Birthday Cake Nation

We've Moved!!!

2010-08-18T20:57:00.000-07:00

Oh DUDES! We moved BirthdayCakeNation.com

The Sun shines in June too!

2009-06-02T08:25:00.000-07:00

So it's June! In BCN and in the real world. The sun is shining and I hope everyone had a marvelous Memorial Day! I had to work but that is okay... because money is important for my survival. May was a fantastic month and I feel like June will be even better. Lets be optimistic this month! I will be filling Birthday Cake Nation with Sunshine and optimism. Look here for a laugh or a smile if you are feeling blue! Also feel free to spread the sunshine at birthdaycakenation@gmail.com. I love to spread joy!!!

Yours Truly,

Attia

P.S. My grandpa's birthday is June 23rd so guess what? Birthday cake for me!! He's turning 86! (I know)

Life is Awkward

2009-05-20T08:20:00.000-07:00

Okay so while I was blog surfing and realizing that's all I do anymore, I came across this really hilarious and crazy website called Awkward Family Photos. I seriously eat this kind of stuff up when I'm at home... There's Eating, Youtube, Sleeping, and hilarious websites... you can add in music making to that (If you call banging on garbage cans with spoons making music). Everything about that website makes me want to cry tears of joy. We all have awkward family photos and the thought that someone made a website from that concept is pure genius! Thank you!!

Also, this is completely different from the awkward family photos but someone recently sent me a throwback music video! The Cardigans will forever hold a place in my heart. I listen to "Love Fool" faithfully... anyway I love their outfits and the all around vintage style of this video! Plus the song is really SWEET! I need for you to see this!

The Bird and The Bee have a video similar to this style for their song "La La La" from their first self titled album. Directed by Bryan Law. I love the song and the video just reminds me of how much I wish I existed in the 70's. Hooray for vintage styled music videos!

June 7th: Girls Rock Philly Silent Auction

2009-05-19T08:35:00.000-07:00

The Silent Auction is coming! Girls Rock Philly is hosting their Silent Auction on June 7th! Guess what? Yours truly is performing! Nice...Right?! I am excited to play alongside Frisky or Trusty, Kitten Disaster, Nora Whittaker, The Lopez and Victor Victor Band! This year is going to be awesome! Last year my band Oak Oak Okay played and this year Im playing some of my solo work so it should be interesting to see the reaction.

The event just got a front page mention on SouthStreet.com which is pretty cool! To check out my music... Click Here!!

The event is at 117 South Street in Philly! From 2-5! Please come out and have a blast!

Tonight's Today

2009-05-17T20:56:00.000-07:00

Well this video blew me away! It's from Jack Peñate's new single Tonight's Today! I love this... Check it out!

First Person America

2009-05-12T10:59:00.000-07:00

We all know how hard it is to stay afloat in this economy, with the rising prices, unemployment, and the loss of homes. Everything seems very, well, down. The best thing to cure our economic woes and blows would be none other than entertainment and art! You know like during the Great Depression! This art in specific is documenting the state we are in! It sounds awesome and very inspiring.

First Person Arts is hosting a national competition in search of the best photography, videos, and stories documenting our everyday struggles and hardships in this breaking and baking economy. If you are an artist (which I'm sure you are, those are the only people I seem to know anymore), then I think you should consider opening up your creative cavity and entering yourself into this competition!!

I wont lie, I am very excited to see the results of this competition because I would just love to see the artistic take on this situation. We are fed a lot of information on television and the internet but how are we seeing it? I'm also considering entering this competition, not with video but photography. I've been trying my hand at it and you know I think I'm starting to really like it! Yes, I am a person very much affected by this financial crisis. So it only makes sense! Artist...Crisis...hehe

Enough about me, c'mon people, lets get original and creative!

Guidelines:

Writing submissions – up to 2,500 words.
Film and video submissions – up to five minutes, excluding credits.
Photography submissions - may include up to five photographs, with or without accompanying text of up to 100 words per image.

Submission deadline: June 30, 2009
For more info on this matter, check out http://firstpersonamerica.org/
You know you want to!

TOKYO!

2009-05-09T08:10:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I trekked downtown with my bud and went to see that new movie Tokyo!. I walked into The Ritz eager to see Michel Gondry's work (as he is my favorite director). I was not a huge fan of Be Kind Rewind and Science of Sleep did not quite pull me in with it's story line so I was bit skeptical about going to see this.

Not only did Michel Gondry do a spectacular job but the other two directors really impressed me. I was so enticed by the shots, the storylines, the actors, the sets, and the graphics. Way to go guys!!

INTERIOR DESIGN - directed by Michel Gondry

With: Ayako Fujitani, Ryo Kase, Ayumi Ito.

MERDE - directed by Leos Carax
With: Denis Lavant, Jean-Francois Balmer, Renji Ishibashi.

SHAKING TOKYO - directed by Bong Joon-Ho
With: Teruyuki Kagawa, Yu Aoi, Naoto Takenaka.

Tokyo! displays love, mischief, and a sense of belonging in a peculiar yet booming and beautiful city. It takes three perspectives on the culture and sense of humanity that takes place in Japan. The three films take you into the personal lives of ordinary or not so ordinary people and captures your heart whilst displaying the beauty of a place called Tokyo.

The characters are well developed in each film and often times leave you on the edge of your seat. Tokyo! was creative and the ideas and concepts were developed to perfection!

I recommend you go see this movie before it is out of theaters. I loved it! I will probably go see it again...thats just me. Until then, you enjoy your spring weather and stay out of the rain! Ciao for now...

Attia

Fashion Comes To Life

2009-05-07T15:07:00.001-07:00

Fashion! Isn't it wonderful! Isn't it amazing! I'm in love with it. I stumbled across an old friend recently who failed to mention he was in fashion school! I was very upset that he never told me that. If he would have, he would have known that I am secretly crazy about it. Further more, my friend Daimon is very very talented and I thought I'd give him a little love!

Daimon Jerrick Ramon Arrington

After graduating Granville Charter School (in Trenton, NJ), Daimon moved to Philadelphia, PA to attend Girard College High School where his passion for fashion came to life. After struggling with his choice of college, he decided to follow his dream of becoming a fashion designer. He then enrolled in the Art Institute of Philadelphia where he is now a sophomore. Not only is he a student, he holds a position with great regards in sales at Urban Outfitters.

Currently, Daimon Arrington is designing for his label Jerri Ramon he is also a personal shopper, seamstress, designer, patternmaker, and stylist. Daimon is currently seeking potential internships in design in the Phialdelphia and New York area. He is inspired by some of the greatest designers like Ralph Lauren, Marc Jacobs, Chanel, D Squared, Bill Blass, Christian Siriano, and Tom Ford.

Daimon plans on building his experience within the industry by working as a designer. He is opened to doing fashion work so for any inquiries or more information:

email: daimonarrington@gmail.com
email: dda181@stu.aii.edu

Girls Rock Philly and Music + Mentorship

2009-05-04T17:39:00.000-07:00

Girls Rock Philly and Music + Mentorship are hosting a gear drive! May 23rd go out and show your support for both of these amazing programs! It's 21+ and if you donate an instrument you get in for free!!! C'mon, now thats the sweetest deal ever! Its being held at Johnny Brendas (www.JohnnyBrendas.com) Starting this year with a bang! For more information check out:

GirlsRockPhilly.org
+
myspace.com/musicmentorshipprogram

Plus check out the sweeeet bands playing that night! It's a sure treat! NO DOUBT!

myspace.com/ohpearsmusic

myspace.com/anamericanchinese

myspace.com/themeanband

myspace.com/runatthedog

April Showers Bring May Flowers

2009-04-30T06:45:00.000-07:00

APRIL ENDS TODAY! I personally think April is a very beautiful and interesting month. It's very rainy and very warm. It's kind of like the threshold into warmer and brighter days. When most people think of April they think ugh rain...and celebrate Easter which is awesome but there are magnificent qualities in a month like this. It's completely under rated so I'm going to take the time to share all of the wonderful facts about April!

1. April is Sexual Violence Awareness Month

2. National Poetry Month

3. Jazz Appreciation Month (Jazz I like!)

4. Buddha's Birthday- April 8th

5. EARTH DAY!!- April 22nd

6. Take our Sons and Daughters to Work Day!

7. World Health Day-April 7th

8. April 13th is Thai New Year in Thailand and Khmer New Year in Cambodia

9. April Fools Day! (Gotcha!)

10. World Autism Awareness Day! April 2nd

Happy Birthday to all you April babies...I hope everyone had a wonderful month and get ready for May flowers!

Time Traveling

2009-04-28T07:11:00.000-07:00

I've been thinking. Thinking about music and how important it is on our cognitive and what it does to us mentally. What I really like is the way it massages my senses and flares my nostalgia.

The best way to enjoy nostalgia, if you enjoy it at all, is to listen to songs that remind you of the past. What made me think of this was yesterday. Let me explain...Yesterday, I had to work and before I got into work I decided to listen to a playlist I made early last summer. While it was a tough summer, a lot happened for me. I started the very job I was walking into. Listening to that playlist took me back to last summer. The plot thickens! I was so in tune with the past that I put in the old door code from last summer and I could even smell the smells inside of the break room. I felt as if I had time traveled to July 2008. It was a really incredible feeling. In a sense the playlist is a time capsule. Bottling up the past and when I am ready to dig it up I can feel the feelings I felt at one specific time in my life.

Next time you listen to throwback jams, emerge yourself into the scene and enjoy that blast from the past. Whether it reminds you of that specific love interest that had you in love for like a week and you only listened to one song *Tear*, or maybe there was a really amazing time in your life you would love to relive. Do it with a song!! Some people like to do their childhood...not me specifically but whatever floats your boat.

All I am saying is, music can be more than just entertainment in the car, or a nice beat at the party. It should evoke feelings of pain, love, nostalgia, all of the above! Get your groove on!

Your Dancing Queen,
Attia

Spring Will Be Spring

2009-04-25T11:31:00.000-07:00

Bonjour!

Here I am, in Maryland, enjoying delicious crabs and wonderful family. Enjoying the warm weather! It feels good to get out of town. This is the second weekend in a row. Sisterhood of the Traveling Attia. Like the movie..with the pants! No? okay... Seriously, I feel pretty good. I have so much work to do as it is the end of an amazing semester but I can't help but feel happy because the sun is shining so bright. It feels like this has been the longest winter. It started in November and it has been freezing ever since. I just want the warm weather to stay! Even though I'm a little afraid of bumble bees, its comforting to see them buzzing around me on a day like today. They are enjoying the sunshine as I am. Bzzz...(Im buzzing)
Enjoy this change in weather. The winter makes me appreciate it to the fullest extent. Soon, it will be May and every color will bloom into existence in our gardens, in our forests, in our souls, and in our lives. Just a few more days of the rainy month and there you have it. A sense of city, country, or sea wherever you are. I am going to make me a sunshine playlist. This playlist will be full of happy songs and sunshine tunes! Hooray for the spring time!

Peace and Love,
Attia

Get me out of here!

2009-04-13T18:43:00.000-07:00

Hello my people...

I have a test tomorrow. I am ready. Maybe...How can we ever know if we are ready or not? In a test or life at all. I really want to travel. I've been fighting with myself trying to figure out what is stopping me. School, work, money! All of these things. Life is short. I have to go. It will drive me insane. I am going to Pittsburgh this weekend. That's the end of this post.

Somewhere Over The Rainbow

2009-04-04T06:37:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I saw a rainbow...It was AMAZING!

Yesterday I was verbally abused at my job...it was HORRIFYING!

I wont let that get me down! When people don't have such good days they like to take it out on the cute front desk lady at the hotel. Oh my life! This guy was totally insane on the phone. Luckily, I don't let things like that get to me. The best part was that I got to see a rainbow!! It gave me the chills when I looked outside and saw the array of colors neatly aligned in the sky. I love when it rains and the sun is shining. It makes me feel serene like everything will be okay. Which it will!

I have to say, things haven't been the easiest lately but seeing things like rainbows and rain in the sunshine makes me feel like I will be alright some how. No matter who threatens me or hates me for giving them wrong directions to the hotel, I can still smile and say "Hey, it's April! Life is beautiful!"

Something you need to know...Lately I have been dancing at the train stop. It's so much fun and even though people stare at me and think I'm strange...it is so so so rewarding! It cheers me up in the sourest of moods. I mean I don't do full out dance routines but if my favorite song comes on, I don't hesitate to groove! You should try it anyhow...

Enjoy your Rain in the Sunshine!!
Attia

photo by: Calvin Jones

No Inspiration Nation + Lazy Weekdays

2009-03-24T07:41:00.000-07:00

Soo...my spring break was hardly a break. I worked a bunch which is a good thing. I got to see so many wonderful people who I rarely get to see and that is always a plus. I only wish I could have gotten more writing done which ultimately was the plan but the plan was compromised by sleeping and hanging out. It was Lazy Sunday continuing...and for some odd reason I just was not inspired. I sat down at my computer and attempted to make a cool beat or a neat hook for a new song but I fell flat. Just a little case of writers block I guess. I need to find something to inspire a spark in my mind. I really want to make something completely fresh and brave. What shall I do?!

Maybe I need to do something that I have never done before...like go sky diving, bake a cake, start a revolution. It really doesn't matter. I need to get new ideas flying around in this big ol' head of mine. Any suggestions?

March Movie Madness

2009-03-15T09:03:00.000-07:00

I am in love with film, and I don't spend any time talking about it here! That really doesn't make any sense! Right? I see so many great films with the help of Netflix and my wonderful friends and all of their recommendations. Oh, by the way, if you don't have Netflix, go sign up RIGHT NOW! That is if you love movies as much I do. hehehe

I wanted to take the time to list a few amazing movies (New and Old) that you absolutely should see. Why? Because I said so!!

1. Punishment Park (1971) - Directed by Peter Watkins, if you love liberals expressing their right being freedom of speech but getting shot dead for it...then you've come to the right place. It's a pseudo documentary that will absolutely blow your mind. A really good friend recommended this one to me. I bought it, shortly after watching it from Netflix.

2. Persona (1966)- If you aren't already an Ingmar Bergman fan then you will be after you watch this film! It's so good, plain and simple. The thing is, it's visually amazing and that completely makes up for the little dialogue. The dialogue is amazing too, as well as the plot. LOOK! You can't beat this deal. Watch it!

3. The Holy Mountain (1973)- Oh my! I just watched this film the other day and I have never seen anything, ANYTHING that visually pleasing. I wont say anymore. Directed by Alejandro Jodorowsky. Yes, it's a strange film, BUT you wont regret watching it! I promise... (WARNING: Extremely Psychedelic)

4. Umberto D. (1952)- Directed by one of my favorites Vittorio De Sica. This film will tear your emotions to pieces. I guarantee you will fall in love with this or these characters but the plot is nothing elaborate. It's very simple but it is such a beautiful story, and visually amazing. The acting is incredible and I don't really see acting like this anymore. Hey, maybe it's out there but I haven't seen it. If you see it let me know. (Right after you watch this film).

5. Darjeeling Limited (2007)- Get to know Wes Anderson, if you already haven't. This film of his in specific is really touching to me. The journey of three brothers, in grief and bonding and the colors are awesome. Set in India, majority of the film is on a train. I'm going to own this one soon!

SPOILER ALERT: These films are amazing...so go...and watch them!

Also the Yeah Yeah Yeah's new album It's Blitz! Is kind of amazing...I'm just saying.

Peace,
Attia

Spring Forward

2009-03-10T14:48:00.000-07:00

MMMMM Spring! I can feel it, feel it arriving! It's everywhere...I feel the love! I am so sorry it has been so long but I have been doing a million things at one time.

I am actually ready for this new weather and so excited to finally wear dresses again and flats and take off the heavy coats and knitted scarves. Scarves I love you, but I need space!
Things are looking up. I've been doing a tiny bit of traveling here and there and back and forth from school, work, making music. My motto for this year is EAT SLEEP WRITE...feel free to put anything where I put write. I just have a lot of ideas and next week is my spring break so I'm going to take time to myself and get creating. Creating for my band Oak Oak Okay which is definitely back in full gear come spring! I am so excited!

I've been a bit concerned though...here it comes...Everyone knows our economy is pretty bad right now but honestly I cannot understand why so many ads think they are consoling us by putting comforting words in their slogans whilst selling us their product. I understand you want us to start spending money again but honestly, that's the last thing I want to see right now. Nice thought, but... Take some of that money and donate it to someone who lost their house or organization keeping people in their homes...advertise that!
Sorry just venting...

I miss this! I promise to write more...I love you all.

Spring forward!

Valentine Smalentine!!

2009-02-11T18:00:00.000-08:00

mmmm Water! It's so good for you! It does so many things and it tastes so good! Why am I talking about water you ask? Well for a whole month now the only beverage I have consumed is water and I think I have developed super powers from it! I don't know...
According to WebMD drinking water:
1. Helps your organs work better.

2. Helps to excrete toxins.

3. Reduces Food intake, helping you lose weight.

4. Improves your skin tone.

5. Wards off headaches.

Those are just a few things but there are endless amazing effects that water places on your body! So, I'm not saying stop drinking everything and stick to water. I'm saying replace that morning cup of gingerale YOU KNOW you shouldn't be drinking that early with a refreshing glass of icy water! It just makes everything okay...

To completely change the subject...

Dude it's Valentines Day! The most jacked up holiday ever! Love is awesome but it should be celebrated everyday! Also St. Valentine...you're awesome but seriously did you really deserve a whole holiday? I mean people spend tons of money and time on this day and they don't even get off work or receive extra pay. Cut the crap! No...Its a really cute holiday and while it is adorable I don't think it should be as serious as it is. I want to love you everyday! Plus flowers and candy can't buy my love...nope...not even a teddy bear! Come again!

I'm not really feeling that well this Valentines day. I have a sore throat! Cupid will you cure this sore throat? Will you sprinkle some dusty love stuff on it? Oh, damn you just shoot arrows. Sucks to be me...

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY!

Inaweguration! + Win Win Win

2009-01-20T10:16:00.000-08:00

So I'm sure everyone knows that Barack Obama is now our 44th president as of a little over an hour ago! This year is really looking up so far. I'm just hoping we can all unite for one common cause! CHANGE! The whole thing is extremely moving, even for younger people who may not understand the magnitude. I am certain that they can feel the movement and the change we have seen and the change we are about to see in our wonderful nation. This is really something!

On another note I have finished my project and I am very proud of myself. I had a goal in mind and I successfully completed that goal! I made 11 songs in a little less than two weeks and they are all songs I am proud to say I composed. This journey was really about self discipline.I'm usually the one to have one rough night and throw the whole thing away (believe me there were rough nights). I mainly wanted to try my hand at completing a project and sticking with it. That was one of my new year resolutions and I feel grateful to be able to complete and conquer something like that on a personal level. I feel like a strong person is one who is self disciplined with ethics, and moral values. This is what I strive for in my everyday life! I also love making music! Win Win Win! Check out my video!

Clap Your Hands!

2009-01-15T12:23:00.000-08:00

Today it snowed. Its pretty cold and if you could see my face, you'd say "Gosh! She looks beat!" and I am. A song a day takes a lot out of you, not to mention that I've been out and about all week. All the while, I'm still here, and I still feel good about things. My vacation has been quite swell. My hair is everywhere and today I chose not to wear my contacts and look like geeky T. Atleast thats what I was called in highschool. It didn't stick though, thankfully.
I miss a boat load of people and wish so much they were here to watch movies and drink hot chocolate (water) with me. Tomorrow I get to hang out with DJ Sassafrass and have a Knitting/Music/Dance party. I am very excited! If you are back in school, still on break, working, or whatever you're doing just have yourself a Knitting/Music/Dance party. Theres a 100% chance you will feel 100% better about life! I tell no lies. Don't forget to clap your hands!

Also I recently saw Slumdog Millionaire and Revolutionary Road. They both were amazing in different ways. That's all I will say. Go see them! NOW!

Moon Cruise

2009-01-11T10:11:00.000-08:00

As I sit here listening to Sufjan Stevens, I feel very calm. Very very calm. This past few days I have been recording songs on my computer at about 2 AM and 3 AM. So far I have 4 songs, because it's been 4 days. A song a day. I only plan on letting friends hear it, well because it's just a side project and the quality is not nearly as great as I'd wish. It's been a pretty exciting adventure though. I had no idea that I could actually do this in such a short amount of time. I only plan on making about 8 or 9 songs. I always struggled with making sounds on the computer but I think I finally got it down! I am excited. I just thought I'd share that. What? What is this inspired by you ask? The moon I say, the moon!

The List

2009-01-04T23:54:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year everyone!!! Finally, 2008 is over and things are starting out better than ever. Amongst all of the lessons I've learned in 2008 I can honestly say I will not miss it. I've never been more happy to see a new year. Of course, we have a new president taking office which is great news! I've been doing a lot of changing on the outside of my life like painting my house with a brand new amazing coat. Treating people better, making plans for my future, you know, a new bright and shiny color. New Years resolutions are just as effective as you make them. There's no such thing as new years magic, or a new year super change everything button. Make plans...execute! I spent New Years Eve surrounded by the people who matter to me, people who I wouldn't mind spending the year with. It was awesome! I saw a lot of family and it reminded me of how many reasons there are for me to be happy. I know that this happiness thing gets repetitive in my posts but I'm sure of how easy it is for people to fall off the bandwagon just by one negative thought. Coming here should be a reminder for you to always choose happiness no matter what...because I mean why not?

If you haven't already written down your new years resolution, stop reading this post and go grab an unused notebook, piece of scrap paper, back of an envelope and write, write, write! Keep it some place where you will see it, or glance at it and I promise you that these things will manifest. I must admit that my list has gotten pretty ridiculous over the years, now to 210, but number 1. I've been writing it for two years and number 2. there are more things crossed off than not so...you tell me if it's effective. Hey it's up to you!

To totally go off topic:

I started watching 30 Rock today. It's hard for me to start watching a show and actually get into it but 30 Rock is hilarious! I got tired of people telling me how funny it is and saying I'm eventually going to watch it. I'm only still on the first season but I'm pretty deep in. If you haven't already watched you probably should! If you have netflix you can watch it instantly, it's worth it trust me!!

So, make your list and on that list put choose happiness, and watch 30 Rock!

Ciao for now!

All I want for Xmas!

2008-12-22T11:58:00.000-08:00

Golly! Christmas is on Thursday! I know this is my first blog of December but I will make it up to you in the new year. Things in life, as you all know, can be a bit crazy. That is what things have been like. Amongst the business of school and trying to catch up with myself I kind of lost my head a bit. I am back and feeling very good again!
I recently started using Genius on iTunes! It is amazing quite frankly! You probably already know this but I never paid it any mind. Now I actually know what's good on my iTunes! Yeah!
Sadly, I am not in the Christmas spirit but I'm sure as the day slowly approaches I will be. I wont be home to see the joy in my little sister's eyes when she opens her gifts. I will be working. I think Santa is giving me hours at my job for Christmas. That's all I want, and The Office Season 4 on DVD. See, I don't ask for much! I didn't buy any gifts this year...hold on, hold on...I will give you the reasons.

1. Times are hard.
2. I buy gifts every other year and this one year, I'm just not doing it.

Those are the only reasons. I will figure some other things out and let you know what I come up with. No, seriously I'm trying to save money. Everyone should understand that, and Christmas didn't make the cut this year. Next year will be much much better. I'm sure!

Christmas Lights

2008-11-30T09:22:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone had a tasty Thanksgiving as I did, along with Birthday Cake. Many laughs, and many friends...isn't that what life is all about. Enjoying where you are. I know I said I am eager to travel, but in the same respect maybe I haven't given where I am enough credit. I need to appreciate my place on earth. I am very fortunate to have what I have.

The winter is starting to depress me, and the fact that I can feel it coming helps me to be a little happier. I get like this every year. There has to be something wrong with my life, even if there isn't really. I think I'll be okay.

I'm going to cling to the beautiful Christmas lights I see everyday, everywhere I go. I know that there are people who are actually excited for this time of year. Maybe I should hang Christmas lights. It could cheer me up. Let me just put this out in the universe: I need to travel somewhere...or I will crawl out of my skin! okay glad that's out! Don't worry people I'm still smiling. Buy me a great gift for Christmas or burn me a CD! C'mon, I'll burn you one too.

Grow! Grow! Go!

2008-11-20T16:56:00.000-08:00

Opening my eyes finally! I had two really great moments today! On my way home on the train, I realized how important it is for me to see the world. I ride the same train almost every day in the same direction and that doesn't really sit too well with me. It was almost like I could feel the days of my life being wasted away on the same railroad track, with the same people, and the same scenery.
I've seen a lot of unfortunate things in myself and other people over the years and I feel like it is time to go out and make changes.

That was one realization!

Also, working at the hotel today, a woman came up to the front desk and asked me are there any local bingo spots. I think to myself...hmmm...no I have no idea. I haven't even heard the mention of Bingo in at least a year, but I looked it up for her on the Internet. I searched through Google Maps, Google, Yellow Pages, and a number of other search engines. I found a place and called to check their hours for her. A very petite woman with an awesome black furry hat and shiny baggy black pants waited patiently for the results. I gave her the hours and I apologized for the wait. She replied to me "Oh, It was worth the wait, I think I'll go tomorrow. Thank You!"

Yes, that's the entire story BUT if you would have heard the tone of her voice and the happiness she felt after I had done all of that bingo research you would have been just as touched as I am right now. It was a feeling I wont forget!

Fires are beautiful, they glow, and grow, and release warmth until they die. Balloons are beautiful, they are colorful and light up faces, floating higher and higher swaying this way and that way until they pop!

I refuse to not glow, grow, float, sway, give off warmth, light up faces, and reach my full potential...

How quickly we forget...

2008-11-09T22:23:00.000-08:00

Sometimes it rains, wets the leaves, and I get sad.

Is anyone as excited as I am for November? Oak Oak Okay has two shows next weekend...awesome! My birthday, DeDe Marie's birthday (baby sis), Thanksgiving, black friday, I just can't wait for all this action! There's nothing better. I've been gone for a little while, busy about town. Now I'm back and curious as to how everyone else is feeling this time around? I hope noone gets depressed because of the time of year, or the early darkness (drives me nuts). Give me sunshine, or give me death.
Boy has this been an interesting year. It's so remarkable how quickly you can lose someone and things can change. It's really funny because you think if someone died or left you, you wouldn't know what to do. Once they're gone you can do nothing but move on. That's what saddens me most. How easily we forget. it could either be a blessing or a curse. I dont know. What do you think? There's really no need for us to get upset with each other because 5 minutes later you will just forgive them...Why even waste the time. Forgive and Forget. For real.

Today I was in a cranky kind of mood. I have to memorize a scene from a play tonight for my acting class and it's not looking too good. Maybe I will get some weird stares on the train tomorrow while I am rehearsing...but who cares? I have plenty of things to be grateful for in this here month of November...Just counting my blessings!

YES WE CAN!

2008-11-04T21:35:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Barack Obama!

I am at a loss for words, and to answer your question, yes I cried.

I voted for change!

2008-11-04T10:14:00.000-08:00

So much is happening! Today I casted my vote for the first time in a presidential election. Of course, I voted for change because that's what we so desperately and clearly need. I got an automated phone call last night from John McCain, about fighting bushes policies. I find that hard to believe when he said he supported Bush 90% of the time. I'm thinking I made the right decision at 8 AM this morning when I voted for Obama. Lets just think awesome democratic thoughts and pray he gets this! Just get out and vote because, because, because the polls close at 8 PM in most places. Even if you are in line at 8 you have the right to vote. So exercise that right people.

Oh yeah, and thank god the Phillies won because I couldn't take any more impatient fans, unsure of the turn out. Rest assured the Phillies are awesome!

There's a really cool photostream on City Papers website today! Do check it out!
Citypaper.net

Reformation Station

2008-10-28T17:54:00.000-07:00

What's all the commotion? So right now I have been thinking about what's new in my life...All the new things the universe has provided me with. The sweet sweet universe. I've been receiving new music, writing new songs, Maura the Oak Oak Okay keyboardist got a new keyboard, my friend Tokiea has new hair (or lack there of teehee), Im voting for a new president...and I'm sure there are other new things. This new weather ugh...I think my sister kind of brought this weather upon us...

Sharky: "It hasn't rained in a while."
Tia: "Wait, you want it to rain?"
Sharky: "I want to wear my new rain boots"

Stupid galoshes! Well, she got to wear them for the first time today and it sure did rain alright. It even snowed. In OCTOBER! Not to mention, it's October 28th and I still haven't had any candy corn. That could be good and bad. When will I be in Candy Corn Nation? That will be my new blog. he he
I will surely have some before this month is over. No doubt...The time is ticking!!

So, I have this new attitude! I'm always happy with my occasional off days, but I recently had a huge weight lifted from my shoulders and now I feel free again. My birthday is in 1 month exactly, so you know what that means...BIRTHDAY CAKE! Oh yeah, do that dance, do that dance. *Does a ridiculous dance* C'mon people what could be more important in Birthday Cake Nation? So I have a new year to look forward to, with new adventures, and a new outlook. I could use a new boyfriend, did I say that out loud. Oh, I think I did... *Raises eyebrows twice*

Winter I can feel you, I can feel you in my bones. Renew my heart, renew my soul!

I love you guys! Also the election is quickly approaching so if you havent done your early voting or have to wait until Tuesday, Barack the Vote!

Peace

Something Extraordinary

2008-10-20T20:55:00.000-07:00

*ROAR* 7AM is early! Gosh it's really early. I often question why that time of day even exists. It's really uneccessary. I want to skip right over that time so I can not ever wake up in the middle of my great dream and get freaked out by my silly alarm clock...It goes "Again and Again and Again and Again...Do it Again do it Again" I hear that over and over! Remind me again why I purchased that ringtone. Great song...bad wake up call. *YAWN*

It takes a lot for me to crawl out of bed every morning and smile. I've been struggling with my own idea's of self discipline. I tried this experiment where I deprived myself of all of my old jams and forced myself to listen to music that I usually pass up. To my surprise I did okay...No shaking or crying involved. I thought this would help me gain a lot of self discipline and not rely so much on comfort. Throughout this journey, a friend reminded me that self discipline has nothing to do with depriving yourself of something, or taking a vow of silence, or depriving yourself of food.. It's about will. The will to get up every morning at 5AM for a class, or to feed the baby. The will to take care of your sick grandmother when noone else wants to. The list goes on. At that moment I realized how much self discipline I already posses. I also know that all my hard work will eventually pay off. Although I have my daily struggles, life is actually really swell! I most certainly appluad the little things that people have the will to do to make this world go 'round. It makes me want to cry. *Wipes Tears, Blows Nose*

So, on my way to the train I happened to pass women on the 3 Day Breast Cancer Walk. It kind of hit home for me. These women, adorned with pink, passed by me with the will to walk for a cause. Took the time out of their busy lives to help the life of another! GEESE LOUISE!! That's where we see beautiful character in everyday people.

If you want to learn more about this extraordinary cause check it out!!!!!:
www.the3day.org

What I want to do right now is write a song, full of la's and da's because I am extraordinary!! woohoo...

Are you gonna eat that?

2008-10-12T15:33:00.000-07:00

GREETINGS!
Where have I been? I know…I know. I went to New York this weekend. Trying to get away. Most necessary!
New York helped me to realize that there is life outside of my daily hustle and bustle. It was indeed a breath of fresh air, first of all to see family, second to see the city and the wonder of life outside of Philadelphia. As much as I love Philly, I yearn to travel as much as possible. Most of the time, traveling gets me thinking about the endless possibilities and how far one can go if they just step out of the box and out of the ordinary every once in a while (or more).
Everyone has an excuse as to why they aren't doing this and doing that. If we actually spend more time getting there rather than worrying about why we can't get there we would probably be there already. Yeah?
I will no longer be afraid of wanting what I want and dreaming. If we don’t ask for anything we will never get anything. I sort of wish more people realized that. See the world, after all, it's yours.

Life is like a bowl of fruit. If you only like apple's and you constantly eat the apples, you leave the possibility of other sweet helpings for others to grab.

so...EAT UP!

Leaves and Music! What could be better?

2008-10-07T16:37:00.000-07:00

FALL! I can't fathom your beauty!!

Wow it's been forever! I have been day in and day out working hard! What is all of this about? It's a good thing that you don't need your voice to type blogs because my voice is gone. I'm on the road of recovery as we speak. I have to say, I kind of like my raspy voice. Its gives me edge! HA!

So I recently went to see Fleet Foxes at Starlight Ballroom and Damien Jarudo at The First Unitarian Church. I must say that they both were really amazing. Fleet Foxes put on a fantastic show. My favorite part, I'll have to say, was the harmonizing. OF COURSE! They are masters! The music in itself was seriously quality and if they come to Philly again...IM THERE!!!! Frank Fairfield opened for them and he is a skilled musician. I promise this! He really got into it and demanded attention. This guy played a different instrument for every song and made it sound amazing! Definitely check out his music if you like!

www.myspace.com/fleetfoxes

www.myspace.com/frankfairfield

The Damien Jurado show was just as explosive! No...not so much explosive because it was really low key and perfect. The music was seriously mellow but it made me want to cry, run out of there and buy the album. It was kind of a spur of the moment thing, thanks to the most amazing friend of my life Tokiea Fitzgerald. We almost didn't get in but fortunately for us we did because it was most worth it. I had never heard of this music before but it had a sort of ambient feel to it which sounded great!

Do check it out...I recommend...As I shall purchase the CD soon enough!!

www.myspace.com/damienjurado

Well folks I'm through reporting. I hope this music cures your daily woes and aches, music is the best cure for anything... That may only be in my case! Ciao for now!

Yours Truly,

Attia

Nostalgic Dancing Queen

2008-10-01T15:57:00.001-07:00

Photo by Eugene Richards, New York Times

Is it just me or does anyone else just want to go dancing?! I have a few new moves that need to be seen and I have been known to knock out the competition with my serious dance skills. This is all courtesy of my imagination. I am a horrific dancer and I probably should never set foot on any ones dance floor unless they want sore toes. Seriously, I really do enjoy dancing. I think it is the ultimate stress reliever, even if you don't really know how. I guarantee if you're alone you will appreciate the glorious feeling of grooving to your favorite upbeat song. Trust me, you will love that feeling. I usually pretend there's a disco ball on my ceiling when I listen to "Dancing Queen" by ABBA!

I've been doing some past blasting and have been thinking about those silly things I used to dream up when I was younger. The way I thought life worked was priceless because I now know that its nothing in comparison to what I had in mind. Here are some of the things that filled my universe:

1. I thought that when I was in a room, nothing outside of that room existed or moved. (Time stood still)

2. I thought that every dinner and trip to the medicine cabinet was a TV show. (reality TV didn't even exist back then..I think)

3. I thought my dance moves were the best dance moves. (I still think that)

4. The characters on Barney were like family who I would one day meet and love forever.

5. There's one day when we all die and we all float up to heaven. (Including the furniture)

6. I thought I'd only ever have one boyfriend in which I would marry and live happily ever after. (Seriously?)

7. There was no better place to be than in front of the TV (The Smurfs) and eating waffles.

8. Cigarettes were the worst things to ever do, worst than anything in the world.

9. You can tell your sister that she's not your sister and she wasn't.

10. My whole life would be simple.

I am pretty sure that I was just a teeny bit crazy but I know you all had even crazier stories and beliefs as children so hey what can I say... I want that same feeling I got when I would sit in front of the TV and watch cartoons for hours. That was incredible. Now I can't even bare 3 minutes of the stuff. What is that?? I guess I'm just nostalgic. Who can blame me?

So...I came across this really neat and interesting photographer named Eugene Richards. He traveled around the world to different mental institutions and photographed inhumane treatment and conditions that more than often go unnoticed. I must warn you that it's not pretty so if you are squeamish I advise you not to view. The photographs are stunning yet illuminates this harsh reality! See for yourself...

Newsweek

Shocking Therapy:

http://www.newsweek.com/id/159114

Much Love!

Debates and Headaches

2008-09-26T13:55:00.000-07:00

*Cough Cough* I'm reporting from my sick bed on this dreary day. I can't believe how drained I'm feeling. I drank tea but I think I'm going to holler at a cup of Theraflu before this takes a turn for the worst. Fall, I love you but sometimes you make me sick! LITERALLY! Considering yesterday I misjudged the weather and went out with a tiny little sweater on. Cute sweater, just not cute enough to guard me against the wind. This is all my fault. Maybe I just wasn't ready! At least we can look forward to the beautiful leaves and the awesome scarves I will knit for you (or promise to knit for you). I'm really liking forest green these days

...Or RED AND BLUE!

Dear People,
The presidential debate is tonight. I have my popcorn (Advil) and my soda (tea) ready!! I'm looking forward to listening and judging where these two guys are coming from! See how they handle the pressure of debate! I'm sure they are ready, considering how many challenging questions people shoot at them daily. This is my first election so I'm going to dig deep and figure out whats going on inside of their big ol' brains. Oh Boy, this should be interesting and you know it. I hope you plan on watching, I hope even more that you are registered to vote. Are ya? huh huh? Get it together... This is the President we're talking about! Not just some random guy!

Watch it here tonight at 9PM:

http://www.cnn.com/live/

Happy watching, and pray for my good health because I think I just coughed up a lung!

Oh GOODNESS!

2008-09-23T16:26:00.001-07:00

The Electric Maid Benefit show was insane! In a good way...believe me. It was quite amazing. I had a lot of fun and felt really good up there (On stage I mean). There was a lot of energy and all around goodness! How often do we say that word anymore GOODNESS! Pure goodness. As I mentioned in a previous post A Born Idler and Club Scout were just as awesome as I expected them to be or more. Be sure to check out their music and see for yourself!

www.myspace.com/abornidler
www.myspace.com/clubscoutmusic

and us...

www.myspace.com/oakoakokay

The Electric Maid is an awesome space that deserves to live...I'm just saying! So I'm glad we could help out. Plus, I got this really awesome shirt...I will model it in the near future.

Oh yeah, I'm excited!

On another note, well life seems to be still busybusybusy... That has become one word. Can someone tell me the last time they had a day off...yep still waiting...so...
Halloween is around the corner and I think I want to be a person asleep!

No seriously I'm dying to go to a Halloween party this year...

1.There shall be pumpkins!
2....and candy corn (I wont mention my addiction)
3. "Cool" people dressed up like Cool people!
4. Kids getting turned down at my door because I forgot to buy candy.
5. Anything else spooky you can ponder!! MUAHAHA

So maybe its too early to think about Halloween but what else is there...? What can I say? I just love to be someone else at times!

Sleeping Lessons

2008-09-18T12:23:00.000-07:00

Sooo...Sleep! Who needs it??

I know I do. This week has been positively crazy if I can complain for just that one second. I have had barely any sleep and Im almost positive everyone else has that same problem. Im running on coffee...and maybe like a dusty paperclip...and I dont know the carbs from dinner two nights ago? Well school work is school work, and work is just work, and everything else makes you want to strangle something! Wheres the love people? Wheres the balance?

I've been thinking...and wondering WHY ARE WE SO STUFFY?! I mean life could be like ten times worst and Im being a dork for complaining. We definitely need to take it easier and laugh at those little things that would normally make us go off the handles. Like "OMG I havent watched TV in weeks and now the remote is missing!!" (I usually burst into tears during those moments...Im just saying) or "Where in the world will I find the time to type these two papers and study?". Well, after all of those things are done, life will go on! If we go on like this we will look like 50 at age 30! Seriously...Get some sleep because ummm...I dont know... you need it!

Look at it this way my cat sleeps like a baby, even when theres no food or water in his bowl...for more than 2, 3, or 4 days. (Just kidding, or maybe not. Look, times are hard!)

Put down the pen and get that cognitive ball a'rollen! All the surgery in the world can't shave off 30 years! mmmkay

Life Outside of my Head (phones)!

2008-09-16T14:28:00.001-07:00

Today I realized that I spend way too much time listening to music rather than my immediate surroundings. I finally decided to take off my headphones while I walk home from the train and surprisingly the outside noise isn't so bad afterall. At one point I didnt even know if I had passed my street because I noticed new things that I have never seen before on the way! WOW!! We all probably need to just spend more time listening and realizing what we have right in front of us. Our world is much more beautiful than we give it credit for. Some things I noticed:
1. The train is loud!
2. Theres an awesome tree on my street that is just dying to be photographed.
3. People probably greet me all the time, I just never notice.
4. My mom says unneccessary things to me (which can be a downside to this hehe)

So as much as I am loving PJ Harvey today...she can be placed on pause because the things that happen around me are only going to happen just that one second or nanosecond.

Gosh...Im starting to tear up!

Gosh, You Universe! I Love You!

2008-09-12T11:30:00.000-07:00

Hello There,

So Im trying this thing where everyday I wake up and say "today is going to be a great day!" I used to do it occassionally but now I feel its neccessary to do this every day! It makes a lot of difference. Even if it ends up being a crazy day you still wont fret at the end of it because theres anther great day tomorrow! Got it...No...I guess Im alone on this one.

My band Oak Oak Okay is going to DC on Saturday which makes me extremely happy and excited and my usual silly self. We're playing with A Born Idler (myspace.com/abornidler) and Club Scout (myspace.com/clubscout) who just recently got one of their shows reviewed which is pretty darn awesome.

Check it out here: http://dcist.com/2008/09/04/click_click_pash_at_iota_club_and_c.php
They are both amazing bands who shall have everything in the world if they asked for it. It makes me so happy, these things happening around me! Gosh, you universe I really do love you.

Going to see Fleet Foxes on October 2nd at Starlight Ballroom. I couldn't be more excited about that because frankly they are damn amazing. Just to hear them play "He Doesn't Know Why" will probably make me melt...Im just saying! There I go again... Well folks life is pretty awesome...email me if you want to make music...I'll just sing and bang on pots and pans!

State of The Nation

2008-09-05T06:31:00.000-07:00

I think I have been living inside my head for far too long. Theres noone in the entire world who has made themselves more comfortable inside their own self conscious as I have. I don't mean comfortable to where nothing gets to me. I mean comfortable like Im not leaving this spot. This kind of leaves me fearful of other people trying to get in. Maybe this is something we all do. I'm not sure if its something of human nature but its extremely depressing...hmmm.
On a better note I am starting to feel a little more in tune with other people. I actually don't find it as hard as I used to, to hold a conversation with someone and not feel like a first grader talking to their distant uncle. You know, what do they have in common? Maybe I have my job to blame for this miraculous happening. Its actually apart of my job to be personable and inquisitive about their lives. Working at a hotel has it's birthday cake moments!
I'm reading "The Bell Jar" right now by Sylvia Plath. Its apparently a "modern classic" according to Barnes and Noble. I have to agree with whatever that means. They compared it to "The Catcher in the Rye" and just reading it to Chapter three I can definitely understand that. I can relate to these characters because I feel like they both live inside their heads and watch the world from the eyes of desperation. I admire Plaths work in numerous ways. I mean she's just extremely talented because these words come out of her without a second thought. Its like when someone is just a natural at a piano. They dont even need theory. They can play by ear. Her work is incredible! I mean that. I wish she was still alive today but you know, it was those experiences and feelings that lead to suicide that sadly made her work so remarkable--so Im kind of saying it may have been neccessary... Everything happens for a reason right?
She is remarkable. I mean how many people in this world are that talented and the world gets to know about it. I mean even though she didnt want this book released in America, it still managed to get in our hands and we are better for it. By we I mean Americans. I highly reccommend this book, even though I myself have not finished it. I also highly reccommend reading her poetry if you feel anywhere like I feel. Living inside my head.
Lets just live our lives...gosh its only life afterall...Why are we all so afraid! Or maybe just me?

-Attia

Remaining Crumbs

2008-08-13T20:25:00.000-07:00

Today in Birthday Cake Nation, things went rather smooth. How is it possible to have such an exciting fun filled day and then at the end of it feel so down. Hmmm... Not cool! I think it was mainly filled with productive Attia filled excitement. Band practice, meetings about internships, dinner and waterice with friend! I think the universe wants me to understand that no matter how much busy work you do during the day no matter what it is...what matters is what you feel at the end of that day. Folks, I feel like complete crap.

The worst part is The Cupcaker (My mom) ate all of the birthday cake. That really hit a soft spot. That says a lot.
Considering that today was my only day off for at least another 5 days makes me feel happy that it was productive. Much better than sitting at home, watching reality tv, and eating Lucky Charms from a cup. Not my cup of tea. mmmm tea.
The birthday cake issue put the cherry on top of a perfect day. She didnt even clean up the remining crumbs... : (
Seeing Philly is always awesome, even if you've been there about a million times I still think the view from the Art Museum to City Hall is pretty awesome... Thats just me!
In the mean time, I will listen to Brooklyn Stars by Matt Pond Pa and sweetly slumber!

In Birthday Cake Nation

2008-08-11T07:43:00.000-07:00

Birthday Cake is awesome in any way shape or form. Icing, no icing, powder, ice cream cake, marble cake, gluton free cake...I think we all just want to eat cake.

"have your cake and eat it too!".

Everyone has a birthday and even if you cant eat cake Im sure you want it one way or another, hmmm I know I do.

My sisters birthday is today and it's perfect timing because all I could think about in this last month or so was how much I wanted to cut into a delicious piece of bakery fresh cake. The universe heard my weeping because when I got home from work, I completely forgot it was her birthday and my eyes lasered in on a beautiful white box on the kitchen table. Jumping around screaming birthday cake for about 10 seconds, and realizing that the universe does work in mysterious ways. I think I will blog about that fact! Furthermore, we are in birthday cake nation!