You want to see a movie, but have no one to go with. What do you do? Go alone!
Alone as a word sounds so scary and lonely. Change your perspective and it becomes wildly freeing. Because being alone and doing activities that you enjoy solo is not only fun, it can be a learning experience. This learning experience doesn't have to come about from a trip you took to Southeast Asia "to find yourself" it can be from that time you smuggled in a salad to the theatre after yoga to see This is the End. By hanging out with you, yourself and I, you get to experience how awesome you are and how much you enjoy your own company! Sometimes we all need a little reminder of what makes us who we are in this big world and sometimes we also need to touch base with who we are in this moment in time. And yet other times all of our friends are busy or being annoying and so you are left with no other options than to get breakfast by your damn self, a rather wonderful experience because you don't have to split your pancakes WITH ANYONE, NO ONE ELSE GETS THEM!
You don't have to think about doing things with a party of one in the deep theme of learning about who you are blah blah, if you don't want. That's really only part of the equation. I think the larger more exciting reason to bite the bullet and adventure with only you as your companion is because 1. it is a blast 2. you are an exceptional human being and 3. no one is holding you back from doing what you want to do!
I've always enjoyed solitude, but haven't always been confident enough to go out and do activities that you generally associate with the need for a companion.
It all started when I studied abroad in London. I had so many things I wanted to see and do and moments I wanted to enjoy and reflect upon that a lot of time I found it easier to do this stuff on my own. Although, my alone time may have originated out of necessity, it quickly became an important development in my life.
Things really changed when I moved away to grad school. Again I was placed in a new situation with a big ass to-do list of sites, sounds and smells I wanted to revel in and revel I did. Instead of being intimidated by doing things alone in a new city I was unfamiliar with, I found it more comfortable to explore Hans Solo because it felt wild and independent and grown up. And these thoughts drove my experiences. The more I do things alone, the more comfortable I am with the feeling and the more I let myself truly embrace my friendship with me! It's cool dudes, very cool. I would say come join me sometime, but that is really opposite to what I am advocating here. Go be by yourself and we can be by ourselves together!
Doing movies, museums, coffee shops, bookstores, etc. on my own feels like a breeze now. It took me a while to get there, for sure, but now that I've made it, I want to push my limits even more. Over the last few months I traveled to Europe alone (!) and went to a baseball game with JUST ME. Both of these feats felt like I had conquered the world. In those moments, I was like the original gangsta. I AM the original gangsta and you can be too!
Does it not hurt that I am single with no loving male companion to accompany me on trips that would fit quite nicely with a boyfriend? The answer is YES, but I don't like to think of a life that means having a boyfriend is synonymous with having no alone time, because that is terrifying. I am embrace my singledom! She says meekly standing in a corner alone at a party slurping down glasses of wine. No really, I do, for the most part. However, when I do enter into a super great relationship, it shall be known from the getgo that Hans Solo time is a part of who I am and needs to stay around. And I will encourage my Charlie Hunnam look - a - like boyfriend to partake in his own alone time activities as well. We will both benefit from it. And then we will get married and have a fabulous life, so there everyone!
Maybe all this alone nonsense is old news to you. Maybe you dine solo five nights a week.
But for those of you who think this all sounds disgustingly unappetizing, those of you who call everyone in your phone book to see the new Fast and Furious movie with you (Is it like the 17th one or something? Not, just kidding and trying to look cool. I know definitively there have only been 6 and each one has their own merits), give yourself a run for your money! Being alone can be delicious.
Seriously, just do it. You'll understand how independent you can be and how much you like your own company...I hope. If not, call your bestie STAT!
Sunday, August 25, 2013
Sunday, August 4, 2013
Big city loving
Adjusting to living in a big city can be interesting and a bit of a culture shock. I've had a few longer term experiences with urban city life, but nothing real until I moved to Washington, DC about a year ago. Since move in day I've noticed some big themes.
1. Finding your keys
You're always carrying 3 bags at once and have to dig mercilessly through mounds of your belongings just to find your freaking keys. They are so coy and hide from you. You have to search for them like you do for the Dorito with the most seasoning. Oh and also, usually you have to pee so you're squirming around outside of your apartment door, clawing for your keys, deep breathing, telling yourself NO I WILL NOT PEE MY PANTS and really hoping that what you're telling yourself is true. You find your keys, you open the door, you drop all your shit and run to the bathroom. And you promise yourself that from here on out you will put your keys in that perfect little side pocket in your purse so they are always easily accessible. But, it all happens again the next day.
You're always carrying 3 bags at once and have to dig mercilessly through mounds of your belongings just to find your freaking keys. They are so coy and hide from you. You have to search for them like you do for the Dorito with the most seasoning. Oh and also, usually you have to pee so you're squirming around outside of your apartment door, clawing for your keys, deep breathing, telling yourself NO I WILL NOT PEE MY PANTS and really hoping that what you're telling yourself is true. You find your keys, you open the door, you drop all your shit and run to the bathroom. And you promise yourself that from here on out you will put your keys in that perfect little side pocket in your purse so they are always easily accessible. But, it all happens again the next day.
2. Dirty, dirty
So, big cities are generally pretty dirty which is a shame, especially in the summer because it gets REALLY smelly (not so much in DC, but NYC stanks). And with the filth brings the rats and the trash and the smells and the bugs and just the all around nastiness. Pretty gross, but this dirtiness aspect is one of the easiest things to get used to, probably because I hold on tightly to my naivety that those little creatures rustling in the bushes and scampering across the alleyway are simply night loving squirrels! Not rats, you guys, never rats. Unless you're a germaphobe just don't think about all the grime and you'll be alright.
So, big cities are generally pretty dirty which is a shame, especially in the summer because it gets REALLY smelly (not so much in DC, but NYC stanks). And with the filth brings the rats and the trash and the smells and the bugs and just the all around nastiness. Pretty gross, but this dirtiness aspect is one of the easiest things to get used to, probably because I hold on tightly to my naivety that those little creatures rustling in the bushes and scampering across the alleyway are simply night loving squirrels! Not rats, you guys, never rats. Unless you're a germaphobe just don't think about all the grime and you'll be alright.
3. Walking everywhere
This is my favorite change of all time. I don't think I'll ever be able to go back. I only sometimes want to complain about this, like when it is 98 degrees out with 100% humidity or when I want to redeem my groupon for $30 worth of pies, but have to use it all at one time and don't know if I can handle that many pies without a vehicle. Other than that, I am super happy! Walking gives you time to think about your life, to listen to great music, to catch up on audiobooks or podcasts and to potentially run into your Prince Charming. Points for the fact that it burns calories and keeps you moving too!
This is my favorite change of all time. I don't think I'll ever be able to go back. I only sometimes want to complain about this, like when it is 98 degrees out with 100% humidity or when I want to redeem my groupon for $30 worth of pies, but have to use it all at one time and don't know if I can handle that many pies without a vehicle. Other than that, I am super happy! Walking gives you time to think about your life, to listen to great music, to catch up on audiobooks or podcasts and to potentially run into your Prince Charming. Points for the fact that it burns calories and keeps you moving too!
4. People. PEOPLE ALL THE TIME.
I generally like people. But not when they are everywhere I turn, breathing loudly, grazing into me, WALKING SLOWLY. My anger towards these public offenders has been sort of muted because I live in the nation's capital, meaning there are always tourists and various visitors. I've had to learn to deal with people all the time everywhere always. It's taken some serious meditation and deep breathing on my part. Maybe if slow walkers did some deep breathing of their own and changed their ways the world would be a better place?
I generally like people. But not when they are everywhere I turn, breathing loudly, grazing into me, WALKING SLOWLY. My anger towards these public offenders has been sort of muted because I live in the nation's capital, meaning there are always tourists and various visitors. I've had to learn to deal with people all the time everywhere always. It's taken some serious meditation and deep breathing on my part. Maybe if slow walkers did some deep breathing of their own and changed their ways the world would be a better place?
5. Public transit...more people
This goes along with the walking and the people. I don't love public transportation, even though the DC metro is pretty great. We all have our horror stories, but at the end of the day the massive and intricate public transportation systems that big cities have are pretty impressive and I am grateful for them. Respect.
This goes along with the walking and the people. I don't love public transportation, even though the DC metro is pretty great. We all have our horror stories, but at the end of the day the massive and intricate public transportation systems that big cities have are pretty impressive and I am grateful for them. Respect.
6. Lack of personal green space
This one bums me out a lot, a lot because I've been spoiled with such a beautiful garden my mom maintains at home! Flowers and grass and bushes and herbs and trees are happy things. Gardens are special places and some of my favorite spots of serenity in the world (Hello, Kensington Gardens!). Hell, I'd take a measly green bush on my concrete rooftop. DC is full of squares that are kind of like parks and if one plans correctly, one can claim a corner all one's own, ignoring all the PEOPLE moseying around. (Can I get a high five for my commitment to sticking with using "one"?)
This one bums me out a lot, a lot because I've been spoiled with such a beautiful garden my mom maintains at home! Flowers and grass and bushes and herbs and trees are happy things. Gardens are special places and some of my favorite spots of serenity in the world (Hello, Kensington Gardens!). Hell, I'd take a measly green bush on my concrete rooftop. DC is full of squares that are kind of like parks and if one plans correctly, one can claim a corner all one's own, ignoring all the PEOPLE moseying around. (Can I get a high five for my commitment to sticking with using "one"?)
While some of these adjustments have taken time, I'm a fan of big city living and wouldn't change it for the world. So many options, so much excitement, so much fun!
Saturday, August 3, 2013
A love letter to comedy
Ah ye comedy, you make me laugh and only ever make me cry from laughing so hard. You make my heart sing and my head hurt from loud mouthed giggles. You are ever present, because the beauty is that you can be used (not used in a "I'm using you for your access to movie theatre popcorn because you work at AMC" kind of way, more like utilized and respected) in any situation.
Comedy, I love you. Like for real, I really love you.
Through good times and bad you've stuck with me. From All That to Wayne's World to SNL to Superbad to Bridesmaids. I can highlight monumental moments in my life with your presence. Like chocolate, you are always there to make me smile. My most supportive friend. Thanks!
Why do I like you so much you ask? Because you bring lightness to life:
Fall down the stairs in a dress while wearing a thong flashing the Prince of England (Prince Harry, because William isn't as cute and he's very off the market)? Laugh it off.
Realize you've been talking to your crush with spinach in your teeth and oppressive garlic breath? Let's just laugh about that one.
Accidentally hit reply all on that super hilarious gif about loving wine to every single staff member at work? Hahaha is the best remedy.
Catch your reflection while doing a random belly dancing cardio workout you found on your tv on a Saturday night and realize you have literally NO rhythm? That's funny, right?
Fall down the stairs in a dress while wearing a thong flashing the Prince of England (Prince Harry, because William isn't as cute and he's very off the market)? Laugh it off.
Realize you've been talking to your crush with spinach in your teeth and oppressive garlic breath? Let's just laugh about that one.
Accidentally hit reply all on that super hilarious gif about loving wine to every single staff member at work? Hahaha is the best remedy.
Catch your reflection while doing a random belly dancing cardio workout you found on your tv on a Saturday night and realize you have literally NO rhythm? That's funny, right?
While these aren't life threatening issues, you comedy, keep me present in perspective. You save me from the doldrums, because when I remove myself from the utter terror of the situation I realize life is pretty damn funny.
But the cool thing about you is you're also there to make the good times brighter! Channeling Tina Fey, quoting Parks and Rec and laughing at stupid informercials (Have you seen the one about the weird ice pillow? I'm equal parts curious and creeped out), you make the days so much more fun.
I can't live without you! Never leave me! Everyday you are in my life is a good day. Let's keep laughing together, comedy, you crazy thing. I promise to stay starry eyed for you, if you promise to keep the good times coming.
I can't live without you! Never leave me! Everyday you are in my life is a good day. Let's keep laughing together, comedy, you crazy thing. I promise to stay starry eyed for you, if you promise to keep the good times coming.
Sunday, July 7, 2013
Being Selfish
There have been two notable times in the recent past when a moment of realization occurred to make me think, "Woah! I'm so selfish!" and then I feel bad and vow that I will make real adjustments to be more compassionate to others and to stop thinking about my damn self for like 5 minutes.
The first time I had this realization, I was chilling post hot yoga thinking about how much my ass just got kicked and seriously wondering how my body can produce that much sweat. Amid these existential thoughts, I suddenly got body checked by a new thought: STOP THINKING ABOUT YOURSELF! Spread the love to others girlfriend, because this all you all the time is getting a little boring. So then I obviously called my mom and relayed to her this story and happily proclaimed "Ok, I'm going to focus on other people now. I'll call you back when I'm Mother Theresa." Then I probably went back to wondering how many calories I had just burned in that yoga class and if people would notice if I didn't wash my hair...
The other time I got slapped in the face by my own selfishness was on the day the DOMA (Defense of Marriage Act) was ruled on. For those of you who don't know, this was a super exciting time and a really historic day. SCOTUS had basically said, yes! marry who you want. One step closer to free love and equality. Awesome, right? And I was excited! This was good. I want everyone to be happy! Now even more people can have weddings that I'm jealous of and that I try not to be bitter about.
I get into work that day and log onto gchat and start CHATTING with friends. It's lovely, everyone is all OMG yes the Supreme Court is on the right side of history etc. and I'm like right on! Then I catch a glimpse of my reflection in my computer screen and gasp! My hair, it's terrible. That decision I made not to wash my hair was a bad one (the amount of internal dialogue I have with myself on if I should wash my hair or not is at astoundingly high levels). Clearly, I should have washed it because I was the definition of a bad hair day. I immediately gchat my friend and say something along the lines of: "TERRIBLE HAIR DAY IS ME RIGHT NOW. UGH. LIFE." Then three seconds later my brain wakes up and realizes: Shit you're selfish. Your mind should be on yay gay marriage. And it totally should have been because it would have been a better reflection of what I cared about in that moment. I just got sidetracked.
And this was the second time of late I realized that I have the tendency to ere on the side of self-involvement.
I swear I want to be better and less all me all the time, but I can't truthfully sit here and write to you that since these two instances I haven't thought about myself the majority of the time. Blah, lame I know. But, I CAN say that I'm trying and I think there has been some marked improvements.
It's hard not to think of yourself all the time, especially when things are going pretty ok in your life. You have the time, the capacity and the resources to really dig deep and focus on me time. And our culture puts a lot of emphasis on self-improvement, on what YOU can do to make YOURSELF better. It's"me" and "I" all day errday. Also, it's pretty fun to think about yourself all the time. I've got no husband (womp womp), I've got no kids, I've got me myself and I. This environment is ripe with the opportunity to turn inward and be all consumed with yourself. Maybe some people are more predisposed to be selfish or adversely selfless (what a concept!), but I think the issue of self involvement is something that most people could inspect in their lives and see if some improvements could be made.
A lot of the changes I've tried to start putting into play daily are pretty contingent on generally just being a nicer person. Smiling at people more, saying thank you genuinely and making eye contact when you say it, giving up my seat on the metro, consciously being the first to say "how are YOU?". Being aware is one of the biggest steps to making positive changes in your life, as I've been led to believe by some pretty epic inspirational quotes (a little bit of an obsession of mine). So when I catch myself being consumed by petty thoughts that revolve only around myself, I take a deep breath and shift my focus to something else or someone else.
It sounds corny, but almost every morning I try to set an intention of being a bright, sparkly light to happiness for other people during that day. Do I achieve that goal a lot of the time? Hell no. Am I a lousy person a lot of the time? Yeah, probably. Seriously, just ask my mom. She talks to me everyday and most times gets off the phone thinking SPAWN OF SATAN! But the point here is that I try. And if trying gets me inches closer to success of being less selfish and more compassionate towards others, doesn't that basically equate to me hitting a life homerun? AGAIN WITH ME THE ME TALK!
The takeaway point is to simply make a commitment to be nicer, more compassionate and less self involved in the hopes that you can make someone's day out there. Don't stop being you, just stop thinking about you so much. And by you, I mean me because you all are perfect and awesome.
Thursday, July 4, 2013
Some thoughts on Independence Day
Happy Fourth of July you American assholes! I am American so I'm very much referring to myself as an asshole, don't be offended.
Today marks the day that we cut ties from the hotiy toity British and were like HEY I WANNA RUN MY OWN KINGDOM THAT ISN'T REALLY A KINGDOM MORE LIKE A NATION BASED UPON FREEDOM. On July 4th 1776 Amurica penned the Declaration of Independence and said see ya suckers to our oppressors across the pond. And now, here we are today celebrating this momentous historical day with really weird traditions. Can we all just pause for a second and realize how weird holiday traditions are? Like why do gingerbread cookies exist? I'm ecstatic they do! But why? Christmas traditions are for another time and place though, we're here to talk about Independence Day in the good ol' U S of A!
First off, hotdogs. I'm sitting outside at a cafe writing this on July 4th in our nation's capitol and continue to get wafts of hotdog smell. My mouth is watering uncontrollably. But why are these sodium filled penis shaped cured meats a staple of the 4th of July? Does it have something to do with the fact declared in Superbad that foods shaped like dicks are the best kinds? Probably because the truth in this statement is clearly undeniable.
Then there are fireworks which to me are pretty fantastical. How do they work? How does something you set on fire shoot up in the air and depict bright designs in the night sky? What is the science behind this! Who thought it would be cool to shoot colored shit off into the sky really loudly? This seems like a big F YOU to everyone who has ever messed with America. And I dig it. What better way is there to be like excuse me! I'm here and I am the world's leading superpower than setting off fireworks on the holiday of our independence?
Also, parades. Am I the only one who thinks parades are kind of the worst? What's the point? Maybe this is because crowds are a thing of hell to me, but it seems especially bad on the 4th because it is in the thick of the summer. Heat, sweat, smelly bodies, stickiness. GAG STOP, NO! You're standing for like 3 hours to see people drive past you on floats that usually aren't that impressive. I've only really been to local parades which don't have the budget or the starpower to take parading over the top so I can't vouch for really big name parades, but those big name parades are so crowded anyways you have no chance of getting a good spot to wave at a pageant queen or something like that! So yeah, I'll leave the parade watching to my fellow Americans.
This is pretty much me on July Fourth. I enjoy celebrating things immensely and especially enjoy a day centered around hotdogs and commemorating why I have a wonderful life full of freedom to be who I want when I want. Thanks America! You're the best! Keep being magnificent you! I'm your national anthem.
But mostly this day is worth it because it gives you a reason to play "Party in the USA" on repeat.
Today marks the day that we cut ties from the hotiy toity British and were like HEY I WANNA RUN MY OWN KINGDOM THAT ISN'T REALLY A KINGDOM MORE LIKE A NATION BASED UPON FREEDOM. On July 4th 1776 Amurica penned the Declaration of Independence and said see ya suckers to our oppressors across the pond. And now, here we are today celebrating this momentous historical day with really weird traditions. Can we all just pause for a second and realize how weird holiday traditions are? Like why do gingerbread cookies exist? I'm ecstatic they do! But why? Christmas traditions are for another time and place though, we're here to talk about Independence Day in the good ol' U S of A!
First off, hotdogs. I'm sitting outside at a cafe writing this on July 4th in our nation's capitol and continue to get wafts of hotdog smell. My mouth is watering uncontrollably. But why are these sodium filled penis shaped cured meats a staple of the 4th of July? Does it have something to do with the fact declared in Superbad that foods shaped like dicks are the best kinds? Probably because the truth in this statement is clearly undeniable.
Then there are fireworks which to me are pretty fantastical. How do they work? How does something you set on fire shoot up in the air and depict bright designs in the night sky? What is the science behind this! Who thought it would be cool to shoot colored shit off into the sky really loudly? This seems like a big F YOU to everyone who has ever messed with America. And I dig it. What better way is there to be like excuse me! I'm here and I am the world's leading superpower than setting off fireworks on the holiday of our independence?
Also, parades. Am I the only one who thinks parades are kind of the worst? What's the point? Maybe this is because crowds are a thing of hell to me, but it seems especially bad on the 4th because it is in the thick of the summer. Heat, sweat, smelly bodies, stickiness. GAG STOP, NO! You're standing for like 3 hours to see people drive past you on floats that usually aren't that impressive. I've only really been to local parades which don't have the budget or the starpower to take parading over the top so I can't vouch for really big name parades, but those big name parades are so crowded anyways you have no chance of getting a good spot to wave at a pageant queen or something like that! So yeah, I'll leave the parade watching to my fellow Americans.
This is pretty much me on July Fourth. I enjoy celebrating things immensely and especially enjoy a day centered around hotdogs and commemorating why I have a wonderful life full of freedom to be who I want when I want. Thanks America! You're the best! Keep being magnificent you! I'm your national anthem.
But mostly this day is worth it because it gives you a reason to play "Party in the USA" on repeat.
Wednesday, June 12, 2013
She's the Man
In the midst of all this craziness surrounding Amanda Bynes and her blonde wig, I thought it might be nice to look back on the positives of her career. I really have no commentary on her emotional state or her Twitter wars, but I do have commentary on one of my favorite movies of all time...
She's the Man!
For those of you who have seen the movie and are fans, yay! I love you. Let's be friends and quote the movie together: "My favorite's gouda!" And for those of you who are not fans -- GET OUT OF HERE! Not really, I'm here to respectfully convince you to change your mind.
She's the Man is a loose adaption of Shakespeare's Twelfth Night. A sister pretends to be her brother, there are romantic entanglements, Shakespeare is quoted, the same names from the play are used and that's pretty much the extent of it. If you're looking for a CliffsNotes version of Twelfth Night, watch this and you'll be all set! Just kidding! Don't! I mean, yes, watch this movie and enjoy every morsel of it, but don't expect to ace a quiz on the Bard after. Just expect to feel really fulfilled.
Here are some super great things about the movie:
1. This was basically Channing Tatum's debutante ball, in the sense that She's the Man provided a forum in which Tatum could be presented to teenage girls in all his sexy manliness glory. He's shirtless quite a bit and that is something to be thankful for. Chan Man plays Duke Orsino, the cute guy on campus (what else?) who has a major crush on Olivia to start with, but falls for Violet (Amanda Bynes' character) in the end even though everything he knew about her he learned when she was a boy acting as her brother. DOES THIS MAKE SENSE TO EVERYONE? Because it really isn't that confusing. Clearly, it's the classic tale of dressing up like a boy to save your family and then falling in love with someone while you are pretending to be a member of the opposite sex. Happens all the time. Oh and Channing actually has some decent humorous timing in this role.
2. Amanda Bynes dressed up as a dude. I swear, she looks exactly like a guy I went to high school with....who shall remain nameless.
3. Amanda Bynes' facial expressions throughout the entirety of the movie. They're priceless. I could watch them in slow motion and never stop laughing. I wonder if it is possible for my face to do any of these things? I hope that I make faces like these at some point in my day. I think to myself as I make faces in the mirror. Do I really do this? You'll never know. Below are some of the greatest ones, in GIF form of course.
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| P.S. this was me when I saw a cockroach at yoga this morning. |
4. More generally, the comedic presence of Amanda Bynes carries the movie. She IS the man. The movie would be nothing without her and it makes me sad to think that those days may be behind her. But with some support from a community of fans and hopefully, her family and friends she could move past whatever it is she is going through. Britney did!
On that note, I leave you with one of my favorite scenes from the movie.
Friday, June 7, 2013
So I want to be a writer
And here are two quotes from Lena Dunham that make me feel like that could actually be a possibility.
"I would go to work from 9 to 6, go home, nap for two hours, then write from 8 to 2 a.m."
"I think if you feel like you were born to write, then you probably were."
LET'S DO THIS!
I miss you Buffy.
I'm having withdrawals. Serious withdrawals.
Currently, I'm watching the third episode of Dawson's Creek. I can't decide if this is a painful experience or sort of enjoyable? Mainly I'm watching this sex obsessed, beachy Cape Cod television show about lame teenagers with even lamer background music because the entire series is available FO FREE via OnDemand. But really, truly I'm watching this show as a terrible sad replacement for Buffy the Vampire Slayer. So sad. So terrible.
It's been about 5 months since the Buffy watching journey my mom and I embarked on has ended. And I wistfully think back on that journey often. Especially when I'm homesick or missing my mom, both happen more often than not. Watching every episode (over 100!) of Buffy the Vampire Slayer with my mom for hours on end was probably one of the best times in my life. For many reasons, involving: OMG I LOVE MY MOM! Mother-daughter time is so fun. Watching all that tv also meant that I got to sit on my ass for countless hours. All good things.
Most of all, watching all episodes of Buffy, Willow, Xander and the gang making culturally dated jokes and killing vampires while wearing lots of leather was simply amazing. This show is so good! I want to live in this show! I want to talk to everyone about this show! ...Hardly anyone will partake. Will you talk to me about Buffy the Vampire Slayer?
Joss Whedon made adolescence, high school, sex, comedy, life and drama entertaining and fantastical, but all the issues covered in the show were grounded in reality. Plus adding in the occult, vampires and other beastly goodies in the mix made for some exceptional television. Above all else, the audience had the absolutely thrilling opportunity to witness in chronological order all of the hairstyles of Sarah Michelle Gellar. That girl tried them all.
Oh dear Netflix how you helped us through the late nights pressing "next episode". Being able to skip commercials makes a timesaving difference that always meant more time for another one. Keep em coming Netflix! Satiate my needs for more stakes to the heart!
So having watched only three episodes of Dawson's Creek, I think I can definitively say that BUFFY RULES. DAWSON'S SUCKS! To be fair, the shows are completely different in the way that they depict teenager sagas. And I'll probably play episode four after this, because why not? The story lines are semi intriguing and I know eventually Pacey will grow into the sexy man that he is today and I get to watch that occur! Also, it's always a good time to make fun of Dawson with his flowing hair, Doc Martins, that necklace and his continually whiny attitude.
Buffy is a heroine. Although flawed in many ways, she is beyond cool. And don't even get me started on Willow. I want to be a witch because of her (and Harry Potter of course, and Hocus Pocus). Xander always provided a comforting backdrop. Giles was a great fatherly figure, until he wasn't. Dawn was annoying from day one. Angel took my breath away. Spike provided a badboy crush with some cockney laced humor. The rest of the characters, regular or drop ins, added a needed oomph to the show to keep things spicy.
Have I sold anyone yet? Will you watch the show now!?
PLEASE!
Currently, I'm watching the third episode of Dawson's Creek. I can't decide if this is a painful experience or sort of enjoyable? Mainly I'm watching this sex obsessed, beachy Cape Cod television show about lame teenagers with even lamer background music because the entire series is available FO FREE via OnDemand. But really, truly I'm watching this show as a terrible sad replacement for Buffy the Vampire Slayer. So sad. So terrible.
It's been about 5 months since the Buffy watching journey my mom and I embarked on has ended. And I wistfully think back on that journey often. Especially when I'm homesick or missing my mom, both happen more often than not. Watching every episode (over 100!) of Buffy the Vampire Slayer with my mom for hours on end was probably one of the best times in my life. For many reasons, involving: OMG I LOVE MY MOM! Mother-daughter time is so fun. Watching all that tv also meant that I got to sit on my ass for countless hours. All good things.
Most of all, watching all episodes of Buffy, Willow, Xander and the gang making culturally dated jokes and killing vampires while wearing lots of leather was simply amazing. This show is so good! I want to live in this show! I want to talk to everyone about this show! ...Hardly anyone will partake. Will you talk to me about Buffy the Vampire Slayer?
Joss Whedon made adolescence, high school, sex, comedy, life and drama entertaining and fantastical, but all the issues covered in the show were grounded in reality. Plus adding in the occult, vampires and other beastly goodies in the mix made for some exceptional television. Above all else, the audience had the absolutely thrilling opportunity to witness in chronological order all of the hairstyles of Sarah Michelle Gellar. That girl tried them all.
Oh dear Netflix how you helped us through the late nights pressing "next episode". Being able to skip commercials makes a timesaving difference that always meant more time for another one. Keep em coming Netflix! Satiate my needs for more stakes to the heart!
So having watched only three episodes of Dawson's Creek, I think I can definitively say that BUFFY RULES. DAWSON'S SUCKS! To be fair, the shows are completely different in the way that they depict teenager sagas. And I'll probably play episode four after this, because why not? The story lines are semi intriguing and I know eventually Pacey will grow into the sexy man that he is today and I get to watch that occur! Also, it's always a good time to make fun of Dawson with his flowing hair, Doc Martins, that necklace and his continually whiny attitude.
Buffy is a heroine. Although flawed in many ways, she is beyond cool. And don't even get me started on Willow. I want to be a witch because of her (and Harry Potter of course, and Hocus Pocus). Xander always provided a comforting backdrop. Giles was a great fatherly figure, until he wasn't. Dawn was annoying from day one. Angel took my breath away. Spike provided a badboy crush with some cockney laced humor. The rest of the characters, regular or drop ins, added a needed oomph to the show to keep things spicy.
Have I sold anyone yet? Will you watch the show now!?
PLEASE!
Thursday, June 6, 2013
Let's Look Up To...
Queen Elizabeth I
One of the longest reigning monarchs of the United Kingdom, Queen Elizabeth the first, was a kickass female. As a student of history and an anglophile, Good Queen Bess really floats my boat. She inherited the throne from her philandering father, Henry VIII, who chopped off the head of her mother, Anne Boleyn. Needless to say, Elizabeth’s succession to Queendom was tumultuous. But once she ascended that golden throne, damn did she do some good things.
Although, never expressly said, Elizabeth did a lot to calm the religious unrest that was set aflame during her half sister, Queen Mary’s reign, by famously stating that she refused to “make windows into men’s souls”, meaning she didn’t want to know what your religious affiliation was. So basically, she was like do your own thang. Elizabeth secured the Church of England during her time, a move that is generally considered as one that saved England from many of the bloody religious wars that were occurring in other European countries during the 16th century.
Also…she never got married! How amazing is this? Coming to the throne in 1558, in a time when women were basically considered nothing without a title they got from a man, it is phenomenal that Queen Elizabeth I never took a husband. Historical reports show she felt plenty of pressure to do so, but she was steadfast in remaining a single lady and showing her critics that she could rule the kingdom by her damn self, garnering her the nickname of the Virgin Queen. (Her chasteness or lack thereof is widely hypothesized on and debated, so the nickname mainly refers to her non-married status. Get it girl.)
45 years of navigating her country and her people through military conflicts, political scandal AND fostering the arts, Queen Elizabeth I is an iconic historical character who I think deserves to be looked up to as a powerful feminine figure. Remember how beautifully Cate Blanchett portrayed her in the movie Elizabeth? I like to think that Queen E really was that elegant. I mean she was known to stock up on brilliant jewelry and decadent clothing to take with her on her royal progresses. And she totally put in vogue painting her face with thick layers of white makeup. Fashionista.
So let’s give a shoutout to this fancy royalty and channel her essence when times get tough or we need a little pick-me-up in knowing that we can do it, jump over that obstacle or just plain be awesome. And without a husband to boot!
Friday, January 11, 2013
Greetings from an old friend
I hope that is how you see Falling Bottoms, as an old friend who holds a special place in your heart. You feel warmth towards them. So much warmth and love that when they disappear for a few months with no note to explain their absence, no phone calls, no email or snail mail, or texts not even a damn telegraph you don't feel anger or disloyalty because you know they really do love you back and were probably super busy with some big life change or in the very least catching quite a few seriously fundamental to the story line reruns of Beverly Hills 90210 on SOAPnet.
While I have at times within the last few months been able to digest the the artful elegance of 90210 reruns (How many relationships can these people be in? How many times can Brandon propose to Kelly? How can David remain attractive even though he is an embarrassing rapper?), I have mostly been busy with moving to Washington, D.C. to attend graduate school. I moved, I started school, I started a job, I bought a grocery stroller, I moved again and I walked to the monuments a lot. I've had a lot of things on my plate and Falling Bottoms fell by the wayside. Also, the thought of writing a blog as I was writing pages upon pages for school and my job left me with a slight aversion to writing as an extracurricular activity. Now that I had a semester to get settled, I've felt an itch to get back to blogging. My "new life" has given me so many experiences that I'd love to share. Most of them happy because D.C. is one of my favorite places ever.
Although, I don't think it is realistic to commit to posting a few times a week I think I can manage a new blog post about every week. This semester is set to be just as busy as last with starting an internship at the British Embassy (more on that later!), keeping a part time job (get money, get paid), and going to class so I can fill my head with smarty nuggets of gold, but to me that just means lots and lots of material to share with you all.
I thought about changing the focus of the blog to I don't know what, which was not really a helpful brainstorming process. And so, I've decided to keep things pretty much the same around here with the understanding that my posts will probably revolve around the things going on in my life right now, these things will probably end up being very D.C. centric. Hopefully an exciting development for Falling Bottoms.
I would love if you trusted followers decide to stick with me because I think it will be a good time. I've watched a lot of good tv and eaten a lot of cupcakes since we've last met, which as we all know leads to quite impressive anecdotes about life, love and telling the future (my secret of being skilled in the field of Divination is finally out I guess).
*Also, I am working on a few kinks with the design of the site. I like the new layout, but want my original background and a less boring color scheme. Technology is being annoying in these matters, but I will keep trying.
While I have at times within the last few months been able to digest the the artful elegance of 90210 reruns (How many relationships can these people be in? How many times can Brandon propose to Kelly? How can David remain attractive even though he is an embarrassing rapper?), I have mostly been busy with moving to Washington, D.C. to attend graduate school. I moved, I started school, I started a job, I bought a grocery stroller, I moved again and I walked to the monuments a lot. I've had a lot of things on my plate and Falling Bottoms fell by the wayside. Also, the thought of writing a blog as I was writing pages upon pages for school and my job left me with a slight aversion to writing as an extracurricular activity. Now that I had a semester to get settled, I've felt an itch to get back to blogging. My "new life" has given me so many experiences that I'd love to share. Most of them happy because D.C. is one of my favorite places ever.
 |
| Photo credit: Yours truly |
Although, I don't think it is realistic to commit to posting a few times a week I think I can manage a new blog post about every week. This semester is set to be just as busy as last with starting an internship at the British Embassy (more on that later!), keeping a part time job (get money, get paid), and going to class so I can fill my head with smarty nuggets of gold, but to me that just means lots and lots of material to share with you all.
I thought about changing the focus of the blog to I don't know what, which was not really a helpful brainstorming process. And so, I've decided to keep things pretty much the same around here with the understanding that my posts will probably revolve around the things going on in my life right now, these things will probably end up being very D.C. centric. Hopefully an exciting development for Falling Bottoms.
I would love if you trusted followers decide to stick with me because I think it will be a good time. I've watched a lot of good tv and eaten a lot of cupcakes since we've last met, which as we all know leads to quite impressive anecdotes about life, love and telling the future (my secret of being skilled in the field of Divination is finally out I guess).
*Also, I am working on a few kinks with the design of the site. I like the new layout, but want my original background and a less boring color scheme. Technology is being annoying in these matters, but I will keep trying.
Saturday, July 28, 2012
Movie Marathons are the best kind of marathons
Movie marathons are one of the most under appreciated wonders of the world.
You can do so much with them! Pick a genre, pick an actor, pick a director, pick an era or put one together from scratch and you have a full days worth of cinematic escapism to tide you over.
I love the idea of marathons because it means you just let yourself sit on the couch, nibble on some nibbles and have a very productive excuse to be sedentary BUT NOT LAZY, movie marathons are NEVER LAZY.
Is it lazy to learn the nuances of comedy by having a Mike Meyers marathon? Is it lazy to experience all the facets of the world's greatest actress Meryl Streep? Is it lazy, my dear friends, to sit back and enjoy the glory that Peter Jackson presented to us with the evolution of Frodo and his little friends in the 15 million hours worth of the Lord of the Rings trilogy? The answer is a resolute no. Embrace the movie marathons, world and take in all they have to offer.
Below I list some movie marathon ideas. I did not include my obvious favorite movie marathon choice, Harry Potter because we all know about this one and hopefully utilize it annually. Neither did I include the movie marathon idea of Indiana Jones because, again, I hope everyone has this on their go-to marathon plans. I wanted to provide some innovative movie ideas. I like to consider myself a movie marathon chef who crafts together unique and deliciousingredients movies.
Movie Marathon Recipes:
1. Movies inspired by one of the most densely populated countries in the world and a place I dream of going, India. The sights, the smells, the history, the saris!
Some recommendations:
- Monsoon Wedding. Makes me cry every time.
-Slumdog Millionaire. Duh
-Bend it like Beckham. A little bit of a stretch, but this movie is so good. Let it slide.
As an added bonus, you can order a boatload of yumilicious Indian food to compliment the movies! Mmm Chickhen Tikka Masala
2. B Horror Movies. This is a personal favorite of mine. Probably the most visited form of movie marathons I partake in. My bff and I are B Horror Movie experts. If it's a crappy scary movie, we've seen it. I can't praise the entertainment and outrageous images/plot lines/ characters/ dialogue that watching shitty horror movies give the viewer enough. Full of unforgettable times.
Some of my absolute favorites:
- Valentine (2001). This movie probably deserves a blog post all it's own because of how much pure love I have for it. I own it. I have watched it around 30 times, which seems kind of sick because people get murdered in gruesome ways. But that is overshadowed by stellar performances from Denise Richards and David Boreanaz...Yeah it's that kind of movie.
-April Fool's Day (1986). People on an island get murdered.
-Last House on the Left (1972). I just IMDB'd this movie to refresh my memory and noticed that it is directed by Wes Craven; it was the first movie he directed. Ok, so this movie is actually pretty disturbing, but it makes my recommendation list because of one pivotal scene where a young girl turns the table on her evil crazy male attacker and BITES HIM WHERE IT HURTS. Yeah, the thing you think would never happen in a movie does.
3. Romancing the Stone/ Jewel of the Nile. Not sure if these two movies constitute a movie marathon theme, but hey we're making up the rules here so I say it does. If you're in the mood for some adventure and world travel then try out these splendid 1980's movies. Featuring Michael Douglas and Kathleen Turner and taking place in exotic regions such as Columbia and the Middle East, these movies follow author Joan Wilder (Turner) and her adventurous semi criminal lover Jack Colton (Douglas) getting into danger and intrigue. Danny DeVito also makes a notable appearance in the films.
4. J. Lo. This may seem like an odd choice for an actor themed movie marathon, but creativity is key. Besides it is my belief that Jenny From the Block is a better actress than singer. And alright, maybe I am little biased by the fact that I think Enough is like the most magnificent Lifetime-esque movie ever produced.
Jennifer Lopez in her prime:
- ENOUGH. Short haircut? Yes. Boxing? Yes. Kicking your asshole abusive husband's ass? Yes. A funny best friend (Juliette Lewis)? Yes. A main character named Slim? Yes. How could something get any better?
- The Wedding Planner. Another one of my favorite movies. Jennifer is funny in this movie and Matthew McConaughey is at his best acting as a laid back, interested hottie. Plus, I always notice that the wardrobe Jennifer Lopez has in this movie doesn't seem ever to be dated.
- The Cell. Has anyone seen this movie? It was SO creepy. I hardly remember it. I just remember women floating in cases they were trapped in by some creep McCreepster crazy dude... in his mind. This movie gets scientific and supernatural and freaking weird.
5. Creature Features. You can do a lot with this genre. There are so many options out there. Of course I have some personal favorites to share, not including Jaws because everyone is aware of this classic (Jaws 3 is the best. Represent!).
-Deep Blue Sea. Another significant part of my movie collection. Deep Blue Sea is the timeless story of genetically engineered sharks who get a little too intelligent and ornery for their scientist captors and end up going ballistic and wreak havoc on a water based research lab. The sharks don't want to be tested on to cure Alzheimers, they just want to eat people. The most wonderful part in this movie that rivals any other insanely surprising scenes in other movies, is when Samuel L. Jackson literally gets bitten in half out of NOWHERE by one of those doggone fishes. Also LL Cool J, oops I mean Ladies Love Cool James, is in it.
-Anaconda. What we have here is a little bit of a crossover. I considered including this movie under J. Lo's category but decided it needed to reside in Creature Features. I was introduced to this movie around age 10 and instantly became attached. As a 10 year old Anaconda held the secrets of adulthood. There was Jennifer Lopez's voluptuous body, there was traveling down the Amazon River, there was a psycho old dude (Jon Voight), there was Owen Wilson and some chick having sex in the forest. Basically, the plot follows a National Geographic crew floating down the Amazon doing their own professional thing when they run into Mr. Crazy (Voight) who lures them into chasing a ginormous man-eating anaconda snake. Also, Ice Cube is in it.
-Lake Placid. Another large, man eating, vengeful creature. This time in the form of a crocodile. Oliver Platt is as always witty and snarky in his role. Also, Betty White is in it.
Special effects aren't the best in any of these creature features, luckily that's not the point. The point is letting your mind wander to the "what ifs" of the existence of large and in charge creatures. And if you are anything like me, you probably will be scared to take a bath for a little while after watching these.
Use these movie marathon suggestions as starting off points for your own innovative and fun movie choices. Just have fun with it, but take the wonder and power of movie marathons to heart. And always know that when you're movie marathoning you are doing something right in the world.
You can do so much with them! Pick a genre, pick an actor, pick a director, pick an era or put one together from scratch and you have a full days worth of cinematic escapism to tide you over.
I love the idea of marathons because it means you just let yourself sit on the couch, nibble on some nibbles and have a very productive excuse to be sedentary BUT NOT LAZY, movie marathons are NEVER LAZY.
Is it lazy to learn the nuances of comedy by having a Mike Meyers marathon? Is it lazy to experience all the facets of the world's greatest actress Meryl Streep? Is it lazy, my dear friends, to sit back and enjoy the glory that Peter Jackson presented to us with the evolution of Frodo and his little friends in the 15 million hours worth of the Lord of the Rings trilogy? The answer is a resolute no. Embrace the movie marathons, world and take in all they have to offer.
Below I list some movie marathon ideas. I did not include my obvious favorite movie marathon choice, Harry Potter because we all know about this one and hopefully utilize it annually. Neither did I include the movie marathon idea of Indiana Jones because, again, I hope everyone has this on their go-to marathon plans. I wanted to provide some innovative movie ideas. I like to consider myself a movie marathon chef who crafts together unique and delicious
Movie Marathon Recipes:
1. Movies inspired by one of the most densely populated countries in the world and a place I dream of going, India. The sights, the smells, the history, the saris!
Some recommendations:
- Monsoon Wedding. Makes me cry every time.
-Slumdog Millionaire. Duh
-Bend it like Beckham. A little bit of a stretch, but this movie is so good. Let it slide.
As an added bonus, you can order a boatload of yumilicious Indian food to compliment the movies! Mmm Chickhen Tikka Masala
2. B Horror Movies. This is a personal favorite of mine. Probably the most visited form of movie marathons I partake in. My bff and I are B Horror Movie experts. If it's a crappy scary movie, we've seen it. I can't praise the entertainment and outrageous images/plot lines/ characters/ dialogue that watching shitty horror movies give the viewer enough. Full of unforgettable times.
Some of my absolute favorites:
- Valentine (2001). This movie probably deserves a blog post all it's own because of how much pure love I have for it. I own it. I have watched it around 30 times, which seems kind of sick because people get murdered in gruesome ways. But that is overshadowed by stellar performances from Denise Richards and David Boreanaz...Yeah it's that kind of movie.
-April Fool's Day (1986). People on an island get murdered.
-Last House on the Left (1972). I just IMDB'd this movie to refresh my memory and noticed that it is directed by Wes Craven; it was the first movie he directed. Ok, so this movie is actually pretty disturbing, but it makes my recommendation list because of one pivotal scene where a young girl turns the table on her evil crazy male attacker and BITES HIM WHERE IT HURTS. Yeah, the thing you think would never happen in a movie does.
3. Romancing the Stone/ Jewel of the Nile. Not sure if these two movies constitute a movie marathon theme, but hey we're making up the rules here so I say it does. If you're in the mood for some adventure and world travel then try out these splendid 1980's movies. Featuring Michael Douglas and Kathleen Turner and taking place in exotic regions such as Columbia and the Middle East, these movies follow author Joan Wilder (Turner) and her adventurous semi criminal lover Jack Colton (Douglas) getting into danger and intrigue. Danny DeVito also makes a notable appearance in the films.
4. J. Lo. This may seem like an odd choice for an actor themed movie marathon, but creativity is key. Besides it is my belief that Jenny From the Block is a better actress than singer. And alright, maybe I am little biased by the fact that I think Enough is like the most magnificent Lifetime-esque movie ever produced.
Jennifer Lopez in her prime:
- ENOUGH. Short haircut? Yes. Boxing? Yes. Kicking your asshole abusive husband's ass? Yes. A funny best friend (Juliette Lewis)? Yes. A main character named Slim? Yes. How could something get any better?
- The Wedding Planner. Another one of my favorite movies. Jennifer is funny in this movie and Matthew McConaughey is at his best acting as a laid back, interested hottie. Plus, I always notice that the wardrobe Jennifer Lopez has in this movie doesn't seem ever to be dated.
- The Cell. Has anyone seen this movie? It was SO creepy. I hardly remember it. I just remember women floating in cases they were trapped in by some creep McCreepster crazy dude... in his mind. This movie gets scientific and supernatural and freaking weird.
5. Creature Features. You can do a lot with this genre. There are so many options out there. Of course I have some personal favorites to share, not including Jaws because everyone is aware of this classic (Jaws 3 is the best. Represent!).
-Deep Blue Sea. Another significant part of my movie collection. Deep Blue Sea is the timeless story of genetically engineered sharks who get a little too intelligent and ornery for their scientist captors and end up going ballistic and wreak havoc on a water based research lab. The sharks don't want to be tested on to cure Alzheimers, they just want to eat people. The most wonderful part in this movie that rivals any other insanely surprising scenes in other movies, is when Samuel L. Jackson literally gets bitten in half out of NOWHERE by one of those doggone fishes. Also LL Cool J, oops I mean Ladies Love Cool James, is in it.
-Anaconda. What we have here is a little bit of a crossover. I considered including this movie under J. Lo's category but decided it needed to reside in Creature Features. I was introduced to this movie around age 10 and instantly became attached. As a 10 year old Anaconda held the secrets of adulthood. There was Jennifer Lopez's voluptuous body, there was traveling down the Amazon River, there was a psycho old dude (Jon Voight), there was Owen Wilson and some chick having sex in the forest. Basically, the plot follows a National Geographic crew floating down the Amazon doing their own professional thing when they run into Mr. Crazy (Voight) who lures them into chasing a ginormous man-eating anaconda snake. Also, Ice Cube is in it.
-Lake Placid. Another large, man eating, vengeful creature. This time in the form of a crocodile. Oliver Platt is as always witty and snarky in his role. Also, Betty White is in it.
Special effects aren't the best in any of these creature features, luckily that's not the point. The point is letting your mind wander to the "what ifs" of the existence of large and in charge creatures. And if you are anything like me, you probably will be scared to take a bath for a little while after watching these.
Use these movie marathon suggestions as starting off points for your own innovative and fun movie choices. Just have fun with it, but take the wonder and power of movie marathons to heart. And always know that when you're movie marathoning you are doing something right in the world.
Tuesday, July 24, 2012
Union Jack and Helen Mirren
This will be the look I channel for my upcoming LONDON OLYMPICS 2012 PARTY!
Tuesday, July 17, 2012
I'm SO into that
I find myself saying this all the time. And usually the things I am SO into change from week to week, day to day, hour to hour. You get the point. I really love discovering or re-discovering television shows, books, movies, music, food, etc., all the joyful things in life. And so I thought what better place to share these things than on my blog!
"I'm SO into that" is going to be a re-occurring theme on Falling Bottoms. Hopefully people will share some of my new favorite things or learn about cool new stuff because if I like it, it's cool.
1. Inspector Lewis
Inspector Lewis and Hathaway are back in action strolling the streets of idyllic Oxford solving grisly murders. Alas, this isn't your average Law and Order: SUV esque horrifying and disturbing crime show, Lewis and Hathaway are great compassionate guys who really take an interest in the cases they are solving and the witnesses or victims they are working with. Not into PBS Masterpiece Mysteries? I understand that not many 23 year olds watch this British mystery tradition weekly with their parents (I live on the edge baby), but give this particular program a shot. The scenery alone makes it worthy. Also, James Hathaway aka sexy British actor Laurence Fox is indeed a fox.
2. The Daily Beast
This is a fun thing I read, while also serving as a sort of self assigned daily homework goal. I am going to grad school at GW's School of Media and Public Affairs this coming Fall so I find it very important and will soon be finding it imperative to my life to keep up to date with current/political events. It's hard to read the news every damn day, especially because it can get depressing and overwhelming. But we should! The brilliant Alec Baldwin tweeted numerous times (back when he had a twitter, I miss him deeply) that everyone should read a newspaper every day. And I agree, although I fall short of this a lot. The Daily Beast is a great remedy. It's a cool news site that mixes everything from popular culture, current events, politics, fashion, technology and sports together in a nifty little website. Subscribe via email to their "Cheat Sheet" to receive updates on the top news stories for the day to stay in the loop: http://www.thedailybeast.com/ They've been having plenty of stories on this whole Katie Holmes and Tom Cruise + Scientology divorce deal. Which sort of irks me because I don't find that newsworthy, but obviously I read the stories anyways.
3. Outlander
Or as I like to refer to it as The Prude's 50 Shades of Grey. Romance, intrigue, the Scottish Highlands in the 18th century and yeah that's really all you need for a good night. I've only read the first book, but am ready to dig into the second and third, compliments of my sister-in-law. Check out this series!
4. Kate Nash Pandora
Throw in some Billy Joel, Elton John, Lily Allen, Lana Del Rey, Melanie Gardot and you've got a delicious music salad in your ears. Mmmm wonderful imagery.
5. Maroon 5's new album Overexposed
I would date Adam Levine's voice.
6. Everything Is Sound by Jason Mraz
Jason Mraz is easily my favorite recording artist of all time. He speaks to my soul and a lot of times his music helps keep me sane. This song has been on repeat recently.
7. Etsy
Not new for many people, I know, but for me Etsy opened up a whole new world like Jasmine riding on that carpet with Aladdin. I'm hooked. I already scored on a beautiful LOVE ring and have my eye on some super zen yoga clothing. Apparently Etsy is speaking to my hippie spirit.
8. Podcasts
I think I've mentioned to everyone I know my love of podcasts. I seriously can't believe I didn't tap into this free form of entertainment sooner! My favorites include: The Heatley Cliff (pretty much for girls), Comedy Bang Bang (full of laughs, the episodes with Andy Samberg and Zach Galifianakis are my favorite) and Here's the Thing (with the one and only Alec Baldwin, his voice is chilling).
9. The Book Group
Oh Netflix, the television shows you open up to me are so odd and underground I am convinced that when I am watching them I may actually be the only person in the world doing so in that very moment. Really who knew all of these shows existed and why does Netflix predict all my interests so well? The Book Group centers around a young woman who moves to Scotland totally alone and forms a book club with a bunch of randos in hopes of making friends. She's pretty much the most annoying person ever and super uptight. I find her semi hilarious though. Her mish mash of book club buddies are entertaining as well. Only two seasons long, meaning it shouldn't be too much of an investment like Buffy The Vampire Slayer has turned out to be, in a good way.
10. Kombucha
What is this weird thing I am drinking and how in the hell do I sincerely enjoy it? A little tangy, a little fizzy and just sweet enough. I love this stuff that is referred to as fungus in other cultures. Um if that doesn't say YUM I don't know what does!
"I'm SO into that" is going to be a re-occurring theme on Falling Bottoms. Hopefully people will share some of my new favorite things or learn about cool new stuff because if I like it, it's cool.
1. Inspector Lewis
Inspector Lewis and Hathaway are back in action strolling the streets of idyllic Oxford solving grisly murders. Alas, this isn't your average Law and Order: SUV esque horrifying and disturbing crime show, Lewis and Hathaway are great compassionate guys who really take an interest in the cases they are solving and the witnesses or victims they are working with. Not into PBS Masterpiece Mysteries? I understand that not many 23 year olds watch this British mystery tradition weekly with their parents (I live on the edge baby), but give this particular program a shot. The scenery alone makes it worthy. Also, James Hathaway aka sexy British actor Laurence Fox is indeed a fox.
2. The Daily Beast
This is a fun thing I read, while also serving as a sort of self assigned daily homework goal. I am going to grad school at GW's School of Media and Public Affairs this coming Fall so I find it very important and will soon be finding it imperative to my life to keep up to date with current/political events. It's hard to read the news every damn day, especially because it can get depressing and overwhelming. But we should! The brilliant Alec Baldwin tweeted numerous times (back when he had a twitter, I miss him deeply) that everyone should read a newspaper every day. And I agree, although I fall short of this a lot. The Daily Beast is a great remedy. It's a cool news site that mixes everything from popular culture, current events, politics, fashion, technology and sports together in a nifty little website. Subscribe via email to their "Cheat Sheet" to receive updates on the top news stories for the day to stay in the loop: http://www.thedailybeast.com/ They've been having plenty of stories on this whole Katie Holmes and Tom Cruise + Scientology divorce deal. Which sort of irks me because I don't find that newsworthy, but obviously I read the stories anyways.
3. Outlander
Or as I like to refer to it as The Prude's 50 Shades of Grey. Romance, intrigue, the Scottish Highlands in the 18th century and yeah that's really all you need for a good night. I've only read the first book, but am ready to dig into the second and third, compliments of my sister-in-law. Check out this series!
4. Kate Nash Pandora
Throw in some Billy Joel, Elton John, Lily Allen, Lana Del Rey, Melanie Gardot and you've got a delicious music salad in your ears. Mmmm wonderful imagery.
5. Maroon 5's new album Overexposed
I would date Adam Levine's voice.
6. Everything Is Sound by Jason Mraz
Jason Mraz is easily my favorite recording artist of all time. He speaks to my soul and a lot of times his music helps keep me sane. This song has been on repeat recently.
7. Etsy
Not new for many people, I know, but for me Etsy opened up a whole new world like Jasmine riding on that carpet with Aladdin. I'm hooked. I already scored on a beautiful LOVE ring and have my eye on some super zen yoga clothing. Apparently Etsy is speaking to my hippie spirit.
8. Podcasts
I think I've mentioned to everyone I know my love of podcasts. I seriously can't believe I didn't tap into this free form of entertainment sooner! My favorites include: The Heatley Cliff (pretty much for girls), Comedy Bang Bang (full of laughs, the episodes with Andy Samberg and Zach Galifianakis are my favorite) and Here's the Thing (with the one and only Alec Baldwin, his voice is chilling).
9. The Book Group
Oh Netflix, the television shows you open up to me are so odd and underground I am convinced that when I am watching them I may actually be the only person in the world doing so in that very moment. Really who knew all of these shows existed and why does Netflix predict all my interests so well? The Book Group centers around a young woman who moves to Scotland totally alone and forms a book club with a bunch of randos in hopes of making friends. She's pretty much the most annoying person ever and super uptight. I find her semi hilarious though. Her mish mash of book club buddies are entertaining as well. Only two seasons long, meaning it shouldn't be too much of an investment like Buffy The Vampire Slayer has turned out to be, in a good way.
10. Kombucha
What is this weird thing I am drinking and how in the hell do I sincerely enjoy it? A little tangy, a little fizzy and just sweet enough. I love this stuff that is referred to as fungus in other cultures. Um if that doesn't say YUM I don't know what does!
Friday, July 13, 2012
Don't rain on my f&#@ing parade: THE Barbra Streisand in Funny Girl
I feel like the piece of information I am about to disclose is going to reveal a lot about who I am as a person, what I believe, what I love, what I fear, what kind of Pandora stations I listen to, what kind of deodorant I wear. Wait...which one doesn't fit?
But, on the real, the next sentence is pretty telling of me as a person. Drum roll please. Funny Girl the movie musical with Barbra Streisand and Omar Sharif is most certainly, confidently placed in the top tier of my favorite movie strata. Quick thought, how much WORSE would this movie be if they had decided to spell "girl" "gurl"? Like why does that spelling even exist? Funny Girl is in a word, divine. It is sort of like a spiritual experience when I view it.
I have no idea if anyone reading this has seen this movie because I obviously think it is a total classic, but find people who are like "What is Funny Girl? Is it like Factory Girl that movie with Sienna Miller?" Actually NO ONE has ever asked me that because I am pretty sure that not many people would reference the movie Factory Girl in which Sienna Miller plays 60's socialite Edie Sedgwick and Hayden Christensen plays some musician that is based on Bob Dylan. Says the girl who seems to know an awful lot about the plot line of said movie. I've seen it. Maybe movies with "girl" in the title are my thing?
Ah I digress. The point I am trying to make is that I am usually surprised by the answers I get when I ask people if they have ever seen Funny Girl because either people have never heard of it, or have seen it, or love it. Which I guess is a normal variety of answers, so what is the point I am making?
THE POINT HERE PEOPLE IS THAT THIS MOVIE IS EXTRAORDINARY. I advise any functioning member of society to sit down for all 150 minutes of the pure brilliance that is Funny Girl. I mean there is a 5 minute black screen, orchestra music intro and a 30 second intermission break (What can one do in a 30 second intermission? Think about going to the bathroom? Pick at a cuticle? Nothing too extensive) in a movie! I fast forward these parts because, ummm it's boring.
I understand there are a lot of Barbra Streisand haters out there. To these people I say, how is that possible? Or are you judging her solely on the size of her nose? Also, I probably have nothing to say that will change your mind dear hater of Babs so keep on keeping on.
The movie Funny Girl is based on the musical Funny Girl which is based on the life of Fanny Brice, a comedian, singer and actress who starred in the Ziegfield Follies and musicals during the early 1900's. The movie chronicles the rise of Fanny, played by Barbra Streisand in both the musical and film, as well as her romantic, yet tumultuous relationship with Nick Arstein, played by the oh so sexy Omar Sharif. Hummina hummina.
As a humongous fan of Barbra and Funny Girl there are a ton of topics I'd love to analyze, but I realize not everyone would enjoy that so I have decided to simply list the 5 REASONS TO LOVE FANNY BRICE while fully acknowledging this really does the character or the movie no justice. Just watch it on your own puh-leaseee!
1. Her confidence, ambition and drive. Like the all too familiar schpeal from those actor sorts, Fanny was shot down repeatedly before she made it as a star. People were telling her she wasn't attractive enough, she'd never make it with those small boobs of hers (actually referenced to as the size of lentils in the movie)! But she keeps going because she knows she is beautiful and talented.
2. Her worship worthy one-liners.
Hands down best line of the movie: "Hello gorgeous (pronounced gaw-geous)!" Listen to it here hello gorgeous
Here are some of my other favorites:
"I'm a bagel on a plate full of onion rolls!"
"If I can't tell when you're ordering roast beef and potatoes, how will I know when you're making advances?"
"You think beautiful girls are going to stay in style forever? I should say not! Any minute now they're going to be out! Finished! Then it'll be my turn!"
3. Her style! The colors, the fabrics, the textures, the prints, the fur hat and muff! Also, her hair does some pretty gravity defying moves in this movie. And I love it. However, I will come forth and admit that I am not the biggest fan of the length and shape of her fingernails in Funny Girl, a little too claw like for me.
4. Her humor. Barbra as Fanny is a true comedienne in this movie. She has great comedic timing and usually babbles in every situation but it works and you love her for it. Fanny is funny in the haha way. I mean the title of the movie is Funny Girl. It would kind of be the worst if Fanny funny girl was not in fact funny. She is, so whatever the world is alright. Fanny uses her humor as protection throughout the film, but that tactic takes a poignant turn at the end of the movie when (SPOILER ALERT) she has to say goodbye to Nick, her romantic interest, before he heads off to jail. Heartbroken she breaks out in song singing "Funny Girl" crying alone in a room (see video below), don't we all do this or want to do this? That's what musicals are for, to bust out in song at dramatic moments in life.
5. Her voice. It's like buttah. My favorite songs:
People
You Are Woman I Am Man
Don't Rain On My Parade
Funny Girl
I venture to say there might be a little bit of funny girl Fanny Brice in all of us. Or not. Mostly, I just completely relate to her and think "Hey, she's funny, unique and quirky. She makes it big against all odds and gets Mr. Mysterious tall dark and handsome so I'll be alright." Not that it's all about getting the man, hey hey feminism.
I urge you to watch the cinematic event of all time, or at least a really good movie, if you have not already. Funny Girl will inspire you, entertain you and put you in awe of Barbra Streisand's extensive talents. Or do I mean Factory Girl?
P.S. There is a Funny Girl sequel called Funny Lady with another fine fella, James Caan, and even more music and splendor!
But, on the real, the next sentence is pretty telling of me as a person. Drum roll please. Funny Girl the movie musical with Barbra Streisand and Omar Sharif is most certainly, confidently placed in the top tier of my favorite movie strata. Quick thought, how much WORSE would this movie be if they had decided to spell "girl" "gurl"? Like why does that spelling even exist? Funny Girl is in a word, divine. It is sort of like a spiritual experience when I view it.
I have no idea if anyone reading this has seen this movie because I obviously think it is a total classic, but find people who are like "What is Funny Girl? Is it like Factory Girl that movie with Sienna Miller?" Actually NO ONE has ever asked me that because I am pretty sure that not many people would reference the movie Factory Girl in which Sienna Miller plays 60's socialite Edie Sedgwick and Hayden Christensen plays some musician that is based on Bob Dylan. Says the girl who seems to know an awful lot about the plot line of said movie. I've seen it. Maybe movies with "girl" in the title are my thing?
Ah I digress. The point I am trying to make is that I am usually surprised by the answers I get when I ask people if they have ever seen Funny Girl because either people have never heard of it, or have seen it, or love it. Which I guess is a normal variety of answers, so what is the point I am making?
THE POINT HERE PEOPLE IS THAT THIS MOVIE IS EXTRAORDINARY. I advise any functioning member of society to sit down for all 150 minutes of the pure brilliance that is Funny Girl. I mean there is a 5 minute black screen, orchestra music intro and a 30 second intermission break (What can one do in a 30 second intermission? Think about going to the bathroom? Pick at a cuticle? Nothing too extensive) in a movie! I fast forward these parts because, ummm it's boring.
 |
| I love this |
I understand there are a lot of Barbra Streisand haters out there. To these people I say, how is that possible? Or are you judging her solely on the size of her nose? Also, I probably have nothing to say that will change your mind dear hater of Babs so keep on keeping on.
The movie Funny Girl is based on the musical Funny Girl which is based on the life of Fanny Brice, a comedian, singer and actress who starred in the Ziegfield Follies and musicals during the early 1900's. The movie chronicles the rise of Fanny, played by Barbra Streisand in both the musical and film, as well as her romantic, yet tumultuous relationship with Nick Arstein, played by the oh so sexy Omar Sharif. Hummina hummina.
 |
| "Ahh haha I am sexy", thinks Omar Sharif/ Nicky Arnstein |
As a humongous fan of Barbra and Funny Girl there are a ton of topics I'd love to analyze, but I realize not everyone would enjoy that so I have decided to simply list the 5 REASONS TO LOVE FANNY BRICE while fully acknowledging this really does the character or the movie no justice. Just watch it on your own puh-leaseee!
1. Her confidence, ambition and drive. Like the all too familiar schpeal from those actor sorts, Fanny was shot down repeatedly before she made it as a star. People were telling her she wasn't attractive enough, she'd never make it with those small boobs of hers (actually referenced to as the size of lentils in the movie)! But she keeps going because she knows she is beautiful and talented.
2. Her worship worthy one-liners.
Hands down best line of the movie: "Hello gorgeous (pronounced gaw-geous)!" Listen to it here hello gorgeous
Here are some of my other favorites:
"I'm a bagel on a plate full of onion rolls!"
"If I can't tell when you're ordering roast beef and potatoes, how will I know when you're making advances?"
"You think beautiful girls are going to stay in style forever? I should say not! Any minute now they're going to be out! Finished! Then it'll be my turn!"
3. Her style! The colors, the fabrics, the textures, the prints, the fur hat and muff! Also, her hair does some pretty gravity defying moves in this movie. And I love it. However, I will come forth and admit that I am not the biggest fan of the length and shape of her fingernails in Funny Girl, a little too claw like for me.
4. Her humor. Barbra as Fanny is a true comedienne in this movie. She has great comedic timing and usually babbles in every situation but it works and you love her for it. Fanny is funny in the haha way. I mean the title of the movie is Funny Girl. It would kind of be the worst if Fanny funny girl was not in fact funny. She is, so whatever the world is alright. Fanny uses her humor as protection throughout the film, but that tactic takes a poignant turn at the end of the movie when (SPOILER ALERT) she has to say goodbye to Nick, her romantic interest, before he heads off to jail. Heartbroken she breaks out in song singing "Funny Girl" crying alone in a room (see video below), don't we all do this or want to do this? That's what musicals are for, to bust out in song at dramatic moments in life.
5. Her voice. It's like buttah. My favorite songs:
People
You Are Woman I Am Man
Don't Rain On My Parade
Funny Girl
I venture to say there might be a little bit of funny girl Fanny Brice in all of us. Or not. Mostly, I just completely relate to her and think "Hey, she's funny, unique and quirky. She makes it big against all odds and gets Mr. Mysterious tall dark and handsome so I'll be alright." Not that it's all about getting the man, hey hey feminism.
I urge you to watch the cinematic event of all time, or at least a really good movie, if you have not already. Funny Girl will inspire you, entertain you and put you in awe of Barbra Streisand's extensive talents. Or do I mean Factory Girl?
P.S. There is a Funny Girl sequel called Funny Lady with another fine fella, James Caan, and even more music and splendor!
Tuesday, June 19, 2012
We Need to Talk About Leo
(I have never seen the movie We Need to Talk About Kevin but my Leo title fit so well with it. Except I read the synopsis of the movie and it sounds incredibly creepy, maybe it wasn't the best option.)
Now down to business, Leonardo DiCaprio was born on November 11th, 1974, which means that this was the happiest day of my life, 15 years before I was born. Leo and I have a long drawn out romantic saga. He was pretty much off my radar until I realized that Gangs of New York and The Departed are two of my favorite movies. Then I was like wait, Leo is in both of these films. Leo! It was basically instantaneous, thus the birth of true love. (You know what Leo movie I don't like? The Basketball Diaries. Disturbing.)
Backtrack. I have a hypothesis that Leonardo entered my love tracks through osmosis when I saw him on my ALL TIME favorite television show of my childhood Growing Pains (please tell me there are others who respect this show as much as I do). I was enamored with Mike Seaver (Kirk Cameron, but not so much anymore, at all) and wanted to go to Columbia like Carol. I felt like a part of the family and like all classic family sitcoms, Growing Pains taught me so much about life! You can have friends named Boner and kids can be homeless. Like Luke Brower, played by a young and innocent Leonardo DiCaprio! Mike meets Luke in New York and lets him live with the Seaver's for a while because Luke is on his own roaming the streets of NYC while his truck driver dad is MIA. I remember being slightly disturbed by Luke's story in the show and also thinking he was pretty cute. My young mind didn't take to Leo right away because obviously Mike/Kirk was where it was at, but I now see that Leo has been with me for a long long while.
Notice there is no mention of Titanic in my brief description of the long drawn out romantic saga between DiCap and me, that's because I made it through half of Titanic as an 8 year old, really only watching in hopes of seeing some scandalous nudity. I heard you got to see some boobs. And I saw them, oh yes I saw them. Then I was over it. I did go to Titanic in 3D earlier this year and got chills from how striking the movie is and needless to say was totally swept away with Rose and Jack. Also, I may or may not have watched their very steamy (literally) love scene at least 5 times in a row after that. But it kind of makes me cringe when Rose forcefully places Jack's hand right on her chest because he was probably going to make his way there without her help.
I have a very large dilemma on my hands when it comes to my relationship with Leo though. In all honesty, I'm scared that he may kind of be a dud of a person? I hope I am horrendously wrong about him, but I think maybe I'm not.
Case and point, he only dates TALL LEGGY BLONDE VICTORIA SECRET MODELS. And he hasn't settled down with a single one. Come on dude. Is he aiming to be his generation's George Clooney? At least George has a little variety in his lady friends. Leo went from Gisele to Bar and now to his newest conquest Erin Tall Leggy Blonde Victoria Secret Model. I realize this is totally Leo's prerogative and he is obviously enjoying his status in life and the women he dates are gorgeous and probably super nice. So whatever it's not my business...to the unassuming eye, but to anyone who knows anything it is TOTALLY my business because Leo is my #1 imaginary boyfriend (Thanks Amy and Sheryl at the Heatley Cliff for that terminology. Comforted to know others do this).
Sadly, I know nothing about Leo except for the awesome traits I give him in my mind. What I do know though is that if it can't be me and Leonardo DiCaprio walking down the aisle soonish then it needs to be LEONARDO DICAPRIO AND KATE WINSELT. She is now single, he will probably be single pretty quickly, and they need to turn their friendship into some steam like in that car in the boiler room on the RMS Titanic. Should we start a petition to let them know they are perfect for one another?
Until the day I meet Leo or he and Kate get together and I feel comfortable that he is in a nice healthy, stable relationship I will continue to imagine Leonardo DiCaprio, my main man, as a gentlemen who has a good sense of humor and smells nice. And I will advise him to keep his hair on the shorter side. I'm not too sure how I feel about his slicked back look. Actually I am; I feel I don't like it.
I don't know, I guess he's just going through some growing pains. Did you see what I did there? Play on words, words playing.
In the mean time I have THE GREAT GATSBY movie to look forward to! So incredibly excited. It'll be like I'm right there next to my guy as I'll be pretending I'm Daisy the entire time. Finally the man does a movie with some solid romance in it (Shutter Island wasn't necessarily enchanting).
For another genre all together, I'm interested to see how Leo does in a Quentin Tarantino movie. Django Unchained looks pretty crazy, but should I be surprised?
I'd like to end with formally proposing to Leonardo DiCaprio. Will you marry me imaginary boyfriend #1?
Now down to business, Leonardo DiCaprio was born on November 11th, 1974, which means that this was the happiest day of my life, 15 years before I was born. Leo and I have a long drawn out romantic saga. He was pretty much off my radar until I realized that Gangs of New York and The Departed are two of my favorite movies. Then I was like wait, Leo is in both of these films. Leo! It was basically instantaneous, thus the birth of true love. (You know what Leo movie I don't like? The Basketball Diaries. Disturbing.)
 |
| Me and Leo. See how adoringly he looks at me? |
Backtrack. I have a hypothesis that Leonardo entered my love tracks through osmosis when I saw him on my ALL TIME favorite television show of my childhood Growing Pains (please tell me there are others who respect this show as much as I do). I was enamored with Mike Seaver (Kirk Cameron, but not so much anymore, at all) and wanted to go to Columbia like Carol. I felt like a part of the family and like all classic family sitcoms, Growing Pains taught me so much about life! You can have friends named Boner and kids can be homeless. Like Luke Brower, played by a young and innocent Leonardo DiCaprio! Mike meets Luke in New York and lets him live with the Seaver's for a while because Luke is on his own roaming the streets of NYC while his truck driver dad is MIA. I remember being slightly disturbed by Luke's story in the show and also thinking he was pretty cute. My young mind didn't take to Leo right away because obviously Mike/Kirk was where it was at, but I now see that Leo has been with me for a long long while.
 |
| Carol is looking oh so sassy |
Notice there is no mention of Titanic in my brief description of the long drawn out romantic saga between DiCap and me, that's because I made it through half of Titanic as an 8 year old, really only watching in hopes of seeing some scandalous nudity. I heard you got to see some boobs. And I saw them, oh yes I saw them. Then I was over it. I did go to Titanic in 3D earlier this year and got chills from how striking the movie is and needless to say was totally swept away with Rose and Jack. Also, I may or may not have watched their very steamy (literally) love scene at least 5 times in a row after that. But it kind of makes me cringe when Rose forcefully places Jack's hand right on her chest because he was probably going to make his way there without her help.
I have a very large dilemma on my hands when it comes to my relationship with Leo though. In all honesty, I'm scared that he may kind of be a dud of a person? I hope I am horrendously wrong about him, but I think maybe I'm not.
Case and point, he only dates TALL LEGGY BLONDE VICTORIA SECRET MODELS. And he hasn't settled down with a single one. Come on dude. Is he aiming to be his generation's George Clooney? At least George has a little variety in his lady friends. Leo went from Gisele to Bar and now to his newest conquest Erin Tall Leggy Blonde Victoria Secret Model. I realize this is totally Leo's prerogative and he is obviously enjoying his status in life and the women he dates are gorgeous and probably super nice. So whatever it's not my business...to the unassuming eye, but to anyone who knows anything it is TOTALLY my business because Leo is my #1 imaginary boyfriend (Thanks Amy and Sheryl at the Heatley Cliff for that terminology. Comforted to know others do this).
 |
| His rough and tumble come hither look. |
Sadly, I know nothing about Leo except for the awesome traits I give him in my mind. What I do know though is that if it can't be me and Leonardo DiCaprio walking down the aisle soonish then it needs to be LEONARDO DICAPRIO AND KATE WINSELT. She is now single, he will probably be single pretty quickly, and they need to turn their friendship into some steam like in that car in the boiler room on the RMS Titanic. Should we start a petition to let them know they are perfect for one another?
 |
| YES. |
 |
| I hope I see this for real in the future. |
Until the day I meet Leo or he and Kate get together and I feel comfortable that he is in a nice healthy, stable relationship I will continue to imagine Leonardo DiCaprio, my main man, as a gentlemen who has a good sense of humor and smells nice. And I will advise him to keep his hair on the shorter side. I'm not too sure how I feel about his slicked back look. Actually I am; I feel I don't like it.
I don't know, I guess he's just going through some growing pains. Did you see what I did there? Play on words, words playing.
In the mean time I have THE GREAT GATSBY movie to look forward to! So incredibly excited. It'll be like I'm right there next to my guy as I'll be pretending I'm Daisy the entire time. Finally the man does a movie with some solid romance in it (Shutter Island wasn't necessarily enchanting).
For another genre all together, I'm interested to see how Leo does in a Quentin Tarantino movie. Django Unchained looks pretty crazy, but should I be surprised?
I'd like to end with formally proposing to Leonardo DiCaprio. Will you marry me imaginary boyfriend #1?
Sunday, June 17, 2012
A Queen's Diamond Jubilee Party in...Madison, WI.
All hail the queen!
London is having a big year what with the 2012 London Olympics and the QUEEN'S DIAMOND JUBLIEE! I am freaking out over here, is anyone else? We all know I am a self professed anglophile so I kind of feel like the Universe is smiling down on me and all London is beckoning me to make my way across the pond and have a cuppa and a jolly ol' time. Bloody hell, I'm down.
I was out of town the weekend of the Queen's major celebrations meaning regrettably, I was not able to sit glued to the television watching the huge party, wearing a fake crown and talking in a mix between a cockney accent and an elegant Queen Victoria esque accent to mainly no one, while eating short bread cookies that I call biscuits and drinking massive amounts of tea burning my mouth being totally ok with that. What a shame. Doesn't that sound amazing and inspirational? Or wait does it sound like a description of a four year old girl in her imaginary world? Either way it would have been pretty notable.
Although I was not able to devote my full attention to all of the pomp and circumstance of British royal celebrations, I was able to have a splendid tea party in honor of her majesty the Queen! My mom is the best hostess and cute party thrower I know. She fully indulged my idea of a party and ran with it, also providing most of the guests with her cool friends. I spent my party tea time with a gaggle of awesome ladies, what a treat!
For those of you who don't know, The Queen's Diamond Jubilee of Elizabeth II is a celebration marking 60 years on the throne for Lizzy. Queen Victoria is the only other monarch in British history to have celebrated this massive achievement. The Brits do crazy stuff like boat pageants down the Thames and street parties! Also famous celebrities preform for the Queen and The Duchess of Cambridge, lovely Kate Middleton looks gorgeous.
But here in Madison, WI we buy tins of Walkers shortbread cookies, make scones, eat clotted cream and little tea sammies made with wheat bread. It was obviously super authentic. And tons of unadulterated fun.
Here are pictures documenting the whole shin dig.
To keep the theme towards our comrades over in the UK we read from my book called "Knickers in a Twist: A Dictionary of British Slang" learning inventive aspects of British culture. It all went tickety-boo (a term that means it went exceedingly well)!
Next on my queue, an Olympics party!! I plan on just wearing a Union Jack flag draped like a toga.
London is having a big year what with the 2012 London Olympics and the QUEEN'S DIAMOND JUBLIEE! I am freaking out over here, is anyone else? We all know I am a self professed anglophile so I kind of feel like the Universe is smiling down on me and all London is beckoning me to make my way across the pond and have a cuppa and a jolly ol' time. Bloody hell, I'm down.
I was out of town the weekend of the Queen's major celebrations meaning regrettably, I was not able to sit glued to the television watching the huge party, wearing a fake crown and talking in a mix between a cockney accent and an elegant Queen Victoria esque accent to mainly no one, while eating short bread cookies that I call biscuits and drinking massive amounts of tea burning my mouth being totally ok with that. What a shame. Doesn't that sound amazing and inspirational? Or wait does it sound like a description of a four year old girl in her imaginary world? Either way it would have been pretty notable.
Although I was not able to devote my full attention to all of the pomp and circumstance of British royal celebrations, I was able to have a splendid tea party in honor of her majesty the Queen! My mom is the best hostess and cute party thrower I know. She fully indulged my idea of a party and ran with it, also providing most of the guests with her cool friends. I spent my party tea time with a gaggle of awesome ladies, what a treat!
For those of you who don't know, The Queen's Diamond Jubilee of Elizabeth II is a celebration marking 60 years on the throne for Lizzy. Queen Victoria is the only other monarch in British history to have celebrated this massive achievement. The Brits do crazy stuff like boat pageants down the Thames and street parties! Also famous celebrities preform for the Queen and The Duchess of Cambridge, lovely Kate Middleton looks gorgeous.
But here in Madison, WI we buy tins of Walkers shortbread cookies, make scones, eat clotted cream and little tea sammies made with wheat bread. It was obviously super authentic. And tons of unadulterated fun.
Here are pictures documenting the whole shin dig.
 | ||
| The spread. Yes, that is the Queen's face on a tin full of shortbread cookies. |
 | |||
| Channeling Alice in Wonderland and some of Britain's earlier monarchs who made use of the guillotine. Ahmm "Bloody Mary" |
 | |
| My plate, one of many servings. |
 | |
| How precious is my mother? We made crowns. |
 |
| I opted also to add a bindi inspired gem stone as an acknowledgement of British history in India. |
 |
| And to cap it all off we had a cake decorated with the colors of the United Kingdom and the United States, because we were in fact in the US. |
To keep the theme towards our comrades over in the UK we read from my book called "Knickers in a Twist: A Dictionary of British Slang" learning inventive aspects of British culture. It all went tickety-boo (a term that means it went exceedingly well)!
Next on my queue, an Olympics party!! I plan on just wearing a Union Jack flag draped like a toga.
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