The Lucky One - Nicholas Sparks

So I just recently finished the newest Nicholas Spark's novel entitled "The Lucky One." The story follows a marine named Logan who during a tour in Iraq comes across a photo in the sand of a woman. Despite his attempts to try to find its owner no one claims the photo and he ends up pocketing it. Logan faces several brushes with danger, his friend becomes convinced that the photo is lucky and Logan should try and seek out the girl in the photo. So he does...

Just like Spark's previous novels this story is filled with to the brim with romantic goodness. The novel carries just a hint of over bearing morality that I have found in previous Spark's books, as this novel has characters that have inherent and obvious flaws. The only real problem I have with the book is that there is a distinct line between the "good" and "bad" characters. Logan is described as the perfect man - he listens, he doesn't interrupt, good looking, unfailingly kind to the main character's child...the list goes on. In contrast another male character is seen as verbally abusive, sexist, possessive. That being said it didn't deter me from reading the book and I highly recommend it for anyone who has loved the author's previous works.

The book is everything I have come to love about Spark's books. An easy read that makes you believe in true love, luck, and the ever loaded word...destiny. I liked that the novel incorporates current topics (the war, the Internet- google, etc.). This novel is definitely not one to disappoint for any fan.

Side notes: If you like the book or any of his books (or movies) check out the website - http://www.nicholassparks.com/

Also I am excited to see that they are doing another movie adaptation of one of Spark's novels this one is for "Dear John" (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0989757/)

Happy Holidays!

I hope everyone is having a happy holiday season!

MySpace Graphics & Free Myspace Layouts

X-Men Origins: Wolverine

No introduction really needed...


X-MEN ORIGINS: WOLVERINE HD

Randomness...

I haven't posted in what seems like forever. As finals week slowly takes over my life here are just some quick things that have caught my attention lately...

Start Cooking's Lasagna Recipe - I L-O-V-E this website (http://www.startcooking.com/), they have some of the best tips for people like me who don't know the difference between "boil" and "simmer." My latest favorite (and one I have personally made now, twice!) is the lasagna. Here's the video but be sure to check out the rest of the website, they also have a podcast via iTunes that's really cool as well:


So I am a complete dork - and have now turned on two people (maybe three) at my workplace to reading Neil Gaiman's Sandman (if you haven't you really should). I wasn't able to attend his guest lecture at MIT over the past year and was really bummed, but apparently they taped it and it will be available on DVD quite soon (http://www.newenglandcomics.com/cgi-bin/shop/search.cgi?user_id=19675&database=tick.csv&template=details.htm&0_option=1&0=NGJSDVD01)

Continuing with the dork theme - lastly two movies are coming out that solidify my being geek. Star Trek and Terminator Salvation so completely excited - I included the videos for both as well below:



I still have yet to do my Christmas shopping and the time is swiftly passing (which I know thanks to two handy advent calendars) so hopefully I'll post again soon with Christmas shopping stuff.

Illuminated Bible

A news post on yahoo caught my eye about a new Bible that is being marketed. Intrigued I got sent to a NPR link on two new revisions of the Bible, one called the Bible Illuminated - which is more of a coffee table Bible complete with glossy pictures. The second being more eco-friendly and called The Green Bible. I am not sure how I feel about these new re-vamps, although I distinctly recall using a "teenage" Bible growing up that had pictures and drew references to lifestyle changes that could correlate to passages. I don't see any real problem with doing a new re-styling as long as the text itself remains the same. In an increasingly green and flashy world the Bible has manged throughout time to continue to be the one of the best sellers...is it the Bible moving into the new age with us or is it just another marketing ploy to appeal to a new generation of image and eco-friendly conscious individuals? And more importantly does it matter?

Next time I am around a book shop I will definitely have to check them out - as I am extremely intrigued...

Check out the article at: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=97537385#email

Additionally the Bible Illuminated has a website: http://bibleilluminated.com/

As well as The Green Bible: http://greenletterbible.com/

Things that make me smile...

...Chuck Bass from Gossip Girl. Tonight's episode had just the right amount of cattiness, great fashion, and tense romantic moments to make me scream. Regardless of the episodes plot line I know I can always be guaranteed enjoyment with one of my favorite bad boys on TV...Chuck Bass of course.

The CW put out more promotional ads for Gossip Girl and one features Chuck set to Britney Spear's "Womanizer." Its the perfect song for his character. Check it out below:

World AIDS Day

Today is World AIDS Day. Education is important. Check out Light to Unit and light a candle: http://www.lighttounit.org/ or World AIDS Campaign: http://www.worldaidscampaign.org/

Run

So being that I lack a radio and am therefore completely disconnected from anything new that hits the airwaves, my friend alerted me to the fact that Leona Lewis did a cover of Snow Patrol's "Run." I am not entirely sure how I feel about this version. Particularly the ending with the added choir of voices. I felt the original had a bit more (for lack of a better word) deeper sound to it, while Lewis's cover was a bit too poppy for my taste. In the original the crescendo toward the end is just fantastic (just this swell of music), while in Lewis's version I feel the choir (which replaces a lot of this musical crescendo from the original) takes away from the song. That being said, if I had never heard the original I don't know if I would feel the same way.

Here are both the original and the cover:

Leona Lewis - Run (Live at X Factor)
by wonderful-life1989

Twilight

I just got out of the theatre and literally raced back here (or well drove back) to write about the movie Twilight. As I have only just recently picked up the Stephenie Meyer book I didn't know too much about the book going into the theatre and I don't think that hindered me in any way. I figure that most everyone in the last 48 hours or more has heard of this movie or at least the book series so I will keep the synopsis brief:

Bella (Kristen Stewart) moves in with her father to a place called Forks. Its kinda dreary and grey compared to what she was used to in Arizona, on top of all this are the new kids in school who seem to be fascinated with her strictly because she's "different" and new. Guys in particular seem to be enchanted with her. But all is not bad in Forks as Bella soon discovers the Cullen's. The seemingly perfect family (in looks and skills) consist of Dr. Cullen, his wife, and their foster children. One child in particular catches Bella's eye...his name being Edward.

****Bit of a spoiler alert, you've been warned***

Not really a big spoiler, but in case you've been living under a rock for the past year...the Cullen's are vampires. Edward (played by Robert Pattinson aka Cedric Diggory from Harry Potter) and Bella fall in love, which complicates things as she is still human. The rest of the movie really sets the stage for the lives of the vampires in the Cullen clan who are non-human eater (vegetarians) and Edward and Bella trying to keep their relationship from tearing them apart. All

The movie was good. Not perhaps the best acting, but for the roles they were given the movie was good. The plot followed Meyer's book to the tee sometimes. As with any novel made into a movie I had trouble getting away from preconceived notions as to what these kids/places were supposed to look like. Other than that there are some pretty cheesy moments in the film that just make you laugh out loud (and were most likely non-intentional). Overall I say fans of the book series should definitely check out the movie. Those who aren't quite sure about the whole vampire love story thing should probably check this out when it comes out on DVD.

Esla Peretti Earrings

This is part of a set of heart earrings by Elsa Peretti at Tiffany's for around $195. They are absolutely stunning and I am dying to get them for Christmas this year for myself as I have been saving up. I know thoughts of praticality are running through most peoples minds right now, but I have been eyeing them for the past year and in light of my increase in shifts this month, really long and hard classes, working at the lab and hospital, and applying to graduate school I feel like these would be a nice present to give to myself. You can check out the rest of the collection at: www.tiffany.com

Encounter Point

I had the opportunity the other day to watch a documentary film entitled "Encounter Point." The documentary follows several people who are working to bring non-violence in Israel and Palestine. The documentary follows many individuals as they cope with the losses they have endured over the years due to the conflict.

While I wouldn't say necessarily that I felt it was one of the best documentaries I've seen, I would say that it was mind-opening. I feel like I (and perhaps many others who are outside of this conflict) do not think/know exactly what its like to be over in Israel or Palestine. It definitely opened my eyes to the conflict going on over there and the lives it has affected. I feel like the movie could have used a bit more narrative or better tie-ins with the various stories as at times it was often difficult to keep track as many individuals were introduced throughout the film. It definitely gave a new prospective to this war, in that it showed the losses from both sides as well grassroots organizations on both sides trying to garner peace.

The most touching story in the film was the two fathers (one from Israel and the other from Palestine) both have lost daughters due to the conflict over there. They come together at this convention for the bereaved who have lost children and wish to find a way to end the conflict peacefully. I also found the impromptu open forum discussion that a another young man led to be quite enlightening as well. This man had lost his brother, served time in jail, and was visiting his nephew in a hospital, who had been shot by a soldier despite the fact that he was a civilian. The rawness of the conversations that this man had with others who had been injured as civilians and their takes on what steps should be done were completely emotional and was what I hoped the rest of the documentary would have focused on a bit more.

Though I fully realize it was meant to follow the trials the grassroots peace leaders were going to, to help spread the message of non-violence to both sides...it would have been refreshing to also hear a bit more from those who were not yet converted to a existence of non-violence.

Overall I found the movie to be eye opening. Many times they quoted other famous leaders of non-violence (Ghandi, Martin Luther King Jr., Nelson Mandela) and how they too started off small and grew to encompass more like minded individuals who wish to achieve peace through non-violent acts. If you are interested in learning about the conflicts between Israel and Palestine or non-violence grassroots organizations around the world hoping to establish peace than I highly recommend this movie. It is definitely worth seeing.

Recommendations:

• Coming with an open mind - it helps with any documentary, especially a documentary about such a difficult subject to come with an open mind


• Be prepared to read subtitles - unless you don't need to, in which case I recommend turning them off


• It is very emotional- especially with the bereaved parents and when they discuss their children that have died


• The movie is only about 83 minutes long

Definitely check out the films website: http://www.encounterpoint.com/

It has helpful bios of the individuals featured in the film as it can at times be difficult to keep up, as the stories switch rather rapidly. In addition check out the section about the film makers, Ronit Avni and Julia Bacha The film is available at Amazon (http://www.amazon.com/), which there is a link to on the website. There are also helpful links if you wish to show in a screening.

Here is the trailer for the movie:

Microsoft Surface

Technology is certainly something that alludes me. Being somewhat computer illiterate I find myself at odds with the new gizmos that come out each year. One thing that caught my eye is Microsoft Surface. A co-worker mentioned this at work and I was immediately intrigued by the possibilities. Apparently a lot of people have been talking about this product lately. According to wikipedia its a multi-touch system from Microsoft. The screen is like a computer (in capability), but allows you to touch the screen. Not sounding too technologically advanced....let me continue.

What is amazing is what you can do with the touch screen. Uses include in restaurants where just placing your credit card on the screen you can pay for the meal. It also allows you to touch and switch around what food/beverages purchases can be paid on each card. By using one's phone and placing it on the screen you can view your photos. If another person places their phone on the table you can exchange photos and pick which ones you want to share. So cool!

Here's a promo video:

Needless to say I am quite impressed! There are more videos available at www.microsoft.com/surface

Wow

I cannot believe that as I am writing this our new President-elect is Barack Obama. He will be the 442nd President of the United States of America. I am in shock that in my lifetime I was able to see such a historical event. The crowds in Chicago were absolutely terrific (loved the shot of a tearful Oprah). As a Boston gal...this whole city was on pins and needles hoping that the rest of the country voted the same. Obama's speech was amazing and so hopeful. I truly believe he will be a great President...he has already changed history!

McCain speech was particularly moving as well. While I did not personally support him, I believe that McCain truly wants what is best for America (and while I am sure he is disappointed)...and right now that is Barack Obama.

Needless to say this political race was one for the history books. I feel like enough attention to the campaign was good to help get America out of a political apathy. Helping people (and especially young people) care about what goes on in politics and the world was really an important part of this election season. I cannot wait to see what the next four years bring!

Vote!

Everyone needs to go out and vote today!

Time Warp!

In keeping with Halloween theme: Rock Horror Picture Show! Though not specifically for the Halloween season alone, it certainly does go along with the general atmosphere of this time of year.

There is nothing better then seeing a midnight showing of Rocky Horror Picture Show. I highly recommend seeing one if you have not. Until then here's a video to help you brush up on your dancing skills:

Love Scenes in a Halloween Movie

Going along with the Halloween movie theme that seems to have taken over my week. Here are two of my favorite scenes from "Halloween" movies:

Casper - The ending scene with the dance where a young Devon Sawa dances with Christina Ricci




Edward Scissorhands - The ice angel scene...enough said

Halloween is almost here!!

Halloween is one of my favorite holidays...the pumpkins, the ghouls, the scary stories, the treats! It also happens to be during Autumn aka The Best Time of the Year. While this years festivities are somewhat dampened by the grad school applications and having to work the weekend I am still really excited! Over the weekend I was able to catch one of my favorite "scary" movies - Beetlejuice. Tim Burton does a great job at telling the story of a couple who after their death must scare off the family that moves into their house. Complicating this is existence of Beetlejuice - another ghost who turns out to be more of a problem for the couple than the living.

My favorite scene in the movie is one where the new house owners have company over and are forced to do a little song and dance via the deceased....

Mind your manners, T urges rude riders - The Boston Globe

I read this article that was posted on the Boston Globe website and almost died laughing. Its about how people are rude on the T (underground subway system in Boston for those of you unfamiliar with the area). Rudeness includes everything from not offering seats to elderly, injured, and pregnant as well as listening to loud music and not letting people off incoming trains. I only laugh because for me commuting to work is one of the most stressful parts of my day. I'm glad that other people realize that T riders are rude, but I do not think the MBTA's plan of putting inspirational posters up around the T will help with the rudeness. Firstly not everyone speaks English and secondly it can be tough reading signs if you are being jostled around in a cramped car. If you don't believe me just look at the comments posted after the article (quite amusing for a quick read!)
And because I don't feel like posting on the Boston Globe website here is my take on the rudeness of riding public transportation:

• I understand if you have children in a stroller that they need extra room...this does not mean you get to mow me over on the way into the car
• I will gladly give up a seat for those who need it, but I also keep in mind that those who are seated may need the seat just as much as those standing though they may not outwardly shows signs of needing it (i.e. crutches, cane, etc.)
• If you talk on your cell phone loudly do not be surprised that I am staring at you...
• People who are exiting the train cars need to get out before you get on, its just a fact people don't shove
• Since crowding is a problem perhaps more trains would be needed, novel idea huh?
• Listening to your music so loud I can identify the song is just rude
• If you are drinking alcohol on the train do not make it so obvious everyone knows - this includes the guy who sat next to me on a train popping cans of beer the entire way
• Pick up after yourselves, its just gross to come onto a bus to find a half eaten hamburger
• Bags do not count as a person, move them!
• If there are seats open do not stare at me to move to give you a more "convenient" seat. Just because you do not feel like sitting next to a person of a different background, age group, or a smelly person does not mean other people need to move to make you feel comfortable...sit there or stand

Finally I suppose that the real fault lies with me - I choose to ride public transportation and thus should just really suck it up. Its not always the most pleasant ride, but it needs to be done. There are worse fates than to ride the T around Boston...but don't take my word for it check it out:

Mind your manners, T urges rude riders - The Boston Globe

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Teatro

For my 23rd birthday my friends took me out to a restaurant called Teatro in Boston right near the commons. Needless to say all of us left extremely impressed. This Italian restaurant is situated near Emerson's radio station and the AMC movie theatre on the Boston Common. I had passed it a few times before, but it always seemed busy and too fancy for my type of dinning.

We caught the tail end of the theatre crowd leaving so we went at an opportune time (8pm). I highly recommend going after the theatre rush or making reservations as it was clearly the spot to go to within walking distance of the shows. Our waiter was extremely helpful and prompt. The drinks we chose were fantastic. My friends particularly raved about the sangria. The food was excellent as was the deserts. The restaurant serves both full and half plate meals, but keep in mind that the half plates are extremely small as they expect that to be served more with a four course meal.

The atmosphere was great. Not too big, but not too small. There was a small bar to the beginning of the restaurant which got a bit crowded, but not too bad. The lighting was fantastic. A light blue throughout the restaurant gave the feeling of mood lighting without the harsh glare of white lights. I also must mention how clean everything was. Now normally I wouldn't rave, but we were able to witness a vacated table being prepared and not only did they wipe it down they showered it with soap and actually cleaned it! I have been to many restaurants in my time, but I have yet to see this.

The only real downside I had to this restaurant were the bathrooms. Single bathrooms with only one for the women. As you can image the lines got somewhat outrageous.

My final verdict: Definitely check this place out. Great Italian food not in the North End and situated in the perfect location for before or after a show. If you plan on going to a show after make sure you make reservations.

Teatro
http://www.teatroboston.com
Reservations can be made at Open Table for this Restaurant

Coraline

I don't think I had posted about this movie yet so here it goes...

Neil Gaiman (one of my fave authors) just recently did a movie with Tim Burton (Nightmare Before Christmas) for his children's book Coraline. They have the new website up at Focus Features(http://www.filminfocus.com/focusfeatures/film/coraline/), complete with creepy images. So while I haven't read the book, I am a fan of both Gaiman and Burton so hopefully will get around to seeing it when it comes out in 2009.

The plot revolves around a girl named Coraline (voiced by Dakota Fanning) who discontent with her world discovers a alternative world through a door in her house. Now this world is perfect (somewhat creepy perfect) and is inhabited by alternative versions of the characters in the real world (ie Coraline's parents). But of course there is always a catch...the alternative mother is actually creepy and wants to keep her in this "other" world and give her button eyes (like the other mother and other father).

I have seen still shots and videos of the movie and as a 23 year old I am equally fascinated (by the incredible stop motion animation) and scared of the story. So check it out, I cannot be the only one who has seen The Nightmare Before Christmas religiously every year around this time...still in complete awe.

So I was shopping the other day...

I was in Good Vibrations the other day and happened across a vibrator that caught my attention. OhMiBod's music powered vibrator. Connected to your Ipod this vibrator pulsates to the sounds/rhythms of the music you listen to. I don't know how I feel about attaching anything like that to my Ipod, but the concept is certainly one that caught my attention.

http://www.ohmibod.com/

(picture from www.ohmibod.com)

The Melting Pot

So in the midst of this rainy afternoon full of debating I managed to make it out to The Melting Pot with the roommate. I wont like I was intrigued mainly because I had seen it on The Girls Next Door. Also the premise of the restaurant (fondue!) had me intrigued.

Upon arriving at the restaurant we were told the wait would be about 45 minutes (looking around at the empty tables I was a bit skeptical...but never the less did as the hostess instructed and sat at the bar to order a drink. No sooner had the drinks arrived than a table magically appeared for us to sit at. The food was pricey, but good. We split an artichoke and spinach fondue pot, each had salads, and split the Ying/Yang fondue dessert.

My opinion: The food was a bit pricey for fondue, though it was very good and fresh (they mix the food at your table). I did like that I got an unlimited amount of dippers, but the food was still a bit pricey. The ruse to get us to get drinks at the bar before being seated was a bit much, as well as the somewhat pretentiousness of the restaurant itself (what appeared to be the manager carried our drinks over herself to one of the empty tables). That being said I highly enjoyed the concept and would recommend going. The appetizer of fondue was more than enough to fill two grown women and the dessert selection was very good.

Check it out:
The Melting Pot
www.meltingpot.com
76 Arlington Street
Boston Park Plaza Hotel & Towers
Boston-Back Bay, MA 02116
617-357-7007
Check website for menu, directions, and hours

Alyssa Milano comes to Boston

Apparently Alyssa Milano aka Sam Micelli from "Who's the Boss?" is coming to Boston to promote her sports clothing line. She'll be at the Red Sox team store from 5:30pm-6:30pm (boo I have to work then!) to promote her line. You can check out this Red Sox shirt and other women's wear sport fans gear at: http://shop.mlb.com/category/index.jsp?categoryId=2838550&sr=1&origkw=2838550

And Alyssa has a blog as well: http://alyssa.mlblogs.com/

I just love that she turned what has mainly been a male dominated thing -- sport fan's gear and turned it so that there were more female friendly options available. Considering sports aren't just a passtime that men enjoy it makes sense that sport fan clothing should reflect that.

Practical Magic

I have spent the last few days researching graduate schools, juggling two jobs, taking four classes, and trying to figure out my financial situation. Needless to say I've gotten a bit bitchy and in trying to keep my sanity afloat have emersed myself in a multitude of movies that are now readily available to me, as I have a larger cable package now. One of those movies last night was Practical Magic. While the movie will probably not go down in history as Nicole Kidman's finest role...it is definitely one of my favorite guilty pleasure movies.

The movie centers on two sisters played by Nicole Kidman and Sandra Bullock who are witches. They are raised by their aunts in the art of witchcraft. In addition...there is a family curse that the men the women in their family fall in love with are doomed to die. Now these two sisters are as different as can be. While Bullock's character is somewhat reserved and wants the white picket fence life, Kidman's is somewhat of a wild child. Fates bring these two sisters together when Kidman's character falls in love with a man who is no good (played by ER's Goran Visnjic).

The movie features a host of great actors including a young Evan Rachel Woods and a fabulously good looking Aidan Quinn. It also has a great wardrobe...which is something I discovered while watching it for the bizillionth time. I particularly loved Bullock's flower printed dresses and cardigans...something about it all seemed so effortlessly gorgeous. Kidman's more quirky and flesh baring outfits were equally appealing.

Apparently I cannot be the only one who enjoys this movie as it played on ABC Family over the weekend during Sandra Bullock weekend. Needless to say it is definitely something worth checking out as the Halloween season approaches.

(picutre from www.wikipedia.com)

Zach Morris is Back!

Ok, so its not exactly Zach Morris but Mark Paul Gosselaar whose back on the small screen with TNT's new drama "Raising the Bar." Another source of my TV addiction, this show follows all sides of the courtroom drama (prosecution, defense, and judge's quarters). It also delves into the personal dramas of the character's (think Grey's Anatomy, but in a courtroom and wearing suits). Gosselaar plays a Jerry Kellerman, a defense attorney with a heart for those who would not otherwise get a good defense. Sigh...while the Zach Morris day's are over, there is still a part of me that yearns for the good old days. Luckily Gosselaar appears as yummy as ever, and delivers in a great performances in a terrifically written show. Despite some scathing critics of the show hopefully it will be on for a bit...if not for the eye-candy.

Picture from TNT Raising the Bar website (www.tnt.tv/series/raisingthebar)

Stephen King and such...

Too tired to write anything insightful and still several more pages left to go in this seemingly endless week of homework (oh wait its just Monday...). That being said I will just leave this link to this nice little short story/graphic novel/animation that I happened to stumble across in my dazed and procrastination infused state. www.nishere.com

Apparently up for quite some time now, this animation of one of Stephen King's short stories is somewhat addictive and hard not to sit through the whole thing. Comprised of 25 short little clips (each about 2 minutes each), the story focuses on the suicide of a psychiatrist following his encounter with a patient titled "N." Creepy less in the King sense of similar novels, but more in its deliverance through vocals and animation I sat through the entire story in one sitting. Definitely check it out if you have a chance!

Confessions of a Shopaholic

This looks so cute!

Sick...blah!

Just got off of a rather long evening shift so I'll make this one brief...

Apparently Agent Provocateur is planning to open a shop on Newbury Street! So excited. According to the Improper Bostonian the store is set to open in October. If you have never heard of Agent Provocateur then I highly suggest heading over to their website: :http://www.agentprovocateur.com/ This British lingerie store has apparently been expanding internationally over the past year and plans on launching the new Boston store soon. (http://www.vogue.co.uk/news/daily/080811-agent-provocateurs-expansion-plans.aspx ) Popular with celebrities, the store features some naughty but not cheaply done lingerie. I cannot wait! Also check out Maggie Gyllenhaal's new ads for the sexy lingerie store...fantastic: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-479630/Maggie-Gyllenhaals-steamy-Agent-Provocateur-campaign-revealed.html

On a side note according to the Boston Globe an 18 year old was discovered to have the Bubonic plague. Creepy! Apparently he had visited Wyoming, which is where they suspect he picked it up. The CDC in Atlanta has already confirmed the case. While I am definitely sick with a fever, I am quite sure it is not the Bubonic plague...thank goodness! (http://www.boston.com/news/local/connecticut/articles/2008/09/13/doctor_bubonic_plague_victim_fully_recovered/)

I hope everyone has a great weekend!

Gotta Love a Beerfest!

Nothing says Autumn in New England quite like a trip to Salem, MA. I absolutely love that my favorite holiday is in the fall...Halloween! So the fact that I live in a state that combines both is not something I hope to overlook this year. So I was really excited to see that Salem has a Harvest Fest - Wine, Meads & Craft Beer. What could be better than Salem, Halloween, and beer! It takes place Saturday October 18. Check it out at: http://www.salemharvestfest.com/

Vicky Cristina Barcelona

Stopping by Coolidge Corner a few weekends ago I stopped in to see the new Woody Allen flick, "Vicky Cristina Barcelona." The movie focuses on two friends (Vicky and Cristina) who travel over to Barcelona and become involved with a painter - Juan Antonio- (Javier Bardem) who seduces them both. The story becomes more twisted as Antonio's mentally unstable ex-wife returns (played by Penelope Cruz).

I was a bit hesitant to go to see this film at first, as trailers touted the seduction scenes as big draws to the film (particularly a dark room scene between Cruz and Scarlett Johansson). I was pleasantly surprised upon viewing this film that it wasn't as tarty as I expected. While the film does not lack in sex scenes, it did it in such a tasteful way that it did not become the main focus of the film. Some of this can be attributed to the narration that accompanied the scenes throughout the film. While I tend to shy away from film narrations I did not find it as distracting as I thought it would have been.

Adding to the beauty of the film itself was the Barcelona backdrop, which was sensual in and of itself.

While all the actors in the film added to the movie it was Cruz who I felt shined in this film. While her part was only minimal the intensity of this disturbed character was almost palatable.

I highly recommend seeing this film either in the theatre or when it comes out on DVD. Either way it wont disappoint.

(picture from www.wikipedia.com)

You Don't Own Me

I absolutely love this song and this version done by these three fantastic women (Bette Middler, Diane Keaton, and Goldie Hawn) in The First Wives Club. Just a little bit of girl empowerment for the middle of the week!




You Don't Own Me - The most amazing home videos are here

Procrastination

I have definitely been bitten by the procrastination bug. The date for my GRE test keeps getting closer and I am no where near as prepared as I hoped I would be. Need to get cracking on that list of things to study. I think that means actually setting my alarm tomorrow morning despite my "vacation" status. Ah well...

Right now I am...

• Watching The Girl's Next Door and The House Bunny Special
• Downloading Ozzy Osbourne's "Crazy Train"
• Burning Paddywax's Passionfruit Guava traveling candle
• Upset over the decision to push back Harry Potter :(
• Getting excited for Watchmen (hence why I'm reading it!)

The pretty much sums up my entire day, although I did get to attend a co-workers thesis defense and congrats Dr!!!! I cannot wait till I get the Dr. added to my name as well, but that will require me studying for these GRE's and getting into grad school...ahhhh! Well enough of that worrying here's a trailer for the upcoming movie Role Models which kept me laughing for quite a bit:

Jack Johnson

Love this song! I saw him recently play in concert and thought I would post this video just because of how happy it is!

Jack Johnson -- Upside Down

Vacation Day 1: British Encampment

So I finally made it out to the Boston Common today to kick off the start of my vacation. As you can see I made it to see the reenactment of the British encampment of the Boston Common. It was pretty cool. You got the feeling that most people had no clue that this event was going on and just happened to wander through the commons on the only nice day of the week. If you are around the are though it is definitely worth checking out. (www.thefreedomtrail.org)

Its Finally Over!!!

Summer classes are finally over and I am faced with the daunting task of actually having three weeks with nothing to do (other than study for the GRE's of course...). That being said I hope to actually make these weeks slightly productive, as I am prone to hardcore slacking off during vacation. This in itself is an oddity as "slacking off" is the purpose of vacation time, but for me this somehow turns into 24/7 couch time which I ultimately end up regretting. So hopefully I will be blogging soon about some "staycation" in Boston. Here's to hoping everyone had a great week and an even better weekend!

The British are Coming!

( picture from www.thefreedomtrail.org)

I love nothing better than the idea of a good reenactment. There is something about people reenacting key moments in history that makes me all giddy inside. So you can only image my excitement in learning that British re-enactors will be camping out on the Boston Common this month! With family activities during the day for children there is a historic tour of Dorchester and you get to witness the reenactment of some common activities that the soldiers did while on the common.




The encampment of the Boston Common begins on Friday August 15 and ends Sunday August 17. It is recommended to pick up the trolley tour of Dorchester tickets in advance as there are a limited amount. Check it out at the Freedom Trail Foundation (http://www.thefreedomtrail.org/)





Needless to say I cannot wait to check it out!

More than just pants...

The 16-year old girl in me was absolutely giddy at the idea of going to see Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2 in theatres this weekend. I managed to miss the rain drops and get into a seven o'clock showing of the chick flick sequel. While the movie itself was just as cheesy and feel good as the first one there was one thing that caught my eye...the fashion!

I absolutely adored the clothes, hair, makeup, and jewlery of all the characters. Here is a bit of my breakdown of the movie:

Blake Lively: While this girl has been the talk of the town with Gossip Girl her start was definitely the pants series.

Playing Bridget:The movie showcased Bridget as she discovered more about her mother and her family through the help of her long-lost grandmother.

Piece of jewlery I loved in the movie: Bridget's wishbone necklace. While I am not entirely sure about who made the one that Lively wears in the movie the Dogeared Wishbone necklace is quite similar looking (pictured above). It can be found at http://www.dogeared.com/ (picture from website)

Alexis Bledel: I miss Gilmore Girls! My TV sarcasm meter hasn't been the same since this show has gone off air

Playing Lena: Lena ends up going to RISD to study art and still can't get her mind off of that Greek boy...

Piece I absolutely loved:During a scene with Kostos Bledel wears an absolutely adorable blue and white striped dress. It felt a bit nautical and added a bit of pizazz to the character's wardrobe up until that point. (picture http://sisterhoodofthetravelingpants2.warnerbros.com/)

America Ferrera: Ugly Betty this girl is definitely not. I loved her in Real Women Have Curves and am excited to see her get more publicity for the work she does.

Playing Carmen: While she most likely wishes she could fade into the background sometimes, Carmen finally gets her chance to be in the spotlight!

What I absolutely adored: The hair and makeup! Love the loose waves and the dewy makeup that they did on her...looked fantastic! (check her out in the main picture at the top of the post---picture from yahoo movies -- www.yahoo.com)

Amber Tamblyn:Don't know much about her. I vaguely remmber watching Joan of Arcadia years ago...

Playing Tibby: Apparently she has been with Brian (Dragon Slayer player from the first movie) for a bit and their relationship goes through ups and downs as the movie plays out.

What I liked: The earrings. A pair of black tangle hoops with a crocheted like feel to them, dyed black. I have a similar pair in silver from H & M

While the movie was ever bit as sappy as I hoped for, the fashion was absolutely fantastic!

War of the Infomercial Guys

So i was recently watching my nightly infomercials, when much to my surprise I ran across an ad not featuring my favorite spokesperson Billy Mays. Instead it featured Vince Offer, who was trying to sell me something called Sham Wow. Intrigued I watched as this super- caffeinated individual tried to get me to buy some super cloth from Germany that could apparently dry just about anything. Anyway I write this I cannot do the commercial justice...luckily the video is on youtube!




And here is one from my favorite infomercial man...Billy Mays!

Don't Call It a Comeback...Role Models

I opened up the newest Glamour today and was amazed. There gracing an article is Anne Hathaway who recently survived a very public and very messy breakup. In the article she talks about becoming stronger through an exercise routine, but I was more interested in the fact that she talks about being "stronger." There is nothing that empowers me more than watching people who get kicked down only to rise back up again. In that same Glamour there was an article about Nicole Richie, who is as well known for her famous father as she is her slender figure. The article praised Richie as a role model to those who wish to break out of the style mold and experiment with different looks. Its amazing how much public opinion changes as just a few years ago Richie was scrutenized about her weight.

It always amazes me how resiliant individuals are, that in spite of everything they can still stand up at the end of the day and do something. I was reading recently that Britney Spears got a nomination for an MTV Video Music Award. The same girl who we have watched have a messy divorce, shave her head, go to rehab, go to a mental institution, lose custody of her children...need I go on. While there are those who tear her down, there are still those who applaud her for her sheer will to get back up.

There are plenty of people who say there are no role models left for children in today's media. I agree that there are few and far between, merely I am suggesting that perhaps we are focusing on the wrong things. We watch the fallout with great awe as those we admire fall from grace in the eyes of the public, but perhaps we should be paying more attention to what they do after the fall...

(image from Lancome website - www.lancome.com)

I <3 Dinosaurs!

Ever since Jurassic Park (and possibly before that!) I have had some weird fascination with dinosaurs. That's why when I saw the "Free Download" sign on iTunes for History Channel's "Jurassic Fight Club" I just knew I had to check it out. This show attempts to recreate battles of prehistoric creatures by using clues from fossils, imaging, and clues about animals today. Its like the CSI for dinosaurs. The episode that's available for free on iTunes is "Cannibal Dinosaur," and follows a battle on Madagascar between two Majungatholus (say that five times fast!). The show allows viewers to get an inside peak into how they recreate these scenes and what tools the researchers use to piece together prehistoric history. At the end the whole battle scene is put together using very cool (and sometimes very graphic) CGI.

While the historians and researchers cannot conclusively say anything about these battle scenes the technology they have to hypothesize about these events is absolutely fascinating to watch. Even if you aren't that fascinated in the mechanics of they were able to piece together these scenes, the CGI battle at the end is worth the peek at the great new show. Check it out on the History Channel (http://www.history.com/) or on iTunes. Here is one of the History Channel's trailers for the show:

Mae West

Just a few of my favorite quotes of hers:

• You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough


• Marriage is a great institution, but I'm not ready for an institution yet


• Too much of a good thing can be wonderful


• Its not the men in my life that count, its the life in my men


• Save a boyfriend for a rainy day-- and another in case it doesn't rain

Clearly I'm on a Mae West quoting kick. There is just something about a strong woman who is not afraid to say it like it is! Enjoy this little clip and hope everyone had a great Monday!

(pic from http://www.wikipedia.org/ - Mae West in "I'm no Angel")

Watchmen

So I can honestly say that I cannot wait for the Watchmen movie to come out. The more I read about this graphic novel by Alan Moore and illustrated by Dave Gibbons, the more I can't wait to see it on the big screen. I am always a sucker when it comes to bigscreen adaptations of graphic novels, but this one has me intrigued mainly due to its high fan following and accolades.

I enjoy reading graphic novels from time to time, but pick them usually with great care as they tend to be more expensive than regular paperback books. Finding a good selection at most stores is somewhat hard to do, although I did see this one shelved in Newbury Comics collection of graphic novels. It was priced around $20 there, but is set on Amazon (http://www.amazon.com/) at around $10.

I think this will be my next read. Its huge fan following aside, I am more intrigued by the darker and more psychological elements that fans and critics have professed this graphic novel contains. As a psychology major and a fan of the genre in general this intrigues me and I hope to read it before the movie comes out next year.

Here is the trailer for the movie, either way it looks absolutely incredible. (Aside: the music in the trailer is "The Beginning is the End is the Beginning" by Smashing Pumpkins - but according to a byte (who knows accuracy sometimes) on IMDB (http://www.imdb.com/) it was reworked a bit specifically for the trailer- nice song though and fits great with the mood of the trailer!)

A Little About Me...

Place to eat: anyplace that serves sushi, I just went to Haru and it was absolutely incredible! (http://www.harusushi.com/)

Summer destination: Cape Cod

Song on repeat: One Man Wrecking Machine by Guster

Reading: "College of the Overwhelmed" by Richard Kadison, M.D. and Theresa Foy DiGeronimo

Movie(s) I can't wait to see: Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2 and Watchmen

Website: The Daily Obsession (http://www.thedailyobsession.net/)

Blog: 55 Secret Street (http://55secretstreet.typepad.com/) a great source for fashion inspiration

Show(s): back episodes of Greek and Gossip girl...can't wait for September!

Drink: Revolution Tea's Acai Green tea (http://www.revolutiontea.com/)

Want it!: William Rast jeans...just so I can say that I am wearing Justin Timberlake's pants :) (http://www.williamrast.com/)

Currently doing: studying for the GRE and looking at grad schools (eek!)

Event: 1950s and 1960s "Dream Car" Model-rama August 9-10 at the Museum of Fine Arts. I adore anything to do with cars. (http://www.mfa.org/)

Good Cause: The Cinderella Project (http://www.cinderellaproject.net/)

And lastly...

Favorite Quote: I'm no model lady. A model's just an imitation of the real thing. - Mae West

(image from Windows Vista pictures system)

BBC Documentaries-- My Small Breasts

Over the past few weeks I have come to appreciate watching BBC documentaries that are available onDemand and to watch on BBC America. These documentaries cover a wide variety of subjects including anorexic young boys, men who are in love with plastic dolls, and body image problems. Currently I am watching My Small Breasts which follows three young women who deal with having size A breasts. One is a young woman who refuses to leave her house and chooses to engage in phototherapy in order to increase her self-esteem about her small breasts. Another is a woman who is considering breast implants and registers with the website http://www.myfreeimplants.com/ where people pay money for women's breast implants in exchange for "after" shots of the women. Lastly a woman who goes to every length to get her breasts to grow "naturally" through herbs and a suction bra.

I think this documentary stuck with me because as a young adolescent growing up I used to pray for bigger breasts. I remember looking around at all my friends who grew larger while I remained small and somewhat adolescent looking. I wore padded bras, inserts you name it...nothing worked. When I was younger I thought about breast implants and suction bras and then dismissed them off as pipe dreams due to money constraints. As I got older I slowly became more and more comfortable with my small size. I mean I still look at larger women with a bit of envy and clothes shopping cna still be a hassel, but I do not think that I would ever go to the extremes these women have gone to.

What is it about breast size that makes even the most self confident, self-assured, intelligent women go to these extremes? Is it society, the media, men, other women? Who knows I think this question will always remain unanswered. It basically boils down to does society need to change its attitude toward breast size or do women need to change their attitute toward their breast sizes? To counter this documentary is the opposite of the small breast problem...My Big Breasts documentary. Both show that either end of the breast "norm" is difficult. Either way I highly reccomend watching either one of these or other BBC documentaries if not for a little bit of insight into the lives of people, some of whom we would not necessarily been exposed to before...and that is always a good thing!

*The picture is from one of the more recognized (at least by me) suction bras available out there called Brava. You can visit their website at http://www.mybrava.com/

Dark Knight

What can I say about this movie that hasn't been said. Imax was incredible as there were a few scenes that were filmed specifically for viewing in the Imax format. Heath Ledger was incredible and I completely forget it was him until the credits rolled, he became the Joker and definitely deserves the Oscar nod if not win. Christian Bale was as gorgeous as ever. My friend did comment that Rachel Dawes did not have the same effect being played by Maggie Gyllenhaal as with Katie Holmes. I did prefer Holmes slightly in the previous movie, which surprised me a bit as I generally prefer Gyllenhaal overall as an actress. That being said she did the job justice. Aaron Eckhart was good and played a larger role in the movie than I thought he would...his two-face face was gruesome compared to Tommy Lee Jone's previous incarnation of the villian. Overall the movie was fantastic and definitely deserved the media buzz around it. It will be interesting to see where they go from here with the movies, its a shame that Ledger will not be able to play the Joker as he played an intregal role in Batman history. I hope they do his role justice as he played the part perfectly, he will be remembered well.

Needless to say I am stunned and still continue to think about this film some time after. It is worth going to see in the movie and I rarely think/say that about any movie. I am extremely pleased I got to see it in the theatres and in Imax.

Distraction...

I am less than 12 hours from going to see the Dark Knight in Imax and I can not be more excited! My friends and I purposefully held off to see it in Imax and I cannot tell you how hard it has been not to run off to my locale theatre these past two weeks just to see what all the buzz is about.

Needless to say I need some things to keep my mind off of the excitement...besides all the studying I need to be doing! Here are just a few:

Clocky by Nanda
I must reset my alarm clock five times each morning only to wake up with a start around 7:30am swearing and racing through my morning routine just so I can make it to my 8am. This clock solves that problem. Acting like a regular alarm clock it rings when you set it, but if you hit snooze it actually moves around your room so you must chase the beeping alarm clock and silence it, thus getting you out of bed. I don't know if I have reached the point where I want to spend $50 for an alarm clock, but the idea is certainly inventive.
Go to http://shop.feelmorehuman.com/p-6747-clocky-in-color.aspx to purchase (picture from site as well)

I am finishing up Caroline Knapp's "Drinking: A Love Story" so I am on the lookout for my next book and here are a few I am thinking of...

• "Schooled" by Anisha Lakhani - for the gossip girl in me


• "Anasai Boys" by Neil Gaiman- because its about time I read this book


• "College of the Overwhelmed" by Richard Kadison and Theresa Foy DiGeronimo - what I will most likely end up picking up from my local B&N soon

Needless to say I am excited about picking up a new book. Knapp's book is fantastic and definitely worth a look through. I will hopefully have a review up soon as I am literally only pages away from finishing. My 15% coupon to B&N is wearing a hole in my pocket so I expect I will be reading something new fairly soon.

And lastly because I must get back to reading/studying...the new Harry Potter trailer is up for Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince!

Check it out at: http://www.moviefone.com/movie/harry-potter-and-the-half-blood-prince/27063/trailer?trailerId=2181231

Hope everyone has a great rest of the evening!