Eating My Feelings

Tonight as my boss man was leaving he said he was going to a dinner... at Nada. He seemed less than excited.

I reacted coolly.

"OMGosh, really?! I love Nada! Get the chicken tacos, they're like CRACK."

Still he was unconvinced, which just goes to show you that you can be a brilliant scientist and co-director of a big time Heart Institute yet still have no clue about other important things... like chicken tacos.

Had I not sounded like a complete freak I'd have outlined for him my Nada strategy:

• I like to kick things off with a Nadarita. At $7 it's the cheapest margarita on the drink list, but it's still guaranteed to knock you on your ass. Two thumbs up!

• Chips and salsa are a must. Of course.

• Sure it's $17 for three tacos, but believe me when I tell you that you will steal money from your best friends to pay $5 each for these delicious black bean puree, pico and guacamole chicken tacos.

• But what I really want while at Nada is someone to order the chicken tacos while I order the Mexican mac 'n cheese. (Or vice-versa.) I know what you're thinking, mac 'n cheese? LAME.

No way José. It is fantastic. Pasta shells with just the right amount of poblano heat plus some sort of crispy, crumbly things that add texture. Omg awesome.

So basically what I'm saying here is if you want to get me drunk and stuff me full of Mexican food, I'm in. Then you can watch me pass-out on the couch... Come on, who wouldn't want that?!

Disturbing

Maybe you've noticed a disturbance in the force recently. An eerie breeze that moves across your face, even when you're indoors. And that breeze smells like biscuits, or frying eggs, or grilling chicken.

What you're feeling is me making dinner at home. And then eating it. Usually.

The last time I ate at home this consistently was when I lived at home, and my mom made dinner. For the past, ohhhh, I don't know, 10 years I've eaten most of my meals "out."

Fine cuisine like Taco Bell, Chipotle, pizza, Panera. You know, health food.

Occasionally I'd go through a spell where I'd declare I was going to start eating at home. Then I'd have to force myself to make a plate of spaghetti once a week.

That's the other thing, I don't really "cook." It was within only the last year or so I could tolerate touching a raw chicken breast enough to put it in a pan to cook it. (Bleh, I'm still icked out by it though.) And there's no way I'd touch or attempt to prepare any other type of meat. So my homecooking mostly consists of noodles and frozen broccoli.

I know what you're thinking, "YUM! I'm going over to Gina's for dinner!" I get that a lot.

But the tide has turned. Ever since I moved, the adorable kitchen table and I have become... well, like peas and carrots you could say.

Speaking of peas, I love peas. So I had some for dinner the other night. I microwaved them myself, and had them with augratin potatoes and grilled chicken. Mostly I eat grilled chicken, usually on top of a salad with red peppers, cucumbers and dried cranberries. (See photo above) But last night I made scrabbled eggs with biscuits and gravy. More health food.

It's been nice, all this eating at home. The warmth of the kitchen. The cooking smells.

Now don't go and drunk dial any exes. It's not the end of the world.

Probably.

A Rousing Friday Evening

After having Chuck Klosterman sign my paperback copy of Downtown Owl to "Billie Jean" I walked over to Madison Park for a three-person softball game.

First base was a branch and second base was a bunch of leaves. There was no third base.

We all hit bottom-of-the-ninth bases loaded game winning homers. It was a quite a night.

The Way You Make Me Feel

Picking this week's TGIF Video was the toughest ever. How to send-off the man who moonwalked his way across my heart.

Thriller was the first cassette tape I ever got. It was a Christmas present along with a portable cassette player that I carried from room-to-room convinced that P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing) was written especially for me. (I went through a "center of the universe" phase when I was 8, Ok.)

As a commenter on NYTimes.com said, for my generation, the greatest moonwalk had nothing to do with NASA.

I'll be piping the once King of Pop through my headphones all day... try not to stare if you see me tryin' to moonwalk.

TGIF.

Dear Sweet Baby Jesus In the Manger

Thank you dear sweet baby Jesus in the manger for getting me my job at Children's where I met my colleague Michael, who told me about Noah the scooter mechanic, who rebuilt my other colleague (and Michael's friend) Jason's scooter engine.

And also dear sweet baby Jesus in the manger, thank you for the Internet, where I was able to find a muffler for a 2000 Honda Elite 50. And thank you that I have the means to drop $120 - $120!!! - for this new muffler to replace the one that's rusted out and causing my scooter to be deafeningly loud, which brings me back to thanking you for my kick-ass job.

One more teensy-weensy request sweet baby Jesus if you have the time - and if not, hey, no big deal, ok?! I'm totally grateful for what I have, believe you me - but could you please maybe send a signal to Noah, my new favorite person on the planet who is also my new-found scooter mechanic, to not hose me on the labor costs to install this new muffler that you have so generously bestowed on me.

But if Noah needs the extra cash to buy a new water pump for his house or pay some medical bills or get his kid a new bike for his birthday or whatever, then forget it, go ahead and let him charge me whatever he wants. (Within some reason, though, Ok sweet baby Jesus in the manger?)

Amen,

Gina

It's A Sad, Sad Day, People

Uhm, can anyone reading this weld?

Tonight Stella and I were cruising the streets of Clifton with Dean when all of sudden Stella got deafeningly loud. Like, ear splitting. And I was even wearing a helmet.

I know what you're thinking, How loud could it be, it's a scooter?

Well, I'm talking I-cut-a-hole-in-my-Harley-exhaust-pipe loud. Sound bouncing off of guard-rails and cars loud. Embarrassing loud, even.

"It sounds like an aggressive weed-eater," I told Adam solemnly.

After some inspection we found that nearly 10-year-old Stella has a crack in her rusted exhaust pipe. Sad. I guess that's the scooter equivalent of having bronchitis.

The good news though, I guess if there's good news here, is that Stella is way faster now. As I was coming home I noticed it felt like I was flying, though I wasn't sure if it was actual speed or just noise.

Turns out, it was actual speed. Dean said I was going about 43.

"Back pressure," my dad explained. Too bad my dad the retired mechanic isn't closer. Not only would I have him replace my exhaust, but I'd also have him keep Stella super-speedy.

But alas, Stella and I are stalled right now. The summer just got a whole lot less fun.

Supa Fly

The White House needs a screen door, y'all. TGIF!

Copywriting At Its Finest

I appreciate how Sony isn't trying to oversell these headphones.

My only suggestion would be to add, "Look, you paid $9.99, what do you expect."

18 Miles of Asphalt

Wait, make that 19, because according my dude's Garmin, we technically rode 19.3 miles. Ow ow!

This morning was the 3rd Annual Ride Cincinnati for Breast Cancer Research.

Waking up before 10 a.m. is usually met with swearing and me hitting snooze 47 times, but this morning I was bright-eyed and ready to roll at 7:30.

Now if only I didn't have the heaviest, crappiest Target bike on the planet I would have been gold! (As it was I'd say I was more steel.)



Here's everyone lined up at the start on the Purple People Bridge.




I'm pretty sure Adam is singing Welcome to the Jungle in his head... to get pumped.




This was at the turn-around at mile 9. Note how my tongue is out. It looks like I'm joking around, but really, I kinda wasn't. My bike weighs like 40 pounds I swear, and has big fat knobby mountain bike tires. You got to dig deep to move that thing around!




I was back to being hella-sporty in no time though.




So that's what that pocket is for, animal crackers!




Adam was hungry too.




I packed as many animal crackers as I could into my pocket, which left this little guy vulnerable to Adam riding up on me and stealing it. Jerk!





Caution - People flipping.




My first chain tattoo! I'm thinking about making it permanent instead of WD40.




Victory was ours!

Make It Work, Designers!

It took a model and two handlers to get this dress down the runway.

You guys are going to be so jealous, but guess who had rock star fourth row seats to the DAAP fashion show on Friday night? Oh yeah, this one. Right here.

Ok so I was like tenth in line for the tickets, but since she couldn't find anyone else who wanted them my friend Katherine hooked me up with her Cincinnati Magazine comp seats.

And wow... what a stellar show. I sat there in my shiny dress and heels and thought, "What. Would it be like. To have such skill."

I can't cook. I can't sew. My home-grown vegetables taste like weeds.

And look, look at all of these students, creating such fantastic pieces. So not all of it was practical, but still... it was extraordinary to see these students' designs come down the runway - all lights and models and fashion and music.

I was in awe of them. I channeled my inner Tim Gunn and said things like, "Work it like there's no tomorrow!" and "That's a lot of look!"

And how lucky that I happen to know one of the graduates. Her collection was all red dresses and YOWZA. Believe me, Elyse's designs could turn anyone into a goddess. They were so stunning I swore they would float off the stage.

My pictures from the night turned out crappy, but here's one and
here's some others.

They're what I call a two-step dress:

Step 1: Zip it up

Step 2: Own the room

Hats off to the class of 2009.

Did Somebody Say Dance Off? TGIF!!!

Here's hoping this happens to you on your next rain delay. I feel like the blue team started off strong, but the green team really brought it in the end.

Happy weekend!

The Snack Ninja

This is my new desk space. Next to the microwave AND mini-fridge.

I know, right?! AWESOME.

When I asked my new boss-man about this arrangement he said, "You do like to snack, right?"

Busted.

This week alone there's been lots of snack action, mostly of the Japanese variety. First there was this cookie. My thought when it was given to me was, "How bad can it be? It looks like a tiny waffle."



Turns out, pretty bad. It went down like a Girl Scout lemon cookie. Unfortch the aftertaste was like vomit. And I think it gave me a headache too.

Then today I was instructed to try one of these little snacks and rate it on a scale of 1 to 10. "Looks like a smashed tater tot," I said. "How bad can it be?"



Turns out, it was delicious. I gave it a 7.5. Crispy like a rice cracker, but with a touch of spice.

Needless to say the new gig at the Heart Institute is going swimmingly.

And if you work on my floor and you put something delicious in the microwave and you're not there to get it out... Can't prove it.

Baby, We Were Born To Ride

Look. At. Me. And Stella. We're on a boat!

Instead of our usual ride down Eastern, over the Southgate Bridge and to Graeter's in Newport, Dean suggested we mix it up a bit this weekend.

So we headed down Eastern, across the Southgate Bridge and kept on going, y'all. All the way down River Road to Anderson Ferry.

We were winding around downtown on Mehring Way when suddenly Dean stopped and kind of looked around.

"We didn't end up where I thought we would," he said, looking at Stella. "We can do this, right?"

"Totally. We can do this." I said this with complete and utter confidence. I had no idea what he was worried about. To me it looked like we were just getting ready to head down a country road. Stella can only go about 37 mph, but hey, this wasn't our first rodeo, you know.

We flipped our helmet shields back down and took off.

It was about, ohhh, 30 seconds later when I realized that the country road we were facing suddenly turned into the 6th Street Expressway. Four lanes of highway.

"Ohh, shit." I said it outloud, into my helmet.

I pulled Stella's throttle all the way back and whoa, y'all, we took off like a freakin' rocket.

Uncle! I cried to myself.

Outta my way beeyotches! Stella yelled.

It was downhill a bit, so we must have been going at least 39 or 40. And fortunately it was only a quarter mile or so to River Road, so I didn't pee my pants that much.

Here's Dean and me on the ferry, post-terror ride down the expressway...





...and me posing with Dean's scooter, Buddy. (Dean's scooter has a lame name.)



After winding our way through Kentucky on Route 8 you'll never guess where we ended up... Graeter's in Newport! Who'd have thought. Dean treated me to a chocolate scoop in a waffle cone, I think because he felt bad he nearly got me seriously maimed.

Needless to say, it was the best ride yet.

In other scooter news, I've noticed a new phenomenon lately. Most scooter riders wave to each other when they pass. It's like acknowledging your tribe or something. But lately, I've gotten several waves from motorcycles as well. Men, women, Harleys, crotch-rockets. There doesn't seem to be a pattern.

How fab is that.

TGI Friday, Y'all!

Apple Introduces Revolutionary New Laptop With No Keyboard

I don't want to get ahead of the glorious weekend ahead, but my nerd readers out there know that Monday is going to be big for those of us who like slick, shiny Apple products.

Will Apple reveal an even more gleaming iPhone?! Will the iMac monitor get even more giant?! Will the new Snow Leopard operating system be an actual snow leopard you will have to feed and walk?

Questions people!!!

The only thing we know for sure is the new Mac Wheel will be awesome... "Nothing's more simple than a single giant button!"

TGIF!!!

I Will Not Fail You, Lisa Lisa

Wednesday morning I received this in my Gmail account (if you don't feel like reading all of it I have highlights below):

Hey Gina Daugherty,

Based on the hot topics and discussions featured on Gina Blogs All About it, LISA LISA’s fans are sure to be surfing through and have interest on the amazing opportunities that we currently have available! Additionally, we wanted to inform you that Lisa Lisa (Formerly of The Cult Jam) has a new album coming July 14th and a single, “Que Locura” that is currently available on iTunes, Rhapsody, Amazon and many other sites!

Aside from the attached banner promoting the single, we are running an 80's hair contest, 80's fashion contest, and "All Cried Out" singing contest where winners will receive concert tickets to see Lisa Lisa at different venues around the country.

We are trying to increase our Twitter followers and outlets for sharing information on upcoming Lisa Lisa releases and we were hoping you would be interested in supporting the cause! Posting a LISA LISA album banner, contest banner, or video on Gina Blogs All About it’s, main/music page would be a sweet highlight for LISA LISA. As an incentive Mass Appeal Entertainment will feature your logo or link on all of our related websites (i.e. Myspace, iMeem, iLike, etc.).

If you are interested in getting an exclusive video drop and other exclusive content, please reply to this email with, “Sign Me Up” and we’ll send you the banner, video, and codes to post on Gina Blogs All About it! Then send us your logo or banner and let the excitement begin!!

Thank you for your support!

Best,
Mass Appeal Entertainment
Rochelle Goldsmith (General Manager)


Awesome, right?!

When I first read it I thought, "Of course I love Lisa Lisa, but how on earth would they know that?! Is Lisa-Lisa not only the wonderful songstress behind All Cried Out but also somehow all-knowing?

Turns out, no.

After Googling my blog along with All Cried Out I found this old post, which is obviously what Lisa Lisa's handlers also found.

What I like most about this email is its uber-complimentary style - flattery will get you everywhere with Gina's Blog, my friends - including these implicit gems:

•Lisa Lisa fans will see Gina Blogs All About It and totally hope to find Lisa Lisa's new single and video, because Gina Blogs is the source for news and entertainment

• Gina, you would be amazing in our All Cried Out singing contest

• Moreover Gina, Lisa Lisa wants you to choreograph a sick routine for Head To Toe, which you will dance to all summer while you tour with Lisa Lisa "at different venues around the country" as her backup dancer and soon-to-be BFF

But obviously this is my favorite part - Posting a LISA LISA album banner, contest banner, or video on Gina Blogs All About It’s main/music page would be a sweet highlight for LISA LISA.

A "sweet highlight for Lisa Lisa?!" Hellz yeah!

I'm not going to let Lisa Lisa down, you guys, so I did what the email told me to do: I replied with 'Sign me up!'

I'm excited for lots of Lisa Lisa banner/video/song spam.

TGIF and Sunny Skies!

Cannonball! from GinaBlogs on Vimeo.

Happy end of the four-day week, y'all.

If you're wondering, What did Gina do during her three-day holiday weekend - and come on, who isn't - have I got a video for you!

Missy + Adam + pool + me filming = CANNONBALL-OFF!

See all you pale people at the pool this weekend. TGIF!!

New Neighbors

These little guys and their momma moved in.





I thought my 17-pounds of fun (also known as Cassady) might be curious to see them.




Then my 15-pounds of fun (also known as Cassius) decided he wanted to see them too.





Cassady briefly considered jumping up onto the windowsill. But he decided to go back to sleep instead.





Momma pigeon was none to happy with all this excitement.

Deep Fried Yum

Deep fried corn. Yeah I ate it, what?!

Omg, Omg, Omg, You Guys

Thursday night was Big. HUGE. Like the best night ever.

EV.ER.

My girl Kari was home visiting from NYC, which already makes it fabulous, but on top of that the Taking the Stage crew was at the Southgate House where Mia was playing a show. It was awesome on top of awesome.

When Adam and I walked up to the Southgate House we saw the giant MTV cameras everywhere and were immediately directed to sign a release form, you know, in case we ended up in any scenes. (Please god, please let at least my arm be in an episode.) But what this also means is that there is going to be a TTS season two. YES.

We walk toward the door after signing our lives away and Adam is all, "Tyler and JJ are on the porch right now." And I'm all, "OMG WHERE?!" And he's all, "Right there!" and I'm all, "Omg! Tyler and JJ are right there!" and Adam is all, "I just said that."

Of course we grab a table on the porch so I can spy on them.

I'm pretty sure I was the only superfan. Somehow I imagined people like myself coming up to them and being like, "Oh yay! It's you!" But it wasn't like that at all. Instead we were surrounded by hipsters who were there to see the The Darlins and the Whosy-Whatsees or whatever, who were playing upstairs from Mia.

As we spied Tyler and JJ walked down to the street, like they were leaving, and I was all, "Nooooooo!"

Adam kept telling me to go down there and get a photo with them, but I didn't want to be weird and there was no one else doing that and plus they were talking to a producer. So I kept saying, "No I can't, it's weird" and Adam kept saying, "What's the big deal, you're a big fan. You're going to regret this."

Finally we walked down to where they were and... I turned into a total spaz.

"Tyler I love you..." is what I said. Yeah. I know. NOT COOL. Then in my head I was like, "Whoa girl, he's like, 18, take it down a notch." So I added, "But not in a weird way. You know what I mean." Awkward!

Then we posed for this stunning photo.



Look how happy we look. It's destiny.

Then I had his BFF JJ take a photo with me, and JJ is just as kinetic and crazy as he is on the show. He was like, "You're a fan?! That's awesome!" And he started kinda dancing around, which made me kinda weirdly dance around too. This scene is best captured by this weird, unflattering photo. But still, ow ow!



By then we realized we had actually missed Mia's performance and The Seedy Seeds were setting up. I love them, so it was all good, but imagine how fun it would have been to see Mia play with all the MTV cameras around and Tyler and JJ and the rest of the Taking the Stage cast lingering about. Ugh. Next time.

During the Seedy Seeds my friend Katherine (a TTS fan in her own right) spotted Mia and we decided to follow her outside. (What, is that weird?) But you guys won't even believe who she was out there with - Brian! The boy who unceremoniously dumped her in the first episode! Katherine and I were all, Wtf Mia? (To each other, not to Mia.)

And then we took this photo with her.



Afterwards I chatted with her and her man, Brian (sneak peak season two, y'all, they're back together!), and asked him if everyone thinks he's a big jerk because of the first episode. He told me he did look like an "asshole" but that most kids at his school (Lakota East, he hates it) don't really say anything.

Then Mia said, "Yeah, that was wack," to which I replied, "wiggity wack, or just regular type?" and she said, "regular type." Then we looked at each other and both said " HomeStar Runner! " at the same time and laughed and slapped hive-fives. Brian goes, "I can't believe you know that, that's awesome."

Total awesome, because I am preternaturally cool. Usually. When I'm not weirdly tween-girlish about bumping into an 18-year-old dancer on the sidewalk outside the Southgate House.

A few steps down was Aaron Chin Beard, so we took a photo with him too.



Afterwards I was all, "Aaron, what's up with you and Mia? And are you in school now?" He said he has a new girlfriend and is a "drop-out." I was all, "Aaron, what are you going to do with your life, you need to go back to school!" He said he's going to get GED but I was all, "Ok yes of course, you have too, but what's your big picture plan here?" To which he said, "music."

Hmm, I feel like Aaron needs some guidance and a backup plan. Maybe TTS could hire me as Aaaron's career counselor.

I also felt kinda bad about calling him Chin Beard all this time on my blog - sorry Aaron! - because he really was a sweet, genuinely nice kid. And Mia was fabulous too.

But all of this left me wondering, "Who's Tyler dating then?!"

Guess we'll see next season!

Mia also told me that the filming at the Southgate House on Thursday is intended to be the first episode of season two. Please god, please don't let me get hit by a bus before I get to see the episode that might possibly show the back of my head.

Coming soon I swear, the Taking The Stage season finale. But after Thursday, we're already so far ahead of the game here. You're welcome, you guys!

What's Up Cavs Fans?!

Nothing says TGIF 3-day weekend like a little LeBron! Even as a puppet No. 23 is super awesome/hott/talented/funny. MVP baby!

Don't forget, The Beast and his crew play the second game of the Eastern conference finals tonight at 8:30. Guess who's already got her DVR set... This girl!

For my all-time favorite commercial, which happens to feature LeBron, watch here.

(LeBron, for real, call me... You can't fight destiny.)

TGIF 3-day weekend everyone!

For Me?!

A gift card and bagel on my last day. So nice! I'm going to eat the whole thing and spend my entire $15 on one hit wonders. Woo hoo!

Magnets, Milk And Microwaves

This morning I was wandering around my new desk location, which is near a microwave.

I was pointing out to my new boss man that I have been radiated in a lame attempt to avoid said microwave location when one of the researchers came out of his office and said something to this effect:

"Magnet exposure... lactation... decrease in milk production... dairy cows located under powerlines."

Then he pulled a journal article off a cube wall. (Talk about clutch.)

This steered the conversation to lactation potential - which doesn't affect me in the least - but is a funny place to take a conversation about sitting near a microwave.

"This seating arrangement is really going to hurt my lactation potential," I joked. But joke's on me cause guess who then got taken into the lactation room after that?! Aww yeah!

But, you'll never guess where my new office is, y'all... The lactation room!

Just kidding. I'm still beside the microwave. So if someone burns a Hot Pocket I'll be the first to know. Hot POCKET!

Taking the Stage: The Penultimate

My apologies. I've totally fallen off the Taking the State review wagon. That's what happens sometimes with shows I really like - when the end is near I'll not watch it to kind of "save" it.

But tonight I finally watched the second to last episode, and omg you guys, EPIC. Here we go!

• Malik and Matthew fight. Malik says, "He's disrespectful and I'm not getting disrespected." (Word, Malik.)

• Tyler and Jasmine fight.

• Aaron Chin-Beard skips school.

• Mia proclaims that she and Tyler would be a "power couple" if only he'd "be real" and break up with Jasmine.

• Mia confronts Tyler about him not "being real," yells at him to break up with Jasmine. He yells back that he can't because "everyone will hate him" and he has to go to school with Malik, Shaakira and Jasmine. Mia points out that everyone hates her and she's not all tore up over it. (Yeah Tyler, man up!)

• Matthew tells Malik they need "a break." Hearts break on the staircase at SCPA, mostly Malik's.

• Chin-Beard gets kicked out of school. Mia cries. A lot. She tells her friend her feelings toward Chin-Beard are "confusing." (Mia is often confused about her feelings.)

• Malik's mom asks where Matthew's been. Malik confesses they broke up earlier that day at school. He tells his mom he's "trying not to miss him but he can't help it," and starts to cry. (It's only been an hour or two Malik, buck up!) Malik's mom is adorably sweet and supportive. *hugs for Malik's mom!

• Tyler barges in on Jasmine rehearsing, asks if she's "happy." (It's the kiss of death Jasmine, RUN!) He tells her they're too young for love (something Mia told him during their argument, that bastard!) and says he doesn't want a relationship anymore. Tyler starts to cry, hard. (And he's even cuter crying, if that were even possible.) Jasmine cries on the staircase.

• The staircase starts crying at how many break-ups its facilitated in this episode. (Just kidding.)

• Malik's solo at the school's Top the Charts program brings the house down. He's not invisible anymore, you guys!

• Mia's rendition of Heartless is obviously directed toward Tyler and Jasmine. But Chin-Beard is there! Mia rebuffs Tyler's attempts to congratulate her; she and Chin-Beard leave with their arms around each other.

Whew!

Come back tomorrow when I review the finale (*sobs) and find out what I'll be doing Thursday night. You guys are going to be so stoked when you hear.

Gina, OUT.

Sunday at Ault Park

She's Got A Tricky Knee... TGIF!!!

Perfect for the healthcare and financial crisis.

Hubawha?!

Daybreak is closed.

Kari and Julie are going to be so sad when they come home. We shared a lot over breakfast burritos and avocado sandwiches.

But we still have Greenup Cafe, ladies!

omgSprinkles!

omgHelmetSundae is back, and it's covered in sprinkles!

You'll find snacks galore, Brandon Phillips (from a distance) and omgReds uber blogger Dan. Check it out!

That wine I mentioned

Running Sherpa

Ignore my windblown pompadour for a minute and concentrate on Adam in this photo from the Heart Mini.

It cracks me up how much stuff he has on. He looks like a running sherpa. This is my fault. He's carrying my backpack, has my sweatshirt tied around his waist and I'm 90 percent certain he's holding my gloves in his right hand. He's an entire support system in Asics.

Ha! Sorry dude.

I was originally looking at Flying Pig photos from last weekend when I came across this gem from March. Anyway, back to Pig photos!

Fridays Are Heart Healthy. TGIF!!!

Today on TGIF video we are celebrating the hardest working muscle in the body, our heart!

While you sit reading this your heart is working tirelessly, pumping oxygen and nutrients to every cell in your body. It will thanklessly and without complaint beat 100,000 times today to help keep you alive, and what have you done for it lately?!

See, the reason for this heart lesson today folks is that I got a new job. YAY!!!

Not that I didn't like my old job, but now I've got a new one that's shinier, cooler and heart shaped.

I'm still at Children's of course, but now I'm the Senior Communications Guru in Charge of Everything Awesome With the Heart Institute. Well... it's not my official title, but it's something like that.

It was a natural fit for me really. I mean, the heart is my favorite muscle.

So let's celebrate! Who wants to buy me a glass of heart healthy red wine where I'll casually mention "ventricular tachycardia" and note, "FYI, those fries aren't such a good idea for your cardiomyocyte function."

In the meantime, please enjoy this informative video (who knew our cells drink pop, with a straw!) and celebrate that awesome little organ that never asks for a promotion, more money or even a transfer to another body.

TGIF!

Pigs Fo' Sho

This year for the Pig relay I had a secret, delicious, gelatinous weapon: Gummy Bears.

Saturday night I packed a baggy with 10 or 12 of them. I decided that after each mile, a gummy bear would get it.

What?! Don't judge me. They had it coming for being so adorable and delicious.

As I ticked off each mile I'd pick one off - see ya red gummy bear. You're next white gummy bear. Who will make it to the end? You? You think it's you little bear? We'll see...

Me nor the gummy bears were quite prepared for the Gilbert hill or the hill into Eden Park, because halfway up I started shoving them into my mouth with wild abandon. Let me tell ya, that hill ain't no joke. I needed the calories. Who wouldn't prefer to be eaten rather than run up that hill.

I had only a few left when I got to Ryan, who was waiting for me wearing the sportiest sweatband I've ever seen, which he wore right across his forehead, old school-like.

I arrived with my arms up all, "Yeah! Your turn. Fun times ahead relay-mate!" Then finished off the gummies after a double high-five.

Overall, the Pig was fun as always. Too fun really. It's easy to go insane while out there.

When I woke up at 5:15 and was eating a banana and drinking coffee I told Adam that I was "over" the Pig and that I wasn't going to do it again next year because I was sick of getting up so early.

It's been what, 11 years? I'll just watch by the apartment at like, 9 a.m., I told him.

Then at about mile 3 the sun was out, I was about to cross the Clay Wade Bailey Bridge back into Cincinnati and there was a nice crowd of people lining the streets of Covington cheering and telling me how awesome I was doing and I thought, "I should do the half next year! FUN!"

Temporary insanity for sure.

In other weekend news, I got to see my buddy Byron again, took what I believe is the best photo I've ever taken, and laughed as Adam's daughter got mauled by the Charmin bear, and right before the Piglet fun run!

My only disappointment (and Missy's as well) was not getting a finishers chest bump from A.J. Lafley. I mean, P&G was everywhere, come on Lafley, can't some girls get a chest bump?!

Guess Who I Ran Into Today?!

Byron! And we got to run together for a while. Yay!

Speaking of Swine

Hold the flippin' phone, you guys. The Flying Pig is tomorrow! EEK.

Not cool of it to sneak up on me like that.

Sure, I've known since January I was doing relay again, but still. Time flies when you're not training. Er, I mean... running hella-fast like, all the time.

I'm running the first leg this year, also known as 6.84 miles of early morning gloriousness. It's about the same distance I ran last year for the fourth leg after the course was rerouted for the fire. Of course last year I went for more training runs.

The photo is of me and Byron, who I ran with most Saturday mornings last year. He encouraged me up countless hills, and I tried not to drag him down too much. Then he moved to Louisiana. So selfish! It's probably why I skipped so many runs this year, I was sans Byron.

I'm excited for Sunday though. The Pig is one of my favorite Cincinnati things, whether I'm watching or running the relay. It will be fun!

My fellow relay-mates - Adam, Missy and Ryan - and a few other folks are coming over tonight to carb load.

It's going to be a rockin' Saturday night, y'all. I know I for one will be in bed at like 10:30. CRAZY!

The Seedy Seeds

Checked out The Seedy Seeds (above) last night at the Southgate House. Total awesome. They were as great as everyone says. It was rollicking and fun and who cares if I needed to get to bed early for the Pig. (Because you know it's not the night before that's important, it's the night before the night before.)

Margaret, the singer/guitarist/accordian/tamborine player is also a terrific graphic artist. I wanted so badly one of the buttons she designed featuring a kitten and a heart with a greater than/or equal to symbol between them.

Adorable kitten ≥ ♥

(Why isn't there a kitten symbol? Annoying.) But you get the idea, and I liked where her mind was. Sadly I had NO cash. Next time kitten button!

Speaking of terrific designers, I was really there to see my friend Rob's band, The Mighty play.

Omg loved them. I don't want to overstate it by saying they totally rocked my world, but then again, they totally rocked my world.

Fans were clamoring for Rob to do a bass solo, but sadly he didn't hear said fan scream this at the stage. (Note to self: Louder next time.)

Good times!

Friday... Isn't It Glorious?!

Playing For Change | Song Around The World "Stand By Me" from Concord Music Group on Vimeo.

Truly, if this video doesn't give you chills and make you happy, you're dead inside.

Happy weekend to everyone! TGIF!

Super Sporty

I know what you're thinking, Where on earth did Gina get that fantastic arm sleeve.

Well people, there's another one just like it. I'm just not wearing it.

I've biked more this spring than I've biked in the last 10 years. Adam and I have been hitting Lunken most nice evenings/weekends for a 5 mile roll. And as fortune would have it, I found this arm sleeve in his bike kit during a recent outing.

It's stunning isn't it? I mean, let's say I want to go biking but it's a little chilly, yet I know I'll heat up after a bit. Helloooo arm sleeve.

I'm thinking about wearing it even when it's not cool outside. I'm probably something like 57 percent faster just looking at it.

Somehow Adam wasn't very enthusiastic about posing for photos with me in the arm sleeve. Some people are just really sensitive about their arm sleeves.

Parks and Rec Monday!

Taking The Stage: Moms Are Awesome Edition

I've decided if I didn't already have an awesome mom I would want Jamine's mom.

Last week on Taking the Stage Jasmine finds out she gets to audition at Julliard. Wow. Such a privilege.

Jasmine's mom, Elodie, is just so proud of her you can feel it. What expense and time it must have taken for this family to get her where she is.

The night before her audition in their Chicago hotel room Jasmine's mom tells her, "You have a lot of people praying for you. And we are so proud of you." About then she starts to choke up and cry, then continues, "But I always knew you could do it and hard works pays off. I just know you're going to do well and do great where ever you go."

Heart-wrenching! I may have been a little misty as I watched. (Is it dusty in here?!)

When her mom drops her off at Julliard she tells her, "Ok Jazzie, this is it. You just stay focused and keep praying, hear?"

Then her mom goes across the street and sits for God knows how long in a little diner waiting for her daughter as she hopes for her big break. Can you imagine the torture? Just having to sit there and wait. Ugh.

When Jasmine cames into the restaurant when she's finished her mom is so excited she gets up and eagerly asks, "Jazzie, how did you make out?"

Sadly, Jasmine got cut.

I don't know much about ballet (as we all know) but technically Jasmine seems flawless. She just doesn't have that... passion. That soul, you know. Of course she's like 17. There is still plenty of time for her.

It was heartbreaking to watch though. And her mom, obviously disappointed, continued to tell her how proud she is of her and that it's ok, she did her best.

Elodie, you have my nomination for best mom ever.

Meanwhile, Tyler and Malik face-off in a national dance competition. Tyler joins an already established crew of about 100, while Malik starts his own crew a quarter of the size. Malik does all his own choreography and coaching, while Tyler's team has a slew of experienced coaches and choreographers.

Tyler's team has matching outfits and pyrotechnics. Malik's doesn't.

Tyler's team wins of course. But Malik's crew comes in second.

But I'd have given it to Malik. The dancing was just as strong and more authentic, and they didn't need purple outfits and pyrotechnics.

What's this, Gina? Is Tyler's star fading?! I believe it's true, people.

Also, Tyler keeps showing up wherever Mia is. Annoying.

P.S. Jasmine, Tyler doesn't deserve you. Xoxox, Gina

It's 72º and Sunny. TGIF!

The Flying Pig Marathon is just over a week away, my little gazelles!

Oh shizz!

What we need is a montage! Why train for four months when you can be ready in a week or so with an inspirational, music-driven video collage?!

So please study this hilariously awesome montage featuring Rocky and Apollo. By the end you should be able to:

1.) Out beach run Apollo (splashing ensues!!!!), and

2.) Have a great outfit planned for the Pig. Helloooo short-shorts and knee socks!

"Getting strong nowwwww!"

Mission Pirouette: Accomplished

Tonight there were six of us.

I was still the only one in Nike shorts and footless tights.

Tonight we did a lot of barre work again, only this time with turns, jumps and - drum roll! - pirouettes.

We had just finished a series of jumping turns at the barre - a warm up I guess - when the instructor had us stop, set and then pirouette.

Oohhh yeah, I thought. It's my time to shine. So what if I need correction on everything else.

So I jumped, turned, swayed and then set up for the most fantastic pirouette Ballet Theatre Midwest has ever seen. Aaaand voila!

Ok, so maybe it wasn't the best. But it was still pretty damn good. But right after the pirouette we were told to extend our right leg and lunge... into the splits.

The WHAT?!

Oh yes, dancers. The splits. The other girls immediately went to the floor - whoosh! - right into the splits. Mine was more of an ERRRRRTTT, like a car skidding to a halt. Because that's what my legs did about halfway down.

YEE.OUCH.

The whole thing totally ruined my pirouette high.

It was about that time I realized why I quit ballet all those years ago: I hate it.

Turns out that me at age 13 isn't all that different from me now. Ballet is controlled, disciplined, restrictive. Aka, no fun. I want to get loose on the dance floor, you know what I'm sayin'? And you can't very well break it down in ballet.

So another hobby bites the dust. Sorry ballet, it's over.

Prima Ballerina

There were four of us.

I was the only one in footless tights and Nike shorts. The other girls wore sheer, wrap-around skirts over their full-length tights.

They had all been there before. And judging by their clothes and the way they easily slid up to the barre, they had plenty of experience.

No problem, I thought as I signed in. They must not know about me. I pirouette in my sleep.

The instructor asked me how much dance experience I have. Lots, I said.

I considered telling her about that night at The Chug in Muncie in 1997 when I was breakin' it down on that table. That might have been more alcohol-fueled instead of raw talent though. Still. I was on fire.

Anyway, I told her I had many years of dance experience, but I trailed off when I added it was only in tap and jazz and not ballet.

I did have one year of ballet. Or I was supposed to anyway, but I quit after a few weeks and went back to jazz because ballet was too controlled and disciplined.

The 13-year-old me needed more freedom in dance. But I'm older now, and looking for new dance experiences. And besides, have you seen the dancers on Taking The Stage? So lithe and sinewy. That could be me.

As we stood at the barre I followed the girl beside me, who clearly had done this for many years. The instructor - tall, thin, long graying hair pulled back into a bun - called out positions.

First. Cou-de-pied. Retiré. Second. Fondu. Sissonne. Plié.

I knew what Plié meant. And thanks to a book I had as a kid called Prima Ballerina with illustrated pictures of the five positions, I knew those. The other things she said I've never heard uttered in my life.

The instructor came over to each of us and straightened our alignment, moved our arms and forced our feet into the proper positions. But she definitely spent more time with me. When do we get to pirouette, I wondered.

Toward the end of class the instructor kind of laughed to herself and said, "We're just going to see what happens." And then she took us away from the barre and led us through a series of more aggressive movements, including a succession of split-leap jumps across the floor.

I followed the girl in front of me who seemed to have the most experience, but after we finished leaping the instructor told us our arms were all wrong.

I knew it, I thought. It felt unnatural. I should have done my own thing.

The next series of jumps we all tried to do the opposite of what we had just done with our arms. Failure again. Now our legs were off.

I set off across the floor determine to master them one final time.

Then it happened. "Gina, you've got it!" she said.

YES. So what did I do with this compliment? I proceeded to exaggerate each arm movement while exclaiming, "LOOK AT ME! LOOK AT ME!" as I jumped across the floor.

The girl who's pretty good wasn't very amused, but the rest of the class was cracking up. Even the instructor giggled a bit.

When we went back to our line the girl next to me was still laughing, which made me laugh harder. Before long tears were streaming down my face and we were both bent over trying to hold it in while the instructor went through our next steps.

That's me. Class clown.

Before we left the instructor told us that next week was spring break, so no class. Awesome. I show up for one class and then get spring break. Ow!

I know the instructor thinks she'll never see me again. I didn't know what was going on most of the time, I don't speak ballet, and I needed a lot of correction.

But she's got another thing coming if she thinks she's rid of me. I haven't gotten to pirouette yet.

See you tomorrow night lady!

Love's Big But

It might be spring in Cincinnati, but it's Christmas time on the Taking the Stage, folks.

And that means it's Nutcracker audition season - Tyler wants to be the Russian, Jasmine a Sugar Plum Fairy and Shaakira desperately, desperately wants to be the Snow Queen. "Please God, Snow Queen," she says.

Aaaand everyone gets the part they want.

The pressure becomes unbearable for Shaakira, though, who has a crisis of confidence. She's scared she's not as good as her peers and also has to endure hearing Jasmine get heaps of praise during every dance class. Poor sweet girl!

You can do it Shaakira!

Meanwhile, Mia's Uber Pale friend (with the unfortunate chin beard) writes Mia a love song and performs it for her, finally putting it out there that he doesn't want to be on the backburner anymore.

It's a pretty good song. About as subtle as a John Mayer lyric, but still, he owns it and it's great.

In return Mia proclaims to "love him more than anything, but..." As Pee Wee says, Everyone always has big but. Uber Pale stays in the friend zone. Sad.

As Tyler practices for his role as the Russian Mia gives him the swell advice to add a little hip-hop to the piece, when really Tyler should be practicing his basic ballet skills.

Oh well. It's show time!

Jasmine walks into the men's dressing room to ask Tyler for a quarter (weird) and guess who's back there wishing him luck?! Mia! Omg they are sooo BUSTED!

Tyler and Jasmine fight in the hallway.

But out on stage, Shaakira sparkles!

The fears and self-doubts have given way to a gorgeous performance. Mia, who is now in the front row watching, goes on and on about how fab Shaakira is. But when Jasmine takes the stage she says Jasmine "looks fake" and "does nothing for me."

Not cool Mia.

Then it's Tyler's turn as the Russian. Buuuuut it doesn't go well. The usually impeccable Tyler nearly takes out a Christmas tree during his turns - the audience gasps! - and he falls over at the end on his landing. Yikes. (I blame Mia's "good luck" wish.)

Jasmine tries to console Tyler but he's too distraught over his performance to care about what she says.

The next day at school they have a big fight (in the snow) over what a jerk Tyler was to her and also about Mia.

When Jasmine says Mia was "a kid in a candy store" while Tyler was on stage, an ever so slight smile briefly flashes across his face.

It's the death knell for Tyler and Jasmine I'm afraid.

Tune in Thursday for latest dance showdown between Malik and Tyler; Jasmine's audition for Juilliard and Tyler and Mia "confusing" each other.

FACT

According to my 7-year-old source, the different between a twister and a tornado is a twister has a cow in it. As per the movie Twister.

Did Someone Say Tea Party?!

TGIF!!

Guerilla Adventure

Last week I saw one of the best movies I've seen a long time. Joyful, fun and all-together exhilarating, it might just be one of my favorite movies of all time.

Man On Wire is a documentary about the beguiling eccentric Philippe Petit, who decides as a young boy it is his dream to high-wire walk between the Twin Towers.

He sees a magazine article at the dentist's office about the construction of the two tallest buildings in the world, and - wonder of wonders! - they will be built side-by-side. A dream is born.

The zealous Frenchman grows up to become a world-class tight rope walker. And best of all, a convincing one.

We see Petit and his crew of accomplices successfully conquer the Cathedral of Notre-Dame in Paris and the Harbor Bridge in Sydney. But the World Trade Center? Just the idea of wire walking it is ridiculous (can't be done, they'll get caught), stupidly illegal (they'll hang him if he doesn't die first), death-defying (nice knowing ya Philippe) and downright insane.

But wow, how magnificent. What a treat it would be to know someone so spirited and adventurous.

As the adage goes, What would you do if you knew you couldn't fail.

"It's impossible, that's sure, so let's start working," he says.

The adventure is thrilling, amusing, and poetic.

Merci Philippe.

Good Luck Little Guy

I was walking through the main corridor of the hospital today and sitting on one of the couches lining the hallway was a little boy and his mom.

He was maybe 6 or 7 and had a blanket wrapped around his shoulders. The poor little guy was a ghastly shade of yellow. Nearly green. Obviously a very sick little boy. Cancer? Liver failure? God knows.

What was unusual about it is that I rarely see people sitting on those couches. And never do I see such sick patients there.

As I walked past the little boy laid his head against his mom's shoulder, and his mom, in turn, rested her head against his. They both looked... weary.

I didn't want to stare but it was such an affecting moment it was hard to turn away.

As I passed I watched a doctor coming toward us see them. He smiled at the mom and reverently tipped his head to her. I felt like we were thinking the same thing - a million blessings and a million thanks they have each other.

A few minutes later I walked past the couch again and they were still sitting there, still resting their heads on each other.

Man I hope that kid makes it.

Hip Hop A Lot

Sooo much dramz on Taking the Stage last week.

It's the school's singer-songwriter showcase, i.e. another way for Mia to win something. Mia is still crushing on Tyler from their make-out session. Tyler seems to still be crushing on Mia, but claims to want Jasmine back. Jasmine is still mad about the whole thing.

*Insert panoramic of Cincinnati skyline.

Tyler has his little brother deliver roses to Jasmine in ballet class, then offers Jasmine a half-hearted apology. (I didn't see any tears, Tyler.) Jasmine's not convinced he's sorry. Yeah whatever, Tyler! You can't just woo us back with your smooth moves and adorable smile, ok? This is a trust thing!

Jasmine does a solo dance to Beyonce's If I Were A Boy. Omg, girl. Dance it out.

Mia tells Uber Pale Aaron (with the unfortunate chin beard) that she doesn't even care what people are saying about her and Tyler. Tyler, Tyler, Tyler. Mia claims to be "too pale to blush" when Uber Pale calls her out for continuing to gush about him. She just wants to work on her song, ok guys?

Jasmine is bummed that she and Tyler are on the outs. Her bday party is at Skatetown USA and it won't be the same without him. Or will it?

At Skatetown... The lights dim and JJ starts singing a super awkward song to Jasmine from Tyler. (He's sorrrrry girrrrrl.) And then, Tyler busts through a random side door (sans skates) and proceeds to hip-hop his way back into Jasmine's heart to Chris Brown's With You.

Oh/I'm into you, and girl no/One else will do.

Jasmine and the rest of the girls weep with wonder at Tyler's romantic, dancing gesture. But come on! Haven't we seen these moves before?! You might be able to win Jasmine back with your pop-and-lock, Tyler, but you're gonna need some fresh steps to get me back. Playa.

Mia learns of this win-her-back performance for Jasmine and is visibly crushed. But it's cool because she won that singer-songwriter thing.

Coming Thursday - Jasmine busts Mia and Tyler hugging, while Tyler is dressed as a toy soldier. Ow ow!

TGIF. Adam's B-Day Edition!

We made it y'all. It's Friday once again and we at Gina's Blog couldn't be happier. Not only it is Friday (ow!) but tomorrow is Adam's birthday, so extra-double Happy Birthday ow ow!

This is cause for a very special TGIF video of course, one that captures the essence of Fridays, birthdays, weekends and driving in the spingtime with the windows down and the radio cranked... while eating frosting.

There can be only one song that fits all of this criteria, so let 'er rip Pat Benatar, with a your supersonic voice and violent green gloves.

Sing it with me, people! Weeee belong, we belong, we belong together!!!!

You can't argue with that, folks.

Taking the Stage Episode III

(Also, known as the "Tyler screws the pooch" episode.)

Last week the cliffhanger asked the question, "Is Tyler a playa?" Well fair readers, I hate to be the bearer of bad news - cause we were all really rooting for Tyler and Jasmine, right? (Ok maybe just me) - but it turns out that yes, yes he is a player. Tyler how could you?!

The formula is clear now: Each week features a new reason why the kids have to go on stage and be awesome, and this week's reason is the school's annual fundraiser, complete with "Cincinnati dignitaries" in the audience, as Mr. Artistic Director tells the kids.

The schtick is a mash-up up of genres, so Tyler the dancer gets teamed up with Mia the singer-songwriter for the show.

They spend the entire episode locked in long, flirty looks at each other. Annoying! I'm on Team Jasmine and this was most upsetting. (I'm gonna need some Funyons to help me through this emotional time.)

Jasmine, meanwhile, is kind of MIA in the episode, only occasionally dancing into a scene.

After Tyler, Mia and the rest of their mash-up group finishes their awesome performance - in front of Nick Lachey and his girlfriend (I guess they're the dignitaries?) - Tyler and Mia, in their post-performance exhilaration, run off together and nearly kiss in the hallway. WHAT?!

We find out via Shaakira that Tyler and Mia actually made-out at a post-performance party. (Speaking of mashing, y'all.)

Later at school Mia tells her uber-pale rocker friend What's-His-Face (with the unfortunate chin beard) that she doesn't care what everyone is saying because she like, likes Tyler, and he digs her too. Meanwhile Tyler confesses his deed to Jasmine and asks for forgiveness while Rihanna's Take A Bow plays in the background.

Yeah, don't tell me you're sorry when you're not, Tyler. You're only sorry you got caught! Grab your (dance) clothes and get-gone, punk.

Adam rushed to Jasmin's aide immediately after the closing credits pointing out, "This is Jasmine's first boyfriend. She has no clue! And she's suddenly dating this dude who clearly knows he's good looking, and clearly knows girls like him - cause girls like dancers." (Indeed, we all remember Adam Makes Tacos... and Puts a Ring On It. We all liked that.) "She needs to dump him!"

In sum: Don't do it Jasmine! He IS a player!

Stay tuned for next week's episode when we find out if roses can win back Jasmine's trust.

Here's the performance that started this wack shizz. (Hmm... Maybe Jasmine could date the dude who raps in it.)

Taking The Stage - MTV Shows

All About Me Weekend

This week on or about ohhhh, Monday, I decided this weekend I wasn't going to do anything I didn't want to do.

You know what I'm sayin.' Sometimes you need to take a day or two for numero uno. So that's what I did.

Friday night I went out the girls. Really they're all Missy's girls, but they've kindly adopted me into the crew. Whenever I hang out with them all I do is laugh.

For example, I got to hear first-hand the story of when Missy's sister did a cannonball into the pool at Jeff Ruby's Waterfront, complete with the announcement of "CANNONBALL!" just before she gawooshed under water. Ha! It cracks me up just thinking about it.

Usually on Saturdays I meet my impromptu "running group" at the Peace Bell. We're a very serious group. I barely even run, one of them is a smoker, several others are social smokers and we rarely all run the same route, but we're all on relay teams, so this is serious stuff, people. We got to train!

Except that it was all about me weekend and when I asked myself if that meant running I had to answer honestly. And that answer was a big fat NO. So no four miles for me. Too bad. :)

I did bike 5 miles though, which was way more fun.

I celebrated this decision at the Montgomery Inn on Saturday night, assuring myself as I scarfed down barbecue that had I actually gone for a run I would be have fantastic. Cheers to my fastest mile ever! (In my head.)

Sunday morning I woke up thinking, "I need a pancake like, now." Fortunately I was able to make that happen at the Echo.

Afterwards I wanted to scooter ride up to Devou Park but sadly for Stella and me Dean was working today. (It was Sunday Sun-Day at the Observatory. )

I waffled on whether or not I wanted to go without him - Dean knows all the good scooter-friendly ways to go places - but Stella was all, "Girl, please, I know how to get there," so we on without him. He's going to be sooo jealous when he finds out.

I'm finishing up this all about me weekend with my favorite show, Taking The Stage. I still have the new one from Thursday on DVR, so dibs on the couch kitties. Move it!

Hope everyone enjoyed the sunshine!

What's That Smell?!

I just twoted all over the place. TGIF!!