Happy Anniversary to us.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Friday, September 17, 2010
Miluji tě.
The Positives and Negatives of Living Apart:
M: Let us start with the good.
R: First off, I get to play video games all day. I don't worry about what I look like. I wear a sweatshirt all day. Everyday.
M: Well, I'm too busy for video games but I do enjoy wearing my hair in a messy bun on the top of my head.
R: What are you laughing at?
M: I just think its funny that we could only come up with one positive before becoming silent.
R: There are more positives... i
M: ...its just hard to think about them when all I can wish for right now is a hug from you.
R: If I wanted a square girlfriend I would have found a square girlfriend.
M: I don't know what that means...
R You know... square... like a computer?
M: Ohhhh, I am square because all you see of me is skype. And that keeps me in a square box. You're so smart. Can't we think of any more positives?
R: You get to travel the world! And I get to learn about the world through you. And! I get to come visit you... and my sister!
M: I can't wait for you to come visit. I feel like Prague is my baby and I just want you to come meet him!
R: You had a baby without me? When were you going to tell me about this baby?
M: The day I come to pick you up from the airport.
R: I see. You know what a big positive is? I am able to miss you.
M: You are so right. I actually like missing you. It makes me appreciate the time we have together. I will never take the time we spend on the couch watching TV, or the time we spend cooking a snack for granted ever again.
R: Most people in long term relationships don't usually give themselves the chance to miss their partner.
M: They never know what it would be like without their significant other. This is an important thing to know.
R: Because I can appreciate you, because you grow the most when you are apart. And in the moment you realize that 98% of your day is filled with thoughts about that person, then you have your answer.
M: Answer to what?
R: That you are the most important person in my life.
M: You know what is the best thing about this blog?
R: What?
M: We couldn't come up with any negatives.
Looking on the brightside,
Ryan and Mayan
M: Let us start with the good.
R: First off, I get to play video games all day. I don't worry about what I look like. I wear a sweatshirt all day. Everyday.
M: Well, I'm too busy for video games but I do enjoy wearing my hair in a messy bun on the top of my head.
R: What are you laughing at?
M: I just think its funny that we could only come up with one positive before becoming silent.
R: There are more positives... i
M: ...its just hard to think about them when all I can wish for right now is a hug from you.
R: If I wanted a square girlfriend I would have found a square girlfriend.
M: I don't know what that means...
R You know... square... like a computer?
M: Ohhhh, I am square because all you see of me is skype. And that keeps me in a square box. You're so smart. Can't we think of any more positives?
R: You get to travel the world! And I get to learn about the world through you. And! I get to come visit you... and my sister!
M: I can't wait for you to come visit. I feel like Prague is my baby and I just want you to come meet him!
R: You had a baby without me? When were you going to tell me about this baby?
M: The day I come to pick you up from the airport.
R: I see. You know what a big positive is? I am able to miss you.
M: You are so right. I actually like missing you. It makes me appreciate the time we have together. I will never take the time we spend on the couch watching TV, or the time we spend cooking a snack for granted ever again.
R: Most people in long term relationships don't usually give themselves the chance to miss their partner.
M: They never know what it would be like without their significant other. This is an important thing to know.
R: Because I can appreciate you, because you grow the most when you are apart. And in the moment you realize that 98% of your day is filled with thoughts about that person, then you have your answer.
M: Answer to what?
R: That you are the most important person in my life.
M: You know what is the best thing about this blog?
R: What?
M: We couldn't come up with any negatives.
Looking on the brightside,
Ryan and Mayan
Thursday, September 9, 2010
The Californian and The Praguer
M: I must say, the whole living on opposite ends of the world is not as bad I thought it would be. The first few weeks of traveling were a little bit difficult but, with the extreme helpfulness of the international internet plan with my Kindle 2, I was able to get e-mails off to Ryan and my parents to let them know how I was doing and where I was. Finally, now settled in Prague, Ryan and I Skype for an hour or two every night!
R: Skyping is nice, but its strange to be starting my day when she is going to sleep. Oh, and its weird saying goodnight! I have to say goodnight at one in the afternoon! And Mayan doesn't say goodnight because... she's waking up at that time. I only really have one main worry so far...
M: What is that?
R: I'm not scared of losing you, because our love is too powerful for that, but i am scared that you will change and not be the same person. because I want to marry the person you are now... not saying that I wouldn't if you change but, you are perfect to me.
M: You are the cutest person in the world. It is a fact. I understand what you mean, but I want to change. I want to grow. I promise not to change into someone who is hard to love. I just want to absorb everything I can from this culture. I want so badly to be a Praguer.
R: Sweetie you can but you don't have a need to change who you are, right? I dont want you to change how you love me, and how you want to be with me for the rest of your life... i dont want you to change how you are happy being with me no matter what... i dont want you to stop thinking about me... i just love you, sweetie pie!
M: If anything, how much i learn, grow and change will help me appreciate you more! Our love is awesome. It is like my favorite music, or a really good pastry. Or pancakes. Our love is similar to pancakes.
R: Gross.
In love,
Mayan and Ryan
R: Skyping is nice, but its strange to be starting my day when she is going to sleep. Oh, and its weird saying goodnight! I have to say goodnight at one in the afternoon! And Mayan doesn't say goodnight because... she's waking up at that time. I only really have one main worry so far...
M: What is that?
R: I'm not scared of losing you, because our love is too powerful for that, but i am scared that you will change and not be the same person. because I want to marry the person you are now... not saying that I wouldn't if you change but, you are perfect to me.
M: You are the cutest person in the world. It is a fact. I understand what you mean, but I want to change. I want to grow. I promise not to change into someone who is hard to love. I just want to absorb everything I can from this culture. I want so badly to be a Praguer.
R: Sweetie you can but you don't have a need to change who you are, right? I dont want you to change how you love me, and how you want to be with me for the rest of your life... i dont want you to change how you are happy being with me no matter what... i dont want you to stop thinking about me... i just love you, sweetie pie!
M: If anything, how much i learn, grow and change will help me appreciate you more! Our love is awesome. It is like my favorite music, or a really good pastry. Or pancakes. Our love is similar to pancakes.
R: Gross.
In love,
Mayan and Ryan
Monday, August 30, 2010
The Love of our Lifetime
Hi Guys,
Just Mayan tonight... Ry and I are a little too emotional to write a full post, and I suspect thats the reason we haven't posted lately. There is so much to say lately and I feel our hearts are full of volatile emotion that runs raw and ebbs against our love. These past few weeks have been a test to see just how strong our love is. We're passing with flying colors, but it takes every ounce of strength to avoid the tears.
I made this video for Ryan, but also for my trip. Ryan hasn't seen the whole thing yet because it was too sad for him. But, seeing Ry's smiles gives me happiness like nothing else in the world, so I watch it... over and over again.
I hope you guys enjoy it as much as I do.
Love,
Mayan
Just Mayan tonight... Ry and I are a little too emotional to write a full post, and I suspect thats the reason we haven't posted lately. There is so much to say lately and I feel our hearts are full of volatile emotion that runs raw and ebbs against our love. These past few weeks have been a test to see just how strong our love is. We're passing with flying colors, but it takes every ounce of strength to avoid the tears.
I made this video for Ryan, but also for my trip. Ryan hasn't seen the whole thing yet because it was too sad for him. But, seeing Ry's smiles gives me happiness like nothing else in the world, so I watch it... over and over again.
I hope you guys enjoy it as much as I do.
Love,
Mayan
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Leaving on a jet plane...
As we count our final hours together before Mayan flies off the Prague for the semester, we find ourselves wondering what will be the most memorable way to pass the time.
So far today we have:
1. Picked up Peet's Coffee on the way to Nordstrom Rack, where Mayan found three of her favorite brand of shirts and a new pair of ballet flats. Ryan dutifully helped her realize a pair of Ugg boots are not a stylish enough choice for Europe.
2. Picked up a Cheesehouse sandwich, aka the best sandwiches in the Northern Hemisphere, and returned home.
3. Packed Mayan's bag to head back to LA.
4. Realized that the shirts from Nordstrom Rack were too big, so went to exchange them.
5. Played a little baseball in the front yard. Ryan had to chase after a few of Mayan's hits.
6. Played 6 different sports in Wii. Mayan found out her Wii age was 46 today. Disappointment still lingers.
7. ...Which leads us to now, where Mayan is diligently blogging while Ryan watches the Giants game quietly.
It a good day, mostly because we've spent the entire day together. Still, there is a certain uneasiness that comes with not knowing what the future will bring. Sure, we hope to Skype everyday, but we know that might not happen. We hope that e-mail will keep us in touch, but we know we will still feel far apart. Still, we have about two weeks left before Mayan leaves the country. She will be working at CLU until she leaves. Ryan plans on pumping iron to pass the time. Video games also help.
Both of us hope that this blog might be our anchor, somewhere we can 'come home to.' We hope that you guys will stay with us as we venture on the journey of the next four months.
Love,
My and Ry
So far today we have:
1. Picked up Peet's Coffee on the way to Nordstrom Rack, where Mayan found three of her favorite brand of shirts and a new pair of ballet flats. Ryan dutifully helped her realize a pair of Ugg boots are not a stylish enough choice for Europe.
2. Picked up a Cheesehouse sandwich, aka the best sandwiches in the Northern Hemisphere, and returned home.
3. Packed Mayan's bag to head back to LA.
4. Realized that the shirts from Nordstrom Rack were too big, so went to exchange them.
5. Played a little baseball in the front yard. Ryan had to chase after a few of Mayan's hits.
6. Played 6 different sports in Wii. Mayan found out her Wii age was 46 today. Disappointment still lingers.
7. ...Which leads us to now, where Mayan is diligently blogging while Ryan watches the Giants game quietly.
It a good day, mostly because we've spent the entire day together. Still, there is a certain uneasiness that comes with not knowing what the future will bring. Sure, we hope to Skype everyday, but we know that might not happen. We hope that e-mail will keep us in touch, but we know we will still feel far apart. Still, we have about two weeks left before Mayan leaves the country. She will be working at CLU until she leaves. Ryan plans on pumping iron to pass the time. Video games also help.
Both of us hope that this blog might be our anchor, somewhere we can 'come home to.' We hope that you guys will stay with us as we venture on the journey of the next four months.
Love,
My and Ry
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
OMG, Mom! I totally made E! News tonight! Love, Bristol
The cast of Jersey Shore. Bristol Palin & Levi whatshisname. Lady Gaga. Brett Favre.
Say it with us.... Media Tarts. Because we aren't comfortably saying what we actually want to say.
R:There are a lot of musicians in this boat. Like Britney Spears.
M: What makes you think of Britney Spears?
R: Just 'cuz it seems like she's always trying to get the attention of the media... by shaving her head...
M: Why? Who do you think?
R: Actually, I change my answer. Lady Gaga. I think she is weird so people will remember her. She wants to stand out.
M: Let the record show that I respect Lady Gaga's music. I like the way she sings and plays piano somewhat decently. See example here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p-pRJE3kTGw
R: I never said she was bad, I just think she dresses up like a WWF wrestler.
M: Okay but I think Lady Gaga isn't a fame.... tart.... in the way Bristol Palin is. Her and the baby daddy got back together and "separated" just to be on the cover of magazines.
R: I don't even want to know who Bristol Palin is. I'm too mad about Brett Favre. Yeah. I don't know how to put what I think about Brett Farve into complete sentences. Mostly it would just be a string of insults.
M: Lets hear it. My first one would be idiot.
R: Douchebag. (Wow, Ry.) Lint Licker.
M: Okay, lets justify some of those.
R: He mostly is a traitor.
M: To who?
R: To the Packers! And everyone in the world! He's a liar. And a jerk because his sweet play beat the Niners.
M: This is personal isn't it?
R: The thing about Brett Favre is he starts something and then just watches the media have a field day with it! He sits back and just revels in the media fenzy. How is what Brett Favre's doing with his life NBC newsworthy?
M: Couldn't that be said about any of the people we have mentioned?
R: They all make the news for no apparent reason. There is a reason we have E! News.
M: False. Its for Chelsea Lately.
R: I meant the show E! News. Strictly a show... about people we shouldn't care about.
M: So who is newsworthy? The people who do-good for the world?
R: I don't really enjoy the news anyways; its so depressing. When thats the only thing people see or hear on the news it doesn't bode well for our society. Sorry. Got kind of deep on that one.
M: I'm down here with you, bub, So you are depressed by the cast of Jersey Shore.
R: I've never even seen it. The only person I have ever heard about is that Snuuki girl. Shuutki? Snooki? She looks like a man.
M; Miss Swan say she looka-like-a-man.
R: She really does though.
M: I'm thinking more Oompa Loompa.
R: Yeah, but... like a man Oompa Loompa. And all the people on Jersey Shore are not intelligent at all. Its bad.
M: So... consensus... only smart people should be allowed on TV.
R: No.... not only smart people! I would never be allowed on TV.
M: If only smart people were on TV, it would be a 24/7 marathon of Jeopardy. And it would be AWESOME.
R: So I would get about three right per day.
M: And I would get two. We're not media tarts.
Sigh. One day the media world will be set right again. One day.
Brett Favre, You suck.
Sincerely,
Mayan & Ryan.
Say it with us.... Media Tarts. Because we aren't comfortably saying what we actually want to say.
R:There are a lot of musicians in this boat. Like Britney Spears.
M: What makes you think of Britney Spears?
R: Just 'cuz it seems like she's always trying to get the attention of the media... by shaving her head...
M: Why? Who do you think?
R: Actually, I change my answer. Lady Gaga. I think she is weird so people will remember her. She wants to stand out.
M: Let the record show that I respect Lady Gaga's music. I like the way she sings and plays piano somewhat decently. See example here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p-pRJE3kTGw
R: I never said she was bad, I just think she dresses up like a WWF wrestler.
M: Okay but I think Lady Gaga isn't a fame.... tart.... in the way Bristol Palin is. Her and the baby daddy got back together and "separated" just to be on the cover of magazines.
R: I don't even want to know who Bristol Palin is. I'm too mad about Brett Favre. Yeah. I don't know how to put what I think about Brett Farve into complete sentences. Mostly it would just be a string of insults.
M: Lets hear it. My first one would be idiot.
R: Douchebag. (Wow, Ry.) Lint Licker.
M: Okay, lets justify some of those.
R: He mostly is a traitor.
M: To who?
R: To the Packers! And everyone in the world! He's a liar. And a jerk because his sweet play beat the Niners.
M: This is personal isn't it?
R: The thing about Brett Favre is he starts something and then just watches the media have a field day with it! He sits back and just revels in the media fenzy. How is what Brett Favre's doing with his life NBC newsworthy?
M: Couldn't that be said about any of the people we have mentioned?
R: They all make the news for no apparent reason. There is a reason we have E! News.
M: False. Its for Chelsea Lately.
R: I meant the show E! News. Strictly a show... about people we shouldn't care about.
M: So who is newsworthy? The people who do-good for the world?
R: I don't really enjoy the news anyways; its so depressing. When thats the only thing people see or hear on the news it doesn't bode well for our society. Sorry. Got kind of deep on that one.
M: I'm down here with you, bub, So you are depressed by the cast of Jersey Shore.
R: I've never even seen it. The only person I have ever heard about is that Snuuki girl. Shuutki? Snooki? She looks like a man.
M; Miss Swan say she looka-like-a-man.
R: She really does though.
M: I'm thinking more Oompa Loompa.
R: Yeah, but... like a man Oompa Loompa. And all the people on Jersey Shore are not intelligent at all. Its bad.
M: So... consensus... only smart people should be allowed on TV.
R: No.... not only smart people! I would never be allowed on TV.
M: If only smart people were on TV, it would be a 24/7 marathon of Jeopardy. And it would be AWESOME.
R: So I would get about three right per day.
M: And I would get two. We're not media tarts.
Sigh. One day the media world will be set right again. One day.
Brett Favre, You suck.
Sincerely,
Mayan & Ryan.
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Fun stuff... FO' FREE!
If you are expecting financial advice, you might rather visit Bill Gates blog. BUT! If you would like to find out 5 of our favorite dates that cost (almost) nothing... then read on, my friends, read on.
5. Take a Walk
Okay, I understand this sounds boring. Fine, you can exchange this with biking. Or fruitbootin' (Ryan would like it to be noted that he resents that fact I refer to Rollerblading as fruitbootin'). Or running, if you're that ambitious.
We are simple. We love, love, love to walk around together. Just walk and talk. if you haven't noticed, this world is absolutely beautiful. Before Ryan stopped me from my mile-a-minute life-speed, I never took the time to notice the little things- the way the sun hits the buildings at dusk, how people watching can be the most interesting way to spend a day, that slowing down to enjoy a meal at the table is much more satisfying than eating a bowl of oatmeal while walking to class. So take a walk.
4. Picnic
Okay, so its not totally free, but we assume you eat sometime, right? Packing up the picnic cooler is half the fun! Spend a little time in the kitchen making sandwiches, potato or macaroni salad or a nice, green salad.
Bring a blanket, a frisbee, basketball or soccer ball and head to a park, or even your own yard! People make the mistake of thinking you have to leave the house to have fun. Which leads me to my next favorite thing to do...
3. Stargaze
Points if you can get out of a metropolis, but seriously, stargazing is so amazing. All it takes is a couple big blankets and a watchful eye. You have a lawn, so use it! Or go to a close park.. you can walk there ;) Keep track of who can see the most shooting stars! (Ryan ALWAYS win this game).
2. Rent a movie (from the Library!)
Most people don't know their their stuffy old local library actually might offer a large selections of DVDs to checkout. Pretty cool. If they don't you can get a Red Box DVD for 99 cents at a local grocery store. Movies are fun because its totally relaxing and you can discuss what you liked/didn't like afterwards :)
1. Free concert in the park!
Most cities offer a "free concert in the park" during the summer. By now, you guys probably know how obsessed we are with music... and especially concerts. Look it up on your local city website and see what you can find!
Or take a drive to get to one. Even if you haven't heard of them before, check them out! There are so many great unknown bands out there. And you never know, they could end up being the next big thing! (Ryan recommends San Jose's Music in the Park)
We sincerely hope you are enjoying summer and will stop by to leave us your favorite free date ideas! We love hearing from you :)
My love don't cost a thing,
My & Ry
5. Take a Walk
Okay, I understand this sounds boring. Fine, you can exchange this with biking. Or fruitbootin' (Ryan would like it to be noted that he resents that fact I refer to Rollerblading as fruitbootin'). Or running, if you're that ambitious.
We are simple. We love, love, love to walk around together. Just walk and talk. if you haven't noticed, this world is absolutely beautiful. Before Ryan stopped me from my mile-a-minute life-speed, I never took the time to notice the little things- the way the sun hits the buildings at dusk, how people watching can be the most interesting way to spend a day, that slowing down to enjoy a meal at the table is much more satisfying than eating a bowl of oatmeal while walking to class. So take a walk.
4. Picnic
Okay, so its not totally free, but we assume you eat sometime, right? Packing up the picnic cooler is half the fun! Spend a little time in the kitchen making sandwiches, potato or macaroni salad or a nice, green salad.
Bring a blanket, a frisbee, basketball or soccer ball and head to a park, or even your own yard! People make the mistake of thinking you have to leave the house to have fun. Which leads me to my next favorite thing to do...3. Stargaze
Points if you can get out of a metropolis, but seriously, stargazing is so amazing. All it takes is a couple big blankets and a watchful eye. You have a lawn, so use it! Or go to a close park.. you can walk there ;) Keep track of who can see the most shooting stars! (Ryan ALWAYS win this game).
2. Rent a movie (from the Library!)
Most people don't know their their stuffy old local library actually might offer a large selections of DVDs to checkout. Pretty cool. If they don't you can get a Red Box DVD for 99 cents at a local grocery store. Movies are fun because its totally relaxing and you can discuss what you liked/didn't like afterwards :)
1. Free concert in the park!
Most cities offer a "free concert in the park" during the summer. By now, you guys probably know how obsessed we are with music... and especially concerts. Look it up on your local city website and see what you can find!
Or take a drive to get to one. Even if you haven't heard of them before, check them out! There are so many great unknown bands out there. And you never know, they could end up being the next big thing! (Ryan recommends San Jose's Music in the Park)We sincerely hope you are enjoying summer and will stop by to leave us your favorite free date ideas! We love hearing from you :)
My love don't cost a thing,
My & Ry
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
There's something in every atheist, itching to believe, and something in every believer, itching to doubt.
Consistency is key.
... rendering the door to our successful blogging career still locked. For some reason, whether it be distance or writer's block, we can not keep consistent with our posts. For this, we are very very sorry.
So we decided to write about one of the three things you are never supposed to bring up in polite conversation!
RELIGION!!
M: So, Ry, I'll just come right and and ask it. What do you believe in?
R:I don't exactly know what I believe... Uh, is hockey a religion?
M:Yes! Totally. Religion is what ever you believe in. Hockey is definitely your religion. Heaven being...
R:The Stanley Cup. Its called Lord Stanley's cup, anyways. Proof, hockey is god. Actually, that makes Wayne Gretzky god.
M:When is church?
R:Church happens about every other night during fall and winter. A lot of Randy and Drew (the announcers) because they are the preachers.
M:What are Drew and Randy preaching?
R:They just preach a lot about the rules of hockey, like when you don't understand something they explain. You can go to them for guidance.
M: What has your religion taught you? What's the morality of hockey?
R: Wow. Heartbreak. You get disappointed a lot of the time, but there is that one chance, that ultimate experience. I think Hockey is the same as the morality of life: the golden rule. If you punch a guy in the face, expect him to punch you back. Hockey to me is about not retaliating though. Leave him with the penalty.
M :So right. Be the bigger man.
R: Exactly.
M: What is hell to you, bub?
R: If the Sharks don't win the Stanley Cup during my life, do you know how disappointed I will be? I imagine that is what hell would be like. I couldn't imagine anything worse. An icy, cold afterlife.
M: See? Some people envision burning in flames for all of eternity. Being shut out of a Stanley Cup win is your hell. Except its cold. And the devil drives a Zamboni. Everyone who has a religion practices differently, whether you are a Christian or an Agnostic Theist (Woot Woot!).
R: What I believe in sweetie? Country Music? The good old south?
M: Are you saying that because I sing with a country accent?
R: Kind of.
M: I change what I believe in everyday. My imagination is too big to be an atheist. Why choose to believe in the infinite nothingness when I can believe in, literally, a million other things. Most days, I long to be Jewish. I would like to have a huge family Shabbat dinner every Friday. I am a closet Jewish nerd.
R:No you don't. Okay yes you do, but don't you believe in other things? Right?
M:Yes, you're right. I classify myself with a small sect of people who believe in Agnostic Theism. In a nutshell: An agnostic theist is one who believes that knowledge of god(s) is not possible but chooses to believe there is a higher being anyways. I like to believe, relying solely on faith, that there is a god. But, per agnosticism which is rooted in knowledge, know that this god or Gods or GOD or gOdS is inherently unknowable.
R:What does that make for your morality then if you don't follow hockey's rules... or the Bible?
M: My morality is to believe in the intellectual. Use your human instinct to do good. I love helping people, and it may be my nature or it may be my religion. No "god" is breathing down my neck or threatening entire damnation if I make a mistake. I am just trying to be the absolute best person I can and hopefully I will reincarnate as a lazy, fat cat. That is my ultimate goal.
R: Um... what is an agnostic?
M: I believe that no one can prove there is a god. Ever. And if you were able to prove there was a god, than it would destroy the whole purpose of faith, wouldn't it? Thats kind of my take on agnosticism. I have faith in the notion that there are dieties that watch the world from a sofa far away some where. And I also have a little buddhism mixed in. Re: my note about the Golden Key to Happiness on Facebook.
R: You've been having good Karma this week.
M: Yeah, its been so crazy! When we were driving to that memorial I so badly wanted not to go to! And we got every red light on the way. And a train stopped us too. And then, at Chinese food, all three of our fortune cookies had the number 39 on it.
R: And I predicted that Logan Couture, Shark player who wears number 39, would have a great year. And the next day, he had a front page article on the website about how he is going to have a breakout year!
M: That was intense and crazy. That means more Chinese food for us!
R: Great...
And we will continue to discuss what region means to us. And that is good. Religion shouldn't be something you have to argue about, especially with someone you love. Luckily we understand that religion is personal, and is literally different for everyone. Sometimes people forget that. So, enjoy anything, nothing and everything you believe in. Leave feedback and comments, if you're so inclined. We would love to hear how you practice (or don't practice) your religion!
See you on the otherside,
Ry and My
... rendering the door to our successful blogging career still locked. For some reason, whether it be distance or writer's block, we can not keep consistent with our posts. For this, we are very very sorry.
So we decided to write about one of the three things you are never supposed to bring up in polite conversation!
RELIGION!!
M: So, Ry, I'll just come right and and ask it. What do you believe in?
R:I don't exactly know what I believe... Uh, is hockey a religion?
M:Yes! Totally. Religion is what ever you believe in. Hockey is definitely your religion. Heaven being...
R:The Stanley Cup. Its called Lord Stanley's cup, anyways. Proof, hockey is god. Actually, that makes Wayne Gretzky god.
M:When is church?
R:Church happens about every other night during fall and winter. A lot of Randy and Drew (the announcers) because they are the preachers.
M:What are Drew and Randy preaching?
R:They just preach a lot about the rules of hockey, like when you don't understand something they explain. You can go to them for guidance.
M: What has your religion taught you? What's the morality of hockey?
R: Wow. Heartbreak. You get disappointed a lot of the time, but there is that one chance, that ultimate experience. I think Hockey is the same as the morality of life: the golden rule. If you punch a guy in the face, expect him to punch you back. Hockey to me is about not retaliating though. Leave him with the penalty.
M :So right. Be the bigger man.
R: Exactly.
M: What is hell to you, bub?
R: If the Sharks don't win the Stanley Cup during my life, do you know how disappointed I will be? I imagine that is what hell would be like. I couldn't imagine anything worse. An icy, cold afterlife.
M: See? Some people envision burning in flames for all of eternity. Being shut out of a Stanley Cup win is your hell. Except its cold. And the devil drives a Zamboni. Everyone who has a religion practices differently, whether you are a Christian or an Agnostic Theist (Woot Woot!).
R: What I believe in sweetie? Country Music? The good old south?
M: Are you saying that because I sing with a country accent?
R: Kind of.
M: I change what I believe in everyday. My imagination is too big to be an atheist. Why choose to believe in the infinite nothingness when I can believe in, literally, a million other things. Most days, I long to be Jewish. I would like to have a huge family Shabbat dinner every Friday. I am a closet Jewish nerd.
R:No you don't. Okay yes you do, but don't you believe in other things? Right?
M:Yes, you're right. I classify myself with a small sect of people who believe in Agnostic Theism. In a nutshell: An agnostic theist is one who believes that knowledge of god(s) is not possible but chooses to believe there is a higher being anyways. I like to believe, relying solely on faith, that there is a god. But, per agnosticism which is rooted in knowledge, know that this god or Gods or GOD or gOdS is inherently unknowable.
R:What does that make for your morality then if you don't follow hockey's rules... or the Bible?
M: My morality is to believe in the intellectual. Use your human instinct to do good. I love helping people, and it may be my nature or it may be my religion. No "god" is breathing down my neck or threatening entire damnation if I make a mistake. I am just trying to be the absolute best person I can and hopefully I will reincarnate as a lazy, fat cat. That is my ultimate goal.
R: Um... what is an agnostic?
M: I believe that no one can prove there is a god. Ever. And if you were able to prove there was a god, than it would destroy the whole purpose of faith, wouldn't it? Thats kind of my take on agnosticism. I have faith in the notion that there are dieties that watch the world from a sofa far away some where. And I also have a little buddhism mixed in. Re: my note about the Golden Key to Happiness on Facebook.
R: You've been having good Karma this week.
M: Yeah, its been so crazy! When we were driving to that memorial I so badly wanted not to go to! And we got every red light on the way. And a train stopped us too. And then, at Chinese food, all three of our fortune cookies had the number 39 on it.
R: And I predicted that Logan Couture, Shark player who wears number 39, would have a great year. And the next day, he had a front page article on the website about how he is going to have a breakout year!
M: That was intense and crazy. That means more Chinese food for us!
R: Great...
And we will continue to discuss what region means to us. And that is good. Religion shouldn't be something you have to argue about, especially with someone you love. Luckily we understand that religion is personal, and is literally different for everyone. Sometimes people forget that. So, enjoy anything, nothing and everything you believe in. Leave feedback and comments, if you're so inclined. We would love to hear how you practice (or don't practice) your religion!
See you on the otherside,
Ry and My
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Food for thought...
No, we're actually not talking about anything thought-provoking... we are talking about our hands down, FAVORITE thing in the whole wide universe.
FOOD.
Glorious, glorious food.
We love to buy it, make it, cook it, eat it, play with it, and enjoy it.
R: There are three things I love in the world. Food, Sharks hockey, and Mayan. Or food, Mayan and... food.
M: Clearly we love food. I think we started cooking together when we first started dating.
R: The first thing we cooked together was probably our world-famous sausamashajewcchini. Its Italian, you know.
M: Wow. That was impressive. But its true, our sausage, mushroom, zucchini dish is pretty delicious. Recipe time!
SAUSAMASHAJEWCCHINI.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
We like to buy our produce at Trader Joe's because its pretty fresh and not very expensive.
For a dinner for two (mind you this is Ryan's appetite, so its actually dinner for 13) you will need:
One package of zucchini (4-5 zucchinis)
One carton of white button mushrooms
One package of Chicken sausages (We've used Chicken apple, sun-dried tomato, portobello mushroom- they all taste great)
1/2 onion
Spices: 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Olive Oil
1. Slice the mushroom, zucchini and sausage into 1/2 inch slices (keeping the meat and vegetables separate because, remember, this is JEWcchini, and we're keeping it Kosher) (just kidding because to keep kosher we would need a rabbi... so... anyways), and dice the onion.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat, also start a small skillet on medium
2. Oil the large skillet and, when hot, add the zucchini.
3. Let the zucchini get a head start of about 3-4 minutes and then add the mushrooms and onions.
4. Add your seasonings to taste. Don't add too much. Seriously.
5. While this is cooking, add your sausage to the small skillet to sizzle. Ryan loves when it sizzles. We are simple people.
6. When the sausage has taken on a nice brown color, with lots of crispy-ness, add it to the veggies.
7. Saute the rest for another 5 minutes, or when the veggies are done.
YOU NOW HAVE PREPARED YOURSELF A DELICIOUS DINNER THAT YOU CAN ENJOY WITH YOUR LOVED ONE.
(OR BY YOURSELF, WHICH EVER IS CONVENIENT TO YOU AT THE TIME THIS DINNER IS PREPARED)
Ryan enjoys his as a filing to a sandwich, but i just pile it onto my plate and stuff myself with the deliciousness.
We enjoyed writing this recipe for you!
R: I would like to add that it goes well with garlic potatoes, or pasta.
M; Indeed, Indeed. I think we should share a recipe every week.
R: Or eat it in a nice panini. It would then be called SAUSAMASHAJEWCCHINPANINI.
M: Wow. We're done now.
R: Okay.
Sorry we didn't blog for so long! We promise to make it to you by posting glorious recipes all the time now!!!!!!!!!!
M: How should we sign out?
R: I AM THE SAUSAMASHAJEWCHINNI MAN.
M: Sigh.
Sincerely,
Ryan and Mayan
FOOD.
Glorious, glorious food.
We love to buy it, make it, cook it, eat it, play with it, and enjoy it.
R: There are three things I love in the world. Food, Sharks hockey, and Mayan. Or food, Mayan and... food.
M: Clearly we love food. I think we started cooking together when we first started dating.
R: The first thing we cooked together was probably our world-famous sausamashajewcchini. Its Italian, you know.
M: Wow. That was impressive. But its true, our sausage, mushroom, zucchini dish is pretty delicious. Recipe time!
SAUSAMASHAJEWCCHINI.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
We like to buy our produce at Trader Joe's because its pretty fresh and not very expensive.
For a dinner for two (mind you this is Ryan's appetite, so its actually dinner for 13) you will need:
One package of zucchini (4-5 zucchinis)
One carton of white button mushrooms
One package of Chicken sausages (We've used Chicken apple, sun-dried tomato, portobello mushroom- they all taste great)
1/2 onion
Spices: 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Olive Oil
1. Slice the mushroom, zucchini and sausage into 1/2 inch slices (keeping the meat and vegetables separate because, remember, this is JEWcchini, and we're keeping it Kosher) (just kidding because to keep kosher we would need a rabbi... so... anyways), and dice the onion.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat, also start a small skillet on medium
2. Oil the large skillet and, when hot, add the zucchini.
3. Let the zucchini get a head start of about 3-4 minutes and then add the mushrooms and onions.
4. Add your seasonings to taste. Don't add too much. Seriously.
5. While this is cooking, add your sausage to the small skillet to sizzle. Ryan loves when it sizzles. We are simple people.
6. When the sausage has taken on a nice brown color, with lots of crispy-ness, add it to the veggies.
7. Saute the rest for another 5 minutes, or when the veggies are done.
YOU NOW HAVE PREPARED YOURSELF A DELICIOUS DINNER THAT YOU CAN ENJOY WITH YOUR LOVED ONE.
(OR BY YOURSELF, WHICH EVER IS CONVENIENT TO YOU AT THE TIME THIS DINNER IS PREPARED)
Ryan enjoys his as a filing to a sandwich, but i just pile it onto my plate and stuff myself with the deliciousness.
We enjoyed writing this recipe for you!
R: I would like to add that it goes well with garlic potatoes, or pasta.
M; Indeed, Indeed. I think we should share a recipe every week.
R: Or eat it in a nice panini. It would then be called SAUSAMASHAJEWCCHINPANINI.
M: Wow. We're done now.
R: Okay.
Sorry we didn't blog for so long! We promise to make it to you by posting glorious recipes all the time now!!!!!!!!!!
M: How should we sign out?
R: I AM THE SAUSAMASHAJEWCHINNI MAN.
M: Sigh.
Sincerely,
Ryan and Mayan
Friday, June 11, 2010
The time we got new toys...
R: There is one giant reason I got an xbox: I won't be as bored when Mayan is gone.
M: Thats cute, bub. My amazonkindle is to keep my brain full and my mind occupied on my trips!
Today we got new electronics... and it feels like Christmas.
M: Why don't you tell everyone about your xbox, and what games you've got.
R: I didn't get any new games, I just have the ones I've already have. Basketball, football, hockey... all the sports games.
M: Well thats good, at like it will feel like your getting exercise...
It feels like summer has officially started, now that we have some brand new toys (or brand-new to you, in Ry's case)
M: I am so pleased with my Kindle. It was the most difficult day at work because all I could think about was getting home and exploring my new device!
R: Its very "you."
M: Haha! You're right, its an electronic book (or books!). I used to reject the thought of not feeling the weight of a book in my hand, but honestly, when you're reading on the kindle, it completely disappears! You are the book are off on your adventure! SO nice.
R: Its cute, and like a really thin pancake.
M: You're funny.
R: You're funny. Its really cool because its for you and your happy.
M: I hope your xbox makes you happy!
R: it keeps me happy when you're away.... (sad face.)
M: Well I guess this is one way of coping with it...
WE ARE GOING TO GO PLAY NOW BYE!
haha. but really. bye!
sincerely,
ms. white and mr. mdermott
Thursday, June 10, 2010
The many faces of Mayan
THIS IS NOT REALLY THE MANY FACES OF MAYAN, THINK OF IT AS "MAYAN LOOKING CUTE IN MANY DIFFERENT WAYS"
YOUNG PILOT MAYAN...
MAYAN WITH HER BEST FRIEND IN THE WORLD... PLUS SOME PRETTY SWEET MATCHING GOING ON
MAYANS NEW HAT... (SHE IS TOO CUTE) :)
GETTING KISSED... IN SAN FRANCISCO
IN SAN FRAN AT HER FAVORITE RESTAURANT... COULDNT BE HAPPIER
COACH MAYAN...
NOT REALLY MAYAN... (DOES KINDA LOOK LIKE HER THOUGH)
MAYAN BEING EATEN...
SASSY MAYAN...
SHE IS SO HAPPY THAT I AM ALL DRESSED UP...
YOUNG PILOT MAYAN...
MAYAN WITH HER BEST FRIEND IN THE WORLD... PLUS SOME PRETTY SWEET MATCHING GOING ON
MAYANS NEW HAT... (SHE IS TOO CUTE) :)
GETTING KISSED... IN SAN FRANCISCO
IN SAN FRAN AT HER FAVORITE RESTAURANT... COULDNT BE HAPPIER
COACH MAYAN...
NOT REALLY MAYAN... (DOES KINDA LOOK LIKE HER THOUGH)
MAYAN BEING EATEN...
SASSY MAYAN...
SHE IS SO HAPPY THAT I AM ALL DRESSED UP...
Monday, June 7, 2010
Sunday, May 30, 2010
That which is like unto itself is drawn- Music Edition!
Its the Law of Attraction. I'm not sure from whom this law came from or why is it that they should make this a law... all I know is that it is true.
Hey there. Its Mayan. I can see the Law of Attraction within the friends I chose to spend time with, Ryan (obviously) and, strangely enough, books. It never dawned on me that my musical tastes could reflect this same law!
I can't remember what I listened to before Ryan and I started dating, but all I know now is that we can flip on each others iTunes and be certain that whatever we turn on, it will be liked by both of us. Which is cool for, say, 6 hour car rides between LA and San Francisco.
JUST KIDDING! Wow, our lives would be so boring if our iTunes didn't have at least some slight differences! For the most part, our favorites are the same. As weird as it sounds, I listen to Linkin Park when I need to fall asleep. Ryan... not so much. I was really into punk and rock in high school, and although I have phrased most of that out of my library, I still like bands like Paramore and The Offspring. I realize that the musical standard for amazingness isn't often as apparent in these kinds of bands but there is something to be said for a Jimmy Eat World song that can make your day better. But, for the most part, Ryan and I are happy to listen to anything, especially awful songs that come on the radio because then we get to display our musical deterity by critiquing the crap out of Taylor Swift. I mean she's cute, but sheesh. Anyways...
I asked Ryan, the resident music expert of this relationship, to make a 'Top 10' all time albums of his musical taste (M: he doesn't like the Beatles. i know, right?) [R: I DON'T DISLIKE THEM! I JUST DON'T LIKE THEM!] (M: same thing). Its nice to have him write about something he is so passionate and knowledgeable about.
Here is Ryan's Top 10.
R: I had 20 albums... but I couldn't narrow it down past 14. I'm not sorry.
14. Eagle Eye Cherry - Present and Future
This was his second studio album; this one is probably one where most of the general population has never heard a single song on it. E.E.C's first album had two huge hits in the late 90's "Save tonight" and "Falling in Love again" neither of which were on this album... but listen to this album especially these songs ("feels so right", "burning up", "lonely days", and "promises made" and you will realize there is way more here than a 1 (or 2) hit wonder.
13. Matt Nathanson - Beneath These Fireworks
As matt nathanson would say himself "...This is the start of something beautiful". The album where his balls finally dropped into his voice... (M; HAHA. i love Matty.)
12. Ingrid Michaelson - Everybody
My favorite album that has come out in a long time, people can relate to Ingrid's style of music whether it is about a horrible break up or about living in a fairytale land, when you listen to her you feel like a kid again, and that’s something a lot of people desire. (M: Favorite alert)
11. Glen Phillips - Winter Pays For Summer
Great Singer/Songwriter here, lead man from the band "Toad The Wet Sprocket," another one of my favorite bands. Glen was the heart and soul of that band and it even comes out more in his solo stuff. Listen to all 13 songs, and try and think of one song you even thought about disliking... you won’t have one.
10. Dave Matthews Band - Crash
In my opinion the most talented band out there, the chemistry between these guys is unheard of... not to mention that they all are some of the best at their individual musical strengths. To be honest thought I could have put any of their albums up here. But to get a real DMB feel, you have to see them live.
9. Marc Broussard - Carencro
If I could steal anyone’s voice, it would be Marc Broussard... born and raised in New Orleans, he naturally has a very bluesy feel to his music, but in this album demonstrates just how versatile he really is as a musician, and this album is for all different types of music lovers.
8. Nickel Creek - (Self Titled)
The mandolin is my favorite instrument to listen too, if I could do it all over again I would have taught myself how to play it, instead of the guitar... and there is no one better than Chris Thile. Each song is just as strong as the next one whether it is an instrumental or a beautiful folk song mixed with blue grass and pop (a deadly combination). (M: I LOVE Nickel Creek. Love.)
7. Damien Rice - O
I could listen to every song on this album over and over and over again... Damien’s first full studio album, there is no better girl/guy duo whose voices blend perfectly together other than Damien and Lisa Hannigan. (M: I would die to see him in concert. Ryan is lucky!)
6. Gin Blossoms - New Miserable Experience
Nothing Miserable about this album, in fact I am a huge fan of the early 90's music and this is this album is the exact definition of what the 90's is all about amazingness (ha-ha). (M: Ryan likes 90s bands. Therefore, Ryan is gay. Therefore, this makes Ryan that much more desirable. I love my life.)
5. The Wallflowers - Bringing Down The Horse
The first CD I ever bought with my own money... oh wait, I’m sorry, it was actually not a CD but a cassette tape! Old School. Jakob Dylan is as good of a lyricist as his father, but a better singer making him that much more enjoyable to listen too.
4. Tom Petty - Full Moon Forever
The only two groups I can ever remember from my early childhood were Tom Petty, blasted by my dad, The Beach Boys, who had my whole family singing along. Out of all the Petty albums this one seemed to be my favorite, but really it was hard for me to chose from just one... maybe a greatest hits album would fit this better.
3. The Beach Boys - Endless Summer
Smiles all around, listening to them makes me a better person, ha-ha, okay, maybe not that far, but it does make me happier and enjoy life more. My mom was crazy over these boys, meaning my whole young childhood was spent singing these songs with her on our long drives where ever we were going.
2. Goo Goo Dolls - Dizzy Up The Girl
There is really nothing much to say about this, everyone knows how good this is, and if you have never heard it... well I suggest you do so before Mayan comes into your house at night and hits you repeatedly in the face with a pillow case filled with bars of soap... the end! (M: I will do it! How do you not love the Goo Goo Dolls! Ryan makes me laugh.)
1. Dave Matthews and Tim Reynolds - Live At Luther College
This is the only live album on the list and in my personal opinion this is the best album ever created, once you listen to this you won’t want to this to anything else ever again... there is way too much I could say about this album so ill just request an immediate test run for yourself. (M: Enough said.)
M: Thanks, Ry! You're Awesome. And I hope everyone enjoyed getting to know us via music!
In other news, Ryan just started singing "Love me Sexy" and I am ready for bed. So You Think You Can Dance has started up again. This significantly improves my life quality. Also, I'm going up San Francisco this weekend! Keep you eye out for... dun dun! A blog where we write from the same room! Crazy.
Keep rocking in the free world,
Mr. Yan
Hey there. Its Mayan. I can see the Law of Attraction within the friends I chose to spend time with, Ryan (obviously) and, strangely enough, books. It never dawned on me that my musical tastes could reflect this same law!
I can't remember what I listened to before Ryan and I started dating, but all I know now is that we can flip on each others iTunes and be certain that whatever we turn on, it will be liked by both of us. Which is cool for, say, 6 hour car rides between LA and San Francisco.
JUST KIDDING! Wow, our lives would be so boring if our iTunes didn't have at least some slight differences! For the most part, our favorites are the same. As weird as it sounds, I listen to Linkin Park when I need to fall asleep. Ryan... not so much. I was really into punk and rock in high school, and although I have phrased most of that out of my library, I still like bands like Paramore and The Offspring. I realize that the musical standard for amazingness isn't often as apparent in these kinds of bands but there is something to be said for a Jimmy Eat World song that can make your day better. But, for the most part, Ryan and I are happy to listen to anything, especially awful songs that come on the radio because then we get to display our musical deterity by critiquing the crap out of Taylor Swift. I mean she's cute, but sheesh. Anyways...
I asked Ryan, the resident music expert of this relationship, to make a 'Top 10' all time albums of his musical taste (M: he doesn't like the Beatles. i know, right?) [R: I DON'T DISLIKE THEM! I JUST DON'T LIKE THEM!] (M: same thing). Its nice to have him write about something he is so passionate and knowledgeable about.
Here is Ryan's Top 10.
R: I had 20 albums... but I couldn't narrow it down past 14. I'm not sorry.
14. Eagle Eye Cherry - Present and Future
This was his second studio album; this one is probably one where most of the general population has never heard a single song on it. E.E.C's first album had two huge hits in the late 90's "Save tonight" and "Falling in Love again" neither of which were on this album... but listen to this album especially these songs ("feels so right", "burning up", "lonely days", and "promises made" and you will realize there is way more here than a 1 (or 2) hit wonder.
13. Matt Nathanson - Beneath These Fireworks
As matt nathanson would say himself "...This is the start of something beautiful". The album where his balls finally dropped into his voice... (M; HAHA. i love Matty.)
12. Ingrid Michaelson - Everybody
My favorite album that has come out in a long time, people can relate to Ingrid's style of music whether it is about a horrible break up or about living in a fairytale land, when you listen to her you feel like a kid again, and that’s something a lot of people desire. (M: Favorite alert)
11. Glen Phillips - Winter Pays For Summer
Great Singer/Songwriter here, lead man from the band "Toad The Wet Sprocket," another one of my favorite bands. Glen was the heart and soul of that band and it even comes out more in his solo stuff. Listen to all 13 songs, and try and think of one song you even thought about disliking... you won’t have one.
10. Dave Matthews Band - Crash
In my opinion the most talented band out there, the chemistry between these guys is unheard of... not to mention that they all are some of the best at their individual musical strengths. To be honest thought I could have put any of their albums up here. But to get a real DMB feel, you have to see them live.
9. Marc Broussard - Carencro
If I could steal anyone’s voice, it would be Marc Broussard... born and raised in New Orleans, he naturally has a very bluesy feel to his music, but in this album demonstrates just how versatile he really is as a musician, and this album is for all different types of music lovers.
8. Nickel Creek - (Self Titled)
The mandolin is my favorite instrument to listen too, if I could do it all over again I would have taught myself how to play it, instead of the guitar... and there is no one better than Chris Thile. Each song is just as strong as the next one whether it is an instrumental or a beautiful folk song mixed with blue grass and pop (a deadly combination). (M: I LOVE Nickel Creek. Love.)
7. Damien Rice - O
I could listen to every song on this album over and over and over again... Damien’s first full studio album, there is no better girl/guy duo whose voices blend perfectly together other than Damien and Lisa Hannigan. (M: I would die to see him in concert. Ryan is lucky!)
6. Gin Blossoms - New Miserable Experience
Nothing Miserable about this album, in fact I am a huge fan of the early 90's music and this is this album is the exact definition of what the 90's is all about amazingness (ha-ha). (M: Ryan likes 90s bands. Therefore, Ryan is gay. Therefore, this makes Ryan that much more desirable. I love my life.)
5. The Wallflowers - Bringing Down The Horse
The first CD I ever bought with my own money... oh wait, I’m sorry, it was actually not a CD but a cassette tape! Old School. Jakob Dylan is as good of a lyricist as his father, but a better singer making him that much more enjoyable to listen too.
4. Tom Petty - Full Moon Forever
The only two groups I can ever remember from my early childhood were Tom Petty, blasted by my dad, The Beach Boys, who had my whole family singing along. Out of all the Petty albums this one seemed to be my favorite, but really it was hard for me to chose from just one... maybe a greatest hits album would fit this better.
3. The Beach Boys - Endless Summer
Smiles all around, listening to them makes me a better person, ha-ha, okay, maybe not that far, but it does make me happier and enjoy life more. My mom was crazy over these boys, meaning my whole young childhood was spent singing these songs with her on our long drives where ever we were going.
2. Goo Goo Dolls - Dizzy Up The Girl
There is really nothing much to say about this, everyone knows how good this is, and if you have never heard it... well I suggest you do so before Mayan comes into your house at night and hits you repeatedly in the face with a pillow case filled with bars of soap... the end! (M: I will do it! How do you not love the Goo Goo Dolls! Ryan makes me laugh.)
1. Dave Matthews and Tim Reynolds - Live At Luther College
This is the only live album on the list and in my personal opinion this is the best album ever created, once you listen to this you won’t want to this to anything else ever again... there is way too much I could say about this album so ill just request an immediate test run for yourself. (M: Enough said.)
M: Thanks, Ry! You're Awesome. And I hope everyone enjoyed getting to know us via music!
In other news, Ryan just started singing "Love me Sexy" and I am ready for bed. So You Think You Can Dance has started up again. This significantly improves my life quality. Also, I'm going up San Francisco this weekend! Keep you eye out for... dun dun! A blog where we write from the same room! Crazy.
Keep rocking in the free world,
Mr. Yan
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
The 'do-good' blog.
M: Ry, what kind of charity would you support if you had tons of money? What would be your 'cause?'
R: Like The Michael Scott... what was that? Michael Scott's Dunder Mifflin Scranton Meredith Palmer Memorial Celebrity Rabies Awareness Pro-Am Fun Run For The Cure? Just kidding.
M: Don't you have a cause, you know? Like music education? Keep music in schools?
R: I don't know... Its hard to pick just one! There are so many things people need, not just here, but all around the world.
Thats it. Thats the problem. There are so many problems that beg attention, and sometimes it can be overwhelming.
Pick a cause. Pick two causes. Pick it because you have an emotional connection with it, or pick it because you don't. Stay with them, support them whole heartedly.
My mom's company works with several non-profits, and I have friends who work for non-profits. I used to feel guilty because there were so many charities that I saw the good in, but was too busy or too poor to support them.
Lets rid this guilt feeling by supporting, with as much or as little as you can, a cause that really needs help. There are literally thousands to choose from.
Hunger, illiteracy, homelessness, children without families, sickness.
What blows my mind, and I guess it hit me harder this year, is that it is here. In the US. In California. Where we live.
Those are just the big concepts! What about the arts? Its proven fact that kids learn better when they play an instrument! School budgets are being cut? We're cutting the resources for the next generation. Somehow that doesn't make sense.
Maybe I will cause-hop, and change it up every year. Who knows.
This year, an amazing non-profit has come into my life, and I tear up just thinking about it. Aspiranet is a revolution in the foster care world. There are 75,000 kids and teens who need loving homes. In California. Not in the US. In CA alone. Aspiranet works with the youths by visiting them twice a week, supporting the foster parents and providing a support community for those involved.
I've been putting together a video for their "Hero" campaign, and, like I said before, when I see this footage of these kids... God, I'm tearing up even now. They don't know where they will sleep... or when they will eat. We all saw The Blindside, these are good kids. They just need love. Thats all. The worst was when we were interviewing these foster parents and when they told the child they were fostering that they wanted to adopt him, he looked up and said "Oh no, You don't want me. I'm unloveable."
They had us all in tears. When my mom was interviewing a young man, in his best shirt that had seen many days, who resides in a transitional housing project talking about how much having a foster parent can change a youth's life, she excused herself and had a breakdown in the hallway. Its so hard to talk about it, and it just gets me for some reason.
I'll get down off my soap box now, and invite Ryan back to the blog.
R: You can't please everybody. A lot of people feel overwhelmed with which cause or non-profit to choose, so they don't do any.
Don't be intimidated. People who work with non-profits are some of the kindest people I've ever met, and are overflowing with gratefulness when you just call for information. We encourage everyone who reads this to look into a cause that moves you. We swear that as much as you put into whatever cause you want, it will give back to you three fold. Sometimes even in the most unexpected ways.
Love, and be loved,
Mayan and Ryan in the Niiiightime (okay, thats going to have to change...)
P.S. Here is the Aspiranet video we just made. I just saw it finalized for the first time and I love it! I was eating lunch and starting crying... SO great. What makes this so great is that RYAN wrote and composed the music for it! Yay Ryan!
R: Like The Michael Scott... what was that? Michael Scott's Dunder Mifflin Scranton Meredith Palmer Memorial Celebrity Rabies Awareness Pro-Am Fun Run For The Cure? Just kidding.
M: Don't you have a cause, you know? Like music education? Keep music in schools?
R: I don't know... Its hard to pick just one! There are so many things people need, not just here, but all around the world.
Thats it. Thats the problem. There are so many problems that beg attention, and sometimes it can be overwhelming.
Pick a cause. Pick two causes. Pick it because you have an emotional connection with it, or pick it because you don't. Stay with them, support them whole heartedly.
My mom's company works with several non-profits, and I have friends who work for non-profits. I used to feel guilty because there were so many charities that I saw the good in, but was too busy or too poor to support them.
Lets rid this guilt feeling by supporting, with as much or as little as you can, a cause that really needs help. There are literally thousands to choose from.
Hunger, illiteracy, homelessness, children without families, sickness.
What blows my mind, and I guess it hit me harder this year, is that it is here. In the US. In California. Where we live.
Those are just the big concepts! What about the arts? Its proven fact that kids learn better when they play an instrument! School budgets are being cut? We're cutting the resources for the next generation. Somehow that doesn't make sense.
Maybe I will cause-hop, and change it up every year. Who knows.
This year, an amazing non-profit has come into my life, and I tear up just thinking about it. Aspiranet is a revolution in the foster care world. There are 75,000 kids and teens who need loving homes. In California. Not in the US. In CA alone. Aspiranet works with the youths by visiting them twice a week, supporting the foster parents and providing a support community for those involved.
I've been putting together a video for their "Hero" campaign, and, like I said before, when I see this footage of these kids... God, I'm tearing up even now. They don't know where they will sleep... or when they will eat. We all saw The Blindside, these are good kids. They just need love. Thats all. The worst was when we were interviewing these foster parents and when they told the child they were fostering that they wanted to adopt him, he looked up and said "Oh no, You don't want me. I'm unloveable."
They had us all in tears. When my mom was interviewing a young man, in his best shirt that had seen many days, who resides in a transitional housing project talking about how much having a foster parent can change a youth's life, she excused herself and had a breakdown in the hallway. Its so hard to talk about it, and it just gets me for some reason.
I'll get down off my soap box now, and invite Ryan back to the blog.
R: You can't please everybody. A lot of people feel overwhelmed with which cause or non-profit to choose, so they don't do any.
Don't be intimidated. People who work with non-profits are some of the kindest people I've ever met, and are overflowing with gratefulness when you just call for information. We encourage everyone who reads this to look into a cause that moves you. We swear that as much as you put into whatever cause you want, it will give back to you three fold. Sometimes even in the most unexpected ways.
Love, and be loved,
Mayan and Ryan in the Niiiightime (okay, thats going to have to change...)
P.S. Here is the Aspiranet video we just made. I just saw it finalized for the first time and I love it! I was eating lunch and starting crying... SO great. What makes this so great is that RYAN wrote and composed the music for it! Yay Ryan!
Aspiranet from Consortium Media on Vimeo.
Sunday, May 23, 2010
Ryan, stop playing Roller Coaster Tycoon so we can do our Blog.
Since it is late and Mayan has work the morning, we thought it would be cute (and relaxing) to answer a whole bunch of our favorite things over skype. Mayan picked hers without telling him and then Ryan told Mayan his. Maybe we'll have some similarities... Enjoy!
~ romantic comedy
M: Serendipity R: Are there any sport/romantic comedys? I'll pick Hitch. Or Mr. Deeds. Actually! Coming to America.
~ national park
M: Yosemite, ohmygosh I just love it there. R: Yosemite.
~ type of weather
M: Overcast. Cool, but not cold. R: Cloudy with a chance of turkey meatballs. Or rain. And fog.
~ foreign accent
M: ANYTHING BUT AUSTRALIAN. R: Irish. Come on. There is nothing better then a little leprechaun guy, you know?
~ winter olympic sport
M: Hockey. R: Curling. Just kidding. The only winter olympic sport. Skeet Shooting. (He means Hockey).
~ part of your love interest's body
M: Awks. Smile. R: Her mouse ears.
~ halloween costume that you've worn
M: Once, when I was little my mom didn't have time to take me to get a costume so I took those fake tatoos that had tie-dye and peace signs and put them on some flare jeans and a headband. Instant hippie. R: I was a raver one time. That was pretty fun.
~ breakfast cereal
M: The Charms. Lucky Charms. R: Smart Start. (I think my grandma eats that...)
~ toy from childhood
M: Ricky the Raccoon. R: Ghostbusters backpack.
~ pie
M: My homemade lemon meringue pie. R: Pie as in Math Pi? 3.14. Come on, thats funny. (Not funny.)
~ old article of clothing
M: My riding jacket from when I was seven that now looks like a super hip blazer. R: My old grey sweatshirt.
~ day of the year
M: Anyday I'm with Ry. R: August 15th. (Thats my birthday? God, he is adorable.)
~ genre of music
M Singer-songwriters. R: early 90s bands.
~ sports hero
M: Pre. R: Whistles, I got a lot of those guys. Ozzie Smith. Jamie Baker. Steve Young.
~ flower
M: Orchid. R: I like roses because they smell god. Or birds of paradise. Are those plants or flowers?
~ mixed drink
M: I don't drink? R: I know what yours is going to be. The peach bellini. I don't like mixed drinks. Shirley Temple. (Okay, those peach things are like smoothies.)
~ movie musical
M: Oh man... Gotta go with singing in the rain. Although I love so many. R: (He is singing a song that i can't recognize. Nevermind, it was Sit Down (You're Rocking the Boat) from Guys and Dolls.
~ vegetable
M: ALL! PLEASE. R: All of the above.
~ screen kiss
M: A Notebook kiss? R: Oh, yeah, because I know so many kisses.
~ place to buy clothes
M: anthropologie or urban... and target's men v-necks. R: target.
~ curse word or phrase to say
M: Dammit. R: (Ryan doens't cuss). I don't know? What do I say?
~ schoolyard game from childhood
M: Basketball. Always. R: I just played football. Sometimes tetherball. Sometimes handball. Foursquare.
~ bar
M: Well considering I'm not 21... R: Paddy's Pub.
~ music to get your groove on
M: What? R: Bow Chicka Bow Wow.
~ thing about your family
M: Its ginormous. R: We live in the bay area!
~ candy bar
M: Hmm. Tigers Milk. R: Tigers Milk.
~ restaurant you frequent regularly
M: CHANG 101, hell yes! R: Old NEw York Bagels.
~ local park
M: I live at the beach...R: Mitchell.
~ coffee shop
M: The Bucks. R: Palo Alto Coffee Shop.
~ sport to play
M: I don't know. It depends on who I'm with. R: Hockey.
~ musical instrument
M: Well I can play the flute but I love love love the piano. R: Mandolin.
~ band to see live
M: Matt Nathanson. R: SO many. DMB. Damien Rice.
That was fun. We'll have a cool blog soon! :) Thanks for all your support so far... this was just a little experiment and we are having lots of fun, and hope you all are too!
Love,
Mayan and Ryan in the Niiiightime
~ romantic comedy
M: Serendipity R: Are there any sport/romantic comedys? I'll pick Hitch. Or Mr. Deeds. Actually! Coming to America.
~ national park
M: Yosemite, ohmygosh I just love it there. R: Yosemite.
~ type of weather
M: Overcast. Cool, but not cold. R: Cloudy with a chance of turkey meatballs. Or rain. And fog.
~ foreign accent
M: ANYTHING BUT AUSTRALIAN. R: Irish. Come on. There is nothing better then a little leprechaun guy, you know?
~ winter olympic sport
M: Hockey. R: Curling. Just kidding. The only winter olympic sport. Skeet Shooting. (He means Hockey).
~ part of your love interest's body
M: Awks. Smile. R: Her mouse ears.
~ halloween costume that you've worn
M: Once, when I was little my mom didn't have time to take me to get a costume so I took those fake tatoos that had tie-dye and peace signs and put them on some flare jeans and a headband. Instant hippie. R: I was a raver one time. That was pretty fun.
~ breakfast cereal
M: The Charms. Lucky Charms. R: Smart Start. (I think my grandma eats that...)
~ toy from childhood
M: Ricky the Raccoon. R: Ghostbusters backpack.
~ pie
M: My homemade lemon meringue pie. R: Pie as in Math Pi? 3.14. Come on, thats funny. (Not funny.)
~ old article of clothing
M: My riding jacket from when I was seven that now looks like a super hip blazer. R: My old grey sweatshirt.
~ day of the year
M: Anyday I'm with Ry. R: August 15th. (Thats my birthday? God, he is adorable.)
~ genre of music
M Singer-songwriters. R: early 90s bands.
~ sports hero
M: Pre. R: Whistles, I got a lot of those guys. Ozzie Smith. Jamie Baker. Steve Young.
~ flower
M: Orchid. R: I like roses because they smell god. Or birds of paradise. Are those plants or flowers?
~ mixed drink
M: I don't drink? R: I know what yours is going to be. The peach bellini. I don't like mixed drinks. Shirley Temple. (Okay, those peach things are like smoothies.)
~ movie musical
M: Oh man... Gotta go with singing in the rain. Although I love so many. R: (He is singing a song that i can't recognize. Nevermind, it was Sit Down (You're Rocking the Boat) from Guys and Dolls.
~ vegetable
M: ALL! PLEASE. R: All of the above.
~ screen kiss
M: A Notebook kiss? R: Oh, yeah, because I know so many kisses.
~ place to buy clothes
M: anthropologie or urban... and target's men v-necks. R: target.
~ curse word or phrase to say
M: Dammit. R: (Ryan doens't cuss). I don't know? What do I say?
~ schoolyard game from childhood
M: Basketball. Always. R: I just played football. Sometimes tetherball. Sometimes handball. Foursquare.
~ bar
M: Well considering I'm not 21... R: Paddy's Pub.
~ music to get your groove on
M: What? R: Bow Chicka Bow Wow.
~ thing about your family
M: Its ginormous. R: We live in the bay area!
~ candy bar
M: Hmm. Tigers Milk. R: Tigers Milk.
~ restaurant you frequent regularly
M: CHANG 101, hell yes! R: Old NEw York Bagels.
~ local park
M: I live at the beach...R: Mitchell.
~ coffee shop
M: The Bucks. R: Palo Alto Coffee Shop.
~ sport to play
M: I don't know. It depends on who I'm with. R: Hockey.
~ musical instrument
M: Well I can play the flute but I love love love the piano. R: Mandolin.
~ band to see live
M: Matt Nathanson. R: SO many. DMB. Damien Rice.
That was fun. We'll have a cool blog soon! :) Thanks for all your support so far... this was just a little experiment and we are having lots of fun, and hope you all are too!
Love,
Mayan and Ryan in the Niiiightime
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Troy and Abed in the morrrrrrning.
As Ryan and I converse over Skype about job listings on Craiglist, I remind him that we still need to figure out our 'sign-off,' or how we are going to end our blog posts.
Ryan is for the 'Troy and Abed in the morrrrning' Good Morning America parody by our favorite on screen duo in one of our favorite new TV series, Community.
As funny as I think that is, I'll leave the comedic power to Troy and Abed. It might be Ryan's strength, but I am seriously lacking in matters of hilarity.
M "Lets get serious."
R "Are you talking to me? What are we doing? What is serious?
M "Our sign-off!"
R "Oh, I didn't know you were talking to me!"
M "I'm ONLY talking to you!"
R "You were just saying words and stuff, I didn't know you were talking to me!"
Through a smile, I sigh as Ryan puts a hanger in mouth and shakes it around. Everything is a little bit more difficult over Skype, but Ryan can still make me belly-laugh.
"I should apply to this place, right? That would be pretty cool to work for the company that cures cancer. It makes me feel smart. What if I ended up... curing cancer?" He laughs.
I laugh. We've sat for the past three minutes without saying anything, just hearing the hum of our computers and listening to each other's typing. Its nice to just be; to feel each others presence though we're hundreds of miles apart.
I could have stayed in that silence for hours, but Ryan broke it before I had to.
R "Okay, I sent my resume so you can look it over."
M "Okay. So whats our sign-off going to be?"
R "Mr. Yan"
M "What?"
R "m r y a n. Our names, combined. Mr. Yan. Or we can record a song and put it at the bottom."
M "No."
R "Wow. Okay good idea, Ryan, oh thanks, Ryan, good idea. Doesn't Shrek open tonight?"
These our our sticky moments, the glue factor. Our conversation is never about one thing. It starts with one thing and by the end (or pseudo end-its always still continuing) we've talked about 50 things we didn't even know we would talk about.
So we may have not figured out our sign-off tonight. So what? It'll come up in conversation in 4 days, anyways.
Until then,
Mayan and Ryan
P.S. From Community-
Ryan is for the 'Troy and Abed in the morrrrning' Good Morning America parody by our favorite on screen duo in one of our favorite new TV series, Community.
As funny as I think that is, I'll leave the comedic power to Troy and Abed. It might be Ryan's strength, but I am seriously lacking in matters of hilarity.
M "Lets get serious."
R "Are you talking to me? What are we doing? What is serious?
M "Our sign-off!"
R "Oh, I didn't know you were talking to me!"
M "I'm ONLY talking to you!"
R "You were just saying words and stuff, I didn't know you were talking to me!"
Through a smile, I sigh as Ryan puts a hanger in mouth and shakes it around. Everything is a little bit more difficult over Skype, but Ryan can still make me belly-laugh.
"I should apply to this place, right? That would be pretty cool to work for the company that cures cancer. It makes me feel smart. What if I ended up... curing cancer?" He laughs.
I laugh. We've sat for the past three minutes without saying anything, just hearing the hum of our computers and listening to each other's typing. Its nice to just be; to feel each others presence though we're hundreds of miles apart.
I could have stayed in that silence for hours, but Ryan broke it before I had to.
R "Okay, I sent my resume so you can look it over."
M "Okay. So whats our sign-off going to be?"
R "Mr. Yan"
M "What?"
R "m r y a n. Our names, combined. Mr. Yan. Or we can record a song and put it at the bottom."
M "No."
R "Wow. Okay good idea, Ryan, oh thanks, Ryan, good idea. Doesn't Shrek open tonight?"
These our our sticky moments, the glue factor. Our conversation is never about one thing. It starts with one thing and by the end (or pseudo end-its always still continuing) we've talked about 50 things we didn't even know we would talk about.
So we may have not figured out our sign-off tonight. So what? It'll come up in conversation in 4 days, anyways.
Until then,
Mayan and Ryan
P.S. From Community-
Monday, May 17, 2010
We cannot direct the wind but we can adjust the sails.
Well.
This Saturday Ryan graduated from college. Congratulations, bub!
I am so proud of him. Its kind of the norm now for middle class families to send their kids to college; so much so that I sometimes feel that being a college graduate (with three majors, no less!) is not recognized as the big accomplishment that it is. Hats off to him, and all our friends who have graduated.
We are both a little unstable with emotions right now... This will mark the first time we have really ever had to spend time away without knowing when the next time we will share a room will be. Its eerily scary.
Living in dorms or apartments away from parents is like an incubator with a large, glowing, red light-bulb for young love. For most, it makes everything grow at an awkward fat-pace, like chicks that have had extra hormones pumped into them and hatch with like three legs or something. And... I don't know where that sentence was going so anyways...
Somehow, Ryan and I have lasted; three legs and all. And somehow, we're happy. And somehow, we'll end up fine!
Ryan is moving home to the Bay area and I'll stay here in LA. We'll see each other a few times- I love the drive up the coast to San Francisco. This fall, I have a huge adventure that I'll talk about in another post. It involves... Europe?
When Ryan and I aren't working at preschool and a marketing firm, respectively, we will be texting. And skype-ing. I'm not worried about us being apart (Ryan says: Nope, why? are you?) because I know there is really no one who could make me happier (Ryan says: No one could make me happier, that's why I am marrying you).
RIght now, we are in the first stage of separation: The 'I miss you' stage. That's why we just stare at each other on Skype. Occasionally we cry (Ryan says: you cry.) [point of information: I saw him crying earlier].
So far, in our four hours apart Ryan is bored, and I am daunted by the sheer amount laundry laying at the foot of my bed. Yikes!
We may not be able to direct this change in the wind, but we'll let our love direct the sails.
Sincerely,
Mayan & Ryan
This Saturday Ryan graduated from college. Congratulations, bub!
I am so proud of him. Its kind of the norm now for middle class families to send their kids to college; so much so that I sometimes feel that being a college graduate (with three majors, no less!) is not recognized as the big accomplishment that it is. Hats off to him, and all our friends who have graduated.
We are both a little unstable with emotions right now... This will mark the first time we have really ever had to spend time away without knowing when the next time we will share a room will be. Its eerily scary.
Living in dorms or apartments away from parents is like an incubator with a large, glowing, red light-bulb for young love. For most, it makes everything grow at an awkward fat-pace, like chicks that have had extra hormones pumped into them and hatch with like three legs or something. And... I don't know where that sentence was going so anyways...
Somehow, Ryan and I have lasted; three legs and all. And somehow, we're happy. And somehow, we'll end up fine!
Ryan is moving home to the Bay area and I'll stay here in LA. We'll see each other a few times- I love the drive up the coast to San Francisco. This fall, I have a huge adventure that I'll talk about in another post. It involves... Europe?
When Ryan and I aren't working at preschool and a marketing firm, respectively, we will be texting. And skype-ing. I'm not worried about us being apart (Ryan says: Nope, why? are you?) because I know there is really no one who could make me happier (Ryan says: No one could make me happier, that's why I am marrying you).
RIght now, we are in the first stage of separation: The 'I miss you' stage. That's why we just stare at each other on Skype. Occasionally we cry (Ryan says: you cry.) [point of information: I saw him crying earlier].
So far, in our four hours apart Ryan is bored, and I am daunted by the sheer amount laundry laying at the foot of my bed. Yikes!
We may not be able to direct this change in the wind, but we'll let our love direct the sails.
Sincerely,
Mayan & Ryan
Friday, May 14, 2010
This is our story.
We often discuss how we are the glue that holds our family together. Ryan is the second youngest of four, and I am an only child. Ryan's amazingly dramatic sister, self-seeking brother, other sensitive brother who is a young father, and two hardworking parents make for a full house. Everyone has recognized how his role has helped their family stay together.
I'm the only one, and when I didn't have my nose buried in a book, I was reprimanding my parents for raising their voice at each other. Luckily they had sense to listen to that voracious four year old, and our family has at least gotten this far.
Our calm, comforting demeanors provide a source of authority and understanding for our families.
Luckily, we found each other and, with all this glue, our love is pretty sticky.
This blog is our story, as we are just starting out together. We have been dating about 2 years and we are both ready to leave a trail of gluey footprints behind us as we take steps into our new life.
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