Meet Jane!

This is my new friend at work, Jane.



She looks happy, don't you think?



I give her plenty of water, she listens to me, and never complains.



Go Jane!

Some of my photographs...

I love photography. Sadly, I don't have a decent camera right now... I blame my paycheck.
Anyways, thought I'd share with you some of my work. All of these are copyrighted, so please don't use them without my permission.

Got Candy?

Here's an old picture of my hubby Jamie's band, Candy Machine. Just for the record. Get it?

The band is now called Candy Machine Wrecker, and you can check out their music here.

Walking Paige

Bad cell phone quality, oh well. Camcorder next!

The American Experience #2

You've heard the saying.... "Everything is bigger in America."



Not true. Have you seen the mailboxes? They're tiny!! I don't get it... the mail men have to squeeze the mail, letters and newspapers to fit it all. If, by chance, they can't make room for the mail... they often knock on the door, and leave a parcel behind.

This is what met me when I got home this afternoon.

Please help LCAS!

Lane County Animal Services, or LCAS, is in need of new fencing for their dog yards!

If you want to help, you can donate money, or go to Coastal Home and Farm and purchase panels.

Tell the clerks there that they are for LCAS.
Coastal is offering special pricing on the fencing through the end of January. The store is located at 2200 W. 6th Avenue in Eugene.
For more information about LCAS, visit their website.

The American Experience #1

Dining in America is quite the experience. It's no secret that Americans love their food.. and their flavors! No need to focus on just one, over here it's expected that the cooks cram into one dish as many flavors as possible. Sour cream, bacon, melted cheese, jalapenos, hot sauce and gravy all piled on top of, say, biscuits. Bring it on, baby!

But in all honesty, I will miss going out to breakfast.

Jamie and I went to "Ye Old Pancake House" on West 11th last weekend. When you order coffee, you don't get a tiny plastic cup a'la Norway. You get a whole thermos!!

That's the way it should be!!

Also, no need to bug the server to bring you sugar, or extra ketchup. The tables are already stacked with all the condiments you need, including my favorite - green hot sauce!

No wonder I've gained weight over here. Just take a look at what we ate:

It's artery clogging on a plate. Yumm!

Daphne has her forever home!!

I love spending time with doggies. Anyone who knows me, knows how crazy I am about animals. If you have any spare time, I highly recommend using it to help those who cannot speak for themselves. A good start is to check out Lane County Animal Services' website. Here you can find information about becoming a volunteer, see the list of dogs and cats that are currently impounded, or numbers to call if you want to become a foster.

One of my favorite dogs, Daphne, has finally found her forever home. I couldn't be happier. Daphne was always happy to see me, she was all wiggles and smiles, and the sweetest bully mix ever. Just look at here... isn't she a cutie??

Dogs are funny!

This certainly brightened up my night! He he he!

I have many faces....

And these are just some of them.

Things are looking brighter!

....and this is my lunch today! Can you see the improvements?

OK, Burger. I don't want to see you anymore.

Look at this picture of my lunch.... Isn't this the saddest sight?

It's a reminder that I need to get a grip, and start eating healthier!!

I did pretty well last week, and I've decided to go flexitarian - my first step towards a healthier lifestyle. Spinach and stewed tomatoes, here I come!

And this is what it looks like now!

This is the A-block from KVAL News at 11, which was broadcasted 1-4-2010.
As you can see, the look has changed even more.
What do you think?

Newport, Oregon

Freedom?

Disclaimer: I am NOT anti-American. I am anti-ignorance. There are so many things that I like about the US. But ignorance is not on the list.

Since I work in news, I get bombarded with e-mails, newsletters, wire stories and phone calls from both Democrats and Republicans. And to nobody's surprise, the big story right now is the health care reform.

You can read the bill in its entirety here.

Some ultra-right winged conservatives are crying out about euthanasia of the elderly, abortions funded by taxpayers and the end of Medicare as we know it. They use their pentecostal preachings to persuade weak and ignorant minds. They call pro-choice "pro-death" because it allegedly kills babies. I call it a woman's right to choose. No white, middle-aged Republican MAN is ever going to tell me what I can or cannot do with my own body. But going overseas to kill innocent civilians, that's just the price to pay for freedom. What's the difference? Why is killing children in Iraq not frowned upon? I haven't seen one outcry from conservatives on that issue. Doesn't God tell you not to kill? That you should love thy neighbor as yourself? Or have I completely misunderstood? So what's evil about socialized health care? That you have to contribute a little more of your money to ensure the welfare of fellow citizens? Isn't that what love is? Isn't that what Christianity is about? To care for each other?

What baffles my mind is all the God-fearing, Bible-swinging conservatives who keep whining they want their freedom. But they will not allow gay marriages, women's rights to choose, health care for all. So what's this freedom? To live in fear? That's not freedom to me. Some believe that closing the borders and stop all immigration will stop illegal aliens from taking jobs from legal citizens. Well, you know.. as long as there are crooks out there willing to hire underpaid and desperate workers, it will never stop. Maybe you should take a look at yourselves? If nobody would hire them, they wouldn't come here. Also, as long as the US keeps poking their finger into foreign affairs, terror will always be a threat. And keep in mind that the US is not the only target in the world. And what about domestic terrorism? KKK? Workplace shootings? Murder-suicides? Anti-abortion violence?

I want to quote Tom Barret, one of the most insanely ignorant right-wings that keep sending us newsletters from a website called Conservative Truth. In one of his blog posts, he rants that Memorial Day should be about "honoring the men and women who gave their blood so that we could be free". Who's "we"? The Americans? As a European, I am thankful that the US is our ally, and that they helped combat the Nazis during WWII. But I think it's a common misconception that US soldiers need to fight for the Americans to be free. After all, the wars haven't been fought on American soil. And don't forget, that just less than 50 years ago, racial segregation was still legal in the US. As a result, there is still racial bias in many parts of the country. Is this freedom? Is this what God would have wanted?

What I don't understand is the opposition to universal health care. Why this fear? This anger? Nobody is crying out about the need for drivers to have valid automobile insurance, right? Does that limit your coveted "freedom"? I would feel more "free" if I knew I could afford to go to the doctor if I got sick. I've been unemployed before, and not being able to go to the doctor because you simply cannot afford it, is the most restricted feeling I've ever felt! And yes, this is coming from someone who grew up in a country WITH socialized health care. I can tell you this... I can go to whatever doctor or clinic I want. Medications are low cost. If you go to the hospital, you don't have to pay. That's right. We don't need fundraisers in order to get a heart transplant, or a new kidney. Childbirths are free. And we don't get bankrupt if we are unemployed and are unfortunate enough to get cancer or other life-threatening illnesses.

But I do agree in that democratic party leaders should open health care negotiations to C-SPAN cameras, to ensure greater transparency.

Greater knowledge and open discussions would help erase those gray areas that are so often the breeding ground for confusion and misunderstandings.

In the end, only the truth will set you free.

Get your face on for the party!

MIDNIGHT STAR: HOW YOU CAN OUTLAST CINDERELLA
Five Steps to Stay-Put-All-Night Party Make-Up!

Fellow females, it is time to confess; whether it is a best-friend’s wedding, the high school prom, an important date, disco fever on spring break or a New Year’s Eve party – we all want to be the belle of the ball. Weeks before the big event, we spend hours and money on outfits, shoes, hairdressers and makeup – but what is the point if we end up looking like a melting bag of M&Ms before the second dish is served? Everybody knows that beauty comes from within, but sometimes a well-applied makeup that highlights our best features is exactly what it takes to give us that extra boost of confidence which is often needed before a long night of mingling. If you are among those who have to run to the restroom every 30 minutes to matte down a shiny nose, or afraid that the lip gloss covers the glass more than your lips – do not despair. Here is a process of navigating with beauty-tools the way professionals do. Not only will you look stunning as you leave for the party; as you enter your house in the early morning hours you will still shine like a star. And look at it this way – if your long time expectations of the big night out did not fulfill your dreams – you can always tell yourself “at least I looked great!”

Step one: Cleansing. The key to a long lasting yet radiant makeup is the base. Always cleanse and tone your skin before applying a moisturizer. This will calm and soften your skin and prepare it for make-up. If you are among the lucky ones blessed with a normal skin, there are multiple products to choose from. A long time favorite among models and celebs is Dr. Hauschka Moisturizing Day Cream ($28), which is an all-natural holistic cream suitable for normal skin. If you have dry or sensitive skin, go for a calming creme such as Lancome Hydra Zen ($46). Those with oily skins should apply a mattening gel-product that hydrates while it prevents the oil from flooding. Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel ($23) is a good choice. TIP: For extra radiance and illumination, boost your face by applying Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer, available at Sephora ($36). Not only will this fluid make your skin flawless, it will also keep your makeup fresh and concealed all night long. Perfect for those 24 hours party peeps.

Step two: Foundation. This is one of the most crucial phases in the process. There are too many women who either put on too much or choose the wrong color. Remember that less is more, and when scrolling the department store for the perfect foundation, always try it on your cheekbone, not on your hand. If your skin only needs a little hint of color, try Stila Sheer Control Tinted Moisturizer ($34), which will even your skin tone and make it look radiant for hours. For skin that needs more magic, try the new sensational air-brushing foundation from Christian Dior, DiorSkin AirFlash ($60), which has a stay-put and long-lasting guarantee. Simply spray it on and forget about it. Your skin will be velvet-like for the rest of the night. TIP: If you have greasy skin and want to feel extra secure, brush on some translucent powder to keep your skin smooth and matte.

Step three: Concealer. Dark circles? Red spots? Acne? Do not let these buggers ruin your night. Cover up with Dior Skinflash Radiance Booster Pen ($34) and wave those worries good-bye. For more advanced operations, check out Tarte Natural Beauty 7 Piece Natural Complexion Collection - Light ($157 Value), also available at Sephora.

Step four: Eyes. Always start by applying an eye shadow base. It will protect your eyelids and conceal your eye makeup. A good buy is i.d. bareMinerals Multi-Tasking Minerals ($18) from Bare Escentuals. Use it as an eye makeup base, concealer or blush. It contains only fine and natural minerals; it is so pure that you can sleep with it. However, every party princess should be woman enough to remove all makeup before retiring to bed.

Let us move on to the tricky part – eye shadow! No matter which color you choose, always apply the shadow with clean brushes. A good tip is to dab a buff of translucent powder under your eyes; this will catch up excess shadow and prevent it from coloring off onto your perfectly made-up skin. Simply sweep it off when you have finished applying the shadow. If you feel like staying on the all-natural track, follow up with Bare Escentuals Eye Shadow ($12). These 100 % pure mineral shades come in a specter of colors, and should have a suitable option for anyone.

The most important, and often tricky part of the eye makeup is mascara. Do not enter the ball without long silky lashes. Add emphasis to your eyes by lining the contours with NARS Eye Liner Pencil ($18). Use a q-tip dipped in foundation to erase errors if your hand is a little shaky. Next – stretch the lashes with NARS Black Orchid Mascara ($22). Remember to comb the lashes with a lash brush between each application. For a stunning Marilyn-look apply three coats of mascara. My long-time personal fave is Lancome's DÉFINICILS - High Definition Mascara ($24.50),

Step five: Lips and cheeks. Almost there! With the image of a lipstick-covered glass still visible, go for a long-lasting product that will not come off. Try Tarte Rise & Shine Plumping Lip Stain ($21). The color is supposed to last for a minimum of eight hours – while making sure you have the shiniest pout in the crowd. Just remember to go easy on the color if you have chosen to put focus on your eyes. On the other hand, if you have kept the eye area neutral, never underestimate the power of red lips.

The last step is easy; simply smile and brush on the bestselling NARS Blush in Orgasm ($25) on the apple cheeks for that cute, youthful fresh-complexion we all love to hate. Envy no more, this time it will belong to you.

Still feeling pale, you say? If you want to woo the crowd by making an entree a la J-LO, add some faux sunshine by applying Guerlain’s famous Terracotta Bronzing Powder ($46) which is suitable for all skin types. Sweep it over your forehead, nose and cheeks, and you will look like you spent a week in St. Tropez. This product is a must-have for all the glamourinas out there.

Mission completed! You will shine like a star even post midnight. Dance to the rhythms of your life and enjoy a refreshing margarita without any worries. This time the makeup stays on you.

Voodoo Doughnut coming soon!

Good news for doughnut lovers! You don't have to travel all the way to Portland anymore to enjoy a "Dirty Snowball" or "The Memphis Mafia" The coveted pastries will soon be available in Eugene. Portland based Voodoo Doughnut will open a store downtown in April. The exact location will be announced shortly.
What's your favorite doughnut?

Looking back..

When I started producing the 11 news at KVAL, we reinvented the look, pacing and content. We went from a two-anchor show to Denae D'Arcy solo-anchoring. This is what it looked like in the beginning. We've made a lot of changes again since then. What do you think?

Fridge freaks

Without going into much details... let's just say I've come across several "fridge freaks" in recent years. You know, some are obsessed with labeling everything, others that everything needs to be squeaky clean. I don't know, I think there's something so rooted deep inside that if anything seems to be out of order, a trigger goes off. Boom.


When I was in college, my crazy roomie (let's just call her Sue) used to throw my food in the garbage. Throw it! Mind you, I didn't have a car, so I had to walk 10 blocks to the nearest grocery store, and I spent blood and sweat and tears bringing those coveted items back home. And no, I am not a messy person, nor do I keep produce past their prime. Let's just say Sue was crazy (I blame her INSANELY crazy mom for that one) and would all of a sudden start tossing out whatever was not hers in the fridge. WTF?!


At work, we have a very organized system when it comes to the fridge. We have a spy that wants to make sure everything is neatly labeled with the person's name and date of purchase. In case you forget, there is a note on the fridge door reminding you that everything unlabeled and suspicious will be tossed. (OK, I made up the last part).


Even so, there are still brave souls out there that sneak a cup of milk from someone elses jug, or snag that cold can of Coke on stressful days. I admit it, I've been there and done that.


Which brings me to this....


No captions needed here.

If you want to check out more awesome photos, check out this blog .
Now, if you'll excuse me... I have a fridge to raid.

My heart has a hole

Listen to this song.... it's awesome. And it describes how I feel about the loss of my dear Sasha.

Where did all the years go?

Take a look at this. It's me! I can't remember how old I was when this picture was taken... notice the fab 70's tile work in the background. But what has happened since those jolly childhood years in the 80's? Did I turn out the way I was supposed to? Have I made my parents proud? Have I accomplished my goals?

Yes!

Well, aside from a growing debt... unpaid medical bills (Thanks, Blue Cross!), dental bills (I need to stop drinking soda and juice), credit card bills, I think I have it pretty good. Of course, it's been a long and hard way to where I am today.

High school years... don't get me started. In one word: ANGST! In several other words; over-achiever, but not really achieving enough... make-up crisis, soul-searching, longing for that cool guy that was "just not that into me", family drama, friends coming and going, being hurt by loved ones, longing for that "better place", poetry writing, abstract acrylic painting, snowstorms, champagne at 5 am with my best guy friend, pissing off my flute teacher, pissing off my parents, pissing off my friends... being angry with myself. All in all, pretty normal for a teenager. I think for some people, it just takes time growing into oneself. I remember feeling so ugly at times that I just needed to hide. Isn't that sad?

After high school, I went to a make-up artist school in Oslo called "Nordic Institute for Scene and Studio", aka NISS. It was awesome. I learned to do classic make-up, as well as special effects for movies. I did some freelancing, and got gigs doing make-up for two major Norwegian rock bands, Briskeby and D'Sound. If I were smart enough to post you-tube videos here, I will. But for now, give me a rain check on that. The only thing that stopped me from following this career was... a waiting boyfriend back home. Ah, yes. Amore. What was right at that time, doesn't necessarily feel right today, but looking at the bigger picture.. I think all happens for a reason. Besides, I wasn't really THAT into doing make-up anyways. But I still have the experience, and if you want me to do a make-over...anytime, baby. I'm pretty awesome.

Then followed some hard years. I don't really want to go into details about those. Let's just say I spent some time in my hometown, unemployed for a while.... before working as a waitress at the local burger joint. I made some money, yes. But I also spent countless, endless hours faking a smile to drunk assholes that grabbed my butt, asked for my number, and wouldn't leave at closing time. Dream job? Hell no.
I also went to France briefly to work as a nanny. That sounds pretty counter-intuitive, because I am not really fond of kids. Don't get me wrong, I don't mind them. But I am just not one of those "dooby-dooby-dooooooooo" people who just need to tickle them. Work was fine. I stayed with an Iranian-French family, and they had the cutest kids. I learned some French, got to see Perros-Guirec in Bretagne, Rennes, Brest, Saint-Brieuc, Paris...ah, Paris. Such a lovely city. Too bad I didn't get to enjoy it more. I left after a month. It had nothing to do with France, but everything to do with boyfriend drama at home.

But let's fast forward a little. In 2003 I went to Bergen, and enrolled at the university there. What an eye-opener! This is what I had been looking for during my lost years. Academia! Linguistics! Literature! Post-colonial studies! I spent days learning to draw those damn syntactic trees, but in return.. they are now permanently tattooed in my brain. My friend Heidi and I could usually be found at "Kvarteret", discussing in detail the complexity of fortis and lenis, alveolar flapping, morphlogy, bilabial nasals, and our favorite, the glottal stop, and always fueled by those delicious mochas with extra chocolate and whipped cream.
Needless to say, I worked hard in school. I sacrificed sleep, food and movie nights in favor of doing research at the library. I needed those grades in order to snag a spot at the University of Oregon, my main destination. I applied for a scholarship through an exchange program, which means I don't have to pay tuition (yay!), and the cost of travel will be covered by our fantastic government. I still needed to take up a loan though, granted living expenses and school supply expenses would still be paid for out of pocket.

So here I am... in Eugene, Oregon. What was supposed to be a nine month study overseas...turned into over four years of career and immigration turbulence. What's the point in going to the US to study journalism that's culturally, socially and politically tied to the US without actually getting to practice in said country? It's the American Dream, baby! So I needed a job.. and I got it. I also met my wonderful husband here, Jamie. The love of my life.

I am proud of what I have done so far. There are times I wake up in the mornings wondering that the point of it all is. But then I think back. I could have been stuck in a small village in Norway, sans education and working at a factory. Nothing wrong with that. It's just not my cup of tea.

But I feel like it's time to move on. As I am getting older, the need to be close to family surpasses the chase of that perfect job. To be blunt... I love my job. But I am not making any money doing it, which sucks. I could try to relocate here in the US. But I am still a Norwegian, and I miss home. I know that there will be great opportunities no matter where I choose to take this journey. And this time, I am not alone. I have a life partner who's ready to take the plunge with me. Together, we can only grow stronger.

And the list of achievements... will be longer.

A new year..!

Happy New Year!

It's been a while since I last updated my blog. I blame ungodly hours and lack of zzzz's for that. Well, I am back! And I am going to try my best to keep writing in 2010.

I rang in the new year in good company. We enjoyed some free champagne at Agate Alley on East 19th. We made it there just in time to savor some sips before the ball dropped on TV.

Have you made any new year's resolutions yet? 2009 wasn't a very good year for me. I lost my dog, Sasha. It was very hard. I also dealt with some personal issues due to stress, and a bad living situation. Let's just say roomies with guns and rattlesnakes don't blend well with me. I was done with roomies a long time ago. But let's leave all that and the rest where it belongs... in 2009. This is a new year, a new decade. And this year, I will focus on my marriage, my life, my family, my happiness, my career... and teaching my hubby Norwegian! It's time to take the plunge and jump into the future. Consider this a fresh start, a clean slate.