Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters!

Last weekend, I went to Disneyland! I’ve been excited since the moment the idea came up, and the whole anticipation + finally being at Disneyland was definitely fantastic, and a bit magical.

The idea came about over dinner with a dear friend who mentioned she wanted to celebrate her upcoming birthday at Disneyland. I, not being one to make loose plans when I intend on keeping them, jumped on board for the idea and in the coming days looked up tickets, package options, preferences, and dates. I bought the tickets. Done and done. We ended up going to the classic Disneyland in Anaheim (skipping California Adventure) last Saturday and having a blast.

Yes, a blast. I’m not a particular Disney or Disneyland fanatic (although I am a fan) and while I last visited the park during adulthood (age: 20) I haven’t felt the need to check it out or be in the “happiest place on earth” in any pressing or anxious sort of way. However, the idea of celebrating a birthday and playing and riding rides and really made the anticipation of going so exciting! You might have overheard me proclaiming, “I’m going to Disneyland! And I’m getting Minnie ears,” if you were anywhere within earshot of me for the past 3 weeks. And while some people may have looked at me like I’m a crazy overgrown kid or Minnie Mouse obsessed, I didn’t really notice as I was more excited than concerned.

The funny thing was, a bunch of people commented on how neat it was that I was excited. People giggled at my delight. They marveled at how I could become enthused over a relatively small area seemingly intended for kids. I didn’t justify or rationalize my joy in the idea; I simply explained I could hardly wait to go. And people accepted that perhaps this trip to Disneyland could be a cool thing.

It was. We reminisced while watching Captain EO and wondered which way we’d go on Space Mountain. We screamed just to scream on the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad (twice) and laughed almost the entire time on the Matterhorn. We returned to the Indiana Jones ride approximately 9 times hoping it would reopen. We approached Splash Mountain with slight trepidation and left it soaked yet happy. We were proud (and embarrassed) of our scores as Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters. And yes, I got my Minnie Mouse ears (sequined, thank you). None of these things really add to our life skills (except perhaps patience in line and in crowds), but that was not the point. We had fun. Silly fun. Laughing super hard and then doing it again fun.

Excited for Space Mountain and ready for Captain EO

Magical & happy

How often do adults really take time to let loose and play? How much energy goes into proving adulthood instead of playing as earnestly as a child? It was so refreshing to let loose, scream or laugh, and fully enjoy every moment. And looking around the adults sans children, with friends, celebrating anniversaries, and just enjoying themselves at Disneyland, it was very neat to see some of us are taking time out every once in a while to enjoy thrills of being a kid.

Perhaps you cannot make it to Disneyland or another theme park, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have some magic. Play outside. Let loose. Get “overly” excited. Be wide-eyed. Allow giddiness. And most importantly, enjoy.

Wishing you all magical days ahead. . .

Image Layouts: indieprince

I have a really boring, generic suitcase. Navy with not much else going on. Even though I ALWAYS attach one of the little free luggage tags they have at the airport there’s been more than one fool that hasn’t bothered to check and walked away with my gear. Cue frantic racing out of the departure lounge in fear that the culprit gets starts heading home before they realise, or worse, jump on another flight!

Yak Pak rolling luggage sets

Yak Pak have the solution to this “baggage befuddlement” – a new three piece rolling luggage set in their bright signature prints. The three sizes clock in at 5346in³, 2996.25in³ and 2132 in³ – so PLENTY of space to cram in the multiple changes of outfits us ladies need when we travel (because honestly, why pack light if it isn’t totally necessary?). The luggage sets also feature large front zipper chambers, organisational panels, pen sleeves, key clips and a bunch of other nifty little pockets.

The kind peeps at Yak Pak understand that travel ain’t cheap so with that in mind they’ve priced these babies from $49.99 – $99.99. Check them out over at the Yak Pak online store.

March is officially Women’s History Month and we’re excited to announce that for the third year in a row, throughout the month, we will be featuring yet another group of outstanding ladies who are “making history” in their respective fields including fashion, design, music, art, media and much more.

We will also be remembering the notable forces that came before us with our “Women Who Made History” series. Last year’s features included, Judy Blume and Peggy Guggenheim, just to name a few.

At M.I.S.S., we try to focus on women’s history all year long. We encourage you all to explore our site but more importantly our interviews section, where you’ll find the Women Making History series archived. Each unique feature is filled with insight and inspiration just waiting to be taken in! Consider this a place to gather strength, courage and wisdom to help you move forward gracefully into whatever the future may hold.

You can also view the line-up of ladies we featured in 2009 by visiting Women Making History: The Year in Review ‘09.

We hope you’ll join us all month long and beyond! Happy March!

As you may know from my last post, I recently came back from Barcelona. I’m not going to extend 1 trip into 2 posts and recap about the streets of Barcelona or anything. But the trip did inspire me in more ways than one.

In addition to Barcelona being a personal goal accomplished, it was a step away from my life as I knew it. I saw glimpses of life as a traveler, as someone in Catalonia, as a person whose sole purpose was to enjoy myself. I adjusted to new schedules of the city and vacation, I tried to be polite in another language, and I learned to appreciate things I never knew existed. The trip helped expand my view and add to my mental Rolodex of things to draw upon.

It wasn’t just being in a foreign country or new place that added ideas for me later think of. Before going to Barcelona, I traveled to northern California. I have been to the Bay Area plenty of times before, but it was the first time I stepped into that world coming from my world as it was at that time. I took advantage of a fireplace, which was something I had forgotten the feeling of since I was a little girl.  I remembered the priorities and struggles of being a student. I went grocery shopping where I loaded up a car afterwards, and I was in a mall again. These were all things I’ve done before, but this time I saw them as different from how my life is now.

It’s not that these things were so different, new, or shocking, but they were reminders of a life outside of my own. Traveling brought me new understanding of other lives and what matters within those.  There are things I get wrapped up in within my own life and seeing something else lent me outside inspirations as well as fresh perspective.

The way things are for me now, I can’t travel to different cities or countries too often, and I don’t need to in order to take away the same ideas. The point was to step outside myself. This time I got to change location and let myself be completely elsewhere. Sometimes that happens just leaving my home and walking down the street, starting a new conversation with someone, or checking in with things I don’t normally think of in my day-to-day.  The point is, if you or I feel stuck within what’s at hand, we can take a trip elsewhere. It can be an easy stroll, a mental trip, or a grand voyage, but whatever it is, take a moment to see the beauty elsewhere, or perhaps realize it in what’s at hand.

Happy trails.

M.I.S.S. Muses: Barcelona

I spent last week in Barcelona. It’s such a beautiful city, the weather was cooperative, ringing in the New Year was awesome, and the trip was a great getaway. With all the amazing sites, history, views, and moments to choose from, you know what was the most inspiring to me? Being in Barcelona was my big picture.

The past several months have been a build up to getting to Barcelona. I didn’t have a lot of disposable income to go towards the trip, but since it was for my sister, I was determined to do what I had to make it happen. I saved, cut costs here and there, and step-by-step, the trip pulled together.

Along the way, skipping lattes, eating in, and counting cents wasn’t exactly easy or something I was naturally motivated to do each day. But, my big picture was motivating. Picturing the trip and knowing my actions were getting my sister and me closer to seeing the city, seeing the sea, and eating tapas is what kept me going. Some days were harder and some sacrifices stung more in the moment than others. But skipping an extra bottle of wine with my groceries in trade for sangria on the Barcelona coast was what I kept in mind. And you know what? It was worth it.

I get it: I know the steps we take each day towards our bigger goals become mundane and tedious. But keep in mind what you’re working for. Think of, really envision, your big picture. Picturing it as you go through your day by day may even inspire you to work a bit harder and do a little more.

Little M.I.S.S. Frustrated sez: Click THIS!

I throw out my fair share of dirty looks and muted scoffs into the atmosphere when I observe bad “Rider Etiquette” – Rude behavior while riding the bus, train, or any other form of public transportation (PT) – but most of these subtle hints go unnoticed or are purposely ignored by offenders. It stings enough that it’s Monday morning AGAIN, and when you have to deal with inconsiderate strangers, your whole day could turn murderous. The utter lack of self-awareness by some grown-ass adults still confounds me. Sometimes en route to NYC from Staten Island I am tempted to shout:

“Hey you! Yeah, you! Guess what? I have to ride all the way into the city on the same bus as you. And so do about 40 other people. Check yourself before you wriggidy wreck ya self.”

What behaviors grate me the most, you might ask? The typical grievances. Unfortunately, I still see things practically on a daily basis that continue to anger and appall me. Below are the key areas of discontent.

Loud Talkers/Shouting on a Cell Phone

First of all, if you are on a call when the bus pulls up, you have every right to end your conversation – but do so quickly. There’s nothing worse than settling down for a road snooze only to be abruptly woken up by a passenger seated behind you barking on his or her phone. NO ONE wants to hear about your cheating boyfriend, the deal on socks at Kmart, or Uncle Bernie’s Goiter. If you can, while you are riding PT, graciously end your conversation and resume the cell chatter once you are not in such close proximity of others. This also goes for the crypt-keeper ladies who sit next to each other on the bus and cackle about old times while popping grapes in their mouths.

The “Briefcase as Small Child” Agenda

Unless you have a pet in your suitcase, move your damn items from offa the seat and let a weary broad sit down. If you are gonna bring a roller suitcase on the bus, be damn well-prepared to sit with it BETWEEN YOUR LEGS. Don’t roll your eyes at me when I ask you to move it, either. And if you have a bunch of shopping bags, try not to hit everyone in the head with your purchases on your way off the bus

The EATER

The other day I watched an elderly Chinese woman shell chestnuts for 100 blocks on the subway. She wasn’t eating them – but to handle food in that grimey environment was too much for me to bear. Some subway passengers have no shame, and will whip out the stankiest of foods at any given moment. Chitlins, Fast-Food breakfast sandwiches, doughnuts. What’s worse, is that these subway-diners are usually the type who lick their fingers, nahmean? Shudder.

Claiming More than One Chair

Usually, this is where dudes are at fault, as they often sit as though they have nads the size of kickballs. When seated, men spread their legs, and they often cross over into your seat territory, sometimes even going so far as to lean on your armrest. Another sensitive topic includes the heftier passenger….there is just no nice way to put it….they are in the way. Yes, they have a right to ride the bus, but they should not be surprised if they have to adjust their body positions in order to let you sit down. Refusing to squeeze in as the bus fills up is totally selfish. If you position yourself in a way where you are not touching someone, that is usually the best way.

The Sickie

If you are riding PT in the winter, please, by all means, bring a package of tissues! When someone nearby on the bus coughs or sneezes, I start imagining all of the germ particles that are floating around in the air. It seems elementary, but some commuters don’t even cover their noses and/or mouths. Sneeze in your scarf or something, damn!

Disgruntled Drivers

If the drivers are running behind schedule, they would rather pass you waiting patiently at the bus stop than to scoop you up and get even more backed up.

And kids, if you are ever in doubt about etiquette, ask: WWJJD (What would Judge Judy do?)

Now you won't need to worry about where you put your toothbrush

For all the ladies who find themselves spending more time living in hotels than in their own homes, visiting family for the holidays, or traveling to warmer climates to get away from it all, there’s SpacePak to help you maximize the space inside your luggage.  No longer will you have to spend hours figuring out exactly what clothing items to take, and then rolling said clothing items into tightly wound cylinders.   Instead you can use SpacePak’s modular system to pack your suits, shoes, toiletries, and even lingerie.  Each bag is clearly labeled, water tight, and features a one way valve that allows you to remove all the air in the bag and acheive maximum compression.  Best of all, the bags are split with a central sheet, so you can use one side for clean clothes and the other for the dirtier, less desierable ones. Bags range from $30 to the shoe bag to $100 for a 3 piece set and can be purchased online at Flight 001.

If I were a United Airlines employee, I would be excited to have Cynthia Rowley desining my new work uniform. Rowley will create new uniforms for United’s diverse range of staff from the flight attendants to pilots, customer service representatives, ramp service and maintenance employees. Very cool, almost everyone will benefit from this collaboration.

“Travel is a huge part of my life and authentic to our brand,” says Cynthia Rowley. “It’s such an exciting opportunity to design for United, a company with a rich history, expansive global reach and, like myself, Chicago roots.”

Rowley will spend a month meeting with United employees around the world to find out what they want in their employee uniforms. Like a Project Runway challenge, Rowley has been tasked with creating new uniforms that increases functionality in more breathable and durable fabrics.

“New uniforms, with an improved look and feel, are a key investment in our company and our people, who are the face of United,” says John Tague, President, United Airlines.

“It is one of the many investments we are making in our future… We have chosen Cynthia for her keen sense of style and for her commitment to involving our employees’ important input throughout the design process.”

Rowley joins the likes of Christian Lacroix (Air France), Julien McDonald (British Airways), Richard Tyler (Delta Airlines), Gianfranco Ferre (Korean Air), Pierre Cardin (Air India) and Peter Morrissey (Qantas) to have designed uniforms for major airlines around the world.

Currently, Rowley is teamed up with Target for a house hold line called ‘Whim‘.  This product line ranges from coolers, serving trays to adorable sailboat salt and pepper shakers.

Source: SassyBella

Rhapsody by Tiffany Smith

Where did you take the photo?

On the beach in Kingston, Jamaica.

What were you thinking before you took the photo?

Capturing the essence of my free spirited nephew.

What were you thinking after you took the photo?

I am blessed.

Whats interesting to you about the photo?

The suspended motion and implied narrative.

What camera did you use?

Canon

website:
www.tiffanysmithphoto.com
http://www.flickr.com/photos/tsmithphoto

So much to choose from...just don't choose it all!

Last week, on an annual road trip, I made a stop in Vegas.  In this city of sin, I try not to be gluttonous but it’s oh-so-hard to resist the glorious buffets at every casino.  After all, it’s not officially a Vegas vacation until you eat all-you-can.   But behold, it is possible to eat healthy at a buffet, and although you might eat more than you should, at least you’ll give your body what you need.  And no, I’m not talking about a cure for a hangover, but more like that healthy stuff that will keep your body rockin’ all night long (what is usually a hangover cure)!

Buffets are not your typical restaurant because the experience is quite psychological.  You pay one flat fee and eat endlessly, which could seem like a bargain for the hungry people.  But in reality, the hiked-up price that you pay for a bottomless plate is usually more than what you would pay at any other sit-down establishment.  Going into a buffet with the idea that tasting every item will get your money’s worth is a recipe for a night with the toilet.  No thank you, I have plans to fit into my black dress tonight!

On top of that, buffets offer the diner so many choices.  We all know how hard it is to choose the right shoe, or the right nail color, and sometimes, committing to a plate at a restaurant is yet another choice that can go right or wrong.  At a buffet, there are so many options, and if you don’t like something, just push it to the side and hop back in line.  While tossing unwanted food might make your body feel better, wasting food doesn’t make any conscious feel good.   My mom used to always say to me, “Make sure your eyes are not bigger than your stomach.”  The food might look tasty, but please, get only what you can eat.  Remember that adage next time you pay for buffet.

Try these other tips for eating at a buffet:

• Choose your time wisely.  Since you’ll probably be eating more than you usually can handle, it might be best to skip a heavy breakfast or lunch and have a buffet brunch or early dinner.
• Start with salad.  Usually, the salads are first in line at a typical buffet.  If you start with a salad, you’re filling up on the healthy stuff.  Create a salad that has a rainbow of colors to ensure that you’re stocking up on much needed vitamins.  Here’s a hint: choose darker green leaves, like spinach, for more vitamin A.
• Make a healthy plate.  Take a division lesson when cruising down the line.  Half of your plate should be fruits and vegetables, a quarter protein, the other quarter carbohydrates, like whole grains.  If your plate is all carbs, turn around and stock up on some veggies.
• Take more than one trip.  Don’t fill up your plate.  I’ve seen people pile up their food as they cruise down the line, like they can’t come back for a second plate.  I don’t know about you, but I like to enjoy my foods and experience their flavors.  Mixing up enchiladas and mashed potatoes won’t hit the spot for me.  I’d rather make the separate trips.
• Plan your next move.  Cruise the buffet lines to first take stock of what’s being offered.  It’s great to want to try different flavors, but if you’ve got Italian on your plate, wait until the next plate to try the Chinese.
• Portion control.  Think of the buffet as a giant sampler platter.  You may love mac n’ cheese, but there is no need to take two giant servings.  You’ll want to save that stomach space for something else.
• Eat slow.  Take your time to chew each morsel.  Studies show that it takes about 20 minutes after eating for the brain to know the stomach is full, so putting your spoon or fork down between each bite will help with help prevent overeating.  There’s no need to rush, the lasagna will always be there (it might even be a fresh batch)!
• Save room for desert.  Rethink that last trip to the taco bar and instead, save that room for a cheesecake.  Although this isn’t the healthiest choice, saving room for dessert will help you manage your meal.
• Skip the soda.  Drink water or juice instead.  This is still a soda-free summer!  But even if you’re hitting the buffet in the winter, skipping the soda will spare you the sugar (which you’ll probably be eating for dessert anyways)!
• Walk it out.  There’s nothing like a good stroll after stuffing yourself.  Perhaps you can park far from the entrance, or window shop at nearby stores after.  Make sure you allow yourself time to let your stomach settle after your meal first, and once you’re ready to tap out, get ready for your slow stroll.

Remember, buffet dining is an indulgence.  Unfortunately, there are still people in all corners of the world that barely have enough to eat in one day.  Eat all-you-can sparingly.