The difference between wanting and getting what you want

I have been thinking about this post for a little while now...and I haven't been quite sure how to write it all down. I guess it is because sometimes I am afraid about what I want. Not that its bad (get your mind out of the gutter) or even that unique, but writing it down makes it real.

1. Travel: If I had my way I would see EVERYTHING. I would travel to South Africa, Australia, China, Russia, backpack through Europe. I was told the other day it was too late for me to be so idealistic, is it? Every time I have traveled I have met new people I love, been to places I won't forget, and experienced moments in "the now." I want to feel that way again.

2. Live somewhere new: This is different than traveling. It involves similar reasons, but home is where you get to rest, where all your things are, where your friends are. To a large extent, this is still Boston, but its wearing on me. I have been looking into London, LA, and New York, my trifecta. I want to make one of those places my home for 2 years, just to see where life takes me.

I want my family to be OK with me leaving for a little while. When talking to my aunt about a month ago, she said she wishes she had just left and lived somewhere else, not let our family hold her back. I don't like to think about it that way. I don't think they're holding me back, I think they are a bit of my excuse.

This brings me to the difference between wanting and getting what you want. I want those two things because they offer a change, a chance to live life at least a little differently and not regret I hadn't done more. But getting to these things is scary, change is scary. But the difference between those who succeed at getting what they want and those who don't is action. Everyone wants a change at some point in their lives, but not everyone acts on it. No one ever said they got what they wanted by just willing it to happen...

I'm going to take the next step, it is just a matter of when, where, how, and actually going after the things I want and not being afraid of getting them.

Regret is no fun

This is a conclusion I came to a long time ago. I once told my Mom that I didn't believe in regret while on a walk. She stopped for a second, cocked her head, and said "What? You regret nothing?" To this day, I can honestly say no.

Chris Brogan posted a great video today about regret. Chris Blake, a alternative pop musician, recently Googled "Biggest Regret." Some of my favorites from his finds:

"Not traveling enough."

"Not grabbing the most gorgeous girl I've ever seen in my life when I had the perfect opportunity."

"Not leaving sooner."

"Not speaking up"

"My lack of control."

"Not growing up to be a Transformer."

"Not telling him how I feel."

"Sweating the small stuff"

"I don't regret anything."

The overwhelming repetition in the quotations above, the word "Not." What I have learned is that "Not" doing something, is usually worse than doing it. No matter how ridiculous or stupid it may feel at the time, you will never regret that you didn't do something. Of course, use digression, but if something absolutely feels right, than why wait for it to become wrong? Their are definitely things in my life I could regret:

1. Not listening to my father when he told be not to attend the ski race that would result in me pulling my ACL and derailing my ski career.

2. Not calling my Nana or Grandfather more o while in college before they died.

3. Not staying in the Virgin Islands to return to work on Martha's Vinyard and having one of the hardest summers of my life.

Each one of those decisions has lead me to where I am today, and I like where I am today. Deciding that the decisions you make are not the "end all" means that they are launching off points for your life to take a different direction. Is the direction always easy? Certainly not. However, I think instead of focusing on regretting decisions, I learn from them. Yes, I might make the same mistakes a couple times, but I'll get it eventually. The biggest thing is having faith in the decisions you make.

Do you have regrets?

The "Change" We Want to See in Ourselves

So going to give you a little insight into how I think, I know, dangerous. I was at the gym today reading Seth Godin's new book Meatball Sundae about in order for a company to become successful in utilizing New Marketing, they must first change the way their company works. His point is that you cannot sell old products (meatballs) successfully using ONLY New Marketing (whipped cream).

So as I was reading, Michael Jackson's Man in the Mirror came on during my workout mix. Please hold judgment, Michael had his fine moments. So I started thinking about how you could apply the similar analogies to making changes in your personal life. If you simply make a physical change, you cannot make the assumption that other aspects of your life are going to improve. In actuality, you have to start at square one. Think about the goals you want to accomplish, the people you want to surround yourself with, the relationships you want to create, and then start implementing small changes that will make those goals a reality. In order to change the greater direction of your life, you need to start with the basics of how you are living.

Just a thought :)

Playing around with Ping.fm...pretty cool thus far, but much more to be discovered I have a feeling :)

What Makes You Happy?

Action may not always bring happiness, but there is no happiness without action. - Benjamin Disraeli

Or to Charles Schwartz, a warm puppy.

So while experiencing my current state of happiness, I have been questioning what is different about my life now, than 2-month ago? A couple month ago I wouldn't have conceded to being happy. I pretended pretty well. I had a great job, good friends, and supportive family, what could make a girl happier? But for some reason, when things reach a certain level of stability, I get restless. I can't help it, honestly, no control. Consistency, routine, all the things that are suppose to make you feel as though you have achieved something...get under my skin and make me feel stagnant.

So what makes me happy? Change. I thrive under change, even though it scares me. I had a friend, Thomas, tell me earlier today change was "just a matter of breaking through your fears." I feel as though much of what we don't do is because of the fear of not knowing the outcome, but isn't that half the fun?

Ever since then, I have embraced that change is what makes me happy. I have been more committed to being myself in other ways too. I say things that don't necessarily pass through "the filter," attend functions where I don't know anyone, and reach out to people I might have been too afraid to continue a relationship with. I guess you could say I am doing my own little social experiment on myself, and so far I love the outcome.

We'll see how it goes ;)

Might be cliche, but what have you done before that scared you? Did it come out how you planned, better?

Trumpets!

You might be wondering what I meant by "Trumpets!" and thought I might try to explain the joke...so here it goes.

First, I'll let you in on my train of thought. Have been wondering lately why some videos catch on and become sensations and why some wallow in YouTube purgatory. One of my favorite videos is Charlie Bit Me and show it to all friends who have not seen it as much as possible...until I run out of friends. The video on has been seen 57,255,789 TIMES and has 87,455 comments!! I mean, when you break it down the video is of a little kid getting bit by his brother. It certainly happened when I was little, and I'm not famous. Did the parent's know their children were going to be seen by 57 million people, I'm thinking probably not.

So, companies have been trying to break the YouTube code by creating corky videos to promote their product. Wario did a cool thing here, and it worked for them increasing their views by 500%. And the Cadbury Gorilla is still considered one of the most successful YouTube campaigns to date. So what makes a video a success or a flop? Uniqueness is essential, but the hardest to balance. Going too far to one side can mean millions or zero views. By tapping into something people are already familiar with (YouTube or Gorilla) and playing around with people's perceptions (shaking it up or making it play drums) make people look twice, and share it with their friends. It might not hurt to add a little Phil Collin's music ;)

I would mention the ones that flopped, but I haven't seen them.

Finally!!! Here is the video that inspired the joke...let me know what you think :)



Success, flop, funny...???

I know...it has been FOREVER!

I'm sorry, this has been a long time coming. Life has gotten crazy, but luckily in a really good way. In the last couple months I have been diving into the crazy web of social media and loving it. The first real pull towards the medium was while attending BlogWorld in Vegas in September. The people at the conference were amazing, and found was more intrigued by the side conversations than sessions, although those were great too. Check out my 5 minutes of fame (look about 14 years-old, but rolling with it):



While there I was lucky enough to make friends with James Whatley from London, Matt Singley from LA, and Mark Burstiner from NYC. These guys really made my time there a lot of fun, definitely best Vegas experience yet, plus great new friends. Each of them work within the social media space and have intriguing projects on the horizon. Trumpets!

I feel that once good things start happening it is a domino effect. Through James and twitter I learned about an project called Someone Once Told Me. The project takes photographs of people with sayings that have either been influential in their life or just memorable. People are starting to submit pictures from around the world, and I was the first Bostonian! My saying was from my little, feisty Nana who told me the saying below just before I flew to Thailand for 2-months. She was amazing and I think she would laugh if she saw this picture today. So, here it is:
On a more personal note, have official ended all communication with Mr.J, which I think is the best decision I have ever made in my life. So freeing!! Taking control of my life and finding it is OK to be myself is a pretty awesome change...and things are looking up because of it. That is my deep thought for the moment :p

Ok, promise to be more regular with posting.

I'm Gonna Miss Him

The story of my relationship with my brother has always been...short. Growing up with a mere two year age gap (he's older) one might think that we would have been closer. But instead we seemed to co-exist between fights over the TV remote and occasional games of catch in the front yard. When he went off to college, I felt indifferent to the emptiness of the house. To be honest I almost felt relieved that the one person I could never live up to was gone.

I never visited him in college, he rarely came back home, phone calls were infrequent and too formal for someone you are related to. I thought thats how things are, that is how they will always be. In my late teens I came to terms with the fact that I would never be that close to the brother that I idolized through childhood, we would merely be...related.

However, everything changed when he moved to Boston after graduating from college. I was in my sophomore year and he came on as assistant coach of our varsity college ski team. I was unsure how to feel. Would it be awkward? Everyone kept asking me if I was excited, I didn't know what to say.

But it seems as though age does close the gap. My brother began to talk to me as more of an equal instead of his little sister. He invited me to parties at his house and talked to me about something other than skiing or how school was. One of the most painful incidents, me making the MASSIVE mistake of kissing one of his roommates, ultimately made our relationship stronger. I found out how much he cared and he figured out I was no longer the little girl that made him listen to Spice Girls in the car.

Since then we have been more involved in each others lives. I even met Mr.J (an acquaintance, so I knew I was safe) at my brother's New Years eve party. We call each other "just to talk" and talk about what is actually going on in each others lives, no skipping the good stuff. I NEVER thought that the day would come.

But now he is leaving *tear* for the Netherlands to work at The Hague, cause of course he is super smart and interested in helping others, we have the same genes. But for the first time, I am going to really miss him.

What I am currently coveting

I can't help it, I really can't. I have even bookmarked where it is currently sold on-line and I occasionally click there just to look at it. The scary thing is, I can't even afford it at sale price!

The silk blend jacket (yes, probably totally unpractical) is Marc by Marc Jacobs and on sale is over $200. I grew up in a household where we scoured the sales racks for $5 t-shirts and never bought jeans more fashionable than the Gap. Spending $200 on a jacket, that cannot be used for skiing, was NEVER an option. There is still a bit of that budget girl inside of me and splurging on a jacket, even one as beautiful as this, pains me a little bit.

I am hoping in the next few weeks it goes on sale a little more and I can convince myself to GO FOR IT!

Is Carrie Bradshaw our modern day Cinderella?

I have been thinking this for a while now. As a Sex and the City fanatic I often download the show to watch on my ipod while I work out. Well I started working out more, so ipso facto I started watching more Sex and the City. My final conclusion, Carrie Bradshaw is our modern day, feisty, well dressed Cinderella. 

First of all, she has an apartment most columnists can only dream of. Secondly, she seems to have a fair godmother that pays off her exuberant credit card bills (I have looked at the tags of Manolos, they are not on a single girls list of things to buy daily...). Finally, she believes in happiness ever after with a man that is an ass to her 85% of the time. I mean, why do people even want Big and Carrie to get together? He repeatedly breaks her heart, marries another woman, has an affair with her and breaking up the only good relationship she ever had (obviously HUGE Aidan fan), and constantly disrupts her life. Carrie's "happily ever after" gives single girls everywhere hope that the jerk they are dating is going to one day (ten years from the day they met!) will turn around and say "you were the one all along, I love you!" 

A relationship myth. 

But isn't that what we all need to keep believing that "the one" is out there. Here is to hoping he is, but if not I have plenty of dreams to keep me busy ; )

Image: BrideBeurzen

To Commit or Not to Commit

Over the last few weeks I have been on a roller coaster of emotions when it comes to dating. First I thought I was dating a really nice guy, but that didn't turn out so well....

Then there is the permanent roller coaster of my relationship with my Ex, Mr.J, who keeps stopping in and out of my life.

So as a result I have been begged to question my own thoughts on relationships. Am I ready for something serious? I seem to surround myself with relationships I know will not work out because I am afraid of having one that does. I don't think there is a direct reason for this other than the future completely FREAKS ME OUT!

Lets get it all out there, I am not a planner. If I know what I am going to have for dinner before noon I consider it a good day. If I have a plan for the weekend on Wednesday, that is a great weekend. I make last minute plans, cancel last minute, and my worst fear is HAVING to show up somewhere at a certain time and not having a way out. I always have a getaway plan. Are you starting to see a theme here?

So why would I change up the game when it comes to relationships? I constantly am getting involved with men that are like me, making plans last minute and don't always feel committed even when they do make plans. So why am I surprised at the end of the day that I can't find someone who is stable?

It is not that I have a huge amount of trouble getting men interested (is that too cocky??), but I am usually uninterested. I talked to a guy in a bar last weekend who told me he wanted his children to be financially secure...what? I am 24! I don't have a boyfriend! I am wondering if I can afford a Marc Jacobs bag, not college. But that is just me, and good things come to those who wait.

Right?

Why the Olympics are Bad for blogging

Yes, the Olympics definitely provide a lot of fodder for bloggers. Theres wins, loses, tears, celebrations, underage athletes, upsets, controversy surrounding the host country, ...BUT for us American viewers there at late nights, late nights, late nights.

For the past week I do not believe I have gone to bed before 12 am. Ok, maybe I am loser who needs their sleep, but I need my sleep. I have watched the Men's Gymnastics all-around, the Women's Gymnastics all-around, the individual gymnastic events, Bolt win both the 100m and 200m, and finally Misty and Kerry's gold medal historic win last night (ps we are on a first name basis because I have not so secret crushes on both of them). I mean all this event watching is enough to make a girl tired. Plus, I have been going to the gym more often cause after you watch someone run a marathon in 2 hours and 30 min, you begin to wonder why it is so hard for you to run 3 miles in 30 min.

So, by the time I drag my tired ass to bed, it is 12:30 and I am up at 6:30 to start another day. 6 hours is not enough to function (especially since I selected such an inopportune time to wean myself off coffee...).

But alas, it is all worth it cause I will remember what I was doing when Kerry Walsh hit the set point for gold...on my couch, half asleep, with a Popsicle wrapper stuck to my pajamas. If that is not glorious, please tell me what is.

My Family is swimming in Denile...

Yesterday my Mom and Grandmother were visiting my Aunt who lives around Boston. I have seen my Mom at least once every week for the last month and did not feel extremely motivated to sit in traffic for an hour and a half, but I hadn't seen my grandmother in a while and well...I have no food in my fridge. So I endured the hour and a half, bumper to bumper, traffic to arrive at my aunts house to find no one home. This is typical of my family and the reason I told them I would be there 15 minutes earlier than I actually was. They did drive up about 5 minutes later, but its the principal.

Anyway, I walk into my Aunts house and it STINKS! There was a mix of burnt rubber and crap fumes lingering in the air and NO ONE was saying anything. So I said "Why does it stink in here?" My Mom just looks at me and says, "It doesn't sting." Ummm, what? I am not one for sensative nostrils and this smell does not usually inhabit my aunt's house. My uncle just gave me a look and I knew, it was my grandmother's dogs who I soon found out had be sprayed by a skunk the night before.

I know my grandmother's dogs are her children. She feeds them from the table, does not let them out of her sight, and she holds conversations with them regularly. I am OK with this. I understand that since my grandfather died suddenly of a heart attack while he was running on the treadmill at the tender age of 67, her world has changed. She now has to live alone (although she is usually with one of her children at least 2x a week) and she has lost the one rock in her life. I understand she is fragile. However, there is a time when reality must be set into play because I do not believe we are helping the problem by avoiding it.

Of course as soon as I said it stank my Grandmother got defensive and threatened to lock the dogs in the car. Really?? That is not what I meant, but her drama immediately puts both my Mother and Aunt on edge. I am now the bad guy cause I stated the truth.

Do I think my grandmother will ever be truly happy again, no. Do I believe that this is just due to the death of my grandfather, no. Do I believe that sometimes people have to face what scares them the most in order to change, yes.

Living in denile has rarely helped anyone. So, give the dogs a bath.

Has Perez lost his mojo?

I have been a long time reader of Perez Hilton, what can I say, I sometimes love the smut. However, as I was scrolling through today, I noticed something. The comments that once averaged 200 or more, now seem to average about 30. This was prevalent throughout the first few pages. It lead me to question, has Perez lost his blogger mojo?

Perez has long been the indisputable queen of celebrity blogging. He has gained fame through his uniquely photo shopped pictures and scathing remarks on celebrities. In addition, he has had some infamous appearances on The View and fights with Elizabeth Hasselback (a regular on the Perez blog).

However, are people tired of the scathing remarks? I will openly admit that I have become more and more uninterested at the constant celebrity watching and bashing. Although I am sure to pick up the new People Magazine this weekend, I no longer feel the urge to venture over and read about how fat someone looked yesterday while on vacation with their family. No thanks.

What do you think? Is Perez sliding fast or just hitting a dip?

The Olympics are HERE!!!

Ok, I know, a little late on the uptake. Sorry about being MIA for a complete week. What can I say, sometimes I get lazy, writers block, busy. You may pick any of the prior as my excuse. I was in New York, Boston, and Maine last week. I got to see my brother all grown up and working at the UN, my parents (who still live in my home town, pop. 1,112) navigating the streets of New York City, and boogie board and build sand castles with some friends I grew up with on the Maine coast. All in all a GREAT week.

My attention has also been on the Olympics practically every night from 8-11 (please feel free to judge my lack of activity). I LOVE the Olympics. Even though I am a skier and when I was little would dream about racing to Olympic gold, the winter Olympics are never as exciting to me as the summer. Track & Field, Swimming, Gymnastics, Beach Volleyball, I have become fans of all of them. Misty May-Treanor and Kerry Walsh are amazing to watch on the court. Trust me, I played beach volley ball over the weekend and it is not as easy as they make it look. Michael Phelps wins not only because who doesn't like watching a 23-year-old athletic male in a speedo, but also he is FAST! Last night in the 200m freestyle he blew away the competition and beat the world record. He is 23!! He has 9 career medals!! What am I doing with my life?!?!

I think my love for the Olympics started when I toke a Niagra Falls trip with my brother and my grandparents during the 1996 games. We would all huddle around the mini tv in the front of the camper and watch the games. I remember that being the first time I really bonded with my brother over sports. Before it had mainly been about fighting over watching Saved by the Bell or SportsCenter.

Do you have an Olympic moment you remember?

Well, that was a first

This weekend I had my first irate dating experience. So I have been seeing Cyberboy for about a month and we have gone on 3 dates and had about twice as many phone conversations. He was nice, but there was none of that za-za-zu. Basically, I just wasn't really feeling it. (he does not look like the man to the left, but perfect image of feeling)

In the mean time, Mr.J has come back in the picture as well. Although we are not rushing back together, we are talking and hanging out. What can I say, I love the kid.

So I had told Cyberboy about Mr.J as a way to say "thanks, but no thanks." He gushed about how much he wanted to get to know me better, so I was a softie and caved into another date. Friday, I reeeaaalllyy wasn't feeling it, so I canceled (there were also scheduling conflicts, but essentially I said, no). I thought by now he might be getting the hint, but no.

So Saturday I finally bit down and told him flat out, this is not working. What does he do? Call me a money grabbing bitch, essentially. Now, I am not that materialistic, growing up in Maine I think it is hard to be. I don't buy articles of clothing for over $50 and always on sale. A $40 dinner out is classy and I would much rather stay in watching a movie than a night on the town. But it was not enough for him to insult me once, but I received three late night text messages.

#1 - saying "you used me for dinner dates"

#2 - saying "I knew you were all about money, now this proves it to me"

#3 - "You had a great guy trying to get to know you better, you ex will dump you again, you'll see"

So, I think 1 and 2 pretty much negate #3. If you were a "great guy" I doubt you would stoop to the level of accusing someone you had been on 3 dates with in the last month as using you for money. I also find it ironic as I work in an entreprenurial business where we work because of passion and not necessarily profit, and he works in the financial district.

Oh well, one for the books ; )

CNN - Really? I thought you were better than this

I have a love for CNN. I get their alerts several times a day, they report new and interesting breaking stories, and it is trustworthy. But today under their "Breaking News" section, I think I came across the stupidest headline of the week:

Study: Most kids' fast-food meals have too many calories

I mean, really CNN? That is your breaking new study, fast food is fattening for children? I mean, no offense, but I think I could have figured that one out myself. Fast food joints may be trying to mask their unhealthy meals with new additions such as "apple dippers" and healthier side options, but does that really out way the fat chicken nuggets or a junior cheeseburger. I'm going with no on this one.

The story goes on to report that:

"Nearly every possible combination of the children's meals at Kentucky Fried Chicken, Taco Bell, Sonic, Jack in the Box, and Chick-fil-A are too high in calories, the report by the Center for Science in the Public Interest said."

And...

"Burger King has a "Big Kids" meal with a double cheeseburger, fries, and chocolate milk at 910 calories, and Sonic has a "Wacky Pack" with 830 calories worth of grilled cheese, fries, and a slushie."

I still eat fast food about once a month, but I am not pretending that what I am eating is actually good for me. Just look at the name of the restaurants, I am gonna say that any restaurant with the name Chick-fil-A does not have my best health interests in mind...

So, I am going to say a resounding "Duh" on this report and give CNN a little bit of a get out of jail free card for putting it under "Breaking News." But the next time I see a headline like "Study: Smoking causes cancer" I am going to have to drop them from my feed.

An Ode To Manny

What has happen to baseball?
Remember the days when teams stuck together
Through the melodrama and injuries
Ted Williams and Dom Dimaggio
When baseball was more then dollars and Ws

So Manny had some attitude
Doesn't everyone in Boston?
We are a bloodied sox, long haired, rag tag team
We are the underdogs and champions
Did we forget who helped us along the way?

Manny's trade will go down in history
With Clemens and Pedro and Nomar
And those are just the ones I remember
What can I say, I am all about nostalgia

So good-bye Manny, good luck in LA
And no matter what some Boston fans say
We'll miss you
Especially when we realize this young hitter can't play

I wish I was this cool when I was 12

When browsing through the technology section of Trend Central, I found this freakin' awesome 12-year-old's blog. Her voice and writing are way beyond her mere 12 years, I think I was still brushing barbie's hair and dressing her in 80s wedding dresses...

The greatest thing is, she still seems like a kid. My favorite list one her site:

Listening: The Last 5 Years
Feasting: gatorade
Watching: It Takes Two
Reading: Random Archie comics
Wanting: a cape
Doing: reading
Thinking: I would not for my life. He has toad, he should be happy.

Favorite picture:

Tavi is arty without being overly sexualized, since she is creating her own media instead of catering to the big wigs. She could be a huge influence on other girls her age, that one can be smart, artistic, poignant, and a kid, all at the same time.

My coworker also just brought up an interesting point, will more and more kids like Tavi start popping up on the web? Blog are something children have become increasingly exposed to and it is only a matter of time before they start taking advantage of the medium.

Go check Tavi out!

Great Vintage Inspired Jewelry!!

I am always on the lookout to find vintage inspired items to add color or edge to everyday looks. The pieces usually add that "little something" to an outfit that might otherwise flop. Recently at BlogHer I met the sweetest women Lotta with some great vintage inspired pieces, one of which I have been wearing since I bought them at her booth.

While at BlogHer I bought a pair of her coral drop earrings. They are awesome. I wore them out last night to dinner with friends and everyone was asking me where I bought them, and I have just found out where I can send them.

Lotta sells her line at Etsy, paticularly Momomatic, and I have found more great stuff there that I love. My favorite on the site right now, the Jell-O charm necklace. The charm is ironic, colorful, and fun. It reminds me of something you might pick up at Urban Outfitters, but has much more authenticity, style, and a lower price tag.

Go check her out!!

Marriage in America

I came across an interesting article today about black women in America and marriage. Although I am not black, I thought the article lent an interesting perspective on traversing the dating world in today's society. 45% of black women and 23% of white women never get married in the United States. As the writer, Dionne Hill (pictured left) remarks:

"Why are you still single? I hate that question. Yet I am forced to confront it. What's the state of your relationship?

One reason: personal responsibility. Among the men I have dated, there were definitely some who were ready for something a little more significant than I was willing to give. Did I drag my feet because I wasn't ready? Or was it because those men weren't right for me? It's debatable and probably a combination of the two."

I also loved the remark:

"My outlook: optimistic. My honest fear: It may never happen."

I believe that no matter what our race, there are still problems every women faces. It is a great article about staying true to yourself, no matter what the statistics.

A Little Sample

Growing up in Maine is both a wonderful and terrifying experience, especially rural Maine. When I tell people I am from Maine they occasionally look at me as though I am from a foreign mythical place in the Northern woods. Then when I tell them I grew up in a town with a recorded 1,103 inhabitants (from Wikipedia) I might as well be an alien. So I thought I would share a little more about where I come from, because Tim Sample is a Maine staple and listening to his comedy in the car was a big part of my childhood. It also exhibits why I had to get out...

I Didn't Know Scrabble was a Doubles Sport

So as we all know, sometimes being single is tough. You occasionally find yourself eating alone in your apartment since your roommates are out with their boyfriends, you walk by couples in line for brunch as you carry the NY Times, a bagel, and coffee back to your apartment, or you are the only one at family functions getting nudges from uncles with the question "Got a boyfriend yet?". However, I never thought the playing Scrabble would be one of those moments.

I thought I would recount the moment for you. I came home last week exhausted from driving an hour and a half to a concert featuring my favorite country artist Eric Church and wanting a night at home with minimal talking. I picked the wrong night. Both my roommates' boyfriends were there. I am friends with all of them so it is all cool.

My roommate comes out of her room and peaks her head out on the porch where my other roommate and her boyfriend are having dinner. She asks them if they are interested in playing Scrabble. My ears perk, Scrabble, I love Scrabble. So I chime in, "hey, I would love to play Scrabble."

My roommate gives me an awkward look, and actually says, "Oops, this is awkward." Why is it awkward...to her, only 4 people can play at a time aka couples night only. WTF!

First I breakup with my boyfriend and then I am bared from simple Scrabble play? I did join the game after some discussion that 5 people could indeed play Scrabble is the box was used as an additional holder. So, there I sat, with the box in my lap in a living room full of couples. Why did I choose to play in the first place? Oh yeah, because I am more competitive then any person I know and would never turn down a challenge of Scrabble.

I didn't win, but I thought it was worth the fight.

Who Said Being Perfect Was So Much Fun

I am having a moment, so, let it happen. I have told you about my fight with growing up and part of that is because I forever strive to find perfection. I know, withhold judgment for the time being.

My worst fear is failure. It haunts me when I can’t make that last two minutes on the treadmill, when I am at work at 7 pm and can’t finish my last project, when I am not there for my sister when she may need me the most. Possibly I could blame this on my childhood, I was a middle child and you know how that turns out sometimes. Possibly I could blame this on my high school ski coaches. They fucked up a lot of us up. Possibly I could blame this on my innate personality, but that would mean blaming myself, which is never my first option.

In the end, I say throw it all away. Perfection is no fun (yes I say that now as I contemplate my outfit for tomorrow). But I do mean it. Although I try my damndest to not worry about perfection, it haunts me. I can’t be perfect, just not in me. I can be my best, which is pretty close, or so I like to believe.

Cyberboy (as I will refer to date I met while on the internet and am now dumping) made me see my imperfections, which are worth talking about. I usually keep my going away bag unpacked for at least a week after returning home. Some may consider it messy, but I believe I don’t like to let vacations go. I am a night owl and an early bird, I don’t need much sleep, which drives some people crazy, but I think they are crazy to waste a day. I’m a dreamer. Even when I am told something can’t be done, I believe there is some way to get there. Even if I do procrastinate along the way, another flaw. With Cyberboy I was cultured, clean, and driven. I do exhibit all those things, but I wouldn’t be myself without the rest.

And if I want to say “bitch” in a restaurant and people notice, I don’t want to feel as though I have to apologize.

Back Again...in more ways than one

So, as I proclaimed in my previous post, I am back. But, recently I am coming back in more ways than one. So, I had my heart broken (cumulative aaaawwwww here). I know some of you read about it. Although it came out subtly (or maybe that was my secret hope) it was there. Surprising part, I am just digging my self out again.

I guess it doesn't help that Mr.J (my ex) keeps calling me even though I have asked him to stop. I get it, he still likes me but isn't ready for the commitment, I have stopped feeling bad for his immature plights. He is 27 years old, grow up!

However, sadly, I am not ready to grow up yet. I recently met a very nice guy (cough) online. I was feeling a little desperate to move on from Mr.J and thought it was a good way to catch a date. I caught him, but now I don't want to keep him. With his investment banking, sports loving, beach going portfolio it seems weird for me to want to run away, but that is what I want to do. The hard fact, I am not ready to grow up yet. Honestly, I feel as though you have to meet MANY Mr.Wrongs before you can comfortably move on with Mr.Right. It is all about timing. Mr.J was not grown up enough to commit to us and I am not ready to be a stockbroker's girlfriend.

Awww...so it is back onto the organic dating scene. I can't say I am jumping for joy, but I am sure I will be soon...hopefully.

I've been bad

I know, I have been a bad blogger. It has been a month since my last post, however I have been inspired. I am attending BlogHer in San Francisco as a business trip, but am loving taking it all in as a newbie blogger. Every woman here has a unique voice, opinion, look, and goal for who they are and what they write. I think it is pretty clear, no one is making a million dollars off the hundreds of hours (per week) they are spending on their blog, but that is what has made this so inspiring. Blogging is about the passion, stories, and connections that are made.

So, mostly, I want to say thank-you to all the fabulous people I have met this week, and look for more from me in the future ; )

Main Stream Goes Country

What is it about summer that makes people want to turn country. Is it the combination of hot sun and cowboy hats? Is it fishing, sun dresses, and riding with the windows down? Whatever it is, Hollywood is catching on. Two top recording artists have "Gone Country" this summer.

Jessica Simpson:



And Snoop Dogg:




I think Snoop may have had to sell his soul to the devil for this one. But the scarier thing is...I kinda like it. Shhhh!!

Tiger = US Open Champion

Tiger. There honestly couldn't be a more appropriate name for one of the greatest players that has ever stepped up to a T. I will be the first to admit, golf is no baseball, football, or basketball. It takes over 4 hours to play, no one gets tackled, and everyone is wearing collared shirts. However, golf is a game of mental integrity, which I think few other sports can really tout. It is you, the ball, and one very tiny hole.

I think in general, non-team sports get a bad rap. Having competed in one for for years, I believe that people find individual sports boring, there is only one person to watch on the screen at a time?!? However, individual sports take far more mental toughness than team sports. You can only blame yourself at the end of the day for your failures. This is why I think Tiger is one of the best athletes of our age. Not only did he bring an otherwise (literally and figuratively) a dieing sport back to life, but also has more mental toughness than 99% of athletes out there. Who else could recover from knee surgery, stand in front of bleachers filled with 4,000 or more spectators, and hit a putt to tie it all at the last hole?

Tim Russet Dies at age 58

It is always weird when a celebrity dies. Although you were never a part of their life, they were a part of yours. Even though I was not a huge fan of Tim Russet on "Meet the Press," I could certainly respect him for his honesty and fight for what he believed in. Time Magazine just named him one of the 100 Most Influential people in the world.

This particular death also hits close since his son was a year behind me in college and just graduated this past year. Tim Russet because a fixture of the college and appeared repeatedly as a monitor of debates and a speaker. I also lost a grandfather very suddenly 3 years ago when he was only 68. Life is sometimes not so nice. My prayers go out to his family and friends at this tragic time.

Read the full CNN story here.

You Know You Live In the BEST City EVER when...

Three out of the four of your teams make it to their finals!!! It is no small secret that Boston is a sports town. We live and die by the ebbs and flows of wins, loses, disappointments, euphoria, shame, and pride. The Red Sox won the World Series! Our undefeated Patriots lost their last game of the season...aka one of the biggest Superbowl upsets in history...The Celtics are up 3-1 over The Lakers and MVP Kobe Bryant. Phew...it has been a long year.

I remember being forced to watch basketball, baseball, and football when I was a little girl. We only had one TV in our house so when my older brother and Dad said it was game night, it wasn't really worth the fight to watch Step-by-Step (I was a child of the eighties, I am not to blame for my bad choice in TV sitcoms). However, now as a sports fan myself, I am glad that I grew up with these teams. I been to Celtics games when NO ONE was in the crowd because they were the worst team in the NBA. I have sat in Fenway when tickets were only $15 a person and I would stand over the railing of the bleachers hoping to catch a ball. These teams have become part of my childhood and now a deep cultural component in the city I love. The picture is of me as a college sophomore after the Red Sox won the world series, one of the best moments in my college career.

I know that Manny and Paul Pierce could probably care less about my enthusiasm (and slight crushes...) for their play and my love of the game. But I am part of the larger phenomena that has made them stay in Boston so long. Red Sox Nation is not just a fan group, they are THE fan group. We are unyieldingly faithful, and yes, pushy. But I wouldn't change it for anything.

GO CELTICS!

High End Prostitution Makes Good Television

I know you watched it, so don't try to deny it. When Call Me: The Rise and Fall of Heidi Fleiss came out in 2004, I was intrigued. Although it was a B-rate television movie, it gave people who live the day-to-day drag a look into the scandalous world of sex and money. Lets be honest, there is an entire series named Dirty, Sexy, Money, its interesting. People became increasingly intrigued by high class prostitution with the Spritzer scandal. Not to mention you cannot hear the name Diablo Cody, who wrote Juno, without hearing about how she used to be a stripper. To be frank, she dabbled in stripping, as anyone would know that actually read her book, her foray into stripping was a social experiment.

The high class sex ring intrigues people because it mixes our temptations. These women can make up to $4,000 a night, look like models, and, when they are not selling themselves for money, they are living a life most people can only dream of. How is it possible? Are we disgusted or should we give them a pat on the back?

A new show based on the blog Belle de Jour is taking a longer (it is a series) and more candid look at the ins and outs (pun intended) of being a call girl. The remarkable thing, I can't stop reading Belle de Jour. I know, I am probably about 4 years late on the uptake, but every time I start reading it again I am amazed by the elequence and candidness of the writer. Why did she decide to become a call girl? I haven't gotten to that part yet...

Check out Secret Diary of a Call Girl.

What are your thoughts of the trend? Is it just the optimization of sex sells?

Angelina Obsession

There comes a time when everyone gives into the Angelina Jolie obsession. Whether you are goth or a fashionista or a stay-at-home mom, Angelina exudes a certain amount of relateability that many in Hollywood lack. She is a tattooed mom with one of the hottest boyfriends and travels the world, ok, maybe relateable wasn't the right word to use in this case. Maybe it is envy or respect or awe, but for some reason, no matter what her incarnation, I am drawn to the world of Angelina.

In the new Vanity Fair, which I am certainly buying, Angelina is engaging us once again. Not to mention she is looking beautiful. I think the thing I find so facinating about Angelina is that she has been able to change her direction in life so many times and transitioned smoothly from punk indie movie star to main stream dark angel to single mom to happy family. Who can say they have gone through as much and still ended up as a spokesperson for the UN. Check out a chronical of her Vanity Fair photo spreads here.

What do you think about Angelina?

HAHA...I am a Mainer, so this post is allowed

I found this at Advertising is Good for You and could not stop laughing. I know that this is too true of Maine and the summer, Guns, Wedding Gowns, and Cold Beer are a Mainer's three words to describe a great reception, shoot gun wedding, or summer. I love my state : )

Timothy McSweeney

I was first informed of this site from Twitter. It was then immediately placed onto my bookmarks and I have loved it every since. I am not too certain where people get these lists or they develop them, but either way, I am glad I get to read them. Here is one of my recent favorites:

Personals
From Nonpersons.

BY PETER CAMERON

- - - -

Toyota Prius seeks irritating pseudoenvironmentalist for smug attitude and poorly informed dinner-party rant on Middle Eastern oil politics.

California relocation for "fresh start" seeks disaster-prone individual for postmove loneliness and employment difficulties followed by crippling "sleep all day" depression episode.

Cringe-inducing racist remark seeks grandfather for slip of the tongue during family get-together.

Tedious recounting of last night's nonsensical dream seeks potential suitor on first date for obliteration of second-date possibility.

Surprisingly explicit and seemingly unending movie sex scene seeks family for very uncomfortable viewing moment.

I find this list funny for two reasons. Reason 1, my aunt and I were talking about how she just bought a Prius. The other day she was walking out of Whole Foods with a Starbucks Coffee and turned on her Prius, on came NPR. Be afraid, a Prius will change you. Reason 2, I have been in several uncomfortable movie moments with both my parents, and my grandparents. Not recommended, but always makes for good family conversation later down the road.

Check it out!

Just a thought

I was just walking down our little street when I passed a smoker and it hit me. Why is it that the people who probably spend the most time outside during the work day are smokers?

I know there is a lot of bad karma out there about smokers, but they are still able to skip out of the office and go outside now and then to smoke. It isn't usually questioned too severely why they are not at their desk, bosses are usually lenient to the fact that smoking breaks need to happen, and it is generally accepted by coworkers. However, as I sprinted down to the mailbox to send a letter to a client, feeling guilty for being outside, I just thought it was an interesting observation, so I slowed a little bit.

Family Dynamics

I love my family, I really do. I love that they are there to support me in whatever my decisions are (such as flying off to Thailand by myself when I was 18 for two months) and love me no matter my mistakes (making out with my brother's roomate...). However, family weekends are exhausting.

I just returned last night from a 7 hour car ride from my sister's town in up, up state New York where she is going to grad school. First off, it is really far away. I rode down with my aunt, which was fun (we repeatedly listened to Jason Mraz and REM). My mom and grandmother drove from my house in Maine. We all banded together at last for a family "girls weekend"!

The main part that is exhausting is making sure everyone is happy. This was not made any easier by the fact that NOTHING was open in my sister's town on Sunday. I know it is a holiday, but seriously? And secondly, my grandmother has rapidly aged in the short span of a year. Since my grandfather's sudden death two years ago my family's dynamics have undoubtedly changed, but my grandmother has gone from being a spunky, athletic Gma to a cranky, aching, grandmother. I love her more than anything, she is the only grandparent remaining who I have a relationship with, but, it is getting harder. We are all trying so hard to please her, we forget about everything else.

My aunt, who is 11 years older than me and 13 years younger than my mom, said something interesting in the car ride home yesterday. She said "it is interesting seeing your Mom around you and your sister because she always manages to say the wrong thing." I had to laugh, because it is so true. Remarkably my mother has been able to strike the hard balance of both being our friend and mother, however it seems more and more lately that she is speaking before thinking when it comes to our life decisions. I think it becomes difficult when mother's realize they no longer have an impact on their children's life decisions. She has done the best she could and sent her children out into the wild, but still wants a tracking device to detect when they are doing something wrong.

But I am back from the madness. Maybe it seems more intense because we all try to get as much accomplished as we can in the short times we get to spend together. We'll see what happens during the week we spend planning my sister's wedding...

One article I could not ignore

I get CNN alerts to my e-mail both on job related items as well as breaking news. I am occasionally stunned at the way people act, but I can usually pull myself away from the situation and rationalize why people act the way they do. Yesterday I received a breaking news story that I cannot stop clicking on. The headline reads "U.N.: Poor countries could pay 40 percent more for food."A 40% increase?? We are complaining about gas prices that have risen, and that only fuels our cars.

The article goes on to say that:

"'Food is no longer the cheap commodity that it once was," FAO Assistant Director-General Hafez Ghanem said. 'Rising food prices are bound to worsen the already unacceptable level of food deprivation suffered by 854 million people.'

'We are facing the risk that the number of hungry will increase by many more millions of people.'"

Even though Bush donated over 200 million dollars to the crisis last year, that is a drop in the bucket compared to how much we have spent on the war. Not to mention that is the same amount of money Iron Man raked in last weekend. Are we really becoming that ignorant and selfish in America, my sad response would be, honestly, yes. When a Hollywood action film about a man clad in an iron suit means more to us than MILLIONS of people without basic necessities such as food it should force us to have some self reflection on our priorities and obligations to the global community.

Just a thought.

When Country is Good and When it Goes Bad

I am a complete country music fan (I'm from Maine, this is not my fault). Although this is in contrast with my love for Kanye West, I find rational for my broad music tastes. Such as Tim McGraw and Nelly's duet "Over and Over Again" or The Gourds and Snoop Dogg "Gin and Juice." However, sometimes country can cross the line. Therefore, I thought I would do an example of the best and worst of this week in country music.

The Best: Taylor Swift's performance at the ACM awards. She is young, has an AMAZING voice and this was a dynamite performance. My question, how did she pull the clothes stunt off?



The Worst: Carrie Underwood on American Idol finale. I love Carrie Underwood, and especially this song. It is about Vegas, could I ask for anything more. However, what was she wearing?!?! I would suggest imediately firing the person that suggested that hideous outfit, they are giving country a bad name.

Drama Rama

I hate drama in my life. Rarely does it solve the more complex insecurities that are going on in life. I have never understood why people yearn for drama in their life and relationships. Does it make life or your relationship more real? Like you are really fighting for something? It is not that I don't fight or yell or confronts someone when I think they are in the wrong, I just don't do it very often. My ex-boyfriend always told me I was too trusting.

But, I thought I would share with you my horoscope today:

"Things are looking up, yet there's a stress that won't magically disappear. But even with too much happening, you can make time to enjoy yourself without going into denial about something important. You have an innate skill: you can stay focused in the present moment when you are passionate. Use your concentration wisely by preparing for what's coming instead of scattering your attention all over the place."

I am learning the importance of balance. Sometimes there is cause for drama, sometimes you have to give people the benefit of the doubt, sometimes you don't have the choice. That may sound passive, that sometimes you don't have a choice, but, we don't. The truth is, I need to focus. I need to focus on me. Will that cause drama, maybe. But is was also a decision I was forced to make after my current break-up. I am glad I was forced to make the choice, in the end, it was the right one to make.

Kanye West = The Brightest Star

So, as you may know, I headed to the Kanye West Glow in the Dark concert last night. All I can say is AMAZING. The concert was by far and away one of the best I have ever been to. The fact that Kanye can be on stage, by himself, for 2 hours is phenomenal. That boy got talent.

Also an amazing thing, he was able to take a space age theme and make it cool. I mean, I am not into science fiction. I don't even think I have ever been able to make it through ET, but Kanye crash landing on a mysterious planet, genius. The only annoying thing, everyone was walking around in those plastic glasses with the slits in them, don't understand that fashion choice. Kanye can rock it because, well, he's Kanye and can do whatever he wants. But, everyone else, stick to the rule "no sunglasses at night."

I think the thing I was above and beyond impressed with was how inspired I actually felt after the show. I mean, usually after exiting a concert I am content with just seeing a great performance, but Kanye's songs are not just about the entertainment value. Of course "Hey Mama" was amazing, I mean how can you not tear up a bit when Kanye is crying?

Click here to see bootlegged footage of the show. It is no match for the real thing, but its a good glimpse.

Can't get it out of my head

I first heard the beginning of this song in the Sex and the City trailer. After that, I searched for it on-line for at least an hour, finally finding out that it was sung by India.Arie. I LOVE IT!! I can't get the lyrics or the melody out of my head. I don't know if it because of my current situation or India.Arie's voice is just hypnotizing. Thoughts?

Going to Kanye tonight!

I am ssssooo excited! I went to a concert of his at my college two years ago, but I think that tonight will be way better. For one, Rihanna is opening. Two, my friend got AMAZING seats. Three, it is outside. I would love to give a shout-out to my friend for getting us tickets, luv you!

To honor Kanye, I am posting his video Flashing Lights, because it is crazy. I don't necessarily think that this is his best video, but it by far took the most risk, which I can appreciate.

Revealing Moment: A matter of Trust

OK, time to dig deep on this one. Honestly, I am not a very trusting person. I feel as though I am trustworthy, but I rarely trust other people's motives and actions. This could because I have had several friendships that have ended with people stabbing me in the back and then days later asking me for a favor, or two relationships that have ended due to cheating. I sometimes wonder if I surround myself with untrustworthy people so they prove my theory to me. Nothing like confirming your own theories.

So, I have decided that I create destructive relationships because I always want these types of people to prove me wrong. I know, crazy thought, wanting to be proved wrong is not usually my thing. However, as my current relationship deteriorates I have been forced once again to evaluate why it ended and why it didn't end sooner. It may not even be over...

Revelation, to start trusting my own instincts and decisions. I am confident, but not when it comes to relationships. I get the guy and then allow him to infiltrate my life without stepping back and asking what I want. I want to be happy, I want to go out to dinner "just because," I would wear sweatpants 24/7 if I was able, and I want to be myself unapologetically.

Heres to new starts and learning from heartache, I would like to say I hope it gets easier, but I was never one to assume that life is simple.

I've been thinking...

I know, dangerous. But today I was thinking about what revealing reviews actually meant. Is it just revealing reviews about products, or could it be revealing reviews of my life, political thoughts, or even other people's lives? I mean, to be honest, I feel as though the title leaves it open for discussion. So here is an unveiling of some of my thoughts:

1. Why do people sometimes act in they way they THINK you want them to? It is frustrating. If I wanted someone to do something then I would just ASK them not to. If I haven't said anything, that probably means I like things the way they are.

2. Hilary Clinton should stop making the campaign about slandering Barack and instead focus on her self. People don't hate on you, just your husband. My suggestion, dump the extra baggage and become the strong woman you actually are.

3. Be honest with who you are. No one likes someone who lies and it rarely benefits anyone. Know yourself before speaking.

4. Lastly, don't buy this years fad "Gladiator" sandles. They look ugly and they will be dusty in your closet by July. Its not worth the $200, buy an iPod.

It makes me giggle

I know, graffic tees are so 2006. They went of style as quickly as trucker hats, which is not necessarily a bad thing. However, recently, I have been falling back in love. It started with Johnny Cupcakes. As I stated before, I am a bit of a tomboy. My favorite outfit is a pair of sweatpants and a t-shirt, substitute jeans for a night out at the local dive bar. Johnny Cupcakes lured me into their store after I read an article in the Boston Metro and I was immediately hooked. Their tees are cute, sometimes ironic, and always "in-style." A good t-shirt never dies.

I recently stumbled onto a site I find hilarious. Although I may never be brave enough to wear one of their shirts, I think those of you our there that are should definitely go for it. Snorg Tees have some of the funniest t-shirts I have seen in a while. My favorite is a grizzly bear with a CareBear rainbow on its stomach. As a past CareBears fan, I can truly appeciate the humor and I am sure you will find one that speaks to you : ).

I understand the problem...

I was just browsing the Internet today during my lunch break (because obviously I don't spend enough time on it already) and stumbled upon this little (cough)...jem. My Hip-T is just that, a mini shirt that goes from about your belly button and over the waist of your jeans. I mean, I understand the problem, no one likes to see a teenager (or 40-year-olds) thong peeking out when they sit down, but I am not sure this is the solution. First off, wouldn't it slip down. I don't care if there is super glue supposedly holding the fabric to your skin, bottom line, they look uncomfortable. If you have tried them and don't feel the same way, let me know. But until then, I am just going to continue to buy jeans that actually cover my ass.

Britains Got Talent

Oh, the power of Facebook! My friend posted this on her page today and all I can say is AWESOME. Apparently, although contrary to popular belief, Americans are not the only ones who've "Got Talent." Enjoy the surprise ; )

Great Find: Loyal Army Hoodies

I LOVE hooded sweatshirts. I can't help it, I am a tomboy at heart. Plus, I rationalize, that it is always cold in Boston, even in the summer, so you need an extensive stash of warm clothing. I got a great tip today from Naomi at Superdumb Supervillan about Loyal Army. Even with my extensive collection, I have never heard of these sweatshirts, but they are so cute!

My two particular favorites are the Big Houndstooth and Happy Clouds. I think I the Happy Clouds one could honestly lift me up on those bad mood days (aka today). Who couldn't feel happy when wearing happy clouds and yellow :)

Not only are these hoodies cute, but really cheap. I will admit that I am not beyond spending $100 on a really good hoodie, I am going to wear it all the time. However, if I can get one just as cute for $35, I am definitely going for it. I have already added the Big Houndstooth to my cart and will definitely hit "buy" at the end of the day (I am also a deep thinker when it comes to hoodies...).

Naomi also mentioned they would be coming out with a new baby line, which I am sure will be super cute!

FINALLY!! The Sex and the City trailer released today!!

I think every woman between the ages of 20 to 50 have been eagerly anticipating the release of Sex in the City: the Movie. The drama, the fashion, the shoes! Any woman in that age range has a closet full of shoes that they never wear and their husband or boyfriend can't understand. Sex in the City was the first show that finally made it OK to be selfish, whimsical, strong, and realistic, all at the same time. What can we say, we're a moody bunch.

So (drum roll...) the official trailer was released today!!! Yeah!!!

Stop reading now if you don't want to find out a little bit more about the movie.


I heard the other day that Big leaves Carrie at the alter in the beginning of the movie. Surprised? I'm not. Even though the ending of the last show people saw why Carrie had held out for Big so long, in the end, I believe he is just an ass. Now it is surprising that I don't like him since I usually fall for assholes myself. I think the difference is that Big pretends to be a good guy, but is just pompus, selfish, and, well, an ass. Aidan would have been my choice, but where is the drama in happily ever after?

Watch them shooting the scene of Big talking to Carrie after not showing up at the church.

In addition, someone dies. The LA times is assuming it is one of the main characters, but they would never do that, especially if there are plans for a sequel.

Look for more Sex in the City movie drama soon ;)

Super Heros...In Vogue

I am not ashamed to admit I am the first one to start running to the theater as soon as a new Spider Man movie is released. Although I was only a comic book fan of the Archie series, and still get a little nostalgic when I see them at the check out stands at grocery stores, I never really revealed in the Marvel fantasies.

However, ironically, as I became more of an "adult" I started to look for something more to remove me from the ins and outs of my everyday routine. I am still not a comic book fan, but I love comic book movies. Being able to fly, be invisible, the battle against good and evil, always a good time. An now it seems as though the fashion world is starting to take notice as well.

In the new issue of Vogue, the magazine does a spread mimicing classic super heroes with haute coutoure. I LOVE IT! Of course haute coutoure isn't practically for your Friday night at the bar, Vogue makes it both simultaneously whimsical and strong. I'm guessing the spread is in large part due in conjunction with their cover girl, Gwyneth Paltrow, being the leading lady in this summer's Iron Man.

What do you think? High fashion or hideous?