Tea Party Protests Across US

In major cities across the US, citizens gathered to protest government spending and the newly approved stimulus package.

Twitter hash tags like #teaparty and #tcot showcase results of local gatherings (many held during midday hours). (Click here for the stream)

These modern tea parties cited negligence and poor management in past bailouts, questioning whether additional funds will help or hurt.

"Throwing more money at big businesses that are taking it and spending it on bad things is a bad idea. I think bailing out people who have made bad mortgages is a bad idea because it's throwing money at a problem that's just going to make it worse."
(Michelle Jacobsen, interviewed by Chicago NPR reporter Lynette Kalsnes)

While touted as a bipartisan effort, the Right seem to be the most outspoken in regards to Obama's plans to cut deficit and improve economy.

What's your take on the State of the Union?

Photo above courtesy Twitpic by conservative blogger @michellemalkin

Not I Said the Fox

Well, it looks like my campaign for Caretaker of the Islands of the Great Barrier Reef stops here. The Top 50 received email notifications and yours truly has an empty inbox. Still been a blast, though and in case you thought you'd be getting rid of me, I say, "Not so fast!" I've got my eyes on a new prize. . .

Internet Authenticity or How to Apologize on the Net

Ashton Kutcher is one of the most active 2.0 celebs. He uses a variety of platforms (like Twitter) to connect with fans and share a little of his gold rimmed world.

One of his projects, BlahGirls.com, part comic, part commentary documents the "lives" of bobble-headed teen girls and their unapologetic misadventures. Quite often, it's a riot. Two recent video posts were of the handsome actor himself, one an angry rant, the other a follow-up apology.

It's such an appropriate way to retract an online oops, that it almost seems like a plant. Celeb lesson: If you make ugly remarks, apologize as soon as you regain decency.

Fiscal Responsibility and My Campaign

It's no secret, I need a job. I also need to travel, because like oxygen, it allows me to breathe, energizing, refreshing my spirit. Back in mid-January, I decided I would apply for the "Best Job in the World."

Roughly 30,000 applicants means stiff competition. Like so many of my adventures, I didn't have much to work with but a little bit of time and ingenuity.

CREATE A WEB PRESENCE

Nothing gets a message out as cheaply as a blog. For a $10 upgrade (from free Blogger account), I created VoteAudrey.com and have since used that as my signature for all blogging, commenting, digging and stumbling. Sites like Addictomatic.com (and Backtype) enable me to track where my moniker appears, while SiteMeter.com lets me know how visitors discovered me.

UTILIZE SOCIAL MEDIA

Twitter was something I tried briefly a year ago when I was home staging in Baltimore. Baffling at first, I dropped off within a few minutes of use. Now I "get it," and happily tweet away (again, as VoteAudrey).

While my Facebook presence is fairly narrow (150+ friends, 95% of whom I have actually met; others are in extended network), it is a part of "everyday" life. Should I be selected into the top 50, I have a pre-designed "fan page," ready to launch and help promote myself as a "wild card" candidate.

(Other sites that have been fun, informative and useful in garnering visitors and raising awareness include BlipFM, Polyvore and Youniverse.)

PLAY WELL WITH OTHERS

I am very happy to have discovered the "Ning" network for bloggers, and currently utilize both the "Island Ning" as well as "20Something Bloggers." Chatting with fellow applicants and bloggers of my generation as not only drawn visitors, but more beneficially, helped me see a world of possibility with blogging and online communities. I am excited to see site visits from India to Switzerland (and Australia, of course!), but even more intrigued by what I learn by reading other "indie" blogs.

TRAVEL RIGHT

As an ambassador of a travel destination, one needs to be both aware of the area and trends in other markets. Formerly sporadic visits to sites like Budget Travel, Frommers, Lonely Planet and news media travel pages, have increased and further whet my appetite for globe trotting.

APPLY

If you've been keeping score, you'll see that my expenditures thus far have totaled $10. Add $25, and you've got the video that local Aussie mix master Sarah Phillips created by compiling my short footage, imagery (photos and graphic layout) and sound. She's created a lot of sites, videos and advertisements for Australian organizations, as well as firms in the private sector. Did I mention she's on Etsy? Yeah, fabulous.

PULLING IT ALL TOGETHER

$10 domain name. $25 video. Box of inflatable sea creatures (free; received as Christmas gift). If I get this gig, my ROI (return on investment) will be quite substantial, but I already feel like a winner with what I've gained from this project. Kudos to everyone who helped, whether it be a word of support or throwing a blow-up octopus at my head.

WHAT NEXT?

Stay tuned . . .

The Great Desk Escape

Tired of staring at your Swingline stapler? Need to cope to endure your nine-to-five? Take a mini-vacation at your desk! Oh, sure the concept is pathetic and cheesy, but trust me it helps. Rejuvenate periodically throughout the day because the alternative is drooling on your keyboard.

Enter the Zen Zone

Plants improve your quality of air and maybe even quality of life. I like attractive, self-contained hearty types, who refuse to die despite my blatant neglect. With good jobs and --oh wait, sorry, talking about plants, not men. Right...so here are three picks from Bonsai Boy of New York that are affordable, zentastic and office appropriate. (Images link to products)




Aromatherapy

Some offices are really anti-fragrance, even touting your scent as a potential killer of a person you don't know who has severe allergies. No burning candles as you burn the midnight oil! It's time to be stealth. I've been a big fan of essential oils since college, when I received a starter kit from a friend. Years later, a manager gifted me with a mini-kit of personal oil blends (diluted for skin contact) with promises like, "Energizing," "Relaxation," "Clarifying," et cetera. Place a dot on your pulse points (underside wrists) and you can alter your mood without having an office altercation. (If you'd like some recommendations, leave a comment and I can recommend brands/mixes)

Clean Space

I'm the creative type, so you know I'm uber messy. Especially mid-project--total chaos! If you throw yourself into your work like I do, consider these fun organizers, like an easy toss-in tray, magnetic paperclip holder, or file/magazine holder. (I'm digging that last one because it reflects chaos, yet is meant to corral just that...genius!)



And when all else, fails...grab the caffeine!

If you simply can't relax and you've started to drool, it's time to grab everyone's drug of choice, caffeine. Even though this drug is perfectly legal and consumed by masses, you don't want to appear like a fiend in front of co-workers. If you've already had half a pot of coffee and it's not even noon, consider alternative delivery methods for dosing. Caffeine can now be found in soaps, breath mints, and yes, even tasty jelly beans! (Please do not fee to children or pigeons)
I don't know about you, but for me fruit punch flavor + caffeine equals a good time.

It's Official!

My application is online at the IslandReefJob site! (Happy Dance, Happy Dance)
View it on the official site



(Want to refer a friend? You can use the shortened URL,
http://tinyurl.com/myappvideo and it'll direct to that page.)

3 Budget Travel Tips to Stretch Your Dollar and Imagination

Think traveling this year is out of the question? You may be surprised to find some of the best travel deals around during this economic lull. The money may be limited but the opportunities aren't if you plan well. Here's three tips for your traveling stimulus:

1. 2nd Tier Destinations: Think of this as getting the Monopoly community chest card, "Second Place in a Beauty Pageant." These spots won't be as mainstream, but they're definitely winners. Budget Travel lists Austin, Texas as budget hot spot for 2009. Lots of festivals means fun while new discount carrier flights equate cheaper tickets. Add Asheville, NC, Chattanooga, TN, and Savannah, GA to the list of gem cities.
   
   
2. Accommodown: Always ending up at a business traveler's hotel? Why not opt out of amenities you're not using, and pick accommodations that fit your particular needs? Research online to find out bed and breakfast locations where you can email the proprietor and negotiate fees and what you'll be needing during your stay. (Bonus: Many are also pet friendly) Cabins and condos also provide seclusion and a better value for longer stays. Eating out can eat into your budget, so consider shopping for fresh local produce and utilizing the kitchen to trim fat off dining costs.
   
   
3. Open Agenda: If you have some wiggle room with your vacation leave, you can score the best bargains. Set up a separate folder within your email and label it "Getaways." Save the info you get on destinations there, and even if you can't pounce on a certain offer, you'll notice trends in pricing. Sites like Kayak.com and Farecast.com help compile data from multiple vendors and let you know probabilities of rate fluctuations during the coming days. Make sure you factor in international fees for flights out of your home country, as must searches show the base fare without tax and fees. (Not so much for national travel, but can really add up for certain destinations beyond our borders) And don't neglect the rate of exchange, as your currency may go further.
   

It's a bit like math sprinkled with magic and an adventurer's heart, but budget travel can and should be had. Spend a little bit of time researching and your pockets will thank you.

The Video Application

Travel Wear

Ladies, here's 3 surprising essentials:

The Metallic Kicks
I love a good metallic shoe, because it's a neutral that will go with most colors in your wardrobe. Even on a business trip, a good walking shoe will be welcome at the airport, hotel gym or quick nature excursion.

Stretch Leggings
Initially, I was not keen on the "legging look." However, for travel, these are pretty essential. Great for working out, lounging or worn under a tunic, they add versatility and can even be used to layer for warmth on an unexpectedly chilly evening.

Convertible Dress
Worn as a tube dress or a skirt, you've already got two great options. On the beach? Use this as a slimming cover-up. Meeting up for a quick bite before an evening out dancing? Throw on a light blazer for dinner, and then take it off when things heat up on the dance floor. Tube styling makes it perfect for a short or long necklace.

The VA Aweirds v1

What's an Aweird you ask? Quite simply, it's an award given by yours truly for a category you won't find elsewhere.
Revel in the splendor of the talent that is before you. These wonders are so magnificent, they are in categories all their own. What do these talents have in common? Well, 4/6 are bloggers, 2/6 Australian, and all worth a look.

Behold, I bring you first batch of winners:

Best Avatar in a Leisure Suit: Scoman

To quote the Scoman, "I feel the worlds problems would go away if we all had winning smiles and leisure suits."


Best Use of Oven Mitts: JJ
Corralling a kitten! Click here for the full story.




Best Comment Comic: Benn Dunn
Have a laugh at our modern world's connectivity on Tactical Diversion. For best results, use liberally. Also runner up for best manscarf.



Best Mail: Owl Post by celestefrittata
You could send regular mail....or you could go Owl Post! It's like the Pony Express only Owlyier. Perfect for the nocturnal.



Best Snapshot of Yourself: Polaroid Mirror
Paranoid about you may have something gross lodged betwixt teeth? Handy desktop Polaroid style mirror to the rescue!



Best Fringe: mompaulak
Beautiful Australian supermom blogger Paula sports a most fabulous bang cut in her avatar.

Go Big or Go Home . . . and you don't even have to go blonde!

Tonight I had dinner with my parents and younger sister. We talked about my application for the Best Job in the World, and a few things I consider advantages. My sister said, "I hear what you're saying, just don't get your hopes up." Shocked, I inquired further. "You know how those things are, they will pick some model type athlete, it's all about looks. It may be shallow, but the winner will probably be some tall blonde." It hurt, but I'd heard it before, those very same lines.
When I was about to graduate high school my boss gave me a congratulatory $100 check. He wanted to know my major and I told him I'd like to get into public relations. He chuckled a bit and said, "Really? Those spokespeople all look alike, only ones you see on TV are tall blondes." (I did study communications in college and have since done some journalism, mostly marketing.)

Maybe the reason it hurts is because of all the things I can be, I'll never be a tall blonde. I'm 5'2" and my hair is volcano black. I've never been a rail, always had a curvy hourglass shape, probably making me look even lower to the ground. Like all women, I've had issues with my appearance, but I am so over wanting to be or look like someone else.

I am not a professional athlete, model, reality tv star, or tall blonde. But I am God's vision of me, with my own unique DNA. And so me, just plain me, joins the thousands who submit for a chance to work in paradise. I have to jump up for you to see my hand raising, but here it is!

If a tall blonde wins, well, I suppose my sister was right. But don't lessen my joy, don't take my hope or excitement away. I studied statistics, I know the odds. I'm aiming high, and if I'm not selected, I'll still be the same girl as before, maybe even standing taller.

Bonus Freebie: Desktopper 6!

Feedback welcome!
Want to check out the first 5 in the series? Click here

(PS---My video is nearing completion and I can't wait to share!)

Movin' on Up: Equipped for the Ride

Movin' on Up: Equipped for the Ride
Part 1 of a 4 Part Series on Rising within During a Slow Economy
Audience: Early to Mid-Level Career

Yes, times are tough right now throughout the world. If you have a job, it's probably best to keep it. I'm not going to discourage anyone to abandon dreams, just pray and seek wise counsel. There's far too many experienced, educated people without full-time work, myself included.

We've all heard the cliche, "Climbing the corporate ladder." Many times, it's not even that difficult, possibly more akin to riding up an escalator. It can be paced, methodical. Employers spend far less grooming a current employee for advancement than recruiting and training an outsider.

Do you realize how little it takes to be better? It amazes me how little people expect. Don't just go in and get a paycheck, actually add revenue.

First, we'll start to build a "toolbox," of basic essentials.

THE IN-HOUSE EXPERT

You need to know what you're doing, and if you don't ask. There's an expert in your own office. Take someone higher up the rungs out to lunch (hence, you're paying) and ask key questions. This is not a mentor (will discuss later), but at this meeting you are essentially behaving like a "mentee."

How to prepare:

• Have a rough unspoken agenda for the lunch
  
• Be eager and excited, but prepared. Time is valuable, so show you're good at managing it in this meeting.
  
• Dress professionally (even if it's a business casual environment, this is the time to turn it up a notch)
• Make sure grooming is classic, tasteful (ladies, be modest, no loud nail polish, overbearing perfumes, gaudy jewelry, or sloppy updos, even if it's on trend, it's not appropriate; guys, be clean, clothes pressed, nails trimmed)

What to Avoid:

• A loud bar setting; you won't get anything accomplished due to the noise
  
• Do not order the jumbo platter, anything dripping in grease, broccoli or spinach, or a waif salad (not the time to chow down, have food stuck in your teeth or look like you have eating issues)
• Talk about overly personal manners
• Gossip about colleagues (even if your superior begins; this spells disaster)
  
• Order a drink or talk about drinking ("I can't wait 'til happy hour," "This has been a long week, I'll need a drink later.")
• Tell offensive jokes (If you're unsure, try the mom test)

You've got roughly an hour to two, depending on your workplace. If you work it right, this person will be a new advocate, an important connection.

In addition to being an avid traveler, I have five years of professional service industry marketing and communication experience within large firms across the U.S. Freelance opportunities include handling RFPs/RFIs/SOQs, developing/revising marketing plans, SWOT analysis, presentation design, branding and graphics.

6 USB Flash Drives I Dig

Lately I've been thinking about taking my geek show on the road, hitting up a Tweetup or maybe even the 20Somethings Blogger Meetup. And somehow, in my mind, that's related to stylish portable storage.

Here's a few exciting portable file storage options (no, really):

1. For the Paris Hilton in Your Life:

Robot Happy Laura USB Memory Key by Swarovski
For use as a pendant/charm,
2 GB, $180
Bonus: LED ears glow whilst transferring data
Not digging this chick? Maybe you'll like her boyfriend,
Naughty Raymond (I don't make this stuff up, folks)

2. For the Paranoid Super Sleuth :

Capsule Flash Drive at USBGeeks
"Dosage:" 2 GB (green cap), 4 GB (red cap), $35/70
Bonus: In case of emergency need to swallow, would you be able to retrieve data after?

3. For the Quackhead:

Donald Duck Pez Dispenser Flash Drive by CraftsbyDiana
2 GB, $30
Bonus: There's still room to store 3 Pez candies.

4. For the Naturalist

Wato, The Data Stix by fing
1 GB, $30
Bonus: Handfelted with Australian merino wool, your buddy
ships straight from Sydney.



5. For the Pastry Puff

Donut USB Storage from Gizmine
1 GB, $59.99
Bonus: As Fat Fighters coach Marjorie Dawes would say,
this is your "low fat alternative."

6. For the Island Caretaker

Conair Flash Survivor USB Drive from TigerDirect
4 GB, $29.99 (more options available)
Bonus: The successful candidate (hopefully myself) will need
a mega durable storage device, and this puppy is waterproof
and made from aircraft-grade aluminum. Solid!

Bloggy Bubble

(Found this site, Wordle.net, courtesy of Jenny, one of my Tweeps)

By feeding the site my RSS, it created this mashup of words featured in previous post. I love had some words that weren't originally together happen to bundle closely, like "busty," and "rack."

Freebie: Queensland Desktop Wallpaper 5 of ?

Here's number five in my desktop wallpaper series. I tried to use a variety of styles so that everyone could find one aesthetically pleasing.

My apologies to anyone suffering ornithophobia.
(Double click to enlarge, click to save or ctl+l for Mac; no selling, just free distribution)

Think I'm a Sellout?

Dear Reader:
I hope you don't think I'm a sellout for placing ads on this blog. Here are my reasons, plain and simple:

1. I need the money - If I get any revenue from these links, TERRIFIC! I've got bills to pay, we all do. If the links are ineffective, I'll take them off.

2. I love a good bargain - Who doesn't? When I can share a coupon, I'm happy to do it.

3. Big girls need love too - I won't go into details, but I'm a busty lass. It's hard to go bra shopping and a lot of my female friends have the same problem. Some of the retailers listed are good sources for these scarce unmentionables I just mentioned.

4. I'm cool with all the vendors - I've hand selected these advertisers because I find their products/services to be a good value, personally or via testimonials of close friends/family. You will not find me placing an ad link to the guy with a rack of watches in his coat.

I suppose I don't have to defend my position on this as I own the domain. But this isn't just any website, it's a blog, and I encourage interaction. (possible now the comment form is working!) No one likes that 300-pound gorilla in the room, but there's something charming about Magilla Gorilla and Grape Ape. My point is, transparency matters, and I'm telling you there will be some ads from time to time. Avert your eyes or tease your senses, it's up to you. All better now? Good.

Are You in the Know with the Island Ning?

Hey, I welcome competition. If you're applying for the 'Best Job in the World,' stay current with fellow applicants by joining the Island Caretaker social network. Lots of adventurous souls from all over the world are chatting about their travel histories, video submissions and blogs. Creator Susie Parish (pictured left), avid traveler and social media fan, gets my kudos for organizing such a great group. Check it out: http://islandreefjob.ning.com/

Ooops! No comments!

Sorry, working to fix the code to enable comments :(
Thanks Rajeev for the alert!
In the meantime, show me some love via:
Twitter
20somethings
Island Reef Job ning
Digg

Freebie: Queensland Desktop Wallpaper 4 of 5

Well, you know the deal! Here's desktopper 4/5. (As always, double click for large image, for personal use, not to resell, all that jazz)

Great Barrier Reef Crossword Puzzle

This project took longer than expected, but here it is! I figured lots of adults were getting involved with the excitement applying for the Island Caretaker position, but what about the kids? Well, here's a goodie for youth and young hearts.

Click to enlarge; sized for A4 paper, but can be easily reduced for standard letter size (American)

(Feel free to print, share, but do not repost without credit or distribute for sale!)

Name your future?

An article on CareerBuilder states that certain names are advantageous for scholastics and certain career paths. Interesting read, however, research seems limited as are examples.
From my own experience, I have noticed perceptions of coworkers that go by more casual nicknames versus formal first name (i.e., Katie v. Katherine, Mandy v. Amanda, Suzie v. Susan).
I read an similar article a few months back that said Audrey was "sophisticated," I think. Nice.
Here's the link . . .