Song Of The Week: Vagabond

This past Sunday was a beautiful sunny day full of friends, babies, football and fun.  As I drove with the sunroof down on the 10 I craved some great tunes to keep my wonderful weekend going.  Turns out the (500) Days of Summer soundtrack fit the bill perfectly. 

I picked up B and we were off to Whole Foods to pick up some items for dinner.  Along the way track 13 began to play and B and I both reached for the volume and bounced along in the car.  "Vagabond" is one of those songs that just puts you in a good song and keeps you bopping along.  It's a bit of an oldie but still so good.  If you haven't listened in a while be sure to add it into your daily mix, you will be tapping along your steering wheel, desk or whatever before you know it!

Song Of The Week: Knock Knock

Linley over at Dwelling & Telling chose Mac Miller's "Knock Knock" as her essential song for summer and I had never heard of the dude before.  But I liked the catchy beat and downloaded right after.

Turns out this song is not only great in summer but anytime of the year!  It totally leaves you bopping in your chair and I also catch myself knocking my fist in the air during the chorus.  This youngin' brings great lyrics, a beat you can dance to and the video is just too fun.  A little West Side Story, a little Grease and a smidge of Cry Baby.  Awesome all around.

Forever Frugal Friday - Steal vs. Splurge

Carrie Bradshaw Photo Via Here

Back when SATC2 came out, I was loving this Halston Heritage Pleated Cocktail Dress.  However I wasn't loving the $435 price tag for a dress that essentially doesn't do much for any figure but was worn by Carrie Bradshaw so it is instantly fashionable.  Fast forward a year a few months and good old Forever 21 has this Tired Pleat Dress for a smashing price of $22.80.  Now that is more to my liking. 

This dress is perfect for those hot summer days (hint, hint, LA) and warm summer nights.  Plus it never hurts to let your inner Carrie Bradshaw out to play. 

The Help Book Review

I finished The Help last Wednesday and have to say that it has been one of my favorite reads in a long time.  I laughed, I cried, and I also cringed throughout the novel.  After dragging through The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, The Help was a welcomed change. 

The book takes place through the Civil Rights in the 1960's and tells the story through three different narratives, Skeeter - a white college grad who belongs to a ladies society and wants to change the way "the help" is treated, Aibileen - a black maid to Skeeter's friend Elizabeth and confidant to Skeeter and Minny - a recently fired by the leader of the ladies society black maid with a strong personality.

I loved every one of the narratives and the different opinion and view they had to offer.  Aibileen - nurturing, cautious and brave.  Minny - defiant, hard-working and brave.  Skeeter - alone, creative, and brave.  When Skeeter witnesses horrible acts of racism in her city, she sets out to pursue her passion of writing while trying to make a change to the future with some help from the maids of Jackson, Mississippi. 

Without giving too much away, the book has moments of extreme happiness and moments where I was disgusted that all this happened a mere fifty plus years ago. You grow extremely attached to the cause and rooting for change and when I finished the last page, I was sad to be finished and had to remind myself that these characters although fictional, really existed back in the day, and left me wishing for their happiness. 

The movie comes out August 12th and you better believe I am hoping one of my gf's here in LA finishes the book in time to see it with me!  I just started The Hunger Games (rec'd from Pink Sass) and am already loving this series, more to come about that, but for now, check out the preview for The Help.

Song Of The Week: Higher Love

Today we are heading back to the late 80's with the song of the week, courtesy of Steve Winwood.

One of my favorite movies growing up was Big Business starring Bette Midler and Lily Tomlin.  The ultimate story of mixed up twins and crazy shenanigans that follow.  In addition to loving this plot of this movie, I also loved the song playing at while the end credits were rolling.  And some 23 years later I still turn up  Higher Love whenever I hear it playing. 

The perfect 80's beat complete with a lead singer sporting some seriously feathered locks makes this song a classic tune to add to any 80's playlist.  I think people who even generally hate 80's music enjoy this song. 

While I haven't heard Steve Winwood come out with any great hit lately, his Higher Love number will forever be etched into my list of faves.  If you haven't heard this song before and are scratching your head, please download it immediately, and if you haven't seen Big Business, add it to your netflix queue please.  I promise you will thank me later. 

Girl Crush ~ Blake Lively

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Am I the only one out there who has a major girl crush on Blake Lively?  Ever since she first appeared on Gossip Girl I have been blown away by her beauty, smile and fashion.  I constantly see photos of her smiling or laughing which leads me to believe that she is a sweet and personable gal off set and in real life. 

Her red carpet fashion has put her on a few of the best dressed lists and who can blame the critics.  The girl has a killer body and wears clothes so well!  Perhaps that is why she was signed as the new face of Chanel...Her fashion choices are always a little edgy, straight off the runway and yet she gets it right almost every time.  Can we also just agree that she has the red carpet pose down to a T?

Whether she is smiling, smirking or pouting her makeup and hair is always flawless. Never overdone, and always breathtaking - her features in magazines always have me buying the mag to check out the spread.  Blake is a little bit California Girl, Bohemian Goddess and old Hollywood glamour. 

Can we also please address her ridiculously incredible wardrobe on Gossip Girl?  I mean Serena's character can drive me a little batty sometimes but her fashion always has me swooning. I love the dynamic between Serena and Blair and am always looking forward to what love triangle Serena will get herself into next and what fabulous designer she'll be wearing next.  Not since Sex and the City have I coveted a characters wardrobe as much. 

Blake's most recent role as Krista, Jeremy Renner's drug addicted sister in The Town earned her some well deserved attention and is sure to help her become a staple in Hollywood.  I for one cannot wait to see what else this beauty has up her sleeves, and most importantly, who designed those sleeves...

Oscar Time 2011

It's Oscar time again!  This Sunday will be an evening of glamour, movies and hopefully some laughs courtesy of co-hosts James Franco and Anne Hathaway.  I am excited for these two hosts as they are both multi talented and sure to bring something new to the show, which it could definitely use. 

I am proud to say that this year I made it my goal to see all ten best pictures nominations.  And I succeeded!  Below are my reviews and votes for best picture (in order of my favorites).

And the nominees are.....

I kept hearing in October about this movie the The King's Speech.  I read the description of the film and was like *yawn*, even though I really like Colin Firth.  When they announced the nomination for best picture I knew I had to my butt to the theater and can I just say, I am SOOO glad I did as it is my favorite film of the bunch. 

Colin Firth and Geoffrey Rush are so excellent in this film.  It made me nervous, it made me laugh (a lot) and it really made me want to pick up a history book.  I LOVED it and really think it is a crowd pleaser.  I am also betting that Colin Firth takes home the Best Actor statue. 

YBB Odds of Winning: 35%

I am not sure why, but I wasn't super excited to see The Fighter - I mean it has Marky Mark in!  I watched this on a Saturday morning and was blown away by Christian Bale's outstanding performance as drug addict brother Dicky.  Also, Melissa Leo is unrecognizable as mother Alice and both deserve the supporting actor statues. 

The story is similar to all those come from behind to win movies but there is some serious heart in this film and it is my second favorite flick of the nominees. 

YBB Odds of Winning: 25%

I have loved all of the Toy Story Movies and am happy to report that Toy Story 3 is my favorite of them all.  I saw this movie with B in 3D and was holding back the tears at the end of the movie, as it just pulled on my heartstrings.  The characters, the idea of growing up and all that you leave behind and the nostalgia of my old favorite toys (Peaches & Cream Barbie anyone?). 

Toy Story 3 proved that sequels can be better than the original and also that some cartoons really do deserve to win best picture.

YBB Odds of Winning: 8%

Black Swan was a movie that disturbed me on so many levels and yet I loved it as well.  Natalie Portman's frightening portrayal of a ballerina trying to be perfect should definitely earn her the Best Actress Oscar, and the costumes and music were beautiful.  This movie literally had me squirming in my chair at parts and I left feeling unsure and weird. 

The movie was unique and interesting and I feel it deserves all the press it has been receiving, including its best picture nomination.

YBB Odds of Winning: 8%

B and I take turns picking movies at the theater and this flick was his choice.  I heart Jeff Bridges big time.  I once saw him at Palimino at lunch with his mom and he was carrying her purse for her and pulled out her seat and just was a true gentleman and ever since then I was a fan. 

The cinematography of True Grit is breathtaking and the cast is pretty impressive as well.  Matt Damon & Jeff Bridges are both hilarious in their roles and young Hallie Steinfeld is a welcomed fresh face. 

The film takes you back to simpler times and also the savageness of it all.  B and my girl Nicole seem to think that True Grit could be the dark horse and take home the Best Picture Oscar.  While I enjoyed the film, it wasn't best picture quality to me. 

YBB Odds of Winning: 9%

The Kids Are All Right was the last film I saw of the nominees and I was surprised to find that I ranked it so high out of all ten nominees.  The story is so intriguing and I found Mark Ruffalo, Annettte Bening, and Julianne Moore outstanding in their roles as parents to Joni and Laser. 

The film was the perfect combination of comedy and drama and really left me wanting to dine at Paul's restaurant and enjoying a glass of whatever Nic was drinking.  It also shows that family is family regardless of if it is man and woman, woman and woman or man and man. 

YBB Odds of Winning: 3%

I saw Inception last summer and walked away entertained, whereas B walked away disappointed and annoyed.  Which I think was most peoples reaction.  You either loved it or hated it. 

I loved the idea behind the film as well as the awesome cinematography and special effects.  The idea was creative and most walked out wondering what world Cobb was really in at the end.  Do we think there will be an Inception 2?  

Again, while I thought it was a good movie, not the best movie in my opinion. 

YBB Odds of Winning: 2% 

The Social Network or better known as The Facebook Movie was informative and amusing.  I didn't walk out of that movie thinking Mark Zuckerberg was an asshole (as I was warned I might feel) but instead I walked out feeling sorry for this genius as well as this Eduardo character. 

Jesse Eisenberg is satisfying as the role of Mark Zuckerberg and I finished the movie wondering what the REAL story is.  I also left thankful that Facebook was created. 

I know it won Best Picture for the Golden Globes by I don't think it holds a candle against The King's Speech or The Fighter. 

YBB Odds of Winning: 6%

I watched 127 Hours at my home and was told that not seeing it in the movie theater takes away some of the greatness of the film.  This movie takes you through the journey and struggle Aron Ralston experienced for (you guessed it) 127 Hours.  His knowledge and determination was impressive and inspiring.  

James Franco did a great job of portraying the highs and lows that Aron went through and the music compiled by A.R Rahman really intensified scenes and your emotions.  The landscape and scenery of the film (minus that one scene) was stunning and made me want to explore nature a little more.  

YBB Odds of Winning: 2% 

Winter's Bone was a flick I knew nothing about going into.  I knew it was a drama and that's about it.  My thought after watching was what an F'ed up flick. 

It was intriguing and dirty and made me want to shower as soon as I finished watching it.  It also made me feel so sorry for the main character Ree, played by the gorgeous Jennifer Lawrence. 

The movie was at times hard for me to follow but I ended up understanding at the end.  It is not a film for everyone but again one that leaves you thinking long after the credits end. 

YBB Odds of Winning: 2%

Now it's your turn! 

What do you think will win best picture?  Was there a film that was left off the nominations that should have been included?  What were your feelings on any of the nominated films? 

The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo Review

all photos via W Magazine

Some 7 months ago I shared this post with ya'll sharing that I was starting The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo.  I eagerly jumped into this novel after hearing such wonderful reviews. 

I've decided that I have kind of a love hate relationship with this novel.  It has never in my life taken me so long to get into a book.  It seemed as though I was running a full marathon, people around me constantly encouraging me to continue on that it would only get better and easier, and it did....around page 400 (mind you the book is 600 pages). 

Yes I know, why am I complaining when I could have easily just stopped reading the book.  The answer is simple, I wanted to believe that this book would be worth it.  And in a way it was, but perhaps it was all the hype but it just wasn't as good as I would have thought. 

Moments of the book were pure brilliance and I did like the characters of the novel, but I just feel like it fell short at times (perhaps the first 400 pages).  I watched the Swedish version of the movie this past Sunday and it did make me appreciate the novel more.  I am quite excited for the David Fincher version starring the darling and angelic Rooney Mara who has transformed herself completely for the role of Lisbeth Salander. 

Below are some pictures from her spread with W Magazine - it is kind of incredible how different she looks. 

Those abs - yes please!

Rooney is said to have pierced her lip, nose and nipples all in one day for the role.  Talk about dedication!

 Give the book a chance, if it takes longer than a month to get you excited I would suggest taking a pass.  What are your thoughts on The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo?  Were you instantly a fan?  What page pulled you in or turned you away?  Have you read any of the other books in the series? 

Next up for me....The Help.

Forever Frual Friday ~ Black Swan

I saw Black Swan the other night and let me just say that it is quite a movie.  At times it was beautiful, other times funny, and some times unwatchable.  Natalie Portman is outstanding in this movie and absolutely breathtaking at times and frightening at others.  I would highly recommend seeing this movie as it will keep you thinking way after the movie has ended.  The music was spectacular, the dancing lovely, and the costumes were beautiful.  It made me want to run out and purchase a tutu!

So I decided to dedicate this weeks frugal find to Natalie Portman's very different characters of the Black Swan and the White Swan.

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You choose....

Are you dark and cunning like the Black Swan or light and innocent like the White Swan?

Also have you seen the movie yet?  Are you planning to see it?  What did you think?!

Desperately Seeking Sully ~ Holiday Movies

Is anyone else is utter disbelief that Christmas is just ten days away?! What in the world! It has snuck up so fast and I have barely even started my holiday shopping.  The only thing I have started this holiday season is watching my favorite holiday movies.  My list includes:

Oh my gosh, I am so in love with this movie!  Love Actually is a movie that I can watch anytime of the year, but is especially special to me at Christmastime.  Perhaps it is Bill Nighy singing "Christmas Is All Around", Hugh Grant dancing or Colin Firth's incredibly romantic story line, I am just head over heels for it.  It was the first holiday flick I watched this season.

I remember being 10 years old and getting to go to a special screening of this movie and thinking that Kevin McCallister was so cool and quite a genius.  The gals and I watched Home Alone this past weekend and still laughed a lot, quoted almost the entire movie and then argued that many of the injuries the "Wet Bandits" received could have easily killed them.  Still so enjoyable!

Will Ferrel in tights dressed as an Elf (Infinifilm Edition).  Could this movie be any funnier.  I just adore Zooey Deschanel in this movie (although she looks so different with blonde hair) and really love the message this movie spreads.  Plus who hasn't quoted Will, "SANTA! OH MY GOD! SANTA'S COMING! I KNOW HIM! I KNOW HIM!" Kills me every time.

Another movie that reminds me of my childhood, National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation (Special Edition).  Whether it was the fiasco with the Christmas lights on the house, the cat food in the jello, or Clark's boss tied up in a big red bow, this is another movie I cannot get enough of.  In fact I think I will be watching this movie tonight.

White Christmas (Anniversary Edition) is another of one my favorite holiday films thanks to my Mom.  We always had a tradition of watching this movie the day after Thanksgiving with hot apple cider.  We would sing along to all of the songs and comment about how tiny Vera-Ellen was.  Full of amazing dance routines and one of the best songs ever - "Sisters".  This is a classic that everyone really should watch.

I remember when Bad Santa came out I wasn't quite sure what I thought of this film.  Once I saw it, I realized I quite enjoyed it.  It is so inappropriate and yet somehow it really has a great holiday spirit to it in the end.  If you like dry humor and raunchy comedies, I would tell you to give this film a shot, Billy Bob was excellent in it and even nominated for a Golden Globe for best actor.

Last night I watched Christmas Cupid, ABC Family's modern spin on A Christmas Carol.  Now it was totally cheesy and everything you would expect from a made for TV holiday movie, but I gotta admit I found it rather entertaining. 

What are your favorite holiday movies?  What movie do you watch every year without fail?  What movie do you hate? 

Ho, Ho, Ho!

HP7: Part One

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Call me a geek if you like, but this 30 year old is really excited for the latest Harry Potter film that comes out tomorrow!

Harry Potter And The Deathly Hallows

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I first began the series in my Young Adult Literature course at WSU and was amazed by the imagination of J.K. Rowling.  The books are very well written and although geared towards young adults and children very enjoyable for people of all ages.  I cried at the end of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (Book 6) and was so excited to dive into Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (Book 7) to see how it would all end.  When I finished the book I felt satisfied and yet also sad that there would no longer be any adventures of Harry Potter to read. 

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The producers of the movies did an outstanding job casting for the books.  The characters are everything and more than I could have imagined myself and to watch them grow from these little cuties to adults.  They did it with grace and also without taking a page from the Lindsay Lohan book and ending up in rehab and quite an accomplishment if you ask me.  

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We meet the darling Mr. H Potter living under the stairs and little do we know how important this little fellow will soon become.

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We learned what "muggles" are. 

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We learned that Dumbledore was a pretty incredible wizard who ran the hell out of Hogwarts.

We learned that anyone possessing this mark on their arm was a "Death Eater" and could not be trusted.

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We learned that "He Who Must Not Be Named" is actually named Voldermort and is evil as they come (and also can shake it just like Shakira).

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And of course, that even if you can't see or be with the ones you love, they are always a part of you no matter what. 

If you haven't read these books, please give them a shot.  I think you will find them highly entertaining and you will soon be attached Harry, Ron, Hermione, Dumbledore and Snape in no time. 

In case you also have been in a cave these past few months and missed the preview for Part I, for your viewing pleasure you can see it below (I still get goosebumps).  My tickets are good to go for tomorrow, and I absolutely cannot wait!