Spring Fashion Week: III

Just when I thought Spring Fashion Week couldn’t get more fun, my girl Lexi stepped onto the scene. Not only is she a dear, dear friend, she is also a really creative and talented photographer (and don’t you let her tell you any differently… because she will. I’m serious, she’s talented, intelligent, funny, beautiful and humble – if I didn’t love her, I’d hate her.) I’ve chosen these particular pictures (there are a bunch more that were great, too!) because they’ll help me tell the story of our VERY FUN afternoon. Sunshine, mango smoothies and lots of laughter were on the menu. It really doesn’t get much better than that!

I call this one my “edgy look.” (Yes, this is truly about as edgy as I get…)

*Mustard yellow boyfriend sweater is from my favoritist of favorites Urban Outfitters last (?) year. The label says BDG.
*Black embellished tank is from Old Navy.
*Mini Jean skirt is from Express. Judging by the length I’m guessing I bought it in the ‘90s some time.
*Super cool black and white knee socks can be found here.
*Black boots AGAIN. I promise I won’t wear them EVERY day this week. But they are just my ABSOLUTE favorites!  But, I swear, I have other shoes.
*The key charm and chain were birthday gifts from hubby. I love it. He found it on Etsy, but he can’t remember where.
*The hibiscus necklace was a memento from a Hawaii trip several years ago.
*And those silver hoop earrings are probably the only thing that I own that I wear MORE than my black boots. You can NEVER go wrong with a nice silver hoop, you know?

Lexi said, "Give me some angst." I answered with a look that communicated, "Something smells bad."

Here, I'm channeling Ricky Bobby. "I'm not sure what to do with my hands."

Here I am dreaming of my future as a blog fashion model.  Lexi, you've altered my destiny.

See everybody tomorrow!!

Spring Fashion Week: II

So, uhhh, my pictures weren't working for a HUGE part of yesterday.  But if you just scroll on down, you can now SEE my outfit.  Thank you, flickr.  Nothing like a little technical difficulty to start out the week.

Moving On.

I have got to admit that I am loving this Fashion Week thing. I've even assembled a mini team to help! I had my favorite Lisa consult on accessories and give final approval on my choices for the rest of the week. Wait, is that against the rules? I hope not, because tomorrow I have the one and only Lexi helping me take some pictures (see blurriness that is today’s pic to understand why). Yah for friends pitching in and supporting the fun!! Plus, yesterday I got to visit a whole gaggle of new blogs that I would never have found without Emery Jo's help! Woo Hoo!

Isn’t it fun being a girl? I mean, not ALL the time. But, a whole lot of the time, right?

Now for the Look:

*These MOST adorable shoes are from PAYLESS. Can you believe it? I saw them and fell in love at first site.
*The jeans are Gap denim from a couple of years ago. Incredibly comfortable.  I always wish I was a designer denim kind of girl... but I just love me some Gap jeans.
*This super cute shirt is ON SALE at Target this week. If you like it, go to the store now and bring it home to your closet.
*Not a clue where I got these earrings. They've been in the jewelry box since I was single (which seems like a whole other life by now...).
* Headband is probably from the Gap. It looks like a Gap print. Again, it's been around awhile.
*Charm bracelet was a gift from my godmother several years ago. It commemorates the sacraments I received when I was a child... and Catholic. Shout out to my Catholic homies! I figured it was an appropriate accessory during Holy Week.

my stylist, who it seems cannot be bothered with all this picture taking when it doesn't involve HIM

So, fun story about the top. I bought it last week when I went into Target for something else. Admit it, it happens to you too. Then, as I was browsing through the paper on Sunday, I saw my adorable new shirt ON SALE. The hubby encouraged me to see if they price match, but I was reluctant and pessimistic. I have just not had the best experiences with Target's return policy. But, there's a happy, happy ending to the story. When I brought the shirt back ~ tag already removed ~ the girl behind the counter SMILED at me as she refunded the price difference! I’ve never been so happy to be wrong. I was so elated that I turned right around and spent the money in the accessories department. Let's be honest, how tough is it to spend money in Target? Not. Too. Difficult.

Spring Fashion Week: I

Okay, here goes....
As promised, this week is Spring Fashion Week around A Foreign Land.

Yesterday, the handsome hubby and I caught a few moments between rain clouds to snap a shot of outfit number 1 at Renaissance Park.  Thought I'd share not only my outfit but a taste of our newest discovery in Chattanooga.  Drum roll please, THE PARK IS DOG FRIENDLY!!!  WOO HOO.

Now back to the fashion. Here’s what I put together:

*The grey and white striped tunic and black leggings are H&M steals.  (Apparently my position has changed?!?)
*My cardi and white cami are from Old Navy.
*The hat I bought with my sister in law in "the" mall somewhere… but I can’t remember where. Vicki? Do you remember?
*The boots are my current FAVORITES and I’m trying to figure out how to transition them to my Spring wardrobe. I can wear black boots in the Spring, right?!?!  Good, because I wear them constantly. I got them on Amazon around Christmas and the tags say Rocket Dog.
*The necklaces, which I love, are completely lost in this shot. Unfortunately, I don’t have a fancy dancy camera to get the detail (though I tried below) and do them justice. But, the salt water pearls were a gift from my Pops several years ago when he went to the Bahamas.  They are a great “go to” piece. I’m also wearing a super fun necklace which was a Christmas gift from my way-more-stylish-than-me cousin, Amie. She tells me that you can browse other cute pieces (I guess mine's one of kind) in Clare Etheridge's portfolio here.

Funny thing, yesterday when we started taking pictures I got all shy in front of the camera! HUH?!?!? Hopefully, the awkwardness will wear off and I’ll loosen up a bit! Otherwise, there’s just no future for me in blog fashion modeling.

For more fun, FASHION moments check out the EPICENTER of Spring Fashion Week here.

You Will NOT have Bad Luck if You Don't Read This Post

This morning I opened my inbox to find a chain letter from my sweet sister. Typically, I’m not a chain letter type of gal, but the prayer that was included was too lovely not to notice. The email claims the prayer was written by Saint Theresa. Theresa is known as the Saint of the Little Ways. Apparently she believed in doing the little things in life well and with great love. I like that.

Please be aware, I don’t share this in the hopes that you will send it to 23 of your closest friends email contacts. I don’t suggest that you make a wish before praying or wait for the proverbial pot of gold that will come as a result of reciting and forwarding this prayer.  Do it if you need to, I'm just sayin'.  But, I do hope these words are comforting, encouraging and as special as they were to me. (forgive that grammatically, it’s kind of a mess… Apparently, Theresa needed an editor as badly as I do!)

May today there be peace within.
May you trust God that you are exactly where you are meant to be.
May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith.
May you use those gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you.
May you be confident knowing you are a child of God. Let this presence settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love.
His GRACE is there for each and every one of his children.

Faster Than Kudzu (that one's for my southern friends)

Man did that week fly by! Seriously, I just blinked and the whole freakin' thing was over. Thankfully it was jam-packed full of goodness. It has been crazy fun reconnecting and spending some quality time with friends, seeing a few movies and CANCELING OUR DISH NETWORK... more on that stunner in the days to come I AM SURE. Can anyone say withdrawals?

I've also been in preparation for Spring Fashion Week which starts on Monday. Check the A-dorable button posted over there for more information. Especially if you want to participate – hint, hint. What luck that it happened to fall right after my birthday! I had some birthday moolah and did a little shopping this week! Tune in next week for all the girly silliness fun. As I mentioned here, I'm a wee bit nervous about participating... But I'm DEFinitely looking forward to seeing all the other outfit posts. The goal is to do some major look-borrowing. Imitation is the highest form of flattery and all that.

Meanwhile, in some lift-your-jaw-off-the-floor news… my friend’s husband (who I’ve mentioned here & here) was well enough to go to the San Antonio Spurs game on Friday night.  Oh, and while he was there he met LeBron James. I’m not even kidding. Does this story get more amazing with each passing moment? Ya. I know.

So on that happy note, I’m off to enjoy a beautiful sunshiny Saturday.
Hope you do too!

5000+ Visits

On Saturday, A Foreign Land (this here blog you're reading) passed the 5,000 visit mark. Which is kind of cool, I think.

Now, to anyone who actually has a blog, 5000 visits aren’t probably all that impressive. Especially since A Foreign Land has been around for, like, ever. But it's a milestone and I'm excited. Since it wasn’t until 18 months ago that I started to even consider going public, 5000+ is respectable. Once I finally got the guts to actually put it out there for the world (probably about a year ago) my numbers increased significantly. And now here I am at 5000+ views. This week = small milestone + big smile. It kinda makes me wonder what would happen if I actually tried to promote it? Anyway, I tell you this because it was one of the items on my Ultimate To Do List. CHECK. (My list is an idea I completely stole from Mighty Girl – here’s her fantabulous list! Be amazed, be very amazed.)

In other AND totally unrelated news, I took some cold medicine today and I am feeling LOOOOpy. I've mentioned before that I've been sober for what seems like three bazillion years by now. That’s right, folks, clean livin' for this girl. So, when my system gets hit with some drugs - not even prescription strength, we're talking over the counter junk - I canNOT maintain. Now, my current state of loopiness is not necessarily a bad thing since we are going to see Alice In Wonderland tonight. Maybe I'll take another dose before I go and I won't even need the 3D glasses!

So, about this healthcare reform…

JUST KIDDING!!

Do you really think I’d spend today’s post talking about health care reform when there is MUCH more important stuff to discuss? NO. WAY. If you want to crab or cheer about the healthcare package, get your butt over to Facebook. That’s all anybody’s talking about.

Instead, consider this space an oasis from the debate and the snarky rhetoric today, because it’s my BIRTHDAY! Now, I take birthdays pretty seriously. Perhaps it’s my narcissism or my overly active preoccupation with all things ME, but I love me some birthday celebrating.

This year's birthday (and keep in mind it’s only half way through) has been a particularly fun one. Not because of the food I’ve eaten – though I did have a wonderful FREE lunch at Abuelo’s with the handsome hubby and I intend to eat my weight in Provino’s garlic rolls for dinner. It isn’t the terrifically generous gifts I’ve received. It isn’t that it snowed on my birthday for like the second time in 34 years. It isn’t all the well wishes of friends and family via telephone calls, text messages and Facebook posts. This particular birthday is amazing because for (possibly the first time in my life) I feel contentment.

It’s true. Despite the fact that I’m living far away from my family and many of my friends, despite the fact that my marriage isn’t perfect *gasp*, despite the fact that we are making some cuts to accommodate for my “fun”employment, I am content. And let me tell ya, contentment that isn’t based on circumstances is the most peaceful, delicious feeling in the world. I’ve been given the most splendiferous birthday gift that I could have ever received. I haven’t done anything to earn this contentment. I didn’t have to buy it (though I’d probably have found a coupon for it… have I told you about my insane coupon savings yet? Your jaw would hit the floor!) I just woke up and experienced it.

Happy Birthday to me! And thanks, God, for this most excellent birthday gift.

Spring Has Sprung

Some seasons are just plain better than others in Chattanooga. Spring happens to be one of those "better" seasons. To celebrate its beginning, several of us went to the park to play.

What'd you think of my Heathers moment during our croquet game? It isn't surprising to hear that after that dirty trick I ended up LOSING the game... Good news though, my loss didn't even ruin the fun I had.

Ms. Spring, we're so happy to have you back in town. Please, make yourself comfortable and stay awhile.

Thankful Thursday/ Episode 46

I gathered a group of friends who know NOTHING about college basketball and we’ve filled out NCAA brackets. Over the next few weeks I will be tracking games and trash talking over a $14 pot. (Each of us threw in $2) I’m writing this post right now, because as it stands my bracket is still healthy and I’m completely optimistic. Of course the fact that there have only been eight games played to completion is a big reason why I’m feeling this way.

Episode 46: “Today I am thankful for… a little competition between friends.”

Generally speaking, I’m SUPER competitive. I do not like to lose. Not that anyone LIKES to lose. But, I REALLY don’t like to lose. In my younger years you probably wouldn’t hear me say, “I’m taking my ball and going home.” It’s more likely that I would take my ball, bounce it off your face and flip you the bird while I stormed off. While I’ve gotten most of that stuff worked out, the über competitive girl still rears her nappy head on occasion. So, I’m continuing to work on losing with grace. I figure it’s a skill I should master now that I’m into my 30s. I really don’t want to be THAT GUY for the rest of my life. And what better way to work on this trait than to “compete” with friends? Seriously. It’ll be fun. AND this contest has little to do with skill and won’t reflect poorly on my performance or hurt my ego! Picking teams in an NCAA bracket is a total game of chance. March madness typically has upsets around every corner.

**cough** OLD DOMINION & MURRAY STATE

Of course, looking at my bracket there’s a good chance I won’t be learning how to lose during this tournament. I’m in it to win it and might even buy a stick of gum for each of my faithful readers with my enormous jackpot.

So today, I am thankful.

Taking a Spring Risk?

I'm typically a joiner.  If you ask, I'm in.

This time I'm a bit intimidated...



I've been silently stalking this blog called moms are for everyone! for awhile now.  Emery Jo's posts are funny, transparent and thought provoking. Plus, she's stylish and her kids are super cute so I can't help but check in to see what's going on in her world.  Here's the thing, today she posted an invitation which seems to combine a few things I love... fashion, blogging, brazen self promotion and community. So why am I feeling ALL THIS hesitation?  I'm ~ as I mentioned earlier ~ intimidated and a bit uncertain about joining in the fun. Which I think stems from the fact that I’m worried what the “cool kids” (and by “cool kids” I mean bloggers with a readership much larger than mine) will think of my outfits and my accompanying posts.

What, What?! That doesn’t sound like me, does it?  What is going on?

Must. Push. Past. First day of High School-like. Intimidation. And Self Doubt.

So, I’m jumping in dipping my toe into the shallow end of the pool by posting this button and SERIOUSLY considering splashing around like a maniac from March 29th through April 4th.

Anyone else wanna play?

"I Wanted to Tell You Something..."

Just after school each day a pair of little boy eyes peek in our front door. The dog goes wacko with excitement because THE BOYS ARE HERE TO SAY HELLO!

After more than a year of living next door to a vacant house, new neighbors moved in about a month ago. They have 5 children. Three of those children (a set of 7 year old twin boys and their 5 year old brother) like to stop by and visit. Daily. What’s fun is that they like to share very important and hysterical tidbits about their lives.

Imagine opening the door to an adorable toothless midget who typically says something like, “I wanted to tell you something.” They always start with, “I wanted to tell you something…” and then follow up with a very entertaining “something.” Typically along the lines of:

“Next week is Dr. Seuss’s birthday and we’re going to have green eggs and ham for breakfast.”
“We don’t have school on Tuesday and we’re going to the Y to go swimming. Will you and Spike come with us?”
“The weather man said it is going to storm all weekend so Mom said MAYBE we can go some place fun if I start obeying her.”
“We got new shoes. Want to see them?”
“We had blueberry pancakes for lunch.”
“We were watching TV and Dad said, ‘It’s time for a nap or you need to go outside.’”

In the last few days they’ve also started bringing cards for me to open.  ...as if their visits weren't gift enough!  When I opened the blue card I asked if this was a picture of me and the hubby. “No," one of the twins replied with a sheepish grin.  "That’s you and me.”

What was the handsome hubby’s response to our sweet little neighbor's declaration of love artistic expression, you ask? “Looks like I need to keep my eye on that kid.”

Don’t worry, sweetie, you won’t have to look too far. They’re sure to be over sometime after 3.

This Somehow Turned into a Shameless Request for Gifts?!?!

You know about Apartment Therapy right?  I'm sure you do.  But just in case, let me be the first to point you over there.  It’s a fantastic blog (actually it’s a network of blogs) focused on home interiors – how to’s, inspiration, etc. The virtual house tours allow you to walk through someone else's space without tracking mud through their den and getting their dog all riled up. When I visit a home, I swoon over the owner's decor, steal a few ideas and delight in the fact that we are fortunate enough to have an adorable little "cottage" to dress up too.

Spend enough time taking house tours and you're bound to come across one of these puppies. These "Keep Calm and Carry On" posters have found prominent spots in several homes and have thoroughly captured my heart. Truth is, I am not above blatant theft when it comes to interior decorating (I have no skills, as I've mentioned before). The crisp design of the poster appeals to me but not as much as the message. Honestly, I could not read/remember/apply/embody it enough.

When I was hunting for the posters I discovered that they have an interesting history. Originally created during WWII by a British propaganda machine governmental agency, they were intended to be circulated if the Nazis succeeded in taking the UK. While the posters were never used for their intended purposes, the design was rediscovered and commercialized (according to Wikipedia) in 2000. This is how they've found themselves hanging on the walls of American hipsters and the trendy Apartment Therapy elite.

Well, sign me up. I’m all about being HIP. (Wait, does the fact that I admit that and do all I can to be hip make me the antithesis of hip?  Don't answer that.)

The good news is I found the posters! And let me tell you, this metallic silver one would be PUUURfect in our master bath. hint. hint. They can be purchased on Etsy and are very reasonably priced. Created by Victoria Smith, they come in a rainbow of colors and have I mentioned that I WANT ONE? Wait, I was talking about Victoria Smith. Sorry. Smith describes herself as "a San Francisco based blogger, photographer, graphic designer and bonafide flea market queen." Check out her Etsy shop here. She also has a print entitled “Please let me be the person my Dog thinks I am.” Cute, right?

AND while you’re at it, my birthday is coming up. Need some shopping ideas? Since you’re headed over to Etsy anyway, you should totally check out my wish list.

Not quite sure how this morphed into an “I’m going to ask for birthday presents” post. But, it has and I’m going with it. Apparently it’s more Self Indulgent than usual Saturday around A Foreign Land. Thanks for visiting!

Thankful Thursday/ Episode 45

Remember back in February when I told you about my friend Carrie's husband, Grand? He's the soldier who was SERIOUSLY injured while serving in Afghanistan.

Well have I got an update for you!

Would you believe that man is up and out of his hospital bed? His feeding tube was removed at the beginning of the month (I believe HE removed it…). He’s lucid enough that he and his wife have been able to share real heart to heart conversations. He's survived five bajillion surgeries.  He’s out of ICU. He’s in a manual wheelchair moving himself all over the hospital. And there is talk of Grand moving into an offsite facility with Carrie (she described it like a Ronald McDonald House) in the next week!

I’m telling you, if I hadn’t been reading this story every day on Caring Bridge (go ahead, you can too) I wouldn’t believe it.

Episode 45: “Today I am thankful for… TRUE stories filled with hope and healing.”

Certainly Grand’s story isn’t the only totally miraculous one out there. Often our heavenly father is merciful to heal and restore in the most seemingly dire situations. Without a doubt, this has been one of those incidents. To witness it is a pleasure and a privilege. The medical care and emotional support provided for Grand and his family is too overwhelming to be just a series of good luck. Clearly God has his hands all over this event and intends to (continue to) use it for a greater purpose.

Just think, as mind-boggling as Grand’s healing process has been so far, the story isn’t over yet.

So today, I am thankful.



If you’re interested in keeping up with this family’s astonishing story, Carrie has a blog that you can read by clicking here.  Go back to the beginning and read the whole thing.  You will find yourself continually picking your jaw up off the floor!

Ladylike Week

The handsome hubby left on a jet plane on Sunday evening and won't be back around (as the plan stands now) until (probably) Saturday.  Which means, this week is shaping up to be very ladylike around the homestead.

The girly festivities began last night with a little bridal shower soiree with some of my girlfriends.  The shower was to honor Jason & Molly and planned to coincide with the airing of their much anticipated nuptials.  We ate yummy, homemade "wedding" cake. (Can you believe yesterday was the FIRST time I EVER baked and decorated a cake?  Well, if you read this you probably can!)   We drank fancy mocktails and white wine out of beautiful crystal glasses.  There was even bridal bingo!  (I made the cards and instead of numbers there were Bachelor clichés to listen for and cross off the card - so fun.)  The whole evening culminated with Jason & Molly tying the knot in a torrential downpour with winds that nearly blew the bride's dress off.  Rain is good luck on the wedding day, right?

The rest of the week I intend to do very girly things like manicures, pedicures and face masks.  I plan to eat snack food or salad for dinner (since the meat and potatoes man won't be around).  I'm going to watch The September Issue and drink tea from a china cup with my pinky in the air.  I'm also going to live like I'm a single girl. I probably won't make the bed.  There's a good chance a razor won't touch my legs and the only trips to the grocery store I intend to make are for frivolous items such as sushi or giardiniera.

This is how I'm coping with the yucky news.  We'll just say I'm making pink lemonade.

I think I found my favorite of the night...

Rachel McAdams is a show stopper in her Elie Saab Haute Couture gown.  This stunning look actually opened Mr. Saab's 2010 Spring/Summer Haute Couture runway show!! Clearly her stylist GOT. IT. RIGHT.

Check out her messy updo... it seemed to be the go-to style this evening.  She was also right on trend with a bare neck, fab toned shoulders and amazing pendant earrings.
**UPDATE** Just read that those multicolored diamond beauties are Lorraine Schwartz.

Totally Fantastic.

Picture borrowered with gratitude from PopSugar.com and it looks like they say it's a Getty Image.

2010 AcadeMolly Awards

What a year for film! There were some really great movies in 2009.
So, without further ado, here are this year's AcadeMolly Awards. (Please keep in mind these are not Oscar predictions. Think of them instead as the awards I would bestow if a red carpet were laid out on my street and all of Hollywood's film making elite came over for dinner and drinks at my place.)

Best Cinematography
The Hurt Locker
A Single Man
Sherlock Holmes
Avatar
Young Victoria
I have to be honest when I say that I have a hard time differentiating between what is good Cinematography and what is good Art Direction. I'm doing my best here... But each of these films really were beautifully shot. The desolation of the Hurt Locker, the artistry of A Single Man, the grit of Sherlock Holmes, the fantasy of Avatar and the lush opulence of Young Victoria. It's truly amazing what different feelings can be captured with a lens. In the end, I have to say that Avatar was probably the most fantastic. Visually that film was stunning. So, I'm throwing it an obligatory AcadeMolly for recognition of it's groundbreaking achievement this year. (Though it is probably better suited for technical awards since most of it was CGI, right?)

moving on

Best Achievement in Art Direction
Fantastic Mr. Fox
Nine
Avatar
Where the Wild Things Are
Sherlock Holmes
For me, so much of the fun of film is being transported to another world. Each of these films was a passport to another visual reality. If you missed any one of these, you're in for a treat. As a sentimental favorite I have to present Where the Wild Things Are with the AcadeMolly award in Art Direction. Visually true to the land that first appeared in Maurice Sendak's book, Sonny Gerasimowicz (a street artist!!!!) managed to combine whimsy and foreboding in this fantastic and occasionally frightening piece of art.

Best Screenplay
The Hurt Locker - Mark Boal (original)
An Education - Nick Hornby (adapted)
Precious - Geoffrey Fletcher (adapted)
Up In the Air - Jason Reitman & Sheldon Turner (adapted)
Crazy Heart - Scott Cooper (adapted)
Fantastic Mr. Fox - Wes Anderson & Noah Baumbach (adapted)
A Single Man - Tom Ford & David Scearle (adapted)

Turns out that most of the stories that I REALLY loved this year were "adapted" screenplays. So, if you're feeling the need to differentiate. I guess The Hurt Locker wins for "original" screenplay. Which truly, it should. The fact that an Iraq war movie managed to steer pretty clear of the politics and just focus on amazing story telling is a real achievement. Way to go, Mark Boal. Now, if I'm just giving the AcadeMolly out for a screenplay, I gotta give it to An Education. Nick Hornby's story captured me from the first scene. I was inextricably invested in the characters and swept up in the excitement of young love and the devastation of poor choices.

Best Supporting Actress
Maggie Gyllenhaal - Crazy Heart
Mo'Nique - Precious
Julianne Moore - A Single Man
Marion Cotillard - Nine

Could be it's just my love of Marion Cotillard that got her into this category. Seriously, I've said it before and I'll say it again, she's the most stunning actress working today. But the AcadeMolly HAS to go to Mo'Nique for her portrayal of Mary the abusive (probably not strong enough of a word) mother in Precious. Her performance shut it down. Not since Javier Bardem in No Country for Old Men have I been so terrified of a character. And yet Mo'Nique managed to give Mary a depth that eventually evoked pity from this audience member. Nuanced and layered, Mary was more than just a villain and Mo'Nique deserves every bit of the praise the film industry has bestowed upon her.

Best Supporting Actor
Christopher Waltz - Inglorious Basterds
Colin Farrell - Crazy Heart
Peter Sarsgaard - An Education
Rupert Friend - Young Victoria

Obviously, Waltz was fantastic. Sometimes the AcadeMolly is totally predictable. Christopher Waltz's performance was "a Bingo".

Best Actor
Quinton Aaron - The Blind Side
Colin Firth - A Single Man
Jeff Bridges - Crazy Heart
Jeremy Renner - The Hurt Locker

He's won just about every best actor award out there this year. Jeff Bridges played Bad Black with heartbreaking truth. I adored his performance and I adore Jeff Bridges. But the AcadeMolly is going to Colin Firth for his turn as George in A Single Man. He showed such restraint and strength and created a character that this viewer mourned with and rooted for throughout the picture. George was a fascinating man to get the chance to meet.

Best Actress
Gabourey Sidibe - Precious
Carey Mulligan - An Education
Emily Blunt - Young Victoria
Sandra Bullock - The Blind Side

Now, I loved The Blind Side. And Sandra Bullock was a trip to watch. But, I think she said it best in her Globe speech when she credited hair and makeup with the transformation. Honestly, I think her performance was more of an impersonation. All the hype belongs to Leigh Anne Tuohy and her family's amazing act of redemptive love. So, the AcadeMolly award goes to Gabourey Sidibe as Precious. Sidebe's performance took my breath away. You only have to watch the trailer (which makes me cry EVERY TIME) to know how powerfully Sidibe tells this story. Watching the full film is enough to induce a panic attack and utter despair. However, Sidibe doesn't allow the viewer to remain there. A seed of hope, the promise of survival and an unquenchable beauty shines through despite the character's dire situation. It was (what I kind of hope WON'T be) the performance of a lifetime. I look forward to more from Sidibe.

Best Director & Best Picture
So, this year I started thinking... if a movie is good enough to be called "Best Picture" surely the person in "charge" should be nominated as "Best Director". I'm sure there are lots of reasons why this doesn't happen. Some practical, some artistic and some political. But these are MY awards so I get to make the rules.

The Hurt Locker - Kathryn Begelow
An Education - Lone Scherfig
Fantastic Mr. Fox - Wes Anderson
Precious - Lee Daniels
A Single Man - Tom Ford
Crazy Heart - Scott Cooper

*gasp* "Where's Avatar????" It's up in the art direction and cinematography categories where it belongs. My "Best Picture"s have to have an engaging story. They have to evoke emotion. And they have to be more than just CGI. Plus, James Cameron bugs me. THERE, I said it. Moving on.

Like I said earlier, what a great year for film. After each of these movies, I left the theatre thinking, "That could be the best film I've seen all year." Which is my way of picking for this category - not too scientific, huh? Choosing my favorite this is kind of like saying, "Would you rather have sushi or a steak"? Ummmm, unfair. Both are delicious. It all depends on the mood I'm in, and actually, could I just have both???? But, since I started this whole AcadeMolly thing, I guess I've put myself in the place where I HAVE to pick a favorite. So, the winner for Best Picture & Best Director is An Education and it's director Lone Scherfig. There wasn't anything that I didn't like about the film. It was shot beautifully, acted superbly, the story telling was compelling. When I look at that list of nominees it would be the one I would see again, first. Honestly, not all that scientific of a selection process. Totally subjective.


Most ALMOST award worthy Movie
Away We Go
(500) Days of Summer
The Informant!
Star Trek
Paper Heart

These were some of the MOST fun movies I saw this year. If you missed them (because a few hardly got ANY press at all - I mean did anybody even hear about Star Trek?) I highly recommend them! Probably (500) Days of Summer was the closest to finding itself as a part of the AcadeMollys this year. I'd suggest starting there.

Well, that wraps up the 2010 edition of the AcadeMolly awards.
Now on to tomorrow's red carpet.

Until then though, if you had to pick what was the best film you saw this year? Or who gave the best performance?

Tidy Little Project

I completed another one of my crafty little projects. Actually, I did it about a 2 months ago. But with the recent stressing over life and all it entailed, I didn't ever take the time to share the finished product with you.

We have this cart in our kitchen that had always been a place where clutter went to die. It was a catch all for j.u.n.k. Magazine with a recipe I want to try, stick it on the cart. Coupon insert that I never got around to actually clipping, stick it on the cart. Notepad that is the perfect size for grocery lists because it fits in my purse (but OBVIOUSLY can't stay there all week), stick it on the cart. You get the drift.

ENTER ULTIMATE TO DO LIST. Since I made a goal to finish 100 DIY projects, why not make this numero dos? It was decided. I would create some storage pieces to declutter the kitchen cart. Whatever I chose needed to be easy to make and inexpensive but chic. Because let's face it, I'm just not all that into crafty looking tchotchkes. I'll do a little DIY project now and then, but I'll be damned if my house is going to look like a Hobby Lobby threw up and I called it home decor.

Thankfully there are like 5 bajillion DIY magazine storage tutorials online from which I was able to learn. I started by gathering a few supplies that I had laying around the house. (Can't forget to mention that the handsome hubby had selflessly eaten 2 gargantuan boxes of Frosted Flakes to contribute to the project. Thanks, sweetie).


Some contact paper that I had left from lining the kitchen drawers, a ruler, scissors, and moving tape was all that I needed. Oh, and of course my insane crafting ability - which was sold separately.

The whole project took about an hour and the finished product looks like this:

Here's a close up:

Could you just die? I love them. I had the block letters left over from a photo album I made for my sister after her wedding. So the grand total came to whatever I spent on the cereal plus a little elbow grease. Not too shabby, huh? But best of all, our kitchen cart is now chic-ly clutter free.

Thankful Thursday / Episode 44

Let me apologize from the get-go for sounding like a broken record. I promise not to fill this space from here on out with talk of my recent career change. It will (if it hasn't already) become tiresome, I'm sure. It's just that right now things are really REALLY different in my day to day life. Because of that I can't help but be preoccupied and overjoyed by the change. You understand, right? You'll stick in with me, right? Thanks tons. I promise to move on to other topics in no time.

But for now...

I've had the most glorious week, and it wouldn't have been possible unless I'd used up all my vacation time or (what actually happened) I'd become a free agent.

Episode 44: "Today I am thankful for... the gift of time."

How amazing it has been to relax. How excited I am about finding new interests, hobbies and pursuits. How thrilling that there is more to come next week.

So today, I am thankful.



***Tonight I get to watch the last of the Academy Award nominees for best picture, A Serious Man. After that it's time to start working on my own nominations. Look for the 2010 Academolly Awards posted HERE this weekend just in time for the most anticipated red carpet of the year! Who's excited??? This girl!

A Good Laugh

I could not love this picture more if I tried. (Well, maybe if the beautiful bride was included) If only I could remember what was said that made us laugh so hard. Though, I am quite certain it wouldn't be fit to publish.



Photo is courtesy of MCK Designs. Honestly, I'm not just saying this because I love the ladies in charge... but they are amazingly gifted and a blast to work with. They made what could have been a nightmarish 18 degree wedding photo shoot a total breeze AND got some amazing shots in the process. Check their website out here (and they aren't paying me to say that, FCC).

"Snooooooow" (Sung like Bing in White Christmas)

There are grapefruit sized flakes falling outside and while the roads are light years away from hazardous, it is so beautiful I couldn't imagine being anywhere but here right now. Just staring out our dining room window enjoying the view.

(Had to throw this one in because he loves to pose for pictures! So I indulge him occasionally)

Day 1

Starting today I am my own boss. I've always been bossy, but starting today and I am boss free. I'm self-employed - really more like unemployed. But, we've already discussed that I consider "unemployed" a dirty word. Which is something my "analyst" and I are currently working on for just a few dollars an hour. Until we get to the bottom of that mystery, I'm looking for lots of cute euphemisms to avoid speaking the actual truth that I am unemployed.

I'm busy trying NOT to rush around like there's a timer set and life is on a rapidly approaching deadline. I'm busy allowing myself the freedom to read a book without feeling guilty. I'm busy trying to be gentle and not "should" all over myself. All these things, I'm learning, do not come easily and I do not do well.

My last day at work, since you didn't ask, really couldn't have gone better had I been given the freedom to write its script. The staff meeting which started the day was painless. We had an advanced training for our volunteers which didn't create stress for me, mainly because whether or not the ladies ingested the information, I won't have to clean up the messes they subsequently make. (Too Honest?) There was an out-of-this world pot luck and all the covered dishes one would dream about comprising a pot luck were happily in attendance. I got presents and sweet "see ya laters" from the staff and volunteers. And just as I was about to walk out to my car for the very last time, I ran into a very special former client. Her baby is the result of the first positive pregnancy test I ever did in the center. I wrote about the little guy here. Talk about bookends. It was a "coincidence" that was much too coincidental not to have been a gift from God. If God was in the habit of writing greeting cards to accompany the gifts He gives us, I imagine this one would have said, "'Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master" (Matthew 25:21) And I left with a smile on my face. One can't ask for much more than that.

Now, here I sit. My first official day on my own pay roll. The weather man is warning there may be snow overnight continuing into the morning. My calendar is completely free for the 2nd. I think I may go ahead and call it for tomorrow and just give myself a snow day. See, I can do that now that I'm the boss.