If you know me, you know that I love movies. L-O-V-E. I’ve loved them since I was a kid and saw E.T. in the theaters.

And I took a little bit of a blog break last week because I was fulfilling one of my movie-lover bucket list items: going to the 2012 Sundance Film Festival.

One of my clients was there and I got to be on the ground for five days working and hanging out in Park City, seeing screenings, etc. Yes, I was working, trust me, it was not all play.

It was a stressful, exhausting and taxing time, but also, just…amazing.

Park City is gorgeous, I was fortunate enough to visit it last summer for a conference, but the best part was going to the screenings. My colleague and I saw a total of 8 movies over four days and I loved EVERYTHING I saw, minus one movie. Most of the movies we saw were heavy too, including the documentaries, but I really hope these get wider release because you guys should check them out.

Here is the cheesy part: during one screening, when the reality of where I was sitting hit, I started to tear up because being there has been a dream for so long, that I couldn’t believe it was happening. CHEESE.

Here are a few pictures from the trip.

More photos are on Facebook and Flickr (here). Yikes, just looking at it makes me tired. Time to rest up!

How was your weekend? Anything new with all of you?

But before it got hot, something very special happened, I lost my Harry Potter virginity.

Yes, that is correct and probably a tad inappropriate, but it’s true.

Before Friday, I had never seen a Harry Potter movie (in full) or read any of the books. And as of today, I have seen one of the movies. *insert heavenly music*

Despite my lack of Hogwart’s knowledge, I went with TC and two friends to see a very early Friday screening (aka 12:01 a.m.) in the burbs. It may be a long way to go for a movie, but there is good reason.

That theater is P-I-M-P.

Our theater had “premium” seating with a full recliner, blanket to keep me warm, pillow and a waiter to bring us free popcorn and drinks.

It was magical and I took advantage of EVERY SINGLE THING. I was at full recline with pillow to keep my head up (also so I don’t fall asleep) and blanket snuggled around me like a Glo Worm. I just needed to figure out how to grab my drink without moving. I should have left a comment card that said, “need longer straws.”

Anyhow, here is a silly photo of me tickled pink with joy over my theater seating. Hilarious.

So what did I think of the movie? I liked it. And I would see it again, after I catch up on the other movies and reconsider cracking open the books. Even though I knew little of what was going on, I still enjoyed it but more context will help me love it more.

Also, there was one part where tears were streaming down my face so hard I could barely see. Clearly, my waiter needed to be by my side to wipe those up. It was “premium” seating after all.

And the trailer for the Dark Knight Rises? Whoa, cannot wait.

How was your weekend? Did you see Harry Potter too?

Seriously, I use these long weekends to get a lot done and check things off my list so I don’t have to worry about it during the week when things are crazy.

Yeah…turns out I only got about half of the things I wanted to done because I was too busy…relaxin’ or hanging out with friends.

Doh!

But it wasn’t a total wash, I got the following things done: dust, clean the bathroom, pay bills, balance the checkbook, upgrade to iLife ’09, contemplate getting the new iPhone 4, buy Oberon, shop with TC (who is a bad influence in the best way), return items to the Gap and…BREAK IN THE ROOMBA. OMG, I can’t wait to tell you all more about that later this week.

I also saw two movies, Going the Distance (review is up!) and The Other Guys (review forthcoming). I love being back at the movies :)

What didn’t get done: Plan my trip to Denver which is NEXT WEEK OMG, actually upgrade to iPhone 4, clean the kitchen, recycle old magazines, start reading my new book, “My Hollywood.”

So…I’ll say it’s a partial win for this weekend.

I also dined out a few nights this weekend too as a little treat and of course, I have some photos to share :)

Tableside presentation of Peking duck at Sun Wah BBQ (yes, I went back for more, I’m obsessed and it was amazing)

Kamikaze roll at Sushi Toro (I LOVE sushi)

Pork belly with potato chips and sesame spinach at Chilam Balam (a new-ish Mexican restaurant that I’m in love with)

So yes, I didn’t get everything productive done that I wanted to, but it felt good to have a few days off, and well, isn’t Labor Day supposed to be a bit more relaxing? Maybe?

How about everyone else? Did you have a lazy or productive weekend? Did you get everything done you wanted to?

Well, rather than dwell on that, let’s dive into the weekend because I’m holding on to the bliss the weekend brings for a few more hours :)

Movies in the Park

One of my favorite things Chicago does in summer is Movies in the Park, a free event where old and semi-new movies are shown in parks around the city. It’s BYO…everything, from food to drink to chairs.

And when WG2 saw that Julie & Julia was playing, well with one text message, I had a tote bag packed and was on my way to meet her at the park! Sure, our park was near the freeway and didn’t have a bus that was running after the movie, but it was a gorgeous night and a ton of fun.

Here is my tote bag of goodies, yes, that is champagne, white wine, hummus and fresh veggies, which complimented her Pastoral cheese plate deliciously.

But you can see some people take it very seriously, like the group of men behind us. Nice set up.

Watching a movie outside and under the stars is a ton of fun. I cannot believe it took me so long to do this!

Pig Roast

Until this weekend, I have never been to a pig roast. Apparently, we stay true to brats in Wisconsin.

And when my boss told me she was having one at her home and that I was invited, the first thing I said was, “I’ve never been to one, so I’m going to take pictures, but don’t worry, I’m not casing your house.”

Full disclosure.

And we got there just in time to watch that piggy being cut up for the masses.

Yeah, I know, little gross.

But put that baby with some mac and cheese and cornbread (with real corn inside!) and it was a very delicious meal. Fortunately, I had some self control and did not go back for seconds. And I avoided this being an ugly eat too (mostly because co-workers were there).

Yeah the mac and cheese was orgasmic

Other random weekend highlights

I slept until 10 a.m. (NEW RECORD), read Mockingjay and started One Day, laid in bed late each day and did not clean my apartment. But that can always wait for next weekend. Also, if someone else has finished Mockingjay, please email me! I want to talk about it!

How was your weekend? Does your city have Movies in the Park?

Edited 8/30: So in a multitasking FAIL, I forgot to mention I got to FINALLY meet Alexa from Cleveland’s a Plum this weekend. Yeah, angels sang when we met, it was magical. I’ve been hugged by the Plum. We also got to see Wrigleyville’s finest out on a Saturday night, thank goodness it wasn’t game weekend!

I had a busy weekend but the best kind, filled with friend dates, aka “freights.” Friend dates are the best because you get to go out, do date-like things, such as dinner or drinks, but it’s with your friends. No pressure, just fun. I love them.

I also paid off my Napa trip so I was ready for a glass of wine and friend dates so I can get back out there and be social.

Here’s a summary of my fun friend dates:

Friday – movie/dinner:

After a long week, I was ready for a movie/dinner date with my friend Robin. We went to see Inception (see full review here) on Friday at a pimped out theater downtown. Seriously, this theater had a bar, VIP seating, where you can bring food and liquor into the theater, extended concession stand with tart yogurt and sandwiches. And the best part? You can reserve your seats before you arrive so you can arrive just before showtime and know you have seats.

And the food you can get there is very good too. We got a prosciutto panini, martini with champagne (which made me buzzed after one drink) and BACON POPCORN. Yes, you heard me right. Check it out.

Hmm, bacon

The mix of bacon, popcorn and butter was delish. I’m a fan.

After the movie, we super sized our friend date by going to Chinatown for dinner. Robin took me to an authentic Chinatown restaurant that makes awesome bubble tea and dishes. Our waiter gave me weird looks when I ordered salted fish and pork in a hot bowl but it was tasty, even if it doesn’t look appetizing. I hope he gave me that look because I didn’t just order fried rice. Maybe.

I know, it looks gross, but mixed up, it’s very good

All in all, I saw a great movie, caught up with a good friend and tried new things. Win, win, win.

Saturday – Brunch/shopping and sushi:

That’s right, despite the downtown Transformers craziness, TC and I hit up Xoco for brunch and indulged in our mutual love of Rick Bayless’ churros and even sampled the new Mexican soft serve. Yeah, I was so hungry, I didn’t take pictures, even of the suckling pig torta. But here is a past picture of the Churros, which I could eat an entire plate of. I have no idea why they’re so good, but I want them all.the.time.

Then, with my shopping list in tact, we hit the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. I behaved, but TC learned how bad my enabling ways can be. My bad.

After burning calories shopping, Mega and I met up for a sushi dinner in Bucktown where I had the best soft shell crab roll ever. I also meant to only have one drink and somehow had a total of five by the end of the night. Oops. Does that happen to anyone else?

Sunday – Sweating it out at Pitchfork:

Yes, I hate the current heat wave here, but that didn’t stop me from going to the Pitchfork Music Festival with Nic. I got to girl talk, craft shop, listen to some great music and drink 24 ounces of water, promptly sweating it all out. I was disappointed that my only ice cream option was dairy-free, but the pulled pork tacos were tasty.

How was everyone else’s weekend? Do you go on friend dates?

Anyhow, the short week has me all thrown off and out of sorts so I’m to give in to the random thoughts bouncing around in my head.

Prepare to enter the vortex of my odd mind:

• Is it embarrassing that I love teen fiction? Last weekend I read the Hunger Games series by Suzanne Collins and I am totally obsessed. I wish I could teleport to August when the final book comes out so I can see how it ends
• Conan O’Brien’s tour was in New York this week and not only did his dance off with Colbert and Stewart make me cry laughing, but also my true love, John Krasinski stopped by. He’s really hot in this picture.
• It felt weird that LOST wasn’t on this week. I feel like that will be a big void in my DVR, but my tear ducts will be happy to have some mercy
• Tonight I’m buying tickets to a midnight showing of Eclipse for Amy and me in Napa! I can’t wait!!!!!
• I need to start researching wineries for my trip to Napa in a few weeks…and I have not even started. Please, if you have any recommendations, send them my way!
• A coworker shared this clip of a horribly romantic wedding proposal and I did tear up watching it. See, I’m not so dead inside! I love sappy, romantic stuff like that because I’m jealous
• I hate coming home to an empty DVR because of summer hiatus. But, I’m sure I can fill my DVR with plenty of good/trashy TV soon, like Top Chef, Bethenny Getting Married, Rescue Me and of course, RHONJ. Cannot live without that
• I was sad to hear Rue McClanahan died today. She was sassy on Golden Girls…I like sass
• I got to taste Rotel and Velveeta dip (clients) for the first time today and it was AH-MAZING. I must make this again soon
• There are Twilight pre-paid credit cards available by MasterCard. No joke, I want one but think it would look weird to have an 18 year old Jacob in my wallet :)

Phew, lots in my head this week. What’s on your mind? Any big weekend plans?

First off, holy crap, I leave for NOLA on WEDNESDAY, like in three days! *insert mild freak out*

Moving on, I tend to get very stressed before traveling. The inner “planner” in me comes out and I run myself into a tizzy making sure things are ready, packed, clean and organized for when I get back so I can easily get myself re-acclimated.

I know, I’m probably making a big deal out of it but what can I say, I’m high strung :)

So to prep to travel to NOLA this week, I went a little insane this weekend getting stuff done around the house. Here’s what I accomplished:

• Cook for the few days in town so meals are easy
• Grocery shop for bare necessities
• Pick a recipe for next week
• Write out my grocery shopping list for next weekend
• Laundry
• Laying out clothes to pack
• Bringing out the suitcase
• Clean bathroom and kitchen (I half-a**ed the kitchen), dust living room
• Balance checkbook
• Pay bills
• Research restaurants and tourist activities in NOLA
• Pick out a Mother’s Day card to mail before I leave

Yeah, I was productive (to say the least). And oh my gosh my house is so pretty when it’s clean!

But before I surrendered to pre-travel prep, Friday, I went with co-workers to Hai Yen, a Vietnamese restaurant, in Uptown and had Vietnamese food for the first time ever.

And it was amazing. And I took no pictures. FAIL.

I can’t even recall everything we had but I know there was make-your-own spring rolls, amazing pork and pho and everything was absolutely delicious and so light that I didn’t feel heavy or weighed down after (which I do sometimes from fried food).

I would 100 percent go back, it was that amazing.

I also sorted out last week’s Amazon order drama and was able to finally enjoy this movie, which I did twice:

I wrote a review about it here because absolutely love it. Sometimes, a good Victorian movie makes me very happy :)

What about everyone? How was your weekend? Was anyone else bitten by the cleaning bug?

So while I’m preparing for a full weekend of cheap fun and vacation planning (countdown!) I wanted to share some random stuff I’ve been reading and thinking about.

Prepare to enter the vortex of my random head:

• I read that Katie Holmes will play Jackie Kennedy in a History Channel miniseries in 2011. As a huge Jackie Kennedy fan, I’m really p*ssed off by this. Joey as Jackie? Dawson would not approve and neither do I
• You can buy a faux or real engagement ring inspired by Bella’s in Twilight. Yes, I love Twilight and Jacob’s rock-hard arms and abs but I do not want to wear Twilight-inspired jewelry, unless it’s from Tiffany
• The Hills started again this week…and it gave me a good self esteem boost and reminder why I don’t watch that show anymore. The cattiness is unbelievable
• I got a working library card! And now I’m a book-reserving fiend. But I have to remember to read the reserved books when I get them
• I’ve rediscovered my love of dark chocolate covered dried cherries. Smack my a** and call me Sally they’re good. Can I count them as healthy?
• The interview with Oprah and Rielle Hunter really irritated me. Maybe I’m too sensitive to cheating and like Elizabeth Edwards too much but hearing Rielle say she isn’t a homewrecker, kind of pissed me off
• Got my People magazine in the mail today too and saw Sandra Bullock’s new baby. Seeing that kind of joy on her face made me happy
• Two co-workers are totally obsessed with Patron tequila. They rave about it but I’ve never tried it, is it really that good?
• Found out my gym is in financial trouble because it hasn’t paid its mortgage since September. Did they learn nothing from the housing crisis?
• I heard a rumor that there might be a nacho cart at work tomorrow. Sweet baby Jesus I hope that’s true. Cheese sauce made in the crock pot is amazing

Well kids, that’s what’s stewing in my brain right now. What’s on your mind? Any big weekend plans?

Well, the weather sucked in Chicago this weekend. Nothing ruins a weekend like rain, clouds and fog. So I decided to do some of my favorite rainy day/weekend things around my house.

Okay I can’t really say that picking up the piles of clothes and papers in my apartment is fun but I did some general not-so-fun-but-necessary-stuff like:

• Pay my renter’s insurance (I know it’s necessary but I didn’t like writing that check)
• Fill out my passport paperwork and get my birth certificate together (yay! It’s here!)
• Book car and hotel reservations for my second big solo trip
• Create an itinerary/event flow for my NOLA, Vegas and yet-to-be-announced trip

I knew I was working in my field for too long when I made an event flow for my own personal vacations. But, when you have confirmation numbers, hotel details and addresses spread all over the place, it’s good to be organized :)

Yes, I love organizing things. It doesn’t really matter what.

And once this mature adult sh*t was over, I was ready to have a little spring dress fashion show. Just because it’s 40 degrees outside (Chicago! You’re killing me!!) that doesn’t mean I can’t try on my pre-spending freeze dresses and dream of warm weather.

My biggest challenge with dresses is the boob-area. I’m busty to begin with and some dresses make my D-cups look like Heidi Montags. I’m not so keen on that, which is why I mostly wear dark color dresses, to help keep it under control.

And so far, I’ve found two I’m pretty excited about (apologizes for the sucky photos, rain means no good light in my place):

Old Navy – $19.50

JCrew – $69.50

Oh yes, I’m dreaming of warm weather right now!

And finally, when it’s pouring outside, I love curling up on the couch with movies. And right now, I’m totally obsessed with the Wii Netflix feature. It syncs my instant Netflix queue to my Wii so I can watch movies on my TV anytime. Um, amazing. I have a little Arrested Development, 30 Rock, Office and several documentaries in my queue right now and the convenience is amazing. My only complaint? Not in HD so the resolution is good but not great. But again, convenient and I like that.

How was everyone else’s weekend? Are you Netflix Wii obsessed? Do you love spring dresses?

Movie review: Caught up with Jenny from the block and some HOT new many candy in The Back-Up Plan

I promise there are no new stories to share about bone marrow or octopus, I stayed away from trying new things this weekend :)

In fact, this weekend was pretty low-key, which felt really good.

On normal weekends, I run around the city a lot doing errands and going out, so laying low barely happens (until late Sunday night).

And I definitely had to lay low because things in the money department are a little snug until I get paid this week.

Why? Well fortunately, it’s all for good reasons, like that I’m going to see these guys in May:

And bought my airfare to this:

I’m super excited about all of them, but that means I must be a very good girl for a bit. Credit card debt looks bad on me.

So to keep my wallet out of trouble, my weekend mission was low-key, affordable fun.

And that included a Saturday photoshoot with some local photographers and bloggy friends for fun in Millennium Park where I got to practice my ANTM smizing and Zoolander Blue Steel poses. I was also reminded how badly I take direction too during photo sessions. I am AWKWARD. Photos are still coming in but I’ll keep you posted on the final results.

Also, the best way to unwind from a photoshoot is with cupcakes. That’s a fact.

My low-key weekend also included a blissful Saturday night in with laundry, movies, food and shirtless werewolves. Yes, you read that right. I had a hot date with this guy.

Yep, I did not mind staying in to watch this on my big screen. AT ALL. I also didn’t salivate as much during this movie as I did in the theater (progress!)

Fact: Sometimes, a night in with movies and junk food is more fun than going out. I need to have more of those in my weekend routine!

How was everyone else’s weekend? What’s your idea of the perfect night in?

Final call for giveaway entries! The Macy’s gift card giveaway ends tomorrow night so this is your last reminder to enter here for a chance to win a $50 Macy’s gift card!!

Normally, I would post a recap of my weekend but due to the Oscars and red carpet glamour, I am mixing up the schedule this week so I can give you a full recap of Sunday’s big show, even if it’s past my bedtime as I write this.

Overall, the celebs did a pretty great job tonight. There were a few hits and misses but nothing totally cringe-inspiring (but close). I was hoping for a little more bold color, but there were still plenty of gowns I fawned over and looks that made me shake my head.

So without further ado, here are my best/worst dressed picks!

Best dressed female: Vera Farmiga

Gorgeous color, flattering and the scallops/ruffles were to die for. Fab! I could not take my eyes off her when she was on camera

Best dressed male: Jeremy Renner

He brought his mom as his date and looked great in a classic suit/tie. Adorable.

Worst dressed female: Charlize Theron

She took a risk by reinterpreting Princess Leia’s buns on her boobs, but that’s all I could focus on and not in a good way. Your boobs should be used for good, not as dinner rolls.

More Oscar fashion winners:

Maggie Gyllenhaal

I haven’t been the biggest fan of Maggie’s dress choices (oy!) but this was simple and had great color. A necklace would have been nice but she makes it work. But damn is she skinny! Eat a burger girl!

Zoe Saldana

I LOVED this look. Vera barely beat her out as best dressed. I love the color, beading and bottom of this dress. Gorgeous and young.

Sandra Bullock

She looks like an Oscar herself. The detail and beading on the top were fabulous and with the simple hair and makeup, it was a great age-appropriate look. Now if only she could give me Ryan Reynolds phone number…

Kristen Stewart

I was shocked at how classy she looks. See how good you can look when you take a shower and put forth some effort? Now she just has to stop looking so pissed off and/or constipated

Gabourey Sidibe

Very figure-flattering and age-appropriate. Plus, she rocked the sh*t out of this on the red carpet. You go girl, fist bump!

Penelope Cruz

The movie Nine was awful, but she looks hot here. That red is very rich and gorgeous on her skin tone and it makes her waist look small and her boobs big. Win, win!

Oscar fashions that get a “see me” note:

Sarah Jessica Parker

Chanel fashion fail #1. Absolutely no shape, and I hate the yellow strap on the neck. I have no idea why it’s actually there. SJP, just because it’s Chanel Haute Couture, that doesn’t make it right!

Diane Krueger

Chanel fashion fail #2. I don’t hate the cream and black colors but it’s that loofah-inspired mid-section that confuses me. But if she brought Josh Jackson with her, that would have slightly distracted me from this mess.

Jennifer Lopez

I don’t totally know why she was here but a hip fabric puff when you’re a curvaceous woman isn’t a great idea. She actually looks a little like a teapot here. Ouch.

Miley Cyrus

You are young, rich and at the Oscars. Stand up straight! I don’t like the bodice of this dress and honestly with that bad posture and bride of Frankenstein hair, I’m not a fan.

Anna Kendrick

I’ve not been a fan of her fashion at award shows this season but the main issue I have with this look is the color. It washes her out and I can’t see the amazing detail on this dress. FAIL!

Other high/low points:

• Steve Martin/Alec Baldwin: I thought they did a pretty good job. I still think Hugh Jackman was a better host last year, but they were funny and used dry humor
• I really liked the best actor/actress introductions. They were funny, heartfelt and really sweet to watch
• Kathy Ireland: OMFG what a train wreck. Her dress/necklace combo was a disaster and her interviews were so painful to watch with her claw-like hand that I had to look away
• The random woman who ran up on stage when Music for Prudence won. Who was she? Where was security? Random!

Phew, well that is this year’s reacp. It’s now time to put the fashion judgement hat back in the closet until next year.

What did everyone else think of the fashion and show? Who was your best/worst dressed picks? What did you think of the show?

]]> http://www.myeverydayadventures.com/2010/03/08/oscar-fashion-hits-and-misses/feed/ 33 http://www.myeverydayadventures.com/2010/03/02/kitchen-adventures-slow-cooker-tacos/ http://www.myeverydayadventures.com/2010/03/02/kitchen-adventures-slow-cooker-tacos/#comments Wed, 03 Mar 2010 02:50:44 +0000 Jessica B. http://www.myeverydayadventures.com/?p=2794 That’s right! After a two week break (due to travel), I’m back in the kitchen and baby it feels good!

First, thank you to everyone who has emailed me recipes and indulged my dumb questions. I really appreciate it and keep sending them my way!

Okay back to the meal.

This week I made: Shredded Chicken Tacos from Tasty Kitchen (at the recommendation of Lacey). But I had no idea what to make with them, so I got a little creative, pulled a recipe from Erin and added a little mixed greens salad with balsamic dressing and goat cheese. Light and simple.

And here’s the finished product!

That’s a nice lookin’ plate!

Close up of the taco, num!

Shredded Chicken Tacos:

• 1 package frozen corn
• 1 can black beans, drained
• 4 pieces chicken breasts; frozen, skinless, boneless
• 1 jar salsa
• 1 envelope taco seasoning

Pour the bag of frozen corn in the bottom of the crock pot. Add the drained black beans. Place the frozen chicken breasts on top of the beans and sprinkle with the taco seasoning. Pour the jar of salsa over the top.
Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours.

Remove the chicken, shred it, then add it back to the crock pot and toss with the corn and beans. You can use a hard or soft tortilla and add cheese or your favorite taco toppings.

Yes, it’s literally that easy.

A few things to note:

• I did not make it with beans and still loved it. So tasty
• The chicken is so tender that it falls apart easily when removing it from the slow cooker, so be prepared to use a spoon
• The author recommended Trader Joes Fire Roasted corn and Lacey agreed it give this more kick. I would definitely add more kick to this next time
• My chicken was done cooking on low at 6 hours, but be sure to check the chicken before shredding it
• I totally set off my smoke detector with the asparagus. So…watch out for that :)

I’m really happy with my dinner this week. And I’m going to start pre-planning next week’s too. Not quite sure what I want to make yet but so far, I’m on a good streak!

Do you like Mexican food? If so, what are your favorite things to order or make at home?

Review blog Oscar movie challenge: Find out if I achieved my goal of seeing all of Entertainment Weekly’s 25 Movies to See Before the Oscars.

I love this movie. It makes me fall in love with Audrey Tatou and want to move to Paris stat.

I could only hope I would meet a cute Parisian boy like Nino (but would prefer he didn’t work in a porn store.) If you saw the movie, you know who I’m talking about.

I could gush about this movie for hours but one of my favorite parts of the movie is when she steals her father’s garden gnome and has it travel worldwide, mailing her father photos from various landmarks. Again, if you saw the movie, you know what I’m talking about.

So this weekend while I was in Houston, I got a little slap happy at the end of each day and took the horse toy that the Four Seasons gave me and took a few Amelie-inspired photos around my hotel room.

Take a look:

Sitting in bed, snacking on Texas Chewie Pecan Pralines (she had a long day and didn’t give up sweets for Lent)

Reading USA Today’s Life section (she loves her entertainment news)

Left her alone for too long and she found the mini-bar key. That’s gonna cost me. Such a boozer

My personal favorite: Updating Twitter. She’s so social media savvy!

Yeah, I got a little zany but come on, she’s updating Twitter and hitting the mini bar. How cute is that??

I never was a big stuffed animal person, but I think I’ll keep her around. But introducing her to Bubbles could be tough. She is very territorial.

Pretty sure I sound crazy now, I should go :)

Does anyone have big plans for the weekend? Or what was your favorite stuffed animal growing up as a kid?

Movie review update: Yes, I’m back to movie reviews today and I finally got to see A Single Man, Tom Ford’s directorial debut, check it out!

Yeah it’s Valentine’s Day.

I should hate it because I’m single, but really, I don’t. I know, I talk a good game about hating Valentine’s Day but really, I don’t loathe it.

What I do hate is the connotation that Valentine’s Day only applies to you if you’re in a relationship. I think it should be more about love overall. Love for friends, family AND significant other. Why can’t it just be like that?

But since relationships are the most important thing on this sweet/depressing day, I decided to take my #1 person in my life out for a day. That’s right, I’m single, so I celebrate my awesomeness independently and treated myself to a day downtown.

Actually, it’s been more of a “treat weekend.”

Friday was striptease at the gym, where I got a reminder I always need to see (along with a few hefty glasses of wine).

Trust me, after two glasses of wine, I am LOVING my body :)

We also got to make up stripper names. Yes, that sticker is on my boob too.

Saturday was haircut, movie and dinner at Noodles & Company (YUM).

Sassy! Seriously, I need to just commit to full bangs at this point.

And for the big day today, I went to yoga, brunch at Eleaven (they had a donut buffet for free!), shopping at Banana, another movie, Berry Chill and then home to close the day with more movies and a group date with Russell Stover and Whitman Sampler. Oh yeahhhh.

So that’s what I did this weekend, relax, go see movies and treat myself whenever I wanted. After a rough few weeks and a busy one coming up, I decided to take it easy and make sure one of the most important people in my life, me, didn’t feel left out on Valentine’s Day.

And I highly recommend everyone else does the same, single or married. Do something fun for yourself and if you have one, your significant other. It doesn’t have to be a grand gesture, but take that time out to recognize all the people you love in your life and don’t forget about yourself. Ever :)

What about everyone else, did you do anything fun for Valentine’s Day or during this weekend? Do you love or hate this love-infected holiday?

Heart-themed movie review: That’s right, I went and saw Valentine’s Day, original, I know.

So let’s kick this off by recapping the Golden Globes, my favorite of all the award shows (probably because people have gotten drunk pre-speech.)

Best/Worst Moments: Award show

Best:

• Host/presenter: Ricky Gervais – Hilarious, drinking a beer and shamelessly self promoting. Love it all
• Quote: “It’s God crying for NBC,” said by Tina Fey during the NBC pre-show. So true. I hope NBC gets herpes for what it’s doing to Conan
• Acceptance speeches: Glee cast, Sandra Bullock and Robert Downey Jr. A nice mix of silly, sweet and sincere

Worst:

• Presenters: Felicity Huffman/Mickey Rourke – Guess reading isn’t fundamental
• Quote: “Give it up for yourselves,” James Cameron. Seriously, are you kidding me?
• Commercial: Chrysler, thanks for inviting ME to keep watching the Golden Globes, which I was already watching on MY TV. FAIL
• Acceptance speech: Anything with James Cameron
• Camerawork: Too many moments to mention. NBC can’t even produce the show correctly? Who was controlling the camera throws?

Best/Worst Moments: Fashion

I have to say, this was difficult to write because I loved a lot of the dresses last night. But alas, I had to call out the ones that really shined and should have stayed at home.

Best dressed male/female:

I could not take my eyes off Penelope whenever she was on screen. Hair, dress, jewelry are all flawless. That’s a moviestar

Yes, I have a Glee crush on him, but the classic Hugo Boss suit can never go wrong on any guy

Best dressed couple:

They make anything, from the Gap and evening wear look adorable. Love Amy’s dress too

Worst dressed female (tied):

I have a feeling Tom Ford dressed her in this unflattering, shapeless ensemble and it breaks my heart

I love ruffles too but I don’t LOVE ruffles. Too much. Way too much. It’s like she sewed two frilly dust ruffles together

Best skank-free look:

Another great, age appropriate, classy look with a bit of edge. Also, I’m glad that she left the buttless chaps at home this time

An ode to Sham-Wow:

Hate the color, hate the overdone texture and that oversize bun (not shown). Not flattering but she could pick up any spills with that dress

Needs a reminder she’s not 20 anymore:

We get it Jen, you’re single, 40 and free. But I don’t want to see your “see you next Tuesday.” Sometimes covering up is classier than showing it all off

Dress doesn’t match body type:

She has an amazing voice but this full volume skirt just doesn’t work on her. Just because it’s De La Renta, doesn’t make it right

I usually love Tina’s choices but this skirt isn’t working for me or for her petite frame

Confused a nightgown with a dress:

We get it, you’re hot and a mom. Go back to bed or pump in the bathroom

Project Runway graduation:

Wearing Christian Siriano – Love the color and way it compliments her skin tone and hair. Ka-boom on the boobs too! Snap, damn

Best old Hollywood glamour:

Nicole’s choices can be hit or miss but the dress color and draping are great. Thanks for the nip outlines too!

LOVE this look. The mix of fabrics, headband and red lips are amazing. The more I look at it, the more I love it

Well the Oscars are up next and the judgement on that fashion will be much harsher than this. No mercy!

And sadly, I couldn’t include a picture of my dream man, John K, because all of them had Emily Blunt in it. I love Emily Blunt, just not with him. But he still looked hot (as always!)

What about you? Did you watch the Globes? What were your favorite parts or best/worst dressed? Did you love Ricky Gervias as host?

Review blog note: I also updated my review of The Lovely Bones this morning. Guess I was a little tired when I wrote it because I forgot to add some things :)

]]> http://www.myeverydayadventures.com/2010/01/18/golden-globes-fashion-recap/feed/ 53 http://www.myeverydayadventures.com/2009/12/27/weekend-recap-holiday-recap/ http://www.myeverydayadventures.com/2009/12/27/weekend-recap-holiday-recap/#comments Mon, 28 Dec 2009 02:13:30 +0000 Jessica B. http://www.myeverydayadventures.com/?p=2132 Happy Sunday everyone!! I hope you all had a really great holiday and that Santa was extra good to each and every one of you. I had a nice few days off and am now slowly trying to remember what day it is.

Honestly, I had to write down that today is Sunday because I totally forgot. That’s what happens when you’re off for several days in a row.

Santa definitely visited my house this year and it was clear that dad told him I was a very good girl :) I’ve had some past issues of dad not following my Christmas list (which he always requests), but after a heart-to-heart about the difference between what I want/need and what he wants to give me, this year went much better.

Santa managed to fit in his sleigh for me several fun/practical things like a Wii, Wii Fit Plus, Huntress boots, yoga mat/bag, Glee seasons 1-2 CDs, JCrew/iTunes gift cards and a crock pot. Seriously, I was really excited about that crock pot. I cannot wait to bust that out!

And of course we had insane amounts of food in our house. I swear, any healthy food was replaced with M&Ms, fudge and cookies. My stepmom made a fruit salad and I devoured the entire thing because I FORGOT how good fruit tastes. Sad.

Festive ice cream cake, nummy

So all of this food meant I had to constantly wear comfortable clothing (to avoid another uncomfortable pants hissy fit) and I ended up wearing variations of this outfit anytime I went out in public. At least I was trendy.

A few other highlights of the last few days include: the first time having fondue with my work/WI buddy Lizz, seeing a few movies and not washing my hair for a few days. God, that was liberating.

Oh and I had to share a picture of my mom’s new ornament, can you guess the classic movie this appeared in? :)

How was everyone else’s holiday? What was your favorite present?

Review blog update: I’m staying strong on my no shopping pledge, but that means I’m behind in having things to review, so I’ve added movies! And my inaugural movie review is one of the best movies I’ve seen in recent memory (minus New Moon): The Young Victoria.

I go on these field trips when I need time alone because my family and lack of privacy have driven me to the point of near insanity. It happens.

And because non-holiday gift shopping is a no-no until the 29th (staying strong!), I’m occupying my time with movies. And yes, I brought a list home with me of what I want to see.

So my post-holiday-movies-to-see wish list includes:

Nine - I love Rob Marshall’s directing style and musicals. Plus, Penelope’s song and dance number looks hot!

It’s Complicated – I’m not the target audience for this but my future husband John K is in it and looking smoking hot (as normal) so I must support him (and dream of marrying and having lots of babies with him)

An Education – A Golden Globe nominee so I need to see it to see if I pick it as one of my winners. And I hear great things about it.

Invictus – I like Clint Eastwood’s movies and I could use something motivational and uplifting. Plus, Matt Damon is hot too

The movie you won’t see on my list, Avatar. I’ve heard amazing things about it but I’m not really in the mood for it right now. I’m sure it’s great but I’m not sure if it’s my cup of tea. I’ll hold off until I can drag Scratching Post Jenn with me next week.

What about you? Do you see a lot of movies over the holidays? Or what do you plan on seeing while you’re at home?

Hot/cold: First, I’m really glad I’m not the only one freezing cold in my parents home. Everyone’s comments made me laugh about their parents, husbands or boyfriends keeping their place cold. I know, I should be better about my carbon footprint. But I hate being cold.

Anyhow, my love of movies takes me to the theater almost every weekend (when I can drag TC with me) and Oscar day is bigger than the Super Bowl.

But, no lie, movies in Chicago are expensive. $11 for an evening showing? WTF? When I was a kid, it was $5.50 for an evening showing and $3.50 for a matinee.

Those were the good old days.

And now that movie prices are going up (even if movie quality isn’t increasing too) and concession prices go up too, is it time to abandon the theater for the computer?

I’ve never purchased a movie on iTunes or downloaded a movie illegally. I do have Netflix and have used RedBox but I still suck it up and go to the theater because I like the experience. And the free air conditioning in summer. There is something about seeing some movies on the big screen that I still love.

Movies like Cloverfield, Star Trek, Dark Knight, New Moon, Transformers, etc. are such an overwhelming experience in the theater with the noise and explosions and excitement. When I watch it at home or on my Macbook, it’s not the same.

What about you? Do you still like going to the movies or have you turned to the interwebs for them? Do you feel lik the experience is different?

Parallel parking FAIL: Wow there was a good balance of good/bad parallel parking comments to my last post! I’m so glad I’m not alone in being bad at this. But I have to say, Pham’s comment made me laugh really hard, “Remember the Chicago Parallel Parking rule: You’re allowed 2 love taps, front & back.” I definitely don’t take advantage of this enough! Oh and I also can’t back into spots or parallel park on the left-side of the street. Seriously, I don’t even try it.

Anyhow, let’s get started!

Vampires, werewolves and shirtless action, oh my!

As you know, Friday morning at 12:45 a.m., TC and I were at the Chicago AMC theater with several hundred other Twilight fans to get our New Moon-on. We arrived at 11, thinking the line wouldn’t be too bad and were greeted with this.

Holy sh*tballs

People must have arrived for the movie at 8 or 9 p.m. That is a level of hardcore I will never achieve.

Thank goodness for relevant reading materials to pass the time.

Sadly, people didn’t dress in costume (we were easily the most casual people there), but the ladies got R-O-W-D-Y when the movie got started, clapping, cheering and gasping/screaming when Jacob and Edward were on screen. As expected, Jacob’s ab-action got the loudest response while Edward didn’t fare so well. I guess the ladies like a little meat on their men’s bones :)

And as a member of Team Jacob, I would look at that chest all day long. RAWR. I even said to TC pre-movie, “when I see Jacob without his shirt on…it’s cougar time.” I think we laughed about it for 10 minutes. Exhaustion will do that.

We got out of the movie at 3:15 a.m. and I walked into my apartment at 3:45 a.m., where I promptly went to bed and got back up at 7:30 a.m. to get ready for work. Kill me now. I fared pretty well during the day but crashed HARD Friday night. But, it was SO WORTH IT.

So what did I think of the movie? (non-spoilers below)

I loved it. It was much better than Twilight (like day and night different, aka better) and the things that really irritated me about Twilight weren’t so bad this time (minus Jasper’s unfortunate hair and Alice’s bad fashion sense.)

I also really loved the Jacob character. He was exactly what I imagined he would be and the scenes he had with Kristen Stewart had more heat and emotion than anything with Edward (sorry ladies). Maybe I like him so much because I identify with his character in a lot of ways, but he was great. And TC and I disagreed on a scene in the movie that foreshadows book four but we did agree that we’ll be back at another midnight showing for Eclipse on June 30. It’s on the calendar already!

Football with a side of soft pretzel

Lately, we’ve been really fortunate with good weather in Chicago. And by good, I mean not frickin’ freezing. And Saturday was a great day that included mild temps and sunshine. And that was the day I was up in Evanston with my parents for the Northwestern/Wisconsin game. Compared to the seats my parents and I are used to in Madison (50 yard line, 20 rows back), these seats were….not as close.

I cannot believe that guy stood up in the middle of my shot. D-bag.

Whenever I go to a game, I always treat myself to a hot dog, soda and soft pretzel. That is my go-to for stadium food. I don’t know what they put in it (and don’t want to know) but it is awesome. And as it got darker and colder outside, the fans became bigger d-bags and my team started losing, I was ready to get out of there.

Oh college football, I love it but it will break your heart sometimes.

So did anyone else do fun stuff this weekend? If you saw New Moon, what did you think? Or what is your favorite stadium food?

And I’m so excited I might actually scream out loud. But I’m an adult so I will try to contain myself.

That’s right, we have early morning tickets because we’re both crazy enough to go at that ungodly time. We will be quite a pair at the theater. In fact, we’re meeting up shortly to wait in line, packed with reading material, snacks and iPods full of Glee and other TV shows. And when the big moment comes, I’m not above pushing past people to get better seats.

I am optimistic this will be better than Twilight, during which I laughed and groaned SEVERAL times, but even if it’s not, I’m super excited about doing something crazy and fun like this with my buddy.

The last time I saw a midnight showing was Star Wars prequel movie #2. Those were during the college years when I didn’t have…a full time job to go to the next day.

But now I do and that won’t stop me. Even if I will be in my glasses, wearing leggings as pants and shotgunning energy drinks at my desk by 11 a.m.

It will be SO worth it.

Primarily because I can’t wait to see this.

HEY-OH!

I could look at that image all day long (and no, I don’t care that he’s 17. That just means lookie, no touchie).

Is anyone else going to see the movie this weekend? Or am I the only one excited by this finally being released??