So, I'm sitting here alone at 1:45 in the morning, thinking to myself. Typical. My birthday is tomorrow (December 1st) and I will be turning 23. This is bizarre to me for a number of reasons.
- I still feel 16. Honestly. I think my maturity maxed out as a sophomore in high school. Since I got my driver's license, nothing else has changed. I even live back at home!
- Am I really 23? Don't get me wrong - I know I'm not old...but I feel old. My sister is in college, my brother is joining the Marines. I'm a college graduate. What is going on?
- I get depressed every time I think of Justin Beiber and/or Miley Cyrus. I'm 23 and I feel like I haven't accomplished anything. I feel frozen in time, rebelling against the idea of working in retail. I don't think I'm better than that, but I want something else. Otherwise, why did I work so hard to get a degree?
At any rate, I have had the most amazing 23 years anyone could ever ask for. Although it's not the right mentality, I keep waiting for something to go wrong...because no one can be this lucky. I've had my fair share of down moments, but trust me - the positives grossly outweigh the negatives. My first 23 years have consisted of irreplaceable family and friends, love, health, amazing experiences, comfort, incredible memories, and learning opportunities.
So, my birthday wish this year is for another 23 years that can rival my first 23. I can't think of anything better.
...except for maybe these two experiencing one night in Brittsburgh.
I know I'm late, but I promise you - I'm thankful.
Thanksgiving day, my family went to the Koenigs' for an early dinner. The food was great and the company was better. It's always wonderful to spend time with my siblings - all five of them.
After dinner, we went back to my house for the Bengals vs. Jets game. Ouch. TJ came over to administer some post-game therapy, which was greatly appreciated/needed.
That night, Jenn, Pfaff, Kelly, Cheyenne, and I made the midnight trek to Old Navy for some Black Friday shopping. Mistake. I had never taken part in the Black Friday madness, so I grossly underestimated the crowds. The parking lot was FULL. People had set up tents in front of Best Buy! After fighting the crowds for one hour of shopping (and I found 2 shirts, a sweater, and 3 pairs of pants), we got in the ridiculously long line. It wove in and out of clothing racks. After two hours, we finally reached the cashiers. However, I was charged $20 more than I expected and after looking over my receipt a few times, I realized I was charged for 4 pairs of pants. Anger. We quickly cut back in line and got my money back. After my first experience, I'm not convinced I'll go ever again...and we only went to one store!
Friday, Jenn had people over at her house for a Pink Friday party (in honor of Nicki Minaj's new CD). She had some purple 'sizzurp,' pink Patron, and a pink wig! It was wonderful to see all of my high school friends again. It amazes me how close we've stayed after all of these years. Again, I'm so lucky.
Saturday marked one of my favorite days of the year - the Ohio State vs. Michigan game. I love every single thing about it - the traditions, the game, the script 'Ohio,' the freezing jump in Mirror Lake, the passion of the fans, singing "We Don't Give a Damn for the Whole State of Michigan." Every year, the bitter rivalry draws national attention and in 2000, ESPN ranked it as the greatest North American sports rivalry. So, needless to say, it's a big deal. Ohio State beat Michigan for the SEVENTH year in a row, with a final score of 37-7. So gratifying. Ann Arbor really is a whore. O-H!
Also on Saturday, Sidney 'Sexy Canadian Manbeast' Crosby had his 6th NHL hat trick during a 4-1 win against the Calgary Flames. He now has 201 career goals...at the age of 23. I can't tell if I completely admire or desperately desire him more. HA...who am I kidding?
Today, I've done nothing but watch football. This included the most impressive game the Bears have played all season. The Bears beat the Eagles, 31-26, at Soldier Field. Urlacher led the team with 10 tackles. I'm starting to get really excited about the Bears this season. If they can make Michael Vick look human, they can make it to the Superbowl. BEAR DOWN!
Finally, my parents told me my birthday present a little early.
On December 20th, I'll be in Pittsburgh, seeing him...
...and him...
...and him...
...and the rest of the Pittsburgh Penguins!! AHHHHH!!!! I'm sure you're tired of reading it, but I am unbelievably lucky. and spoiled. and happy. My parents are AWESOME!
Hopefully they're cool with bailing me out of jail, too...because I can't promise I'll have any level of self-restraint while in the same building as those three. Sorry I'm not sorry.
As per the usual, I will have another random post filled with trivial Tuesday observations. Here goes:
I just finished watching the HBO preview for 24/7 Penguins and Capitals. I absolutely cannot wait to watch this show. Watching sports that I love shot on movie-quality, hi-def cameras makes me incredibly happy. It makes me even more nervous, however, for the Winter Classic. It's in Pittsburgh, but I have a really bad feeling that Ovi and the Caps are going to win. That will sting after receiving so much national attention. Ugh... Don't worry, though. Crosby looks amazing.
Speaking of Crosby, please watch this recent commercial for Dempster's Bread. I'm not sure what bothers me more - the fact that Sid doesn't stop to sign an autograph for the kid or the fact that he settles for a mere 'What's up' head nod. (Although I do melt every single time I watch it) Either way, that poor kid is going to regret sounding like a total girl in this commercial for the rest of his mortal life.
After receiving 31 of 32 first place votes, Joey Votto was named NL MVP! I'm so happy for him. He definitely deserves it. Now I just hope that the Reds are willing to fork out the money to keep him in Cincinnati. We need him. Sidenote: Former Red Josh Hamilton won the AL MVP.
I know this is late, but I watched the American Music Awards on Sunday and I must say - the teenybopper in me loved NKOTBSB (New Kids/Backstreet). Although my boyband allegiance will always lie with B-Rok, I couldn't help but notice how hot Joey McIntyre is. I'm tempted to see their tour next year. What can I say? Old habits die hard.
And now...the GLEE review...Once again, contains spoilers. You've been warned.
+ Mike O'Malley is amazing as Kurt's dad, Burt. Seriously, I think he steals almost every scene he's in and I would love it if the writers would give him some more screen time. He is such a consistent character, driven mainly by an intense love for and the duty to protect his son.
+ The vows at the wedding were so precious.
- Sue marries herself? COME ON! I feel like the writers don't care about her character anymore. She serves no real purpose other than the exact one needed by the writers that week. Stop wasting such an excellent character!
+ I must admit - I was loving the tracksuit wedding dress. HAHA!
- Sue's mom. I have nothing against Carol Burnett, but she played such a disjointed character (that will probably never return). Suddenly, Sue reveals that she is a bully because her Nazi-hunting mother bullied her as a child? I'm all about building sympathy for Sue, but again, a stretch.
+ I love the continuity that Kurt's storyline has provided fans. As I've mentioned before, Glee seems to have an issue with maintaining a long-term storyline (since Terri's faked pregnancy). Luckily, this seems to be somewhat cured with Kurt's scary run-ins with bully Karofsky. I also loved the fact that everyone is sticking up for Kurt (including Sue!) and the show didn't forget that Finn was still struggling with accepting his new 'brother.' Some people might find the show to be a little too Kurt-centric, but I don't mind it at all.
- How sad is it that Kurt/Finn's parents don't have friends their age for the wedding party? Yikes.
+ Santana called Finn 'Frankenteen' and that is his nickname in real life and his Twitter account. Only real stalkers know that. Also, Finn made a Jay Cutler reference.
- Sam is sorta proposing to Quinn already? Creepy. Am I alone here or was that too much, too soon?
+ Finn singing "Just the Way You Are." I didn't know whether to cry because I've overly emotional or pass out because I imagined that Finn was singing it to me. However, if he were truly singing the song to Kurt, why couldn't he change the lyrics to masculine pronouns? Sounds a little like Sue calling Kurt 'lady.'
- Kurt is leaving. I found this to be too predictable for words. Ever since he met beautiful Blaine at Dalton Academy, I knew he would leave. This, of course, won't be permanent, but still. I can't figure out why/how he will come back to McKinley (in time for nationals), but you know he will.
+ SECTIONALS NEXT WEEK! I love competition episodes because, for once, the show finally gets back to its roots. You mean, this show is about a high school glee club that competes against other glee clubs? I thought it was about a creepy teacher obsessing over a paranoid guidance counselor, avoiding incessant ridicule from an egotistical cheerleading coach, and trying his hardest to set a bad example for his students. Confession: I'm not a HUGE fan of Schue.
- If that little snitch Santana ruins Finnchel, I'm going to end her. You already stole Finn's childlike innocence and angelic naivety. Back off.
...Yes, I am living vicariously through Rachel. Although, to be completely honest, I would have given in to the temptations of Finn a LONG time ago.
Thursday, I left with my dad for Charlottesville. As soon as we got there, we walked downtown to the Jefferson to see Tr3. TR3 is a Charlottesville-based band with Tim Reynolds (Dave Matthews's guitarist), a bassist, and a drummer. We had front row spots right on the stage for the show. Before TR3 came out, an opening band with Joe Lawlor, Dave's sound engineer, played. Joe is an unreal guitar player and I could have listened to him play by himself for three hours.
After a short break, TR3 came out. I was so excited to be near the one and only Tim Reynolds. I took a million pictures and watched him play his original songs. TR3 is a little too hard rock for my taste, but they did a couple of Led Zeppelin covers which were cool.
About halfway through the set, Tim brought out Jeff Coffin, Dave's sax player, for some bluesy songs! He's so amazing. This was, by far, my favorite part of the show.
The show got a little bizarre at points, but it was awesome. Case in point. Yes, that is an Eeyore with a gas mask and a James Brown statue. There was also a Pooh with a gas mask, an Elmo, and an alien that danced around. Weird.
Friday, Dad and I went to John Paul Jones Arena for the first of Dave's two last shows in C'ville. The opening band, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, was easily the best opener I've ever heard with Dave. I would love to see them again.
Then, the majesty that is the Dave Matthews Band came out. It was amazing - as always. I won't force you to read another ode to my favorite band, but the show was incredible. Dave even played a few songs that I've never heard him play live (and trust me - that list is very short).
Here was the setlist:
Squirm
Big Eyed Fish
Still Water
Don't Drink the Water
Seven (!)
Grey Street
Spaceman
Everyday
#41 - Joe Lawlor guitar battled with Tim Reynolds.
Shake Me like a Monkey
Spoon
Warehouse - with John D'Earth.
Jimi Thing - with John D'Earth and Trombone Shorty (AMAZING!)
Black Jack
Christmas Song
Lie in Our Graves
Time Bomb
You and Me
Stay (Wasting Time)
Encore:
Sister
All Along the Watchtower
Halloween (!!!!) - Obsessed.
Yum.
Saturday, I woke up early and drove home by myself to surprise my amazing friends from Derailed. We met Clint at Doc's for dinner before driving down to Newport for a much-needed night out. We had a few drinks and danced on the benches at Hofbrauhaus, then walked to Toro for some bull-riding, more dancing, and gawking at the gorgeous worker. (Okay, maybe I was the only one gawking.) Eric and Ben even rode the bull together. Don't worry - I have video proof.
It was wonderful to see all of them at the same time. This is the first time we've all been together since we left Miami. It was long overdue and I can't wait to see them again.
I apologize, blogosphere, for the lack of updates lately. I took a quick trip to Charlottesville for TR3 and Dave Matthews Band concerts. Then, I spent Saturday with my amazing Derailed friends. I will update you on my weekend (with pictures) tomorrow.
However, there are more pressing issues for the blog right now. Those issues, of course, being celebrity-related.
First, People magazine's 'Sexiest Man Alive' issue. I'm not ashamed to admit (and I'm sure you're not very surprised) that I look forward to this issue every year. Without fail, my mom buys it for me the very day it is released and we collectively critique People's choices. This year, I will make my assessment public.
- First, although I don't agree that Ryan Reynolds is the SEXIEST man alive, I do think he is a good, fair choice. I've never heard anyone say that he isn't attractive, he's hilarious, and has very broad appeal. Good choice, People.
- I think I'm the only girl on the planet who doesn't find Bradley Cooper and Justin Timberlake attractive. At all.
- I am so happy that Clive Owen, Jake Gyllenhaal, and Robert Downey Jr. got nods.
- What is Matthew Morrison (Mr. Schuster in Glee) doing in there if Cory Monteith (Finn) and Mark Salling (Puck) aren't in there, too?
Sidenote: Watch this. After watching it, I realized that I hadn't actually heard a single thing that he said. He is so beautiful that it causes me physical pain.
- Back to the magazine, Robert Pattinson is in here and NOT Taylor Lautner? Blasphemy.
- JASON SEGEL! FINALLY!!!!! They did, however, try their absolute hardest to make him as dorky as possible. They surrounded him with puppets - yes, I know he loves them and he's directing the next Muppets movie, but come on...this is the sexiest man alive issue.
- I would honestly be okay with selecting George Clooney every single year. Anyone else opposed?
...and there you have it. I think I should be brought on staff short-term for the creation of this issue. I would provide valuable opinions in my area of expertise - male celebrities. I would fight for the underdogs (Andy Samberg, Vince Vaughn - duh) and I would get some athletes on there for once!
Maybe I should send them the link to my blog for a resume/writing sample. HA!
I think I'll make this Tuesday my own personal version of 'Miscellany Monday.' How about Trivial Tuesday?
- I feel really uncomfortable. Why? Because today, I realized something very bizarre. Neville Longbottom (played by Matthew Lewis), the nerdy character from the Harry Potter series, is actually hot(ish). When did this happen?
- I wish I looked like Kate Middleton, Prince William's fiancee. She is so classically beautiful and I would kill for her wardrobe.
- Also, am I the only person on the planet who finds Prince Harry more attractive than Wills? I've always sorta liked redheads and Harry has that rebel-without-a-cause swagger that I love... Within reason, of course. Royalty can't really be that rebellious. At any rate, I'd just like to take this opportunity to inform Harry that I'm single and wouldn't be opposed to moving to my favorite city and becoming a princess. Ball's in your court.
- I'm currently in 2nd place in our fantasy football league! Yeehaw!
- I am finally coming to terms with a serious flaw of mine: I am horrible at cell phone correspondence. Atrocious, in fact. This stems, of course, from the fact that I hate the phone. If it were up to me, I wouldn't have one at all. However, my parents mandated that once I left for college, I must have one. Still, I never take it with me when I go places and I rarely check it.
- Krusteaz pumpkin pie bars are absolutely divine. Do yourself a favor and try them.
- It blows my mind how clueless some people are about the rest of the world. While watching Cash Cab today, I was shocked when a woman used her mobile shoutout to ask which communist world leader handed power to his younger brother, Raul, in 2006. I'm fairly certain that many Americans couldn't tell you who the current British prime minister is (and let's be honest - that isn't exactly an off-the-wall question). I guarantee most of the world knows who Barack Obama is and we can't even name the leaders of the other most influential countries in the world? Yikes.
...and now, time for GLEE madness!
Once again, stop reading if you don't want spoilers!!
+ The baby versions of the Glee cast were absolutely precious. I wanted to see more of them!
- I know it's just a TV show, but the plot is always so unbelievable. Sue becomes principal? Figgins gets fired? Sue can't stand up to Bieste because she doesn't know who the Cheerios will cheer for other than the football team? Schuster suddenly gets fired? Gwyneth Paltrow wants the job and then suddenly changes her mind because Mercedes put some tator tots in an exhaust pipe? COME ON!
+ Blaine loves the Ohio State Buckeyes? You thought I was obsessed before...
- Kurt's getting cocky! I felt so frustrated for Mercedes when Kurt got all 'You use food to fill the void where I used to be.' If a guy told me that, I would punch him squarely in the face. Also, I'm annoyed that he suddenly takes finding her a boyfriend on as a charity case in an effort to distract her from the Blaine lovefest. RUDE.
+ Gwyneth Paltrow did a great job as substitute teacher, Holly Holiday. She was pretty funny and sounded good, too. I loved the arrangement of "Umbrella/Singin' in the Rain."
- I don't like, however, when the show focuses almost solely on its adult guest stars. The show is about a HIGH SCHOOL glee club and should focus primarily on the students. However, when the show has a popular guest star (like Kristin Chenoweth, Gwyneth Paltrow, or Neil Patrick Harris), the show suddenly takes an obsessive turn toward the adults...and that means no Finn and Puck.
+ "You annoy me, Will. You make the underflaps of my breasts burn." Thank you, Glee gods. Sue's hilarious one-liners are back with a vengeance.
- Schue + Terri = Hell no. Plus, the idea of sex while I can't breathe through my nose and I'm covered in Vick's Vaporub just doesn't sound appealing. Maybe that's just me.
Finally, the Glee boys have been wearing glasses lately and I love it.
So, let's put it to a vote in comments. Who looks best in glasses? Finn, Sam, or Puck?
My vote is undoubtedly for Finn...because he completes my soul unlike any fictional character has since Chandler Bing.
I've been an absolute moody mess all day. Instead of venting, I've decided to make a comprehensive birthday/Christmas list. Think happy thoughts.
1. Bombshell perfume from Victoria's Secret. I love it. OR one of those perfume samplers.
2. Sidney Crosby jersey. I have a t-shirt, but I want the real thing. He's worth it. ;)
3. This amazing bag from Etsy.
4. Yankee Candle jar - Lavender vanilla...I think. I want to test-smell this first.
5. Eclipse on DVD. Go ahead. Make fun. #teamjacob
6. Tickets for a Penguins game (preferably in Pittsburgh).
7. A massage and/or pedicure.
8. Tickets for Packers vs. Bears.
9. This dress from Great Glam.
10. A hot tub filled with Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, Brian Urlacher, and/or Tim Tebow.
The best thing about this list is that, although I'd love to receive these things, I don't need any of them. What I really want this Christmas day is for my family (especially L.P.) to find genuine peace and comfort. This will be our first Christmas apart and I know it's going to be really hard on us.
I am so incredibly lucky to live the life I live. I have a healthy and happy family, an incredible group of friends, an amazing house, and an enviable education. In my 22 years, I've been given so many amazing opportunities and I've seen so many awesome things. I don't take any of it for granted...and quite frankly, anything else I get is just icing on the already perfect cake that is my life.
I can't lie to you. There is absolutely no rhyme or reason for this post. I sat here for about 20 minutes, trying to find a way to tie all of this together, but I can't. So, I apologize for my random ramblings.
First, Ohio State beat Penn State today, 38-14, after trailing them 14-3 at halftime. Relief.
Geno had his 6th career hat trick today in the Pens' 4-2 win over the Atlanta Thrashers. Sid had the other goal (and 2 assists). YAY! I told them to come over and "celebrate" with me, but they explained that they have a game on Monday in Pittsburgh, so they needed to get back ASAP. (Yes, I do live in a fantasy land. What of it?)
I just found out that in March of 2003, demigod Dave Matthews and guitar wizard Tim Reynolds did an acoustic show at Millett Hall in Oxford. I almost threw up. Seriously - I'm not sure if I want to cry from the sadness of having missed it or from the happiness of knowing that he's spoken the name of my beloved alma mater. I would have camped outside for 28 days, skipping classes, and eating concession scraps leftover from the Miami basketball games, in order to get front row tickets. Apparently, John Mayer has also played at Millett. Who did we get? 311 and Kid Cudi. Sweet.
Of course, I included a video of him saying MIAMI multiple times...and then singing "The Best of What's Around." See you in a week, Dave.
Speaking of celebs at Miami, George Clooney was spotted on campus this week. Apparently, he is scouting locations for his new movie, The Ides of March. It begins shooting in February and also stars Ryan Gosling. If he decides to film in Oxford, you better believe I'm moving back there. My sister does have a spare room in her house. Sorry I'm not sorry, Jamie.
I love Rahm Emanuel more than any 22-year-old, female, non-Chicago resident should. Seriously, if I lived in Chicago, I would be selling my soul volunteering with his mayoral campaign. Sounds like the perfect hobby for a jobless, liberal, college graduate with a degree in political science. I wish Cincinnati had its own fiesty version of Rahm-bo. Instead, we're graced with the presence of John Boehner. Ugh.
See what I mean about random? Stream of consciousness for the win!
Last night, Jenn and I went downtown for some DANIEL TOSH at Taft Theater. He did not disappoint. His two opening acts (Matt Fulchiron and Jasper Redd) were pretty funny at times, but they definitely made Tosh look like a comedic genius.
Tosh was amazing. I wish he had stayed on a little longer, despite his self-proclaimed "laziness." He did a great job of personalizing the humor for Cincinnati (unlike Bill Maher last month). He mentioned Cincinnati chili, made some offensive jokes about Pittsburgh and Cleveland, and joked about the Bengals (particularly Carson). He is clearly a football fan...which obviously makes me love him even more.
His humor, as always, was sarcastic, scathing, and cynical. Just the way we like him. He shut down a heckler in the crowd who joked about his 'skinny jeans.' As usual, his stand-up was full of mysogynistic jokes and his claim to fame: a deep V-neck cardigan. Perfect.
I am, however, starting to wonder what Tosh is like in-person. I have heard that he is quite the diva. Although he joked about it, I started to get the feeling he really didn't want to be there last night. At any rate, his stand-up was hilarious and he looked as good as always.
For the first time in a long time, I have absolutely no plans this weekend! (Aside from OSU vs. Penn State and Bengals vs. Colts, of course) It feels great.
As promised, I'm going to finish the blog challenge.
Day 26: A Picture of Your Family
This picture sums us up perfectly. I love them.
Day 27: Pets
Unfortunately, we had to put my favorite pet of all-time to sleep last year. We got B.D. when I was in 2nd grade and she was the greatest sister-dog ever. I miss her a lot. Now, we are stuck with the complete opposite, the evil spawn of Satan and the bane of everyone but my mom's existence - Prince. Ugh. Don't be fooled by his cute appearance.
Day 28: Something That Stresses You Out
Oh boy. My health. My fear of cancer. My weight. My brother leaving for the Marines. Finding a job. Figuring out my future. The Bengals. The Penguins. Boy troubles.
Day 29: 3 Wishes
I will make a list of 3 altruistic wishes and 3 selfish wishes.
Selfish: 1. Unlimited funds for travel. 2. Bengals Superbowl win. Clearly not this year. 3. Perfect health for me, my family, and Jenn.
Day 30: A Picture
In honor of Veterans Day, I will post a picture of my incredible Grandad, L.P. Johnson II. He served as a pilot in WWII, received numerous prestigious awards, was invited to meet the Queen of England, and was even featured as a character in a nationally-run comic strip. Growing up, I loved listening to his stories. Although he often avoided talking about the war itself, I was constantly amazed by his wisdom, his humility, and his patriotism. I am eternally grateful to the brave men and women who have sacrificed to protect our way of life. I am so proud that my brother, L.P. Johnson IV, will soon follow in his grandfather's footsteps and dedicate himself to serving our wonderful country.
Happy Veterans Day to those who have served, are serving, and will serve in our armed forces! Thank you for your dedication, your sacrifice, and your courage! You will never be forgotten.
One day, I will finish the 30 day blog challenge. Today is not that day.
First and foremost, my Bengals. This week, the Bengals battled our bitter rivals, the Pittsburgh Steelers, in the coveted Monday night spot. As could be expected, almost the entire nation predicted nothing but doom and gloom for the Bengals (who have previously made largely embarrassing appearances in nationally-televised games). In fact, all but one of the seven commentators predicted a Steelers' victory. Even worse, our beloved ex-running back Rudi Johnson predicted a 44-0 loss. Ouch.
I must say - although the game ended in defeat (27-21), I am very proud of my team. NO ONE expected them to give the Steelers, a Superbowl favorite, a run for their money. Despite a few mistakes, the Bengals played very well, creating an exciting comeback in the final quarter. T.O. had a tremendous game, Cedric fought hard, and the defense held the Steelers quite well (considering 10 points came mostly from turnovers). I am excited to say that the Bengals lost admirably and that the rest of the country finally saw what our team is capable of. With losses like that, I don't care what the record is. I'll continue to proudly proclaim, "WHO-DEY?!"
...and another favorite thing...
Today, the Penguins took part in the annual Project Bundle Up, a partnership between the Salvation Army and Dick's to provide winter clothing for children from less privileged families. The Penguins help the kids shop, try on, and pick out the perfect clothes. Here is what Geno had to say about his time spent with 10-year-old Brendan: "It's great to help the kids and it warms my heart." Geno even bought the same hat Brendan wanted so that they could match. "Brendan said this is the new style. We buy together," Geno added.
Don't worry. It's not like I fantasized about Sid and Geno lovingly shopping with our future children...helping them try on new coats before taking them for ice cream...that would be weird...
...and finally...
OH. EM. GLEE.
Warning: This entry may contain spoilers. If you watch the show and didn't see tonight's episode yet, stop reading. Now.
Unlike my last Glee update, this entry will be filled with mostly positives.
+ The Kurt storyline is probably my favorite running plotline. Kurt is amazing and Chris Colfer is an incredible actor.
+ The return of Noah Puckerman. Thank you. Side note: His rendition of "One Love" was amazing.
+ Kurt's probable boyfriend (Blaine) is gorgeous. No surprise there. I have a tendency to fall for gay guys.
- Sue Sylvester's character wasn't very funny. She needs some more hilarious one-liners.
+ Finn Hudson. Duh.
- Why does Schue always make bad decisions? Telling Bieste the truth about the kids? Stupid. Kissing Bieste and leading her on? Idiotic. Trust me. Coming from a perpetually single girl, I know how it feels to be led on. She will be obsessing over that kiss for years to come.
- Great. Did I just compare myself to Bieste?
+ The Warblers' rendition of Katy Perry's "Teenage Dream." Can I listen to this on repeat for 6 days? Probably.
+ I loved the surprise kiss from Kurt's bully! Typical confused teenage boy. American Beauty moment brought to you by Ryan Murphy.
I absolutely love that this show tackles serious issues like homophobia. If I had to choose one issue I am the most passionate about, it would definitely be gay rights. Hands down. Homophobia is unfair - whether it manifests itself in malicious bullying or not. Every single person deserves the same treatment, regardless of skin color, gender, sexual orientation, etc. Gay slurs, even when used unintentionally, are offensive and do nothing but perpetuate existing prejudices. In fact, I think denying same-sex marriage is no different than prohibiting interracial marriage. Who is anyone to deny someone else love and happiness? Homophobes should not be able to use the Bible to mask their fear and intolerance. One day, people will look back at this time in disbelief and utter regret. I hope I live to see the day when homosexuality is widely accepted and everyone is free to marry the love of their life. It will come.
In the meantime, I'm just glad that shows like Glee are here to raise awareness and preach something that is worth preaching, acceptance and love.
Anyone who claims to be in the light but hates a brother or sister is still in the darkness. Anyone who loves their brother and sister lives in the light, and there is nothing in them to make them stumble. But anyone who hates a brother or sister is in the darkness and walks around in the darkness. They do not know where they are going, because the darkness has blinded them. - 1 John 2:9-11
Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. - 1 Peter 4:8
Day 25: iPod Shuffle - 10 shuffled songs on my iPod
"Father Figure" - George Michael "Long Time Gone" - The Dixie Chicks "Thickfreakness" - The Black Keys "Drive In Drive Out" - Dave Matthews Band "Over" - Drake "All Shook Up" - Elvis Presley "Sexual Healing" - Marvin Gaye "So Ambitious" - Jay-Z ft. Pharrell "So Happy I Could Die" - Lady Gaga "Tangled Up in Blue" - Bob Dylan
...clearly, my iPod is all over the place. I love it.
Do you remember that show Fanatic on MTV? People would submit videos explaining their unhealthy obsessions with celebrities. Then, MTV would choose the #1 fan and that fan would get to meet their celebrity obsession.
Why did I bring this up? Because I'm overwhelmingly convinced that I would be chosen for a hypothetical Brian Urlacher episode.
In case you don't already know (HA!), I love Brian Urlacher. ...and by love, I mean obsess over. Really. I do. It's borderline creepy, but it's a reality. My family and friends came to terms with it long ago. My bedroom doubles as an Urlacher altar of sorts. I have a gigantic Urlacher fathead, a jersey, a 'Property of Urlacher' hoodie, books, a pennant, a woven tapestry throw blanket, two huge posters (one of which is signed by him), a framed picture of me with him, etc.
Today, somehow, I fell even more in love with him. Why?
I find this topic to be perfect for my 100th blog post.
Day 24: Something You've Learned
Throughout the course of my life, I've learned that...
...attitude is everything. Unfortunate circumstances will affect you only as much as you let them.
...worrying rarely improves a situation. Unfortunately, I never seem to take this advice.
...you cannot make someone love you. It really doesn't matter how much you try.
...no one can be me better than I can. I might make mistakes, but only I can learn from them.
...you can always be a better person.
...there is nothing better than loving family and loyal friends.
...although I have severe self-confidence issues, I'm actually pretty awesome. It has taken me a long time to learn that.
...I am stronger than I think.
...no one is perfect. Therefore, forgiveness is crucial.
...time changes everything. Sometimes for worse, sometimes for the better.
...morality and religion are not necessarily connected. You don't have to believe in a higher power to make the right decisions.
...it's more than okay to cry.
...writing is one of the greatest forms of expression.
...sometimes, music says how I feel better than words do.
...there is a difference between being rude and standing up for yourself. Likewise, there is a difference between being a good friend and being taken advantage of.
...tolerance and acceptance are a problem for even the smartest people. *cough* homophobes *cough* racists
...wisdom comes from experience, not books.
...most importantly, there are always more things to be learned.
I'm going to cheat. Day 23 of the Blog Challenge is your favorite vacation. I've already detailed my incredible vacation to London with my family, so I will go with my recent trip to Chicago with Jenn.
Day 23: Your Favorite (Really Recent) Vacation
Jenn had this week off before starting her new job at the Luxottica home office. So, we decided to take a really spontaneous trip to Chicago. It was short, fast-paced, and nothing short of amazing.
We left Monday morning, drove to our hotel in Elk Grove Village, and took the Metra downtown to meet Kaytee. From Union Station, we went to Wrigleyville for a delicious dinner at Lucky's. Man vs. Food's Adam Richman has attempted (and successfully completed) a challenge at Lucky's. He ate three overstuffed sandwiches in an hour and became only the 11th person to do so. Seems impossible.
The sandwich was amazing. Mine had roast beef, cole slaw, and french fries on it. Delish. After dinner, we walked around Wrigleyville and Belmont for a bit before the long trip back to our hotel.
That night, while reading a local paper, I came across a section called 'Celebrity Sightings.' Being the celebrity whore that I am, I started to read it. Much to my surprise (and sadness), this is what I found:
I was in utter shock (and may have actually shed a few tears). My top 2 celebrity crushes were in the same building on the same day...and I wasn't. Come on - you know it's coming - Story of my life. Actually, it's probably for the best that I wasn't there. I would have either passed out, made a mess of the floor, or been arrested.
Tuesday morning, we woke up early, took the Metra downtown, and went to Navy Pier. We walked around the shops for a bit before doing something I have always wanted to do: Ride the famous Navy Pier ferris wheel! I must admit, at the top, I was a little scared. BUT, the view of the skyline was absolutely beautiful and each car has audio that describes the location of key buildings and plays some Frank Sinatra music (which soothed my nerves, of course).
After Navy Pier, we met Kaytee for some traditional Chicago deep-dish pizza at Art of Pizza (which has been voted the best pizza in Chicago by the Tribune). Again, delicious.
After lunch, we went back downtown for some shopping on Michigan Avenue. Amazingly enough, we didn't buy anything (despite the temptation in Victoria's Secret). We walked around the beautiful city, taking pictures of the gorgeous canals.
I'm in love.
We had some delicious pasta from Maggiano's for dinner and listened to some more soothing Frank. After dinner, we decided to go to the Lincoln Park area for some drinks. We decided on McGee's, Chicago's Ohio State bar. The atmosphere was awesome and I'm convinced I'd spend a lot of time there if I lived in Chicago.
Wednesday, we wanted to see The Lion King, but the cheap tickets were sold out. So, we spent the day walking around downtown again. We came across Sprinkles, the most amazing cupcake place in the world. I ordered a red velvet one and Jenn ordered peanut butter chocolate. My world is changed. If you are ever in Chicago, I implore you to go there. Later that day, Carlos Boozer of the Chicago Bulls was going to be there, handing out cupcakes for a charity.
We walked around downtown some more, got lunch at an amazing food court, bought Garrett's Popcorn (because I can't not), and headed to Millennium Park. We took some stereotypical pictures with the Bean. Then, we took the Metra out of town and headed to Indianapolis for the night.
In Indianapolis, we kept Nick up way too late, talking and hanging out. The next day, we met him for lunch at Culver's before heading home.
So, as you can see, the trip was just what I needed. I also crushed a girl on the subway, knocked a man over on the Metra, we nearly missed a train, got in trouble for taking pictures in Forever 21, got hit on by creepy guys (seriously creepy), took the subway the wrong way (my bad), had amazingly huge breakfasts, and laughed harder than I have in a long time. It goes without saying, but Jenn is the best friend imaginable and time with her is always wonderful. It was also great to see Kaytee. It has been a really long time, so it was nice to catch up and reminisce with her in her new city. She's awesome. It was also great to see Nick...even if it was for such a short time.
I have a ridiculous amount of nicknames. They tend to cycle in and out of usage, but I answer to all of them. My main nicknames are Britt, Bibbles (and the variation Bibbs), Johnson, and Blet. I'm also called Charlie (Charles, Char, Charmander), Boat (Boatis), Brazz (Brazzamatazz, Brazzmond), B, Jerb (Jerbison, Jib-Jab), Boo (Bewis), Ray (Carlos Ray Santana), and others. Clearly, I lend myself to nicknames. Very, very few people call me Brittany.
Day 21: Picture of Yourself
This is a picture of me, taken two months ago, doing my favorite thing: drinking Dr. Pepper.
Day 22: Favorite City
This is incredibly hard for me. Luckily, I've done it before. In a previous journal entry, I noted that my two favorite U.S. cities are New York City and Chicago. Typical. However, my two favorite places to be are Oxford and Charlottesville.
Although I didn't carve a pumpkin, navigate a corn maze, tiptoe through a haunted trail, pass out candy to trick-or-treaters, or watch It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown, I still had a very entertaining Halloween weekend.
Friday, Jenn and I went to TJ's apartment to celebrate his 23rd birthday. It was nice for just the three of us to hang out. I miss having him in Lebanon and seeing him everyday.
Saturday, Jenn, TJ, Clint, and I went down to Newport for some Halloween shenanigans. We spent the night at Brother's, laughed at the other costumes, and even met up with Morgan for a bit.
I got harassed a few times for my costume. Needless to say, there aren't too many fans of any Pittsburgh team around here. I got a few shouts of "THE PENGUINS SUCK!" but it was well worth it.
Of course, what's a hockey player without a black eye or a missing tooth?
Snooki got a little crazy, but that's to be expected.
All in all, I'd call it another successful Halloween weekend. That is...if you ignore the Bengals game today. Talk about scary.
See what I mean about random? Stream of consciousness for the win!
