DC GOP Girl

Another handful of 2012 movie reviews

2012-05-17T15:13:00.000-04:00

Since my 4/29 movie review, I've seen a handful of movies. In fact I've not blogged since then, so of course my return-to-blog post is going to be filled with reviews rather than fashion fun or life updates:

Lockout: (April) Perhaps derivative and to-the-final-moment exactly what I expected, but the subtle charms of this B-movie at best still managed to entertain me being exactly what it was -- a predictable, implausible sci-fi flick.

The Avengers 3D IMAX: (5/4) I'm stepping in front of a moving train for this review, but it wasn't all that I expected it to be. That is, despite its high-budget and all-star cast, there were no surprises. But don't think I didn't love it. I did. Edit: I really liked it.

While you don't have to have seen the individual Marvel movies that led up to this one, seeing the others, particularly Thor and Ironman, helped. But it's safe to say Joss Whedon did a good job of blending all the superheroes without forgetting their real character. Something Marvel fans can appreciate.

And what's not to love when a movie features a flying aircraft carrier? Side bar: If you follow me on twitter or Facebook you should know by now that I represent the sole provider of U.S. carriers for a living, and am crazy about them.

While it's not the greatest superhero movie I’ve ever seen, I think I reserve that for Dark Knight, The Avengers is still definitely worth the price of a ticket. Go see it. You won't be disappointed.

Girl in Progress: (5/8) Every now and then I stumble across a film that speaks to where I am, where I've been in life in a profound way. This was one of those films. By no means did I try to grow up too fast as Ansiedad (which means anxiety in spanish. Great name, eh?) the protagonist did. Nor did I have a neglectful mother. But there was something about the spirit of the movie. The trying so desperately hard to make things work. Make things right. Despite a complete and utter lack of control that just worked for me.

The Road: (5/11) Whatever I claimed the worst film of 2011 to be, we can probably replace it with this one. Worried that I'd be "reading" my movie, before heading to the theatre I desperately tried to find out if it would in fact be in subtitles. Despite a foreign-heavy cast and crew, all signs pointed to English. Clearly I was looking in all the wrong places, because yes it was a subtitled. Which in and of itself is no problem, but I had a killer headache (and yes, I still wanted to go to the movies) so I knew "reading" was going to bug me.

But I digress... the film itself is a jumbled mess of a story. So much so, that I walked out of the movie after an hour. My first walkout. A huge deal when considering my I'll pretty much sit through anything attitude.

This slow-moving, monotonous film committed the worst of all horror-movie-crimes -- it wasn't the least bit scary. Maybe it's because others around me were laughing it was so much. It's hard to take a horror film seriously when it's laughable. Save your time. Save your money. Pass on The Road.

Dark Shadows: (5/11) I ended up paying to go see this one the evening I walked out of The Road. By no means was it on my "to see" list, but I miraculously did nonetheless.

The good news: if you've seen the previews and thought it looked absolutely awful, you'll be pleasantly surprised. While by no means a summer blockbuster, it did have its moments that made it an overall enjoyable movie.

Based on the American gothic soap opera of the 1960's and remade in the early '90's (I remember watching it with my mom before it's early end in large part to the Gulf War), the altogether competent film (why thank you Johnny Depp) gives faithful fans of the tv show have something to look forward to. And something to enjoy.

The bad news: If Johnny Depp was the reason the movie didn't flop, his development and screen-time left the rest of the cast underdeveloped and is the reason Burton didn't find the re-make "sweet spot."

The Dictator: (5/15) Let's just say this one is as crude as the oil field of Wadiya, the fictional North African country where the movie is set. But that's crude, coupled with hysterical, misogynistic, at moments tedious all at once. The title character, a power-hungry internationally hated dictator, Admiral General Haffax Aladeen played by Sacha Baron Cohen, shines in this over-the-top flick as the dictator comes to America to meet with the U.N.. But shining aside, I can't help be think of Cohen in his wonderful role in Hugo and await the end of this long-running joke. Perhaps it's time to surprise the audience with a few less Aladeens and Borats, and instead replace them with the more unexpected, meaningful roles. But that's just me.

Beasts of the Southern Wild: (5/16) review will come next month.

16 Movies of 2012 I've Yet to Review

2012-04-29T02:49:00.001-04:00

Okay, so I've taken the time to review a few movies here and there this year, but I've seen a few in the past few weeks that I've not reviews, so I've decided to go ahead and add them now, as well as a couple others I've seen earlier this year too. It's kind of ridiculous realizing just how many movies I've already seen this year...

Safe. (04.28.12) I didn't know how much I liked Jason Statham until today. And it's decidedly, a lot. Now on to the real review... Filled with gritty fight sequences and camerawork that takes full advantage of the raw talent it spotlights, Safe seems like a promising action film. However, its plot proves it’s an action film with an uncharacteristic element: common sense. Safe might not be thought-provoking material, but it does offer enough of a plot to engross the audience and carry the stars thought plenty of car chases, gun fights and high-flying kicks. Needless to say it distinguishes itself from the paint-by-numbers action movies that seem to be crawling out of the woodwork these days.

Five Year Engagement. (04.27.12) Funny, sincere and occasionally dramatic this romcom almost makes it as a comedy classic, but barely misses that mark. That said it's still an endearing movie that's highly entertaining. The only downfall -- a 20 minute run that slowed the otherwise steady pace of jokes and sincerity towards the end that could have been edited out to make a more perfect flick.

The Lucky One. (04.22.12) Eh, save your money and wait for this to come to video. Sure Zac Efron's hot and now that he's 24 he finally seems old enough to say he's hot, but the movie itself is lukewarm at best. Thrown into another lousy role Efron and the female lead (no reason to learn her name) play one-dimensional characters in a flick chock-full of clichés fleshed out by overused montages that rely on the soundtrack to set any tone at all. Again, wait to rent it.

Cabin in the Woods. (04.13.12) Let's just say it's not what I expected. But that's not to say it's bad. Quite the opposite, I thoroughly enjoyed watching this one. Unfolding in expected ways, this "horror" flick is actually meant to be comedic. And perhaps it works best because it doesn't take itself too seriously.

American Reunion. (04.11.12) Let's just say it was decent if you like the American Pie franchise. And it's safe to say they've set it up so they can make another if it makes them enough money. Aside from Alyson Hannigan, it's not like any of the other actors are doing anything.

21 Jump Street. (03.16.12) So the previews definitely gave away most of the great lines of this movie but Channing Tatum and Jonah Hill made for a perfect comedy duo. It's definitely the best comedy movie that's come out in a while.

Silent House (AMC Stubs didn't record the date so I'm not sure) I was super excited to see Elizabeth Olsen again, but this movie just wasn't for me.

Project X (03.01.12) The ultimate party movie. By no means is it "good," but I was entertained.

Act of Valor. (02.23.12) This movie literally made me want to be a Navy Seal. Boasting the fact that it stars active-duty Navy SEALs using modern warfare tactics, it delivers some of the most realistic action sequences ever to grace the silver screen. While the acting isn't the best-in-the-world it's easy to forgive with this patriotic script that provides insight in a world we don't normally see.

Safe House (02.10.12) Decent enough, but don't rush to see it.

The Vow. (02.09.12) Nothing original here. But how can you not love the leads from The Notebook and Dear John coming together to make their own romantic movie. The Vow isn’t anything extraordinary, but it’s a great date movie

Man on a Ledge. (02.04.12) Full of drama and action this film was surprisingly entertaining.

Chronicle (02.03.12) No, just no.

The Grey. (01.28.12) While my roommate really liked this movie, it wasn't my favorite of the year by any means.

Haywire. (01.25.12) It was a great action flick to start the year. Gina Carano made for a kick-ass action-chick lead, and it was a different enough film that I enjoyed it start to finish.

Contraband. (01.13.12) Mark Walhberg's in it. Enough said. *yes, that's a good thing

P.S. can you tell I got tired of writing reviews at some point? Yeah, I did.

Happy Easter!

2012-04-09T00:26:00.002-04:00

Happy Easter all! I know it's been a while since I've written a "real" post. A non-review/guide. An update on life that is. So I figure it's about time for one. Albeit a brief one.

I spent the weekend at Old Woodville. After all the crap I've been dealing with lately, getting away was really nice. In fact, I may try to get away more in the upcoming months if I'm able to between dr's appointments. Who knows.

More than anything this weekend proved what a friend is like at their very best and that sometimes people step up as family even if they're not technically family.

And now here's my weekend experience in photos:

Woodville. Absolutely gorgeous.

Springtime view 1. Click to enlarge.

Springtime view 2. Click to enlarge.

Springtime view from the side of the house. Click to enlarge.

A view from Woodville looking out at the mountains and Nydrie Farm. Click to enlarge.

"We're definitely from the South. We're shooting guns, drinking beer and talking about secession."

We're American. We play football on holidays.

And while I may not like dogs, these two gorgeous Rhodesian Ridgebacks are keepers.

Until next time...

Oh, and more about this later, but lots of items from my closet are now listed for sale, so check them out over at DCGOPGirl on Facebook.

Wrath of the TItans Review

2012-04-01T21:50:00.000-04:00

Another Saturday night, another movie. This time around it was the newly released Wrath of the Titans, the sequel (straight from hell) to 2010's Clash of the Titans.

Before I delve into details, let's establish one thing -- the only good thing about this movie is that there were some hot characters. The star of the show, Perseus, played by studly Sam Worthington, was by far the best reason to endure the 99 minutes of other-worldly creations.

Overview: Perseus braves the treacherous underworld to rescue his father, Zeus, captured by his son, Ares, and brother Hades who unleash the ancient Titans upon the world.

My take -- the devil's in the details: Having been a Classics major (think ancient Greek, Latin) I appreciate a good myth with the best of them. Too bad WOTT took far too many liberties with mythological accuracies to even allow me to appreciate that. The mixing of myths was mind boggling fact (how simple that would've been to get right). Last time I checked, Andromeda was Queen of Tyre, not Greece. The Minotaur was on the Isle of Crete, not in the Underworld. And the mad Hephaestus' great Labyrinth was there as well, not Tartarus. Yes, this movie very well could be renamed the Wrath of Mythology.

The verdict: WWOT's creative team clearly decided it was worth sacrificing a decent script for special effects. Unless you're desperately bored, wait until video -- this one's subpar at best.

Mirror Mirror Review

2012-03-30T11:31:00.004-04:00

Thursday night midnight movies (is "night midnight" redundant? oh well) are among my favorite things in the world. There's just something about seeing a flick before anyone else that I love. And rarely do you find me elsewhere on Thursday nights these days.

Last night was no exception. My roommate and I went to see Mirror Mirror the new Julia Roberts/Lilly Collins film.

I have a feeling I'm going against the grain on this one, but I truly enjoyed this bauble of a film. From opulent, vibrant sets to unexpected, witty one-liners, it was truly charming.

Overview: "A fresh and funny retelling of the Snow White legend, Mirror Mirror features breakout star Lily Collins as Snow White, a princess in exile, and Oscar-winner Julia Roberts as the evil Queen who ruthlessly rules her captured kingdom. Seven courageous rebel dwarfs join forces with Snow White as she fights to reclaim her birthright and win her Prince in this magical comedy filled with jealousy, romance, and betrayal that will capture the hearts and imaginations of audiences the world over."

The cast:
The Queen: Julia Roberts. Finally an age-appropriate film for Julia. Don't get me wrong, I love her with the best of them but she's had some duds in the past few years. But this one worked well for her and she played an over-the-top queen to a T.

Snow White: Lilly Collins. Daughter of musical savant Phil Collins, and better known as the daughter in The Blind Side, the perfectly cast ivory skin and raven hair mixed with her sugary sweet demeanor made Lilly a delightful Snow.

The Dwarves: unlike any dwarves you've previously seen in fair tales. Enamored with the beautiful, this drunken crew of thieves will keep you laughing.
I enjoyed Mirror Mirror from the beginning to "The End."

Prince Alcott: Armie Hammer. I recognize him best as the twins in The Social Network and the boyfriend in J.Edgar, Armie's boyish good-looks and endearing smile make him a believable prince that you can easily like. While I thought I'd find some of his scenes annoying based on the previews, I instead found myself laughing during his screen time, charmed by the prince.

The Verdict: While I won't classify this as a must, must see kind of movie, it's exponentially better than half of what's out there right now. So if you've already seen The Hunger Games, put Mirror Mirror next on your list. You won't be disappointed.

*Movie-goer tip: don't leave until the credits literally roll. You'll want to stick around and see what happens after "The End."

SoMe: Facebook Timeline 101: telling the story of your brand's life - timeline elements explained

2012-03-29T01:46:00.001-04:00

In my last post I gave you an easy cheat sheet guide to image sizes for elements in Facebook's new Timeline.

And with the hours ticking away before Facebook transitions all pages to Timeline, whether you're ready for it or not, I decided it was time for another guide that complements the first.

This time, it's Timeline 101. Sure you've seen some of the elements of Timeline before, heck you may even think you know it all, but odds are you're missing some little tidbit that could set you apart from all of your brand competition. So be sure to check out each section and make sure your page is up to snuff, before this Friday, March 30th!

Click to enlarge.

SoMe: Facebook Timeline Cheat Sheet for Images

2012-03-26T14:11:00.001-04:00

Unless you've been hiding under a rock the past month, you've probably heard that ALL Facebook "Pages" are converting to the new Facebook Timeline this Friday, March 30, 2012.

For some of you this is an exciting opportunity to market your brand in a new way, with a hip scrapbook-esque feel. For others, the idea is terrifying! I mean, you just got used to the old set-up and now Facebook is pushing a major change on you. Again.

One of the most complicated things people have asked me about Timeline is what size different graphics should be so that they're not cut off, etc. For those with Photoshop you're probably less concerned, you go for the trial and error route. For those without, who wants to pay a graphic designer to make a new cover photo and it be the wrong size? Either way, getting it right the first time around is the way to go.

Which is why I've created an easy Facebook Timeline Cheat Sheet for Images to help you get started, showing the ideal size for all page elements. So be sure to keep this close-by when designing your Timeline, and don't forget to share it with a friend!

Click to enlarge

Silent House Review

2012-03-25T12:42:00.004-04:00

Two things should be established early on:

1. I'm a pretty big Elizabeth Olsen fan. Like her super-twin sisters or not (of cours I do), there's no denying this sibling is chock-full of talent and she's super cute.

2. I hate suspense-thriller movies. You know the kind -- sit on the edge of your seat, while the music accelerates and your heartbeat picks up as you wait for something awful to happen. Seriously, not my style. I know better than being dragged into these kind of movies, and yet, it happens a few times a year. Fail on my part for that.

Now that those two points are established...

If you've seen the previews for this movie, you probably have decent expectations of what you think it is. Something along the lines of 88 minutes of Elizabeth Olsen and father being tortured in a house by God-only knows what in real time. And that much is true, the whole film is one long unbroken shot, and it stars the excellent Elizabeth Olsen, but that's about all it delivers.

"Silent House" could have been an intelligent and disturbing horror film -- perhaps even a classic. All the elements were in place: creepy location, good actress, decent story with a few twists. But regrettably, it was not. Don't get me wrong, you will sit on the edge of your seat waiting for what happens next, but the movie fell short of what the amazing trailers promised and I left the theater wanting something more. Or rather something else.

I won't bother delving into it further. You can choose to see and it make your own opinions. But if I were you, I'd wait til Redbox. Better yet, make it Netflix.

Have you seen it? What do you think?

Hunger Games Review

2012-03-23T11:46:00.003-04:00

Looking at the extensive list of flicks I went to see in 2011, it's safe to say I'm a movie fanatic. And so it should come as no surprise that I spend another Thursday night at midnight movie going to see "The Hunger Games" last night. And folks, we have a winner!

Hunger Game strayed far from that usual young adult novel turned film-cliché where everything is set to please every fan's hearts. No, it didn't follow they book 100%, but what movie does? You have to often cut and amend scenes to get into a watchable time. That was fine by me. Nothing they altered affected the overall storyline (SPOILER: did I really need to see the mayor's daughter give Katniss the mockingjay pin? No.)

That said, it was truly a magnificent view of Collin's bestselling novel. And if you've read the book it's incredibly fulfilling to see it come to life on the big screen. Good for those who haven't read it as well, it's a definite must-see.

What'd you think?

Wordless Wednesday: Polyvore Edition

2012-03-22T02:28:00.003-04:00

*it counts even thought it's late and now EARLY Thursday

I'm okay.

2012-03-12T01:05:00.001-04:00

So I just wanted to thank everyone for all of their kind words and support. As my parents pointed out, my "C word" post, was a bit too vague for those who hadn't read my previous post, and things really didn't make a lot of sense. By no means did I mean to worry any one, or have people think the worst. I don't really feel like talking about it all right now, but I will be okay.

So family members/friends who are worried -- worry not. Again, I will be okay.

And for those asking about this past Tuesday's surgery -- it went well. I spent the week on the mend, but I was able to venture out of the house today to the Caps game. So again, I'm okay. :)

Speaking of Caps -- we won today! Yay boys! Good job!

I was also dragged out by the guys to watch the Caps 2 weeks ago. I know, that makes this an old outfit now, but I polvore'd it then and failed to post it, so I'm doing it now.

Okay, this post was pretty pointless. Until next time...

I felt the first cracks...

2012-03-06T00:27:00.001-05:00

Sitting here in this empty house tonight. I'm finally losing it. I've been pretty angry at the world thus far, but somehow the silence has broken through the anger and now I'm just pathetically sad. I don't really want anything more than my parents to answer the phone right now, which they're not.

Jump ahead 15 minutes. They answered. Simply talking to someone and I was able to snap out of it.

One hour later and I feel like my emotions are like tectonic plates. Things are shifting. Subtle cracks in my once solidly cool exterior are beginning to show. I can't seem to make it more than 10 minutes at a time tonight without the tears welling up.

Do I feel sorry for myself? I don't know. Yes.

There are some truths I've still withheld from people in my life. Not what you think, but I've denied a few things that I should probably disclose. What's happening next with the "c" word. Consequences. Etc.

I'm not ready to be that kind of honest yet. Not even close.

Things I've been told that I'm not ready to process further. To share.

Which again, is all too vague for blogging and I'm very much aware of how my rambling sounds if your any place but my head right now.

The "c" word

2012-03-04T11:42:00.001-05:00

Maybe I haven't told you about it because telling you would make it more real.

Maybe I haven't told you about it because I keep telling myself that if I have surgery it will disappear without having to do anything else. I know it doesn't work that way, but if I think it enough -- maybe it will.

Maybe I haven't told you about it because I've not even began to tell the world around me (only a small, need-to-know, limited world) and I don't think it's fair for "you" to know before they do.

Maybe I haven't told you about it because I've managed to make myself sound logical, and accepting of it but if I let myself really feel right now, I know I won't feel anything but anger. *hell yes, I'm angry.

Maybe I haven't told you about it because I don't want to be defined by it. I don't to meet a nice guy (finally) and have to tell him about it either.

Maybe I haven't told you about it because I'm just so mad at the world right now that I'd much rather scream, or cry, or laugh than talk about it.

Maybe I haven't told you about it because I'm mad at those who do know, who say "we'll get through this. Whatever the doctor's say... consider yourself lucky. We can fight this. It's going to be okay."Okay my ass.

Maybe I haven't told you about it because I don't want to be one of those blogs that talks about "the journey" I'm about to go through. I'd rather talk politics and clothes.

Maybe I haven't told you because I don't want to have to talk about it. To have to answer questions.

Maybe I haven't told you because I don't want to have to deal with it on "my" time. That being any time that I don't choose to think about it on my own accord.

Maybe I haven't told you because I'm so desperately afraid of feeling alone right now, that I'd rather you not know so I don't have to feel let down by those that I care about.

Maybe I haven't told you because the minute I press "publish" I can't take the news back later. There's no more pretending everything is okay.

Maybe I haven't told you because you said "this happens to a lot of women," and that "abnormal tests are normal, don't worry about it," and now I know just how wrong you are. False hope was nice though.

Maybe I haven't told you about it because who in the hells wants to say they have cancer.

Nearly Wordless Wednesday

2012-02-22T09:43:00.001-05:00

Things are going less than perfect in my life as of late. In fact, they're kind of all over the map. Because of that this post is being kept short and sweet.

I'm sharing with you my new favorite, fun song that I stumbled upon at 2 a.m. last night whilst trying to fall asleep. It's definitely a teeny bopper song, but so was Rebecca's Black It's Friday and that didn't stop me from rocking out to for months. So enjoy.

Takuyo Hand-Painted Silk Scarf Giveaway Winner & A Lilly Desktop Wallpaper

2012-02-15T00:58:00.003-05:00

Folks, we have a winner for the BEAUTIFUL Takuyo Hand-Painted Silk Scarf giveaway:

a Rafflecopter giveaway Congrats Sarah!

For everyone else, thanks so much for participating. You may not have won the scarf giveaway, but here's a Lilly desktop wallpaper as a consolation prize. Featured on it are beautiful cherry-blossoms and one of my all-time favorite quotes. Enjoy!

Until next time...

Sometimes you jut have to stop and give thanks

2012-02-10T02:35:00.002-05:00

Like the title of my blog says -- sometimes you just have to stop and give thanks.

It's not often that I lack for words, but right now I'm struggling, because in this go-round I'm not giving thanks because everything is perfect in my life. I still am dealing with my last post and don't head to the Dr. until next week. But I am giving thanks. Thanks for all of the comments, Facebook messages, Tweets/DMs, and emails I've received from all of you. Even a few guys who ventured to read my last post despite warnings (heck, I knew some poor guy would end up at least starting to read out of curiosity if nothing else).

And now I'm more in shock from the support I have, than from the problems I'm dealing with. Who would've known how many others are dealing with the SAME thing. Have dealt with the same thing. It's unthinkable.

I'm slowly responding to everyone too. These comments are so dear to me, but with over 100 emails alone, it's gonna take me a day or two, so please bear with me.

But thanks so much for stepping up. For sharing your stories and sending encouragement even if this is a totally un-relatable thing to you. As crazy as it may sound, so all mean so much to me. And for your kindness, I know I am truly blessed.

In wordless gratitude.

This one's for the girls

2012-02-09T01:04:00.002-05:00

No really. This post is probably something male readers don't want to read. I don't even know if all female readers will be comfortable reading it. But here goes nothing...

I opened a letter.

This is to inform you that your Pap Smear was abnormal.

Ew. She's talking about a Pap. Who does that? Not preppy politicos. That's for sure. Well at least not in the past...

My year in blogging began with a promise to myself: to be unabashedly candid when writing. No holding back. If I can't be heart-on-your-sleeve honest, then why bother. Right? Sure I babble on about clothes and shopping with the best of them, but when it comes to the real stuff, I was going to be just that -- real.

Which brings me to this afternoon, when I came home for a late lunch break.

I only work a block from my office (it's more like out the back door and across the street. 50 yards. Max.), so I thought it would be a nice way to break up the monotony of day. To get away for half an hour.

Like I just mentioned, I come home through the back door, so I went to the front to check if the mail had come yet. Not because I care about the "real" mail, but because I've done so much online shopping lately, I was looking for packages.

Enter the letter.

... It is recommended that you have a colposcopy and biopsy as soon as possible.

A tidal wave of emotion hits me -- what in the world does this mean? Is something... really wrong?

Back-track. Last year I had my annual exam and had an abnormal pap that I thought NOTHING OF. Why, because I was so consumed by being a Capitol Hill Press Secretary working 15+ hour days, that it didn't phase me. I was told to come back in in two months to have another test, and that was that. No mention of crazy sounding tests and biopsies. But somehow I left a year pass and I never went back for a follow-up test. What if I waited too long and something really was wrong? What if by not going back to the doctor, I let things spiral out of control for over a year without even knowing it.

Everything that happened in the subsequent half hour is a blur.

I can't get through to either of my parents.

I've panicked and called the doctor, desperate for more information. He's out for a while, and the nurse can't tell me anything else until my now scheduled colposcopy/biopsy appointment next Thursday. Over a week away.

//Pause// About a month ago I blogged about friendship. About a friend being in need. I didn't explain everything then, but this is the exact thing she dealt with, except she knew what her results were and they were scary as hell. It's changed her life even. She's not dying or anything, but for a minute there, the world stood still as we waited for her results and final prognosis. //Un-pause//

I finally get through to my dad. My mom's at a doctor appointment of her own. I'm scared as hell. Crying my eyes out. I still don't quite comprehend what's going on, but the explanation of procedures accompanying my "letter of doom," sounded terrifying. Hell, as far I'm concerned they are terrifying.

My dad was amazing. He allowed me to talk "woman"and revert back to a helpless child all at the same time. 20 minutes or so later, we hang up.

Sobbing. The unknown holds a hell of a lot of power. Fear is miserable. More sobbing. I don't know enough to feel like this is "okay."

I have a plan. I'm going to call my doctor's office back and request the records for a previous doctor. They tell me I can come in, sign a release and they'll fax a copy for me as well as give me a print-out. Genius.

I go and pick-up my results. Tricky? Sure, but even if there's really no other doctor and even if someone's not there to explain the paperwork at the moment, God created Google for a reason -- surely this part of that reason.

So now I know more about my abnormal Pap Smear. There's going to be a lot I learn over the next few weeks with my tests. I don't have any real answers right now. At least not ones I want to talk about. Yeah, I'm trying to be honest, but I'm also trying to keep my sanity. Thinking about the possible "bad outcomes" would immobilize me.

But I bring up all of this, because I know I'm not alone. I know single ladies my age (29, on Saturday folks. Happy Birthday to me...), don't really talk about these things. We're grown up enough to recognize we're adults (despite the fact I still think of myself as "a kid"), but we're not quite ready to own said adulthood.

That said, I don't embarrass easily when talking all things "health," but I know it makes so many people uncomfortable. Which is a shame. No, I'm not so crass as to consider this dinner table-talk, but we shouldn't be embarrassed to ask questions of one another. To say, "I'm scared as hell and I feel as though I'm the only person I know going through this," when in reality there's quite possibly someone in your life who's experienced the same thing. Something similar.

Which brings me to my point. I'm petrified. I know cervical cancer doesn't usually mean death, but just the thought of "cancer" being part of the conversation is terrifying. So if you're going through this, something similar, or even something totally different but still terrifying -- I'm here. And if you've been through this before and things turned out well, or even less than perfect you feel free to tell me and help me feel as little less alone/confused/scared.

So yeah, today wasn't the great of days by any means. But here's to all the women out there and all the BS we have to deal with because we're women.

Until next time.

P.S. if you've put off your annual visit because life's gotten in the way, or you've just never gone before -- make that appointment.

A wrap-up of 2011 films

2012-02-07T19:17:00.002-05:00

Note, I thought I posted this the FIRST WEEK OF JANUARY. Only now when looking through my drafts and a myriad of half-written posts, do I notice I never let this baby go live. So here's to tardiness and all films 2011. :)
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Over a week of my life. That's how much time I spent in a movie theater this year. If you follow me on Twitter or Foursquare, you know I'm BEYOND a movie junkie. In theatre at least once a week (often 2-3 times), I try and see as many blockbusters as I can. Why? Because there's just something about the movies that I love. And so I've been meaning to write this post for ages. So many times throughout the year I've thought about stopping to tell you about the movies I've been seeing, but alas, it never happened. So instead, I'm giving you a wrap-up of 2011 films. Seeing MANY more flicks than your average joe, and sooo many bad ones this year, I figure I can save you a few bucks at Blockbuster, a dollar and some change at Redbox, or just your time on Netflix. Here we go:

Best of the year:

50/50. Hands down one of the most heartfelt, thought-provoking movies of the year. I didn't know what to expect when I went to see this one. Unlike others, I must have missed the previews for this gem, so I walked into the theatre blindly -- it sounded better than the other flicks of the day. Boy was I surprised by this one. I laughed. I cried. And in the end, it took me to a place I didn't expect. Definitely a must-see.

Crazy Stupid Love. I saw this one late. And by late, I mean via Redbox. Very unusual for me. How I missed it, I'm not sure, but this movie was so endearing, I absolutely loved it. That said, I know a fair amount who didn't. At least online anyway. But I say ignore them, and check it out anyway.

X-Men First Class. I'm not all chick-flicks and sap, and this was hands-down my favorite action/comic movie of the year. From exciting graphics to a well thought-out storyline, X-Men doesn't disappoint.

Friends with Benefits. The better version of No Strings Attached.

Tree of Life. Immediately after seeing this film I would have told you that I hated it. Weird. Silence. Space. Dinosaurs. Space. And more space (by which I mean outer space). Volcanoes. And even more space. Sparsely you find narration, actual human characters. Yet, a week later I questioned whether or not I hated the flick. Almost a year later, and it's on my "best of" list. It's definitely something different, and if you're not up for "different," then go ahead and walk the other way. On the other hand, if you want to see something that you've probably never experienced the likes of before -- this one's for you.

Cedar Rapids.
The Beaver.
Win Win.
We Bought A Zoo.

Good with Girlfriends:

Bridesmaids. Not my typical style movie, but I loved it nonetheless. Sure it's a bit raunchy, but it'll leave you in tears -- from laughing so hard.

Water for Elephants.
Hall Pass.
The Help.

Really good, but not quite "the best":

The Lincoln Lawyer.
Captain America: The First Avenger.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows part 2. I know a LOT of people are probably going to disagree with me on this one, but it wasn't anything special to me. It was a lot like the last LOTR flick -- certain things had to happen to wrap up the series. Don't get me wrong, it had fantastic moments of cinematography, stayed pretty true to the beloved books, but it was just "really good" to me. Not "great."

Green Lantern. If you can make it through the incredibly disjointed first ten minutes, then this movie is actually pretty good. Good enough, that I'd go back to watch another one. Maybe I'm just a comic-book movie fan, but this movie somehow worked for me.

Super 8. I have no idea why so many people love this movie they way they do. I heard a guy talking about buying in Best Buy just yesterday and couldn't figure it out. It was alright. But let's face it, you wait for a freaking cool monster and it really wasn't that cool. In fact, the monster wasn't even "bad." In terms of bad monsters and all.

The Green Hornet. I missed this one in the theaters entirely. I'm assuming sales weren't all that great. But the Seth Rogen was FUNNY in this flick. Heck, this flick was pretty funny for a super-hero movie altogether.

No Strings Attached. I reviewed this movie earlier this year. I loved it. That is until I saw the later released, Friends with Benefits which I thought was SO-MUCH-BETTER. (see tier one review).

Limitless.

Rise of the Planet of the Apes.

Hanna.
Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol.
Real Steel.
Horrible Bosses.
Something Borrowed.
Midnight in Paris.
The Change-Up.
The Thing.
Larry Crowne.
Abduction.
Soul Surfer.
30 Minutes or Less.
Bereavement.
Contagion.
Columbiana.
Moneyball.
The Ides of March.
An Invisible Sign.
Submarine.
The Descendants.
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo.
Like Crazy.
Transformers: Dark Side of the Moon.
Fast Five.
Thor.
I am Number Four.
Take Me Home Tonight.

You need to be REALLY bored to watch this:

Scream 4. The good news for fans of the Scream saga is that this one is probably better than Scream 2 and 3 combined. But when you think about it, that's not saying much at all. But it was entertaining enough. Just don't expect too great from it, and you won't be totally disappointed.

The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn part 1.
Diary of A Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules.
Hangover Part 2.
Battle L.A.
The Adjustment Bureau.
The Source Code.
Just Go With It.
Insidious.
The Dilemma.
The Mechanic.
30 Minutes or Less.
The Roommate.
Final Destination 5.
Drive.
Bad Teacher.
The Sitter.
What's Your Number.
Straw Dogs.
Our Idiot Brother.
Tower Heist.
The Company Men.

The Other Woman.
A Very Harold and Kumar Christmas.
Paranormal Activity 3.
The Rum Diary.
The Debt.
I Don't Know How She Does It.The Way Back.

Don't do it. Just don't:
The Human Centipede. If you've never heard of this one, don't going look around for answers as to what it's about. It's traumatizing. Really now. Consider yourself forewarned.

Red Riding Hood.
Shark Night 3D.

Fright Night.

*P.S. I'm going to add more to the reviews later, at least for the good flicks, but if I don't post this now, I never will.

P.P.S Don't forget to enter my Takuyo Hand-Painted Silk Scarf Giveaway by Saturday the 11th! You'll love this one!!

Takuyo Hand-Painted Scarf Giveaway

2012-02-05T10:00:00.000-05:00

Ladies, prepare to swoon over this one. Whilst surfing around Etsy (as I often do), I stumbled across one of the coolest shops I've seen in a while -- hand-painted scarves. Did I even know there was such a thing?

But now that I do, I think it's FABULOUS. And what does it a take to make fabulous silk scarves? Nothing less than a fabulous artist.

Enter Takuyo.

Takuyo lives on a remote Hawaiian island (jealous much? I know I am), which inspires her art. As she's said in a previous interview:

My focus is on painting flowers on silk. I love silk painting. I hand paint floral art on all different kinds of silks. I make my floral art into wall hangings, canvas art, and even silk scarves. Silk's luster and softness remind me of a flower's petals. I love orchids, poppies, roses and all types of flowers. I paint flower portraits. Each flower has a presence.

She's such a talented artist, and her scarves can work for all budgets. And I mean that. Starting at $19.99, you can actually afford to fall in love with more than one, all the while knowing you're buying hand-painted mini-masterpieces.

Check out some of my favorites:

This reminds me of a red-version of Lilly's First Impression pattern. It's just so sweet, and pretty. I love it!

Secret Red Rose Garden

ECU and LSU fans, how fun is this!?

Yellow Purple Wildflowers Scarf

So, so pretty.

Orange Wildflowers Scarf

Talk about stunning. Lilly-lovers, put aside your next Murfee purchase and go for a Takuyo original instead. Talk about helping yourself stand out in a crowd -- this scarf is bound to turn heads. Look at the detail!

Chocolate Brown Petite Kimono Scarf

And now what I you're waiting for, the giveaway scarf. This week, you have the chance to win a Sweet Red Poppies Silk Scarf. How gorgeous is this!?

Red Poppies Silk Scarf.

Just like the last giveaway, entering is made easy thanks to Rafflecopter:

a Rafflecopter giveaway Giveaway ends: 11.59 p.m. Saturday, February 11th (my birthday), and I'll announce the winner the next day.

Best of luck!!

Until next time...

And the winner is... Juliana W. Jewelry giveaway

2012-02-05T03:46:00.000-05:00

I was so excited to share Juliana W. Jewelry with all of you. Like so many of you pointed out in the comments, it was hard to choose a favorite item in Julie's shop -- there's just so much good stuff! If you missed seeing the giveaway and all of Julie's fabulous creations, check out the post below. You won't be disappointed.

All that said, we officially have a winner!
a Rafflecopter giveaway Congrats Jill! I've sent you an email requesting your info, so please get back to me when you get the chance!

From what I've learned on Twitter, Jill's not only a Tarheel fan, but also a fellow Kappa Delta. Great job Rafflecopter on picking an awesome winner.

Giveaway earrings

And thanks again Julie for generously donating the gorgeous earrings for the giveaway!

For everyone else who entered, don't fret -- another giveaway begins this evening! So be sure to check back and help spread the word.

Until next time...

Let the new year ring with plenty of bling - Juliana W. Jewelry giveaway!

2012-01-31T10:57:00.000-05:00

I am always amazed at the talented artisans I stumble across on Etsy. It amazes me how much work people put into hand-making beautiful jewelry, because I know creativity like that is a gift. And it is absolutely one that I've not been blessed with.

Which is why I'm so excited to announce this giveaway. One lucky reader will win this gorgeous pair of Olive and Turquoise earrings from Juliana W. Jewelry!

Olive and Turquoise faceted earrings.

These beauties will go with so much! Dress them up, dress them down -- you can do it all.

And Julie the creator Juliana W. Jewelry, is just about as nice as anyone can be. A true gem to work with. And humble as ever. A little mit more about her from her Etsy profile.

I am a mother of two sweet and very rambunctious toddler boys and the wife of an amazing man who is incredibly supportive of me and my endeavors. In my spare time, I am thinking about, shopping for, and working on my crafts. I love using beautiful papers to make something new. I make tiny bowls or ring dishes, plates, and jewelry. It is very exciting to find a new print or jewelry component that I love and then and turn it into something I can wear or use.

How she finds time to juggle not one, but TWO toddler boys and still make this beautiful jewelry amazes me, but I'm sure glad she does it.

Some of my other favorites from her Etsy shop:

Here are the perfect pink earrings to add just the right amount of feminine flair to all of your outfits. They'd look exceptionally perfect with your Lilly outfits. *wink wink*

Cherry Quartz Chandelier Earrings

You can also do them in an amazing aqua:

Aqua Chadelier Earrings

Be the life of the party! Let these fun, festive gems inspire you to have a fun night out on the town.

Orange and Pink Earrings

This NC beach gal fell in love with this beautiful necklace. Perfect to wear with sundresses in the spring/summer or when you're on a cruise in the fall. It's dainty enough to work with almost anything, but you can also use it as a statement necklace with a simple, solid-colored dress. Check it out:

Peach Coral, Coin Pearl, and Starfish Beach Necklace

Want to know how to enter and win the earrings? Just use rafflecopter below for entries. The only one you have to do is leave a comment with your favorite item from Julie's store. The rest are all bonus entries.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Giveaway ends: 11.59 p.m. Saturday, February 4th, and I'll announce the winner the next day.

Best of luck!!

Until next time...

Lilly Murfee Extravaganza

2012-01-30T22:14:00.001-05:00

So for the past 36hrs I've read so many Facebook/Twitter posts about Lilly Pulitzer murfee scarves being on sale at TJ Maxx's across the country for $39.99. A GREAT reduction from their $118 retail price.

Of course, when in my main TJ Maxx yesterday, I saw nothing. But tonight I felt adventurous, and decided to trek a whopping 4 miles down the road (in D.C. traffic that was about 20 minutes, so it did take some effort) to a TJ Maxx I've never been to before.

Lo and behold, murfees galore.

Being the loyal Lilly fan I am, I decided I was at a random TJ Maxx. One that traditional Lilly-lovers would NOT be going to. Surely their clientele wouldn't appreciate the find like my Perfectly Preppy Resale or Twitter gals, so I snatched them all up. All 18 of them that is. So what if the guy at the counter thought I was crazy buying 18 scarves, many in the same prints. I was determined to pick them up for all the other Lilly lovers out there without them at their local stores.

A few have already been spoken for, but here's what's left. If you're interested in one, just email me at DCGOPGIRL {at} GMAIL {dot} COM or tweet me @DCGOPGirl. I'll update this list as they go. I'm asking $47 for them. I have no idea if that covers cost/tax/shipping/paypal fees, but I think it's about right. If you calculate all that for me otherwise, you can let me know if it's less. If it's more, shhh, you've got a deal. ;)

Lilly's Starfruit Yellow She's a Piston - 2 available

Lilly's Pink Perfect Paradise - 1 available

Lilly's Pink This Blooms for You - 0 available; 1 gone

Multi Stemina - 0 available; 7 gone

Multi Show Me Some Skin - 0 available; 2 gone

Lilly's Turquoise Purrfect Paradise - 0 available; 1 gone

Multi This Blooms For You - 0 available; 1 gone

Lilly's Pink Checking In - 0 available; 1 gone

Hibiscus Pink Serenity - 0 available; 1 gone (ignore $10 off thing)

Hotty Pink She's A Piston - 0 available; 1 gone

There are a few others that I was dead-set on listing when I bought, but looking at them now I half want them. So dangerous. That said, I'm gonna try to will myself to add a few more here in a bit, but this is at least a start. That's what I'll tell myself anyway.

UPDATE: Some of you ladies are SMART. And resourceful. Consider me impressed, because you saw which prints I was talking about keeping on Twitter and asked for them directly. Good call, because I'm parting with them. :)

Shopping Sunday

2012-01-23T00:04:00.003-05:00

You know how there's "Wordless Wednesday," "Pink and Green Thursday," and all of those other themed blogging days? Well on DCGOPGirl.com, and anywhere else other would like to participate, there's now "Shopping Sunday." Now this doesn't mean you have to go shopping on Sunday, though you can, it's now the day to share all of your great shopping finds, etc. At least it is in my head...

I was inspired to start this because so many people ask me where I find certain pieces in my polyvores. Where my best deals come from, so I figured I'd start sharing. Because, I assure you, while I LOVE shopping, I HATE paying full price. My closet is filled with designer labels, but I'm seriously a bargain shopper.

However when it comes to shoes, heels in particular, I refuse to by cheap, poorly made brands. For one, I can wear out a good pair of shoes traipsing around the city like a champ. Beyond that, 9 times out of 10, cheap heels tend to hurt -- Blister inducing heels. Fall apart soles. No cushioning -- yeah, all things awful. So I've learned if you invest a little bit more in shoes, you tend to get your monies worth. That still doesn't mean you shouldn't find a good deal.

click to check out some awesome shoes

Which is where Heels.com comes in. It's one of my favorite shoe shopping sites. Designer shoes are like 50% off all the time, there's free 2nd day shipping and free returns. Now that right there is good enough for me on most days, but they also have awesome sales ALL the time. So if you're not already a fan of the site, be sure to check it out.

Right now, I'm digging:

Ivanka Trump - Ciry

Talk about some gorgeous shoes. You can obviously wear them dressed up, but you can throw them on with a cute, casual skirt too and it'd be totally fun. And why yes, I had to buy these.

Guess - Lava pumps

If you don't already own a pair of bright pink heels, run, don't walk, and get these gems now. Every girl needs a pair of Barbie pink pumps. They're so versatile and fun, and they truly make you feel so wonderfully feminine! You'll see me don look-alike pumps on polyvore all the time. So fun.

Michael Antonio - McMahon

Booties are a must-have. Dare yourself to wear with everything from jeans to cute dresses. They're so versatile there's no reason not to have a least one pair in your closet. My first pair was black, but you can never go wrong with a good neutral brown.

And because I've been a super sleuth today, I've found out that the Groupon of the Day in Atlanta is a heels.com deal. *No, I didn't know this when I started, just happened to find it when I was looking for extra coupons today. But if you're a shoe-a-holic like me and salivating over this groupon, please feel free to help a girl out and get it through THIS LINK!

So...

For $25, you get $50 worth of designer heels, boots, and shoes.
For $50, you get $100 worth of designer heels, boots, and shoes.

Oh, and this deal is good through Wednesday. So don't wait too long before you indulge.

Until next time,

GPBC Gals (and anyone in search of a GREAT read), next month we're reading The Hunger Games and the movie comes out in March. Get your copy for less here:

these things don't matter at all

2012-01-22T04:25:00.004-05:00

I'm a bit all over the place in my head these days. Funny how that happens from time to time. Life overwhelms us a bit and we don't quite know where to let the dust settle. Don't get me wrong, the other day was AMAZING. I'm not negating any of that. But things are still topsy-turvy in the world of DC GOP Girl. A lot has happened. A lot is happening. Waiting to see what happens next... next exactly my favorite thing in the world.

Segue, without an actual segue. Unless of course we count saying "segue" as an actual segue itself. Which I suppose, we can.

Tonight I watched The Beginners. And indy flick I somehow missed at my beloved indy theatre (AMC at Shirlington for all those around the Alexandria-Arlington-DC area - definitely worth seeing things there every now and then). It was one of those bittersweet, evolution of consciousness kind of movies. It's about fresh starts, a changing self and life-changing experiences. It's sad though. Melancholy. Not quite a perfect film, but it kept my attention. Enough.

Yeah, not much of a review there, but the movie quoted The Velveteen Rabbit at some point.

I imagine most people have read the story. Are familiar with it if nothing else.

It's poignant. Heart-warming. Touching. It was one of those stories that I appreciated as a child, without fully understanding the depth of all of the words. And now as an adult, it still sticks with me. It was filled with wonder, beauty and love.

That's hard to forget.

Which brings me to the quote from the movie. Or most the quote anyway:

"It doesn't happen all at once,' said the Skin Horse. 'You become. It takes a long time. That's why it doesn't happen often to people who break easily, or have sharp edges, or who have to be carefully kept. Generally, by the time you are Real, most of your hair has been loved off, and your eyes drop out and you get loose in the joints and very shabby. But these things don't matter at all, because once you are Real you can't be ugly, except to people who don't understand.”

― Margery Williams Bianco, The Velveteen Rabbit

Thinking about that.

Awakening.

2012-01-19T22:19:00.001-05:00

So I'm gonna steal a good chunk of this from my Facebook, so bear with me if you've read any of this there... but this is much, much more...

The dictionary defines "awaken" as:

1: to cease sleeping
2: to become aroused or active again
3: to become conscious or aware of something

Awakening. It feels like an almost magical word right now.
Awakening. That's what happened tonight.

Tonight I went to DC Metro Church for the first time. What a life-changing evening.

It's no secret I've been out of the church for the past 10 years. I can't even remember if I've talked about it here or not, because... I don't even know. Heck, I don't even really know how to put it all to words now. How I've been able to stay out of church for so long. How I've known God to BE REAL, and yet deny Him so many times. To go out of my way to stay out a church, just so my mother wouldn't "have her way."

But after months of just talking about it. After having almost talked myself out of going throughout the evening. Tonight I walked in the doors of the church.

Emotions. Overwhelming. Overflowing. My-heart-spilleth-over style. Immediately. As I'm first sitting down, I can barely hold back the tears. And I pray so vehemently that God can "stop embarrassing me" and let me just sit there like a "normal person" and get through the service. But He clearly had other plans for me.

I'm not kidding when I say it's been 10years since I've gone really gone to church on my own accord. Sure I go (sometimes) when I'm home at Christmas, but even this year it was begrudgingly. Tonight I think God was determined to make clear to me just how broken I was. Because He broke me there in that place. He wasn't going to let me walk out another church door without overwhelming my heart and forcing me to acknowledge Him.

Tonight God was working HARD on my heart.

I can't really walk you through the emotions and everything that happened next, but it's suffice to say that He truly works in mysterious ways.

Tonight His grace overwhelmed my brokenness.

Lots of tears, praying and praising later I renewed my faith and was baptized. *and boy did I look like a cold wet rat with mascara EVERYWHERE afterwards - I didn't plan a spiritual awakening tonight after all*

Even as I write this now, I'm sobbing like a baby. Running nose, red eyes, overjoyed heart.

And all I can say is, thank you God for never giving up on me. Thank you to my parents who have prayed tirelessly for me to find a church and be humbled to a place of brokenness and awakening. And thank you DC Metro Church for opening your doors to someone who really, really needed a church to call home.

This song was sang during tonight's baptisms - I wasn't the only one God was working on.
How beautifully appropriate.

Until next time,