Emmy Night Fashion

 Here's my statement.

I am a sucker for award shows & fashion.

I don't really have the right to judge but I will.

Below is my takes on this years best/worst dressed.
Do you agree/disagree?  It's all up to personal style.


Best Dressed

Lucy Lui - Versace
I love this!  I think the dress goes so well with her coloring and her hair is simple but stylish.

Kelly Osborne - Zac Posen
This is out there, but by far my absolute favorite.  I love the color, shape and fit.  I love that her hair matches, love the tattoos-perfection!

Kata Mara - Badgley Mischka
We know I like red hair, plus this color and look goes so well with her hair color.
Lovely.

Hayden Peanetierre - Marchesa
Not a huge fan of the actress but I really love this look.  I like the blue/gold contrast and draping.

Jena Malone - J. Mendel
I like the different shape of this dress.  I wish I could pull off blunt bangs. The shoes are the best part.

Worst Dressed


Lena Dunham - Prada
Absolutely the worst of the worst.  This looks like the ugliest tablecloth I have ever seen.
Shame on you Prada.

Julianna Margulius - Giambattista Valli
I think my dislike of floral doesn't help her cause.Even the colors are ugly.  She usually dresses so simply and is stunning.

Elisabeth Moss - Dolce & Gabbana
Again with the floral, plus I think its an odd fit and bust line.  Her face looks washed out.
Not a fan.

Ashley Judd - Carolina Herrera
This is a train wreck.  Looks like she belongs on Dynasty.  Horrible shape, color, hair.  The whole package is a fail.

Christina Hendricks - Christian Siriano
I love red heads, her hair is cool.  That is about where it ends. The color washes her out, the fit of the dress is not flattering.  This is just bad.

The End!

It's Fall

Summer is over and it flew by so quickly.  We had a busy summer with moving into the new house, trips to LBI and Martha's Vineyard.  Now that Fall is upon us I was thinking about the things that will get me through the next couple of months. Movies, television and getting the new house in order. 

The new house is great. It even came with its own zoo, we have deer, 12 wild turkeys and 10 Vultures. It's like jumangi.  I also love staring at the 50 boxes that I have not unpacked yet.  Every once in a while I will lift the top to one just to take a peek. Nope don't need the pots & pans.  This was my 12th move...I will be buried in the back yard of this house.  I can't move again. 

Movies:
These are my must sees..

Silver Linings Playbook - Starring Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Lawrence & Robert Dinero.  This looks like it has Oscar all over it.

This is 40 -Starring Paul Rudd & Leslie Mann. I love Paul Rudd! I love laughing!

The Oranges - Starring Hugh Laurie, Leighten Meester. Fun to see Hugh Laurie being funny.

The Words - Starring Bradley Cooper, Zoe Saldana, Dennis Quaid & Olivia Wilde. The trailer grabbed my attention, think this will be a hit.

Les Miserables - Starring Hugh Jackman, Anne Hathaway, Russell Crowe & Amanda Seyfried. I am not one for musicals but I love this.




Breaking Dawn Part 2 - Starring Robert Pattinson & Kristen Stewart.  After 4 years this is the finale.  Laura, Beth & Ally let's start planning!



TV Shows:

Revenge - Totally got into this show last season. 

Modern Family - Best show on television.  I laugh constantly. Phil is my favorite.

Grey's Anatomy - I am so sick of this show but have invested so much time into it.  I must see it through. I hate Meredith.

Glee - Love it no, like it yes.  Can I dvr it and watch at a later date - answer is yes.

Dexter - One of the best shows on television. Deb is an asshole.


I will also be sure to watch Bridesmaids at least once a week.  This movie makes me laugh every time, it never gets old.  

Loveit/Hate it Part 2

What do I love & hate right about now...


Hate it - TomKat - I didn't care when they got married, I didn't care when they bore Suri, and I certainly don't care now that it's kaput.  I love celebrity gossip but not the type that is 100% all consuming.  Why is their divorce on the "real" news channels, this crap is designed for Access Hollywood & Entertainment Tonight.


Love it - The Olympics.  I just love watching the Olympics whether it be Winter or Summer.  I went to the the Winter Games in Salt Lake City and it really is a rush being at the events.  London seems like a disaster with their weather and security, but that effects me not at all.  I definitely get sucked into the sob stories they lay on thick ( I grew up poor, lived in my car, blind in one eye, but will win Olympic gold). Bring on gymnastics and swimming!!


Hate it - Moving.  I just recently purchased a new house, this will be my 10th move.  You would think that I was a pro at this point but dread it every time.  Nothing is worse to me than packing the endless amounts of crap that have moved with me 10x.  I am not a hoarder but I can't understand where the endless amounts of crap come from.  I am moving this weekend and i can't begin to think about packing up the kitchen.  I may just leave everything and start all over or just use paper goods.


Love it - The Bachelor/Bachelorette.  This is obvious for anyone who reads my blog that I am obsessed with this show.  I didn't find it till two seasons ago but now am hooked.  This Sunday is the finale of Emily's season and I am Team Jef all the way.  There is nothing more entertaining to me then watching grown men and woman humiliate and embarrass themselves on television.  I also am highly anticipating the disaster of Bachelor Pad starting Monday.


Hate it - Copiers, fax machines and printers.  For some reason all three of these devices hate me back as well.  Ask the girls I work with in the office and they will tell you that anytime I try to use one the following happens:  paper gets jammed in the fax, the copies come out blank or sideways, the printer just doesn't print.  It's basically like the scene from the movie "Office Space", this is why I virtually never ever copy, print or fax.  


Love it - Bridesmaids.  I will watch this movie anytime it is on the tv, it never gets old.  I think Kristen Wig and Melissa McCarthy are brilliantly entertaining in this film.  "Help me I'm poor"


Hate it - MRI's.  I just had to have two mri's of the brain done and this was a horrific experience.  I am claustrophobic and 3 years ago when I had an mri done in the tube I had to press the panic button and be saved.  This time around I knew better and it was recommended to have it done in the "open chair".  I thought this is great, not so fast.  As I walk into the room with my scrubs on they sit me in a chair, put a belt around my waist and a round metal sphere around my head that bolts to the back of the chair. They then put ear protectors in your ears because the machine makes a lot of noise. Best part a mirror in from of you so you can stare at yourself looking like Hannibal Lecter.  I freaked out the entire time.

Fantasy suite time

Ok just a quick recap of the Bachelorette this week, I was to busy feeling like a load of crap to write anything sooner.


This week is Fantasy Suite time. Down to just three potential husbands Emily is feeling the pressure. She says all three men seem perfect to her and that she has strong feelings for all of them. Yeah I think she just wants to extend the make-out sessions with multiple men.


 First up is Sean, ugh just boring he has no edge. He is also wearing the lowest v-neck ever. They take a helicopter to their own private Island and it seemed that the ride itself was awkward. When they were on the Island Emily really wanted Sean to profess his love to her,  you could tell he was trying to get up the nerve to tell her how he feels but couldn't get the words out.  They frolick in the sun, make out in the water.  Sean squinted a lot, ahoy matte!!!


They end up at dinner where he finally tells her he loves her, Emily smiles back.  I also wouldn't want to profess my love to someone when all they can do is stare blankly at me.  She gives him the fantasy suite key and off they go.  Let's make out in the hot tub and now you have to leave because I am a mother and not a whore.  Poor Sean all worked up and no place to go.


Next up Jef....ahhhhhhh, I am loving this guy. You can tell how much he actually likes Emily and vice versa.  They also play around in the water and she wraps her legs around him....my favorite part. At dinner Jef turns the tables on Emily and asks questions about her life and Ricki, I like this it shows he is serious.  Emily gives him the fantasy suite card and Jef rejects her, of course in the most endearing way possible.  He says he knows she has a daughter and their families are watching and they will have plenty of nights in their own "fantasy suite".  God I love this guy.


Arie is up next and the second they see each other they are making out.  Personally I love this, it's great to want someone so much but is that all it is with Arie?  He is hot and I would want to make out with him all the time as well.  They swim with dolphins and basically maul each other while sailing around.  At dinner they both actually question each other and I had to chuckle when Arie says he wakes up at 9:30 every morning.  Emily actually does not offer Arie the fantasy suite because she doesn't know if she can trust herself with him.  


At the Rose Ceremony Emily is a wreck and feels guilty sending anyone home at this point.  I have to say even though I don't like Sean I felt bad when she ultimately let him go.  She basically forced him to profess his love and then was like "Sorry, I love you the least.  At least he had the most composure of anyone sent home at this point, squinty eye and all.


So basically this leaves us exactly where I predicted from the start with Arie and Jef.  The only difference is now I am in love with Jef and can't deal with him getting his heart crushed.  I have a feeling that Emily being the sweet person she seems will actually let the person she isn't choosing go before they actually get to the proposing part.  


My gut says Jef will be the last man standing.

The switch..

Monday's evenings are truly anticipated in our home, this week was no exception.  Me, Laura, Bry and Eddie assumed our positions on the couch, wait 30 minutes into the show so we can fast-forward through commercials.  (except Eddie's of course)!  Armed with 10 tons of candy Eddie supplied we were ready for the all too serious hometown dates.


First up, Dilbert/Chris - Not much to say here, there is no chemistry between these two and Emily seems to be gong through the motions for this date.  Chris is way to serious and uptight and sees a deeper connection that clearly isn't there.  He is unstable.  He has a nice polite family but that's crap when the guy is a freak.  Chris has to depart..tonight!!!


Jef - Ok, I have liked Jef from night one when he rode in on his skateboard.  I like his bouffant hair, his humor and even his skinny jeans.  Jef's ranch was unbelievable and I would instantly move to Utah to live there with him.  Jef and Emily did some clay shooting and Jef showed Emily that he is not just a city boy but also "a little bit country". Emily meets Jef's siblings since his parent are away on a "charity mission".  Jef's family seems perfectly nice and polite and I can see Emily fitting in perfectly..  They end this date with Jef reading a letter to Emily of things he loves about her.  Normally this is the type of behavior that would make my palm twitch and immediately hate on this person.  In this case this made me like Jef even more.  My Jef crush just doubled.


Arie - Clearly my first choice from the start.  I still am drawn to Arie, he is pretty charismatic.  Emily arrives to her date with Arie at the racetrack where he takes her for a drive.  Pretty hot. Arie tells Emly he is nervous for her to meet his family especially his mother...that should make Emily feel at ease.  As Emily is sitting with Arie's family his mother reminds me of a "dutch Jocelyn Wildenstein" (see below). If you don't know who this is by her proper name maybe by her nickname "the cat lady"  Arie's family rudely starts talking Dutch in front of Emily, if I were in Emily's position I would have just started talking Spanish.  Arie's mom asks to talk to Emily alone and this conversation was actually nice and Arie's mom gave her approval.  


Sean - I just don't get Sean and I don't really care for him.  I hate his clothes, I hate his hair and I actually hate his face as well.  He looked like a pirate tonight while they were at the park the way he kept squinting his one eye.  His parents house was really nice, his family was really nice, he is just blah, blah, blah.  He joked with Emily that he still lived at home and even showed her a disaster of a room.  I was hoping this was true so she would have just left him right there.  When he kisses her I feel physically ill the way he moves his vile tongue.  Even typing this is bringing back the mental image.  He will go home next week after the "overnights"


Rose Ceremony - Emily sends Chris home, it's about time.  He is so delusional, he is like I told you I loved you what do you want from me,  I am the best man, I am more man then the other men, I am cocky and unstable.  Bye Dilbert.


So after this episode I have to say I have made the switch, I am Team Jef!!! If Emily breaks his heart I will be crushed.


I know what will happen Sean will be sent home next week leaving the final two of Arie and Jeff.  This makes me unhappy.  Even though Jef will be the last man standing I hate to see Arie the one that is devastated.  If Emily pulls an Ashley and let's Arie get down on one knee then dumbs him, I will personally pull out all her veneers.

Arie's mom or the cat lady???

"I want to date you hard, and marry the !@*# out of you"

This week brings Emily and crew to Prague.  We see Emily once again pulling a suitcase for a toddler, this just annoys me what are we supposed to believe that all her huge earrings and fake eyelashes fit in here.


Chris informs the guys that this week is the most important so far because the four remaining guys will be bringing Emily home to meet their families.  I think Chris is mistaken next week if more crucial since the remaining three guys get the OVERNIGHT!!!


There will be three one-on-one dates this week and one three -on-one date.  Chris who is clearly unstable is completely desperate for a one-on-one.  Chris's face scares me, he reminds me of Dilbert.


John gets the first one-on-one and I have to mention that his outfit looks like he borrowed it from my father-in-law.  This guy is supposed to be in his 20's not using an AARP card. This date was just plain boring that this is when I took my pee break.   I like John but he has to go, he didn't do anything wrong but he didn't do anything right either.  Of course John goes back to the hotel and tells the guys he nailed the date...hmmm not so fast Wolfie.


Arie reads the next date card and its the group date...Doug, Sean and...Chris.  Everyone run!!!!  This guy is going to have a psychotic breakdown.  Sean decides since he got the group date he is going to run into the streets of Prague calling for Emily.  I was just so surprised that he stumbled upon her is a dark alley alone at night.  She says she is all happy to see him, they drink a beer and make out against a wall.  I don't know it didn't affect me the same way it did when Arie did it first.  Sean bugs me, I am not sure why but I feel like he belongs on 90210.


The group date finds Doug, Sean & Chris in the rain crammed into a horse and buggy with Emily.  They end up at a castle and play hide & seek.  These dates blow.  Emily takes Doug aside and he still is reserved with her.  Doug is just to nice and polite.  Emily basically tells him that he has moved to slow and she is sending him home.  In what has to be the most awkward moment I have seen on these shows Doug reaches in for a kiss mid-sentence.  Emily thanks him and then sends him on his merry way.  Poor Doug, I really like him but truth me told a girl wants a guy to act without us asking.  If we have to basically beg for it were not interested anymore.  I truly believe he was being a gentleman but just to vanilla.  It was sad. Tear:(


Now that the group date has turned into the dreaded two-on-one Sean & Chris have to battle it out for the rose.  Chris continues his bratty behavior by complaining to Emily that he didn't get a one-on-one.  Emily awkwardly gives Sean the rose and Chris looks like he may have a full blown toddler and tiara's meltdown.


Final date goes to Jef.  Like I have said from the start Arie has been my #1 and Jef a close second.  After tonight it's getting close.  Jef and Emily end up at a marionette store and buy the puppets and act out there journey so far.  I usually hate this crap but Jef is funny and I actually quite enjoyed the show.  He is open and honest and I feel like everything that comes out of his mouth is the god honest truth.  They talk about realistic issues but still have fun..  This is where Jef says to Emily "I want to date you hard, and marry the !@*# out of you.  Awww sweet.


The fact that I like Arie and Jeff almost equally is a bit upsetting.  If they are the final two one of these guys is going down hard and since I like them both I will be "Titanic" like upset.


At the Rose Ceremony Chris is literally losing his mind and desperately wants to talk to Emily.  Of course not planned Chris announces that Emily doesn't want a cocktail party since she already knows who is getting the boot.  They guys look at Chris like they may have to "rubber room" him.  I start to feel a bit bad for him, but not enough for him to stay.  As Emily is handing out roses he asks to speak to her he apologizes for his bratty behavior and tells her how much he wants to stay.  


Emily gives Chris the rose and send Wolfie home.  Even though I think Chris sucks I knew Wolfie was going home.  Chris needs to beat it next week.


Hometown dates next week which are always a treat.  Remember when Kacie B's dad blew it for her on Ben's season.  


Gonna be a goodtime had by all.

Blue Suede Shoes...

This weeks Bachelorette brings everyone to Croatia.  Another beautiful place that I would love to visit someday. We get to see Emily lugging her own luggage to her place for the week.  ( that suitcase was small how did she fit all her "Dynasty" ball gowns in there).


If I could all I would do is talk about Arie and how much I have a crush on him.  Now if he can also play the guitar.  In my eyes he is clearly the best choice hands down. Nothing like being pushed up against a wall and made out with.  He is hot!


The first one-on-one date goes to Travis.  He actually seems like the most normal of all the guys which is how you know he will be going home, he is not totally hot, ripped w/ muscles, etc.  There date is pretty boring, shopping downtown Croatia buying crosses that he carries around.  Dinner, chit chat, no rose, adios!!!  Crying as he leaves, tossing his umbrella, laughing on my couch.


The guys find out about who is going on the group date but all I can think about is the most ridiculous tank top Ryan is wearing.  Is he serious, I think I have the same one in pink.  The group date consists of Arie, Jef, Sean, John, Chris, and Doug.  Emily brings the guys to see the new cartoon "Brave", again you know how I feel about cartoon characters, kids and muppets being on this show.  The movie was supposed to reflect Emily and what is going on in her life and the choices she will make.  Yes I have to agree a cartoon of a young girl that was made for children is the same as a woman making out and dumping 25 men in an 8 week clip.


At this point Emily pulls out some kilts and tell the guys they will be competing in the Highland Games.  Three different competitions.  Once the guys strip down and change they begin.  The first is archery.  They all hit the target except for Chris who looks like he has to go to the bathroom.  He misses completely and that is fine by me, he has no lips and that really bothers me. BTW Doug has the biggest arms I have ever seen, I personally don't like big muscle guys but his body is amazing.


Next up is log throwing, Chris volunteers to go first....and he lifts, tosses and...fails.  It's the lips.
Sean literally tosses his and breaks it, Jef not so much, Ill just stare at Arie.


Last was a tug of war between 2 guys, and if Emily picks your name you pick your competitor. Chris gets picked and being logical he picks Doug.  Really Chris you idiot, this man has the biggest arms I have ever seen.  He gets pounced.  Emily feels so bad for his stupidity she rewards him with a cup.  Well deserved.


After there mini-olympics Emily basically kisses a bunch of guys.  Her kisses with Chris and Sean lack passion and anyone who puckers really isn't feeling it in my opinion.  But back to Arie who takes her for a walk, literally backs her up a wall and goes to town.  Pick him please now,  end the show.  


I still like Jef and he is a oh so close second place for me.  You can tell he really likes her and is funny, kind and cute.  But with Arie throwing around all that "fifty shades" behavior there is no competition.  I will be really sad for Jef if he is the one rejected at the end.  Maybe he can be the next Bachelor.


Emily gives Chris the group date Rose and Arie and Jef watching them kiss was pretty funny.  Why is she keeping Chris there is nothing that great about him.  I liked Travis better and his egg.


Ryan is primping for his date, shaving, getting his blue suede shoes ready.  He bothers me on so many levels and not just because he is arrogant.  Not much to say here that I haven't said, Ryan talks about what he wants the whole time and basically how great he is at everything.  Emily thankfully sees past his crap and tell him "sorry no rose for you".  He tries to convince her and I was fearful for a second she would cave but she sent his ass home.  I am glad he is gone and I hope to never see him again, but I have a feeling he will be on The Bachelor Pad.


Arie sneaks to Emily's place to tell her how happy he is that she dumped Ryan.  They already seems like a couple.  I hope all the nonsense of Arie dating one of the producers in the past doesn't matter to Emily.  Everyone has dated someone and its not like he is making out with both of them, that's Emily and it's not just two of them.


At the Rose ceremony both Doug and John need to really open up to Emily.  John does this by showing Emily that he has carried his grandparents mass cards in his wallet for 9 years.  Smooth move Wolfe....  No way she can send you home now that you cried about your dead grandparents.


Doug, your so hot but why are you such a prude.  You would be a front runner for me if you were a bit more aggressive and gave it to her.  Man up!!!


Emily is sneaky and makes us think she will send both John and Doug home but decides to keep them both and send no one home.  Ok Doug this is your last chance we need some real action from you next week.


Chris and John need to leave next week.  That will leave Sean, Doug, Jef and Arie.  


I am now going to think about Arie in his race car winning the big race then maybe pushing me up against the hood....anyways here's hoping Ryan was able to pack his blue suede shoes and Britney Spears tank top.

London Calling

This weeks Bachlorette takes us to London, this is a place I would love to visit since I have an obsession with all things Royal.


First one-on-one goes to Sean.  Like I have said Sean is everything a girl dreams of nice, polite, respectful, built but I find him bland and boring.  A little edge doesn't hurt anyone and I think I have a problem with someone I think won't swear.  Their date is just like the "Barbie & Ken" they look like, holding hands with their matching blond hair and pearly whites.  I was bored.


Group Date - Shakespeare in the Park
The guys have to audition for parts to perform in the park in front of some Brits with the worst teeth ever...nasty.  These dates are fabricated to make the guys look like idiots and it works.  At least Arie, Doug and Travis just laughed at themselves and owned the foolishness of the situation.  Ryan and Kalon being all serious like this was Broadway made it so much more embarrassing for them.  Ryan was beyond excited to get a kiss with Emily and why does he keep wearing that scarf.  He really does creep me out, he reminds me of "The Rock"  That's not a compliment.


Kalon is an ass, he literally tells Emily to "get lost" so he can practice his lines.  He also is very unattractive both physically and with his terrible personality.  After the terrible theater show the guys go out with Emily and this is where it is brought up that Kalon has called Ricki "baggage"...oh the horror!!!!
I couldn't help but chuckle...but truly he is terrible and even when Doug confronted him he didn't even try to make an excuse.  Doug then told Emily who loses her shit and tells Kalon to "Get the F#@! out" He deserves to be thrown out and as you noticed it wasn't a helicopter that picked him up but a mini van.  Bye Kalon see you on The Bachelor Pad.


Emily is visibly upset after this and I can't blame her.  She is nervous about trusting her judgement since she kept such a loser around for so long.  You should be nervous he needed to go the first week.  I think she unfairly blames the other guys for not telling her about Kalon.  I am confused didn't Doug tell her?  Maybe she had to much cough medicine and she was delirious.


Next date goes to Jeff..my second favorite.  Jeff has waited for this date and Emily is in a bad place after the Kalon debacle.  Poor Jef here's hoping he can turn it around.  First stop is afternoon tea with an etiquette coach.  This made me like Jef more as he made fun of our dear Jean.  Off to the pub where Jef lays out the smooth moves and sweet talks Emily into giddy school girl.  They end their night at the London Eye which I need to witness in real life.  I'm claustrophobic but I would go on this in a heartbeat.  Dinner in their little cart was torturous waiting for Jef to finally but the moves on Emily.  Every awkward touch finally paid off at the bridge when jef made his move and finally kissed Emily.  Looked like it was worth the wait.


Cocktail Party finds Emily individually grilling and punishing the boys for not running to her about Kalon.  Arie gets the worst of it and this is probably because they seem the closest since they are always making out.  She even makes him sweat it out by giving him the last rose.  In the end 2 earring diamond boy goes home.  Sorry Alejandro.


I still believe Sean, Arie and Jeff will be the final 3.  Arie still is my favorite but Jef is trailing close behind.  


Next week Croatia.

Love it/Hate it

So the idea for this blog is basically a complete felony since I got the idea from my friend Lynn.  These are a few of the things that I am loving/hating right now and thought I would share them with you.


Hating - The Kardashian's.  Any and all of them.  I don't give a rat's ass what they are endorsing, marrying, birthing, nip-tucking, moving, modeling, eating, divorcing, breathing.  I don't want to see any of you ever again.  I am actually begging.  Even those little modeling twins and the Disck kid.


Hating- Jessica Simpson. I know this is cruel but I couldn't stomach looking at any more pictures of her pregnant.  I was a wilderbeast while pregnant but she looks like she ate The Dugger Family.  Her ginormous baby was born and now I have to see her going to the gym, why I don't care.  Stay home and breast feed.


Bethenny Frankel, I have said this before that I am not sure why she is famous, why do I care if she is getting divorced to that Poppy guy. Skinny Girl sucks and my friend Lynn and I decided a while ago we are going to make and endorse "Fat Ass" cocktails I am sure they would taste a lot better.


Beyonce - I have disliked her for years.  Why I am not sure just the mention of her name pisses me off.


Josie Moran - I first saw here ads for her skincare/make-up line on QVC (see below).  She had me sold.  I went to Sephora and decided to buy her bronzer.  Next day I go to put it on and its broken.  Go back to Sephora and all the bronzers are broken.  I decide on a lipgloss.  I go home and about to use my purchase and the lipgloss wand is fanned out so basically I look like the joker.  I now have to read her blogs on People.com and want to comment about what an asshole I think she is.


Love it/Hate it - Google, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde  This is a great tool for looking up virtually anything and feeling as though you are the smartest person alive since any answer is a click away.  I google constantly it's actually a sickness.  The downside to google is that because I have OCD and medical conditions I look up every pain, ache, tingle, twitch and Dr. Google scars the living shit out of me.  I often text my friend Lynn to tell her what "illness" I now have according to "Dr. Google"  We hate Dr. Jekyll.


Love it/Hate it - Instagram.  I love how using this makes me feel like a professional photographer.  The click of a button changes the whole look of a picture.  Hate it because every time I try to print these masterpieces out someones head is chopped off.  I have no idea how to fix this, so I am a photography failure.  If it isn't just a click of a button it's to dam hard.


Love it - Summer.  What can I say sun and beach.  Vacations in LBI and Martha's Vineyard.  Rest, Relaxation, Reading and cocktails.  Doesn't get any better than that!


Love it - Prosecco.  If it wasn't for this my sister in law Laura and I would have packed our cars and left home like Maria Osmond did years ago up the Pacific Coast Highway.


Love it - QVC.  My sister in law Mara introduced me to QVC.  I wake up very early every morning and I drink my coffee while watching this masterpiece.  Even though I have only purchased one item (which I love), I have a secret list and a qvc app on my iphone in case of emergency need to purchase.


To be honest there are so many more things that I hate but didn't want this to be a one-sided blog and appear negative.  We all know that I have a sunny disposition and strive to be cheerful and uplifting.  

Bermuda, Bahama Come on Pretty Mama...

This weeks episode starts travel Bachlorette, it's about time says "The potential fiancees".  Destination Bermuda, we get to see Emily and daughter Ricki frolicking around Bermuda exactly the way I would with my daughter.  Flying kites, holding hands on the beach, playing mini-golf, gazing at the water all while looking picture perfect.  If this was me I would be a sweaty mess, with my hair in a natty ponytail while my kid would be crying to use the bathroom.


The guys arrive at their abode and are told by Chris that there will be three dates for the week in Bermuda, a one-on-one, a group and the dreaded two-on-one date.  This is by far the cruelest form of dating and tonight's episode proves this 100%.


The one-on-one date goes to Doug.  I have said that I like Doug in the past and I still do but there is something about him that irks me.  Like Emily said he is always showing the perfect gentleman side but we all know everyone has flaws.  Emily asking him to list them was bizarre and he showed her that by asking her to do the same.  He seems a bit hormonal to me but at this point I like him well enough to be sticking around.  He gets the rose so I guess no ass kicking of Arie or any of the guys for jabbing him before his date.


The group date was 2 teams and a boat race winners get more time with Emily.  Of course we know this is about spending time with Emily but definitely an amped up competition between men.  Arie, Jef, Ryan and Kalin win the race.  Charlie cries in the van ride home ( for a second I thought I was watching The Bachelor, once I put in my visine I realized yes it's The Bachlorette.)  WTH Is Charlie crying for...please tell me.  Cringe worthy moment #1.


Arie takes Emily off to the beach wrapped in a white blanket immediately starts making out with her.  I heart Arie!!!


Jeff takes Emily off to the beach wrapped in a white blanket immediately doesn't start making out with her.  I like Jef and so does Emily but lets get this moving buddy.


Ryan is a complete creep, he makes my blood boil.  He is vile looking, full of himself and I wish Travis would have cracked "Shelley the egg" over his ridiculous hair.  Every word that comes from his mouth makes me want to kick him in the nuts.


Kalin has been pretty quiet but I have an incling that changes next week ( See previews for next weeks tongue lashing from Emily)  I have a feeling this jack-ass is in the receiving end.


Two-on-one date = awkward.
Nate + Emily+ Wolfe jumping off a cliff
Nate + Emily + Wolfe sitting side by side drinking wine
Nate + Emily + Wolfe sitting in silence
Nate + Emily with Nate crying over his brother and unable to speak
Wolfe + Emily giving Wolfe the rose b/c Nate wears rolled up jeans
I don't know the whole thing was painful to watch
Cringeworthy moment #2


Rose Ceremony
Chris feels the need to have words with Doug for calling him out for being young & immature.  Ok Chris I think the fact that you did this proves his point, ignore him and just try to win Emily's hear with your wonderful dancing skills and flat face.  Doug basically laughed in your prepubescent face.


In the end Charlie and Michael get sent home.  To be honest I didn't even know Michael's name till tonight.  A few tears are shed which always makes me chuckle.  Ahhh all the emotion.


Nest week in London looks fun, who doesn't love some f-bombs being thrown around.  I know I do!!

Who doesn't date their cousin...L

Emily, Emily, Emily everytime I hear the name I think of my childhood dog. Anyways, this weeks Bachlorette I feel was the episode where you can really start figuring out everyone's personalities.  I am going to start off with saying that I still believe from my week 1 blog that Arie and Jef will be in for the long haul.  


First date goes to Chris, what's wrong with his mouth? Anyone else notice this?  Emily think he is so hot, I don't see it. Let's climb up a building in a lightening storm..goodtimes. Chris wants to go in for a kiss..end result a high-five. So much passion it's like Christian and Anastasia in an episode of ICarly.
Dinner, dancing to another really annoying country band,   I think the lyrics went like "you make my heart go boom boom" He finally asks for his kiss, she delivers, he gets the  rose. Boring to me.


Group date at the park. Emily has her soccer moms in attendance to interrogate the bachelors. I just have to say that I am sure these are "real" woman but I had to laugh at them.  Quite embarrassing to say the least. I know they all loved Sean, and he is a sweet as pie.  I find him unattractive, dull and just to "perfect"  I am sure he is going to go far, I am just not that into him.  Loved Jef and his interaction with the kids.  If I was put in that situation she would have asked me to leave.  Worst date ever playing with kids I don't know.


Ryan, I said it from his first date, I don't like him.  Point proven tonight.  To cocky to walk up to Emily (woof) and her friends to interrupt, but then to make fat joke comments.  Dude, your ugly and your hair sucks.


At the evening part of the date we learn more about Doug and his family history, he is sincere and honest and I like him.  I feel like him and Emily have had a slow start but have a connection.


Tony oh Tony, stop your weeping and get lost.  Yes I can sympathize that you miss your kid.  I think you are playing it up because you know she will never choose you.  Emily did the polite thing and "excused" him to go home and be a father.  I mean really you knew what you were signing up for. Bye Tony.


Final date goes to my favorite and who I ultimately think will win Emily's heart...Arie.  I have liked him from minute one and tonight's date sealed the deal.  Dollywood sucks but Emily loved it and as you saw he loved watching her love it.  He only had eyes for her and forehead kisses are genuine and sweet.


At the end Kalin is still a jerk and his no socks with his shoes pissed me off. Allesandro..where to begin, your hair is an embarrassment. You dating your 3 rd cousin is disturbing.  You cheating on your 3rd cousin is a bit more normal.  You in general make me glad I am not single.


Emily sent his ass home along with  jersey boy Stevie...dance your ass off baby!!!


In the end I really dislike Ryan and Kalin and really heart Arie and Jef.


But to be honest I am not sure how I feel about Emily (woof)

Bye Bye Dawson....

What can cure the rainy day blues, well of course the trials and tribulations of our dear Bachlorette Emily.  Curling up on the couch just starting to get vested into the new season here we go......


Emily's first one on one date of the season belonged to Ryan.  Big muscles, tanned skin and swept up hair that looked like gumby's.  As we know Bachelor/Bachelorette dates are usually over the top helicopter rides, bungee jumping, swimming w/ shark events.  Ryan got baking cookies in Emily's kitchen for her daughter's soccer team.  Ha Ha, I love this basically because I don't like Ryan, and I believe any sort of cooking or just being in the kitchen is torture.  Ryan 's second part of the date was stepping onto the red carpet and having a nice dinner with Emily.  He had a look on his face like he belonged on a red carpet,  yeah behind all the other z-listers, guy you are on the The Bachlorette.  Dancing in front of their "fans", embarrassing the whole thing.  Eyes closed, please stop.  Not feeling Ryan and his big muscles and gumby hair.


Group Date:


The guys have to perform for an audience to raise money for Emily's favorite charity.  I hate these "dates" because they are always cheesy and dumb.  This did not fail but was way way worse.  I had to endure 30 minutes of Miss Piggy & Kermit.  I didn't like this crap when I was kid and I certainly don't want to watch this as an adult when I am supposed to be watching adult tv, bad adult tv but at least adult tv!!! Like I said in my Bachelor blog I have issues with children and and now puppets being on my guilty pleasures. I get its for charity and I may be bitchy and all..but I was annoyed.  I don't get people thinking its funny or cute to talk to a puppet.


Next one-on-one date goes to Joe/Dawson  - They take a private plane to The Greenbrier in West Virginia ( bet Ryan is pissed).  I have to say this place looked amazing, reminded me of the resort in the movie "Somewhere in Time"  The duo changed into black tie gear and had a romantic dinner where Emily was shooting off questions to Dawson.  Dawson's second mistake is not answering these questions and in return turning the questions back onto Emily.  First mistake is looking like a scary version of Dawson Leery. Ultimately after telling Emily he wants to come back here in the future with her and Ricki Emily tells him to get lost, kind of like what Joey did to Dawson.  I think I heard the "Dawson's Creek" theme song playing when Joe/Dawson walked away and the fireworks started.


Cocktail Party & Final Thoughts:


Tony poor Tony, humiliating sitting there while Emily reads a 7 page handwritten note from Ryann.  You should have walked away she is never going to choose you anyway.  Ryan you are scary who has 7 pages of stuff to write to someone they have known for 5 minutes.


Kalon - like I said last week, hideous, obnoxious douchebag!!


Arie - My favorite wish we saw more of him.  I have a crush and now want to go to Nascar.


Jef - My second favorite, he seemed so genuinely surprised she gave him the date rose.  I like him because of this and because of his hair and that he rides a skateboard.


Doug - Another good one, single dad, kind, considerate and good-looking.


These are my top three for the moment.  Things may change.... 

Life After 50 Shades...

I am an avid book reader or more accurately an obsessive book reader.  Once I start a book I have to finish as quickly as possible.  Thankfully I am a quick reader or else I would get nothing accomplished in my life.  I am a binge reader I read books for a couple of months then stop to get back to reality.  With that being said when I heard about the Fifty Shades of Grey Trilogy I decided let me see if this will keep me interested.  Ahhh ok within 25 pages I was hooked.


What can I say, Christian Grey swept through the pages and I couldn't put the book down.  Three books in 4 days, all consuming wishing it would never end but also needing it to.  I don't want to delve to deep in the details of the book but more about the popularity of this series.  Once I started reading I felt like it was everywhere I went, if you could actually get you hands on it.  One of the girls I work with checked her library and she was the 376th person on the list to get the book.  This was crazy.  But Christian he was worth the wait.


Something I did notice was that when talking to the different people who were reading the book there was definitely 2 sides of how people felt about this book and about Christian.  I would say the 45 and over crowd equally loved the book but thought Christian was a sicko.  Where the 45 and under wanted to know where we could find this man.  Ha Ha makes some interesting conversations.  


As I listened to people who were finishing the series there was always the same sentiment, now what??  It was like a depression to have to leave his Fifty Shades of F#@%$ up life behind.  


I have since read a couple of books that can help with the detox but they aren't Christian...just guys named Gideon and Kellan. 


I read Bared to You by Sylvia Day - This book is closer to Fifty Shades with the main characters being Gideon & Eva.  Just beware it stops abruptly and the sequel doesn't come out till October.  I was pissed!


Next I read Thoughtless & Effortless by S.C. Stephens - I actually loved these books and the main character Kellan.  


Like I said in a previous blog, I started a so called "book" a couple of years ago and every so often go back to it.  I now have to change the main characters name since it was Christian and I know longer can look at him the same way.  I also think that if I add in a lot more smut and maybe a whip and some handcuffs we may have a winner on our hands.

We've Only Just Begun...

Ok folks, here we go again but this time it's Bachelorette time!!!


Emily oh sweet Emily, like a tiny barbie doll only with a kid and a really annoying accent in tow.  Ok Ok, Ill be nice to start with.  Emily seems lovely and sweet just like we picture a southern belle, she has a sad story which I think makes her seem even sweeter.  I really don't know but these southern ladies just seem so dripping with sweetness that I think I would go mad if I lived there.  Or they are just really good actresses and really are evil trolls.  Either way...


I didn't watch her whole season when Brad picked her for his bride on The Bachelor but from what I did see is that the sheer fact that she said yes to Brad made me question her intelligence, he just gives up such a douchbaggy vibe.


With that being said I do hope she finds someone so she too can live "Happily Ever After" like Bachelor Ben and Courtney/Sybil.


So the first episode basically gives us a quick intro to Emily's potential future husband.
Here's a few highlights that stuck out for me..


Doug - has a son who wrote Emily a letter.  That's cheating first of all, but seriously he seemed sincere and I think he will be sticking around for a while.


Steve - really a boombox and dancing.  I cringed as he kind of danced/stroked out...just painful!


David - Singer from NYC.  I thought not bad looking then he opened his mouth, "Emily..Emily...wtf, I was embarrassed he was from NY.  Enough said.


Jeff - Skateboarder, he wasn't bad looking either but seems a bit juvenile for the southern belle


Kalon - Helicopter snob.  What else..ok yes..smug, ugly, asshole. Please leave


Arie - Race Car Driver.  I liked him and thought he was cute.  I liked that he told her right from the start what he did knowing that she may not have been ok with it.  He may be my favorite right now.


Brent - 6 kids - adios this is not the "Brady Bunch"


Chris - Bobble-Headed freak.  Sometimes it's just truly hard to keep my eyes on the tv.


It didn't seem to me that Emily actually had a lot of decent guys to choose from.  Most of them reminded me of the flock of guys you would find at any local high school or sanitarium.  Maybe as the weeks go bye I will feel differently, you know I will be sure not to hold it back.


Ahhh Monday's glad you are back...

Disney or Bust...

Ahhh the Magic Kingdom, Mickey Mouse, Cinderella's Castle, swarms of people, a billion screaming kids..sounds like a dream vacation.


Just a quick blog before I leave tomorrow to take the kids to the most magical place on earth.  I personally am not a zippity do da kind of gal but being a parent means sometimes having to put your children ahead of yourself.  Every child should be able to experience the thrill of Disney World and I am taking one for the team. 


I went to Disney when I was about 12 years old not that i didn't enjoy it but being the type of child that basically puked on any moving object rides were not an option.  What I do remember is sitting in the Hall of Presidents at the request of my older brother Michael.  (More mental torture..check out ("I had the time of my life" blog)  If I remember correctly it was like 2 hours of torture.  The only plus was that it was air conditioned and I was able to sleep off the dramamine my father drugged me with.


I am going on this adventure with a glass half full attitude, I do believe my kids will have the time of their lives.  I hope to make it special and I pray that meltdowns are minimal and will pay any astronomical price for cocktails to fuel me till the bitter end.


After 3 fun-filled days in Disney we will be spending 4 days relaxing with friends away from the characters and happy smiling people, I mean really how much cheer and positivity can one take.


I am sure to have many stories to share on my return...stay tuned for cheerful pics, maybe I will even be wearing my Mickey ears!!!

Oprah, Oprah, Oprah....

Ok just to start I am not one to drink the Kool Aid but felt like this was worthy of a blog.

My dear friend Lynn invited me to go with her to Oprah's Lifeclass Tour @ Radio City Musical Hall and I graciously accepted.  Along with Oprah special guest would be Master Life coach Tony Robbins.

I personally have not seen any previous Lifeclass episodes and wasn't really sure what was in store for me. Basically what I had heard that these were tours that Oprah and guest motivators do to help people reach their fullest potential.

I was excited to go but not quite convinced that I would really get anything meaningful out of the experience except for hanging out with Lynn and experiencing Oprah.  For me things like "finding my inner self" and meditation and anything zen like really doesn't mix.  I think by nature my brain can't relax and its an impossibility for me to go to the "quiet place"

As Lynn and I entered Radio City Music Hall we were giddy with excitement.  Maybe this would be the the event that changed the direction of our lives, maybe Oprah and Tony had all the answers or maybe even better she was giving away cars!!!

As we made our way to our seats I do have to say that the energy was definitely exciting.  They had music blaring and the crowd was on their feet. 

At this point Tony Robbins came out and started to get the crowd motivated, he started with some exercises that basically made you interact with the strangers around you.  All I can say is that yes I was hugged and picked up by the woman sitting behind me.  If anyone really knows me the sheer fact that I let a total stranger touch me is progress in itself. 


Most of the people in the audience were 100% into this experience I watched them repeat every word they were told too, take notes, and let everything soak in.  People were posting to facebook and tweeting the entire 2 hours.  I did try to do the same but as I said I have a hard time jumping in 100% so I just looked around waiting for someone to pass me my red juice.

Once Oprah came out the crowd was on their feet and the next 2 hours was going to change some lives.  Oprah and Tony brought people on stage and worked with them to overcome their fears.  And by using these people were trying to get the message out their to all of us....

"We are telling ourselves stories.  The question is does your story empower you or hold you back"?

"You can't have real courage unless there is something you are really afraid of".

Courage is feeling the fear & doing it anyway.

"The only solution to fear is massive action".

"You can't wait for the perfect situation.  You've got to get out there and discover your passion."

While I didn't leave Radio City Music Hall as a new person with all the answers, I do have to say that the message makes sense to me.  Realize what holds you back and hit it head on.  Don't let "your story" (your excuse) be the reason that you say you can't succeed.  The only way to face the fears that hold you back is to change your story and move ahead.  Having the courage to face the fear will be the only way to get results.  And finally you can't sit back and wait for your perfect situation, it's trying new things and exploring that will uncover what it is that brings you passion.


So now that Oprah and Tony have enlightened me of the way to succeed overcoming my fears and being successful, I just have to figure out what is is I want to be when I grow up.

I Had The Time Of My Life...

So this blog is dedicated to my brothers who read my blog and for the most part haven't been able to follow since they don't watch The Bachelor.  I can't understand why they wouldn't be as excited as me to watch this show every week.

As an only sister to two brothers smack in the middle with 4 years between Michael and I and 5 years between John John and I, we have had some interesting times.  I have a hard time really remembering the early years but what I do remember is the torture bestowed upon me by Michael.. Sometimes physical most of the time emotional.  I at an early age was obsessed with movies and with my adult life this becomes all consuming.  "Dirty Dancing" was the movie, Patrick Swayze was my guy, and I had the Time of My Life was the song.  I even had a life size cardboard cutout of Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey in my room that the lady from the video store gave me.  Any time the video would come on tv I could hear it and would run to the tv to watch and listen.  Knowing this and my obsession when Michael heard me bounding down the stairs to catch the video as soon as I rounded the corner just about to catch a glimpse of "the lift"  Michael would change the channel.  Bam I would flip out yell and stamp away, halfway back up the stairs I would hear the song again and run back down turn the corner and switch he goes.  This was a constant and I had no power to stop him.

In the cabbage patch craze, I had a Dugger Family worth, all with new names I gave them and special places they belonged.  At this time these dolls meant a lot to me.  So how do you think I felt when one day I walked in my room and they all were hanging from the ceiling with string around their necks.  Even on a chair I was unable to reach them to save them from death by strangulation.

There are so many stories like these that I know everyone has as well.  The thing about Michael is that everyone thought he was just so perfect, smart, polite and just a sweet angel.  These are the ones that are the most evil.

John John seemed so much younger to me growing up and that is chalked up to the 5 year gap between us.  What I do remember though was his obsession with dinosaurs.  Maybe when he was like 6 and I was 11 he told me he was going to be a Paleontologist.  I think I told him to "screw off" thinking to myself what the hell was a paleontologist.  Asshole kid!  I was too busy obsessing over Patrick Swayze and Cabbage Patch Kids to be that smart.


While my brothers were busying playing Dungeons & Dragons, Risk and studying fossils I was busy as well.  Busy playing dress-up,singing & dancing in my room, playing with make-up and seeing how I could annoy the shit out of them.


As you get older and the age-gap seems less important you can start to share similar interests that bring you together.  For example on a family cruise we took before I moved to California was a fine example.  If you have ever been on a cruise you know that you give your credit card and they give you a cruise card that you use and the charges come in your credit card bill.  Well since Michael and I were considered adults at this point we had to use our own card, John John still being a minor had a cruise card billed to my parents credit card.  Ahhh bonding time...Michael and I convinced John John to get all our drinks for a week....a month later poor mom & dad.  I was long gone laying on the beach in sunny California!!!

As any sister knows who only has brothers being in this role makes you the "mother"  reminding them of birthdays, doing their Christmas shopping, wrapping their Christmas gifts, picking out clothes and just being a nag in general.  As "adults" who now have real jobs and families the dynamic changes.  My younger brother at times seems like my older brother (sister sitting) at its finest!!


Even though Michael has lived in DC for 25 years it feels like yesterday he would be banging on my bedroom wall threatening my life if I didn't stop singing "The Sun Will Come Out Tomorrow"


Would I have wanted to have a sister, I am not really sure.  I have such close ladies in my life they felt like sisters but for me my brothers are swell.