11.27.2008

Adios, Atlanta. Hello, Orange County. Part 2


"WOO WOO!" Ahhh. Vicki getting drunk and woo-ing throughout Orange Country is music to my ears.

The fourth season of "The Real Housewives of Orange County," which premiered immediately after the "Atlanta" reunion, is as entertaining as ever. Along with Vicki, Lauri, Jeana, and Tamra are back...but there's a new housewife in town: 30-year-old Gretchen Rossi. So how can this young blonde woman afford to live in the gated Coto de Caza? Well, her 53-year-old fiance, Jeff, of course!

But before you start mocking the relationship as I did, the season premier informed us that Jess has acute leukemia. That doesn't mean we won't have plenty to say about Gretchen, or any of the other housewives this season. The promo for the fourth season left me anticipating lots of tears, fights, drinks, and above all, money!

Adios, Atlanta. Hello, Orange County. Part 1


Tuesday night on Bravo, we finally said 'good-bye' to "The Real Housewives of Atlanta" on their reunion special and 'welcome back' to another season of "The Real Housewives of Orange County." A double blessing.

The reunion special was filled with Kim explaining the reason she wears a wig is because she had cancer; she learned this diagnosis from her friend, a doctor, telling her he was 90% sure she had cancer. But as it turns out, it wasn't cancer. HUH? So, Kim didn't have cancer? My money is on "no."

Then, both NeNe and Lisa got into screaming matches with Kim (the kind of drama that won't be missed).

And did anyone else hear Kim's little, "you'll find out next season" comment? I hope that was just wishful thinking on her part.

11.26.2008

So Excited for "Four Chistmases"

Right around Thanksgiving, we have that one holiday movie everyone knows about--the one that's so heavily promoted, you can quote the movie before it even premiers. Well, this year that movie is Four Christmases starring Vince Vaughn and Reese Witherspoon. But the movie centers itself around a Meet the Parents type of premise, with the couple visiting each of their parents. Witherspoon getting thrown-up on, Vaughn being wrestled to the ground, and despite all of these cliches, I cannot wait to see it.

The movie comes out in theatres today, and could give the football non-addicts something to do on Thanksgiving (aside from eating until you drop to the floor).

11.24.2008

Discrimination becoming a California trend?

With the recent ban on gay marriage, other minority groups in California are fearing that discrimination may become more prevalent throughout the state.

The "Jonas" trend: "Breaking" the trend

While tweens across America are continuing to gush over The Jonas Brothers, these guy's exes are setting a whole new trend.

Taylor Swift joins Miley Cyrus in the ex-Jonas-girlfriend boat. So how do you bank on getting dumped? Write a song, get it playing all over the radio, and stand strong against The Jonas Brothers.

Unfortunately the Tyra trend isn't ending...


First it was the million and one seasons of "America's Next Top Model" and then it was her own talk show.

But unfortunately, Tyra Banks is proving that she cannot be stopped, no matter how much we beg.

Her newly produced reality show, "True Beauty" is coming soon to ABC. It's inspirational, really. The series centers around beautiful models and actors who don't know they are actually being judged on their inner beauty.

Keep an eye out for your gift guides...

With Christmas rapidly approaching, gift guides are popping up like crazy (and are keeping our budgets in mind). Elle's December issue features an extensive guide to gifts at every price range, and InStyle has a great online gallery with tons of gifts under $100.

Ashlee Simpson carries on the baby name trend


In true celebrity fashion, Ashlee Simpson and Pete Wentz named their first son something truly original: Bronx Mowgli Wentz.

Yes. Mowgli. Like "The Jungle Book." But who can deny the meaning? Just look at that resemblance.

It's just one more for the books right after other celebrity baby names: Pilot Inspektor, Audio Science, Apple.

Thanksgiving Planning


I have my short spurts of trying to be a 20-year-old version of Martha Stewart, and it should be no surprise that Thanksgiving brings along one of these trends. This year, however, I added fuel to the fire: Instead of going back home to Dallas for Thanksgiving, my family will be traveling down to Austin to celebrate Turkey Day in my small little apartment.

I have already hit up Marshall's for their sale on Thanksgiving decorations, (Don't worry, Mom. They really were on sale.) and Target had the perfect napkins and plates, decorated with lots of leaves and lots of burnt orange (Again: on sale). But if I was going to make Martha's maple leaf cookies for family and friends, I had to make a trip to Hobby Lobby.

That leaves the menu: two types of dressing, two types of green beans, corn, mashed potatoes, cranberry relish, rolls, a cake and maple leaf cookies (because Martha told me to), and a ham (straight from Central Market).

So in the next fews days, I have to finish a ton of pre-Thanksgiving break homework, make my apartment shine, shop for groceries, start baking, and, on top of everything, entertain a handful of house guests. Whew; is it Christmas yet?

Well that didn't take long.

OK. Hours after the news broke that Heidi Montag and Spencer Pratt eloped in Mexico this past weekend, Perez Hilton is publishing alleged vows the two exchanged. UsWeekly is set to publish the exclusive photos in their latest issue (out Wednesday), and the entire "Hills" family is speaking out.

Audrina and Stephanie were among those congratulating the couple, after being shocked to find out the two had wed. I'm sure Lauren Conrad's two cents will be surfacing very soon. But who does that leave out? Heidi's mom. According to PerezHilton.com, she was 'caught off guard' and very unhappy about the news. Well, isn't that the shock of the century? Move over Barack.

Why wouldn't Heidi's mother be happy for her daughter getting married? Well, take a look at where I think Spencer went wrong...Remember this delightful moment from "The Hills"?


Heidi and Spencer Eloped?

If it weren't for these publicity stunts, "The Hills" wouldn't be that unbelievable.

Heidi and Spencer, could you stop? I'm beginning to be really embarrassed that I watch anything on MTV because of you two.

Now the two most fame-obsessed reality stars are finally married, and UsWeekly has all the details. I wonder how much the couple got for the photos.

Well, I don't care. OK, well I sorta want to see the pictures, but I promise you that I will not be reading the article. (If I am going to continue watching "The Hills," I have to save some of my dignity.)

Best iPhone App: URBANSPOON

If you are always hungry like I am, but never really know what you want...and you have an iPhone...you should download the free URBANSPOON application. It is just as simple as the commercial makes it seem, which is pretty rare with technology advertising. The URBANSPOON application helps you randomly select a restaurant with a simple shake anytime you aren't sure where to eat.

Once you tap select the URBANSPOON icon on your home screen, you simply select your city and shake. But if you want a certain area, cuisine, or price range, you are able to limit your restaurant options accordingly. Also, if you don't want to look like that strange person shaking their phone, there is a button that will mix up your options.

After you find a restaurant you want, all you have to do is click on the name, and URBANSPOON gives you the address, phone number, and reviews if they are available.

I have searched both Dallas and Austin selections, and both are accurate--which is the point-- and shaking the phone is just really fun.

11.23.2008

You Give to Kids. Strut Gives to You

From the 23 to 26, Strut is giving 30% off your entire purchase when you bring in any new toy as a donation. This is only redeemable when you make your donation. Sounds like great incentive to do a little good this holiday season!

11.22.2008

College Student Commits Suicide Live on Internet

Abraham Biggs, a college student in Florida, committed suicide by taking an overdose of pills over his webcam. The streaming video was hosted on Justin.tv, and many individuals commented on the discussion board throughout the incident. The reactions varied from encouragement to get on with the suicide to pleas for Abraham to stop.

Although some watchers eventually contacted the website's manager urging them to contact the police, by the time cops arrived, Abraham had been dead for hours. At that time, the video was still running.

The 19-year-old first announced his plans to kill himself and provided a link to his webcam earlier that day on a body building website. However, several members on the site said that they did not take his threats seriously because he had threatened to commit suicide before. The teenager's father is mortified that it took so long for people watching and the owners of Justin.tv to respond; he said that Abraham's threats should have been seen as a cry for help, and that this whole incident could have been prevented.

Unfortunately, many experts are saying that this sort of thing is not out of the ordinary, citing young people's increasing use of social networking sites. I'm not sure if I believe that had a major role in this incident. I just pray for his family and hope that they have the strength to come to terms with the loss of their son and the public way his life was lost.

11.12.2008

Paula Abdul's "biggest fan" commits suicide...

...and right outside Paula's home. E!News has been blowing up my text inbox with updates on this story all day. So here is what the public knows so far:

Paula Goodspeed, 30, was a former contestant on "American Idol," for which Paula Abdul is a judge, and has apparently been obsessed with Abdul for the past 17 years.

Goodspeed was found dead in her car outside Abdul's home late last night; the cause of death appears to be an overdose, and sadly this isn't the first attempt Goodspeed made to get Abdul's attention. It was only a few months ago that Goodspeed previously tried to overdose outside the judge's home.

Although Paula Abdul was well aware of Goodspeed's obsession (she has sent threatening letters and packages in the past), she was not at home last night when the incident occurred. However, after being notified this morning, Abdul did say that she was "deeply shocked and saddened."

I have yet to hear anything about the woman's family or friends, but I am sure there were people out there who really cared for her. My heart goes out to them.

Also, I found this audition tape of Paula Goodspeed's "American Idol" audition on E!Online...it's strange to look at this auditions in a new light.


11.10.2008

Jayden Spears Hospitalized

Britney Spears' youngest son, Jayden, was hospitalized after having a bad reaction to something he ate.

Britney was in Louisiana with her children when the incident occurred, but he has since been released and everything seems fine.

However, several people are beginning to question if this could affect the custody situation between Britney and Kevin Federline. Basically, it all depends on what caused the reaction in the first place. If it was something that Jayden was known to be allergic to, Britney could be held responsible for neglect.

Lately, everything has been going so well for her, so hopefully this doesn't spark another disaster period. I don't know about you, but I wasn't really a fan of the shaved head.

Suspect in Hudson Family Murders Stays Behind Bars

The Illinois Prisoner Review Board said that William Balfour will remain in custody. His next review will not be until December 3.

Hopefully, the police will find more evidence in the murders of Darnell, Jason, and Julian before then to either charge Balfour or whoever committed these crimes.

Role Models is Worth the $8

The new film, Role Models, is nothing new. But in this case, it's not such a bad thing.

Role Models features a few D-List celebrities, some new faces, and an of-the-moment actor (Superbad's Christopher Mintz-Plasse). For those of you who haven't seen the previews, Seann William Scott and Paul Rudd play two friends who, instead of going to jail, or forced to do community service at Sturdy Wings. Sturdy Wings is run by a ex-cocaine addict, whose goal is to join children with adult mentors. Christopher Mintz-Plasse and Bobb'e J. Thompson play the young boys, Augie and Ronnie, and completely carry the movie.

It is not the story line that makes this new film funny, its everything that comes out of Ronnie's trash-mouth and Augie's obsession with LAIRE (just imagine a bunch of people acting out Lord of the Rings).

But with that said, I made the slight mistake of going to see the film with my boyfriend...and his parents. Just don't go see this movie with anyone you won't feel comfortable laughing with at a little kid talk about his love for "boobies" or a whole list of words only fit for American Pie.

11.07.2008

Lost in 2009

Season five of "Lost" has had a vague premiere date of "2009" for a while, but ABC has just announced that the hit will be back January 21. But it gets even better! The season premiere will be three hours long!

OK, well it does get a little complicated from there. The first hour will be a recap and the second and third hour will be the first two episodes of the season.

If you aren't already addicted, then you should go out and rent the first four seasons right now. Seriously, you have to get started now if you want to finish in time.

11.06.2008

Speaking Out Against Prop 8

California clearly made the wrong decision by voting yes on Prop 8, which bans gay marriage. The only positive aspect of this is Prop 8 only pertains to the future, it does not effect marriages that have already been initiated. (But I have yet to wrap my mind around that one.)

People everyone are speaking out against Prop 8, including recently married Ellen DeGeneres.

If you are a resident in California and want to be proactive, you can sign this online petition addressed to the Governor. But even if you aren't a California resident, you should read the petition. It gives a lot of facts v. fictions about Prop 8 and what it means for everyone.

11.05.2008

Top Chef is Coming!

Bravo said good-bye to "Project Runway," but their other hit reality series, "Top Chef" is back for a 5th season. This season, which takes place in New York, is premiering on November 12 at 9.

Unfortunately, "Top Chef" has yet to replace the show's host, Padma, but thankfully, Tom and Gail will both be returning as judges. Also, Toby Young, food critic and author will be joining the panel.

I can't wait for this new season. I'm hungry already!

11.04.2008

Congratulations, Barack Obama! And YAY for America!

I do not care how you voted, or even if you voted. What we are seeing right now is one of the most inspiring moments for every American. We have come so far, and although there is always room for growth, we should all be proud to be experiencing this historic victory.

And all of my heart goes out to Barack Obama and his family. It is so unfortunate that his grandmother came so close to seeing her grandson in such a light.

Well Well Well

I guess you're regretting that Vice President choice right about now, John McCain.

I feel as if I can finally post this video to my blog. Oh, memories.


11.03.2008

Obama's Grandmother Passes Away


Just one day before Madelyn Dunham was to find out if her grandson, Barack Obama, would become President of the United States, she passed away. Madelyn was 86-years-old and suffering from cancer. Knowing she was very ill, Obama recently visited her in Hawaii.

Regardless of which candidate you support, it is terrible to think that during this incredibly stressful time, Barack will now be dealing with this family tragedy. My prayers are definitely with him and his family.

Forget 2...There's only 1 day to go...

And Sarah Palin got punk'd French-Canadian style...

Two radio hosts got through GOP phone screeners pretending to be French President Sarkozy and here's their conversation...


11.01.2008

Only 3 days to go...


And John McCain will be on Saturday Night Live tonight.


Maybe we'll see Barack on The Hills Monday? (God, I wish!)