i came across a ton of lists this morning. cosmetic surgeries that are affordable, how to properly pay a compliment, etc. enjoy!

THE FIVE RELATIONSHIP MILESTONES THAT COUPLES OVERLOOK:

#1.) The first time you see each other naked AFTER sex: I don't know about you, but before I have sex with someone, I'm usually so caught up in the excitement of it all that I don't really scrutinize their body. But after we've done the deed, things become much clearer.

#2.) The first time one of you isn't in the mood: Relationships are easy when you can't WAIT to get home and get in bed. But if you want to know where your relationship REALLY stands, see how the other person reacts the first time you're not in the mood.

#3.) The first time you go downtown without asking for anything in return: If you're happy to give oral favors, and you really don't care if you get them in return . . . well then you've got yourself a committed relationship.

#4.) Your first discussion about birth control: If you're in a sexual relationship . . . or you hope to be in the near future . . . then the topic of birth control is bound to come up. And while it's not always the easiest discussion to have, it IS necessary.

#5.) The first time you try something REALLY dirty: You probably won't celebrate the anniversary of the first time you went for the no-go hole. But there's no denying the first time you do something really dirty is a relationship milestone. (Happen / Match.com)

and another!

HERE ARE TEN WAYS TO PAY YOUR DATE AN ORIGINAL COMPLIMENT:

#1.) Focus on what they haven't heard before: If your date has nice hair, she probably knows it. So either come up with a new way to compliment her hair, or bypass the "obvious" qualities in favor of something less appreciated . . . like her posture. (???)

#2.) Look for cues: The question isn't "What do YOU notice about your date?" It's "What do you think your date WANTS YOU to notice?" In other words, identify what seems to be important to your date, and focus on complimenting those things.

#3.) Get specific: Vague, general compliments mean absolutely nothing. So instead of telling a girl she's "pretty," identify a specific, more subtle trait . . . like, say, her sultry voice. The rule of thumb is the more specific the compliment, the more likely it is to strike a chord.

#4.) "That color looks great on you": Apparently, women love this one. I'm not quite sure why. But it seems to signify your attraction, as well as demonstrate your eye for good style.

#5.) Compliment their home: If it's clear your date has spent a lot of time and energy setting up her place, then chances are she wants you to notice and appreciate her efforts.

#6.) Acknowledge their friends: If you get the chance to meet your date's friends, you have to show them some love . . . even if they're annoying. Why? Because would you date someone if all your friends hated them?

#7.) "You must spend hours at the gym": The only way this compliment can misfire is if your date clearly DOESN'T go to the gym. Otherwise, you can't miss. Why?
--Because if they DO go to the gym, they'll appreciate that you noticed their efforts. And if they DON'T, you're still complimenting their superior genes. There's nothing wrong with that.

#8.) Beware the lewd and suggestive: At the end of the date, or sometime soon, you're hoping for sex. That goes without saying. But there's no better way to make sure that never happens than to use lewd or suggestive euphemisms. It's just creepy.

#9.) Never say "I like you": Why? Because some people will feel you're coming on too strong. Plus, there are much smoother ways to convey the same message.

#10.) End on a good note: If you get a kiss, compliment it immediately. And even if you don't, you should end with a broad compliment. Something like, "You're amazing." Basically, you want to end the date on a high, and indicate that you want more.

(Match.com)

i'm throwing in this pic of robert pattinson from vanity fair just because i can. ;)

weezer performing in NYC on halloween ... joined on stage by leighton meester

need a little extra something to go with your twilight themed costume? i've got just the thing!

not even kidding.

here are a few tips on how to meet someone at a halloween party:

#1.) USE YOUR COSTUME TO GET NOTICED. Think of your costume as an immediate icebreaker . . . it's okay to be a little outrageous.

--Even if you're not adventurous, or you only have time to pick up a store-bought costume, find a way to give it a personal touch. You have a better chance of using your costume to meet someone if it reveals something about your personality.

#2.) ROLE PLAY. People in costume LOVE to stay in character . . . so indulge them a little. And you may find it easier to talk to someone while YOU'RE in character. That way, if they reject you . . . they're only rejecting your character.

#3.) GO WITH A GROUP. Coordinating costumes with friends always makes a big impression at a party. It shows that you're friendly and approachable, and it creates a social circle around you that people want to be a part of.

#4.) BRING CANDY. Giving away candy is the most classic Halloween tradition, and handing it out at a party is an easy way to start conversations with people you don't know. Just bring your favorite childhood candy, and ask other people what their favorite is.

#5.) ASK ABOUT THEIR HALLOWEEN PAST. Everyone has crazy stories from past Halloweens. So when you're talking to someone, ask them about the wildest Halloween party they ever went to, or the best Halloween costume they ever wore.

--Turning the conversation toward Halloween topics also helps you avoid played-out small-talk like "where do you live" and "what do you do". Instead, ask people if they believe in ghosts . . . or what their favorite horror movie is.

(Happen Magazine / Match.com)

here are some of the highlights from the friends of barc newsletter:

LOOKING FOR SOMETHING SAFE AND FUN TO DO WITH THE KIDS ON HALLOWEEN? COME TO BARC FOR ITS FIRST EVER FALL FESTIVAL! SATURDAY FROM NOON TO 4:00 ENJOY GAMES, ENTERTAINMENT AND FREE FOOD. PLUS, ALL ADOPTIONS ARE HALF-PRICE! (NO COSTUMES, THOUGH, BECAUSE WE DON'T WANT TO SCARE THE ANIMALS.) SPEND THE DAY AT BARC AND STILL HAVE TIME FOR TRICK-OR-TREATING AFTER DARK. ADOPT A HOMELESS ANIMAL AND GIVE THEM A TREAT, TOO!

AND NOW, THE HORRIFYING TALE OF BLACK DOG SYNDROME...
IN ANIMAL SHELTERS ALL OVER THE COUNTRY THERE IS TRUTH SO TERRIBLE IT MAY SHOCK YOU: BIG BLACK DOGS ARE THE HARDEST TO ADOPT AND MOST FREQUENTLY EUTHANIZED. WHY? NO ONE IS CERTAIN, BUT THEORIES RANGE FROM SUPERSTITION TO VISIBILITY. THROUGHOUT HISTORY, EVIL HAS BEEN REPRESENTED BY SNARLING BLACK DOGS, BUT BLACK DOGS MAY ALSO JUST BE HARDER TO SEE IN DIMLY LIT KENNELS. BLACK DOGS ARE ALSO HARDER TO PHOTOGRAPH. THUS, WE PRESENT A FEW OF BARC'S BEAUTIFUL BLACK DOGS. WE HOPE YOU WILL SEEK THEM OUT AND CONSIDER ADDING ONE TO YOUR HOME.

GIRLIE

OVERCOMING STEREOTYPES. What's worse than being a big black dog? Try being a big black pit bull! Thanks in large part to the media, as soon as they hear the words "pit bull" many people immediately imagine a beast so terrible it's certain to chew your face off. But look at our friend GIRLIE... Look at those big sad eyes. GIRLIE is afraid of her own shadow and as gentle as can be. She likes other dogs, though, and is quite happy to be loved on. She's smart, too, and already knows Sit and Down. GIRLIE is not so big either ? about 50 pounds ? and most of that is lean muscle. Her coat is so shiny it glows! GIRLIE is about 1 year old, spayed and microchipped. We know there are bully fans out there who appreciate how affectionate, loyal and fun pit bulls are. Come get to know GIRLIE!
Look for GIRLIE at BARC in South D Ward, I.D. number A1000827.

SWEETIE

THIS SWEET THING WON'T RUIN YOUR DIET. Over the years researchers have studied the impressions names make. Consciously or unconsciously, people associate stereotypes with certain names. This is a perfect example. As her name suggests, SWEETIE is a charming little girl that's a little bit shy. Her sad eyes looking at you from her kennel just beg for you to take her out and give her a hug. SWEETIE also has a frisky side where she hops and sprints hoping you'll come and play. SWEETIE is 2 years old, about 50 pounds and heartworm negative. Adopt SWEETIE and make every day sweet at your house!
Look for SWEETIE at BARC in South D Ward, I.D. number A1000191.

BOB

WHAT ABOUT BOB? BOB is a blur of motion when he is let loose in the play yard. He is more than ready to run, play and enjoy life. BOB has a luxurious black coat that shines in the sunlight, and the black and white spots on his face reveal that he has some Australian shepherd in him. Aussies can make excellent Frisbee dogs. They are always ready to please and work for their owners. With some training BOB could be a performance dog of many talents. BOB is about 2 years old, approximately 50 pounds, neutered and microchipped. Give BOB a chance to show you what he can do!
Look for BOB at BARC in South A Ward, ID number A0998646.

MOMA

DON'T FORGET THE BLACK CATS. Black cats are famous throughout history for their attachment to superstition and black magic (no pun intended). In fact, BARC and most other animal shelters won't adopt out black cats around Halloween for fear of people wanting to do them harm. Black cats are among the most beautiful of the species, however, with their glossy coats and huge eyes. MOMA is a fine example. This 2 year old spayed female has long silky fur and captivating eyes. She was left at the shelter by her owner so she is very timid. A quiet home with lots of love would probably do MOMA good.
Look for MOMA at BARC in the open adoption room in the North Building, ID number A1000257.

TO INQUIRE ABOUT ANY OF THE ANIMALS PICTURED HERE EMAIL BONNIE AT ford.bonnie@gmail.com
OR ELIZABETH AT evitek@yahoo.com.

if i could, i would take every one of these babies home with me! if you or someone you know is looking for a new pet, please encourage them to get a shelter animal.

i've really been slacking ... no updates in a week! tsk, tsk. here are some cuties who are in need of a good home. if you or someone you know is considering adding to your family, give one of these guys some thought! you'll find them through the houston animal shelter, barc. (all of the descriptions are from the friends of barc e-mail blast.)

We can only imagine what RINGO has been through in her life to make her the shy girl she is today. RINGO walks slowly and watches everything as if she's afraid something terrible is just around the corner. What's great, though, is once RINGO knows you're her friend she opens up and suddenly gets happy feet! She really likes tennis balls, too. She can't resist chasing one no matter how anxious she may be. RINGO is one of those cool dogs with a circle around one eye (hence RINGO), and she is spayed, microchipped and heartworm negative. She's about 3 years old and 45 pounds. RINGO is hoping this time around she'll find the special person to take her home and treat her right!
Look for RINGO at BARC in South B Ward, I.D. number A0996300

THIS IS NALA'S SECOND TIME AT BARC. HER FIRST OWNER DUMPED HER THERE, THEN HER SECOND DID, TOO.
It's usually hard to tell at BARC because we don't have many kids around, but NALA loves kids! There was a family with 2 little boys at BARC adopting a dog and when NALA saw them she got so happy. Previously, she had been a little shy, but on seeing the kids outside playing with another dog it was obvious NALA wanted to join the fun. She's a really easy-going and sweet dog with a fun, silly side. NALA will Sit for a cookie, and she likes to have her belly rubbed. She is about a year-and-a-half old and 40 pounds or so, but her breed is anyone's guess. She has medium blond fur with light tiger stripes. NALA is spayed, microchipped and heartworm negative. NALA's a sweet girl and deserves a stable, loving Forever Home!
Look for NALA at BARC in South D Ward, I.D. number A0990280.

TOBY WAS ADOPTED AND THEN FOUND 3 MONTHS LATER ON THE STREET ALONE.
TOBY has a sad story to tell. This is his second time through BARC. After being adopted from BARC back in June, a fireman came across TOBY recently wandering the streets alone. Thankfully TOBY made it back to us, and we'd like to think TOBY got loose from his adopter's backyard rather than they dumped him on the street, but either way TOBY is once again looking for a home. Let's find him a better one this time! TOBY is a big dog with short legs and lots of energy. He's a nice boy and very handsome, but he'll need a little training and an owner who can spend time with him exercising and playing. TOBY is a little over 2 years old, neutered and microchipped, and unfortunately he came back to us with heartworms. BARC can provide treatment if you are willing to give TOBY a second chance.
Look for TOBY at BARC in South D Ward, I.D. number A1003408

RUSTY WAS ADOPTED BUT HIS NEW MOM NEVER CAME BACK FOR HIM.
If RUSTY had his own TV show it'd be called "Everybody Loves Rusty." Ask anyone you see at BARC and they'll tell you what a great dog he is. His ACT (Animal Care Technician) says RUSTY is a big ol' baby. That's what is so charming about RUSTY: He's 80 pounds of pure love! As soon as you open his kennel door he will fall right into your arms, he's so glad to see you. Take him out to the play yard and he'd rather sit in your lap than chase a ball. RUSTY is always happy and friendly even though he's couped up at the dog pound. If you're thinking about adopting RUSTY please have a big yard and lots of space, and perhaps a big couch as well so he can chill out with you. RUSTY is just over 2 years old so don't worry?He won't grow any more! He's heartworm negative and hoping you'll come adopt him today!
Look for RUSTY at BARC in South A Ward, ID number A099899

Hershey needs a forever home.
HERSHEY has very unique eyes: One blue and one brown. He has the beautiful chocolate color of a Labrador, but the thick fur and bushy tail of a Husky. HERSHEY also has lots of energy?Lots and lots of energy! He will need an active home where he gets plenty of exercise and has lots to do. When you meet him he'll be hopping around in his kennel like mad, but that's just because he's so happy to see you he can't wait to get out and make friends. He really loves people and can't stand being locked up in a cage at BARC. HERSHEY is still a youngster at just a year old. He's had all his shots and tested heartworm negative. All he needs now is a home! Look for HERSHEY at BARC in South A Ward, I.D. number A0998298.
IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT HERSHEY OR NEED HELP FINDING HIM AT BARC, PLEASE EMAIL ELIZABETH AT evitek@yahoo.com

SOME OF THESE DOGS HAVE BEEN AT BARC ALL SUMMER.
LET'S FIND THEM HOMES TODAY!

BEAUREGARD
SOUTHERN GENTLEMAN. Remember last week when we had the two dogs named after cities in Texas, AUSTIN and DALLAS? We thought we'd continue the trend, but what other Texas city makes a good name? El Paso? Nacogdoches? Beaumont?? We compromised and came up with BEAUREGARD, or BEAU for short. BEAU is another big ol' country dog with good manners and an easy-going style. He's just over a year old and he seems to be housebroken. BEAU is full of love and friendly to everyone he meets. Heartworm negative, too. He's got everything going for him except a home. Can you help out a fellow Texan in need?
Look for BEAUREGARD at BARC in South C Ward, I.D. number A1000281

GOBLIN
JUST IN TIME FOR HALLOWEEN! Is the name perfect for this dog or what? This chubby little brindle monster looks like he's part bat and part chupacabra. GOBLIN is so charming we guarantee you'll be bewitched as soon as you meet him. He's very calm and quiet so he's easily overlooked in the kennels, but he gets so happy when you come to take him out. GOBLIN loves toys?especially the soft, fuzzy ones?and he will make you laugh tossing them around like a cat. GOBLIN is just over 2 years old, small-to-medium sized, and heartworm negative. The best treat you could give GOBLIN this Halloween is a home of his own!
Look for GOBLIN at BARC in South D Ward, I.D. number A1000982

RIDGES
WIGGLY-WORM! There is always an abundance of brindle-coated dogs at BARC and it seems like they are often overlooked. RIDGES wants you to know she's unique, though, and deserves your attention. To begin with, RIDGES has the most gorgeous mahogany coat with black tiger stripes. She also has a docked tail which she displays to her advantage by furiously wiggling her bottom. She is a really, really wiggly dog! RIDGES is very friendly and playful, and gentle on the leash. She's already spayed and microchipped, and, unfortunately, heartworm positive. Most shelters don't bother with heartworm positive dogs, but BARC gives them a chance. Even so, their time is limited. BARC will provide heartworm treatment at no extra charge. Can you help save our wiggly-bottom friend?
Look for RIDGES at BARC in South C Ward, I.D. number A0999774

SNOW WHITE
HOW COME THE DALMATIAN COULDN'T HIDE? BECAUSE SHE WAS ALREADY SPOTTED! SNOW WHITE was spotted in the play yard at BARC zooming around like a rocket. Technically, SNOW WHITE isn't all white. She has a light dusting of brown spots like those you see on her ears. Although she's listed as 2 years old she still acts like a youngster. She loves to play with other dogs and run really fast. She is full grown at about 50 pounds, but she's short and stocky kind of like a Bassett Hound. SNOW WHITE is spayed, microchipped, fully vaccinated and heartworm negative, and she'd love to be spotted next at home in your backyard!
Look for SNOW WHITE at BARC in South D Ward, I.D. number A0999036

SWEETIE
THE NAME SAYS IT ALL! Over the years researchers have studied the impressions names make. Consciously or unconsciously, people associate stereotypes with certain names. This is a perfect example. As her name suggests, SWEETIE is a charming little girl that's a little bit shy. Her sad eyes looking at you from her kennel just beg for you to take her out and give her a hug. SWEETIE also has a frisky side where she hops and sprints hoping you'll come and play. SWEETIE is 2 years old, about 50 pounds and heartworm negative. Adopt SWEETIE and make every day sweet at your house!
Look for SWEETIE at BARC in South D Ward, I.D. number A1000191.

TO INQUIRE ABOUT ANY OF THE DOGS PICTURED HERE EMAIL BONNIE AT ford.bonnie@gmail.com
OR ELIZABETH AT evitek@yahoo.com

there are plenty of places to go check out the pets that are up for adoption. i got a call from a friend last week telling me they were at the galleria! see, how convenient is that?

UPCOMING EVENTS
COME SEE US AT BARC THIS SUNDAY FOR HALF-PRICE ADOPTIONS AND FREE HOT DOGS & SOFT DRINKS.
October 24: BARC Adoptions at the Galleria, 10:00 am - 2:00 pm, 5085 Westheimer, Houston, TX 77056, 713-622-0663

October 24: Friends of BARC at PetSmart Northwest, 13830 NW Freeway, Houston, TX 77040, 713-690-0575

October 24 & 25: Frisky Paws Rescue at PetSmart Northeast, 5941 E Sam Houston Pkwy N, Houston, TX 77049, 281-436-1249

October 24 & 25: Friends of BARC at PetSmart in the Heights, 1907 Taylor St., Houston, TX 77007, 713-863-0533

October 24 & 25: Highland Village Pet Adoptions, 4056 Westheimer next to Williams Sonoma

October 25: HAPI Dog Adoptions at Pet Fest in Old Town Spring, Noon - 5:00 pm, 219-A Gentry, Spring, TX 77373, http://www.petfestoldtownspring.com/

October 25: WAGS TO WHISKERS FAMILY ADOPTION DAY at BARC, Noon - 4:00 pm, 3200 Carr St., Houston, TX 77026

SAVE THE DATE: BARC FALL FESTIVAL, Saturday, October 31, Noon - 4:00 pm. Games, Entertainment & Free Food!
Vendor Booths Available. For more information: http://www.houstonbarc.com

and of course there are tons of cats available for adoption, too, if you aren't a dog person like me. ;)

have a great BUZZFEST weekend! i'll finally get to see one of my favorite bands (our lady peace) LIVE. i just love those canadians.

i read a creepy story earlier ... there are a ton of people who claim to have dreams about the same guy. they all refer to him as "this man". what about you? dream of him lately?

i've got a list of places where women are supposed to be able to find quality men, along with a list of places to avoid:

#1.) SPORTS BARS. You'll definitely find some losers there, but you'll probably find some winners too, especially if it's a TRENDY sports bar that's somewhat new . . . not one that's been there eighty years. #2.) THE BAR AT YOUR LOCAL STEAK HOUSE. If he's eating at a steak house, chances are he's at least SOMEWHAT financially secure. Try the bar area: single guys like eating there because it's faster, and there's usually a TV. #3.) SUSHI RESTAURANTS. It's another place single men go to eat alone. It shows they have the tiniest bit of sophistication. And it's a relaxed atmosphere, so talking to a complete stranger doesn't seem strange at all. #4.) THE SUPERMARKET. The "frozen food" aisle is for lazy guys who eat TV dinners or still live at home. But a lot of DATABLE single guys shop in the "prepared food" aisle. So check there first. #5.) CIGAR BARS. Most women can't stand the smell, so if you CAN, you won't have any competition. The guys are usually a little older and more refined. And a lot of them have money. Just be on the lookout for married men in search of a mistress.

--And here are five places you WON'T find single guys to date . . .

#1.) SALONS. Single guys spend 20 minutes at the barber once or twice a month. They don't linger there.

#2.) NIGHTCLUBS. Single guys that go there usually have one thing on their mind . . . and it's not a relationship.

#3.) FROZEN YOGURT SHOPS. It's a good place for a first date, but guys don't go there alone.

#4.) LAUNDROMATS. On TV, the Laundromat is kind of romantic. But in real life, it's usually dirty and depressing. And most guys who are even SOMEWHAT successful, don't go there.

#5.) CRUISE SHIPS. GAY men go on cruises, but if you're looking for a STRAIGHT guy, the only ones you'll find there are either married, or 80 years old.

new shinedown video!

the release date for the new moon soundtrack has been moved up a wee bit. you can look for it in stores on friday, oct. 16. (movie hits theaters nov. 20th.) it's got death cab for cutie, thom york, the killers, muse, ok go, etc.

(i really, really hate the shirt they have on robert pattinson in that photo, fyi.)

last peice of twilight stuff, then i'll shut up about it (for today), i swear. gq has a photo spread featuring taylor lautner, who plays jacob. he's (clearly) hot, but the thing is ... he's only 17. and i mean, he JUST turned 17. i feel so dirty.

kings of leon are finally here. tonight @ the toyota center. i've been anxiously awaiting this one for months!

i'm going to be at PHOBIA tonight on 290 from 10p-12m. did i mention that i haven't been inside a haunted house since i was like ... 12? they terrify me. as do clowns, furries, and anything with a mask. one of my friends is coming along (because i need protection from the scary haunted house people!) and she's planning on bringing a video camera in case i panic. she thinks it'll be hilarious to post it on youtube and have me become an internet sensation. she and i have very different ideas about what is funny. stop by if you can! watch me be all terrified before i even step foot into one of the haunted houses. seriously.

i hate clowns!

and furries ... these things terrify me!

i got the new paramore cd this week. it's amazing. hayley's voice is amazing, and she's showing off her skills in this one. go get it. i promise you'll be getting your $10 worth.

btw, the headphones she's wearing in this? i have those. see, hayley and i were meant to be bff's!

brand new has a cd out, too. called daisy. love it. they'll be in houston on oct. 31.

this video is so badass. it was done in one take, by students in montreal. (fyi, we never did anything close to this awesome when i was in school.)

oh, my. you can actually purchase maury povich shirts that announce to the world that you're (dun Dun DUN!) NOT THE FATHER! creepy. if that's not your thing, no worries. you can buy "who's the babydaddy" shotglasses, too.

today! Today! TODAY! (how obnoxious was that?) i'll be at the cricket store on westheimer and dunvale today from 12noon until 2p. buzz freebies? oh yes. take a lunch break and come see me.

happy (overcast, crappy) friday! here's a little video from me to you.

people in planes - pretty buildings