Scaredy-Cat

I am indeed a self-proclaimed Scaredy-Cat.  I scream bloody murder when my husband just slightly sneaks up on me.  And scary movies??? Forget about it!  My husband loves them, so since I am an all-fair wife and know how to compromise I have watched more scary movies in the two years we have been together then my whole life prior to meeting him. Now, I did watch scary movies before him, but it was rare!  Here are some of my most favorite and least favorite scary/Halloween movies.

I get bothered mostly by the cheap thrill scares. You know when the music is growing in volume, the character is reaching for the door handle and then BAM! The jump out scares that make you scream.  

He had to cut off his what?

Saw - Now I am talking about the original, not the third, six or the 3D version. I thought the concept for the movie was great, a killer that actually didn't do any of the killing.  The victim harms him/herself while he actually doesn't do anything, just sets up the scenarios.  The original plays out like a mystery and with plenty of jumping parts for me to participate in.  I've actually seen this movie several times, but none of the MANY sequels. 

I still can't look out a window at night!

Scream - Again, the ORIGINAL! I saw this at a slumber party (my mother would never had allowed me to watch it) and was scared silly.  But as an adult I watched it again, and again, and again.  I know the parts to cover my eyes, but this is just an excellent classic scary movie.

The Curtains!

The Others -I jump and scream at all the parts I'm sure the director wanted his audience too.  And you got to love surprise twist endings! My husband does not classify this film as scary, I however disagree.

There are also a couple of other scary movies that don't make me scream, but disturb me.  The movies that really put you on edge, make you not trust your neighbor or even walk down your dark hallway.  These types of films I only watch once in my life and then never again.  Been there, done that! Warning! Do not watch these films if you are anything like me!

One of the least disturbing pictures I could find. 

Begotten - I watched the first 5 minutes and couldn't finish.  This film was made in the early 90s, there is no dialogue only imagery and some sounds.  Like I said, I only watched the first 5 minutes and my skin was crawling.  I made my husband turn it off! Apparently this movie is about some topics in Genesis and the inspiration came to the director after a near fatal car crash.

the theme song is playing in my head now. creepy.

The Exorcist - Afterward I went to my bedroom and read the Bible.

Never let strangers borrow your eggs.

Funny Games - The I no longer leave my garage door open, nor do I answer the door if my husband isn't home. I watched the original German version, however it was re-made in English starring Naomi Watts.

Alright, let's not let things get too heavy in here.  Let's talk about some movies that aren't too scary now.  Most of these other films I have talked about I have to watch either during the day (if by myself) or with a loyal companion to hide behind.  I enjoy watching these films during the Haunting Season and I can watch them by myself in the dark without anyone around.

Stuttering Stanley, Stuttering Stanley! Haley Joel was great in this film!

Sixth Sense - I still have to cover my eyes at some points in the film to make it, but this movie is done so well. I remember going to see this with some high school classmates and at the end of the movie I yelled out loud, "NO WAY!" when the surprise ending was revealed to me.

Johnny, so cute.

Sleep Hollow - This movie is beautifully dark and romantic.  Christopher Walken's headless horseman is scary and Johnny's heroism isn't always present as Ichabod Crane, but this is a fall classic for me.

Be careful what you wish for.

Coraline - A kid's movie you say.  Neigh.  This movie was on the dark side and I won't let my kids watch this until they are at least nine or so years old.  The hubby and I were like, "this is not what I was expecting", but it is a very good movie.

Tim Burton and Johnny Depp did it again!

 Sweeney Todd - Johnny again! I love the music in this and even as a vengeful psycho barber, he is still hot.

There you have it! Some fun, some scary, some mentally unsettling.  I hope everyone has a fun and safe Halloween.  As for me, I think tonight I might watch Casper (the one with Bill Pullman and Christina Ricci, now that's a classic!). 

Happy Halloween!

Happy Halloween to all!  Our party was a success! The hubby and I worked so hard and it came off without a hitch.  We had over karoake, drinking games, beer pong and over twenty guests.  We had some great costumes including power rangers, Anthony Weiner's "package", an ewok and not forgetting Ike and Tina Turner.  Because of our party we even intrigued some new nearby neighbors to stop by and introduce themselves and join the party.  The last guest left at 2 a.m. and we were exhausted on Sunday! 

Might Morphin Power Ranger, some cute critters and me!

My sister-in-laws awesome Boogie Nights costume!

Me playing some beer pong with hot sauce.

Ike and Tina being dramatic, Madonna to rescue!

It was a blast and the hubby and I are looking forward to watching a scary movie tonight while handing out candy to all the trick-or-treaters and eating something yummy!

Misadventures of Costume Making

Last night began the costume making adventure! So far, so good.  One can only hope.  I found a great and easy tutorial thanks to YouTube.

 I bought 2.5 yards of fabric on sale at Joann's and from my fabric I cut the three pieces of fabric I needed.  The video showed me the sizes of pieces, I drew the shapes in CAD then my hubby plotted them off so I could just lay it over the fabric and cut.  Now if you do not have drafting equipment like us, you can just measure with a ruler and chalk out the pieces then cut.  Tonight I will sew (and it isn't a lot of sewing, thank goodness) and add the ribbon lining around the edge.  I will let you know what it turns out like! 

Can you believe it's dry clean only! Cute and comfy though!

Underneath I'm just going to wear this cornflower blue prairie looking dress I have from Old Navy.  And super cute boots.  I also found a glossy black basket from Goodwill for 0.50! Score. I can't wait to see what my guests are coming dressed up as!  For the hubby's costume we decided on an Occupy Wall Street Participant.  Since he is really into politics and is passionate about it (not protesting, but politics) we thought it would be fun and something he is interested in debating about.  I love Halloween!

Dudley's

As promised is a review of our evening of fine anniversary dining.  I decided on Dudley's on Short, considering neither of us had dined there for dinner prior. I have had the pleasure of my office treating us to a Christmas lunch last year and it was delicious, so I knew we wouldn't be disappointed on our anniversary.

Our reservations were confirmed for 7 and after swimming and sipping champagne at the hotel, we got all dressed up and heading the tremendous two blocks to the restaurant.  We arrived and were promptly seated in what I call "The Red Room".  And I call it that because the walls are a rich red (which a beautiful hand painted wall covering from Brentano) with banquettes and mirrors.  We were seated at a table for two between a table of four friends at my left and a table of two girls at my right.  This is when I wished I told the hostess it was our anniversary when making the reservations so that we weren't right in the middle of everything.  The two women were loud and distracting at times, but overall it was lovely atmosphere and decor.  

The Red Room.

Their wine list (or what I called wine "bible" is very extensive, but we decided to get a cocktail since we had wine at the hotel waiting on us).  I ordered a Dirty Vodka Martini which was smooth and knocked me on my bootay.   The husband ordered a Bourbon & Ginger, which was delicious.  Props to the bartender!  Nothing is worse than a poorly mixed drink.

We started off with Warm Brie and Baguette with fresh strawberries, raspberries and peppered walnuts. Very delicious and the fruit was so fresh, it made me sad to think about what I get at the grocery.  Farmer's Market from now on!  For my entree I decided on one of the evening's specials, Pork Tenderloin with Whipped Sweet Potatoes and Fig Balsamic Glaze.  The meat was excellently cooked to my specifications and the flavors of everything when combined was wonderful.   The husband ordered the Grilled Fillet of Beef with Chive Mashed Potatoes, baby summer squash and chimchurri for his entree. This was, we both agreed on this, WAS THE BEST STEAK WE HAVE EVER HAD! It was cooked to perfection, was tender, juicy (but not runny) and the flavor was fantastic!  We can't wait to go back and have this entree again!  And the chive mashed potatoes were creating sparks on our forks!  Everything was delicious and we will for sure go again one day!

Boo Time

It's Halloween Week! And now that I am what I call "an official adult" (not sure what that means, but after I got married I all of a sudden felt a lot more grown up) although I don't necessarily act like one sometimes. I have decided to have a Halloween Party!  Costumes are mandatory of course! I am debating on who/what to be.  My favorite that I have come up with is Red Riding Hood.  With recent movie release, heroine is brunette (usually), and it just sounds comfy to wear a cozy cape instead of a binding Halloween getup.  Smurfette was another that I thought of, with the movie coming out and everything (but I just don't look that good in blue).  So after much debate and inner struggle I have decided that Red Riding Hood would be best for me and Hudson can be my Big Bad Wolf (I asked the hubby and the offer was quickly declined).  

pretty

 Now to make a cape.  And hopefully I can find a pretty prairie girl dress like the one above.

As for the hubby, working on it.

I am however quite talented thanks to one of my best friend's help.  My friend Brittany taught me to sew and thanks to her I have been able to make some great costumes! For a few years we stuck to Will Ferrell characters.  We were actually on our honeymoon in Hawaii last Halloween so we didn't partake in the celebration last year, but here are some looks at past Halloweens. 

Octomom! 2009

Zoolander. 2008.  I made this suit but in red and Britt was Mugatu.  I can't find the pictures though!

Blades of Glory, 2007! This was a lot of sewing and my first crafted costume!

It's all in the details.  See the headband!

In 2006 Brittany made an amazing Ricky Bobby jumper, I was Chaz from wedding crashers and our friend Shayna was Elf.  We were a Will Ferrell Trio, so much fun!  Looking forward to getting back into costume making! Hope I didn't forget how to sew, hopefully it will be like riding a bike.  Happy Wednesday!

Keenelanding, a verb you should know

In my hometown there is a magical place called Keeneland, a place where dreams come true.  Well, maybe not everyone's dreams.  And maybe no real magic happens there, but I sure do love it.  Keeneland is a racetrack that is located here in Lexington and this year is celebrating it's 75th anniversary!  Something that is older than me for once (hehe).  

I have childhood memories of coming to this track as a child and bewildered at its beauty.  What makes Keeneland different than your average racetrack is its architectural beauty, landscape and tradition.  Also, unlike Churchill Downs (where the KY Derby takes place) hats are a no no.  Now if you hat the sun in your eyes or have a skin condition I'll allow it, but other than that no hats! Go to Louisville for that (although wearing those beautiful hats are fun, but fun on Derby Day).  

 There are two live racing meets that last 4 weeks each during the year.  Spring Meet (April) and Fall Meet (October).  I prefer Fall Meet, the weather is slightly more predictable and the colors of the trees that time of year are stunning.  Like anything worth doing in this town, you tailgate for Keeneland.  Some bring cornhole, beer pong, etc.  Others bring a spread of food that you think you are at your Aunt Lena's for Easter Brunch!  Kegs are around, Mobile BBQ cookers, party buses and more.  I usually try to show up between 10:30 and 11:00 a.m. to mark out my tailgate spot.  Even though the first race does not begin until 1:05 p.m.  The lots fill up very quickly, especially on a beautiful day.  Record crowds can be in the 20,000s!  Gambling for fun is my thing, having never won any money at the track.  But for me, a gal, the best part is dressing up (packing flip flops for later) and seeing everybody all dolled up (even the dudes). That's why I call the act of participating the meets and going here, Keenelanding.  This is something you do, all day! 

It's a wonderful time and you get to see beautiful horses, landscape, guys and gals!  Everyone should visit it once and experience it for themselves.  In fact, I love Keeneland so much that the hubby and I had our engagement portraits shot here.  But why am I still writing this post, I've got to get my bootay to the track! Well, not today though.  Keeneland is closed on Monday :( but maybe tomorrow?

One Year

This picture shows just how happy we were/are!

We did it!  One year ago on this day I married my best friend!  They say the first year is the hardest and most trying and I completely agree.  It's amazing how you can be so in love with someone and no matter how mad you are at them, how much they annoy you and drive you crazy that you still love them unconditionally and no matter what!  Tonight we will be staying in the same hotel we were the night after our wedding.  What a wonderful day it was, it know seems like a dream.  Dinner will be at a local fine restaurant (I'll post about the meal later, hopefully it's divine) along with a recreated wedding cake topper for us to enjoy (since we hardly got to enjoy the cake at our own wedding!) and my parents will be watching our fur child so we can relax!  Happy Anniversary to my partner in crime, best friend, future father of my children, husband! I love you!

That's about all the cake we got to eat! But it was a great party!

Romantic.

The best season EVER

I love fall! Honeycrisp apples, pumpkin carving, cider, my anniversary, great fashion and more!  Love Love It!
Tonight I am going to a friends house to carve up a gourd and enjoy the crisp weather! Have a great weekend!

Giant Honeycrisp Apples. Nom Nom.

Furry Terror

Our little man turns 9 months today, I can hardly believe it!  He can handle sit, lay down, stay (but not for too long), off (some of the time), playing well with other pooches and walking on a leash (thanks to the genius gentle leader!).  But as far as jumping, hopping up to see whats happening on the kitchen countertops and chewing on EVERYTHING he does not have a handle on.  Hudson tests my patience every single day, but I still love 'em.  We are working on the other issues, I know it takes time.  And I've heard it takes 2 years to train a great dog.  Hudson is one of the smartest dogs we've ever seen, so when he does misbehave (even though he knows better) we forget so fast that he is still so young and not even one year old yet. 

He also isn't getting as big as we thought.  He is about the size of a border collie rather than a Labrador. Now I am not complaining, but I was expected a larger animal.  And I must say he is one the most handsome dogs I have seen in a while (but maybe I'm biased?).  We love him and sometimes I still can't believe I have a dog of my very own!  Happy 9 month fur kid!

3 months.  I could pick him up with one hand!

9 months and 40 lbs later! still so flipping cute!

Initial Here

It's a comeback and everyone is talking about it.  Monograms that is.  When I was in high school I got my monogrammed necklace, earrings, ring and bracelet set.  I was so excited when they arrived.  Then in the beginnings of college it was monogrammed totes, then the trend sort of went away.  I still wear my classic monogrammed jewelry, even though my initials have now changed.  But there are beautiful classic staples and work well, especially when needing to dress preppy for certain events here in Lexington. 

My mother gave me this on my birthday and I love it!

Necklace Pendants

I really love the rings

Great gift!

But the designs and creativity have advanced and are now better than ever.  One particular online store, Marley Lilly can monogram almost anything your little heart can think of!  Scarves, Jewelry, IPad and IPhone Cases.  I'm already thinking of some great Christmas gifts for family and friends this year!

Check out www.marleylilly.com

No Excuse

My oh my how long has it been?  There is no excuse as to why it has been so long since I have posted anything.  Lack of inspiration? Busy with work? Stressed? Slightly Depressed?  A number of factors have contributed to this I think.

But during my absence I fell in love.  Fell in love with Pinterest! I have created so many crafts, tried out new hairstyles and created new looks with my existing clothes thanks to pinterest boards.  If you have checked it out, you really must.  And at first I didn't really get it and was slow to catch on, but through perseverance and spreading the love I have really enjoyed using this site. 

For my first example: I found a pin showing this messy wonderful updo (pins usually provide links which have shown me so many new wonderful blogs that are out there).  

http://www.thesmallthingsblog.com/

 This particular pin lead me to the attached blog and turns out it is wonderful.  The blogger is a twenty-something hair stylist and jewelry designer.  The site has so many wonderful tutorials and videos to get fun with hair.  Check it out here.

So I decided to give it a try.......Please note that they look nothing like the original, but it was fun to play and with practice I hope I get better.  

Somehow mine turned out really messy!

New bangs. yay! channeling zooey.