oh, how silly!

spring cleaning!

2011-04-29T15:07:00.000-07:00

Looking to sell our stuff! Make an offer...

-Pair of stripy chairs that I love. Retro type ish

-Standard coffee table with standard wear; sturdy for resting feet upon

-The most comfortable couch ever, seriously. Yes, the pattern is ugly as sin, but it's like sleeping on a twin bed. Actually it's even better than that. I may have a couch cover somewhere, too.

-Old chair that I also love with cool metallic-y pattern.

-Also available (but not pictured) a red charcoal grill that's only a year old, a lamp, a green and purple desk, another small table for your typewriter, speakers, cool green computer chair, an end table, a tv that's not digital, a coffee maker, & a copy of My Life the autobiography of Bill Clinton

P.O.T.D. #15

2010-09-12T10:01:00.001-07:00

I accidentally didn't stay in Portland and moved back to the Midwest. CA-1 was the highlight of our drive.

For real...

2010-03-18T12:10:00.001-07:00

I'm way into this. Thanks, APB.

Why-oming?

2010-03-12T10:52:00.000-08:00

Oh, hey. I'm going here in a month. No big deal.

P.O.T.D. #15

2010-03-03T00:08:00.000-08:00

The day Mikey led us to the "secret quarry". Sylvania, OH. 08/08.

Operation: Oregon Trail

2010-02-25T10:53:00.000-08:00

+ ~~get Food Handlers Certificate~~

+ ~~complete OLCC~~

+ ~~make sure car is awesome for cross country travel~~

+ save $$$

+ make new resumes

+ ~~open bank account at US Bank~~

+ don't go out to the bars (unless working of course), buy records, etc.

+ try not to die of Cholera, Dysentery, or snake bite

Valentines present to myself.

2010-02-14T11:07:00.000-08:00

Aaaaand I'm off! Yet again...

High as a Georgia Pine

2010-02-12T14:52:00.000-08:00

Awesome video about Dock Ellis' famous LSD no-hitter.

P.O.T.D. #14

2010-02-12T11:22:00.001-08:00

In honor of my upcoming visit to Portland, an old photo of my dude Brandon. We probably hopped the fence into the cemetery later that night. 06/2004, I think.

한국에서 인사말! (Greetings from Korea!)

2010-02-05T15:36:00.000-08:00

So our friend Micah came back for a visit for the first time in 2 years. He's been teaching English to adorable Asian children and embracing the culture...riding around (illegally) on a scooter and travelling that part of the world. Anyway, since I picked him up from the Megabus I was given some special gifts from Seoul. Here's a sampling...

These are Silkworm Pupae (?). Apparently people boil or fry these up as a snack. Micah said they kind of explode in your mouth. Gross, dude. I wasn't brave enough to try it.

He also gave me a pack of Hot Squid Jerky. I did try this and it was pretty gnarly. Way spicier and hard to chew than our jerky, but cmon, they're dehydrated squid legs.

Last and most awesome, I got a bottle of Soju! Soju is a distilled liquor that tastes similar to vodka, but a little bit sweeter. Shared among groups of people, it's drunk straight up as a shot. Since it's usually only 20% alcohol content, these people drink several (seriously, a lot) bottles. After sharing some shots with friends, I just poured mine on the rocks and finished it. Gom Bae!

So thanks, Micah. It was good to see you again.

2010-01-28T11:25:00.000-08:00

"It's everybody, I mean. Everything everybody does is so - I don't know, not wrong, or even mean, or even stupid, necessarily. But just so tiny and meaningless and - sad-making.

And the worst part is, if you go bohemian or something crazy like that, you're conforming just as much as everybody else, only in a different way."

-J.D. Salinger

P.O.T.D. #13

2010-01-28T03:33:00.000-08:00

This is a friend of mine with a beautiful voice and real talent on the guitar. Despite being a sass, you'd never know her skillz; she's a bit shy in that department. &drea. Columbus. 03/07.

P.O.T.D. #11 and #12

2010-01-26T12:48:00.000-08:00

Sundowner (Chris from The Lawrence Arms) @ Howards. I wanna say 04/09. A small, but amazing show...

...and just for fun:

Midwestern winters are a drag.

2010-01-25T14:05:00.000-08:00

Today is an all-gray-lay-in-bed-listen-to-American-Football kind of day.

Hot new band on the scene: The Finches

2010-01-18T12:50:00.000-08:00

via Robert

via metafilter

Art installation by Céleste Boursier-Mougenot

"the best angular, atonal, postpunk, improvisational guitar I've heard in a while."

P.O.T.D. #10

2010-01-13T15:29:00.001-08:00

My awesome parents. Mom's holding a cig, Dad's holding a beer. Party on. I found and scanned this, I'm going to guess circa 1980?

P.O.T.D. #9

2010-01-11T13:51:00.000-08:00

Little brother Corey Capelle showing my old roommate's dog Mingah some love. Vanity House circa 2004. I think he still wears this Dead Kennedy's shirt sometimes.

"I know I painted you a prettier picture, baby."

2010-01-06T02:39:00.000-08:00

Lucero cover of Jawbreaker's "Kiss The Bottle". I think I've seen Lucero 3 times now and still have yet to see this performed!

They just released a new album called "1372 Overton Park" that I have to check out. Matty? Thoughts on it?

Lucero's Myspace

P.O.T.D. #8

2010-01-04T23:00:00.000-08:00

d.kine took this on his phone, it's my busted face after having too much fun at a punk show. 04/07/2007. Man, what a babe!

Ecuadorian dreams.

2010-01-03T22:03:00.000-08:00

It's cheap, their currency is the USD, and it's far less dangerous than other South American countries! Does anyone speak Spanish? Let's go. Seriously, I'm willing to pay half your plane ticket to translate.

We'll stay here.

"Not my chair, not my problem"

2010-01-02T01:33:00.000-08:00

This video was shown to me by my friend Dave (of course). It's the audio of a guy on acid locked in a closet. His friends recorded him talking and made a video to go with it. Comic gold!

P.O.T.D.'s #6 and #7

2009-12-31T11:26:00.000-08:00

By far my favorite apartment in the Old West End. Photos of things I miss: living in the OWE, my awesome green couch, Gatsby the cat, & my camera that took these.

Guitars, drums, please?

2009-12-26T11:07:00.001-08:00

I really need to get back into the blogosphere and there's no better way to do it than by doing the obligatory favorite albums of 2009. As much as I do love some good electronic music and a beat to dance to, I still prefer actual instruments being played and a gritty sound. As my dear roommate Nikola says, "your roots are more in punk, Rochte, all you want are some guitars!". So here goes:

5. Bibio - "Ambivalence Avenue"

After that whole spiel I choose a mostly electronic album at #5. What can I say? Dude produces killer tracks that span from folk to indie to hip hop.

4. The XX - "The XX"

I was trying to describe this band to someone last week,

but all I could come up with was laid back, pretty

sounding indie rock. I don't know, I just really got into

this album.

3. Drummer - "Feel Good Together"

What happens when you take five different drummers from

various bands and bring them all together to play

different instruments? An awesome album? Check!

Well, technically they didn't all get to switch instruments...

one of them had to stay a drummer. Formed by Patrick

Carney of The Black Keys fame (he plays bass in this band),

this album was spot on and a lot of people still haven't

heard of them. Do yourself a favor, check it out & tell yr friends.

2. Blakroc - "Blackroc"

(Speaking of) The Black Keys + hip hop's finest = Blakroc. It's a

good mix, I promise.

1. Japandroids - "Post Nothing"

Honestly, nothing even comes close to this album for me.

I'm talking the past couple of years even. Just a drummer and a

guitarist playing the catchiest rock & roll accompanied by the best

(yet simplest) lyrics I've heard in a minute.

From "Young Hearts Spark Fire":

We used to dream

Now we worry about dying

I don't wanna worry about dying

I just wanna worry about those sunshine girls

This album makes me feel young & alive & excited when I listen to

it. It sounds cheesy, I get that. I like music I can relate to, yknow?

If you haven't heard them, this video isn't the best portrayal of

how the music sounds, but these dudes don't have a music video.

I wanted to post something live rather than something a random

person on youtube made. But yeah, check out the energy and

listen to the crowd.

So that's that. Good luck, 2010.

Happy Halloween!

2009-10-29T11:17:00.000-07:00

via Enjoying Toledo

The kids of Toledo School for the Arts participating in a huge flash mob of sorts at the Franklin Park Mall. It gets pretty good near the middle of the video.

Burn it to the ground!

2009-10-24T08:25:00.000-07:00

Some years ago I was introduced to the Burn to Shine DVD series. Brendan Canty of Fugazi fame started this project around 2003 and they have since released 4 volumes (though apparently they've filmed 6). It centers around the history of a house that is set to be demolished, the city in which it's located, and the bands that will play there. A different city is selected for each volume, and a different musician from said city is selected to curate the local bands who will play. Each band has an hour to set up, play a song, and tear down...no corrections, no re-dos. After all of the bands play, they burn the house down. This video is one of my favorites...

http://www.trixiedvd.com/bts/

P.O.T.D. #5

2009-10-21T22:10:00.000-07:00

Awesome Dave on our Miami '07 trip. It was, quite literally, Spring Break.

Hopefully this is the beginning of me updating again.

Sugar dumpling, muffin baby...

2009-06-30T19:56:00.000-07:00

Mikey sang this to me while I was incredibly sick this week and I've been obsessed ever since.

Because Carlos posted this months ago...

2009-06-25T21:51:00.000-07:00

R.I.P MJ, you had some excellent hits. I did PYT shots all night for you.

I <3 Isopar

2009-05-14T11:22:00.001-07:00

Monoprint/monotype's by Koichi Yamamoto.

Yamamoto is a printmaker and an Assistant Professor at the University of Tennessee. From what I understand, in the 2nd and 3rd images he would use isopar and a roller to re-create Japanese landscape type paintings. I'm unsure of his other process(es), but I really enjoy his work.

Koichi Yamamoto.

P.O.T.D. #4

2009-04-29T09:43:00.000-07:00

Patriotic shots in Chicago with some friends from Toledo.
July 4, 2008

Another TFLN, FML type site.

2009-04-29T09:41:00.000-07:00

http://www.sorry-mom.com

My kind of holiday...

2009-04-18T09:56:00.000-07:00

Happy Record Store Day!
Today is the 2nd annual celebration of independent record stores. This pseudo holiday was started last year in Portland, ME and now over 1,000 record stores are celebrating! Acts such as Erykah Badu and Franz Ferdinand will be playing in-store sets in their hometown stores. For you Chicagoans, The Lawrence Arms are playing at one of the Reckless stores! I'm not sure which one, though. I know Music Saves and Blue Arrow (?) are holding some festivities in Cleveland, and Used Kids and Lost Weekend Records are partying down in Columbus, as well. As for Toledo, it's going to be a good day for sure:

Rama Lama is handing out goodies and freebies, plus Rob will offer a traditional Japanese bow if you buy stuff from his store.
3151 W Central Ave
Rama Lama Records

Culture Clash is giving away a bunch of free stuff, offering limited releases, and there will be performances by DJ Dangus, The Falling Spikes, Potentials w/ Steve A, and RAVEN.
4020 Secor Rd
Culture Clash Records

Shakin Street is offering free food, and if you say "Sammy Hagar Rules" you get 15% off your purchase. There will be acoustic in stores by Extra!Extra!, Ian from Sinker, and The Infernal Names.
1503 Adams St
Shakin Street Records

Attn Toledoans!

2009-04-15T19:57:00.000-07:00

This weekend, it begins...

Artomatic419! 2009 TV Ad from Above the Shop Studios on Vimeo.

...and it's actually way cooler than this video makes it seem.

Artomatic 419

P.O.T.D. #3

2009-04-07T16:46:00.000-07:00

via kellykorova

via THE BARS

This wins.

Tumbling along...

2009-04-07T11:00:00.000-07:00

I happened upon this girl's tumblr site & was intrigued. She pairs famous quotes with stills from your favorite (and not so favorite) TV shows.

http://slaughterhouse90210.tumblr.com/

If you wanna sing out, sing out...

2009-04-06T14:07:00.000-07:00

I've been on a new music kick as of late... and last night at Frankie's Seth was playing an awesome album of an unknown band while everyone set up. My friend Solomon asked who they were and we found that they're called Titus Andronicus. They've been around since '05, but just put out a full length. This Saturday they will be playing with one of my favorite bands (Lucero) at the Majestic in Detroit. I just might have to call off and go to that show.

http://www.titusandronicus.net
http://www.myspace.com/titusandronicus

P.O.T.D. #2

2009-04-03T11:48:00.000-07:00

My friend d.kine being unimpressed by people he knows in a city he's left.
@Orchard Inn, Summer 2008

Bridging Gaps

2009-04-01T12:46:00.000-07:00

For those interested in European travel, I just learned of a lovely piece of architecture for if you're ever in the northern countries. It's called the Øresundsbron, or the Öresund Bridge. This bridge (and tunnel) is just a little under 5 miles long and connects Malmö, Sweden (the 3rd largest city in Sweden) and Copenhagen, Denmark crossing the Öresund strait. The bridge-tunnel is a combined rail system and four lane highway featuring an unpopulated artificial island named Peberholm being used as a biological experiment of sorts. And you don't even need a passport!

Malmö

Copenhagen

Seriously, once you get over there it seems like everything is within reach!

P.O.T.D. #1

2009-03-31T23:56:00.000-07:00

and the Photo Of The Day series begins...

Sometimes you just have to post what comes to mind. And unfortunately, this happened.

Buttons, Xylophones, Drums

2009-03-29T13:06:00.000-07:00

Dan Deacon released his new album Bromst last Tuesday and I've already gotten two e-mails raving about it. So far, I really like the song "Snookered". I don't know how to embed audio files, so this will have to do...

I like the way he executes a live show, too!

Dan Deacon's Myspace

Pet Peeve #15 -- Latte Art

2009-03-29T00:16:00.000-07:00

Okay, after this post I will move away from beverage based pet peeves for a moment. While in Portland I learned that a girl I know had an interview at a neighborhood coffee shop. This girl has years of experience as a barista (as do I) and at the end of the interview the manager asked her "And can you do latte art?" and she said No. To this he replied something like "Wellllll we really need someone who can do that here, soooo..." ...yeah, you get the idea. My immediate response to this was obviously 'wtf is latte art?' and here it is folks:

Now, I'm not one to tell someone how to run a business, but whywhywhy is this necessary? You're just going to ruin it with the first drink. It wastes time and seems like, again, such a suburban mom/yuppie impresser. Who cares what's on the foam?! It's the caffeine (usually) that counts. To quote Tim Gunn, "I'm underwhelmed".

Disagree? Thoughts? Comments?

For those who are still a kid at heart...

2009-03-28T12:15:00.000-07:00

via Matty

The "Where The Wild Things Are" trailer...finally!
I LOVED this book & can't wait for this! Seriously, almost brought me to tears.

Watch the best quality version here.

Or a crappy youtube one here:

Bay-bayyyyyy

2009-03-19T10:20:00.000-07:00

South Park pwned The Jonas Brothers (or maybe moreso Disney) in their latest episode. It was only a matter of time, a few of us have been expecting this for awhile...

Rainy Day in 503.

2009-03-09T16:18:00.000-07:00

So far, Portland is the best spring break (SPRING BREAAAKKKK!) I could've asked for. All of my favorite people that were transplanted here are showing me a great time & the city itself has a great feel to it. I've been non-stop, & while I brought 5 rolls of film, these are the only photos I've taken...

I have 10 Followers!

2009-03-05T10:18:00.000-08:00

...how exciting!

Now if only I would just update...

David After Dentist

2009-02-08T10:30:00.000-08:00

I caught this video on The Soup this week and can absolutely sympathize with little David. What does this remind you of? Come on.

PDX!

2009-02-04T12:05:00.001-08:00

I've never been west of Chicago, so you can imagine my excitement at booking a plane ticket to Portland. I know I'll make it to Seattle, but I'm being hopeful to get to San Francisco as well. We'll have to see about the money situation. So, to those of you that have been there, what should I do? So far, I have the following planned:

A strip club I'm told I have to go to...

These Japanese Gardens...

The Art Museum (Carlos, have you been/heard anything?)

Seeing this band...

And possibly this band...

And, of course, seeing some lovely people.

Test methods to become a successful blogger.

2009-01-31T00:56:00.000-08:00

In an effort to update more, I'm throwing around the idea of having a P.O.T.D. (Photo of the Day) section on my blog. It would be random photos I found around the internet or on my computer, accompanied with a brief description. Also, you would send me photos as well! It could be fun, maybe..

However, today I'm going to start with an annoyance of mine (I hope that this doesn't become a section as well). Here goes.

Pet Peeve #27 -- Chocolate Martinis

Dear god. I feel that since I tend bar I am justified in bitching about this. I HATE HATE HATE making the Chocolate Martini (and why did I feel I had to capitalize those words?).

1. I get that you're a self important Sylvania Mom, and you probably feel really classy ordering it, but the chocolate martini is overrated. Please people, this isn't 2006 or 7, why has the chocolate martini phenomenon not ended? Try something new!

2. Tacky. That's all.

3. Chocolate is delightful and vodka is excellent, but ordering them together pretty much just illustrates that you lack knowledge and/or appreciation of either. I think Anthony Bourdain said it best: "Anyone who requests this drink should also get a T-shirt that says " 'I am an asshole, please take my money.' "*

That's all.

**I do have close friends who enjoy this beverage, and to them I apologize. We can't all be perfect, right?

"White House Unbuttons Formal Dress Code"

2009-01-30T11:13:00.001-08:00

I got a kick out of this...
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/29/us/politics/29whitehouse.html?_r=2&ref=todayspaper

I wish I had a digital.

2009-01-26T14:54:00.000-08:00

There are certain things about winter that I haven't minded so much. Remember that ice storm? I loved the way the trees sounded in the wind, like they were all about to break apart and shatter. Oh, and wasting film. And friends. Always fun.

Sooo Meaty!

2009-01-17T13:50:00.000-08:00

Not much to talk about...
except that I'm only going to see Joel McHale live tonight.
No big deal.

I feel like such a fangirl right now.

Top Albums: Snowed In Edition

2009-01-10T12:05:00.000-08:00

Due to the weather, I've decided to do another Top 5 post on music. This list consists of my 5 favorite record purchases this year. It's a bit more personal than the last, but I had fun deciding.

5. Serge Gainsbourg - Histoire de Melody Nelson (1971)

Get yourself into some Serge. It's pure sex.

4. My Bloody Valentine - Loveless (1991)

Why did I wait so long to listen to this band? Why did I flip past this record for so many years? I suppose I thought they were super emo based on their name. Thank you for proving me wrong, Sir Alex.

**When I searched Youtube for this band I only got trailers for what looks like a terrible movie, but I thought that this was appropriate.

3. The Silver Mt. Zion Memorial Orchestra & Tra-La-La Band with Choir - "This Is Our Punk-Rock", Thee Rusted Satellites Gather + Sing (2003)

Such an incredible album from a phenomenal band. I may have not left my room and kept flipping the record at least 4 times one day. Wow.

2. Holy Fuck - LP (2007)

I think I actually said the band's name is response to hearing their music for the first time. Usually when I go record shopping I don't know what I'm going to pick up, but I actually went out with the intent of purchasing this one.

1. Alkaline Trio - Goddamnit 2007 Re-release (Originally released in 1998)

One of my favorite punk (you can argue whether this is "punk" or not somewhere else) albums of all time. Goddamnit was re-released for a very specific reason in that it really made us kids feel something. Something we understood and related to. It may sound lame, but it's so true! Brendan Kelly (from The Lawrence Arms wrote an amazing intro; here's part of it:

"You know that feeling of having wasted your life? I'm not talking about looking back to faded, half-remembered olden days from some wrinkly shell. I'm referring to waking up and thinking 'Woah, last night was a complete blur, I made a real dick of myself in front of that girl I can't stop thinking about and barfed in the sink at the bar. I'm wasting my life. What's wrong with me?' That's wasting your life. Little moments that swirl, fade and descend into obscurity, never to be retrieved."

I was feeling very nostalgic that day and this was the perfect thing to pick up.

Top Albums of '08

2009-01-02T11:42:00.000-08:00

Happy 2009, friends! It's been awhile since we (I) here at oh! how silly have written. Well, I wouldn't be quite cliche enough of a blogger if I didn't do the obligatory top albums of 2008 list, now would I? Here are my top 5:

5. Lykke Li - Youth Novel

I first heard Lykke Li when a friend sat me down and made me listen to her this summer. Upon hearing her voice I thought "Oh great, another indie Swede with a peculiar voice who's going to grace Pitchfork's Best New Music page" and dismissed her immediately. What a jerk, right? Later, when her songs would come on at random I found myself asking "who is this?" and really getting into the music. Her voice grew on me as well. This album is fantastic, and I now admit that I was wrong (except I was right about the Pitchfork thing). Lykke - 1, Sarah - 0.

4. Russian Circles - Station

When I saw Russian Circles open for fellow Chicago band Pelican, they blew my mind. Upon the release of their second album Station, they already had a following. Think post-rock meets metal and melody.

3. Black Mountain - In The Future

How does Canada produce these amazing bands and musicians? I'm going to guess something with the de-criminalization of ma... nevermind. I've heard Black Mountain's latest played often in between sets at Frankies Inner City and at tattoo shops just the same. Two vocalists (a girl & a guy) switch on and off for this AMAZING psychedelic rock band. Some ominous tracks, a couple super indie, and a lot of rocking out (to sound as Wayne Campbell as possible).

2. Foals - Antidotes

I don't know how to talk about this band. Dance-punk or math rock? Maybe. Catchy as hell? Yes. The guitar is super distinctive, the entire album is a cohesive working machine, and they make me want to dance. That's all I can think of and it probably doesn't make much sense. Do yourself a favor and just listen!!

1. Ratatat - LP3

One of my favorite bands since their self-titled 2004 debut. Most of you know this band already, and if you don't I'd recommend the entire discography. I've heard complaints, but LP3 did not let me down at all. Nice work, dudes.

**Honorable Mentions: Cut Copy - In Ghost Colours, Man Man - Rabbit Habits, The Mae Shi - HLLLYH

A little Mary Jane can have big effects on some.

2008-12-19T10:55:00.000-08:00

This really cracked me up this morning...how have I never seen it? Thank you StumbleUpon.

An overdose an marijuana? This cop clearly had some pretty boring high school years.

edit @ 2:16pm : I hadn't read blogs in a few days due to finals, and realized Robert posted the exact same video just yesterday! Wow. We really do think alike.

Do The Whirlwind!

2008-12-15T19:28:00.000-08:00

As you can probably tell from previous posts, I lovelovelove Architecture in Helsinki. They took a while to grow on me, but I've fallen in love with their unique and sing it out sound. I've recently discovered that not only does the music they make rock out, but so do their music videos.

my favorite...

and the newest...

Under water viewing.

2008-12-11T19:34:00.000-08:00

Like I've said before, I think Lomo cameras can be pretty fun. But I've decided to stop wasting film because the only time I think they come out well enough is at parties. Then again, I'm not a photographer.

pictures of you.

**Lynn, I'll get the one's from Turtle Island soon!

All that glitters isn't gold...

2008-12-09T14:35:00.000-08:00

...or should I say sparkles? All that sparkles isn't gold. But that's exactly what happens to Cedric Diggory when he is exposed to sunlight in the ever popular Twilight saga. Oh, I'm sorry, I meant Edward...not Cedric. So here it is, the anticipated review that no one was even looking forward to reading (yet I'm still compelled to write): Twilight (the movie).

I should preface this with the fact that I am a Harry Potter fan (make fun here) and am no stranger to fantasy novels. There's a wonder and whimsy and innocence to the story that really engaged me. As for Twilight, it's more of a watered down fantasy smut novel, I'm sure you're all familiar with the plot so I'll spare you. Now I had

only learned of this phenomenon recently, in the past few weeks, because Stewie's mom, my sister, and every girl on BGSU's campus is now obsessed. As a result of an AMAZING clip from The Soup, Robert & I convinced ourselves to go see the movie. And WOW, it worked. At least in the sense that I can't stop talking about it.

Let's start with the glitterati, since I already mentioned it. Perhaps I'm a bit biased due to the fact that I'm into "vampiric" things. These guys are supposed to burst into flame when subjected to sunlight! Not in Twilight, not even close. These vampires can go out during the day, and are only affected by direct exposure, which gives them the "sparkles". For those of you who watch Arrested Development, think of the time George Michael wanted to buy AnneHog the diamond dust. Remember later on in the episode where w

e see Tobias wearing it instead? Think of that, and then add CGI.

Next, the dialogue. There is actually a part before Cedric, er...Edward and Bella go frolicking and flying through the woods where he holds out his hand to her. There is a dramatic pause, an intense look, and the words "Do you trust me?" are uttered. At this point, I lost it. Immediate flashback to Disney's Aladdin before the magic carpet scene. Not to mention Robert's favorite line: "Your mood swings are starting to give me whip lash". Comic gold.

The make up. Oh dear god, where do I start? I understand that this movie was low budget, but I can honestly say I've seen better face jobs on the runway at Bretz on a Friday night or the dance floor at Uptown/Skybar on a Wednesday.

The acting was so intense that Robert Pattinson's forehead probably had to be exercised daily if he were furrowing his brow as much as he did. Glares, nostrils flaring... it was just so overdone. Very Bold and the Beautiful if you ask me.

Honestly, I can't believe I've gone this far into it. I will never write another "review".

So in conclusion, it was completely worth the $2.25 I spent. At least for as many times as I laughed out loud. I was thoroughly entertained almost the whole time.

For Robert's review (a much more condensed and wittier take on the movie), go here.

Sharing my agony with you.

2008-12-09T12:22:00.000-08:00

"I'm trying to manage two blogs at once here!! What do you want from me??"

-me, being a complete nerd yesterday when someone commented on my lack of updates.

Busy with school, here are a few things I've been devoting my time and energies to:

Modern Architecture: Le Maison de Verre, Paris - by Pierre Chareau. Completed in 1932, it was originally a multi-functional structure (home and doctor's office) built for Dr. Jean Dalsace. There are crazy movable parts, retractable (& hidden!) staircases, and spiraling entrance ways all within this house. The glass block facade lets light in, but still provides privacy. Innovative for the time.

Art of China & Japan: The Edo period, the "floating world culture", & Ukiyo-e motifs within the Japanese tattoo with emphasis on how it's become popular in Western culture. Especially certain sub-cultures. Then tattoos have so much significance and meaning to the Japanese, then & now. I have to wonder if some of these people in our "Western society" that are getting these images tattooed read up on it beforehand.

Probably most recognized, this is Hokusai's In the Hollow of a Wave of the Coast at Kanagawa

And just for fun...

Biology (yes I'm actually in a bio class): Overpopulation. Need I say more?

Coming soon, a dual movie/book review.

You've got to be kidding me.

2008-12-01T22:15:00.000-08:00

I.could.not.believe.this. Over 130 cats? Really?

Have you been good this year?

2008-12-01T17:52:00.000-08:00

Well, it's been quite awhile since I've blogged due to our internet being out and overeating on Thanksgiving. I've been a busy girl, getting ready for the holidays and all. I know, I know...they come way too soon every year, but I have to admit that there are certain aspects I do like about them. Speaking of which, who here in the blogosphere has heard of Krampus?

Krampus is one of the companions of Saint Nicholas. He is popularly recognized in the Alpine region and is represented by an incubus in the company of Santa Claus. Most notably in Austria, people dress as the Krampus in the first weeks of December, particularly the night of December 5th. They (young men in their teens and early 20s, usually) roam the streets with rusty chains and bells making loud noises, dressed as completely demonic as they can. They're supposed to scare children back into their homes to be good, but it's turned more into a celebration. The Krampus' often times like to give people "switches", especially young ladies.

This is terrifying. And awesome. Yet another thing I have to do at some point.

The Krampus Assaulted Me
Uploaded by mamk

December 5th, St. Nicolas and his Krampus'
Uploaded by mamk

Raise your fist!

2008-11-18T14:54:00.000-08:00

Can I talk about something? Ok. I know it sounds ridiculous, but I've wanted to see the Trans-Siberian Orchestra for so long now. I feel like admitting this automatically gets me funny looks, but I have to ask: What isn't completely awesome about epic Christmas metal? Have you even heard about their light show? I want to dress in the classiest number I own (do I have a gown?) and go to one of these concerts! Unfortunately they aren't coming to Toledo this year and I have yet to find someone else around here that thinks it sounds like fun. The tickets are relatively expensive, but I guarantee they're worth it. Tell me, am I being ridiculous? Will you go with me? I'm looking to L.Gozleee, A.Gleghore, R.Lonard...

WTF

2008-11-12T13:31:00.000-08:00

Because if i had to be subjected to this, so do you...

(04:29:55 PM) jon: bryan adams. pee wee herman. reggae. chrstimas.
(04:29:56 PM) jon: 4 for 4
(04:30:05 PM) sarah: 4 for 4
(04:30:07 PM) sarah: wow
(04:30:11 PM) jon: hahaha
(04:30:22 PM) sarah: i have no words!
(04:30:33 PM)jon: the late 80s/early 90s were such a confusing time
(04:30:39 PM) sarah: it sure was
(04:31:13 PM) sarah: i mean, what happened there, yknow?
(04:31:05 PM) jon: im glad i could give you a "wtf' moment for the day

Home sweet home.

2008-11-12T11:21:00.000-08:00

After a trip to Pittsburgh and Cleveland, it's pretty great to be back home. I was able to meet new people, visit a few museums, see old friends, and try some excellent food. Not to mention that I'm up to 10 undeveloped rolls of film now! This is a record. Thanks to everyone who made it great.

Also, I'm doing a little posting for TOLEDO TOBOGGAN. Check it out! And let me know about things happening in the area.

Obligatory election blog.

2008-11-04T10:51:00.000-08:00

Despite the title, I don't feel obligated to vote, just to blog about it ;) . I was talking to my "friend" Sigfús from Reykjavík and he was explaining how hard it is for everyone else (non-American citizens) just to sit back and wait to see who we elect as the most powerful person in the world. That struck an interesting chord with me, seeing as how the Bush administration has completely weakened us as a country, and he still saw it that way. Then he sent me this link...check it out!:
If the world could vote...

Fly like paper.

2008-11-03T22:54:00.000-08:00

Last week while playing World Monopoly, I found myself trying to convince someone to buy Taipei because of the annual Sky Lantern Festival held in the village of Pinghsi every year. On the 15th day of the Chinese New Year, tens of thousands of people flock to Pinghsi (whose population is normally 1500) to set afloat thousands of sky lanterns with their wishes and resolutions written on them. Since I've discovered this event I've wanted to go experience it for myself, alas, I am nowhere close to being able to travel there. However, dear Micah, if you have the time the festival will take place on February 9th, 2009 (I think!).

Just because...

2008-10-24T10:59:00.000-07:00

This is for Micah. Blaaaotter!
How can you not smile at that?

My "should be studying for midterm" artist feature blog.

2008-10-20T12:18:00.000-07:00

For my birthday, Nathan gave me a Lichtenstein print that always made me laugh and also a Pierre et Gilles 52 week planner. I was in desperate need of a planner and this one comes with over 50 of Pierre et Gilles works.

I want to call Pierre et Gilles a French-artist-gay-power-couple, only because I currently lack proper articulation. Pierre is a photographer and Gilles a painter, they began collaborating in 1976 in Paris producing "highly stylized" photographic images. Many of the pieces remind me of those little Catholic idol and Saint cards. I first learned of them while on CocoRosie's website and being obsessed with pseudo (and real) religious imagery I found them quite interesting.

Pierre et Gilles
if you can read French...

post script: I wish I had the energy to write in more detail [and like a true art historian], but frankly, I'm burnt out.

Boom dadadadadada boom dada dada!

2008-10-18T11:40:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine just reminded me of this French blog I used to read religiously. They have a section called the Take Away Shows which I'll let them explain:

"Every week, we invite an artist or a band to play in the streets, in a bar, a park, or even in a flat or in an elevator, and we film the whole session. Of course, what makes the beauty of it is all the little incidents, hesitations, and crazy stuff happening unexpectingly. Besides, we do not edit the videos so they look perfectly flawless, instead we keep the raw sound of the surroundings. Our goal is to try and capture instants, film the music just like it happens, without preparation, without tricks. Spontaneity is the keyword."

Here are a couple of my favorites...

#41 - Arcade Fire - Neon Bible & Wake Up
by lablogotheque

Architecture in helsinki - #58.1 -Heart it races
by lablogotheque

Architecture in Helsinki's is a bit scattered, but still a-dor-a-ble. Check it out, I'm sure you'll find some of your favorites, too!

LA BLOGOTHEQUE
Take Away Shows

Book porn!

2008-10-13T10:02:00.000-07:00

Abbey Library St. Gallen, Switzerland

Re-posted from Curious Expeditions (where there are many more examples). Here are some incredibly sexy libraries I'd like to visit...

Trinity College Library, Dublin, Ireland

Thomas Fisher Rare Book Library, Toronto, Canada

Library of the Benedictine Monastery of Admont, Austria

Handelingenkamer Tweede Kamer Der Staten-Generaal Den Haag, the Hague, Netherlands

Old British Reading Room, British Museum, London, England

Strahov Theological Hall - Original Baroque Cabinet

George Peabody Library, Baltimore, Maryland, USA

Dance Wiv Me!

2008-10-11T10:53:00.000-07:00

Dizzee, Calvin, Chromeo...could it be anymore perfect? Can't get enough of this song right now!

Marcy kills it!

2008-10-05T09:52:00.000-07:00

My grandma has worked for Marcy Kaptur for about 20 years now; I guess technically she's volunteered because she's a friend of Marcy's and does the work for free. At a young age I started going down to the offices with Grandma and have had the chance to meet Ms. Kaptur several times. The following makes me feel lucky that I had those opportunities.

"That's what..."

2008-10-03T19:21:00.000-07:00

This one is for Lauren.
click.

Happy October!!

2008-10-01T17:57:00.000-07:00

My favorite month of the whole year has finally arrived! A tribute...

The 1st: Happy Birthday, Daveman. I love you, brother.

The 13th: Oh dear...my 25th birthday!

The 15th: Sundowner in BG. This girl is ex-cit-ed.

The 31st: My favorite holiday, Halloween! Not to mention the parties, haunted houses, & everything that comes with it.

...& everything in between!

Tell me why you think October is awesome. Also, I could use some suggestions for Halloween costumes and obscure horror movies to watch this month.

I know we suffer for fashion or whatever.

2008-09-30T07:08:00.000-07:00

One of the dangers of blogging lies in the possibility that Carlos already blogged about this artist and some people (assuming I have readers) already read about him. I suppose it's a risk I'll take. Being a poor girl with rich girl dreams, I love Marc Jacobs, and it was through his ads that I discovered photographer Juergen Teller. Though people may scoff at the 35mm point and shoot method he employs, I have to admit I'm a fan. Supposedly he is credited for the heroin chic trend? I don't know, but I can't argue against it. Regardless, his work seems to be an integral part of the fashion industry. I'm not fashion forward at all, and am still in search of a personal stylist that will work for free and on a budget, so excuse me for sounding like an amateur.

oh, Sofia...

Different, but definitely my favorite...

I couldn't find an 'official' website...
...these are as close as I could get!

"Cob-webbed Ballads, Ramshackle Hymns"

2008-09-29T07:53:00.000-07:00

Have you seen The Homeville Circle lately? Or ever, for that matter? I saw them again this weekend at the Fall Social at Finns and I've fallen in love with them. Again. They're long overdue album "Moths & Rust" is finally available today in the following places:
Little Pocket Records
Little Pocket's myspace
The Homeville Circle's myspace

Special thanks to Mikey for the tip on the super secret back patio acoustic party. I felt lucky to be in on that.

post script.

2008-09-24T22:30:00.000-07:00

sigur ros was amazing last night. confetti canons always win!

Don't think, just shoot!

2008-09-24T09:52:00.000-07:00

Lomography cameras & accessories just keeps getting sexier and sexier. Janelle & I have had a bit of fun with my fisheye lately. Pics to follow soon.

Get lomo!

Cold as Ice!

2008-09-17T19:55:00.000-07:00

I apologize for the Foreigner reference in the subject line, but I couldn't help myself. I've recently learned of the Ice Hotels that you can visit around the world. They are reconstructed every year; the one in Sweden is my favorite. Good thing, Absolut comes from this country, and I like my martinis extra chilled.

Cozy Accomodations...

Get married in an ice chapel.

Ice Discotheque! Could you really have a group of people dancing in here, though?

Like I said...

Where are you Yeezy?

2008-09-14T20:46:00.000-07:00

In honor of Kanye being able to update his blog while being in cuffs, here's some Takashi Murakami for your viewing pleasure.

Takashi Murakami...
Uploaded by les-films

Kanye West - Good Morning
Uploaded by kanyewestofficial

Takashi Murakami
Kanye's Blog (thanks a.dohm)

Get right.

2008-09-10T23:25:00.000-07:00

My life is a series of scattered to-do lists. I find them incredibly helpful. Let's see what I can cross off by the end of October...

1. Stay on top of homework, especially research project
2. Take Iceland DVD back to library
3. Apply for passport

4. Clean car

5. Get the 278642786 rolls of film I have developed
6. Get food stamps?
7. Get right with my finances
8. Think of Halloween costume
9. Fix computer
10. Write letters/make mixes
11. Spend more time with my mom
12. Get darkroom access
13. Birthday party?

If only things were this simple...
**Blog quality already going down with my return to school. Yikes!

14. Don't let blog start to suck.

I <3 you, Ubuntu.

2008-09-09T21:00:00.001-07:00

My friend Mikey got me to switch to Ubuntu about 2 months ago; I'm probably never going back...

Ubuntu · Linux/Unix

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Jump to: navigation, search

For other uses, see Ubuntu (disambiguation).

Ubuntu (IPA: [uːˈbuːntuː] in English,^[1] [ùɓúntú] in Zulu) is a free computer operating system based on the Linux kernel. Its name comes from the Zulu word ubuntu, loosely translated as "humanity" or "A person is a person only through other people". Ubuntu's goals include providing an up-to-date, stable operating system for the average user, with a strong focus on usability and ease of installation. Ubuntu has been rated as the most popular Linux distribution,^[2]^[3]^[4] claiming approximately 30% of desktop Linux installations in a survey.^[5]

Ubuntu is free and open source, meaning that not only is it distributed without charge, but it may also be freely improved upon. Ubuntu is sponsored by Canonical Ltd, which is owned by South African entrepreneur Mark Shuttleworth. Instead of selling Ubuntu itself, Canonical makes money by selling paid support for Ubuntu. By keeping Ubuntu free and open Canonical is able to leverage the talents of outside developers willing to contribute rather than having to do all development within the company itself. [more...]

Apparently I wouldn't shut up about it one night..."there's nothing worse than a drunk linux user!" -Aaron [apb] Brown

I DIED.

2008-09-08T21:08:00.000-07:00

Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince pushed from Nov 21, 2008 to July 17, 2009.
So sad. And yes, this is true nerd-dom, folks.

I want my MUX!

2008-09-08T11:37:00.000-07:00

Why isn't Muxtape back up and running yet? The music was only streaming and I so enjoyed hearing the different mixes people made. The layout was pretty great, too! If the RIAA shuts them down for good I'm going to be seriously disappointed. I'm all for supporting musicians, but without sharing there are so many bands that would go undiscovered. Anyone know of any sites like this?

Peace out, Lahey!

2008-09-05T11:44:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's finally that time. Zach Lahey is picking up and heading for the Big Apple. We will be having one last celebration with him this Sunday night at Manhattans to send him off in style. Manhattans isn't usually open Sunday nights, but this is special. The music starts at around 8 or 9(?) ; Vytas, Quick, and Knopp are curating the musical stylings, but who knows who else will come out to play. So prepare some last words to share (I know I'll be reminding him he still owes me $20) and come join us!

Lights On Toledo? I wish.

2008-09-04T09:48:00.000-07:00

Did you know that we have an LED installation artist in the greater Toledo area? Neither did I! Erwin Redl relocated here from New York and a friend of mine who is lucky enough to work for him showed me his work. Erwin creates these beautiful, large scale light installations in exterior and interior spaces, two and three dimensions. His work has been installed all over North America, Europe, and in Asia. I'd like to see one installed at the Glass Pavilion, but maybe that's wishful thinking.

Erwin Redl

Support your local record store!

2008-09-01T11:06:00.000-07:00

I am a firm believer in retail therapy. Is that all too consumerist of me? Possibly. But nothing will bring my spirits up like a visit to Rama Lama. It's funny how obtaining new music will have that effect on me. Not to mention that Rob is extremely accommodating to whatever my taste might be that day; "I want something old that feels like home", "I want something spazzy", "do you have this?". He's never let me down and I've yet to find a better vinyl selection that suits my tastes here in Toledo. Plus, if it's not in the store he's been able to find it for me. Recent additions to my collection were: "Worldwide" by thedeathset, "Spiderland" by Slint, "This Is Our Punk Rock" by A Silver Mt. Zion, and "Kind Of Blue" by Miles Davis. Stop in, and don't leave without an awesome Rama Lama t-shirt... I've been seeing them all over town!

Rama Lama Records
3151 W Central Ave
Mon-Sat: 11am to 9 pm
Sun: Closed
419.531.ROCK

Og hér ert þú.

2008-08-31T14:09:00.000-07:00

Today I was finally able to watch "Heima", the Sigur Rós documentary. Filmed in the summer of 2006, the documentary chronicles their return to Iceland after extensive touring around the world and is centered around them playing free, unannounced shows around their native country. Heima (Icelandic for "at home") helped me rediscover my love for this band and also incited an obsession with the country of Iceland. I've been image googling, checking plane tickets, doing research; I have to travel there. Won't you come with?

the Blue Lagoon, geothermal "spa", during the Iceland Airwaves Music Festival

the capital, Reykjavík

Until then, Sigur Rós on September 23rd in Detroit! That should be enough to hold me over.

Sigur Rós
Iceland Wiki

GASP!!

2008-08-29T10:09:00.000-07:00

I was recently shocked and appalled to find that our beloved greasy spoon, The High Level Cafe, had turned their lights off, locked their doors, and put a 'For Lease' sign in the window. What does this mean for all of my fellow Old West End and Downtown/Uptown neighbors who are looking for a late night cure to the munchies? I'm a tad concerned. Will we be forced to drive to places such as IHOP or Wafflehouse? Order pizza from Cottage Inn (over-priced, mediocre, "45 minutes to an hour")? I will not subscribe to this! My suggestion? Someone with a little money open it back up with some minor improvements. Newer menu, new jukebox...think about it friends. Until then, Rest In Peace High Level. You'll be missed.

the Pilot. Season 1, Episode 1.

2008-08-28T12:31:00.000-07:00

A blog. What a novel idea! These wonderful little spaces on the vast world of the interweb are my favorite pages to browse. I get such a kick out of what people like, what they're doing, what they find, the art/music/anything they make, etcetera. Do I dare indulge? Could anyone find this amusing? Entertaining? Something to pass the time, at the very least?

I guess we'll see. And I'll start with this...

I started back at school at BGSU this week. Being the poor kid that I am, and refusing to buy a commuter pass, I am forced to find random parking lots around the city. I found this little gem today and thought "you know what, anonymous spray painter? you're right." Please excuse the poor camera phone quality.

Cheers.