For those of you reading this who may or may not know, let me refresh your memory on my current situation. I am a jobless, insurance-less, modern day gypsy who spends her days hunting for that elusive job and her nights between the houses of family and a certain special guy. I do a LOT of film watching, book reading, coffee (whiskey/wine/tea) drinking, and fist shaking at the sky. Aside from the obvious fact that a life of unemployment blows big fat donkey balls, let me voice my biggest concern about this situation.
It all boils down to this massive worry: I feel as if my intelligence is fading with each passing day. Without a job or studies to keep my mind freshly sharpened, I feel like my brain is dulling. I know this may sound absurd to those who have never been in this position but for those who have, please say that you can identify with the maddening effect that this is having on me? For a girl who has always been creative, brainy, and pretty quick with the wit; it is terrifying to feel as if you are losing that part of yourself. It has taken me at least five blog attempts to actually post this because I find myself second guessing everything I write now. Hell, I find myself second guessing every bloody thing I think know! It is as if I don't quite trust my mind anymore - like it's out to sabotage me for the lack of use during the past months. While I recognize how mental I might sound right now, you have to realize the pride that I have always taken in intelligence and creativity. I have never been the it girl or the most athletic or talented girl, but I could always hold on to the fact that I was a creative and smart girl (with the exception of a "few" slip ups along the way). So, to feel as if that is disappearing somehow - I don't like it. I don't like it one bit, folks!
I am a worrier (or completely neurotic - Potato, Pot-ah-to) by nature, so these thoughts of doubt are truly weighing me down. I have typically combated my worry with words but lately those have been silenced by it. So for the love of my sanity (and those nearest & dearest to me), let's hope that my writing and my brain return with some bit of wit and intellect about them. Because let's face it, I need something to hold on to and help me survive life as the Unemployed Extraordinaire!
Peace, Love, & Chicken Grease
Beks
Sunday, December 26, 2010
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
As it turns out, it's not my cuppa tea anymore
Soul searching. These two words have completely consumed my world for the past several months. It all started during my jaunt around Greece and Italy this summer, where self-discovery and adventure flowed like water! I felt myself questioning the choice to move back to England, which is what I had convinced myself that I wanted for so long. But as the travels came to a close, I found myself back in London with an unsettling feeling that I just couldn't place. Even before Beebe (the best friend) left and the job hunt fully commenced, I felt this gnawing in the pit of my stomach telling me that something just wasn't right.
I was in a deep, dark contemplative state for well over a month and for those that know my typical chirpy self, this was not a pretty sight I assure you. Until, I finally reached a decision. A decision that as soon as I said it out loud, it felt like a massive weight had lifted off my shoulders and I might just sprout wings and fly. A decision that involves this gal packing her bags and proudly heading back to the land of her roots. I'm Tennessee bound as of October 1st folks!
Okay, first you'll need to pick those chins up off the floor because I know this is shocking news for most of you. Secondly, let me explain because I know you need details.
Anyone who knows me or has read this blog is very aware of my love for London and wouldn't have guessed in a million years that I would have made this choice. However, what everyone doesn't know is that simply put, I've changed. Apparently this whole turning 27 and "growing up" business causes you to reassess your life and your priorities. I looked back and for the past five years, I haven't lived in any one place for an entire year. I have been running from the real world. I've been running from real responsibilities. It's like I couldn't sit still...always searching for "something". Sure it's been amazing, fun, freeing, full of adventure and discovery! I don't regret a single day of it BUT at some point, this flighty lifestyle of mine has to end. I have to take control of my own life and take full responsibility for myself. I won't go into the gory details of it all but let's just say that I've had to be rescued by my saint of a mother and father more times that I possibly care to count or admit.
No matter where I went, how many wild dreamy ideas I came up with, or how many pickles I got myself into, my family and friends were there to support and help me every step of the way. Which leads me to the number one reason for this decision to move back to Tennessee. When I think of my future, I want them in it! I don't want to be a damned ocean away. I don't want to miss out on their lives, nor do I want them to miss out on mine...the major events, the little bits that most people consider insignificant, none of it. I want to be around for it all! Because the fact of the matter is, it's not where I am, it's the people in my life that bring me happiness and make it all worthwhile. If I've only got one life to live, I want to make damn sure that I'm living the heck out of it surrounded by all my loves!
Sure, there will always be things I miss about London (it is a magical place) and I will forever have a special place for it in my heart, filled with wonderful memories but I now know that this just isn't the place I want to call home. It's kind of a pain in the backside that it took having to come here to figure it out (since my debt has risen to a depressing level and I had to disappoint people I love here along the way) but as I've learned, sometimes life has different plans in store for you. But don't worry London, I'll be back for visits!
As for you Tennessee, you have just over a week to prepare for the south to rise again! *Insert gleeful shouting and uncontrollable excitement here*. I'm so looking forward to starting this new chapter in my life and all the surprises that it has planned for me!
Peace, Love, & Chicken Grease
Beks
I was in a deep, dark contemplative state for well over a month and for those that know my typical chirpy self, this was not a pretty sight I assure you. Until, I finally reached a decision. A decision that as soon as I said it out loud, it felt like a massive weight had lifted off my shoulders and I might just sprout wings and fly. A decision that involves this gal packing her bags and proudly heading back to the land of her roots. I'm Tennessee bound as of October 1st folks!
Okay, first you'll need to pick those chins up off the floor because I know this is shocking news for most of you. Secondly, let me explain because I know you need details.
Anyone who knows me or has read this blog is very aware of my love for London and wouldn't have guessed in a million years that I would have made this choice. However, what everyone doesn't know is that simply put, I've changed. Apparently this whole turning 27 and "growing up" business causes you to reassess your life and your priorities. I looked back and for the past five years, I haven't lived in any one place for an entire year. I have been running from the real world. I've been running from real responsibilities. It's like I couldn't sit still...always searching for "something". Sure it's been amazing, fun, freeing, full of adventure and discovery! I don't regret a single day of it BUT at some point, this flighty lifestyle of mine has to end. I have to take control of my own life and take full responsibility for myself. I won't go into the gory details of it all but let's just say that I've had to be rescued by my saint of a mother and father more times that I possibly care to count or admit.
No matter where I went, how many wild dreamy ideas I came up with, or how many pickles I got myself into, my family and friends were there to support and help me every step of the way. Which leads me to the number one reason for this decision to move back to Tennessee. When I think of my future, I want them in it! I don't want to be a damned ocean away. I don't want to miss out on their lives, nor do I want them to miss out on mine...the major events, the little bits that most people consider insignificant, none of it. I want to be around for it all! Because the fact of the matter is, it's not where I am, it's the people in my life that bring me happiness and make it all worthwhile. If I've only got one life to live, I want to make damn sure that I'm living the heck out of it surrounded by all my loves!
Sure, there will always be things I miss about London (it is a magical place) and I will forever have a special place for it in my heart, filled with wonderful memories but I now know that this just isn't the place I want to call home. It's kind of a pain in the backside that it took having to come here to figure it out (since my debt has risen to a depressing level and I had to disappoint people I love here along the way) but as I've learned, sometimes life has different plans in store for you. But don't worry London, I'll be back for visits!
As for you Tennessee, you have just over a week to prepare for the south to rise again! *Insert gleeful shouting and uncontrollable excitement here*. I'm so looking forward to starting this new chapter in my life and all the surprises that it has planned for me!
Peace, Love, & Chicken Grease
Beks
Friday, March 5, 2010
What can I say? Little golden men get me every time!
The Oscars. They're like a holiday to me. As soon as that little golden man starts popping up in advertisements and nominations are made, I become a child. A child full of dreams and delight!
When I was a little girl, I spent a lot of my time happily alone. I wasn't awkward around other kids or anything and was actually quite a friendly, playful lil' thing but whereas, most children require constant companionship, I was quite content off on my own (this is just one of the MANY reasons that my mum brags about what an easy and wonderful child I was to raise...in case you were wondering). I spent my days living out extraordinary moments in visually stunning, imaginary worlds that I created for myself. I sat in corners, trees, and closets writing short stories and dreaming up ideas for plays and films. Then I would sketch the clothes and costumes. Then I would act them out with my imaginary friend, Miss Pinky! Miss Pinky was a ballerina dressed entirely in blue and because of this thought it was incredibly funny to be called Miss Pinky.
When I wasn't living wildly in my imagination with Miss Pinky, I watched films. I LOVED films. I would watch them over and over and OVER again (which I'm quite certain, drove my family nutso). I would study each character thoroughly...down to their every mannerism and stitch of clothing. I would then mimic these characters or sometimes bring my own flair to the character. I longed to be captured on that screen or the creator of that story or the "dresser-upper", as I liked to call the costume designer. I wanted to be honored with an Academy Award and would therefore practice my Oscar speech regularly standing in front of the mirror in my moms silkiest night gown with my barbie doll statue held close to my heart as I gushed on and on about all the people that helped get me to that stage. I never shared this with anyone as a wee little girl. It was my own private world, where no one could judge me for my uncontrollable imagination. (Note: I grew up in a VERY small southern town and I thought no one would understand my obsession with films, fashion, and the NEED to discover far off lands and other worlds. Little did I know, that a) my family would have fully supported my weirdo creative spirit and b) many of those people DON'T understand that obsession that still lives on).
So as an intense lover of film, fashion, and photography, the Oscars were my Superbowl! I cheered on my favorite films and gowns like any dedicated fan would but always sat in awe of every artist and every piece of silk or chiffon. I watched with such fervor and desire...and to this very day, I still do.
When I watch an actress, writer, director, or any other creative spirit behind a film step onto that Oscar stage, I have an aching in my heart so intense that I can feel it in the very core of my being. I would KILL (don't worry, not literally) to work in that industry or to be working happily in any industry that I have such an intense passion about. So watching someone accept an honor that many of them have dreamt about their entire lives (like yours truly) and are being recognized for a passion that they've poured every ounce of themselves into gives me a feeling that I honestly find very difficult to put into words. But I will say this...I cry. I cry a LOT. Whoever is lucky enough to watch them with me is usually giggling at my muffled sniffles and probably thinking what a nutter I am. Which quite frankly, I can't argue. I am. Certifiably so! Luckily, that's something I came to terms with years ago and one of the qualities that I admire the most in myself. I am me. Take it or leave it!
So yes, while The Oscars may be just another award show to some but to me, it ignites a desire and a longing to belong to a career and a life where my passions and creative talents are put to use. I have no idea in what manner I want to use those talents because I am a lady of many, MANY interests and passions but I do know this...I want to live in a world where I wake up each day knowing that I'm finally living out a life that little girl swaying in over sized heels, wrapped up in her mothers' red silk nightgown with a barbie that gleamed like gold in her hands would be proud to call her life.
Peace, Love, & Chicken Grease
Beks
GLAM ALERT! Let's not forget a quick list of my absolute favorite fashions of Oscar night:
Sarah Jessica Parker never fails and neither does this uniquely beautiful Chanel Couture
Elizabeth Banks took the carpet by storm in this cloudy colored Versace stunner
Amanda Seyfried lookin' white glam in Armani Privé
When I was a little girl, I spent a lot of my time happily alone. I wasn't awkward around other kids or anything and was actually quite a friendly, playful lil' thing but whereas, most children require constant companionship, I was quite content off on my own (this is just one of the MANY reasons that my mum brags about what an easy and wonderful child I was to raise...in case you were wondering). I spent my days living out extraordinary moments in visually stunning, imaginary worlds that I created for myself. I sat in corners, trees, and closets writing short stories and dreaming up ideas for plays and films. Then I would sketch the clothes and costumes. Then I would act them out with my imaginary friend, Miss Pinky! Miss Pinky was a ballerina dressed entirely in blue and because of this thought it was incredibly funny to be called Miss Pinky.
When I wasn't living wildly in my imagination with Miss Pinky, I watched films. I LOVED films. I would watch them over and over and OVER again (which I'm quite certain, drove my family nutso). I would study each character thoroughly...down to their every mannerism and stitch of clothing. I would then mimic these characters or sometimes bring my own flair to the character. I longed to be captured on that screen or the creator of that story or the "dresser-upper", as I liked to call the costume designer. I wanted to be honored with an Academy Award and would therefore practice my Oscar speech regularly standing in front of the mirror in my moms silkiest night gown with my barbie doll statue held close to my heart as I gushed on and on about all the people that helped get me to that stage. I never shared this with anyone as a wee little girl. It was my own private world, where no one could judge me for my uncontrollable imagination. (Note: I grew up in a VERY small southern town and I thought no one would understand my obsession with films, fashion, and the NEED to discover far off lands and other worlds. Little did I know, that a) my family would have fully supported my weirdo creative spirit and b) many of those people DON'T understand that obsession that still lives on).
So as an intense lover of film, fashion, and photography, the Oscars were my Superbowl! I cheered on my favorite films and gowns like any dedicated fan would but always sat in awe of every artist and every piece of silk or chiffon. I watched with such fervor and desire...and to this very day, I still do.
When I watch an actress, writer, director, or any other creative spirit behind a film step onto that Oscar stage, I have an aching in my heart so intense that I can feel it in the very core of my being. I would KILL (don't worry, not literally) to work in that industry or to be working happily in any industry that I have such an intense passion about. So watching someone accept an honor that many of them have dreamt about their entire lives (like yours truly) and are being recognized for a passion that they've poured every ounce of themselves into gives me a feeling that I honestly find very difficult to put into words. But I will say this...I cry. I cry a LOT. Whoever is lucky enough to watch them with me is usually giggling at my muffled sniffles and probably thinking what a nutter I am. Which quite frankly, I can't argue. I am. Certifiably so! Luckily, that's something I came to terms with years ago and one of the qualities that I admire the most in myself. I am me. Take it or leave it!
So yes, while The Oscars may be just another award show to some but to me, it ignites a desire and a longing to belong to a career and a life where my passions and creative talents are put to use. I have no idea in what manner I want to use those talents because I am a lady of many, MANY interests and passions but I do know this...I want to live in a world where I wake up each day knowing that I'm finally living out a life that little girl swaying in over sized heels, wrapped up in her mothers' red silk nightgown with a barbie that gleamed like gold in her hands would be proud to call her life.
Peace, Love, & Chicken Grease
Beks
GLAM ALERT! Let's not forget a quick list of my absolute favorite fashions of Oscar night:
Anna Kendrick looks like a dainty little rose in this romantic Elie Saab creation
Sarah Jessica Parker never fails and neither does this uniquely beautiful Chanel Couture
Rachel McAdams looks like a vision in watercolors. Thanks again Elie Saab!
Sandy needed that gold statue to go with this GORGEOUS gleaming Marchesa gown
Elizabeth Banks took the carpet by storm in this cloudy colored Versace stunner
Amanda Seyfried lookin' white glam in Armani Privé
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Giving up IS hard to do - But hey, sometimes ya just gotta
Au Revoir carbs! Adiós diet sodas! It's Ash Wednesday which means that the day of sacrifice has arrived and I'm bidding farewell to you for at least the next 40 days. Although technically it's spread across 46 days because traditionally you are supposed to break and celebrate on Sundays. Either way, this is the beginning of new challenge.
In the days leading up to Lent, I thought long and hard about what sort of 'thing' I wanted to give up this year and believe me, there were PLENTY to choose from (apparently my list of vices seems to be running a bit on the long side as of late). I considered going several different routes with this. You know, like giving up alcohol for example. The thing is, I drink in moderation (for the most part) so I felt like it should be something that would REALLY push me. While I know that many of you feel the need to remind me that booze carry carbs, I should clarify that I am not EATING carbs. Drinking carbs is an entirely different boat and I plan to stay on board that one!
My ultimate decision to give up EATING carbs and sucking down diet sodas leads back to grad school and the incredibly unhealthy lifestyle I lead during that entire process. I consumed more caffeine, (wine-beer-whiskey), carbs, and chocolate than I possibly care to remember. I'm not beating myself up for it because at the time, it was the key to my survival. It was my comfort in a time where I thought that I might possibly lose my mind. They all stuck by me through nervous breakdowns and painful writing processes.
However, that's all over now. Somehow, I finished. Somehow, I survived. Somehow, I wrote my dissertation and I wrote it well...Really well. I'm graduating in July and I'm starting my life in London come August. With the torture (i.e. Grad school) in the past now and with so much to look forward to, I'm ready to rid my life of unnecessary and unhealthy habits.
So why not during Lent? It seems like the perfect opportunity to weed out those nasty bits of your life that plague you. It's a time of sacrifice and test of will power. A time to really focus on yourself and your inner strength. Ultimately this isn't just a sacrifice for me but also a stepping stone to a healthier and I imagine, much happier version of myself.
Peace, Love, & (Hold the) Chicken Grease
Beks
In the days leading up to Lent, I thought long and hard about what sort of 'thing' I wanted to give up this year and believe me, there were PLENTY to choose from (apparently my list of vices seems to be running a bit on the long side as of late). I considered going several different routes with this. You know, like giving up alcohol for example. The thing is, I drink in moderation (for the most part) so I felt like it should be something that would REALLY push me. While I know that many of you feel the need to remind me that booze carry carbs, I should clarify that I am not EATING carbs. Drinking carbs is an entirely different boat and I plan to stay on board that one!
My ultimate decision to give up EATING carbs and sucking down diet sodas leads back to grad school and the incredibly unhealthy lifestyle I lead during that entire process. I consumed more caffeine, (wine-beer-whiskey), carbs, and chocolate than I possibly care to remember. I'm not beating myself up for it because at the time, it was the key to my survival. It was my comfort in a time where I thought that I might possibly lose my mind. They all stuck by me through nervous breakdowns and painful writing processes.
However, that's all over now. Somehow, I finished. Somehow, I survived. Somehow, I wrote my dissertation and I wrote it well...Really well. I'm graduating in July and I'm starting my life in London come August. With the torture (i.e. Grad school) in the past now and with so much to look forward to, I'm ready to rid my life of unnecessary and unhealthy habits.
So why not during Lent? It seems like the perfect opportunity to weed out those nasty bits of your life that plague you. It's a time of sacrifice and test of will power. A time to really focus on yourself and your inner strength. Ultimately this isn't just a sacrifice for me but also a stepping stone to a healthier and I imagine, much happier version of myself.
Peace, Love, & (Hold the) Chicken Grease
Beks
Sunday, February 14, 2010
A Perfect Kind of Lonely
It may or may not come as a surprise that my track record with men hasn’t exactly been successful. Actually…who am I kidding? It’s been downright disastrous! I can sum up my three major relationships with this:
1. Girl falls for boy. Boy treats girl like a Queen. Girl was too young to appreciate this and dumped boy.
2. Girl falls for boy. Boy is lying, cheating, game playing, emotionally abusive EFFwit with multiple girlfriends. Girl gets heart ripped out, stomped on, and fed to the fishies. Girl dumps boy.
3. Girl falls for boy. Boy “seems” amazing! Boy is everything that girl has ever wanted and more. However, boy is emotionally unavailable and does not fall for girl. Girl keeps boy as a friend because she is a masochist who can’t let go and continues to torture self for several years holding out hope that boy will magically change and fall for girl. This does not happen. Instead, it turns out that the boy is a wolf in sheep's clothing. He’s nothing like he “seemed” to be. Girl is left heartbroken and scarred.
In between these “relationships” were countless almosts, maybes, no ways, and run for your lifers. I’ve dated the scum of the earth and also, been lucky to meet some pretty fantastic men along with way. Sadly, the pretty fantastic men always seem to fall into the “wrong place, wrong time” category (story of my life).
When I set out to write this blog several months ago, I could never finish it and for the life of me, I couldn’t figure out why. At the time, I was in a very “what am I doing wrong” or “what’s wrong with me” place with the male gender. Oh the clarity a few short months can bring. The reason for this unfinished work was that I was initially setting out to write a blog of self-pity and loneliness, when the fact of the matter is…I’m actually “Perfectly Lonely” when it comes right down to it. It wasn’t until I heard John Mayer’s new album Battle Studies that this relationship revelation reached the surface. It had been waiting for the go ahead, the moment when it would be okay to pop up and admit that at this point in my life, I’m actually quite content with my singleton lifestyle…for now.
Let’s put it this way. Here I am, a woman of 26 fresh out of grad school patiently waiting out her time in Nashville until she can return to her heart in ole Blighty! What about this situation screams ready for a relationship? Umm, nothing, that’s what. I am a bird in flight to what will hopefully be a final destination. A destination where I hope to perch my British lovin’ booty down for good! I know where I want to go and this is just the waiting room…a place to bide my time …a place to cherish my time with friends and family…a place to focus on thyself and get to know that girl within just a little bit better. This is not the place for a relationship. A little romance here and there…why not?! I’ve still got needs after all. However, I know where to draw the line. I know what I want at this moment in time and a ball-n-chain situation is NOT included.
So thank you Mr. Mayer first for the most AMAZING night of my life on Wednesday. Standing in that front row listening to you sing your soul, watching your guitar-God hands play with such vivacity, and longing for those luscious red lips that contort to the sounds of your instrument left me with a rejuvenated zest for life and a deeper love and appreciation for you & your talent. The second and more significant thank you pertaining to this blog is simply this…Thank You. Thank you for writing the theme to my 26th year. I certainly couldn’t have said it better myself.
“Perfectly Lonely” – John Mayer (Battle Studies)
Had a little love, but I spread it thin
Falling in her arms and out again
Made a bed made for my game round town
Tore out my heart, and shut it down.
Nothing to do, nowhere to be.
I sip a little kind of free
Nothing to do, no one but me
That's all I need
I'm perfectly lonely
I'm perfectly lonely
I'm perfectly lonely, yeah
'Cause I don't belong to anyone
nobody belongs to me.
I see my friends around from time to time
When their ladies let them slip away
And when they ask how I'm doing with mine
This is always what I say
Nothing to do, nowehre to be
I sip a little kind of free
Nothing to do, no one to be
Isn't it hard to see
Why I'm perfectly lonely
I'm perfectly lonely
I'm perfectly lonely, yeah
'Cause I don't belong to anyone, nobody belongs to me
And this is not to say there never comes a day
I'll take my chances and start again
And when I look behind on all my younger times
I'll have to fake her arms that led me to a love so strong
I'm perfectly lonely
I'm perfectly lonely
I'm perfectly lonely, yeah
'Cause I don't belong to anyone, nobody belongs
It's the way, that's the way, it's the way that I want it...
John Mayer - Nashville, TN February 10, 2010
Peace, Love, & Chicken Grease
Beks
Thursday, January 28, 2010
The Red Carpet: A Place Made For Judgment
So I finally got a chance to catch up on the SAG Awards (thank you technology!) and do what I do best...pass judgment. While I'm not a fan of judgment in general mind you, I do find the passing of it on red carpet fashion choices to be downright enjoyable. However, the SAG Awards did not bring out the ugly quite like the Golden Globes this year. Instead, I spent the entire time drooling over countless Couture, textured gowns, and fierce choices! Here's a selection of my favorite fashions of the night...
Kate Hudson looked white hot in this striking Pucci number!
Mustard is no easy color to pull off but Diane Kruger looks like a class act in Jason Wu.
John Krasinski...Now that is one tall glass of dashing water!
Green with envy! Lea Michele looked stunning in this Catherine Malandrino gown.
Tennessee + Italy makes for a great combo because JT looks smokin' hot in Dolce & Gabbana.
Carey Mulligan combines sweet & bold in this beautifully textured Lanvin gown.
Drew Barrymore always takes a risk and this tiered Monique Lhuillier looks like a piece of art!
You're a long way from Bon Temps but Ryan Kwanten, you sure do clean up nice in Hugo Boss.
Christina Applegate is simply chic in this sky blue Roberto Cavalli creation.
Kate Hudson looked white hot in this striking Pucci number!
Mustard is no easy color to pull off but Diane Kruger looks like a class act in Jason Wu.
John Krasinski...Now that is one tall glass of dashing water!
Green with envy! Lea Michele looked stunning in this Catherine Malandrino gown.
Tennessee + Italy makes for a great combo because JT looks smokin' hot in Dolce & Gabbana.
Carey Mulligan combines sweet & bold in this beautifully textured Lanvin gown.
Drew Barrymore always takes a risk and this tiered Monique Lhuillier looks like a piece of art!
You're a long way from Bon Temps but Ryan Kwanten, you sure do clean up nice in Hugo Boss.
Christina Applegate is simply chic in this sky blue Roberto Cavalli creation.
And the ACTOR goes to...
To be quite honest, I was pretty much on board with all of the winning choices. Bravo actors, you voted brilliantly (for the most part)!
So here's the breakdown...
My favorite Basterds took home the big one of the night. Jeff Bridges is a truly gracious good ole boy. My BFF, Sandra Bullock is a star in every sense of the word. Christoph Waltz may have been the most deserving but his speeches are just...bizarre! Mo'Nique praised others. The Mad Men are very beardy. GLEE! GLEE! GLEE! Michael C. Hall & Julianna Margulies take their seconds of the season. Alec Baldwin & Tina Fey rocked the awards (per usual). Kevin Bacon wins and last but not least, the incredibly deserving Drew Barrymore takes one for her role in Grey Gardens!
Stay tuned for the next award show installment. The Grammy Awards always provide the most "intriguing" fashion choices and invite judgment! Until then...
Peace, Love, & Chicken Grease
Beks
To be quite honest, I was pretty much on board with all of the winning choices. Bravo actors, you voted brilliantly (for the most part)!
So here's the breakdown...
My favorite Basterds took home the big one of the night. Jeff Bridges is a truly gracious good ole boy. My BFF, Sandra Bullock is a star in every sense of the word. Christoph Waltz may have been the most deserving but his speeches are just...bizarre! Mo'Nique praised others. The Mad Men are very beardy. GLEE! GLEE! GLEE! Michael C. Hall & Julianna Margulies take their seconds of the season. Alec Baldwin & Tina Fey rocked the awards (per usual). Kevin Bacon wins and last but not least, the incredibly deserving Drew Barrymore takes one for her role in Grey Gardens!
Stay tuned for the next award show installment. The Grammy Awards always provide the most "intriguing" fashion choices and invite judgment! Until then...
Peace, Love, & Chicken Grease
Beks
Friday, January 22, 2010
It Was Just A Suggestion
Well hells bells! When did mid January arrive and why haven’t I posted my “beginning” of the year blog? Better late than never…Right?
In honor of this most glorious New Year, I’ve decided to rid my life of resolutions because quite frankly, when have I ever actually kept them? Oh, that’s right. NEVER. However, since 2009 was like one giant bitch slap to the face, I’ve decided to take some steps, in the form of “Suggestions” (less pressure if I fail) to help out the 2010 life! Heaven knows I can’t take another year of the extreme emotional, mental, and physical strife that the-year-that-shall-not-be-named brought me.
So here we go. A list of mere “suggestions” to help make 2010 a year that doesn’t make me want to jam a pencil in my eye and jump out a window…or something less painful and dramatic.
Suggestion #1: Take care of the ole body. After all, I’m kinda stuck with it so I should probably be kind to it. You know, keep it up & running properly.
Suggestion #2: Start living life for thyself. Sometimes it’s okay to be a little selfish. In fact, it’s downright healthy! Otherwise, we spend a lifetime trying to please everyone around us and never truly live the life we imagined in the first place. This always leads to resentment and a fan of this, I am not.
Suggestion #3: Spend every moment I can with the people I love while I’m still a Tennessee resident. It’s a hard knock life always feeling torn between the people I love and the place that stole my heart. So while I’m still near the dear loveys, I plan to make the most of it.
Suggestion #4: I must stop beating myself up for every little thing. Stop making impossible comparisons to others. I need to learn to appreciate what I’ve been given and be kind to myself if I slip up along the way. I am human. I will make mistakes. I will never be perfect…no one is (well unless you’re Mary Poppins and even she was just “practically” perfect). When I think about the way I talk to myself sometimes, it’s BRUTAL. I would never stand for that from anyone else so why do I treat myself so terribly?!
Suggestion #5: More writing, less wasting time being distracted. (Note: In order to maintain this “suggestion”, must keep the ADHD prescription filled!)
Suggestion #6: Cut back on the spending and throw back some moolah into savings! European adventures and transcontinental moves don’t exactly come cheap, in case you forgot. What this really means is stay away from the following:
Suggestion #7: It’s time to let go. There are moments in life when you need to recognize the people or things that are hurting or hindering you from moving forward and cut them loose. I’ve been known to hold on to these certain people or things with a death grip! I don’t like to think that something or someone who had such an impact on my life could become such a burden. So 2010 is going to be all about letting go and freeing myself to move on. Buh-bye burdens.
Suggestion #8: How about following through with projects. I sure do love to start them…LOTS of them. However, I haven’t been the best at finishing said projects. This might be because I’ve always had the problem of getting distracted with a new project (can you say ADHD?) and become eager to start it, thus abandoning the previous project. It’s a vicious cycle. Now that I have meds in my possession (Hallelujah!), hopefully my ability to focus will solve the ole following through problem. Fingers Crossed people, fingers crossed!
Well I’ve managed eight “suggestions” for the Oh-10. I was going to shoot for ten but there’s always so much pressure that comes with that number. Eight seems more do-able. Yes, I like eight.
So here’s to you 2010, I “suggest” that you be kind to me because this could be the beginning of a beautiful relationship.
Peace, Love, & Chicken Grease
Beks
“If you don't like the road you're walking, start paving another one.”
~Dolly Parton
In honor of this most glorious New Year, I’ve decided to rid my life of resolutions because quite frankly, when have I ever actually kept them? Oh, that’s right. NEVER. However, since 2009 was like one giant bitch slap to the face, I’ve decided to take some steps, in the form of “Suggestions” (less pressure if I fail) to help out the 2010 life! Heaven knows I can’t take another year of the extreme emotional, mental, and physical strife that the-year-that-shall-not-be-named brought me.
So here we go. A list of mere “suggestions” to help make 2010 a year that doesn’t make me want to jam a pencil in my eye and jump out a window…or something less painful and dramatic.
Suggestion #1: Take care of the ole body. After all, I’m kinda stuck with it so I should probably be kind to it. You know, keep it up & running properly.
Suggestion #2: Start living life for thyself. Sometimes it’s okay to be a little selfish. In fact, it’s downright healthy! Otherwise, we spend a lifetime trying to please everyone around us and never truly live the life we imagined in the first place. This always leads to resentment and a fan of this, I am not.
Suggestion #3: Spend every moment I can with the people I love while I’m still a Tennessee resident. It’s a hard knock life always feeling torn between the people I love and the place that stole my heart. So while I’m still near the dear loveys, I plan to make the most of it.
Suggestion #4: I must stop beating myself up for every little thing. Stop making impossible comparisons to others. I need to learn to appreciate what I’ve been given and be kind to myself if I slip up along the way. I am human. I will make mistakes. I will never be perfect…no one is (well unless you’re Mary Poppins and even she was just “practically” perfect). When I think about the way I talk to myself sometimes, it’s BRUTAL. I would never stand for that from anyone else so why do I treat myself so terribly?!
Suggestion #5: More writing, less wasting time being distracted. (Note: In order to maintain this “suggestion”, must keep the ADHD prescription filled!)
Suggestion #6: Cut back on the spending and throw back some moolah into savings! European adventures and transcontinental moves don’t exactly come cheap, in case you forgot. What this really means is stay away from the following:
- Target
- Cute lil quirky boutiques
- Bookstores (need I remind you of the already waste high stack of books you have waiting to be read)
- Less Starbucks and other arm-costing coffee beverages (You do realize that you have a coffee maker at home, right?)
- Best Buy or any other entertainment related store (I think your 400+ film collection will just have to do for now!)
- iTunes (Just because you can’t feel it in your hands, doesn’t mean you didn’t just spend your entire tips for the day)
- Urban Outfitters…whether the actual store or the online store! (You have ZERO self-control when it comes to pretty patterns…and fun tops…and vibrant colors...and sassy dresses…and cozy materials…and adorable hats…and all the beauty that is housed under that glorious name…sigh. Wait. Crap. Shakes it off. Daydreaming about fashion over and suggestion writing resumed!) In other words, STAY AWAY if you ever want to have money again. Far, far, FAR away!
- I would suggest cutting back on alcohol to save money but who am I kidding? I’m gonna need all the booze I can get to survive the rest of these restrictions!
Suggestion #7: It’s time to let go. There are moments in life when you need to recognize the people or things that are hurting or hindering you from moving forward and cut them loose. I’ve been known to hold on to these certain people or things with a death grip! I don’t like to think that something or someone who had such an impact on my life could become such a burden. So 2010 is going to be all about letting go and freeing myself to move on. Buh-bye burdens.
Suggestion #8: How about following through with projects. I sure do love to start them…LOTS of them. However, I haven’t been the best at finishing said projects. This might be because I’ve always had the problem of getting distracted with a new project (can you say ADHD?) and become eager to start it, thus abandoning the previous project. It’s a vicious cycle. Now that I have meds in my possession (Hallelujah!), hopefully my ability to focus will solve the ole following through problem. Fingers Crossed people, fingers crossed!
Well I’ve managed eight “suggestions” for the Oh-10. I was going to shoot for ten but there’s always so much pressure that comes with that number. Eight seems more do-able. Yes, I like eight.
So here’s to you 2010, I “suggest” that you be kind to me because this could be the beginning of a beautiful relationship.
Peace, Love, & Chicken Grease
Beks
“If you don't like the road you're walking, start paving another one.”
~Dolly Parton
Monday, January 18, 2010
The Globes. You Know, The Golden Ones.
Yesterday was the beginning of my favorite season. Award show season! A season that brings together a collection of my favorites in the form of film, television, music, fashion, and dazzlingly dapper actors. Stick me in front of a screen with a red carpet and shiny golden awards and this gal has died and gone to hog heaven! So sit back and enjoy my musings on each event as I blog it up, starting with last nights 67th Annual Golden Globe Awards.
Roll out the Red Carpet for SOME of my Fashion Favs:
Anna Paquin's bedazzled Stella McCartney gown won my Sparkle-lovin' heart!
Ginnifer Goodwin is Pixie perfect in cobalt blue.
MOST ADORABLE COUPLE AWARD
Emily Blunt is blushingly beautiful in that Dolce & Gabbanna gown and the always-adorable John Krasinski stands out in that navy blue tux!
Penelope Cruz is stunning in this Lacetastic Giorgio Armani Prive gown.
Taylor Lautner shines without that suit but dannnnng boy, hurry up and turn 18!
Toni Collette shines in Elie Saab!
I want to drown in Chace Crawford's baby blues. *sigh*
Lee Michele is full-skirted & fabulous in the always impressive Oscar de la Renta
Classic Chic Jennifer Aniston and the oh so tasty Gerard Butler
Please step off the Red Carpet! My TOP 3 Fashion Nightmares of the night:
Kate Hudson looks like a white hot mess!
Cher opted for the Morticia Adams meets Pirate hooker look.
Christina Hendricks, while I think you are a bombshell beauty, never put peach on porcelain skin again. Please and Thank You.
AND THE GOLDEN GLOBE GOES TO...
While there were several I will leave alone due simply to my own personal preferences, I can’t ignore the absolute award ROBBERY that took place during the Golden Globes tonight. I think the Hollywood Foreign Press might have opted for the Eeny-meeny-miny-moe method on several occasions or rather the we’re going to vote for all the big hits at the box office! Ricky Gervais said it best, “A Golden Globe cannot be bought, officially.”
My (limited) Golden Globe Highlights:
Ricky Gervais. Enough said.
Drew Barrymore for Grey Gardens (not including that dreadful rambling speech).
Up for ‘Best Animated Feature’! What a sweet and adorable film. However, it should have also won for the most heartbreaking first five minutes of a film EVER.
Jason Reitman and Sheldon Turner win Best Screenplay for Up in The Air. Well deserved and deeply happy about this one. Reitman even warmed my heart up with his sweet shout out to his wife.
Robert De Niro was hilarious and Leonardo DiCaprio was truly appreciative in a genuinely heartfelt tribute to Martin Scorsese. He’s such an adorable little old man full of love for the art of filmmaking and a true talent.
GLEE!!!!! They take the win for ‘Best Televison Series, Comedy or Musical’ and I was positively giddy for the new kids on the block. This might have been the only point during the ceremony where the Hollywood Foreign Press redeemed themselves for a few shining moments.
Sandra Bullock wins ‘Best Actress in a Motion Picture, Drama’. While I know many people were pulling for newcomer Gabourey Sidibe, I can’t help but rejoice in Sandy’s win! I love her dearly.
Robert Downey Jr.’s speech for his ‘Best Actor in a Motion Picture, Comedy’ made me giggle. A LOT. Whether he deserved the award or not, I’m glad he won for the sheer fact that his speech was the most entertaining one of the entire night!
WHAT WERE THEY THINKING?!
Alec Baldwin wins for ‘Best Actor in a Television Series, Comedy or Musical’ yet AGAIN. Really? REALLY? Don’t get me wrong, I love 30 Rock but there were so many other great performances this past year and I just felt someone else deserved their shining moment. Particularly Matthew Morrison from Glee but that might be my raging lust for him talking!
In my mind, I’m going to pretend that Jane Lynch took the globe for ‘Best Supporting Actress in a Series, Miniseries or Motion Picture Made for Television’ because there was no one more deserving of this one. She got ROBBED!
James Cameron wins ‘Best Director’ for Avatar. Oh, hell no! He’s the least deserving of all the nominees. *grumble grumble*
While I do love The Hangover, I honestly felt that (500) Days of Summer should have taken home the gold for ‘Best Motion Picture, Comedy or Musical’. It was original. A fresh, funky gem of a flick!
And the worst moment of the entire night, Avatar takes the top award for ‘Best Motion Picture, Drama’. SERIOUSLY? Best Drama? You’re joking, right Hollywood Foreign Press? I get the whole this a really visually stunning production with loads of new technology and all that jazz but that dialogue was truly horrific. Painful even. I would much prefer to sit through that film with just a score…or maybe some earplugs! You did watch Up in the Air right? What about Inglorious Bastards? Precious? The Hurt Locker? Oh my bad, ‘Best Drama’ must translate to ‘Biggest Money Maker’.
Stay tuned next week for the SAG Awards breakdown. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that the actors might have got it right!
Peace, Love, & Chicken Grease
Beks
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