Higher Learning

So my return to my lovely residence on campus was greeted promptly with the smell of marajuana coming from who-knows-where. Super. And quite confusing, seeing as I thought my staff and I were the only people living in the building so far. Before fingers started pointing though, I soon found that the god-awful smell is coming from a friendly (though that is still questionable) skunk that has taken up residence somewhere between my building and our neighbors. I swear that if it doesn't take a hike I will have a few choice words for our little furry friend. Just sayin'. I am glad that no one on staff was lighting up - that would be a little compromising as a RA.

It is good to be back at school, though, because it means higher learning of the less illicit type. Here's a few fun things to check out that are also surprisingly educational:

http://tvtropes.org/ - Ok, this website immediately had me thinking. It explains the various figures of speech and where they come from, specifically their origins and uses in both film and television. Just go in an select the "Random Item" link and it's like an instant conversation topic.

http://www.theintellectualdevotional.com/blog/ - Based on the New York Times best-selling book series, this blog has all kinds of random articles designed to "complete your education" filling in the areas your General Ed. courses most likely glossed over. I like it because it's far from dry. In fact, the books are especially interesting because they feature NY Times articles covering American History, Food for Thought, Health, History, Literature, Modern Culture, Music, Philosophy, Religion, Science, and Visual Arts. I bought the book for my mom for Mother's Day and I like it so much, I want to steal it back.

http://www.iliketotallyloveit.com/ - Everyone needs more semi - useless gadgets to, like, totally love.

Song of the Day: "First Song" - Andrew Bird is so awesome. He is a musical master of violin, whistling, guitar, mandolin, and glockenspiel. He's kinda got the indie, folk rock thing going on - which to me always seems to be the perfect back-to-school genre.

Back to School Bonanza

I am always ready to learn although I do not always like being taught. - Winston Churchill

So true...and yet, I love going back to school. After a long summer away from friends and the pursuit of knowledge (nerd alert) nothing makes me more excited than gearing up for college: round 3. Also, though, the shopaholic in me is in rare form, because nothing is more fun than back to school shopping. Nothing. It may be my unhealthy obsession with art supplies or maybe just the thought of a fresh start - but knowing I'll be moving in this weekend is the best feeling in the world. Hello, long, hot shower! And extra closet space!

In the meantime, I've stumbled upon a few websites that definitely appeal to the back-to-school shopper. Check it -

www.modcloth.com - Not only does this site have some of the cutest vintage, Urban Outfitter-esque dresses but the accessories are reasonably priced and quirky.

www.unique-vintage.com - I'm having a love affair with all those flowery, 50's inspired dresses - and this apron. Maybe I'd cook more if I got to wear this. Or maybe not. Also, one of the flapper dresses for Thoroughly Modern Millie came from this website!

www.lifeanddeathclothing.com - Men! I actually found this site while going through expense reports (not so fun) in the Music Circus Costume Shop. But I love that you can choose clothing based on your lifestyle: action sportswear, contemporary menswear, sophisticated urban, nightlife, graphics, and fight show (whatever that is...) Although this website may be contributing to the hipster epidemic, I don't care. A sense of style is always a plus in my book.

www.wakeupfrankie.com - My friend Jenna showed me this site. Though, admittedly, some of the room decor looks like it was designed with Lisa Frank in mind, there are some really fun, if pricey, collections (Shabby Chic Summer Breeze - definitely my favorite). And, there's always the "Men at Work" shower curtain....

www.lulus.com - Back to school clothes! The selection of vintage clothing is impressive. And there are cute belts at great prices too.

Well, I'd love to give a more well rounded, less shopping-frenzied post, but time can not allow - work, work, work! Come see Seven Brides for Seven Brothers at Music Circus this week though if you get the chance. I think it's my favorite so far this season.

Lots of Love and Happy New School Year,

Caitlin

P.S.

This website is keeping me entertained:

http://boingboing.net/

and for the more morbid, non-PETA internet browser:

http://crappytaxidermy.com/ - Am I the only one who thinks of The Man Who Knew Too Much?