Reign Over My Heart

Great I've gone and done it again! I've fallen into the trap of yet another series, I have been sucked in and honestly I don't see an escape any time soon. And I don't want it! I don't need saving I'm glad to be trapped I'm glad that I have yet another set of characters to fantasize and rant about and fall in love with. What is this show that has gotten me so hyped up, that my friends is the weird yet oddly beautiful "Reign", a series depicting the life of "Mary Queen of Scots" from the very beginning when she was only 15 years old, and was in those good Ol' days at a suitable age to marry, Of course because she's a Queen and almost every marriage during those times was political and arranged ever since those poor little royals were 6!
Anyways, lets not get to carried away talking about political correctness and what's right and wrong here. Because although the situation was just wrong, how they're acting it out and have managed to turn the story into something more modern and appealing to most of the young people these days is definitely Right! I'am a huge fan of period dramas, of any era really. I simply love their stories, their characters, their dialogue, their freaking costumes! I love the whole thing. At first, I was reluctant to watch this show because I had read a couple of things about it that didn't make it seem so interesting to me personally. Alas! this just shows that you shouldn't judge anything based on other peoples opinions, only your own. So because of the lovely addiction that is Tumblr, I saw a Gif from one of the episodes and I became intrigued (ahh Tumblr always bringing me closer to fictional characters) So two days ago I started watching, so far there are only 7 episodes out and yes I have finished watching them ALL! And now I'm going through the waiting and anticipating symptoms that most of the fan base are going through. it's not good, it's not healthy and I Luuuuuuuve it!
You know at first I found it peculiar to be watching a period drama with modern music playing in the background. However, that doesn't mean it didn't grow on me, mainly because the music is the genre that I like, and I'm a huge fan of  weird and peculiar. The theme song is performed by "The Lumineers", most of the music featured on the show is off their album, and in an odd way it's very fitting.
The plot is quite simple, boy and girl are arranged to be married for security of countries, boy doesn't really love girl at first, girl is of course in love with boy, then slowly boy begins to realize this girl is kinda awesome and falls for her. You've also got your other elements which add to the thickness of the plot, Strong authoritative father, vicious over-protective mother, group of friends to help you make decisions (even if they're clueless, most of the time!) and the always tolerable bastard brother (I'm not cursing him he's literally the King's bastard, and he's also one of my favorite characters, with those piercing laser eyes!)
And there you have it, don't be too quick to judge this show from the outside images you see, like I did, for real, when I first saw the poster for this series I was like "Hmmm the leads don't look so appealing to me, I don't think I'd like them.' LOOL funny me thinking I could ever evade such an awesome show, even though my first opinion of it was quite pessimistic. I practically raced through the first seven episodes and now I can't wait for more! I absolutely Love all the lead characters. I guess that's what happens when the actors are brilliant, giving their all to make their character realistic and lovable in every aspect, even if they're portraying someone meant to be the source of all evil. That's just good acting for ya!
So if you're interested in modernized versions of period dramas then this is the show for you. It's too early to tell how far into Mary's story we're gonna see. so far we're getting a cute version of it, with absolutely beautiful outfits, beautiful music, beautiful people, and a mix of stolen glances and adorable moments between our two young lovers. I don't mind honestly, yes maybe most of the way things are being depicted is a little incorrect, and wouldn't have happened like this during those medieval times, but let's be honest this way is more fun, more exciting and fascinating for us delicate Hearted people who just love and crave these stories of innocence and love and hardships, and we'll take it any way you want to give it to us!

The National- "Trouble Will Find Me" - Album Review

The National is one of those rare Indie Rock bands that create music which always manages to crawl its way to your heart and wrap it up with beautiful emotional lyrics. They're music has always been a favorite of mine, ever since I heard 'Slow Show' a weirdly put song about first love, I guess that's why I fell in love with them so quickly. They were weird , but in an interesting way, and I loved it!

Their new Album 'Trouble Will Find Me' is the latest edition to their awesome list of remarkable records. It has the usual calmness and mellowness that's a main factor in all of their songs. The intro song 'I Should Live in Salt' (ouch!) is a great opening title , which really helps you get into the proper mood to truly enjoy the whole album. They've managed to give us a mix of truly depressing songs and somewhat hopeful ones. 'Demons' for instance is one of the more depressing ones on the album , a very truthful song about well literally our Demons, and how they always hold us down, and keep us from getting to a better place in our life. We all have Demons, regardless of their severity, we all have something that keeps us sheltered or introverted from the rest of the world. 

'Fireproof' is another favorite of mine, an anthem to those strong souls who don't let anything bring them down. Who aren't so hopeless and can handle the burdens of the world. 

My first choice,however, which was also the first song I heard off this album is 'I Need My Girl' just the opening riff of that guitar makes me get chills. It's a beautiful rendition of love and loss. I guess from the title its clear to say its about appreciating the things we have, and how we genuinely notice their importance only when they're gone. 

I guess what really makes these songs so beautiful is simply the way they're sung by 'Matt Berninger' in that baritone voice of his! He adds so much depth and melancholy to the songs. He helps you understand, what many have described as "difficult to interpret" lyrics. I guess you need to have a unique sense of understanding to truly appreciate what their songs are about. Everyone relates to a song differently and interprets the lyrics in their own way. Creating this unique atmosphere is what makes this band so significant. The whole album is worth a listen, and I'm just glad this band is still making records. They're one of the best Indie Rockers and they should never change their style, it's what makes them such a fan favorite amongst the lovers of the peculiar. 

Catching Fire- and the Revolution Begins

That's right people! The revolution is just around the corner, the spark has been lit, and what a flame it produced. The catching fire movie was everything I expected and more to be honest. It was so beautifully done, that it had me (someone who's read the books and knows what's gonna happen) on the edge of my seat! The acting, the effects, the dialogue, everything was done perfectly. I had tears in my eyes during simple scenes, but because I knew what they will bring, I just couldn't help it!

I have been waiting for this for almost a year and a half, and it was worth it. All the new cast members were great, including the fan favorite 'Finnick Odair' played by the charming 'Sam Claflin' who most fans had their doubts about, claiming he wasn't good enough to play the role, (and that's what they thought about Josh when he was cast as Peeta) and again they were wrong. He did the role justice and has cemented his place in our hearts forever!( Right next to Peeta!!)Yes forever. That's how incredible he was. And don't get me started on 'Johanna Mason' played by the feisty 'Jena Malone' she was absolutely brilliant!! She had the right amount of anger and awesomeness mixed with a little bit of sadness, which I believe was the right combination that made her so great. The rest of the original cast was remarkable as usual, Jennifer and Josh have such an adorable chemistry on the screen, and because of how the story develops in the second book, we got to see more of it in the movie. Their story takes some interesting turns and it was nice to see them come to life. I remember gushing like an idiot when I was reading about them in the book and thinking to myself how cute they're gonna look when they're acted out. And I was Right!! 

It was well worth the wait, and I won't be seeing it just once, there are definitely going to be marathons of the first two movies while we wait for the third installment to come out. It's gonna be a long wait, but it just gets better and better (so to speak). As a book reader and knowing what's heading my way I must say I have a lot of eagerness and anticipation for the coming movies. Even though I know what's gonna happen, that's doesn't take anything away from the story I believe it just makes me more excited, because while you're reading you get to play it out in your head, using your own imagination, and when it's adapted into a movie, and it's actually better than you expected , that just adds more to the delight of seeing one of your favorite stories come to life.  Not all book adaptations are lucky like that, but this one sure was and I'm glad of it! It's what will keep us coming back for more every time, and what will make me personally watch the movies more than once. Catching Fire is definitely worth a second, third and fourth watch... It was simply that good. And it was a great sequel (which is supposed to keep us calm and entertained till the next movie comes out) that brought us the right amount of thrill and excitement that will without a doubt spark something bigger in the coming adaptations, and boy will we be waiting with our bows and arrows for the revolution to begin!!

November- The Month of Epicness!

November is finally here, ahh November November how we have longed for your arrival with Splendor, and all the nice things you bring with you. Other than the fact that its finally beautiful to go outside, cuz the weather is just AhMazing! Ironically, It's also the month which brings us closer to the big screen! :D

With premiers of big movies such as Thor 2 (LOKIII) , this looks like a decent sequel, can't wait to see it. But what is really EXCITING about the coming of November is the fact that CATCHING FIRE IS FINALLY HERE! Well almost it comes out in 2 weeks! BUT STILL, it's like actually finally close, we're finally gonna see it come to life, OMG SO MUCH HAPPENS IN THIS BOOK, I can't wait to see it on the BIG SCREEN! One more thing PEETA!! AHH JUST PEETA!! Really need I say more! Oh yeah FINNICK! (Without spoiling it for non book fans) So that's something to look forward to in the coming days with great EXCITEMENT. ( man capitalizing certain words just makes the post look more exciting!! I can't help it words just must be capitalized when talking about Catching Fire) 

Hmm what else there's something else I'm sure there is, something a very crazy bunch of followers, (more like millions of fans) have been waiting for, something that will redefine tv!! Seriously no over reaction! Oh yeah DOCTOR WHO'S 50TH ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL!! The episode we've been waiting for since like FOREVER!! An episode which will bring us some happy, sad, emotional, exciting, adventurous, down right EPIC MOMENTS! We won't just have one doctor this time, no no no, we're gonna have TWO! 10 is coming back for a special appearance and he's bringing someone with him the beloved fan favorite Rose! WOHOO! It's gonna be something, it really is, just imagine 10 and 11 on the same screen at the same time interacting and talking and just being their own version of the doctor we have all come to love throughout the seasons! 

The date has been saved for a whole year now!! So bring it on! We're prepared!! 

Whovians all around the world are prepared and ready for whatever you will throw at us Moffat! 

The Seasons are Among Us

It's that time of the year again when all our favorite shows make their much awaited return to our screens after leaving us for almost 4 months!! That might not seem like a lot of time but for some of us fanatics it sure is! Things kicked off with the 10th season of 'Grey's Anatomy' yup that's right TEN SEASONS and still going for this medical drama that appeared on our tv screens years ago and cemented its place in our hearts even after it was the reason for breaking it time and time and time and time again.... And after 3 episodes its off to a good start but knowing 'Shonda Rimes' and her evil heartbreaking tricks we know something horrible is lurking in the corner waiting to make an appearance! 

The Vampire Diaries is back for its 5th season and although it might seem to be a bit boring this season you know with klaus leaving mystic falls and all... We're stuck with two boys fighting over an annoying girl, which if I may add there are TWO of now! The only thing I'm looking forward to this season is 'Evil Stefan' to be honest! Because I think Paul Wesley plays an amazing Evil character which just makes him more interesting. 

And the cherry on Top the official premier of 'The Originals' the much awaited spinoff for the 'Mikaelson' family (well what's left of them) and what they're gonna be up to in the city of 'New Orleans' where I'm sure Klaus will be up to no good with his pursuit for power and the dashing Elijah will be right next to him to help him along the way as honorably as he could! 

The Winchesters will grace our screens in 4 days and we couldn't be more excited for this remarkable 9th season, which promises to be amazing especially after that finale last season when all the Angels started falling from the sky!! Which left us crazy fans screaming 'THE ANGELS ARE FALLING!! THE ANGELS ARE FALLING!!'

So bring it on supernatural we're ready for the crazy ride (in the Impala) you'll take us on this season like you do Every time!

So here we go another year another season and most definitely more drama, heartbreak, shock and excitement to come our way! And boy are we ready!  

Caribou- The Place to Go (when you ditch a boring class)

There's always that one (or maybe two..umm lets say three) class that you just can't bring yourself to attend let alone sit through for 2 hours!! So you ultimately try to find the perfect escape! And for us it was always at the awesome 'Caribou Coffee' café in Hamra street. The place was always there but we never really payed much attention to the rest of the yummy things they had on the menu, we just went with plain Ol' Mocha...typical stuff. BUT, whole and behold, one day we decided to try something 'daring' called a "Berry White Mocha" , now yeah you might think berries and coffee, is that a good mix, let me tell you something IT SURE IS! One of the yummiest drinks I've ever had! Berries mixed with mocha, with a coating of whipped cream and topped with your choice of chocolate chips (white chocolate was our favorite and best choice really) and you got yourself a drink to die for! Throw in a slice of their Cheescake ( from the amazing Cheesecake Factory) and you're good to go. What a delight it was to know that we had a ditchable class during the week because that always meant 'YAY CARIBOU TIME!!' 

I'd say we became somewhat regulars over there, ordering the same thing usually and permanently stamping our presence.

Interesting fact- the first time we discovered the beauty that is a 'Berry white Mocha' we always ordered it 'hot' , little did we know that there was a 'cold' version of the drink and OH MY GOD it was simply ecstatic to find that out. The hot drink is usually enjoyable on those chilly winter days when you're all wrapped up in your coat and scarf and you just want to feel warm on the inside,  whereas the cold one was the best way to quench that thirst you get on those ; hot, humid summer days in Beirut! 

Nothing can take away the awesome times we had at 'Caribou' with many more to come hopefully! 

Doctor Who Moments- 9th Doctor

The Doctor, in all three of his awesome regeneration's had his moments, whether they were brilliant and funny, or heartbreaking and sad, they never failed to leave an impact on us loyal Whovians and make us love him even more. Now there are many many moments to choose from, and to begin lets keep it in order by starting with 9's Best moments. This first one is a personal favorite and it's really the first glimpse we get into the funny, witty, smart and somewhat goofy character of the Doctor.
In the First Episode when he's after those creepy Plastic mannequin things that have come to life and he's explaining in his very elaborate way what he intends to do to stop them to "Rose' the girl he rescues, as if we have a clue what he's talking about and then just like that after his long speech and so causally implying that he might "die in the process" he just tells her "Don't worry about me you just go along and have your beans and toast" in the nicest voice and then he gets all serious and says " but don't tell anyone about this cuz if you do you'll get them killed" and he's gone....but no! he forgot something and just like that he's back and in this very cheerful voice he's all "I'm the Doctor by the way, what's your name?" she says "Rose" and he's all "Nice to meet you Rose, run for your life!!" with this sly devilish smile on his face! and that I'm afraid was all it took to get me hooked, he got me from there on and plus the accent that the talented "Christopher Eccleston" has really really makes him just 10 times more interesting and just so freaking sexy! I mean seriously, why are we so weak when it comes to these accents, they seem to have some sort of weird magical effect that makes everything they say sound sexy and out of this world!
So yeah on that note we conclude the first of many "Doctor Who Moments", and seeing as there are 7 seasons out there! Expect plenty more to come!
Till the next time!

"I'm The Doctor!"- "Doctor Who?"- "Exactly!!"

The end is here....well at least for this part of my journey in the magical world of  'Doctor Who' . I just finished watching the last episode of season 7 and sadly said my goodbyes to the delightful 'Matt Smith' seeing as he left the show to make way for our New Doctor! Can't wait!! After seven seasons and three different doctors I found that it never gets easy to say goodbye to our beloved Doctor (man I'm gonna say Doctor a lot in this post!). And even-though it's always sad to see our doctor leave, because in their own special way all three actors who had the honor of portraying this amazing character were favorites and loved for different reasons, it's still also exciting to see how the new person is gonna truly become "The Doctor". Each actor brought his own signature move or word or facial expression that managed to wiggle its way into our hearts and make us love him more and more and more and more.... You really can't hate the doctor no matter what! HE'S THE DOCTOR!! Awesome in so many ways, the protector of the universe and all it's galaxies!

I wont make this post too long, this is simply a little rant to help me get over my post-season finale emotions and boy are they plenty! I could talk on and on and on about what I like about the doctor, what makes this character so lovable and admirable ( the list is endless really, and therefor I shall be making one , a list of favorite Doctor moments, in the form of various blog entries in the coming days) that you just find yourself fascinated and connected with on a very deep emotional level (yup that's what this man has done to us he's got us all emotionally attached to him in an unbreakable bond) It's such a wonderful thing to be honest, I am so glad I started watching this show (my sister persuaded me in a way since she watched it first and was in desperate need to express the many many emotions one goes through while watching the show) after such a long time of wondering what all the "Doctor Who" fuss was about and I can't wait to continue this beautiful journey with our new Doctor when he returns. And in the words of my first and favorite Doctor...It's gonna be FANTASTIC!

Daily Tales - Cola, The Place To Go

I have a problem with Cola area in Beirut. However, I also have a solution at hand. So, bare with me. I'm trying to act like a socially responsible civilian (who  happens to know how to gank a demon; just putting it out there).
Anyhow.

Problem: Cola smells like day-old, sun exposed pee.

Why? Okay we can all assume why. But this has gotten out of hand people.
Anyone who's passing through the area is either coming from a long and tedious day at work, speed-walking desparately to reach the vehicle of his choice which will transport him (not smoothly might I add) to the safety of his home.
But, to his surprise, and as he takes that deep inhale of contempt, because he's oh so close to that bus, the creeping scent rapes his nostrils.

It is an intriguingly insolent smell. My pal and I have suffered through that horrifying ordeal on countless summer mornings and afternoons. FYI, come winter time, it is not fancier.

Soultion: Cola should have portable toilets. It is a more logical, sanitary, and practical solution than the crazy that's been going on. This is not the wilderness folks, we are neither bigfoot nor a lion.
Let's stop the madness, please.

Until then, i'll  hold my breath.

What Maisie Knew- Heartbreaking at Times, yet Delightful in the End

What Maisie knew tells the story of a 7 year old girl stuck in the middle of a very bitter and ugly custody battle. The whole movie is mainly seen through the eyes of the little girl "Maisie" played by "Onata Aprile", who was simply amazing in this performance, she doesn't say much, but she really doesn't have to her face does all the talking! She conveys all her emotions with a simple look, her eyes are very expressive and that's really what catches your attention. The way she simply looks upon her mother (played by Julianne Moore), who was just remarkably great at being horrible, when she asks her a question that you obviously shouldn't be asking a 7 year old!! Or when her father is trying to explain why he has to leave without taking her with him, she absorbs all that information in and responds with a simple look or nod, which her parents always took as a sign that she understands and is ok with whatever horrible decision they are making. You definitely feel for the little girl , she's going through one of the most dreadful things possible, a divorce, and from the beginning we can see that her parents aren't really meant to be parents. Her mother is an aging rockstar who can't face the fact that she isn't as successful as she used to be, and her dad is an art dealer always traveling from one place to another, they are simply not responsible and are obviously the kind of people who are never gonna change they're lifestyle to accommodate the fact that they have a child now! A child who requires attention and love, not in the form of gifts, as they seem to believe. So of course there has to be some good in this poor girls life, its not all sadness, and that is when we are introduced to the delightful characters of "Margo" the nanny played by the very cute "Joanna Vanderham" and "Lincoln" the bartender/Stepdad (her mother's boy toy) played by the adorable "Alexander Skarsgard" these two at first are simply the parents way of having someone to look after their daughter when they couldn't, which was really most of the time, and along the way Maisie finds herself accepting them as her caretakers because they give her what a child at that age really needs love, caring, and most importantly selflessness. They didn't ask to become parents to a child that is not their own, but they couldn't ignore what was happening in front of them to that little girl, it just wasn't right. Maisie develops such a wonderful relationship with both these characters the one with Margo is already there from the beginning because she's been her nanny for a while and she understands her completely, but with Lincoln it took some time for her to get used to him, and I gotta say watching Alexander Sakrsgard being all cute and adorable with that child was the cutest thing ever. Their scenes together really were some of the best in the movie, he comes into this girls life unexpected and slowly becomes a permanent fixture, she finds herself depending on him to always be there for her mainly because the poor girl never experienced what a "normal" 7 year old child's relationship with their parents should be. Like I said the whole movie is seen from Maisie's perspective, and I think it was really nice and different to see how a child that is going through something as awful as a divorce, observes and understands the little things she witnesses, and how they help her act and grow along the way. It's not easy for a child no matter how old they are to go through something like that, and this story shows it, but it also shows that sometimes you find your family in the most unexpected way. You get what you can from the situation you're in and Maisie does exactly that, she is young and some may think not mature enough to understand and perceive the situation she's in, but I think she knows exactly what's going on and she finds her way through it all because of the kindness and caring she is shown by her nanny and a complete stranger.
If you're into contemporary movies then you'll like this, the acting, the setting, and even  the lack of dialogue most of the time really help make this a heartbreakingly cute story. Absolutely Loved it!!
  
And just to prove just how cute Alexander and Onata were, I present  EXHIBIT 1!! Enjoy!

"You could Live a Thousand Lifetimes and not deserve Him...."

The Hunger Games, a ruthless story about survival and humanity set up in a futuristic world where people literally fight to the death for the entertainment of others. However, in this dark sad story there is a beacon of light and this beacon is introduced to us in the form of one of the most caring, cute, sensitive, loving, brave characters ever! Peeta Mellark, a humble baker with a talent for decorating cakes never fails to leave an impact on the reader. His way of thinking (so so selfless!!!) and his efforts to protect the girl he loves are what make him so damn adorable!! From the second his name is chosen and he knows only one person can come out alive he begins to plot and plan how he's gonna ensure Katniss' safety. He knows he has no chance of winning (which is further stressed to him by his own mother!!! what an evil bitch!!) so he accepts his fate and begins to think of ways to stay alive long enough to guarantee Katniss' survival in the game. He comes up with the smart idea of playing on the emotions of the gullible audience of the capitol by publicly announcing that he loves Katniss. (ok so he says he has a crush on her, but come on that boy LOVES HER!!) We can see it in his words and in "Josh Hutcherson's" (who was just perfect as Peeta) eyes when he talks about her!! He's been in love with this girl for a long time and he's about to enter into a game to the death, so he figures what the hell I'll profess my undying love for her on tv and hope she feels the same way. I'm sure he knew Katniss didn't really feel the same way about him, she's a tough shell to crack, but he took the chance and hoped it'll be worth it. And it TOTALLY WAS!! That little confession of his and of course his awesome speech, the night before the games kicked off, about not wanting to be another "piece in their game" and wanting to die as himself and not someone different was such an emotional rush! How could someone appear to be so calm and collected in the face of ultimate death and still manage to be so selfless at the same time. Well that's Peeta for you, a character who's sole purpose was to ensure the survival of our Protagonist but because of his strong sense of emotion and deep level of feeling he managed to become as important to us as the hero of the story. It got to the point where I couldn't imagine the story going on without PEETA! He was so good with words and expressing how he feels that he eventually created a little crack in the "wall" that is Katniss's emotions. Forcing her to become attached to him on some level which ultimately created an unbreakable bond between the two. Their survival and their fates became intertwined together paving the way for what will become a heartbreakingly beautiful story about the true meaning of love and how that love can help us survive even the most dire situations in life.
Now the idea of "love" in the Hunger Games isn't necessarily the "lovey dovey" kind, on the contrary, it's the love of  freedom, family, life. The theme of love is explored by the characters in different ways and takes on a specific meaning for each one. Peeta introduces the Element of love in the story not only to create the so called  "love-triangle" effect, not at all! He uses the element of love as his version of a lifeline to survive the messed up world he lives in. Katniss's love is for her family, she loves her sister so much she volunteered in her place, Gale (the other male character in Katniss's life, he's ok, I'm not a huge fan) uses his love and passion of life in the hope of finding freedom somehow, an escape. So to say The Hunger Games is just a "love story" is  simply wrong. And if you fail to see the bigger picture behind this thought-provoking story then you really shouldn't be reading these books. Now back to why I totally book crushed on Peeta when I was reading the series, the obsession is still going on btw, it never left me I'm just better at *cough cough* controlling it! Peeta moments that had my heart doing cart wheels, where do I start there are so many to pick from, in the first book his speech obviously the night before the games started, when he allied himself with the 'Careers' a.k.a the a-Holes from the top districts to make sure they don't harm Katniss, or when he was injured and dying and he still worried about Katniss' well being. I mean come on!! who's that selfless! PEETA! That's who! and in the end (omg this moment is just soo ahhh I can't even describe it) when it's just him and Katniss left and they think they won but then the rules are changed and only one can live, he immediately drops his weapon (Katniss goes for an arrow) cuz she thinks he might kill her. Seriously Katniss!! Seriously! He asks her to kill him instead, because if she dies he'll have nothing back home, he simply won't be happy. The second book just brings us more and more beautiful Peeta moments and even though he knows on some level that they are pretending to be "in love" he didn't see the harm in taking advantage of the situation to spend as much time as possible with the girl he loves. "I wish I could freeze this moment, right here, right now and Live in it forever." Ahhhhh the Peeta feels!! The list could go on and on about the goodness that is Peeta Mellark. Even when he was "Hijacked Peeta" he was still decent enough to realize that he might cause harm to someone and actually asks them to kill him to ensure he won't hurt anyone!!  He is the purest character in the books and that pureness simply bounces off the pages when you're reading, because it's really difficult to believe that with all the hate, anger, and dreadful things surrounding the place they live in, you can find someone who is decent, hopeful,and sincere, someone who can capture the affections of the people with a few simple honest words and make them believe that there is hope in the darkness, that is the terrible world they live in, and that there is a light  which can help them escape the awful reality of their surroundings. So thank you Peeta Mellark, for being one of the most heart warming charismatic characters out there, and for making us believe in and fall in love with the beauty of a decent, truthful ,compassionate Person for a change. These traits are not easy to come by and Peeta's character (whether it was normal Peeta or Hijacked Peeta)  is definitely the best way to represent them. He's like little rays of sunshine that shine through the window and slowly pull you out of the dark.  

Up Close and Personal with Characters

How do I begin describing Eric, let me see; he's a sexy combination of someone who is Confident and Selfish with a dash of cute and sensitive. His development in ' The Sookie Stackhouse' novels has been the most impressive ( well at least for me it has been since he's my favorite!!!) I LOVE LOVE LOVE HIM!! Ok ok back to reality, in all seriousness he really is a good example of a character that you can't wait to read about in every book and see what he's gonna say or do! The little things he says just make you all giddy and happy, like in the first book when he got Sookie the roses as a thank you for helping him or when he got her the nice coat after her old one got ruined, or when Sookie woke up one morning and found that someone had paid to have her driveway fixed, which was something she kept talking about throughout the whole book. He LISTENS TO HER!! He's just thoughtful like that and when he began to have actual feelings for her those little things became "Intensified" he turned into her Vampire Protector, her guardian in a way. And she couldn't help but feel the same way ( she already fell for innocent,cute, sensitive, amnesiac Eric when she was keeping him safe and that relationship was beautiful) and yeah ok they became more serious after they shared blood (which is a serious thing in the vampire world) but it was still based on actual feelings  and emotions. Eric shared blood with her the first time to save her life, yeah she'd be connected to him for a while (but who's COMPLAINING!!) I mean come on it's ERIC FREAKING NORTHMAN! The Norse God (credit to Nour for giving him this title) who with a look can make you melt into a puddle on the ground. He's a tall blue-eyed blonde vampire with a stare that could end wars, or in his case start ones! Because let's face it he's slightly Evil (man this guy keeps getting better and better the more I talk about him!) Evil to me is a very sexy trait, and it gets sexier when this evil character begins to show signs of caring and love towards the most unlikely person. Now the Eric in the books and the Eric in the series have a slight difference in the manner of let's say communicating and expressing how they feel. Of course when you're reading you have your imagination to depend on and when you watch a character come to life it's a different experience! Nonetheless, they are both awesome!! I love how the "Swedish Giant of Deliciousness" Alexander Skarsgard portrays Eric and makes us fall even more in love with him along the way. He brings so much depth to the character and he just has this aura of hotness and awesomeness surrounding him that you just can't help but gawk at the screen and want more of him. 

While reading the books I actually found myself waiting for it to become night time (in the books duh! cuz vampires can't walk during the day in these novels) just to read about any kind of interaction involving Eric!! Now he might not be the most subtle when expressing how he feels about something but he sure is good when he expresses his love for Sookie. He's the kind of person who's very VERY protective of the people he loves and cares about. And the fact that both him and Sookie truly love each other regardless of the "Blood Bond" because she had it broken to see if those feelings were real and they GENUINELY WERE!! totally makes their relationship worth the late nights I spent racing through the chapters to see how these two are gonna make it in the messed up world they live in. 

As I Lay Waiting

It is in times like these when you realize you seriously need to take up a new hobby.
What do I decide to do while I wait for my beloved series to be back on air? Yes you guessed it, I eat my way to blocked artery town! And the fact that Ladurée opened its new bakery here in Beirut paved the way.

This is how it all went down. I'd had a very long tedious day at work that night. I'd decided to be smart with my money; so I pitter-patter to the wonderful Ladurée because heaven. (If you're wondering where the money-saving lay, I point out that I walked there).
I enter the shop as life enters spring and as maidens dance with flowers in their hair. You had to be there; it was a very magical moment.
And I tell you, my eyes were feasting! I got to give it to Ladurée for maintaining that level of perfection when it comes to the colors and appearance of its delicacies.
This is the saucy bit, I choose the delightful strawberry one which tasted like you've just unlocked the secrets of the world. I felt powerful.

A few days later, I tried their eclair. Fairies danced in my mouth. It was a trip for the senses!

I hear Suits will be back on July 16th.

Is The List Working!!?

6. 6th Runner's Up:

 ONE REPUBLIC 

It's happening, they might be coming to Lebanon!! (I say might because I don't want to jinx it!!) BUT they tweeted about it, THEY WANT TO VISIT US!! And Play their awesome music, finally giving us hope that there might be a decent concert taking place in Lebanon this year!!

One Republic are an entertaining band.PERIOD!! Their music is a mixture of rhythmic melodies and catchy lyrics that create an amazing atmosphere that simply washes over you making you just Feel Good! What more could you want!!? 

Seriously they have an amazing cello player, a violinist,an actual made up organ like instrument and finally RYAN TEDDER, who's just a ball of awesome energy that likes to share his awesomeness with the rest of the world!! 

The List Ain't Over Yet....

5. 5th Runner's Up:

     Kings of Leon

Why?  Because this Family affair of a band know how to bring a crowd to their feet with their electric live performances. And almost every single one of their songs is just FUN to sing out loud! We sure could "Use Somebody" like them.... Pun Intended! 

Tickles Our Fancy

Who says we can't?

We could run into a hybrid original vampire, who knows?
We'd munch on herbs; bathe in the sunlight and moonlight, who says we can't?
We'd float aimlessly in the river reciting Keats and Byron. Who ever said it can't be?

Supernatural Affections

For a while now I've been asking myself a question. What is a blog without an ode to Supernatural? An oatmeal cookie, I say.
I've been going back and forth unsure whether I can give the Winchesters justice. I fear I'll belittle the grandeur of this show; that I might not be able to articulate my feelings. Words fail sometimes.
Nevertheless, I decided to try. There goes my tangled thoughts.

Those two boys carry the weight of the world on their shoulders. And who can resist a tortured soul?
They fought and still fight hell, purgatory, and even heaven. They hunt and carry on boldly, even after life stripped them of every bit of comfort. Some may say their lives are cursed. And although I ache whenever I look at Sam, all sickly and fragile, and when I see Dean denied of even a morsel of pie, which is the best metaphor, I realize one good thing. They are closer now than they would have ever been. Their bond might not make up for all the crazy they've seen and been through, but somehow it does.
I like that I can watch "Swan Song" over and over again and still weep. It perfectly pictures that unbreakable bond.

I like that when I talk about Bobby or John Winchester I feel a little sad.

I like that I know how to kill a ghost, hunt a striga, kill a leviathan, or gank a demon. Totally useful!

I like that I can use the word "gank".

I like Dean's ridiculousness which lightens up ur heart and Sam's will to do right despite fate's conspiracy againt him.

I like how this story evolves; how relationships evolve.

I like that It has also taught me alot about the delicate balance between free will and destiny; that delicate and terrible balance. It is their ultimate struggle.

Ah, I can still remember the first time I hit the play button! It was a fateful day. I was hooked. And when you get really attached to characters it is hard to remain realisitc about your expectations for them. When I say realistic I mean the logical outcome and ending of the show.

Let's all be honest here; they'll never really have the normal apple pie life. But for some reason, and for the first time ever in the history of series, it only feels right.

Joseph Morgan....you Beautiful Human Being.

It's a crime not to share such a beautiful picture......  

I'll let it do the talking....

Vicariously reliving my teenage years Through "My Mad Fat Diary"

I decided to check out what this show was about because I stumbled upon a GIF from one of the episodes on Tumblr and it was so freaking adorable, I just had to find out WHAT IT WAS!! And boy was I glad I did!! First of all this show deals with some serious issues. And it does so in a very captivating manner that it just hits you right in the core of your heart! It takes you back to those adolescent years of being a teenager and exploring Life and Love. At first you'd think "oh this is just another show about teenagers drinking and doin' it all the time" well it's not! Yes it involves drinking and they talk about sex a lot! (but hey what show doesn't these days) But it's the way the topics are approached that makes it different somehow. It explores both the bright and dark sides of being a teenager. The insecurities that most people face when they're young and how they choose to deal with them. The dark choices we decide to make when it becomes to much to bare, the weight of being young and insecure and wanting to be accepted. It takes all those bad things and infuses them with a beautiful, delicate, innocent story about well Love! Love and the friendships we make along the way which help us get through the rough hurdles of life. ANYWAYS not to make it sound like a completely depressing show (which it's not really) and I won't give away too much of the story but for all it's worth this show is definitely worth checking out, it has some amazing moments, that will make you smile, cry, and laugh hysterically as you explore life though the eyes of the remarkable "Rae Earl".
ALSO one more super important thing this show has to offer that just makes it AhhhhMazing THE MUSIC. It's set in the 90's and they focus on certain bands, so expect a lot of Oasis, Stone Roses, Blur, Radiohead, The Smiths, The Cure, all the best music from the 90's really! ( yes even Spaceman by Babylon Zoo) and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey!

                                                  And here it is the GIF that started it all!!!

what really got me was the cute thing with moving the pillow to see her! 

aaaand the scrunching of the faces, ADORABLE! 

I've Got A Pickle to Pick With You Shonda

Seattle Grace's Notorious Reaper

Dear Ms. Rhimes,

I come to you, exasperated. I am pondering whether you helped us get a little stronger or just plainly and unrelentingly crushed our drained souls. For so long I wanted to understand WHY you did what you did. Shall I list the horror of events not in chronological order because they are jammed in my head like one endless hell? My pleasure!

1. George under a bus
2. Miscarried babes
3. Psycho shooter (who BTW lost his wife tragically episodes back) 
4. Lexie under a plane. Then tying our emotions to a truck which spun them round and round in dirt until they were transformed to waste. Do you recall how we spent two episodes unaware if Lexie was truly gone? Was it by design that she so easily disappeared? Maybe it was one of your life lessons; we move on despite anything. In my opinion, the characters, as well as traumatized audience, were so used to death by now that they actually welcomed it with a warm smile.
5. That episode when a couple were brought in to the hospital of doom. They were having a fight because the lady wanted a proposal and the guy kept postponing. He had bought her a cheap necklace that night again, and she went ballistic. Naturally he then dies. (Death LOL) But that was not the brutality of it all. No, no no! We later realize he had been wanting to propose that same night, with that same necklace which carried a message inside the locket. Nevertheless he died and she never found out. FOR THE LOVE OF GOD, WOMAN!
6. Mark Sloan.
7. Owen cheating. I drew the line right here Ma'am. You'd think a more horrendous misdemeanor from your part would have taunted me so, but truthfully this took the cake!
8. Denny and his ghost.
9. New contract and a new season

I could go on and on Ms. Rhimes. BUT YOU ALREADY KNOW THAT. 

I am probably to blame too, as I kept coming back for more pain, more sadness, and more heartbreak. I craved it, one week after the other, like a dumb fool. But really, do these nightmarish plots come to you easily? Did you decide from an early age that humanity needed a wake-up call, or did you experience immense heartache for so long, and therefore wanted to find release somehow? I become paranoid every time some tragic event occurs in other series. I remember I had to google whether you were one of the producers on Downton Abbey in its last couple of episodes. You weren't. Although for a long while I believed it.

Anyway, your work remains a work of art. Artistically heart wrenching that is. 

You trouble me so Shonda. I fear season 10. 

Believe in butterflies, please!

Sincerely,

a confused and worried fan

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And the List continues...

4. 4th Runners Up:

   MUSE

Why? Because their concerts are EPIC! They're like a mix between Queen and Radiohead, with a little bit of U2 and Panic Station.... What more could you ask for!
Their music is like a non stop party, it's EXCITING and ENERGETIC and it's effects are definitely permanent! Watching Muse live would be totally Unforgettable!!

                                                 
                                                                I REST MY CASE!!

   

More In The List

3. 3rd Runners Up:

Train

Train at Birmingham O2

 Because their music and lyrics are fun, fresh, and summery! You can't help but sing your heart out along with  them.

 Now picture this: There's a summer breeze fondling your cheeks, cold drink in hand and drops of Jupiter in your hair. 

Yes i went there!! 

I'm being cheesy because their sound leaves you lighter; a sound that provokes you to run barefoot in the street screaming "MINT AND CHOCOLATE CHIP ICE CREAM" at the closest Falafel shop. Maybe that's just me, but that is my motto for this summer; lightheartedness.

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Tickles Our Fancy...

This Berry White Mocha-goodness is heavenly. It is both Ryan G. and Peeta Mellark in a paper cup. So many classes were ditched because of this single shot of love!

Berry White Mocha at Caribou

Beautiful Words

After learning my flight was detained 4 hours,
I heard the announcement:

If anyone in the vicinity of gate 4-A understands any Arabic,
Please come to the gate immediately.

Well—one pauses these days. Gate 4-A was my own gate. I went there.

An older woman in full traditional Palestinian dress,
Just like my grandma wore, was crumpled to the floor, wailing loudly.

Help, said the flight service person. Talk to her. What is her

Problem? we told her the flight was going to be four hours late and she
Did this.

I put my arm around her and spoke to her haltingly.

Shu dow-a, shu- biduck habibti, stani stani schway, min fadlick,

Sho bit se-wee?

The minute she heard any words she knew—however poorly used—
She stopped crying.

She thought our flight had been canceled entirely.
She needed to be in El Paso for some major medical treatment the
Following day. I said no, no, we’re fine, you’ll get there, just late,

Who is picking you up? Let’s call him and tell him.
We called her son and I spoke with him in English.
I told him I would stay with his mother till we got on the plane and
Would ride next to her—Southwest.

She talked to him. Then we called her other sons just for the fun of it.

Then we called my dad and he and she spoke for a while in Arabic and
Found out of course they had ten shared friends.

Then I thought just for the heck of it why not call some Palestinian
Poets I know and let them chat with her. This all took up about 2 hours.

She was laughing a lot by then. Telling about her life. Answering
Questions.

She had pulled a sack of homemade mamool cookies—little powdered
Sugar crumbly mounds stuffed with dates and nuts—out of her bag—
And was offering them to all the women at the gate.

To my amazement, not a single woman declined one. It was like a
Sacrament. The traveler from Argentina, the traveler from California,
The lovely woman from Laredo—we were all covered with the same
Powdered sugar. And smiling. There are no better cookies.

And then the airline broke out the free beverages from huge coolers—
Non-alcoholic—and the two little girls for our flight, one African
American, one Mexican American—ran around serving us all apple juice
And lemonade and they were covered with powdered sugar too.

And I noticed my new best friend—by now we were holding hands—
Had a potted plant poking out of her bag, some medicinal thing,

With green furry leaves. Such an old country traveling tradition. Always
Carry a plant. Always stay rooted to somewhere.

And I looked around that gate of late and weary ones and thought,
This is the world I want to live in. The shared world.

Not a single person in this gate—once the crying of confusion stopped
—has seemed apprehensive about any other person.

They took the cookies. I wanted to hug all those other women too.
This can still happen anywhere.

Not everything is lost.

Naomi Shihab Nye (b. 1952), “Wandering Around an Albuquerque Airport Terminal.” I think this poem may be making the rounds, this week, but that’s as it should be.

http://awelltraveledwoman.tumblr.com/page/11

The List of All Lists...

  2. 2nd Runners Up:

Coldplay
   

 Why? Because I'am pretty sure that their Lights will guide and help us Fix what's wrong with this summer's band line - up in Beirut!
Coldplay's concerts are some of the best out there, they bring such an amazing energy and force to the stage when they perform that is just difficult to ignore and not enjoy.
And they don't just have normal lights that go along with their music, they literally turn their audience into an interactive LED light show.

                                            Now that looks like one heck of a concert!

We Have Tabboule, Do Sing For Us!

"April is the cruelest month", quoth Mr. T.S. Eliot. I do love the man and bow to his genius! But unfortunately, I am going to use his epic words to describe a petty little affair. Sorry T!

Petty affair: WHAT IS UP WITH THIS SUMMER'S BAND LINE-UP IN BEIRUT? April has come and gone empty-handed; at least for me. I want good wholesome music, and I want it this summer. That's why we've decided to make a list of musicians who will make life a little sweeter if they perform here. 

This is the list of all lists; it will therefore come to you in stages.

1. 1st Runners Up:

Mumford & Sons

image via justmumfordandsons.tumblr.com

Why? Because Marcus Mumford. 

Because "love it will not betray you, dismay, or enslave you, it will set you

free".  

Because this,

  

I rest my case.

Every King needs an Heir

This weeks episode of The Vampire Diaries served as the backdoor pilot for the new show starring our favorite Hybrid Niklaus Mikaelson, or as I like to call him the button nosed cutie with the velvety voice!
The episode introduced us to the setting where the show will take place, New Orleans, and I gotta say it looked great. The atmosphere that surrounds the place is perfect for our Original family members, it suits their style and hey it's one of Klaus's favorite places on earth so we love it as well!
Many new characters were introduced a couple of witches, some bar tender lady with a black belt in karate, and Marcel, Klaus's prodigy and the King of New Orleans (for now). And oh yeah Hayley was there as well , they brought her in thinking she has any effect on Klaus and I quote "If you think some liquor fueled one night stand means a thing to me" they were wrong (LOL hayley's face), but ALAS, she did have something important to bring to the table, she was pregnant (i'm pretty sure this baby was conceived on a table as well).
A KLAUS BABY YA'LL, he's gonna be a daddy, cuteness overload!!! It did take some serious convincing  from the lovely and ever so handsome Elijah to get him to agree to keep this child, and the mother...since they need her to carry it, damn it, but he's gonna do it and while we wait for this baby to arrive he is going to attempt to dethrone Marcel and take over as the proper reigning king of New Orleans, they did build the city after all, so its only fair.

Memorable moments include the interactions between Klaus and Marcel, the dude playing Marcel is brilliant he's a great actor and he brings such an amazing charisma to the character which makes him appealing to the viewers and we can't wait to see what else he has to offer.

ANY SCENE WITH ELIJAH was outstanding, Daniel Gillies and Joseph Morgan have both become so accustomed to playing these characters that they just can't go wrong with it, no matter what they say. It's gonna be interesting to see them work together more when the series officially begins.
And last but not least, Klaus, who just loves toying with out hearts, made a very interesting and might I add adorable phone call to our favorite blonde vampire back in mystic falls , Caroline, telling her how he'd love to be able to show her his favorite place in the world. Seriously, with all the drama that has happened to him in one day, he's still thinking about Caroline and how he just wants to be with her and make her happy!! Go to him you fooooool!! Then again, we've been waiting so long for something to happen, I guess we're gonna have to wait some more, but it will happen, it just has to! Klaus isn't the kind of person to give up easily, we know that for sure!

Tonight!!!

Just Live your Life...

Only 4 days left!!!

Quick Thoughts on Some Vampires

It puzzles me how Caroline did not seem to find a more fitting description of Elena than "dress thief". I get that Elena has her emotions turned off, but does that really justify her ending her best friend, Bonnie's life? I do, I do understand that Bonnie's bangs physically hurt one's sense of sight, but having her killed? Damon slayed most of Mystic Falls, but he never killed his bro!
Anyway, this episode was not about that; it was about Klaus and his refined tastes in women's dress. Yes. This is a hybrid who knows the key to a lady's heart. Where were you at my prom?

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60's music...

I could listen to this song like 10 times in a row without getting bored of it... absolutely love music from the 60's. Oldies are so underrated sometimes...it's a shame. 

Across the Universe...

We had one of two choices: either bursting out loud all alone imagining what the other would say about that scene and that line,OR we could do something totally unlike ourselves and blog about it. And on a fateful night, much like tonight, our humble space for expression was born.