"Paul" Official Video - Baby Teeth.

Everyone must watch this video!  If you love the best of the best 80s movies then you must watch this video.  Hence, everyone must watch this video!

Let's all have a moment of silence for the now disbanded Baby Teeth.

Now, wipe away those tears and see what a beaut they left behind.  Happy Friday, all!

She's Back.

 image via NME

Fiona.  Fiona.  Fiona. 

I am beguiled.  I am smitten.  I am jealous.  I am in awe. 

Let’s pretend that it hasn’t been two months since I last posted because all I want to talk about is the greatest concert I went to last night.  Yes.  The greatest concert I went to last night.  I know. 

I had never seen Fiona Apple live, but always considered myself a fan.  Her new album (can we call it a comeback? what constitutes a comeback?) was just as great as I had hoped and I was beyond pumped for the concert.  Unsurprisingly, she was late to her own party.  I‘m not the most savvy of concert-goers, but almost two hours post-start time seems a bit dramatic to me.  I was annoyed; thinking of the Tuesday night and early alarm in the morning.  (Yes.  I am now THAT person.)  But then she showed up.  Levitated onto stage (not really) and all was forgiven.

Dear God.  She is the weirdest person I don’t know.  She moved in the most insane ways and I could not get enough of it.  My mouth was agape.  I couldn’t peel my eyes from the stage. 

I surprisingly sang every word, as if I had lived my life specifically for this moment.  Who knew I remembered all those lyrics?  Lord knows I barely know the last thing that came out of my own mouth much less someone else’s thoughts from years ago.  But I did.  And I made everyone else around me uncomfortable by singing along.  I couldn’t help it!  (I wasn't the only one, I promise.) Transfixed by her bizarre elbows and knees and throaty screams I moved in sequence in my seat; a drone of a bleeding heart. 

I don’t know how many times she ended up on the floor.  Straight.up.hands.and.knees.on.the.floor.  It was amazing.  Awe inspiring.  And embarrassing all at the same time.

She said only four words other than singing and I don’t even know what they were besides a shrill “GOOD NIGHT” at the end of her encore (a cover which blew everyone away).  I hate when artists don’t talk in concerts, but her performance was so raw and strange and unlike her recorded versions I didn’t care. 

I would pay to see it seven more times.

Seven. 

That’s the number I decided upon.

Fiona.  Fiona.  Fiona.

RUN.  Don’t walk if she’s coming your way.

Birdlips.

Do you want to listen to Christmas music, but get sick of everything you've heard over and over again?  I've been listening to Pandora (don't really own Christmas music -- who knew?) and it seems to be a whole lot of the same thing after a while.

Birdlips has changed all of that for me.  Now I feel kind of cool listening to Christmas music -- didn't know that was possible. 

Go here to listen for yourself!

via refinery 29

The Nutcracker!

Nothing gives me more holiday cheer than seeing The Nutcracker and I couldn't be happier that someone is willing to see it with me every year. [Hi, Katie!]  Tonight's the night and I couldn't be more excited. 

The Snow Queen has always been my favorite and I can't wait to see what the Joffrey does with it this year.  Who wants to bet I'll be teary-eyed? 

I'm a bit nervous because I've heard Waltz of the Flowers is a series of duets and trios as opposed to a large number, and I don't like when they do that.  Probably because I was always in the Waltz of the Flowers and the large number felt so pivotal to me.  There is so much build up in the music before that number and it only feels appropriate to see something grand parallel to the music. 

Whatever happens I'm sure I'll be filled with glee.  And more than happy to be that much closer to Christmas.  

images via time out chicago

Boo!

Happy Friday, friends!  What are you guys up to this weekend?  Any fun Halloween plans?  I've weirdly given up on Halloween in the past couple of years.  Maybe I'm getting too old?  I don't know; it's lost its luster.  But, please tell me all about your fun costume ideas!  I'll live vicariously. 

Friday Links:

• I never thought I'd be the kind of girl of who streams an album before you can buy it (not that into music.  there, I said it), but the NEW Florence and the Machine is out and I am dying.
• Speaking of music: Robyn is my new major girl crush.  For many reasons, but, at this point in time, mainly because she ROCKS THE DANCE FLOOR like I do in my dreams in this video.  Why can't I dance like this girl?  Girl makes even the electric slide look good!
• And then this video popped up in my life and and I love the song even more.  How can I download this onto my ipod?  Seriously.  How can I?
• The 25 best horror films of the aughts.  Who wants to watch them with me?  I just watched number 7 and I'm ready for the rest!
• Have you guys tried this supposedly universal blush?  I'm intrigued.
• An adorable collection of guys confessing what it's like to work up the nerve to kiss a girl.
• This blind dog has a seeing eye dog!  Just read it.  You'll probably cry.  I did.   

image via pinterest

Happy Friday!

What is everyone up to this weekend?  I'm hoping to lay low a bit; I had so much fun with Andrea last weekend, but running around like that makes me one tired girl.  I have a scary movie party to attend and I'll probably swing by the hospital because my college roommate just had her second baby!!  Say hello to the world, Wesley Alexander.  (Great name, right?)

What else?  What else?

I have a shortened Friday Links page this week because I've been super busy...

• Has everyone heard of this yet?  Mindy Kaling (I ALWAYS write about her -- I have a major girl crush, obviously) has a new blog and she is as delightful as ever.
• An edited excerpt from a Charlie Kaufman lecture. 
• Florence Welch interviewed by Baz Luhrman.  (Katie, be prepared for them to mention Blake Lively like she's Florence's bestie.  She is their "mutual friend" and catalyst for introduction.)
• I was randomly checking a wedding blog to get one last Friday Link thinking, "Maybe they'll have a pretty dress."  And then I'm all, "Wait.  I KNOW that girl!"  (As much as you can know a friend's friend, you know what I mean?)  Kali is super gorgeous and had a super gorgeous wedding and I've already seen some of these photos on Facebook because, you know, Lauren was there.  No big deal. 

image via pinterest

Apologies.

Y'all.  This is the first Tuesday since I started Outfit Tuesdays in which I don't have an outfit.  Ouch!!  Sorry, y'all! 

Here's the deal: My BFF is coming to visit this weekend (yiiii!!) and I'm preparing as if we're heading to Noah's Ark.  I mean, I gotsa clean, make plans, make playlists, buy groceries, brush the cat* and in the meantime have my own normal life which consists of fun things like B Town's birthday.

So, yeah.  I'm a bit blogless this week. 

I don't know what to promise you other than I promise I'm gonna be flaky.  And hopefully more inspired than ever upon my return because I would have gotten some Good, Ol' Fashioned Girl Time.  Ya know what I meang?

SOOOOOOO... in my so super rude absence I leave you with the NEW Florence and the Machine video.  I know, I know.  I AM too kind.  Oooohhh, stop. 

*Andrea reads this here blog and I don't want her to worry that I'm going too out of my way, so let's reassure her that I'm not.  Ready, everyone?  Let's say it together... "I promise, Andrea, anything I do, I do because I want to." 

But I won't do that.  

Sorry.  Meatloaf got in my head. 

Weekend!

 

Happy Friday, friends!  Can you believe it's October??  I always remember when they'd say that time moves faster the older you get.  Well, Jesus: time is flying.  And I'm not even old.

That scares me. 

But what doesn't scare me is that my best gal pal is turning three zero this weekend and we are GOING DANCING!  I can't wait to sip champagne and celebrate Bridg the best way I know how (she always wants to go dancing and I always poo poo it).  

I feel very lucky that I have friends in my life that keep me grounded, keep me laughing, and always make me feel loved.  Bridgid, I found you a bit late in the game, but I couldn't be happier having you in my life; simply knowing you're there makes things better.  Thank you for being an incredible friend!

Have a great weekend, ladies!  Drink wine and dance and tell your friends you love them!

Otherwise, read Friday Links:

• A sad account of admission from the LOST writer Damon Lindelof.  Nothing is surprising and, in fact, it's kind of refreshing to hear him actually say it.  But still...
• Not the same genre of show AT ALL, but I LOVE this second season show and it seems I'm not alone!
• I heart Mindy Kaling.  
• This is a bit old, but I didn't post last Friday when I meant to post this: I also heart Miranda July. 
• The most thoroughly sweet proposal.  (Thanks, Melissa!)
• An unsolved mystery I am STILL thinking about. 
• Perhaps a bit late in the season, but doesn't this sound delicious?
• And a playlist right up my alley.  Please send some love to Kate, she has a big hurdle ahead. 

image via pinterest

History.

Yes.  Yes, I used to listen to Train.  I only bring up this embarrassing fact because I was with my best friend from high school last night and it made me think of this.  It's great that you can have friends that know you used to listen to Train (and totally rock out to Train [and by totally rock out I mean play loudly and sing along to on your car stereo]), but will love you forever anyway.  Lauren is one of those girls. 

There is nothing better than hanging with someone who knows your history better than you do.  It makes you feel grounded in a way that other people can't and it's especially thrilling when you don't live close to said friends.

Here's to history and memories and forever friendships!

image found via pinterest -- thanks, sami! 

Murder for Two - A Killer Musical.

I'm just popping in to say that if you live in or near Chicago you MUST. SEE. THIS. SHOW!  It's endlessly entertaining and my cheeks were literally in pain because I was laughing and smiling so much throughout the entire thing. 

Joe Kinosian (also the co-creator and all-around fabulous guy) and Alan Schmuckler are out of this world in this fantastic murder mystery musical.  They dance!  They sing!  They BOTH PLAY THE PIANO! 

Alan Scmuckler plays a detective called upon a crime scene where Joe Kinosian plays ALL NINE other characters.  For reals.  It's supah impressive.  Their chemistry is palpable and their talent undeniable; it's a wonderful delight for all.

If you don't like to have a good time, then this isn't the thing for you.  But if you're a normal person with a heartbeat -- just go see the damn thing already! 

image: Liz Lauren

Best Weekend Ever.

Headed to the Pitchfork Music Festival AND seeing Harry Potter this weekend, it's going to be a grand time.  If we're being honest here, I'm more excited about Harry Potter, but Neko Case should be just as good, too.

The dress I purchased for today's festivities (re: hot and outside) turned out to be part of a swimwear line.  Ooops!  (Thaaaaat's why it's sort of see-through!)  After some interesting finagling I think it's gonna work.  Just maybe.  It's either a best or worst sartorial moment for me, and I'm prepared for either.  Really I'm just hoping it will get dark out sooner rather than later. 

What are y'all up to this weekend?  Are you as excited for Harry Potter as I am?


isn't that image the best?! found via pinterest, of course

Music Nation.

Let's talk about music. 

I am not known for my music library, music is not really my thang.  In fact, the other night I had a conversation with someone about how the electronica music sounded like it was skipping to me and he called me a grandma.  I'm very aware that my taste and opinion for music differs greatly from my discerning taste for the Other Arts.  I need my own version of self-help, music self-help, if you will. 

I've talked before how I don't hear lyrics very well. I'm just not an auditory learner!  I also don't spend much time listening to music, I'd rather be watching tv or doing other things.  It's true.  I'm not really happy to admit it; I would feel much cooler if I liked music more, but this is the life I must lead.

I also must admit that I don't like cool music very much.  Well, that's a lie, I do like cool music a lot, but I also like really shitty music.  If it catches me, I'm a total sucker.  For instance, I am SUPER drawn to the Glee music lately.  I know, I know.  I'm ashamed, but it's true.   [I'm currently listening to the Glee cover of Lady Gaga's Bad Romance.  I'm sorry, Andrea!  I know our friendship will never be the same.)

But this is really what I want to talk about:  how do you listen to music??  I don't find much time in life to do so, I'm no longer in a car and therefore don't have endless time to do nothing but listen.  My commute is too short to whip out the headphones, or maybe it's just me.  And, when I come home I turn on the tv (it's sad, but true). 

ALSO, I'm one of those people who buys a few songs and becomes really obsessed with them.  I only listen to the last five songs purchased on iTunes over and over and over again.  I am TERRIBLE at the playlist.  I think it's because I listen to the songs I purchase so much when I first buy them that I get sick of them.  And I only create playlists with the songs that pop out at me, there isn't any sort of deep thought that goes into it.

Tell me, how do YOU listen to music?  How do you find new music??  What goes into creating a playlist for you?  Tell me all your music secrets; I am dying to know.

image via pinterest        

The Nutcracker.

It's the day!  Finally.  Nutcracker day! 

Katie and I are going to see the Joffrey's Nutcracker this evening and I am bursting with excitement.

Robert Joffrey created this Nutcracker, turning a decidedly European ballet into a uniquely American experience. The holidays are captured In 120 minutes as the entire Joffrey company takes the stage, creating the magic of the season. The Joffrey’s Nutcracker maintains the spirit of the original 1987 performance, while sparkling with contemporary choreography, dazzling costumes, Tchaikovsky’s thrilling score, inventive lighting and extravagant set design. The Joffrey Nutcracker is the star atop Chicago’s Holiday tree. It ignites the imagination of children of every generation. Join us to share in the magic!  All performances take place at The Auditorium Theatre.  Performances will feature live orchestral accompaniment performed by the Chicago Sinfonietta.

Couldn't you just die?!

My husband.

{Disclaimer: Don't pay attention to the Spanish subtitles, it was the best version I could find.}

My sister played this song for me as we drove the two and half hours north of Atlanta toward the mountains. I fell in love and bought it on the spot from my iPhone and haven't stopped listening to it since. It causes such a visceral reaction in me, which is my favorite kind of song. I'm sure I'm not the only one who feels that way. I can't tell you how many times I've fallen in love with a song only to listen to it over and over again. Yes, I'm one of those people that can listen to a song on repeat for ages...I should make a playlist of all those songs sometime.

Leonard Cohen writes the best songs, doesn't he? I had never heard of Teddy Thompson, but now I'm convinced I will marry him. (Even though he's prolly already with other, so to speak.) In fact, I thought this would be a great wedding song, but then I read the lyrics. Ehhh, not so much, but still sounds so sweetly haunting. This is when you learn that I rarely know what people are singing in songs. I have to seriously concentrate in order to actually hear the lyrics and usually I'm just happy with the melody and my own thoughts. I hate to admit it, but it's true. I remember the night my sister discovered this and made me sit down and listen to the entire Fiona Apple album (Extraordinary Machine - this is obviously dating my anecdote.) with the liner notes in hand. Generally the songs I like most are ones that I can easily hear the words; I can't explain what makes them easy for me to hear, but that's when I know I'll love it. Otherwise, I'm just as happy singing along with my own made-up words. This is endlessly annoying to other people.

In other news, sorry for no posts yesterday. I tried both the night before and in the morning, but Blogger kept telling me that it was unavailable. I don't know if that is some sort of metaphor for my life, but I just ignored it and waited for it to change. Another metaphor.

Also, I ended up taking NOT ONE photo with my camera while I was home. I had a fabulous time, but must wait for my sister's photos to do a wrap-up post. That is, if I deem any of them post-worthy. No pressure, Em.

Said swoon.

Okay, so I know this isn't actually a video, but out of all the videos I found I didn't like them as much as the album version. This'll have to do. I know it's a long song, but it is totally worth it. Please at least listen to the 5-6 minute mark; my heart stops a little bit every time I hear it. This, to me, is what a swoon sounds like. My audible internal swoon.

Viva La Vida.

These kids are absolutely the cutest! Soo amazing and it melts my heart every time -- PS22 Chorus in New York rocks it out to Coldplay. Check out their website, they have SO MANY videos to choose from. It is a seriously awesome time killer.

And just because I couldn't choose only one: Star Spangled Banner.

This seems to be a Music Monday, eh? Kind of like a Manic Monday. Don't even get me started on The Bangles!

(I've heard tell of these kiddos before, but was kindly reminded by Katie Armour.)

Oops.

My lack of technical abilities is starting to shine through. I think because I added pictures to the post with a video something happened to its capability to show the video?? Maybe? Who knows.

Anyway, this is what was supposed to originally appear.

Girl Crush.

I have such a girl crush on Zooey Deschanel. Serious girl crush action. In fact, I totally got my bangs after seeing Zooey's. Alas, I do not look like Zooey. Have you guys seen 500 Days of Summer? Absolutely adorable, even if Summer was unlikable. Did anyone else think she was unlikable, or was that just me?? I also love her in Elf; it took me forever to realize that it was her due to the blonde hair, but I got there. I'm always interested in what she's going to wear and she consistently manages to be whimsical and charming yet not cloying. An impressive feat, that's for sure. Not to mention she has her own band, She and Him. So sweet, as evidenced above. How can you not love this girl??

Something that I've found kinda strange in this blogging world is that more than once I've created a post idea in my head only to find it on other blogs the very next day. I had a conversation about Zooey with a friend of mine and decided to do a post about her and the next day came upon this. And this. Weird, right?

(The two pics above absolutely yanked from Design Crush.)

Dog Days Are Over.

Yay, yay, yay! I'm going to see Florence + the Machine tonight and could not possibly be more stoked about it. (My family has this joke about the Laura Level of Excitement, but that has to be another story for another time.) Ever since I first heard her (them?) I could not, could not stop listening to this song. Thanks, bro!

I also have a personal affinity for the song Cosmic Love at the moment. Check it out. Sooooo good. Like apple crisp. Really! THAT good.

ps This seemed to be the least terrifying out of the two video choices, which isn't really saying much. Please watch with all of the lights on.

(Am I totally infringing on some sort of copyright law by posting this here? I really don't want to go to jail. Orange is so not my color.)