Friday, March 30, 2012
battle of the bluegrass
If you know me, perhaps you're surprised that I have yet to write a post about the thing most near and dear to my heart during the month of March: Louisville basketball. This team has had their fair share of hardships (injuries and just plain sucking), but I am so proud to say, not only are my cardinals the 2012 Big East champs, but THEY ARE GOING TO THE FINAL FOUR!
If you pay any attention to current events (Kentuckian Mitch McConnell, Senate minority leader, addressed the Senate on this momentous national event) or sports, I don't need to tell you how big of a deal the matchup between Louisville and Kentucky is. For those who are confused, please reference this article. Here are my favorite quotes from it:
"It's Armageddon, catered by KFC."
"College basketball in Kentucky is right behind the Southern Baptist Church in fervency."
"In Kentucky there is no professional basketball team--indeed no major sports league franchise of any kind. Nor is the football tradition strong. College basketball is king by default."
"No one questions our basketball IQ."
Get the picture???
If I could give Ricky P and the boys a good talking to, this is what I'd tell them:
Yes, Kentucky is scary good. They are far and above the most talented team in the NCAA. But our biggest strength is their greatest weakness: the depth of our team. Get them (especially Anthony Unibrow Davis) in foul trouble, and we have a legitimate shot. Emotions run high with this rivalry, making it anyone's game. Do not count yourselves out. They aren't focused on beating you; their sights are set on a national championship. You, however, are entirely set on beating them. So do it.
Thanks to my mama (a converted UK alum, by the way), I'll be proudly wearing my final four shirt all day tomorrow (during weekend class...bleh)! I'm sufficiently armed for the Battle of the Bluegrass.
Now, as you fall asleep tonight with visions of triumphant cardinals dancing in your heads, I leave you with one final thought:
If you pay any attention to current events (Kentuckian Mitch McConnell, Senate minority leader, addressed the Senate on this momentous national event) or sports, I don't need to tell you how big of a deal the matchup between Louisville and Kentucky is. For those who are confused, please reference this article. Here are my favorite quotes from it:
"It's Armageddon, catered by KFC."
"College basketball in Kentucky is right behind the Southern Baptist Church in fervency."
"In Kentucky there is no professional basketball team--indeed no major sports league franchise of any kind. Nor is the football tradition strong. College basketball is king by default."
"No one questions our basketball IQ."
Get the picture???
Yes, Kentucky is scary good. They are far and above the most talented team in the NCAA. But our biggest strength is their greatest weakness: the depth of our team. Get them (especially Anthony Unibrow Davis) in foul trouble, and we have a legitimate shot. Emotions run high with this rivalry, making it anyone's game. Do not count yourselves out. They aren't focused on beating you; their sights are set on a national championship. You, however, are entirely set on beating them. So do it.
Thanks to my mama (a converted UK alum, by the way), I'll be proudly wearing my final four shirt all day tomorrow (during weekend class...bleh)! I'm sufficiently armed for the Battle of the Bluegrass.
Now, as you fall asleep tonight with visions of triumphant cardinals dancing in your heads, I leave you with one final thought:
Thursday, March 29, 2012
The Hunger Games Review
I finally saw it! To be exact, I saw it twice. The first time, I liked it. The second time, I absolutely loved it! (Sleep deprivation might have had something to do with that though). I hope all of you have also had the pleasure of seeing it, too. If you still haven't seen it, don't read on. Although if you've read some of my previous posts (or just generally been alive in America the past few weeks), you know the whole plot. I just had to warn ya.
1. I could have done without the extremely shaky camera angles in the beginning. I get that it was a way for them to distinguish between the roughness of life in District 12 and the ease of life in the Capitol. But I get headaches easily. And I didn't appreciate it. I will say that the second time I saw the movie I was sitting higher up in the theater, which helped considerably.
2. I didn't really miss any of these things. Here's some other elements I did miss:
-Emphasis on Katniss' relationship with her dad, particularly her knowledge of plants and berries, which explains the whole nightlock business at the end.
-Katniss and Peeta's extreme thirst and search for water. When they won the games when I read the book, I was incredibly exhausted. I didn't feel that sense of exhaustion during the movie and think experiencing their water deprivation would have aided in that.
-More development of Katniss' relationship with Rue. I don't think people who haven't read the book would be very sad when she dies, whereas I cried.
Obviously I understand that the movie can't be six hours (although I immediately said I wished it was after seeing it the first time) and that they couldn't include everything, but I think these three details would have greatly improved the film. And three hours isn't too long.
3. Here's something positive that I wasn't expecting:
I loved Seneca Crane. Not only is he incredibly attractive (even with that crazy beard), but he was so likable (despite being the puppeteer of death in the arena). When I was reading the book, I knew that his character was important, but I didn't really develop an intense connection to him like I did in the movie. Loved the inclusion of the bowl of nightlock as his fateful end.
4. Despite my earlier predictions, the movie only reaffirmed my love for Gale and my annoyance with Peeta. I wish we could have seen more of him, but I know we will in the next two (or three) movies! I guess I'm just a bad-boy kind of girl.
5. Besides the credits, we didn't hear a single song from The Hunger Games: Songs from District 12 and Beyond. I was disappointed. But honestly, the songs are so good, they may have detracted from the movie itself. So I guess we'll all just have to buy the album.
Overall, the movie was a great adaptation of a better book. I'm just naturally critical. Because a lot of the book was composed of Katniss' innermost thoughts, the producers and director did an incredible job of articulating those thoughts in more tangible ways.
Happy Hunger Games, and may the odds be ever in your favor. (In my best Effie Trinket voice).
1. I could have done without the extremely shaky camera angles in the beginning. I get that it was a way for them to distinguish between the roughness of life in District 12 and the ease of life in the Capitol. But I get headaches easily. And I didn't appreciate it. I will say that the second time I saw the movie I was sitting higher up in the theater, which helped considerably.
2. I didn't really miss any of these things. Here's some other elements I did miss:
-Emphasis on Katniss' relationship with her dad, particularly her knowledge of plants and berries, which explains the whole nightlock business at the end.
-Katniss and Peeta's extreme thirst and search for water. When they won the games when I read the book, I was incredibly exhausted. I didn't feel that sense of exhaustion during the movie and think experiencing their water deprivation would have aided in that.
-More development of Katniss' relationship with Rue. I don't think people who haven't read the book would be very sad when she dies, whereas I cried.
Obviously I understand that the movie can't be six hours (although I immediately said I wished it was after seeing it the first time) and that they couldn't include everything, but I think these three details would have greatly improved the film. And three hours isn't too long.
3. Here's something positive that I wasn't expecting:
I loved Seneca Crane. Not only is he incredibly attractive (even with that crazy beard), but he was so likable (despite being the puppeteer of death in the arena). When I was reading the book, I knew that his character was important, but I didn't really develop an intense connection to him like I did in the movie. Loved the inclusion of the bowl of nightlock as his fateful end.
5. Besides the credits, we didn't hear a single song from The Hunger Games: Songs from District 12 and Beyond. I was disappointed. But honestly, the songs are so good, they may have detracted from the movie itself. So I guess we'll all just have to buy the album.
Overall, the movie was a great adaptation of a better book. I'm just naturally critical. Because a lot of the book was composed of Katniss' innermost thoughts, the producers and director did an incredible job of articulating those thoughts in more tangible ways.
Happy Hunger Games, and may the odds be ever in your favor. (In my best Effie Trinket voice).
Friday, March 23, 2012
keep your eyes open
I'm sure everyone was expecting to see a 3 AM post from me about how great The Hunger Games was last night (well...maybe all three of my devoted readers). For the sake of not reinventing the wheel, visit my friend Leah's blog for the story of why my glowing review is absent. I STILL HAVE YET TO SEE THE MOVIE. So don't talk to me about it. I really wish I could block out the rest of the world until I can see it, but that would be rude. I promise my review will come as soon as I leave the theater. Until then, I'm listening to these two songs on repeat...
Post title: "Eyes Open," by Taylor Swift
Appropriately titled for my struggle at work today after (maybe) four hours of sleep.
Appropriately titled for my struggle at work today after (maybe) four hours of sleep.
Thursday, March 22, 2012
spring fling: jewelry
1. j. crew factory enamel critter charm necklace (elephant) 2. jennifer zeuner integrated number bracelet (13) 3. stella and dot serenity stone drops 4. stella and dot on the mark necklace 5. jennifer zeuner babycross necklace 6. anthropologie andaman wrap bracelet 7. j. crew azalea necklace 8. j. crew enameled snail bangle 9. stella and dot chantilly lace cuff 10. stella and dot nugget wrap bracelet 11. stella and dot bamboleo necklace
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
The Hunger Games Training, Day 8
Have you heard? The Hunger Games soundtrack, The Hunger Games: Songs from District 12 and Beyond was released yesterday and is garnering positive reviews from music critics everywhere. I'm really hoping this is truly the movie's soundtrack and not simply songs that are inspired by the movie, as some fans are wondering. Including some of my favorite artists (The Civil Wars, Arcade Fire, The Decembrists, and Miranda Lambert), the music is a pleasant surprise.
Since I'm not and won't pretend to be a music guru, here's what Jason Lipshutz from Billboard.com has to say:
"The Hunger Games" soundtrack has a few miscues -- Kid Cudi's a dynamic performer, but feels out of place when surrounded by acoustic guitars -- but ultimately, the 16-song set is both a tender companion for "Hunger" diehards and a rousing folk-rock compilation for non-enthusiasts. It doesn't matter if you live in District 12, or have no idea what the hell District 12 is; this ornately produced soundtrack makes the most of the franchise's gigantic platform.
1. Arcade Fire, "Abraham's Daughter" - An intense lullaby opens the soundtrack, with beastly distortion serving as bookends and militaristic percussion guiding Regine Chassagne's vocals. The title is a reference to the Biblical tale of Abraham's sacrifice.
2. The Secret Sisters, "Tomorrow Will Be Kinder" - A gorgeous, sorrowful waltz that recalls the strained hope of Rue's song. The sentiment of the line "I know the present will not last/And tomorrow will be kinder" captures the spirit of the series.
3. Neko Case, "Nothing To Remember" - Case lends her sturdy alt-country twang to the soundtrack, forsaking her past and trying to get to "the finish line." A short, steady-handed plea.
4. Taylor Swift featuring The Civil Wars, "Safe & Sound" - A decidedly non-Swiftian anthem that embraces the folksiness of the soundtrack. Backing up the country superstar, the Civil Wars add a little bit of gravitas to the melancholy tune.
5. Kid Cudi, "The Ruler And The Killer" - One of the few curveballs of the album, "The Ruler And The Killer" finds Kid Cudi still noodling around in WZRD mode, with heavy drums and buzz-saw guitars propping up his pained groans and lurching hooks.
6. Punch Brothers, "Dark Days" - A song that addresses a mother and a sister harkens back to a certain literary heroine. A gentle ode to hiding fear away that (hopefully) could soundtrack an emotional scene in the film.
7. The Decemberists, "One Engine" - The pace picks up with this straightforward Decemberists rocker, as Colin Meloy's signature warble gets overshadowed by the uncharacteristic electric guitar reliance.
8. The Carolina Chocolate Drops, "Daughter's Lament" - Can't you picture the sun rising over District 12, Katniss and Gale stalking through the woods as this song chronicles their last morning together before the reaping? CCD even works the word "mockingjay" into this sparse tune!
9. The Civil Wars, "Kingdom Come" - After providing Taylor Swift an assist earlier in the soundtrack, the Civil Wars get to shine on their own here, their weaving harmonies becoming more striking as the subtly crafted song progresses.
10. Glen Hansard, "Take The Heartland" - One-half of The Swell Season (and star of "Once") Glen Hansard injects some much-needed urgency into the album, debating the merits of murder and sounding a lot like Dave Grohl in an righteous change of pace.
11. Maroon 5 featuring Rozzi Crane, "Come Away To The Water" - Another artist stepping out of his element: Adam Levine slows down his "Jagger" instincts and acts as a Siren alongside Rozzi Crane by beckoning a "little lamb" to the "slaughter."
12. Miranda Lambert featuring Pistol Annies, "Run Daddy Run" - Like the best songs on Pistol Annies' 2011 disc "Hell On Heels," "Run Daddy Run" surrounds Lambert's natural charisma with fleshed-out production and soaring harmonies.
13. Jayme Dee, "Rules" - From a vocal standpoint, newcomer Jayme Dee holds her own against the bigger name on the soundtrack, although "Rules" is admittedly one of the weaker tracks on the disc.
14. Taylor Swift, "Eyes Open" - The stronger of Swift's soundtrack contributions, "Eyes Open" places the singer in her own version of the Hunger Games, trying to stay alert and keep her sense of self as the whole world watches her. A clever spin on the trappings of fame.
15. The Low Anthem, "Lover Is Childlike" - Although it strays from the imagery of "The Hunger Games," the wistful "Lover Is Childlike" sneaks up on the listener with its poetic approach, and buries itself in his or her skin.
16. Birdy, "Just A Game" - The soundtrack ends with a stunning anthem in which Birdy exhibits her full range and declares, "There comes you, to keep me safe from harm/There comes you, to take me in your arms." Is it just a game? It sure wasn't for Peeta!
Any favorites?
Since I'm not and won't pretend to be a music guru, here's what Jason Lipshutz from Billboard.com has to say:
"The Hunger Games" soundtrack has a few miscues -- Kid Cudi's a dynamic performer, but feels out of place when surrounded by acoustic guitars -- but ultimately, the 16-song set is both a tender companion for "Hunger" diehards and a rousing folk-rock compilation for non-enthusiasts. It doesn't matter if you live in District 12, or have no idea what the hell District 12 is; this ornately produced soundtrack makes the most of the franchise's gigantic platform.
2. The Secret Sisters, "Tomorrow Will Be Kinder" - A gorgeous, sorrowful waltz that recalls the strained hope of Rue's song. The sentiment of the line "I know the present will not last/And tomorrow will be kinder" captures the spirit of the series.
3. Neko Case, "Nothing To Remember" - Case lends her sturdy alt-country twang to the soundtrack, forsaking her past and trying to get to "the finish line." A short, steady-handed plea.
4. Taylor Swift featuring The Civil Wars, "Safe & Sound" - A decidedly non-Swiftian anthem that embraces the folksiness of the soundtrack. Backing up the country superstar, the Civil Wars add a little bit of gravitas to the melancholy tune.
5. Kid Cudi, "The Ruler And The Killer" - One of the few curveballs of the album, "The Ruler And The Killer" finds Kid Cudi still noodling around in WZRD mode, with heavy drums and buzz-saw guitars propping up his pained groans and lurching hooks.
6. Punch Brothers, "Dark Days" - A song that addresses a mother and a sister harkens back to a certain literary heroine. A gentle ode to hiding fear away that (hopefully) could soundtrack an emotional scene in the film.
7. The Decemberists, "One Engine" - The pace picks up with this straightforward Decemberists rocker, as Colin Meloy's signature warble gets overshadowed by the uncharacteristic electric guitar reliance.
8. The Carolina Chocolate Drops, "Daughter's Lament" - Can't you picture the sun rising over District 12, Katniss and Gale stalking through the woods as this song chronicles their last morning together before the reaping? CCD even works the word "mockingjay" into this sparse tune!
9. The Civil Wars, "Kingdom Come" - After providing Taylor Swift an assist earlier in the soundtrack, the Civil Wars get to shine on their own here, their weaving harmonies becoming more striking as the subtly crafted song progresses.
10. Glen Hansard, "Take The Heartland" - One-half of The Swell Season (and star of "Once") Glen Hansard injects some much-needed urgency into the album, debating the merits of murder and sounding a lot like Dave Grohl in an righteous change of pace.
11. Maroon 5 featuring Rozzi Crane, "Come Away To The Water" - Another artist stepping out of his element: Adam Levine slows down his "Jagger" instincts and acts as a Siren alongside Rozzi Crane by beckoning a "little lamb" to the "slaughter."
12. Miranda Lambert featuring Pistol Annies, "Run Daddy Run" - Like the best songs on Pistol Annies' 2011 disc "Hell On Heels," "Run Daddy Run" surrounds Lambert's natural charisma with fleshed-out production and soaring harmonies.
13. Jayme Dee, "Rules" - From a vocal standpoint, newcomer Jayme Dee holds her own against the bigger name on the soundtrack, although "Rules" is admittedly one of the weaker tracks on the disc.
14. Taylor Swift, "Eyes Open" - The stronger of Swift's soundtrack contributions, "Eyes Open" places the singer in her own version of the Hunger Games, trying to stay alert and keep her sense of self as the whole world watches her. A clever spin on the trappings of fame.
15. The Low Anthem, "Lover Is Childlike" - Although it strays from the imagery of "The Hunger Games," the wistful "Lover Is Childlike" sneaks up on the listener with its poetic approach, and buries itself in his or her skin.
16. Birdy, "Just A Game" - The soundtrack ends with a stunning anthem in which Birdy exhibits her full range and declares, "There comes you, to keep me safe from harm/There comes you, to take me in your arms." Is it just a game? It sure wasn't for Peeta!
Any favorites?
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
The Hunger Games Training, Day 7
Since I know Jennifer Lawrence, I've followed her acting career from her first gig as teenage daughter Lauren on The Bill Engvall Show to her Academy award nomination for feisty, determined Ree in every moment of Winter's Bone. I've also watched countless YouTube videos of her interviews for various projects. To get to know her and the rest of The Hunger Games cast better, check these out:
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