Polaroid Express

Band Beat (this one couldn't wait!)

2011-04-19T11:12:00.002-04:00

What a gorgeous, soothing song. Thank you, Devendra Banhart.

Image via here

In need of these, please!

2011-04-19T10:41:00.001-04:00

I did a little Closet Spring Clea(r)ning the other day and realized I don't have a single pair of blue jean shorts. Scratch that. I have one pair of size 2 GAP cutoffs I bought when my donk could fit into them. I mean, really. Why can my booty fit into size 2 jeans but not shorts? Why are they made differently? It's annoying.

Anyway! I need shorts, and as I was taking a gander at my favorite blogs, I came across this pic from Olsens Anonymous. I love her whole outfit, especially the blue jean cutoffs.

Image via here

I said, "Yes!" to the dress

2011-04-11T15:02:00.000-04:00

My moms came down on Friday to go dress shopping with me. I had previously put four dresses on hold at a local dress shop here in Charleston, and since she is paying for a lot of wedding stuff, I obviously wanted her with me for the big purchase.

In my mind, I'd narrowed my choices down to two, and then eventually one. When we got there, I was ready to buy, but my mom convinced me to try on several styles I hadn't paid any attention to . . . In fact, there were a couple of dresses I would've never chosen for myself. I played along and tried them on and completely fell in love with one dress. Of course, I can't say much about it since Bradford occasionally peruses my blog. I don't want to give away too many details, but it's pretty different than what I'd envisioned I would wear on the Big Day.

I'm excited that the decision has been made, and it's one more thing I can knock off my To-Do List! Oh! I've got a big DIY project ahead of me. Here's a hint: flower belt. Anyone want to help?

Our Wedding Website

Band Beat

2011-04-07T12:49:00.000-04:00

I'm in Piano Heaven right now. Growing up, my grandmother would make me play her organ after supper. It was easy enough to learn, especially since the sheet music had pictures of which fingers to put on the keys. I couldn't get it wrong if I tried. I mostly played hymns (I remember Holy, Holy, Holy and How Great Thou Art were my favorites). Honestly, I hated playing at first, probably because I was "told" to, but after I knew what I was doing, I loved it. There's something magical about playing an instrument . . . you can't believe you're making those sounds, and they're so pretty!

My grandmother also had a piano that I would "pretend" to know how to play. That sheet music didn't have cheats on it, though, so I had no clue what I was doing. What I did learn how to do was play by ear. I would sing one of the hymns I learned on the organ out loud and then find the right keys on the piano. Pretty daunting, but I was kid who was bored at her grandmother's house. What else would I do?

Anyway! I found a pianist named Maxence Cyrin. He's incredible and plays a lot of covers. I just bought his Novo Piano album. One of my favorites is his cover of The Pixies' Where Is My Mind. Check it out below. He also has a cover of Arcade Fire's No Cars Go. Amazing!

Our wedding photogs

2011-03-28T12:42:00.001-04:00

From the get-go, B and I decided that the most important thing to us regarding the wedding was the photography. Basically, we want awesome pictures to show for our awesome event. So I mentioned Kendrick Brinson and David Walter Banks to Bradford pretty early on. I met Kendrick while working at MCG (or GHSU, whatever) when she came on campus for a story. She was working at The Augusta Chronicle, and since I was reporter there once upon a time, we had stuff to chat about. Not only is she just a really cool person in general, I think her photography is amazing. She and her boyfriend David work for Our Labor of Love in ATL and are both photographing Wedding 11.12.11. Yay!

I looked into their packages and compared theirs to other local photographers because that's what you do. It's all about justification. I have to be able to go to Mom and Pops and say, alright, listen. This is their price. These are the prices of Charleston photogs. See? Not that big of a difference. AND! I'm getting DOS photographers. Bam!

So there you have it. One more major thing to check off my wedding list.

Image via Kendrick's FB page

Lone duck

2011-03-25T16:05:00.000-04:00

You can barely make him out, but he's there swimming in front of the fountain. It was cooler today and mostly cloudy, but at around 2:30 p.m., the sun peaked through the clouds, and I just had to get outside.

Shot with Polaroid 600 Instant Color Film

Porch loungin'

2011-03-24T18:09:00.001-04:00

Out on my porch, inhaling all the pollen.
Shot with Polaroid 600 Instant Color Film

Trekking

2011-03-23T12:04:00.000-04:00

Today I'm trekking around Mt. Pleasant and Charleston in search for a job, any job. And by any, I mean, I'll serve as many Number 1s at Chik-fil-A as I need to in order to bring home at least some bacon. It's been almost a year since my last full-time job. A year. I keep thinking about how crazy that is . . . that someone who has had a career for nearly nine years can't find a single job in her field. Nuts.

I'll be honest with myself, I've been putting off applying to businesses like Office Depot (they're definitely hiring), Publix and Chik-fil-A not because I think I'm too good to work there, but because I'm terrified that I'll never be able to find a job in my field again. My friend's sister told me not that long ago that her friend who moved to Charleston 18 months ago just had to move back to Augusta because she couldn't find a job. Ummmm, scary!

So I'm doing it. I'm throwing myself out there to anyone willing to take me. And I've decided to give myself one full year of not working in my field before I go back to school. And! I would like to take this opportunity to tell anyone out there who's thinking about moving to a different city before landing a job: DON'T DO IT. It's the toughest situation (financially and emotionally) I've ever been in . . . and it puts a mean hurtin' on a relationship too.

Wish me luck.

Beautiful inspo

2011-03-16T17:01:00.000-04:00

I'm loving this inspiration board from yes, please. I love the color combos and the flowers, although I'm pretty sure I want dahlias and peonies. And I'm diggin' the geometrical shapes . . . doesn't really fit my theme, but I like 'em.

Image via yes, please

Hair jealousy.

2011-03-10T00:05:00.000-05:00

Have you ever had a hankering to dye your hair a color so far from what Nature intended that your THIS CLOSE to making an emergency phone call to your stylist . . . even if you don't have the loot to back it? Yeah, me too. I have no idea why, but in the last month or so, I've been dying to dye and/or cut my hair. Is it because of all the change happening? Why do people do that? It seems hair is the first thing people want to change when they're going through . . . well, a change.

If I had the balls (maybe I'll get some after 11.12.11), I'd totally do something similar to the magic that is The Sounds' lead singer Maja Ivarsson's hair. I love the subtlety of the front colors. And I love the sounds of The Sounds even more.

Maja's the new face of Sebastian products, and from what I read, she keeps her color going with their new shampoo and conditioner collection called Color Ignite. Check it.

Images via here

Decorating is the best part!

2011-03-08T09:38:00.000-05:00

This part. This part right here is probably my favorite part of planning my wedding. I know there are so many things you should take care of before you get to this part, but I can't help it. My wheels have been a' turnin' about ways to save on decorations for 11.12.11. My grandmother had much of the glassware and kitchenware featured on Antiquaria (where all that beauty in the pic above came from), so I'm hoping my pops will let me borrow some for the wedding. And! They have a gift registry too.

All images via 100 Layer Cake

A real cool surprise.

2011-03-04T21:40:00.000-05:00

Here's one of the many things that's great about my fiance. When I mention something I want, he usually tucks that little nugget of info away and surprises me with whatever I wanted. He didn't really "surprise" me with these per se . . . he just paid real close attention to me today when I was talking about what I'd posted to my blog earlier. And then he said, "Oh Monkey, that's right. Usually when you tell me about something you want, I try and surprise you, but I've been so busy with school that it slipped my mind." So then we walked right on over to Half-Moon Outfitters and got 'em. I feel so much better now. And so lucky.

I want what I can't have . . . right now, anyway.

2011-03-04T00:05:00.000-05:00

You know when you get in the mood to buy a specific something? Well that something for me is shoes. I've been scouring the nets for shoes I'm dying to buy. Right. Now. Of course, we all know I can't. Oh, but one day (please Lord, let one day be real, real soon).

Bass Elden Slip On Oxford $59.95

Bass Brogan Gray/White $65

Tom's Ash Canvas $44

And check out this vintage Vogue photo. Makes me wish for summer even more.

Image via Glamour Daze

Our caterer

2011-03-03T21:57:00.002-05:00

One of the most stressful parts of planning a wedding is figuring out how you're going to fork up the moola to pay for it. Let's face it. B and I are nowhere near being in a position to pay for our November shindig. I mean, we're definitely paying for some, but a Charleston wedding is about the most expensive wedding you can have. Things we should have thoroughly thought about beforehand . . . sigh.

Enter, the parents. Mine have hearts the size of watermelons bursting with juicy love and would give you the shirts off their backs. But in all truth, their wallets and pocketbooks do not overfloweth. B's parents, however, sport heavier, more substantial purses. And lawd a' mercy, we are THANKFUL because we couldn't do this without them.

We sat down with all four sets of parents and talked about where we needed the most help, who could pitch in where, etc. We've finally got all that figured out and were able to book our caterer this week.

Enter, Three Little Birds. This tiny restaurant sits in James Island and has the most delicious breakfast food I've ever put in my mouth. We met with the manager, Meredith, several weeks ago and she worked up a quote for us. Remember two posts ago when I said that caterers bank? Y'all. I seriously blinked several times and had to remember to breathe upon getting this quote. I could not. Believe. My. Eyes. After I recovered, I started researching other caterers and got some extremely helpful advice from a wedding coordinator I met through a friend. Shockingly, the quote was common for Charleston. At that moment, I decided I should have gone to culinary school and opened my own restaurant . . . not majored in English and pursue writing. Anyway.

B knew from the beginning he wanted TLB to cater, and after the tasting, we were sold. Our menu is nothin' fancy. We've got some Southern flare to it, which I wanted. All in all, we're pumped. Deciding on a caterer kinda' made me think, oh crap. This is for real. This is all happening . . . sweet!

Image via here

See? Tiny.

When it rains, it pours.

2011-03-03T12:50:00.000-05:00

Jobs. That's what has been on my brain for a good while now. Everyone in my life knows this. Recently, I interviewed with a dental practice for a PR coordinator position. I instantly loved the office atmosphere --- how everything was laid out, the happiness of the employees, etc. I found out about this gig through a girl on B's co-ed soccer team. Her roommate works there now and recently went part-time. They need another part-timer to come in a pick up the slack. I met with her a couple of weeks ago, and instantly liked her. Plus, she said the position has great potential to go full-time, so of course, I became even more interested.

I had my first interview with the first dentist on Monday, and I'm going in today for my second interview with the other dentist. I'm nervous, but feeling confident.

My problem? I applied for a recruiter position at a college that shall remain nameless. It was an intense interview process, and it happened back in November. By Christmas (after much anticipation) I was told they were under a hiring freeze and had no positions available. Naturally, I was bummed. I'd seen light at the end of a very long, jobless tunnel. It was a letdown, to say the least.

On Tuesday, though, the director called to ask if I was still interested. I said yes, of course. But I was also very upfront with him and told him I was in the process of interviewing with the dental practice. I even told him that I started teaching dance at a studio that I'd been trying to get into since the summer. I mentioned that I was a bit concerned about that, as I know my dance hours would conflict with the school's hours. Their hours are, well, crazy. And they require each employee to work one Saturday a month in addition to every open house. The open houses are on Saturdays. During the interview process, they were very firm about how every employee is mandated to work these open houses, saying, "We tell people to plan everything, including their weddings, around these open houses." Huh? Really? You have a ton of people in your office, and you need everyone there for every one? Apparently, they do. So when I mentioned my concern, I got silence. Just . . . nothing. He then asked again, "So are you still interested in the position?" Ummmm, yes, but I would've appreciated a "We'll cross that bridge when we get there" or "I'm sure we can rearrange your hours" or "We'll work out something." But I got nada.

So, I'm feeling hesitant, and now that he knows I'm interviewing for this other position, he has been quickly trying to offer me something. I guess to get to me first? I assume so. Here's the thing. I've never not accepted a job, and that's what I'm most nervous about. And keep in mind. This is only assuming I get the PR coordinator job. I'm wishing, hoping and praying I do. And I'm wishing, hoping and praying that when I go in there today, they'll say, "You're hired! Can you start on Monday?" To which I will leap into their arms, kiss their cheeks and squeal, "YESSSSSS!"

I just keep thinking about what my friend, Jenny, said: "It's not a bad position to be in." And she's right. I've waited so long (almost a year) to have a job, and now, I could possibly be offered two. Funny how that works.

It's true. When it rains, it pours. Wish me luck!

I did it again . . .

2011-02-21T14:18:00.002-05:00

Guys, it happened to me again. I went to update my blog about three weeks ago, and my computer decided it wasn't time, I guess, because it froze and erased my entire post. And it was long and detailed. So, true to form, I was so pissed that I decided to not post for fear that it would happen again. I'm taking my chances today because I'm ready to talk about my wedding. (I'm trying really hard to have the Bride Gene, people. I feel like I don't have it, and it just feels wrong.)

B and I have our venue locked down. We're having the ceremony and reception at The Island House. Check it. It's gorgeous out there. We're still trying to lock down a caterer, and let me tell you. Caterers bank. I mean, they charge for every napkin and plastic cup used, so they should bank. As for all the other things you have to have to get married, we're still trying to figure out who's helping us pay for what. It's tough, but we're grateful that we even have help.

As for my dress and the bridemaids' dresses, I still haven't decided. I love peacock blue and this pink. I thought Navy would look good with the peacock blue, with pink as an accent, but now I'm not so sure. I was thinking a navy dress with a peacock blue sash, but I'm pretty sure I'm going to wear a ribbon, and I don't think it'll look good for all of us to wear a ribbon. So now I'm thinking a solid-colored dress with peacock blue shoes? That was Stacy's (my SIL) suggestion. Cute, huh?

Ugh. I feel silly for even thinking about this, but I guess that's part of it, right? So stay tuned!

Who doesn't love a dance movie?

2010-12-16T10:16:00.000-05:00

Guys, I cannot wait until this movie comes out. I keep watching the trailer over and over again. I have a major girl crush on Natalie Portman, and I've seen almost everything she has been in. Mila Kunis? Eh. She's alright I guess. I can't see her as anyone but Jackie from That 70s Show. Sorry Mila. I'll keep trying. Maybe Black Swan will sway me. I CAN'T WAIT TO SEE THIS MOVIE!

Colors, colors, colors!

2010-12-09T19:12:00.001-05:00

I've been thinking about my colors . . . you know, the colors for my wedding. Since it's going to be in the fall, I keep thinking, o.k., Amy. You HAVE to have fall colors. But do I? What are the rules? I love this color board from 100 Layer Cake. Isn't it pretty? But I also love pink, navy, robin egg blue . . . I wish I weren't so indecisive.

Image via 100 Layer Cake

The best and worst part of Christmas . . . for me . . . this year, anyway.

2010-12-07T17:48:00.000-05:00

The best part about this Christmas is that I'm done shopping. Under normal circumstances (which would include me having a full-time LIFE) I wouldn't finish until around, say, mid-January. Yep. I'm that girl. But this year? I'm done, with 18 days to spare. That's an accomplishment, if I do say so myself. My Christmas cards are stamped and mailed out, and now all I have left to do is wrap gifts. Cake.

The worst part? Stressing about every . . . single . . . cent I've spent. I'm a penny-pincher master now, guys. And yes, I know I'm still fortunate that I can even buy Christmas presents, and I shouldn't even complain. But what's the purpose of a blog if you can't vent about what's at the forefront of your mind?

So I continue . . .

To make matters worse, Thomas rewrote his Christmas list . . . "just in case" we didn't get it. Of course, we can't get more than half of what's on it, but that's what grandparents are for, right?

In more holiday-related news, B's mom and dad bought us plane tickets to Maine for Christmas, so there's a super great chance I'll be able to bust out a snowman this year. That'll be something I haven't experienced since I was with my first real boyfriend in college. Wow. Two things about that. First, that was so long ago! Second, I can't believe I'm 31.

Is THIS what it feels like?

2010-11-30T16:14:00.002-05:00

It finally happened on Friday, November 26. B proposed to me at the top of a mountain in McDowell, Virginia, with my grandmother's 65-year-old engagement ring. Although I was wearing a hunter's orange vest and matching beanie (I mean, it's huntin' season, y'all, and I'm not trying to get shot . . . because that happens. Alot.) I couldn't be happier. We both couldn't stop laughing before he actually asked me, which started to make me feel like a real asshole, but in hindsight, the whole experience was perfect. I loved each and every minute of it.

So now here comes the fun (fun?) part! The wedding planning! I'm excited about it, but equally stressed. I mean, I don't even know where to begin. That's where my BFFs who are already married come in!

Now that I've helped Thomas get his big project finished for school (the damn thing was due today, thank goodness) I can focus. So now . . . what do I do?!

Nutcrackers and more

2010-11-22T16:52:00.000-05:00

Have I mentioned my nutcracker collection? Well, I have one. And it's pretty substantial. My taste in them has simplified over the years, though, so I'm not sure how I'll incorporate them into my holiday decorating this year. The really colorful ones I got when I was younger might have to stay boxed up. Sorry, crackers.

Take a look at this beauty from West Elm. Of course, I couldn't help but peruse the rest of the accessories.

Novelty Nutcrackers $24-$59

Snow Globes $25

Sequin Animals $25

Winter-tree Boxes $16-$29

Tokyo Milk Candles $12

Band Beat

2010-11-17T14:07:00.000-05:00

Image via here

The Hours is an English rock band that formed in 2004. I'm not totally committed to their sound, but I ran across their new video for "See the Light" featuring Sienna Miller. I'm pretty sure y'all know how much I love her. Anyway. This video was directed by American History X creator Tony Kaye, and I've gotta say, I like it a bunch. Check it out.

The Hours - "See The Light" 2010 Edit from Adeline Records on Vimeo.

The new Matilde Font makes pretty letters.

2010-11-16T19:28:00.000-05:00

How pretty is the new Matilde Font? Love it. You can get it for free here.

A visit from a friend with no photos to show for it . . .

2010-11-16T14:27:00.000-05:00

Toni visited me this past weekend, and it flew by way too fast . . . why does that happen every time? We spent most of Saturday eating and catching up and then went downtown that night. Downtown Charleston on a Friday or Saturday night can make you (and by you, I mean anyone over the age of say, 28) feel old. All the college freshmen girls clopping around King Street in their 4-inch heels and short skirts . . . with all the energy in the world. And then there we are, in flats, jeans and a comfortable sweater (because it was cold, y'all, and those days of wearing barely anything in 33-degree weather is over.)

I had mixed emotions about the whole thing, honestly. Part of me longed for those days again, and the other part was grateful those days are over and almost proud to be where I am today. I tell you what. Thirty is flirty and fun, but it's also scary. A friend of mine sent me this article, and it nicely sums up how it feels to be 30.

Anyway. Toni and I went back downtown on Sunday, where the city closed a huge portion of King Street so restaurants could expand seating out into the street and stores could put displays out. It was really cool, and a nice surprise.

All in all, we had a great time. Short, but great. This is the lone photo of us at a bar downtown called Closed For Business.

This was taken with Toni's phone. I can't believe no one had a camera on them. My digital one broke almost a year ago, and we haven't been able to get a new one. All we have (and I'm not complaining because it's awesome) is B's Nikon 40D he had to get for school. Needless to say, we're not ever lugging it with us downtown on a Saturday night.

Interview, done.

2010-11-03T14:21:00.000-04:00

I had an interview this morning for an assistant director of admissions at the Art Institute. I was nervous as all get-out, but I feel better than ever. I don't want to jinx myself by having high hopes, but it was probably the best interview I've ever given. They've narrowed the pool down to five candidates, and they are going to hire two folks. I am praying I am one of the two. A lot of interviewees now are asking personality-based questions, and my last question this morning was, "Name the theme song of your life. What song do you march to?" Pretty tough one to answer, huh?

I chose "Seasons of Love" from the musical, Rent. Guys, if you haven't seen this musical (and I'm not talking about the movie, although it was great as well) you must find a way to see it. It's soooo good and is definitely one of my favorites. This particular song talks about how people measure their lives. And much to my utter and complete happiness, the senior director LOVED my answer. Today is a good day.

Here's the song --- both Broadway and movie versions. Many of the actors in the movie version were part of the original Broadway cast (like Taye Diggs, y'all). And if you want some background about the writer, Jonathan Larson, check this out. His journey in creating this is absolutely amazing. Prepare for goosebumps and enjoy.

Sneaky Little Devil

2010-11-01T17:59:00.000-04:00

November is here already? Really. I can't believe how quickly it came --- it snuck right up on me. I mean, don't get me wrong. I'm glad it's here. It's my favorite month of the year . . . and I'm not just saying that because my birthday is tucked away in it.

This year has been tough. Moving. Leaving my family and friends. Leaving my dance studio. Leaving everything behind. Annnnnd, still no luck on the job front (hopefully, that will change after Wednesday).

As a result, I'm certain I've gained several new forehead wrinkles and more crow's feet, and my ego has taken a swift kick in the gut, but I'm still hopeful and excited about what's to come. Reading the blogs I follow rejuvenates me and helps in that, especially when I read a post I can relate to or watch a really cool video a husband made of his wife he adores, and I just melt.

Sadly, I tend to go several days (even weeks sometimes) between readings. I have no excuse, other than that after scouring the Internet for hours at a time job hunting, I'm kinda' done with my laptop.

I keep telling myself that I need to buckle down and be better about reading blogs, and hell, even writing in mine. After all, if reading them and writing in mine make me feel better, why not? It's. Not. Rocket. Science.

So here's a list of recent posts from a few blogs I follow, blogs that inspire me and make me happy. Maybe they'll do the same for you too.

Friday's Post Is Full Of...Awkwardness from The Tightrope because the author, Mandi, and I lived in the same tiny town years ago, and I've totally had that same grocery store experience. Her blog is fantastically written and chock-full of hilarity, wit and honesty: a perfect reading recipe. Check it out.

Do What You Love - episode two: Cole from Pacing the Panic Room. Guys, there aren't enough words to express how much I love this blog. B jokingly said I liked it because he thought I was in love with the creator, Ryan. I told him that I wasn't in love with Ryan; I was in love with how much he loves his wife, Cole. I can't get over it. It's ridiculously sappy, over-the-top love, and he's not afraid to blog about it. I love it. But there's soooo much more to his blog than his undying love of his wife, and if you haven't bookmarked it already, do so immediately.

Loving from Layers of Meaning because if you want to look at beautiful photos and creations with inspiration out the bamboozle, this is the blog for you. (And I'm not just typing this because LOM's founder, Fe, is one of my best friends). Her blog is full of fantastic design and fashion stimuli, super-interesting series, gorgeous photos, Etsy finds and more.

I wouldn't date me. FACT. from Chelsea Talks Smack. This feisty blogger is fierce. Girl does not mince words one bit . . . hence her name. And that's why I love reading her smack so much. She puts it all out there, but she doesn't wrap it up in a pretty little package like a lot of people. She's human; honest and vulnerable. She makes mistakes, and she lets you know about them. But she throws her fears and questions back on her audience, opening up her world to them and allowing them to share their experiences with her. So everyone is growing and learning together. Definitely worth reading.

currently snacking on...from oh joy! eats is completely and utterly wonderful if you love food like I love food (especially sweets, like this baby apple pie) but completely and utterly awful if you're on a diet . . . and I mean that in the best sense. I've been on both ends, and when I'm trying to eat "clean," I try to steer clear of Joy's delectable sweets. Easy to do since her blog consists of much more than photos of food. She writes about food and art, the latest (and coolest) kitchen and food accessories, restaurants and recipes. And Joy's not just about food. She has a fabulous design blog too.

Band Beat

2010-10-20T16:55:00.000-04:00

Image via here

Maybe I picked Meiko as this week's featured Band Beat because she's a Roberta, Ga., native, and I usually have a soft spot for ambitious women from small towns in the Peach State.

Maybe I picked her because her music is like a cocktail recipe of two parts Ingrid Michaelson mixed with one part Rachael Yamagata with a dash of Kelly Nash (minus the British accent), and with how tricky my life is right now, this is just the recipe I need to indulge.

Whatever the reason, she's cute. She's been around for a few years. She probably isn't going anywhere. And while her music and lyrics don't necessarily wow me like, say, Jenny Lewis' does, I'm enjoying it right now. Especially Heard It All Before. And she has some pretty videos too.

Heard It All Before

I'm so tired of staring at the wall
But I know I got to put you down
And I keep trying to make sense of it all
But I can't keep going around and around
And you know me well; you know me better than this
And I can't be sure if you're something I'd miss

'Cause I've heard it all before
I've heard it all before

I keep finding a little piece of me
Every time we disagree
And your words float like dandelions every other way
I can't keep listening to what you say

'Cause I've heard it all before
I've heard it all before
And I take everything I can
And I'll throw it out the door

Yeah, I've heard it all before
I've heard it all before
And I take everything I can
But I've heard it all before

The Comeback Ked

2010-10-06T00:57:00.000-04:00

Image via Keds

Yes, I'll take these please. I think I like the gray pair the best. And there's much more where that came from. Keds is like the Comeback Kid of all time. They're everywhere again . . . and I think it's pretty damn precious.

I remember rockin' the traditional white ones many years ago. If you didn't have at least one pair (along with a pair of Classic K-Swiss sneaks) something was wrong with you.

Of course, the whole reason I even wanted Keds in the first place was because Baby wore the crap out of them in Dirty Dancing. And I'm so o.k. with that.

Current Celebrity Infatuation

2010-10-02T20:32:00.001-04:00

Image via here

Who else is in love with Michael C. Hall? M'kay, me too. I started crushing on him years ago when he was rockin' it as an uptight, gay funeral home director in Six Feet Under, but not because of his looks. I had a crush on his talent, y'all. He's seriously got it.

So when Dexter started in 2006, I knew I'd love it . . . except for that I couldn't watch it because we haven't had cable in 759 years. Long time, I know. Instead, I had to hear how awesome it was from every single one of my friends.

BUT THEN! That awesome Netflix upgrade has allowed us to watch Seasons 1 and 2, and we borrowed Season 3 from a friend and are now on the fourth episode. We're progressing nicely and are trying our hardest not to read any spoilers (except, wait. I totally found out something that happens in Season 4, and I'm bummed. Bradford has made me promise not to tell him.)

Anyway. Is it just me, or has Michael C. Hall gotten cuter over the years? He's hot. I mean, there are times during Dexter when I'm all, Dude. Stop looking so evil. But then there are times (specifically at the end of the show's intro when he's putting on the white T-shirt . . . and anytime he wears his tight-fitted "killer" shirt) when I'm thinking, Thank you, thank you, thank you! Annnnnd, we'll pause it right there!

It's not just his looks and incredible talent, though. It's also the fact that he's married to his co-star, Jennifer Carpenter, and you just KNOW they're a perfect match and are completely devoted to one another and will have the most incredible babies ever. They just emanate all that goodness. I have a major crush on their relationship.

Image via here

An Indirectly Direct Job Offer

2010-09-23T10:11:00.001-04:00

Jobs. Or lack thereof. That's my biggest source of contention right now . . . oh, and what not having a job means: broke bank account. Everyone in my life knows how troubled I am these days due to my jobless state. And I mean everyone (seriously. I think even the FB friend who befriended me solely because we might have played kickball in elementary school knows how desperate I am for a J-O-B.)

So one would think when a job offer comes my way, I would snatch it up like the last pair of Manolos at a Sample Sale, right? Wrong. Before you scream, "WHAT?! YOU IDIOT!" at the top of your lungs, here's what happened. (It does involve a little backstory, so hold your horses.)

Bradford plays for a men's league soccer team sponsored by the Madra Rua Pub out of North Charleston. So that means after most games, the guys will go up to the pub for a pint to show support and say, Thanks a bunch for shelling out hundreds to let us play. One of the pub owners also plays on the team and has been trying to help me find a job (it's ALL ABOUT CONNECTIONS HERE.) He asked me a few months ago if I'd be willing to wait tables. I basically said, "That would be my last resort." Now hold up. Let me interject that I don't think I'm too good to be a server. In fact, I've got some waitressing hours under my belt. BUT.

What it boils down to is that I've been in journalism/public relations for nearly a decade . . . which means I started my "career" right out of college (and I mean like a month after I graduated.) So I feel like if I'm going to work in F&B, I want it to be my very, very, very last resort. Make sense?

So on Sunday, Bradford came home from the pub and said that Jason, the owner two paragraphs above, asked him if I would want to wait tables at Madra Rua. I'm not sure what Bradford told him because when he was telling me this, all I could think was, OH! JOB OP!, and then I immediately followed up that thought with, WAIT. JASON WANTS ME TO WORK THERE? I mean, the pub is nice, don't get me wrong. But it's a pub, so it's dark with about 478 TVs blaring college football games nonstop . . . which would be perfect for a twenty-something guy whose girlfriend won't let him watch sports at home. And did I mention it was dark?!

Bradford and I didn't talk anymore about it. It was sort of swept under the rug, and I felt like we had an agreement that maybe Madra wasn't the place for me to work. So last night after their game, I went to the pub with the guys. While we were drinking our pints, Jason said, "Hey, if anyone knows anybody who wants to wait tables here, let me know." And then, all you could hear were crickets as everyone fell silent because, let's face it. Errr'body knew that was an indirectly direct job offer for moi.

I should've jumped off my stool and shouted, "I DO! ME! ME! ME!" right? But what did I do? I took a sip of my Sweetwater IPA and stared intently at whatever soccer game highlights were on the tube. All I could think about was, How much is minimum wage these days? I wonder how much in tips the servers get. How many nights will I miss dinner with Bradford and Thomas? And, OMG! It's so dark in here!

I'm torn guys. Completely. When is it time to throw in the towel, swallow my pride and realize that Paul Nunez in HR at the SC Aquarium is not going to call me back about the public relations manager position?

What do y'all think?

Parenthood(trap)

2010-09-17T00:18:00.000-04:00

I don't talk about parenthood much on here . . . I'm not sure why, really, since my blog is such a hodge podge of topics. Why not talk (complain) about parenting? I guess it's because I wasn't a full-fledged parent until I moved to Charleston in April. Let me explain.

Thomas, my pre-teen, has been in my life for more than five years (off and on for the first couple of years, granted, but I'm the only woman Bradford has ever introduced him to. Now that's when you know it's getting serious with your divorced, father of one boyfriend, ladies).

I vividly remember Bradford sitting me down after only two months of dating and basically saying, "Hey, um, my son is going to come live me full time. If you want out, now would be a good time." Me, being my overly stubborn self, insisted on giving it a shot. I can handle anything, I kept telling myself.

I was slowly introduced to Thomas and began spending more and more time together. After Bradford and I officially moved in together (after our "break," of course), my schedule was so hectic that I rarely saw Thomas, much less parented him. I worked 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day, taught dance until sometimes 10 p.m. almost every night and spent nearly every weekend dancing. There wasn't much time to be a proper parent.

Since moving to Charleston and not having a schedule at all (I promise I won't go on a tangent about being jobless and not dancing), I've had BOO-KOOS of time to parent . . . and let me tell you, it ain't easy. I've heard my siblings complain off and on throughout the years about their trials and tribulations. But you have no idea until you're "in it."

Seven, 8, and 9 years old was cake (for the most part). Thomas was easy to discipline and was precious most of the time. Around 10, he started to test us and figure out what he could and could not get away with, hallmarking some pretty incredible memories. At 11, he went into the sixth grade, and whoa. What. A. Journey. He's never gotten in so much trouble in his life . . . until this year. A full-fledged 12-year-old pre-teen whose hormones are spinning in about 10 billion directions (just like every other seventh grader) can be hard to handle, to say the least.

There are days when I want to explode, and it doesn't help that Bradford's in school and isn't here to soften the blow. Not that I'm complaining. I thank my lucky stars every day that he has figured out what he wants to do in life. But it means I'm here most of the time, making sure Thomas gets his homework and chores done, helping him with projects, signing papers, cooking him dinner (guys, I'm cooking! I haven't been able to in years) etc. Every day, I wonder, am I doing a good job? Is he turning into a good kid? What will we do next year when his hormones are really out of control? Was I too harsh when I took his game time away because he didn't finish a chore? DID HE BRUSH HIS TEETH TONIGHT?!

Phew. My sister has said, "Yeah. You got the 'Shit Years.'" And while I agree these last couple of years have, at times, been a challenge, I wouldn't change a thing. Talking to my friend, Jenny, helps too. We've been friends since the age of 8, and she oftentimes reminds me of when we tested the boundaries. Like when we used to wait until her parents were in bed and sneak out her bedroom window to play Barbies on the roof. Or when she'd sleep over at my house, we'd sneak out my bedroom window and play Barbies in the pool. How we pulled that one off, I have no idea. And there was that time we snuck out of my dad's house to go cruising with two of our friends. Couldn't have been more than 15 then.

So I know I wasn't an angel, and it helps to be reminded that Thomas is testing and will continue to test our boundaries. That doesn't mean we're bad parents.

I try to stay grounded and calm and remember how lucky I am to have Bradford and Thomas in my life. And just how awesome it will be when I have children and get to do it all over again! At least now, I'll be prepared.

Wow. Do you think he likes wearing red or what? I love you, buddy!

Alexa Chung for Madewell

2010-09-09T20:47:00.000-04:00

Image via here

It's no secret I have a major girl crush on Alexa Chung. I love everything about her and am pretty sure she's on my CCI List.

So I was stoked when I started hearing that she was going to start designing . . . I mean, why not? She's got so much style and can wear anything and look fabulous. Her Alexa Chung for Madewell collection is out, and although a T-shirt costs $48,and I could never afford it, I'm totally loving everything she has designed.

Check it out, and if you can afford it, shop it!

Polly Coverall Dress $125

Dotted Tennessee Velvet Dress $178

Billie Velvet Shorts $88

Christian Jean Shorts in Abrasion Wash $98

Thank you, Netflix!

2010-09-09T13:32:00.001-04:00

I jumped on the Netflix Train when it first came out and signed up for the two movies a month for $4.99. At the time, I wasn't renting movies all that much because, well . . . I had cable (including HBO), so I was getting my movie fix that way.

Since moving to Charleston, though, we haven't had cable because we're waiting for me to get a job (see Job Gods? All the more reason for me to get one). Needless to say, we've been renting movies out the bamboozle, which, at five bucks a pop, really adds up.

So we decided to upgrade our Netflix plan to two movies a month PLUS unlimited streaming and online watching, which means we can watch all the movies we want via Thomas' PS3 and online! Snap!

The plan's only $8.99 a month and is totally worth it. I've watched quite a few movies online already (spare time, spare time).

Here are some I've watched:
This one is definitely worth renting.

Guys, this is so old, but wasn't Lili Taylor so gorgeous?!

I have mixed emotions about this one, but as far as independent films go, I think it's worth watching.

Alright, so I watched this one because I recently saw Black Hawk Down for the first time and got into a discussion with B about whether or not it was Josh Hartnett's break-out role. He said his was from 40 Days and 40 Nights and I was curious. It's cheesy in all the right spots, but I laughed anyway.

Frog legs and a hungry cat

2010-08-30T15:31:00.000-04:00

During the last couple of months, I've been woken up off and on at 5 o'clock in the morn by strange animal cries. At first, I thought it was some inconsiderate butthead neighbor who was crating their crying newborn puppy on their balcony . . . probably because its cries were making them slowly losing their mind. But then I searched my neighbors' balconies for said pup and couldn't find anything.

So I let it go and assumed that it was a baby squirrel or something.

Until one morning I woke up (again around 5 a.m.) and swore the mysterious animal was on my balcony. I was half-expecting to find the animal standing at our sliding glass door demanding, UM. I'VE BEEN CRYING FOR DAYS OUT HERE. NOW GO GET ME SOME WATER AND FOOD.

Of course, I didn't find any such thing and went back to bed. Now here's where it gets worse.

B and I started smelling something foul. I checked the garbage disposal. Clean. Took out the trash. Smell still there. Cleaned out Raisin's litter box. Yep. Smell intact. We finally considered that whatever had been crying for days possibly died and now was funking up our apartment. So B talked to the maintenance crew, who promptly went up to the attic space of our section of the building to hunt this thing out.

Minutes later, they were knocking on our door. "We couldn't find anything ma'am, but we went ahead and doused the entire area with bleach to get rid of any smells." Ummmmm, thanks? But, but, but what about any animals who might be nesting up there??? They're as good as dead now, I guess. Thanks guys!

Needless to say, the animal cries resumed a few days later. And then I figured it out. While out on my balcony one evening, drinking shiraz and talking to my friend, I noticed three little tree frogs that had become quite happy in my Elephant Ear and Christmas Cactus. How cute, I thought . . . until they started croaking. MYSTERY SOLVED. The monstrous noises were coming from these tiny frogs. Now, this obviously wasn't the first time I've heard a frog croak, being from the deep South and all, but I guess tree frogs sing to a different tune. It was bizarre. But I grew quite fond of the little dudes, after I had a little talk with them about keeping the noise down, of course.

And then Raisin had to go and attack one and sever its leg. She was proud; I felt bad. I tried to help by putting the frog back into the Christmas Cactus. I thought he was going to die for sure, but oh no. The fighter showed up a week later, one leg missing. Ouch.

Raisin's still ticked that I wouldn't let her finish him off. And she's been banned from the balcony, unless accompanied by a supervisor. She's gotta' learn: no more frog legs for dinner.

The Selby is in your place contest

2010-08-30T08:05:00.000-04:00

CB2 emailed me and was like, "Yo. Please pass this on." So I'm passing it on. What a fun idea!

Image via email

Props

2010-08-24T08:08:00.000-04:00

Since I just wrote about their scandalous promo pics, I thought it only fitting to blog about which lucky lady won the Miss Universe Pageant last night in Las Vegas. And no, I didn't watch it. I don't have cable yet, unfortunately.

Congrats, Miss Mexico! From the tiny bit of coverage I've seen so far, your reaction to winning the crown was spot on and not overly ridiculous. Kudos.

Image via here

Since I'm feeling rather blah today . . .

2010-08-17T10:55:00.001-04:00

Kate Winslet's character, Iris, in The Holiday has this wonderful monologue about being hurt by the man she's loved for years and getting over the pain. I sent it to a friend earlier and wanted to post it here. I especially love this part:

"And after all that, however long that may be, you'll go somewhere new. And you'll meet people who make you feel worthwhile again. And little pieces of your soul will finally come back. And all that fuzzy stuff, those years of your life that you wasted, that will eventually begin to fade."

Current Celebrity Infatuation

2010-08-16T00:02:00.000-04:00

Image via here

This CCI was out of the blue for me. I mean, I've never given Joseph Gordon-Levitt a second glance until Inception (supergreatfantastic movie, by the way). Sure, I remember him in his younger roles (Angles in the Outfield anyone?) and I thought he did a stand-up job in 500 Days of Summer, but it wasn't until Inception that I started crushin'. Hard.

There were moments during the movie when I thought, Wow. He looks . . . well, he looks . . . HOT. Look at the way he's wearing that suit. And the way he's holding that gun! Those moments, in turn, left me wondering, Wait. Now what did I just miss? Because you've got to be ON IT to follow this movie. And another thing that puzzled me. Even the pure greatness and beauty that is Leonardo DiCaprio could not keep me from crushing on JGL during the entire movie. And that, my friends, is saying A LOT. What is it about him? If anyone knows, please tell me.

Image via here

Va Va Voom

2010-08-14T11:35:00.000-04:00

Don't you hate it when you type an entire post only to have it DISAPPEAR RIGHT BEFORE YOUR VERY EYES? Yeah, me too. I'm not going to try and retype it because I can't remember everything I said, and quite frankly, I'm too pissed that I lost my original post.

The topic was about the recent promo pics of the Miss Universe contestants. It was top news this morning on abcnews.com. The world is wondering if they're too scandalous. The photos, not the contestants. Although . . .

Anyway! Even ol' Mr. Trump thinks they're "pretty wild." To me, sure, the ladies look like they're posing for lingerie ads, but is that bad? I mean, haven't times changed enough that this is allowed? Or is it still a no-no in the pageant world? What do you think?

Renee Mokihana Nobriga, Miss Hawaii

Ashley Bickford, Miss Connecticut

Kristina Primavera, Miss Rhode Island

Chenoa Greene, Miss New Jersey

Images via here

Band Beat

2010-08-11T18:33:00.000-04:00

Image via here

Guys, I love Love Actually about as much as I love edamame (and if you know me, you know that's an insane amount of love. I'd knock out a bag of Edamame Steamers every night of the week if I could). Anyway, back to the movie. It's one of those movies. You know, the kind that makes you laugh, cry, shout with rage and get goosebumps . . . all at the same time. The kind that, when you see it in the movies, you know you're going to purchase the DVD as soon as it comes out. It's. That. Good.

Music in a movie is just as (if not more) important to me. A good movie has to have a good soundtrack. It's a rule. I know Love Actually isn't new, by any means, but I watched it today as I was job hunting and was reminded of how great the soundtrack is . . . kudos Richard Curtis.

Check out the tunes (quite a list!) and in case you haven't seen it, here's the trailer.

Love Actually Soundtrack

"Christmas Is All Around" by Reg Presley, performed by Bill Nighy
"All You Need Is Love" by John Lennon/Paul McCartney, performed by Lynden David Hall
"Take Me As I Am" by Wyclef Jean/Jerry 'Wonder' Duplessis/Sharissa, performed by Wyclef Jean featuring Sharissa
"Bye Bye Baby (Baby Goodbye)" by Bob Crewe/Bob Gaudio, performed by Bay City Rollers
"Puppy Love" by Paul Anka, performed by S Club Juniors
"Sweetest Goodbye" by Adam Levine/Jesse Carmichael/Ryan Dusick/James Valentine/Mickey Madden, performed by Maroon 5
"All I Want For Christmas Is You" by Mariah Carey/Walter Afanasieff, arranged by Flood, performed by Tessa Niles
"I'll See It Through", by John McElhone/Sharleen Spiteri/Guy Chambers, performed by Texas
"River" by Joni Mitchell, performed by Joni Mitchell
"Jump (For My Love)" by Gary Skardina/Stephen Mitchell/Marti Sharron, performed by The Pointer Sisters
"Here With Me" by Peter Gabriel/Paul Stathan/Dido, performed by Dido
"Rose" by James Horner, from the Original Motion Picture Score "Titanic (1997)"
"Too Lost In You" by Diane Warren, performed by Sugababes
"Like I Love You" by Pharrell Williams/Chad Hugo/Pusha T/Malice/Justin Timberlake, performed by Justin Timberlake
"Turn Me On" by Loudermilk, performed by Norah Jones
"Songbird" by Christine McVie, performed by Eva Cassidy
"All Alone On Christmas" by Steve Van Zandt, performed by Darlene Love
"Smooth" by Rob Thomas/Itaal Shur, performed by Santana featuring Rob Thomas
"Wherever You Will Go" by Aaron Kamin/Alex Band, performed by The Calling
"Both Sides Now" by Joni Mitchell, performed by Joni Mitchell
"White Christmas" by Irving Berlin, performed by Otis Redding
"Silent Night" by Franz Gruber/Joseph Mohr, performed by Pre Teens
"Good King Wenceslas" modern lyrics by John M. Neale
"Catch A Falling Star" by Lee Pockriss/Paul Vance, performed by Cast
"All I Want For Christmas Is You" by Mariah Carey/Walter Afanasieff, performed by Olivia Olson
"God Only Knows" by Tony Asher/Brian Wilson, performed by The Beach Boys
"The Trouble With Love Is" by Evan Rogers/Carl Sturken/Kelly Clarkson, performed by Kelly Clarkson
"Jump (For My Love)" by Gary Skardina/Stephen Mitchell/Marti Sharron, performed by Girls Aloud
"Glasgow Love Theme" by Craig Armstrong, performed by Craig Armstrong

Post Motherload.

2010-08-07T18:50:00.000-04:00

I'm a posting fool today . . . can't help it. I'm seeing so many things that are fantastically pretty, like this photo via MadeByGirl's blog.

MK on the cover of Marie Claire

2010-08-07T18:45:00.000-04:00

You know how much I love her, and she's gracing the cover of Marie Claire's September issue. I'll be picking this up!

Image via Olsens Anonymous

MY CHANails

2010-08-07T18:35:00.000-04:00

On a recent jobless afternoon, I went to CVS and bought Nylon's recipe for Chanel's Nouvelle Vague (I told you I was going to) and here's the result. What do you think? Probably should've spent a little time on my cuticles, but eh. I wanted to test the color pronto, o.k. cuticles? You'll get proper treatment next time.

In other news, I think Bradford and I found "our spot." You know that place you like to go and have "you time" or just chill out with a friend or a boyfriend or girlfriend? It's usually a coffee shop or a bookstore. Ours (I say ours because friends of ours introduced us) is a coffee shop downtown called Kudu. It's perfect. Quaint, nice setup, tasty coffee (and beer!)

Although, I have to vent. Bradford (who, if you don't know or haven't met him, is a charmer) offered up his iPod to one of the buristas. He put on The Temper Trap (a band I introduced him to) and totally didn't give me any cred . . . he just chatted up the burista about the band as if he discovered them himself and gave birth to them. Butthead! Yes, it was petty for me to get miffed about it, but he could've at least not done that in front of me. Right?!

Feeling the pain . . .

2010-08-05T10:03:00.000-04:00

Yesterday was the first time I've exercised in about three weeks, so naturally, I can barely move today. I (against the doctor's orders) taught for a few hours at a dance camp, and although I'm feeling the pain today, it was so worth it. Immobility for three weeks for me is a big, big deal (it's the longest I've gone without exercising or dancing), and I'd forgotten how much I like teaching.

Beyonce's Sweet Dreams was my song choice for the group's hip-hop routine. Yes, I know the song is soooo 2008, but I had to pick something that wasn't jam-packed with sexual innuendos and cuss words. Now I know Beyonce is rockin' some innuendos in this song as well, but it's not as obvious, especially when you're just hearing the song. The video on the other hand . . . I mean, she's not called Sasha Fierce for nothing. Girl friend can pop and lock and gyrate (or as Urban Dictionary spells it: jirate) like no other.

Chanails

2010-08-02T12:04:00.000-04:00

This here nail polish has been on my radar since it came out, but not on my radar like I could ever afford it (I think it retails for $65. Yes, you read that right.) I know I could go on ebay and try to buy it for cheaper, but I just don't feel like it. Ebay can make me go into Insta-Anxiety Mode in 2.5 seconds. It's too much pressure for me.

Alas, Nylon magazine (I didn't renew my subscription because I'm trying to cut back, but I will check out an issue from time to time) came to every Poor Woman's rescue by creating their own Chanel Nouvelle Vague.

Behold their recipe: Mix six parts of an opaque white polish with three parts of Sally Hansen's Insta-Dri in Brisk Blue and one part of forest green polish (CND's Green Scene works great).

I am so going to CVS today to pick up this recipe.

Image via Lisa Eldridge Make Up Blog

Ambition

2010-07-27T19:49:00.001-04:00

Since my recent sprained ankle incident, involving heels very similar to these, a street almost identical to this one and a piggyback ride much less exciting than this cute couple's, I've had quite a bit of time to surf the Internets (and gain a bit of a stomach pudge I'm not too proud of).

My surfing has revolved around finding a job, any job. I thought we were coming out the economic crisis, no? Since April (well, even way before then), I've been on the hunt and at every turn-down, I've subsequently shouted to the Job Gods, WHY CAN'T I GET ONE?!

At times, I feel desperate and start thinking I'm qualified for jobs I'm clearly not. Like the one MUSC has for a project manager for their cancer center. I actually almost applied, but my friend, Paula, helped bring me back to reality. Thanks, Boo.

Now it's to the point I'm thinking about retail. So O.K., what cool shops could I work at downtown, (I'm totally staying away from any shop on the ill-fated East Bay Street, the cobblestone mecca of Charleston) even if only part-time? What about a lawyer's office? There are about one billion of them in this city. I'll run your errands, you high-powered attorney! I'll get your coffee and type up any legal documents you throw my way. (And I'm a damn-good typer!) Oh, and could you pay me about 20 bucks an hour? Promise I'll do an exceptional job.

And then there's the dance studio. Should I open my own? I've got a friend who's so willing to help out with everything. I mean, everything. She has scouted locations, prices, sent me small business owners websites. You name it; she's done it. I should be all over it . . . but I'm not. Truth is, I'm scared. I'm 30, want to get married fairly soon and wouldn't mind having some babies in the next few years. Is it doable? Too risky?

I tend to get so caught up in the what ifs that I miss many an opportunity to do the things I enjoy. Lord, please don't let my children inherit that cool trait. I've noticed another awesome tendency I have: whenever I get overwhelmed, I shut down. I'm pretty sure that's what I've done with all this studio talk. I admitted it to my friend, and God bless her, she's letting me "heal" and feel better before I commit to anything. I'm just so grateful I have a friend who's so excited about the prospect and cares about me so much already. I mean, I've only known her for about three months.

Aside from job hunting, I've been shopping. Wait, let me clarify. I haven't bought anything ('cause everybody knows I'm soooo broke) but I've been putting things in my online shopping carts just because it feels so good. I'm loving everything at cb2. Behold my future prizes, all from cb2:

A twisted ankle and wounded ego

2010-07-18T13:07:00.002-04:00

Last night, B and I met up with some friends who drove in from Augusta for the night. We went to Pearlz, a local bar famous for their oyster shooters (and yes, I've had one. And yes, I thought they were pretty tasty.) On our way to grab pizza afterwards (because that's what you do here, apparently) I decided that I could give B's 140-lb. friend a piggyback ride . . . in my 3.5 inch heels . . . on a cobblestone street. I mean, why not? That's a completely legit thing to do, right?

No. Wrong. I took one step, and yeah. You know the rest. I totally twisted my ankle. It's swollen and purple-y, and I feel like such an idiot. Now, nearly 12 hours later, I'm stuck in bed following the RICE principle in hopes of a speedy recovery.

My recovery has to be speedy. They're no ifs, ands or buts about it. I've got to teach a dance camp next week, which means my ankle needs to be fully healed in about eight days. Think my hopes are too high?

FB, you may have to go on lockDOWN soon. And it's not just you . . .

2010-06-28T23:31:00.138-04:00

Can someone please tell me why kids between ages, say, 10 and 18 years old think it's o.k. to post things on Facebook like:

1. Cuss words in status updates. This, kiddies, doesn't make you cooler. It just makes you look stupid, immature and severely desperate for attention. We get that you're not the "dork" of your school, but now you just look more like "Regina George." And please, let's not forget what happened to her. She was not the heroine in that movie. Rethink your updates, pronto.

2. Beer (or any alcohol-related) photos. Come on now. Solo cups? Really? Sure, that's what we used in high school. And by we, I mean us old folks who graduated high school in the late 90s. Listen. All I'm saying is, everyone knows what's in those cups. And by everyone, I mean your mom, dad, teachers, siblings, soccer coaches and grandparents (because lets face it. Nana and Papa are hittin' up FB nowadays, too). No one in their right mind is thinking you're drinking lemonade or McDonald's Sweet Tea. Uh-uh. No siree. We know what's in there . . . we just don't want to see it displayed in 70 of the 71 photos you added yesterday. We can all do without.

3. Birdies. I'm not talking about golf. I'm talkin' about the middle finger you shove into someone's face because you're really ticked off at what they did. Guys, it's an expression of anger, not something you pose with in a picture of you and your best friend lookin' all cute-like. Now, I'm not going to sit here and tell you I haven't thrown a couple around in my day. I have, and mostly at bad drivers. The point I'm trying to make is that it's not meant to be pretty. So please, please stop parading it around in your photo albums. I'm so sick of seeing kids trying to make The Birdie look cool and fun. It's not. Just not.

4. Inappropriate Vaguebooking. If you want to Vaguebook, that's fine. Everyone does it. Even me. But IVing is a no-no, and I mean for all ages. Updates like, "BLANK wonders if giving it up was worth it" or "BLANK feels dazed and oh-so-confused" or "BLANK hates certain smells after certain crazy nights with certain people". Gross. Seriously, just because you're not jumping straight to the point in your updates doesn't mean we can't kinda', sorta' guess what you're implying, and it's making us gag and dry heave. Don't post stuff like that. I've seen 12-year-olds participate in some pretty disgusting IVs, and I just don't get it. Mama and Daddy, where are you? I KNOW YOU SEE THOSE UPDATES. WHY AREN'T YOU DOING SOMETHING ABOUT THEM?

Frankly, I could list tons more, but I'm tired. What did I miss in my list? I will say this, though. Parents, gain some control and start practicing some, oh I don't know, good parenting. It can be tough at times (believe me, I know) but it's so worth it to have your child grow up to be an upstanding individual rather than a d-bag who bullies his way through life. Oh, and FB? This is not just a problem with you. It's every single social networking site out there. But maybe if you created a "Dislike" icon, these chaps would start to get the picture. Just a thought.

This is difficult, and I'm pissed about it.

2010-06-22T00:16:00.001-04:00

In case you haven't noticed, I've been trying to "create a new look" for my blog. I have, undeniably, failed miserably (which is why it's back to the basic template). Why can't I understand this? I know what I want. I thought I knew how to get it, but then this New Blogger Template Designer came along, and naively, I fell for its catchy title and seemingly user friendliness. (You lied, New Blogger Template Designer, bane of every blogger's existence.)

Embarrassingly, I can't figure this out. And to be quite honest, I'm jealous, because right next to me in bed is my precious boyfriend who I'm sure could whip me up a new design in no time. I'm pretty familiar with Photoshop and am sure that if I had all the patience and time in the world, I could figure out how to make the perfect header. Truth is, I'm a bit rusty since I haven't had to use it in a few years, and I'm impatient. FOR REAL. So now, I suppose I'll have to practice some patience and wait for Bradford to create a new design for me . . . unless of course, any other super talented bloggers out there want to help a sista' out. Ahem.

Band Beat

2010-06-16T21:52:00.001-04:00

Image via here

The Futureheads. Heard of them? I hadn't until I read a Filter mag review of their new album, The Chaos, which dropped yesterday. They're not new. The English foursome has been around for about a decade, and I wish I'd heard them sooner. They remind me of days long ago when I listened nonstop to bands like Face to Face and Lagwagon . . . it's nostalgic really, and I welcome it. After all, I'm a fool for that goose bumpy wave of happiness that washes over me when I reminisce about the music/events/places/people that made me so dang cheery. Hope The Futureheads can give you a similar feeling. Here's the video for Meantime.

I'll keep trying!

2010-06-15T18:48:00.000-04:00

OK, so apparently I'm not going to update my blog daily. I'll keep trying though. Promise. This weekend was jam-packed with dance practice Friday night, more dance practice Saturday morning followed by a two and a half-hour dance recital (oh, my legs? Shot.) So worth it though.

I'm definitely feeling the consequences of not dancing at least four nights a week. But I have to give myself props. I'm staying involved with R&C as much as humanly possible (well, as much as my credit card will allow me to fill up my car to drive back and forth. Sorry for all the miles, Civic.) And Mamie is doing a standup job of keeping me informed about upcoming events (i.e. a dance workshop in Columbia next Thursday, which I'm attending free of charge. Score.)

And I came across this gem. It's my new favorite blog. Not only is Heather Armstrong an amazing photog (how absolutely precious are her children, Leta and Marlo, and her dogs?) she's also a fantastic writer. Love every bit of it.

Now that's one sizzlin' performance.

2010-06-10T01:41:00.000-04:00

Image via MTV

Ummmm, dang Christina. You. Go. (And I always liked you better than Britney. Just sayin'.)

Christina Aguilera - 2010 MTV Movie Awards: Christina Aguilera 'Bionic'/'Not Myself Tonight'/'Woohoo' Medley

Time hasn't been on my side . . . but I promise I haven't been lazy.

2010-06-09T23:15:00.000-04:00

You'd think I'd be doing a better job of updating PE, what with no job and all, but I've been pretty busy. And by busy, I mean that in a typical day, I clean, play with Thomas, search for jobs, clean, do laundry, play with Thomas, search for jobs . . . clean. You get the picture. I'm hoping to find some sort of rhythm so I can post at least one thing every day, even if that means staying up an extra 30 minutes each night. And that's exactly what I'm doing tonight --- staying up to post about a hodge podge of upcoming things/events I'm pumped about.

This movie, opening June 30. Don't front, it's going to be good.

This other movie, opening July 16. I love Leonardo.

This badass band, The Sounds (which reminds me. I'll be resuming Band Beat soon.)

Check them out. Here's No One Sleeps When I'm Awake:

My sister's visit to Charleston, complete with her favorite band playing a show at

The Windjammer on Isle of Palms.

Our trip to Maine, where the weather is cooler, the air is better and the lobster is tastier.

Can't wait to enjoy all that.

This might be your best performance yet, KS

2010-06-07T11:13:00.000-04:00

Kristen Stewart irks me just as much as any other awkwardly fidgety, fumbling teen actor (I can't stand any interview or acceptance speech she's given), but sometimes I forget how ridiculously hard it must be for these peeps. I'm pretty sure that if it were me in this clip, I would've given the paps double birdies and mouthed and few choice words. (And yes, I realize they come with the fame). Given the circumstances, she handled it like a champ, though, and looked beautiful and poised (for her). Cute dress and shoes, KS.

Sing it, Will Smith . . . "Summertime."

2010-05-28T09:45:00.000-04:00

I'm so ready for a vacation. And yes, I know I live in a vacation spot, but I'm ready to hop on a plane, head to Maine and eat lobster. We just set the dates for our trip. We're leaving July 2 (or 3rd, haven't decided) and returning July 10. This is perfect since Bradford doesn't start summer classes until that next week. And since the dates are (mostly) set, all I can think about are new outfits, shoes and makeup to bring with me.

UO Top $28

And look at this gem! Bradford's mom bought me one for Christmas,and I can't stop using it. I absolutely love it, and it's the most durable bag I've ever had. It's definitely coming with me to Maine (and everywhere else). How cool is it that they're made from sails?! Check Sea Bags, stat.

I'm in major need of new nail polish too. My O.P.I. collection needs a little pick-me-up with brighter, summer colors. I like these.

Shorts Story

In My Back Pocket

Need Sunglasses?

Stripes or patterns . . . or nada?

2010-05-21T09:01:00.000-04:00

We recently bought this small bistro set from Lowe's, which is perfect for our tiny porch. I wasn't totally crazy about it, but it was on sale, and we wanted something fast (I believe we're both impulse shoppers . . . not such a good thing.) Now, I'm on a hunt to find the perfect outdoor pillows.

The problem is, our porch is somewhat of a hodge podge of mismatched flower pots (I've got an elephant ear plant in a deep red pot and a Christmas cactus in a pale yellow pot). Sure, I could repot them, but I don't want to mess with them since they're doing so well. We have a white, elegant three-tier planter my mom bought years ago at a flea market. She gave it to me a couple of years ago to brighten up my then-barren apartment. I love it, don't get me wrong . . . it just doesn't really "go" anywhere. I'm hoping to fill it up with plants (violets on top; larger plants on the second and third tiers), so maybe I'll love it more then.

We also bought a tan rug with a black border from Wal-Mart. It doesn't cover the entire porch, and that bothers me. Bradford likes it the way it is . . . but I don't. Maybe when we get more plants, it won't be as noticeable.

So, on to pillows. Should I get something like this that incorporates all colors? Or, should I go with a pattern? What do you think?

Baby Price

2010-05-20T09:50:00.000-04:00

Just wanted to congratulate my Gina Collete and Bill on the birth of their son, Price Robertson Prouty. I'm so excited for them as they begin their new adventure . . . makes me want to start one of my own! (But not too soon!)

Just when you think he isn't listening . . .

2010-05-11T11:24:00.000-04:00

Last night, I found myself in an awkward/"oh crap!"/shameful situation. I called up my best friend, Toni, to wish her a happy birthday, and then launched into a full-on, 30-minute vent session about my other best friend, my boyfriend. I was out on our porch. He was inside on his computer working on school stuff. I proceeded to vent about everything that had been bothering me in the last couple of days . . . normal relationship chit-chat most girls talk about with their girlfriends. About halfway through, he popped out on the porch and said, "Could you take the BLANK conversation somewhere else because I can hear every BLANK word you're saying." Oops. Obviously didn't mean for that to happen. I sheepishly said, "Oh, O.K." and went outside to my car . . . of course, I didn't have anything else to vent, so there was no point, but I still marched my loud mouth outside.

So ladies, keep it to a whisper. You never know what he'll hear. And you never know how he'll react.

Compromise

2010-04-28T11:02:00.000-04:00

When you're dating/in a relationship with/engaged/married to an artist, decorating your home can be tricky. I want things one way; he wants them another. He sees one color on a wall; I see another not even close to the one he likes. It can be infuriating as hell, but love means compromise, right? Right?!

The same can be said about furniture. Case in point: his butterfly chair. I'm sure he's had it for decades, but I've hated it since Day One. I've always felt like it belongs with some struggling college freshman in a dorm somewhere. I've even tried to get rid of it, but he refuses to budge. So we decided to compromise. I'm going to spray paint it a light aqua and buy this chair cover from UO to replace the ratty, blue jean one it's sporting. We bought this comforter from Target, so we're trying to incorporate more aqua/turquoise in the room. I want a pillow for the chair too, so I've been scouting for one.

There's this quilted one from UO

This pleated one from CB2

A square pillow from Target

And this cascade pleat one from Macy's (the one behind the first, darker pillow)

What do you think?

World Record

2010-04-22T09:35:00.000-04:00

It's been 22 days since my last post, and that's a record, friends. I've been so busy quitting my job, moving to Charleston, unpacking boxes and organizing our apartment that I haven't even stopped to check my favorite blogs. Charleston is awesome, with one exception. It's really, really hard to find stores (well, in Mt. Pleasant anyway). I know this is common in beach towns, but does Target really need to be hidden deep in the woods? I'm not kidding. It took me 20 minutes to find it yesterday. And that's how it is with every store. The signs can't be taller than the tree line, which I know is for the greater good, but it's driving me nuts. Other than still being jobless, that's my biggest complaint.

Now, about our apartment. We still have lots to get: a floor lamp, a chest of drawers, two night stands, art for above the bed, etc. And then there's what to do with stuff we have, like, my Audrey Hepburn photo. I've had that photo for years (since freshman year of college), and I can't give it up. I just can't. I love her and it too much to give it the boot. But Bradford is giving me the ol' "It doesn't go in any room of the apartment" bit, which is a polite way of saying, "I don't really like the picture; get rid of it." What should I do? We're having the same battle with one of his photos. It's a gigantic photo from the movie Metropolis. I mean, look at it. What am I supposed to do with that? He wanted to put it next to "his" desk (he's taken over our desk, and now I don't have any space to put my stuff) which is in our bedroom. I had a fit and totally vetoed it. Now it's sitting against our dining room wall, along with our other hangless art. I'll keep you posted.

Boyz II Men, you got it right when you sang, "It's so hard . . . to say goodbye . . . to yesterday . . ."

2010-04-01T09:47:00.000-04:00

Only two more days at MCG. Only one more night teaching at the studio. I opened my FB this morning to a message titled, Rhythm & Class Says Goodbye to Miss Amy, and spent a solid five minutes trying to swallow the lump in throat. I'm not good with goodbyes. Tonight's farewell shindig at the studio just might send me over the Emotional Edge I've been teetering on for weeks now. I'll let you know.

Thing is, I'm not good with drastic change, even though I've craved it for much of my life. I always imagined a world outside of Georgia, but always fell a little too short when it came to "getting out." And man, talk about a double-edged sword because once leaving became a reality, all I wanted to do was stay in the comfort of my own state. I think that's natural. Bradford keeps telling me, "It's OK to be scared of uprooting." That makes me feel better.

On the flip, I'm excited about moving and living with Bradford again and putting our apartment together. My mom and dad (pause for reaction) are helping me move on the 10th, so I'm going to put my pops to work with some carpenterish stuff around the apartment. He likes feeling needed, and I'm trying to do a better job of "needing him." He and B can go to town hanging pictures, mirrors and fixing our sliding doors.

And Pops? Thanks for capturing these awesome moments. Wow.

Band Beat

2010-03-31T09:57:00.000-04:00

Image via here

Here's another group I was introduced to a few years ago, albeit indirectly, via my Nashville buddy. Grizzly Bear's first album, Yellow House, kept me calm many a IAS* outburst. Thank you for that, GB. This Brooklyn-based quartet released their newest one, Veckatimest, at the beginning of last summer, and my fave is Cheerleader. I'm telling you . . . it's mellow (and I mean mellow) and I like it a bunch (and I mean a bunch.) OK, I'm losing it.

Here's a sweet-tastic Veckatimest review from Spin. Read it. And give my fave tune a listen . . . and kindly excuse my craziness today. Thank you.

*IAS stands for Instant Anger Syndrome. Oh yes, I occasionally have it. And so do you, admit it.

Things that are makin' me misty today

2010-03-26T15:31:00.000-04:00

Getting teary-eyed over the silliest stuff today . . . and I'm fairly certain it's only going to get worse from here on out.

This FB post from one of my dancers: Erin Harrison is so happy for Amy Connell!!!! we are going to miss you so much!! :)
My nearly bare desk at work.
Driving down Broad Street.
Our admin assistant's farewell, complete with carrot cake.
This text message from my mom (because I won't get these cute, Donnette-esque phrases anymore): I purchased rump ribbon on the way home this morning. Lv Mom.
Stevie Nicks' 1977 rendition of Landslide. Gets me every time. Excuse the horrible video quality.
And while I was listening to that version (again), I came across this gorgeous photo of SN. Holy.

Image via here

The Ex-Girlfriend That Just Won't Go Away

2010-03-24T17:00:00.001-04:00

Recently, a friend of mine had the misfortune of dealing with The Ex-Girlfriend That Just Won't Go Away. Not directly, thank goodness. Otherwise, I would've had to drive my not-so-happy arse two and a half hours west to gut punch the ex. I mean, really? Do we really need to worry about these twits who can't grasp the meaning of Y'ALL ARE BROKEN UP!? It got me thinking about when I had to deal with my EGTJWGA. I was young and stupid, so I'm certain I handled it immaturely. My friend, on the other hand, is handling it like a champ. (I'm giving you a "Holla!" right now, friend!)

Anyway, to all you EGTJWGAs out there: Get over it, heifers. You and your manfriend broke up, so stop calling and hanging up (you're obviously not up to speed on the wonders of technology); stop leaving vague text messages (because women are masters at decoding that jank. We can read right through your I'm in town tonight texts. Stop it.); and if, God forbid, you live in the same town, everything (and I mean everything) related to him is OFF LIMITS, including but not limited to: his house, favorite bar, favorite restaurant, favorite drive-thru, etc. You get the point. LAY OFF. Don't even think about "accidentally" showing up at any of those places. It's lame. And it only makes you look like a ra-tard. Thank you. Now, go find someone else to annoy.

Image via here

Band Beat

2010-03-24T11:11:00.000-04:00

Image via here

Neon Indian is a Texan band whose music is composed by Alan Palomo (formally VEGA, remember?) Anyway, their debut album, Psychic Chasms, dropped in October. It's very synth-y and psychedelic-y, so if you're not into that, beware. I like the mellowness of it and need that in my life right now, so it's been steadily streaming through my headphones at work. Check out Terminally Chill and chill.

Well . . .

2010-03-22T14:55:00.001-04:00

I did it, y'all. I put in my two-week notice this morning . . . and I'm scared shitless. I still need to tell most of my friends (although they knew it was coming) and my dad (holy crap, Pops is going to flip his lid . . . I can hear him now telling me I should be married before I make that kind of move, etc., to which I will say, "Oh Pops, I'm sorry I can't be as traditional as my siblings. I never have been.") But then, he knows that already.

Now, I've got to get down to business. Lots to do before April 10!

What's one more week, right?

2010-03-18T10:40:00.001-04:00

Busy, busy week for me, guys. So much to do and think about. I haven't really opened up to many people about when I want to leave my job and move. The timing of it all is a fairly new development. I'm either going to put in my notice today or Monday . . . haven't decided. I would love for my last day to be Friday, April 2, and then have all of Spring Break week to prepare for my move and hang out with my fam and friends. (Yes, yes, I know I'll only be three hours away, but I've never lived in a different state/city before. It's a big deal.) But then maybe I should work that week to earn a little extra cash because the bottom line is . . . I haven't found a job yet. I apply to several almost daily, so I'm trying!

I've already told my dance people that my last week of teaching will be the week before Spring Break, so that is one less stress. Oh man, the pain and sadness I'm going to feel when I leave them, though, . . . I can't even think about it right now. Good news is that I'm still going to compete and perform with them as much as I can. I just can't imagine not dancing. And I'm hoping to find some opportunities in Charleston, too. In fact, I was thinking of opening a dance and fitness center that can be open to all forms of dance and fitness. (It would certainly help pay the rent, just sayin'.) What do you think?

I've been having the, "This is your life, don't worry about what other people think," talk with myself lately because for starters, my pops isn't going to be happy one damn bit about me moving without a job. No one bit. Of course, I have a feeling he wouldn't be happy either way. And I have a particular friend who often jumps into Mommy Mode and is pretty critical of the decisions I make. She'll definitely have some negative things to say. Knowing all this up front makes it a little easier, though. Just a little. Hopefully, I'll have full support from everyone because that's really what's most important to me.

OK, I'm done for now.

An English degree recipient who doesn't read

2010-03-16T08:44:00.000-04:00

As an English major in college, I read a lot and had a ton of classes, naturally. And I can remember most of them: English Lit from the Renaissance to the Restoration, English Lit from the Restoration to the Romantics, English Lit of the Victorian and Modern Periods, American Lit to the rise of Realism, Shakespeare, Technical Writing, Chaucer (my least favorite and most scary. In fact, I had to employ a dear friend of mine to help me write my final 25-page paper because it gave me so much anxiety), etc. The list goes on and on.

My point is that I've been thinking about my favorite stories, poems and plays from college --- the ones I fell in love with because they were so beautiful they made me cry and feel totally at peace, all at the same time. I remember my Shakespeare class and how the British professor would read sonnets and plays aloud. I'm sure his accent had a lot to do with it, but there were many moments when I felt like crying because the stories were so magical. I miss those moments. I mean, the last book I read for pleasure was the last one of the Twilight Saga. Yep. Guilty. I need more reading for pleasure in my life. It's got to happen. What do you recommend?

Here's my favorite poem from my favorite poet, Robert Browning. It's a little abnormal psychology-esque, but I like it.

Porphyria's Lover
The rain set early in tonight,
The sullen wind was soon awake,
It tore the elm-tops down for spite,
and did its worst to vex the lake:
I listened with heart fit to break.
When glided in Porphyria; straight
She shut the cold out and the storm,
And kneeled and made the cheerless grate
Blaze up, and all the cottage warm;
Which done, she rose, and from her form
Withdrew the dripping cloak and shawl,
And laid her soiled gloves by, untied
Her hat and let the damp hair fall,
And, last, she sat down by my side
And called me. When no voice replied,
She put my arm about her waist,
And made her smooth white shoulder bare,
And all her yellow hair displaced,
And, stooping, made my cheek lie there,
And spread, o’er all, her yellow hair,
Murmuring how she loved me—she
Too weak, for all her heart’s endeavor,
To set its struggling passion free
From pride, and vainer ties dissever,
And give herself to me forever.
But passion sometimes would prevail,
Nor could tonight’s gay feast restrain
A sudden thought of one so pale
For love of her, and all in vain:
So, she was come through wind and rain.
Be sure I looked up at her eyes
Happy and proud; at last I knew
Porphyria worshiped me: surprise
Made my heart swell, and still it grew
While I debated what to do.
That moment she was mine, mine, fair,
Perfectly pure and good: I found
A thing to do, and all her hair
In one long yellow string I wound
Three times her little throat around,
And strangled her. No pain felt she;
I am quite sure she felt no pain.
As a shut bud that holds a bee,
I warily oped her lids: again
Laughed the blue eyes without a stain.
And I untightened next the tress
About her neck; her cheek once more
Blushed bright beneath my burning kiss:
I propped her head up as before
Only, this time my shoulder bore
Her head, which droops upon it still:
The smiling rosy little head,
So glad it has its utmost will,
That all it scorned at once is fled,
And I, its love, am gained instead!
Porphyria’s love: she guessed not how
Her darling one wish would be heard.
And thus we sit together now,
And all night long we have not stirred,
And yet God has not said a word!

Look a'here!

2010-03-12T08:39:00.000-05:00

I love ev.er.y.thing about Alyson Fox's A Small Collection. It's all so pretty! She's an amazing clothes and jewelry designer, photographer AND artist (check out those drawings)?! Whaaaaat?! Girl's got talent and isn't afraid to use it!

Jewels and Clothes (how neat are the cube necklaces!!!)

Drawings

Photography

Sass!

2010-03-10T09:42:00.000-05:00

Image via The Animal Blog

HOLY MOLY! I love this little guy. He looks so pissed and regal and beautiful. And what a kissable, lovable nose!

Band Beat

2010-03-10T08:49:00.000-05:00

Image via here

Everyone has heard of Kate Nash, right? Sure, her voice is a little nasel-y, and sometimes her British accent is so thick I can't understand some of her words, but her songs are so dang catchy that it's hard not to torso dance in the car, especially whilst listening to Foundations. (P.S., this song is really fun to play when you're ticked at your manfriend.)

My Nashville buddy introduced me to her first album a few years ago, and I immediately bought it. She releases her second album, My Best Friend is You, April 20, which features songs like this one. (I told you. Catchy.)

Welcome, Sis!

2010-03-05T14:45:00.000-05:00

Check out my SIL's cool new blog called everyBODYfitness!

Say it ain't so!

2010-03-05T13:39:00.000-05:00

Image via here

Boo just sent me this link, and needless to say, I'm pretty stoked about the possibility. Check it out, and HAPPY FRIDAY!

Snacking . . . and MKA

2010-03-04T16:53:00.001-05:00

Image via Olsens Anonymous

Why does eating healthy food make me want to feast on everything in this world that is unhealthy? I was doing so well . . . And Flipz? Let me tell you something. How dare you create a new pretzel covering! As if chocolate-covered wasn't enough, you had to go and create Double-Dipped Peanut Butter and Chocolate?! Shame on you. And shame on me for almost devouring the entire bag. Those bags aren't small, y'all. Sigh.

Band Beat

2010-03-03T16:46:00.000-05:00

Image via here

Listen, listen, listen! This New York-based "shoegazer" (can someone tell me WTH that means?*) band Apollo Heights is currently at the top of my Cool Music Now List. Wikipedia describes them as: twin brothers, Daniel and Danny Chavis, who play experimental rock music. They cite AR Kane and My Bloody Valentine as a major inspiration. Cool, huh? (Sorry for the super short post . . . I'm in a hurry!) Enjoy!

Check out a live performance of Everlasting Gobbstopper!

*Edit: Wiki says shoegazing is a subgenre of alternative rock that emerged from the United Kingdom in the late 1980s.

Foxy!

2010-03-03T09:24:00.000-05:00

I've been wanting a fox belt buckle for a looong time now, but the only one I can seem to find is this $685 Christopher Ross one, and well . . . I'm not going to spend that much. I just can't. It's so dang pretty, though, so if anyone comes across a much-less expensive version, hit me up! Please!

Image via here

Fox Belt Buckle $685

Jobs, passions, impracticality and cliques

2010-03-02T10:07:00.000-05:00

It's been an insanely busy couple of days at work. Budget reductions and possible program/faculty/staff eliminations got me thinking about how lucky I am to even have a job right now (even if it's short-lived.) In truth, I complain a lot about my job . . . about how I hate working behind a desk, micro-managers, competitive co-workers, etc. (It's exhausting for me, and I'm sure just as much to my friends and sister who hear me complain all the time.)

My issue (well, one of many) is that I know what I'm passionate about and what I want to do, but it's not a practical way to live. Even more so, I realize if I don't find ways to feed my passions, I'll be miserable. B's seen this firsthand, bless him. I don't want to live that way. I have friends who bother to chastise me for wanting to pursue the impractical passions, but dang it! I want to love what I do . . . not do something just because it'll score me an extra $3,000 in my checking account every month. Don't get me wrong said friends! I'd love an extra three grand, but a typical work day is eight hours. That's eight hours per day of unhappiness. Not. Worth. It.

B has suggested going on hiatus to NYC to audition my brains out (if I even remember how to since it's been so long) for plays, commercials, movies, music videos, anything. I'd still need to get a good, updated headshot (anyone know of a photog who's affordable, within driving distance to Augusta and/or Charleston and can take sensational headshots?) But then there's the side of me that doesn't want to leave B and Thomas before my life with them in Charleston even begins . . . that literally makes my heart hurt.

So that's what has been on my mind lately. That, and the word clique. Wikipedia defines it as an exclusive group of people who share interests, views, purposes, patterns of behavior or ethnicity. What does that word mean to you?

Remember Daria?! Loved her. I think I know where the inspiration for Liz on My Life as Liz came from . . .

Image via here

Please vote for us!

2010-02-25T10:40:00.000-05:00

I entered Crate & Barrel's Ultimate Wedding Contest (thank you, Fefa!) and need, like, 500 more votes. Please take a second and vote for us here!!! It only takes about 30 seconds! Only one vote per email address (but if you have, say, three accounts like I do, you can vote three times!) Thank you!!!!!!!!!

Band Beat

2010-02-24T14:45:00.000-05:00

Image via here

Image via here

Image via here

Charlotte Gainsbourg (love her) + Beck (like him, but not as much) = IRM, the newest full-length album by CG. I recently heard about this collaboration (which apparently started a few years ago) and thought, "Hmm, strange." Naturally, I was a little skeptical because, let's face it: Beck can be so stinkin' weird sometimes. BUT! I gave some of the album's songs a listen and was surprised. I had no idea CG's voice was that pretty! I especially like Time of the Assassins. Check it out below!

Dork to the MAX!

2010-02-24T11:27:00.000-05:00

Images via MTV

Who else is in love with these two shows? Honestly, I can't get enough of them. First, I'm in love with Ben from The Buried Life. I guess he qualifies as my CCI? He's a celebrity now, right? He sure is in my mind (sorry, B!) And how about how incredibly cool the concept is of the show? Right?! I tear up during the intro every time.

Second, there's a small part of me that wants to be Liz from My Life as Liz. She's quirky, dorky and can rock some red lipstick like nobody's business. I wish I'd been confident enough in high school to stand up to all the Cori's and Tori's . . . all the girls and boys who got off on making others feel like shit. The closest I came was when the Mean Girls of my middle school made a basket filled with deodorants, perfumes, toothpastes, toothbrushes, hairbrushes, combs and anything else hygiene-related and put it in a girl's locker. This girl wasn't as pretty, rich or stupid as them, but she didn't stink, have bad breath or need a good hair brushing. She was fine the way she was. The Mean Girls were just . . . well, mean. They needed their fix of picking on someone unpopular. So they stood nearby and waited for her reaction when she opened her locker. And yes, they got what they wanted: a panicked expression, a thousand prayers that no one saw and many tears when she realized that many did. I was standing on the sidelines, my head shaking back and forth, like when you're watching a tennis match. I watched her cry then watched them laugh. Back and forth. I couldn't believe it. How awful (and how real that pain is . . . pain that seems insignificant as an adult, but pertinent as a teenager). So I did what I thought was right. I walked over to Unpopular Girl, grabbed the basket, dropped it, kicked it aside, took her arm and led her away . . . away from those bitches we left with their mouths hanging open in disbelief. I don't really know if what I did helped. In fact, I'm pretty sure the Mean Girls continued to taunt and ridicule Unpopular Girl for most of our remaining middle school years. But I felt like I had to do something, something to stand up to those assholes. So keep on doing the same to Cori, Liz! (Yes, yes I know I am a dork).

Check out a couple of clips from both shows.

Depeche Mode knows what I'm talkin' about

2010-02-22T13:59:00.000-05:00

Images via happy lady eats

I swear, I just can't get enough of happy lady eats treats . . . which incidentally makes me want to sing this jam out loud.

New arrivals

2010-02-19T09:05:00.001-05:00

I know it's a little (a lot) early, but this new arrival at UO caught my eye. Cute, huh?

Insight True Colors Swimsuit $88

This navy and white stripped shirt looks so comfortable! I have one in black and white, but I'm loving navy right now.

BDG 3/4 Sleeve Nautical Tee $28

I love round frames and need more of them! I bought a computer keyboard keys frame back in the fall, and this would look super next to it.

Geo Frame $24

I can't get no . . .

2010-02-17T14:24:00.001-05:00

I've been thinking about the movies I loved as a child/teen, and this gem was at the top. Man, I loved this movie and really, really wanted my own all-girl band (and a young Liam Neesom.)

Band Beat

2010-02-17T09:14:00.001-05:00

Image via theee hubba//chelsea wolfe

Sister Crayon (cool name, right?) began as Terra Lopez's solo act. She said in a Bay Bridged interview that she spent the first two years making songs by herself in her bedroom. "I did my solo thing for two years and met Dani (from the band The Wishing Well) last year. She started playing drum machine for me. Genaro (keyboardist) just recently joined us. I like that Sister Crayon has developed into something bigger. I still am the only one who plays in the small recordings I make in my bedroom, but live the two of them play."

The Sacramento, Calif., group's sound has been compared to the likes of Bjork, Mazzy Star, Portishead and CocoRosie with elements of The Postal Service. Sounds brilliant just reading it, huh? I thought so. I especially love their tune Souls of Gold. Don't you want to get up and dance when you hear it?!

Image via here

Lovin' this piece of 4-1-1

2010-02-17T09:00:00.000-05:00

Image via here

Y'all know how much of an insanely huge fan I am of Nicole Richie, so you can imagine my giddy self when I heard yesterday that she and her mans are finally engaged. And then I saw a photo of the ring, excuse me, I mean, the ROCK that now sits on her petite finger. Heavens to Betsy, that's a hunk of diamond! (P.S., I'm totally loving her dark hair.)

Image via contactmusic

PMS? Not this month!

2010-02-16T16:30:00.000-05:00

Image via Keep Calm and Carry On

I must admit, I'm pretty happy about a very important realization I just made. My PMS has been almost nonexistent this month (which, for those who don't know, is usually like a ferocious, untamed beast that at any second will rip anyone and anything to shreds. Yes, it has been that bad.) Anyway. It just dawned on me that I've been, for the most part, calm and collected in the last week (with the teensy, tiny exception of an IAS* outburst this weekend. Sorry, Bradford!) I'm stoked about this. Now, it's not the first time I've had a chilled out PMS . . . but it is the first time I've noticed during PMS.

What I've also realized is that my ferocious, untamed beast of an appetite is still here, full on. That's one aspect of my PMS that never, ever changes. Today alone, I've had three slices of veggie deluxe pizza, an entire bag of gummy bears and about 487 wasabi soy-flavored almonds. I know. I'm disgusting.

*IAS stands for Instant Anger Syndrome. Coined that one myself.

HK gets on the environmentally-conscious bandwagon

2010-02-15T08:29:00.000-05:00

Image via Sanrio

Hello Kitty has a new eco-friendly line featuring jute tote bags, a stainless steel coffee mug, a cool water bottle, recyclable paper and soy ink notebooks and more! Check it out!

L(ots)O(f)L(ove) this weekend

2010-02-12T15:31:00.000-05:00

Image via here

Lots of love this weekend! Have a good one. And take some time to step back and appreciate a loved one (boyfriend, girlfriend, mama, daddy, uncle, cousin, best friend . . . you get the picture). Enjoy!!!

Band Beat, a day late

2010-02-11T15:26:00.000-05:00

Image via here
Photo by Allison Michael Orenstein

I've been out of commission for what seems like forever . . . but I'm back! And feeling good! (Let's hope it lasts.)

I just heard El May for the first time, like, a few days ago, and so far, I'm likin' what I'm hearin'. And her website is so dang cute! On it, her bio reads: El May is Lara Meyerratken. Lara provided keyboards, drums, guitars, percussion, vocals and atmosphere for many stellar rock and roll acts like Ben Lee, Crooked Fingers, Luscious Jackson, Luna, Britta and Dean, Nada Surf, and Sneeze. Check out a live version of Don't You below.

Let the weekend madness begin (well, in about three hours)

2010-02-05T13:59:00.000-05:00

I'm exhausted. Plain and simple. I got about five hours of sleep last night, and while that sounds like plenty of shut-eye time for some, it is not for me. I'm the type that functions pretty perfectly on about nine hours of sleep. No kidding. How often do I get those nine? Mmmmm, 'bout once every few weeks. That, people, isn't working for me. And I won't see a nine-er this weekend either. I have competition tomorrow in Lexington, then I'm driving straight to Charleston for Bradford's birthday. I can't wait to see him and hug his neck and kiss his cheek . . . but I might be only half awake when I do!

Love you Monkey!

Kate Moss, my SuperWoman, graces cover of LOVE mag

2010-02-04T08:37:00.001-05:00

Kate, you're The Shit. That's all I'm gonna' say. Here's a snippet about the LOVE magazine cover from Mail Online: LOVE's editor Katie Brand said, "For this issue of LOVE, we took eight women who are generally acknowledged as the most beautiful in the world, got them to show off their bodies - widely regarded as the most perfect in the world - and photographed them all in exactly the same position for the cover. We did this to show how much they differed physically from one another, which is why we also printed their measurements."

Lara Stone, Naomi Campbell and Daria Werbowy (another favorite of mine) are among the eight supermodels gracing covers. Pretty neat concept, right?

Image via here

Band Beat

2010-02-03T09:02:00.000-05:00

Image via here

OK, this Band Beat is really for Bradford. He loves Stereophonics, and well, since his birthday's right around the corner, I've been thinking about all the things he likes. Stereophonics is one of them, fo' sho'. I, for one, didn't like these Welshmen at first. But they've grown on me, especially Could You Be the One from their newest album, Keep Calm and Carry On. Check out this teaser!!! It's seriously pretty, right?!

Rupert, won't you be mine?!

2010-01-29T16:37:00.000-05:00

I know this little guy was born in 2008, but I just got a forwarded e-mail with his precious photo, so of course, I had to share. For those who've never seen him, meet Rupert, the preemie deer! Oh! I just want to kiss the side of his face! And how precious is his name?!

Images via here

Photos by Jeff Moore

Drool.

2010-01-29T09:21:00.000-05:00

Image via happy lady eats

I can't get enough of the delicious images like these at happy lady eats (Joy's food blog. You know, Joy, from oh joy!) Anyway, every day is a new recipe or a cool restaurant review or a tasty-looking photo. Check it out!

Bows, bows, bows galore!

2010-01-28T09:03:00.000-05:00

Big bows are making their way. They were all over the runways, so I guess that makes them the Must-Have Accessory for spring, and I must say, I'm lovin' the look. Reminds me of the ones my grandma tried to force me to wear (OK, maybe not as big.) Sorry, Grandma, I just wasn't into bows and bonnets back then (and I've got pictures to prove it.) I do, however, appreciate an over-the-top accessory these days, so bring it (but not the bonnets. I'll never, ever wear those!)

Check out these neat bows from the Marc by Marc Jacobs Spring 2010 Show.

Images via here

Band Beat

2010-01-27T10:08:00.001-05:00

Image via here

From this website, where you can purchase the album and/or the video:
The Hope for Haiti Now global telethon is also an extraordinary digital album including performances by Alicia Keys, Coldplay, Bruce Springsteen, Stevie Wonder, Shakira, John Legend, Mary J. Blige, Taylor Swift, Christina Aguilera, Sting, Beyoncé, Sheryl Crow, Kid Rock, Keith Urban, Madonna, Justin Timberlake, Jennifer Hudson, Emeline Michel, Jay-Z, Bono, the Edge, Rihanna, Dave Matthews, Neil Young and Wyclef Jean along with a bonus track from Jay-Z, Bono, the Edge and Rihanna. You can also own the two-hour telethon video.

All proceeds from album and video sales will go to the Clinton Bush Haiti Fund, Oxfam America, Partners in Health, Red Cross, UNICEF, United Nations World Food Programme and Yele Haiti Foundation.

Go on and do some good!

I mean, seriously?

2010-01-26T17:00:00.000-05:00

Why do I want to see this movie so badly? I'm not even kidding when I say I've watched the trailer at least 12 times . . . and every damn time, I get goosebumps. Seriously? I'm ready! Even if I have to go see it alone. So there!

Kevin, I've missed you.

2010-01-25T15:20:00.001-05:00

Did anyone else cry during Kevin Bacon's acceptance speech for his performance in Taking Chance at the SAG Awards? (Great movie, by the way!) Well, I sure did. I've been scouring the Internet trying to find a clip, but all I could get my hands on is a typed-out version of his speech . . which obviously does it zero justice. I'll keep looking, but in the meantime, here 'tis.

Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Television Movie or Miniseries
KEVIN BACON / Lt. Col. Michael R. Strobl - "TAKING CHANCE" (HBO)
KEVIN BACON: Thank you so much for this. Thank you, let’s see, to my brothers and sisters in the Screen Actors Guild for including me with this amazing group of performers. I hope that we are colleagues and not competitors. I want to say thank you to everybody who was involved in the making of “Taking Chance,” from the inception to the broadcast of it. We should all be very proud of this great film.

I want to give a shout-out to Master Sergeant Vic Szalankiewicz. [applause] Vic had the unenviable job of trying to make me look like a Marine. And his real job is even harder. He’s back from his third tour of Iraq and probably on his way down to Haiti. [applause] So, Vic, thanks for your help with this.

And…lastly, I just want to say to my – my beautiful wife and family, you know, we actors, we’ve got to go away sometimes. And, you know, not just like physically, but into the heads and hearts of the characters that we play. So, thanks for trusting that I’ll always find my way back. Thank you. [applause]

JD on GQ

2010-01-22T09:02:00.000-05:00

Image via GQ magazine

Johnny Depp will grace the cover of the February 2010 issue of GQ magazine. And I . . . well, to be honest, I'm torn. On one hand, I'd say I'm a JD fan because, well, I admire anyone's ability to cover themselves in a ridiculous number of accessories on every possible part of their body and still look good. The man definitely knows how to work it . . . whatever "it" is. On the other hand, I much prefer him circa Benny and Joon (I get it. I'm old.) I don't prefer Pirates of the Caribbean JD, but many of my young dancers do. I don't get what the fuss is about . . . and it feels backwards. Shouldn't I prefer the older, more distinguished JD to the younger, less accessorizing one? ANYWAY. He'll be on the cover of the next GQ . . . bracelets, necklaces, rings, scarves and all. Love you, mean it, JD!

Band Beat

2010-01-21T09:12:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was a disaster for me, and Band Beat suffered for it. I've gotten quite addicted to posting Band Beats every Wednesday, so I actually felt bad that it didn't get posted yesterday. Alas, here it is! And I want to wish Boo a very, very, very HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Image via here

Image via here

Zach Braff (yep, you read that right) turned me on to Rachael Yamagata a couple of years ago. He wrote pretty highly of her music in some article, so I decided to check her out. She was born in Virginia, and according to Wikipedia, she's a Yonsei (fourth-generation Japanese American.) And that right there explains her incredible beauty! Neat, huh?

Her rich, deep voice is perfect, especially when I'm feeling depressed. I've been hitting repeat on Elephants, the first track on her two-part Elephants . . . Teeth Sinking Into Heart. Check it out!