♥LIST: May Edition...

{1}Chicago

This was my fourth trip to the Windy City and once again it did not disappoint. After a rocky start [i.e. nearly missing my flight and a lost suitcase on arrival] it was all up hill from there. Having the opportunity to catch up with several of my friends was a major highlight. A special Thank You to Randy and Cowboy for being great hosts. Also, I even got to spend a hot day exploring The Loop all on my own. (A fact my Mom only learned of only when I was safely back on Utah soil). Photos coming soon. Chicago really is a fantastic city, and can't wait to go back. If only vacations didn't fly by so quickly, like you know, they always do. In the meantime, the question arises... where to visit next?

{2}Bridesmaids

I Do!

I Do!

{3}Born This Way by Lady Gaga
Deluxe Edition Album

Lets review: So far this year Gaga has earned spots on my Love List in February, March and April. Why should May be any different? Hell maybe she should get two mentions this month. [Spoiler alert: Scroll down!] You could guess that I was eagerly anticipating her latest album debut, but that would be an understatement. I must say it was well worth the wait. The songs awesomely jump all over the pop spectrum, but what would you expect from Mother Monster? She's gotta keep us on our toes. Bottom Line: I am obsessed with it. Too many favorites tunes to list. It's Lady Gaga's Universe-- and I'm just happy to be living in it. Also, makes a great gym soundtrack.

{4}Blue Valentine

This movie was on my radar for months (and not just because of Ryan Gosling.) Sadly, I missed it in the theater and I was forced to wait for it to arrive on DVD. The indie film tells the story of a couple falling in... and then falling out of love. The acting is phenomenal and it's stars are two of my favorites of young Hollywood. Check it out and you'll soon see why.

{5}Excalibur Night Club

Fun Fact: This official historical landmark was built in 1892. In it's lifetime, the enormous former Historical Chicago Society Building is rumored to have been used as a morgue, scene of a mob-related murder, a pornographic theater and a crack house before becoming one of the cities top nightlife destinations. Consequentially(?) it is considered one of Chicago's most haunted locations. And if it is, these must be some wild and crazy ghost who reside there because the dance party I attended wrapping up the Memorial Day holiday was incredible. These supposed lost souls didn't want to get into heaven anyway. Excalibur is way more fun.

{6}HBO's The Monster Ball Tour:
at Madison Square Garden Special

As you surely recall, my friend Hilaree and I got to experience the Monster Ball when Gaga made her way to Salt Lake two months ago. While we had decent left-of-stage seats and without question enjoyed the show... this HBO concert special gives everyone the intimate experience that any Little Monster would die for. You are right there on stage with her performing and before you know it backstage for some freakin' fast costume changes. She's the hardest working in the business today. I adore her, and if two entries in one month don't prove that-- I don't know what else will.

{7}Parks & Recreation's
Fictional Websites

After every episode of P&R, I eagerly wait for the link for that week's fictitious website. Whether it's April & Andy's wedding, Remembering Lil' Sebastian or visiting the Quiet Corn and the Snakehole Lounge... if you're a fan of this TV series (which you totally should be!) ...you will love this extra bonus helping of funny from the genius creative team behind this show! Check them out at INSIDE PARKS AND RECREATION HERE.

{8}iPhone's Reverse Camera

Best. Invention. Ever. Invented.
[Again, Chicago photos coming soon.]

{9}Tying the Knot

For those of you who ask whats the big deal, what do they want with our sacred institution of marriage-- watch this powerful documentary [available on Netflix Instant Watch] and come back and ask me again. It is heart breaking and eyeopening. It's about equality people, plain and simple. Change is happening. Just open your hearts.

{10}Julia Louis-Dreyfus

This month's offficial Netflix comedy entry is The New Adventures of Old Christine. I always loved her as Elaine on Seinfeld and I'm happy to report that JL-D is just as hilarious on this series as well, only with more charm. Even though this sitcom has since been cancelled (like all the good ones usually are) it's definitely one worth checking out as you chuckle yourself to sleep.

{11}Rapture Mania!!!

Apparently Jesus didn't get the memo.

{12}Shirts Soaked in Sweat*
* The evidence of really good elliptical workouts at the gym. However
not the ones resulting from sightseeing Chicago for hours in 90° heat!