Dear Molly,
I can hear that all the way over here (the other side of the couch). Since my impressions of Maria Callas' Puccini don't seem to impress you, tell me: what will? Are you just terminally unimpressed?
Best,
Kate
P.S. -- I'm really not digging the Elvis you're pumping from the iPad.
Friday, December 24, 2010
Monday, November 15, 2010
Thank You
Dear Kate,
I really must thank you for the subscription. At first, I'll admit, I thought of it as a dig and couldn't even imagine reading it, but then the first issue came and I found myself flipping through it and reading intereseting tidbits out loud for the benefit of those within hearing range. Albeit, my wardrobe has taken an interesting turn with the numerous cat faces adorning the fronts of all my shirts, but they just make for good conversation starters, plus a great new business venture (I'm thinking of starting a website called catonmyshirt.com where people can purchase my handmade tees).
But seriously, there actually is some good stuff in this magazine. For instance, did you know a lot of cats do well on a raw diet? I thought this was a good idea for my friend's cat who turns her nose up at even the organic cat food. Also, for my fat, lazy cat they suggest hiding her food in different places around the house, forcing her to excerise. So, yeah, I have been enjoying cat fancy. If that makes me a crazy, then so be it.
-Molly
PS- Also, a sex talk with your cat?? Come on, lets not go too far. After all, my cats are speyed and neutered, thank you very much Bob Barker.
I really must thank you for the subscription. At first, I'll admit, I thought of it as a dig and couldn't even imagine reading it, but then the first issue came and I found myself flipping through it and reading intereseting tidbits out loud for the benefit of those within hearing range. Albeit, my wardrobe has taken an interesting turn with the numerous cat faces adorning the fronts of all my shirts, but they just make for good conversation starters, plus a great new business venture (I'm thinking of starting a website called catonmyshirt.com where people can purchase my handmade tees).
But seriously, there actually is some good stuff in this magazine. For instance, did you know a lot of cats do well on a raw diet? I thought this was a good idea for my friend's cat who turns her nose up at even the organic cat food. Also, for my fat, lazy cat they suggest hiding her food in different places around the house, forcing her to excerise. So, yeah, I have been enjoying cat fancy. If that makes me a crazy, then so be it.
-Molly
PS- Also, a sex talk with your cat?? Come on, lets not go too far. After all, my cats are speyed and neutered, thank you very much Bob Barker.
Checking In
Dear Molly,
Just wondering how you've been enjoying Cat Fancy. Have you gotten some great ideas for cat sweaters for the Fall? Counsel on how best to broach the dreaded, awkward Sex Talk? Some outside of the box advice on how to handle a feline who persistently poos, er, outside of the box? Read some charmingly funny stories about some whimsical cats?
Let me know.
Best,
Kate
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Well, isn't that just the cat's meow
Dear Kate,
Thank you in advance for the subscription to cat fancy, its given me quite the brilliant idea for homemade Christmas presents. I will attempt to capture your personality through photos of cats and present it to you as a collage. Creative, no? Also, from now on you can expect any cards, be them birthday or St. Swithun's Day, to feature cut-outs of Cat Fancy's cover-cat.
If at all possible, I am going to have a cover-cat screen printed onto a sweatshirt specially for you and I fully expect you to be sporting it when I see you in December.
Thanks again,
Molly
Thank you in advance for the subscription to cat fancy, its given me quite the brilliant idea for homemade Christmas presents. I will attempt to capture your personality through photos of cats and present it to you as a collage. Creative, no? Also, from now on you can expect any cards, be them birthday or St. Swithun's Day, to feature cut-outs of Cat Fancy's cover-cat.
If at all possible, I am going to have a cover-cat screen printed onto a sweatshirt specially for you and I fully expect you to be sporting it when I see you in December.
Thanks again,
Molly
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Payback (You Know What They Say)
Dear Molly:
For calling me a hippie, you will receive a one year subscription to Cat Fancy from yours truly. I hope you enjoy it.
I don't know about you, but I'd rather be called a hippie than a cat lady.
Love,
Kate
P.S. -- When your hair starts thinning from all the sulfates and parabens and other horrific chemicals they put in shampoo, don't come crying to me.
P.P.S. -- I'm not kidding about the Cat Fancy. You should expect your first issue in about 2-3 weeks.
Hippies use side door
Dear Kate,
That's dirty. I'm disowning you. Wash you hair with soap, ya damn hippie.
Ew.
Molly
That's dirty. I'm disowning you. Wash you hair with soap, ya damn hippie.
Ew.
Molly
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
HEY MOLLY, GET A LOAD OF THIS
Dear Molly,
I've decided to stop washing my hair with shampoo. Why, you ask? I don't know, maybe I just don't feel like shelling out the cash for products like these anymore. Or, maybe I just feel like being a little gross. Or, maybe I'm just trying to get a rise out of you from all the way over here. Anyway, my new method of washing my hair is... Are you ready for this?
Baking soda paste every two or three days.
Apple cider vinegar and water every other day.
I hope you're squirming in your khakis and twin set, you Martha-Stewart-worshipping-Connecticut-loving-loafer-wearing-prim-and-proper... something or other. (Let's not get too nasty.)
Best,
Kate
P.S. -- Thanks again for the earrings that came in the mail today. They're totally rad and my new favorites. You're one cool sister.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
It's all part of the uniform
Kate,
Yes, I wear khakis. No, my mother does not still dress me. They sit low on my hips, are boot cut, and look great paired with a navy blue polka dot halter top or a crisp white oxford blouse and pearls.
Every WASP has atleast one pair of go-to khakis. Just look at Martha Stewart. Its practically her wardrobe and it serves her beautifully. Nothing says "I come from privilege" like a uniform pair of khakis. Even better if you have a pair of penny loafers to go with them.
Do you know who wears rompers? Babies. Babies wear one piece rompers. Every time you put one of those on, you are basically putting on a very large onesy.
And what's the point of doing a cartwheel if you don't flash people your unmentionables in the process?
-Molly
-Molly
HITLER WORE KHAKIS
Dear Molly:
You wear khakis? Does your mom still dress you?? Do they have pleats and come up to your belly button and have tapered legs, too?
You know who wore khakis? Hitler wore khakis.
Get with the program. Buy a romper. They're the best things ever. It's like a dress that you can run around and do cart wheels in without flashing everyone. And like I've said, it cuts the dressing time in half.
Go ahead, I implore you to answer the above questions. Smart-mouthed little know-it-all.
Best,
Kate
On the fine art of Laundry
Dear Kate
The only question I came across in your last correspondence was regarding sand and clothing, so I can only assume that you need a lesson in laundry.
I'll let you in on my own methods, since my way is always the right way.
The first step in any project, big or small, is organization. Sort your laundry into wash loads. Seperate the dark from the lights, and then the pull out the heavy items. My piles usually look something like this: Sheets, delicates, and unmentionables; tee shirts, oxford blouses, and kakies; darker slacks, leggings, and sweaters; and demin and workout clothes. If you're counting, which I'm sure you are, that's four piles. This step really shouldn't take you longer than 10 minutes. At most. Maybe when you first start out doing laundry you'll take you time sorting, but soon it will become second nature to you. Oh yes, and I'm sure even you have heard this before, but be careful not to put anything red in with your light load or you'll end up with everything pink.
This is where things get a whole lot easier. Distribute one load of laundry into your washer evenly and be sure not to overload it. Pour a capful of liquid soap into the washer, cap and all (this prevents gunk from building up on the cap, but remember to pull it out at the end of the wash or it makes an annoying clunking sound in your dryer and you're at a loss for the next load), adjust the settings, push start, and walk away. Your first load of wash is underway and you can relax. Now, if you need clarification on adjusting your settings, don't hesitate to ask.
When you wash is done (don't worry, your machine will buzz, you don't have to time it), transfer your wet clothes into your dryer, adjust the settings, and push start. Or, if you are so lucky to have one, hang the clothes outside on the line to dry. Repeat the process with your next load and you've mastered the fine art of doing laundry.
So, I would say, depending on whether or not you use a clothes line to dry your clothes, it takes about an hour and a half to get sand out of your clothes.
Good luck in your search for domestic bliss,
Molly
The only question I came across in your last correspondence was regarding sand and clothing, so I can only assume that you need a lesson in laundry.
I'll let you in on my own methods, since my way is always the right way.
The first step in any project, big or small, is organization. Sort your laundry into wash loads. Seperate the dark from the lights, and then the pull out the heavy items. My piles usually look something like this: Sheets, delicates, and unmentionables; tee shirts, oxford blouses, and kakies; darker slacks, leggings, and sweaters; and demin and workout clothes. If you're counting, which I'm sure you are, that's four piles. This step really shouldn't take you longer than 10 minutes. At most. Maybe when you first start out doing laundry you'll take you time sorting, but soon it will become second nature to you. Oh yes, and I'm sure even you have heard this before, but be careful not to put anything red in with your light load or you'll end up with everything pink.
This is where things get a whole lot easier. Distribute one load of laundry into your washer evenly and be sure not to overload it. Pour a capful of liquid soap into the washer, cap and all (this prevents gunk from building up on the cap, but remember to pull it out at the end of the wash or it makes an annoying clunking sound in your dryer and you're at a loss for the next load), adjust the settings, push start, and walk away. Your first load of wash is underway and you can relax. Now, if you need clarification on adjusting your settings, don't hesitate to ask.
When you wash is done (don't worry, your machine will buzz, you don't have to time it), transfer your wet clothes into your dryer, adjust the settings, and push start. Or, if you are so lucky to have one, hang the clothes outside on the line to dry. Repeat the process with your next load and you've mastered the fine art of doing laundry.
So, I would say, depending on whether or not you use a clothes line to dry your clothes, it takes about an hour and a half to get sand out of your clothes.
Good luck in your search for domestic bliss,
Molly
LOOK WHO THE CAT DRAGGED IN
Dear Molly:
Thanks for finally getting back to me. Unfortunately, you left me hanging just a little too long there, and consequently, I ended up digging a hole and burying myself in it. You know about my penchant for digging holes and burying myself in them out of sheer indecisiveness, so quite frankly, I feel you behaved a bit irresponsibly. No, not a bit; a whole heck of a lot.
Do you have any idea how long it takes to get sand out of your clothes? Next time, be a little more thoughtful, would you? And don't take your role as my advisor so lightly.
Thanks,
Kate
Sunday, July 25, 2010
I spent a summer wasting
Dear Kate,
First off, I'm sorry about the lengthy lapse in time between when you wrote me and my response. Summer days get away from me, despite how long they are.
Second, I'm with Katherine. Get it all done now. Why not? You mentioned your sanity, but you've forgotten to consider the fact that you went off your rocker a long time ago. You can't lose something you don't have to begin with.
As much as you like school and want to stay a student forever, I think this option of finishing early and jumping right into a career as the slightly insane English teacher who reads Edgar Allan Poe's "The Black Cat" to 2nd graders and finds it amusing when the leave the class n near tears.
Molly
First off, I'm sorry about the lengthy lapse in time between when you wrote me and my response. Summer days get away from me, despite how long they are.
Second, I'm with Katherine. Get it all done now. Why not? You mentioned your sanity, but you've forgotten to consider the fact that you went off your rocker a long time ago. You can't lose something you don't have to begin with.
As much as you like school and want to stay a student forever, I think this option of finishing early and jumping right into a career as the slightly insane English teacher who reads Edgar Allan Poe's "The Black Cat" to 2nd graders and finds it amusing when the leave the class n near tears.
Molly
Friday, July 16, 2010
Re: Grad School
Dear Molly,
I have the opportunity to finish grad school by next May. The catch is that I'd have to take five classes this fall and three classes in the spring along with student teaching. Then I'd get to have an actual graduation ceremony (which I missed out on when I got my B.A.), and I'd have my Master's next spring and be certified to teach for the following fall.
What do you think? Should I cram it all in in one year and possibly sacrifice my sanity for the sake of getting it over with? Or should I just do it over the normal two year period most graduate students do? It all costs the same, by the way. And I could still get a job teaching without my certification.
Thanks,
Kate
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Breaks Are Good
Dear Molly,
I haven't been here in three weeks. So, for the sake of continuity, here is my explanation for the break in Dear Molly (and All the Way Over Here).
You already know I've been sick. I'm not sick anymore, but I still don't feel much like writing. I also haven't talked much to you in general, but that has more to do with not really wanting to talk than it does not wanting to talk to you. Don't take it personally. (You probably don't anyway.)
Also... grad school is getting kind of crazy with midterms and papers and professors who annoy the hell out of me. It's been keeping me kind of busy. Oh, and I got this new part-time job as a research assistant/project coordinator at a radio show on NPR. It's turning into more work than I thought it would be, but I suppose it's good because A) it keeps me busy so I don't go nuts out of boredom in my downtime from school, and B) I can stop living off of student loans. (Woo-hoo.)
Maybe a couple more weeks?
Best,
Kate
Friday, June 4, 2010
Ka-nock Ka-nock!
Dear Eager,
It just so happens, at one point in my life, I happen to have been faced with the very same problem as you are now. Can you believe somebody close to me failed to realize just how funny I actually am?
Here's what I did to combat it: every time I saw or spoke to this person I would tell them a new joke. I'll give you a few to start off with.
This is my favorite joke:
Three statisticians go hunting and they spot a deer. The first statistician takes a shot and misses a foot to the right. The second takes a shot and misses a foot to the left. The third guy starts jumping up and down yelling "I got it! I got it!"
HA! Still gets me every time.
Or how bout this for a little foreign humour:
Q:Why do the french only have one egg for breakfast?
A: Because, in France, one egg is an oeuf! (pronounced like enough)
If I could write in a French laugh here, I would, trust me.
These are just to help you get the ball rolling, if you need more just ask me or use the reference site for A Prairie Home Companion: Pretty Good Jokes (they're being modest). But remember its important to really drive home the point, don't lighten up on the jokes until you're sure that your sister gets just how funny you are. Its good to catch her off guard, too. Might I suggest calling her at six in the morning and starting the conversation with:
A guy walks into a bar with a set of jumper cables. The bartender takes one look at him, sighs, and says, "Alright, I'll serve ya', but don't try an start anything".
Cue the obligatory cymbal crash!
-Molly
It just so happens, at one point in my life, I happen to have been faced with the very same problem as you are now. Can you believe somebody close to me failed to realize just how funny I actually am?
Here's what I did to combat it: every time I saw or spoke to this person I would tell them a new joke. I'll give you a few to start off with.
This is my favorite joke:
Three statisticians go hunting and they spot a deer. The first statistician takes a shot and misses a foot to the right. The second takes a shot and misses a foot to the left. The third guy starts jumping up and down yelling "I got it! I got it!"
HA! Still gets me every time.
Or how bout this for a little foreign humour:
Q:Why do the french only have one egg for breakfast?
A: Because, in France, one egg is an oeuf! (pronounced like enough)
If I could write in a French laugh here, I would, trust me.
These are just to help you get the ball rolling, if you need more just ask me or use the reference site for A Prairie Home Companion: Pretty Good Jokes (they're being modest). But remember its important to really drive home the point, don't lighten up on the jokes until you're sure that your sister gets just how funny you are. Its good to catch her off guard, too. Might I suggest calling her at six in the morning and starting the conversation with:
A guy walks into a bar with a set of jumper cables. The bartender takes one look at him, sighs, and says, "Alright, I'll serve ya', but don't try an start anything".
Cue the obligatory cymbal crash!
-Molly
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Reader Question #1
Dear Molly:
I just learned that my sister thinks that I am not funny. Not funny like a boring old college professor who recycles knock-knock jokes not funny. I think she may be referencing my third grade paper where I informed my teacher that among the genetic traits I inherited was my mother’s lack of sense of humor. However, I would like to point out that years of practice and education have overcome what the genes dealt me.
How can I make her realize how wrong she is?
Eager to set the record straight,
Megan
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Bugs. They don't deserve your compassion.
Dear Kate,
You're just a pansy. Don't think, for one moment, that if those ants had the chance they wouldn't kill you.
You know what freaks me out? How tiny they are. Be careful where you fall asleep cause those little buggers will crawl right up your nose. Biggest fear right there. Tiny insects that can crawl into your orifices. That, and raccoons that will eat your face.
Kill those MFers! Don't hesitate! By any means necessary, destroy all the ants! And the earwigs. And the beetles and ladybugs. Oh, and any stickbugs you might come across. FREAKY. Moths, too. They flutter around at high speeds. Can't trust anything like that. Butterflies aren't so fast so they can live, but definitely kill all moths.
-Molly
You're just a pansy. Don't think, for one moment, that if those ants had the chance they wouldn't kill you.
You know what freaks me out? How tiny they are. Be careful where you fall asleep cause those little buggers will crawl right up your nose. Biggest fear right there. Tiny insects that can crawl into your orifices. That, and raccoons that will eat your face.
Kill those MFers! Don't hesitate! By any means necessary, destroy all the ants! And the earwigs. And the beetles and ladybugs. Oh, and any stickbugs you might come across. FREAKY. Moths, too. They flutter around at high speeds. Can't trust anything like that. Butterflies aren't so fast so they can live, but definitely kill all moths.
-Molly
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Dead-ant, dead-ant...
Dear Molly,
I've just slaughtered an entire colony of teeny-tiny ants -- not the big, ugly, full-of-green-guts carpenter ants, but the miniscule little baby-looking ones -- with just a couple sprays of this organic pest control solution I found under the sink.
It was pretty heartless. Sort of like the equivalent of dropping the H-bomb on an entire population. I mean, these things were stopped instantaneously in their tracks. One minute they're marching around my sink all happy-go-lucky, munching away at whatever grain of sugar they might find along the way, and the next -- BAM -- they're dead. Life: gone.
I felt a little bad. It's one thing to wash the little buggers down the drain... but an entirely other thing to inflict instantaneous death and destruction on their teeny-tiny lives. I think.
Why am I feeling bad about killing ants?? There will always be more. The little hamlet of a town I live in is famous for its ants, apparently. In fact, I bet if I go take a look right now, I'll find some more. And I'm going to have to kill them, too.
So why does it bother me?
Thanks,
Kate
Monday, May 3, 2010
Now finish up them taters; I'm gonna go fondle my sweaters.
Dear Molly,
Lifeguard, huh? You know, I've always liked whistles. My major lament as an RA in college was that I wasn't issued a whistle. The walkie-talkie I got to use when I was on duty was pretty sweet, though. But a bullhorn? Well, that's just brilliant. I'm in.
Too bad I'm not really all that great a swimmer (I quit swimming lessons), and my CPR certification has about 10 years worth of expiration behind it.
But! I'm applying to summer camp counselor positions. Awesome, right?? I've seen the documentary Wet Hot American Summer about a million gazillion times. I even have the exact same shorts as McKinley (Michael Ian Black). They're my favorite shorts. I know all the songs to Godspell by heart -- I even landed the "Day By Day" solo in the 4th-grade concert. True story.
I think I'd make an awesome camp counselor, don't you?
Don't you??
Thanks,
Kate
Hair of the Dog
Dear Kate,
It'd be nice to see that dollhouse get some work. I remember going to that dollhouse store on Primrose Hill with Gram after school. Quite honestly, it sort of gave me the creeps. Is it odd that we never had dolls for the dollhouse?
And, true, you with a nail gun is very strange picture. I guess I was more picturing myself. You know my affinity for tools. Slap a bandana on me and call me Rosie the Rivitor.
I can see you as a lifeguard, though. You'd get a wistle. And maybe even a bullhorn.
As for Jenna, I don't think you can just scare the baby out of her like a hiccup. I'm no expert or anything, but that just seems unlikely to happen. Also, I don't know if there is such a thing as in utero shaken baby syndrome (IUSBS), but I certainly wouldn't want to find out. So I wouldn't reccomend shaking it out of her. Did you know it only takes 5-10 seconds of shaking to seriously injure a baby?
Now, like I said, I'm no expert, but I hear that sex is supposed to help induce labor. It's only fitting, of course, that what got Jenna into this state, will get her out.
There are other natural ways to induce as well. Massage, spicy foods, even acupressure. Here's a website with links to information about these methods and others: link
Also, I'd like to mention that while looking up this website I came across many others and all of them said to walk. So tell Jenna to get up off her pregnant butt and take a stroll around the block every day. Let gravity do some work.
Best of luck when the thing finally pops,
Molly
It'd be nice to see that dollhouse get some work. I remember going to that dollhouse store on Primrose Hill with Gram after school. Quite honestly, it sort of gave me the creeps. Is it odd that we never had dolls for the dollhouse?
And, true, you with a nail gun is very strange picture. I guess I was more picturing myself. You know my affinity for tools. Slap a bandana on me and call me Rosie the Rivitor.
I can see you as a lifeguard, though. You'd get a wistle. And maybe even a bullhorn.
As for Jenna, I don't think you can just scare the baby out of her like a hiccup. I'm no expert or anything, but that just seems unlikely to happen. Also, I don't know if there is such a thing as in utero shaken baby syndrome (IUSBS), but I certainly wouldn't want to find out. So I wouldn't reccomend shaking it out of her. Did you know it only takes 5-10 seconds of shaking to seriously injure a baby?
Now, like I said, I'm no expert, but I hear that sex is supposed to help induce labor. It's only fitting, of course, that what got Jenna into this state, will get her out.
There are other natural ways to induce as well. Massage, spicy foods, even acupressure. Here's a website with links to information about these methods and others: link
Also, I'd like to mention that while looking up this website I came across many others and all of them said to walk. So tell Jenna to get up off her pregnant butt and take a stroll around the block every day. Let gravity do some work.
Best of luck when the thing finally pops,
Molly
Sunday, May 2, 2010
Oh (Baby) Boy
Dear Molly,
First off, you need to start titling your posts. Please. Thanks.
Secondly, that's all good advice regarding my summertime lazing, but to be quite honest, after four years as a member of glorified book clubs as a Lit major, I'm just about ready to keep my reading time to myself. Lazing reading.
Also: sure, I could volunteer at some organization or other, but Habitat for Humanity, really? Do you really see me wielding a nail gun? Come on, dude. Come on.
I do, however, plan on building a dollhouse this summer. Pretty badass, right? I'd also like to renovate the one we built with Gram. Fresh paint, a new roof, maybe a new floor in the kitchen, updated decor... you know, basic home renovations. I'll take pictures for you.
Anyway. Advice.
As I'm sure you know, our cousin, Jenna, is about 45 months pregnant. I'm presently looking at her lounging across the couch with a look of severe discomfort on her face. Now she just sat herself up -- after what looked like an intense amount of effort -- and she's letting out this monster exhalation akin to one you'd let out while suffering from indigestion.
She's pretty damn pregnant. It's making me uncomfortable just looking at her.
So, question: What can I do to speed up this birthing process? She's ready for that baby to be out of her. She's given him (it's a him, had you heard?) his eviction notice, but the dude just won't budge. Is pregnancy like hiccups? Can I sneak up behind her and scare the baby out of her? What about sudden, loud noises? Or maybe a bumpy car ride?
Seriously, this has got to happen. Like yesterday.
Thanks,
Kate
Saturday, May 1, 2010
Dear Kate,
Don't waste all your time lazing about. You're going to get bored. And then you're going to get angry at everyone around you, when really you should be angry at yourself for not being able to self-entertain. Why don't you ambark on some great summer project? I'm not saying build a boat (although that would be awesome) or discover the god particle (which could potentially destroy the world), but maybe something smaller, more local. Why not join up with Habitat for Humanity. I'll bet you'd enjoy that, you'd get to use tools. You could sing "the Hammer Song" (can i just mention how gorgeous Mary Travers is in that video) all day. Or, if that option doesn't appeal to you, search out your local library and start volunteering. Maybe you could start a summer reading program where you introduce a younger generation to the classics that we grew up with. You know, something that isn't Harry Potter. They could read the Wind in the Willows and the Chronicles of Narnia. You could show them the real Mary Poppins who feeds the twins gingerbread fingers. And the real Peter Pan, who isn't just a lost boy, but a conceited, entitled child who is afraid of being abandoned.
If I were you, this is exactly what I would do. In fact, I'd love to do this even though I'm not you. Maybe I'll take my own advice and find some time to start my own reading group.
Think it over,
Molly
Don't waste all your time lazing about. You're going to get bored. And then you're going to get angry at everyone around you, when really you should be angry at yourself for not being able to self-entertain. Why don't you ambark on some great summer project? I'm not saying build a boat (although that would be awesome) or discover the god particle (which could potentially destroy the world), but maybe something smaller, more local. Why not join up with Habitat for Humanity. I'll bet you'd enjoy that, you'd get to use tools. You could sing "the Hammer Song" (can i just mention how gorgeous Mary Travers is in that video) all day. Or, if that option doesn't appeal to you, search out your local library and start volunteering. Maybe you could start a summer reading program where you introduce a younger generation to the classics that we grew up with. You know, something that isn't Harry Potter. They could read the Wind in the Willows and the Chronicles of Narnia. You could show them the real Mary Poppins who feeds the twins gingerbread fingers. And the real Peter Pan, who isn't just a lost boy, but a conceited, entitled child who is afraid of being abandoned.
If I were you, this is exactly what I would do. In fact, I'd love to do this even though I'm not you. Maybe I'll take my own advice and find some time to start my own reading group.
Think it over,
Molly
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
I'm Ready to Flat Some Swies
Dear Molly,
It's been a while again, huh? Thanks for the advice regarding Miss Jennie. I should call her, but tell her not to be offended if I don't. I have an awkward relationship with my phone. When it rings, I usually scream and throw it under the bed/couch/chair/whatever dark space happens to be nearest. And that's only when I actually hear it ring. Usually it's already hidden somewhere. So you can imagine the anxiety actually dialing a number would cause.
Moving on. Advice.
As you know, I'm moving into a new line of work. One which affords me summers off. Free time from the end of June until the beginning of September. For me, free time + summer = lazing. Hammock lazing. Lake lazing. Boat lazing. Fishing lazing. I might even wage a personal vendetta and engage in an epic, summer-long battle against those damn flies; you know, like old retired men with no grandchildren do. Fly-swatting lazing.
Question: What else can I do with all that free time? Living in Portland, a city which (at least to a New Yorker like myself) looks to be the Capital of Lazing, you must know of some new, awesome forms of lazing which I am not yet familiar with. No offense intended with that remark. Y'all certainly are a bunch of relaxers, though. And I salute you. So, enlighten me.
Thanks,
Kate
P.S. -- My lazing summers don't quite start till Summer 2011, but a girl can be prepared, no?
It's been a while again, huh? Thanks for the advice regarding Miss Jennie. I should call her, but tell her not to be offended if I don't. I have an awkward relationship with my phone. When it rings, I usually scream and throw it under the bed/couch/chair/whatever dark space happens to be nearest. And that's only when I actually hear it ring. Usually it's already hidden somewhere. So you can imagine the anxiety actually dialing a number would cause.
Moving on. Advice.
As you know, I'm moving into a new line of work. One which affords me summers off. Free time from the end of June until the beginning of September. For me, free time + summer = lazing. Hammock lazing. Lake lazing. Boat lazing. Fishing lazing. I might even wage a personal vendetta and engage in an epic, summer-long battle against those damn flies; you know, like old retired men with no grandchildren do. Fly-swatting lazing.
Question: What else can I do with all that free time? Living in Portland, a city which (at least to a New Yorker like myself) looks to be the Capital of Lazing, you must know of some new, awesome forms of lazing which I am not yet familiar with. No offense intended with that remark. Y'all certainly are a bunch of relaxers, though. And I salute you. So, enlighten me.
Thanks,
Kate
P.S. -- My lazing summers don't quite start till Summer 2011, but a girl can be prepared, no?
Monday, April 19, 2010
Dear Kate,
Getting close to Jennie is entirely in your court. You have her phone number, so call her.
As for her participation in ATWOH, you'll again have to speak with her. She has the lovely opportunity to work on the Oregon Coast this summer as a camp counselor. I'm not sure what she wants to take on outside of that job and her normal writing.
My advice- just give her a call.
Sorry, I can't be your middle man,
Molly
Getting close to Jennie is entirely in your court. You have her phone number, so call her.
As for her participation in ATWOH, you'll again have to speak with her. She has the lovely opportunity to work on the Oregon Coast this summer as a camp counselor. I'm not sure what she wants to take on outside of that job and her normal writing.
My advice- just give her a call.
Sorry, I can't be your middle man,
Molly
Friday, April 16, 2010
Jennie Juniper
Dear Molly,
How do I get closer to Ms. Jennie? I think she's pretty darn wonderful, and I miss her presence in my life. I can't very well move to Portland, though.
Can't we find a niche for her at All the Way Over Here (dot com)?? Would she be open to the suggestion?
With bated breath and whispering humbleness,
Kate
P.S. -- I love Donovan. I really do. And that song really is about Jennie.
How do I get closer to Ms. Jennie? I think she's pretty darn wonderful, and I miss her presence in my life. I can't very well move to Portland, though.
Can't we find a niche for her at All the Way Over Here (dot com)?? Would she be open to the suggestion?
With bated breath and whispering humbleness,
Kate
P.S. -- I love Donovan. I really do. And that song really is about Jennie.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Oh, To Be a Hot Bubbly Mess of Sticky... Emotions
Dear Molly,
It's funny -- I remember hiding in the bathroom often, but that detail about opening the drawers to block the door had gotten away from me. Our readers who aren't familiar with the house we grew up in may be wondering why we chose the bathroom, of all rooms, to hide in. The bathrooms were the only rooms in the house with locks on the doors - ha! It's ironic, though, thinking back, that we thought a slab of wood, a push-button lock, and a few pulled-out drawers could keep the storm outside from reaching us. In a way, it did, and I remember feeling very safe in the bathroom with you.
But, like all homes, there are leaks in walls, windows, and doors, and the rains inevitably find their way through them. It's odd that I told you not to cry when I myself am the biggest cry-baby of them all. And I was most likely crying at the time, too -- probably worse than you were.
As you already know, I've been seeing an acupuncturist for the last year, on account of the daily attacks of chronic idiopathic urticaria and angioedema -- or, as the layman calls it, chronic hives and facial swelling. (Which, by the way, I can happily say have subsided almost completely over the past few months, knock on wood.) Anyway, one day, after examining my tongue -- which in Chinese medicine is the most telling gauge of qi, or energy flow, in the body -- my acupuncturist asked whether I had been feeling sad, and if I had been refraining from letting myself feel it. I had, in fact, been fighting the urge to cry all day, but moreover, the sadness I was feeling had a strangely inexpressible quality to it. Usually, she puts a bean bag over my eyes for the duration of the session, but that day, she explained to me that she was going to do something called a cathartic treatment, which would require my eyes to be free from cover due to the simple fact that she was going to induce tears.
I know, this sounds slightly weird -- and kind of pathetic, perhaps -- but no sooner had she dimmed the lights and left the room than I had to make use of the tissue she had placed in my left hand. I cried. But a good kind of cry. I couldn't stop crying for a good ten minutes. When the tears subsided, my heart rate slowed, my breathing grew deeper from my abdomen, and I fell very easily into that meditative, zen-like state it usually takes me about 20 minutes to get to during regular sessions. At the end of my 50-minute session, I went back to work with a clear head -- not cured, for sure, of that sadness, but released from it -- and better able to comprehend and deal with it.
Here's a memory -- my own, but it's a common one, I'm sure -- after the jump.
Are you familiar at all with the Ferber method for comforting crying infants at bedtime? (I've spent a lot of time in the last year, as you well know, with a lovely little baby, so I've become quite familiarized with such things.) It strikes me as similar to the cathartic treatment described above. When you leave the baby to go to sleep at night, and it persistently cries, you return to its room to comfort it in increasing intervals every night. In this way, the baby learns to accustom itself to its own rhythm, and consequently, begins to comfort itself.
You're familiar with the term "crying oneself to sleep," I'm sure. I have a distinct memory of being little and crying so much that my eyes literally would not stay open. After crying for twenty minutes, I'd let go of one great big sigh -- and then peacefully succumb to sleep. It was wonderful.
I believe, that as we get older, we train ourselves out of this method of relaxation. Sure, we cry sometimes. Sometimes we cry a lot. But we don't really allow ourselves to get to that point of letting go because in our mature minds, those troubles which brought about the tears haven't really gone away. When we're little, mama's always going to be there in the morning. Now that we're older, the troubles are deeper, darker, and more everlasting.
But then, not really. As you said yourself, there's always more in this world to find happiness with than there is to find sadness with. It takes a lot to realize that, and even more to admit it sometimes. But it's generally an excellent -- and healthy -- way to look at life. I've found a lot to be happy about in the last year, much to my surprise, as I've mentioned before.
I'll be the first to admit that I am a hot mess of constantly bubbling emotions. When I'm not, I get hives! It's no joke. For all the times I'm a crying sap, though -- I fought back tears throughout the entirety of The Blind Side -- I'm also a beaming ray of sunshine. Ha! Yes, I just wrote that. A close friend of mine, Dana, tells me my face is an open book. Some days, though I may not be crying, may not even be frowning, she can tell instantly that something is bothering me. I'm lucky. It's almost as if the simple fact of a dear friend noticing is enough to get rid of those ugly feelings brewing beneath the surface.
Other days, of course, when I'm happy for no apparent reason, when I'm smiling simply because someone's smiling at me or it's sunny outside, I can feel the entire room light up. It's those days that people seem to take the most notice of me. Someone told me one day that they loved my smile, and it caught me so off-guard because I hadn't even realized I had been smiling. It was charming. That's the word. And it made me feel charming. Ha!
My point is, sure, crying can be messy and ugly and annoying and so completely not fun, but it can also be just as good for you as smiling is. In the right company. I completely understand the fear of your emotions being used against you -- this has certainly happened to me in the past, most often (and perhaps singularly) in the case of a wolf dressed in sheep's clothing.
But how do you know, when sometimes their disguise is so great?
In this case, get a border collie. Figuratively, at any rate. Border collies are those people you can trust, those people who have proven their unfailing loyalty, love, and care for you. Surround yourself with them. Or just stick with one of them, and chances are, they'll lead you to more like them. Birds of a feather flock together, after all. In the last year, I have become quite successful in herding out the wolves. Or, I have some good border collies (see: Dana, above, or Quality People here).
But how do you know, when sometimes their disguise is so great?
In this case, get a border collie. Figuratively, at any rate. Border collies are those people you can trust, those people who have proven their unfailing loyalty, love, and care for you. Surround yourself with them. Or just stick with one of them, and chances are, they'll lead you to more like them. Birds of a feather flock together, after all. In the last year, I have become quite successful in herding out the wolves. Or, I have some good border collies (see: Dana, above, or Quality People here).
So. This sounds an awful lot like I'm giving you advice, but I'm really not. I'm mostly just passing on what I've come to learn about emotions -- and dealing with them. As the song goes, let it out and let it in. It's the only way to do it. Emotions are messy, and life is a heck of a lot easier without them. But then life just wouldn't be all that fun, would it? The smiling days would seem banal -- the utter opposite of lively. And that, my dear, would be just unacceptable, don't you agree?
Bisous,
Kate
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
A Woman of Substance
Dear Kate,
A Fertile Blur of Supple Strength? A Sleek Cat? I don't even know what that means. I do have oddly cat-like reflexes.
As for the proclamation that I am God (don't worry, I don't really think I'm God/Jesus/Buddha or any other higher being. And I'm certainly no saint), I'm relating more to the human side of Jesus right now.
I know what you're thinking. "Did Molly just admit to being human? Did hell freeze over? Is therapy working?"
Yes, I am human. Yes, I have feelings. Yes, its terribly hard for me to talk about them. Why? Here's why. I'm a runner. You know this. It's a family joke. I'm the runner of the family. "All my life I've left my troubles by the door cause leaving is all I've ever known before." I have to be able to pick up those troubles and walk out the door. I don't get attached, I don't share, because someday I will get the urge to run and its harder to run when you've formed bonds.
"But, Molly," you might ask "what about the dream of yours to have a family, a home? Those require very strong bonds."
I know. In addition to being a runner, I am a jumbled mess of contradictions inside. That's something I'm working on. Now, before anyone jumps down my throat, just because things are contradictory in my mind, doesn't mean I'm not happy. There are more things in my life that bring happiness than there are things that bring sadness. The pros outnumber the cons.
That's not to say I don't have sad days, or days when I'm scared, or days when I'm lonely. But if some one were to ask me how I felt in my life, I could honestly and confidently say that I am happy.
Oh, and yes, I get hurt. But I also don't believe in sitting around and moping. I've always advised against that and I take my own advice (atleast on that count). So, if one day you see me and I tell you it feels like five cows have just trampled across my torso and the next day you hear me whistling the Battle Hymn of the Republic, its not because I'm covering up the hurt. I've simply addressed the pain, dealt with it, and moved on. Sure, some residual hurt can occasionally cause some passive aggressive, snarky comment, but that's to be expected. Its in my nature to make snarky comments and if I see the opportunity, I take it.
But, I've digressed. Emotions. Expressing them and why I can't. Now, I am in no way blaming you, Kate, but do you recall hiding in the upstairs bathroom when we were little? I do. I remember one particular time where we locked the door, pulled all the drawers out in front of it, and sat down on the edge of the tub. I began to cry and you turned to me and said, "Don't cry. He's not worth it." Now, I know we were somewhere around 10 and you weren't purposefully trying to diminish my emotions, but that has become a sort of mantra of mine. "Don't cry. [Its] not worth it." I'm not saying its a very good mantra, but there you have it.
There's one more thing. I don't trust people not to use my emotions against me.
Post Script-
I LOVE Neko Case. She is a wonderful lyricist with a tough, sweet voice that's like ripping silk. I fell in love with her in high school when I randomly bought Furnace Room Lullaby. The woman has a way of knowing me with her music.
Unfortunately there is no video for that song, but this is one of my favorites of hers and this is a lovely version.
-Molly
A Fertile Blur of Supple Strength? A Sleek Cat? I don't even know what that means. I do have oddly cat-like reflexes.
As for the proclamation that I am God (don't worry, I don't really think I'm God/Jesus/Buddha or any other higher being. And I'm certainly no saint), I'm relating more to the human side of Jesus right now.
I know what you're thinking. "Did Molly just admit to being human? Did hell freeze over? Is therapy working?"
Yes, I am human. Yes, I have feelings. Yes, its terribly hard for me to talk about them. Why? Here's why. I'm a runner. You know this. It's a family joke. I'm the runner of the family. "All my life I've left my troubles by the door cause leaving is all I've ever known before." I have to be able to pick up those troubles and walk out the door. I don't get attached, I don't share, because someday I will get the urge to run and its harder to run when you've formed bonds.
"But, Molly," you might ask "what about the dream of yours to have a family, a home? Those require very strong bonds."
I know. In addition to being a runner, I am a jumbled mess of contradictions inside. That's something I'm working on. Now, before anyone jumps down my throat, just because things are contradictory in my mind, doesn't mean I'm not happy. There are more things in my life that bring happiness than there are things that bring sadness. The pros outnumber the cons.
That's not to say I don't have sad days, or days when I'm scared, or days when I'm lonely. But if some one were to ask me how I felt in my life, I could honestly and confidently say that I am happy.
Oh, and yes, I get hurt. But I also don't believe in sitting around and moping. I've always advised against that and I take my own advice (atleast on that count). So, if one day you see me and I tell you it feels like five cows have just trampled across my torso and the next day you hear me whistling the Battle Hymn of the Republic, its not because I'm covering up the hurt. I've simply addressed the pain, dealt with it, and moved on. Sure, some residual hurt can occasionally cause some passive aggressive, snarky comment, but that's to be expected. Its in my nature to make snarky comments and if I see the opportunity, I take it.
But, I've digressed. Emotions. Expressing them and why I can't. Now, I am in no way blaming you, Kate, but do you recall hiding in the upstairs bathroom when we were little? I do. I remember one particular time where we locked the door, pulled all the drawers out in front of it, and sat down on the edge of the tub. I began to cry and you turned to me and said, "Don't cry. He's not worth it." Now, I know we were somewhere around 10 and you weren't purposefully trying to diminish my emotions, but that has become a sort of mantra of mine. "Don't cry. [Its] not worth it." I'm not saying its a very good mantra, but there you have it.
There's one more thing. I don't trust people not to use my emotions against me.
Post Script-
I LOVE Neko Case. She is a wonderful lyricist with a tough, sweet voice that's like ripping silk. I fell in love with her in high school when I randomly bought Furnace Room Lullaby. The woman has a way of knowing me with her music.
Tenderly, tenderly please take my breath from me
Into the fountains and up from the grave
Tearfully, joyfully burn what is left of me
I don't want these burdens that handsomely weigh
You be the guest
And I'll let you stay
Leave me the check
I'll pay with the rest of my life
Twist the knife
Into the fountains and up from the grave
Tearfully, joyfully burn what is left of me
I don't want these burdens that handsomely weigh
You be the guest
And I'll let you stay
Leave me the check
I'll pay with the rest of my life
Twist the knife
Unfortunately there is no video for that song, but this is one of my favorites of hers and this is a lovely version.
-Molly
Post Script
Come on sorrow
Take your own advice
Hide under the bed
Turn out the light
Stars this night in the sky are ringing out
You can almost hear them saying
"Close your eyes now kid"
I'm in love with this song. I was listening to it on my lunch and thinking of you. I know this album came out over a year ago, but I haven't listened to it in a while. Below is the only decent recording I can find of "Magpie to the Morning."
I kinda like the video, anyway.
Are You a Fertile Blur of Supple Strength?
Dear Molly,
Question: Are you a fertile blur of supple strength?
Explanation: Sometimes, I like to read my friends' horoscopes to see what they might have in store for the future. My horoscope is generally full of crap, which is probably why I put it out of my mind and forget it completely by the end of the week.
Also, it's a horoscope.
But! That's not to say that it's not fun to read. And I do read it -- every week in the Village Voice, which publishes the syndicated horoscope column, "Free Will Astrology," by Rob Brezsny. I happened to read yours today, Ms. Pisces, and thought I might share it with you because it seems to describe a certain... theme? feeling? proclamation? you've been (fittingly) subscribing yourself to lately.
Anyway, read on, sister:
Obviously, I have no burning question today, but if you really feel the need to advise me, maybe you can answer me this: Why is my horoscope always so wrong? Or -- as is most often the case -- why does it, without fail, employ that dime-store "you-have-great-hope-for-the-future" fortune cookie triteness?
It's just not fair. I want to be a Sleek Cat. Or a Fertile Blur of Supple Strength.
Best,
Kate
Question: Are you a fertile blur of supple strength?
Explanation: Sometimes, I like to read my friends' horoscopes to see what they might have in store for the future. My horoscope is generally full of crap, which is probably why I put it out of my mind and forget it completely by the end of the week.
Also, it's a horoscope.
But! That's not to say that it's not fun to read. And I do read it -- every week in the Village Voice, which publishes the syndicated horoscope column, "Free Will Astrology," by Rob Brezsny. I happened to read yours today, Ms. Pisces, and thought I might share it with you because it seems to describe a certain... theme? feeling? proclamation? you've been (fittingly) subscribing yourself to lately.
Anyway, read on, sister:
In honor of the new identity you're evolving into, I hereby give you the nickname of "Miracle Player," or else -- if you like one of these better -- "Sleek Cat" or "Giant Step" or "Fate Whisperer." You may hereafter also use any of the following titles to refer to yourself: "CEO of My Own Life" or "Self-Teacher of Jubilance and Serenity" or "Fertile Blur of Supple Strength." Feel free, as well, to anoint your head with pure organic virgin olive oil, fashion a crown for yourself out of roses and shredded masks, and come up with a wordless sound that is a secret sign you'll give to yourself whenever you need to remember the marvelous creature you are on your way to becoming.Well, what do you think of that? Are you a Sleek Cat? A Giant Step, maybe?
Obviously, I have no burning question today, but if you really feel the need to advise me, maybe you can answer me this: Why is my horoscope always so wrong? Or -- as is most often the case -- why does it, without fail, employ that dime-store "you-have-great-hope-for-the-future" fortune cookie triteness?
It's just not fair. I want to be a Sleek Cat. Or a Fertile Blur of Supple Strength.
Best,
Kate
Monday, April 12, 2010
Nothing provokes speculation more than...
Dear Kate,
Yes, take advantage of these young men! If they want to buy you a drink who are you to argue? You are a capable, competent, self-sufficient young woman. You don't need these men to buy you drinks, its just an added perk to being a confident, out-spoken, intelligent lady.
I, myself, feel no shame accepting a drink from a young man. By doing so you are in no way leading them on, they are choosing to buy you a drink. Nothing provokes speculation more than the sight of a young woman enjoying herself. And why not invite a little speculation into your life?
Also keep in mind that its not just a one way street. Feel free to extend the same courtesy to a man once in a while. If you are chatting with a fellow, enjoying yourself, and you happen to notice is drink is dry, order one for him. You should have already taken note of what he was drinking (these things are very important), so it makes a good impression if you can order his drink correctly for him. It works the same way when he's ordering for me. Its a couple marks in the "pros" column if a man can correctly order my whiskey for me.
Enjoy yourself,
Molly
Yes, take advantage of these young men! If they want to buy you a drink who are you to argue? You are a capable, competent, self-sufficient young woman. You don't need these men to buy you drinks, its just an added perk to being a confident, out-spoken, intelligent lady.
I, myself, feel no shame accepting a drink from a young man. By doing so you are in no way leading them on, they are choosing to buy you a drink. Nothing provokes speculation more than the sight of a young woman enjoying herself. And why not invite a little speculation into your life?
Also keep in mind that its not just a one way street. Feel free to extend the same courtesy to a man once in a while. If you are chatting with a fellow, enjoying yourself, and you happen to notice is drink is dry, order one for him. You should have already taken note of what he was drinking (these things are very important), so it makes a good impression if you can order his drink correctly for him. It works the same way when he's ordering for me. Its a couple marks in the "pros" column if a man can correctly order my whiskey for me.
Enjoy yourself,
Molly
Have You Seen the Well-to-do?
Dear Molly,
Holy hell, you are a freak. But that's ok. Let your freak flag fly. Unfortunately, you're just a little too vague about your cult, and I'm just a little too impatient to wait for these details you speak of. Besides, I can have everything I want right here on Planet Earth. I can even have Paris. And if I dump champagne on myself on a sunny summer day, it'll even be like it's raining the stuff.
On to some much-needed advice. I'm about to have an after work drink or two with a good friend of mine; something we try to do at least once or twice a week. Except, even though there are tons of places in midtown Manhattan, we seem to keep gravitating to this one outdoor beer bar on Park Ave, packed to the max with the midtown youngeon corporate banker set. It's super weird and kinda funny, and we get a lot of head turns, but...
Should we be taking advantage of these dudes? You know, for like free drinks and all. They certainly like to flash their wallets and fancy shoes.
Thanks,
Kate
Holy hell, you are a freak. But that's ok. Let your freak flag fly. Unfortunately, you're just a little too vague about your cult, and I'm just a little too impatient to wait for these details you speak of. Besides, I can have everything I want right here on Planet Earth. I can even have Paris. And if I dump champagne on myself on a sunny summer day, it'll even be like it's raining the stuff.
On to some much-needed advice. I'm about to have an after work drink or two with a good friend of mine; something we try to do at least once or twice a week. Except, even though there are tons of places in midtown Manhattan, we seem to keep gravitating to this one outdoor beer bar on Park Ave, packed to the max with the midtown youngeon corporate banker set. It's super weird and kinda funny, and we get a lot of head turns, but...
Should we be taking advantage of these dudes? You know, for like free drinks and all. They certainly like to flash their wallets and fancy shoes.
Thanks,
Kate
Saturday, April 10, 2010
Freaks flock together...
Dear Kate,
I can promise you all these things and more, but first you must make sacrifices. You must help me prepare the way. When I know I can trust you more I will tell you what we are preparing for, but for now I need your help in gathering a flock to me.
This flock, like you, will have many questions and I will take the time to address all of those questions and shed light on those who now dwell in darkness.
PBWY,
Molly
I can promise you all these things and more, but first you must make sacrifices. You must help me prepare the way. When I know I can trust you more I will tell you what we are preparing for, but for now I need your help in gathering a flock to me.
This flock, like you, will have many questions and I will take the time to address all of those questions and shed light on those who now dwell in darkness.
PBWY,
Molly
Friday, April 9, 2010
Let's Get Down to Brass Tacks, Shall We?
Dear Molly,
Are you planning on starting a cult? Don't get me wrong, I think you're totally rad and all, but I'm just not sure I want to drink the lemonade. Yet, anyway. Let's talk details. Maybe you could tell me a little more about what I would get. Because, you know, it's all about me. All the time.
Like, would I get to ride first class on the super-sonic express rocket to Planet Molly? When we get there, what kind of living quarters are we talking? I want a seven-floor Frank Lloyd Wright-esque tree house in which all the appliances work by magic and make faint twinkling sounds when I use them. I want a swimming pool filled with holy water and love. I want a Border Collie/Samoyed mix named Drummer 2.0 to keep me company. I want to drink champagne everyday and when it rains, I want for it to rain champagne and sunshine, and nothing else.
Also, I want Paris. The whole of it. If Paris isn't part of the deal, I'm out.
So. Are these things you can work with? If so, sign me up. I'll be your Simon-Peter in a heartbeat.
Thanks,
Kate
Are you planning on starting a cult? Don't get me wrong, I think you're totally rad and all, but I'm just not sure I want to drink the lemonade. Yet, anyway. Let's talk details. Maybe you could tell me a little more about what I would get. Because, you know, it's all about me. All the time.
Like, would I get to ride first class on the super-sonic express rocket to Planet Molly? When we get there, what kind of living quarters are we talking? I want a seven-floor Frank Lloyd Wright-esque tree house in which all the appliances work by magic and make faint twinkling sounds when I use them. I want a swimming pool filled with holy water and love. I want a Border Collie/Samoyed mix named Drummer 2.0 to keep me company. I want to drink champagne everyday and when it rains, I want for it to rain champagne and sunshine, and nothing else.
Also, I want Paris. The whole of it. If Paris isn't part of the deal, I'm out.
So. Are these things you can work with? If so, sign me up. I'll be your Simon-Peter in a heartbeat.
Thanks,
Kate
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
All the better to rip your face off with, my dear
Dear Kate,
I like the new changes, I do, I do! I like your newly formed domain allthewayoverhere.com.
All this is good, including the picture. Most of all the picture. I think it truly demonstrates our relationship. You looking (admiringly) to me for guidance, even from a young age.
I think opening up the forum to outside queries is a good move. I've found my wisdom is put to best use when its spread out among the masses. Incidentally, I've commissioned a statue to be made in my likeness.
Also, I've been looking for a few acres of land in the country. Somewhere remote, with a couple barns already available for use, would be great. If you happen to find anything that might suit the bill, let me know. Along those same lines, I'll probably need some barbed wire. You know, to protect the property.
How would you like to be the Simon-Peter to my Jesus Christ?
Molly
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Ch-ch-ch-changes!
Dear Molly,
As you can see, I've recently made a few changes to the site. For one, most obviously, Dear Molly now has a pretty sharp-looking photo banner. (Sweet claw-hand, by the way.) Also, I'm proud to officially introduce Dear Molly as a sub-domain of the newly formed allthewayoverhere.com. (Which, by the way, has been sorely neglected lately in lieu of more pressing issues. Namely: spring, social life, application deadlines, work hullabaloo, etc.)
Anyway, I hope you like the new changes. I have some more ideas we should probably discuss in email, as well. With your permission, I'd like to set up a contact page where our your readers might find an address to which they could send any questions they might have for you. While Dear Molly is -- and shall remain -- primary concerned with Molly's answers to Kate's (many) life questions, I thought it might be nice to get some of the readers in on the action if they so wished.
Get back to me. And let me know how you like the changes. Unless, of course, you hate them; then don't tell me at all. Or lie.
As always, many thanks,
Kate
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Oh crap.
Dear Kate,
"Oh crap" was the first thing that ran through my mind. The second thing was "who stabbed you in the stomach with a machete?" That is the only way to describe that pitiful look on your face. Judging by the hurt in your eyes, it had to be some one close to you.
That being said, I actually like this picture. It looks like you belong in a Final Fantasy. Yes! That's exactly where I've seen this look before. This was the look on Aeris' face when Sephiroth kills her.
Always happy to judge,
Molly
"Oh crap" was the first thing that ran through my mind. The second thing was "who stabbed you in the stomach with a machete?" That is the only way to describe that pitiful look on your face. Judging by the hurt in your eyes, it had to be some one close to you.
That being said, I actually like this picture. It looks like you belong in a Final Fantasy. Yes! That's exactly where I've seen this look before. This was the look on Aeris' face when Sephiroth kills her.
Always happy to judge,
Molly
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Monthly Query Re: My Face
Dear Molly,
It's been a while since you've updated me on the state of my face, so I've had no way of knowing how scary I look lately.
Kindly oblige.
Thanks,
Kate
P.S. -- Ok, that picture may be a bit old... like 9 months or something. But, I took it with you in mind and have been waiting for just the right opportunity to show it to you.
P.P.S. -- Boo!!
P.P.P.S. -- Did I scare you?
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Monday, March 29, 2010
Butterflies, Etc.
Dear Molly,
I have an incredibly inappropriate -- albeit reciprocated -- crush on someone I work with. It's been building up for the last two years, and it's kinda silly.
I'm not looking for any advice, though. There's nothing I can do without going against some very strict and necessary codes of integrity. Which I simply will not do. A girl's nothing without her integrity.
And karma's a bitch.
Basically, I'm whining 'cause I'm pining.
Sigh,
Kate
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Sea Change
Dear Kate,
This is probably the easiest problem with which I've ever been confronted. You should know the answer.
DON'T PANIC.
Take a breath. Look around. This is nothing you can't fix with a towel. Simply fashion your towel into a sail using a piece of the boat as a mast and use those crazy winds to carry you to safety.
See? You don't need anyone else to help you out of this mess. You just need your towel.
Wait...
You don't have your towel with you?
Well, then, you're screwed.
Sorry,
Molly
This is probably the easiest problem with which I've ever been confronted. You should know the answer.
DON'T PANIC.
Take a breath. Look around. This is nothing you can't fix with a towel. Simply fashion your towel into a sail using a piece of the boat as a mast and use those crazy winds to carry you to safety.
See? You don't need anyone else to help you out of this mess. You just need your towel.
Wait...
You don't have your towel with you?
Well, then, you're screwed.
Sorry,
Molly
Friday, March 26, 2010
Sea Dreams
Dear Molly,
What if the chair I'm sitting in suddenly transforms into a boat and the floor turns into an ocean, and before I know it, I'm way out to sea with no hope of return? What if I call out for help, but nobody hears me because A) the winds are blowing like crazy in all directions, and B) I'm in the middle of the ocean, duh.
What the hell would I do?
Thanks,
Kate
What if the chair I'm sitting in suddenly transforms into a boat and the floor turns into an ocean, and before I know it, I'm way out to sea with no hope of return? What if I call out for help, but nobody hears me because A) the winds are blowing like crazy in all directions, and B) I'm in the middle of the ocean, duh.
What the hell would I do?
Thanks,
Kate
Monday, March 15, 2010
The Code by which I live
Dear Kate,
What a stupid thing our brother did and what a great picture of him. While I am an advocate for corporal punishment and the death penalty in particular (the chest freezer in my basement can attest to that), I think, perhaps, that death might not fit the bill here. Your aim should be to drive Vincent crazy, not kill him. What I'm going to suggest will take time, resources, and, yes, even a little cunning.
Here's what to do: procure five or so cell phones with the same ring tone as Vincent's and on one evening, when he isn't home, hide them around his apartment. I'm not talking under the couch, I'm talking in the couch. This is where its going to take some time. I suggest ripping a seam in the couch, inserting a cell phone deep into the bones of the couch, and then resewing the seam of the couch up. Other suggested hides places might be in the ceiling tiles or stuffed into the middle of his pillow. If you really wanted to be clever, you could get your hands on a tiny device that played his ring tone by remote and feed it to his cat.
After all the decoys are in place, simply activate one by calling it some evening when you are hanging out at his place. (First you must steal his real phone, of course, so he doesn't know where it is) Watch as he frantically searches around for his phone as it rings and rings. If he should get close to finding one of the decoys, hang up. Wait a half an hour and repeat this activity. And. voila! Not only is this a great punishment for him, but great fun for you.
Sit back and enjoy the madness you have created.
Yours,
Draco...I mean, Molly
What a stupid thing our brother did and what a great picture of him. While I am an advocate for corporal punishment and the death penalty in particular (the chest freezer in my basement can attest to that), I think, perhaps, that death might not fit the bill here. Your aim should be to drive Vincent crazy, not kill him. What I'm going to suggest will take time, resources, and, yes, even a little cunning.
Here's what to do: procure five or so cell phones with the same ring tone as Vincent's and on one evening, when he isn't home, hide them around his apartment. I'm not talking under the couch, I'm talking in the couch. This is where its going to take some time. I suggest ripping a seam in the couch, inserting a cell phone deep into the bones of the couch, and then resewing the seam of the couch up. Other suggested hides places might be in the ceiling tiles or stuffed into the middle of his pillow. If you really wanted to be clever, you could get your hands on a tiny device that played his ring tone by remote and feed it to his cat.
After all the decoys are in place, simply activate one by calling it some evening when you are hanging out at his place. (First you must steal his real phone, of course, so he doesn't know where it is) Watch as he frantically searches around for his phone as it rings and rings. If he should get close to finding one of the decoys, hang up. Wait a half an hour and repeat this activity. And. voila! Not only is this a great punishment for him, but great fun for you.
Sit back and enjoy the madness you have created.
Yours,
Draco...I mean, Molly
Sunday, March 14, 2010
$#@*!
Dear Molly,
This past week, I didn't write to you for advice even once. Recent events will prove this is obviously not a good idea.
Last night, our favorite brother was visiting, and in an attempt to break into my password-protected phone, he ended up sending it into super-duper security overdrive... and wiped it CLEAN. Operating system and all.
My question: what will serve as sufficient punishment? Is murder too drastic?
Thanks,
Kate
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Dear Kate,
I must admit, this phenomenon perplexed me as well. I went to see District 9 with a friend of mine and he and I came away with two different opinions of it. I thought it was decent, but would have been a lot better had the director, Neil Blomkamp, had stuck to the documentary format, instead of switching to the traditional action/sci-fi format. My friend, however, walked out of the theater excitedly mimicking the explosions. Now don't get me wrong, I love sci-fi and explosions as much as the next dork, but explosions do not for an Oscar nomination make.
If Blomkamp had stuck to the documentary style, I think I would have been much more gung-ho about seeing it on the Oscars list. He would have succeeded in creating a sci-fi social comentary, not that these are at all rare (see PK Dick), but he would have done so using, in my opinion, a visionary format, that I have not yet seen. Instead the resulting product seems to be something that started out as a movie to inspire thought, but ended up just another crowd pleaser.
Over all, I was quite displeased with the Oscar nominations. Avatar did not belong anywhere near the best picture catagory- I'll grant you special effects, but the story was crap. I'm not surprised in the least that UP won for best animation (although my preference was the Fantastic Mr. Fox), original score, however, is another story. I really think that ought to have gone to Sherlock Holmes. I'm thrilled for the Hurt Locker, its just a shame not many people knew what that one was. Best Actress: while this should have gone to Meryl Streep, Sandra Bullock is a terribly underated actress, which is partly her fault for doing movies like Premonition and the Proposal. Plus, the woman's a god-damned lady. Look at the way she carries herself. I'm not surprised she was raised in the South (thats South, not south. There's a fine line between the two, and that line makes all the difference.)
Now, let's talk about something much more important: the fashion. Again, I wasn't terribly impressed. There were a few people who knew what they were doing, but the overall impression was that the 82nd Academy Awards were a casual affari. May this was due to the overabundance of youth. Miley Cyrus, Carey Mulligan, and who the hell is this guy and why do I want to punch him in the face?? The people who looked the best were, of course, the seasoned veterans. Helen Mirren, for instance, looked amaing. As did Sandra Bullock. What was up with Demi Moore, though? It looked like she got a bunch of work done to look to Penelope Cruz with out the amazing curves. And Sarah Jessica Parker was just terrifying. How about Robert Downey Jr. bright blue bowtie? Why?
I've exhausted myself,
Molly
I must admit, this phenomenon perplexed me as well. I went to see District 9 with a friend of mine and he and I came away with two different opinions of it. I thought it was decent, but would have been a lot better had the director, Neil Blomkamp, had stuck to the documentary format, instead of switching to the traditional action/sci-fi format. My friend, however, walked out of the theater excitedly mimicking the explosions. Now don't get me wrong, I love sci-fi and explosions as much as the next dork, but explosions do not for an Oscar nomination make.
If Blomkamp had stuck to the documentary style, I think I would have been much more gung-ho about seeing it on the Oscars list. He would have succeeded in creating a sci-fi social comentary, not that these are at all rare (see PK Dick), but he would have done so using, in my opinion, a visionary format, that I have not yet seen. Instead the resulting product seems to be something that started out as a movie to inspire thought, but ended up just another crowd pleaser.
Over all, I was quite displeased with the Oscar nominations. Avatar did not belong anywhere near the best picture catagory- I'll grant you special effects, but the story was crap. I'm not surprised in the least that UP won for best animation (although my preference was the Fantastic Mr. Fox), original score, however, is another story. I really think that ought to have gone to Sherlock Holmes. I'm thrilled for the Hurt Locker, its just a shame not many people knew what that one was. Best Actress: while this should have gone to Meryl Streep, Sandra Bullock is a terribly underated actress, which is partly her fault for doing movies like Premonition and the Proposal. Plus, the woman's a god-damned lady. Look at the way she carries herself. I'm not surprised she was raised in the South (thats South, not south. There's a fine line between the two, and that line makes all the difference.)
Now, let's talk about something much more important: the fashion. Again, I wasn't terribly impressed. There were a few people who knew what they were doing, but the overall impression was that the 82nd Academy Awards were a casual affari. May this was due to the overabundance of youth. Miley Cyrus, Carey Mulligan, and who the hell is this guy and why do I want to punch him in the face?? The people who looked the best were, of course, the seasoned veterans. Helen Mirren, for instance, looked amaing. As did Sandra Bullock. What was up with Demi Moore, though? It looked like she got a bunch of work done to look to Penelope Cruz with out the amazing curves. And Sarah Jessica Parker was just terrifying. How about Robert Downey Jr. bright blue bowtie? Why?
I've exhausted myself,
Molly
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Whaaa?
Dear Molly,
This is an exciting night for me. As you know, I'm currently watching the 82nd annual Academy Awards. I have seen all but two (2) of the nominations for best film.
I have one simple question for you this evening.
District 9? Really??
Thanks,
Kate
Saturday, March 6, 2010
I've got a head for business and a bod for sin
Dear Kate,
I have but one suggestion for you: rent Working Girl. All you need to know is in that movie.
All the luck,
Molly
I have but one suggestion for you: rent Working Girl. All you need to know is in that movie.
All the luck,
Molly
Thursday, March 4, 2010
She Works Hard For the Money (So Hard For It, Honey)
Dear Molly,
My question for you tonight: How do I get taken seriously as a female in the very male-oriented world of corporate finance?
I know a lady who married the boss, but I don't think I'll be eligible for that benefit for quite some time.
Thanks,
Kate
My question for you tonight: How do I get taken seriously as a female in the very male-oriented world of corporate finance?
I know a lady who married the boss, but I don't think I'll be eligible for that benefit for quite some time.
Thanks,
Kate
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Chuck Norris to the Rescue
Dear Kate,
For God's sake, just punch the guy in the neck. You know what he's probably thinking about? Princess Di. What kind of pansy boy did his mama raise? You owe it to her to put an end to this. I'll tell you this girl's mama didn't raise no fool. I was taught boys don't cry. You need to do this guy, and the public, a favor and stop this shameful scene.
Punch him in the neck. Its for the common good.
Always glad to help,
Molly
For God's sake, just punch the guy in the neck. You know what he's probably thinking about? Princess Di. What kind of pansy boy did his mama raise? You owe it to her to put an end to this. I'll tell you this girl's mama didn't raise no fool. I was taught boys don't cry. You need to do this guy, and the public, a favor and stop this shameful scene.
Punch him in the neck. Its for the common good.
Always glad to help,
Molly
Please, Satan, Blow It Out
Dear Molly,
The pianist in the public atrium where I'm presently enjoying my lunch is playing an incredibly mournful rendition of "Candle In the Wind." And he's super into it. Like, laying hard into every note into it. With his eyes closed into it. I think he might be crying, he's so into it.
Basically, he's playing this song like it's his last.
So how do I make him stop?
Thanks,
Kate
The pianist in the public atrium where I'm presently enjoying my lunch is playing an incredibly mournful rendition of "Candle In the Wind." And he's super into it. Like, laying hard into every note into it. With his eyes closed into it. I think he might be crying, he's so into it.
Basically, he's playing this song like it's his last.
So how do I make him stop?
Thanks,
Kate
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Kill the Rabbit, Kill the Rabbit!
Dear Kate,
Lets take a moment and assign happiness to a character we are all familiar with. Happiness is the White Rabbit. Picture it: You're sitting beneath a tree beside a brook on a lovely sunny day, wanting for nothing, when you see see the White Rabbit. You get up and you call to it. As soon as you do, off it hops further down the rabbit hole. In your natural curiosity, you follow suite. By the time you catch that rabbit, you're going to find that you were where you ought to have been the entire time.
We humans have a tendency to become complacent in our lives. We forget to take stock of what we have and appreciate it. That is where happiness comes from- the recognition that what we have is worth something.
Stop searching and start enjoying. You won't find happiness down some rabbit hole.
On the other hand, its possible what you are feeling right now is just gas.
Happily,
Your Sister,
Molly
Lets take a moment and assign happiness to a character we are all familiar with. Happiness is the White Rabbit. Picture it: You're sitting beneath a tree beside a brook on a lovely sunny day, wanting for nothing, when you see see the White Rabbit. You get up and you call to it. As soon as you do, off it hops further down the rabbit hole. In your natural curiosity, you follow suite. By the time you catch that rabbit, you're going to find that you were where you ought to have been the entire time.
We humans have a tendency to become complacent in our lives. We forget to take stock of what we have and appreciate it. That is where happiness comes from- the recognition that what we have is worth something.
Stop searching and start enjoying. You won't find happiness down some rabbit hole.
On the other hand, its possible what you are feeling right now is just gas.
Happily,
Your Sister,
Molly
Monday, March 1, 2010
WHAT IS GOING ON UP HERE?
Dear Molly,
This winter is simply whizzing by, and I've experienced almost none of the doldrums I have in other years. What gives?
I've been:
Could this be what all those crazy people talk about? Could I be... HAPPY? And if so, did I just jinx it?
Thanks,
Kate
P.S. -- No, I'm not on the happy pills.
This winter is simply whizzing by, and I've experienced almost none of the doldrums I have in other years. What gives?
I've been:
- eating right (I've successfully eliminated red meat from my diet again)
- getting plenty of sleep (like, seven hours per night)
- spending lots of time with quality people (and ignoring the shabby ones)
- reading loads of good books (I've even rediscovered my affinity for modern poetry)
- seeing tons of entertaining movies (Oscars are in less than a WEEK, dude!)
- listening to lots of good music (and even dancing like so sometimes)
- writing extensively and more frequently (in places other than here, even)
- drinking a lot less wine and a lot more of this stuff
- ... ... ...
Could this be what all those crazy people talk about? Could I be... HAPPY? And if so, did I just jinx it?
Thanks,
Kate
P.S. -- No, I'm not on the happy pills.
Sunday, February 28, 2010
An Ideal Husband
Dear Kate-
There are many perks that the glamorous world of Olympic figure skating offers. Of course, the well-toned gams are a huge benefit, but I think you are overlooking a much bigger opportunity. The ice rink is the ideal setting to find your mate.
Not only does the intense training ensure that your partner is in top physical condition, but the two of you will learn to work together in perfect harmony, which is good training for a marriage. You will learn to rely on him as a spring board, to catch you, and to show off your attributes. You will also learn how to best showcase his own features and make him appear appealing to the judges. All of which translates directly into a good marriage.
The hours you will have to spend together will provide plenty of time for you to get to know him and what he likes best. No doubt, when the two of you are lacing up your skates, you can take a moment to find out what his favorite meal is and then surprise him one evening by making it for him. Little treats like this will certainly catch his eye and, hopefully, be the start of a wonderful life together, both on the ice and off.
Good luck in this endeavor!
Molly
There are many perks that the glamorous world of Olympic figure skating offers. Of course, the well-toned gams are a huge benefit, but I think you are overlooking a much bigger opportunity. The ice rink is the ideal setting to find your mate.
Not only does the intense training ensure that your partner is in top physical condition, but the two of you will learn to work together in perfect harmony, which is good training for a marriage. You will learn to rely on him as a spring board, to catch you, and to show off your attributes. You will also learn how to best showcase his own features and make him appear appealing to the judges. All of which translates directly into a good marriage.
The hours you will have to spend together will provide plenty of time for you to get to know him and what he likes best. No doubt, when the two of you are lacing up your skates, you can take a moment to find out what his favorite meal is and then surprise him one evening by making it for him. Little treats like this will certainly catch his eye and, hopefully, be the start of a wonderful life together, both on the ice and off.
Good luck in this endeavor!
Molly
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Nice Work (If You Can Get It)
Dear Molly,
I've been watching a lot of the winter Olympics in the past couple days.
My question today: Should I pursue a career in figure skating? I think it could do wonders for my gams.
Thanks,
Kate
I've been watching a lot of the winter Olympics in the past couple days.
My question today: Should I pursue a career in figure skating? I think it could do wonders for my gams.
Thanks,
Kate
Friday, February 26, 2010
Warren Beatty was a Real Man
Dear Kate,
What kind of man are you?? Real men take their coffee black. Learn to do so and I guarantee you will never run into this dilemma again.
And this "deadly weather" you speak of?? Turn your collar to the cold and stop complaining. A real man would fight a polar bear naked for a cup of coffee. So I have to ask again. What kind of man are you??
All the best,
Molly
Clouds In My Coffee
Dear Molly,
The coffee I ordered from the cafe across the street tastes suspiciously like it contains half & half. I had specified skim. Half & half makes me sick.
Here's my dilemma: I can't order a new one because they won't deliver a $1.68 coffee, and I'm not going to order another oatmeal and yogurt just to get the delivery price, you know? And since I can't go outside due to the deadly weather, I'm at a loss.
I need coffee real bad, dude. WHAT SHOULD I DO??
Thanks,
Kate
The coffee I ordered from the cafe across the street tastes suspiciously like it contains half & half. I had specified skim. Half & half makes me sick.
Here's my dilemma: I can't order a new one because they won't deliver a $1.68 coffee, and I'm not going to order another oatmeal and yogurt just to get the delivery price, you know? And since I can't go outside due to the deadly weather, I'm at a loss.
I need coffee real bad, dude. WHAT SHOULD I DO??
Thanks,
Kate
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Up in the Air
Dear Kate,
It seems to me that 37.50 (plus 6.35 convenience charge) is not too steep a price to pay to see one of your favorite bands. Before you make your final decision, however, there are a few things you need to consider. First, have you ever seen them before? If you have, then I would recommend saving your money for something more important, say food, for example. Second, where are they playing? If they were playing a venue like Irving Plaza, I wouldn't hesitate in the least to scap up a ticket. However, if they were playing a much larger venue, where the show is much less intimate, I would consider passing on the opportunity.
I hope these thoughts help you make the right decision.
Love,
Molly
Dear Molly (Nº 1)
One of my favorite bands, Air, is coming to NYC on March 19. My question for you today: Should I cough up the $37.50 (+$6.35 convenience charge) to see them live?
If you haven't already, check out Love 2. Otherwise, I posted the video for the single "Sing Sang Sung" below for your enjoyment.
Thanks,
Kate
If you haven't already, check out Love 2. Otherwise, I posted the video for the single "Sing Sang Sung" below for your enjoyment.
Thanks,
Kate
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