Wednesday, July 31, 2013

LOVELIST: July Edition...





So, I'd wager that I am not your only friend raving about Orange is the New Black, but I may be one of the most vocal about it!  (I've done plenty of Facebook proselytizing for this addicting brilliant series!)  Trying my best to not extreme binge-watch-- and stretch it out as long as possible; I finished it in four days.  Like last month's #1 Arrested Development [another Netflix original] there was no doubt that OITNB would take the top spot for July. The series follows Piper Chapman, who is sentenced to 15 months in prison after she is convicted of a decade old crime of transporting money for her drug dealing girlfriend.  It is equal parts funny and moving as you learn about Piper's fellow inmates. It's hard to pick your favorites. (For the record, Sophia, "Crazy Eyes", Taystee, Red, Nicky and Miss Claudette are mine.)  So get cozy, prepare some snacks and start binging!  Just try and somewhat pace yourself!


"Insights, Slights, and Fights on Faith, Sex, Love, and Politics."
Since downloading it a couple weeks ago, I've been glued to this audiobook(I prefer to be read to, rather than read books myself.) I just freaking love Dan Savage!  He is incredibly intelligent, a wonderful writer and an awesome activist.  (Plus, a really good reader too!)  


You've heard the saying that tattoos are addictive?
Well, apparently so are tattooing reality TV competitions!
Between Spike's Ink Master and Oxygen's Best Ink
I can't seem to get enough of the Bzzz Bzzz Bzzz.


Quite possibly the most tastiest... the most delicious... the most scrumptious sugar cookie cookies I've ever eaten.  The blessing is that they are a bit of a drive; if they were any closer I would be in real trouble.  If your in the Fort Union neighborhood, check out Smart Cookie. You will thank me.  [Cue stomach growl if you stare at that picture any longer]


I almost broke up with Dexter after the heavily religious meh sixth season; but that shocking cliffhanger twist at the end pulled me back in for more.  I'm glad I gave it a second chance. (The same can't be said about Weeds.  I tried to finish off that series this month, but just couldn't.)  So with the final season under way, everyone is wondering how it's going to end for Miami's most beloved serial killer (and his poor sister Deb).  All I know is, I'll be watching to find out!


I took the girls to check out Monsters University in 3D during our Summer Sleepover weekend.  We all loved the prequel to Monsters Inc.; a look at the relationship between Mike and Sulley during their days at Monsters University -- when they weren't necessarily the best of friends.  Pixar has done it again!


At first I didn't like it.  But then it was played over and over... and a funny thing happened.  It actually grew on me. A lot!  All of a sudden, Get Lucky was on my Summer 2013 jams playlist.  Now I can't seem to get enough of this groovy tune!


Who doesn't love six-second videos on a constant loop?  Who doesn't love six-second videos on a constant loop?  Who doesn't love six-second videos on a constant loop?  Who doesn't love six-second videos on a constant loop?  Who doesn't love six-second videos on a constant loop?  Who doesn't love six-second videos on a constant loop?  Who doesn't love six-second videos on a constant loop?  Who doesn't love six-second videos on a constant loop?  Who doesn't love six-second videos on a constant loop?  Who doesn't love six-second videos on a constant loop?  Who doesn't love six-second videos on a constant loop? 


Between House Hunters, House Hunters International, Love It or List It and Property Brothers, HGTV is essential TV viewing in my world.  So there is no surprise that I'd be tuning in for Season 8 of HGTVDesignStar; a reality competition to find their next on-air talent.  (Plus, David Bromstad is really adorable too!)


I discovered two (very different) local eateries this month, but both delicious in their own right. Flat Bread is the new lovely Italian restaurant located in the heart of Sugarhouse's redevelopment block.  (For the record, I'm obsessed with the gorgeous rustic modern interior!!)  As for Spedelli's, it's less fancy but none-the-less a fun pool hall/bar/dive with a variety of tasty grub. It's right off Parleys. If you're in the area, be sure to check them both out!   Nom nom nom!


Throughout their long career, the Pet Shop Boys have sold 50 million records worldwide. Their latest album was released mid-July and reached number 3 on the UK Albums Chart in its first week of release—their highest album position since in 1993. (Just about the same time Love List's #12's had a number one hit in Japan. Look down and click the link to get the joke.) I'm glad that PSB's are still making music after all these years. Electric was featured heavily on my Spotify playlist this month... and I also threw in a few of their classic hits for good measure!  It'd be a Sin not to. 


This month my tween dreams finally came true (and on my birthday no less!) as Jimmy Fallon reunited Japan's favorite San Francisco rockers, Jesse and the Rippers for one night only!  With the Danny and Becky's Late Night cameos (but where were Joey, DJ, Steph and Michelle?)... This was pretty epic! Watch it HERE.  TGIF!


As much as it pains me to say, Girl Most Likely wasn't my girlfriend Kristen Wiig's finest film. I left the theater slightly disappointed, saying to a friend "It was... cute."  I probably went in with too high of expectations.  Entertainment Weekly stated "All hot streaks must come to an end — the comedy doesn't seem to know whether it wants to be quirky, heartfelt, or even a comedy at all." That being said, it was 'cute' and definitely worth checking out at Redbox in a few months for a buck.  And KWiig will always have a forever spot on Love List regardless!


Don't judge!... too harshly.

Friday, July 26, 2013

Uncle Casey Watch: 'Zo...

Checkin' in on my new nephew.  
Such a little stud, already!


Wednesday, July 24, 2013

Happy Birthday Sis!...


Birthday shout out to my Sister-in-Law who has given me the gift of being the Best Uncle three times over now.  (Without her it wouldn't be possible!)  Sending her plenty of birthday wishes for her new year!



Friday, July 19, 2013

Wednesday, July 3, 2013

Uncle Casey Watch: Summer Sleepover


The last one was such a hit, it was time for another fun sleepover at Uncle Casey's house!
Monster's University in 3D, popsicles, more junk food (that's nothing new) shopping sprees and a wig fashion show to top it off. Maybe we'll squeeze one more in before school starts!  (If Mit and Mo allow it!)



Tuesday, July 2, 2013

Happy Birthday Dad!...


Happy Birthday Dad!  
Thanks for all that you have done to support me over the years!  






Sunday, June 30, 2013

LOVELIST: June Edition...



...Now the story of a family who's future was abruptly cancelled, and the one super fan who had no choice but to wait several years to get to see them them all back together...  This is Michael's, George's, Lucille's, Lindsay's, Tobias's Maebe's, Gob's, Buster's and George Michael's Arrested Development. A gift from the TV Gods, Season 4 available now Netflix.  (It's even better on second, and inevitable third... fourth... fifth... viewings)


We all know that it's my favorite unofficial holiday weekend in Salt Lake City... but what could possibly make Pride even better?  Getting to see Pandora Boxx and Ivy Winters perform  live (from the front row, no less)... That's what!  Another great Saturday and Sunday in Utah's capital city celebrating love, equality, friends and fun.  Thanks to Hilaree, Abby, Candace, Ryleigh, Ellie, Jake, Garrett, Lucy, Lisa, Lexi, Derek, Kate 1 and Kate 2 for experiencing it with me!  Until next year!


They're partying like there's no tomorrow... and they just might be right.  While attending a party at James Franco's house, Seth Rogen, Jay Baruchel, Jonah Hill, Danny McBride, Craig Robinson, Emma Watson, and many other celebrities are faced with the apocalypse.  I promise, This is the End is the craziest, WTF, funny, raunchy, bizzarre, laugh-out-loud time you'll spend in a theater this year. Promise!


I really didn't want to like it a much as I did...
But, I did. 
I really liked it.
Huge ego and all.

I stayed awake into the wee hours of the morning (3:00AM to be exact) watching the political   SB5 drama unfold online; Witnessing the incredible pink sneakered Wendy Davis and her one-woman filibuster was truly inspiring.  And the best part, it actually worked(!)...with the help of the citizens Texas (of course.)  So with only a few hours of sleep, I was up and bright and early for the day's other possible monumental news!  As the death of DOMA and Prop 8 were declared, I broke down in tears not only for my friends fighting for equality-- but knowing that progress is being made across this great country. And I'm fortunate enough to be seeing it with my own eyes.  A day for the history books, indeed!


New Band Discovery of the Month: Part I

Disclosure are an English electronic music duo, consisting of brothers Guy (22) and Howard (19!) and 'Settle' is their debut album.  I first learned of them a few weeks ago seeing their rad music video for Control on Facebook.  I fell in love with it instantly.  Ever since then 'Settle' has been playing nonstop on my Spotify.  Such talented young lads; they've got a bright future ahead of them!


Some people will go to any lengths to stay young forever.  But Madeline Ashton and her old friend Helen Sharp are about to go too far.  In one small bottle... The fountain of youth. The secret of eternal life. The power of an ancient potion. Sometimes it works... sometimes it doesn't.  No, this isn't Love List circa 1992, I just finally added a classic childhood favorite movie into my DVD collection this month.  And I've watched Death Becomes Her several times already.  That's one way to live on forever... 


New Band Discovery of the Month: Part II*
*Even if their album is from 2010

Some of my favorite tunes from this Australian 'indietronica' band include:  Holidays,  I Look To You (ft. Kimbra), and Grand Illusion.   I can't wait to see what other great music they make in the future!

Uptight FBI special agent Sarah Ashburn is paired with testy Boston cop Shannon Mullins in order to take down a ruthless drug lord. The hitch: neither woman has ever had a partner -- or a friend for that matter.  Sandra Bullock and Melissa McCarthy have great chemistry in this hilarious buddy-female cop comedy.  The Heat is on!


 The official Song of the Summer?
Me thinks it just might be!


Warm Bodies follows  'R' (a highly unusual zombie)  who saves Julie from a zombie attack.  The two form a relationship that sets in motion a sequence of events that might transform the entire lifeless world.  You know, just your classic romantic comedy.  Boy meets girl, girl meets boy..oh but boy is dead who ate her boyfriend's brain.  How's that for a bloody fresh twist?  "Cold Body. Warm Heart." 


We all know I'm really just a crazy old cat lady on the inside, so when I found out about this British BBC documentary, you know I'd be intrigued.  TSLotC follows 50 cats in the Surrey village of Shamley Green, who were put under 24-hour surveillance using GPS collars and specially designed cat-cams providing a moggie-eyes view of the world. And good news, you don't have to live in England to watch it.  Just click HERE.  Meowzers!


Question:  Is there ANYTHING that Neil Patrick Harris can't do?
Case closed.
(We should just designate him the Official Host of EVERYTHING, like Forever.)


Finally, I get to buy adorab little boy clothes!
Welcome to the world lil' guy!