Cool link

Stolen from Amy Scheider's boyfriend Matt's AIM profile.

Christmas movies.

So, as many of you know, I purchased a significant amount of Christmas time DVDs last week. Well, I adore Amazon, because they arrived two days after I ordered them. Today, I took to watching White Christmas with my dinner. I just finished, and I think it might be my favorite Christmas film. And it really highlighted the inner reasons why I (and probably most who celebrate it) love Christmas. The joy, the kindness, the caring, the spirit of goodwill that accompanies this season is truly astonishing. I've never had a bad Christmas, and for that I am extremely thankful. I suppose I have more of my mother in me than I had previously thought, because it was really her that has instilled within me a sincere appreciation for my own true meaning of Christmas. As Hugh Grant so brilliantly quotes in About A Boy - "no man is an island" - and I believe it. A life without others in it is hardly worth living (unless you're a tortured, extremely talented artist, of course). ;-)
The thing is, we are all so truly blessed, it's a shame that we need an annual holiday to remind us of it. But when that time does come around, we all should really take advantage of that moment to dwell on all the gifts that life has bestowed upon us. I know this is all sounding very Christian, but for me, the meaning of the season has always been a meditation on those who are important in my life and how much better they make living. My family and friends have meant so much to me over the years, and I hope that I have never done anything to make any of you doubt how much I care for you. I hope all of you take the holiday season (whatever holiday you may be celebrating, or even if you celebrate none at all, take the time given to us for a winter break) to appreciate your own special ones. Those of you who know what I've been dealing with this semester can probably understand why I've let this season come quite early into my life; it's just something I needed. So curl up, watch White Christmas (even if you don't practice Christianity, it is still a great film), and think about ways to show those you love how much you are grateful for them.

Plus, I always had a weird semi-crush on Danny Kaye. Yeah, I'm a freak. =)

I'm a kick ass cook.

Seriously, if this weekend has taught me anything, it's that, in the kitchen, I probably put most of you to shame. =) Just kidding. Although in the course of the weekend, I made a delicous pork roast, pumpkin pie, and tequila smoothies. The tequila smoothies are, of course, an interesting story.

So, Saturday night, Brigit and I were having some friends over to chill out, drink and play boardgames. We wanted to make some margaritas, and there was some leftover Strawberry Margarita Mix in our fridge we were planning on using. What we weren't planning on, was the absence of any frozen H2O from our home. Seriously, there was not a single piece of ice in the entire place. There was lots of semi-frozen water on its way to becoming ice, but no ice. So we had to improvise. We raided the freezers in search of frozen fruit and made what was essentially a breakfast time smoothies with lots of tequila in it. It felt so naughty to drink it! It was just so healthy and yet so physically devastating. =)

Friday night, after seeing Harry Potter 4 (which I will review soon), I just chilled. I took this Harry Potter preceptorial (basically a class for fun, no grades, and you only meet three times a semester) so I got my ticket for free. The movie itself was pretty much what I expected - fun, highly entertaining, some great moments, but all in all, disappointing to those who have read the books. Now this is no one's fault: the book is HUGE! And those damn kid actors are growing up so fast - doing it in 2 parts is out of the question. There was just so much I would have loved to see on screen that they didn't even include. And with the exception of the notorious three - no other character had any sort of significant role, not even Dumbledore (speaking of whom, I soooo prefer Richard Harris!) - which is a shame, because they are some of my favorite characters - Snape, Draco, Prof. McGonegal. The best part of the film vs. the book though, is that on-screen, the sexual tension between characters comes out so much better. It's hilarious, actually. Also, the plot moves extremely fast (they are trying to fit what should probably be a 6 hour movie into a mere 2 1/2 hours) so it might take some of you a few viewings. But the special effects are impressive and all in all, it is quite enjoyable. I think I'll probably see it over Thanksgiving in an IMAX somewhere with my little sister.

Anyhow, the weekend was relatively uneventful, but in a quite nice way. For once, I didn't have a totally oppressive amount of work so I spent a lot of time relaxing. Which is splendid. One semi-productive thing I did today was post a lot of pictures to thefacebook.com - so check them out if you have the time. Here's to a pleasant week and an even more pleasant Thanksgiving, readers. XOXOXOX

Quick confession

So, when I am wasting time on the internet, I often read Stuart's diary (Stuart from Belle and Sebastian, that is). It's actually great and he writes quite beautifully. There was finally a new update a couple days ago, and there are some comments on living life that I feel everyone should take in. Besides, it's just a charming read. He's just charming. I can't wait until they tour the U.S. again this spring. Who's coming?

Music is one of the greatest sources of joy in life.

New Belle and Sebastian album February 7!!! But supposedly, they'll be releasing a couple things before then. How exciting!

Johnny Cash songs that are wonderful but I hadn't heard before (because I typically only listen to the older stuff):
"One Piece at a Time"
"Highwayman"
"The Wanderer" (with U2)
"The Man Comes Around"

Olivia, when are we going to see Walk the Line?

Paul, don't worry - no one expects you to wear pastels. You are far too fabulous for that. Kisses. Do you know about your end of year exams yet?

Thoughts on Comments

Why would you have a blog without comments? It drives me nuts. I feel like these people are the same ones who surround themselves with those who will never contradict them. Not that I ever post anything quite so controversial as to stimulate a flurry of comments, but perhaps someday I will. Until then, I welcome any thoughts from my (few but altogether lovely) readers. I don't thrive on confrontation or anything, but I'm not afraid of it. I love a friendly debate - I feel like I always leave having learned something about myself and about the other participators. I don't ever mean to offend anyone, but that's why I bring things up like religion or philosophy or art; it's a great topic to incite passionate feelings. I feel like these areas give us a great base to relate to one another as human beings. I don't need a meaning to my life, but I am intrigued by the infinite possibilities of one. Does that make sense? What do you think? Feel free to comment.

In a related topic, I have noticed a trend of being completely disenchanted with Penn by senior year. I'm not saying this is one particular person, or even most of the people I know, but there's definitely at least a handful of people who used to be very enthusiastic about life, both life here and life in general, who have recently become very tedious. Naturally, I'm really against it. The thing is, we may have outgrown our initial reasons for attending, but would you ever really give them all up? Do you honestly think there's a place you could spend four years in and still be happy? Or are you maybe just an easily discontented person? In truth, I still really love it here. And I'm in WHARTON. Seriously, if there's one place you could easily grow tired of (via the pretentiousness, seriousness, egoism, etc.) it's Wharton. But nope, I still love it. Penn and Wharton. Penn is seriously GREAT. GREAT professors, GREAT campus, GREAT traditions (we throw toast for heaven's sake!). And Wharton, you can't help but be amused by all of its quirks. For example, I don't plan on seeing as many pastel-shirted men until I'm retired and in the fabulous nursing homes of Miami. If you're going to let a couple seemingly pretentious people get you down, you're going to have a very hard life. The truth is, we have it SOOOOOO good. I know this probably isn't something most people think of daily, but please be thankful you have a home, food, family, friends - not to mention an incredible WORLD of opportunities! It's just so depressing when people in an ideal situation can't even see it. I mean, maybe it's because I went abroad and got a bit of a break, but I don't think so. Anyhow, I've said my piece. Don't be brought down by others' expectations of you. I've always tried to play a little scene in my head whenever I feel like I'm not living up to what others think I should be doing: the scene is me, in a black dress, with a large rimmed black hat and large sunglasses, flinging myself against a wall, and running the back of my hand across my forehead and softly saying "but darling, a wild one such as I cannot be constrained by social norms." [hehe - I'm not melodramatic AT ALL, clearly] Typically I emerge from this daydream and go up to my room for a private dance party. Because my truth is, that I only have to do what I want. Real estate analyst, stay at home mom, investment banker, Peace Corps, CEO, author, intellectual hobo - it doesn't matter to anyone but me. College is college. In college, the only person you should care about is yourself. No one is depending on you. Be selfish, but in the way that leads you to be happy. Just do what you want. When did that get so hard for everyone?

I'm gonna go listen to Cash and ponder some more. I'm not trying to be self righteous or offensive or insulting or anything really. I'm just so happy and I hate to see others so discontented with life. Life is fan-bloody-tastic.

Johnny Cash print bought at a cafe in Connecticut with my darling Olivia. My wall has never looked so good.

Other cd

I forgot to mention the other cd that came today: The Legend of Johnny Cash. Was well worth the money just for the cd insert - but the music is absolutely terrific. Honestly, a must have. And as I had no other Cash cds (lots of stuff downloaded, but no actual purchases made) - I felt it was an obligation whose time had come due, especially since it goes quite well with the Cash print I bought in Connecticut (I'll post a pic). Anyhow, despite missing all of my classes, today was a great day. I've gone Christmas crazy - even put fairy lights up over my windows - and made a new Christmas mix (beginning with a little Mariah Carey, of course [PAUL]). Hehehe - it's definitely possible that I'm losing my mind, but it feels so nice. Oh and I baked a KICK ASS Jewish Apple Cake. Thanks mom! I'm in love with the world today, so that means all of you too - hope that puts a little warmth in your night.

More excessiveness.

So, I realized that today was going to be a good day when I went outside to get the mail. My cd's that I ordered from Tower had arrived! I was extremely excited because I knew that today...TODAY! would be the beginning of the Christmas season for me. Why? Because one of those cd's was my favorite Christmas cd of all time - Bing Crosby's WHITE CHRISTMAS. Loooooooooove the Bing.

Anyhow, I put Mr. Crosby on, then I briefly lost my mind, and purchased over $100 of Christmas DVDs on Amazon.com. Dammit! But oh well, now I'm excited for them to come too! The purchase definitely included all of those great claymation films like Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer. Boy, are they hilarious.

Anyway, I know it's early for the Christmas thing, but I feel like I needed to put a positive and completely insane spin on my life this November. Early Christmas obsession is just the thing. P.S. We are totally having a Chrismukkah party at the house, and don't worry, I'll plan this one.

P.S.

I am revisiting the "About A Boy" soundtrack - LOVELY!!!

Also, Paul, even though I promised, your package is not yet in the post. Be patient, love. I promise it will be worth the wait. =) P.S. You're the sweetest person I know, an absolute treasure. Make sure Euan knows it. I'll see you either in January or March, hopefully.

Also, that was a lie about the scotch. I actually just went back to reading about corruption in Kazakhstan. Oh, the trials and tribulations of my life.

And was it just me, or did tonight's Family Guy really push some limits? Hehe, gotta love it. Although I loved "college Stewie". "Isn't that EPIC?!"

"Nice day for a sulk"

Today was beautiful. Unfortunately, I had a mountain of work to do. Figuratively, it was the Mt. Everest of groups projects + readings + research + a billion other things. I wish I could've just taken off on a nice walk. I can't believe it's November! Am I the only one?

Anyhow, the weekend was quite nice, despite the pressures of academia. I already told you about Shopgirl, last night we had a surprise 21st birthday party for Justine, which was lovely. Sorry to anyone if I seemed like a big bitch at the beginning of the soiree, I was put in a very uncomfortable position. Anyhow, a little glass of "calm your nerves" wine was just the trick and soon Olivia and I were cutting a rug on the dance floor. Justine was incredibly surprised and it was great to see everyone who showed up.

I've had to give myself a lot of pep talks lately. It's kind of what I do when I feel like I'm getting buried alive, again, figuratively. Thanksgiving is soon though, which is good. I'll have to chill out then. I can't wait to eat limitless amounts of turkey, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, stuffing and all of that other horribly bad for you food that we eat on Thanksgiving. Citizens of the United States (my Emerging Economies professor is always yelling at us for using the word "American" to describe U.S. residents - because we're not the only Americans, i.e. residents of South America, Canada, etc.) are so indulgent - it's fabulous! *Note: Of course there is a little part of me that feels entirely guilty about our excess, but I feel in a way obligated to play the card I've been given, i.e. live it up now and hope to do good in the future* AKA Melinda is a horrible person.

Hehehe. Shit. Now I do feel really guilty. I'm going to have a glass of the finest scotch and go to sleep in my beautiful bed.

I forgot the punchline.

George Weiss ended up giving $14 million to the scholarship fund. That's what was in the envelope.

Pre-speech good hair.

Haha - my "Newsie" costume for my Halloween day classes. It was fun explaining to people that I was dressed up as a "depression-era newspaper boy from a Disney musical".

Speech and Shopgirl Review.

So... the speech went wonderfully. I was so incredibly nervous, especially after seeing the hundreds of people all dressed up, but it was fine. Funny though - first the president of the university, Amy Gutmann, spoke (and she is an awful public speaker, nice lady, horrible speaker) and then George Weiss (Penn kids - like, of the Weiss Tech House). Well at the end of his speech, George gives Amy an envelope (which of course, everyone knows is some kind of donation) - and then I have to go on. Well, I mentioned that it was one tough act to follow and that my speech would not be ending with an envelope. They laughed and the speech went on flawlessly. I was charming like you wouldn't believe (or maybe you would....). Anyhow, the DP wants to talk to me, so look in Monday's paper!

Last night, Brigit, Amy Woodbridge and I went to see Shopgirl and I was definitely pleasantly surprised. Although I would not recommend that anyone with ADD go and see it (the plot definitely was not a fast-moving one) - it was incredibly charming and insightful. Jason Schwartzman was hilarious, Steve Martin showed that he is actually a pretty good actor and Claire Danes was good as well. It was definitely worth the viewing. And you leave feeling pretty good, although a little wistful.

I heart Monk's.

Monk's Cafe, that is (although I do have a similar fondness for members of the spiritual brotherhood). The A-list of Wharton ladies (myself, Brigit, Leslie, Meghan, Michelle and Lindsey) made a special outing last night to indulge and truly celebrate our fabulousness (not to mention give us a break from our insane work schedules). It was such a ridiculously good time, I can't even explain. We all got terribly drunk off of our delicious Belgian beer; Les, Linds and I destroyed three different kinds of mussels; I have never eaten so many pommes frites; the music was absolutely ludicrous (first The Smiths, then Clap Your Hands Say Yeah!, then The Postal Service); and the desserts....oh my goodness the desserts. Not to mention the glorious company and conversation. I don't think I've ever had a more perfect night out (with the possible exception of the trip to Monk's with the nametags, that was pretty great as well). Monk's Cafe is just wonderful. The staff is wonderful, the food is wonderful, and the beer is out of this world. If you live in Philadelphia and you haven't gone yet, what are you waiting for? Go go go!

For the most part, my life has been pretty tame, but busy. I'm giving a small speech tonight in front of like, 500 people, so that's got me a little nervous. I've been going to mad job interviews, but I don't know... nothing's got me terribly excited yet. I have a preceptorial (class that not's for credit) tomorrow on Harry Potter. =) Yesterday was Becky's half-birthday (her 19 1/2 birthday, I might add) and I got a voicemail from her explaining that she called me in anticipation of me calling her to wish her a happy half-birthday. This kid! Katie's going to come and stay with me in the city over Thanksgiving break, which should be quite cool.

I suppose I could give you some song recommendations:
"The Recluse" by Cursive
"Halls of Mirrors" by Louis XIV
"Cemetry Gates" by The Smiths (don't know if I've mentioned it before but it's been pretty much my favorite song as of late)
"Jenny Wren" by Paul McCartney

Hope your lives are going swimmingly as well. Ciao lovers!

This kid. Gelfand as Robin, after the dynamic duo split up (he confessed later that he had to dispatch with Batman, due to a bad breakup).

I love when friends from different parts of my life connect! Ms. Monroe giving Justine the bumblebee a little post-party loving!

Lura, exploring her inner "medieval princess".

Johanna made a lovely Greek goddess in a Gilbert family vintage costume. =) Tash, myself, and Brigit also wore costumes originating from my family.

Natasha, a sexy vampire (whose teeth were apparently stolen by "some skanky guy") and Nat, the lovely Ginger Spice.

Andrew's frat's senior brothers all dressed up as the cast from Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure. Kaylock, the Asian Canadian, made a surprisingly good Abe Lincoln.

Justin, our resident "babe magnet", and Jason, aka The Hamburglar. For those of you who might be wondering, yes, Jason did later on go to McDonald's and try to steal hamburgers.

Roomies!! Terry is definitely the hottest nurse I've ever seen.

Haha, I actually can't NOT laugh while looking at this pic. Josh Kamins was a big baby. He even brought sippy cups!!

LANCASTER!!!

Where's Waldo? Mike, aka the Fonz, Tom, aka a huge nerd (props for staying in character all night buddy!), Amy, Kate the pink lady, and Jeff as Waldo.

Scary and Baby Spice (aka Jasmine and Amy).

Brigit, a saucy little gypsy.

Pre-party shot of Amy Schneider and myself! We are such hot stuff.

Halloween etc.

So as many of you know, my house hosted an absolutely fabulous Halloween party last Friday and, I must say, it turned out quite well (with the exception of the fog machine setting off the fire alarm). Everyone put so much effort into their costumes, it was amazing. And I want to make a big shout-out to my one-and-only mum right now for making me the greatest costume ever!!!! (there'll be pics posted, don't you lovelies worry)

Besides that, it's been the same old. I've been asked to speak at a scholarship gala next Thursday, and I'm having lunch with some trustees tomorrow, and some notable alumni on Friday. It's Homecoming this weekend, so the football game should be a good time. Brigit and I have decided that hot chocolate with peppermint schnapps is the way to go.

Besides school and interviews, nothing else is new. Life has deteriorated into an unending cycle of school work, work work, and drinking. Does anyone else's life feel like this, or just me? Oh well, things will come together eventually. Until then, I suppose I just have to enjoy the ride. Kisses.

P.S. Much love to Paul, who just celebrated his 19th birthday! I love you hubbie!