My friends, I have gone to the gym five days in a row this week. This is no easy feat, and I feel GREAT! This morning I even ventured to try out the whole "reading on the elliptical" thing, but found that my current reading pieces wouldn't do. War & Peace has too small of a font, and The Best Magazine Writing of 2009 wouldn't stay open without me holding it. Thus, I grabbed the latest issue of Entertainment Weekly and had a great heart-pumping workout while reading about how Zoe Saldana should not be considered for an Oscar as her mainly computer-generated character in Avatar, how Jay Leno sucks (duh), and some great actors of the year simultaneously starred in paltry fare (George, Sandra, Meryl). I felt pretty, pretty good by the end of it.
The rest of the week I designated to my iPod, though. So here's what I was listening to for my workout:
01 Vagabond - Wolfmother
02 Young Crazed Peeling - The Distillers
03 Third Engine - Saves the Day
04 Seventy Times Seven - Brand New (I've come to find angry, vengeful music is great to work out to!)
05 Coral Fang - The Distillers
06 Lazier Then the Furniture - The Matches
07 @!#?@! - Motion City Soundtrack
08 Violet - Hole
09 Beat Your Heart Out - The Distillers (I remembered how much I love The Distillers this week.)
10 This Fire - Franz Ferdinand
11 When I Grow Up - Garbage
12 I Get Around - Dragonette
13 You Make My Dreams - Hall & Oates (because it will make you smile as you end your workout!)
Thanks for reading along with my whole workout mania, it helps to write it all down. Seriously, this will surprise Jesse the most, but I haven't pressed the snooze button ONCE since I started getting up early to work out! I was known for being a "gradual riser." Not anymore!
Tonight I'll be going back to the Friday night salsa class, followed by a zumba class! What's on your weekend schedule?
Friday, January 29, 2010
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Rip scripts, slash, burn up the courage.
Another thing about my job is that it can be pretty easygoing on most days - except for one week out of every month. Which happens to be this week. And when I return to the homestead every evening during these kinds of weeks, the last thing I want to do is look at a computer some more! But I'm hoping to get a post up tonight that's been in the works for a while! Stay tuned.
For now, here's a list of random:
For now, here's a list of random:
- I get to see Jesse next week!!!!
- Remember back in December, when I went to Chicago for the Motion City Soundtrack shows and posted each night's setlist to my tumblr? Well, since Motion City (re)learned their entire catalog back then, they're switching up their setlists each night of their current tour and Jesse has taken it upon himself to post their setlist each night to their own tumblr! Check it out!
- Their album My Dinosaur Life debuted on the charts at #15 !!! WOOOOOOO!!! Also, it's the only album artwork that doesn't show up on my computer here at work:
And #3 on the Alternative Chart !!!
- Jesse and I are currently in the lead for that wedding photo contest - but please vote for us if you haven't! It ends on Monday, February 1st.
- I get to see Jesse next week!!!!
- Motion City is performing on THE JIMMY FALLON SHOW next week, too! You bet I'll be there!! (And of course, remind you to watch on February 2nd!)
- I got to hang out with my bestie Jiscilla last night, as she's taking off tomorrow to visit our other bestie Christy in Austin, TX. I'm jealous of sweet friend hangs PLUS sweeter weather than the snow/sleet that's going on right now in New York. However, last night was uproarious fun with the gang, and Jiscilla's lovely boyfriend Tyler footed the bill at the end of dinner in a suprise move. Dude rules.
- My friend Jim has the same "break out laugh face" that George Clooney does.
- In (seriously) unrelated news, Robert Downey Jr.'s Golden Globes speech has pushed him into the #1 spot on my own popularity chart, the Top Five. George, after years as king, has been dethroned. Also, in case you hadn't heard, Mark Ruffalo and Joseph Gordon-Levitt replaced Lee Pace and Chris Pine, as well.
- The gym, I'm loving it. Haven't skipped a morning yet!
- And I recieved another FormSpring question yesterday, another one I already answered! Here's the question: thanks for sharing! (i asked what you do for a living) "transponster" i detect a Friends reference! (You are correct!) It seems you live a lifestyle that is desperately desired, did you always imagine your life would turn out this way? If not, how did you imagine it would? Here's my answer! (It's somewhere there in that list!) Thanks for asking - and for thinking my life is desirable! I'm pretty happy with it!
- Of course, anyone can ask me anything.
- I get to see Jesse next week!!!!
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
And now we've realigned the edges.
Hola! I remembered I have a couple of FormSpring questions to attend to!
You mentioned your parents had a love story similar to the Colin Firth (Jamie)/Lucia Moniz (Aurelia) storyline from Love Actually. Do Tell!
OH DEAR. Okay, I wrote it out once, about four years ago, but only spent about ten minutes on it. I was about to copy/paste it here but wow, it's embarassing writing. I plan on one day really carving out the story, but I have no time to do so at the moment. I will give you the gist!
My dad, James, was in the US Army stationed in Panama in 1981, when he met my mother, Maria (a local Panamanian), one night at the Officer's Club. They danced and tried to communicate - but my dad didn't know Spanish and my mother didn't know English. However, three days later, he proposed to her. Four months later, they were married in Panama! Oh, and they were both engaged to other people when they met...
They've been together coming on 28 years now (and learned each other's languages!) and they are still as happy as can be - anybody who has met them can attest to that!
Here they are dancing the night away last August at the rehearsal dinner (photo by Jiscilla!) --
I really enjoy reading your blog, for no other reason than you just seem like such a sweetheart and an interesting person. but I actually do have a real question, what do you do for a living?
Thank you! I tend to keep my job on the down low here, but that was the first question I got! Read my response HERE! The only thing that has changed is that my team moved from the Footwear & Accessories floor.
I'm including this here, as I continue to make myself accountable for my gym-frequenting through this blog - Ang asked me if I made it to the gym this morning --
YES! I'm still waking up at 5:45 every morning before work, and I have since Thursday the 14th. I'm feeling grand! Thanks for the all the music suggestions, too! Um, why didn't I think of Garbage before?! And Thrice?! Liz has posted her own stellar work-out playlist, and I was surprised to see that Alexa reads while she's on the elliptical! VERY INTERESTING! I may try this - though we all know I do plenty of reading on my commute! Expect another playlist this Friday, and I'm heeding all your comments, for sure. Thank you for the input!
And finally, I'd just like to mention (as I did via my Twitter) that my wonderful wedding photographer - you all remember Channing Johnson?! - is hosting a contest on his blog regarding the best wedding photos of 2009 and Jesse and I are up for this photo of me walking down the stairs past all my family photos --
All of his photos are lovely, and I couldn't be happier with the photos Channing took of our wedding day! Check him out if you happen to be in the market for a truly superb wedding photographer. And, if you get a chance, vote! Thank you so very much!
You mentioned your parents had a love story similar to the Colin Firth (Jamie)/Lucia Moniz (Aurelia) storyline from Love Actually. Do Tell!
OH DEAR. Okay, I wrote it out once, about four years ago, but only spent about ten minutes on it. I was about to copy/paste it here but wow, it's embarassing writing. I plan on one day really carving out the story, but I have no time to do so at the moment. I will give you the gist!
My dad, James, was in the US Army stationed in Panama in 1981, when he met my mother, Maria (a local Panamanian), one night at the Officer's Club. They danced and tried to communicate - but my dad didn't know Spanish and my mother didn't know English. However, three days later, he proposed to her. Four months later, they were married in Panama! Oh, and they were both engaged to other people when they met...
They've been together coming on 28 years now (and learned each other's languages!) and they are still as happy as can be - anybody who has met them can attest to that!
Here they are dancing the night away last August at the rehearsal dinner (photo by Jiscilla!) --
I really enjoy reading your blog, for no other reason than you just seem like such a sweetheart and an interesting person. but I actually do have a real question, what do you do for a living?
Thank you! I tend to keep my job on the down low here, but that was the first question I got! Read my response HERE! The only thing that has changed is that my team moved from the Footwear & Accessories floor.
I'm including this here, as I continue to make myself accountable for my gym-frequenting through this blog - Ang asked me if I made it to the gym this morning --
YES! I'm still waking up at 5:45 every morning before work, and I have since Thursday the 14th. I'm feeling grand! Thanks for the all the music suggestions, too! Um, why didn't I think of Garbage before?! And Thrice?! Liz has posted her own stellar work-out playlist, and I was surprised to see that Alexa reads while she's on the elliptical! VERY INTERESTING! I may try this - though we all know I do plenty of reading on my commute! Expect another playlist this Friday, and I'm heeding all your comments, for sure. Thank you for the input!
And finally, I'd just like to mention (as I did via my Twitter) that my wonderful wedding photographer - you all remember Channing Johnson?! - is hosting a contest on his blog regarding the best wedding photos of 2009 and Jesse and I are up for this photo of me walking down the stairs past all my family photos --
Friday, January 22, 2010
Tick tock, sweat, switch up the fingers.
You remember the whole exercising thing I'm attempting? It's working out! Pun intended! Yeah! See how my endorphins are affecting my enthusiastic blogging and exclamation point usage?! Yeah!
I've been getting up every morning at 5:45 to get to the gym by 6, where I use the elliptical for about 45 minutes. I haven't attempted the Spin/Yoga class again because it simply isn't offered at the right time for me - I need to be working out by 6am, and it starts at 6:30. Tonight I'm also branching out: I'm taking a zumba dance class! It came highly recommended from you readers, so I'm going to try it!
In related news, I've found it necessary to create a playlist for my elliptical-ing. I'm going to share it below with the note that I prefer revving rock songs to work out to - driving drum beats! And synth is always a plus! In case you'd like to check out any of these sweet workout tracks, I've linked each song to their Amazon mp3. It's also my first ever attempt at creating such a playlist (remember I never really worked out before?), so I assume my playlists will be honed to perfection in the future.
Warmup:
01 Doves - There Goes the Fear (this song is super long at 6:56 so I usually cut it off when I'm done warming up. My favourite warming up songs are what I call "walking" or "marching" songs - like you can picture yourself strutting down the street to it. Another example: The Killers - "All These Things That I've Done." You know, to build up instead of start out straight running. I'm strange.)
Workout:
02 No Doubt - Don't Let Me Down
03 Motion City Soundtrack - Disappear (remember how I said this song is like being chased? That's a great feeling for a workout, right?)
04 The Ting Tings - Great DJ (my current favourite to work out to - so easy to go along to the beat!)
05 Sherwood - Best in Me
06 Damone - Out of My Way
07 Blink 182 - Easy Target (sample lyric: "Better run! run! run! run! run!")
08 Against Me! - Thrash Unreal
09 Motion City Soundtrack - Pulp Fiction
10 +44 - When Your Heart Stops Beating
11 No Doubt - Excuse Me Mr.
Cooldown:
12 Superdrag - Drag Me Closer to You (just mildly slower than the others above!)
13 The Kooks - She Moves in Her Own Way (way slower tempo but I step off the elliptical almost skipping to the locker room.)
What songs do you work out to? All suggestions welcome!
I've been getting up every morning at 5:45 to get to the gym by 6, where I use the elliptical for about 45 minutes. I haven't attempted the Spin/Yoga class again because it simply isn't offered at the right time for me - I need to be working out by 6am, and it starts at 6:30. Tonight I'm also branching out: I'm taking a zumba dance class! It came highly recommended from you readers, so I'm going to try it!
In related news, I've found it necessary to create a playlist for my elliptical-ing. I'm going to share it below with the note that I prefer revving rock songs to work out to - driving drum beats! And synth is always a plus! In case you'd like to check out any of these sweet workout tracks, I've linked each song to their Amazon mp3. It's also my first ever attempt at creating such a playlist (remember I never really worked out before?), so I assume my playlists will be honed to perfection in the future.
Warmup:
01 Doves - There Goes the Fear (this song is super long at 6:56 so I usually cut it off when I'm done warming up. My favourite warming up songs are what I call "walking" or "marching" songs - like you can picture yourself strutting down the street to it. Another example: The Killers - "All These Things That I've Done." You know, to build up instead of start out straight running. I'm strange.)
Workout:
02 No Doubt - Don't Let Me Down
03 Motion City Soundtrack - Disappear (remember how I said this song is like being chased? That's a great feeling for a workout, right?)
04 The Ting Tings - Great DJ (my current favourite to work out to - so easy to go along to the beat!)
05 Sherwood - Best in Me
06 Damone - Out of My Way
07 Blink 182 - Easy Target (sample lyric: "Better run! run! run! run! run!")
08 Against Me! - Thrash Unreal
09 Motion City Soundtrack - Pulp Fiction
10 +44 - When Your Heart Stops Beating
11 No Doubt - Excuse Me Mr.
Cooldown:
12 Superdrag - Drag Me Closer to You (just mildly slower than the others above!)
13 The Kooks - She Moves in Her Own Way (way slower tempo but I step off the elliptical almost skipping to the locker room.)
What songs do you work out to? All suggestions welcome!
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Years of sweet resistance.
Last night, by the hand of a supremely nice human being (many thanks, Vinnie!), I was able to go to Vintage Vinyl in Fords, New Jersey for Motion City Soundtrack's acoustic in-store performance/interview hosted by Steven Smith. Quite a funny night, and I got to hang with Jesse one more time before the actual tour starts (this Saturday in Minneapolis!). I suppose that's what we do in our marriage: (ad)venture across state lines for one more hour, minute, second.
Yes - now he's gone again. It will only be for roughly (a rough?) two weeks, and then he comes back through New York for their local tour date - plus! - they will be on the Jimmy Fallon Show on February 2nd! Hurrah!
Anyone checking out MCS on tour? I've already been inquiring with Jesse as to which new songs they're playing...nothing is set in stone yet, but they've been practicing all the new stuff! What would you like to hear? I think I'm just ready for another album show for My Dinosaur Life! Start to finish! Let's go!
In other news, I've been doing well getting to the gym every morning before work! I shall say it again: hurrah!
And finally, I forgot Amber and I had taken these pictures with Photobooth last Saturday before we went out. It was quite a hilarious photo session, so I thought I'd share - just look at Amber...
We are silly. Who else to be silly with but your bestest friends?!
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
And my heart is pounding brightly.
I know you said that your job really has nothing to do with your degree/ major do you ever wish you were doing something more related to them? Do you plan on finding something more directly related in the future?
Ohio Lurker
I often think about this - the fact that I feel like I'm letting that journalism degree rust away. However, at the same time I'm definitely happy in my job (satisfied, fulfilled, etc.) and it's not exactly the best time to be looking for a new job, especially one in a different industry - and one that's dying. When I first started this job I freelance wrote and edited for a women's website, but that site failed and I didn't have any leads on other freelance jobs I could take while keeping my 9-5. I do hope to broaden the scope of my writing beyond this blog, and yes, I have a plan for it.
Jessica - this is not a question, but more of a...story? Something Like that. The way I found your blog is weird and I thought you should hear about it. In early 2007 I was clicking around on buzznet, looking for MCS pictures, when I found your account. I saw pictures of Jesse, I don't think you had been dating at that point, but as time went on I would go back and look at your pictures. What I'm saying is, I watched your relationship with Jesse grow and would read your blogs and live vicariously through your words. Then you got married. I felt so lucky to watch this relationship grow, even though you have no idea who I am and I don't know you in person either. I love your blogs still, I check back in every once in a while. It's awesome. Keep going!
Ohhhhh MAN! I just did a quick glance at my Buzznet - I check in every once in a while, but it doesn't work too well on my work computer. But I found some of those pictures you probably saw! Taken with my way-awful Sidekick3 camera ----
Random question, how tall are you?
I'm between 5'5'' and 5'6''!
Ask my anything.
Ohio Lurker
I often think about this - the fact that I feel like I'm letting that journalism degree rust away. However, at the same time I'm definitely happy in my job (satisfied, fulfilled, etc.) and it's not exactly the best time to be looking for a new job, especially one in a different industry - and one that's dying. When I first started this job I freelance wrote and edited for a women's website, but that site failed and I didn't have any leads on other freelance jobs I could take while keeping my 9-5. I do hope to broaden the scope of my writing beyond this blog, and yes, I have a plan for it.
Jessica - this is not a question, but more of a...story? Something Like that. The way I found your blog is weird and I thought you should hear about it. In early 2007 I was clicking around on buzznet, looking for MCS pictures, when I found your account. I saw pictures of Jesse, I don't think you had been dating at that point, but as time went on I would go back and look at your pictures. What I'm saying is, I watched your relationship with Jesse grow and would read your blogs and live vicariously through your words. Then you got married. I felt so lucky to watch this relationship grow, even though you have no idea who I am and I don't know you in person either. I love your blogs still, I check back in every once in a while. It's awesome. Keep going!
Ohhhhh MAN! I just did a quick glance at my Buzznet - I check in every once in a while, but it doesn't work too well on my work computer. But I found some of those pictures you probably saw! Taken with my way-awful Sidekick3 camera ----
We were not dating here. But this is the night I called second dibs.
I believe this one was taken the first week we were officially dating.
Thanks for following along, dear reader! I remember I got my Sidekick3 the week before I started hanging out with Jesse, so snippets of our burgeoning relationship was catalogued, which is kind of cool. It's fun to learn people have been following along on the ride!
I'm between 5'5'' and 5'6''!
Ask my anything.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
MY DINOSAUR LIFE - MY TRACK BY TRACK REVIEW.
Last week, you may have seen my tumblr post regarding Anna's track-by-track review of the streaming My Dinosaur Life. Her post inspired me to write my own track-by-track and I've decided to post it here in celebration of the album's official release - TODAY!
Here is me celebratin'!
I wish I could say I had a glass of wine or two before taking these pictures, but I didn't. I am simply that excited for the date to be JANUARY 19TH 2010! It was a long time coming. Plus, I keep posting the album cover and that just gets boring to see on every post, right?
Anyway - here's what I wrote last week in response to Anna's post:
I love these track-by-track reviews! After only being able to discuss the songs with a handful of people who’d heard it, I’m eager to hear what others think. I’m in love with My Dinosaur Life, and I write that trying to be completely unbiased, as somebody who’s been listening to the band before I knew them, and just happened to marry the keyboardist - I write that as a fan! (As dorky as it may be. As “meant to be” as it all seems.)
I’m somebody that falls in love with music and then must hear how others hear it (see also: Heartbreaker, Deja Entendu, The Con) - I made all my friends buy I Am the Movie on the power of seeing them live in 2003 before it was released on Epitaph and having only a two-song sampler of “My Favorite Accident” and “The Future Freaks Me Out” to pass around. I scoured the AP.net threads for first-listen opinions on CTTM as well…and pretty sure I left my own. I remember when they posted “Better Open the Door” on AP.net pre-album release and I listened to it over, and over, and over again. I’m not going to lie: hearing the songs for EIIKM and MDL in-studio months before release definitely still gave me a rush of fan-excitement.
Also, I’ve come to find that MCS have the BEST fans! They all seem so fun and positive and ready for whatever MCS has in store for them.
I present to you my fan-to-the-max track-by-track review --
01 Worker Bee
What great lines to open an album with - "it's been a good year, a good new beginning." First songs should get you excited for what's in store, and I think "Worker Bee" is a wonderful example; it always leaves me full of anticipation, every time I hear it. Also from the get-go, you hear Justin singing his lungs out superbly and he keeps up that raw intensity through most of the album.
02 A Lifeless Ordinary (Need a Little Help)
This catchy number was the first demo I heard, and just from that recording - with the machine drums - I had it stuck in my head for days. I found myself walking around and singing the chorus; at the same time I can't stress how absurdly greater the songs became after Tony's drums were added - before I was just walking around, but after hearing the final version I was bopping my head and shuffling my feet down city sidewalks. Tony's drumming has some sort of crazy charisma, I swear.
Of course, my first reaction to the song was to the lyric "indoor living, lacerated to the bone," I remember telling Jesse, "Did he say indoor living? Oh man, the fans are gonna love that." (Read: I freakin' love that.) I also loved hearing this song played in Las Vegas for the first time in July, and then played several months later in Chicago to a room that knew the lyrics and the room singing along: "but I'm gonna need a little help to get me, need a little help to get me..." etc., etc., etc. Sentiments of camaraderie.
03 Her Words Destroyed My Planet
You all know me too well: I immediately loved this song because of the Veronica Mars namedrop (seriously, does this give you enough incentive to watch that marvelous television show yet?!). The sounds of the song are kooky and perfect, I am almost always shaking my head violently side to side when I hear this song. Hey guess what I'm doing now? THAT.
But back to those lyrics - some people mistake all the pop culture references in the songs as some sort of abstraction without real emotion, but MCS songs (especially about love) are entirely relevant and relatable. I've already gotten an email saying "there's no way this song doesn't remind you of me." It's true! These songs about love are also never corny, which never ceases to amaze me.
04 Disappear
Love the strength in this song - the first "I can disappear" always comes with the imagery of a fist pump. The song bites and drives and never lets you go. The chosen words add to the mood, such as - cadavers, decompose, festering, severing, artery. The last words seem a desperate plea after feeling like this song has been chasing you...
05 Delirium
I dig the minimalist-sounding verses here, complimented by the big choruses that tread upon old subjects that haven't tired. Another great example of Justin's fun vocals, plus the classic MCS pull of sounding fun but talking about something more serious - or are they? Honestly, this song makes me laugh when he sings, "I didn't know it was hot in the middle."
06 History Lesson
For a while, I had been listening to the original version of this song (the song that went up on MySpace last week until it got replaced by the actual final version). I think the first version didn't have a lot of personality - and MCS is nothing if not full of that. This version is a bit more complex and fun; there are gang vocals!
07 Stand Too Close
Maybe my favourite songs are those without actual choruses (i.e., "Last Night"). This was a hit with me personally right when I heard it. Handclaps, people, handclaps. Romance me with handclaps, I'll be yours forever. But for real: there's a seriousness here juxtaposed with cheeky lyrics. And as the song culminates in louder and louder sounds, my smile gets bigger.
08 Pulp Fiction
And even bigger! Maybe it's those choice keyboards at the beginning - they almost remind me of a certain No Doubt song - guess I'm a sucker for those spacey keyboard sounds. And here is the onslaught of pop culture lyrics everybody loves MCS for! The rapid-paced song ends soothingly in those lovely "aahhhhs" - I'm most definitely into it.
09 @!#?@!
Here it is! My dance around the room and sing into the mirror song! I always think that any album worth a damn has one of those especially for me (or others who do the same!). I can't wait to hear the crowd go crazy to this one live. I remember hearing the geeky (& yes, very explicit) lyrics and specifically the phrase "sensitive home boys" and thinking fans were going to die laughing, as I did upon first hearing it. I definitely snap my fingers along and dance around like I'm at a sockhop - no joke! And no, I will not video this for you! WORD!
10 Hysteria
Totally into the opening of this song; it makes me think that perhaps Motion City Soundtrack should just tour with No Doubt already! Nobody will get that. But since I know every ND song and their intricacies, I find myself bouncing around to My Dinosaur Life like I do of their own fun, beguiling, layered albums. Plus, I can't deny that I don't have dreams about a tour line-up like that. But you know what this song has that very little ND songs have? You guessed it: handclaps.
11 Skin and Bones
Honestly, going through these songs makes me realize how much I love each and every one of them together and separately. There's not one I would toss out of the bunch. The whole album is pure and unadulterated MCS, and the streak continues with this mounting and lovely ditty. It makes me want to "frolic." Yup.
I hesitate to restate this, but maybe this one's my favourite? Can I have five faves? Twelve?
12 The Weakends
Okay, wait, no THIS is my favourite song on the album. I could listen to that intro and kick-in forever. I'm not much of a jam band fan, but I wouldn't complain if those first 45 seconds or so lasted for many more minutes. I think it just relaxes me into the finale of the album only to jolt me awake: we're not done yet. And that's what this song, and ultimately the album is - aggressive. Some of the songs are obviously softer, but I'm pretty sure MCS just knocked you out with how awesome these songs are by the time you come to those last notes and the slow burn.
Don't forget to buy it, now! Have I not convinced you how RAD it is yet? Because, really, it is. It's not just me. All the reviews coming in have been backing me up, and I couldn't be more happy. Also: PROUD! I'm so proud of those dudes and their abilities to produce (with Mark Hoppus' help, of course) My Dinosaur Life.
Support them by checking the album out at your local retailer or online at Shockhound, Amazon, or iTunes (here's the Deluxe with five extra songs!).
And please, send me any links to your own blogged reviews or leave your thoughts in the comments! What's your favourite song? Which one can't you wait to hear live?! TELL ME! Let's discuss!!!
Here is me celebratin'!
I wish I could say I had a glass of wine or two before taking these pictures, but I didn't. I am simply that excited for the date to be JANUARY 19TH 2010! It was a long time coming. Plus, I keep posting the album cover and that just gets boring to see on every post, right?
Anyway - here's what I wrote last week in response to Anna's post:
I love these track-by-track reviews! After only being able to discuss the songs with a handful of people who’d heard it, I’m eager to hear what others think. I’m in love with My Dinosaur Life, and I write that trying to be completely unbiased, as somebody who’s been listening to the band before I knew them, and just happened to marry the keyboardist - I write that as a fan! (As dorky as it may be. As “meant to be” as it all seems.)
I’m somebody that falls in love with music and then must hear how others hear it (see also: Heartbreaker, Deja Entendu, The Con) - I made all my friends buy I Am the Movie on the power of seeing them live in 2003 before it was released on Epitaph and having only a two-song sampler of “My Favorite Accident” and “The Future Freaks Me Out” to pass around. I scoured the AP.net threads for first-listen opinions on CTTM as well…and pretty sure I left my own. I remember when they posted “Better Open the Door” on AP.net pre-album release and I listened to it over, and over, and over again. I’m not going to lie: hearing the songs for EIIKM and MDL in-studio months before release definitely still gave me a rush of fan-excitement.
Also, I’ve come to find that MCS have the BEST fans! They all seem so fun and positive and ready for whatever MCS has in store for them.
I present to you my fan-to-the-max track-by-track review --
01 Worker Bee
What great lines to open an album with - "it's been a good year, a good new beginning." First songs should get you excited for what's in store, and I think "Worker Bee" is a wonderful example; it always leaves me full of anticipation, every time I hear it. Also from the get-go, you hear Justin singing his lungs out superbly and he keeps up that raw intensity through most of the album.
02 A Lifeless Ordinary (Need a Little Help)
This catchy number was the first demo I heard, and just from that recording - with the machine drums - I had it stuck in my head for days. I found myself walking around and singing the chorus; at the same time I can't stress how absurdly greater the songs became after Tony's drums were added - before I was just walking around, but after hearing the final version I was bopping my head and shuffling my feet down city sidewalks. Tony's drumming has some sort of crazy charisma, I swear.
Of course, my first reaction to the song was to the lyric "indoor living, lacerated to the bone," I remember telling Jesse, "Did he say indoor living? Oh man, the fans are gonna love that." (Read: I freakin' love that.) I also loved hearing this song played in Las Vegas for the first time in July, and then played several months later in Chicago to a room that knew the lyrics and the room singing along: "but I'm gonna need a little help to get me, need a little help to get me..." etc., etc., etc. Sentiments of camaraderie.
03 Her Words Destroyed My Planet
You all know me too well: I immediately loved this song because of the Veronica Mars namedrop (seriously, does this give you enough incentive to watch that marvelous television show yet?!). The sounds of the song are kooky and perfect, I am almost always shaking my head violently side to side when I hear this song. Hey guess what I'm doing now? THAT.
But back to those lyrics - some people mistake all the pop culture references in the songs as some sort of abstraction without real emotion, but MCS songs (especially about love) are entirely relevant and relatable. I've already gotten an email saying "there's no way this song doesn't remind you of me." It's true! These songs about love are also never corny, which never ceases to amaze me.
04 Disappear
Love the strength in this song - the first "I can disappear" always comes with the imagery of a fist pump. The song bites and drives and never lets you go. The chosen words add to the mood, such as - cadavers, decompose, festering, severing, artery. The last words seem a desperate plea after feeling like this song has been chasing you...
05 Delirium
I dig the minimalist-sounding verses here, complimented by the big choruses that tread upon old subjects that haven't tired. Another great example of Justin's fun vocals, plus the classic MCS pull of sounding fun but talking about something more serious - or are they? Honestly, this song makes me laugh when he sings, "I didn't know it was hot in the middle."
06 History Lesson
For a while, I had been listening to the original version of this song (the song that went up on MySpace last week until it got replaced by the actual final version). I think the first version didn't have a lot of personality - and MCS is nothing if not full of that. This version is a bit more complex and fun; there are gang vocals!
07 Stand Too Close
Maybe my favourite songs are those without actual choruses (i.e., "Last Night"). This was a hit with me personally right when I heard it. Handclaps, people, handclaps. Romance me with handclaps, I'll be yours forever. But for real: there's a seriousness here juxtaposed with cheeky lyrics. And as the song culminates in louder and louder sounds, my smile gets bigger.
08 Pulp Fiction
And even bigger! Maybe it's those choice keyboards at the beginning - they almost remind me of a certain No Doubt song - guess I'm a sucker for those spacey keyboard sounds. And here is the onslaught of pop culture lyrics everybody loves MCS for! The rapid-paced song ends soothingly in those lovely "aahhhhs" - I'm most definitely into it.
09 @!#?@!
Here it is! My dance around the room and sing into the mirror song! I always think that any album worth a damn has one of those especially for me (or others who do the same!). I can't wait to hear the crowd go crazy to this one live. I remember hearing the geeky (& yes, very explicit) lyrics and specifically the phrase "sensitive home boys" and thinking fans were going to die laughing, as I did upon first hearing it. I definitely snap my fingers along and dance around like I'm at a sockhop - no joke! And no, I will not video this for you! WORD!
10 Hysteria
Totally into the opening of this song; it makes me think that perhaps Motion City Soundtrack should just tour with No Doubt already! Nobody will get that. But since I know every ND song and their intricacies, I find myself bouncing around to My Dinosaur Life like I do of their own fun, beguiling, layered albums. Plus, I can't deny that I don't have dreams about a tour line-up like that. But you know what this song has that very little ND songs have? You guessed it: handclaps.
11 Skin and Bones
Honestly, going through these songs makes me realize how much I love each and every one of them together and separately. There's not one I would toss out of the bunch. The whole album is pure and unadulterated MCS, and the streak continues with this mounting and lovely ditty. It makes me want to "frolic." Yup.
I hesitate to restate this, but maybe this one's my favourite? Can I have five faves? Twelve?
12 The Weakends
Okay, wait, no THIS is my favourite song on the album. I could listen to that intro and kick-in forever. I'm not much of a jam band fan, but I wouldn't complain if those first 45 seconds or so lasted for many more minutes. I think it just relaxes me into the finale of the album only to jolt me awake: we're not done yet. And that's what this song, and ultimately the album is - aggressive. Some of the songs are obviously softer, but I'm pretty sure MCS just knocked you out with how awesome these songs are by the time you come to those last notes and the slow burn.
Don't forget to buy it, now! Have I not convinced you how RAD it is yet? Because, really, it is. It's not just me. All the reviews coming in have been backing me up, and I couldn't be more happy. Also: PROUD! I'm so proud of those dudes and their abilities to produce (with Mark Hoppus' help, of course) My Dinosaur Life.
Support them by checking the album out at your local retailer or online at Shockhound, Amazon, or iTunes (here's the Deluxe with five extra songs!).
And please, send me any links to your own blogged reviews or leave your thoughts in the comments! What's your favourite song? Which one can't you wait to hear live?! TELL ME! Let's discuss!!!
MY DINOSAUR LIFE RELEASED TODAY!!!
I will post my track-by-track review later today, lo prometo! I've just been able to hang out with Jesse for the past two days, so I've had no time to write it! I also have to get up early to work out, just got back from Motion City Soundtrack's acoustic set at Looney Tunes in Long Island, and have no time to sit down and be in the right mindset to write it!
But I will link you to all the places you can purchase this WONDERFUL WONDERFUL album My Dinosaur Life! I mean, you heard Alternative Press gave the album 5 stars out of 5 right?? And Entertainment Weekly gave it an A-?!
BUY IT NOW! ----
And support those music stores in your area! Get a physical copy! The Joe Ledbetter artwork is RAD! Really take a close look at that booklet and everything...
ENJOY! Stay tuned for my review and let me know how much you love it!!
But I will link you to all the places you can purchase this WONDERFUL WONDERFUL album My Dinosaur Life! I mean, you heard Alternative Press gave the album 5 stars out of 5 right?? And Entertainment Weekly gave it an A-?!
BUY IT NOW! ----
And support those music stores in your area! Get a physical copy! The Joe Ledbetter artwork is RAD! Really take a close look at that booklet and everything...
ENJOY! Stay tuned for my review and let me know how much you love it!!
Friday, January 15, 2010
I'm through with the old school, so let's commence the winning.
Ladies and gentlemen, it is Friday and I am in a great mood. And though you may concede this mood to the fact that Friday is my most favourite day of the week, I am also quite chipper because I've just started going to the gym...for the past two days.
I know - ME. If you know me, you know I don't "do" gyms. This is the first gym I've ever joined. I'm much more of a "walk around the city" workout kind of girl. And even occasionally kickboxing DVDs or Wii Fit from the comfort of my home. I tend to be awkward in many situations, and I logged "going to the gym" in that category as well.
However, a gym opened up a block away from me (no need for extra motivation in winter: it's steps away!) and I got a great deal signing up early. I'm way cool with any situation in which I get called a "VIP" (in this case, for signing up early!). And for the past two days, I've gotten up at 5:45am and walked over for an hour workout. Of course, my first visit was a little out of the if-my-life-were-a-sitcom files:
Me: Hi, this is my first time here since I signed up before the gym opened...
Receptionist: Great, let me just give you your official card then.
Instructor (standing by): Are you here for the spin class?
Me: Um...well, I...I have to leave by 7am for work...
Instructor: That's NO problem! We do 45 minutes Spin, 45 minutes Yoga...so you can stay for the spin and stretch out after in the locker room!
Me: Well, I, uh...I've never taken spin?
Instructor: It's okay! Your butt will hurt but you can totally go at your own pace!
Me: Well..... okay!
Then she fixed up my bike thing and I was a bit uncomfortable on that seat, but I was ready to go and her first workout song was "Hella Good" by No Doubt, so I was like, YES! LET'S DO THIS!
Cut to ten minutes later and I can't breathe and if the bikes weren't stationary everybody's going at a speed that would have lapped me about 10 times on a normal track.
Yet - I lasted 35 minutes and got to watch the sun rise over Brooklyn through the windows. The music was good, the instructor was VERY nice, and though I almost fell flat on my face when I got off the bike, the point is: I didn't. Yay! (Small victories.) I have also never felt so good throughout a day in terms of energy levels than when I worked out. I know people always say this, but since I've never had a gym membership nor worked out very early in the morning, I can now attest to this fact.
I decided to go again this morning - but not to spin! My body wouldn't be able to handle that again so soon, methinks. Instead, I worked out on the elliptical for 45 minutes while listening to the "This American Life" podcast. It was fantastico and I sent a post-workout picture of my incredibly red and sweaty face to Jesse, because, yes, I don't think my own husband has seen me post-workout. And no, I'm not posting that atrociousness here.
And you know what? I may do that spin class twice a week. I'M FEELING INVINCIBLE! And I wanted to make sure I wrote this all down, in a public forum, so that I won't renege on my newfound health-kick. Also, I'm not doing this for any weight-loss reasons: I simply want to be healthy and not run out of breath when I walk up three flights of stairs or jump around at a No Doubt show. I mean, this is who I have to keep up with:
There you have it. I've got "working out" into my routine, what's next? Cooking! Maybe. I flip through recipes almost daily, I have the awesome Epicurious iPhone app, and I have a subscription to Cooking Light magazine (thanks to my lovely mother-in-law!) - I just need to dive in, I suppose. Maybe I'll try one new recipe a week. Just typing-out-loud here, don't mind me. Check check CHECK, as my mind tends to sound when I think of these things.
As you can see, without a wedding to plan and with Jesse out of town, I set my mind to TASKS! I think I'm looking for a lot of self- and skill-improvement to get better use out of my time. It's "working out" just fine so far! Got any tips?!
I know - ME. If you know me, you know I don't "do" gyms. This is the first gym I've ever joined. I'm much more of a "walk around the city" workout kind of girl. And even occasionally kickboxing DVDs or Wii Fit from the comfort of my home. I tend to be awkward in many situations, and I logged "going to the gym" in that category as well.
However, a gym opened up a block away from me (no need for extra motivation in winter: it's steps away!) and I got a great deal signing up early. I'm way cool with any situation in which I get called a "VIP" (in this case, for signing up early!). And for the past two days, I've gotten up at 5:45am and walked over for an hour workout. Of course, my first visit was a little out of the if-my-life-were-a-sitcom files:
Me: Hi, this is my first time here since I signed up before the gym opened...
Receptionist: Great, let me just give you your official card then.
Instructor (standing by): Are you here for the spin class?
Me: Um...well, I...I have to leave by 7am for work...
Instructor: That's NO problem! We do 45 minutes Spin, 45 minutes Yoga...so you can stay for the spin and stretch out after in the locker room!
Me: Well, I, uh...I've never taken spin?
Instructor: It's okay! Your butt will hurt but you can totally go at your own pace!
Me: Well..... okay!
Then she fixed up my bike thing and I was a bit uncomfortable on that seat, but I was ready to go and her first workout song was "Hella Good" by No Doubt, so I was like, YES! LET'S DO THIS!
Cut to ten minutes later and I can't breathe and if the bikes weren't stationary everybody's going at a speed that would have lapped me about 10 times on a normal track.
Yet - I lasted 35 minutes and got to watch the sun rise over Brooklyn through the windows. The music was good, the instructor was VERY nice, and though I almost fell flat on my face when I got off the bike, the point is: I didn't. Yay! (Small victories.) I have also never felt so good throughout a day in terms of energy levels than when I worked out. I know people always say this, but since I've never had a gym membership nor worked out very early in the morning, I can now attest to this fact.
I decided to go again this morning - but not to spin! My body wouldn't be able to handle that again so soon, methinks. Instead, I worked out on the elliptical for 45 minutes while listening to the "This American Life" podcast. It was fantastico and I sent a post-workout picture of my incredibly red and sweaty face to Jesse, because, yes, I don't think my own husband has seen me post-workout. And no, I'm not posting that atrociousness here.
And you know what? I may do that spin class twice a week. I'M FEELING INVINCIBLE! And I wanted to make sure I wrote this all down, in a public forum, so that I won't renege on my newfound health-kick. Also, I'm not doing this for any weight-loss reasons: I simply want to be healthy and not run out of breath when I walk up three flights of stairs or jump around at a No Doubt show. I mean, this is who I have to keep up with:
There you have it. I've got "working out" into my routine, what's next? Cooking! Maybe. I flip through recipes almost daily, I have the awesome Epicurious iPhone app, and I have a subscription to Cooking Light magazine (thanks to my lovely mother-in-law!) - I just need to dive in, I suppose. Maybe I'll try one new recipe a week. Just typing-out-loud here, don't mind me. Check check CHECK, as my mind tends to sound when I think of these things.
As you can see, without a wedding to plan and with Jesse out of town, I set my mind to TASKS! I think I'm looking for a lot of self- and skill-improvement to get better use out of my time. It's "working out" just fine so far! Got any tips?!
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Total calamity, the choices I have made.
Hey Jessica I was wondering if you would be willing to review the new Motion City Soundtrack cd? I'd really appreciate it, I've lost contact with all my friends who are MCS fans and would love to hear another fans take on it. If you don't want to I understand.
Thanks for having a blog that always makes me smile,
*hugs*
Lurker from Ohio
Hi! I'm working on a track-by-track review of My Dinosaur Life to post next Tuesday on release day! Keep an eye out for it, and leave a comment with your own thoughts! (You can even do that now if you want.)
I'm bummed to hear that you don't have any one to flip out with to MCS! I hope this doesn't deter you from going to shows - you should probably pass along a little MCS mix to a friend who may not have heard them! Also, one great thing about the internet is now you can find people who love a band or movie or whatever as much as you - for MCS fans I'd definitely check out the official boards on their website, and if you want some reviews from fans, I'd start with Anna on tumblr, who inspired me to write my own review! MCS fans are super awesome!
Can we follow you on twitter too?
MOST DEF: http://www.twitter.com/jessicaxmaria
Um, you know how I wrote about my hobbies and "researching obscure facts"? Well, I was watching the first season of Ally McBeal on DVD the other night - I got the entire series for Christmas (thanks, bro!) - and I noticed somebody Ally was gawking at in a bar was none other than Jon Hamm! And I imdb'd it, and his no-lines-character wasn't even credited. But, it's definitely him in the 1997 episode. Also, I realized the casting director's name for the episode was "Judith Weiner" and I was like, "Could she be related in any way to Matthew WEINER who created Mad Men?!?!" But after some thorough research, I came to find that Judith died a few years ago and there were no Google-able connections between Judith and Matthew. I twittered the gist of THAT, and here's the pic I grabbed while it was on pause:
Have fun following my crazy!
Haha. I too, watched "Ke$ha" on Conan. I didn't see what the big deal was. In fact, I had to change the channel midway through the song. I don't mean to bash on her, but it's just not my style of music. Although where I'm from, lots of people seem to like her a lot. So I get roasted for not liking "what's cool" lol. Is there any other artist you find depressing?
Not everybody has to like what's considered cool! Music is your own deal.
My own deal? Ke$ha was embarassing to watch. And then bringing out presents for Conan afterwards? I don't think he was into it, either. I think I would have a lot more to be depressed about if I actually listened to the radio, but in those moments where radio is all I've got, what I've heard pretty much sucks. Plus, looking at any type of iTunes or Billboard chart is no fun. In my super-humble opinion, here are some acts that make me sour: Owl City, Black Eyed Peas, Boys Like Girls, and Miley Cyrus. That's what I can think of from the top of my head.
I mean, I know music is one's own thing for the most part, but to see what the majority chooses to listen to and pay for is depressing. Especially when you're married to someone in the music industry! Of course, when you see certain acts climbing the charts and doing well - like Paramore - there's glimmers of hope. I'm hoping for the future!
(Ask away.)
Thanks for having a blog that always makes me smile,
*hugs*
Lurker from Ohio
Hi! I'm working on a track-by-track review of My Dinosaur Life to post next Tuesday on release day! Keep an eye out for it, and leave a comment with your own thoughts! (You can even do that now if you want.)
I'm bummed to hear that you don't have any one to flip out with to MCS! I hope this doesn't deter you from going to shows - you should probably pass along a little MCS mix to a friend who may not have heard them! Also, one great thing about the internet is now you can find people who love a band or movie or whatever as much as you - for MCS fans I'd definitely check out the official boards on their website, and if you want some reviews from fans, I'd start with Anna on tumblr, who inspired me to write my own review! MCS fans are super awesome!
Can we follow you on twitter too?
MOST DEF: http://www.twitter.com/jessicaxmaria
Um, you know how I wrote about my hobbies and "researching obscure facts"? Well, I was watching the first season of Ally McBeal on DVD the other night - I got the entire series for Christmas (thanks, bro!) - and I noticed somebody Ally was gawking at in a bar was none other than Jon Hamm! And I imdb'd it, and his no-lines-character wasn't even credited. But, it's definitely him in the 1997 episode. Also, I realized the casting director's name for the episode was "Judith Weiner" and I was like, "Could she be related in any way to Matthew WEINER who created Mad Men?!?!" But after some thorough research, I came to find that Judith died a few years ago and there were no Google-able connections between Judith and Matthew. I twittered the gist of THAT, and here's the pic I grabbed while it was on pause:
Haha. I too, watched "Ke$ha" on Conan. I didn't see what the big deal was. In fact, I had to change the channel midway through the song. I don't mean to bash on her, but it's just not my style of music. Although where I'm from, lots of people seem to like her a lot. So I get roasted for not liking "what's cool" lol. Is there any other artist you find depressing?
Not everybody has to like what's considered cool! Music is your own deal.
My own deal? Ke$ha was embarassing to watch. And then bringing out presents for Conan afterwards? I don't think he was into it, either. I think I would have a lot more to be depressed about if I actually listened to the radio, but in those moments where radio is all I've got, what I've heard pretty much sucks. Plus, looking at any type of iTunes or Billboard chart is no fun. In my super-humble opinion, here are some acts that make me sour: Owl City, Black Eyed Peas, Boys Like Girls, and Miley Cyrus. That's what I can think of from the top of my head.
I mean, I know music is one's own thing for the most part, but to see what the majority chooses to listen to and pay for is depressing. Especially when you're married to someone in the music industry! Of course, when you see certain acts climbing the charts and doing well - like Paramore - there's glimmers of hope. I'm hoping for the future!
(Ask away.)
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
We're just carbon-based, we're just pixie dust.
I just want to make sure you've heard: you can now stream Motion City Soundtrack's new album My Dinosaur Life on their MySpace page! It doesn't become available for download until the official release date on January 19th, but I'm so excited everybody gets to hear it! What do you think?! I'm so in love with all of it, all the songs, I love the album!
And if you love it as much via the stream, you should probably pre-order it for it $7.99 on Shockhound!
Also, if you haven't seen their newest music video for "Her Words Destroyed My Planet" - watch NOW! I hope it makes you laugh as hysterically as I did the first time I saw it:
(If the video looks cut off or weird - go to the site!)
How adorable are the kids? And the dancing? I remember Jesse flying to LA on a Friday back in December, arriving, learning the choreography with the kids on Friday night, and then filming the whole video over the course of Saturday, and leaving LA on Sunday! Hardworking, let me tell you!
I'm so proud of him & the dudes and it's all quite exciting to witness as everything they've been working on unfolds. Things are happening!
Monday, January 11, 2010
The years were flying by, they soared.
Got a few more questions sent to my formspring! -
I love the fact that you love to read, sorry if this has been asked. I've been searching for new books to read...what books would you recommend to read?
I am usually asked this by friends who want to know what to pick up next; I size up their tastes and favourite genres and base my recommendation on that. Since I don't know you, here are the best books I read this year and books I'd recommend to anyone and everyone (i.e., 2666 simply isn't a book I'd recommend to everyone!) --
The Road, Cormac McCarthy
Fun Home, Alison Bechdel
Never Let Me Go, Kazuo Ishiguro
The Sound of My Voice, Ron Butlin
Ender's Game, Orson Scott Card
Slouching Towards Bethlehem, Joan Didion
The House of the Spirits, Isabel Allende
Breakfast at Tiffany's, Truman Capote
Chronicle of a Death Foretold, Gabriel Garcia Marquez
The World in Half, Cristina Henriquez
Hope that helps!
Also, New York is an amazing place! I'm here on vacation, it's wonderful. Love the vibe you get from here. Different from the west coast where I'm from. Anyways, what do you do during your free time in NY?
My free time in New York is mostly spent with friends. During the week I do a lot of running errands, grabbing after-work dinners or drinks with friends, and occasionally go to a bar if something is especially enticing. Lately, the weekends have been me trying to catch up on household stuff or relaxing due to my sickness (ugh!) but before the holidays I would try to fill my weekends up with stuff that really interests me - a bookstore I read about online, an independent movie getting good reviews and only playing in one theater, a small art gallery I heard about, a vintage store I eye on a walk through SoHo, any restaurant Kells wants to try out (that's been real fun!), and whatever else my friends suggest that interest me, etc. In any other season besides winter I love walking around with no aim, and just finding whatever the streets have in store.
And believe you me, I'm still not done exploring New York. I have future trips to certain museums and galleries and restaurants planned for upcoming winter weekends!
You probably hear this a lot but you are super pretty! I always love your hair and makeup!! :)
Aw, thanks! Secret: I legitimately can't do make-up. I try! I TRY! (And apparently succeed sometimes!) But I really have no idea about how to apply eye shadow, blush, etc. The only thing I really have down is liquid eyeliner and red lipstick. Otherwise, I beg my friend Jiscilla to let me in on her secrets.
I totally see the resemblance with both Lea and Idina. Can you say, Triplets? This isnt a question but I just want to tell you how much I love love love reading your blog and your tumblr. I've been reading your blog ever since you started and may have left you a comment or two on some of your posts. You've inspired me to read more and get my nails done more often (LOL). - Lurker from Seattle :)
Awesome! Thank you, lurker! Glad you're hitting the books. Ha. Also, I just started becoming obsessed with getting myself manicured since moving to New York. Only had had one professional manicure before moving here when I was 23. And ever since finding a couple of cheaper manicure salons, it's become quite a little ritual (especially with my friend Amber). I'm becoming accustomed to nail files - something I wouldn't let near me a year ago. (Seriously, they make me shudder.) Of course, I also spend a lot of time just doing it myself, too!
I love the fact that you love to read, sorry if this has been asked. I've been searching for new books to read...what books would you recommend to read?
I am usually asked this by friends who want to know what to pick up next; I size up their tastes and favourite genres and base my recommendation on that. Since I don't know you, here are the best books I read this year and books I'd recommend to anyone and everyone (i.e., 2666 simply isn't a book I'd recommend to everyone!) --
The Road, Cormac McCarthy
Fun Home, Alison Bechdel
Never Let Me Go, Kazuo Ishiguro
The Sound of My Voice, Ron Butlin
Ender's Game, Orson Scott Card
Slouching Towards Bethlehem, Joan Didion
The House of the Spirits, Isabel Allende
Breakfast at Tiffany's, Truman Capote
Chronicle of a Death Foretold, Gabriel Garcia Marquez
The World in Half, Cristina Henriquez
Hope that helps!
Also, New York is an amazing place! I'm here on vacation, it's wonderful. Love the vibe you get from here. Different from the west coast where I'm from. Anyways, what do you do during your free time in NY?
My free time in New York is mostly spent with friends. During the week I do a lot of running errands, grabbing after-work dinners or drinks with friends, and occasionally go to a bar if something is especially enticing. Lately, the weekends have been me trying to catch up on household stuff or relaxing due to my sickness (ugh!) but before the holidays I would try to fill my weekends up with stuff that really interests me - a bookstore I read about online, an independent movie getting good reviews and only playing in one theater, a small art gallery I heard about, a vintage store I eye on a walk through SoHo, any restaurant Kells wants to try out (that's been real fun!), and whatever else my friends suggest that interest me, etc. In any other season besides winter I love walking around with no aim, and just finding whatever the streets have in store.
And believe you me, I'm still not done exploring New York. I have future trips to certain museums and galleries and restaurants planned for upcoming winter weekends!
You probably hear this a lot but you are super pretty! I always love your hair and makeup!! :)
Aw, thanks! Secret: I legitimately can't do make-up. I try! I TRY! (And apparently succeed sometimes!) But I really have no idea about how to apply eye shadow, blush, etc. The only thing I really have down is liquid eyeliner and red lipstick. Otherwise, I beg my friend Jiscilla to let me in on her secrets.
I totally see the resemblance with both Lea and Idina. Can you say, Triplets? This isnt a question but I just want to tell you how much I love love love reading your blog and your tumblr. I've been reading your blog ever since you started and may have left you a comment or two on some of your posts. You've inspired me to read more and get my nails done more often (LOL). - Lurker from Seattle :)
Awesome! Thank you, lurker! Glad you're hitting the books. Ha. Also, I just started becoming obsessed with getting myself manicured since moving to New York. Only had had one professional manicure before moving here when I was 23. And ever since finding a couple of cheaper manicure salons, it's become quite a little ritual (especially with my friend Amber). I'm becoming accustomed to nail files - something I wouldn't let near me a year ago. (Seriously, they make me shudder.) Of course, I also spend a lot of time just doing it myself, too!
Sunday, January 10, 2010
My Year in Books: 2009
And so here is my final tally! In 2009, I actually read fifty-THREE books! I feel quite accomplished, and it certainly was an arduous undertaking. I answered some specifics regarding books and how I read and what I choose to read in this post, but here I'll list all the books and my star ratings! The ones in bold have become a part of my all-time favourite books list. Leave a comment if you have any more questions or inquiries regarding the project or if you too love a book I loved or are even doing your own reading of fifty two books for 2010! I think we all know I love to talk about books!
01 A Clash of Kings, George R.R. Martin (01.05.09) ****
02 World War Z: An Oral History of the Zombie War, Max Brooks (01.18.09) ****
03 Eclipse, Stephenie Meyer (01.20.09) *
04 The Road, Cormac McCarthy (01.22.09) *****
05 Y: The Last Man, Brian K. Vaughn (01.27.09) ***
06 Breaking Dawn, Stephenie Meyers (01.31.09) **
07 Infinity Blues, Ryan Adams (02.12.09) ****
08 The Best American Magazine Writing 2008 (02.28.09) ****
09 First Love, Ivan S. Turgenev (03.08.09) ****
10 Fun Home, Alison Bechdel (03.15.09) *****
11 Anna Karenina, Leo Tolstoy (03.16.09) *****
12 The Unbearable Lightness of Being, Milan Kundera (03.24.09) *****
13 Never Let Me Go, Ishiguro Kazuo (03.29.09) *****
14 The Last Vampire, Christopher Pike (04.05.09) *****
15 Whisper of Death, Christopher Pike (04.13.09) *****
16 Monster, Christopher Pike (04.21.09) ****
17 A Storm of Swords, George R.R. Martin (04.30.09) *****
18 Pride and Prejudice and Zombies, Seth Grahame-Smith (05.15.09) ****
19 Crimson, Brian Augustyn (06.15.09) **
20 2666, Roberto Bolaño (06.07.09) *****
21 The Devil in the White City, Erik Larson (06.17.09) ****
22 The Uncommon Reader, Alan Bennett (06.19.09) ****
23 The Lover, Marguerite Duras (06.22.09) *****
24 The Sound of My Voice, Ron Butlin (06.25.09) *****
25 Blood Meridian, Cormac McCarthy (07.07.09) ***
26 L.A. Confidential (Film Criticism), Manohla Dargis (07.10.09) ****
27 Are You There Vodka? It's Me Chelsea, Chelsea Handler (07.12.09) *****
28 Ender's Game, Orson Scott Card (07.18.09) *****
29 The Handmaid's Tale, Margaret Atwood (07.26.09) ****
30 Nine Stories, J.D. Salinger (08.05.09) ****
31 Slouching Towards Bethlehem, Joan Didion (08.09.09) *****
32 Seven (Film Criticism), Richard Dyer (08.15.09) ****
33 Delta of Venus, Anais Nin (08.17.09) *****
34 The House of the Spirits, Isabel Allende (08.23.09) *****
35 The Little Stranger, Sarah Waters (09.05.09) ****
36 To the Lighthouse, Virginia Woolf (09.10.09) **
37 White Teeth, Zadie Smith (09.27.09) *****
38 Breakfast at Tiffany's, Truman Capote (09.29.09) *****
39 Chronicle of a Death Foretold, Gabriel Garcia Márquez (10.02.09) *****
40 Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, Hunter S. Thompson (10.08.10) ****
41 Jesus' Son, Denis Johnson (10.12.09) ****
42 Perfect Fifths, Megan McCafferty (10.13.09) ****
43 The Year of Magical Thinking, Joan Didion (10.19.09) *****
44 The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, Stieg Larsson (10.27.09) ***
45 Bad Behavior, Mary Gaitskill (11.03.09) *****
46 Come Together, Fall Apart, Cristina Henriquez (11.09.09) *****
47 Daughters of the North, Sarah Hall (11.15.09) ***
48 Night, Elie Wiesel (11.16.09) *****
49 I, Lucifer, Glen Duncan (11.22.09) *
50 Delirium, Laura Restrepo (11.30.09) ****
51 1984, George Orwell (12.09.09) *****
52 Madame Bovary, Gustave Flaubert (12.20.09) *****
53 The World in Half, Cristina Henriquez (12.29.09) *****
So what's next, then? What do I have planned for 2010? Well, as of January 1st, I began reading Tolstoy's behemoth War & Peace. I'm reading it with my fellow book club (FSJBCB) member, Sean, who you may remember read Tolstoy's Anna Karenina with me last year. Others have expressed their interest in our lofty goal and decided to join us, as well.
In related news: I've decided not to spend this year working towards reading another fifty-two books. Instead, I plan to read the gargantuan novels that reside on my shelves - the novels I was hesitant to pick up last year because they would take far too much time to read, really grasp, and enjoy. In 2010, I'm reading the big ones! I'm starting off with War & Peace, and will continue on through the year reading other novels like Bolano's The Savage Detectives, Steinbeck's East of Eden, and Dostoevsky's The Brothers Karamazov - among other works. I'll continue to update my Goodreads page with my progress! I plan on keeping the same pace as I did last year in terms of how much reading, but my list will likely be much shorter because of the heavy tomes I've decided to take on.
Jesse really helped determine my goal this year - for Christmas, he got me a Kindle. He almost didn't get me one because I had railed against them in the past. I truly do love carrying a book, flipping it's pages, and sometimes studying it's cover. There's a tangibility there I cherish, and it's not available with e-books. However, I realized that with novels like War & Peace, it would be much harder to carry the 1800+ page book on the subway every day without feeling completely weighed down and burdened. Enter the lovely, beautiful, sleek and lightweight Kindle. I'll continue to buy actual books, but there are many reasons owning a Kindle is beneficial to my reading habits and future-library-planning. Besides having a much lighter version of a heavy book, there are some books I'd be interested in reading but not in owning (like certain best-sellers everyone is talking about), and the Kindle is absolutely perfect for travel. I don't have to lug a few books for a long trip like I did for the honeymoon (seriously, I brought like ten books, and books weigh so much!).
To everyone that is reading fifty-two books this year: GOOD LUCK! I'd love to hear about your own experiences doing so! Most are already my Goodreads friends, but if you're not, add me! I love hearing about what others are reading, and if you happen to be blogging about it - the better. Leave me a link!
01 A Clash of Kings, George R.R. Martin (01.05.09) ****
02 World War Z: An Oral History of the Zombie War, Max Brooks (01.18.09) ****
03 Eclipse, Stephenie Meyer (01.20.09) *
04 The Road, Cormac McCarthy (01.22.09) *****
05 Y: The Last Man, Brian K. Vaughn (01.27.09) ***
06 Breaking Dawn, Stephenie Meyers (01.31.09) **
07 Infinity Blues, Ryan Adams (02.12.09) ****
08 The Best American Magazine Writing 2008 (02.28.09) ****
09 First Love, Ivan S. Turgenev (03.08.09) ****
10 Fun Home, Alison Bechdel (03.15.09) *****
11 Anna Karenina, Leo Tolstoy (03.16.09) *****
12 The Unbearable Lightness of Being, Milan Kundera (03.24.09) *****
13 Never Let Me Go, Ishiguro Kazuo (03.29.09) *****
14 The Last Vampire, Christopher Pike (04.05.09) *****
15 Whisper of Death, Christopher Pike (04.13.09) *****
16 Monster, Christopher Pike (04.21.09) ****
17 A Storm of Swords, George R.R. Martin (04.30.09) *****
18 Pride and Prejudice and Zombies, Seth Grahame-Smith (05.15.09) ****
19 Crimson, Brian Augustyn (06.15.09) **
20 2666, Roberto Bolaño (06.07.09) *****
21 The Devil in the White City, Erik Larson (06.17.09) ****
22 The Uncommon Reader, Alan Bennett (06.19.09) ****
23 The Lover, Marguerite Duras (06.22.09) *****
24 The Sound of My Voice, Ron Butlin (06.25.09) *****
25 Blood Meridian, Cormac McCarthy (07.07.09) ***
26 L.A. Confidential (Film Criticism), Manohla Dargis (07.10.09) ****
27 Are You There Vodka? It's Me Chelsea, Chelsea Handler (07.12.09) *****
28 Ender's Game, Orson Scott Card (07.18.09) *****
29 The Handmaid's Tale, Margaret Atwood (07.26.09) ****
30 Nine Stories, J.D. Salinger (08.05.09) ****
31 Slouching Towards Bethlehem, Joan Didion (08.09.09) *****
32 Seven (Film Criticism), Richard Dyer (08.15.09) ****
33 Delta of Venus, Anais Nin (08.17.09) *****
34 The House of the Spirits, Isabel Allende (08.23.09) *****
35 The Little Stranger, Sarah Waters (09.05.09) ****
36 To the Lighthouse, Virginia Woolf (09.10.09) **
37 White Teeth, Zadie Smith (09.27.09) *****
38 Breakfast at Tiffany's, Truman Capote (09.29.09) *****
39 Chronicle of a Death Foretold, Gabriel Garcia Márquez (10.02.09) *****
40 Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, Hunter S. Thompson (10.08.10) ****
41 Jesus' Son, Denis Johnson (10.12.09) ****
42 Perfect Fifths, Megan McCafferty (10.13.09) ****
43 The Year of Magical Thinking, Joan Didion (10.19.09) *****
44 The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, Stieg Larsson (10.27.09) ***
45 Bad Behavior, Mary Gaitskill (11.03.09) *****
46 Come Together, Fall Apart, Cristina Henriquez (11.09.09) *****
47 Daughters of the North, Sarah Hall (11.15.09) ***
48 Night, Elie Wiesel (11.16.09) *****
49 I, Lucifer, Glen Duncan (11.22.09) *
50 Delirium, Laura Restrepo (11.30.09) ****
51 1984, George Orwell (12.09.09) *****
52 Madame Bovary, Gustave Flaubert (12.20.09) *****
53 The World in Half, Cristina Henriquez (12.29.09) *****
So what's next, then? What do I have planned for 2010? Well, as of January 1st, I began reading Tolstoy's behemoth War & Peace. I'm reading it with my fellow book club (FSJBCB) member, Sean, who you may remember read Tolstoy's Anna Karenina with me last year. Others have expressed their interest in our lofty goal and decided to join us, as well.
In related news: I've decided not to spend this year working towards reading another fifty-two books. Instead, I plan to read the gargantuan novels that reside on my shelves - the novels I was hesitant to pick up last year because they would take far too much time to read, really grasp, and enjoy. In 2010, I'm reading the big ones! I'm starting off with War & Peace, and will continue on through the year reading other novels like Bolano's The Savage Detectives, Steinbeck's East of Eden, and Dostoevsky's The Brothers Karamazov - among other works. I'll continue to update my Goodreads page with my progress! I plan on keeping the same pace as I did last year in terms of how much reading, but my list will likely be much shorter because of the heavy tomes I've decided to take on.
Jesse really helped determine my goal this year - for Christmas, he got me a Kindle. He almost didn't get me one because I had railed against them in the past. I truly do love carrying a book, flipping it's pages, and sometimes studying it's cover. There's a tangibility there I cherish, and it's not available with e-books. However, I realized that with novels like War & Peace, it would be much harder to carry the 1800+ page book on the subway every day without feeling completely weighed down and burdened. Enter the lovely, beautiful, sleek and lightweight Kindle. I'll continue to buy actual books, but there are many reasons owning a Kindle is beneficial to my reading habits and future-library-planning. Besides having a much lighter version of a heavy book, there are some books I'd be interested in reading but not in owning (like certain best-sellers everyone is talking about), and the Kindle is absolutely perfect for travel. I don't have to lug a few books for a long trip like I did for the honeymoon (seriously, I brought like ten books, and books weigh so much!).
To everyone that is reading fifty-two books this year: GOOD LUCK! I'd love to hear about your own experiences doing so! Most are already my Goodreads friends, but if you're not, add me! I love hearing about what others are reading, and if you happen to be blogging about it - the better. Leave me a link!
Friday, January 8, 2010
Trying so hard saving up the paper.
An optimistic personal shopping story amidst the cold weather and husband-missing!
After recieving a very generous monetary gift for Christmas, I was keeping my eye out for a great pair of shoes or stellar handbag. I was definitely not active about my pursuit, at least not yet, and then I got a little sale e-mail in my inbox Wednesday with "L.A.M.B." in the subject line. Hey oh! L.A.M.B. bags on the cheap! And since yellow + gray is one of my favourite color combos...voila:
Isn't it sooooo pretty? It was marked down $300 from the original price. How much prettier does that make it?! I can't wait until it's in my hands.
And today, in the midst of snow swirling outside my office building right now, I stumbled upon something that actually made me swoon, and then pout when I saw the price tag.
Chloe Tilia acetate sunglasses - $295 - SIGH.
I think the rose-tinted lenses are RAD. As I've just noted in my brain, I'll attempt sales or decent knock-offs when it gets warmer!
Oh well, one out of two ain't bad! Anybody just buy something online they're super duper into? Or get a great deal on something? I'm obviously quite excited about my most recent purchase. Feel free to post the link, too! I'm off to spend the weekend relaxing and perhaps a little hibernating...
See what the jukebox knows.
The past few days have been a bit busy - Jesse left for tour yesterday so on Tuesday night we had a date night and went to our favourite restaurant, Sweet Emily's. Then the staff told us that they were hoping we'd come in, as we're regulars, because...the restaurant is closing next week. I nearly CRIED at the table. I'm not kidding. Anyway, then we came home and watched Funny People which I'm going to add to my worst films of 2009 list. However, it was a lovely night all the same, as I have so much fun the husband.
On Wednesday night we played a long poker game in which I came in second (my streak continues!) and then yesterday morning I had to say bye - just as I felt the inklings of a cold coming on. I got home from work and got down to laundry and cleaning out my closet (ps I tend to do a lot of errands when Jesse first leaves for tour...) and by the end of the night I was coughing and sneezing all over the place. Today, I fare no better. The good thing is that I haven't been sick in about a year, perhaps more. I blame this cold on all the non-stop fun I've been having!
And now, to the questions I recieved the past couple of days (ask me anything here!) --
what are the chances of you coming to australia when mcs tour in feb? i have been a loyal reader of your blog (and tumblr - i'm mynameisjenna --i think you follow me--) for just over a year i think, maybe even longer and i honestly think if we met, we'd totally hit it off, as i always seem to be nodding my head whilst reading cause i seem to agree with a lot you say. yeah, we'd defs be buddies. so you should try come out, just for the week, just make sure you hit up melbourne.
Ah! Jenna! Unfortunately, I won't be in Australia this year, though I'd love, love, love to visit! It's definitely a destination for the future, and I'll be sure to include Melbourne. Glad we're of the same mind, too. Ha. Thanks for being such a loyal reader - your tumblr is lovely! (And I think you're actual tumblr is jennacampbell, right?)
What is one goal you’d like to accomplish during your lifetime?
Write a novel. What an accomplishment that would be. And, I'm actively working towards it.
If you could visit any place in the world, where would you choose to go and why?
Japan. I've been fascinated with Japan since college and I believe no matter how much I learn about the country, I still wouldn't be able to imagine what it's really like. I have so many Japanese trinkets and t-shirts from friends, family, and Jesse over the years that I am constantly reminded of how much I'd love to visit!
What are your favorite hobbies?
Reading, writing, watching movies, watching movies I love with people who haven't seen them yet, watching really bad tv shows and making fun of them, milling about in a used book store, discussing and debating books music film, hiking, researching obscure facts, going to shows.
If you could have dinner with one person from history, who would it be?
Hm. Tough.
Joan Didion in her late twenties, Marilyn Monroe when she was married to Arthur Miller, Audrey Hepburn when she was sixty years old, Bette Davis after filming All About Eve.
Hey Jessica! It's Kaleigh (aliceintumblerland). I am almost done reading White Teeth...it took me a while to get into it, but I'm liking it more now. It's a different style of writing that's new to me, so maybe that's what threw me a bit. I wish we could meet and drink coffee and talk about books all day! anyways, hope you're staying warm and not buried in snow. Have a lovely day! Thanks again for the book suggestions...I just bought 3 new ones. I'm trying to read some of the classics I never have before. I got Walden/Civil Disobedience, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, and The Jungle. Your book reading has really inspired me to start reading like I used to!
White Teeth is not the easiest book to read, but I'm glad you like it! And I love getting together and discussing books - would totally be up for that if we lived in the same town! I haven't read any of your three choices, though I hope to some day. That's awesome that you're reading more! Yay!
Hey Jessica! I was wondering if you know who Idina Menzel is...because I think you two kind of look alike...:D
Idina Menzel is the person I get compared to the most - it's totally the square jawline! But, more so when I had long hair, I think. Also, since Spring Awakening opened a couple of years ago on Broadway, I've been out at bars and twice been mistaken for Idina-lookalike Lea Michele (who is now on Glee). Very, very complimentary to be compared to these two lovely Broadway stars (one of whom is married to Taye Diggs!).
On Wednesday night we played a long poker game in which I came in second (my streak continues!) and then yesterday morning I had to say bye - just as I felt the inklings of a cold coming on. I got home from work and got down to laundry and cleaning out my closet (ps I tend to do a lot of errands when Jesse first leaves for tour...) and by the end of the night I was coughing and sneezing all over the place. Today, I fare no better. The good thing is that I haven't been sick in about a year, perhaps more. I blame this cold on all the non-stop fun I've been having!
And now, to the questions I recieved the past couple of days (ask me anything here!) --
what are the chances of you coming to australia when mcs tour in feb? i have been a loyal reader of your blog (and tumblr - i'm mynameisjenna --i think you follow me--) for just over a year i think, maybe even longer and i honestly think if we met, we'd totally hit it off, as i always seem to be nodding my head whilst reading cause i seem to agree with a lot you say. yeah, we'd defs be buddies. so you should try come out, just for the week, just make sure you hit up melbourne.
Ah! Jenna! Unfortunately, I won't be in Australia this year, though I'd love, love, love to visit! It's definitely a destination for the future, and I'll be sure to include Melbourne. Glad we're of the same mind, too. Ha. Thanks for being such a loyal reader - your tumblr is lovely! (And I think you're actual tumblr is jennacampbell, right?)
What is one goal you’d like to accomplish during your lifetime?
Write a novel. What an accomplishment that would be. And, I'm actively working towards it.
If you could visit any place in the world, where would you choose to go and why?
Japan. I've been fascinated with Japan since college and I believe no matter how much I learn about the country, I still wouldn't be able to imagine what it's really like. I have so many Japanese trinkets and t-shirts from friends, family, and Jesse over the years that I am constantly reminded of how much I'd love to visit!
What are your favorite hobbies?
Reading, writing, watching movies, watching movies I love with people who haven't seen them yet, watching really bad tv shows and making fun of them, milling about in a used book store, discussing and debating books music film, hiking, researching obscure facts, going to shows.
If you could have dinner with one person from history, who would it be?
Hm. Tough.
Joan Didion in her late twenties, Marilyn Monroe when she was married to Arthur Miller, Audrey Hepburn when she was sixty years old, Bette Davis after filming All About Eve.
Hey Jessica! It's Kaleigh (aliceintumblerland). I am almost done reading White Teeth...it took me a while to get into it, but I'm liking it more now. It's a different style of writing that's new to me, so maybe that's what threw me a bit. I wish we could meet and drink coffee and talk about books all day! anyways, hope you're staying warm and not buried in snow. Have a lovely day! Thanks again for the book suggestions...I just bought 3 new ones. I'm trying to read some of the classics I never have before. I got Walden/Civil Disobedience, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, and The Jungle. Your book reading has really inspired me to start reading like I used to!
White Teeth is not the easiest book to read, but I'm glad you like it! And I love getting together and discussing books - would totally be up for that if we lived in the same town! I haven't read any of your three choices, though I hope to some day. That's awesome that you're reading more! Yay!
Hey Jessica! I was wondering if you know who Idina Menzel is...because I think you two kind of look alike...:D
Idina Menzel is the person I get compared to the most - it's totally the square jawline! But, more so when I had long hair, I think. Also, since Spring Awakening opened a couple of years ago on Broadway, I've been out at bars and twice been mistaken for Idina-lookalike Lea Michele (who is now on Glee). Very, very complimentary to be compared to these two lovely Broadway stars (one of whom is married to Taye Diggs!).
Idina
Lea
And me with long hair:
Short hair, not so much?
We have similar jaws/coloring. What do you think? I've heard rumors that Idina Menzel will be guest appearing on an episode or two of Glee, as well!
Apparently Jiscilla and I went from total princesses to goths in a year.
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Question 43-56 (All the Rest of Them Edition)
I know you're a Pushing Daisies fan, but that might not make you biased towards this question. Cake or pie?
UNF. These questions can get real TOUGH. When I watched Pushing Daisies, I would crave pie SO MUCH. Ask Christy, we searched all of Brooklyn for a good slice after watching a couple of episodes and couldn't come up with one. And I've never done that with cake (hm, maybe ice cream cake?), so I will say PIE!
First off, your cats are adorable and your wedding looked amazing. What are some of your favorite tumblrs?
Thanks! Here's a list of some of my faves (I have all my tumblrs listed in my Google Reader bc I just can't deal with the tumblr dashboard sometimes, but these are the tumblrs I check pretty immediately when I sign into the reader because I love 'em):
Dance to the Radio
F--- Yeah Motion City Soundtrack!
Goldenfiddlr
Jordan Reid
Movies in Frames
Theo is Jonesing
The Vie Society
Alice in Tumblrland
Whiskey & Goats Milk
Also, my friends' tumblrs are rad (linked on my blogroll!)
My absolute favourite because she's hilarious and AWESOME: Sparkle Neely Sparkle!!!
Traveling - where did you go so far?
Where I've lived: Panama, Georgia, Virginia, D.C., Rhode Island, Kansas, Hawaii, Kentucky/Tennessee, Massachusetts, New Hampshire (summers), New York, Pennsylvania (and some of these places I've lived in more than once, years apart)
Where I've only visited: Orlando, Coconut Beach FL, Minneapolis, Chicago, Seattle, Portland, San Francisco, Los Angeles, San Diego, Santa Barbara, Austin, Houston, Des Moines, Kansas City, Madison, St. Louis, Maine, Rochester, Philadelphia, Las Vegas, ARUBA...I'm probably missing some places, but that's the gist!
And there's a big international trip coming up here in March. You'll hear about it soon. I've been waiting and hoping and wishing for this trip for quite some time!! I want to squeal just thinking about it!!
Whats your most silly thing to do?
This blog? Just kidding. If you want to see me at my silliest, just see me with my best friend Amber. Seriously, the amount of shenanigans we get into is ridiculous from playing dead at parties or the faces we make at each other.
Who is the final boss of the internet, and, did you beat him or her?
I'm not sure, but I know I haven't beaten that person.
Your husband has a ton of tattoos - do you have any of your own?
I'm surprised I don't get asked this more often; I don't have any tattoos. Yet. I have one planned, and I'm pretty sure I know where (as in what shop) and when I'll be getting it.
To the one question that was asked and I cannot reprint here - yes.
Did you picture yourself to be where you are at this age? Married to a musician, living in New York, writing this blog, and working in fashion?
Absolutely not. When I was in middle school I was pretty sure I'd be living in New York, acting, and definitely single. When I was in high school, I thought I'd be living in New York, working as a forensic pathologist, and definitely single. For a time, my parents thought I would never get married. At least not until I was 40. When I hit college, I knew I wanted to live in New York (theme!), and I thought I'd be working at a magazine. And married by now? Pfft. No way. But I am where I am now, and I wouldn't change it for anything. I'm very much a "no regrets" person.
Do you fight the crowds and jump around in the pit at MCS shows or watch from backstage?
I was never a pit-jumper. (Okay, only once at Warped Tour in like 2002!) I would jump around and dance at the outer edges of the crowd. I still do. Being backstage/sidestage is kind of a bumout when you're watching somebody you really want to see because it doesn't sound that great and it's a little conspicious -it's harder to jump around by yourself! So, I find a spot where it sounds good, looks good, and I have room to have fun. In Chicago, that was on the balcony. At the Blender Theater in New York, I was at the back of the crowd with all my friends. Ocassionally when I'm visiting Jesse on tour and I don't know anybody at the show, I'll be sidestage rather than traverse a crowd and stand around by myself.
I am moving to New York City in a few days. I graduated college in May and all of my friends friends from school moved back to their respective hometowns and I'm a little worried it will be hard to make new friends in New York. Any suggestions on non-creepy ways to meet people?
New York is all about meeting people! I had some built in friends when I moved here, but from moving around all over the place, I can tell you making friends is usually tied to going out to places you like or finding people with similar interests and striking up conversation. I mean, that's just how I do it. What's the worst that can happen? A brush-off? Not that bad! If you see someone (who's around your age) on the subway reading a book you've read and loved, tell them that. (It's happened to me!) Check out indie movie screenings or book readings or art gallery parties or open bar parties, if that's your thing. There's always something happening in New York! Strike up a conversation with somebody you think you might get along with. Meet friends of friends or acquaintances and keep going. I knew maybe five people when I moved to New York, but now I know a zillion because I met friends of friends at social gatherings.
There's also meeting people at work who you common interests with, or taking up a class (like cooking or art or yoga) and meeting people through that venue. I hope you find some awesome friends!
I'm moving to Brooklyn in January. What's one of your favourite local hidden gems?
Hm, I don't know if it's exactly hidden, but Life Cafe off the L is great food and fun. Battleship Tuesdays = they have a giant battleship board, you guess a number with your drink, and if you hit a battleship, the second drink is on the house. Also, great (& cheap) brunch!
Others off the L: The Levee (bar), Alligator Lounge (A FREE PIZZA with every beer you order), Brooklyn Bowl (best on-the-rocks margarita I've had in this area - great food, bowling, and also a live music VENUE), and Wild Ginger (delicious vegetarian).
I lovee your blog. I read both your Tumblr and your Blogspot. What do you think about moving to New York? Is it amazing? I really want to move there one day.
Thank you! The first time I came to visit New York in middle school I knew, I just KNEW, I had to live here someday. Sometimes when I get an idea, I really can't let it go. I knew I had to move to a place that wouldn't bore me as easily as some other places did growing up. There's just always something to do!
Do you track who visits your blog on google analytics? Does your map look crazy because of lurkers?
Yes, I use Google Analytics, but mainly just to have stats ready if needed. Like, when the Brand About Town sponsor reached out to me about the Gap opportunity, I needed to have those stats on hand to be considered - like how many unique visitors I have a month and whatnot. I don't use the blog for any reasons than my own; I never want to use visual ads and I've never had the ambition to make money off this personal site - but getting a free pair of jeans and getting to spread that around to my friends and blog readers is pretty damn fun!
My visitor map does surprise me sometimes when I see a bunch of people here internationally! (Hola! Bonjour! Konichiwa!) And I suppose lurkers are simply those that have never left a comment: no big deal. My readers are awesome, just the same. Plus, I got this sent to my formspring and it's nice to know there are lurkers out there thinking as such -
Just wanted to say you are so inspiring in so many ways. Thank you for your blog. From, A Lurker
That makes me feel all warm and fuzzy, and I'm happy to have my own little spot on the internet that other people can read if they want to.
That concludes all the questions I have in my in inbox! If you have any more, I promise to answer them in a far more timely manner now that all the holidays and craziness are over! Thanks for all the people who reached out to me!
Ask my anything!
UNF. These questions can get real TOUGH. When I watched Pushing Daisies, I would crave pie SO MUCH. Ask Christy, we searched all of Brooklyn for a good slice after watching a couple of episodes and couldn't come up with one. And I've never done that with cake (hm, maybe ice cream cake?), so I will say PIE!
First off, your cats are adorable and your wedding looked amazing. What are some of your favorite tumblrs?
Thanks! Here's a list of some of my faves (I have all my tumblrs listed in my Google Reader bc I just can't deal with the tumblr dashboard sometimes, but these are the tumblrs I check pretty immediately when I sign into the reader because I love 'em):
Dance to the Radio
F--- Yeah Motion City Soundtrack!
Goldenfiddlr
Jordan Reid
Movies in Frames
Theo is Jonesing
The Vie Society
Alice in Tumblrland
Whiskey & Goats Milk
Also, my friends' tumblrs are rad (linked on my blogroll!)
My absolute favourite because she's hilarious and AWESOME: Sparkle Neely Sparkle!!!
Traveling - where did you go so far?
Where I've lived: Panama, Georgia, Virginia, D.C., Rhode Island, Kansas, Hawaii, Kentucky/Tennessee, Massachusetts, New Hampshire (summers), New York, Pennsylvania (and some of these places I've lived in more than once, years apart)
Where I've only visited: Orlando, Coconut Beach FL, Minneapolis, Chicago, Seattle, Portland, San Francisco, Los Angeles, San Diego, Santa Barbara, Austin, Houston, Des Moines, Kansas City, Madison, St. Louis, Maine, Rochester, Philadelphia, Las Vegas, ARUBA...I'm probably missing some places, but that's the gist!
And there's a big international trip coming up here in March. You'll hear about it soon. I've been waiting and hoping and wishing for this trip for quite some time!! I want to squeal just thinking about it!!
Whats your most silly thing to do?
This blog? Just kidding. If you want to see me at my silliest, just see me with my best friend Amber. Seriously, the amount of shenanigans we get into is ridiculous from playing dead at parties or the faces we make at each other.
Who is the final boss of the internet, and, did you beat him or her?
I'm not sure, but I know I haven't beaten that person.
Your husband has a ton of tattoos - do you have any of your own?
I'm surprised I don't get asked this more often; I don't have any tattoos. Yet. I have one planned, and I'm pretty sure I know where (as in what shop) and when I'll be getting it.
To the one question that was asked and I cannot reprint here - yes.
Did you picture yourself to be where you are at this age? Married to a musician, living in New York, writing this blog, and working in fashion?
Absolutely not. When I was in middle school I was pretty sure I'd be living in New York, acting, and definitely single. When I was in high school, I thought I'd be living in New York, working as a forensic pathologist, and definitely single. For a time, my parents thought I would never get married. At least not until I was 40. When I hit college, I knew I wanted to live in New York (theme!), and I thought I'd be working at a magazine. And married by now? Pfft. No way. But I am where I am now, and I wouldn't change it for anything. I'm very much a "no regrets" person.
Do you fight the crowds and jump around in the pit at MCS shows or watch from backstage?
I was never a pit-jumper. (Okay, only once at Warped Tour in like 2002!) I would jump around and dance at the outer edges of the crowd. I still do. Being backstage/sidestage is kind of a bumout when you're watching somebody you really want to see because it doesn't sound that great and it's a little conspicious -it's harder to jump around by yourself! So, I find a spot where it sounds good, looks good, and I have room to have fun. In Chicago, that was on the balcony. At the Blender Theater in New York, I was at the back of the crowd with all my friends. Ocassionally when I'm visiting Jesse on tour and I don't know anybody at the show, I'll be sidestage rather than traverse a crowd and stand around by myself.
I am moving to New York City in a few days. I graduated college in May and all of my friends friends from school moved back to their respective hometowns and I'm a little worried it will be hard to make new friends in New York. Any suggestions on non-creepy ways to meet people?
New York is all about meeting people! I had some built in friends when I moved here, but from moving around all over the place, I can tell you making friends is usually tied to going out to places you like or finding people with similar interests and striking up conversation. I mean, that's just how I do it. What's the worst that can happen? A brush-off? Not that bad! If you see someone (who's around your age) on the subway reading a book you've read and loved, tell them that. (It's happened to me!) Check out indie movie screenings or book readings or art gallery parties or open bar parties, if that's your thing. There's always something happening in New York! Strike up a conversation with somebody you think you might get along with. Meet friends of friends or acquaintances and keep going. I knew maybe five people when I moved to New York, but now I know a zillion because I met friends of friends at social gatherings.
There's also meeting people at work who you common interests with, or taking up a class (like cooking or art or yoga) and meeting people through that venue. I hope you find some awesome friends!
I'm moving to Brooklyn in January. What's one of your favourite local hidden gems?
Hm, I don't know if it's exactly hidden, but Life Cafe off the L is great food and fun. Battleship Tuesdays = they have a giant battleship board, you guess a number with your drink, and if you hit a battleship, the second drink is on the house. Also, great (& cheap) brunch!
Others off the L: The Levee (bar), Alligator Lounge (A FREE PIZZA with every beer you order), Brooklyn Bowl (best on-the-rocks margarita I've had in this area - great food, bowling, and also a live music VENUE), and Wild Ginger (delicious vegetarian).
I lovee your blog. I read both your Tumblr and your Blogspot. What do you think about moving to New York? Is it amazing? I really want to move there one day.
Thank you! The first time I came to visit New York in middle school I knew, I just KNEW, I had to live here someday. Sometimes when I get an idea, I really can't let it go. I knew I had to move to a place that wouldn't bore me as easily as some other places did growing up. There's just always something to do!
Do you track who visits your blog on google analytics? Does your map look crazy because of lurkers?
Yes, I use Google Analytics, but mainly just to have stats ready if needed. Like, when the Brand About Town sponsor reached out to me about the Gap opportunity, I needed to have those stats on hand to be considered - like how many unique visitors I have a month and whatnot. I don't use the blog for any reasons than my own; I never want to use visual ads and I've never had the ambition to make money off this personal site - but getting a free pair of jeans and getting to spread that around to my friends and blog readers is pretty damn fun!
My visitor map does surprise me sometimes when I see a bunch of people here internationally! (Hola! Bonjour! Konichiwa!) And I suppose lurkers are simply those that have never left a comment: no big deal. My readers are awesome, just the same. Plus, I got this sent to my formspring and it's nice to know there are lurkers out there thinking as such -
Just wanted to say you are so inspiring in so many ways. Thank you for your blog. From, A Lurker
That makes me feel all warm and fuzzy, and I'm happy to have my own little spot on the internet that other people can read if they want to.
That concludes all the questions I have in my in inbox! If you have any more, I promise to answer them in a far more timely manner now that all the holidays and craziness are over! Thanks for all the people who reached out to me!
Ask my anything!
Monday, January 4, 2010
I'd trade in my plot of land for a plane to anywhere.
Happy New Year! I owe an update, I know. I've just been having so much fun!
I still have to post a couple of more answers to your questions, a recap of my 52 Books in 2009 project, and MORE. Yes, there's more. I won't do a recap besides the books, because I'm pretty sure everyone knows how great the year 2009 was for this girl. Also, I've never been one for resolutions; I'm just ready to dive right into whatever 2010 has in store for me! And more importantly, what I have in store for it.
For now I wanted to check in and say that the past four days have been unbelievably fun, what with Curbside-r and lovely bestie Christy in town!! She's been visiting from Austin, Texas and it's so fun to have her back for a few days! We've been carousing with the other good people here in New York (including other superfun visitors like Jesse's friend Colin and Sean's friend Jess!), and rang in the new year with board games and Rock Band. I also decided to forgo any sequins or glitter and wear the loudest pants I owned in the 2000s:
As you can see, bright, tight pants are probably a thing that I should keep to my past. I would share more pictures, but there was no time for photos with all the fun going on.
It's been unbelievably cold in New York, but that hasn't prevented us from going out to a couple of bowling alleys, shopping, and getting manicures (I'm sporting a dark gray, I love it). We've also spent plenty of time indoors with (you guessed it!) Rock Band, but also watching movies like I Love You Man, 500 Days of Summer (Christy obvs needed a recap on my Top Films of 2009) and two films I knew she had to see, given her love of traveling and mysterious strangers - Before Sunrise and Before Sunset. And then she gave me a tour of YouTube's finest Taylor Kitsch interviews. Tonight is her last night and I'm going to be ultra-bummed to say bye. Luckily, a trip to Austin seems to be in the cards this year...
Also, I'd just like to say that Jesse and I were the final two teams in our Fantasy Football League and went head to head this past weekend in the "Superbowl." And Jesse won. I came in second, which I am A-OK with mainly because my main fb-squeeze Chris Johnson broke 2,000 rushing yards this weekend and then had a (I quote) "CJ2K" party to celebrate. How I wish I could have been there! However, I was most likely drumming my wrists out to "Sunday Morning."
I still have to post a couple of more answers to your questions, a recap of my 52 Books in 2009 project, and MORE. Yes, there's more. I won't do a recap besides the books, because I'm pretty sure everyone knows how great the year 2009 was for this girl. Also, I've never been one for resolutions; I'm just ready to dive right into whatever 2010 has in store for me! And more importantly, what I have in store for it.
For now I wanted to check in and say that the past four days have been unbelievably fun, what with Curbside-r and lovely bestie Christy in town!! She's been visiting from Austin, Texas and it's so fun to have her back for a few days! We've been carousing with the other good people here in New York (including other superfun visitors like Jesse's friend Colin and Sean's friend Jess!), and rang in the new year with board games and Rock Band. I also decided to forgo any sequins or glitter and wear the loudest pants I owned in the 2000s:
(photo courtesy of the husband, watching my surely spectacular performance on Rock Band vox)
As you can see, bright, tight pants are probably a thing that I should keep to my past. I would share more pictures, but there was no time for photos with all the fun going on.
It's been unbelievably cold in New York, but that hasn't prevented us from going out to a couple of bowling alleys, shopping, and getting manicures (I'm sporting a dark gray, I love it). We've also spent plenty of time indoors with (you guessed it!) Rock Band, but also watching movies like I Love You Man, 500 Days of Summer (Christy obvs needed a recap on my Top Films of 2009) and two films I knew she had to see, given her love of traveling and mysterious strangers - Before Sunrise and Before Sunset. And then she gave me a tour of YouTube's finest Taylor Kitsch interviews. Tonight is her last night and I'm going to be ultra-bummed to say bye. Luckily, a trip to Austin seems to be in the cards this year...
Also, I'd just like to say that Jesse and I were the final two teams in our Fantasy Football League and went head to head this past weekend in the "Superbowl." And Jesse won. I came in second, which I am A-OK with mainly because my main fb-squeeze Chris Johnson broke 2,000 rushing yards this weekend and then had a (I quote) "CJ2K" party to celebrate. How I wish I could have been there! However, I was most likely drumming my wrists out to "Sunday Morning."
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