even artichokes have hearts

Outfits I've worn recently!

2010-06-04T21:53:00.000-07:00

Some outfits from the last few days, + a curly hair photo!

Sundate 2!

2010-05-23T21:03:00.000-07:00

Next in my Sundate project! This is when I make Polyvores for 50 dates with 50 fictional characters. This is the second installment!

Let's go gaming with Topher Brink from Dollhouse!

gaming with topher by laurelcrowned featuring Marc Jacobs shoes

Items in this set:
sail me to the moon dress, $43
Deep Salmon Pink Pure Cashmere Cardigan - Vintage clothing from Rokit...
Marc Jacobs Jelly Mouse shoes, $80
Pink PlayStation Portable (PSP) Announced by Sony Computer...
laptop

Ah! I loved Topher so much from Dollhouse. Although this Joss Whedon show was not among his best, I have a theory that the show was really all a study of this character. Topher and I would play video games and flirt while he was very smart and witty.

Next, let's have dessert with L from Death Note!

dessert with L by laurelcrowned featuring Stella McCartney dresses

Items in this set:
Stella McCartney Dress with lace bodice, 1,670 GBP
Cesare Paciotti 530910W (Black) - Women's, $710
decoder ring
Jeni's Ice Cream - Dean & DeLuca, $100
Willy Wonka Chocolate Bars: 18CT Box, $40

If you haven't seen Death Note, you're missing out! An anime and live action movie, the plotline is too complicated to explain here. But basically, L is a fantastic, dark character who is extremely strange but very intelligent. We would eat candy and chocolate and he would say strange things.

I would also love to spend an afternoon with George Michael Bluth from Arrested Development!

bananas with george michael by laurelcrowned featuring Burberry shoes

Items in this set:
Potluck Picnic Dress in Chocolate, $48
Tumbled leather brogues, $375
Wishbone pendant necklace, $260
Round-frame acetate glasses, $315
Urban Outfitters - Chocolate iPhone Cover, 16 EUR

George Michael Bluth worked at his family's banana stand. We would work there one afternoon, and we would be delightfully awkward. We would talk about everything and eat chocolate covered bananas. There then would be a misunderstanding with his crazy family.

I'd also love to spend a night flying with Wash from Firefly!

flight with wash by laurelcrowned featuring Forzieri jewelry

Items in this set:
Marni Organza star stitch dress, 995 GBP
Marc by marc jacobs coats BLUE, 550 GBP
Slouchy Cowboy Boots, $20
Stainless Steel Compass Pendant Necklace - Forzieri, $125
Emerging Fashion Designers : Stars and Infinite Darkness : Tirana..., $160

Ah, Firefly. One of my favorite shows of all time. Wash was the pilot of a spaceship. We would spend the night in the cockpit, just watching the stars and telling jokes. He would be silly but incredibly sweet.

Finally, tea with the Mad Hatter from SyFy's reboot of Alice in Wonderland, Alice!

tea with mad hatter by laurelcrowned featuring Biba shoes

Items in this set:
Jason Wu Silk Mini Dress with Draped Skirt, 1,435 GBP
topshop heart tights
Biba Patent Mary Janes, 210 GBP
UGO CACCIATORI - SMALL SWORD PENDANT NECKLACE, 125 EUR
BOCK EXCLUSIVE RING MADE OF ALUMINIUM - ANTONIOLI OFFICIAL WEBSITE, 92 EUR

This movie was so strange! However, I thought the boy who played the Mad Hatter was seriously adorable! The Mad Hatter and I would, what else? Drink tea! He would be kind of mean and I would be kind of sassy, and we would have a splendid time!

Some pictures!

2010-05-17T20:54:00.001-07:00

Some photographs from recently! This is also sort of my love story to Target.

I wore this Target dress to my first day of summer classes today! I'm taking a really fun class on horror and sci fi movies, and another one about interviews, resumes, internships. I hope it'll be interesting!

I bought this in the little girl's section of Target. It's part of a pajama set that I got for around ten dollars. Although it's technically pajamas, I wear it as a normal top. It's got super cute animals on it- birds, lambs, bunnies.

Finally, my darling roommate picked this up at a Goodwill! It's a super cute ceramic bowl... container... thing. It's a walnut with a squirrel on top! I love it but we don't know what to put in it... Got any suggestions?

Hope everything's going wonderfully!

Sundate!

2010-05-16T18:55:00.000-07:00

So on Polyvore, there is a group called 50 Celebrity Dates Challenge, where you create an outfit for fifty imaginary dates with your favorite celebrities. Of course, I decided to do fictional characters instead of celebrities! Here are the first five of my fictional dates.

Of course, my first and favorite fictional boyfriend, Ronald Weasley!

quidditch with ron by laurelcrowned featuring Hussein Chalayan jeans

Items in this set:
HUSSEIN CHALAYAN, 140 EUR
Boots compensées AMERICAN RETRO sur VestiaireDeCopines.com
DELETTREZ - RED SAPPHIRE SECRET HEART RING, 1.025 EUR
Snowy Owl Ring, $15
Cable Pom Beanie, $7.80

Ronald and I would enjoy an afternoon watching Quidditch. I'd wear my Gryffindor colors, complete with knit cap, and we would keep warm by eating tons of Butterbeer and candy. We'd kiss every time our team made a goal and we'd be very much in love!

My next date would be with my favorite Disney channel character, Alex Russo of Wizards of Waverly Place! I like Alex because she's super mean and incredibly sassy. I love Selena Gomez!

art with alex russo by laurelcrowned featuring Jeffrey Campbell shoes

Items in this set:
The Beatles Magical Mystery Tour Tee, $15
Mod Retro Indie Clothing & Vintage Clothes, $11
Black Secret Garden Tights, 8 GBP
Little Red Riding Heels, $160
Andrew Hamilton Crawford - Pow! Necklace (Black) - Jewelry, $60

Alex and I would paint and say sassy things. We'd start on a project and then abandon it midway through to watch bad horror movies.

This next date is with Reid, from the show Criminal Minds!

puppies with reid by laurelcrowned featuring Lucky Brand jewelry

Items in this set:
CRIS BARROS Dress, 415 EUR
Cut Out Oxford, $220
AURÉLIE BIDERMANN Ring, 1.635 EUR
Lucky Brand - Give Peace A Chance Double Charm Necklace (Gold) -..., $35
Bowler Hat, $44

Admittedly, I don't watch this show very much. My mom loves it and I occasionally watch it with her. I have a MAJOR crush on Reid, played by Matthew Grubler, I believe! He's super cute, nerdy, and awkward. I found this picture of him with a puppy, and I believe we would play with puppies and be madly in dork love!

Next up, one of my favorite dream boyfriends! Ned the Piemaker from Pushing Daisies!

diner date w/ ned the piemaker by laurelcrowned featuring Rupert Sanderson shoes

Items in this set:
Soda Fountain Dress in Grape, $45
Rupert Sanderson Marianne White Satin, 350 GBP
New Michelle Trachtenberg For Poppy Bee Earrings, $98
Her Majesties Pearl Locket Necklace, $36
Karina French Couture Split Headband 3 Strand Silver Ulta.com -..., $8

Naturally, Ned and I would go to a diner. We would eat their pie and Ned would not like it as much as he likes his own. We would talk very fast and be very cute, and afterward, we would hold hands.

Who says dates have to be romantic? I'd spend a great afternoon with 30 Rock's Liz Lemon!

movie watching w/ liz lemon by laurelcrowned featuring Forever21 skirts

Items in this set:
Star Wars Tee, $27
Belted Linen Floral Skirt, $18
July - Brown, $595
Costco Business Delivery - Sun Chips Harvest Cheddar 64/1.5 oz
Potato Skins Snack Chips | Walgreens, $1.99

Liz and I would discuss our love for Star Wars, our love for fast food, and our hatred for men over a lovely viewing of Ghostbusters.

Ahh, how wonderful! If only these dates would come true...

More fictional dates to come, featuring my dream dates from TV shows and movies!

Playlist time!

2010-05-12T19:18:00.001-07:00

Here are some songs I love love love!

Love and kisses!

adventures of bobby ray

2010-05-09T15:39:00.000-07:00

Let's talk hip hop. I love hip hop! My favorites are Jay Z, Kanye West, and Mrs. Jay Z, Beyonce Knowles. I like the new stuff on the radio too- Justin Bieber's Baby and Sean Kingston's Eenie Meenie are my two guilty pleasures right now!

I'm really interested in this young new thing named B.o.B. I'm listening to his album on youtube. I think he's really cute, so that's why I'm curious!
I have a HUGE things for boys in glasses and sweaters!

His album's title is adorable as well.

His hit right now, and here's the video!

He is so dang cute in this video!

His song with Hayley Williams and Eminem:

And a really beautiful song:

AND he has a song featuring a boyfriend of mine, Rivers Cuomo from Weezer!

Who are you into these days?

Cast Your Life: WARNING: VERY IMAGE HEAVY

2010-05-06T12:32:00.000-07:00

I did this in my livejournal awhile ago. I got the idea from here. The basic idea is to cast a version of your life, and make a soundtrack for it. It doesn't have to be based on reality- in fact, mine is a monster movie version!

Your Alias-Kathryn Prescott
this beauty is from the wonderful show skins, series 3. she's a babe and basically i wish i was her. anyway, this girl is a witchvampiremonster girl and she eats children and likes billy idol.

Your True Love- Colin Morgan
this hunk is currently merlin on bbc's merlin. he's adorable and spastic and super sweet, but i think he could pull off being a monsterboy, especially with that beard. he's perhaps a werewolf or some other beast who eats the hearts of little old ladies after he carries their groceries to their car.

The True Love's Best Friend - Michael Cera
originally when doing this meme, i was going to make it a normal romcom version of my life and michael was gonna be my lover. i changed my mind, but i'll never change my mind about michael. his character would be no sort of monster, but just a loyal wannabe human.

The Rival - Mary Kate Olsen
i love mko and her weird hobo clothes. she'd be a perfect rival. she'd say mean things and wear high heels and eat my alias' food before she got a chance.

The Parents - Will Smith & Penelope Cruz
granted, neither of these sweethearts could ever possibly be a parent of kathryn prescott, but my alias does not believe in silly things like genetics. will would protect his loves with his fierce wit and fast claws, and penelope would cast lovespells and eat toads.

The Sister - Ashlee Simpson
i don't have a sister in real life, and ashlee was originally "the best friend" but she seemed just so much older than baby kathryn! she'd be a fine sister too. anyway ashlee would be a monsterMOTHER, classic rosemary. she'd protect and kill for her little devildemon and at the same time be fiercely loyal to my alias.

The Gay Best Friends - Gael Garcia Bernal & Diego Luna
this was an easy choice. they'd be vampire lovers from mexico and they would advise my alias monster on which gingerbread house to buy, and they'd kiss lots.

The Locale- Halloweentown

The Soundtrack
Opening credits
Daylight- Matt and Kim
and in the daylight we can hitchhike to Maine
I hope that someday I’ll see without these frames
and in the daylight I don’t pick up my phone
cause in the daylight anywhere feels like home
Monsters + daylight just seemed like a good combination for a beginning.

The Kiss
Walk Like a Zombie- the HorrorPops
And you want a mountaintop
With a little castle
And you wanna name our kids
Morticia and Fester
And all the flowers you bring
Are always dead
And you howl at the moon
But I don't care
Perfect monster lovesong!

Falling In Love
Monster- Lady Gaga
I wanna Just Dance
But he took me home instead
Uh oh! There was a monster in my bed
We french kissed on a subway train
He tore my clothes right off
He ate my heart and then he ate my brain
Also a good one!

Sex
You Took the Words Right Out of My Mouth- Meatloaf
(Would you offer your throat to the wolf with the red roses?
Yes
I bet you say that to all the boys.)
And then you took the words right out of my mouth
Oh-it must have been while you were kissing me
You took the words right out of my mouth
And I swear it's true
I was just about to say I love you
The beginning of this song is so strange and monstersexual, so here it is!

The Break Up
Samson- Regina Spektor
And history books forgot about us
And the bible didn't mention us, not even once
You are my sweetest downfall
I loved you first
Everyone forgets how hard it is on monsterlovers to break up.

Shopping with Friends
Thriller- Michael Jackson
Instrumental version, if there is one

The Getting Back Together
Lucky- Bif Naked
It was a Monday, when my lover told me,
"Never pay the reaper with love only."
What could I say to you, except, "I love you."
And "I'd give my life for yours."
I know we are... we are the lucky ones.
I know we are... we are the lucky ones.
I know we are... we are the lucky ones, dear.
This song is so strange and almost creepy. It sounds a little monsteresque to me!

End Credits
Monster Mash- Bobby "Boris" Pickett
Out from his coffin, Drac's voice did ring
Seems he was troubled by just one thing
He opened the lid and shook his fist
And said, "Whatever happened to my Transylvania twist?"

Please, take this if you want!

WOW SORRY GUYS

2010-05-06T12:23:00.000-07:00

Finals ate my heart and my brain. I got tagged by the lovely Language Timothy for 12 likes, 1 love, and 8 hates.

I like movies- good AND bad!

I like Harry Potter

I like Disney

I like Pokemon

I like narwhals

I like She & Him

I like Greek myths

I like superheroes and comic books

I like Star Wars

I like candy

I like Amy Adams

I like Pushing Daisies

I love my mama

I hate SB 1070

I hate hangnails

I hate finals!

I hate beer

I hate roller coasters

I hate loud kids in the lab

I hate mean people

I hate Twilight!

Okay! So Language Timothy has also switched from the fates to Eris on the Greek goddesses! I have not received any goddess stuff yet- if you've sent it, let me know!

Much love, I'll be posting MUCH more!
Laura

goddesses p. 2

2010-04-14T10:44:00.000-07:00

Okay! So so far I have a list of young ladies who want to participate in my Greek goddesses challenge. Once you've finished with that, email it to me at i.supervillain@gmail.com with something about goddesses in the subject line.

Here are those signed up!
Eris- LanguageTimothy
Psyche- Caitlin
Artemis- restlessgranola
Persephone- magnoliatree
Athena- flamingtoaster

If you'd like to join, let me know! I'll post them when I get them!

greek goddess/heroines

2010-04-09T15:04:00.000-07:00

Hello friends! I have another interactive project I'd like to start with you all! I'd love to do profiles on the Greek goddesses, or women from Greek myths. Like my Disney Princess series, I'd like to have your thoughts on your favorite myth, why this lady is your favorite, who you'd like to portray her in a movie, and the best part... make a Polyvore of clothes for her to wear!

This of course may be much more difficult than the Disney Princesses, but it may also be fun!

Some myths to consider: Aphrodite, Artemis, Athena, Hera, Demeter, Persephone, Penelope, Philomela, Antigone... There are many, many myths featuring Greek women that are really fun and fascinating!

If you're interested, please comment with who you'd like to cover, and I'll be in touch!

summer!

2010-04-07T10:40:00.000-07:00

When you live in Arizona, there are typically two seasons: cold and hot. Cold is finally over, and that means it's almost summer!

A nautical vintage summer would be nice...

summer 2 by laurelcrowned featuring Arden B shorts

Items in this set:
High Waist Denim Sailor Short - Women's Clothing and Apparel - Chic..., $44
Underwired Summer Rose Bra, $32
TWS by Camper - Shoe in mustard colour leather with decorative..., 75 GBP
Art Pixie water background ocean
Nautical by Nature

but I live no where near the sea!

Or a summer where I rode my bike through some meadows...

summer by laurelcrowned featuring TopShop dresses

Items in this set:
Check Shirt Smock Dress, $65
dELiAs > Laredo Western Boot > shoes > boots, $120
Martine Wester Summer Plait Suede Charm Bracelet | Martine Wester..., 30 GBP
Astrid goldfish-ribbon panama hat, $285
Liberty of London 26" Ladies Cruiser-darnley : Target, $30

...but sadly, I'm a terrible bike rider! (And there are no meadows here!)

I'll just have to stay with friends...

...swim in the pool...

And enjoy hot, beautiful, summertime Arizona!

movies: cracks

2010-04-04T15:04:00.001-07:00

Happy Easter, everyone! I hope everyone's days are filled with candy, rabbits, hope, and love.

Today I watched a very beautiful and very tragic film called Cracks, starring Eva Green. It was a very disturbing films in some parts, but I really enjoyed it and highly recommend it! The clothing and sets were amazing, and all the actresses were really incredible.

My favorite parts were the girls' hair and clothes! I am dying for a pretty fabric headband like this, does anyone know where I could find a tutorial to make one, or a place to buy them?

The story tells of a group of girls who are infatuated with their beautiful and alluring instructor Miss G, played by Eva Green. A new girl comes and their Miss G begins to hold the new girl in high regards, making the others extremely jealous.

Eva Green, while delightfully disturbing in this movie, looks impeccable and beautiful!

I got these images from assorted places on Google, and Tea with the Vintage Baroness.

Here is the trailer!

clothes!

2010-04-03T15:06:00.000-07:00

My outfit yesterday. Everything from forever 21 except the shoes, which were bright pink flats and from someplace I forgot.

I hope everyone is doing well! I'm doing pretty good here. Sorry my posting has been so sporadic lately, I'll try to do better!

batpost time

2010-03-27T12:32:00.000-07:00

I only do my hair when I'm doing nothing all day. It's a tragic thing.

Do you like my new Batman and Robin shirt? I love it!

I love Batman. He's my favorite DC superhero! I'm more of a fan of Tim Burton's campy, silly Batman series than I am of the recent, darker reboots, but I respect and love both. Of course, Batman had the best villains, the best themes, and the best partner!

by ry-spirit at Deviantart.
Whether you liked them as their father/son relationship...

...or something more! Oh my!

Batman and Robin saved the day!

“Dear Batman: We accept the fact that we had to sacrifice a whole Saturday in Bat-detention for whatever it is we did wrong, but we think you’re crazy for making us write an essay telling you who we think we are. You see us as you want to see us: in the simplest terms, in the most convenient definitions. But what we found out is that each one of us is an archer, and a speedster, and a swimmer, a princess, and an acrobat. Does that answer your question? Sincerely yours, The Teen Titans.”
by cliff chiang

I wish I could be the new Robin! I would don the tights for you, Batman, and I would listen to you! I wouldn't be could at the fast puns, but I'm eager! Oh Batman, hear my cry!

i heard it through the grapevine

2010-03-24T14:28:00.001-07:00

As you can see, my hair is in the awkward stages of growing out. I really need my bangs trimmed! I've been wearing this bright lipstick lately- what do you think of it? I'm trying to look a little nicer, although I'm dressed like a hobo today!

Some news:

I've decided NOT to graduate this semester. I'm going to take another YEAR at the U of A and get my degree in film.
I still have no clue what I want to do when I do graduate.
I'm going to learn to crochet this weekend! I've tried many times before but have failed. It's strange because I love to knit!

(I have no neck in these pictures!)

I'm also dying to take Red Velvet Art's Art Journaling class, but I sadly don't have sixty dollars to spare. I might just try to make my own art journal route, and do it without the guiding of the amazing Rachel and Elsie!

Does anyone else have an art journal? Do you have pictures?

Please stop by my Formspring to chat!

spring break: monday!

2010-03-20T13:36:00.000-07:00

Disneyland!
I had a wonderful day that day. I went with my roommates and we all had just a great time and a perfect day.

My outfit: tights, pencil skirt, cami, cardigan. Mostly from Forever 21 or Target. Bag is from Target too I think!

On the Finding Nemo ride!

Bein' a princess! With Toms shoes.

In line for the Indiana Jones ride, which I think is the most exciting and fun! My FAVORITE ride, however, has to be the Haunted Mansion.

This is MY favorite of the Haunted Mansion portraits! I love love love this, and I've seen some beautiful tattoos of it. My other favorite ride is the Peter Pan ride, when in your ship you fly over the night sky!

What are YOUR favorite rides?

spring break post: sunday

2010-03-19T15:17:00.000-07:00

We had a 6 hour car trip from Tucson to Anaheim, California. We actually had a great car trip. We memorized words to Ludacris' songs. I went with my two roommates, who I love to death.
Squirtle came too.

We stopped by the Camazon? dinosaurs in California. It turns out there is a Creationist museum in the back. We all absolutely believe in evolution, but it was fun and totally hilarious to look at.

A knight fighting a dinosaur!

The first day was really wonderful. We just had a great time together inthe car, and once we got to Anaheim we traveled down to Downtown Disney to eat and shop. I bought my only souvenir on the trip, a gold Mickey Mouse ring.

But! I wish I had splurged and bought more stuff...

I'm DYING to start collecting vinyl toys, and these would have been a PERFECT way to start a collection...

...And I've wanted this book since it came out! It was too pricey at Disneyland and I'm hoping to find it someplace cheaper.

More pictures from Disneyland and the beach to follow!

2010-03-17T21:43:00.000-07:00

I'm back from Disneyland! I'll post about it soon, I just wanted you all to know I haven't disappeared!

<3

tattuesday!

2010-03-09T12:21:00.000-08:00

I'm so so so excited to share this Tattuesday with you! One of my favorite bloggers Tiffany got a beautiful Snow White tattoo done yesterday.

So wonderful! I love her tattoos- they're all Disney and you know how I feel about Disney!

For more pictures, as well as to follow this lovelady, read her livejournal here. Go go starpowerr!

spring break is soon!

2010-03-07T11:49:00.000-08:00

I'm dying to redye my hair before I go to Disneyland, but I'm trying to save money!

What do you think, dear readers- splurge the ten dollars to make my hair bright red again and look cute for Mickey, Minnie and the whole gang, or wait? After all, no one at Disneyland will care what my hair looks like as long as I'm happy!

Some of my red hair (back when it was long!):

And some great Disneyland images from weheartit!

Also, dear readers, I have a formspring now! http://www.formspring.me/laurelcrowned Ask away!

princess post: belle

2010-03-06T13:02:00.001-08:00

I am so excited for today's princess post! We are focusing on my personal favorite princess, Belle. I am so lucky to have commentary by fellow Belle-Lover, Nicole at Language Timothy. She's a great blogger and I'm honored to have her thoughts today!

She writes, "Belle wasnt always my favourite, Ariel was but as I grew older Belle started to grow on me. At first I only liked her because of her beautiful golden ball gown, I loved it, Who didnt? Then I realised I loved her because I thought I kinda related to her, In the Bookworm way, not romancing & falling in love with fantasy beat's ways aha. I love how she is strong willed & can see the beauty in others & helped them see that. I find that I can relate because I have a strong love of books (without the pictures), Im a very determined person, we both have brown hair & Im such a daddies girl. I think that she is free spirited & kind natured, which hopefully I relate to. I guess like the rest of us her only enemy was time & love which happens to all of us. I find she has a very brave & loving character."

Her Polyvore is sweet and flirty.

Yellow Dress - $160 - Yves Saint Laurent

Gold Shoes - $245 - Oscar De La Renta

Gold Necklace & Earrings - $28 - ASOS

Rose Hairpin - $10 - Monsoon

Gloves - $9.99 - Target

Shorts - $50 - The Outnet

White Tank - $14.99 - Pacsun

Flower Necklace - $18 - Monsoon

Vintage Basket Tote

Rose Printed Shoes - $35 - Topshop

Belle is my favorite for a multitude of reasons. I adore books and reading, and so does Belle. Ever since I was kid, Beast's gift to her of a library was beautiful to me. I still dream of a library-giving, shaggy boy.

Here is my own costumey Polyvore:

belle by laurelcrowned featuring Vera Wang Lavender dresses

Items in this set:

Silk shantung asymmetric dress, $370

Juniors Shirts & Juniors Blouses at dELiAs.com, $40

Ribbon Tie Cardigan, $20

Parlor Lace Shorts, $20

Valentino Rosette metallic peep-toe pumps, $770

Belle comes from a traditional fairy tale that you can read up on here. Additionally, all the below original illustrations come from there!

Beautiful, right?

Here are some fun, modern images of Belle! My favorite is the incomparable Drew Barrymore as Belle. The editorial is beautiful, and you should definitely look up the other images.

As for who would play our dear Belle, Nicole had a couple of ideas. She suggested Natalie Portman or Keira Knightley.

Love the idea! I think either would be wonderful, but my personal choice would be Alexis Bledel.

Believe it or not, this was the last princess post I had commenters lined up for! If you HAVE NOT participated and would like to, please drop me an email. I would love to get Pocahontas, Tiana, Tinkerbelle, Nala or any other Disney heroines covered. I am also thinking of doing something like this for the women of Greek myths- the goddesses, the women in the stories- would anyone be interested in that?

Thanks so much for helping me make this project! I hope to continue with it!

tattuesday

2010-03-02T14:15:00.000-08:00

I really liked my hair today! I curled it yesterday and it was still a little crazy today. So I just put on a handmade headband and enjoyed it.

This is me watching Big Bang Theory. I love Raj!

Here's a great tattoo for Tattuesday.

Hope you're all having a great day!

movie: the imaginarium of doctor parnassus

2010-02-28T19:01:00.000-08:00

Talk about a fairy tale film!

The plotline of this Terry Gilliam gem should tell you about its beauty: Doctor Parnassus gets immortality in exchange for giving the devil his first born child at the age of sixteen. The movie is about the few days before his daughter's sixteenth birthday, the devil, and the mysterious drifter who finds them.

The film is most famous for being Heath Ledger's final film. He died before production was finished, so Jude Law, Colin Ferrell, and my wonderful Johnny Depp all took on the role of his character. They each gave the money they made from the film to Heath's daughter, Matilda.

Another wonderful thing about the movie was the inclusion of Lily Cole as the daughter. Already a striking model, I thought Lily was great and really held her own in the film.

If you're interested in strange movies about wonderful things, go with an open mind and heart to see The Imagnarium of Dr. Parnassus!

princess post: ariel

2010-02-26T15:30:00.000-08:00

Today's princess is one of my personal favorites, Ariel.

Commentary on this beautiful girl comes from another beautiful girl, my dear friend Sara. She writes, "While I will always connect with Belle for her bookworm ways and willingness to be different from the status quo, Ariel will forever be my homegirl. I'd like to think that I have some of her essence, notably her perseverance (or as some say, stubbornness) and her independence. She is curious, and loves to learn about and collect things. She is willing to defy her expected role in life and go for her goal, whether it be to see beyond her own world or to get her true love. To do all of this outside of her element and even without a voice makes her that much stronger and more admirable. That she was a mermaid with awesome hair and a cohort of awesome sidekicks was just icing on the cake."

Her beautiful Polyvore set is here:

Modern Ariel by Sara Hulka featuring Old Navy shoes

Items in this set:
Valerie ruffle button dress, $50
East Linen Blen Waterfall Button Cardigan, Damson, 10, 62 GBP
Embellished Drape Neck Top - Women's Clothing and Apparel - Chic..., $38
White pinstitch shirt, 16 GBP
Lace Detail Cami, 16 GBP

Of the clothing choices, she writes, "Outfits: Ariel has so many awesome outfits that I couldn't just choose one. To keep the sea close to her heart, she would wear a seahorse necklace and starfish ring. Replacing her tail and clamshells are boot cut jeans with a cami and cardigan while the 80s-tastic ball gown becomes a bit classier and the 'date' dress is nautically influenced. She also has her trusty totes for picking up more treasures for her grotto!"

Adorable! Totally love the inspirations for this.

My Polyvore skews more costumey, AS ALWAYS, because I love costumes.

ariel by laurelcrowned featuring Notte by Marchesa dresses

Items in this set:
Notte by Marchesa Strapless silk chiffon gown, $695
SONIA BY SONIA RYKIEL 008952012 BLUE/CREAM COTTON -, 160 GBP
Oasis Draped Pleat Silk Top, Summer Green, 8, 38 GBP
The Fiona Shorts, $100
Ariel Skirt, $65

Ariel is one of my favorites for a lot of different reasons. I see Ariel as a rather transition princess- from the classic, demure princesses like Snow White and Aurora (while also awesome in their own quiet ways), Ariel is the beginning of princesses who are more outspoken. She inaugurates a generation of fierce Disney girls who go after what they want. Ariel has, in my opinion, the best Disney princess songs, voice, and hair! She was a major redspiration for my own hair dying adventures.

Of course, Ariel wasn't always the rebellious redhead Disney created her to be.

The original story is much, much darker, ending with the little mermaid's ultimate demise. It's a beautiful and haunting tale, and I urge you to read up on it, and view more beautiful illustrations at these images' source, Sur La Lune. The story also features her sisters (as pictured in the first image here) much more prominently. Amazing stuff!

Here are some images of modern artists doing their own take on Miss Ariel!

(all images from weheartit.com)

As for who will play the sassy princess, amazingly, Sara and I came up with the same actress! We chose Emma Stone, the fun star of Superbad and Zombieland. She rocks the red hair, and she's got great comic energy, which is something any Ariel portrayal needs to possess!

Next up, my personal favorite: Belle! She will be discussed by a very special blogger...

plaid dreams

2010-02-23T16:14:00.000-08:00

I haven't posted pictures of myself lately because I've been feeling... Well... Gross. Aside from that, I don't really have a camera anymore. Here are some Macbook pictures to tide you over if you were missin' my sweet face.

Outfit I wore today. Star Wars shirt from Target, skirt from Forever 21, tights from my mama.

I really like my hair curly at this length, but usually I'm too sleepy to do so. Wearing a claddagh ring I bought at a street fair from a jeweler who thought I was Irish due to my fake red hair. Really, I bought it because my homegirl Buffy Summers rocks one. Naturally I can't find a picture of her wearing it, but she has one!

Lately I've been jealous of girls who are wearing plaid this season. I can never find plaid that I like, that doesn't make me look like a lazy hobo. Here are some girls rocking the plaid trend, all found on weheartit.

Admittedly, this girl just has beautiful rings!

But what I REALLY want, is a great plaid dress.

Have a great day, everyone!

girl crush: coco rocha

2010-02-18T20:15:00.000-08:00

all images from weheartit.com

I'd just like to take a minute to talk about my favorite model, Miss Coco Rocha. She's totally beautiful in a quirky way. She's funny and incredibly smart. She was recently attacked for being "too fat" to be a model. She fired back in a beautifully written and painfully honest blog post on her own blog, Oh So Coco.

I want to show my support by posting about my love for her and why she's my favorite model!

She's great at just being a model.

She's one of my main inspirations for dyeing my hair red.

She's got beautiful hair, even in her normal brunette color.

She was in my favorite editorial, a superhero themed one!

She's beautiful fresh faced.

She's a silly, bright girl who likes to just sing Disney songs with her awesome dad!

I could watch this a hundred times!

She's a great model, a good person, and she is totally delightful!

award award!

2010-02-18T20:02:00.000-08:00

Language Timothy awarded me this blog award! I'm so honored! Thank you so much darling! She has also signed on to do Belle in my princess post series. I'm so excited to see what she comes up with!

I'd like to pass on this award to the wonderful chelseybell and le petite sirene, whose photos always inspire me!

princess post: snow white

2010-02-14T13:35:00.000-08:00

Today's Princess Post features the first Disney princess- the beautiful Snow White!

My dear friend Caitlin was happy to write Snow's manifesto. She writes, "Snow White was not always my favorite Disney Princess. Looking back, it's almost a little like she chose me instead of the other way around. You see, for most of my life growing up it was mostly just me, my mom, and my two sisters and everyone else had their princesses. My mom was one of the most beautiful people in the world to me and was blonde when she was younger and looked a lot to me like Sleeping Beauty, while Sarah had claimed Cinderella from an early age (since she was the oldest). Teresa was brunette and liked to read and loved Belle from the very beginning. But there I was and I still didn't know who I could relate to. It wasn't until I was talking to my grandmother about princesses and the like - as this was a very important decision to my eight-year-old self - that she told me about how when she was a little girl, the very first Disney Princess was introduced to the world. I look a great deal like my grandmother (both of us have very dark hair and pale skin) and I decided I liked the idea of choosing the very first. The pioneer. And ever since then it's been something that I've been able to share with my grandmother, especially when there's quite a few things we don't agree on. It reminds me of how similar we actually can be and how much I love her."

Her fashion choices for a modern day Miss Snow White are here:

Snow White by makethingsfunny featuring American Eagle Outfitters sweaters

Items in this set:
Heart-print silk tank dress, $460
Womens AE Striped Shawl Collar Skinny Cardigan - Blush Heather Red, $20
NAKED AND FAMOUS CL025033 DENIM COTTON/SILK/ELASTANE BOOTGIRL RICH..., 94 GBP
Marc Jacobs Patent flat ballet pumps, $250
Puff Heart Center Studs, $2.80

She writes, "I'm not the most fashion-savvy person, but hopefully you get the idea with this. Snow White is bright, primary colors, showing her playful spirit. She's also very much feminine simplicity and fifties class. She's just one of Those Girls."

I love this! I went a little more costumey with my own Polyvore.

snow white by laurelcrowned featuring Melissa shoes

Items in this set:
1960's Red & White Polka Dot Dress - M red polka dot vintage dress, $225
KARINA GRIMALDI Republic Ruffle Top - Navy Tops - 25Park.com, $170
Opening Ceremony Mini skirt with seam detail, 95 GBP
Vivienne Westwood Lady Dragon Heart in Gold, $150
Rings | 3.53ct Ceylon Sapphire & Diamond Platinum Ring | New York..., $7,450

Snow White has long been an aesthetic favorite of mine. Just her look- pale skin, black hair, red lips!- is so striking. I love the images of the apples and what it can represent. Here are some beautiful fairy tale illustrations from the great Sur La Lune.

And here are some modern interpretations of Snow White, all from weheartit.com.

When asked who would portray her favorite princess in a modern day adaptation, Caitlin was quick to decide on the lovely Zooey Deschanel.
My choice skews a little nontraditional, but I would love to see one of my favorite actresses, the incomparable Zhang Ziyi, portray a new version of the fair princess.

happy valentine's day!

2010-02-13T18:37:00.001-08:00

All the blogs I read are doing Valentine's Day posts with photographs of their loved ones, their boyfriends or girlfriends, their soulmates. Being single, I wasn't sure who my Valentine was, until I turned on the television and there he was!

Tomorrow, we have plenty of plans.

We'll go dancing.

We'll have some drinks.

We'll celebrate.

We'll have a pajama party.

Who is your fictional Valentine?

update

2010-02-10T12:37:00.000-08:00

Well, I'm still sick, but this time I have a name to my ailment:

Pneumonia.

I'll be back and better than every when I'm feeling well again! <3

english major monday

2010-02-08T11:12:00.000-08:00

Trying to get back in the swing of things after being sick for so long, I decided to talk about one of my favorite subjects: English! I love love love reading so much. I am lucky enough to have been assigned one of my favorite classics this semester.

Today I'm talking about Nabakov's Lolita. This book delves deeply into the mind of a monster committing such atrocities as child molestation and rape. The main character, Humbert Humbert, is so far removed from society that he believes he is doing this out of love for the child. Naturally, this book is EXTREMELY disturbing and horrific. I've found love for this book because of the way Nabaov writes, the way every sentence of the book is dedicated to Humbert Humbert's complete insanity. Even literature references made in the book are skewed to fit Humbert's depravity.

The class I'm reading for is a Kubrick class, in which we read the book/watch the movie. Today we're watching his version of Lolita, which I'm extremely excited for.

Lolita, light of my life, fire of my loins. My sin, my soul. Lo-lee-ta: the tip of the tongue taking a trip of three steps down the palate to tap, at three, on the teeth. Lo. Lee. Ta. She was Lo, plain Lo, in the morning, standing four feet ten in one sock. She was Lola in slacks. She was Dolly at school. She was Dolores on the dotted line. But in my arms she was always Lolita.

Now I wish to introduce the following idea. Between the age limits of nine and fourteen there occur maidens who, to certain bewitched travelers, twice or many times older than they, reveal their true nature which is not human, but nymphic (that is, demoniac); and these chosen creatures I propose to designate as "nymphets."

I am thinking of aurochs and angels, the secret of durable pigments, prophetic sonnets, the refuge of art. And this is the only immortality you and I may share, my Lolita.

If you think you can stomach it, Lolita is one book you won't regret reading. Beautifully written American horror, in a bright Technicolor way.

still slightly sick..

2010-02-05T13:47:00.001-08:00

And not quite back in the blogging swing of things, but I wanted to talk about my biggest inspiration from the past month.

This plain and simple sentence. This is why Conan O'Brien is my favorite late night host. His sense of heart goes deeper than the others.

Nobody in life gets exactly what they wanted. But if you work hard and are kind, amazing things will happen.

Trust that, dear readers. Trust your heart. <3

home/sick

2010-02-03T09:31:00.000-08:00

Sick! What are some things that always make you feel better when you are sick?

Saltine crackers for me are delicious. I devour them by the box- they were all I ate this weekend! I'm much better with food now.

Orange juice or Sprite to drink.

Bad TV makes me feel wonderful. Right now I'm L.O.V.I.N.G. Teen Mom on MTV. I'm so sad that I'm watching the reunion special! Luckily the same girls are doing season 2 soon. I'm eager to see how things go.

I'd like any of you to comment with what you'd with questions or things you'd like to see me talk about in a video. I don't know if I enough readers to do this yet, but I'm doing this in my livejournal and I thought I'd bring it here!

i'll follow you until you love me

2010-02-02T17:08:00.000-08:00

Sorry I was gone for so long! I'll try to ease my way back into posting with a simple fact...

Here's some rather silly interpretations of Gaga and why she is being mind controlled by the Illuminati. Here's my favorite article on the occult symbolism in Bad Romance!

My opinion on Lady Gaga is that she's just fun. There is nothing deeper to her, good or "evil". She's talented, creative, and this generation's "glitter innovator". She gets her stuff from Grace Jones, David Bowie, Elton John- all people I too love and admire. I love her stuff, but I truly doubt there's any deep meaning behind it.

2010-02-01T13:15:00.003-08:00

Sorry I haven't been posting/commenting lately- I'm pretty sick.

Love you all!

you teach me & i'll teach you

2010-01-27T20:31:00.000-08:00

Me and my beautiful roommate Sarah... This is unfortunately what I've been wearing a lot lately: jeans, messy hair, and a big grandma sweater.

Today, I'd like to talk about one of my favorite things of the moment: Pokemon. Since I've gotten my DSi, one of my FAVORITE games to play is Pokemon Platinum. I name my character names I wish I had (Talulla is her current moniker) and I always use to Piplup, who this time is named Pippin.

All images below are from here or here.

I watched the original show as a child...

...And when I got to college, my roommate Casie and her boyfriend Chris were obsessed with the game. They were even Ash and Misty for Halloween! I got a DSi and the game, where I discovered I LOVED Eevee and the subsequent evolutions. It's a surprise every time!

I think the fanart for Pokemon can be really surprisingly beautiful, especially for such a kiddie game!

The Internet seems to think Pokemon are as funny as I do...

This is the EXACT criteria I am looking for in a boyperson. If you know one like this, send him my way.

And finally, to end this silly post with a silly picture, here is Ash and Snorlax as characters from one of the best movies of all time, My Neighbor Totoro.

Did you/do you like Pokemon? Which was your favorite? I'm partial to Eevee and Squirtle!

princess post- jasmine

2010-01-26T12:19:00.000-08:00

Today's princess is that of the fiery Aladdin heroine, Jasmine. Beautiful and sassy, she's definitely one of my top Disney princesses.

My assistance in Jasmine love comes from my friend Andie, who writes of her favorite, "Growing up as a Filipino-American girl, I have to say, is certainly interesting. I never felt need to "be white" or anything like that, but it was certainly disheartening that there weren't many non-white characters to look up to in the early 1990's. I dutifully combed Barbie's platinum blonde hair and put on my Ariel mermaid costume, wondering why everything seemed to clash with my tanned skin. Then, Jasmine came along. Okay, sure she was an Arabian princess, but she was beautiful with her thick, long black hair, tanned skin, and big brown eyes. My parents bought a Jasmine costume for me immediately and I basically spend half my playtime sitting on a rug, hoping it would fly. And her singing voice was provided by popular Filipino actress-singer, Lea Salonga. I mean, I would wait patiently for an Asian Disney princess, but I would take what I got happily.

Not only was Jasmine an exotic beauty, but she was strong and courageous. She refused to live behind the palace walls and wanted to explore the world around her. So she might have been the damsel in distress for a moment, but she helped save herself and didn't leave it all up to Aladdin. And, she goes ahead and marries the man that she chose and loved. I mean, that's pretty darn fantastic if you ask me."

Modern Day Jasmine by burningsobrightly featuring Alberta Ferretti dresses

Items in this set:
Undi Dress, $345
Alberta Ferretti Crystal detailed silk chiffon dress, $1,060
Godfrey Bow Shoulder Shirt, $335
Bird by Juicy Couture Stretch wool skinny pants, $300
Vintage Woven Dark Green Floral Skirt - Bows & Bandits - Austrian..., 28 EUR

And here is my take of the modern Jasmine:

jasmine by laurelcrowned featuring RM by Roland Mouret dresses

Items in this set:
Jump then fall USE but credit if enter in contest, $3,070
Purple satin frill sleeve top, 25 GBP
Bess Worn studded skinny jeans, $275
GAMBIA, 69 GBP
Heels|Shoes:Stiletto Heel,Heel Pump,Women's High Heel Shoes,Spool..., $20

When I began researching for classic Jasmine images, I didn't find many. This is because, of course, Jasmine is essentially a Disney creation. The princess and wife of Aladdin in the original tale is a very different girl.

Wikipedia explains, "Badroulbadour is a Chinese princess whom Aladdin married in the story of The Story of Aladdin; or, the Wonderful Lamp.

When Aladdin finds the magic lamp he discovers that it contains a djinni that is bound to do the bidding of the person holding the lamp. With the aid of the djinni, Aladdin - an impoverished young man, who in other circumstances could not have aspired to marry a princess - becomes rich and powerful and marries princess Badroulbadour."

Here's a picture of what the original princess and Aladdin may have looked like:

However, this post is about Jasmine, and we will focus on the Disney creation. She has more of a personality than the original cultural icon of Badroulbadour, and I want to focus on the creative, fascinating princesses our society has accepted, even if she is a Disney construct.

Here are some images of a modern take on Disney's Jasmine:

Retro Jasmine

All uncredited images from weheartit.com.

As for who would play her dream princess, Andie notes, "Okay, it has always been my dream for Aladdin to come to Broadway so I could play Jasmine onstage. However, if they ever wanted to do a modern adaptation of Aladdin, I would want them to pick a strong-willed actress who is also racially appropriate."

For me, I did some research and found Leila Behkti. She is a French Algerian actress, and she was in Paris je'taime. I think she is so beautiful! Ideally, I'd want a live action Jasmine to be of Middle Eastern descent, with a certain type of spark miss Jasmine possesses.

Next up is Snow White!

my room

2010-01-24T08:41:00.000-08:00

Now that I'm back living in Tucson, I'd like to share some photos of the room I live in while I'm here.

My room is actually not a room at all. It's a storage room that we transformed into a room. We fell in love with this two bedroom house, and our landlord graciously allowed the three of us to live here, with my taking the small spare room.

My lamp and bed stuff is from Target, the fabric from JoAnn's, the beautiful art purchased at the '09 Comic Con.

So beautiful! If you can't see it, it's a little girl with an umbrella on a monster's shoulders.

Then we turn and look! Some cubes from Target, some Polaroids, and a makeshift closet made out of homemade curtains. :) The curtains have little owls on them.

Cute! The plan was to change them with the seasons but I never did because my sewing machine's needle broke and I never got around to buying a new one.

Stuffff on top of the cubes.

The other side of the room. More monsters. A werewolf monster and a snakegirl monster, both purchased from Comic Con.

Also at Con, Mark Ryden was signing so I bought some postcards of him to sign and I strung up my favorites next to my closet.

Hope everyone liked looking at where I hang out! It's currently much much messier.

oh dear!

2010-01-20T10:30:00.000-08:00

School has prevented me from blogging every day like I'd like!

I did, however, find a new toy- robo.to. If you have one, please friend me on it!

My friend Kaitlin kindly showed me this AMAZING fairy tale tattoo and I meant to post it yesterday for Tattuesday but sadly I just plum forgot!

no source except my friend Kaitlin!

I've been working on school... Here's a bumper sticker I made for my advertising class.

What creative endeavors have you been up to lately, dear readers?

5 Golden Globe Dresses I Loved

2010-01-17T20:55:00.001-08:00

The Guilty Pleasure

Glee's oh-so-charming Jayma Mays. I know this dress is so weird and crazy, but for some reason I find it (and her!) totally adorable. Congratulations Miss Mays on both the dress and the win.

The Princess
Another Gleek, Diana Agron is gorgeous in a Taylor Swift, Love Story princess kind of way. Love this dress. Love her. She's a total beauty and seems so sweet.

The Bombshell
Christina Hendricks. She's amazing. She was amazing on my favorite show Firefly, she is amazing as hard ass Joan on Mad Men, and she's amazing in this stunner by one of my favorites, Christian Siriano.

The Winner
Monique's speech was incredibly moving, and she looked wonderful while doing it. I love the way this dress drapes, and she makes this dress look awesome. The accessory of a statue doesn't hurt either!

The Favorite of the Night

Ginnifer Goodwin is a favorite of mine, style-wise and acting wise. I love her. I think she is such a heart, and she always looks so beautiful. I love love love this dress. I love how short it is, I love the color. I also love her hair! That cut is so precious on her, A+.

Pictures from oh no they didn't!

princess post: mulan

2010-01-15T09:58:00.000-08:00

Some people do not consider Mulan a Disney princess because she is not technically a "princess". However, I find her one of the most important Disney females and I am proud to feature her today!

My friend Stacy was eager to do Mulan, and had this to stay of the wonderful woman: "I owe a lot to Mulan. Besides starring in the movie that convinced me to study both art and music, she was the first Disney female lead to fight her villain face-to-face and win, using cleverness and quick-thinking, rather than the brute strength her male companions were so fond of. She was able to follow her heart and speak her mind, and gain true friends and true love in the process. Not to mention, her soldier is adorably awkward, enough so that even in their blossoming romance, she's the one that has to steer them in the right direction. She's a role model (let's be honest: idol) in ways that I try to imitate to this day. Her devoted love, her stubborn outspokenness, her fierce cunning and bright ideas... She didn't just keep up with the boys; she kicked their collective rears. What's not to love?"

She created this beautiful Polyvore set.

Mulan by Stacy Duncan featuring American Eagle Outfitters

Items in this set:
shimmer mesh mini prom dress, 42 GBP
Womens AE Classic Plaid Shirt - Blue Plaid, $40
Current Elliott Dark Wash Boyfriend Cropped Jeans, 279 GBP
"Cats & Fish" High-Top Sneakers, $38
Black Double Bar Heel Shoes, 15 GBP

And had this to say of her choices, "Mulan's modern taste would be simple and classic. She needs something she can keep up with the boys in, be it well-fitted jeans, or a loose dress (with leggings, of course - no peeking!). For casual, day-to-day, she'll start with something boyish, then add cute shoes and some kind of flower or jewelry, so her friends remember she actually is a girl. Her hairstyle would be easy and out of the way. And always nearby, honored by a ring: her dragon guardian. :)"

Here's my version of the style Mulan would rock today:

mulan by laurelcrowned featuring Miss Selfridge

Items in this set:
EAST BY EASTWEST AW09-04 RED RAYON/POLYAMIDE -, 208 GBP
Women: Women's Perfect V-Neck Tees - Green Light, $2.99
Military Major Buttoned Jacket, $25
Black Long Military Coat, 75 GBP
FOX Jet Womens Shorts, $40

As you can see, I was cheesily into the idea of Mulan rocking the military jacket trend.

On googleimages, I found some wonderful pictures from the original story of Hua Mulan, but I don't know how accurate any of these pictures are- just google! However, they are all beautiful regardless!

And some modern interpretations of Mulan, from weheartit:
Unfortunately, not many modern artists have taken an opportunity to recreate Mulan. Here is a great group picture that features her and other Disney stars as Sailor Scouts!

Zhao Wei as Mulan in the 2009 adaptation of the legend.

When asked who she'd like to see portray Mulan in a movie, Stacy liked the idea of Liu Yi Fei...

...while I liked Zhang Jingchu, after looking up Chinese actresses.

Mulan is an incredibly important Disney role model. She's strong enough to take care of herself and her entire country, and I love her story.

Next up for the princesses is Jasmine!

Back to School

2010-01-13T09:10:00.000-08:00

It's my first day of school for this semester.

I like school, but I don't like the first day! Everything is so nerve-wracking: Where do I sit? Who do I talk to? Will I find the classes on time? Will the professor make us play stupid getting to know you games? (Don't let anyone tell you those end after high school. They don't.) Will I meet a cute boy? Will I sit in silence the whole class?

I try to make the first day positive. I get dressed up. I do my make up and my hair. I go back to school shopping, which I love. I love new school supplies so I buy a fresh notebook, fresh pencils.

So before I go get ready for class, here are some images that are inspiring me to be excited about the first day. All are from weheartit, via "school" or "pencils".

Happy learning!

hair today, gone tomorrow

2010-01-11T15:27:00.000-08:00

~Before

~After

princess post: cinderella

2010-01-10T13:48:00.000-08:00

Today's post is about Cinderella. Fun fact about Cinderella: I used to watch the movie constantly when I was a littlelittle girl.

Cinderella is the favorite princess of my dear friend Becky. Becky wrote a great manifesto for why you too should love Cinderella! Becky writes, "I love Cinderella because she's able to wake up in a tiny, dusty, poorly furnished room as a servant to her stepmother and sisters and not complain. The first thing she does when she wakes up is sing (which is truly the best way to start your morning), and not a depressing song or anything like that. No. Her song is optimistic. It talks about her dreams coming true. She dances around singing jovially before making breakfast for everyone but herself and carrying everyone's laundry around on her head.

The scene in the movie that really seals the deal for me is when Cinderella first arrives at the ball. She's in the most beautiful dress to ever grace the eyes of mankind and she's just exploring the castle, walking around curiously when the Prince walks up behind her and takes her hand. That moment makes my heart sing. If that's not one of the most romantic scenes in any movie, I don't know what is.

I think my love for Cinderella can basically be summed up in one quote: "And yet, through it all, Cinderella remained ever gentle and kind, for with each dawn she found new hope that someday her dreams of happiness would come true."

Becky also made a Polyvore for what she thinks Cinderella would wear today.

Modern Day Cinderella by goldeninthesky featuring Rupert Sanderson shoes

Items in this set:

Rachel Gilbert Coco silk-chiffon gown, $950

LOGO BELT DRESS, 392 GBP

Rupert Sanderson Patent Mary Janes, 460 GBP

Pewter glitter courts, 40 GBP

Lee Angel Multi-strand glass pearl necklace, $450

She adds, "This is an example of what I think Cinderella would be wearing today. I let her have a pink dress since her dumb step sisters tore her other one up :)".

This is my interpretation:

cinderella by laurelcrowned featuring Irregular Choice shoes

Items in this set:
1950's Royal blue prom dress [DR239] - €200.00 : Hayworth Vintage,..., 200 EUR
Creme Brulee Blouse, $35
High Waist Tab Sailor Short, $38
la jolla high heel sandals, $79
Irregular Choice | Womens | Heel | Parrot Talk, 55 GBP

Here are some of my favorite images from the fairy tale of Cinderella, all from SurLaLune as always.

And here are some modern interpretations of Cinderella from weheartit.com.

Becky thinks that a modern day Cinderella would be wonderfully played by Emma Watson...

...while I would love to see Amanda Seyfried try to play the dreamy girl.

If you'd like to help me write up for a princess, let me know!

May your dreams come true today!

princess post: aurora

2010-01-08T17:15:00.000-08:00

This is a new post I'll be doing here on my blog for the next week or so. I'll be focusing on Disney princesses and the people who love them. Today's princess is...

(source)

My good friend Rachel's favorite princess is Aurora from Sleeping Beauty. She writes, "Aurora's my favorite Disney Princess because she's a nature-loving dreamer who gets to walk around barefoot throughout most of the film. She's friends with all the forest animals, sings, and loves strongly. The animation Sleeping Beauty is just one of my favorites... Not to mention, being awakened by a magical kiss doesn't sound too bad."

Rachel thinks that Aurora would wear this if she was alive today:

Princess Aurora by rachrabbit featuring Ralph Lauren sunglasses

Items in this set:
Lovely Vintage Pink Blue Austrian Dress - Bows & Bandits - Austrian..., 42 EUR
Chooka Posh Dots, $70
FREECITY Life Nature Love Bag, $28
Monsoon Accessorize - Jasmine Flower Comb, 10 GBP
Rainbow Owl Necklace, $4.80

and she says, "Aurora's look today would be simple and sweet. She needs sunglasses to protect her eyes from the sun and rainboots for tromping around in the dirt all day. Add a nature-friendly tote bag, and an owl necklace with a flower hair barrette in honor of her forest friends and she's good to go for her daily adventures! ...Don't forget the pink and blue dress to not show favoritism from her fairy guardians!"

My own take on Aurora is slightly different:

aurora by laurelcrowned featuring Miss Selfridge

Items in this set:

Vintage Clothes and Accessories Online - Vintage Clothing at Love Miss..., 39 GB

Knitted Swallow Jumper, $80

BEYOND THE VALLEY BTV_HTNC MUSTARD WOOL -, 294 GBP

Petites Paperbag Shorts, 28 GBP

Obsessed With Shoes | Designer Shoes: Reviews and Discussion

Here are two outfits I could see Aurora wearing- one to dance with her prince, and one to take a walk through the forest- perhaps late at night, due to the insomnia she'd suffer from after such a long sleep.

Here are some of my favorite fairy tale images of Sleeping Beauty:

You can find all the images and great fairy tale information here.
And here are some fun, modern takes on Sleeping Beauty:

"Sexy" Sleeping Beauty
"Twisted" Aurora.

All above images circa weheartit.com.
Rachel would like to see Marion Cotillard play her favorite princess in a revisioned movie for modern audiences...

...whereas I would love to see Jessica Stam play the thoughtful princess.

The next post will feature the wonderful Cinderella with guest comments by my dear friend Becky. If you'd like to make a Polyvore, recast your princess and tell me why your favorite princess is your favorite, let me know!

tattuesday!

2010-01-05T16:34:00.000-08:00

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This week is about Up! I love Up so much, and here are some beautiful Up tattoos.

Here's an article about the real life location of Paradise Falls in Up- take a look!

ooh de lally

2010-01-05T09:23:00.001-08:00

I'm interested in doing a little series on the Disney princesses. I'm getting my friends to pick a princess, make a Polyvore featuring an outfit they think the princess would wear today, as well as a paragraph or so on why this princess is their favorite.

I think I will allow doubles for this, but if you want to be ~unique and do one no one else has done, I already have young ladies working on Cinderella, Aurora, Ariel, Jasmine, and Snow White.

If you're interested, let me know! I'll link to your livejournal/tumblr/blog, whatever you'd like when it's posted.

(I also count Mulan, Pocahantas, and even Nala as Disney princesses. Don't be afraid if your favorite isn't a traditional girl!)

magic monday

2010-01-04T21:14:00.000-08:00

So, on this Magic Monday, I'd like to talk about some of my favorite literary heroines. These aren't nearly all of them, but some that I thought of while making this post. Most of my favorite female book characters are children at the beginning, and I wondered what they would be doing, wearing, and thinking at 22, my age.

Wendy Darling, Peter Pan.
girlchild who went with her younger brothers to neverland, where they had adventures and she took care of them.

wendy darling by laurelcrowned featuring Collection shoes

Items in this set:
Blue crew neck cardigan, 18 GBP
The good the bad the ugly bandon't cigarette skirt, $160
Cream Mary Jane court shoes, 20 GBP
Love Scarf with Lurex, $69
Wild Flower Post Earrings, $9.99

Wendy would be a pretty young governess with her hands filled with rowdy boys who thought she was their mother. She would wear white and blue and her shoes would always be spotless. She wouldn't go on adventures anymore, because adventures were for little boys who were allowed to get their shoes dirty. She wouldn't mind translating Latin, but sometimes at night she would stand on the edge of the windowsill and pray. She'd pray to Peter, please please please. Come back.

Dorothy Gale, Wizard of Oz
girlchild who went to oz, where she had adventures and saved a whole world

dorothy gale by laurelcrowned featuring Rupert Sanderson shoes

Items in this set:
Starlets & Harlots : Administration Area
Rupert Sanderson Patent Pumps, 355 GBP
Cat Eye Glasses with Rhinestones, Clear Lenses, $6.99
Cigarette holder - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Dorothy would be so over Kansas. She'd get the hell out of Dodge and become a pin up classic. She'd like the sailor look- blue dress like she used to wear, red heels for irony, and red lips for smiling. She'd pose and laugh and never look back. The yellow brick road followed her this time.

Alice, Alice in Wonderland
girlchild who went to wonderland, where everyone was mad and even the flowers had faces

alice by laurelcrowned featuring Betsey Johnson jewelry

Items in this set:
Valerie Solid Dress, $45
Pleats ballet shoes, $438
Eugenia Kim Cate crochet beret, $175
Betsey Johnson - Ski Bunny Pink Pearl w/ Bow Earrings (Pink Pearl) -..., $51
Floral Knit Knee Socks, $16

Alice would never grow up like Wendy and Dorothy. She'd spend her days wandering the gardens and being dreamy. She'd look for men who wore top hats and spoke in riddles. She'd smile when she found one but she'd never be satisfied. She wanted to keep looking, because searching was the fun part. She liked the rabbit hole. She liked Wonderland. She liked childish things and would never put them away.

And now for a couple more recent novels.

Merricat, We Have Always Lived in the Castle
girlchild who lives with her sister and insane uncle in the house where their family was murdered, where she is very odd.

merricat by laurelcrowned featuring Ymc

Items in this set:
J.Crew - Slub cotton faded floral tee, $40
Petite black boyfriend cardi, 25 GBP
Q3AD2 Blue Skirt, 90 GBP
Opening Ceremony Claw Cuff, 300 GBP
1790s Mourning Portrait Miniature Pendant : Erie Basin Antiques, $675

Merricat would still be a little bit mad. She'd never grow out of that, that was what being insane meant. She'd wear only dark clothes, and lost necklaces she found in other people's lawns. She hated shoes and never wore them. She didn't like the way her toes pinched and twisted, forced into a little dark spot where they could never wiggle.

Eli, Let the Right One In
girlchild who is a scary child vampire.

eli by laurelcrowned featuring Notify jeans

Items in this set:
Striped Baggy Sweatshirt, $118
Notify Waxed skinny jeans, $275
Deena & Ozzy Wingtip Oxford, $58
Kara by Kara Ross 14-karat gold-plated watch necklace, $255

Eli's style wouldn't change much. She'd wear oversize shirts with stripes, skinny jeans and men's shoes. Maybe a watch necklace. To keep time and irony. Eli could never grow old as a child vampire, but maybe she'd imagine it. She'd wear regular clothes and regular shoes and hold hands with the blonde boy who slept next to her.

What are your favorite girl heroes?

movies that make you cry

2010-01-02T19:12:00.000-08:00

Today I saw the beautiful Up in the Air. It was a great movie- really funny and heartfelt and smart. And it had Jason Bateman in it, so it fit all of my movie requirements. However, at the end of the movie, I found myself crying in the theater. I can't remember the last time that happened.

So, what movies make you cry? For me it's a range of movies. The one that immediately comes to mind is Alfonso Cuaron's A Little Princess. This movie is incredibly beautiful, and one of my favorites. I was a fan of this movie as a kid, and now I'm a huge fan of Cuaron. I used to read the book all the time, but the book ending and the movie are very different. Although the book's ending is sadder in a way, this movie makes me cry.

Capt. Crewe: What are you doing? Memorizing me by heart?
Sara Crewe: No... I already know you by heart.

One of the last scenes in the movie never fails to make me tear up... Warning, HUGE SPOILER ALERT in this clip of the scene below.

I teared up watching it again for this post! Again, huge spoiler warning.

Another is Bridge to Terabithia
I loved the book as a kid, and I saw this when I was much, much older. To my immense surprise, I sobbed through most of the movie. Here is just the trailer.

Don't be fooled by the action/adventure style of the trailer. This movie is sad.

The only happy moment on this list to make me cry happy tears belongs to When Harry Met Sally. Another HUGE SPOILER ALERT BELOW.

AND OF COURSE... It's a Wonderful Life! NEVER fails to make me tear up! Jimmy Stewart does amazing things to me.

So what movies make you cry? I know I'm forgetting some major ones on this list.

fan friday- lee pace

2010-01-01T11:32:00.000-08:00

Lee Pace is one of my many celebrity boyfriends. He is adorable and incredibly talented. He is the star of some of my favorite things.

Pushing Daisies
He stars as the hapless piemaker, Ned. He has the ability to bring back the dead with a touch, and to "redead" them with a second touch. He falls in love with a formerly dead friend Chuck Charles, and the couple solves crimes together. The show is bright and beautiful, and a charming moment of two seasons in television.
Everything we do is a choice. Oatmeal or cereal. Highway or side streets. Kiss her or keep her. We make choices and we live with the consequences. If someone gets hurt along the way we ask for forgiveness. It's the best anyone can do.

Also, the adorable romantic comedy Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day in which his character of a piano player falls in love with playgirl Amy Adams.
Then floating past the Tower of London, I had a brain wave. Decided the ring I had wasn't good enough for her. And when a man wants a diamond, what better place to get it?
And then, one of my favorite movies of all time, The Fall. It's a hard movie to explain without seeing it. It's a beautiful movie about a man and his friendship with a little girl, and the fantastic story he tells her.
Are you trying to save my soul?

All in all, Lee Pace is beautiful and awesome! Definitely check out his wonderful and quirky roles- you won't regret it.

Images from livejournal community Daily Pace.

I hope everyone has a happy New Year, and a great 2010!

the new year

2009-12-31T19:08:00.000-08:00

2010 is just around the corner.

May all your dreams be merry and bright. May your falls end up with scrapes, not scars. May your wishes come true. May you get what you need over what you want. May you catch the pokemon lover of your heart. May you be less sad. May you be brave.

Be productive, happy, and safe this year everyone!

love,
laura and the hartichokes (what a cool band name that would be!)

wow wow wednesday

2009-12-30T08:11:00.000-08:00

Hello! Brief post today. Today I'm going with my Tucson roommates to Out of Africa, a wildlife park here in Arizona. Hopefully I'll have pictures to post!

Here's What I Wore yesterday to see A Single Man with some friends, and to hang out with my dog.

Amazing dress that everyone has: Target
Tights: my mama
Toms shoes (not pictured) u of a bookstore
hat: me!

Some pictures from the beautiful A Single Man:
Matthew Goode was amazing. So talented!
Julianne Moore was as beautiful as ever.
Colin Firth was incredible. Stopped my heart.

Most importantly... My boyfriend Lee Pace was in it!
So beautiful! I love him to death, I'll make a Lee Pace post soon.

The movie was as beautiful as you'd expect from Tom Ford. I think the beauty got to him; a couple times the movie seemed a bit overdirected. But the acting was heartbreaking, and each shot was from a, well, Tom Ford ad- in a good way! Nicholas Hoult was also in the movie, from About a Boy and Skins, and he was very, very good. Overall, really heartwrenching movie.

Have a wonderful Wednesday!

(photos from weheartit.com)

tattuesday!

2009-12-29T09:17:00.000-08:00

One more post for the day- in honor of Tattuesday!

I saw this tattoo ages ago and it's stuck in my mind. It's a scene from the Wizard of Oz- how beautiful!

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Fairy tale tattoos are my favorite, but so hard to find!

one of the favorites

2009-12-29T08:50:00.000-08:00

Today I'm talking about one of my favorite bands- the Format. Originally from Arizona, the band broke up after two albums. These two albums are some of my favorites. I listen all the time, and I am eagerly following Nate (left) and his new band, fun.
And I scream as loud as anyone/But when asked to make a point I tend to whisper

I was lucky enough to see the Format live before they broke up. It was my freshman year of college, and they performed in Tucson. They performed in front of a Dairy Queen on University Blvd, and I got registered as a Democrat at the show.

When I said, "I hate what I've become"/I lied, I hated who I was

This show remains in my mind a turning point. From who I was in high school, to who I am becoming during my college years. The band seems to know who I am and what I'm thinking (Why don't I just give in?/Have a drink and shake some hands) to who my family is (That is just like my mom/Never lets go, never lets me grow old/I wanna pay her back/But love is nothing you can tax).

We know I cant construct a poem/'Cause words like girls get bored and run

Like I said, the band is now defunct. Nate is working with the wonderful band fun. and Sam is being a dad to little Lola, pictured.

Here are some video links to begin your Format education: The Compromise video, She Doesn't Get It video, and one of my favorite songs, Snails, performed live. Nate's new band's music video, All the Pretty Girls.

Al images from the FuckYeahtheFormat tumblr, or FuckYeahNateRuess.

What's your favorite band? Favorite music videos?

Hogwarts

2009-12-28T09:03:00.000-08:00

I love Harry Potter. So much so, I daydreamed about going to Hogwarts when I was younger. And still, of course. This post is dedicated to Hogwarts and the houses. Here is what I would wear in each house, and what I love about each house!

Gryffindor
"You might belong in Gryffindor,
Where dwell the brave at heart,
Their daring, nerve and chivalry
Set Gryffindors apart"

gryffindor by laurelcrowned featuring Anthropologie

Items in this set:
In-A-Moment Dress - Anthropologie.com, $118
gryffindor slouchy cardigan (:
Rupert Sanderson | Large Size Designer Shoes, 295 EUR
Zoe & Morgan Lion Heart Sterling Silver 24ct Plated Mix Heart Pendant..., $323
The Modern Wayfarers, $12

I love the Gryffindors! I could never be a Gryffindor because I'm not nearly brave enough. I relate to Neville, and I understand that one of the bravest things one can do is stand up to your friends.

Slytherin
"Or perhaps in Slytherin,
You'll make your real friends,
Those cunning folk use any means,
To achieve their ends."

Slytherins scare me! I'm not cunning by any means, and I have far too much of a guilt complex to be a Slytherin. I can barely tell people I don't want to go out, much less use them to my own means. However, Slytherins are fierce and amazing kids. I love the Slytherins in the book- Draco Malfoy, Pansy Parkinson... Fierce!

slytherin by laurelcrowned featuring Ela Stone rings

Items in this set:
Soda Fountain Dress in Cola, $45
slytherin hoodie cardigan (:
PRADA PATENT COURT SHOE, 250 GBP
Ela Stone | Ela Stone Entwined Snake Ring at ASOS, $304
1790s Mourning Portrait Miniature Pendant : Erie Basin Antiques, $675

Ravenclaw
"Or yet in wise old Ravenclaw,
If you've a ready mind,
Where those of wit and learning,
Will always find their kind."

Ravenclaws are amazing! I love reading and studying, so I could see myself in Ravenclaw. One of my favorite characters in the books is Luna Lovegood, a fabulous and magnificent Ravenclaw.

ravenclaw by laurelcrowned featuring Paul Smith

Items in this set:

376J-772 Indigo Cardigan, 110 GBP

Surface To Air Cord Mini Skirt, 80 GBP

Chloe Leather ballerina flats, $395

Knitted Rib Leggings, $20

When Doves Cry Ring, $7.99

And finally, Hufflepuff.
"You might belong in Hufflepuff,
Where they are just and loyal,
Those patient Hufflepuffs are true,
And unafraid of toil"

I definitely think I'd be in Hufflepuff! I'm far too shy and nervous to be in any other house. I love the colors and the name of the house, and I think I'm a bit of a nicegirl that would fit in. There is, of course, Cedric Diggory to remember, and when making this post I learned that Nymphadora Tonks was also a Hufflepuff! The more you know.

hufflepuff by laurelcrowned featuring French Connection

Items in this set:
Buffy Cardigan, 65 GBP
VERS BLANCS Ribbon Pin-tuck Skirt (Mustard) - 77.65USD(Approx.) :..., $78
Hand Made Ribbon Loafers, $137
Harry Potter - Hufflepuff Ring - Noble Collection - Elbenwald.de, 119 EUR
Black 60 denier opaque tights, 4 GBP

Hufflepuff forever!

Which house would you be in? Why?

All images from weheartit.com, except for me! and note about the polyvores: I could never ever ever afford any of the items in the images. I simply included them in case one of you were curious about what was pictured!

something i love sunday

2009-12-27T16:14:00.000-08:00

Today I love cyborg girls.

Love how haunted this girl looks! I'd love to know the artist, if anyone has any idea.
According to the tag on weheartit, this is by Jeffery Scott.

The wonderful Maria from the wonderful Metropolis.
I never watched the Sarah Connor Chronicles, but I think Summer Glau is so beautiful!

I love old pulp sci fi!

and robot boys can't be forgotten either!

There's something very strange and lovely about robot love stories. I'm terrified of robots in real life, or in apocalyptic movies, but robot love stories are something else entirely! I love Battlestar Galactica, especially the Cylon love stories. I'm a sucker for some hard wired hearts.

All images from weheartit.com, via "cyborg" or "robot".

guido

2009-12-26T18:02:00.001-08:00

Today I saw...

Starring the amazing and talented Daniel Day Lewis...

And an incredible cast of incredible women...Totally beautiful. The musical sequences were the best. I wouldn't say that the movie had major depth, but it was just like the Italian cinema they wanted to be- fashionable, beautiful, musical, and with great sunglasses.
Coming up this week, some Harry Potter themed posts! Thanks for reading, everyone.

christmas eve

2009-12-24T14:50:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays, everyone!

to the strange girls

2009-12-23T19:37:00.001-08:00

To the strange girls! To the girls who don't stop reading or playing or dancing!

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To the girls whose style is different and beautiful!

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To the girls who live in worlds other than their own.

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To the girls whose art tells a story.

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To girls who dance with their pets.

To strange girls!

wow wow wednesday

2009-12-23T13:50:00.000-08:00

What I wore Wednesday!
Plain, boring blue dress: Forever 21
Crazy fuzzy grandma sweater: Deep in my closet
Sweater tights: My mama
Red Dorothy shoes: Toms Shoes from my school's bookstore

Please excuse the mess and the photobooth photograph. My camera cord is at home and I'm a mess!

Crazy hair + crazy face were also apart of my outfit.

Haha is that title too cheesy? Perhaps Wednesday will turn into something else later on. Anyway, I do have some very cool links to share today!

At the wonderful San Smith's blog, she has free downloadable gift tags! This goes wonderfully with my post on making your own wrapping paper. I didn't even think about tags, and hers are BEAUTIFUL! Click on the picture above to go to her post with the tags.

Amazing pictures of animals in the womb! Check out more here at Geekologie.

This flickr set has amazing, amazing vintage portraits of gay couples from times past. They're beautiful and very adorable!

tattuesday!

2009-12-22T20:08:00.000-08:00

Inspired by Dorm Life's mention of a "Temporary Tattuesday", I want to talk about some of my favorite tattoos. I don't have any currently, but I truly admire and love looking at well done tattoos.

Today's theme is text tattoos. I love, love text tattoos.
NOTE: I got these images from Flickr, Tumblr, and other sites. All are credited, but if one of these are yours and would like me to credit or take down the image, let me know and I'll do so immediately!

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I love this one. This is my very favorite text tattoo. The story goes as follows:

"Beth Loster, 24, a San Francisco writer and waitress was a student at UC Berkeley when she met a young man who said, "Hey, we have tattoos in the same font."
The text of her tattoo - "clad in the panoply of love" - came from "Science & Health" by Mary Baker Eddy. His tattoo, also in a "typewriter" typeface, was in Latin. (She can't recall the translation.)
The text of Loster's next tattoo was written by that young man, who had become her boyfriend. Before leaving for South America, where he was going to study, he left a note on her refrigerator that began, "this is on account of my loving you forever." That phrase - in the form of a tattoo - offered her comfort when he was killed in a car accident in Brazil."

Beautiful. I love tattoos that mean something, and this one just takes my breath away!

I also love text tattoos on the wrist. Even though white ink is something controversial, I do love how it looks.

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adjiajdia I love Harry Potter so much, so of course I love this one! If you can't read it, it says "lumos", which is the spell to bring light.

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Neck tattoos are usually not my thing, but model Freja Beha's tattoo on her neck is gorgeous!

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Then there is Shelley Jackson's insane tattoo project SKIN. It is "a 2095-word story published exclusively in tattoos, one word at a time, on the skin of volunteers." Amazing! There are only some pictures from the site of people's tattoos so far, but this was my favorite.

Do you have any favorite text tattoos?

christmas presents on a budget!

2009-12-22T13:03:00.001-08:00

So it's a rough time for everyone- especially us college kids. So Christmastime is always stressful- you want to buy the perfect presents for the perfect people. Here are some suggestions for a money little Christmas.

*Make your presents. Knit, crochet, draw- whatever! People will appreciate this.
*Buy local/small business. Support your local economy. It'll help you in the long run.
*Buy books! Books are cheaper than video games or movies, and they last longer.
*Make your own wrapping paper. I did this in Tucson when I was too poor to buy my own wrapping paper and couldn't borrow my parents.

What you'll need:
*Computer paper. As a college kid, I have an abundance.
*A pen. Pencils work well too, but the lead will smudge onto your fingers and your recipients.
*Scotch tape. I need a LOT of this because I'm terrible at wrapping presents!
*Now you draw. I like to write lists on them. For my roommates, I wrote the 10 reasons why I loved them. For the person for this present, I wrote the ten reasons she will be a great mother, as well as a timeline of our friendship. Her present was a somewhat larger book, so I used three sheets of computer paper. Here are the ones I did for my roommates:
*Then you wrap! It is more difficult than normal wrapping paper because it's firmer, but with enough tape, anything is possible.

Naturally, they look a little... rougher than a "real" wrapped gift, but I like this a lot. I like that gives them something else besides a present + trash!

What do you do to save during this season?

12 wonderful things about Christmas

2009-12-21T21:39:00.000-08:00

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My darling friend Rachel visited me tonight and gave me a beautiful charm bracelet with the 12 days of Christmas on it- you know, on the first day of Christmas, my true love gave to me... and that got me thinking. What are my 12 favorite things about Christmas?

12. the lights

I personally love the Christmas lights. They're beautiful and make the night seem so magical. I recently spent time with a friend and her young nephew, and during the day, he sadly pointed to the unlit string lights and told me, "the pretties are sleeping." Isn't that sweet?

11. the food
Christmas cookies! The best. There's a reason Santa eats them. And for my family, we make dinner every year for the whole family. The last couple years, we did a Mexican Christmas as my mother's side is Mexican. We eat enchiladas and salsa and it is just amazing. Mmm.

10. the gifts
Of course! Getting presents from loved ones is always a treat, no matter what

9. the break
It's not just a break from school. It often seems like a break from life. A little slice of Christmastime, where the world becomes different for a few days.

8. the weather
In Arizona, we don't get very much snow. None at all, where my parents live. But it is still chilly, still so much colder than usual. There is nothing better than waking up on a cold morning and being warm and toasty in your bed!

7. giving the perfect gift
Now, getting the presents are awesome. But there's something about giving the right person the right gift that makes Christmas so special.

6. the tree
Okay, so decorating the tree can sometimes be a pain. I usually love it- my family does it together and we drink egg nog and play Christmas music. And taking down the tree is the worst chore of the year. But late at night, when I'm up to get a glass of water, and the tree is shining in the living room... Magic.

5. the TV specials and movies
There were some good ones this year! Modern Family and the Office were both hysterical with theirs. And then there's the old staples- Charlie Brown and his sweet tree. Even if you hate Christmas, there's always movies like Silent Night, Deadly Night where there is a serial killer dressed up as Santa, or Bad Santa with Billy Bob Thorton. There's something for everyone!

4. the toys
Oh man. It is toy season. Not just for cool new Barbies or beautiful Transformers, but for grown ups too. The movies come out in full force, the music is released. It's playtime.

3. christmas eve
there's always something, when it's dark on Christmas Eve. It's special somehow. I always read some of Little Women under a blanket.

2. santa
yes, virginia.

1. familytime
My favorite morning of the year, sitting around and opening presents with my favorite people in the world.

2009-12-20T20:34:00.000-08:00

It was a long day today. Some times just a moment can throw off your whole day. I took the puppy Buffy to the dog park, I watched Inglorious Basterds with my brother, and I missed my roommates in Tucson desperately.

But now it's unwinding, and I'm watching School of Rock and knitting. There's one thing that's been good for me since high school, and that's been knitting.

It's my dream to get good enough to knit sweaters like this:

And live my life like this:
those tattoos!

All images from weheartit. If anyone knows of more specific sources, I'll definitely credit.

May all of you have a wonderful night, may your crafting be excellent!

simply having a wonderful christmas time

2009-12-20T10:42:00.000-08:00

I love Christmastime. I especially love Christmas movies, from Die Hard to Gremlins to a Muppet Christmas Carol, I love Christmas movies! Every time I watch one about Santa Claus, I think, just for a minute, that maybe, just maybe...

Dear Editor—

I am 8 years old. Some of my little friends say there is no Santa Claus. Papa says, “If you see it in The Sun, it’s so.” Please tell me the truth, is there a Santa Claus?

Virginia O’Hanlon

Virginia, your little friends are wrong. They have been affected by the skepticism of a skeptical age. They do not believe except they see. They think that nothing can be which is not comprehensible by their little minds. All minds, Virginia, whether they be men’s or children’s, are little. In this great universe of ours, man is a mere insect, an ant, in his intellect as compared with the boundless world about him, as measured by the intelligence capable of grasping the whole of truth and knowledge.

Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus. He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to your life its highest beauty and joy. Alas! how dreary would be the world if there were no Santa Claus! It would be as dreary as if there were no Virginias. There would be no childlike faith then, no poetry, no romance to make tolerable this existence. We should have no enjoyment, except in sense and sight. The eternal light with which childhood fills the world would be extinguished.

Not believe in Santa Claus! You might as well not believe in fairies. You might get your papa to hire men to watch in all the chimneys on Christmas eve to catch Santa Claus, but even if you did not see Santa Claus coming down, what would that prove? Nobody sees Santa Claus, but that is no sign that there is no Santa Claus. The most real things in the world are those that neither children nor men can see. Did you ever see fairies dancing on the lawn? Of course not, but that’s no proof that they are not there. Nobody can conceive or imagine all the wonders there are unseen and unseeable in the world.

You tear apart the baby’s rattle and see what makes the noise inside, but there is a veil covering the unseen world which not the strongest man, nor even the united strength of all the strongest men that ever lived could tear apart. Only faith, poetry, love, romance, can push aside that curtain and view and picture the supernal beauty and glory beyond. Is it all real? Ah, Virginia, in all this world there is nothing else real and abiding.

No Santa Claus! Thank God! he lives and lives forever. A thousand years from now, Virginia, nay 10 times 10,000 years from now, he will continue to make glad the heart of childhood.

"an education" and more

2009-12-19T19:17:00.001-08:00

Today, my brother Danny and I went to see a movie called An Education. With a screenplay by the impeccable Nick Hornby (High Fidelity and one of my favorites, About a Boy), and starring the beautiful Carey Mulligan (Doctor Who's Sally Sparrow), there was no way it wasn't going to be beautiful.

The plotline was fairly familiar- wide eyed Jenny falls for an older man who promises to take her to Paris. The film was absolutely beautiful and Carey was breathtaking. Her performance stole every scene and I couldn't take my eyes off of her! Alfred Molina, Peter Sarsgaard, and my girlfriend Emma Thompson also were wonderful. Have some pictures!

Other than that, I spent my day with one of my oldest friends, Angela, and her three year old nephew. I pretended to be a spider and he told me about cars. I also played with my parents' puppy Buffy.

(images from googleimages, except the last one, which is from me!)

some questions to answer

2009-12-19T13:16:00.000-08:00

Who are you?

My name is Laura. I'm just a college kid trying to figure everything out and post pretty pictures at the same time. I like nail polish and cardigans and dresses and dogs and cats and I don't like mean people, tomatoes, and losing battles in Pokemon.

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Why "hartichoke"?
It comes from a wonderful little movie called Amelie, in which there is a line "even artichokes have hearts". Hartichokes!

What do you do?
I study! I read. I write. I watch a love of movies. I split my life between Tucson and Phoenix. I love to craft, and hopefully will be featuring some of my projects here!

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What are the quotes in the sidebar?
Some of my favorite books: Peter Pan, a Little Princess, and the Princess Bride.

(don't remember the source!)
What do you wish for?
A Disney ending.

we're all mad here

2009-12-18T13:47:00.000-08:00

Hello!

My name is Laura, and this is my little corner of the internet. I'm twenty-two years old, and I'm currently living in Tucson, Arizona. I am a literature major and a film minor. I believe in words and books and complicated stories.

I've kept journals and online journals before, but never a blog. Wish me luck!