorned with Swarovski Elements.
Claire Sinclair Pictures

claire sinclair

Stefania Bivone is announced as Miss Italy 2011

2011-09-25T03:03:00.001-07:00

Stefania Bivone
Stefania Bivone, 18, Miss Calabria, was crowned Miss Italia 2011 at the national finale held on September 19, 2011. The event was telecast live by RAI 1 for millions of people in Italy and in over 170 countries. Stefania, from Sinopoli, is 18 year old and stands 1.79 m. However, the winner of Miss Italia does not compete in Miss World or Miss Universe despite the fact that it is the most celebrated beauty title in Italy. First runner-up was Miss Taranto – Mayra Pietrocola, and second runner-up was Miss Emilia – Sarah Baderna.
Stefania Bivone Pictures

Stefania Bivone

Troy Davis Dead

2011-09-25T03:01:00.001-07:00

Troy Davis

troy davis

Andy Whitfield

2011-09-17T20:17:00.000-07:00

Andy Whitfield

Scarlett Johansson Pictures

2011-09-17T20:16:00.002-07:00

Scarlett Johansson

Scarlett Johansson
Scarlett Johansson (born November 22, 1984) is an American actress and singer. Johansson made her film debut in the 1994 film North and was later nominated for the Independent Spirit Award for Best Female Lead for her performance in 1996's Manny & Lo. Johansson rose to fame with her roles in 1998's The Horse Whisperer and 2001's Ghost World.
She transitioned to adult roles with her performances in Sofia Coppola's Lost in Translation, for which she won a BAFTA Award, and Girl with a Pearl Earring, both of which earned her Golden Globe Award nominations in 2003. A role in A Love Song for Bobby Long earned her a third Golden Globe for Best Actress nomination. Following an appearance in The Island, Johansson garnered a fourth Golden Globe nomination, for Best Supporting Actress, for her role in Woody Allen's Match Point. She also starred in other Allen movies such as Scoop, with Hugh Jackman and Allen himself, and Vicky Cristina Barcelona, alongside Javier Bardem, Penélope Cruz and Rebecca Hall. Scarlett Johansson also appeared in other films such as Christopher Nolan's The Prestige and the Summer blockbuster Iron Man 2. A role in the 2010s Broadway revival of Arthur Miller's A View From the Bridge gave her some of the career's best reviews for her acting work and she received a Tony Award for Best Performance by a Featured Actress in a Play.
On May 20, 2008, Johansson debuted as a vocalist on her first album, Anywhere I Lay My Head, which included cover versions of Tom Waits songs. Her second album, Break Up, with Pete Yorn, was released in September 2009

Leila Lopes

2011-09-17T20:16:00.000-07:00

Leila Lopes

ANGOLA SEXY WOMAN MISS UNIVERSE 2011

2011-09-16T15:53:00.000-07:00

The Miss Universe 2011 pageant finale was held September 12, 2011 at the Credicard Hall in Sao Paulo, Brazil with Miss Angola Leila Lopes as the winner, the first ever from Angola and the 4th African woman to be crowned Miss Universe.

Hosted by Andy Cohen (Bravo's "Watch What Happens Live") and Natalie Morales (NBC's "Today"), the Miss Universe 2011 finals, which also happened to be the pageant's 60th anniversary, started with the introduction of the 89 lovely candidates.

Miss USA 2004 (and Miss Universe 2004 1st Runner Up) Shandi Finnessey and STYLE Network’s Jeannie Mai served as commentators.

The announcement of the Top 16 semi-finalists followed. The Top 16 were: (in order of announcement) France, Kosovo, Colombia, China, Angola, Australia, Puerto Rico, Brazil, Netherlands, USA, Ukraine, Panama, Costa Rica, Portugal, Philippines and Venezuela.

While Miss Portugal was called to join the Top 16, the commentators announced that she's the one who won the online fan voting conducted at missuniverse.com which secured her a slot in the semis. It was the first time in Miss Universe history that a semi-finalist was selected by the fans via online voting.

A big favorite, Miss Philippines Shamcey Supsup was still shocked to hear her name being called as one of the semi-finalists. Commentators took notice of that and described her as "humble".

The judges who were given the toughest job of selecting this year's Miss Universe included: 3-time Indianapolis 500 winner Helios Castroneves, Actress-Producer Vivica A. Fox, Miss Universe 2003 Amelia Vega, "The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills" star Adrienne Maloof, Houston hair care magnet Farouk Shami, Brazilian supermodel Isabeli Fontana, CONCACAF Deputy Secretary General Italo Zanzi, US Broadcast Legend Connie Chung and Tony-winning actress Lea Salonga. Lea was also introduced as the voice of Princess Jasmine in Disney's "Aladdin".
Leila Lopes, Miss Angola, is Miss Universe 2011

After the introduction of judges, it was announced that Miss Panama Sheldry Saez won the Best National Costume award.

Top 10 Best National Costume: 1. Panama 2. Mexico 3. Thailand 4. Venezuela 5. Curacao 6. Trinidad & Tobago 7. Tanzania 8. Bolivia 9. Nigeria 10. Japan

Then the Top 16 competed in swimsuits and the Top 10 were announced who later competed in their evening gowns. The Top 10 were: Australia, Costa Rica, France, Ukraine, Portugal, Panama, Philippines, Angola, China and Brazil.

The Top 5 finalists were revealed (Ukraine, Philippines, China, Brazil, Angola) and they had to deal with the grueling Question and Answer Portion.

Miss Angola was crowned winner with Miss Ukraine as 1st Runner Up, Brazil as 2nd Runner Up, Philippines as 3rd Runner Up and China as the 4th Runner Up.

Leila Lopes

Suri's Burn Book

2011-08-19T10:26:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, my friend Doro changed my life by sending me the link to Suri's Burn Book. Many of you are aware of my long-standing obsession with celebritot Suri Cruise . . . and now it's reached a whole new level.

Suri's Burn Book is a tumblr account in which Suri posts pictures of celebs & their kids and comments on them. And makes fun of her parents, Tom and Katie. And OMFG is she hilarious. Exempli gratia:

August 18, 2011

While we’re on the subject of famous Swedes, here is a photo of Elin Nordegren and her two children, Sam and Charlie. This family has become kind of reclusive post-Tiger, but they were recently seen out and about in Miami.

I am disappointed that Sam and I missed each other on our Miami vacations, because I completely approve of her fashion choices—from that fun headband to that slimming belt!—and would have loved to have her over for tea. We also would have a lot to talk about, like having embarrassing fathers and the challenges of having moms who wear denim.

HAHA! Embarrassing fathers and the challenges of having moms who wear denim!!! Suffice to say I spent quite a bit of time yesterday browsing Suri's files, and will continue to do so via her tumblr and twitter. I suggest you do the same.

Happy Friday!

Returns gold vs others assets - Rendement de l'or vs autres actifs (1973 - 2010)

2011-08-18T23:04:00.000-07:00

Source: Erste Group Research

Sofie Elskaer II New in Town

2011-08-18T03:14:00.000-07:00

Birthday Pictures!

2011-08-17T12:41:00.000-07:00

First of all, thanks for all the love! All the well wishes via facebook, twitter, email, my phone, the mail, blogs, etc. made me feel way less nauseous over turning 30. And it turns out 30's not so bad, anyway. ;)

My dear friends came out to celebrate with me at the Lake Chalet last night, and we had lots of fun! I highly recommend Taco Tuesday. You get to sit on the water, drink 1/2 price margaritas, and enjoy plentiful $2.50 tacos. Sweet!

the venue

me and Diana: one of my favorite people in the world

Meagan and Amanda on the lake

me and Doro: almost birthday twins! (she's 8/13, I'm 8/16)

table on the water + tacos + margaritas!

Timmy and Trav: a stand up pair

thank goodness for Cari--no idea what I'd do without her.

(p.s. she is mama to Milo and Jude, regulars on this here blog)

a contemplative Raul surrounded by margaritas

neighbors and friends: Diana and Adam (plus Crouching Claire)

Mani and her handsome lil Mateo

flanked by twins: PJ on the left, AJ on the right

We had a blast, although I wish my faraway friends could have been there as well. Yay for celebrations and drinks and friends and flowers!

Two more things:

1. Please keep my dad's horrendous beagle, Ignatius, in your thoughts/prayers. He has a suspicious lump and I am sick with worry.

2. Speaking of pleases, please check out my friend Annie's new blog, Tough Little Cookies. She's finally started a blog about raising her three hilarious and adorable daughters in San Francisco. Please remember how it was when you first started blogging and go show her some love!! :)

Bridget Jakes in Sydney

2011-08-17T02:41:00.000-07:00

Our lucky lucky Bridget Jakes is currently in Sydney for a few weeks and she just sent us

some pictures to let us be a small part of her adventures

and the amazing time she is having!

We wish her all the best and hope

she'll be back soon to hear all about her time in the big city!

UK inflation

2011-08-17T01:37:00.000-07:00

Commodities Price Index - Indice des prix des matières premières

2011-08-16T01:15:00.000-07:00

Le chute des prix des matières premières est un indicateur de début de récession?

State of Style II London Fashion Week February 2011

2011-08-15T07:00:00.000-07:00

Elite London is very proud to present the reportage 'State of Style' from London Fashion Week February 2011, commented by our director Michelangelo Chiacchio!

Michelangelo takes us behind the scenes of Fashion Week and shows us what it takes to be a good modelscout plus he tells us the elements how to become a successfull model!

So everyone whose dream it is to become a model: WATCH THIS!!!!!

The 'Barracuda Film & TV' team followed Michelangelo to the agency where you finally have the chance to gain an insight into the exciting world of Elite London and the brilliant people working there!

This reportage also shows interviews by Paul Smith (designer), Dolly Jones (editor Vogue.com), Joe Zee (creative director ELLE US), Paula Reed (director Grazia UK), Stefan Lindemann (InStyle), Wendy Rowe (make-up-artist), Neil Moody (hairstylist) and many, many more!!

Enjoy 28 minutes and 57 seconds of pure Fashion!!!

S&P 500 & Quantitative Easing

2011-08-15T05:00:00.000-07:00

Sunday Brunch & some Stalktalk!

2011-08-14T22:47:00.000-07:00

In a valiant effort to postpone the end of summer, I spent pretty much the whole weekend eating and drinking with friends. From a dive bar with my teacher friends on Friday night, to a biker breakfast on Saturday morning (you heard that right!), to an impromptu Japanese dinner in Berkeley on Saturday night with my friend Helen, to today's brunch with my college friend, Tara, at what I think might be my new very favorite place:

Chop Bar, Oakland, Jack London Square

my friend Tara with her bloody mary

she's from the northeast, she can't help her snark ;)

ask me what I'm drinking and I'll tell you:

BEN F'S EVOLVE WINE

see?

Not only was Sauvignon Hottie delicious, but so was the food! Tara and I shared chilaquiles & eggs ala cazuela with a grilled veggie mojo sauce . . . YUM. I confessed to the waitress that I ordered the Evolve as part of a Ben F. stalking mission, and she said, "That's so funny, he was just in here a couple weeks ago!" I'll catch up to him someday. It'll happen. And if you're curious as to whether I tweeted that picture of me drinking Evolve wine to Ben F . . . the answer is immediately.

isn't it cute in there?

Hope all of you had as decadent a weekend as I did. Lord knows I'm making up for it now, since it's the last day of my 20s and the first day of school. Wish me luck with my '11-'12 monsters! Can't wait to meet them. :)

Ratio Sp500 / Gold (1981- 2011)

2011-08-13T01:30:00.000-07:00

The Back to School Spirit?

2011-08-12T09:43:00.000-07:00

Teachers had to report back Wednesday (seriously? August 10th? Earlier and earlier my dear . . . ), and my summery-rested body has been in a state of shock! This whole waking up at the crack of dawn thing is for the birds. And not only waking up early, but plunging into academic discourse about the achievement gap and special education test scores and improving our practice . . . just give me Jersey Shore!!

I'm sorta kidding; it's been great to see all my co-workers and get ready for school, but not gonna lie, I'm missing waking up at 9:30 and being in my bathing suit and watching Jax's sexiest scenes on repeat.

This is what we did after the first day back to school:

(same plan for today)

Other things I'm excited about:

*My stalking plans: Heading up to Napa/Sonoma Sunday . . . but I've learned that Ben F's Evolve Wines doesn't have a tasting room/public "winery." So that leaves me no choice but to attend this next Friday.

*My latest nail polish find:

*I ordered this to celebrate the arrival of football season!

from

*My BFF is coming to visit me Labor Day weekend and I cannot wait!!!

us in . . . 2006? 2005?

Oh and speaking of Jersey Shore (several paragraphs ago), my friend Matt and I tweet each other every Jerzday with funny #s about our favorite guidos and guidettes. Examples:

#getcrazy

#letsspreadsomemono

#whatbeardVinny?

#juiceheadsonvespas

#fistpumpinpope

#guidosatthevatican

Got any to contribute? Happy Friday!

France: Banks and Risks - Banques et risques

2011-08-11T04:43:00.000-07:00

In Water Flowers II Elite Model Look

2011-08-11T03:35:00.000-07:00

Imagine yourself in a sea of flowers, art and design......colourful, fresh, trendy and sparkling, 'In Water Flowers' make this dream come true! The London-based 'In Water Flowers' florists provided the semi-final and final of Elite Model Look 2011 with their eye-popping flower and mixed media designs. They create a dreamy, fairytale atmosphere like nothing you have ever experienced before.

They are a perfect match for our talented models!

Weleda II Elite Model Look

2011-08-10T05:18:00.000-07:00

NATURAL AND UNIQUE BEAUTY - that's the philosphy behind famous cosmetic brand, 'Weleda'.

Elite London were thrilled to have 'Weleda' as one of their sponsors this year at Elite Model Look 2011.

This well-known enterprise also celebrates its 90th birthday this year so a big Happy Birthday to 'Weleda'! They manufacture cosmetics and pharmaceutical products. Every product is organic and the great thing is that any plant extract used in their products are grown by Weleda themselves. Allow mother nature to do her magic and you will feel and see the difference.

Go on, indulge yourself! You deserve it!

100 Euro: Value in Gold - Valeur en or

2011-08-09T23:09:00.000-07:00

The Very Last Week of my 20s.

2011-08-09T10:54:00.000-07:00

A week from today, I will be 30, and I'm sorta petrified.

I know better than to let the "norms" get to me, but lately, they've started creeping in. Aren't I supposed to have gotten married by now? Had a kid? Bought a house? Saved some money? Maybe that last one would have been possible had I not decided to move to the second most expensive city in the country.

The scariest part is that the other day, I remembered a conversation I had with a co-worker at Balboa several years ago, and it felt like yesterday. We were talking in my office, and I said, "Sometimes I just feel like I want to up and move to Argentina or something!" He laughed and said, "How old are you?" I said, "25." And he said, "Yeah. You're so young. That's why you feel that way."

1. OMG how was I just 25 what feels like yesterday? How on earth have 5 years passed by in the blink of an eye?
2. I still feel that way, sucka.

Here's how I've spent my summer, for the most part:

With some travel, visitors, good exercise, lots of time with Milo and Jude, and puzzling out a relationship thrown in. Oh, and wasting a decent amount of time playing Tiny Tower.

I'm not a "bucket list" kind of person in the least. I kinda feel like all of life is an adventure, and I have continuous goals/dreams/etc. that will span out my whole life . . . and they can't be diminished to a checklist of things I want to have accomplished by a certain age. And yet, somehow, this coming week is shouldering a lot of pressure! Last week of my 20's! Anyone want to go to Vegas?

Nyasha II Topshop Campaign

2011-08-09T02:08:00.000-07:00

Check out our Nyasha strutting her stuff for this years autumn/winter Topshop campaign!!

We are so happy for her and she absolutley rocked it.

She looks absolutely stunning in the upcoming season's new range.

Keep up the good work!

USA: Rich and Poor - Riches et Pauvres

2011-08-08T22:07:00.000-07:00

Pourcentage de la population par rapport au pourcentage de la richesse de la nation.
Par exemple, 1% des plus riches possèdent 34% des richesses.

Man Candy Monday: Stalker Edition

2011-08-08T10:54:00.000-07:00

So Ashley picked JP, which I think is fitting, given both of their propensities for whining and effusive displays of insecurity, but my heart belongs to the fiiiiiiiiine Ben F:

hottie with a body

duh, I'm way better for you than that beezy!

He's dark, he's shaggy, he makes wine, and he allegedly lives in my vicinity. And so, of course, I've put my stalking skills to use, and found out that this is his winery. Who's up for a Sonoma trip? I'm not kidding. ;)

link up with Leeann!

USA: Food Stamp Participation - Population bénéficiant d'une aide alimentaire

2011-08-08T03:30:00.000-07:00

Vincent Banic II French GQ

2011-08-08T02:02:00.000-07:00

Oh wow!

We can't believe how fantastic Vincent Banic looks in the French GQ's August 2011 photoshoot.

Elite are so proud of him, we just had to show you what a handsome and great guy he is!!

LOVE

Photography: David Ledoux

True Life: I'm a General Life Blogger!

2011-08-05T13:18:00.000-07:00

Do you have types of blogs that you prefer to read? Is it awful that I mostly like to read blogs that are similar to my own? I guess that's sorta to be expected: Mommy Bloggers like to hear what other Mommy Bloggers have to say, etc. And I like to hear about travel, food, funny things, pretty shoes, and hottie celebs!

Which is why I'm linking up with Fabulous but Evil and Mrs. Monologues in their True Life series . . . so I can meet more bloggers to entertain me on the regular. ;)

There really is nothing like discovering a new blog that you love & connect with. Throughout the past year and a half, I've met (in person) six spectacular blogger ladies, learned lots of new recipes, gotten great book recommendations, participated in some fun swaps, and laughed my ass off at some of the funniest people in the blog world.

So for those of you visiting from the link-up, hello! Here are things I like to discuss:

*Tim Riggins and Jax Teller (tell me: which is your fave??)

who's it gonna be, ladies???

*Food & Recipes

check out the link to tomato recipes that drollgirl emailed me today!

*Books

what I'm reading now, for instance

*San Francisco (and how awesome it is to live here)

Baker Beach: one of my favorite places on earth

*My hilarious high school students

* . . . And all about ridiculous people & things, for example:

found on Tosh.0 with the caption "Permanently Proud"

Plus how much I love the Saints (come on, football season!) and impressive footwear. If you're here from the True Life linkup, let me know so that I can come check out your blog, as well! Happy Friday, and thanks to Fabulous but Evil and Mrs. Monologues for hosting!

p.s. Please go wish my darling friend Leeann a happy birthday!! I ♥ fellow Leos. Rawr.

Gold demand and wealth (GPD) - Demande d'or et richesse (PIB)

2011-08-05T01:58:00.000-07:00

Lowell Tautchin II Topman

2011-08-04T07:28:00.000-07:00

Check out our Mr Lowell looking dapper for Topman!

This boy continues to WOW us with his gorgeous sharp look. The shoot was perfect for him and really brought out his effortless ability to shine, we couldn't help but share this with you.

Keep it coming, we love you!

USA: 10 Years T-Note Yield - Rendement des obligations du trésor à ans

2011-08-03T22:29:00.000-07:00

All You Need . . .

2011-08-03T12:27:00.000-07:00

to make the most delicious summer pasta (sauce) is this:

well and this:

Credit goes to my friend Anna for the development of this delicious sauce!

Steps:
*Get thyself to the farmers market. Buy the sweetest, smallest, thinnest-skinned cherry "sunburst" tomatoes you can find (doesn't work with thick-skinned or unsweet tomatoes).

*Wash them and remove the pesky little stems (I used one pint for this sauce).

*Chop up a good bit of fresh garlic (your discretion--I use a lot!).

*Saute minced garlic in olive oil on low for a few mins. Then add the darlin' little tomatoes.

*Patiently stir/watch 'em cook until the wee tomatoes start to burst. Stir stir stir. Sauce begins to develop (orangey in color with garlic flecks and some whole/partially whole tomatoes).

*Add salt & pepper to the pan.

*When done (takes at least 20 minutes, sometimes longer), pour over angel hair pasta, or in my case, fresh, handmade garlic-parsley pasta from the farmers market (though honestly, angel hair might be better).

*Top with parmesan.

Voila, your new favorite dinner:

Silver: 1976 - July 31, 2011

2011-08-03T01:14:00.000-07:00

Skullcandy Roc Nation Aviator II Elite Model Look

2011-08-02T07:17:00.000-07:00

Elite Model Look 2011 is over and all of our models have done an amazing job! Thanks so much guys, you rocked. And after an intense two weeks we thought it were only fair to surprise our finalists with a litte, but fantastic present from one of our sponsors Skullcandy. Skullcandy Roc Nation Aviator' headphones are one of a kind, inspired by aviators these earphones fit perfectly and offer a platinum sound performance for your ears! They are made out of stainless steel and come in black, brown and white with their signiture skull on the sides. You can use them for your iPhone, iPod or iPad, take calls, control your tracks....and much more. These headphones are a gift from heaven and we hope our finalists love them as much as we do!!

Swiss francs in dollar - Francs suisses en dollars (1971 - 2011)

2011-08-02T00:07:00.000-07:00

I Left My Heart in Cabo San Lucas: Beach Pics

2011-08-01T12:07:00.000-07:00

I'm sitting at Peet's (coffee shop, for those non-Californians among you) working on lesson plans today, daydreaming about being back at Capella. Here are some pictures of our time in Cabo from Cari and JJ's camera. Feast your eyes on the beauty & preciousness (of Jude).

*you may have to enlarge these since I can't figure out how to make pics bigger on my blog.

Jude and me upon our arrival in Cabo

Cari and Milo in the Capella lobby. Check out his scrunchy face.

JJ and Milo having dinner at "The Office." So sweet.

Judebug with our butler, Victor (aka guacamole master)

plunge pool on our patio, overlooking the resort & the Pacific

I got the boys shirts to match their eyes :)

me & my piggies getting some sun

view from my elliptical in the fitness center

(totally untouched iphone photo)

who wouldn't work out every day if this was the view???

me, Cari, and the boys

infinity pool numero dos: on the beach

terribly grainy picture of me and JJ
before a debauched night out starting at Cabo Wabo
(you don't wanna know where it ended)

just a pirate ship, no big thang

Cari and JJ: on our patio pre-date night
(side note: I fell in love with that dress but it didn't fit me so I got it for Cari!)

oh Capella, how I long for thee
(another unedited iPhone pic taken from patio)

If you're even thinking of going to Cabo, I can't recommend Capella highly enough. Just click on that link and you'll start salivating. I'm sure you can imagine how hard it is being back home after 8 blissed out days there! Only regret: not getting pictures of the cute waiters/resort staff.

Here's to being able to return in 2012!

Elite Model Look II The Girls by David Sessions

2011-08-01T10:32:00.000-07:00

Madelaine Hooton - Our Elite Model Look 2011 Female Winner

Abbie Fawcett

Lois Clapcott

Isabella Courtney

Olivia Harte

Jessica Oversier

Emma Weaver

Florence Waller-Carr

Rebecca Parkin

Olivia Smith

Catherine Donnelly

Mae Taylor

Photography: David Sessions

Hair: Toni & Guy

Make-Up: Sleek MakeUP

Styling: Tori Hainey

With special thanks to: Studio TMLS, Pentax, Fiji Water, Hi Sushi

Elite Model Look II The Boys by Simon Harris

2011-08-01T10:19:00.000-07:00

Matthew Bell - Our first ever Elite Model Look Male Winner

Jamie Barnett

Joe Arnott

Dan Fordham

Danny Oliver

Photography: Simon Harris
Hair: Toni & Guy
T-Shirts: Worn By

Elite Model Look 2011 II The Final Week

2011-08-01T10:14:00.000-07:00

The semi-final is over and twelve of our amazing girls were chosen to be part of the Elite Model Look Bootcamp! Model Bootcamp was an intense lesson in what it takes to be a model and all the finalists worked very hard and had lots of fun as well. The girls and boys received hair make-overs from the super-talented and lovely hairdressers at Toni & Guy, and all make-up was provided by Sleek Make Up who made the girls look even more stunning than usual (if that’s even possible).

Our brilliant team of bookers and models here at Elite London showed the girls and boys how to look their best on the catwalk with catwalk training sessions for all. The finalists took part in not one but two photo-shoots with brilliant photographers David Sessions and Jessie Craig.

The final was held at the super-cool venue Village Underground in Shoreditch, where the boys showcased two looks provided by Topman and the girls strutted their stuff in three different looks provided by Mulberry, Alice Palmer, Jasper Garvinder and Bora Aksu. Guests nibbled on canapés from Hi Sushi (delish!) and sipped back on bubbly provided by Cirque du Soir. When we took a break for the judges decision making the crowd were entertained by chart-toppers to be, Mirrors who wowed us with their…reflective sound (sorry we had to do it!), but in all seriousness they were amazing!

Check out our Facebook page for all the pictures and lots more Elite London up to the minute news. We'd love to thank everyone who was involved and helped to make it the amazing event that it was, we would especially like to thank our 12 finalists who were of an incredibly high standard and without whom we couldn’t have done this!

WE LOVE YOU

Elite loves..... I love cosmetics...

2011-08-01T09:29:00.000-07:00

Elite London can't get enough of 'I love....Cosmetics'!

This wonderful brand was one of this years Elite Model Look sponsors who provided our goodybags with delicious beauty products, which left our girls skin fruity and soft as silk! We really do love it so much and want to say a big thank you for their support and goodies!!!

You have to check out their website for more information on their amazing product range

http://www.ilovecosmetics.eu/

Ratio S&p/Gold : 1929 - 1944 vs 2000 - 2011

2011-08-01T03:08:00.000-07:00

Studio TMLS II Elite Model Look

2011-07-29T09:12:00.000-07:00

We are super happy to announce that Studio TMLS partnered with us for this year’s Elite Model Look competition. They kindly supplied all the shoes for our Grand Final event, which all looked great with the amazing clothes the girls wore. The girls spent the week practising catwalk training in the shoes as well, and Elite would like to recommend that not only are Studio TMLS great for day to eveningwear but they are also super-duper for castings and our models loved them! Taking its inspiration from the lavish opulence of 1970s Marrakech, the Studio TMLS SS11 collection features towering wedge sandals, wooden flats in supple leather, suede and luxurious python. A rich, oriental colour palette ranging from burnt orange, ochre, and vibrant coral pinks to brushed gold and silver is offset by juxtaposing muted Saharan-sand tones. Simple yet bold geometric patterns are presented with a sense of modernity and edge, with dramatic studding and chain embellishment running throughout the collection. With more than 20 years of experience in the shoe industry Studio TMLS combines an extreme dedication to design, trend and hard work. Designed in London and produced in the brand’s homeland: Brazil, Studio TMLS is the answer to the modern woman’s desire to look her best at all times.

www.studiotmls.com

World: Gold Demand by Region - Demande d'or par région (2010)

2011-07-29T01:01:00.000-07:00

What I'm Workin' With

2011-07-27T16:44:00.000-07:00

The idea of leaving Capella (our resort in Cabo) is downright depressing. So I just won't think about it. The physical beauty here is astounding: our back patio, complete with a private plunge pool, overlooks the resort and the Pacific, which rages onto the beach day & night. The water is teal-clear. We have a two-level white couch covered in colorful pillows. We each have our own bedroom and shower (that's not entirely true; I'm sharing with Jude). :) Our butler makes us homemade salsa, guacamole, tortilla chips, and decadent meals.

When we started to run low on Corona, another case was delivered promptly. Today Jude woke up with swimmer's ear, and a doctor came to our condo and had antibiotics delivered within half an hour.

And the staff. They run around with towels and bottles of water in bins of ice. They are so friendly (and some of them very cute!). I wish this could be real life. Here are some pics:

view from our back patio

one of the three infinity pools (the adult pool with swim-up bar aka my favorite one)

Cari enjoying our newest discovery:

the spicy mango margarita with chipotle salt rim

More pictures to come. All of these are just iPhone pics--totally unedited. Cari and JJ have a really nice camera, so I'll share more pictures when they upload those. In the meantime, I am happier, tanner, and more well-rested than I've been in ages. Trying to figure out a way to move here . . .

Egle, Marinet & Hannah Hardy II Turkish Vogue

2011-07-27T03:53:00.000-07:00

Oh wow. We are speechless, not one, not two but three of our absolute faves are gracing the pages of this months Turkish Vogue. The bright colour blocking is bang on trend and the girls look a dream. We adore.

Photography: Cuneyt Akeroglu

Ratio Oil/Gold - Rapport Pétrole/Or (2000 - 2011)

2011-07-26T23:57:00.000-07:00

Quiet Time

2011-07-24T19:32:00.000-07:00

It is damn near impossible for me to sit still.

I should ask my mama if this has always been true, or if it's a (bad) habit that I've cultivated over the years (and through an increasingly technology-dependent world). If I am being honest, I will admit things like:

1. I don't really like to go to the movies because it requires me to sit still (and with decorum) for two hours, and

2. I get anxious during massage/acupuncture/anything like that--we're talkin' even LUX SPA TREATMENTS HERE--because I have to be motionless and quiet. So mostly, I don't do these types of things.

Same goes for meditation. I've tried it, repeatedly, as I know it would be so good for me & my restless soul. And yet, my mind gets the best of me every time. I can't stop thinking about the next moment. Right now, I'm sitting on our incredible patio in Cabo San Lucas, looking across our private plunge pool into the rowdy Pacific. I'm in a loose tank top and drinking a really good glass of red wine (that JJ shipped here from San Francisco). This should be the most calming environment EVER, right?

I'm pretty calm right now . . . in Claire terms, anyway. But still, my mind races with these thoughts:

~should I put on my cardigan or not?
~can't decide if I want to read blogs or read my book (Little Bee, btw)
~I think I left my dish in the sink & it's rude to leave it for the mayordomo
~tomorrow, would I rather run on the beach or go to the fitness center?
~I should be lesson planning

Etc., etc. I'm not sure that I've ever just been IN THE NOW for more than two minutes. I literally bob my leg up and down when I am sitting. Constantly. CANNOT BE STILL.

Anyone else have trouble with this? Specific ideas for overcoming this incapacity for calm?

Hope you're somewhere as beautiful as I am right now.

hola de hermosa Cabo San Lucas!

2011-07-23T06:10:00.000-07:00

Hola from Cabo! Suffice to say, it is breathtaking here. I can't post pictures yet, because we haven't loaded any from the camera, and I can't email them from my iPhone lest I receive an otherworldly phone bill. But here's how it's gone down so far:

~we were greeted at the airport by a friendly gentleman who packed us into a van and handed us Coronas with lime for the ride to the resort

~upon arriving at the resort, a very friendly staff showed us around the grounds (teal ocean, infinity pools, restaurants on the beach) and took us to our villa. . .

~ . . . in which our sweet butler, Victor, had tamales, guacamole, and pico de gallo for us on the dining room table!

Can't wait to walk down to the beach today. Though the view from my room is almost as exquisite as the view from the plunge pool on our balcony. ;)

Only regret: abandoning my Spanish when Jaime and I broke up. I had actually been getting good, and then just quit cold turkey. I hate thinking that I could be fluent by now if I'd kept it up!

Pictures coming soon, but for now, this is where we're staying. Seriously.

USA: Inflation

2011-07-22T01:43:00.000-07:00

USA: Employee & Recessions - taux d'emploi et recessions

2011-07-21T02:07:00.000-07:00

Guess what I got to do???

2011-07-20T10:43:00.000-07:00

Dad took me for a ride on his Harley! Too bad we didn't have a side car for this guy:

Ignatius watched us ride off from the driveway

Between riding with my dad and my stepmom handing me down a family heirloom--her biker chick jacket from the late 80's--I'm well on my way to being "scooter trash." Jax Teller, here I come!

PIIGS: debts - les dettes

2011-07-20T01:55:00.000-07:00

Les montants sont en milliards d'euro.Debt = detteDebt/GDP = Dette/PIBInterest Cost = coût de remboursement des seuls intérêts des emprunts liés à la detteTax Revenue = Recettes fiscalesGovernment Deficit = Déficit budgétaire du gouvernement

USA: National Debt Ceiling - Plafond de la dette fédérale

2011-07-19T06:28:00.000-07:00

Semi Final II Elite Model Look

2011-07-19T06:15:00.000-07:00

After an exciting year of our scouts touring the country and scouting at the Wireless with Barclaycard, Hard Rock Calling, Isle of Wight Festival Festivals and not forgetting T4 on the Beach, we finally found this years Elite Model Look semi-finalists and boy are we proud to present them! Twelve of these beautiful girls will join us for our model bootcamp and then one will go on to become the winner of Elite Model Look 2011.

Take a look at what we got up to this year at our amazing semi-final which was held at none other than 33 Portland Place...home of Oscar winning film 'The Kings Speech'. Wow! For all the pictures go to our Facebook albums to check out all teh action from the day.

We would like to give huge thanks to everyone who contributed to this year's semi-final. It really was amazing. So big thanks to: Jakub Koziel, Yolande de Vries, Studio TMLS (for providing us with gorgeous shoes) Toni & Guy, Fiji Water, Kusch & Co and the lovely Debbie @ Jeap Printing who provided us with our goody-bags.

Shoes by Studio TMSL www.studiotmls.com

Hi Sushi II Elite Model Look

2011-07-19T04:00:00.000-07:00

Elite Model London would love to introduce you to the Japanese restaurant group 'Hi Sushi'. 'Hi Sushi' is our official Elite Model Look 2011 food sponsor and have very kindly provided us with their freshly prepared, healthy and delicious food. 'Hi Sushi' represents the traditional Japanese eating and drinking culture and brings back the lost sixth sense in food 'unami',which is well worth a try!

You can find 'Hi Sushi' in seven locations all over London, so go along and enjoy the atmosphere in their beautiful restaurants! Our models love 'Hi Sushi' and couldn't get enough, so we definitely recommend you to book a table! Don't miss out on this restaurant!

Take a look at Hi Sushi at this year’s Elite Model Look competition...

kusch & co

2011-07-19T03:21:00.000-07:00

Elite Model London would love to present one of our amazing sponsors for our Elite Model Look 2011!

'Kusch & Co' is a german furniture business which will provide us with its comfortable and stylish furniture for our semi-final! Our models will be stressed during this eventful time and definitly need a rest to regain their energy! We think 'Kusch & Co' are perfect for that!!

Their device is 'Quality is irreplaceable' and our models are irreplaceable too!!! We just want the best for them to feel and look marvellous!

Design, prestige and comfort.......that's what 'Kusch & Co' stands for and that's what Elite Model London needs!!! So make yourself comfortable, lean back and relax!!!

Alive and Well in Georgia!

2011-07-18T12:26:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! I'm back from a totally unintended blogging break, which was the result of accidentally leaving my backpack (including my laptop) in San Francisco! I had it all packed as my carry on--laptop, books, work, phone charger, etc . . . and left it in the car when I got out at the train station. Thus, I've been sans internet for a while . . . can't wait to catch up on all your blogs!

As soon as I got home, my mama, sis, and I headed to Tybee Island for a little beach trip. It was good, redneck fun. ;) I'm really grateful to have had time to spend with them--we never get time just the three of us! Plus, the overcast weather led to much Sons of Anarchy watchin.' :)

We drove back on Saturday for my cousin Stevie's wedding:

my beautiful cousin, Stevie, and her new husband, Josh

Mama, Kate, and me at the wedding

the bride with her two sisters (we're all girl cousins on my mama's side!)

sisters: Aunt KK, Aunt Pat, my mama

uncles ;)

Daddy and me

The wedding was beautiful and fun, and the next day I got to hold this sweet baby (my cousin Jennifer's half-sister's brand new daughter):

Emma Kate: 6 lbs 12 oz of CUTENESS

Today, after accompanying Jason, one of my bffs, to his radiation treatment (he has testicular cancer; he's gonna be fine, and he has the most incredible attitude about it), we stopped for brunch at Social House, where I had the southernest of breakfasts:

fried green tomato crepes, cheese grits, sweet tea

And then I spent the afternoon with my 91 year old grandmother, who advised that instead of seeking romance and passion, I begin to look for a man who is "rather dull."

Off for a ride on my dad's Harley . . . so grateful he's willing to feed the obsession!

Ratio Gold / S&p Index

2011-07-18T01:33:00.000-07:00

CDS size in Europe and USA - Taille des CDS en Europe et aux USA

2011-07-14T22:35:00.000-07:00

Silver: Comex dealer inventory

2011-07-13T23:21:00.000-07:00

Source: Jesse's Café Américain

World: House Price - Prix de l'immobilier

2011-07-13T01:45:00.000-07:00

Abiah. II Topshop Neosport

2011-07-12T02:44:00.000-07:00

L O V E

USA: unemployment - chomage

2011-07-12T00:27:00.000-07:00

Tea Pigs II Elite Model Look

2011-07-11T10:31:00.000-07:00

Elite Model Look proudly presents one of our official sponsors Tea Pigs! After all the excitement of this years competition everyone is probably in the need of a good cup of tea to relax. Tea Pigs make that possible! Their device is: No airs. No graces. Just real tea. Real tea for real people! One special product Elite Model London can recommend , as well as celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow and Danni Minogue, is the tasty Matcha Tea. If you want to regain energy for the next years Elite Model Look 2012 you should definitely give it a try. Top quality, organic green tea plus it's super healthy too! Drink it and feel great!

Behind the Scenes II Louis Vuitton AW11

2011-07-11T10:27:00.000-07:00

We couldn't have been more thrilled when Elite Model Look 2009 champ Nyasha and Fei Fei Sun became two of the girls that the House of Vuitton has contracted for their very exciting Fall/Winter 2011/2012 campaign .

Following in the footsteps of Kristen McMenamy and Uma Thurman, Nyasha will be one of the fresh new faces leading the campaign.. snaps from the shoot show the stunning young models striking a pose in the back of vintage cars sporting items from LV's amazing new collection.

Tin O' Tint II Elite Model Look 2011

2011-07-11T10:25:00.000-07:00

Summer is here and we all want to treat our bodies to the best! It's time for something that feels and looks good! Elite Model proudly presents the Tin O' Tint lip balm from Miners Cosmetics. This lip balm makes your lips feel as soft as silk and adds a slight tint to make them look fresh and gentle! And that's not all... it comes in three different flavours Vanilla, Cherry and Watermelon, whatever you feel like! They also come in the cutest retro tins, that had us all aww'ing at in the office. Say goodbye to chapped winter lips and hello to soft, shiny and adorable lips!

Commercial Property Price - Prix del' immobilier commercial

2011-07-09T23:50:00.000-07:00

Size of Government spending - Taille des dépenses publiques

2011-07-08T22:48:00.000-07:00

On my Nightstand

2011-07-08T10:08:00.000-07:00

Currently, I'm in the middle of several books . . . I justify it since they're all so different:

The Namesake, Jhumpa Lahiri

I'd been meaning to read this one for a while (ever since I saw the author speak at San Francisco's City Arts & Lectures a few years ago). I'm thoroughly enjoying it, despite having interrupted it upon the arrival of my next book in the mail:

Hell's Angel, Sonny Barger

By now you all know why I'm reading this. Love it. Wanna know everything about MC culture. I also ordered a book about a federal agent who infiltrated the infamous Mongrols MC, so I'll let you know about that one when I'm done, too. ;) I know you're all chomping at the bit.

the new black, Evie Shockley

I stumbled upon this new book of poems on a trip to City Lights, and I LOVE IT. She uses a lot of traditional form (even a ghazal!) but modernizes them into a collection of poems about gender, race, identity, history, etc. Evie Shockley might be my new fave.

Next up is this:

First they Killed my Father, Loung Ung

Kristin sent me this (along with two others!) for the book swap, and I can't wait to read it. It's obviously going to be really intense, but I can balance it out with:

Something Blue, Emily Giffin

Novels the color of Easter eggs = guilty pleasure.

I know it's Friday, but I couldn't resist linking up with Meghan since her Top Five Thursday topic was books, so here it is a day late!

USA: GDP growth and Recession - Croissance du PIB et récession

2011-07-07T22:10:00.000-07:00

Fiji Water II Elite Model Look

2011-07-07T05:55:00.000-07:00

It is really important to us that our models stay healthy and treat their bodies well. One of the best ways to ensure this is to drink lots of water. So we are delighted that Fiji Water are supporting Elite Model Look 2011 providing us with their refreshing water during the semi-final, model bootcamp, and Grand Final to stay fit and look great!

Some Random Notes

2011-07-06T18:49:00.000-07:00

In high school, my best friend Tiffany and I carried around these neon pink notebooks, in which we would record "observations." I still have them; there are 20 volumes (not exaggerating). So in honor of our "Pulsar Pinks," here is a list of totally unrelated notes and observations:

1. These days, I'm really into Hanging with Friends on the ol' iPhone. Please play with me! (clairekiefer)

2. I spent the past two days in a workshop at SF's Juvenile Justice Center entitled Trauma and Recovery, and then came home and slept. Normal, right? It was an excellent workshop with an excellent trainer, and I learned very acutely that I am not comfortable with silence!!! ("Be comfortable with silence" was one of the counseling "dos"). I am talkative and fidgety and silence? . . . can't handle it.

3. Talk about dichotomous activities: after spending the day in a Trauma workshop, I spent the evening devising a grocery list for Cabo. Someone will go shopping for us and deposit our groceries (and tequila) in our villa before our arrival. What??? June 22 can't get here fast enough.

4. Mesmerized by this picture:

smokin'

5. What does one do when one's 30th birthday falls on the second day of #$@!ing school? Need ideas.

6. My hair doesn't hold curl. It's naturally wavy, but when I blow dry it and attempt to use a curling iron? FALLS RIGHT OUT. I lamented this fact while my girls were visiting SF last month, and Jessie recommended this curling iron . . .y'all, it's life-changing. Best $24.99 I ever spent. I can brush my hair, sleep on it, put it in a bun, and it STILL has curl. I'm so into it:

Remington T Studio curling wand

Okay, that's all I got. I'm off to the gym . . . but only because I've promised myself a trip to Yogurtland on the way home.

Elite Model Look II Cirque du Soir

2011-07-05T03:18:00.000-07:00

Introducing Cirque du Soir one of our official Elite Model Look sponsors and our after party host! We are not only about to combine fashion and music, but thanks to one of the most exclusive venues in London we are going to bring an essence of magic to the catwalk too! Cirque du Soir is one of London’s hidden gems, transcending your average music acts and accompanying performances. With the West End’s best DJ’s taking to the decks (Will.I.Am has famously spun on the more then a few times!) the gravity defying circus acts, magicians, clowns and dancers…all with a twist! Carefully choreographed shows, ingenious concepts and fabulous outfits, not to mention the crème de la crème of fashionistas and models who regularly show their faces there.We have hand picked a few performers to showcase their acts at the Elite Model Look final and finally after the show the Elite team and all our fashion industry guests will head down for a well earned drink and to catch a glimpse of Cirque du Soir in full swing!

Paper reserves in central banks - Réserves en devises des banques centrales (1948 - 2011)

2011-07-04T23:57:00.000-07:00

Busy Weekend in Pictures

2011-07-03T21:11:00.000-07:00

Why did I think summer would be so low-key and relaxing? I had visions of spending my days lounging on my back porch with a Blue Moon, big sunnies, and some books . . . and yet, not so much how it's turned out. Working a lot on my curriculum, meetings, babysitting, social engagements, stalking motorcycle clubs, visitors + travel = one busy girl.

Here's what I've been up to this weekend:

eating lots of these

dinner (Delfina Pizzeria) and drinks (Double Dutch; my fave)

with my dear friend Monica

p.s. anyone know how to get the iPhone 4 to take better pics in the dark?

p.p.s. check out the awesome boombox on the Double Dutch homepage

p.p.p.s. go to Delfina Pizzeria and get the broccoli raab pizza stat.

sunny days at the pool with this guy & his impish brother

immersed in my new book

p.s. the co-authors, Keith and Kent Zimmerman,

teach creative writing in my unit at San Quentin

a beautiful San Francisco Sunday in Freeman's back yard

Tomorrow I'll be missing Leeann, who was supposed to be visiting this weekend, until I dropped the ball and took too long to email her times (the airfare sale ended) :(. No doubt we would have torn up the town. Instead, I'll be BBQing with friends during the day, and teaching at San Quentin at night. Normally I wouldn't teach on a holiday, but I'll be out of town the next two Mondays (here I come, Georgia! here I come, Cabo San Lucas!), so I'm sucking it up for the greater good. Needless to say, my students don't have any other plans. ;)

Fittingly, I'll be teaching this poem.

Happy 4th!

I apologize in advance for making fun of my mother

2011-06-30T11:38:00.000-07:00

but I can't help it. Did you read my post yesterday? Wellll . . . my mama did. And I received this email yesterday morning, first thing:

Clairey

I just read your blog and I am dead serious--DO NOT GO HANGING OUT WITH MOTORCYCLE GANGS

I'm not kidding. Do not go to any party of theirs.

Mama

Haven't laughed that hard in a while.

USA: Gold reserves vs Gold price - Réserves d'or vs prix de l'or (1960 - 2011)

2011-06-29T23:20:00.000-07:00

Insurance Companies and Greece - La Grèce et les compagnies d'assurance

2011-06-29T10:06:00.000-07:00

My Obsessions Run Deep

2011-06-29T00:41:00.000-07:00

So as many of you know, my recent obsession with the FX show Sons of Anarchy has evolved into an obsession with all things motorcycle. And when I obsess over something, I do it hard.

Exhibit A:
Last night, I feel asleep reading this.

Exhibit B:
Collaborative artwork with three-year-old Milo:

Exhibit C:
Hours of research of local motorcycle clubs have led me, repeatedly, to the East Bay Rats. Fortuitously, their clubhouse is about a mile from my apartment, which has led to a couple "lurking" incidents:

taken from my car, parked conspicuously outside

Lucky for me, my friend Audrey is a damn good sport, and agreed to go prowling for bikers with me tonight. Our first stop was Godspeed, which was unfortunately closed. After driving by the Rats' clubhouse (no one home), we headed to the Ruby Room, a reliably "Rat"-infested watering hole, which was a straight-up gold mine. First of all, the president of the MC was the doorman. Secondly, the bartender had a huge EAST BAY RATS MOTORCYCLE CLUB tat on his forearm. Thirdly, two dudes approached us at the bar, revealed that they were Rats prospects, and invited us to a biker party Saturday night at their warehouse. Let the investigative research begin!

I should have been one of those undercover journalists. Wish me luck! And if you have any inside info on where the Hell's Angels hang out, holler at your girl.

Future Market: 2011 Option Expiration Calendar - Calendrier d'expiration des options

2011-06-27T10:54:00.000-07:00

Source: Forum Acheter Or

Ratio Dow / Gold (1978 - 2011)

2011-06-24T22:58:00.000-07:00

Nyasha Matonhodze || LOVE Magazine

2011-06-24T14:09:00.000-07:00

Boots with the Fr

2011-06-24T10:33:00.000-07:00

Two things you should know about my nephew, Ethan (my cousin Jennifer's son) to set up this story:

1. He is six years old and working on writing in his class;
2. He's been a hip hop fan since birth.

The other day, Jennifer and her mama (my aunt KK) were driving to our Nana's house with Ethan in his car seat in the back. Prior to getting in the car, Ethan requested his notebook so that he could use it in the car.

All the way to Nana's, he was quietly scribbling away in his notebook, practicing his writing, except for when he paused to ask, "How do you spell big?"

When they got to Nana's, Jennifer asked Ethan what he'd been working on, and he proudly presented her with this:

Enlarge it if you can't read it.

I don't think Ethan understood why Jennifer burst out laughing . . .

Europe: Gold production - Production d'or

2011-06-23T22:58:00.000-07:00

Source: Oro y finanza

Girlfriends, Good Food, Wine, and Jax Teller

2011-06-23T07:27:00.000-07:00

How lucky am I that Micaela, Marianne, and Jessie chose to spend vacation time here with me in San Francisco last week? And let me just say that our trip was everything we dreamed it would be.

four girls in Napa

Marianne is the sweetest person I've ever met. And she's incredibly beautiful, loyal, and says the cutest things. ♥

Jessie can party like a rockstar. She's a hot & hilarious bad ass with some amazing stories. She and I could get into some pretty serious trouble if we lived near each other.

And Micaela is my girl. I feel closer to her every day, and am so thankful this trip gave us so much time together. This woman could fill oceans with the love she has to give. It's pretty unreal.

at Rubicon Estates (Niebaum-Coppola)

Texas/Oklahoma girls in Golden Gate Park

Jessie stopping in for a quick tattoo on Haight St., ha!

foggy day at my favorite beach

wine!

Marianne was such a good sport since she doesn't really like wine :)

happy

one of my favorite pictures from our trip

at Vesuvio in North Beach. BEWARE!

on this trip to City Lights, I discovered a new poet

with whom I'm now a little obsessed: Evie Shockley

the Golden Gate Bridge was actin' up a little with the fog

Other things we did:

*Visited my neighborhood restaurants and wine bar

*Watched (and re-watched) super hot Jax Teller sex scenes at Cari and JJ's house

*Stayed up till 4 am with laughter, a few tears, and lots of stories

*Had a bit of a traumatic experience running into my exbf's good friend, who told me that my exbf is getting married (still coping, y'all)

*Ate authentic Italian food in North Beach

*Spent some time on my back porch

*Saw the Painted Ladies (or as I like to call them, the Full Houses) and busted out the Full House theme song

*Drank lots of coffee!

Hurry back, girls! My house is so empty without you.

GDP, Pre/post default growth - PIB, Croissance avant et après la faillite

2011-06-23T03:02:00.000-07:00

Elite Model Look II Isle of Wight Festival

2011-06-23T02:26:00.000-07:00

Our scouts are going to be hitting all the festivals this summer for this year’s Elite Model Look competition and we kicked off the summer in style at the Isle of Wight festival. The Elite Model Look scouts worked hard and wow did we find some beautiful girls and boys for this year’s competition. After a day’s scouting, the Elite crew chilled out to a mix of Kings of Leon, Pulp, Kasabian, Hurts, Two Door Cinema Club and Plan B. Scouting AND amazing music…what a dreamy weekend.

My Heart is Full

2011-06-20T09:47:00.000-07:00

Yesterday marked the end of the most incredible girls' trip imaginable. I will post all about my time in San Francisco with Micaela, Marianne, and Jessie tomorrow; for now, I'm running off to work from the nonprofit office today.

And so I leave you with some Monday man candy. Thanks to my friend Cari, who is responsible for my obsession with Tim Riggins as well, I can't stop thinking about Jax Teller:

JAX IN A MANBUN.

(googleimage)

Suffice to say, the four of us indulged in some Sons of Anarchy-watchin', beer-drinkin', lustful-fantasizin' about good ol' Jax. Have any of you seen Sons of Anarchy? I'm totally willing to get past the violence in order to see this man walk around like the ultimate good-hearted bad ass in a bullet proof vest.

Trip update tomorrow!

Link up with Leeann:

Benjamin Eidem II Prada

2011-06-20T09:42:00.000-07:00

Check out the gorgeous Benjamin Eidem opening and closing the Prada show in Milan. How proud are we!

Use of Silver - Usage de l'argent (1999 - 2011)

2011-06-20T01:26:00.000-07:00

Gold rally and real interest rate - La hausse de l'or et les taux d'intérêt réels

2011-06-18T03:10:00.000-07:00

Source: Le blog a Lupus