Thomas and I had a wonderful anniversary! We couldn't go out, since I'm still sick, so it was take-out Italian and Netflix, but I can't complain. Fettuccini tastes better in your jammies, I think. Thomas joked about our "classy" anniversary--plastic forks, paper napkins--but considering how utterly awful I've felt this week, it might as well have been sterling silver and bone china. I loved it.
I've spent a lot of time watching television lately. Not much else I could do, really. I mean, besides get addicted to Farkle. So, with that, I thought I'd do a few reviews for you, starting with the Doctor Who Christmas Special: A Christmas Carol. (It was either that, or product reviews of Mucinex and Zicam. This seemed like more fun.)
Let me start by saying that I am a huge David Tennant fan. I like Eccleston, okay, but Tennant was the first Doctor I saw, and is, therefore, my Doctor. When he left, I was devastated. When photo and audio leaks of the new guy started trickling, I was...nervous. Alright, I was terrified. What had they done to my Doctor Who?!
They made it awesome. That's what. Matt Smith is a revelation. You could say, "he had me at hello", but it's more like, "he had me at fish custard". Daft, goofy, socially awkward, but brilliant and full of life, Smith is a charming and delightful Doctor. He's also not one to trifle with. You, especially, don't want to mess with his friends, which brings us to the special. (Oh, and if you haven't seen it, yet, don't read ahead. Spoilers, my dear.)
It's Christmas Eve, and the Doctor's newlywed companions, Amy and Rory, are on a doomed interstellar cruise ship (yes, it has an actual spacey, scientific sounding name, but let's just call it what it is). It's going down, and even the Doctor can't save it. Only one man can, and it's not that he doesn't want to, it's just that...well, actually, it is exactly that he doesn't want to. He hates Christmas. He hates people. He just doesn't care.
Oh, that doesn't sit well with our Doctor.
In this clever and exceedingly entertaining riff on Dicken's A Christmas Carol, the Doctor pits himself as Ghost against a futuristic Ebenezer Scrooge, in the hopes that he'll see the error of his ways and save the ship, it's passengers, and especially Amy and Rory.
I don't know where to begin. I will say that this was, easily, my favorite Christmas special to date. Instead of some massive invasion threatening an entire planet, we had one man and a small cruise ship. Michael Gambon (Dumbledore!!) was pitch-perfect as Kazran Sardick, the Scrooge-like misanthrope. This could have been a two-dimensional character, but Gambon's richly layered performance brought a depth and warmth to the character that made sure you not only understood his actions, but sympathized with him, as well.
This was recording star Kathryn Jenkin's first acting role, but you could have fooled me. Granted, the role didn't call for her to do much more than look like an angel (and sing like one, too--and boy, did she!), but she managed to melt her way into your heart, and I'm sure she caused more than one tear to be shed.
Then, of course, we have Stephen Moffatt, the writer and showrunner. We all know that the Doctor loves Christmas, and this was one of the most Christmassy specials, yet. Bounding down chimneys, flying through the sky in a sleigh (okay, rickshaw, but it's close), snow, carols, Dickens, and a marathon of Christmas Eves, all set in a futuristic Victorian setting. With a shark. It's brilliant.
What else is brilliant is the way Moffatt uses time. I've always enjoyed his episodes (The Girl In the Fireplace is one of my favorites), and the use of the TARDIS to allow the Doctor to be the Ghost of Past and Future (and that reveal!! I won't spoil that!) was no disappointment. There was also a great deal of humor to this episode that I didn't expect. Here we have the Doctor killing the psychic paper with too big of a lie (about being a mature and responsible adult, no less), advice on kissing a girl, and even a near-marriage to Marilyn Monroe! And Smith's portrayal is spot on. You truly believe he's a 900 year-old man in a 28 year-old body. He lends such gravitas to his performance--even at his silliest--that you never doubt the character.
And I will never doubt again.
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
I Did (and Still Do)
This time three years ago, my hair was on top of my head like Pebbles Flintstone, I had on absolutely no makeup, and a photographer was taking pictures of my sneakers.
I was a bride.
Mom and I had massage, hair and makeup appointments at the fancy day spa in town, and an aspiring-photographer friend of Mom's came along to document. My hair and makeup could have been better, but I wouldn't trade those photos for the world. For my 29th birthday, Mom took those pictures (which I had not seen, believe it or not) and put them in an album for me, juxtaposed against corresponding pictures of me growing up. Me as a bride, talking on the cellphone next to me as a toddler, talking on a pretend phone; the makeup artist putting lipstick on me for the wedding, alongside a picture of me in my bedroom, putting on lipstick for Prom. Mothers, if you ever want to cause your daughter to sob uncontrollably, give them this scrapbook. Mom, I love it.
As soon as we left the spa, the deluge hit. I have never seen so much rain in my life. If it's good luck to have rain on your wedding day, then Thomas and I are beyond blessed.
The rest of the day was a blur. My curls started falling. Curt's shoelace broke on the way out of the door. With the rain, we couldn't take pictures in front of the Church, and weren't allowed to take them inside, so there was a bit of a tapdance to find a new location. My mom's friend, Kathy, volunteered her beautiful Victorian home months before, but it's restoration took longer than expected. Luckily, Kathy had a neighbor with an equally beautiful Victorian home that was fully-restored and filled the most gorgeous Christmas decorations. They said they would be honored to have us take our pictures there. God bless the kindness of strangers.
I got dressed at Kathy's house. The broken shoelace put us a little behind, timewise, causing the photographer to throw a fit. Mom laced me into my corset-style gown as quickly as she could, and shoved me out the door, sans pantyhose or heels. I ended up taking all my pre-wedding photos in sneakers. Just as well, though. At least I was comfortable.
The boys had their pictures taken first, then Thomas was whisked off to an upstairs bedroom to prevent him from seeing the bride before the wedding. Then we had pictures of the girls, the family, the bride alone (amid a chorus of "oh, you look just like Belle!"). After that, we all loaded into cars (my dress nearly drowned poor little Curt), and headed for the church.
About half-way downtown, Mom's phone rang. It was Thomas. "Can I come out now?" No one had remembered to get him when we left! He was still in that upstairs bedroom.
Eventually, we all got to the church. The rain let up long enough for me to get my enormous dress inside the building. The boys reported to the Sacristy, while the girls were whisked away to the big Confessional (an actual room, and not the little closet thingy you see in movies). That's where we learned that I'd lost my grandmother's wedding ring. My step-dad found it, but not before the flower girl completely freaked out over it. My mom lost her false eyelashes, but my theatrical bridesmaids fixed them (probably by pulling the rest of them off). I discovered it was my baby cousin's fourth birthday and sang Happy Birthday with her. We mangaged to disentagle another little cousin from her dress (don't ask), and I pulled a miniature Quasimodo off of the bellringer. Never a dull moment at this wedding. No, sir.
The actual wedding went a lot more smoothly than I'd hoped. The children scattered (as per usual), Thomas and I spent the ceremony trying to figure out who had a better opening to sprint to the back door, and Genna's bouquet fell apart in her hands. In other words, typical wedding. Oh, we also somehow managed to not have anyone to escort Thomas' mother back up the aisle (God, I hope someone escorted her down the aisle! I was dealing with the two year-old hunchback at the time, so I really have no idea), so the Deacon took it upon himself to do it. I've honestly never seen her happier. I think it made her feel really special. I sure hope so, anyway.
The reception was in a beautiful hall that was decorated to look almost like a New Orleans courtyard, which went perfectly with our Mardi Gras theme. One of the groomsmen was a DJ, and offered his services, but ended up having to leave right after the wedding. The best man stepped in, thankfully. He didn't have a clue how to run anything, and spoke in a shy, Scottish brogue. He endeared himself to me in that one act more than he ever could have if he'd tried. I am forever grateful to him for taking care of that for us.
I forgot the tossing garter. The tossing bouquet fell apart in mid-air. The groom's cake turned people's mouths blue (the kids loved it!). Everyone ate, drank, and had a wonderful time.
It was a perfect wedding.
Happy Anniversary to my sweet Thomas. I love you!
I was a bride.
Mom and I had massage, hair and makeup appointments at the fancy day spa in town, and an aspiring-photographer friend of Mom's came along to document. My hair and makeup could have been better, but I wouldn't trade those photos for the world. For my 29th birthday, Mom took those pictures (which I had not seen, believe it or not) and put them in an album for me, juxtaposed against corresponding pictures of me growing up. Me as a bride, talking on the cellphone next to me as a toddler, talking on a pretend phone; the makeup artist putting lipstick on me for the wedding, alongside a picture of me in my bedroom, putting on lipstick for Prom. Mothers, if you ever want to cause your daughter to sob uncontrollably, give them this scrapbook. Mom, I love it.
As soon as we left the spa, the deluge hit. I have never seen so much rain in my life. If it's good luck to have rain on your wedding day, then Thomas and I are beyond blessed.
The rest of the day was a blur. My curls started falling. Curt's shoelace broke on the way out of the door. With the rain, we couldn't take pictures in front of the Church, and weren't allowed to take them inside, so there was a bit of a tapdance to find a new location. My mom's friend, Kathy, volunteered her beautiful Victorian home months before, but it's restoration took longer than expected. Luckily, Kathy had a neighbor with an equally beautiful Victorian home that was fully-restored and filled the most gorgeous Christmas decorations. They said they would be honored to have us take our pictures there. God bless the kindness of strangers.
I got dressed at Kathy's house. The broken shoelace put us a little behind, timewise, causing the photographer to throw a fit. Mom laced me into my corset-style gown as quickly as she could, and shoved me out the door, sans pantyhose or heels. I ended up taking all my pre-wedding photos in sneakers. Just as well, though. At least I was comfortable.
The boys had their pictures taken first, then Thomas was whisked off to an upstairs bedroom to prevent him from seeing the bride before the wedding. Then we had pictures of the girls, the family, the bride alone (amid a chorus of "oh, you look just like Belle!"). After that, we all loaded into cars (my dress nearly drowned poor little Curt), and headed for the church.
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| Photo Credit: tripletsandus.com |
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| Photo Credit: Whitney Upton |
About half-way downtown, Mom's phone rang. It was Thomas. "Can I come out now?" No one had remembered to get him when we left! He was still in that upstairs bedroom.
Eventually, we all got to the church. The rain let up long enough for me to get my enormous dress inside the building. The boys reported to the Sacristy, while the girls were whisked away to the big Confessional (an actual room, and not the little closet thingy you see in movies). That's where we learned that I'd lost my grandmother's wedding ring. My step-dad found it, but not before the flower girl completely freaked out over it. My mom lost her false eyelashes, but my theatrical bridesmaids fixed them (probably by pulling the rest of them off). I discovered it was my baby cousin's fourth birthday and sang Happy Birthday with her. We mangaged to disentagle another little cousin from her dress (don't ask), and I pulled a miniature Quasimodo off of the bellringer. Never a dull moment at this wedding. No, sir.
The actual wedding went a lot more smoothly than I'd hoped. The children scattered (as per usual), Thomas and I spent the ceremony trying to figure out who had a better opening to sprint to the back door, and Genna's bouquet fell apart in her hands. In other words, typical wedding. Oh, we also somehow managed to not have anyone to escort Thomas' mother back up the aisle (God, I hope someone escorted her down the aisle! I was dealing with the two year-old hunchback at the time, so I really have no idea), so the Deacon took it upon himself to do it. I've honestly never seen her happier. I think it made her feel really special. I sure hope so, anyway.
The reception was in a beautiful hall that was decorated to look almost like a New Orleans courtyard, which went perfectly with our Mardi Gras theme. One of the groomsmen was a DJ, and offered his services, but ended up having to leave right after the wedding. The best man stepped in, thankfully. He didn't have a clue how to run anything, and spoke in a shy, Scottish brogue. He endeared himself to me in that one act more than he ever could have if he'd tried. I am forever grateful to him for taking care of that for us.
I forgot the tossing garter. The tossing bouquet fell apart in mid-air. The groom's cake turned people's mouths blue (the kids loved it!). Everyone ate, drank, and had a wonderful time.
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| Photo Credit: Maria Gorum |
It was a perfect wedding.
Happy Anniversary to my sweet Thomas. I love you!
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| Photo Credit: Maria Gorum |
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Marvelous Marketing
Well, I am still completely and totally, miserably sick. Thank God for reruns of Las Vegas and Supernatural, as I've yet to figure out how to work the PS3 as a DVD player. (Don't laugh! I thought I had it worked out, and then they changed the controls on me!)
So, I've taken a break from fussing over (and cussing at) the controller to do a little surfing. (Please forgive me if anything in this post is incoherent. I have a fever, and am on TONS of lovely medications.) In my computer play-time, I came across this post showing off the adorable poster campaign for Toy Story 3's Oscar bid.
The marketing team behind the campaign went with the idea to compare the computer-animated flick to past live-action Oscar winners. Not a bad idea, since a nomination would pit the toon against live-action movies, anyway. This way, they not only address the elephant in the room, but embrace it.
The posters are precious, and there are a few I wouldn't mind hanging in my living room. What do you guys think? Let me know in the comments.
So, I've taken a break from fussing over (and cussing at) the controller to do a little surfing. (Please forgive me if anything in this post is incoherent. I have a fever, and am on TONS of lovely medications.) In my computer play-time, I came across this post showing off the adorable poster campaign for Toy Story 3's Oscar bid.
The marketing team behind the campaign went with the idea to compare the computer-animated flick to past live-action Oscar winners. Not a bad idea, since a nomination would pit the toon against live-action movies, anyway. This way, they not only address the elephant in the room, but embrace it.
The posters are precious, and there are a few I wouldn't mind hanging in my living room. What do you guys think? Let me know in the comments.
Monday, December 27, 2010
Quarantined
The Christmas Crud got me, and didn't even come with candy canes or sprinkles. I am sick as a dog, folks. If you need me, I'll be on my couch, snuggled up in the beautiful Tartan blanket my friend E.A. gave me for my birthday, watching wedding shows on WeTV. Just the good ones, though, with the nice people. None of that Bridezilla or Bridalplasty mess, thank you.
I'll be back (God willing) tomorrow, but for now, I'm off to the kitchen to make yet another cup of chamomile tea. To give you something cute to look at while I'm gone, here's a link to the awesome mug Thomas ordered for me for Christmas. I should get it sometime in the next month or so. We think.
See you tomorrow,
Erin
I'll be back (God willing) tomorrow, but for now, I'm off to the kitchen to make yet another cup of chamomile tea. To give you something cute to look at while I'm gone, here's a link to the awesome mug Thomas ordered for me for Christmas. I should get it sometime in the next month or so. We think.
See you tomorrow,
Erin
Thursday, December 23, 2010
At Least He Didn't Get Stuck In Pac-Man
Last weekend, Thomas took me to see TRON: Legacy. Now, at first, I was about as excited to go to this movie as I was my last dental appointment. I'd tried watching the original, but gave up after about thirty minutes. In addition, the reviews I'd read didn't help matters. However, I love my husband, so I figured I'd give it a go. If nothing else, I still owed him for Nine (Thomas, if you're reading this, I am so, so, so very sorry for that waste of time).
Anyhoo, the movie ended up being really enjoyable. It was worlds better than I expected, and reaffirmed my stance that Jeff Bridges makes anything better. I thought that the plot, while a bit predictable and a lot darker than I'd anticipated, was easy to follow and engaging. The actors were fine (Michael Sheen, I love you), and made even the most stilted dialogue seem meaningful. Most of all, the special effects (which is why anyone's even going to this movie, anyway, if we're honest with ourselves) were phenomenal. Hands down, the most visually stunning movie I've seen in a while (I'm looking at you, Avatar).
Now, the folks at Disney are no dummies, and seeing a cool marketing opportunity, teamed up with folks at Hurley to design a line of body-conscious, occasionally glow-in-the-dark, TRON-inspired fashions. Here, you can choose from a range of styles (and level of TRON brand recognition). There's everything from basic t-shirts (I'm a fan of this v-neck number) to faux-leather trimmed hoodies and skinny jeans. There's even a long-sleeved black mini-dress with day-glo electric blue piping, for that hard-core "on the grid" look. Prices range from $25-$65, which is pretty affordable for quality movie merchandise. What do you guys think of the TRON look? Wearable or not? Let me know in the comments.
Okay, folks! That's it until after Christmas! Have a happy holiday, and I'll be back on Monday!
Anyhoo, the movie ended up being really enjoyable. It was worlds better than I expected, and reaffirmed my stance that Jeff Bridges makes anything better. I thought that the plot, while a bit predictable and a lot darker than I'd anticipated, was easy to follow and engaging. The actors were fine (Michael Sheen, I love you), and made even the most stilted dialogue seem meaningful. Most of all, the special effects (which is why anyone's even going to this movie, anyway, if we're honest with ourselves) were phenomenal. Hands down, the most visually stunning movie I've seen in a while (I'm looking at you, Avatar).
Now, the folks at Disney are no dummies, and seeing a cool marketing opportunity, teamed up with folks at Hurley to design a line of body-conscious, occasionally glow-in-the-dark, TRON-inspired fashions. Here, you can choose from a range of styles (and level of TRON brand recognition). There's everything from basic t-shirts (I'm a fan of this v-neck number) to faux-leather trimmed hoodies and skinny jeans. There's even a long-sleeved black mini-dress with day-glo electric blue piping, for that hard-core "on the grid" look. Prices range from $25-$65, which is pretty affordable for quality movie merchandise. What do you guys think of the TRON look? Wearable or not? Let me know in the comments.
Okay, folks! That's it until after Christmas! Have a happy holiday, and I'll be back on Monday!
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Vote Early, and Vote Often!
Hey Guys!
I just found out about a cake decorating contest that has been going on (for a while now, actually). I entered the Purse Cake I made for my mom last year, and if any of you guys felt so inclined, I wanted you to know where you can vote for it. Voting ends the 27th, so the sooner, the better!
Thanks!
Erin
I just found out about a cake decorating contest that has been going on (for a while now, actually). I entered the Purse Cake I made for my mom last year, and if any of you guys felt so inclined, I wanted you to know where you can vote for it. Voting ends the 27th, so the sooner, the better!
Thanks!
Erin
Ginger, Inside and Out
So, as if I don't spend enough time on Facebook (darn you, Vegas Nights!) or enough money online shopping, now they have to go and combine the two!! I'm not sure if this is a dark day or the best thing since sliced bread. I'll have to wait to see what my bank account thinks of this situation.
Facebook is teaming up with vendors, including big names, such as Delta and J.C. Penney's, to turn their pages into storefronts. Reportedly, the pages would be interactive (as Facebook pages already are), and be equipped to accept credit cards and PayPal. No word, yet, as to when this would take effect, but I can see this being huge. I'm a little excited about it, personally.
Speaking of shopping (how's that for a segue?), here's a product review! Today, I thought we'd discuss Philosophy The Gingerbread Man Foaming Bubble Bath and Shower Gel. According to Sephora it's...:
Really, up until I used this, I've never been super excited over bath gel. I've always tried to find scents that would be pleasant (yes, I'm a sucker for Bath and Body Works and the like), but mainly, I've had a utilitarian approach to bath gel. Will it get me clean? Will the smell not make me ill? Will it not dry out my skin? Okay, sign me up. If it sparkles, even better.
This doesn't sparkle, but I'll forgive that.
The Gingerbread Man doesn't smell like gingerbread. Don't be fooled by the name. What it does smell like, though, is lemon and ginger. It's gorgeous, Asian-inspired, and makes me long for a nice green tea to go along with it. It somehow manages the heretofor unheard of task of being simultaneously invigorating and calming. Basically, it's a very Zen bath gel.
And yes, it gets you clean. Squeaky clean, actually, but without any dryness, which is astounding for this time of year. I use it on a bath pouf, and it lathers beautifully.
I received a two-ounce sample from Sephora, and have, in the course of two weeks, gone through half of it. I have all but completely ignored the other scents that came in the set (one of those 500-point Beauty Insider rewards), and had to run out and buy a 16oz. bottle today before the holiday is over and this is gone for another year. If you're looking for a good bath gel (and I really think this would be nice year round), or need a last minute gift, this is a great buy. Heck, it even comes in a cute gift box. Now, if only we could make this stuff sparkle. $16, Sephora.
And, while we're on the subject of ginger cookies (see what I did there?), how 'bout a little recipe? This is a doctored up version of an original recipe from allrecipes.com. I really wanted something festive to take over to Mom's for Christmas morning. Now, I'm not sure they'll make it. I keep eating them. To quote a friend, "I'm evil, and must be laminated."
I call these Cranberry Orange Walnut Cookies. Please, feel free to call them something more creative.
2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup butter, softened (seriously--as smushy as possible)
1 1/2 cups white sugar
1 egg
Juice of 1/2 a large orange
2.25 ounces chopped walnuts
1/4 cup dried cranberries
1/2 tsp. powdered ginger
1/2 tsp. powdered nutmeg
Directions
1.Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
2.In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in egg and orange juice. Gradually blend in the dry ingredients. Drop teaspoonfuls of dough onto ungreased cookie sheets.
3.Bake 12-16 minutes in the preheated oven, or until golden. Let stand on cookie sheet two minutes before removing to cool on wire racks.
Feel free to adjust walnuts, cranberries, and spices to taste. I just sort of tossed in what looked right (measuring spoons, shmeasuring spoons). The orange taste is very light, but noticeable, and the texture is rich and velvety. Best of all, they make the house smell amazing and they taste like Christmas. Enjoy!
Facebook is teaming up with vendors, including big names, such as Delta and J.C. Penney's, to turn their pages into storefronts. Reportedly, the pages would be interactive (as Facebook pages already are), and be equipped to accept credit cards and PayPal. No word, yet, as to when this would take effect, but I can see this being huge. I'm a little excited about it, personally.
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| Photo Credit: Sephora.com |
...a luxurious, foaming bubble bath and shower gel that exudes the cozy scent of ginger spice. Perfect for the holidays, this gel cleans, soothes, and draws you in with a refreshing ginger spice scent and an ultrarich, moisturizing lather that conditions skin, leaving it feeling super soft.According to me:
Really, up until I used this, I've never been super excited over bath gel. I've always tried to find scents that would be pleasant (yes, I'm a sucker for Bath and Body Works and the like), but mainly, I've had a utilitarian approach to bath gel. Will it get me clean? Will the smell not make me ill? Will it not dry out my skin? Okay, sign me up. If it sparkles, even better.
This doesn't sparkle, but I'll forgive that.
The Gingerbread Man doesn't smell like gingerbread. Don't be fooled by the name. What it does smell like, though, is lemon and ginger. It's gorgeous, Asian-inspired, and makes me long for a nice green tea to go along with it. It somehow manages the heretofor unheard of task of being simultaneously invigorating and calming. Basically, it's a very Zen bath gel.
And yes, it gets you clean. Squeaky clean, actually, but without any dryness, which is astounding for this time of year. I use it on a bath pouf, and it lathers beautifully.
I received a two-ounce sample from Sephora, and have, in the course of two weeks, gone through half of it. I have all but completely ignored the other scents that came in the set (one of those 500-point Beauty Insider rewards), and had to run out and buy a 16oz. bottle today before the holiday is over and this is gone for another year. If you're looking for a good bath gel (and I really think this would be nice year round), or need a last minute gift, this is a great buy. Heck, it even comes in a cute gift box. Now, if only we could make this stuff sparkle. $16, Sephora.
And, while we're on the subject of ginger cookies (see what I did there?), how 'bout a little recipe? This is a doctored up version of an original recipe from allrecipes.com. I really wanted something festive to take over to Mom's for Christmas morning. Now, I'm not sure they'll make it. I keep eating them. To quote a friend, "I'm evil, and must be laminated."
I call these Cranberry Orange Walnut Cookies. Please, feel free to call them something more creative.
2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup butter, softened (seriously--as smushy as possible)
1 1/2 cups white sugar
1 egg
Juice of 1/2 a large orange
2.25 ounces chopped walnuts
1/4 cup dried cranberries
1/2 tsp. powdered ginger
1/2 tsp. powdered nutmeg
Directions
1.Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
2.In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in egg and orange juice. Gradually blend in the dry ingredients. Drop teaspoonfuls of dough onto ungreased cookie sheets.
3.Bake 12-16 minutes in the preheated oven, or until golden. Let stand on cookie sheet two minutes before removing to cool on wire racks.
Feel free to adjust walnuts, cranberries, and spices to taste. I just sort of tossed in what looked right (measuring spoons, shmeasuring spoons). The orange taste is very light, but noticeable, and the texture is rich and velvety. Best of all, they make the house smell amazing and they taste like Christmas. Enjoy!
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
How Did This Happen?
December 20, 1997, I had a voice recital. My then about-23-months-pregnant mother looked down at her stomach and said, "Curtis, you can not be born today. Today is your Sissy's day. You can be born tomorrow, but you can not be born today."
Around eight the next morning, Mom's water broke.
That was the first and only time my brother has ever obeyed my mother.
When he was two, Curt got into Teletubbies. Mom and I took him through the toy aisle at Target, which was loaded with Teletubbies. Curt wanted to hug one. Specifically, he wanted to hug Dipsy, the green one. Somehow, this kid, with a seatbelt and two grown women holding him down (we knew better than to let a hand or eye off of this Houdini-child), managed to fall out of the shopping cart and land head first on the floor. Mom screamed. He screamed. Dad screamed. They headed straight for the emergency room (followed by ice cream--kid was fine). I grabbed the doll and headed for the register.
When he was four, Mom took Curt on a tour of the Battleship USS Alabama. She kept one hand and two eyes on him, but she did have to blink occasionally. During one of those split-seconds, he managed to run off, jump some velvet ropes, and start climbing up the side of the ship. She grabbed him up off of the ladder and started pointing to the ropes and to several signs posted throughout the area.
Mom: "Do you see that sign!? It says DO NOT CLIMB!"
Curt: *right up in her face, nose to nose* "I CAN NOT READ!"
Ladies and Gentlemen, Mom allowed him to live after that incident. It's a miracle.
It doesn't matter the age difference, sibling rivalry exists. It begins at birth. I remember the time I looked at my sweet baby brother, laying peacefully in his car carrier, and whispered, "I love you". He growled at me.
There was the time Mom needed to run in to the grocery store for one or two items. It would be a five minute trip for one person, but about a twenty or thirty minute trip with a six year-old, so I offered to stay in the car and babysit. After Mom got out, I reached over and switched on the car's motor to run the air-conditioning. Five minutes later, when Mom got back in the car, Curt looks at me, in all seriousness, and says, "I'm sorry, Sissy. MOM, SISSY TURNED ON THE CAR!! Sissy, I'm so sorry. MOMMY, SISSY TURNED ON THE CAR!!!" I was 23 or 24 at the time--old enough to drive and have children of my own! The child was throwing me under the bus. Awesome. Mom explained to him that it was okay, and when he was older and had a driver's license, he could turn on the car, too.
This is the child who, as an infant, laughed a friend of mine off the property on Prom Night. Chip's date had gotten ready at my house, and when he showed up to pick her up, Curt must have thought the tux was the funniest thing he'd ever seen. You haven't lived till you've seen a five month-old try to compose himself.
The kid has taught me more over the years than college ever did. For instance, I have learned that you have the strangest dreams when someone crawls in your bed at 6 am on a Saturday and turns on Dora the Explorer while you're still dead asleep. I also learned that little brothers give the best hugs and make the best teddy bears.
From Curt's pre-school year until somewhere around second grade, I ceased to be known as Erin, and became "Curtis' Sissy". That's around the time I learned that field trips are a heck of a lot more fun when you're a grown up.
Most importantly, I learned that Brother-Sister Day is the greatest, and should be a National Holiday. That's when little brothers and big sisters (who are old enough) ditch Mom and Dad for a trip to the movies and for ice cream.
I have learned that you have to put down the duckie if you want to play the saxaphone. Curt learned that, and is now a fantastic little sax player, if I do say so myself.
I have learned that they grow up too fast. It really doesn't seem like that long ago that I was rolling him up in his blanket like a baby burrito. Now, he's almost as tall as I am (I have one more inch on him, and will relish calling him "the short one" until he passes that mark). His feet are bigger than mine. He has a girlfriend. He almost has an attention span.
He's thirteen, and he's perfect. Happy Birthday, Baby. Sis loves you.
Around eight the next morning, Mom's water broke.
That was the first and only time my brother has ever obeyed my mother.
When he was two, Curt got into Teletubbies. Mom and I took him through the toy aisle at Target, which was loaded with Teletubbies. Curt wanted to hug one. Specifically, he wanted to hug Dipsy, the green one. Somehow, this kid, with a seatbelt and two grown women holding him down (we knew better than to let a hand or eye off of this Houdini-child), managed to fall out of the shopping cart and land head first on the floor. Mom screamed. He screamed. Dad screamed. They headed straight for the emergency room (followed by ice cream--kid was fine). I grabbed the doll and headed for the register.
When he was four, Mom took Curt on a tour of the Battleship USS Alabama. She kept one hand and two eyes on him, but she did have to blink occasionally. During one of those split-seconds, he managed to run off, jump some velvet ropes, and start climbing up the side of the ship. She grabbed him up off of the ladder and started pointing to the ropes and to several signs posted throughout the area.
Mom: "Do you see that sign!? It says DO NOT CLIMB!"
Curt: *right up in her face, nose to nose* "I CAN NOT READ!"
Ladies and Gentlemen, Mom allowed him to live after that incident. It's a miracle.
It doesn't matter the age difference, sibling rivalry exists. It begins at birth. I remember the time I looked at my sweet baby brother, laying peacefully in his car carrier, and whispered, "I love you". He growled at me.
There was the time Mom needed to run in to the grocery store for one or two items. It would be a five minute trip for one person, but about a twenty or thirty minute trip with a six year-old, so I offered to stay in the car and babysit. After Mom got out, I reached over and switched on the car's motor to run the air-conditioning. Five minutes later, when Mom got back in the car, Curt looks at me, in all seriousness, and says, "I'm sorry, Sissy. MOM, SISSY TURNED ON THE CAR!! Sissy, I'm so sorry. MOMMY, SISSY TURNED ON THE CAR!!!" I was 23 or 24 at the time--old enough to drive and have children of my own! The child was throwing me under the bus. Awesome. Mom explained to him that it was okay, and when he was older and had a driver's license, he could turn on the car, too.
This is the child who, as an infant, laughed a friend of mine off the property on Prom Night. Chip's date had gotten ready at my house, and when he showed up to pick her up, Curt must have thought the tux was the funniest thing he'd ever seen. You haven't lived till you've seen a five month-old try to compose himself.
The kid has taught me more over the years than college ever did. For instance, I have learned that you have the strangest dreams when someone crawls in your bed at 6 am on a Saturday and turns on Dora the Explorer while you're still dead asleep. I also learned that little brothers give the best hugs and make the best teddy bears.
From Curt's pre-school year until somewhere around second grade, I ceased to be known as Erin, and became "Curtis' Sissy". That's around the time I learned that field trips are a heck of a lot more fun when you're a grown up.
Most importantly, I learned that Brother-Sister Day is the greatest, and should be a National Holiday. That's when little brothers and big sisters (who are old enough) ditch Mom and Dad for a trip to the movies and for ice cream.
I have learned that you have to put down the duckie if you want to play the saxaphone. Curt learned that, and is now a fantastic little sax player, if I do say so myself.
I have learned that they grow up too fast. It really doesn't seem like that long ago that I was rolling him up in his blanket like a baby burrito. Now, he's almost as tall as I am (I have one more inch on him, and will relish calling him "the short one" until he passes that mark). His feet are bigger than mine. He has a girlfriend. He almost has an attention span.
He's thirteen, and he's perfect. Happy Birthday, Baby. Sis loves you.
Monday, December 20, 2010
My Christmas Wish
Yesterday, I decided to get into the Christmas spirit. I donned an apron, stuck a holiday DVD in the laptop, and got to work baking. For almost four hours, and the better part of two DVDs, I made pies, sugar cookies, and fruit cookies. I floured and dusted and basted and frosted, decorated and drizzled and tasted and toasted. In other words, I worked by butt off. I finished the evening sweaty and covered in dough, but it was Christmas, by gum. It finally felt like Christmas.
But I don't think it was the cookies that did it. Even with all the red and green candies and sprinkles, I don't think they were what did the trick. The movies brought forth my holiday spirit. Watching Chevy Chase try to light his abomination of a Christmas display made my season bright. Richard Attenborough taught Mara Wilson to believe in Santa, and reminded me to have a little faith, myself. Christmas came to my kitchen, not as a confection, but through a bunch of old discs on a Mac.
Yesterday's movie marathon was fun. It gave Thomas and I a chance to debate the finer points of Home Alone, and which Miracle on 34th Street was better (we both agree the original, but I prefer some story points of the 1994 version, and appreciate the update, where he does not). We pondered the necessity of the fairly lousy remake of Christmas In Connecticut, but still giggled throughout. Heck, it sure beat a rerun of CSI: Wherever. One day, I may make him sit down and watch the original Barbara Stanwyck version. It gets me everytime.
We skipped Love, Actually, but I may pull it out tonight. That's one of my favorites, and a far cry more festive than the recent television airings of Titanic (really? When did that become a CHRISTMAS movie? The ship sailed in APRIL, for the love of mike!)
I do not own a copy of the Jim Carrey...well, any Jim Carrey holiday movie. I do have Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, but it's not quite a Christmas film. I'll keep a lookout for the cartoon How the Grinch Stole Christmas. I missed A Charlie Brown Christmas and Prep and Landing, but that can be easily remedied. What can not be remedied, however, is the sheer lack of Christmas movies in theatres this year.
There aren't any! I don't just mean there aren't any good movies out that are holiday themed. I mean there aren't any! Not one! I mean, I'm not lamenting the fact that there's not a Four Christmasses or Fred Claus to avoid. But how 'bout another Elf?
I realize that December is the peak of awards season. It's the last (and best) chance to open movies with real awards potential. That's why we have dramas and big-budget stargazers out the ears, but nothing with reindeer, than I've noticed. So, here's my question, and the point of this post: instead of lackluster remakes or mindless drivvel that is Christmassy in name only, or nothing Christmassy at all, why can't we have some holiday awards fodder? You know, something with fabulous writing, top-notch acting, and a real, honest-to-God plot? I know, it's tough to fathom, but it just might bring us another classic, and maybe something my kids can watch while they bake cookies. Now, that's something I'd raise my eggnog to.
But I don't think it was the cookies that did it. Even with all the red and green candies and sprinkles, I don't think they were what did the trick. The movies brought forth my holiday spirit. Watching Chevy Chase try to light his abomination of a Christmas display made my season bright. Richard Attenborough taught Mara Wilson to believe in Santa, and reminded me to have a little faith, myself. Christmas came to my kitchen, not as a confection, but through a bunch of old discs on a Mac.
Yesterday's movie marathon was fun. It gave Thomas and I a chance to debate the finer points of Home Alone, and which Miracle on 34th Street was better (we both agree the original, but I prefer some story points of the 1994 version, and appreciate the update, where he does not). We pondered the necessity of the fairly lousy remake of Christmas In Connecticut, but still giggled throughout. Heck, it sure beat a rerun of CSI: Wherever. One day, I may make him sit down and watch the original Barbara Stanwyck version. It gets me everytime.
We skipped Love, Actually, but I may pull it out tonight. That's one of my favorites, and a far cry more festive than the recent television airings of Titanic (really? When did that become a CHRISTMAS movie? The ship sailed in APRIL, for the love of mike!)
I do not own a copy of the Jim Carrey...well, any Jim Carrey holiday movie. I do have Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, but it's not quite a Christmas film. I'll keep a lookout for the cartoon How the Grinch Stole Christmas. I missed A Charlie Brown Christmas and Prep and Landing, but that can be easily remedied. What can not be remedied, however, is the sheer lack of Christmas movies in theatres this year.
There aren't any! I don't just mean there aren't any good movies out that are holiday themed. I mean there aren't any! Not one! I mean, I'm not lamenting the fact that there's not a Four Christmasses or Fred Claus to avoid. But how 'bout another Elf?
I realize that December is the peak of awards season. It's the last (and best) chance to open movies with real awards potential. That's why we have dramas and big-budget stargazers out the ears, but nothing with reindeer, than I've noticed. So, here's my question, and the point of this post: instead of lackluster remakes or mindless drivvel that is Christmassy in name only, or nothing Christmassy at all, why can't we have some holiday awards fodder? You know, something with fabulous writing, top-notch acting, and a real, honest-to-God plot? I know, it's tough to fathom, but it just might bring us another classic, and maybe something my kids can watch while they bake cookies. Now, that's something I'd raise my eggnog to.
Friday, December 17, 2010
Ten Thousand Hits...and Counting!
And now, Ladies and Gentlement, Boys and Girls, Madaman und Herren! It's time for Erin's Favorite Things!!!!*
I decided, in celebration of our 10,000th page view, to skip today's Gift Guide, and look back at the year and highlight some of the things that I, personally, enjoyed and now can't live without. Well...don't want to live without, anyway. With that, let's get started!
(Yes, I know there are blogs who get over 10,000 hits in a day, but this is a big deal for me, so just go with it, okay? Thanks!)
Food
Foosackly's
Yeah, I know, you've never heard of it. That's because it's a local eatery, and even though there seems to be one on every corner around here, it doesn't exist past the city limits. That said, they have addictive chicken fingers, homemade sauces, and crushed ice in the fountain drinks. It's my Sunday afternoon habit, and I have no intention of breaking it. If you find yourself down Mobile-way, stop by for a little bit of fried Heaven.
Ben & Jerry's Berry Voluntary
This white chocolate/raspberry cheesecake concoction is only available at Target, and only for a limited time. Best of all, the entire point of this flavor is promote volunteerism in the community. Of course, I would be remiss to not mention Milk & Cookies as a runner-up flavor.
Fashion Trends
Jeggings
Okay, so I never bought into the whole "looks like a pump, feels like a sneaker" jive, but this is different. They look like skinny jeans, but feel like yoga pants. Now you can look on trend and still be able to breathe/eat/sit/stand/walk...
Cosmetics
Stila Eyeshadow in Kitten
I use this pretty much everyday. It's a gorgeous champagne pink shimmer with absolutely no glitter chunks. What you get is a smooth wash of brightening color that instantly perks up your entire face. It's a cult favorite for a reason, folks. $18, Sephora.
Too Faced The Bronzed and the Beautiful Palette
This Summer, I fell in love with a sample of Sun Bunny bronzer. This palette give you Sun Bunny and a couple of her amazing friends. Snow Bunny is a lighter bronzer with a ton of irredescence (no need for highlighter!), and Pink Leopard is for hard core bronzing and sculpting. Add to it a softer than imaginable "teddy bear hair" brush that applies *exactly* the right amount of powder, and you've got yourself a can't do without winner. $38, Sephora.
Health and Beauty
Philosophy Microdelivery Exfoliating Wash
Gentle exfoliant that removes makeup and dirt in a flash to leave skin smooth and clear. Perfect for sensitive skin, as well. $25-$55, Sephora.
Garnier Nutritioniste Skin Renew Anti-Puff Eye Roller Gel
I went one day without this and could tell. 'Nuff said. $12.79, Drugstore.com.
First Aid Beauty's Ultra Repair Cream
This is how I'm surviving Winter. Even my sweet Thomas uses it. It's fragrance-free, lusciously creamy, and fixes dry, cracked skin FAST. It's earned a permanent spot in my medicine cabinet. $15-$39, Sephora.
Pop Culture
Movies
Inception
Dark and Stormy Night
Inception was one of the few movies I saw this year where I left the theatre thinking (alright, loudly proclaiming to anyone near me), "Oh, my God, that was a fabulous movie!" There may have been some expletives deleted in that statement, as well. It was amazing, and deserves any and every award it gets.
A lesser-known film (straight to DVD, I believe) is the low-budget but high-concept Dark and Stormy Night. If you can find it, do yourself a favor and buy it. Director Larry Blamire and his usual suspects (Lost Skeleton of Cadavara, The Lost Skeleton Returns Again) put together this laugh-out-loud funny "dark house" suspense-comedy as an homage to the old black and white mysteries where everyone meets for the reading of the will...and starts dropping one by one! If you liked And Then There Were None or The House on Haunted Hill (the original), then this movie is for you. Seriously. Go buy it now. Chop chop.
TV Shows
Community
Doctor Who
How I Met Your Mother
Supernatural
The Walking Dead
Community is, arguably, the funniest show on television right now. It's smart, somewhat absurdist, and boasts a sensational ensemble. Danni Pudi's "Abed" is a marvel, and it's just nice to see Chevy Chase being funny again. Throw in Joel McHale at his smarmiest, and it's the most fun you'll have on Thursday.
Doctor Who is a British television icon. It started in the 60s as a children's show, and has evolved over time into a family-friendly sci-fi drama, with a heavy dose of whimsy. The newest doctor (he "regenerates" any time an actor playing the Doctor leaves the show) is a daft, but brilliant young (looking--he's over 900 years old) man who travels through time and space with a cute newlywed couple for his companions. If you haven't given it a go, now's a great time to hop onboard.
Sadly, as of today, The Good Guys has officially been canceled. This is a crying shame. This show was hilarious, warm, and just plain goofy. I hope it makes a killing on DVD.
If I never meet the mother, it'll be okay, because I've met Ted, Robin, Barney, Lily, and adorable Marshall. They are the new Friends, and I look forward to hanging out with them each week.
Supernatural is an oddity. Part buddy road-trip comedy, part family drama, part Ghost Hunters, and part Sunday School lesson, it keeps you on your toes. It doesn't hurt that it stars two incredibly charming and gorgeous guys, a loveable curmudgeon, and the hottest angel ever to fall to Earth.
The Walking Dead, while not a perfect show, has the potential to be one of those shows that is still admired ages after goes off the air. Think M*A*S*H, folks. Cinematic story-telling, a thrilling premise, and top-notch acting. AMC knows how to treat their viewers, and this has, indeed, been a treat. Thank you.
Blogs
Cake Wrecks
Epbot
Magnolia
The Pioneer Woman
If you haven't found Cake Wrecks (which is, coincidentally, celebrating its 1,000th post), drop what you're doing and go look. Yeah, it's a bunch of ugly cakes, but it's the commentary that takes it from mildly amusing to side-splitting hilarity. Jen, John, and the gang are witty, insightful, and downright brilliant.
Also by Jen of Cake Wrecks is her personal blog, Epbot. It's a little geek chic, a little pop culture, and even a little DIY. Mostly, it's just fun.
As you may have guessed, a friend of mine writes Magnolia, but I'd read it even if that weren't the case. The blog is a beautifully written, often comic look into the life of a almost-thirty, largely Southern, excessively educated, over-achiever. Think Bridget Jones' Diary with a better vocabulary and a lot more soul.
The Pioneer Woman has given me hope that I might one day learn to cook. She's also given me many laughs and a few tears with her gorgeous photography and stories of family life on the ranch. It's Little House on the Prairie for the 21st Century, and I love it.
That's it, folks! Did I leave off something that you can't live without? I'd love to hear about it in the comments. Until then, thanks for 10,000 hits, and here's to the next 10,000!
*Not to be confused with Oprah's Favorite Things or Barney's Favorite Things. You ain't gettin' nuthin' here. Sorry.
The Good Guys
I decided, in celebration of our 10,000th page view, to skip today's Gift Guide, and look back at the year and highlight some of the things that I, personally, enjoyed and now can't live without. Well...don't want to live without, anyway. With that, let's get started!
(Yes, I know there are blogs who get over 10,000 hits in a day, but this is a big deal for me, so just go with it, okay? Thanks!)
Food
Foosackly's
Yeah, I know, you've never heard of it. That's because it's a local eatery, and even though there seems to be one on every corner around here, it doesn't exist past the city limits. That said, they have addictive chicken fingers, homemade sauces, and crushed ice in the fountain drinks. It's my Sunday afternoon habit, and I have no intention of breaking it. If you find yourself down Mobile-way, stop by for a little bit of fried Heaven.
Ben & Jerry's Berry Voluntary
This white chocolate/raspberry cheesecake concoction is only available at Target, and only for a limited time. Best of all, the entire point of this flavor is promote volunteerism in the community. Of course, I would be remiss to not mention Milk & Cookies as a runner-up flavor.
Fashion Trends
Jeggings
Okay, so I never bought into the whole "looks like a pump, feels like a sneaker" jive, but this is different. They look like skinny jeans, but feel like yoga pants. Now you can look on trend and still be able to breathe/eat/sit/stand/walk...
Cosmetics
Stila Eyeshadow in Kitten
I use this pretty much everyday. It's a gorgeous champagne pink shimmer with absolutely no glitter chunks. What you get is a smooth wash of brightening color that instantly perks up your entire face. It's a cult favorite for a reason, folks. $18, Sephora.
Too Faced The Bronzed and the Beautiful Palette
This Summer, I fell in love with a sample of Sun Bunny bronzer. This palette give you Sun Bunny and a couple of her amazing friends. Snow Bunny is a lighter bronzer with a ton of irredescence (no need for highlighter!), and Pink Leopard is for hard core bronzing and sculpting. Add to it a softer than imaginable "teddy bear hair" brush that applies *exactly* the right amount of powder, and you've got yourself a can't do without winner. $38, Sephora.
Health and Beauty
Philosophy Microdelivery Exfoliating Wash
Gentle exfoliant that removes makeup and dirt in a flash to leave skin smooth and clear. Perfect for sensitive skin, as well. $25-$55, Sephora.
Garnier Nutritioniste Skin Renew Anti-Puff Eye Roller Gel
I went one day without this and could tell. 'Nuff said. $12.79, Drugstore.com.
First Aid Beauty's Ultra Repair Cream
This is how I'm surviving Winter. Even my sweet Thomas uses it. It's fragrance-free, lusciously creamy, and fixes dry, cracked skin FAST. It's earned a permanent spot in my medicine cabinet. $15-$39, Sephora.
Pop Culture
Movies
Inception
Dark and Stormy Night
Inception was one of the few movies I saw this year where I left the theatre thinking (alright, loudly proclaiming to anyone near me), "Oh, my God, that was a fabulous movie!" There may have been some expletives deleted in that statement, as well. It was amazing, and deserves any and every award it gets.
A lesser-known film (straight to DVD, I believe) is the low-budget but high-concept Dark and Stormy Night. If you can find it, do yourself a favor and buy it. Director Larry Blamire and his usual suspects (Lost Skeleton of Cadavara, The Lost Skeleton Returns Again) put together this laugh-out-loud funny "dark house" suspense-comedy as an homage to the old black and white mysteries where everyone meets for the reading of the will...and starts dropping one by one! If you liked And Then There Were None or The House on Haunted Hill (the original), then this movie is for you. Seriously. Go buy it now. Chop chop.
TV Shows
Community
Doctor Who
How I Met Your Mother
Supernatural
The Walking Dead
Community is, arguably, the funniest show on television right now. It's smart, somewhat absurdist, and boasts a sensational ensemble. Danni Pudi's "Abed" is a marvel, and it's just nice to see Chevy Chase being funny again. Throw in Joel McHale at his smarmiest, and it's the most fun you'll have on Thursday.
Doctor Who is a British television icon. It started in the 60s as a children's show, and has evolved over time into a family-friendly sci-fi drama, with a heavy dose of whimsy. The newest doctor (he "regenerates" any time an actor playing the Doctor leaves the show) is a daft, but brilliant young (looking--he's over 900 years old) man who travels through time and space with a cute newlywed couple for his companions. If you haven't given it a go, now's a great time to hop onboard.
Sadly, as of today, The Good Guys has officially been canceled. This is a crying shame. This show was hilarious, warm, and just plain goofy. I hope it makes a killing on DVD.
If I never meet the mother, it'll be okay, because I've met Ted, Robin, Barney, Lily, and adorable Marshall. They are the new Friends, and I look forward to hanging out with them each week.
Supernatural is an oddity. Part buddy road-trip comedy, part family drama, part Ghost Hunters, and part Sunday School lesson, it keeps you on your toes. It doesn't hurt that it stars two incredibly charming and gorgeous guys, a loveable curmudgeon, and the hottest angel ever to fall to Earth.
The Walking Dead, while not a perfect show, has the potential to be one of those shows that is still admired ages after goes off the air. Think M*A*S*H, folks. Cinematic story-telling, a thrilling premise, and top-notch acting. AMC knows how to treat their viewers, and this has, indeed, been a treat. Thank you.
Blogs
Cake Wrecks
Epbot
Magnolia
The Pioneer Woman
If you haven't found Cake Wrecks (which is, coincidentally, celebrating its 1,000th post), drop what you're doing and go look. Yeah, it's a bunch of ugly cakes, but it's the commentary that takes it from mildly amusing to side-splitting hilarity. Jen, John, and the gang are witty, insightful, and downright brilliant.
Also by Jen of Cake Wrecks is her personal blog, Epbot. It's a little geek chic, a little pop culture, and even a little DIY. Mostly, it's just fun.
As you may have guessed, a friend of mine writes Magnolia, but I'd read it even if that weren't the case. The blog is a beautifully written, often comic look into the life of a almost-thirty, largely Southern, excessively educated, over-achiever. Think Bridget Jones' Diary with a better vocabulary and a lot more soul.
The Pioneer Woman has given me hope that I might one day learn to cook. She's also given me many laughs and a few tears with her gorgeous photography and stories of family life on the ranch. It's Little House on the Prairie for the 21st Century, and I love it.
That's it, folks! Did I leave off something that you can't live without? I'd love to hear about it in the comments. Until then, thanks for 10,000 hits, and here's to the next 10,000!
*Not to be confused with Oprah's Favorite Things or Barney's Favorite Things. You ain't gettin' nuthin' here. Sorry.
The Good Guys
Thursday, December 16, 2010
It Takes a Village
When I was a kid, the highlight of the Christmas season was putting together the Christmas village. My mom collected the little ceramic houses, and each year, my dad would get her a new one. Now, we weren't wealthy. In fact, when I was really young, Dad stayed in and out of work, so the houses were always picked out months in advance and put on lay-away. Then, right around Thanksgiving, Daddy would go by the mall to pay them off, generally bearing homemade pumpkin bread as a thank you to the nice salesladies who'd helped him all year. Dad was a little bit awesome like that.
Most people would probably consider these an unnecessary extravagance, especially considering they had a kid in private school, braces, and extra-curriculars, but Mom loved them, Dad loved Mom, and the whole process was such a wonderful family activity. This village was our Christmas, to be honest.
The day after Thanksgiving, Mom got up bright and early and started making chili. We'd see her again sometime late afternoon. Dad headed outside to get whatever table-like contraption he'd put together for that year's display, and I'd...well, being a kid, I'd generally watch t.v. until my friends came over to help.
Around noon, Daddy would venture up the scary pull-down ladder into the attic, and pull down the Christmas decorations: garland, tree (if we opted for fake), little muppet baby dolls in Santa hats, tacky bubble lights that Mom absolutely adored, every ugly ornament I'd ever made, knick-knacks and whatsits and thingamajigs, and, of course, houses.
I think my favorite year was the year the Alabama/Auburn game was on. Dad was a big Alabama fan, and a little peeved that he had to go up in the attic before commercial. Suddenly, someone scored, and in his race to find out which team, he lost his footing and ended up pulling a Clark Griswold--half in the attic, and half in the bedroom below. I honestly couldn't tell you who won that game, but that image is burned in my mind. Mom laughed for about ten minutes straight. Dad was less amused.
Somewhere around late afternoon, we'd finally get started building. At last count, there were, I believe, thirty-seven houses. Some were beautiful, collectible Department 56 Dicken's houses. Some were ceramic banks. A couple were wooden monstrosities that my grandfather and I built. Nothing matched, but it didn't matter. Someone would pop National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation into the VCR (and later, DVD player), we'd ladle steaming bowls of Mom's chili, and get to work figuring out what went where.
My friends and I designed the city. We decided where the shopping district, residential areas, and even "the other side of the tracks" should be. Then Dad would get to work laying down lights and making sure nothing interfered with the train track or tunnel or mountain, or whatever new gimmick he'd come up with for that year. After the houses were in place, Mom would come in to help lay down snow, add people, and come up with the village's story. She wrote at least one of the stories down somewhere. I wish I could find it.
The village took up an entire wall. There were cobblestone streets, working street lamps, a moving skating pond, and about three dozen little people. During the day it was impressive, but at night, all lit up, it was magical. I loved when my family friends came by with toddlers. The parents would panic that the babies would break something, but they never did. They just moved the little people around and ooh-ed and aah-ed at the pretty shinies.
A couple of years after the Alabama/Auburn incident, Daddy passed away. That first Christmas without him hit the 6-month mark, and Mom nor I could bring ourselves to even think about the village. The next year, we realized that we physically couldn't get the houses out of the attic. We also didn't have anywhere to put the village, since Dad always dismantled the tables after we finished with them. We left the village in the attic and went to Sam's to pick up a tiny, make-do village for the coffee table.
Last year, Mom was able to try again. Eight years had passed, and she was re-married, living in a new house. My step-dad had been able to get the houses out of the attic for us. My well-meaning husband and less-than-interested brother and I got in the dining room and set up the houses while Mom made chili. We couldn't fit all the houses in the display, and it wasn't nearly as elaborate as anything Daddy ever came up with, but it was nice. It felt right.
This year, I put up my very first village. I took the tiny, make-do village, and set it up on a desk in my dining room. There are only six houses (five from the set, and my music shop from the original village) and I can't light them up, but it's a start. I'll plan better for next year. Thomas is a stickler for scale, so he helped me pick out little people who could actually fit through the little doors, and each person has a story. Granted, his stories and my stories vary wildly (me: "Here's a little girl and her mother on their way to church." Thomas: "This little boy is going to try to dig up this tree, just to see if he can!"), and he has asked if it can be an Amity-style sea-side village next year, to accommodate a shark fin sticking up out of the water, but I'll take it. All I know is that it's Christmas, Mom and I have our village, and all is right with the world.
You can read about some other Christmas villages here, here, here, and here. If you have any family traditions you'd like to share, I'd love to read about them in the comments.
Most people would probably consider these an unnecessary extravagance, especially considering they had a kid in private school, braces, and extra-curriculars, but Mom loved them, Dad loved Mom, and the whole process was such a wonderful family activity. This village was our Christmas, to be honest.
The day after Thanksgiving, Mom got up bright and early and started making chili. We'd see her again sometime late afternoon. Dad headed outside to get whatever table-like contraption he'd put together for that year's display, and I'd...well, being a kid, I'd generally watch t.v. until my friends came over to help.
Around noon, Daddy would venture up the scary pull-down ladder into the attic, and pull down the Christmas decorations: garland, tree (if we opted for fake), little muppet baby dolls in Santa hats, tacky bubble lights that Mom absolutely adored, every ugly ornament I'd ever made, knick-knacks and whatsits and thingamajigs, and, of course, houses.
I think my favorite year was the year the Alabama/Auburn game was on. Dad was a big Alabama fan, and a little peeved that he had to go up in the attic before commercial. Suddenly, someone scored, and in his race to find out which team, he lost his footing and ended up pulling a Clark Griswold--half in the attic, and half in the bedroom below. I honestly couldn't tell you who won that game, but that image is burned in my mind. Mom laughed for about ten minutes straight. Dad was less amused.
Somewhere around late afternoon, we'd finally get started building. At last count, there were, I believe, thirty-seven houses. Some were beautiful, collectible Department 56 Dicken's houses. Some were ceramic banks. A couple were wooden monstrosities that my grandfather and I built. Nothing matched, but it didn't matter. Someone would pop National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation into the VCR (and later, DVD player), we'd ladle steaming bowls of Mom's chili, and get to work figuring out what went where.
My friends and I designed the city. We decided where the shopping district, residential areas, and even "the other side of the tracks" should be. Then Dad would get to work laying down lights and making sure nothing interfered with the train track or tunnel or mountain, or whatever new gimmick he'd come up with for that year. After the houses were in place, Mom would come in to help lay down snow, add people, and come up with the village's story. She wrote at least one of the stories down somewhere. I wish I could find it.
The village took up an entire wall. There were cobblestone streets, working street lamps, a moving skating pond, and about three dozen little people. During the day it was impressive, but at night, all lit up, it was magical. I loved when my family friends came by with toddlers. The parents would panic that the babies would break something, but they never did. They just moved the little people around and ooh-ed and aah-ed at the pretty shinies.
A couple of years after the Alabama/Auburn incident, Daddy passed away. That first Christmas without him hit the 6-month mark, and Mom nor I could bring ourselves to even think about the village. The next year, we realized that we physically couldn't get the houses out of the attic. We also didn't have anywhere to put the village, since Dad always dismantled the tables after we finished with them. We left the village in the attic and went to Sam's to pick up a tiny, make-do village for the coffee table.
Last year, Mom was able to try again. Eight years had passed, and she was re-married, living in a new house. My step-dad had been able to get the houses out of the attic for us. My well-meaning husband and less-than-interested brother and I got in the dining room and set up the houses while Mom made chili. We couldn't fit all the houses in the display, and it wasn't nearly as elaborate as anything Daddy ever came up with, but it was nice. It felt right.
This year, I put up my very first village. I took the tiny, make-do village, and set it up on a desk in my dining room. There are only six houses (five from the set, and my music shop from the original village) and I can't light them up, but it's a start. I'll plan better for next year. Thomas is a stickler for scale, so he helped me pick out little people who could actually fit through the little doors, and each person has a story. Granted, his stories and my stories vary wildly (me: "Here's a little girl and her mother on their way to church." Thomas: "This little boy is going to try to dig up this tree, just to see if he can!"), and he has asked if it can be an Amity-style sea-side village next year, to accommodate a shark fin sticking up out of the water, but I'll take it. All I know is that it's Christmas, Mom and I have our village, and all is right with the world.
You can read about some other Christmas villages here, here, here, and here. If you have any family traditions you'd like to share, I'd love to read about them in the comments.
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Julia and Anne Were Busy, I Guess...
So, apparently, there's this guy in the UK who asked his long-time girlfriend to marry him, and she agreed. Now, from what I hear, this is a somewhat well-known young man, so there's been a little bit of fuss over the upcoming wedding. So much fuss, in fact, that it's made its way all the way across the pond to the U. S. of A. The groom is cute. He might want to invest in some Rogaine, but he's got a nice smile. For some reason, though, no one seems too interested in him. It's the bride that everyone's all agog over. I guess that's normal. Right? She is the bride, afterall.
Okay, I kid! I just know that most of you are probably sick to death of hearing about Prince William and Princess-to-be Kate, or Katherine, or whatever they're calling her this week. Truth is, while I'm not all a twitter wondering who will design her dress, I am intrigued by the couple.
See, Will's only two years younger than I am. He's only one year older than I was when I got married. I don't know the kid, but feel a generational connection to him. Also, when I was little, I played with Princess Diana paper dolls. I watched the fairy tale crumble, and remember well the night she passed away. I really don't want to have to sit and watch history repeat itself.
I will say that I am very impressed by these two. They're not going the route that Mum and Dad went. For starters, they met at college (like normal people), and dated for close to a decade. They weren't set up as a sort of arranged marriage, like his parents. They're both 28, not a naive 19, like Diana. He's been through military training, and she's worked in her parents' shop, so while the view may have been sheltered, they have both seen a smidge of the 'real world'. In other words, they've seen what not to do, and are going in the complete and opposite direction.
What I like most of all is the fact that this young lady--this soon to be Princess and wife of the man who will be King--dresses off the rack and does her own makeup. Granted, one of her off-the-rack dresses is the equivalent of, like, twenty of mine, but it wasn't gifted by a designer. It wasn't handed to her as she was told to put it on. She went in a store, picked it out and paid for it. Herself. Like a grown-up woman with a brain and free will. Those gorgeous engagement pictures that went out? She did the makeup herself. Yes, she had help with her hair, but she dressed herself and put herself together. (Makeup artist readers--don't kill me! I'd prefer to have you guys do my makeup any day of the week! I'm just making the point that she had the option, but chose this as an opportunity to assert her independence, and for that, I applaud her.) This is not a girl who's going to sit quietly and do as she's told, and I admire that independent spirit.
I think these two might actually have a chance.
And now it's time for everyone's favorite part of the blog (actually, I have no idea if any of you even read this far, but whatever): The Product Review! Today's review: Schick Quattro for Women razor! According to the website:
1) Performance: This razor shaves beautifully. Very few nicks or cuts, very little razor burn, and a nice, smooth, close shave. 10.
2) Appearance: It looks high-tech, with it's sleek silver design and hot pink rubber grips. Heavyweight, but hugs every curve. Blade cover does tend to accumulate muck and mildew. 9.
3) Durability: Here's the rub. The first razor I owned lasted a year. Since purchasing a new one, however, I'm about to have to replace it for the second time. The first replacement was after only a week. The current razor lasted less than a month. The entire mechanism is held together with a little pink button that, unfortunately, loves to pop out. If that button falls out, the handle, blade, and everything else comes apart. Mine like to jump directly down the shower drain, never to be seen again. Other than that, everything else has proven very durable. Even the razors last for a week before even starting to go dull. Oh, but go ahead and toss the suction cup holder that comes with the starter kit. It's rubbish. 5.
4) Price: $8.47, Walmart. That includes two razor blades. A four-pack of blades is $10.47 at Walmart. This is not terrible, considering my first razor lasted a year, and a four-pack of blades will last you a month. 7.
All in all, 7.75 out of 10. The only problem with the whole package is that one little pink button. If they could just figure out a way to keep it in place, I'd remain a Schick customer. For now, I'm looking for a new razor.
Okay, I kid! I just know that most of you are probably sick to death of hearing about Prince William and Princess-to-be Kate, or Katherine, or whatever they're calling her this week. Truth is, while I'm not all a twitter wondering who will design her dress, I am intrigued by the couple.
See, Will's only two years younger than I am. He's only one year older than I was when I got married. I don't know the kid, but feel a generational connection to him. Also, when I was little, I played with Princess Diana paper dolls. I watched the fairy tale crumble, and remember well the night she passed away. I really don't want to have to sit and watch history repeat itself.
I will say that I am very impressed by these two. They're not going the route that Mum and Dad went. For starters, they met at college (like normal people), and dated for close to a decade. They weren't set up as a sort of arranged marriage, like his parents. They're both 28, not a naive 19, like Diana. He's been through military training, and she's worked in her parents' shop, so while the view may have been sheltered, they have both seen a smidge of the 'real world'. In other words, they've seen what not to do, and are going in the complete and opposite direction.
What I like most of all is the fact that this young lady--this soon to be Princess and wife of the man who will be King--dresses off the rack and does her own makeup. Granted, one of her off-the-rack dresses is the equivalent of, like, twenty of mine, but it wasn't gifted by a designer. It wasn't handed to her as she was told to put it on. She went in a store, picked it out and paid for it. Herself. Like a grown-up woman with a brain and free will. Those gorgeous engagement pictures that went out? She did the makeup herself. Yes, she had help with her hair, but she dressed herself and put herself together. (Makeup artist readers--don't kill me! I'd prefer to have you guys do my makeup any day of the week! I'm just making the point that she had the option, but chose this as an opportunity to assert her independence, and for that, I applaud her.) This is not a girl who's going to sit quietly and do as she's told, and I admire that independent spirit.
I think these two might actually have a chance.
And now it's time for everyone's favorite part of the blog (actually, I have no idea if any of you even read this far, but whatever): The Product Review! Today's review: Schick Quattro for Women razor! According to the website:
Stay stylishly smooth with our signature metal razor. Schick® Quattro for Women® is designed with 4 blades and 2 conditioning strips to deliver an exceptional shaving experience so you can skip a day or two. Feel confident, look beautiful and be fabulous.According to me: I've actually used this brand of razor for over a year, so I guess you could say it's been thoroughly tested. Instead of just giving you a "yay" or "nay" review, I thought I'd break things down into categories.
1) Performance: This razor shaves beautifully. Very few nicks or cuts, very little razor burn, and a nice, smooth, close shave. 10.
2) Appearance: It looks high-tech, with it's sleek silver design and hot pink rubber grips. Heavyweight, but hugs every curve. Blade cover does tend to accumulate muck and mildew. 9.
3) Durability: Here's the rub. The first razor I owned lasted a year. Since purchasing a new one, however, I'm about to have to replace it for the second time. The first replacement was after only a week. The current razor lasted less than a month. The entire mechanism is held together with a little pink button that, unfortunately, loves to pop out. If that button falls out, the handle, blade, and everything else comes apart. Mine like to jump directly down the shower drain, never to be seen again. Other than that, everything else has proven very durable. Even the razors last for a week before even starting to go dull. Oh, but go ahead and toss the suction cup holder that comes with the starter kit. It's rubbish. 5.
4) Price: $8.47, Walmart. That includes two razor blades. A four-pack of blades is $10.47 at Walmart. This is not terrible, considering my first razor lasted a year, and a four-pack of blades will last you a month. 7.
All in all, 7.75 out of 10. The only problem with the whole package is that one little pink button. If they could just figure out a way to keep it in place, I'd remain a Schick customer. For now, I'm looking for a new razor.
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Surprise, Surprise!
I guess today's them is "Surprise!" For starters, the deli downstairs had pumpkin bread available...Surprise!
Okay, so maybe it's just sad that I'm so excited over pumpkin bread, but it's the little things, folks. It's the little things.
The Golden Globe nominations were announced this morning, and with them came a few more surprises. There were zero nominations for the Coen brother's True Grit, and zero acting noms for Inception (my favorite movie of the year, so far). However, The Tourist, Burlesque, and Alice In Wonderland (the most boring, disappointing piece of drivvel I've had the misfortune of sitting through in years) were all awarded multiple nominations? I am perplexed.
I will say, it was nice to see Mila Kunis and Emma Stone listed among the nominees. Mila Kunis is highly undervalued, in my opinion. She's a pretty face who isn't afraid to be ugly. She excels at comedy, and even in cameos and bit parts can be the highlight of a film. Her dramatic skills are nothing to sneeze at (apparently, since her nom is for the decidedly non-comedic Black Swan), and she's a very talented voice-artist--not an easy job, if I do say so myself. I was thrilled to see her receive this kind of recognition.
Miss Stone is an up-and-comer that I've been watching for some time. Some of her films have been a little less than stellar (House Bunny, anyone?), but her performances in Superbad and Zombieland were real, touching, and memorable. It'll be interesting to see where her career goes from here, and having a major award nomination on her resume certainly can't hurt her chances.
For a full list of nominees, click here. Any big shockers for you? Let me know about them in the comments.
So, the biggest surprise of the day came from none other than Lady Gaga. That, in and of itself, should come as no surprise, ironically. Anyhoo, this is purely gossip (which I tend to shy away from, but this was just too weird), but an insider told The Enquirer (I know, that bastion of truth...) that,
The queen of the Monsters has apparently applied for an artist-in-residence position at the New York Parson's School of Design.
In any case, if I had to lay money on it, I'd bet this is all just some publicity stunt.
So, would you take a class from Lady Gaga? Again, let me know in the comments.
Okay, so maybe it's just sad that I'm so excited over pumpkin bread, but it's the little things, folks. It's the little things.
The Golden Globe nominations were announced this morning, and with them came a few more surprises. There were zero nominations for the Coen brother's True Grit, and zero acting noms for Inception (my favorite movie of the year, so far). However, The Tourist, Burlesque, and Alice In Wonderland (the most boring, disappointing piece of drivvel I've had the misfortune of sitting through in years) were all awarded multiple nominations? I am perplexed.
I will say, it was nice to see Mila Kunis and Emma Stone listed among the nominees. Mila Kunis is highly undervalued, in my opinion. She's a pretty face who isn't afraid to be ugly. She excels at comedy, and even in cameos and bit parts can be the highlight of a film. Her dramatic skills are nothing to sneeze at (apparently, since her nom is for the decidedly non-comedic Black Swan), and she's a very talented voice-artist--not an easy job, if I do say so myself. I was thrilled to see her receive this kind of recognition.
Miss Stone is an up-and-comer that I've been watching for some time. Some of her films have been a little less than stellar (House Bunny, anyone?), but her performances in Superbad and Zombieland were real, touching, and memorable. It'll be interesting to see where her career goes from here, and having a major award nomination on her resume certainly can't hurt her chances.
For a full list of nominees, click here. Any big shockers for you? Let me know about them in the comments.
So, the biggest surprise of the day came from none other than Lady Gaga. That, in and of itself, should come as no surprise, ironically. Anyhoo, this is purely gossip (which I tend to shy away from, but this was just too weird), but an insider told The Enquirer (I know, that bastion of truth...) that,
"Lady Gaga is planning a radical career shift after she wraps up her Monster Ball tour next spring. She wants to use her famous fashion sense and avant-garde art obsession to launch an academic career."
The queen of the Monsters has apparently applied for an artist-in-residence position at the New York Parson's School of Design.
"She thinks teaching a college course would be a great way to decompress from the rock ‘n' roll lifestyle, boost her image and make people take her seriously. She wants to be more than just a flamboyant pop star."All I can think is, if she thinks that teaching college is relaxing, she's in for a rude awakening. Not only did she drop out at 19, she apparently didn't pay attention while she was there. I know college professors--they're some of the most stressed out, run-down, overworked and underappreciated folks out there. It's not exactly the same as spending a weekend at a spa. Additionally, if she thinks that for one moment she would be hired for anything other than her name and reputation as a fashion icon and "flamboyant pop star", she's crazier than I thought. Generally speaking, they don't let you teach in a college until you've, at least, graduated from one. The exceptions to that rule are the people who have earned enough "life experience" credits to become masters in their field. Now, I'm not saying she wouldn't qualify that way. I'm only saying that it's the only way she would qualify--by cashing in on being a "flamboyant pop star".
In any case, if I had to lay money on it, I'd bet this is all just some publicity stunt.
So, would you take a class from Lady Gaga? Again, let me know in the comments.
Monday, December 13, 2010
Sensational, Inspirational, Celebrational, MUPPET-ATIONAL!
This morning, I woke up to the sounds of Elmo. There was a time, not too long ago, when that was pretty much the norm, but I don't live at home anymore, and my baby brother is almost a teenager. I have to say, it's a little off-putting to be woken out of a dead sleep by the shrill-voiced giggly one.
Elmo's appearance on CBS's Early Show was just the latest event in a string of Muppet Madness in my house. See, I've been sick as a dog all weekend. Some sort of stomach bug latched on with a death grip, and has absolutely refused to let go. I spent a good deal of last night laying on the couch, moaning softly and cursing whatever caused this ick. Thomas, in a sweet attempt to make me feel better, rented the first season of The Muppet Show, so I've been weakly chuckling at Rita Moreno singing with Animal, Ruth Buzzi telling Sweetums he's "just too good to be true/can't take my eyes off of you", and the awesomeness that is Menomena (disc one, episode one. Trust me).
The Muppets hold a special place in my heart--always have--and I can not wait for the Jason Segal Muppet movie next year. With that, I was sorely disappointed to hear that usual Segal co-hort Paul Rudd will not be in the movie. It had been rumored--nay, announced, even--that he would play the iPhone carrying roommate of Segal's human character in the film. Unfortunately, Rudd confirmed with MTV News that he will not be appearing in the movie, and that the whole situation "really sucks". He did jokingly mention that he'd love to do the sequel.
Even without Rudd onboard, I'm still really psyched for the movie. Given Segal's previous screenwriter outing Forgetting Sarah Marshall (and its ridiculously funny Dracula puppet musical), and his steady gig on How I Met Your Mother, I feel the franchise--and my childhood memories--are in very capable hands.
Now, can someone tell me why Scooter was in the first five episodes of The Muppet Show, and then on the sixth episode was introduced and treated like he'd never been there before? That's been bugging me all day.
Elmo's appearance on CBS's Early Show was just the latest event in a string of Muppet Madness in my house. See, I've been sick as a dog all weekend. Some sort of stomach bug latched on with a death grip, and has absolutely refused to let go. I spent a good deal of last night laying on the couch, moaning softly and cursing whatever caused this ick. Thomas, in a sweet attempt to make me feel better, rented the first season of The Muppet Show, so I've been weakly chuckling at Rita Moreno singing with Animal, Ruth Buzzi telling Sweetums he's "just too good to be true/can't take my eyes off of you", and the awesomeness that is Menomena (disc one, episode one. Trust me).
The Muppets hold a special place in my heart--always have--and I can not wait for the Jason Segal Muppet movie next year. With that, I was sorely disappointed to hear that usual Segal co-hort Paul Rudd will not be in the movie. It had been rumored--nay, announced, even--that he would play the iPhone carrying roommate of Segal's human character in the film. Unfortunately, Rudd confirmed with MTV News that he will not be appearing in the movie, and that the whole situation "really sucks". He did jokingly mention that he'd love to do the sequel.
"I'm hoping for the 'Muppet Movie 2.' I'm playing Charles Grodin in 'Muppet 2: Electric Waterloo?' Beaker-loo?" he joked, before offering a truly game-changing suggestion: "Muppet Movie 2: The Muppets Are Still Taking Manhattan."
Even without Rudd onboard, I'm still really psyched for the movie. Given Segal's previous screenwriter outing Forgetting Sarah Marshall (and its ridiculously funny Dracula puppet musical), and his steady gig on How I Met Your Mother, I feel the franchise--and my childhood memories--are in very capable hands.
Now, can someone tell me why Scooter was in the first five episodes of The Muppet Show, and then on the sixth episode was introduced and treated like he'd never been there before? That's been bugging me all day.
Friday, December 10, 2010
Gift Guide: The Zombie Hunter
Hello, and welcome to this week's installment of The Gift Guide! Tonight, I have my first publicity stint for The Night Shift, so in honor of our cute and cuddly zombies (seriously, they're freaking adorable), I thought I'd show you some gift ideas for the zombie hunter in your life. You know who I'm talking about. It's the person who can quote Shaun of the Dead and Zombieland, uses "Romero" and "Boyle" as adjectives, and could not only tell you how to dispatch a zombie properly (aim for the head, duh), but could also describe the process in (at times, uncomfortably) great and gory detail. Yeah, I married one of these people. Yeah, I sort of became one myself.
Let's start with the all-important Zombie Survival Guide. Yes, there is the book by Max Brooks (Mel's kid), but who has time to read a book when there's an apocalypse at hand? Besides, your die-hard (get it? Die hard? I kill me) zombie-phile probably already owns a copy or two. When things get really hairy, it's best to digest valuable combat and weaponry information in short bursts, preferably in calendar form. After all, when the zombies come, and the world falls apart, you're going to want a nice calendar. $12.59, Amazon.
Next, you average hunter is going to want to be able to identify a zombie. The last thing we want is for an over-zealous survivor to accidentally mistake good old Uncle Jimmy for one of the undead. Let me tell you, that would put a severe damper on Christmas dinner. Nothing can replace common sense, but this shirt couldn't hurt. $15.99-$17.99, ThinkGeek.
Lastly, you can't have a plan with a map, and as we all know, zombies love malls. What better way to tell your zombie hunting loved one that you understand and appreciate them than by gifting them with their very own mall map, complete with indicators of where the zombies will converge, and conveniently located on a shirt? That way, they can keep it close to their heart and think of you. So what if it's not a map of your mall? It's the thought that counts anyway, right? $18.95-$19.95, Amazon.
In other news, I have a product review for you! As you may recall, I'm with BzzAgent, a word of mouth advertising company. This means that BzzAgent sends me products, I test them, then tell you guys what I think. Good, bad, ugly, indifferent, whatever...they just want the truth. My latest product was Tom's of Maine Toothpaste in Wicked Fresh(!).
According to the Tom's website:
Meh. It's okay. It cleaned my teeth. I would not say that it made my breath any fresher than my usual toothpaste (Crest 3D Whitening), but I would say that my breath did not stay fresh as long. In fact, only a minute or two after brushing, I find myself reaching for gum or a breath mint. In other regards, it does not whiten teeth or remove stains, but it does contain fluoride and tastes pretty good.
Overall, this toothpaste is not Wicked Fresh(!). It's just Wicked Disappointing(!).
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| Photo Credit: Buy Zombie |
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| Photo Credit: ThinkGeek |
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| Photo Credit: Amazon |
In other news, I have a product review for you! As you may recall, I'm with BzzAgent, a word of mouth advertising company. This means that BzzAgent sends me products, I test them, then tell you guys what I think. Good, bad, ugly, indifferent, whatever...they just want the truth. My latest product was Tom's of Maine Toothpaste in Wicked Fresh(!).
According to the Tom's website:
Wicked Fresh!™ Long-lasting Fresh Breath Toothpaste uses powerful natural flavor oils and a patent-pending botanical extract to provide long-lasting fresh breath.According to me:
Meh. It's okay. It cleaned my teeth. I would not say that it made my breath any fresher than my usual toothpaste (Crest 3D Whitening), but I would say that my breath did not stay fresh as long. In fact, only a minute or two after brushing, I find myself reaching for gum or a breath mint. In other regards, it does not whiten teeth or remove stains, but it does contain fluoride and tastes pretty good.
Overall, this toothpaste is not Wicked Fresh(!). It's just Wicked Disappointing(!).
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Where Can I Find a Sweater in That Color?
When I got up this morning, the temperature was 24 degrees. That's 24 degrees Farenheit, in the heart of the deep, semi-tropical South. My heart bleeds for the rest of the country right now. I jumped out of bed, shivered over to the closet, and ransacked my "Winter" clothes storage box (we wear sweaters about two hours out of the year down here) until I found something that could almost be construed as warm-ish, then cranked up the heat and got ready for work.
So, you can imagine my...delight(?) to come across this morning's announcement that Pantone has selected its top colors for Spring '11. Um...there is snow falling upstate. My Christmas cards haven't even gone out, yet. I realize that designers need to know this information to plan next season's collections, but as far as the rest of us are concerned, isn't this jumping the gun a bit? Right now, I'm more concerned with piling as many clothes on as possible now, and worrying about Spring after the first of the year. Then again, this is a world where Christmas decorations go up before Halloween, so I guess this announcement is just following the norm.
In any case, the colors for this year are:
#9: Lavendar
#8: Blue Curacao
#7: Regatta
#6: Russett
#5: Silver Peony
#4: Beeswax
#3: Peapod
#2: Coral Rose
So, you can imagine my...delight(?) to come across this morning's announcement that Pantone has selected its top colors for Spring '11. Um...there is snow falling upstate. My Christmas cards haven't even gone out, yet. I realize that designers need to know this information to plan next season's collections, but as far as the rest of us are concerned, isn't this jumping the gun a bit? Right now, I'm more concerned with piling as many clothes on as possible now, and worrying about Spring after the first of the year. Then again, this is a world where Christmas decorations go up before Halloween, so I guess this announcement is just following the norm.
In any case, the colors for this year are:
#10: Silver Cloud
#9: Lavendar#8: Blue Curacao#7: Regatta#6: Russett#5: Silver Peony#4: Beeswax#3: Peapod#2: Coral RoseAnd the #1 color for Spring '11 is.....(drumroll, please).......
HONEYSUCKLE!
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| All Swatches Courtesy of Pantone |
So, there you have it, folks. Those are the colors to wear this Easter. Now, if you want to jump the gun a little bit yourself this Christmas, I might be able to help you out.
M.A.C. Cosmetics has lipstick, lipglass, eyeshadow, blush, and nailpolish all in shades comparable to Honeysuckle (or, as I like to call it, hot pink). Unfortuately, I can't seem to get any swatches to show up in Blogger, so you'll have to settle for names and descriptions. Sorry about that.
Lipstick: Pink Nouveau (bright pink satin), $14.50
Tinted Lipglass: Pink Poodle (pink fuchsia with pinky-gold shimmer), $14.50
Eyeshadow: Passionate (real mid-tone red matte), $14.50
Powder Blush: Pink Swoon (clearly pink sheertone), 18.50
Nail Lacquer: Steamy (hot and steamy pink cream), $13.00
All items available at maccosmetics.com.
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
See the White Flag? It's Waving.
Okay, holidays, you win. I give up. I'm taking a little break today to play catch-up on...well, life in general. All of the "joy of the season" has me woefully behind today. I hope you understand, and will join me tomorrow when I will do my darndest to make this up to you.
Deck the Halls and all that Jazz,
Erin
P.S. Saw this on Cake Wrecks yesterday and had to share. I'm totally making these this weekend.
Deck the Halls and all that Jazz,
Erin
P.S. Saw this on Cake Wrecks yesterday and had to share. I'm totally making these this weekend.
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| Photo Credit: Cake Wrecks |
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Of Mascara and Men
I hate zits. I'm thirty freaking years old. When are they going to go away? It's ridiculous to have to use anti-aging creams and Clearasil. What's even better is the fact that my skin has been *crystal* clear for weeks, and picks this week--when I have a concert and an autograph signing ('cause that happens soooo often, right?)--to project two extremely painful planets out of my chin. Thanks, skin. Thanks a lot.
Of course, as we girls all know, that's why the good Lord invented concealer. As long as the nice people at Benefit keep making Erase Paste, I'll be good to go. I'll brush a little HD powder over it, and those photographers can snap away!
Makeup and skincare are necessary evils in the entertainment industry. I might go to Walgreen's sans mascara, but I'd never dream of going in front of a camera without exfoliating, plucking, and generally doll-ing up. It's part of the job. Newscasters wear makeup for broadcasts. Even politicians have worn makeup for televised debates. So, why is it that this morning I wake up to find the tabloids all a twitter because Tom Cruise is doing facials and wearing foundation and mascara?
Granted, were I Katie, I'd be a little miffed that my husband was using my ridiculously overpriced creams and cleansers, but I'd have no problem with him using his own. Heck, I'd probably help him pick out something right for his skin type. The fact that a person happens to be male doesn't negate his need to wash his face and use proper sun protection. Also, given his age and profession, he should be using some form of anti-aging moisturizer to ward off fine lines and aid in the application of theatrical makeup. I'd consider that all just part of maintenance--like going to the gym, voice lessons, or working with an acting coach.
True, it's not commonplace for men to wear makeup on a daily basis, but this is a high profile individual who tends to be photographed wherever he goes. He's also only wearing foundation and mascara--not lipstick, blush, and eyeshadow. Still, that might be going a bit overboard, but what's wrong with a little concealer, if it's needed? As I mentioned earlier, I have two humongous red blobs on my face. I fully intend to keep them covered up because they're A) ugly, B) embarrassing, C) probably not the way the producers of my film would like the public to perceive their leading lady. Why is it expected for me to try to look pretty for the cameras, but newsworthy when a man does the same thing?
I'd love to hear what you guys think about this. Is this just Tom Cruise being zany, or an actor trying to do the behind the scenes part of his job? Feel free to weigh in in the comments.
Of course, as we girls all know, that's why the good Lord invented concealer. As long as the nice people at Benefit keep making Erase Paste, I'll be good to go. I'll brush a little HD powder over it, and those photographers can snap away!
Makeup and skincare are necessary evils in the entertainment industry. I might go to Walgreen's sans mascara, but I'd never dream of going in front of a camera without exfoliating, plucking, and generally doll-ing up. It's part of the job. Newscasters wear makeup for broadcasts. Even politicians have worn makeup for televised debates. So, why is it that this morning I wake up to find the tabloids all a twitter because Tom Cruise is doing facials and wearing foundation and mascara?
Granted, were I Katie, I'd be a little miffed that my husband was using my ridiculously overpriced creams and cleansers, but I'd have no problem with him using his own. Heck, I'd probably help him pick out something right for his skin type. The fact that a person happens to be male doesn't negate his need to wash his face and use proper sun protection. Also, given his age and profession, he should be using some form of anti-aging moisturizer to ward off fine lines and aid in the application of theatrical makeup. I'd consider that all just part of maintenance--like going to the gym, voice lessons, or working with an acting coach.
True, it's not commonplace for men to wear makeup on a daily basis, but this is a high profile individual who tends to be photographed wherever he goes. He's also only wearing foundation and mascara--not lipstick, blush, and eyeshadow. Still, that might be going a bit overboard, but what's wrong with a little concealer, if it's needed? As I mentioned earlier, I have two humongous red blobs on my face. I fully intend to keep them covered up because they're A) ugly, B) embarrassing, C) probably not the way the producers of my film would like the public to perceive their leading lady. Why is it expected for me to try to look pretty for the cameras, but newsworthy when a man does the same thing?
I'd love to hear what you guys think about this. Is this just Tom Cruise being zany, or an actor trying to do the behind the scenes part of his job? Feel free to weigh in in the comments.
Monday, December 6, 2010
Please Let Bob Cratchit Be an Ood!!
Only 19 more days!!! ONLY NINETEEN MORE DAYS!!!!!!!!!!!!!! "'Till what?" you may ask. Christmas? Presents under the tree? Eggnog and the traditional wearing of embarrassing sweaters from Aunt Edna? Well, yes, but the countdown is actually for the annual Doctor Who Christmas Special!!!! *cue hysterical Muppet-style screaming and running around the room*
This year, for the first time ever, we the people of the United States will actually be able to watch the special on Christmas Day--just like the nice folks across the pond--without having to downlo--er, I mean, um...wait for the DVD release. Um...yeah, that's the ticket.
There's a lot to be excited for this year. For starters, the Christmas specials tend to be somewhat epic. Past outings have included the introduction of the tenth Doctor, an outing on a space-traveling Titanic, and most recently, the Cyber-King and a run-in with a man claiming to be a Time Lord. This year's episode has the distinction of being the first special with Matt Smith as the Eleventh Doctor, and should prove to be no less exciting that its predecessors.
The 2010 Christmas special boasts a plot loosely based on Dicken's A Christmas Carol, but is said to truly be a mash-up of traditional Christmas movies. Newlywed companions Amy and Rory are on their honeymoon and, of course, in mortal danger. Dumbledore (Michael Gambon) is the Scrooge-like curmudgeon the Doctor has to convince to save them. There's an opera singer (Katherine Jenkins) involved, somehow, and there's also a shark. I repeat: a shark. Hmmm...
All I can say is: I trust you, Stephen Moffatt.
Actually, Moffatt appears to be in good spirits over the episode. When asked about writing the script, he told the Express, “I was laughing madly as I typed along to Christmas songs in April. My neighbours loved it so much they all moved away and set up a website demanding my execution. But I’m fairly sure they did it ironically.”
So, here's to the expectance of Tiny Tim, Sonic Screwdrivers, and Jaws. Now, could someone please explain to me the bit about the shark?
This year, for the first time ever, we the people of the United States will actually be able to watch the special on Christmas Day--just like the nice folks across the pond--without having to downlo--er, I mean, um...wait for the DVD release. Um...yeah, that's the ticket.
There's a lot to be excited for this year. For starters, the Christmas specials tend to be somewhat epic. Past outings have included the introduction of the tenth Doctor, an outing on a space-traveling Titanic, and most recently, the Cyber-King and a run-in with a man claiming to be a Time Lord. This year's episode has the distinction of being the first special with Matt Smith as the Eleventh Doctor, and should prove to be no less exciting that its predecessors.
The 2010 Christmas special boasts a plot loosely based on Dicken's A Christmas Carol, but is said to truly be a mash-up of traditional Christmas movies. Newlywed companions Amy and Rory are on their honeymoon and, of course, in mortal danger. Dumbledore (Michael Gambon) is the Scrooge-like curmudgeon the Doctor has to convince to save them. There's an opera singer (Katherine Jenkins) involved, somehow, and there's also a shark. I repeat: a shark. Hmmm...
All I can say is: I trust you, Stephen Moffatt.
Actually, Moffatt appears to be in good spirits over the episode. When asked about writing the script, he told the Express, “I was laughing madly as I typed along to Christmas songs in April. My neighbours loved it so much they all moved away and set up a website demanding my execution. But I’m fairly sure they did it ironically.”
So, here's to the expectance of Tiny Tim, Sonic Screwdrivers, and Jaws. Now, could someone please explain to me the bit about the shark?
 |
| Photo Credit: Metro.co.uk |
Friday, December 3, 2010
Gift Guide: The Graduate
As if the holidays aren't stressful enough on their own, colleges and universities have to go and throw in final exams on top. I suppose there are some good points to this situation. Afterall, you do get all the worrying and studying over with by present-opening time. There's also the possibility of Fall Commencement, and getting a diploma for Christmas.
I know that most people think of Spring and Summer as the time to welcome graduates into "the real world", but there are loads of them finishing up practically as I type. Here's are some holiday/commencement gifts that you might want to think about for the grad in your life. I'd also like to congratulate a dear friend of mine, and fellow blogger, on passing the bar and becoming a lawyer. May her hours be billable, her cases victorious, and her services never required by me.
First off, you can't go wrong with a nice diploma holder. Personally, my diploma is in a frame from Wal-Mart...somewhere...I think in a suitcase in the closet, but I'm really not sure. Maybe if I'd ponied up the dough for something fancier, I'd know where the blasted thing was. Sears has two diploma frames that would look beautiful hanging in an office...or cubicle...or over the t.v.
This first one is $149.99, and features a Mahogany frame with double matting. The medallion is embossed with the University's logo, and the University's name is engraved on the frame. Available in a variety of College and University designs.
This frame is, again, Mahogany, but with a lithograph of the University (again, many are available to choose from), and the diploma opening is customizable to the size of the document. $164.99.
If your grad is planning to pursue a higher degree, something along these lines might come in handy.
According to the Dick's Sporting Goods website:
I believe there's even a compartment for sunglasses. Beats the heck out of my old napsack. $59.99, Dickssportinggoods.com.
One thing to bear in mind: recent grads, with very few exceptions, are dirt poor. Recent grads looking for work in a big city are in even worse shape. It might be a nice gesture to gift something along these lines:
Obviously, you'd want to find out what kind of public transportation system your grad's city has (my city has nothing, so it wouldn't do much good here). The MetroCard works on the New York City Transit System, and a 30-day unlimited ride card runs about $89 and has to be purchased at a MetroCard vending machine or official retail outlet (read: in NYC and not online. I'm sorry about that). Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority Metro fares can be purchased online, with varying rechargeable cards and rates.
Of course, if you're a smartaleck like me, there's always this:
One word: Plastics. $20.99, Amazon.com
I know that most people think of Spring and Summer as the time to welcome graduates into "the real world", but there are loads of them finishing up practically as I type. Here's are some holiday/commencement gifts that you might want to think about for the grad in your life. I'd also like to congratulate a dear friend of mine, and fellow blogger, on passing the bar and becoming a lawyer. May her hours be billable, her cases victorious, and her services never required by me.
First off, you can't go wrong with a nice diploma holder. Personally, my diploma is in a frame from Wal-Mart...somewhere...I think in a suitcase in the closet, but I'm really not sure. Maybe if I'd ponied up the dough for something fancier, I'd know where the blasted thing was. Sears has two diploma frames that would look beautiful hanging in an office...or cubicle...or over the t.v.
 |
| Photo Credit: Sears.com |
 |
| Photo Credit: Sears.com |
If your grad is planning to pursue a higher degree, something along these lines might come in handy.
 |
| Photo Credit: Dick's Sporting Goods |
The Graduate II 2010 backpack from Quiksilver® features a spacious main compartment with a laptop sleeve to protect important files and an organizer pocket to keep your necessities available for easy access. The padded shoulder straps and back add comfort and stability while the zip-up side pockets add extra storage space.
I believe there's even a compartment for sunglasses. Beats the heck out of my old napsack. $59.99, Dickssportinggoods.com.
One thing to bear in mind: recent grads, with very few exceptions, are dirt poor. Recent grads looking for work in a big city are in even worse shape. It might be a nice gesture to gift something along these lines:
 |
| Photo Credit: MTA |
Of course, if you're a smartaleck like me, there's always this:
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| Photo Credit: Amazon.com |
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