Happy Birthday Tara!

My sister, Tara, turns 38 in a few days. We are 2 years apart, though honestly, I more often than not feel like the younger sibling. I'm considered to be the “fragile” one in the family. My sister is the strong one. And not just mentally, she could also physically kick my ass!

Tara--Rider super-fan and Toronto Maple Leaf freak

Because there is only a 2 year difference between us, we spent a significant part of our childhood together. I had one hell of an awesome childhood and that, in part, is because of my sister. Whether it was playing school, playing Barbies or the endless hours spent outside in the backyard we always had fun. She was the first person I applied make-up on (I thought it looked amazing but Mom didn't think the bright turquoise eye-shadow was appropriate for an 8 year old) and the person I made chocolate chip cookie batter with...just to eat (and man did we get sick)! We would dance and sing to 45's (records for those who are too young) on our jukebox in the basement and ride our bikes up and down the block. In fact, I am pretty sure I was the first person she drove over while riding her tricycle like a maniac at warp speed. Oh and while I am at it, the maniac also murdered our Barbie, Julia, by throwing her into the middle of the street in front of oncoming traffic. But, I digress.

The Sook Sisters

As we have grown up, my sister has been a huge support to me, especially last year when I was sick. To this day I don't know where I would have ended up without her guidance and unwavering positive encouragement. Her ability to care for people is second to none. She is one of those rare people who would give the shirt of her back if someone needed it.

We've had our differences over the years but, at the end of the day, my sister is truly my best friend. She knows me better than anyone and has been with me through thick and thin. She gives me tough love when I need it and puts me in my place when I deserve it.

So, to the best sister a girl could ask for....I wish you a very Happy Birthday! I hope this is your best year yet. You have earned it...and you deserve it.

You know you love me,

Stacey xo

The Hate Mail Has Arrived!

So, I have received my first “hate mail” regarding my blog. Whooo hooo! It was from a total stranger and wow...she ripped me a new one! I was thinking about pasting it in it's entirety in this post but decided that the writer doesn't deserve a public forum. This woman (and judging from her email I use the term very loosely) called me pathetic, self-loathing and insecure. Oh. Your. God...my spirit is crushed. I must phone and make an emergency therapy appointment immediately!

It seems the trigger for this hissy fit was my blog on Spring where I suggest that there are only 2 women on the planet who can/should wear “booty shorts”. She said I was (and I quote) “shaming fat people”. What? Where in that blog did I say anything negative about overweight people? There are tons of girls with kick-ass bodies and I still don't think they should wear booty shorts! They are ugly, cheap looking and a crime against fashion! And, why the hell would I make those struggling with weight my target when I have had my own struggles?

Let's get one thing straight. My blog is solely based on my personal opinions and how I see things. I do not set out to personally offend anyone, ever. If that does happen? Well, there's nothing I can do about it. Some people are just overly sensitive and you know what? If you don't like what I have to say? Don't read my blog! Simple as that.

I can't begin to tell you how much shit I don't agree with every single day. Sometimes I voice my opinion, sometimes I think it best to keep my mouth shut. But, I ALWAYS respect the opinions of others. I mean really...wouldn't life be boring if we all had the same views?

Bottom line: I am not going to censor myself or apologize for my opinions. Ever.

“I am who I am and I say what I think.”-Eminem 

Oh yes...you KNOW you love me,

Stacey xo

FUCK censorship