Sarcastic Humour and Chewed Up Pen Caps

Currently Playing: Dining Dead

2010-06-28T16:04:00.003-04:00

Post to follow later regarding my extreme online absence, for now, enjoy...

<a href="http://diningdead.bandcamp.com/track/lose-the-attitude-demo">Lose The Attitude (demo) by Dining Dead</a>

An Abundance of Failure

2010-04-01T01:49:00.002-04:00

Yes, it's true. I fail, very, very badly. I promised more updates and then disappeared for a solid month and a half. I know I know I know. Failure.

So here's the status of things, in case any of you still care enough to stick around and read my strange ramblings: I seriously just did not have the time. Generally, I can juggle school and blogging, but then I went and got myself a boyfriend, and now my laptop is barely ever on! I'm going to indulge in a super girly moment and tell you guys I am happy. Really, genuinely happy for the first time in a long time, and not even because of having someone, but finally accepting myself the same I am. Corny much, I know. For any curious people out there, he's a musician - he plays drums in a local band, and he's currently teaching himself how to play the guitar. He's also incredibly sweet and extremely understanding. We get along so well that I honestly feel like the luckiest person in the world - I've had so many great things happen to me in my life.

Unfortunately, as I mentioned early in March, my grandfather was not doing well. This also took up a lot of my time as I was travelling home and spending time with my family. He passed away Monday night after having a serious infection, and we were informed last Friday he also had extremely severe lung cancer. The truth is that though I miss him, part of me hasn't really absorbed it yet, and I also want to believe that it's better that he is gone rather than have him suffer for weeks in the hospital.

I wish I had more to post about, but I really don't have much else to say. I'm super behind on my reading, as soon as this week is over I should be able to get back on track and get some reviews up. Also have some writing to do, and get my camera repaired, AND I'm working two jobs now + taking summer classes... Oh the fun I shall have :)

Vlog #1: Saying Hello with Michelle :)

2010-02-18T18:51:00.005-05:00

Hey everyone!

So I conquered a fear today, and decided to make a vlog with Michelle from Michelle's Reads. I hope you guys enjoy it! Sorry for the rambling and such, this video was an impromptu decision during our hangout! :)

In case you missed any of that self-promotion, here's a list of lovely little links for you:

Michelle and I's Collaborative Blog: Collision
Michelle's Book Review Blog: Michelle's Reads
Michelle's Personal Blog: Nerdventures
My Personal Blog: Someone Like You

ACT Photography (3): Michelle

2010-02-18T13:30:00.003-05:00

A little belated, but here are some photographs I took of Michelle during the Christmas break. I experimented with hard light and contrast, and I think the results came out quite nicely. What do you guys think?

I also did a few grayscale photographs, just for fun :)

In Case You Missed It...

2010-02-18T03:23:00.003-05:00

I had a slight addiction to Twitter tonight. I don't know where it came from. So in the event that you missed the awesomeness/randomness/weirdness that was my posting, here's a condensed version (of sorts):

summertime, where are you?
about 4 hours ago from web

andreeeeeeeew biiiiiiiiiiiiiiiird
about 4 hours ago from web

RT SO SAD, WTF?! @iansomerhalder this drives me mad... http://www.cnn.com/2010/TECH/science/02/17/endangered.species/index.html?hpt=C1

seriously wtf i am really bawling my eyes out. i hate mankind right now.
about 3 hours ago from web

I want to know what gives people the right to think they own every piece of land and water on this earth.
about 3 hours ago from web

We are filth. I'm so disgusted by commercialism, industrialism, and this ridiculous of righteousness everyone seems to possess.
about 3 hours ago from web

The sad thing is, if given the opportunity to question the people who decide it's okay to tear down the rainforest and build commercial shit
about 3 hours ago from web

on it, the answer I would get is this: "If we don't do it, someone else will."
about 3 hours ago from web

someone needs to take fight club seriously and torch all the banks. ALL of them.
about 3 hours ago from web

on another note, my dog is snoring. LOUDLY. and i'm at page 7 of this essay. almost 8. like 2 lines away. my prof is going to hate me.
about 3 hours ago from web

2265. I'm calling it quits. Will review this piece of crap essay Friday
about 3 hours ago from web

stoked to watch the episode of lost that i missed. in bed? sounds good! packing up. brb twitterverse to which i am currently addicted.
about 3 hours ago from web

nts: J.M. on C. + A.B. + B.I. + CR on C. + R of HP1 on C.
about 3 hours ago from web

misses you, more than you know, but will never let it show. (yee, cheesy rhymes at midnight are fantastic - pass me another glass.)
about 3 hours ago from web

never thought i would say this, but i currently have too many inspirations. namely, a boy (who happens to be really into me <3), bon iver, &
about 3 hours ago from web

this wicked kid in my creative writing class who wrote a piece that made my prof cry. it was f**king beautiful.
about 3 hours ago from web

not that my prof cried (it actually made me really uncomfortable), but the piece he wrote. it was genius.
about 3 hours ago from web

@koriannespeaks where are you? im in a tweeting mood and you're not around. it's odd.
about 3 hours ago from web

i wish i could my best friend what's on my mind. :( i hate complications.
about 3 hours ago from web

i could tell* hahaha. wow. fail.
about 3 hours ago from web

i love LOST. wish i could dream up storylines that intertwined and perfectly executed. i will be sad to see it end :(
about 2 hours ago from web

its really hot in my room. just thought you should know lol.
about 2 hours ago from web

bon iver's blood bank has been playing in my head all week. i'm inspired to write a piece for class using it as inspiration. yes/no?
about 2 hours ago from web

and i said i know it well, that secret that you know, but you don't know how to tell;
about 2 hours ago from web

i'm in love with your honour.
about 1 hour ago from web

siiiick just deleted like 30 albums from my facebook account. :) :)
about 1 hour ago from web

so i'm wide awake staring at a printout of bon iver lyrics, arc of secret society, the tipping point, and hp #2. ++++
44 minutes ago from web

a list of a good 20 things to post about on my blog. which to do first?
44 minutes ago from web

though sleep seems like a REALLY good bet, considering i have to be up at 8:45 at the latest. ugh. i really want to get stuff done :(
43 minutes ago from web

surprise surprise, i posted my currently playing on collision. http://arts-collision.blogspot.com
34 minutes ago from web

oh, and ps, we just hit 25 000 visitors < a year. boo-yeh.
34 minutes ago from web

Legit post tomorrow (well... technically later today, after I sleep)! Promise promise promise! Now that my essay is done I can take some time to write the posts the way I want, and not just do a half-ass job.

50 Natural Highs

2010-01-26T15:17:00.002-05:00

Inspired by David White's article in the current issue of The Campus Free Press (my university's independent student newspaper), entitled "Who Needs Drugs When You've Got This - 100 Things Better Than Being High," I have decided to make a list of 50 things that give me a high:

SCHOOL

1. Knowing the answer to a prof's question.

2. Finishing an assignment or a test before the due date/time limit.

3. Seeing a friendly face in the hall.

4. Being able to have genuine discussions with professors before/after class.

5. Receiving constructive criticism.

FRIENDS

6. Being there for someone at the exact right moment.

7. Knowing I can call my best friend at any time in the day and he will still answer.

8. Drunk texts/phone calls to/from people I miss.

9. Noticing things my friends would like when I am shopping for myself.

10. Knowing my roommates aren't just people I live with, but people who will always be willing to listen. I think that's pretty special.

11. Having the friends I have, period.

12. Knowing when a friend says "I love you," they mean it.

13. Being able to laugh together.

FAMILY

14. When my thirteen year old cousin is on MSN and asks me for advice.

15. When my mom/dad sends me a Facebook message for no particular reason.

16. Seeing my family in Alberta during the summer.

17. Getting drunk with my cousins. (Though I'm not sure if this qualifies as a "natural" high!)

18. The way my dog looks up at me.

VACATION

19. Being able to say I've gone to Hawaii.

20. Being able to say I've been to Paris, and am in love with it.

21. Being able to say my feet have touched the streets of Vienna.

22. Having my photographs from Hawaii framed at my parents' house

23. Getting compliments on them.

24. My feet touching the Atlantic Ocean.

25. Flying.

26. Coming home again.

DRIVING

27. Having the music so loud my parents hear me coming down the street.

28. Having a car full of friends.

29. Road trips.

30. Spur of the moment turns or stops.

31. Having enough gas to get to work.

MUSIC

32. Knowing the words for every song on a playlist.

33. Falling on that perfect track in shuffle mode.

34. Having a favourite song for every mood.

35. Bonding with someone over an album or a band.

36. Listening to true artists who want to change or influence the world, not just make money and get laid.

37. Kings of Leon. I don't need to expand further than that.

38. Feeling like I'm falling in love all over again when I listen to a forgotten album.

WEATHER

39. When the rain pours so hard it seems to be coming up from the ground.

40. When it's 25 above with a nice breeze.

PERSONAL

41. Conquering a fear.

42. When the amount of cheese is just right on a pizza.

43. Being a vegetarian.

44. Letting go.

45. Stumbling on something beautiful, by accident.

46. It's cheesy, but learning something new every day.

47. Getting a compliment on how I dress.

48. Good hair days.

49. Writing something that I am proud of.

50. Meeting someone new.

Sorry for lacking of posting everyone. Hope this makes up for it! :)

3 Good Things #1

2010-01-14T22:19:00.004-05:00

So as part of a New Year's Resolution-type thing, I'm following in my friend Vivienne's tracks and posting 3 good things that have happened each day in an effort to STAY POSITIVE :)

1. My boss is giving me more and more responsibility at work, which makes me feel good and appreciated :)

2. I went to my classes, even though I woke up late and was scrambling to get ready on time.

3. I have been on a solid diet for a week and feel FANTASTIC :) I'm completely motivated to continue and lose 15 pounds by March :)

In other news, I am currently reading Othello:

for Shakespeare class, obviously.

It is also the weekend which makes me super happy, time to do homework homework homework! And go out of course :)

I'm hoping next week will go over much better, unfortunately this week has really sucked, but I won't linger on it nor bore you with the details. It's pretty petty anyway.

I am now off to do some readings and homework, I have 3 essays to work on in the next 2 weeks, but will try and keep you all updated!

Back From Hiatus/Happy 2010 :)

2010-01-11T18:39:00.003-05:00

Hey everyone!

I know, you hear it all the time. I keep epically failing. University has me by the balls right now and is just taking up way too much of my time. Unfortunately I haven't gotten around to reading any books, besides those for school, which I feel horrid about.

I have been sent ARCs and will get to them as soon as possible so please bear with me! Additionally my TBR stack of books reaches my roof now so many reviews are on the way, as soon as I get ahead in my schoolwork I will dedicate myself to posting as much as possible!

Just to bring you guys all up to speed, nothing much has been going on my life. I recently celebrated my 19th birthday, so that was quite the adventure on its own. Otherwise between work and school I'm not getting much downtime, which makes it hard at times to not get frustrated. I'm trying to work out a better schedule this term so I manage my time better.

Other news... nothing much really. I have tons of new clothes that I will take pictures of shortly to show off, and I will update my TBR list and all that wonderful stuff :)

Other than that, I don't have too much else to talk about. Once I've read a decent book for review I will post :)

PS: Check Collision for proof that I am in fact still alive, as are Vie and Kiera.

Style of the Day

2009-11-17T22:33:00.004-05:00

Hello lovelies :)

As you may have noticed from my twitter, I've recently become addicted to Tumblr, and I recommend you to get one. It's cured me of my Facebook addiction which in short involving a lot of useless refreshing.

I ended up posting a few pictures of myself in scattered places last night. Well, to be more specific, pictures of my outfit. I felt inspired by the color yellow, because I felt yellow (and yes, that is possible). Some ended up on Tumblr (which is why I mentioned it), and others on Facebook. I felt like sharing here too :)

So, here's today's style of the day... a day late?

Sorry being face-camera shy. I have to keep my anonymity somehow :P

Shameless Promotion: Links :)

2009-11-16T00:50:00.005-05:00

While I am busy writing essays/watching Dawson's Creek and such for the next 48 hours, please check out other places I may be lurking around:

Someone Like You (Tumblr)
deviantART
Collision
Ms Muse
Twitter

And hey, if you're up to it, send me a wonderful e-mail telling me how awesome I am :P (or at least words of encouragement while I power through 1200 words on Paradise Lost)

Thank you lovelies, posts to come soon. Expect some new items from my closet to be drooled over shortly :)

Stuck on Repeat (5): Lady Gaga

2009-11-13T11:55:00.002-05:00

Pure addiction.

Seeing The Lady live in a little over two weeks!

Sunday Secrets (5)

2009-11-13T11:47:00.001-05:00

-----Email Message-----

I met someone who felt the same way, but I remember him more for being strong enough to change. From him I learned that people are more than their mistakes.

-----Email Message-----

Many years ago, an older man that I trusted had inappropriate sexual contact with me. Twelve years of therapy and a suicide attempt later, and I still live with it every day.

A big part of me will forever be defined by the worst thing that ever happened to me.

from PostSecret.com

To Write Love on Her Arms 2009

2009-11-13T11:32:00.005-05:00

Hey there everyone!

As you may or may not be aware, today is "To Write Love on Her Arms" day, which my fellow blogger Iheartmonster has already mentioned. If you've never heard of TWLOHA, here's their mission statement and their vision:

MISSION STATEMENT:

To Write Love on Her Arms is a non-profit movement dedicated to presenting hope and finding help for people struggling with depression, addiction, self-injury and suicide. TWLOHA exists to encourage, inform, inspire and also to invest directly into treatment and recovery.

VISION:

The vision is that we actually believe these things…

You were created to love and be loved. You were meant to live life in relationship with other people, to know and be known. You need to know that your story is important and that you're part of a bigger story. You need to know that your life matters.

We live in a difficult world, a broken world. My friend Byron is very smart - he says that life is hard for most people most of the time. We believe that everyone can relate to pain, that all of us live with questions, and all of us get stuck in moments. You need to know that you're not alone in the places you feel stuck.

We all wake to the human condition. We wake to mystery and beauty but also to tragedy and loss. Millions of people live with problems of pain. Millions of homes are filled with questions – moments and seasons and cycles that come as thieves and aim to stay. We know that pain is very real. It is our privilege to suggest that hope is real, and that help is real.

You need to know that rescue is possible, that freedom is possible, that God is still in the business of redemption. We're seeing it happen. We're seeing lives change as people get the help they need. People sitting across from a counselor for the first time. People stepping into treatment. In desperate moments, people calling a suicide hotline. We know that the first step to recovery is the hardest to take. We want to say here that it's worth it, that your life is worth fighting for, that it's possible to change.

Beyond treatment, we believe that community is essential, that people need other people, that we were never meant to do life alone.

The vision is that community and hope and help would replace secrets and silence.

The vision is people putting down guns and blades and bottles.

The vision is that we can reduce the suicide rate in America and around the world.

The vision is that we would learn what it means to love our friends, and that we would love ourselves enough to get the help we need.

The vision is better endings. The vision is the restoration of broken families and broken relationships. The vision is people finding life, finding freedom, finding love. The vision is graduation, a Super Bowl, a wedding, a child, a sunrise. The vision is people becoming incredible parents, people breaking cycles, making change.

The vision is the possibility that your best days are ahead.

The vision is the possibility that we're more loved than we'll ever know.

The vision is hope, and hope is real.

You are not alone, and this is not the end of your story.

I'm a big believer in supporting causes, and this one really touches home for me. I hope you guys will all take a moment to write love on your arms and show your support. :) Send me the pictures!

More information can be found at http://www.twloha.com

Shameless Promotion: The Hollow

2009-11-08T23:30:00.005-05:00

Little known fact: at heart, I have the mind of a writer. In reality I feel as though I often epically fail, especially as am I constantly thrown from one end to the other (being from analytical writing for school and creative writing for... fun?). However, this semester I have a class called Creative Writing: Poetry, and let me tell you it's been quite the challenge to juggle that type of writing with the millions of essays I have to write. Simultaneously, it's been quite therapeutic.

I would like to share a poem of mine. It's not the greatest poem by any means, just something I feel like sharing...

(please ignore the annoying green lines underneath, grammar corrector is annoying!)

Guest Blog: Another "Another Faust" Contest

2009-10-26T13:55:00.002-04:00

Hi everyone. Dina and I, Daniel Nayeri, are about to kick off a month-long tour for our book, Another Faust, and we want to do it by announcing a contest! We are looking for the most promising writers out there (that’s YOU). And then we want to showcase their work, so that all of the Internet can bask in their awesome writing might (and, you know, give them prizes).

HERE’S HOW IT GOES:
We want you to write your own short story, re-imagining of the Faustian Bargain. (For inspiration, check out Bedazzled, Simpsons “Tree House of Horrors IV,” and The Little Mermaid). It can be about anything you like (but let’s keep it PG-13, and under 3,000 words), and it’s open to everyone.

All you have to do is send your entry to dviergutz@gmail.com before January 31.

Rules and details can be found here, make sure to read them so you don’t get DQed.

And the winner gets all kinds of sweetness:

A signed copy of Another Faust
A handwritten deleted scene
A featured article & interview on our site
An author’s galley of the sequel Another Pan

Though we’ll feature the top five on our site for comments, the judging WON’T happen by popular vote (so basically, we don't care which contestant has the most friends). Dina and I will personally read them.

So, spread the word! Tweet, retweet, forward, thread, spread, embed this post.

Good luck!

D&D

Long Time Coming

2009-10-26T13:48:00.002-04:00

Hey everyone!

I cannot apologize enough for seemingly dropping off the face of the Earth, and I feel like I've really let everyone down! Really sorry about that. Unfortunately university life consumes a lot of my time, and I am still working part-time so all my extra time is usually spent there, not to mention the fact that the H1N1 epidemic seems to have hit a large majority of my friends so I am ten times more dedicated to going to class and getting notes for them.

I suppose the one good side to this crazy flu is that I am so gosh-darned terrified of getting it that I have decided to stay in my room on lockdown unless it is necessary for me to leave (school, work, bathroom, kitchen). Though I now have a raging case of cabin fever as a result, I have run out of things to do in my room as a break from homework and assignments, so blogging is back on my list of priorities! Woooooooo!

Love you all, expect fantastic posts asap!

Currently Reading: SHAKESPEARE!

2009-08-25T01:05:00.001-04:00

Hey everyone!

So sorry I haven't been around much this August, I'm simply overwhelmed with reading for school!

Currently I'm on a Shakespeare spree: I've recently finished The Taming of the Shrew, Richard III, Titus Andronicus, Romeo and Juliet, and just today I completed Twelfth Night. So far I've enjoyed everything but Richard III which was extremely dreadful. I may give it another shot before classes begin, and hopefully I'll understand it a little better then the first time.

Last on my list for my Studies in Shakespeare is A Midsummer Night's Dream which I've previously read and consider my favorite Shakespearean play so I'm pretty much on cloud nine now.

After that, I have 11 books/works to read, a few of which are for my Children's Literature class and are illustrated works or small books, so I'm extremely close to finishing the large majority of the works from my reading lists before classes even begin! Which is good news for all of you, as I will have extra time during the school year to post regularly! :)

That's about all I have to say for now, I'm in Edmonton visiting family as well so posts will be fairly rare, but I sincerely hope you understand the small price to pay now so you'll have me all year round :)

While I'm Away...

2009-08-16T12:02:00.005-04:00

Away from this blog, that is, be sure to check out

COLLISION

&

MS MUSE,
where I am currently guest blogging.

Leave comments, subscribe, etc :)
I'll love you forever if you do!

ACT Photography (2)

2009-08-16T00:21:00.002-04:00

As you know may or may not be aware, I like to consider myself an amateur and passionate learner when it comes to photography. Here are some shots of my best friend and I think turned out quite nicely. :)

whatcha think? by ~simplychaoticxx on deviant ART

trust me by ~simplychaoticxx on deviant ART

wild child by ~simplychaoticxx on deviant ART

Let's Talk (2)

2009-08-11T23:11:00.002-04:00

Alright, I've got some s'explaining to do.

I apologize profusely for barely posting this month. So much has been on my mind and there is so much to do that I had to cut a few things from my priority list to make room for newer developments.

First off, there's nearly a month until school starts, and I finally received the huge majority of the novels I'll be needing to read for my classes. I'm taking this opportunity to read and finish as much as I can before the starting of my fall semester. This way, I won't fall behind and I will have more free time during the school year for studying, posting on the blog, etc. :)

Also, I was really ill after the long weekend, and could not muster the energy to post anything creative or even post at all to be honest. I was pretty much bedridden for several days also so it made dragging myself to the computer desk slightly challenging haha.

I've also been busy packing the last of my things for two reasons: First, I'm going to Edmonton to visit family soon, and secondly I have to pack up because I'm returning to my second home for school in September! Unfortunately that's also been consuming a lot of my time.

Of course, there's also social life events and drama-rama that always finds me, but I won't bore you guys with that. Just letting you all know I'm safe and I should be back on track by the weekend :)

Much love, xo.

July Wrap-Up

2009-08-07T15:57:00.003-04:00

+-- reviewed Now We Are Six, Coraline, I Love You, Beth Cooper, Audrey, Wait!, and Street
+-- admired Emma Watson, Taylor Momsen and Leighton Meester
+-- confessed a secret
+-- went shopping once, twice and thrice
+-- took some pictures of Michelle
+-- shamelessly promoted My Friend Jamie
+-- talked about some current life events
+-- promoted my guest blogging on Ms Muse

Sorry it took so long. Explanatory post to follow!

Shopping Expedition (13)

2009-07-28T20:48:00.009-04:00

A little belated, but better late than never...

It suddenly hit me a few days ago that July is nearly over, and before we all know it, fall will be here once again. And of course, this means fall clothing is arriving in stores. So what's a girl in need of new fall pieces to do? Go out and shop of course! :P

Purchase #1
This lovely bag was on sale and I simply could not say no. Black and sequins? Perfect for fall with a lot of my current outfits already. Plus, I'm not a fan of clutches (cute to look at, but completely impractical). This is the kind of bag that's dressy enough to go out with and will actually fit my wallet, cell phone, and maybe a pair of flats to change into after dancing the night away.

Bag from Insight, sold at Aila Galleri.

Purchase #2
This lovely necklace was just too irresistible. The phrase is so incredibly tongue in cheek that it kills me. It reads "I am an enfant terrible." Translated, it says "I am a terrible child." Cute right? Plus I love bringing some of my inner French into my wardrobe. (Oh yeah, I speak French by the way, for those who don't know!)

Necklace by Uranium Mutation, sold at Aila Galleri.

Purchase #3
I am in love with this jacket for several reasons: (1) it's by Gentle Fawn, a brand I've come to obsess over, (2) it fits me super well and hits perfectly for my size (I'm shy of 5'2", embarrassing much?), and (3) unlike many jackets, it is made to stretch and feels like a structured sweater when it's on. It is by far the most comfortable jacket I've ever worn. Also, black will go very well with fall and of course, matches with just about anything.

Jacket by Gentle Fawn, sold at Aila Galleri.

In other news, I am overwhelmed with advance readings for school, work, appointments, and managing this blog as well as two others. However, I work well under pressure, so I'm not too worried. I always manage to get everything done on time :)

If you haven't checked it out already, read my guests posts for Ms Muse, and please check out Collision, because even though I've been slacking, the other girls have been posting some pretty spiffy stuff!

Review: Street

2009-07-27T17:03:00.002-04:00

Title: Street: The NYLON Book of Global Style
Author: Editors of NYLON Magazine
# of Pages: 256
Published: September 21, 2006
Publisher: Universe Publishing
Rating: 5/5

As you are no doubt aware, I have an undying love for Nylon Magazine, and in my dreams I am most definitely a Nylon Girl. Therefore, it should be no surprise that I indulged and purchased all three books penned, compiled and edited by the editors of this wondrous magazine.

The first is called Street: The NYLON Book of Global Style. Essentially the book focuses on 7 fashion capitals of the world: London, Copenhagen, Berlin, Paris, New York, Melbourne and Tokyo. The entire premise of the book is photographs of everyday people on the street in what Nylon calls their "street style." In addition to the photographs, first name and age, there are several answers to some questions, such as occupation, what the person is wearing, the best thing about the city, what bands the person listens to, etc. There is also an introduction for each city, describing the lifestyle, the fashion scene, the best boutiques, the scenery, etc.

Overall, there isn't much to say about Street except that I absolutely adored it. The photography was done very well, and every introduction to the city allowed a better mental image and a better ability to place the people in the photographs within my mind's best version of every city. The mini-interviews humanize every individual photograph and make them feel slightly more realistic. I was especially impressed with the diversity in style between cities and each individual, and felt inspired to go out and take photographs of people in the streets. Nylon has an uncanny way of always inspiring me though, so I'm not surprised. :)

I award a 5/5 to Street for gorgeous shots, elegant compilation, spot-on summaries of cities, and simply for being Nylon :)

News News News!

2009-07-26T22:04:00.004-04:00

I don't mention it often, but two of my favorite blogs to read are The English Muse, and of course Ms. Muse. If you read either of these blogs, you are no doubt aware that Tina, writer of both blogs, is as of forth, on hiatus until September. In the meantime, I've had the wonderful opportunity to guest blog for Ms. Muse!

I feel truly honored to have such a fantastic shot to try something new as her style is quite different than mine (and by default Collision's). I live for a challenge, and I believe conforming to someone else's style and making an effort to write posts that are as outstanding as hers will be quite a refreshing change from my usual post style.

So if I seem inactive here or on Collision, check out Ms. Muse. I've already posted there so please check it out and let me know what you think :)

Stuck on Repeat (4): My Friend Jamie

2009-07-26T16:54:00.003-04:00

I know I've previously posted about My Friend Jamie, but I can't help that this song is constantly playing whenever I'm on my computer.

In case you can't tell, this should be major incentive to listen if I've posted about Jamie twice in the past week. :)

ACT Photography (1)

2009-07-26T13:54:00.003-04:00

As you are probably not aware, I'm actually really into photography. Though by no means do I think I'm anywhere near fantastic and groundbreaking, I still like to experiment and I'm obviously still learning.

Michelle from Michelle's Reads came over the other day and modeled for me. I know the backgrounds suck, we did not have the photoshoot planned, so it was totally impromptu. What I would like you to focus on is the composition and the emotion in Michelle's face. I think she's absolutely astounding and I was quite delighted to have the opportunity to photograph her.

smile for me. by ~simplychaoticxx on deviant ART

tease me. by ~simplychaoticxx on deviant ART

surprise me. by ~simplychaoticxx on deviant ART

the light accompanies the dark by ~simplychaoticxx on deviant ART

turn your cheek again. by ~simplychaoticxx on deviant ART

your smile lingers. by ~simplychaoticxx on deviant ART

please by ~simplychaoticxx on deviant ART

you know me well by ~simplychaoticxx on deviant ART

oh dear. by ~simplychaoticxx on deviant ART

PS: Isn't it about time I do one of these?

Shopping Expedition (12)

2009-07-26T12:25:00.014-04:00

I've gone and done it again. Spent hard-earned money on non-essentials. And you know what?

Too bad :)

Title: Bad Girls Don't Die
Author: Katie Alexander
Publisher: Hyperion

Alexis thought she led a typically dysfunctional high school existence. Dysfunctional like her parents' marriage; her doll-crazy twelve-year-old sister, Kasey; and even her own anti-social, anti-cheerleader attitude. When a family fight results in some tearful sisterly bonding, Alexis realizes that her life is creeping from dysfunction into danger. Kasey is acting stranger than ever: her blue eyes go green sometimes; she uses old-fashioned language; and she even loses track of chunks of time, claiming to know nothing about her strange behavior. Their old house is changing, too. Doors open and close by themselves; water boils on the unlit stove; and an unplugged air conditioner turns the house cold enough to see their breath in. Alexis wants to think that it's all in her head, but soon, what she liked to think of as silly parlor tricks are becoming life-threatening--to her, her family, and to her budding relationship with the class president. Alexis knows she's the only person who can stop Kasey -- but what if that green-eyed girl isn't even Kasey anymore?

This book just sounds way too interesting to pass up. I have to read it.

Title: Wintergirls
Author: Laurie Halse Anderson
Publisher: Viking Children's Books

"Dead girl walking," the boys say in the halls. "Tell us your secret," the girls whisper, one toilet to another. I am that girl. I am the space between my thighs, daylight shining through. I am the bones they want, wired on a porcelain frame.

Lia and Cassie are best friends, wintergirls frozen in matchstick bodies, competitors in a deadly contest to see who can be the skinniest. But what comes after size zero and size double-zero? When Cassie succumbs to the demons within, Lia feels she is being haunted by her friend's restless spirit.

In her most emotionally wrenching, lyrically written book since the multiple-award-winning Speak, Laurie Halse Anderson explores Lia's descent into the powerful vortex of anorexia, and her painful path toward recovery.

Although I may be the only person who did not enjoy Speak, I'm willing to give Anderson another chance with this one. It sounds like her best since her critically acclaimed novel.

Title: L. A. Candy
Author: Lauren Conrad
Publisher: HarperTeen

Los Angeles is all about the sweet life: hot clubs, cute guys, designer . . . everything. Nineteen-year-old Jane Roberts can't wait to start living it up. She may be in L.A. for an internship, but Jane plans to play as hard as she works, and has enlisted her BFF Scarlett to join in the fun.

When Jane and Scarlett are approached by a producer who wants them to be on his new series, a "reality version of Sex and the City," they can hardly believe their luck. Their own show? Yes, please!

Soon Jane is TV's hottest star. Fame brings more than she ever imagined possible for a girl from Santa Barbara—free designer clothes, the choicest tables at the most exclusive clubs, invites to Hollywood premieres—and she's lapping up the VIP treatment with her eclectic entourage of new pals. But those same friends who are always up for a wild night are also out for a piece of Jane's spotlight. In a city filled with people chasing after their dreams, it's not long before Jane wakes up to the reality that everyone wants something from her, and nothing is what it seems to be.

L.A. Candy is a deliciously entertaining novel about what it's like to come of age in Hollywood while starring in a reality TV show, written by a girl who has experienced it all firsthand: Lauren Conrad.

Don't hate for this one! I did not get this book with the belief it would be groundbreaking or even remotely good. My inner Hills fan was too curious to let it pass, because essentially this book is a biography of Conrad's life, let's face it. I'll let you all know that so far, the book is terrible (how surprising), so I'm glad I got it for free.

Besides books, I also picked up a few new clothing items and a wallet:

shirt by: Matix Clothing
photograph by: Harriet Carlson
property of: Aila Galleri

shirt by: Matix Clothing
first photograph property of Matix Clothing

shorts by: Matix Clothing
photograph property of Matix Clothing

shirt by: Insight Clothing

wallet by: Volcom

So what do you think? :)

Let's Talk

2009-07-25T01:00:00.003-04:00

Hey everyone!

I know, I suck. No posts lately. Michelle from Michelle's Reads got on my case tonight about it, so I figured I owed it to you guys to let you know what I've been up to so you don't think I dropped dead or something :)

Things have been really crazy since last weekend, I unfortunately made some pretty idiotic decisions and paid the price for them, then learned to take responsibility. I won't go into details, but the important thing is that things are alright now and I'm back to myself. :)

I've been going a lot lately and seeing some friends, which is almost time consuming and takes me away from blogging, but it's good for me to try and have a bit of a social life (at least, I think so :P) This has resulted in a lot of shopping trips which I will post all about, but let's just say my TBR list grew a bunch, and the extra space in my closet just got a little smaller. I can't wait to show you all! :)

I also dyed my hair twice, with 3 different shades of blond. Yeah, I probably killed my hair, but I couldn't be a brunette anymore. It's summer and I'm feeling more fun and light instead of sultry and dark. Call me weird, but summer always brings out the happy in me.

Hmmm, what else? I've seriously been contemplating getting into hair styling. I love it, and though by no means am I an expert, I like to think I do some pretty cool shit. Michelle has been letting me try out stuff in her hair and it makes for good practice so I'm thoroughly enjoying that :)

Also have finally gotten around to taking photographs with my DSRL, which was hidden away for FOREVER. Ugh, I'm such a slack and I procratinate. I'm hoping to catch up and get some good shots in before semester starts and build my portfolio :) I will most likely write a photography post to show off some of my stuff. I'm not a great photographer or anything, but I'm making an effort to learn and I'm really enjoying my experiments thus far.

I also saw Harry Potter 6 three times in one week, so that consumed... around 450 minutes of my life? Also known as 7.5 hours watching a film I was most impressed with. I'll get to a review of that on Collision ASAP, so just bear with me!

My last excuse for not posting is because I've actually - wait for it - been READING. A LOT. In case you haven't checked out my currently reading section, there's 4 books and one magazine that I have on the go, and I'm determined to finish them ASAP. I'm determined to have the majority of my reading list for school done by the time classes begin, as well as my to be read pile polished off.

So that's about it really, reviews and random posts coming soon, promises!
Oh, and the new issue of Nylon just dropped, so I'll probably have a post all about its awesomeness too :)

Shameless Promotion: My Friend Jamie

2009-07-20T23:30:00.002-04:00

(*cross posted from my other blog, Collision)

Ever heard of My Friend Jamie? No? Well, you should really check him out (and not just because I went to school with him). He's an incredibly talented musician, and honestly has been a huge inspiration in my life.

A short while ago he posted his first original song on YouTube, and it would mean a lot to me if you checked it out and commented. I know he'd appreciate it too :)

Previously Jamie also posted covers to some pretty epic songs, including "Let It Be," which let me tell you I adore, despite the fact that I loathe most Beatles' covers. The version Jamie recorded was featured in an online article as one of the top 3 best YouTube "Let It Be" covers. Check out it below:

What I love about Jamie is that no matter what, whether he's playing an original song or a cover, he always makes the song his own: he adds his own touch, his own signature to it. For myself, that's the mark of a real musician. They are the ones who acknowledge the music and styles that have been put forth before them, take that knowledge, and try to achieve something different instead of copying it or fitting into a current genre.

No one will ever be the second coming of The Beatles or any other notable band. No one can replicate someone's sound to perfection. Real musicians know this, push the current limits and trends of music, break the mould and try something new that (more often than not) sparks something fantastic, wonderful and original. I truly believe My Friend Jamie is that kind of artist.

You can check him out on YouTube and Myspace:

http://www.youtube.com/user/thefriendlyfreak

http://www.myspace.com/myfriendjamie

Stuck on Repeat (3): Black Eyed Peas

2009-07-17T19:52:00.001-04:00

(Don't hate me for this!)

It may be too early to tell, but...

Review: Audrey, Wait!

2009-07-17T17:16:00.002-04:00

Title: Audrey, Wait!
Author: Robin Benway
# of Pages: 320
Published: May 5, 2009
Publisher: Penguin Young Reader Group
Rating: 4/5

According to a poll on the front page of USA Today, 63 percent of Americans blame me for the breakup, so let me clear the air right now: they're right. Sixty-three percent of Americans are no fools when it comes to my love life, a fact which is really creepy and not helping me sleep well at night...

The best way to summarize Audrey, Wait!, Robin Benway's debut novel? It's like eating a chocolate bar, and by that I don't mean overindulgence leads to acne breakouts and love handles. Nope, I'm talking about the delicious satisfaction you get while eating it, the sweet taste lingering on your tongue, and the sugar rush you get once it's gone.

Audrey, Wait! is an addicting read that appears to be written while drinking approximately 38954505 coffees and eating 982348 candy bars. It's the kind of novel that is sweet and pure, impossible to resist, and just like eating a chocolate bar, you can't help but want to do it all over again once you're done. There is no question in my mind that I would re-read this novel and enjoy it just as much as the first time, if not more.

Benway's debut novel tells Audrey's story: to put it simply, how breaking up with her boyfriend led her to become one of the most sought after celebrities and her privacy completely unregarded, all because her ex wrote a song called "Audrey, Wait!" about their breakup. The plot may sound silly or even cliched (after all, haven't we all felt sympathy for people like Miss Britney Spears?), but Benway takes this unlikely story and makes it believable to its readers who are living in an era where communications and media are growing and are a necessity in mainstream culture. These are, obviously, the culprits and instigators of Audrey's fame, and the rest of the novel explains Audrey's relationship with the media and how it affects her life in teen girl characteristic ways: being followed on a date, pictures of her making out in tabloids, free stuff being delivered to her house, endless phone calls from interviewers, etc.

The plot itself is fairly original for a YA, and though it appears to be fabricated out of extreme unlikelihood, somehow it completely won me over. Through Benway's storytelling, Audrey becomes a relatable character that faces the same problems that most teen readers go through, such as breaking up and new crushes, fights with best friends, etc. It's always difficult to take a largely unreachable concept for a story and make it believable and genuine to readers who are outside of the situations the main character lives, but I'm truly sold on this story thanks for Benway's fantastic skills.

When it comes to structure, Benway follows the most widely known format and simply allows her characters to go through certain events that build up to the big climax. By no means is this degrading, it's simply quite standard and works well for this story.

Characters are without a doubt essential in this novel and a wonderful delight. Audrey is by far one of my most favourite recent teen girl characters in YA: she's absolutely hilarious and the kind of girl that would be my best friend if she were real. There's something very human and touching about her that make her a stand out among very washed out stereotypical YA characters. I also admire Benway for creating a character as strong as Audrey: despite all the trouble her fame causes her, she remains true to herself and refuses to stop living her life. Yes, she does get slightly paranoid, but who wouldn't after all the things Audrey must bear? Overall Audrey really grows through her experience and becomes a strong character that is sure to inspire many readers.

Her best friend Victoria is also a great character who is true to Audrey and loves her like any best friend should. Though I doubted her motives in the beginning of the novel when Audrey first becomes famous, I came to understand why she behaved the way she does, and for that I respect her intentions as well. Her chemistry with Audrey is great, and Benway completely sells Victoria as a best friend.

James also makes for a decent romantic interest. Though he's nothing I haven't seen before, he's cute and predictable, and that's about it. However, his relationship with Audrey is sweet and realistic. The issues that arise between them pull at your heartstrings, and I couldn't help but invest myself in this couple.

Finally, as aforementioned, Benway's style is crazed and absolutely brilliant. She voices Audrey perfectly in the first person, and the entire narrative feels like a gigantic sugar rush. Every page is filled with excitement and bursting with energy, just like Audrey herself. In addition, Benway's diction and style is simple and easy to follow, with many references to current young adult sayings and lifestyles. I finished this book in under 24 hours and loved just about every minute of it: I simply could not put it down. I was most impressed with Benway's addictiveness in this novel, and yearned to have more to read when I was done.

Only slight disappointments in the novel exist: I found Victoria overbearing when it came to telling Audrey to take advantage of her fame, as well as taking advantage of Audrey's situation for her own personal gain, though this could have risen out of my skeptic nature and distrust of people. Also, Audrey's relationship was James was very typical of YA, there was nothing new or compelling about their relationship, it was fairly simple and born out of a need for a love interest and not actual compatibility. I also found the ending pretty cheesy, but that being said, I still enjoyed it and forgave Benway for writing it as there really wasn't any other way for it to end. It still provided a great conclusion and wrap-up to the narrative, so don't be discouraged from reading Audrey, Wait! in the least.

Overall, Audrey, Wait! is a delightful surprise and a fantastic addition to the YA literature community. It is both funny and touching and features an exceptionally hyped-up sixteen year old unlikely star who learns how to embrace her life, no matter who is watching. Its little faults like a stereotyped love interest and a famewhore best friend are forgiven through Benway's brilliant caffeinated ride. I award a 4/5 to Robin Benway's achievement Audrey, Wait!, and am now off in search of the next chocolate bar...

The Epitome of Beauty (3)

2009-07-17T11:47:00.002-04:00

Leighton Meester

One of the stars of Gossip Girl.
In the process of recording her debut album.
Has unbelievably gorgeous brown eyes.
Is phenomenal in her roles.
Comes off as incredibly down to earth.
Makes me jealous of her hair in every photograph.
Dresses in fabulous classic and modern pieces.
Is always composed and natural.
And her chemistry with co-star Ed Westwick? The best I've seen on TV yet.

Shopping Expedition (11)

2009-07-16T21:18:00.016-04:00

I'm going to kill four birds with one stone and post all of my recent purchases together even though they happened over the course of the last several weeks :)
Hope you guys don't mind!

Alright, my first purchase is completely random and one of those impulse buys that my best friend convinced me to spend money on. They're synthetic clip in hair extensions and oh so cute :) There's two identical clips in each package, and as you can tell I bought one rainbow package, one multi-coloured pink and one white blond piece with a feather and other knick-knacks on it. They're pretty cute in my hair, they're just for fun. Can you tell I really don't take myself that seriously?
(Plus, my best friend told me I *HAD* to post about them!)

Next purchase was made with my best friend once again, this time in Vaughan on our way home from Toronto a few weekends ago. Both dresses are from Urban Behaviour and were dirt cheap. It's hard to tell with them lying flat, but they're super cute on. I have to do my laundry tomorrow and then I will take pictures of myself in them and you'll see how cute they are on and they way they flow and whatnot. :)

Also purchased with my best friend (she's the bad influence, can you tell? :]) was this Betsey Johnson GIGANTIC bag, which I absolutely adore and it gets me stopped by random people all the time who wonder where I got it 'cause it's so neat and different than the mainstream stuff my town has. I think it's super cute for summer and it holds my millions of pairs of sunglasses, books galore, extra clothes, etc. Plus, I've also wanted leopard print something, and I think it's absolutely gorgous on this bag :)

My last purchase to mention is four more books I picked up from my book lists: Romeo and Juliet and A Midsummer Night's Dream, both by William Shakespeare (obviously) for my Studies in Shakespeare. Also picked up Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak for my Children's Literature class, as well as Day by A. L. Kennedy for my Gender, Literature and Culture class.

You may also notice that there are three notebooks in the picture on the left. They're from a brand called "Pistachio," and every notebook is

made from 100% post-consumer recycled paper,
printed with soy ink,
processed chlorine free
paper certified by Forest Stewardship Council
made in Canada

So I think that's good :) Plus, they're UBER cute :) I collect notebooks, ps.

So that's it for now! What do you guys think of my latest purchases? :)

Currently Feeling: Inspired, Uplifted and Touched

2009-07-12T20:23:00.005-04:00

This literally brought tears to my eyes.
I don't know who wrote this, but thank you.
Tomorrow will be my first day too.

Photo from PostSecret.com

Review: I Love You, Beth Cooper

2009-07-11T11:24:00.004-04:00

Title: I Love You, Beth Cooper
Author: Larry Doyle
# of Pages: 274
Published: May 29, 2009 (first edition April 7, 2008)
Publisher: Harper Collins Publishers
Rating: 3/5

I Love You, Beth Cooper is Doyle's first attempt at a fictional novel after a career of writing for screen productions such as The Simpsons, and quite honestly it shows through his writing. The novel is the plight of Denis Cooverman, one of the biggest geeks in school, who believes he is in love with Elizabeth Cooper, the head cheerleader. On graduation day he announces: "I love you, Beth Cooper" in his speech, and thus begins 24 hours of mayhem and ridiculousness.

I'll be honest, I only picked up this book because I'd seen the trailer for the movie; had I been browsing and simply read the summary on the back of the book, I'm certain I would have put it back down and moved on. However, I was pleasantly surprised: though the story of a "geek" who loves some popular girl has been overused and exhausted, Doyle manages to put a new spin on the concept and has a knack for comedic writing that is laugh out loud funny. Even though the story is told in third person, the author manages to make readers feel Denis' awkwardness, anxiety and general nerdiness. Denis then becomes humanized and less of a generalized stereotype of a high school smartass.

The same can be applied to the rest of the characters in the novel, who are obviously based on stereotypes like the marine-esque boyfriend, the weird sidekick/best friend, the clique of girls, etc. Though many of them have personalities that scream typical and unoriginal, I found myself entirely invested in each one through Doyle's style. Each is humanized and contributes a different kind of comic relief to the narrative, sealing the success of Doyle's novel as a comedy.

The structure of Doyle's narrative is appropriate, though at times a little slow. It is difficult to write a novel that takes place entirely in 24 hours or less, and therefore there are no jumps in time: everything is documented, even if it is dull or filler, until the next big event. Though Doyle attempts to make almost all the situations comical in some way, it gets tiring and drawn out and sometimes fairly repetitive. Several of the same type of event occur and become a bore to read as nothing new happens until the ending. That being sad, the character development coincides well with the structure of the novel, so I forgive portions of the repetitiveness.

I Love You, Beth Cooper is an easy read, there are no confusing or complicating scenarios; everything is pretty straightforward. This tends to be the case with third person works, and though I am partial to first person narratives, I Love You, Beth Cooper still managed to impress me with its storytelling and lure me into believing Denis' adventure. However, there's no denying that the novel overall feels like a simple novelization of a film, and this is where the novel lost a lot of my respect. Each chapter feels like a scene, the minor flashblacks/flashforwards recall those done in film, and overall there is little additional information given in the book than what you would see on screen. Doyle's background as a television writer is transparent in this first attempt at a novel, and this was a large disappointment for me. There are numerous ways to expand and give depth to a story through word, but instead Doyle remains in the safety net of a storyboard structure.

Overall, I did not dislike I Love You, Beth Cooper, but it was not one of my favorite novels. I award it with a 3/5 for making an unoriginal storyline interesting, fresh and different, as well as the comedic elements Doyle adds into the narrative. It also gains points for dimensioned characters who, though based on stereotypes, are quite unique and humanized. Doyle's faults include a strict structure, as well as an overall feel that the work was simply a novelization. I Love You, Beth Cooper is still a light, simple and hilarious read for the summer, and of course a good book to recall the craziness that is high school graduation night.

The Epitome of Beauty (2)

2009-07-11T01:00:00.005-04:00

Taylor Momsen

One of the stars of Gossip Girl.
Starred in Paranoid Park.
Is in a band, Pretty Reckless, and writes all her own songs.
Is on tour with The Veronicas - how cool is that?
Nails the rock n' roll/grunge look repeatedly whenever she's out and about.
Has accomplished more than I have, and she's two years younger than me.
Jealous much?

The Epitome of Beauty (1)

2009-07-11T00:40:00.006-04:00

Emma Watson

New face of Burberry.
English charm and beauty.
Is an incredible model (in my opinion at least).
Is astoundingly mature and composed.
One of the stars in the Harry Potter film franchise.
Understands fashion and how to dress appropriately.

To see my gigantic Emma Watson post, visit here.

Review: Coraline

2009-07-10T20:18:00.007-04:00

Title: Coraline
Author: Neil Gaiman
# of Pages: 208
Published: August 2002
Publisher: Penguin Young Reader Group
Rating: 4/5

A/N: This is yet another novel I had to read for my Children's Literature class that I am taking this fall, just in case you're wondering why I read this! :)

In Neil Gaiman's acclaimed work Coraline, the main character of the same name opens a door (much like in Lewis' Narnia series & Carrol's Alice in Wonderland) and a whole new world appears. Unlike the magical appeal of Narnia and Alice's dreamworld, Coraline finds herself in a eerie and disturbing creation of her "other mother," a physical replica of her real-world with the exception of her button eyes. Coraline's other mother refuses to let Coraline leave the world and return to real life, and so the latter must play a game to win her home back. The novel is essentially Coraline's punishment for her curiosity but also her battle to stay alive and save the lives of others.

Coraline is truly a disturbing children's novel, there's no denying that. I found myself extremely creeped out at parts and questioning how in the world a kid could read it without having nightmares for weeks. Gaiman truly has an astonishly disturbing mind, and it completely convincing in this work, in some ways much like Tim Burton - genius, but quite effed up. The main setting of the story, though a supposed replica of the real world, is made to be much more frightening and spooky through Gaiman's words. This type of setting is absolutely essential to a gothic work, as it increases its plausibility. The bizarre and unsettling creatures and structures allow readers to invest in the spookiness that is Coraline's world.

As for characters, Gaiman's are easy to remember and each have different characteristics that set them apart from one another. There are also kept to a bare minimum, which is great for children's literature as too many characters tend to confuse younger readers. That being said, there is little development; most characters start and finish with the same morals and values - even the other mother never breaks her character mould. Coraline manifests some changes, such as being more appreciative of her parents and her life, but for the most part she is also the same.

The style of Gaiman's work is simple and easy to follow, with language directed for a slightly older audience (in contrast to Winnie-the-Pooh, for example). It's also quite the page-turner, like any adventure novel, which makes for a fantastic fast and light read.

My only complaint is the ending - there is a fairly big "battle"-esque climax, and just as the readers think Coraline is safe, there's a whole other "battle" chapter. Instead of feeling like a "Oh drat, she's not safe yet!," it felt more like a random unjustified chapter added to make the work longer, with a skeptic reaction something among the lines of: "Ummm, okay?" That being sad, all ends well as it tends to in children's literature, so I won't completely write off the ending.

All in all, Coraline is a fantastic eerie fantasy adventure which may or may not scare you, depending on how skiddish you are. I'm not sure if I would recommend it for kids, simply because I know as a child I had a lot of nightmares, but I'm sure many kids have enjoyed the enthralling ride that is Coraline's adventure. All aspects of the work, such as style and settings, contribute to the disturbing tale and all the language is age appropriate. The only drawback is the ending with felt slapped on after what felt like a climax and denouement. I award Coraline a 4/5 for a thrilling adventure and a truly unique tale.

Review: Now We Are Six

2009-07-10T15:01:00.003-04:00

Title: Now We Are Six
Author: A. A. Milne
# of Pages: 112
Published: January 16, 2007 (first publication 1927)
Publisher: Penguin Young Reader Group
Rating: 3/5

Now We Are Six is a book of poetry from the point of view of Christopher Robin, one of the main characters in the Winnie-the-Pooh series. Before the collection of poems there is a short introduction explaining that the following poems were written when Pooh, Christopher Robin et al., were younger and some may not be as good as they are now, now that they are six.

The poems in Now We Are Six are quite silly and amusing, and very convincingly written from a young child's point of view and style. The poems range over a variety of topics, some fictional creations by the writer and some more realistic ones as well. Through these poems, the author (of the poems that is, not A. A. Milne himself) is given slight development and genuinely believable as a young child around the age of six.

Obviously, this book is for children and therefore it was a slight bore for myself, being legally considered an adult (though I sure as heck don't feel like one!). However, that being said, I would definitely consider this a great book to read to younger children, and the pictures are sure to keep them entertained as well.

Overall, Now We Are Six is no outstanding literary achievement, but it is a convincing children's book and demonstrates the talent A. A. Milne possesses while he takes on the persona of a six year old in writing the poems assembled in this work. I award it a 3/5 and recommend it to parents with young children as a introduction to literature.

June Wrap-Up

2009-07-07T22:13:00.003-04:00

It's that time of the month again!

Here's a summary of all I accomplished in June:

+-- two reviews: Lock and Key, Winnie-the-Pooh
+-- began my obsession with Pretty Reckless and indulged myself to a point of no return with Kings of Leon: enough to buy tickets for their concert
+-- decorated my new room at my new house
+-- as always, found something inspiring
+-- went shopping once, twice, thrice; and then once more just for kicks
+-- adopted some squirrels
+-- made an official blog roll
+-- had my 15 seconds of fame on TV, then 30 minutes of fame on "A Book and a Chat"

A Book and a Chat with Lil' Old Me :)

2009-07-07T21:55:00.005-04:00

(Sorry x oo for how late this is!)

As I previously mentioned, Barry Eva aka Storyheart asked me to be on his radio show "A Book and a Chat" on June 30th, and sadly because of things like Canada Day and a random road trip to Toronto, I'm only getting the chance to post the link to it now:
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/Across-the-Pond/2009/06/30/A-BOOK-AND-A-CHAT-with-Alley

You can also check out other episodes of Barry's show here:
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/Across-the-Pond

And of course, you can read Barry's blog here:
http://acrossthepond-storyheart.blogspot.com

Overall I think the interview went super well even though I was ridiculously nervous. Barry made me feel really comfortable and was a great interviewer which made the process go very smoothly. I hope you guys enjoyed and found it entertaining! Do I sound anything like you pictured? :P

Leave me some comments and let me know what you thought, new and old followers, I'd appreciate any constructive criticism or compliments :P :)

Peace & Love

Special Announcement

2009-06-29T21:39:00.005-04:00

So I've had a big big BIG secret since the beginning of the month that I finally get to share with you guys today: I'm being interviewed tomorrow night at 6:30 pm EST by Barry Eva aka Storyheart, author of "Across the Pond" and host of "A Book and a Chat" (Blog Talk Radio).

The interview should last about 30 minutes and will be pretty casual from what I can tell so far, but I'm still pretty nervous so I apologize in advance if I start talking way too fast or don't make any sense at all!

I'd like to take this time to thank Barry for such an amazing opportunity, never would I have thought someone would recognize my blog and be interested in it or myself for that matter! I hope I don't disappoint! :)

Also please check out Barry's blog, Across the Pond and you'll be able to listen to our interview from there or blogtalkradio.com. Of course, you should also check out Barry's novel "Across the Pond" which should be available to order on Amazon. I haven't read it yet for the simple reason that I can't find it in Canada yet, but I'm working on getting a copy ASAP.

Thanks again everyone, and you'll literally be hearing from me soon! Don't forget to tune in :)!

My 15 Seconds of Fame

2009-06-28T21:51:00.007-04:00

Last Sunday the Much Music Video Awards aired on Much Music (the Canadian equivalent of MTV basically) and as I was watching I was tweeting in response to a lot of stuff going on like performances, outfits, etc. Once in a while, tweets from some of those attending like Brody Jenner and his girlfriend, Tila Tequila, Perez Hilton, and others were being shown at the bottom of the screen, and then all of a sudden this happened:

Note: Obviously there's a time delay, but Leah Miller is one of the hosts and wife of Dallas Green (Alexisonfire, City and Colour). She looked really pretty when she was introducing someone that I currently forget.

Anyways, just thought it was a random thing to share with you guys :) Reviews to be posted super soon!

Shopping Expedition (10)

2009-06-27T02:02:00.007-04:00

As if I needed more books to add to my TBR shelf...

Title: I Love You, Beth Cooper
Author: Larry Doyle
Publisher: Harper Collins Publishers

Denis Cooverman wanted to say something really important in his high school graduation speech. So, in front of his 512 classmates and their 3,000 relatives, he announced: "I love you, Beth Cooper." It would have been such a sweet, romantic moment. Except that Beth, the head cheerleader, has only the vaguest idea who Denis is. And Denis, the captain of the debate team, is so far out of her league he is barely even the same species. And then there's Kevin, Beth's remarkably large boyfriend, who's in town on furlough from the United States Army. Complications ensue.

This book sounded pretty funny and in a strange way I'm a little curious about the film coming out. It has mixed reviews but so far I think it's pretty funny for nerd humour.

Title: The Magician's Nephew (The Chronicles of Narnia #1)
Author: C. S. Lewis
Publisher: Harper Collins Publishers

Narnia ... where the woods are thick and cool, where Talking Beasts are called to life ... a new world where the adventure begins. Digory and Polly meet and become friends one cold, wet summer in London. Their lives burst into adventure when Digory's Uncle Andrew, who thinks he is a magician, sends them hurtling to... somewhere else. They find their way to Narnia, newborn from the Lion's song, and encounter the evil sorceress Jadis before they finally return home.

Bought this one so I could start reading The Chronicles of Narnia series afterwards for my Children's Literature class in my fall semester.

Title: Audrey, Wait!
Author: Robin Benway
Publisher: Penguin Young Reader Group

California high school student Audrey Cuttler dumps self-involved Evan, the lead singer of a little band called The Do-Gooders. Evan writes, "Audrey, Wait!," a break-up song that's so good it rockets up the billboard charts. And Audrey is suddenly famous!

Now rabid fans are invading her school. People is running articles about her arm-warmers. The lead singer of the Lolitas wants her as his muse. (And the Internet is documenting her every move!) Audrey can't hang out with her best friend or get with her new crush without being mobbed by fans and paparazzi.

Take a wild ride with Audrey as she makes headlines, has outrageous amounts of fun, confronts her ex on MTV, and gets the chance to show the world who she really is.

I keep reading reviews of this book on other blogs so of course I had to check it out for myself. Chapters had a mint deal on it - 6 bucks for the hardcover edition. How could I resist?

Title: I Met the Walrus
Author: Jerry Levitan
Publisher: Harper Collins Publishers

On May 26, 1969, fourteen-year-old Jerry Levitan snuck into John Lennon and Yoko Ono's Toronto hotel room one day before their "bed-in" for peace in Montreal. What followed was a life-changing interview with the world's most beloved rock legend.

I keep hearing about this book and I want to learn as much as I can about The Beatles and John Lennon. I figured this would be a good place to start. Plus it was half off for the hardcover edition!

PS: Don't forget, if you want to be added to my blog roll, comment here or twitter me.

Blog Roll - Want To Add Yours?

2009-06-26T19:57:00.012-04:00

Alright guys, here's the deal: My blog roll is in need of some major TLC. I haven't updated it since I first began blogging in April, so I am missing a lot of super great links! Here's where you come in: Comment on this post/twitter me with your site and address, and I'll add you to my blog roll with the hope you'll do the same for me. Sound fair?

BLOG ROLL
(last update: July 7 2009 @ 6:00 pm)

- A -
A Garden of Books
Across the Pond
Ashley's Bookshelf

- B -
The Book Pixie
Books By Their Cover

- C -
C'est La Vie
Collision

- D -
Don't Lose My Place
The Dreamer Reader

- E -
Elle Moss Photography
The English Muse

- F -
f addict
For the Love of Books

- G -
Good Girls Read Books

- H -

- I -

- J -

- K -
Katie's Bookshelf
Korianne Speaks

- L -
Le Smoking
Look At That Cover

- M -
Michelle's Reads
Ms. Muse
Music from Gossip Girl
Must and Lust for Books
My Unfinished Business

- N -

- O -
Olsens Anonymous

- P -
Persnickety Snark
Pop Culture Junkie

- Q -

- R -
Re-Read

- S -
Sparrow Review
The Story Siren

- T -
Tales of a Ravenous Reader
Three Evil Cousins

- U -
Under Lock and Key

- V -

- W -

- X -

- Y -

- Z -

Oh. My. Effin. Gee.

2009-06-26T19:46:00.002-04:00

Eeeeeeeeee, the girlie girl inside of me is simply basking in the glory of this film finally coming to theatres. And you can bet I won't be missing this, it's based on of my favorite books EVER. If you haven't read The Time Traveler's Wife yet, I highly recommend it (though perhaps just to older audiences as it can be explicit at times).

Shopping Expedition (9)

2009-06-21T14:12:00.003-04:00

This post is a little belated, but I still wanted to write about it 'cause it made me really happy.

I bought myself a new cell phone (finally!). Previously I'd had the same one for almost 3 years and it was definitely time to replace it. I chose the LG Neon, with the white/pink colour scheme. I have to say it's pretty girly, but somehow I've come to love it :)

Sorry the pictures suck, the flash was too bright with my point&shoot, but the images look grainy without it. I'm not feeling too anal today so I can deal with these not being perfect. Google LG Neon if you want clearer pictures :P

PS: In case you're wondering, that plastic film that covers your cell phone screen when you first buy it is still on my phone. It's starting to peel in one corner, which explains the small piece of tape. I'm trying to keep it on until I go buy an actual screen protector :)

Shameless Promotion Time

2009-06-21T12:40:00.004-04:00

If you haven't done so already, please check out:

Leave us comments, subscribe, etc :)
We'll love you forever if you do!

Meet Squire and Sarah + Fiftieth Post + 2000 Hits!

2009-06-21T12:09:00.006-04:00

You may remember that at the end of my terrible confession, I mentioned my family had found two other baby squirrels. So far, everything has been going really well with them. We've decided to call them Squire and Sarah. Squire is completely used to us now and doesn't run away when we get near, he will eat out of our hands and lets us pet him. Sarah, on the other hand, is still ridiculously afraid of us and hides every time we get too close too fast. Hopefully she'll come around once she gets used to us. Here are some pictures of Squire:

Also, as I feel this is a landmark, I would like to announce this is my fiftieth post as well as my two thousandth hit! Pretty crazy huh? I hope you guys are still entertained by my weird and random posts! I hope you all know I appreciate the views, the followers and the comments! You guys are amazing and if it weren't for you I would have never even tried something like this, so thanks! Peace and love :)

Review: Winnie-the-Pooh

2009-06-21T11:46:00.001-04:00

Title: Winnie-the-Pooh
Author: A. A. Milne
# of Pages: 161
Published: January 3, 2006 (first publication 1926)
Publisher: Penguin Young Reader Group
Rating: 5/5

A/N: I know what you're thinking: Why in the world would I be reading a children's novel at the age of 18. Well, next semester I have an English class called "Children's Literature," and one of the required readings is Now We Are Six by A. A. Milne. The latter is the final piece in the quartet of the Winnie-the-Pooh series; so, I decided it would be a good idea to read Winnie-the-Pooh first and get a feel for Milne's style and what his characters were like before embarking on the collection of poems in Now We Are Six.

***

Winnie-the-Pooh is a short collection of "stories" the author is telling his son, Christopher Robin, after the latter's request for stories about Pooh Bear, under the pretense of them being for Winnie-the-Pooh, Christopher Robin's stuffed bear's benefit. Thus the work is somewhat a story within a story as we hear a father creating tales for his son as well as the actual narrative and adventures of Pooh Bear.

There are 10 stories in all, most of which are fairly short and appropriate for the target audience. Each is fairly comical and completely endearing for children and adults alike. As the chapters go on, we are introduced to more friends in the 100 Acre Wood, and surprisingly have some defined character traits. It's also of my opinion that Milne exaggerates stereotypes of real people and crafts characters out of said stereotypes. For example, it is common knowledge that Eeyore is unhappy, gloomy, and pessimistic. I was quite surprised to find how exaggerated these character attributes were within Winnie-the-Pooh. Other examples include Owl, who believes himself to be all-knowing and wise when in fact he speaks quite a lot of nonsense, as well as Piglet who is overly frightened by everything. Children of course would doubtfully pick up on the mocking of people Milne creates, but it makes it a little more entertaining for older audiences.

The style of Milne's writing is of course appropriate for children to read or even listen to as a bedtime story or the like. He includes little rhymes and songs within each chapter/story which aid to keep young ones interested. They are also equally comical for older audiences, as I found myself smiling and even giggling out loud to Pooh Bear's songs of victory. Also by no means did I find this work "dumbed-down" or simplistic, therefore I would still consider it appropriate for all ages.

Overall, I was pleasantly surprised with Winnie-the-Pooh. It is light and funny, entertaining and silly, but also has some depth older audiences may observe and appreciate. I award a 5/5 to Milne's classic tale for being quite a delightful read and timeless.

A Terrible Thing Has Happened...

2009-06-18T21:09:00.004-04:00

You guys have to promise not to hate me when I tell you what happened. I've been crying pretty much nonstop since I found out...

Chip passed away today. He/she drowned in my pool.

We're not sure how it happened because he/she used to stay close to the house and near the food and water we had. We suspect that Chip was really hot and was trying to get more water or something.

It gets worse.

Chip had a brother/sister, who also drowned.

I honestly feel so terrible. I went on a date today and that's all I could think about. How terrible is that?

I feel so guilty for having left Chip outside, but my dad says it's better for them to stay outdoors so they can learn to survive when they're bigger and stuff. We don't want to domesticate them too much. I still feel awful though.

Some sort of good news though: we found two other brothers/sisters of Chip's. They are very afraid of us still but have adopted a burlap sac in our shed. We've been feeding them and they seem to be warming up to us, so hopefully they'll trust us and be like Chip (though no squirrel will replace him/her). We're going to be extra careful with these ones and try to not let the same thing happen.

Here's a picture of them sleeping:

We Have A New Pet!

2009-06-17T23:09:00.005-04:00

According to my dad, this little guy or girl pretty much ran right up his leg when he went outside in our backyard today. He/she is just a baby, we think its mom is dead or something :(

We called him/her Chip, and now we're taking care of him/her until he/she is bigger :)

Oh, and if anyone can tell, is this a squirrel or a chipmunk? I always forget the difference.

Quotes: Lock and Key

2009-06-15T21:07:00.004-04:00

As you may have read, I absolutely adored Sarah Dessen's Lock and Key. As usual, I found some quotes phenomenal, and I thought I would share them:

"Family," she announced. "They're the people in your life you don't get to pick. The ones that are given to you, as opposed to those you get to choose." [...] "You're bound to them by blood," she continued, her voice flat. "Which, you know, gives you that much more in common. Diseases, genetics, hair, and eye color. It's like, they're part of your blueprint. If something's wrong with you, you can usually trace it back to them." [...] "But," she said, "even though you're stuck with them, at the same time, they're also stuck with you. So that's why they always get the front rows at christenings and funerals. Because they're the ones that are there, you know, from the beginning to the end. Like it or not."

-------------------------------------------------------

"'You swim' is a philosophy?"
He shrugged. "Better than 'you sink,' right?"

-------------------------------------------------------

[...] "you don't have to give everyone the benefit of the doubt."
"You don't have to assume the worst about everyone, either. The world isn't always out to get you."

-------------------------------------------------------

"[...] you're not supposed to have just one [family]."
"Meaning what?"
"Well," she said, "I have my family of origin, which is you and Mom. And then Jamie's family, my family of marriage. And hopefully, I'll have another family, as well. Our family, that we make. Me and Jamie."

-------------------------------------------------------

"Family isn't something that's supposed to be static or set. People marry in, divorce out. They're born, they die. It's always evolving, turning into something else."

All quotes by Sarah Dessen, author of Lock and Key.

Shopping Expedition (8)

2009-06-15T20:22:00.007-04:00

On Thursday my best friend Mireille and I went on a shopping spree around our measly city and stopped in at Aila Galleri, aka the best store in the world (or at least in the realm of where I live).

I bought this fantastic piece by Gentle Fawn:

(Photo property of Gentle Fawn, no copyright infringement intended)

Cute dress huh? It fits me like a freakin' glove, I absolutely adore it :)

I also bought some stuff from some cheap stores we hit up:

That's right. Yellow shorts. I rule :)

This is a totally random bag I thought would be cute for going out casually or something... who knows. It was 2 bucks.

I love love love this necklace. I dunno why, it's just super cute on and it kind of matches a ring I have.

I love good finds :) What about you guys? Ever had a super awesome day shopping when you found a bunch of stuff that was decently priced and worthwhile?

An Anonymous View on Our World, Strangers, and Secrets

2009-06-15T20:18:00.002-04:00

Just watch. I'm a suck, and had tears in my eyes.
This inspires me.

(Cheap post, I know. This is not part of the 8 posts I originally promised, but I watched it and couldn't help myself but to share it.)

Shopping Expedition (7)

2009-06-15T19:34:00.003-04:00

If you've been reading this blog since I began writing it, you must be clearly aware by now that I am addicted to books, Nylon magazine, and music. One thing I haven't talked about much is SHOES, which is a little sad considering it's probably my biggest fashion fetish. I'm 18 years old and probably own already 30 pairs, maybe more. And by no means am I rich or something so I really don't understand how it happened.

Okay, that's a little lie. See, in addition to my full time job, I also have a part time job at The Shoe Company, and my discount is wicked there, so that explains my justification for buying shoes... because I get them cheaper! :P

Anyways, I was going through all my pairs and came to realize I only have one pair of wedges. Now usually I'm not a fan of wedge heels, but then these babies came into the store, and I fell in love:

These are also the only "gladiator/roman" style shoes that make my feet look skinny and good, so that was another reason to get them! Plus, they're pretty bad ass and comfortable!

What do you think? Hit or miss?

My New Room!

2009-06-15T18:42:00.011-04:00

First thing's first, I apologize profusely for lack of updates! I fail miserably :( Time has just been whizzing by - can you guys believe we're halfway through June already?! It's madness I tell you, MADNESS!

So in order to make up for my ridiculously long hiatus, I have about 8-10 posts planned for the next two days, so here's the first of many: it's all about my room at my house (not to be confused with my parent's house, where I am staying for the summer). We finally finished decorating and whatnot, so I of course thought of you guys, and how I promised I'd show pictures once it was done. Take a look:

The mirror on the left is hidden when my door is open, but for the sake of showing off EVERYTHING, I closed the door. Next to it is of course my Andy Warhol shrine <3>

I know, this picture sucks. No matter what I did the light from the window still messed with the result so this is about as good as I could get with my P&S.

This is my dresser and mirror, on the opposite wall facing my Andy Warhol display. You dig the round mirror? I definitely do!

The only downside to my room is no closet... So I bought one! (Thank you Ikea!)

Check out my wonderful rugs (not to mention my cutie-pie doggie :P)

This is the area underneath my loft bed, on the left. Pretty bookcase + magnetic board!

The right side underneath my bed, ignore the clutter in the corner.

All the pictures were taken before we put up Audrey next to my mirror, so here's the view of that :)

So, you dig?

Review: Lock and Key

2009-06-07T21:26:00.000-04:00

Title: Lock and Key
Author: Sarah Dessen
# of Pages: 384
Published: April 22, 2008
Publisher: Penguin Young Reader Group
Rating: 4.5/5

Reading this novel was not even a decision I had to think about, I did it out of habit. I've been reading Sarah Dessen's novels since I picked up This Lullaby during a quick stop at Chapters while I was with my family taking a road trip to I forget where probably around 3-4 years ago. Though This Lullaby remains my all-time favorite, I have still enjoyed all of Sarah Dessen's novels, as is the case for Lock and Key.

In Lock and Key, Dessen creates a character abandoned by her mother and living in near poverty. Her name is Ruby, and as the story progresses readers come to understand her struggle to define family, accept help, and ultimately to allow people to get close to her and be a part of her life. Of course, there's always a cute too-perfect guy (as in any other Dessen work), this time called Nate, who is there to watch the change in Ruby as she grows as a person.

As the novel opens, I was immediately intrigued in the main character Dessen had created. Though I could not even begin to relate to the situation Ruby was in, Dessen still managed to make her believable and realistic. Ruby's story genuinely felt like it could have been a friend of mine's, and as the novel progresses more confessions are made, just as it is in a real life friendship. Dessen does not stop there, but in fact creates rounded characters out of all the people who come to shape Ruby and have an impact on her life. They are entirely multidimensional and true-to-life in ways that are not transparent but rather sublime and undetectable.

The story itself is mesmerizing and a page-turner. It comes nothing short of intriguing and delicious, filled with just the right amount of suspense and questioning. Dessen, as per usual, manages to get her readers to interact with the story by making them wonder if/when Nate and Ruby will get together, what Nate's secret is, why Cora stopped communicating with Ruby and her mother, etc. This is a the mark of a good author according to my standards, as the novel would be negligible if readers were not invested in the characters, their lives, and the actions that are recounted.

Dessen's style of writing is also up to par: it is not excessively advanced, nor is it too simple, it's the perfect balance in between which creates an easy and delightful read. I especially enjoyed the various definitions her characters give Ruby when it comes to "family," which I believe demonstrate Dessen's real talent for truly understanding her characters and making her definitions true to the mould she set when first conjuring them up.

A short fault I have to admit I found with Lock and Key is minor but slightly noteworthy. Though I firmly stand behind Dessen and her works, I began to feel that with this novel her overall style is becoming clockwork and repetitive. By no means does the mould of her stories fail her, it's just that they are becoming predictable. There's always a girl with some kind of emotional turmoil, a boy who tries to help, and characters along the way who influence the main character. It still makes for a good YA novel, but I'm hoping Dessen will try something new with her next work. I will still of course be reading Along for the Ride, and have high hopes for it as well.

In all I award a 4.5/5 to Lock and Key for phenomenal multidimensional characters, an intriguing story and a writing style that never disappoints. As with any Dessen novel I've read, it was impossible to put down and quite enthralling. My only hope is that Dessen does not begin to lean on the plot and style she has been relying on in her latest works and attempts something new with her next novel. Fingers crossed for Along for the Ride :)

Guess What?

2009-06-05T09:58:00.010-04:00

I
have
tickets
to
see
KINGS
OF
LEON
in
Ottawa
on
September
17,
2009
!!

Notion - Kings Of Leon

Use Somebody - Kings Of Leon

Sex On Fire - Kings Of Leon

Stuck on Repeat (2): Pretty Reckless

2009-06-02T21:33:00.001-04:00

Yes, that's Taylor Momsen from Gossip Girl.
And yes, I happen to ADORE this.

:)

April & May Wrap-Up

2009-06-02T18:26:00.002-04:00

I know, I fail. BEDM so did not work out. I never expected to be working so much and some social stuff got in the way.

On another note, here's a summary of my posts since I began this blog:

First, I introduced myself and my favorite novels.
I also wrote a how to on cleaning your room.
I won one, two, three awards.
I went shopping once, twice, thrice... and then one, two and three more times after, though I shouldn't have.
I also fancy myself a hairstylist, and became obsessed with Kings of Leon and Lady GaGa, not to mention downloaded a bunch of new albums!
I wrote 3 reviews: one for The Shape of Water, one for Identical, one for Skin.
Lastly, I confessed some Sunday secrets: #1, #2, #3, #4.

BEDM Day 24 (Belated)→Latest Downloads

2009-05-31T13:05:00.007-04:00

I've come to the decision that I cannot neglect continue to neglect music and make this a strictly book-oriented blog. I just can't. Music is such a big and passionate part of my life that I must include it. So here's my latest downloads:

Cobra Starship (featuring Leighton Meester) - Good Girls Go Bad (Single)
Normally I don't even like Cobra Starship, but this song makes me want to dance around my room and love my life. Plus, Leighton Meester is a perfect addition to this song.

St Vincent - Actor
Stellar, but how could I expect anything less from St Vincent?

Coldplay - LeftRightLeftRightLeft
An epic disc to listen to.

And of course, I'm still listening to this phenomenal album:Kings of Leon - Only By The Night

BEDM Day 23 (Belated)→It's Suddenly Occurred to Me...

2009-05-31T10:43:00.010-04:00

...that I mentioned I was going to paint my room in my new house a couple weeks ago and that I would post pictures. Somehow this totally slipped my mind, so here are some highlights of my crazy parents and my new lilac walls!

(I tried my best to get a picture of the whole room but it's at a really awkward angle so it looks tiny tiny tiny but it's actually not!)

Aren't my parents the coolest... No wonder I'm such a freak :)

BEDM Day 22 (Belated)→New GaGa!

2009-05-31T02:07:00.003-04:00

I don't even think I have words to describe how beautifully messed up this video is.
It's eerie and creepy, and un-freaking-forgettable.
If you don't like Lady GaGa, at least watch for the STELLAR editing in this video, because it astounds me.

BEDM Day 21 (Belated)→Shopping Expedition (6)

2009-05-31T01:15:00.001-04:00

I am addicted to Chapters. There's no denying it. I find a lot of excuses to walk in and 90% of the time leave with something even though I just went inside to browse and scope out some stuff. Well, I couldn't resist these two items:

Title: 3 Willows: The Sisterhood Grows
Author: Ann Brashares
Publisher: Random House Children's Books

Summer is a time to grow.

Seeds
Polly has an idea that she can''t stop thinking about, one that involves changing a few things about herself. She's setting her sights on a more glamorous life, but it's going to take all of her focus. At least that way she won't have to watch her friends moving so far ahead.

Roots
Jo is spending the summer at her family's beach house, working as a busgirl and bonding with the older, cooler girls she''ll see at high school come September. She didn't count on a brief fling with a cute boy changing her entire summer. Or feeling embarrassed by her middle school friends. And she didn't count on her family at all. . .

Leaves
Ama is not an outdoorsy girl. She wanted to be at an academic camp, doing research in an air-conditioned library, earning A's. Instead her summer scholarship lands her on a wilderness trip full of flirting teenagers, blisters, impossible hiking trails, and a sad lack of hair products.

It is a new summer. And a new sisterhood. Come grow with them.

I shouldn't even have to explain this one. The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants was one of my all-time favorite series to read, so I'm really looking forward to this new YA novel by Ann Brashares. We'll all ignore that (pathetic) attempt at adult fiction The Last Summer (of You and Me).

Nylon Magazine
June/July 2009 - The Music Issue

Nylon is my first love in life. This magazine never comes up short, and I literally read it front to back. All other magazines wish they could be this f-ing stunning. Its visual presentation, graphics, articles, layouts, photographs... everything is just so brilliant that I can't help but be inspired.

BEDM Day 20 (Belated)→Inspired, Despite Everything.

2009-05-28T00:13:00.001-04:00

Hey everyone. Shitty day, shitty post, I know.
This video gives me chills though.
Whoever came up with this marketing idea is an effin genius.

BEDM Day 19 (Belated)→Sunday Secrets (4)

2009-05-27T00:20:00.003-04:00

Not a Sunday, but I'm late with this post anyway. This week's PostSecret postcards that spoke to me are:

I used to read my ex-boyfriend's texts when he left his phone unattended.
I knew about the texts he sent to his friends, and what they were saying about me...

Because you used me, I am stronger. I let go, and I'm never coming back.

I wonder if it'll always be like this.

I have a tendency to believe in the best of people, no matter what. My friends have my undivided support even in the most improbable situations.

This is a sick confession, but whenever I fly and sit by the emergency exit, I think the whole scenario through and psych myself out because I don't know if I could save everyone or not. I'm always afraid I won't be able to unseal the door, I'll take too long, people will die, etc.

As always, photos property of PostSecret.com

BEDM Day 18 (Belated)→Shopping Expedition (5)

2009-05-26T23:30:00.008-04:00

Bought a book even though I shouldn't have. It's an addiction.

Title: Wicked Lovely
Author: Melissa Marr
Publisher: Harper Collins Publishers

Rule #3: Don't stare at invisible faeries.

Aislinn has always seen faeries. Powerful and dangerous, they walk hidden in mortal world. Aislinn fears their cruelty—especially if they learn of her Sight—and wishes she were as blind to their presence as other teens.

Rule #2: Don't speak to invisible faeries.

Now faeries are stalking her. One of them, Keenan, who is equal parts terrifying and alluring, is trying to talk to her, asking questions Aislinn is afraid to answer.

Rule #1: Don't ever attract their attention.

But it's too late. Keenan is the Summer King who has sought his queen for nine centuries. Without her, summer itself will perish. He is determined that Aislinn will become the Summer Queen at any cost—regardless of her plans or desires.

Suddenly none of the rules that have kept Aislinn safe are working anymore, and everything is on the line: her freedom; her best friend, Seth; her life; everything.

Faerie intrigue, mortal love, and the clash of ancient rules and modern expectations swirl together in Melissa Marr's stunning 21^st century faery tale.

My friend Michelle from Michelle's Reads spoke highly enough about this book in her review, so I'm looking forward to it!

BEDM Day 17 (Belated)→BFF No More.

2009-05-25T23:50:00.001-04:00

Alright, a fair warning: this post probably won't be pretty. In fact, it may be completely irrational, immature, and ridiculous, but I have to get this off my chest and maybe read some response comments to help me think from a different perspective.

Also, I know the chances are high that the person I am talking about will read this.
And quite honestly, I don't care.

The thing is, is that I had a best friend who happened to be a guy. This boy and I became really good friends near the end of grade 9/beginning of grade 10. Things were good for a while, he kind of had this crush on me but nothing ever happened. Then someone started a rumor about me that wasn't true, and he chose to believe it before asking me about it or anything. Then he basically hated my guts.

I endured a year or more of incessant remarks and jokes made at my expense. I never said a word. I never fought back. I let him be mad, because if that's what he needed to do to move on, fine. I could accept it.

In grade 12 he came up to me and said he was done being mad, and I forgave him for what he did. I didn't hold a single thing against him (and trust me, I normally always hold a slight grudge). Things were fantastic for a while, we were best friends and really genuinely cared about each other. He used to tell me he loved me, and for a while it seemed like things might lead to us dating. They didn't though. A lot of stuff was going on with my ex at the time, and it just wasn't right. My heart wasn't completely in it, and I wasn't going to get into another relationship without being completely invested in it.

Now that he's finally accepted that we won't be together and has moved on, he doesn't talk to me anymore. I don't know anything about his life, his plans, nothing. He never calls, he never texts, he never messages me.

My question is, am I being unreasonable when I assume we'd be friends first and foremost no matter what? And why should I bother investing myself in someone who clearly doesn't care at all anymore? I don't understand how someone who claims to be my best friend could drop me so easily from his life. I really thought our friendship was it, you know? That it would be what I remembered from high school. I thought we'd know each other forever. I felt like I was a part of his family. Now I don't even know them...

I just don't understand how things came to be this way. I can't comprehend how we drifted apart when I thought we were so close. I can't make sense of the change in his attitude and behaviour, the numbness he seems to portray, nothing.

I'm starting to believe the only reason we were friends was because he wanted me. I feel like the entire basis of our friendship is that and I've only realized that now. It would make sense, because once that want is gone, where's the foundation to keep the friendship alive?...

I have to say, during the past 4 years of my life I have gone through a lot of different crowds of people and a lot of "friends"... But I never thought this one would come to end. I'm not ready to lose this person from my life, but I think I already have.

BEDM Day 16 (Belated)→You MUST Comment on This!

2009-05-24T11:27:00.002-04:00

So you guys may remember a while back when I posted about buying myself a journal from Chapters that is completely environmentally friendly:

I've finally decided what I want this journal to have in it!

What I'm hoping is to assemble my favorite quotes from people, books, movies, etc., random insights and thoughts, poems, and those kinds of things; then write them all down in this journal. (Kind of similar to the journal that Jamie's mother had in the film A Walk to Remember.)

Here's where you come in: I want to know your favorite quote, whether it be something a friend said, you read it in a book, you saw it somewhere, whatever. Anything goes.

So leave me a comment and tell me, I'm curious to know :)

BEDM Day 15 (Belated)→Award?! (3)

2009-05-21T22:33:00.003-04:00

Hey everyone!

So wayyyy back when, Emmy from Don't Lose My Place! awarded me the "One Lovely Blog" award and I kept putting it off because I wanted to try and have some new nominees. I'm finally posting it now :)

Thanks so much Emmy for this award! You're such a sweetie!

Rules
1) Accept the award, post it on your blog together with the name of the person who has granted the award and his or her blog link.
2) Pass the award to 15 other blogs that you’ve newly discovered.
3) Remember to contact the bloggers to let them know they have been chosen for this award.

Nominees
1) Senfaye @ A Maze of Books
2) Ashley @ Ashley's Bookshelf
3) Yan @ Books By Their Cover
4) Taylor @ For the Love of Books
5) Tiqa @ Good Girls Read Books
6) Laina @ Laina Has Too Much Spare Time
7) Liyana @ Liyana Land
8) Korianne @ Korianne Speaks
9) Lisa May @ Look At That Book
10) Michelle @ Michelle's Bookshelf
11) Kelsey @ One Umbrella in the Rain
12) The Story Siren
13) Under Lock and Key
14) Michelle @ Michelle's Reads
15) Iryna @ A Garden of Books

Thanks again Emmy!

BEDM Day 14 (Belated)→Humour Me

2009-05-21T18:37:00.006-04:00

Some of my favorite YouTube clips:

Oh Disney, you disappointed me slightly with this one. But it's funny how you got away with it.

The above is not for minors :)

This kid is NUTS!

EPIC!

Not LOL material, but as freaking if!

Brilliant haahaa.

That is one hell of a voice! I can't believe how high he goes lol!

Hope at least one of those brought a smile to your faces!
If you have suggestions leave me a comment!

BEDM Day 13 (Belated)→Nylon Summer Music Tour

2009-05-21T15:23:00.005-04:00

JUNE 5 - El Corazon, Seattle
JUNE 6 - Richards on Richards, Vancouver
JUNE 8 - Slims, San Francisco
JUNE 9 - The Roxy, Los Angeles
JUNE 12 - The Oriental Theater, Denver
JUNE 14 - Fine Line Music Cafe, Minneapolis
JUNE 15 - The Bottom Lounge, Chicago
JUNE 17 - Mod Club, Toronto
JUNE 19 - Traif Music Hall, Buffalo
JUNE 20 - North Star, Philadelphia
JUNE 21 - The Middle East, Cambridge
JUNE 23 - Highline Ballroom, NYC
JUNE 24 - Rock & Roll Hotel, DC
JUNE 26 - Cats Cradle, Chapel Hill
JUNE 27 - The Loft, Atlanta
JUNE 30 - Granada Theater, Dallas
JULY 1 - Antone's, Austin

Read about it here.
Check out the Myspace here.

BEDM Day 12 (Belated)→Review: Skin

2009-05-20T20:08:00.008-04:00

Title: Skin
Author: Adrienne Maria Vrettos
# of Pages: 227
Published: October 23, 2007
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing
Rating: 2/5

"She was dying to be thin. He was struggling to survive."

Adrienne Maria Vrettos' debut novel Skin tells the story of a family falling apart from the youngest sibling, Donnie's, point of view. His parents fight constantly and eventually separate, his older sister Karen has an eating disorder, and Donnie himself is invisible, a "loser", and disliked by his fellow classmates. As the story is from Donnie's perspective, readers may understand a sibling's reaction to anorexia, a child's feelings about his parents' separation, and how it feels to be an outcast.

I was first intrigued by this book partially by the cover, an apple core with the words: "She was dying to be thin. He was struggling to survive," as well as the opening line in the first paragraph on the first page: "These are the things you think when you come home to find that your sister has starved herself to death and you have dropped to your knee to revive her..." I found myself wanting to continue and learn about Donnie's story and understand how things with his sister had arrived to that point.

The beginning of the novel seems somewhat intriguing, but for me, it ended there. The chapters are short and brief and have bizarre flashes through time. There are also many gaps that are not described by the storyteller, and expansive and elaborate language is almost never used. The novel is exceptionally straightforward: "this happened, then that, and this person felt like this while I felt like that, so I said..." This kind of narrative is irritating for me as I am unable to invest myself in a setting, a situation, or in the characters who are barely developed.

The novel opens with Donnie being an outcast in his class, Karen discovering the world of anorexia, and their parents coming to terms with the need for a separation. This is exactly how the novel ends, except for the last page when Donnie finally goes to visit two people from his class who have been nice to him in the last little while. Besides that, there is little development, only observations by Donnie, which are probably accurate enough but do not feel real as they are mere repetitions of textbook matter.

Also, there is never any mention or description of setting. I wish this was an exaggeration, but unfortunately it's not. I remember one passage in a chapter that describes a house the family stays at for the summer, that's about the extent of it. Settings are not usually my priority when reading a novel, but when the characters already bore me, I look to the settings to convey whatever emotion needs to be emphasized. This novel fails in this area as well.

Another fault of this novel is its lacking staying power. There is nothing memorable about this story, no thought-provoking passages, no quotable insights, nothing. I just finished the book yesterday and already had to scan it to remember Donnie's sister name, so what does that tell you?

I admit, I may be biased in all of this. I was so disappointed with the novel as it went on that I started to read it just to read and finish it, and did not try to take away anything from it. However, I strongly believe that if Vrettos had made her story more believable and developed, instead of a textbook situation, I would have enjoyed the novel far more.

There are a few highlights: Vrettos does a fairly decent job of making her characters more human and less stereotypical versions of an anorexic, an outcast, etc. She also writes in a flowing manner: the novel was an easy read, and thought perhaps not a page-turner, it was still possible to follow and understand.

Overall I award a 2/5 rating to Adrienne Maria Vrettos' debut novel, Skin, for its bland, underdeveloped characters, as well as its nonexistant settings and textbook situations. The only reason this novel receives a 2 out of 5 is Vrettos' humanized characters and easy-to-read chapters, as well as the consideration by this reviewer that this is a debut novel, and to expect it to be perfect is a dreamer's attitude. Plus, I'm feeling nice today. :P

BEDM Day 11 (Belated)→1000 Hits?!

2009-05-19T23:32:00.002-04:00

So I just realized I have over 1000 hits on this blog! That's pretty crazy considering this blog is pretty boring :P

Seriously though, thanks a bunch everyone, and especially my faithful followers who keep visiting even though my updates have been less than impressive lately. I should have some posts done tonight, and I finally have time to read so a review of Skin should be up shortly + TONS of other stuff. Promise :)

In the meantime, what's new with you guys?

BEDM Day 10 (Belated)→Stuck on Repeat

2009-05-18T23:43:00.007-04:00

Seriously, I cannot stop listening to this song:

Seriously off to have a shower now!

*"Use Somebody" by Kings of Leon, in case you haven't heard it before! :)

BEDM Day 9 (Belated)→Shopping Expedition (4)

2009-05-18T23:39:00.004-04:00

Hey everyone!

I know I have been majorly slacking lately, I really apologize :( Life somehow crept up on me and I had a million and one things to do and it was long weekend which means partying takes priority :P

Haahaa, alright, so I'll begin with my Friday night during which I behaved well: I hung out with my friend Mireille who previously modeled for me:

We hit up the stores, 'cause we're cool and broke, and found these babies at Winners:
I absolutely adore them, and I'm sorry if people think they are too big and hate that trend, because these glasses effin rule, and they are the first pair that look good on me, so I was pretty ecstatic over that.

Then, because we were in the area, we stopped in at Chapters and I nearly had a heart attack because Lock and Key by Sarah Dessen on paperback was there, so of course I had to purchase it. I also picked up a bargain book called Secrets of the Model Dorm by Amanda Kerlin & Phil Oh.

Title: Lock and Key
Author: Sarah Dessen
Publisher: Penguin Young Reader Group

Ruby knows that the game is up. For the past few months, sheas been on her own in the yellow house, managing somehow, knowing that her mother will probably never return. That's how she comes to live with Cora, the sister she hasnat seen in ten years, and Cora's husband Jamie, whose down-to-earth demeanor makes it hard for Ruby to believe he founded the most popular networking Web site around. A luxurious house, fancy private school, a new wardrobe, the promise of college and a future is a dream come true. So why is Ruby such a reluctant Cinderella, wary and defensive? And why is Nate, the genial boy next door with some secrets of his own, unable to accept the help that Ruby is just learning to give?

Title: Secrets of the Model Dorm
Author: Amanda Kerlin and Phil Oh
Publisher: Simon & Schuster

Eighteen-year-old Heather Johnston gets the opportunity of her life when she is signed by a premier New York modeling agency. She leaves her small Virginia hometown behind for dreams of Vogue spreads and a luxurious loft overlooking Central Park. Arriving in Manhattan, she is instead given the key to a cramped one-bedroom downtown apartment furnished with bunk beds and IKEA floor samples. Her roommates are exotically beautiful girls boasting a considerable array of vices, including alcohol, cocaine, backstabbing, and fabulously expensive haute couture. Despite their humble quarters, they form an unlikely family. By day they shuttle between castings and shoots, and at night they come to life in the VIP rooms of New York's hottest clubs. While this world is fast-paced and fun, Heather soon questions whether modeling is the fairy tale she imagined it to be. When she gets a part-time job at a prestigious gallery and discovers a passion for art, Heather realizes she might be ready to say good-bye to her dreams of wealth and celebrity and follow a different path.

That's it for now. More posts to follow ASAP :) I have to take a shower first!

BEDM Day 8 (Belated)→Busy Busy Busy! + Hair Stylist? Ha!

2009-05-12T23:55:00.005-04:00

Alright guys, I know I promised to catch up, but it will have to wait until the weekend.

My schedule is just absolutely craaaaazy!
I'm working about 50 hours a week, juggling two jobs, trying to make plans with my friends, pack my stuff, clean out my room, traveling, etc.
I know I'm making a lot of excuses but I'm really trying :(
I was going to blog tonight but my friend Michelle from Michelle's Reads stopped by and we had a delightful time, as per usual. She let me play around with her hair:

You can't see it well in these pictures, but the underneath is selectively crimped, it looked super good in person. Especially because Michelle tends to kind of just let her hair do its own thing, so it was fun to see it all done up :)
She agreed to letting me do her hair when we go to the bar, which makes me super happy.

Anyways, that's about all I can post right now, sorry it's so short! I'll be back to my schedule shortly :)

BEDM Day 7 (Belated)→Back to Normal

2009-05-10T00:51:00.005-04:00

Hey everyone!

Things are finally back to normal - well, as normal as things can get in my life anyway. I'm really sorry about abandoning the blog for a little while, I just had way too much going on and I just needed to find me again. That sounds kind of silly to say, as though I lost myself, but I just really got caught up in material and less important things when I should have been wiser about some decisions I made. Anyways, I won't reminiscence over my silly mood swings too much, and on a brighter note: Happy Mother's Day to all you moms out there! :) Even if we don't always say it, we do appreciate you and all the things you do for us.

I'm hoping within the next 24 hours I can catch up on my missed BEDM days and catch up on all the blogs I follow as well, I am SUPER behind!

Also don't forget to check out Collision , the girls are doing a great job over there and hopefully I can catch up on my posts over there as well :)

Here's to the next 24 hours:

(Alright, I know, not THE greatest song ever, but I love Alexz Johnson, so listen to these too, I promise it won't disappoint!)

BEDM Day 6→Not a Good Day

2009-05-06T23:41:00.002-04:00

I'm no good.
Today is not a good day guys.

I'm sorry.

And I'm sorry this post epically fails,
it shouldn't even count for BEDM.

I just can't do it.
I'm way too into my head and thoughts.

It's just not a good day.
You'll learn that about me:
there are good days,
and there are bad days.

I'm sorry.

BEDM Day 5→Quotes from Identical

2009-05-05T22:24:00.008-04:00

I only have time for a short post today, I had a long first day at my new job and I'm completely wiped, and I have to get up early and do it all over again tomorrow, so I thought I would share some quotes I post-it'd from one of my new loves, Identical.

"I keep the melted
me bottled up
inside. Where no
one can touch her,
until, unbidden, she
comes pouring out."

-----------------------------------------

"Most of the time I muddle through,
pretending I don't need to be held,
need to be touched, kissed.

But then need swells up, a thunderhead.
Storms down, sweeps over me
like a summer flash flood of need."

-----------------------------------------

"I love the way the thick smoke
tastes, curling across my tongue,
snaking down my throat. I love
holding it in. Coughing it out.
I love head rushes, the creeping
warmth that follows."

-----------------------------------------

"I like how it feels physically,
yes. Kisses, hot and prickly,
as August. Hands, tan
and rough against my soft
white skin. And the last extreme punctuation.

I get off.

But getting off myself
isn't the best part. I do
everything in my power
to make sure

he gets off.

And that puts me indisputably
in control."

-----------------------------------------

"Ian is my best friend.
He has loved me since
fourth grade. I would trust
him with my life, and all
my secrets but one."

-----------------------------------------

"I've got to learn
to say no, and not only say
it, but mean it.
[...]
I can't
find the inner fortitude
to follow through with a simple
two-letter word. NO. One of the
first words babies can
understand,
one of the first they learn
to repeat. No. No, Mick, I won't
let you treat me with disrespect. No,
Mick, and I don't have to explain
why I
won't let you touch me this time.
Okay, so maybe I'm a little
confused. Does being in control
mean I have to cave in, have to
crumble?"

-----------------------------------------

"I eat when I'm sad.
I eat when I'm lonely. I eat when
I hurt so much inside, it's
either eat or find an
easy way to die."

-----------------------------------------

"I sacrifice
my inner child, give
myself away."

-----------------------------------------

"It's probably weird
to think about an addiction
like it's a sentiment being,
but that's how it feels.

Like it's something living
inside you. Something
you can't get rid of because
killing it means killing you."

That's all I will share for now.

Quotes by Ellen Hopkins, from Identical.

BEDM Day 4→Sunday Secrets x2 (3)

2009-05-04T00:51:00.002-04:00

I accidentally overly postponed posting last week's Sunday Secrets from PostSecret.com, so here's a double post of this week's and last week's secrets.

When I'm happy, I have nothing to write about.
When I'm happy, I feel boring and invisible.

I'd gladly return the ring you gave me, if it meant we could go back to the way things were before you made that promise.

This ring symbolizes two years I will never get back. Two years I devoted to making things work. And for what?

I used to complain about the most redundant things in my diaries. Sometimes I still do.

Sometimes I wish I could just put my life on hold and do stuff I never have the time to do anymore. I need a break from the hectic chaos.

I'm sometimes paranoid that some secrets are about me. They're usually the mean and spiteful ones. What does that say about me? Hmmm...

He broke mine too.

Seriously, you need to stop that. I stopped buying puzzles because of people like you.

Photos property of PostSecret.com

BEDM Day 3→Review: Identical

2009-05-03T02:17:00.007-04:00

Title: Identical
Author: Ellen Hopkins
# of Pages: 576
Published: August 26, 2008
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing
Rating: 4.75/5

"Do twins begin in the womb? Or in a better place?"

Identical is the fourth novel I read by Ellen Hopkins, and I'm quite pleased to say it did not disappoint (unlike Glass, which I felt was a waste, but that review will be for a different day).

Being familiar with Ellen Hopkins, I could not wait to get my hands on her next work, even if Glass was abysmal. I have the author on my Myspace as well and had read excerpts from this novel and knew it would restore my faith in her. The subject matter was also different than previous YA stuff I've read - sexual abuse from (a) parent(s) is not a very common theme in most novels, and after reading this I believe I have a few ideas as to why, but mainly that it makes a novel a harder read because it's so heavy.

The novel, told entirely in poetic verse, tells the story of a family who has fallen apart. Kaeleigh and Raeanne are twin sisters, identical down to their dimples. Their father is a judge and their mother is running in a political campaign, so she is often away from home. As a result of an earlier accident that is referenced and alluded to in the novel, in addition to his wife being absent, the father seeks out Kaeleigh and begins sexually abusing her. Meanwhile, Raeanne lashes out against her invisibility and gets involved with drugs, parties and promiscuous sex.

From the beginning, like in any other Ellen Hopkins novel, readers are immediately drawn in and thrown into the pit of the current conflict or problem. Also in true Ellen Hopkins style, it is practically impossible to put this book down, it is the definition of a page turner.

That being said, there were times when I needed to close the book for a little while. Not because I didn't want to continue, but because the subject matter is extremely heavy. I won't lie, I find it absolutely sickening that a parent could abuse their child like Kaeleigh is abused in Identical, and sometimes I just needed to take a break from it because it started getting me way too upset and disturbed. So be warned, it's not an easy read.

In terms of style, Hopkins nails her storytelling yet again by sticking to a form that works for her. The climax is perfectly built up and completely believable as the style translates to the revelation made in the last 80 pages or so. I was stunned originally by the climax, but couldn't help but notice how much it feel into place and how naive I had been to have not noticed it until it was blatantly stated.

The characters also develop at an appropriate speed throughout the novel, making the entire story believable, painfully real and relatable, even to those who are not directly affected by sexual abuse. I felt the pain and confusion that Kaeleigh experienced, and the neglect Raeanne was subject to. The twins' father also evolves and grows into a truly despicable man as Kaeleigh comes to terms with how wrong his actions towards her have been.

The ending was my absolute favorite part. It's completely stunning and extremely eerie, and I know I personally wanted to re-read the entire thing once learning a critical piece of information at the climax. The great part is that it moulds perfectly into the story and the development of the characters, so the ending does make sense, but the revelation is hard to notice unless you're looking for it, which I took great delight in.

The only slight faults were very cliched dialogue between Raeanne and Mick and/or Ty, and the same applies to Kaeleigh and Ian. However, I can understand the cut-to-the-chase exchanges as the style of the novel (verse) would not allow expansive, elaborate discussions. Other details in the story seemed at times repetitive or cliched teenager behaviour, but I also forgave this as Hopkins managed to convince me that these two girls would really engage in the behaviour that they do.

My biggest disappointment though is the cover, which I guess is good in retrospect if that's the only thing I'm really going to pick on. I've never liked the covers for Hopkins' work, they're usually so plain and overwhelm you with the bold titles. The artist could have at least done a play on the title using symmetry or something (kind of like how Crank is written in powder), but the barely-there reflection is a pretty poor design. That's just my opinion though.

Overall, I absolutely adored Identical, even if it was a little cliched and the subject matter a little hard to swallow at times. The story itself, the character development and the climax/ending are completely solid and eerily allude to a sequel I'm hoping will be written! I award a 4.75/5 to Identical, and I sincerely thank Ellen Hopkins for releasing this novel and restoring my faith in her.

BEDM Day 2→Shopping Expedition (3) + Current Life Events

2009-05-02T00:15:00.009-04:00

You guys are going to think that: (a) I have endless amounts of money, (b) I'm totally obsessed, and (c) I am in fact addicted to shopping because I spent money again! I couldn't resist though... These Kenneth Cole shoes came in a few weeks ago at work and I could not resist. They're perfect for summer, and I have TONS of outfits that will go well super well with them. They're casual enough to go with jeans and shorts, but dressy enough for summer dresses and skirts. And it doesn't hurt that with my discount they only cost me $13 instead of $50! But seriously guys, this is the last thing I buy until I start making GOOD money.

And speaking of good money, I have some exciting news! I found out yesterday I got the job I interviewed for last week! It's a full time job working for my school board, doing like janitor stuff like cleaning lockers and hallways and such for the summer. I know, not exactly the most glamorous job ever, but it's awesome money and guaranteed 35-40 hours a week, so I am definitely not going to complain!

Other developments in my life include my moving in to my new house in the city where I go to university soon! My parents and I are going next weekend to get my keys and drop off some furniture, and then on Saturday we're going down south to get some stuff from Ikea (my new love <3). My review for Identical should be up soon as well :)

Hope you guys are all well in health and spirit! :)

BEDM Day 1→Award?! (2) + 500 Visitors!

2009-05-01T15:36:00.011-04:00

Hey everyone!

Super sorry about the lack of updates. I've had TONS of new developments in my life of which I will brief you all in a minute. But first, I would like to thank Emmy from Don't Lose My Place ! for splashing me!

I'm really grateful for this award because in all honesty my blog lacks updates, which is why I'd like to announce my blog's Blog Every Day May (BEDM). I missed the boat on BEDA, so I figured I would attempt to blog every day in May. :) Hopefully I can stick to my word!

Rules for Splash Award
1) Post the logo on your blog/post.
2) Nominate up to 9 blogs which allure, amuse, bewitch, impress or inspire you.
3) Be sure to link to your nominees within your post, and let them know they've been splashed by commenting on their blog.
4) Remember to link to the person from whom you received your Splash award.

Nominees
(I'm only posting six since I just nominated 7 in my previous award post)
1) Jen from 50 for Jen: Her blog is super, super cute! Her posts are always entertaining and a delight to read!
2) Korianne from Korianne Speaks: There is nothing to hate about her blog! It's so cute and creative, plus her layout is phenomenal!
3) Iryna from A Garden of Books: I love this blog! Our tastes are so similar and her posts are always different and unique! Her layout is also beautiful!
4) Green Bean Teen Queen: Oh what a wonderful delight this blog is! Love her posts and the title of her blog always makes me smile :)
5) Amber[ella] from Must and Lust for Books!: Super gorgeous blog! Love what she posts about, and she seems like a total sweetheart :)
6) Emmy from Don't Lose My Place!: Love love love her blog! It's super cute and amazing for a beginner!

Thanks again to Emmy for this award! :)

Also a big thank you to everyone for visiting, I just passed the 500 visitor count a couple days ago and didn't get the chance to post about it! So thanks for visiting and commenting, I really appreciate it!

Shopping Expedition (2)

2009-04-28T19:04:00.006-04:00

Yeah I know, another shopping trip! Blame my mother. I asked her to go get me a new glass water pitcher because the one I had cracked, and she lures me into spending another 60 bucks! "How?", you may wonder. Well, I shall explain:

You see, my mother decided while she was in the area for the water pitcher at Pier 1, she would check out the surrounding stores. One happened to be Home Sense, and she went inside to take a look. Every time I have gone there, I've never found anything. The time my mom actually goes to take a look, she does. She calls and tells me all about these Andy Warhol frames they have and a canvas of Aubrey Hepburn... so how could I resist checking them out? I've never even seen Andy Warhol stuff in my "city" (which is more like a ghetto town). I went to the store after work, and once I saw them... I couldn't say no. And for 20 each... I couldn't help it. And it's something that will last and I will always love, so I'm totally justified, right?

I also bought an awesome journal from Chapters made from recycled paper and materials, and it's THICK and gorgeous, so I love it, naturally. :)

Shopping Expedition (1)

2009-04-25T18:38:00.026-04:00

I may not work at the best store in my town, but I DO work right next door to it, and sometimes I'm lucky enough to end my shift and have time to visit my first love: Chapters. Such a day occurred, and though my intentions were to only purchase books needed for my Children's Literature class next semester, I somehow spent 100 dollars and walked out with 9 books and 2 magazines. Seriously, it's a problem.

Here's what I bought:

Required Texts for Children's Literature Class

Title: The Golden Compass
Author: Philip Pullman
Publisher: Random House Children's Books

In a landmark epic of fantasy and storytelling, Philip Pullman invites readers into a world as convincing and thoroughly realized as Narnia, Earthsea, or Redwall. Here lives an orphaned ward named Lyra Belacqua, whose carefree life among the scholars at Oxford's Jordan College is shattered by the arrival of two powerful visitors. First, her fearsome uncle, Lord Asriel, appears with evidence of mystery and danger in the far North, including photographs of a mysterious celestial phenomenon called Dust and the dim outline of a city suspended in the Aurora Borealis that he suspects is part of an alternate universe. He leaves Lyra in the care of Mrs. Coulter, an enigmatic scholar and explorer who offers to give Lyra the attention her uncle has long refused her. In this multilayered narrative, however, nothing is as it seems. Lyra sets out for the top of the world in search of her kidnapped playmate, Roger, bearing a rare truth-telling instrument, the compass of the title. All around her children are disappearing—victims of so-called "Gobblers"—and being used as subjects in terrible experiments that separate humans from their daemons, creatures that reflect each person's inner being. And somehow, both Lord Asriel and Mrs. Coulter are involved.

Title: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe (The Chronicles of Narnia #2)
Author: C.S. Lewis
Publisher: Harper Collins Publishers

This is the land of Narnia, said the Faun, "where we are now; all that lies between the lamp-post and the great castle of Ciar Paravel on the eastern sea. And you -- you have come from the wild woods of the west?" "I -- I got in through the wardrobe in the spare room," said Lucy. What begins as a simple game of hide-and-seek quickly turns into the adventure of a lifetime when Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy walk through the wardrobe and into the land of Narnia. There they find a cold, snow-covered land frozen into eternal winter by the evil White Witch. All who challenge her rule are turned into stone. Narnia, once filled with all manner of talking Beasts, Dwarfs, Giants, and Fauns is now a dark, joyless wasteland. The children can only hope that Aslan, the Great Lion, will return to Narnia and restore beauty and peace to the land. But will the power of Aslan be enough to conquer the dark magic of the White Witch?

Title: Coraline
Author: Neil Gaiman
Publisher: Harper Collins Publishers

When Coraline steps through a door to find another house strangely similar to her own (only better), things seem marvelous. But there's another mother there, and another father, and they want her to stay and be their little girl. They want to change her and never let her go. Coraline will have to fight with all her wits and courage if she is to save herself and return to her ordinary life.

Title: Now We Are Six
Author: A. A. Milne
Publisher: Penguin Young Reader Group Readers have treasured A. A. Milne''s endearing poems for generatations. In this beautiful full-color gift edition of "Now We Are Six, " each of Ernest H. Shepard''s beloved illustrations has been meticulously hand-painted. A stunning volume and the essential gift for that all important birthday, this book is a must for any collection, and for many years.

Just for Fun Bargains and Reads

Title: Winnie-the-Pooh
Author: A. A. Milne
Publisher: Penguin Young Reader Group

For nearly 70 years, Milne's classic story about young Christopher Robin and his adventures with his friends from the Hundred-Acre Wood has captivated readers of all ages.

I figured I might as well pick this one up since Now We Are Six is part of the quartet. Plus Winnie-the-Pooh is totally classic!

Title: The Sweet Far Thing
Author: Libba Bray
Publisher: Random House Children's Books

It has been a year of change since Gemma Doyle arrived at the foreboding Spence Academy. Her mother murdered, her father alaudanum addict, Gemma has relied on an unsuspected strength and has discovered an ability to travel to an enchanted world called the realms, where dark magic runs wild. Despite certain peril, Gemma has bound the magic to herself and forged unlikely new alliances. Now, as Gemma approaches her London debut, the time has come to test these bonds. The Order—the mysterious group her mother was once part of—is grappling for control of the realms, as is the Rakshana. Spence''s burned East Wing is being rebuilt, but why now? Gemma and her friends see Pippa, but she is not the same. And their friendship faces its gravest trial as Gemma must decide once and for all what role she is meant for.

You might have noticed this appear on my favourite novels post, and I mentioned I was waiting for it to come out on paperback. It finally did so I picked it up today and hope it will be satisfying!

Title: Skin
Author: Adrienne Maria Vrettos
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing

You don't have to be thin to feel small.

Donnie's life is unraveling. His parents' marriage is falling apart, and his sister is slowly slipping away in the grip of her illness. To top it all off, he accidentally starts a rumor at school that hurts someone he cares about and leaves him an outcast.

So Donnie does the only thing he knows how to do: He tries to fix things, to make everything the way it was before. Before his parents stopped loving each other, before his sister disappeared, before he was alone. But some things are beyond repair, and it will take all Donnie's strength to stop looking back and start moving forward again.

I've contemplated picking up this book so many times that I've lost count. Finally I couldn't resist anymore. I'm just way too curious about this book to continue ignoring it.

Title: Kissed by An Angel: Kissed by an Angel • The Power of Love • Soulmates
Author: Elizabeth Chandler
Publisher: Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing

A love beyond life...a danger beyond doubt. When her boyfriend, Tristan, died, Ivy thought she'd lost everything, even her faith in angels. But now she's discovered that he's her guardian angel -- his presence so strong that she can feel the touch of his hand, the beat of his heart. Ivy needs Tristan now more than ever because he knows she's in terrible danger. Only Ivy's guardian angel can save her now that his killer is after her. But if Tristan rescues Ivy, his mission on earth will be finished, and he must leave her behind forever. Will saving Ivy mean losing her just when he's finally reached her again?

This is a total impulse buy, I won't even try to rationalize it. I absolutely adore the cover and took a chance. The book was cheap so I'm not terribly worried if it turns out to be bad, plus if it's good all the stories are in one volume, so that makes me happy too!

Title: Haters
Author: Alisa Valdes-Rodriguez
Publisher: Little, Brown and Company

From the first day at her new Southern California high school, Pasquala Rumalda Quintana de Archuleta ("Paski") learns that the popular students may be diverse in ethnicity but are alike in their cruelty. While Paski tries to concentrate on mountain biking and not thinking too much about ultra-hot Chris Cabrera, she is troubled by the beautiful and wicked Jessica Nguyen. Jessica is the queen of the haters and she's got her eye on Paski.

I got this book for dirt cheap - in hardcover no less! I love, love , LOVE the cover and the story seems a little original with the culture issue but still light and funny. Mind you, I'm one of those people that reads Gossip Girl and thinks it's hilarious, so this book may suit me but not many others.

And finally, inspired by Michelle's review:

Title: This Is All
Author: Aidan Chambers
Publisher: Harry N. Abrams

From the winner of the Michael L. Printz Award and the Carnegie Medal, a work of astonishing intimacy and depth.

Using a pillow book as her form, nineteen-year-old Cordelia Kenn sets out to write out her life for her unborn daughter. What emerges is a portrait of an extraordinary girl, who writes frankly of love, sex, poetry, nature, faith, and of herself in the world. Her thoughts range widely: on Shakespeare and breasts, periods and piano playing, friendship and trees, consciousness and sleep, and much more besides. As she writes of William Blacklin, the boy she chooses as her first lover, or Julie, the teacher who encourages her spiritual life, Cordelia maddens, fascinates, and ultimately seduces the reader. This is a character never to be forgotten from a writer at the height of his powers.

Magazines

Nylon Magazine
May 2009

I absolutely adore Nylon, and I'm planning to make a collage (or several) to decorate my new room next year, and Nylon has by far the best pictures, print and layouts to cut and paste.

Check out my post about the May issue @ Collision here.

Elle Magazine
(US Edition)
May 2009

Just because I love Drew Barrymore. :)

Award?!

2009-04-24T19:06:00.005-04:00

By some stroke of I-don't-know-what, this blog was nominated for an award from Korianne at Korianne Speaks! Thank you so much! It really means a lot considering this blog has taken the back burner while I was busy over at Collision getting it up and going.

The rules to keep this award going are:
1) Add the logo of the award to your blog
2) Add a link to the person who awarded it to you (see above)
3) Nominate at least 7 other blogs
4) Add links to those blogs on your blog
5) Leave a message for your nominees on their blogs!

Nominations
1) Michelle from Michelle's Reads
2) Tina from Ms. Muse
3) A Lush Budget Production: Tales of a Ravenous Reader
4) elle moss photography
5) Taylor from For the Love of Books
6) Katie from Katie's Bookshelf
7) Adele from Persnickety Snark

Thanks once again to Korianne from Korianne Speaks for my very first award!

Review: The Shape of Water

2009-04-24T05:59:00.012-04:00

Title: The Shape of Water
Author: Anne Spollen
# of Pages: 312
Published: April 1, 2008
Publisher: Llewellyn Worldwide
Rating: 2.5/5

"I discovered windows one afternoon and after that, nothing was ever the same."

The Shape of Water first caught my attention with its simple excerpt on the back of the paperback novel, shown above. I have to admit I'm a sucker for good quotes, and this one sentence completely invested me in the novel with its thirteen words. It's rare for novels to have a decent opening sentence (at least, that's my experience), and I was pleasantly surprised to find out that this one sentence excerpt was in fact the opening of the novel.

Also important to note is the title, "The Shape of Water." Vivid images immediately form in my mind upon reading this title. The notion that water, in fact, has no shape, but conforms to its surroundings and moves freely allows to the reader to understand the journey they are about to embark on when reading this novel.

Lastly, before going into my review of the novel, I can't forget to mention the cover art to this novel as well. In an eerie kind of way, I found it to be extremely appealing. Obviously the image is of a person (who I assume to be the main character, Maggie/Magda), but it is constructed with bizarre colours and shapes. In a certain light, it could almost appear as though her hair is like weeds and her face the colour of algae. This clearly correlates to the title: "The Shape of Water." The metaphorical value is there, something I quite thoroughly enjoy novels, and thus a decision became clear to me: I had to read this book.

From the get-go, Spollen draws you in, letting only glimpses of Magda show through. The latter's thoughts are written but also allude to other events in her life of which readers are not yet privy to. The chapter is filled with metaphorical descriptions of water (and fire at a certain point), which keeps in theme with the title of the work. Spollen creates a semi-solid basis for the story in this chapter, introducing us to a character who has been affected by death and who thinks differently about certain elements. Enough questions arise to keep the reader interested, but Spollen also describes Magdaa and lets Magda introduce herself formally, which allows for readers to have a character basis and not be completely clueless and wondering what and who the story is about.

As the story progresses, the journey that Magda embarks on becomes a journey of self-discovery and of letting go. Without giving too much away, many changes in Magda's life force her to realize her feelings regarding her mother's death and who her father and Hannah really are. By the end of the novel Magdalena finally learns to let go and live happily, and just do the best she can.

Unfortunately, I had high hopes for this book, and that always works against me. Spollen creates characters who have many morals based on traditional religion, which is usually a turn-off for me. In addition, many of the ideas and morals seemed slightly old-fashioned, however I excused this fault as the setting would suit nothing else.

Other disappointments include the characters and even the storytelling itself. Throughout the novel I felt that Magda never really grew as a character until about the last 40 pages of the novel, and then it was so abrupt that I was not convinced in the slightest. The other characters in the novel (her father, Dorothy, Andrew, Hannah) are briefly (if at all) developed and I never truly felt connected to any of them.

The storytelling was probably the biggest failure to me. The novel seemed to have such potential in the beginning, and such promise. And then it all dwindled away. The story is epically slow and falls under a very "This happened... and then this was the consequence... and then this happened next..." type of storytelling, something I absolutely hate in literature. Confessions of certain characters seem somewhat odd and randomly stuck in to have more pages in the book, and I never invested in them or their emotions, therefore I was unmoved by their heartfelt revelations.

Spollen also never develops a real climax of any kind. When reading a novel about dealing with death, it's natural and a rightful assumption to expect the character to move on by the end of the story. Spollen lets Madga glide through and never builds the anticipation for Madga's freedom from the death of her mother.

In terms of storytelling, the last flaw is the cut in time periods. This may not apply to everyone, but I personally dislike reading stories that cut out portions of the characters' lives. In The Shape of Water, whenever a situation has run its course, Spollen jumps to the next event without a second glance or any explication for the time in between.

The only highlight of The Shape of Water was its extraordinary metaphors: Spollen manages to relate pretty much everything to water in some way or another, and it is extremely endearing to read such a different view of everyday events. This is probably what saved the novel for me, and where it gains most of its points.

All in all, The Shape of Water was just very "blah" for lack of a better word. It had such good potential and the beginning was great, but it all went downhill from there. I am keeping in mind this is Anne Spollen's first novel, and it was a solid effort. There are many good ideas in this work, and obviously Spollen has a talent for seeing things in unusual ways, so I look forward to reading a newer piece by her and to see how she's grown as a writer.

The Shape of Water earns a 2.5/5 rating, for its metaphorical value and Spollen's solid ideas, even if they did not pan out well in the novel.

PS: Sorry, I know this is a pretty long review. I like to be thorough :).

How To: Clean Your Room

2009-04-24T01:57:00.007-04:00

If you're like me and have just returned from university/college away from home, you might be having the same problem: Where the heck do you put all your stuff?! I came home a couple days ago and had the bad thinking of wanting to deal with insane amounts of baggage at a later date. So instead everything piled up in my room while I lazed my day away, and then I realized something had to be done. I had to clean. My room was probably the grossest it's ever been.

Inspired by Korianne's post on how to make bookmarks at Korianne Speaks, I decided to make a little fun "how to," showing you guys the steps to cleaning my room. I hope you enjoy!

Step One: Put hair in a bun or at least get it out of the way.

Step Two: Apologize to your doggy for not playing with her, and for using the vacuum cleaner.

Step Three: Assemble the cleaning army.
Step Four: Assess the damage.

Step Five: Put on some background noise.

Step Six: Hang up clothes from suitcase.
Step Seven: Empty the rest of the suitcases and bags.
Step Eight: Pack away stuff that is going into storage.
(I'm also emptying the big cabinet in my room because I'm bringing it to my new house for next semester, so the stuff in that box is OLD)

Step Nine: Wrap fragile items and store them.

Step Ten: Avoid breaking a pen and spilling ink all over your foot.
(And yes, I need to paint my toenails, I know.)

Step Eleven: Realize why you don't have a boyfriend.
Step Twelve: Admire your finished job.

Hope that was entertaining! Thanks for visiting everyone, 250 visitors and counting!

Also big thank for visiting Collision if you have (if you haven't, GO NOW), we just passed the 500 visitor mark!

Sunday Secrets (2)

2009-04-22T00:44:00.003-04:00

Here are my favourites from this week:

Turning 20 is probably the scariest thing for me. It's less than 2 years away and I probably think about it once a day at least. It feels like a ticking clock, and that everything I want to do in my life has to start in my twenties.

I don't really believe in God. But I know I believe in something different than everyone else.

I'm learning to be happy without you.

Review to be posted soon!