Jamie Takes Lessons from TV Weddings

New houses are exhausting, hence the lack of posts.  But I promise to try harder...

Next month my very good friend Krystal is getting married and I am headed off to the Bay Area for the wedding weekend. Krystal (and her fiancé David) have been quite on top of all this wedding coordination and I know that it’s going to be a fantastic wedding. And I also know that they are low key enough to deal with whatever hiccups may occur. Because what we have all learned from TV is that something will inevitably happen that is, hmmm… unplanned. But of course, we’ve also learned some helpful hints to making the big day enjoyable and coping with whatever happens: As I began work on this post about pop culture weddings, it became increasingly apparent that while there are an abundance of quality TV weddings to discuss, this really needed to be about How I Met Your Mother. I mean, yes, Ben Wyatt's dream bachelor party and Krystal's bachelorette game night as well as her wedding shower were pretty much the same thing (Settlers of Catan, of course). And the best example of having your friends officiate your wedding is clearly Howard & Bernadette's rooftop nuptials on The Big Bang Theory. Liz Lemon taught us that you can do whatever you want for your wedding, just make sure it’s what you actually want. This was almost a blog about Friends & HIMYM weddings, but as amusing and enlightening all the Friends’ wedding wackiness was, it just didn't seem quite as relevant at this moment. And really, how could it? How does it get any more current than the fact that Krystal & David are going to share an anniversary with Robin & Barney. These characters are us. Okay, not exactly, they are TV characters. And Krystal and David are definitely not Robin and Barney.  But they are our age. They have friends getting married, buying houses, having kids, but still not completely comfortable (or at least experiencing varying levels of comfort) with this adult thing we seem to have stumbled upon as we hit 30+. We understand these characters, and share their recurring inside jokes. So when looking for wedding wisdom, it seems only appropriate to see what we can glean from all the weddings (and near-weddings) they have attended over the last 8 seasons, chronologically:

Claudia (& Stuart)’s Wedding: The wedding of the gang’s friends Stuart and Claudia teaches us many things. Claudia is always a little intense, but she’s definitely one step from a complete breakdown here. So it would seem that the participation of both bride & groom in the wedding planning and a solid support structure for both is important.  Also, timely and accurate RSVPs.

Memorable Quote: Claudia: No, no, no.... Listen to me, if I go to my wedding and the cake is not Tahitian vanilla, I will come down there and burn your little shop to the ground. Haha, do you wanna find out if I'm kidding?

Applicable to K&D’s Wedding?: They totally have this one covered. All hands on deck, great family & friends, and I have not heard of anyone being threatened.

Lily & Marshall: What we learn from one of TV's most perfect couples is that no matter how much you plan, things will not go exactly as you want. Accepting that upfront will make everything much smoother. Even if the harpist goes into labor, the flowers don’t show but your ex-boyfriend does and the groom shaves his head to rid himself of frosted tips. People will step up to help out. But maybe we should get Marshall’s law school buddy Brad (played by the… I am hesitating on word choice here, but I’m going to go just for it, delicious Joe Manganiello) on hand just in case. Except that he does cause some damage. That’s okay, it’s worth it. You have to make sacrifices. I have gotten off track (Manganiello has that effect on me) and I haven’t even mentioned how Barney teaches us all how you can get whatever you need at a wedding as long as you explain that it is “for the bride.” But I would be remiss to not mention that they also give us the most important lesson of all: for the love of all that is holy be sure to eat.

Memorable Quote: Barney: May I have everybody's attention...
[Everyone ignores Barney]
Barney: It's for the bride.
[Everyone stops talking and turns towards Barney]

Applicable to K&D’s Wedding?: Everyone already knows to make sure the bride eats. We’ve seen the alternative.

Barney's brother James: I know what you’re saying. Wait, this episode is before Lily & Marshall’s wedding. Yes, but the actual wedding is after it. In this episode Barney learns that his brother James is planning to give up the single life and settle down with his partner Tom. Barney is upset, but ultimately caves after learning James & Tom plan to adopt a baby. No one can resist a cute baby.

Memorable Quote: “If gay guys start getting married, then suddenly the world is going to be doing it. That’s how it works: they start something, then six months later, everyone follows… Gay marriage is going to cause single life as we know it to die out. Think of how the American family will be strengthened.” .

Applicable to K&D’s Wedding?: There will be adorable children. And a bunch of people who agree with Barney, that the American family would be strengthened if James & Tom could just get married.

Stella & Ted’s almost wedding: Pay attention to the red flags. The proper thing to take away should probably be no exes allowed (and My Best Friend's Wedding would probably back that up), but I think the first red flag was the lack of booze and meat.

Memorable Quote: Marshall: There's no meat.
Lily: There's no alcohol.
Marshall: It gets worse—I am 90% sure that guy you were talking with used to be lead singer of the Spin Doctors

Applicable to K&D’s Wedding?: Booze & meat are on the menu. No red flags here.

Ted's Mom & Clint: We don’t get a ton from the actual wedding here, this is really more about Ted and his house, which is a disaster in the episode but turns out to be the house we have been glimpsing whenever they remember to show us his kids (who are amazingly still listening to this story).

Memorable Quote: Ted: I'm gonna set up the grill out back, it's gonna be a total sausage fest. Party. Burgers. We'll do burgers.

Applicable to K&D’s Wedding?: This is all about the inside jokes when one from your own life (SausageFest) makes its way into a show, you’ve kind of got to make that the quote, even if it doesn’t have anything to do with the theme of your blog.

Punchy’s Wedding: Ted is terrible with toasts. Remember: “The happy couple needs to hear this! Things end, but from the ashes of your statistically probable divorce, hope can rise anew.” Oh, Ted. But thankfully he has wonderful friends (although I am still not sure why they all came to Punchy’s wedding) who step up and help him out. Because, “the only person who loves Ted Mosby more than Marshall Erickson is drunk Marshall Erickson.” We see in this episode why it was so very thoughtful of Ted & Robin to keep their break-up a secret through Lily & Marshall’s wedding, so as not to deflect attention on their big day. When Marshall announces Lily’s pregnancy and the bride thinks he is talking about her, all hell breaks loose. But, the guy’s name is Punchy, I feel like he can handle a little craziness at his wedding.

Applicable to K&D’s Wedding?: No idea, but if anyone has any pregnancy or break-up announcements, maybe hold off. 

Barney& Robin: We’ve seen a little cold feet, but we’ve also seen a happy bride dancing with her father at the reception. We know Ted is going to meet the elusive mother (finally), but the rest is a mystery.

Memorable Quotes: Ted: Oh thank God! Barney Stinson needs you right before his wedding, you assume there's at least one dead stripper in the closet.

Applicable to K&D’s Wedding?: It’s the same damn day. I mean, that’s pretty much it. Well that, and we don’t know what will happen.  But I have a feeling it will be a spectacularly good time.

What we’ve learned from the all of these, is that no matter what happens along the way, relax and enjoy the day. And keep the bride fed.

 

Coming Soon: Sarah follows this with an analysis of Friends weddings, complete with detailed quotes that she does with no research.  She’s like an elephant.

Kacey and the Art of Surprise....

This is a long over-due blog… I feel like so much has happen.

Jamie mentioned in her last blog that I was headed to Bali for my two week spring break. PSYCH! I snuck home like a ninja and surprised the crap out of my family. It was awesome! But now I’m back in Abu Dhabi until summer.

The second thing that has been happening just in the past week… I started watching Battlestar Galactica and last night I finished season one. Now thankfully I have Netflix and won’t have to wait for a whole summer to find out what happens…but the surprise ending of the first season, combined with my recent awesome surprise home got me thinking about all the other shocking moments… well in television.

And TA-DA I came up with a blog!

WARNING MAJOR SPOILERS (Granted slightly outdated spoilers…BUT STILL MAJOR SPOILERS)!

Now obviously this is totally my personal list regarding moments that I remember watching television and say “holy &#?%!” … and honestly this day in age with spoilers all over the internet it’s hard to do that (as I have recently discovered with Downtown Abbey because I have NOT watched season 3)…but here some moments from some of my favorite shows.

Friends… Ross’s wedding to Emily. Two things: Monica and Chandler in bed together and then Ross saying Rachel’s name at his wedding. Oops!

Alias… SOOO many WTF moments in this show, but perhaps the one that made me physically react the most because I was on the edge of my seat  was Vaughn starting to tell Sydney who he really was but then BAM! They are hit by a truck…end of season.

Buffy the Vampire Slayer… There are two here. Buffy dying was pretty shocking….but the show was returning so I knew it wasn’t permanent. Probably even more shocking was her mom dying. With all the violence and death on this show… her mom dying from natural causes ended up being the most tragic of all.

Doctor Who… surprises at every turn here and I could say either the separating of Doctor and Companion  or a regeneration is always a bit intense, but since I’ve started watching Doctor Who I always knew those were coming. However so much happened along the way that I didn’t see coming… Few moments I remember going “WHAT!”: River Song meeting the Doctor but he didn’t know who she was (and we didn’t know who River was)… Amy being fake Amy…Amy and Rory being River’s parents… Every time Rory died… and River being the Doctor’s wife. Yes most of those have to do with River. Overall Moffat just keeps me guessing.

Lost….lord we don’t have time for that.

Battlestar Galactica… Okay I’m only one season in, but the end of that first season when Boomer shoots the Old Man was a total heart stopper.

Torchwood… when everybody dies. First Toshiko and Owen die… at the end of season 2… than Ianto dies in mini-series “Children of Earth” which is possibly one of the most intense and most shocking mini-series ever. Jack sacrifices his own grandson to save the world... just... too much.

Grey's Anatomy… so the finale where Meredith realizes their unknown crash victim was George was honestly when I stopped watching. That was such an edge of the seat season ending and I had to spend the whole summer wondering if he died (or Izzy). The next season just couldn’t live up to it. (However, Sarah has informed me about later happenings as she is a dedicated fan and I hear the finale with the gunman tops all other season finales.)

Fringe… again another JJ Abrams creation full of crazy-ass shit. But it all really kicked off when I realized that Olivia had managed to cross over to another universe at the end of season 1 and Leonard Nimoy was waiting for her in the alternative universe. Crazy.

Sherlock the miniseries…I didn’t know much about Sherlock Holmes before this miniseries and the Robert Downey Jr. movie versions, but I knew enough to know that Sherlock falls and “dies” in the “Reichenbach Fall” (but doesn’t really die). However, the whole finale of the second season and all the twists and turns about Moriarty setting Sherlock up just blew me away…and I still found the end utterly shocking.

I wasn’t alive for it actually happening… but honorable mention goes to M*A*S*H and the announcement of the death of Col. Blake because story goes that not even the cast new it was coming. It still gives me shivers and brings me to tears just thinking about it.

Okay that’s enough for now… there might be more later because the surprises just continue, especially as I continue to watch new shows. But I don’t want to give too much away!

Coming Soon: Sarah composes an impassioned essay about the importance of pencil safety.

Jamie Welcomes Baseball Season

There are a lot of things happening this weekend.  I am heading north to hang out with my family.  Kacey is off to Bali to properly relax during her Spring Break, and two huge TV series of the epically nerdy variety are premiering their latest seasons.  First on Saturday is the return of Doctor Who with his newest companion.  Sunday will see the start of season 3 of Game of Thrones, which is based on my favorite book of the series (random pop culture thing I love: the new companion dates Robb Stark in real life).  But all of that pales in comparison to the main event, the start of baseball season.  Baseball season is a sacred thing in our family.  And to be honest, it's actually already started for some, as Dad has been coaching fastpitch softball for over a month already.  But on Sunday, spring is really here and the games really count as teams (even our Mariners) work toward the ultimate goal: October.  When I talk about baseball I tend to get all emotional, and I ramble all over the place. In order to give this a little bit of focus, I think it's only appropriate that I give you my top 10 baseball movies.
#10 Moneyball Statistics and baseball and Brad Pitt, how could you go wrong?  I did like the book a little better, but that is generally the case with book to movie conversions.  In the film I missed the thrill of the draft and the way that Michael Lewis was able to get the reader (at least baseball nerds like me) wrapped up in the excitement of the day and to really believe, if only for that moment, in Billy's strategy.  But I completely understand how that would have distracted from the overall narrative of the movie.  The film also has Phillip Seymour Hoffman, stealing every scene he is in, which always makes me enjoy a film just a little bit more.
#9 Angels in the Outfield What?  I dare you watch that movie and not cry.  I am particularly sentimental about orphan stories since I've been listening to an Anne of Green Gables audiobook for the last week, but that is besides the point.  When that whole stadium stands up with a young Joseph Gordon-Levitt because they believe that washed up Tony Danza can do it too, I just cry.  And when Danny Glover decides to adopt those kids, and J.P. too cause you couldn't leave J.P.... oh, I'm sorry.  I have to stop or I'll just start sobbing.
#8 Major League (and to a lesser degree Major League 2) Whatever you may think about Charlie Sheen, Wild Thing is a classic.  And that scene is applicable to real baseball games.  I mean, how much do you judge a closer by his intro music?  And it is because of this movie.  With no disrespect to the Bartender (current Mariner closer Wilhelmson), I don't know if anything will top JJ Putz and Thunderstruck. 
#7 Eight Men Out I went through a phase where I was a little obsessed with this story (I mean, I am pretty into all baseball history).  I researched the players and the various conspiracy theories.  I wanted to know if Shoeless Joe & Bucky Weaver were as innocent as the film made them out to be or if that was just Hollywood.  At this point we probably won't ever know everything, but this is a great movie, which actually also makes me cry.  A lot of these movies do.  Like I said, I get very emotional about baseball.  This one humanizes an unpleasant moment in the history of America's past-time, and has a fantastic cast.
#6 The Rookie About the crying.  Disney has a slew of these sports movies based on real life, and every single one of them absolutely kills me.  For a variety of reasons, Remember the Titans is actually my favorite of all these, but the Rookie is a close second, which is more than enough to earn it this 6th spot.  When his family and all his players come to watch him... here I go again, where is that box of tissue.
#5 Long Gone Finally something that doesn't make me cry.  This is a completely ridiculous movie.  Before William Peterson was solving crimes with bugs on CSI, he was Stud Cantrell, reluctantly romancing Virginia Madsen's Dixie Lee Boxx and guiding Dermot Mulroney's once wholesome Jamie Weeks.  This Bull Durham-esque movie is full of ridiculousness and will probably offend more than a few viewers, but it'll get you back as you cheer when Joe "Jose" Brown refuses to let them intentionally walk him again and steps way out and crushes the ball.
#4 The Sandlot There are a great deal of life lessons in The Sandlot, even beyond how to make smores.  Don't judge your neighbor by creepy urban legends, every once in a while it is too hot to play baseball outside, go for it with that hot lifeguard, don't chew tobacco (and certainly don't do it before riding horrific carnival rides), be nice to the new kid (even if he can't play), and for the love of all that is holy do not play baseball with a ball autographed by Babe Ruth.  Although if you do, you are likely to have an amazing and unforgettable summer adventure.  Oh, and pickles can be really cool.
#3 A League of Their Own Like I said before, baseball is very special to my family.  And since my parents had three girls and no boys, it is only fitting that this is a family favorite.  It's about sisters and friends and baseball and women being awesome and Tom Hanks is in it. You know, all the really important things in life.  Plus, it is endlessly quotable.  We have been known to break into "And there's Marla Hooch... what a hitter" for no apparent reason.
#2 Bull Durham I cannot say enough about this movie, and it almost made the top slot.  From Susan Sarandan's monologue on the Church of Baseball (of which I am clearly a member) to Crash Davis' monologue on what he believes in, to all the superstition and pitcher's mound chatter and clubhouse yelling, this movie has it all. The only thing it's missing is magic, which is why...
#1 Field of Dreams Bring back the box of tissue.  I saw you put it away after the end of A League of Their Own, but you're going to need it.  I'll wait.  I don't know what I can say about this movie that hasn't been said by people who write far better than me.  I guess what I love about it the most (besides the whole dead baseball players coming out of the corn to play in your backyard thing, cause how can you not love that, most awesome thing ever) is its pure love of the game.  You see it in different ways through all different characters, but its there, and it helps them appreciate the people around them and to live their lives more completely. 
Okay, I'm getting sappy and sentimental again.  I may need a marathon.  And a couple boxes of tissue.

Books Read: 7  (I'm a little slow this year, but have been catching up via audiobooks... note: I missed a book for last year, so I really did make it to 50!)

Coming Soon: Sarah is too emotional after thinking about all of these movies to write at the moment.  Instead we'll just go see 42 and cry some more.

Jamie is moving... just like that one time on...

As mentioned multiple times to date Jamie has done the very adult thing and bought a house. Jamie has lived with her wonderful roommate Meryl for approximately 6 seasons, not including the college years. (I say seasons, not like seasons of the year, but as in television seasons in case you didn’t understand my chose of words.)

This is significant change in life “setup” and of course I can only think about if how it’s like on Friends when the roommates changed and it was referred to as “the end of an area”.

So without further introduction to my chosen topic….(because I’m sure you can guess now) Here are some of my favorite television episodes revolving around moving in honor of Jamie’s big move:

Friends:  Truly the inspiration for this blog, it must be first on the list. Rachel leaves Monica and Chandler leaves Joey (and Monica and Chandler move together). Monica and Rachel fight over things to mask their sadness and Chandler tries to find ways to give Joey money because he’s worried about Joey. The move marked a turning point in the show because until then the show had been in large part based around the original living situations. It truly was “the end of an area” (although the show continued for a few more years).

How I Met Your Mother: There has actually been a few moving episodes, because these characters have played revolving apartments.  But I have 2 favorites…The first time Ted tries to move out of his and Marshall’s apartment, Barney ends up stealing the U-Haul and using it as a portable apartment. In another episode Lily officially moves into Ted and Marshall’s apartment, which prompts an argument about the future of the apartment. Eventually Ted and Marshall do the only sensible thing and have a sword fight and Lily ends up getting stabbed.

That 70s Show: Perhaps one of the more important episodes is when Hyde moves into the Forman’s house. No matter how tight living is getting for the Formans, Kitty still manages to convince Red to take in orphaned Hyde when he’s got nowhere else to go. Hyde acts put out about the move since he was free-living until then… but ultimately he gets cookies and coco from Kitty which makes it all worth it.

New Girl: So nobody has actually moved out… but the whole premise of the show is Jess needing a place to live and she moves in with these 3 dudes. The second episode of the series involves Jess needing to  get her remaining belongings from her ex-boyfriend and it ends up with her three male roommates standing in the front yard putting on ridiculous hats and helping her stand up to her ex-boyfriend. It truly is a bonding moment for these 3 dudes and the strange new girls that has entered their lives.

Cosby Show: This one gets honorable mention, because there are many episodes having to with Cliff and Claire’s children either moving or not moving out of the house. But Cliff always said the goal was to get the children OUT of the house. He would be ecstatic if one of his children actually bought their own house!

Since I am so far away and cannot be part of the Jamie’s moving process first hand I have had to only imagine that there has been fighting over belongings, swords fights, funny hats…but ultimately because of television I expect them to meet up in the same bar/coffee shop regularly (never mind how long it takes them to get there).

Coming Soon: After helping Jamie paint  her new house,  Sarah writes a how-to about painting the interior of a house using non-traditional tools.

Kacey Misses the USA...sort of.

2 posts in Jan! Wohoo!! Well done Jamie. We’ve both been slacking quite a bit… so here’s a brief life update…

Jamie bought a house and still counts all the money, I still live in Abu Dhabi teaching children and after all her travels Sarah is attempting to perfect teleportation.

So I have been here in Abu Dhabi for 6 months now… and according to my countdown app on my iPad I have 140 days until school is done and I get to go home for the summer. (But who’s counting?) It’s not that I don’t like it here and can’t wait to leave… because I do intend to return a second year pending a lottery win…but there are many things I do miss about home. AND some things I don’t miss so much.

 

What I miss:

Obviously my friends and family, because no matter how many Skype conversations we have it’s just not the same. And you begin to realize how much time you spend saying “I can’t see/hear you” or “You froze.”

What I don’t miss:

The questions and continuous conversations about my career path and having no answers.

What I miss:

American television- the predictability of the programing, no edits for content, and watching it on a big screen TV.

What I don’t miss:

American television- specifically reality TV and all the commercials.

What I miss:
Living in a western country with lots of freedoms (especially for women), where I can wear tank tops without feeling over exposed, drink openly without the fear of deportation and having a frank open discussion about the policies of government and religion.

What I don’t miss:

Living in a self-centered overly divided country, where children fear guns at school, and people choose to stay ignorant about not only the rest of the world, but their own politics as well.  (Seriously people here know more about American politics than people at home)

What I miss:

Pork (and not having to go to a special back room at one certain store to buy it).

What I don’t miss:

Nothing counters Pork…I just miss it.

What I miss:

Football (American), college basketball and soon baseball.

What I don’t miss:

Stupid commentators (getting the information I am missing from my dad and Jamie is much better), athlete scandals that overshadow the sport and having near heart failure while watching a game (actually I do sort of miss that).

What I miss:

Rain, snow and any other form cold, wet weather.

What I don’t miss:

Living with grey skies for 9 months of the year; going to the beach in January is pretty nice.

What I miss:

Having a physical address and getting mail at home.

What I don’t miss:

Junk mail.

What I miss:

Snow covered mountains and tall green trees.

What I don’t miss:

Feeling like a slacker because I don’t ski down the mountains or hike in the trees every weekend.

What I miss:

Driving myself around and not putting my life in other people’s (sometimes not-so capable) hands in moving vehicles. Driving here can be quiet crazy at times.

What I don’t miss:

Having to take care of and pay for a car.

 

All-in-all it most things balance out (but certainly not all). I have become slightly more patriotic during my time abroad, although I find myself around lots of Canadians and gladly lump myself in with them rather than people from the USA… I love Canadians. (A love that does not completely spring from years of watching How I Met Your Mother, but it has helped.)

Coming Soon: In honor of Kacey’s birthday, which is also Abraham Lincoln’s Birthday, Sarah writes a poem about Kacey entitled “Kacey as President Would be Babe-raham  Lincoln”.

Jamie's Top Five "OMFG They Kissed!" Moments on TV

I don't know if you watch the New Girl or not. It has its horrifically awkward moments. For me, the fact that all the characters are ridiculous and awkward together is what makes it work. And it really does work; I have been known to laugh so hard while watching this show that there is a danger of choking to death. When we watch it during dinner (thank you ‘on demand’), it's a bit of a safety hazard. But, in addition to being hilarious and awkward and ridiculous, I also like the characters. And like everyone else, I have been shipping Nick & Jess since episode one. Because it's just so perfect and obvious. We know it, hell, even they know it. It was inevitable. I had even seen enough spoiler reports to know that something was coming up soon. But I did not expect the kiss that happened last night. Holy, wow. You know when the grandpa in the Princess Bride reads the end of the story – “Since the invention of the kiss there have been five kisses that were rated the most passionate, the most pure. This one left them all behind. The End.”, and then the kiss, which while very nice, is a bit of a letdown? (I mean, I love that movie and even that part, but that kiss isn't anything to write home about) Well, I think this Nick and Jess kiss is the one that may have wiped them all off the map. Of course, being the TV-phile that I am, I had to give some real thought to what they were wiping off the map. So, without further ado, leaving out Nick & Jess, here are my top 5 omfg they kissed TV kisses:

 

5. Castle & Beckett (Castle) - I know that these two were more when will they as opposed to will they or won't they, but that didn't make last season's finale any less awesome. Because it's Castle and Beckett. And that was one steamy scene when Beckett showed up back at Castle's after their fight and the trauma and her turning in her gun and badge...

4. Buffy & Spike (Buffy the Vampire Slayer) - I don't know how this happened, but it's Joss, so we'll just go with it. Sure, this was a part of depressing season six Buffy coming back from a pleasant afterlife to a relatively hell-like existence and hating everyone and everything a little bit, but no one more than herself… But, that kiss at the end of Once More with Feeling, some serious chemistry folks. 

3. Pacey & Joey (Dawson’s Creek) - He bought her a wall. And then he drove to pick her up because some stupid college boy broke her heart. And when he pulled the car over and we held our breaths and when he said we are not talking about Dawson, cause seriously, Dawson who? There is a reason we took to calling it The Creek in college, and then he just kissed her, it was kind of perfect.  Because he bought her a wall.

2. Sydney & Vaughn (Alias) - Not unlike Castle & Beckett, and probably even more so, this was a matter of when, not if. We all knew it was coming, cause who didn't want to jump Vaughn the very first time he showed up, and Sydney Bristow was the coolest most badass spy ever. Not chick spy, not lady spy, just spy.  Yeah, I said it, deal with it.  And because she was that awesome, only someone as hot and awesome as Vaughn was worthy of her (and even he faltered a little when he had that evil wife).  But before the evil wife, they took down the bad guys and finally got their moment.

1. Logan & Veronica (Veronica Mars) - Like Veronica & Logan, who had spent all previous episodes despising each other, except in flashbacks, we were not expecting this. But as soon as it happened, we pretty much never wanted it to stop.  

So, I don't know if Nick & Jess really wiped these 5 away, but just to be on the list is impressive. This list is full of hour long dramas, which had time to build up the tension and in some cases add some serious life and death stress. Plus, Buffy, Veronica, & Syd are among my all-time favorite characters, in TV, film, literature, etc. And the gentlemen on this list, well, let's just say most of them make my sexiest TV men of all-time list. (Pacey cannot be on the list because he belongs to Kacey, and there are rules).

So, anyhow, Nick & Jess, well done.

 

Books read: 2 (Dear Veronica Roth, please write your 3rd book and get it published immediately, Insurgent was amazing)

 

Coming soon: Sarah writes a response to this that laments the complete lack of Ross & Rachel on this list, with a small complaint about the lack of Kurt and Blaine.

 

Jamie Reviews the Golden Globes with her BFF Tina and Leslie Knope

Well hello. It's been a while. Did you miss us? Really??? That's so sweet.  I am very sorry, there were holidays, an epic computer virus, and of course the constant state of stress that is buying a house. That is almost done, and soon it will be the stress of a remodel, and then moving. (Being a grown-up is AWESOME.)  But then I will be very poor so I should have lots of time to write.

But enough about me, let's talk about everyone's favorite televised celebrity party, the Golden Globes. While I always enjoy this night where TV & film stars come together to drink and mingle and celebrate each other, I was even more excited this year. Because of Tina & Amy. You see, the Golden Globes aren't always that well hosted and while Ricky Gervais had his moments, we were kind of over him. So when the powers that be announced that two of my favorite women, Tina Fey (my BFF) and Amy Poehler (Leslie Knope), were going to host, this became a highly anticipated night.

So, how did they do? They were brilliant, of course. My only complaint, I wanted to give them more screen time, not to mention the Oscars (sorry Seth MacFarland, I'm sure you'll do just fine, but I'll be thinking of my BFF Tina and Leslie Knope), Emmys, Grammys, SAG awards (does that even have a host?), MTV Movie Awards, MTV Music Video awards (do they still have that even though MTV no longer plays music videos?), People's Choice Awards (sorry Kaley) well, I could go on, but I think you get the idea. My favorite thing in general was how comfortable they came off, with each other, with the evening. Nothing was forced and that made it funnier. These are two very funny women and it was overall a very quality night of celebrities loving themselves and the rest of us watching. Here are some highlights:

- Bill Freaking Clinton. President Clinton introduced the clip for the film Lincoln, and given the reaction of the crowd, this was clearly not previously announced. It was like a room full of children when Santa Claus walks in, bordering on a room full of tweens when Justin Bieber walks in. Their reaction could have been seen as ridiculous, but their enthusiasm was so genuine, it was kind of adorable. Who says rich Hollywood liberals can't be surprised? And I know it was a surprise because not all of them can act that well. This appearance by Bill also led to my favorite Amy/Tina lines of the night, an incredibly excited Amy shrieking, oh my god, that was Hillary Clinton's husband, with Tina rushing out to add, that was Bill Rodham Clinton. Incredibly well played ladies. 

- I actually saw the two big movie winners!! I am incredibly behind with my annual Oscarpalooza movie viewing. However, I made a point to start the day before the Golden Globes, and I saw Argo & Les Miserables. And then they won. Coincidence? I doubt it. 

- Jennifer Lawrence. I will not call her J-Law, she is far too awesome to be called that. As I told my friends who were watching with me, I know she's younger than me, but when I grow up, I want to be Jennifer Lawrence. I just wish Meryl Streep had been there to witness the "I beat Meryl" First Wives Club reference that she pulled out, you know Meryl would have loved it. Maybe she would have been so amused she would have insisted on being in a movie with the young Ms. Lawrence. And then she could be President Coin. Because come on, you know that would be brilliant. Harry Potter got Maggie Smith & Alan Rickman among countless others, why can't Hunger Games have Phillip Seymour Hoffman and Meryl Streep.  I may have gotten a little off topic.

-Homeland. Okay, I get it. Sweeps the Emmys, sweeps the Golden Globes. The discs are at my house. I will get on it. 

- Lena Dunham. I have not watched any of the comedy series champion of the night, Girls. And to be honest, I was a little on the fence about it. But no more. I hereby promise that I will obtain on Netflix and subsequently watch (after Homeland, of course) the first season. Why? Because Lena Dunham is clearly awesome, even if she made a poor shoe choice. Her speeches, yeah, they were well done and funny and sweet an genuine, but nevermind that. Did you see her face when Bill Clinton came out on stage? It was a look of sheer joy and absolute glee. This is a woman I want to support, we understand each other. Just like my BFF Tina and Leslie Knope.

- Anne Hathaway. This is just for Kacey, cause she used to not be a fan. Every time I see a clip or an interview snidbit from Anne Hathaway, I like her even more. She is totally awesome. No BS, just like Jennifer. And that performance in Les Mis? Just put her name on the Oscar, cause no one can touch that. I'll do a full review on that movie later. It merits an entire post. Her speech at the Golden Globes was very nice, I especially loved her Sally Field shout out, if the Flying Nun can become Norma Rae, then there was hope for the Princess of Genovia.

- Claire Danes. Her acceptance speech started off a little awkward, while wanting to sound appreciative, her comment about how much the HFP loves her came off, well, not as humble as she may have liked. She saved it though, with kudos to her fellow nominees and a well stated sentiment regarding the high quality of TV being made right now. As I have stated on here repeatedly, I am a big fan of TV, and despite all of the reality crap, there are a lot of brilliant shows being produced right now.

- Jodie Foster. Did her speech get a little rambly and off topic in between incredibly powerful moments? Totally. Did she bring Hollywood outcast Mel Gibson as her date? Yeah. Loyalty, I guess? But did she start her speech with an SNL reference about being 50? You're damn right she did. She is Jodie Foster and she is awesome (and she's 50 and kicking). Plus, bonus points in life if Robert Downey Jr. gives you your lifetime achievement award. And those clips? The woman is amazing.

Jennifer Garner - Wife of the year, taking a minute before presenting whatever she was supposed to present to thank a couple people that her husband had forgotten. His thank you speech was solid as well. And everyone collectively thought. F you Oscars, how dare you snub Ben. 

My highlight list is a little heavy with the ladies, and I didn't even mention drunk Glenn Close. With Amy & Tina leading the way, the women of the evening really did shine. Which I think makes for a highly enjoyable evening.  

Books read: 2 (I only made it to 49.5 in 2012, but the .5 was the 4th book in the Song of Ice and Fire, so I'm counting it) 

Coming Soon: Sarah is back in action helping the homeless, which she thinks will make an excellent musical. She'll share the opening number which is a frightening take on both Avenue Q and Les Mis.

Why I Believe (by Kacey)

This Christmas I will not be home. Since I currently live on the other side of the world I thought it might be a good opportunity to do something a bit different for the holidays. It's Christmas Eve and I currently sit in the lobby of my hostel in Edinburgh, Scotland where I am spending Christmas. I just spent a week in Ireland (actually with Sarah) and will venture onto London in a few days for New Years before returning to sunny Abu Dhabi. 

I love Christmas time and I am loving my choice in location for the holidays (Abu Dhabi is not very Christmasy feeling). Although it wasn't until today could I begin to explain why I love both these things. While I was out walking through little shops I saw a card that read "When you stop believing in Santa you get underwear." It made me laugh....but it also reminded me of a quote I recently repinned on Pinterest (I freaking love Pinterest). It simply stated this:

"Even though she was a grown woman she believed in elves & Santa Claus & flying reindeer & sacks with an endless capacity for toys. Furthermore she believed that believing in these things was the chief reason she had more fun in life than others."

It became the backdrop on my computer.

It's the truth, right? Is it more fun to believe in whimsical and fantastical things or be a "realist?" Yesterday I sat at the cafe JK Rowling began writing the Harry Potter series. From the window I could see the castle and the school that inspired Hogwarts. I also wandered around a grave yard trying to find Tom Riddle's grave (which I couldn't find...but might go back to try again). I love the idea that one of my favorite stories had been inspired by this beautiful and fascinating city. Also on Thursday I am traveling north for the day with plans to look for the Lochness Monester. On Friday I will get into Kings Cross Station in London and plan to find platform 9 3/4. And thanks to Doctor Who I find myself staring at every angel statue I come across simply out of fear.

What does this have to do with belief? I am sure people without the belief in things nerdy and whimsical enjoy traveling to these places...just not as much. And as someone who loves history I am finding there is lots to be learned here. But even history requires a certain amount of belief...and what is history if not a series of stories...both real and made up. 

So really if nothing else, believing makes the world a bit more interesting and much more fun. 

Tomorrow morning I will not wake up to Christmas presents (I already got an awesome box of presents before I left Abu Dhabi from my family which included an iPad mini - and no underwear!). And Christmas will feel a bit strange without being surrounded by friends and family this year. But this will not deter my belief in Santa Claus or the holiday spirit. If anything it will allow me to broaden by beliefs, because as I walk through these streets of Scotland it still feels like Christmas (and not just in a consumer way). So while Santa journeys acoss the world tonight... I know he did not skip me...but instead gave me the opportunity to see Christmas a little bit differently this year in a pretty awesome place.

Coming Soon: Sarah recounts details of her recent elf tracking mission.  Spoiler: she didn't make it to Santa's workshop, but feels she is close and will continue her efforts soon.

Jamie Talks History

As you are well aware, we usually talk pop culture and television on this blog.  But tonight, well, tonight is about history.
First, we are talking about the re-election of President Barack Obama.  This will obviously be noted in the history books and is certainly making my night.
But I want to talk about gay marriage.  Never before has the issue of gay marriage been put before a popular vote and come out victorious.  Until tonight.
Tonight, there was a clean sweep.   Sure, ballots still need to be counted, but when the people of the great state of Washington were asked to affirm the civil rights of their fellow Washingtonians, they said yes.  We shouldn't be voting on this at all, but when asked, we stepped up. We said that we believe that who you love does not matter, and that all of us are equal and deserve the same rights.  It seems so simple, voting for equality, but what we did here in Washington, and also in Maine & Maryland, it matters.  And the state of Minnesota saying no to their oppressive ballot measure to limit marriage, it matters.  Tonight we made a huge step in the right direction.  We are on the right side of history, and I, for one (well, for a hell of a lot more than one thankfully), am damn proud to be here.

We won tonight, America.  Keep moving forward.

Jamie's Favorite Buffy Moments (All the feels!)

So sometimes I re-watch episodes of Buffy.  When I say sometimes, I mean a lot.  Usually in order, although I might skip episodes based on mood or if they are just not my favorite.  Generally the DVD gets popped in when I am going to bed and so I only watch the beginning, and then the next time I just move along to the next episode.  I'm mid-season five right now, which can be a little emotional.  In fact right now I'm deciding whether or not to watch the Body or just skip a few episodes.  It's hard because it's such a brilliant episode with some of the best performances in all seven seasons, but it's so sad and intense.  But I'm getting off track, what motivated this little post is the episode Checkpoint that I started a couple nights ago.  In this episode the Watcher's Council (who fired Giles and Buffy later quit in season 3) has come to town because they have information on the season's big bad (namely that Glory is actually a god), but before they will share they are putting Buffy through a series of tests to make sure she's worthy.  Just when you think that maybe Buffy isn't up to it, she pulls it together at the end to call them out on their own uselessness.  Sure, she needs information from them, but who are they without her?  Their whole purpose in life to watch and aid her (and her predecessors and successors, but until she dies, again, it's pretty much just her) so if she doesn't let them in, what do they really have going on beyond their books.  It is a fantastic monologue where she stands up for her friends and yet again demonstrates her leadership.  I love this scene, it makes me want to keep watching the rest of the season even though I know it is going to end with me in a pile of tears.  So, I started thinking, since I have watched this a million times now what are my favorite emotional/empowering moments?  And since I mentioned the Body at the top, I am going to throw out that I'm not including when people die.  Those episodes are always handled well, and kind of go without saying.  But what else makes me, as the internet would say, feel all the feels.  (And I promise, I'll do a humor one some day soon that consists mostly of Spike moments)

1) Season one finale - Buffy learns she is supposed to die.  Season one of Buffy is, well, less awesome than the rest of the series.  It is not without its moments of entertainment, and if you start watching it after viewing the film, you'll probably find it to be a work of genius in comparison, but it's not the best.  The season finale is when, in my opinion, we first glimpse that this is a show that could be something special.  Also, Sarah Michelle Gellar is her usual brilliant self, tearfully laughing, and then adding in a way that pulls our heartstrings along with Giles & Angel's "I'm 16 years old, I don't want to die."  With that, we remember what the show balances so well, that our supernaturally powerful slayer is also just a teenager.  

2) Giles tells Buffy he is not disappointed in her after she has sex with Angel, causing Angel to lose his soul.  It used to be that Becoming (the two part season two finale) was what killed me emotionally from this season, and I don't know if it's age or just what stands up on repeat viewings, but it is now this episode, Innocence that brings on the emotional overload.  The episode is filled with gut-wrenching moments as Angelus taunts Buffy, but the best is the seemingly subtle end scene with Giles dropping Buffy off after they have defeated the Judge and assures her "But if it's guilt you're looking for Buffy, I'm not your man.  All you will get from me is my support. And my respect."

3) Prom - Buffy gets a special award from the student body.  This sets up the epic season three finale where the entire student body is armed to fight the mayor and his army of vampires by finally indicating that the students at least aren't completely oblivious to all the weird crap that is constantly occurring in Sunnydale.  Or all the people that die.  They give Buffy a class protector award as Jonathan's speech notes they have the lowest mortality rate of any class in Sunnydale history. (Can you imaging what prior years must have been like?).  It's Giles (why is it always Giles?) that sums it up nicely, noting he had "no idea that children, en masse, could be gracious."

4) Buffy & Co. explain to Tara's family, that she is part of their Sunnydale family now.  When Tara's conservative, paranoid, crazy family comes to town to take her back home - presumably to get her barefoot and in the kitchen - she is at a bit of loss as she doesn't quite feel at home with the Scooby gang yet.  But this episodes brings her fully into the fold when they stand up for her at the end, realizing that her spell and lies were a result of emotional abuse and a need to protect herself, not anything malicious toward them.  When Tara's father asks them who they think they are, Buffy responds with the simple but perfectly stated "we're family."

5) Checkpoint monologue where Buffy puts the council in its place.  This is described in my introductory paragraph, and my favorite line (besides when she throws the sword at the guy's head as a reminder that she said no interruptions) is in reference to Xander when Buffy notes that " 'the boy' has clocked more field time than all of you combined. He's part of the unit." 

6) One more from season five (a season that is just full of intense feelings, even more so than the uber-depressing season six), because I can't make a list about Buffy without a Spike moment or two.  At the end of Intervention when Buffy pretends to be the Buffy-bot to make sure that Spike didn't tell Glory that Dawn was the key, Buffy realizes that while Spike is a creepy disturbed demon, he does seem to have some seem to have some actual feelings for her and has not betrayed her secret.  She reiterates that the robot was creepy and not real, but adds "What you did for me and Dawn... that was real. I won't forget it." 

7) Xander saves the world by telling Willow that if the world is going to end (at her hand), then he can't imagine any place he'd rather be than with her, his oldest friend.  Of course it's Xander that is only person who can make Willow human again when her grief over Tara envelops her.  Buffy's strength and Giles' borrowed magic were nice, but Willow had to make the choice to stop the destruction, and only Xander could remind her of who she really was.  She was the girl who "First day of kindergarten. You cried because you broke the yellow crayon, and you were too afraid to tell anyone."  But even though she's out to destroy the world now, he still loves her, which is what leads to her finally breaking down and crying over the loss of Tara.  And opting not to destroy the world.

8) Xander tells Dawn how special she is, and even more so for doing all that she does despite not having super powers.  Much like most Buffy fans, I can't stand Dawn in seasons five and six.  This is nothing against Michelle Trachtenberg who nails the whole annoying little sister thing, I just found the character highly annoying.  But as she grows up and becomes more capable (and when Buffy kind of lets her) in season seven, I am a much bigger fan.  So much so that this scene following the realization that it is Amanda and not Dawn who is the potential slayer makes me tear up.  Plus, Xander as the wise observer always gets me.  He tells her "They'll never know how tough it is Dawnie, to be the one who isn't chosen. To live so near the spotlight and never step in it. But I know...I saw you last night.  I see you working here today. You're not special.  You're extraordinary."  

9) Buffy gets kicked out of the house and on her way out gives Faith some advice.  When the potentials and the Scooby gang vote Buffy out of her own house, I get so angry.  I know they are scared and frustrated, but come on, she's Buffy.  You ungrateful little twits.  But even when she's down, she keeps trying, telling Faith on the porch "don't be afraid to lead them."  

10) Since this is my list, I get to end with two things I love: season seven and Spike.  From the tortured, crazed Spike seeing the First as all the villains from all the previous seasons in the opening episodes to Buffy lying and telling Spike she loves him before he dies to save the world, there are many great choices.  However, it's this monologue when he tells us why he loves Buffy, that so perfectly highlights why we all love Buffy that is my favorite:
"You listen to me. I've been alive a bit longer than you, and dead a lot longer than that. I've seen things you couldn't imagine, and done things I prefer you didn't. Don't exactly have a reputation for being a thinker. I follow my blood... which doesn't exactly rush in the direction of my brain. So I make a lot of mistakes. A lot of wrong bloody calls. A hundred-plus years, and there's only one thing I've ever been sure of. You... Hey, look at me. I'm not asking you for anything. When I say I love you, it's not because I want you, or because I can't have you. It has nothing to do with me. I love what you are. What you do. How you try. I've seen your kindness, and your strength. I've seen the best and the worst of you, and I understand, with perfect clarity, exactly what you are. You're a hell of a woman. You're the One, Buffy."

I should end this there, that would be a good choice, but I can't help myself.  Here are a couple honorable mentions:
Oz not kissing Willow in the van while they are waiting for Cordelia & Xander to come back with the weapon because she is clearly still into Xander and he wants her to want to kiss him, not just get even with Xander for his Cordelia relationship.  This is when we all fall in love with Oz.
Cordelia falls on the rod running up the stairs away from Xander & Willow's infidelity.  I try to stop this episode before I get to this part.  The earlier parts of the episode with Spike, Angel & Buffy makes this one of my favorite episodes ever (and "I may be love's bitch but at least I'm man enough to admit it" is my favorite Spike line, actually, my favorite line from the entire series), but I can't watch Oz & Cordelia come in to rescue Xander & Willow only to discover them making out. 

Books read: 45

Coming soon: Sarah heads to Spain to audition for Operacion Triunfo, which is their version of American Idol.  Given that she sings like the rest of us, it probably won't go well.

Jamie's Fall 2012 TV Review

As I mentioned, my TV watching has gotten out of control. But it's all so good. Or if not good, then addicting, or I've watched it so long that I feel like the characters will be disappointed if I don't watch. What? Stop judging me.

Anyhow, there is too much to review to give you all my excuses, so here goes, let's do this by day of the week.

Sunday: Perhaps my new favorite night for TV. Both Once Upon a Time and Revenge have proven that they do have more than just a single season in them that can keep my attention. I absolutely love what OUAT is doing with the split locations for the present and again layering it beautifully with unexpected twists from the past. Plus, Captain Hook - hot! Revenge just keeps getting trashier and more insane and we can't stop watching it. Mostly because we love Nolan. Plus, Aiden - hot!

Monday: Not only are there too many network shows on, but Alphas & Warehouse 13's summer seasons extended into the fall. Both continue to be awesome, so I make it work. How I Met Your Mother is off to a solid start for what I hope is its last season. I will miss it, but I feel they are in a great position to end it exactly the way they want, on a high point in its popularity. I think next season would probably involve a shark. Bones is consistent, although I feel it is also nearing the end of its lifespan. Two Broke Girls continues to make me laugh, largely because of the amazing Kat Dennings. The 10pm time slot is why they invented DVR/TiVo/OnDemand/etc. Castle is rocking the new Caskett storyline, Hawaii 5-0 continues to be solid, and new kid on the block Revolution is amazing. And Uncle Miles - hot! (And complex and a little angry and has a very complicated past, kind of like everyone on Lost)

Tuesday: NCIS continues to build and develop its family of characters every week, and still catch the bad guy. I will keep watching it as long as they keep it on the air.  I am a little behind on Hart of Dixie (because it is not On Demand -- come on CW, what is that about?) but don't worry, I will catch up, Team Wade for life. Cause Wade (you can say it with me if you want) - hot! The New Girl still makes me laugh until I choke and I love the way they have handled Nick & Jess's obvious chemistry without hurting the group dynamic. And Schmidt - hilarious.

Wednesday: I am going to start watching Arrow, as soon as I find the time (cause the few minutes I have seen looked like Batman+Robin Hood+Revenge, and the main guy... hot!), and I have been watching a little Modern Family because it is amazing, but generally Wednesday isn't a big TV day.

Thursday: Sheldon & the boys and girls just keep doing their thing. I don't even have anything witty to say about it. Tina Fey is wrapping up 30 Rock brilliantly, of course. Cause that is what she does. The office supply montage that turned Liz Lemon on was priceless. And Leslie Knope is rocking both city council and the Parks Department. They are even managing to keep her & Ben's relationship fresh with the current long distance element. Plus there is still plenty of screen time for one Ben Wyatt, and, well, do I even have to say it at this point? (Ben - hot!) Meryl is peer-pressuring me into watching Scandal, but I haven't gotten to it yet. We are both loving Elementary though. I strongly believe there is no such thing as too much Sherlock, and I love that there is a female Watson, played by the always cool Lucy Liu. Plus, Sherlock - kinda hot.

Friday: Ah, the final season of Fringe. When it all comes together. I read some stuff pre-season that said they were planning it like a 13 episode movie, and I would totally agree. Don't jump in the middle, this half season series finale is for the committed, or those who can catch up quickly on the previous 4 seasons. I can't wait to see what unfolds each week.

Saturday: It's on a break now, but the 5 episode Doctor Who series made me feel all the feels. The Asylum of the Daleks got Amy & Rory back on track (and spun our heads a little about the new companion as the actress playing her made a surprise early debut and then was a dalek and then blew up?!?!). Dinosaurs on a Spaceship was everything I love about this show- humor, adventure, heart, the Doctor being friends with famous people in history, plus Arthur Weasley is Rory's dad...oh, and there were dinosaurs...on a spaceship! A Town Called Mercy was maybe the weakest of the 5, but gave us a reminder of why the Doctor cannot travel alone. The Power of Three gave us some more Arthur Weasley, and reminded Amy & Rory that life is short, so you should probably continue to travel with that mad man in a blue box while you can. And then The Angels Take Manhattan...tears, so many tears, but Amy & Rory were together, and that is what mattered. Plus, the previous 2.5 seasons had given us no reason to doubt that when it came down to it, Amy would always choose Rory, even over her raggedy Doctor.

 

So, that kind of turned into a Doctor Who series 7.1 review, but whatever. It was really good, it earned a little mini-review.

Alright, back to house hunting.

Books read: 42 (which is the answer to life, the universe and everything)

Coming Soon: Sarah is busy with the dogs, so in lieu of a full blog, she'll be posting a video of herself singing The Sound of Music as she wanders around Switzerland. Please ignore the whining of the dogs in the background, no animals were (seriously) harmed during the filming of her video.

Jamie's Life Update

Kacey's blog was so awesome and completely accurate in highlighting what to look for in a neighborhood that I hate to point out one tiny inaccuracy. But that's what sisters do, right? Kacey indicated our conversation was over Skype the other day, but we have actually moved on from Skype. We are now Google Hangout people. I don't know if you are aware, but on Google Hangout you can wear a tiara. Also a scuba mask, various mustaches, an eyepatch... even a monocle! It's kind of amazing. You can do other things like share screens, but that tends to make my Internet break. So mostly, it's all about the tiara.

Kacey missed a couple other things that have kept me from blogging, and I want to be honest with all of you that I have disappointed with my lack of posts.

First, I have been watching entirely too much TV. I mean, I've only added two new shows: Revolution, which is fantastic, in case you aren't watching and Elementary, and as I suspected there is no such thing as too much Sherlock. Although I may add Scandal so that Meryl will stop peer pressuring me about it, oh, and probably Arrow....so I guess that will make four new shows. It's a little much. I mean, with Alphas overlapping with the start of network TV, Monday alone has gotten out of control. Plus, as Kacey noted, baseball is still happening (and I love October!). Not to mention all the Presidential debates. I have been watching so much TV that I haven't had time to blog about TV.

Because of that, I had fallen behind a bit in my reading, but it is back with a vengeance. With an assist from the library and some stuff I was waiting on finally coming in, I have been tearing through the books the last couple weeks. I also find that when I am waiting to hear on a house or an inspection and I wake up at 6am on a Saturday or Sunday because I can't sleep, then I can usually knock out a book by around 9 or 10. House buying is incredibly stressful, and somewhat roller coaster-esque. Thankfully I have amazing agents who help me tremendously.

I didn't even get up my fave five from September, and it was good. Quickly: Googling anyone’s Bacon number (as in Kevin Bacon, not the delicious food), Chris Kluwe's amazing openletter, Parks and Rec star Retta's tweets about watching Buffy, AlexCarpenter's awesome reaction songs to the 5 new Doctor Who episodes, and AmyPoehler’s YouTube channel Smart Girls at the Party.

I will try harder though. I will get up a review of Fall TV with some thoughts on where all these shows are going (or how they are ending) by this weekend. And maybe even a little pre-election post. I think it's important to pull out the soap box from time to time.

 

Books read: 41 (BAM, said the lady! Best of the last little group was Divergent, which was amazing, and I am currently reading Robin Wasserman's very intriguing Book of Blood and Shadow)

 

Coming Soon: Sarah writes a tell-all of the celebrity dogs that are staying at the dog hotel. Using, of course, very discreet fake names like Rooby Boo and his annoying little friend Dappy.

Kacey Considers Jamie’s House Buying Venture…

October has been severely lacking for blogs… I plead busy-ness and distance (which doesn’t really work because the internet knows no distance)…and Jamie deserves a pass because besides being busy at work she is also attempting to become a first time home owner! (And baseball might be a bit distracting)

Really I should leave this to Jamie to describe since I am living so far away and I cannot be there in person help her search.

However…I may be half a world away from Jamie right now… but that doesn’t keep us from having a conversation about house hunting that is of course pop culture fueled…

 Our conversation over Skype the other day started with a reference to “The Burbs” (actually discussing appropriate Halloween movies) and moved on to how she could find a neighborhood worthy of Cory Feldman sitting on the porch watching all that goes on and ended with ways Jamie could bribe Tom Hanks with an old fashion type writer to live in her neighborhood (a typical Jamie-Kacey conversation).

 So this conversation led me to think about some other ideas I have about what Jamie should look for in a house/neighborhood while she continues to look for houses.

 

Perhaps one of the most important things is screening neighbors:

• They should be able to dispense unlimited amount of wisdom (Mr. Feeny, Wilson).
• Check for annoying (yet endearing) kids that come over unexpectedly (Dennis the Menace, Urkel, Kimmy).
• Ask if they are willing to help you out with crazy shenanigans (Ethel, Boner, Kenny/Bud).
• How nerdy are they? (Big Bang Thoery)

Also remember:

• Never judge people by how scary their house is because they might be awesome (Boo Radley, The Munsters, The Adams Family).
• Always judge people by how scary their house is because they might be crazy (The Burbs, Psycho, and many other scary movies that start with a scary house).

Specifics about the house that Jamie needs to consider:

• Is there a Ghoul in the attic or do you have to get your own?
• How many secret passages?
• Where is the best space for a lair/bunker?
• Do you have to de-gnome the yard?
• Will people be stopping by the home on their way to town for the season?
• Is Jarvis included?

Just a few ideas for Jamie to keep in mind…

Coming Soon: Sarah discusses the dos and don'ts of being a dog hostess at a dog hotel in Switzerland.

Kacey Watches Television Along Ways From Home...

I am in Abu Dhabi! Half way around the world from the Great Pacific Northwest of the USA. I have been teaching a classroom full of children for 3 weeks now in a well air conditioned classroom (because if it wasn’t I would melt into a puddle Wicked Witch of the West style).  I’ve been meeting people from all over the world (Lebanon, Ireland, Canada, South Africa, England, Australia, Egypt) and my kids all speak Arabic as a first language. I’m tired, but adjusting to the heat and a new education system.

Of course on of my top priorities once I got here was what to watch on television and how to do I get all my shows? There are plenty of huge movie theatres (even though the censorship is a little different here than in the states) so I’m not worried about seeing movies- but the TV line up here is a little…delayed to say the least. I have a TV in my room and without paying extra expenses I get about 27 channels- 7 of which are in English (most of the time). Much of what I have been watching is canceled television shows, newer shows about 2-3 seasons behind, and random movies.

Here’s a flavor of my viewing pleasure:

Canceled Shows Views:

Better Off Ted: Sitcom about an insensitive corporation that develops random products and the people who work there. Only 1 season I think.

Privileged: Drama about a tutor (played by the chick that was on Reba and played the girl next door on HIMYM) who works for spoiled twins and their grandmother and has like 3 men pursuing her. I don’t think there is even an entire season of this show.

The Defenders: Jerry O’Connell and Jim Belushi play defense lawyers in Las Vegas. Entertaining, but I like lawyer shows. Half season for this maybe?

Witched of Eastwick: I haven’t actually watched a full episodes of this, only caught parts of a few episodes. Not a fan and I can see why it didn’t last.

Shows currently airing in the States:

Rules of Engagement:  I think this show is still on in the states. Not a huge David Spade fan, but I am watching it more here than I did in the states and I am actually finding the rest of the cast quiet humorous.

Community: Did this make it? Is it still on? First time I’ve ever watched it and can see why people think it’s funny!

The Mentalist: I watched this on and off in the states and always enjoyed it, but I’m totally lost because I didn’t follow it enough to know what season is being played. Red John is maybe dead, but Jane knows he’s not…FBI thinks Jane is working with Red John…???

Pysch: Again- I only watched once and while in the states, but it makes me laugh.

Glee: I think this is about 2 seasons behind and I’ve actually only seen it on late at night and early in the morning (when I was still jet lagged).  But it’s a nice comfort of home.

30 Rock: Watching this more and more proves that I was not watching in enough at home…love Tina Fey.

Big Bang Theory: Never lost on this one, but the episodes are not new. However, BBT is on so much in the states that it feels like home to watch reruns.

2 Broke Girls: Only have seen one episode and it was the pilot. Guessing that it is just now starting.

Top Gear: This was one all the time on BBC America, but I never really got into it. It’s quiet international I guess.

The Exes: This is a new show right? Good cast, not sure if I like the concept. Only show that I’ve watched so far that is happening at the same time as in the states (perhaps not a good sign for the show?)

Lettermen: It’s become my “morning show” because it’s on in the morning right before I leave for school.

Shows that have ended (not cancelled):

The Closer: Can always watch repeats- and since I didn’t watch it much in the states most episodes are new to me!

Gilmore Girls: Seen most episodes…good repeat show.

Smallville, Jag, Medium: I never watched any of these shows, and if I watched them here I only get confused…might be into watching Smallville if I could from the beginning.

 

There are also lots of movies on…I actually have 2 movies channels…plus other channels show movies often.  Some I know well and others I had never even heard of. All in all keeps me entertained.

Sampling of Movie Titles:

Eagle Eye, The Interpreter, Harry Potter (4 and 6), Star Trek, Love Happened, Invincible, Die Hard 4, Aurora Borealis, Mummy (3^rd one), Chronicles of Narnia (Prince Caspian), In the Name of the King, Ocean’s 12, 50 First  Dates, Titanic, Rambo, Beverly Hill Cop 1 and 2, Serenity, American Sweethearts, Run Away Bride, Changing Lanes, Kung Fu Hustle

I keep seeing advertisements for Revenge, maybe it will start showing from the beginning and then I can see what all the fuss is about. And NCIS is going to be on NEW (like brand new) soon!

 

That’s Abu Dhabi basic television in nutshell… there is probably more but I’d have to pay for that. I do have the internet...which helps. ;)

Coming Soon: Sarah writes a crash course in communicating when you don’t know the language and all you have is gestures. She will provide pictures!