I'm glad I drink Diet...

Do you think congress should implement a tax on non-diet soda? Health agencies seem to think so - they say its a great move to combat America's obesity woes.


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Maybe the kids on Capitol hill could consider a more European approach. The UK utilizes a traffic light food labeling system, that makes it easy for consumers to make sense of all those nutrition facts.

But when it comes down to it, I think the overall approach should be more focused on implementing lifestyle changes rather than creating excise taxes or assuming consumers will make healthier food choices if nutritional content is more comprehensible.

Consumers will most likely continue to pay to "open up happiness," regardless of the proposed 10 cent increase per can. Though, I do wonder - how much would they tax on bottled soda?

To blogging about random things while I should be monitoring Eurovision,
ag.

Czech it out!

I probably made that joke 50 times over the weekend - easily. I traveled to Prague (Praha) in the Czech Republic. Many of my friends from MU studied there in the past, and during my time working in the CAFNR study abroad office everyone said it was one of the most beautiful places they had ever seen. So, I decided that I had to czech it out to see what all the fuss was about. (OK, I will quit the play on word games starting....now)

Five of us from the MLP traveled together. I had never traveled with this group before, but I had a great time with all of them. I feel like we all stood out among the tourists as looking like "Londoners" rather than a group of American students.

Highlights of Praha:

• Amazing accommodations


• Amazing views of the city


• Amazing architecture


• Amazing night life


• Amazing company


• Amazingly cheap - outside of the touristy areas, of course

Obviously the experience as a whole was, amazing. ha

I arrived Friday evening with fellow MU J-kid Mike Bushnell. As soon as we came out of the metro station, I was basically breathless. It was everything I had expected it to be and more. We could see the castle in the distance, WWI era buildings and the Charles Bridge. I was immediately hooked.

After our first dinner experience and walk around old town square we met up with the rest of the MU gang - Adrienne, and Katherine. Pam was meeting us the next morning.

We found our "hostel" and were pleasantly surprised to find out it was actually an apartment. It was so gorgeous - with tons of space, on the first floor, had a hot shower, full sized bed and even a small balcony. About 5 million times better than our flat in London, and about 5 million times cheaper as well.

I had been sick prior to leaving London, so I was definitely dragging around Saturday morning. We walked up to the castle and caught some amazing views of the city. We also walked through the cathedral which had some stunning stained glass.

We stopped for lunch at a random alley up in the high part of the city. The five of us decided to each order a unique Czech dish and then sample each others. Most of it was great - but whipped cream and berry sauce on meat was a little questionable. 

I ordered chicken (of course) and it was topped with a peach, cheese, and gravy. Yes, a little questionable as well.

We ended up meeting up with a group of MU J students who were studying there for the summer. It was great fun seeing some familiar faces and catching up with their lives abroad.

Sunday I took some advice from a friend who had studied there before and went to the park. It was definitely a hike up the hill toward the "Eiffel Tower 2.0," but totally worth it. I stopped along at the orchards and picked cherries off the trees. Sat and took in the landscape and had a ton of time to clear my mind and my sinuses.

My trail took me back along to civilization where I ran into a lovely little cafe. There were only two people sitting in - who owned it. They fixed me a lovely takeaway lunch for only 35 crown (about 2 dollars). We also chatted about life in Prague and my journeys in London. I ended up going back to the castle and seeing a few more parts that we missed the day before. I also got to see some different views of the city and enjoy some beautiful gardens as well.

Although the trip was amazing, the journey home was not the case. Looking back it seems as though God was telling me to stay another day in Praha. I was so sad to be leaving in the first place, but still made my way to the airport. I arrived a little before 5 for my 7 p.m. flight. Upon checking in, I learned the plane was expected to arrive late. It's OK, I thought. I'll probably only have to wait another hour or so, right? False. 6 hours later I was finally on board my return flight. I also experienced what was quite possibly the roughest take of and landing in my flying history.

I was expecting to be back in central London by 9:30 or so. But I didn't end up getting in to Luton until about 11:30. At this point I knew I wouldn't be catching the tube home, since it closes at midnight. No big deal, I'll catch the bus. But first I had to make it through customs. Yeah, not so fun. It took more than an hour. Luckily I had no problems once it was my turn, and I was headed home. But the journey from the airport to my bus stop took about an hour and a half, then waiting for the ever so unreliable N97 at Hyde park corner took quite some time, too. Though - I hardly had any concept of time since my phone died. (Mom and Dad were probably quite worried at this point). Finally the bus comes - but oh, wait yet another road block. The friends I was traveling with accidentally picked up my oyster card when they left Prague, so I was left to pay for my ticket with change - which I only had 1.55. I needed 2 pounds, the driver had no change for the bills I had. Thankfully, he told me to "keep your 1 pound 55," smiled and I was on my way to Hogwarts road. I don't think I was ever as happy to hike up 6-1/2 flights of stairs to our decrepit flat.

At 3:30 I made the call home to my parents that I was alive. I think they were pretty happy. 11-1/2 hours of travelling for the day? Never again SkyEurope. Never again. No wonder it was so cheap!

I think it took a a week before I finally recovered from my journey. I think I'm getting too old for this stuff! But if you ever get the opportunity, I definitely recommend Czeching out fabulous Praha!!

Here's one of my favorite pictures from the trip - a scene from old towne square when I got up to see the sun rise...(so far on this trip I've been successful in seeing a sunrise in each country I've been to)

London Adventures, Cont'd: Prom, Parliament, Markets, Museums and Movies

With only two weeks remaining (tears leak from eye), I've been trying to check off everything from my London to-do list. I, along with my flatmates decided early last week that we would make the next couple of weekends as eventful as possible, and so far, it's been a great success.

My work was slow last week. But the London highlights began on Wednesday on the opening day of Harry Potter 6: The Half-Blood Prince. We had booked tickets from a link one of the other CBS interns had sent me, but it wasn't until Tuesday that we realized we booked tickets for a theater in Leister, England instead of Leister Square in London. Double sadface. But, thankfully we were able to find a theater nearby that wasn't sold out! I had been anticipating seeing the film in London ever since I learned I would be here for the summer - and it was so exciting to see HP6 in the place where it is actually set. And, it was equally as exciting to see familiar scenes in the opening of the film.

Our weekend adventures started with a birthday celebration on Friday. Carla turned 22! I made cupcakes (fairy cakes) and Rachel and I decorated our flat with posters (OK, we scribbled on pieces of notebook paper) and surprised Carla when she returned home. I also had more fun in the kitchen later that evening preparing a Fiesta for all of us, and two of Carla's friends who are also part of the MLP. I'm not going to lie, I definitely reenacted an episode of "Iron Chef" just like my sister and I often do at home. But this time Rachel played the part of sous chef. She was brilliant. But I think everyone else was slightly confused by my stadium kitchen references.

After traveling through the monsoon, we arrived at the Royal Albert Hall for the opening night of the BBC Proms. 

We were all entertained with beautiful orchestra music, and even got to hear two pieces featuring piano (was sooo excited). My favourite performance of the night was two girls who played the piano together. Again, reminded me of my sister. After the concert, four of us headed to the Waxy O'Connor for a low key night of birthday celebration.

On Saturday, April and I headed to the National Portrait Gallery. It was definitely more impressive than I thought I would be. But I confirmed the fact that 1500s paintings of British Nobles just doesn't stimulate me. We had all intentions of visiting Tate Britain, but due to a tube closure on the Victoria Line (Insert April's witty remark here) we decided to hit up Harrod's.
Located in one of London's poshest areas, Knightsbridge, Harrods is 6 floors of utter ridiculousness. They have everything from Prada to Peanuts, Tiffany's to Tea. Although I did imagine that the people inside would be the "poshest of them all" we seemed to fit right in. Our only purchase (and frankly probably the only thing we could afford) was two pieces of cheesecake. That night, we tried to go see "My Sister's Keeper" in some random place south of the river, but proved utterly unsuccessful. Quote from the night by muah, "Oh we're getting close!" April, "Really?" Me, "Well, this stop starts with a 'W'" We were trying to get to Wandsworth, but gave up upon seeing the golden arches at Tooting Broadway. Needless to say, that was the most expensive McDonald's trip I've ever experienced in my life.

Sunday could be titled "April and Abby's day of Weird Looks." We started with a visit to Brick Lane. 

After going through the "grocery" part and buying a bucket of apples for a pound, we found some other interesting areas. Upside-down baby dolls, anyone?

My great find of the day was John Lennon's "Walls and Bridges" album. The record is in great shape and it was the complete package. I am thrilled I have some new posters to add to my collection.

After failed attempts at trying Indian food, April and I went to the South Bank to visit the Design Museum. After having a difficult time finding it, and some questionable exhibits, we decided on heading to Leister Square for Starbucks, an apple, and the movie we had missed the night before. Starbucks was a success, minus the fizzy water I bought on accident and our bag of apples breaking a rolling everywhere. The movie was also great. Although, if you've read the book, you're in for some surprises. As April said it best, "I'm sure Jodi Picoult is out there somewhere, really pissed off right now."

The Reubster gave us the day off from class Monday, so I tackled some more items. First was Tate Britain. It had some great contemporary galleries, and tons of historic British Paintings. I really enjoyed one of their special exhibits where the artist used random newspapers he found and turned the pictures from the articles into fabulous landscapes.

After that I was off for my special seat in Parliament. I had emailed my local MP, Sir Malcolm Rifkind and as a "resident" I was granted a reserved seat without waiting in the queue. It was so interesting to see the differences between the ins and outs of this government compared to what I've covered back home. In British Parliament there is a lot more glamour that would you would see. There was a grand procession for the speaker to enter into the House of Commons, and you won't see any MPs wearing bolos - the doormen all wear Tuxes. Everything seemed a lot more structured as well. Everyone knew what was going on, when someone had the floor or was making an inquiry, EVERYONE was listening. However, humor was evident just as in the chambers of the Missouri statehouse. I guess in politics you have to make some moments lighthearted in order to survive grueling sessions.

Topics of debate yesterday included the switch from analog to DTV, the 2012 Olympics and Swine Flu. British Health Secretary Andy Burnham made a huge announcement during the session. The NHS is launching a new website and hot line for swine flu. It sparked inquires for more than an hour, and however stimulating it was, I decided an hour of hearing advice on how to prevent getting the virus was enough. It was bringing back many memories of the day I attended Gov. Nixon's press conference when we learned of the first case in Missouri. He mentioned how it was OK to "go home and eat pork steak for dinner." Oh the joys of covering MO govt.

It's looking to be another low key week, filled with lots of London weather, movies from Maggie's work, and other TRLA's.

Random London Thoughts on a Rainy Night

Lately, I feel it's been a constant battle against Flat 5. Every morning begins with a guessing game of whether our shower will be scalding hot or freezing cold, whether I'll hit the hair dryer rotation just right, or whether or not I'll get to the bottom of 6-1/2 flights of stairs and realize I've forgotten something.

To say the least, living in such close quarters (and in such undesirable conditions) has definitely taken it's toll on each of us in Flat 5. And I must admit that I have voiced complaints to my other flatmates, my mother and the extremely tolerant IE staff. But it's nights like tonight that I realize how much I will miss living here - uneven floors included.

It's hard to imagine not hearing the sound of the tube running behind our flat, sharing food so we can manage to fit a days worth of groceries in our fridge, and the frequent pitter patter of the rain on our cracked "skylight."

In three and a half weeks, these will all be mere afterthoughts of my amazing summer in London. It's only now that I realize these tiny annoyances are actually elements to appreciate.

A day in the life

Yesterday I went in to work still hopeful that I may be the lucky intern selected to go to the Harry Potter 6 premiere. Upon arriving, however, I learned that was not the case and instead would be following the Michael Jackson saga. Still?

I was a little upset, but followed the advice my favorite professor gave me before I left, "Roll with the punches." I went out to interview Sarfraz Mansoor, a music journalist. The interview is going to be used in a piece about Iconic Funerals - and putting MJ's into perspective with those of the past.

Back in the bureau, I learned I would be heading out to the o2 Theater in North Greenwich. This is where MJ's 50 part concert series was to take place. This was not a publicly announced event, but crowds gathered to watch the memorial on a big screen outside the theater. When they handed me their "lame" camera, I was thrilled - it was just like the ones we use at KOMU. Hellooo Sony HDXD - oh how I've missed you! To be able to go out with a camera, shoot video and interview people was such a blessing. Despite the torrential downpours, I was glad to be out in the field again - and finally felt like I was contributing to the newsroom. A correspondent in L.A. ended up using some of my material in his piece. Check out this video to see the my footage from London at the end. 

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Yeah, I'm proud to be an American

Most of my flatmates were out of the country on the weekend of the 4th, but Carla and I enjoyed beautiful weather and good company in Londontown. I was definitely feeling a little homesick on Saturday - since each year the 4th is usually a time when my entire family gets together and enjoys fireworks and bbq, but thankfully the beautiful weather and new friends made the holiday in London one to remember.

I actually spent the day exploring Piccidilly Circus and Soho. I randomly stumbled upon a huge Gay Pride parade. When I popped out of the tube station I definitely was not expecting to see a party in Piccidilly. There were thousands of people, drag queens and apparrently By George even made an appearance.

I took quite a few pics with my Cannon 35 mm. Hopefully those will turn out!

After all that mayhem, I decided to walk along the South Bank. I went from Parliament all the way to Tower Bridge.

Then it was time to show off my American pride.

I met with Carla in Green Park to join friends she met in Ireland the week before. Although our plans to BBQ were shut down by a "rent a cop" park patrolman (500 pound fine for open flames in the park? I think not). But it didn't but a damper on our celebration. We still enjoyed burgers (from the inside grill) and even a flag cake - just like the one we make every year at home! I was pretty excited.

We decided to pay a visit to the Waxy O'Connor, a bar near Piccidilly. They were having an American night - complete with fiddle players, american flag balloons, and lots of ABBA and MJ music. Of course, I carried my mini American flag around with me all night. Yeah, I'm proud :)

Oopah! My Big Fat Greek Getaway

Can I just say the word MAGICAL? Yes, my friends, Greece was indeed magical. In short there was a good mixture of good and bad experiences, but I wouldn't trade any of it for the world. 

The Good:  

• Flights:  B-e-a-u-tiful scenes flying in to Mykonos. The sun was rising, and we were on a very small jet, with Chocolate Croissants to boot. 
• Cab rides:  We finally settled on taking a cab, and once we all piled in the back seat literally sitting on each other's laps, we began our Nascar-like excursion to Paradise Beach. Our driver pumped up the volume on our favourite European techno dance music, and went faster and faster as we went through the narrow winding roads. Do I need to mention again that this was around 7 a.m.? 
• Paradise Beach - crystal clear blue water, SUN, beautiful men, diving off rocks and beachy drinks (peach juice, anyone?)
• Gyro Pitas:  Only 2.50 euro and legit Greek cuisine. Filling too. The man who made them told me every day, "I will make it special, just for you." 

• My girls:  A weekend with my girls Maggie, Rachel and April was much needed. We all know how to have fun, and spending several days relaxing on the beach was incredible. 

• The Acropolis (ακρόπολη):  OK, I'm a huge Greek mythology nerd, so it was so satisfying to finally see this place. Again - MAGICAL. We rolled into Athens late on Sunday night and were able to see the Parthenon lit up. The next day we hiked to the top (sweat, anyone?) and ventured around. Although there was a ton of construction, it was everything I dreamed it would be. 

The bad:

• Flights:  on our first layover in Athens, we had to check in again - only to experience people butting in line, prompting cursing all around us. If I knew any Greek swear words I probably would've joined in. 
• Cab ride:  Albeit it was a blast, but I was definitely clutching on to the back seat for dear life. A tad scary. 
• Paradise Beach:  Cold water, Men who know they're beautiful (uh hem, silly lifeguard doing pull-ups in front of everyone like it's in his job description), cuts on my feet from the reefs.
• Gyro Pitas:  OK, we ate these freakin' things every day. Yeah, they're amazing and cheap, but can a girl get some real food here (that doesn't cost an arm and a leg and have questionable ingredients?)
• Acropolis:  I'm not sure if it is always that crowded, but when we were going through the Propylaea, I was pushed and touched by hundreds of sweaty, hairy tourists. Ahh it was still worth it though. 

The Experience as a whole:  

• Paradise Beach:  amazing, but it definitely took an open mind. Between our "cabins," Italian men wearing diapers, and some obscene behaviour, I don't think it would be ideal for everyone. But I thought it made the weekend one of the best in my life. 

• Athens in general:  We stayed in a horrible part of the city (where the cops even made me feel unsafe), we went to the wrong hotel (who knew there was a difference between the "Amyrillis Hotel" and the "Amyrillis Hotel Inn?" I also had an interesting personal experience on the Metro (perhaps the most uncomfortable moment of my life). But when considering all the history and amazing things I was able to see, it was again, an experience that makes the weekend one of the best in my life. 
• Cats: EVERYWHERE! Seriously, the Greeks would do well to take Bob Barker's advice. I can't tell you how many times we sat down to eat, then POOF there's a stray feline begging for your scraps. Nasty. 

 MEOW

So, after writing that, I hope I don't sound too cynical in many of the aspects of the trip. I'm merely trying to get a laugh out of our more "interesting" experiences. But overall, the time in Greece was too short, and I only hope that some day I can return!

"Real World" Journalism

As my loyal followers have probably read, I went on a shoot last week to interview Robert Kraft. The dirt on this shoot: Kraft was in London promoting the NFL's move to schedule a regular season game in London each year - in which the N.E. Patriots will play. Kraft showed us the Jersey Sir Elton agreed to wear during his appearance at the game. Also cool that I was able to see the championship ring up close and personal. Can I say BLING BLING?

While in Greece this weekend, we randomly heard the news of MJ's death. At first we actually doubted our fellow American news bearers. After all - how would this news be discovered on some remote island? But a phone call later from my mother confirmed the rumors.

On Tuesday were doing 3 different interviews with Quincy Jones, who is responsible for jump starting MJ's solo career. We were setting up a "Live" interview with Harry Smith, and filming interviews covering two different topics for 48 Hours and 60 Minutes.

Mr. Jones was phenomenal. He was very warm and kind, and even when asked the toughest questions that he specifically said he did not want to discuss, he was graceful in his objections. It was amazing to me - being in the presence of a man who had such an influence on the music industry, and particularly hearing his experiences in crafting the pop star we were all mourning.

Here's the clip that aired yesterday morning. Though it cuts off at the end, just when it was getting to the best part...


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At one point when we were in between interviews, he and the photographer (a nice Scott Lad, Andy Stephenson) began discussing world travels. This man is SO educated and knowledgeable about the world - he's brilliant. But the most humorous part of the discussion revolved around Haggis, where Andy kindly revealed the "non tourist" explanation of what the Scottish dish actually is. Needless to say, if I travel there, I will NEVER - I repeat NEVER try it. I will trust Quincy's observation that it is indeed, horrible.

I won't say much else about the interview for the entire world to read, but I will be willing to share my insights with friends if interested. I will, however mention one quote I found particularly beautiful. Quincy was talking about his own childhood, and how many parts of it mirrored Michael's. He was talking about how he grew up in a very dodgy area.

Basically he said the problem with many people (and perhaps MJ) is that they are ultimately a product of their own environment. He was around guns and violence and that's what he wanted - to be a gangster. He paused and said,

"Thank God I ended up finding a piano."

Yes Mr. Jones, thank God. And thank you for sharing all of your wonderful musical gifts with the rest of the world.