Quoteworthy

"What exactly is the free world, anyway? I guess it would depend on what you consider the non-free world. And I can't find a clear definition of that, can you? Where is that? Russia? China? For chrissakes, Russia has a better Mafia than we do now, and China is pirating Lion King DVDs and selling dildos on the Internet. They sound pretty free to me. Here are some more jingoistic variations you need to be on the lookout for; "The greatest nation on Earth; the greatest nation in the history of the world"; and "the most powerful nation on the face of the Earth." That last one is usually thrown in just before we bomb a bunch of brown people. Which is every couple of years." 
-George Carlin 1937-2008












Now Playing: "Just Ain't Easy" by The Allman Brothers

Luxe Living: Mt. Washington Contemporary, Pittsburgh

Possessing one of the best views in the United States, this hillside contemporary home in the Mt. Washington neighborhood of Pittsburgh is something out of a dream. Built in 2005, it boasts 4 bedrooms with 4 full baths and 4 half baths. With an infinity pool and backyard that glances over the Steel City skyline, this is the ultimate party pad in the 'Burgh. The property is now on the market for $4.2 million.













Now Playing: "Step" by Vampire Weekend

Quoteworthy

"Every advantage has its tax."
-Ralph Waldo Emerson 1803-1882













Now Playing: "Love Her Madly" by The Doors

Happy Presidents Day

Just a few shots of the Presidents of my lifetime thus far; a handsome Ronald Reagan, a fatherly George H.W. Bush with son George W. & family, a sax-toting Bill Clinton (this one made me laugh!) and a pensive Barack Obama.

“Being President is like being the groundskeeper in a cemetery: there are a lot of people under you, but none of them are listening.” 
-Bill Clinton













Now Playing: "American" by Lana Del Rey

Happy Veterans' Day

Despite strongly opposing war, I support the men and women who have fought for our freedoms and defended our country. I am the daughter of a Vietnam veteran who lost not only part of himself in the service (his leg was amputated after stepping on a landmine) but he also lost close friends. I take this day as reminder that courage and strength are admirable qualities in all of us. Those who have served didn't necessarily choose their situation but they dealt with it. The pain of war is a scar that stays with a person for their entire life. When my Dad came home from Vietnam, he was met with hostile criticism. He doesn't talk about his time at war but the psychological effects are evident. If you know a Veteran, thank them.

Here is a picture of my Dad's Purple Heart medal. If I come across any photographs from when he served, I'll be sure to share.

Now Playing: "A Bad Dream" by Keane

*I think this song accurately describes the emotions many soldiers have gone through.

Quoteworthy: President Obama

Now Playing: "All Along the Watchtower (Live)" by Dave Matthews Band
*Like this cover the best!

America the Beautiful!

Happy Fourth of July! In honor of Independence Day, I wanted to share some of the spectacular places in my country. This by no means is a "top 10" list but a small glimpse into the vast beauty that the United States has to offer. There is so much to be grateful for. At the end of the day, I'm proud to be an American. At various points in my life, I hope that I'm lucky enough to visit every state and take everything in. Here are some of the gorgeous spots in the United States:

 Napa Valley, California

 Washington, D.C.

Sedona, Arizona

 French Quarter; New Orleans, Louisiana

 Aurora Borealis in Alaska

West Virginia

 Florida Keys

 Maroon Bells, Colorado

 New England Villages & Countryside

Chicago, Illinois

Now Playing: "American Girl" by Tom Petty