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Friday, December 31, 2010

New Year's Eve

I stole this from Kristabella:

1. What did you do in 2010 that you’d never done before?

Umm, I went to upstate New York and worked for a theatre company.

2. Did you keep your new year’s resolutions, and will you make more for next year?

I don't make those. Jan 1 doesn't feel like the new year for me. I usually feel it more on my birthday (17 Feb!)

3. Did anyone close to you give birth?

Vanessa did! YAY!

4. Did anyone close to you die?

No...thank goodness.

5. What countries did you visit?

None other than USA!

6. What would you like to have in 2011 that you didn’t have in 2010?

new job, my own apt, a fiance, haha.

7. What dates from 2010 will be etched upon your memory, and why?

No specific ones really, just a lot of good memories.

8. What was your biggest achievement of this year?

Broadening my horizons and playing an extremely difficult concert in orchestra.

9. What was your biggest failure?

None!

10. Did you suffer illness or injury?

Nope. Just allergies, which is a huge reason why I reaaaallllyyyy hate spring and summer.

11. What was the best thing you bought?

Probably those awesome boots I wear all the time. Or the gas to get me to Ali.

12. Whose behavior merited celebration?

My mom and dad. duh! They're awesome.

13. Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed?

I can't say bc they might read it here:)

14. Where did most your money go?

rent and gas.

15. What did you get really, really, really excited about?

visiting Ali!!!! In Charleston and then Saratoga Springs, NY twice.

16. What song will always remind you of 2010?

Probably a Florence and the Machine one.

17. Compared to this time last year, are you: a) happier or sadder? b) thinner or fatter? c) richer or poorer?

a) happier

b) same

c) same

18. What do you wish you’d done more of?

saved

19. What do you wish you’d done less of?

trust people

20. How did you spend Christmas?

With my mom and dad and it was awesome.

21. Did you fall in love with 2010?

With James Franco

22. What was your favorite TV program?

Vampire Diaries (And True Blood and Dexter and Mad Men and How I Met Your Mother)

23. Do you hate anyone now that you didn’t hate this time last year?

hate is a strong word

24. What was the best book you read?

Oh I dont know...The Hunger Games? Or Shiver/Linger

25. What was your greatest musical discovery?

Good question....Mumford And Sons? I dunno

26. What did you want and get?

A sewing machine

27. What did you want and not get?

more money

28. What was your favorite film of 2010?

Inception

29. What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?

I turned 30! And went to Fridays on the actual day with tons of people and made a profit bc people gave me so much money to buy drinks and then that weekend we went to Penny Lane Pub in Richmond...it was awesome.

30. What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?
My own house. Or one I share with my husband.

31. How would you describe your personal fashion concept of 2010?

layers. Always.

32. What kept you sane?

Texting Ali

33. What political issue stirred you the most?
People's annoying comments? does that count?

34. Who did you miss?

My granddad.

35. Who was the best new person you met?

Jen


36. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2010.

Not all people are nice.

37. Quote a song lyric that sums up your year.

No

+Title from The Walkmen

Tuesday, December 07, 2010

Love That Never Dies

I have a big announcement to make, but it will have to wait until the end of this post.

The other day I finally purchased Inglourious Basterds, which was a momentous occasion because it meant I finally owned every single Brad Pitt movie available. I was first enchanted by Brad Pitt when I saw Fight Club in 1999. Of course, I had thought he was awesome and attractive before that, but it wasn't until I left the theatre one night in college after seeing him play Tyler Durden that I was officially obsessed with him. I remember that night because it was a group of five of us who went to see Fight Club and, as we left, I was the only one completely changed by the previous two hours. No one else in my group had liked the movie and there I was, ready to go see it again and again. I remember i cut out a picture of the gorgeous, shirtless Brad Pitt from one of the fight scenes and had it taped to my computer for what must have been the rest of my college career.

So, from then on, he was my favorite actor and eventually I decided to have every Brad Pitt movie in my collection. And tonight...I shall list and comment on them all:

21 Jump Street (1987)- He's in Season 2, which I own, but I haven't watched it and barely remember it from when I was younger.

Cutting Class (1989)- While I do own this movie, I caught some of it on TV once and basically realized I kind of don't ever want to watch it. It's NOT good.

Too Young To Die (1990)- For a TV movie, this isn't too bad. It's kind of like a practice run for Kalifornia which both Brad Pitt and Juliette Lewis were in.

Across The Tracks (1991)- BP and Ricky Schroeder play brothers headed down very different life paths. It's actually a pretty decent movie and you get to see BP run a lot.

Thelma And Louise (1991)- Honestly, I was 11 when this came out so Brad Pitt was not exactly my idea of hott at the time. I can appreciate the hottness now, but at the time I just thought this was a movie about some crazy chicks. I'm happy this movie exists, though, because people really started to pay attention to BP after it.

Johnny Suede (1991)- I started this movie, but never finished it. BP's hair is practically a character in itself and the whole thing is just...odd.

Cool World (1992)- I think I saw this back in the day, but barely remember it.

A River Runs Through It (1992)- This movie made me want to try fly fishing. It's kinda slow, but in a great English Patient sorta way.

Kalifornia (1993)- BP is effed up in the movie. I enjoyed it, though.

True Romance (1993)- BP plays a drugged out guy in this large ensemble film. He is just a small part, but I enjoyed the movie as a whole.

The Favor (1994)- Okay I am sounded like a bad Brad Pitt fan because I haven't watched several of these. Oops!

Interview With The Vampire (1994)- Oh My Gosh...I was quite obsessed with this movie for some time. How amazing was every single part of this film? I think BP, Tom Cruise, and Kirsten Dunst were all three hella good.

Legends Of The Fall (1994)- I often argue that 1994 was one of the greatest years of film and music. This movie makes me cry every single time I watch it. It is epic and wonderful.

Seven (1995)- 1995 was my "I'm jealous of Gwyneth Paltrow" phase. One of my teachers in high school loved Brad Pitt and had a poster of Legends of the Fall in her classroom. She was 30 back then (my age now) and it was so weird for me to think of her having a crush on this actor that I liked, too. Now I realize that if I was teaching now, I would so have a Brad Pitt poster in my room. Seven is an intense movie and to this day I still love to yell, "WHAT'S IN THE BOOXXXX?!"

12 Monkeys (1995)- Not only an amazing film, but also when BP got nominated for an Academy Award. I have seen this movie a million times and it still leaves me confused. BP really shows his talent as a mental patient for part of the film. Awesome!

Sleepers (1996)- I saw this back in the day and it's kinda fuzzy in my memory.

The Devil's Own (1997)- I have started this one a ton of times, but always late at night and then I stop it. The beginning is good, though:)

Seven Years In Tibet (1997)- A lot of people didn't like this movie, but I did. BP has a lot of screen time so maybe that's why.

Dark Side Of The Sun (1997)- Oh my gosh! This hasn't been available in years and I think it is now! Woop1

Meet Joe Black (1998)- This is a looonng movie and if you're not into it, it feels long. I liked it, though.

Fight Club (1999)- There are so many things about this movie that I love. Superficially, Brad Pitt is so hott it should be illegal, but this movie is about more than that.

Snatch (2000)- So amazing! I love BP's character in this and his accent is awesome. Being a Guy Ritchie film, it's confusing, but it's also incredibly well acted and executed.

The Mexican (2001)- Yeah, this is kind of a movie that is made for commercial success, but I liked it a lot. I liked the leads and how they all interacted with each other. Oh, and BP is still hott!

Spy Game (2001)- I watched this for the first time one summer when I had a stomach bug and I started it expecting to fall asleep to it, but instead, I was completely enthralled for two hours. I love how Robert Redford is the Brad Pitt of yore. They are both so great in this and the story sets up a great spy flick.

Ocean's Eleven (2001), Twelve (2004), and Thirteen (2007) - *swoon* Brad Pitt is deliciously attractive and smooth in these three movies. I love that his character is always eating. It was a nice touch in addition to his super fly outfits.

Friends (2001)- Why yes, I do own the entire Friends series and yes, BP's episodes is one of my favorites.

Confessions Of A Dangerous Mind (2002)- Another spy movie! Brad Pitt just has a cameo, but it's a cameo in a great film.

Sinbad: Legend Of The Seven Seas (2003)- Your typical animated movie. I enjoyed it.

Troy (2004)- I know a lot of people hated this movie, but I love it and not only because I get to see BP almost naked. I have seen it probably 50 times because it's just a perfect movie to throw on when you need to watch something enjoyable. It's so sad when he dies:(

Mr. & Mrs. Smith (2005)- I saw this twice in the theatre and one of those times was in NYC. Random, eh? AND another spy flick! I love this movie, too. Angelina Jolie AND Brad Pitt are so smokin' in this.

Babel (2006)- This was the first movie where BP looked his age. He had some gray going on. This movie is intense and good, but one that's not based on him being super hott. He has obviously proven his acting abilities.

The Assassination of Jesse James By the Coward Robert Ford (2007)- I actually expected this to be a little flashier, but it's more real. It's dusty and old just like the time period of the events it covers.

Burn After Reading (2008)- A Coen brothers film with a great ensemble cast. Brad Pitt's character is hilarious.

The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button (2008)- I saw this in the theatre twice, too:) I love everything about this movie, but I remember squealing a little when he rides down the street on his motorcycle at his hottest point of the film. Mmm!

Inglourious Basterds (2009)- I typically am not a Quentin Tarantino fan, but this was great. Have you seen it?


So, what's your favorite Brad Pitt film??


And now, for my big announcement...Since Brad Pitt is making fewer movies nowadays that he has 43209 kids, I have decided to pick a second actor to love. I'm sure you can guess who that is if you follow me on twitter, but that person is:

james Franco!

I just saw 127 Hours today, which was fantastic, by the way, and since I have always hearted him, I have decided I need all of his films. Let the collecting begin!!


+Titles from The Byrds

Saturday, December 04, 2010

Requiem

Playing Mozart's Requiem on the eve of the anniversary of his death at the same exact time it is being played in Salzburg. If that's not overwhelming then I don't know what is.

Tonight my orchestra played with the Piedmont Singers at an Episcopal Church in Middleburg, VA. To play a piece of music that I have loved for so many years was exciting in itself, but to play it on such a momentous day with so many other amazing factors was just incredible. I feel so lucky to be involved with this concert.

I have this incredibly dorky habit of getting very into the music I am playing. I may not be the most technical player out there anymore, but the love I have for what I play is what I believe sets me apart from the pedestrian players. I listen while I play. I enjoy how my part fits in with the whole and sometimes, when I realize that I am a part of an amazing piece of music, I am just filled with joy.



The movie Amadeus was where I first heard and fell in love with Mozart's Requiem.




If you haven't seen it, I highly recommend it.

XO,
SVR



+Title from Mozart

Wednesday, December 01, 2010

Dirty Harry

The highlights of my day were as follows:

Talking about Harry Potter with not one, not two, but three different people at work! One even ended in me looking up horcrux on wikipedia. There is so much to learn!

Hanging out at my aunt's house for her Silpada jewelry party. I ended up getting the five stackable rings.

Getting a lot of fun compliments on my outfit. I forgot to get someone to photograph it, though!

XO,
SVR


+Title from Gorillaz

Monday, November 29, 2010

I Miss You

Sooooo, I am a bad blogger. Maybe writing this will have me embarrassed so I come back later to write more!


+Title from Incubus

Sunday, November 21, 2010

Hot Like Fire

I had a meltdown at work today. Literally.

About an hour and a half into my shift, I was helping a line of people in a row when all of a sudden I realized how warm I was. I had already put my hair back to try to cool off, but when I realized I was sweating on my forehead, I knew it was bad. Standing next to the computers was just awful.

A lot of times at work, I am warm, but I am very aware that it is not all about me* so I wait until others complain about it being hot and then it is like I am their union representative and I make it my mission to make sure everyone knows it is not a comfortable work environment.

I couldn't take it today, though. It hit me and all of a sudden it was like I was claustrophobic and had to get out of there. I felt like I was suffocating. I raised my voice to a coworker friend and then went in the break room to cool down (in more ways than one). That's when I almost cried. Yes...I almost cried.

I don't like to be hot. My appearance means a lot to me and if I am hot and sweaty, then my hair won't look good. I don't want my eyeliner to run because it's melting. I don't want to have to push up my long sleeves for relief. I want to look nice and feel comfortable. Why is that so much to ask??

XO,
SVR



*Yet.


+Title from Jessica Simpson

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

Paint Pastel Princess



I am loving this story about Prince William and Kate Middleton. It seems so cheesy to get so into the news about two people I have never met, but for some reason, I am. I think they both seem like such lovely people and I have always liked both of them. Prince William was always a cutie and when he started dating Kate Middleton I just loved to see her in the magazines and online to see what she was wearing.

XO,
SVR

Saturday, November 13, 2010

Happy Alone

I am going to a friend's wedding tonight and while I am so excited, I am also nervous! I feel like it's the first day of school and I don't know who will be in my classes and if I will have friends to talk to. As comfortable as I can be in social situations, my shyness definitely takes over sometimes. I'm terrible with names and it is almost debilitating when I forget them! I only remember one of the new names from the bride's bachelorette party a few weeks ago. That is terrible!

I need to just have an out of body experience and not worry about it. I know I'll have fun. I will have fun. Nothing will be awkward.


+Titles from Kings Of Leon

Monday, November 08, 2010

I Will Follow You Into The Dark

I wonder why I'm different. Why do I like it to be dark and cold outside? Twitter is blowing up with people complaining about Daylight Savings Time because they don't like to leave work and have it be dark. I was actually just thinking about how I love that! Yesterday I got home at about 5 and my night felt endless- it was great! It was 6pm and I kept feeling like it was 8 or so. What a treat to have the night go on and on.

And the cold? Man, it almost can't be too cold for me. Even though I get cold oh so easily (I am sitting here right now with a scarf and sweatshirt on), I never ever complain about it being too cold. Too cold does not exist in my world.

The sun and I have a love/hate relationship, though. It just makes me miserable in the summer and sometimes in the fall I want it far far away so it cools down, but I do love it when I'm at the beach or pool and yes, it's great to feel its warmth when it's about 20 degrees outside, but usually I can kind of do without it.

I think I'd like to live in Barrow, Alaska for a year to experience the November-January of no sun. I think it would be an interesting experience. And a chilly one!

But you know what's funny? Part of me could totally live on a boat in the tropics for a year, too. Figure that one out.


XO,
SVR


+Title from Death Cab For Cutie

Tuesday, November 02, 2010

Thursday, October 28, 2010

In My Dreams

The Vampire Diaries is the perfect type of show for me. It has everything: drama, comedy, hott guys, a fast moving pace, great music, great clothes, great romance, etc. It is also show that I don't really want to be in and that is perfect for my personality. I tend to get very involved and/or connected to things I like. When I was 15 and watching Friends, I always imagined my life just like theirs when I'd be older. I still want to live in a New England town on the water when I watch Dawson's Creek. And Alias? If the CIA called me up tomorrow, I'd sign on the dotted line.

I am an extreme romantic. I'm not delusional in real life, but I am a sucker for it in TV shows and movies. I love seeing people fall in love on the screen and Stefan and Elena are no exception. In addition to romance, I am also a TV sucker for the hott bad boy a la Damon Salvatore.

But, like I said, Vampire Diaries is good for me because I get my fill of over the top romance and hott guys, but I don't end up thinking, "OOOhhh why can't real life be like the Vampire Diaries?!" because you know what? life on The Vampire Diaries kinda sucks. They're always in danger and, even though I love that it always seems to be chilly there, I don't want to live there where life is constantly in jeopardy.

XO,
SVR

+Title from The Eels

Tuesday, October 26, 2010

Suddenly Everything Has Changed

The warm weather literally depresses me. I know some people get annoyed when I complain about the lack of cool temps, but when it's a week from November and I had to use my car's AC yesterday, it's just ridiculous. When I walk out of my apartment and don't need a jacket at 6am!? That. Is. Just. Wrong.

I thrive in the cold. It awakens my soul. It motivates me and keeps me wanting more more more. Yesterday was not a good day for the weather I love.

So when I got back to my apartment complex last night after a super long day at about 930pm I started cursing really loudly in my car. Why? Because there were absolutely no parking spots near my apartment. They changed our parking situation about a year ago and made it so guests needed passes. It was crappy for awhile after that because the guests would get the good spots. They changes it once again about four months ago and made it so guests had designated spots. Since then, parking has been even worse. When I get home late at night and the only spots available are guests spots next to my building and I can't park there? I get very angry. I had to park so far away last night and I had a lot to carry and I was not cold. Not one bit. I was furious. I yelled the F word about 15 times while looking for a spot. I know I was overreacting, but this has happened way too many times recently. I was so angry I decided to cut through the grass because I just wanted to be home.

And I stepped into a blanket of beautiful, fallen leaves. Gorgeous yellows and oranges. Leaves that covered the grass and ruffled as I walked through them. I forgot all about my anger.

XO,
SVR


+Title from The Flaming Lips

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

Autumn

Last Tuesday I headed out early on my way to visit my sister in Saratoga Springs, NY.



It's a gorgeous trip up there anyway, but when the leaves are changing, it is just exquisite!



I about died while driving through the Pennsylvania mountains. I'm pretty sure they were peaking last week. WOW!

The next morning Ali and I left at about 8am on our way to to Vermont. Our directions were to Burlington and this ride was just as gorgeous as my one the day before.



At one point in the directions Ali said, "OK...turn right" but as I looked to my right, all I saw was a huge lake!



"WHAT?!" The directions, which we hadn't really looked too closely at, said, "Turn right. Get on ferry." I thought I was going to throw up. The lake is HUGE and I had never driven onto a ferry so I was just a little scared. But we did it and it was fun!




I was scared because we were the last car on to the ferry and were quite close to the edge!



Burlington is awesome. I was there about 15 years ago, but my memories are hazy. I could absolutely live here.




People here were also super nice. Two people stopped to offer us change when we were feeding the parking meter.

We also went to the Magic Hat Brewery in Burlington, VT, which was AWESOME and we got to try about eight beers. I was in heaven.



Then we drove the 35 minutes or so to Montpelier to visit our Aunt Bonnie. I remembered Montpelier much better as I was there for a about a week when I was 15. We had a grand afternoon hanging out with my aunt drinking beer/wine and playing with her huge dogs.




It was chilly there so we actually sat in the sun for most of the day. How refreshing to sit in the sun and not be miserable. Cold weather, FTW!!!



On Thursday, Nathaniel's (my brother-in-law), family came into town to visit as well so much of the next few days was us all drinking beer and going out to eat.






Nathaniel in Saratoga Springs, NY.

I left earrrly Monday morning and while my drive home went well, I was sad to leave. I miss living near my sister. And it's also nice to not work for a week. But mostly, I miss living near Ali. A lot.




XO,
SVR

+ Titled from Smashing Pumpkins

Tuesday, October 19, 2010

Blue Skies


Blue Skies
Originally uploaded by scarls17
I snapped this while driving to/from New York. Ahhhh!

Thursday, October 14, 2010

Angel


120
Originally uploaded by scarls17
This is my favorite person in the whole world and I am having a grand time hanging out with her.

XO,
SVR

Thursday, October 07, 2010

Idea Track

Here are a few of my Halloween costume ideas:

-20s girl (cute, pinned/waved hair, red lipstick, etc.)
-Mad Men girl
-Anne Boleyn
-old timey movie star (think, Marlene Dietrich)
-Elena from Vampire Diaries as suggested by Serena bc then I can bring the Salvatore brothers:)


Any ideas for me?? Here are some previous costumes:

Jethro Tull:



Tourist:


I have also been Britney Spears, Cleopatra, a black and white film star, etc.


XO,
SVR

Monday, October 04, 2010

Chill Factor

Today was an amazingly awesome day weather-wise. On my drive out to Warrenton before band practice, I was practically giddy from the cool, fresh air. I drove with my windows open to fully enjoy it and on a normally sleepy drive, I was wide awake.

I love cool weather so much. It invigorates me and makes me so happy. Already tomorrow the high temperature is a little higher, but I know more cool temps are coming our way and I absolutely can not wait.

XO,
SVR


+Title from Total Science

Thursday, September 30, 2010

Sick, Sick, Sick

I get so irritated when I hear someone say, "I think I'm getting sick" because I know, inevitably, in a day or two, they will be sick*. When I think to myself, "Oh no, I think I'm getting a cold" I immediately begin drinking a lot of fluids, get more sleep, and basically think myself healthy. I am not a granola-crunching nutjob, but I really believe in mind over matter. 9 times out of 10, if you're feeling under the weather, its your body's way of telling you to slow down or up the nutrition.

So slow down and up the nutrition! And don't get sick! Quit calling out of work and bailing on friends! Stop missing out on life because you're laying in bed!

XO,
SVR

+Title courtesy of Queens Of The Stone Age


*I also don't think people should say they're sick unless they have a sore throat, a fever, or are vomiting. Otherwise, it's a cold.

Wednesday, September 29, 2010

Me Against The Music

So I just watched the Britney Spears episode of Glee. I don't normally watch the show even though I think the writing is very creative and witty. What I don't like about it, and have said before, is the singing. I was painfully reminded of this tonight when the first Britney song came on and...it wasn't Britney singing! Sure, its fun to see a video and dance moves recreated, but I would much rather see Britney doing it! My favorites parts were Brittany S. Pierce and the real Britney Spears parts.

And now this will be another group of songs that people will buy and listen to that aren't the original artist. Why on earth would I ever ever ever want to hear a cover of I'm A Slave 3 U!?

I love Britney Spears. I think she is the definition of pop music and even though Glee once again brought it with great lines, I just can't support the random covers of her songs.

XO,
SVR

+Title courtesy of Britney Spears

Monday, September 27, 2010

I'm So Excited

So y'all...I'm pretty excited for this book and, if you're cool like I am, you should preorder a signed copy from the very awesome Fountain Bookstore in Richmond, VA.

Friday, September 24, 2010

Lost My Lights

OH my Gosh:




+Title courtesy of The City On Film

Orange Crush

I am addicted to Polyvore. I've been posting my outfits everyday for a few days now and it is so much fun! The following, though, is an outfit I made after watching Gossip Girl and completely falling in love with Blair's dress:




+Title courtesy of REM

Wednesday, September 08, 2010

We Don't Care

Why I Dislike College Football:

I think its weird when someone cheers for a college team of where they did not attend. I went to a school with no football team (on purpose) so I have never had an allegiance to a team. Even my sister's school didn't have a team and neither of my parents went to college so there are no teams I would get excited about. I guess the closest I could get for a connection to a team is that my brother and my brother-in-law were/are in the Navy. Even then, it's not like they went to the academy.

My cousin and her husband went to VA Tech and even though they're almost 40, they really get into the team still. I don't understand it, though. It's not like they know any of the players still. At least when I cheer for the Redskins I can get excited every year about seeing Chris Cooley play. In college football you only see a player for four, maybe five years.

I also don't see the same excitement in college football that I do in professional football. The season just started and already its all about the same teams who won last year. Sure, the NFL always has the better teams, but if the Redskins have a good year, they can still make the playoffs and then the Superbowl. That rarely, if ever, happens in college.

Cheering for someone that I could essential sit next to in a class is not fun to me. I don't care about the BMOC I care about the professional athlete who is making millions of dollars and needs to prove his worth. I know most would disagree with that, but also, its not like those college kids don't get perks and gifts. *cough* Reggie Bush *cough* Actually, Reggie Bush is a great example: I don't even know what college he went to, but now that he plays for the Saints, he matters to me.

When I was deciding where to go to college, my back up school ended up being the University of VA and while on my tour there, the guide took us by the stadium. We couldn't go in because there was a game later or something, but I remember her telling us about game days and how everyone got dressed up and drank all day. It sounded like a lot of fun at the time, but I had also just come from four years of being in Marching Band and while I liked parts of that experience, I wanted to be far far away from it. College football=Marching Band to me and I want to be far far away from it.

XO,

SVR


P.S. Go, Redskins!


+Title from Kanye West

Thursday, August 26, 2010

Hate It Or Love It

I don't like sour cream, but I guess I can see why some people do. I also don't like hot peppers, but again, I can see how people do.

Like politics, seasonal preferences have become to new fighting topic. Hot Lovers Vs. Cold Lovers. While I am able to admit that I know most people don't want it to be as cold as I'd like it to be, I will never understand wanting it to be brutally hot out.

So what makes a person love summer vs winter or vice versa?

When I was growing up we rarely used our air conditioning. In my earlier life we just didn't have it and then later on my mom refused to turn it on. I think this changed once she started working outside (postal worker) and needed to cool off at night.

I worked as a lifeguard for five summers. At a certain point, even getting in the pool doesn't bring relief from the heat. There is nothing like sitting above a pool with the sun glaring on you from all sides (bc of the reflection) and getting kids to jump in the pool to splash you.

I hate pastels. I reallllly hate pastels. Sure, I wear them sometimes, but it's mostly because at a certain point, that's all that's clean (haha)! I think they're just wussy colors. Light blue is the work of the devil.

I love sweaters. I have always loved sweaters. When I was in high school, one of my favorite things to do was to get the fall JCrew catalog and mark everything I wanted and add up the total. Not that I got everything, but my grandmother is an amazingly kind woman who really did hook me up with some JCrew goodness.

I love layers. My favorite outfit involves at least two shirts....more if possible. I love for different layers to peek out! It's like an outfit that keeps on giving.

I hate to sweat. Does anyone like to sweat? And I don't mean while working out-that's different. For a couple of years my car didn't have AC and I had an hour long commute to work. It is not pleasant to show up to work and already be sweaty. In the winter I try to leave my windows open as much as possible. I don't really use the heat in my car that much (except in the early morning) because I want to enjoy the revitalizing air.

I don't want to see people wearing little to no clothes. I hated it in college when February would have a fluke warm day and a bunch of girls would go to the grassy area and hang out in shorts and tank tops. I never understood it. I hang on to my jackets and warm clothes for as long as I can. I've seen way too many short shorts this summer-gross! And tank tops? Stop!

I love scarves. A lot. Like, I wear them all day long.



So yeah, the facts all lead to the already known fact that I, Scarlet, love cold weather. So what's with the weirdos who want it to be so hot?

XO,
SVR

Tuesday, August 24, 2010

Autumn

I need the following:



Look at how happy it makes me:




I need it to be cold. I need to wear a coat. I want to wear tights and scarves. I want to sit outside and enjoy it!

Dear Mother Nature,

You gave us a super hot summer so please reciprocate and give us a frigid winter. Although, I think I'd actually rather have it be cold (as opposed to frigid) from October til March instead of just a couple of months of good ol' cold. And you know what? I'm even willing to have cold and snow if that's the deal we need to make.

XO,
SVR

Monday, August 23, 2010

Junkhead

Everyone I encountered today said the same thing, "I'm so tired!" Why was everyone so tired today? I couldn't sleep last night even though I got up fairly early Sunday and didn't even take any naps!

I'm not very good at going to bed early. Typically, if I am asleep before midnight, I consider that early. I know some people that go to sleep as early as 9pm on a regular, chosen basis and that just baffles my mind. I feel like I'd rather be tired and have more life time than feel super rested and basically just go to work and sleep.

Work sleep work sleep work sleep.


No thanks.

XO,
SVR

+Title from Alice In Chains

Sunday, August 22, 2010

Separate And Ever Deadly

I am sick of single people who start to date someone and then turn into a combined blob-form of a person.

Am I alone in the fact that I just really enjoy going to bars? I am not going there to "meet someone" (although, yes, that would be nice) so once I have a boyfriend, why would I stop going out? I DO NOT UNDERSTAND PEOPLE!

And asking for permission? Sure, if someone is married then communication is key and seeing if its cool to hang out with a friend is just nice. I get that, I do. There are things to consider such as dinner together and catching up, but sometimes I think married people use it as an excuse: "Oh, I'll have to ask my wife." but really he's saying, "I'm going to tell you I asked her and make her answer NO". And when people are just dating? I think way less of you if you say you're boy/girlfriend doesn't want you to. And declining an invite because your sig other is busy? Even. Worse.

Also, when out, why must couples always be touching? Now, if you're a long-distance couple or maybe have weird schedules and don't see each other much, then yes, your wanting to be near each other is fine. But if you are always together (because you decline invites out?) then, when you do go out, is it really necessary to constantly be touching? No.

"We." OMG, don't use this for everything. Unless it was an activity that you both did, use half as many "We"s in your sentences. "We love True Blood!" Great, so do *I*. "We aren't too hungry tonight." Did I ask about your both? No.

So couples, regain some of your independence and resist becoming a blob of a couple. Your friends will realllly appreciate it.

/rant

XO,
SVR

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

Fakey Fake

I had a roommate in college who wore the most insanely padded push up bras. She would always lay out her clothes for the day ahead and at first I would wonder what small person was hiding under her clothes until I realized it was her bra making the enormous bumps. And she was a pretty petite person.

What I could never comprehend was what happened when she got it on with her boyfriend...and let me tell you, I know first-freaking-hand that they got it on a lot. Hold on while I cry from the memory of waking up to the sounds of them having sex. So all day long her boyfriend is thinking, "YEAH! My girl has huge tits! I'm the luckiest guy in the world!" and then hanky panky time would come around and she'd take off her bra and he would feel like he had vertigo because he couldn't find what he had just seen.

Please explain.

Holly Madison, from Holly's World, was saying that she used to stuff her bra (pre implants, of course), but it backfired because she got a boyfriend and she couldn't let him touch her boobs for months because she had to slowly stuff her bra less and less.

This thought/memory came to me earlier today because I was thinking about how much I loathe summer. I always feel gorgeous in the winter, but in the summer it sure is hit or miss. How can sweating be pretty? How is frizzy hair nice? I feel like summer is my padded push up bra. It's not the real me.

XO,
SVR

Friday, July 23, 2010

Light My Fire

Last night, my bookstore friends and I asked ourselves the following question:

What book would grab your attention if a guys asked for it? What would stop you in your tracks and cause you to think, "oh hai!"

This is a great question! We encounter so many people every day and from all walks of life. Unfortunately, the hot guy numbers have been down lately, but we're always optimistic.

My answers were:

"Hi, Do you have this book on Radiohead?"

"I'm about to take a trip to Scotland...where are those travel book?" Followed by "Do you want to come, too?" would be the best.

"I love Pavement...Such a great band, do you have their biography?"


What would your attention-grabbing books be?



+Title from The Doors

Sunday, July 04, 2010

The Blood Is Love

I don't care if people don't like Twilight. To each their own, right? And it's not like I like everything. I loathe ugly Betty, have never seen Lord of the Rings and really wasn't that excited about Transformers. But since Twilight is extremely popular right now, people love to hate it. And since I work at a bookstore, where every other request is for the books or movies, I hear about it A LOT. The following are the most common complaints about the story I hear:

1. Vampires Don't Sparkle

Ummm, vampires aren't real. It's like saying the Boogie Monster isn't green. Um, he's not real so if a writer wants to make him blue and yellow polka dots, he/she can.



What about Vampire Diaries which allows many of its vamps to be out during the day because of a special ring? It's just another element to the story. Not a big deal.

2. Edward is controlling.

I often hear people say that Bella is a horrible role model. I'm sorry, but last I checked the book was classified as fiction. I never read it for my own self help. And if you've read the books, you'd know that Edward is trying to protect Bella. She's a klutz and always getting hurt and then she has a crazed vampire after her! Of course he wants to be by her side all the time.



3. Robert Pattinson is not that good looking.

Um, you're wrong.



4. The book is not good for feminists.


THANK GOODNESS!

5. Stephenie Meyer is not a good writer.

Yes, she is. She's a good writer, not a great writer. Better than I am, for sure. Have I ever written a novel? Nope. Do I even have an idea for a novel? Nope. She wrote something that has engaged a gazillion people. Now, if those people don't realize there are bigger and better things out there, that's their fault!

5. No sex.


This bothered me at first, too. Most know that Stephenie Meyer is very conservative in her beliefs and I was annoyed she wrote books with abstinence as the lesson. BORING. BUT storywise, it is explained: Edward is afraid he'll kill her if they get it on. Yes, it's also because he wants to be married, but what's wrong with that? Though not common, that is still the belief of many people. But mostly I just focus on the fact that he is afraid she'll get hurt.

6. Kristen Stewart sucks.

I don't think she does. Also, I think she's just really shy and awkward. How would you handle a million questions thrown at you and people falling over themselves to get to you? Um, scary. I say stupid shit all the time, but luckily no one is taping it and reporting it to the world.



Check this out: Shirley Manson likes her!

XO,
SVR

Wednesday, June 16, 2010

House Of Cards

I just took a Meyers Briggs test and here is my result:

Portrait of an INTP - Introverted iNtuitive Thinking Perceiving
(Introverted Thinking with Extraverted Intuition)
The Thinker


As an INTP, your primary mode of living is focused internally, where you deal with things rationally and logically. Your secondary mode is external, where you take things in primarily via your intuition.

INTPs live in the world of theoretical possibilities. They see everything in terms of how it could be improved, or what it could be turned into. They live primarily inside their own minds, having the ability to analyze difficult problems, identify patterns, and come up with logical explanations. They seek clarity in everything, and are therefore driven to build knowledge. They are the "absent-minded professors", who highly value intelligence and the ability to apply logic to theories to find solutions. They typically are so strongly driven to turn problems into logical explanations, that they live much of their lives within their own heads, and may not place as much importance or value on the external world. Their natural drive to turn theories into concrete understanding may turn into a feeling of personal responsibility to solve theoretical problems, and help society move towards a higher understanding.

INTPs value knowledge above all else. Their minds are constantly working to generate new theories, or to prove or disprove existing theories. They approach problems and theories with enthusiasm and skepticism, ignoring existing rules and opinions and defining their own approach to the resolution. They seek patterns and logical explanations for anything that interests them. They're usually extremely bright, and able to be objectively critical in their analysis. They love new ideas, and become very excited over abstractions and theories. They love to discuss these concepts with others. They may seem "dreamy" and distant to others, because they spend a lot of time inside their minds musing over theories. They hate to work on routine things - they would much prefer to build complex theoretical solutions, and leave the implementation of the system to others. They are intensely interested in theory, and will put forth tremendous amounts of time and energy into finding a solution to a problem with has piqued their interest.

INTPs do not like to lead or control people. They're very tolerant and flexible in most situations, unless one of their firmly held beliefs has been violated or challenged, in which case they may take a very rigid stance. The INTP is likely to be very shy when it comes to meeting new people. On the other hand, the INTP is very self-confident and gregarious around people they know well, or when discussing theories which they fully understand.

The INTP has no understanding or value for decisions made on the basis of personal subjectivity or feelings. They strive constantly to achieve logical conclusions to problems, and don't understand the importance or relevance of applying subjective emotional considerations to decisions. For this reason, INTPs are usually not in-tune with how people are feeling, and are not naturally well-equiped to meet the emotional needs of others.

The INTP may have a problem with self-aggrandizement and social rebellion, which will interfere with their creative potential. Since their Feeling side is their least developed trait, the INTP may have difficulty giving the warmth and support that is sometimes necessary in intimate relationships. If the INTP doesn't realize the value of attending to other people's feelings, he or she may become overly critical and sarcastic with others. If the INTP is not able to find a place for themself which supports the use of their strongest abilities, they may become generally negative and cynical. If the INTP has not developed their Sensing side sufficiently, they may become unaware of their environment, and exhibit weakness in performing maintenance-type tasks, such as bill-paying and dressing appropriately.

For the INTP, it is extremely important that ideas and facts are expressed correctly and succinctly. They are likely to express themselves in what they believe to be absolute truths. Sometimes, their well thought-out understanding of an idea is not easily understandable by others, but the INTP is not naturally likely to tailor the truth so as to explain it in an understandable way to others. The INTP may be prone to abandoning a project once they have figured it out, moving on to the next thing. It's important that the INTP place importance on expressing their developed theories in understandable ways. In the end, an amazing discovery means nothing if you are the only person who understands it.

The INTP is usually very independent, unconventional, and original. They are not likely to place much value on traditional goals such as popularity and security. They usually have complex characters, and may tend to be restless and temperamental. They are strongly ingenious, and have unconventional thought patterns which allows them to analyze ideas in new ways. Consequently, a lot of scientific breakthroughs in the world have been made by the INTP.

The INTP is at his best when he can work on his theories independently. When given an environment which supports his creative genius and possible eccentricity, the INTP can accomplish truly remarkable things. These are the pioneers of new thoughts in our society.

Monday, June 14, 2010

Saturday, June 12, 2010

All I Need

One time at work, I made a list of my Top 10 Men....Celebs, of course. I think it started out as my Ross/Isabella Rossellini list for a future husband, but then I figured- why just have five!?

Top 10 (Possible Not In Order):
1. Brad Pitt

2. Leonardo DiCaprio

3. Tony Blair

4. Jonathan Rhys Meyers

5. Robert Pattinson

6. Joshua Jackson

7. Jared Leto (no makeup)

8. Ryan Reynolds

9. Bradley Cooper

10. Vince Vaughn



Who would be on yours???

Monday, May 31, 2010

Television

One of my pet peeves is when someone declares, "I don't watch television" like they are holier than though and instantly smarter than anyone who does watch it. Sometimes these people are still normal and they just spend their time doing other things. Often, though, this person has no clue about pop culture and can't hold a conversation with half the people they encounter.

I also get annoyed when someone says they don't watch TV, but he/she watches three movies a day. How is that any different?

Or hulu. If you watch television shows online, you still watch TV. It's a television show. You're just watching it on a different screen.

I have my TV on most of the time when I am home, but you know what? I multitask. Rarely am I sitting here just staring at the screen*. I like the noise and the connection to the outside world.

SO yeah, that's a pet peeve of mine.


XO,
SVR


*Vampire Diaries
**Simpsons

Thursday, May 20, 2010

Yesterday To Tomorrow

I got to hang out with Ali earlier. In a few days she will be 8 hours away again, though, and that makes me sad. We had a good time eating fried food and drinking beer while discussing Vampire Diaries and Lindsay Lohan's inevitable arrest.

It's not like we used to hang out all the time when she was in the area, but she's the easiest one to hang out with and to talk to and she always makes me laugh.

If I knew how to clone people, Ali, Robert Pattinson and I would hang out all the time.

XO,
SVR

Tuesday, May 18, 2010

Terrified

Even though I am not a writer by any means of the imagination, I really want to have a story to tell. I have read so many books lately that I get a little jealous of what I am reading and sad that I haven't thought of a great story to tell. I brainstorm a lot at work because of the nature of what I am doing and sometimes I try to think up stories. It's hard to not be influenced by what I am already reading, though, so I kinda stopped doing that as much.

My new thinking is that I will dream up a story. I think the deep, dark recesses of my mind are filled with great ideas and I am just not tapping in to the correct area. A lot of authors say that their ideas came to them through a dream so maybe that will happen to me, too.

So far...it hasn't gone well. Last night I had a dream that I went to Subway and ordered a steak and cheese and was annoyed it wasn't on a hoagie roll. The girl said, "We only use hoagies for cold cuts." Then, when I got my sandwich, it was on a hoagie! Thanks, Subway Girl!

In the second part of my dream I was sitting at home, enjoying my cheesesteak (on a hoagie roll) when I heard someone outside. I wasn't worried, though, because all of my windows were securely shut. I should have double-checked, though. All of a sudden, Willem Dafoe was outside my first window, trying to open it and peering in with his crazy grin!

I ran over to the next window and made sure it was locked just as he tried to open it. Whew, locked. Then we both ran to the third window with the same intents, but this time, the window slid open.

This is when I woke up.


XO,
SVR


+Title from Anna Ternheim

Saturday, May 15, 2010

Feel Good Inc

I have to work tonight. Working on a Saturday bothers me to no end. It always has. I think even in high school, when there really wasn't much fun to get into, I hated to be stuck at my job. When I was living in Richmond it was awesome because at my job they would give those crappy shifts to the high schoolers and to the college kids who had to make money. I had to make money, too, but I was available all week.

I'm 30. I'm young and like to have fun. I have no kids. I am free to do whatever I want. So when I have to work at night it really annoys me. I guess I should be grateful to have a job, but why can't that job just occur during the day?

But in order to not make this day a total waste, I am going to the Warrenton Spring Festival. Warrenton, VA is one of my favorite places on the planet. It's the Stars Hollow of VA in my opinion. I haven't been able to go to the Spring/Fall Festivals much over the years because of work or other obligations, but I want to make the effort this year.

I'm tempted to go in disguise, though...am I ready to small talk?!

XO,
SVR

Friday, May 14, 2010

Break The Ice

My mom said to me the other day, "People don't like iceberg lettuce, but I do. It gets a bad rap." To which I said, "I love it! It's like eating a glass of water."


So yeah, I like iceberg lettuce.

Wednesday, May 12, 2010

The Question Is How Fast

Usually I would do this on my other blog, but I haven't felt like posting much here lately so here ya go:

1. What was the last thing you put in your mouth? teriyaki noodles.

2. Where was your profile picture taken? Gone With The Wind

3. Can you play Guitar Hero? Yep!

4. Name someone who made you laugh today? Konstantin

5. How late did you stay up last night and why? not really sure because I started reading at about 1120 and then didn't want to look at the time.

6. If you could move somewhere else, would you? yes! I love VA, but I also really want to live in New England.

7. Ever been kissed under fireworks? Nope

8. Which of your friends lives closest to you on your FaceBook list? My roommate:)

9. Do you believe exes can be friends? yes, if you're mature.

10. How do you feel about Dr Pepper? It's kinda my favorite

11. When was the last time you cried really hard? I don't really remember.

12. Who took your profile picture? it's not of me.

13. Who was the last person you took a picture of? some stranger in annapolis, md.

14. Was yesterday better than today? Ummm, maybe. Work sucked yesterday, but home and orchestra was better.

15. Can you live a day without TV? of course

16. Are you upset about anything? sure! am I going to tell you? nope!

17. Do you think relationships are ever really worth it? of course.

18. Are you a bad influence? I can be:)

19. Night out or night in? Out..almost always. i like out and then in.

20. What items could you not go without during the day? lipgloss.

21. Who was the last person you visited in the hospital? my grandmother is in a nursing home at a hospital...does that count?

22. What does the last text message in your inbox say? It's from Abbie and about our opening days/concerts.

23. How do you feel about your life right now? there are some things I want!

24. Do you hate anyone? No way, Jose.

25. If we were to look in your Facebook inbox, what would we find? boring stuff.

26. Say you were given a drug test right now, would you pass? oh yeah

27. Has anyone ever called you perfect before? yes!

28. What song is stuck in your head? none, i'm watching ANTM

29. Someone knocks on your window at 2:00 a.m., a secret lover or George Clooney? um, most likely a secret lover.

30.Wanna have grandkids before you’re 50? ummmm, no bc i'm 30 so if i have a kid 9 months from now then he/she would be 20 when they had a kid.

31. Name something you have to do tomorrow? meet my dad in alexandria! YAY!

32. Do you think too much or too little? Way. Too. Much.

33. Do you smile a lot? yep

34. How many hours a day do you spend on the computer? depends what i'm doing. i tend to surf around while watching tv.

35. If you could be anyone else for a day, who would you be? Oh wow...I'm not sure. Tony Blair's wife???

36. Facebook or Twitter? FB, I guess.

37. Chicken or Beef? chicken

38. Mac or PC? PC

39. Have you ever punched anyone in the face? not yet

40. Last music received or purchased? Dead Weather and The National

Monday, May 10, 2010

Linger

And here is another. Shiver was my favorite book I read last year and Linger is just as good*.







*Perk for working at a bookstore:)

Ghost

Recently I have seen a lot of trailers for books. I never knew such a thing existed, but I am loving it. This is for a book I just read and loved:



I should mention that this book takes place in Baltimore and involves a boy from Scotland. Ummm, yes.

Wednesday, April 28, 2010

Ice, Ice, Baby

I am sad the Caps lost:(



It's kind of like the true end of winter, too. No more ice.

Tuesday, February 16, 2010

Happy Birthday Girl

Whenever I think about turning 30, I immediately think of Friends and The One Where They All Turn 30:




I also think about the movie 13 Going On 30. "30, flirty and thriving!"




There isn't much about turning this milestone age that has me freaked out. I love birthdays too much to have any negative feelings over it. The only thing that seems weird to me is that now, for the first time in my life, I will have to look at the next age group in Bazaar's "Fabulous At Any Age".

</>*

I know a lot of people make goals when they have birthdays and list things they want to accomplish. Well, I want to do something a little different. I'm going to tell you what I've accomplished already:

*I've played the clarinet for a majority of my life.
*I still play in an orchestra and recently started playing bassoon in a band.
*I played in Carnegie Hall in 2001.
*I coached a swim team for five straight summers. The most difficult and most rewarding job ever.
*I graduated from UMW in 2002.
*I got a masters degree in 2008.
*I get along with my family...like freakishly well.
*All of my baby cousins know me.
*I did a fashion photo shoot for my brother's store and some of the pics actually look good!
*I am not selfish**
*I taught middle school band as a long-term sub and didn't kill anyone (including myself).
*I own every Brad Pitt movie there is.
*I can make people laugh.
*I played tennis in high school even though I got cut the first time I tried out.
*I played with the Air Force Band once in high school.
*I have a lot of friends.
*I've seen a gazillion bands live.
*I've spoken Spanish in Puerto Rico.
*I am happy
*etc.
*etc.
*etc.

So yeah, yay for me!

XO,
SVR





*So not a fluke I chose this cover:)
**Of course I am sometimes! "Sometimes" is key.