Maleficent Review:

I am a self-proclaimed Sleeping Beauty expert and enthusiast so, of course, I was at the first showing of Maleficent Friday morning. I even wore an outfit inspired by Briar Rose (Princess Aurora’s alias when she like in the woods) because I’m a dork like that and it was hot outside.

After bounding into the theater like the princess herself and purchasing a bottle of water because, like I said, it was hot and I like to stay hydrated, I all but ran into theater. I watched the reeling of movie trivia questions and Coke ads, trying my best to be patient as they movie was already 5 minutes late and my foot thumping like…well like that >

Then, after 10 more minutes of movie trailers that went something like “Nope…maybe…. Haha yes!....maybe…” the movie started and I got chills.

 The next 2 hours of my life were spent watching a cinematic presentation surrounded by the most evil of all Disney villains.And here’s what I thought about it…. 

Warning: The following blog post contains spoilers. Reader discretion is advised.

1. Artwork: I said in my last post that Sleeping Beauty was one of the most unappreciated films of all times. And of that unappreciation, the animation is the most unappreciated thing. When you mention Disney animation, the ballroom scene from Beauty and the Beast is always thrown in as the greatest animated scene of all time, which is beautiful but you have to remember one thing- Beauty and the Beast was done by computer.  Sleeping Beauty was the done completely by hand, being the last film to have hand inked cells, which makes it unique. Walt Disney wanted Sleeping Beauty to have a different feel than the previous movies, especially in the art which was based of the medieval art of Sleeping Beauty’s fictional time frame. Eyvind Earle, an artist, was the art director for the film and even painted many of the backgrounds used in the films. That’s why they are most like art pieces than animation scenery. His detail is something unmatched by animated films- especially those pre-pc- but often ignored by movie watchers. The next time you watch the movie, paid attention to the detail of the background and how Earle painted individual leaves on the trees and cracks in the stone. I saw all of that to say this, the colors and tones of the Maleficent reminded me of Sleeping Beauty. Though there was no artwork as it was a live action film, the colors were like the ones used in the original film. They were rich and warm at the cottage and the forest and cooler when Maleficent or any other dooming evil was present. Good job art department or whoever was in charge of coloring the film.
2. Sets: Some of the sets used in Maleficent looked like they were pulled directly from Sleeping Beauty. The interior of the castle, especially the hall in which the christening takes place and Aurora’s room reminded my so much of the animated film as well as the Forbidden Mountain. Maleficent’s Forbidden Mountain, thought seen only briefly in the movie, looked like it was pulled straight from the animated movie. Maleficent walked through a lone arch- the same arch that would crash on Philip in the Sleeping Beauty. The walls and turrets were perfectly spaced and destroyed to fit the silhouette of the animated Forbidden Mountain. Whoever was the set designer and decorator for this movie paid special attention to the original movie and tried to design it either similar or identical to it. Again, good job.
3. Music: Okay, the music was a little anti climatic. But when you the original “Sleeping Beauty” soundtrack is composed by the infamous Tchaikovsky (and rearrange by George Burns), it’s kinda hard to compare. The only cross over from Sleeping Beauty to Maleficent is Lana Del Ray’s hauntingly beautiful rendition of “Once Upon a Dream”. (listen to it here) The music in the movie is just like any other soundtrack- not John Williams worthy- but provided the emotions that movie soundtracks normal do. Now, I know that a lot of people are disappointed that the soundtrack wasn't more like the original- and I was too, but it kinda makes more sense this way. If you don’t know, the music from “Sleeping Beauty” was arranged by George Burns but was basically taken note for note from Tchaikovsky's “Sleeping Beauty” ballet. The music is Sleeping Beauty centers around the main character (um duh) and include two songs sung by the Princess herself, “I Wonder” and “Once Upon a Dream” (their main melodies also taken from the ballet thought not credited).  The main character is Maleficent is..Maleficent. It makes perfect sense that the music in the movie is not the same as its predecessor, they are focused on different characters. Furthermore (that’s right, I pulled out the furthermore) in the christening scene, the tiny princess was not blessed with the gift of song- which basically cuts out her singing. The music wasn’t as wonderful as the original (who can go up against a heavy weight like Tchaikovsky) but served its purpose in the film.
4. Costuming: I have wanted Princess Aurora’s dress since I was 3 years old and ONE DAY-you mark my words- I will have not one but two (one in pink and one and blue, of course). You see, my fine friends, they didn't make little girl princess dresses when I was small. And if they did, they were for Cinderella or Ariel or Jasmine- not the under appreciated Aurora.  Her dress freaking changed colors, it was awesome. But going into the movie, I knew that Elle Fanning wouldn’t be wearing the same classic frock (And if she was, I was going to be totes jealous). I like the costuming a lot more that I thought I would, with the key outfit being Maleficent’s jagged edge, black dress. The costumer did a fantastic job with it- it was perfect. Aurora gowns were gorgeous as well and actually more fitting to the medieval setting (the original movie was made in the 50’s and the style of Aurora’s dresses reflect that time period- in my opinion). I was pleased to see that Aurora wore a blue gown for the majority of the film, like in “Sleeping Beauty”. The one costuming choice I didn’t understand was Prince Philips outfit. I feel like the costumer might have gotten Philip’s costume mixed up with Prince Charming’s from Snow White.  I mean, it doesn’t really make a difference, but I did notice it.  
5. The Casting: I’m not a huge Angelina Jolie fan- I think that all stems from that whole Brad Pitt ?Jenifer Aniston fiasco that happened 10 year ago- but she was born to play that role. Disney movies aren't normally given Oscars nowadays when it comes to Best Actress or Actor. I, however, would be surprise is Jolie doesn't get the Oscar nod for her portrayal. It was breathtaking. She captured the legendary villain perfectly, especially that creepy mocking smile that scared me senseless as an adult..child. I really had no opinion of Elle fanning as Aurora. They didn't ask me, so I was a little hurt. She is only 16, so perfect for the story, and had the sweet, Aurora charm. The man cast to play King Stefan looked strangely like the animated character- kinda freaky. Brenton Thwaites was the beautiful Prince Philip. He had the charm and smile and very few lines….I think the movie could have used a little more Prince Philip, just because he’s so hot. {Catherine’s Note: If I had be cast at Aurora, I would have requested Ben Barnes as my Prince Philip- surprised? I didn’t think you would be.(Catherine’s Noted Note: If Ben Barnes had a prior engagement, Henry Cavil would have been an acceptable second. Again, not surprising)[.Catherine’s Noted Note that was Noted Before: If I wasn’t Aurora with either Ben or Henry as my prince, they would have to raise that curse age since I’m in my mid-twenties and they are in their thirties].}
6. The Fairies: The fairies have always been one of my favorite parts about the movie “Sleeping Beauty”. They are, essentially, the heroes of the story- see changing the curse and the sword that slays the terrifying dragon- and actually have some of the greatest lines in the whole movie. The fairies in Maleficent were kinda ditzy compared to their animated counterparts and didn’t see as powerful as they are usually. They weren’t as important to the overall story as they were in the “Sleeping Beauty”, so I guess it really doesn’t matter. They also changed their names, which seems kinda pointless to me. Their new names, in correspondence with the animated characters are: Flora- Knotgrass, Fauna-Flittle, Merryweather-Thistlewit. I thought that the new name change might be from the fairies original Perrault story (Charles Perrault is credited with the original “Sleeping Beauty” fairytale with the Grimm Brothers having their own similar version called “Briar Rose”) or the ballet, but they aren’t. I don’t understand the name changes. They remind me of the names of the fairies in the Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer’s Night Dreams”, so that might have been the inspiration of the name changed. Another change that really makes no difference but bothered me was that they switch Fauna-Flittle’s and Merryweathers-Thistlewit’s colors, making the youngest green instead of blue. Like I said, this doesn’t make a big deal but then again- since it doesn’t make a big deal, why change it? #truth
7. The Story: If you were expecting Maleficent to be Sleeping Beauty 2.0-just rent in a watch it at home in you pjs, preferably eating ice cream or donuts or mac and cheese. The story of Maleficent follows only part of the original fairytale, which is what made certain parts unexpectant for someone like me who knows it like the back of my hand. I was expecting the movie to be basically the backstory of Maleficent and why she decided to curse a newborn with death. And it was. But from there, I expected the movie to be more like the "Sleeping Beauty" and it really wasn't (if you look at the entirety of the story) . But the changes that they made all made sense in the grander scheme of things. The initial change that bothered me was that Maleficent- not the third fairy- changed the curse so that it could be broken with true love's kiss. I was sitting there like "well, that's pointless". But, it did make sense in the story since Maleficent didn't believe in love, she was basically mocking Stefan. I won't go into details of the other major changes because A) they all make sense in the context of the story and B) I don't want to spoil everything- go see the movie yourself. 

    In conclusion, if you are expecting Maleficent to be a live action version of "Sleeping Beauty", you might was to opt out of this movie. But, if you are willing to go in with an open mind, even the purest of Sleeping Beauty purist (aka. Me) will enjoy this movie. The story of Sleeping Beauty is the ultimate fairytale, full of beauty, adventure and happy endings and Maleficent is too. So, go see it....I bet you'll like it.

h

  I wish you love and happy watching!

     XX-

     Catherine 

Stunning Sunday: Theo James

Happy Mother's Day!!!

To all mothers everywhere, I hope you all have a wonderful days full of love and laughter. I am not a mother, but I can’t wait to join the ranks.

So, what to write about on this cloudy hot Sunday? How about the hottest craze sweeping the nation- Theo James.

Can't you see him in this? 

I’ll admit it, I really had no interest in seeing Divergent. Another movie based on a book post-apocalyptic America where people are grouped and forced to live due to strict guidelines then another group gains power and tries to wipe out a certain group and there’s a rebellion led by an unlikeable female, blah blah blah…. Yeah, I know I’m in the minority but I grew up on Harry Potter, Narnia and Tamora Pierce, I’m kinda a book snob. But I went with my friends to see it because they really wanted to and I was pleasantly surprise. No, not by the plot (though it wasn’t bad) but by the HOT male eye candy. Hellllooooo sailor! In fact, that should be his next role! He should be a sailor or marine or navy seal or army pilot, basically anything that has his dressed like Josh Hartnett in Pearl Harbor. (Don’t judge my indescribable attraction to men in 1940’s military outfits)

See it? 

Of course, Theo James’ face was plaster in every theater and the trailer played before every movie and in every commercial break, but it was nothing compared to seeing him in tatted up action for approximately 2 and a half hours. I think that every comment made during that movie, beside the few made about the Macklemore looking jerk and that her brother is going to be her boyfriend in "The Fault In Our Stars",  was about how F.I.N.E. he is. Even my friend Aim, the most reserved of my comrades, had some feisty, uncharacteristic comments.

That little minx.

So what makes the desirable Theo James desirable? Well, Auntie Catherine is here to break it down for you.

Let’s start with the face, shall we. He has one, a nice one. And it’s the perfect mix between rugged manly man and pretty boy.

Jawline? Manly

Cheekbones that might be the offspring of Benedict Cumberbatch’s? Pretty boy

Every present, five o’clock scruff? Manly

The most perfect set of teeth and lips which creates the most beautiful smile? Pretty boy

The hair? A mixture of both- a perfect combination of thick brunette style so effortlessly perfect

Combine these gorgeous attributes with a pairs of smoldering brown eye and a perfect nose and you get this:

This boy…man…has is ALL!

Now, the voice. If you think that a man’s voice in no way contributes to his overall attractiveness, then obviously you’ve never heard Hugh Jackman speak (or sing) or (again I have to mention) Benedict Cumberbatch.

Theo had such manly voice (see link below) and, though not present in Divergent, he is British which means that he also has an accent. (again see link below) 

He could sell a car to an Amish elder.

 Can I get an Amen?

The body. I feel like I’m just wasting my breath discussing his body. Yep, it’s perfect; rock hard abs, biceps as big as my head, suspected muscular thighs. But he isn’t ginormous like the Rock or perfectly leaned and tone like Andrew Garfield. He’s, as the old tale goes, just right. Here a gif of him shirtless- because I’m a giving soul.

I feel like I have to mention his tattoos from Divergent here too. I am not opposed to dating a man with a tattoo or two. I've never dated a man with one, but that’s because the majority of my boyfriends happened in high-school and they weren’t old enough to get one. But the thing about tattoos in regards to attractiveness is that they have not be stupid or obnoxious (like that)  and well placed. They nailed (or needled) it on the head with is. Though there were a lot, they were simple, black and placed on his back. Good job Divergent. (I do know that they design, placement and color were probably indicated in the book and only followed by the producers of the movie, so well done Divergent author as well)

I know nothing of his personality. Is he the complete gentlemen that Tom Hiddleston and bring tea and soup to waiting reporter? Don’t know, though his English upbringing might be an indication that he is. Is he a closet nerd like Henry Cavil who almost missed his role for Superman because he was playing World of Warcraft (I do love a hot nerd) or Andrew Garfield who’s always wanted to be Spiderman. Does he spend his time surfing like Liam Hemsworth? Or playing with his dog like Kellan? Is he a big flirt like Chace Crawford or Leonardo Dicaprio? (Theo and Leo do rhyme)  Can he sing like mi amor, Ben Barnes.  Or does he just take naked selfies like James Franco and hit on underage girls. (Seriously, James, we need to have an intervention) I don’t know, but I’m sure we are going to be seeing a lot more of this British hunk in the upcoming years- at least until they finish Allegiant II. Right Theo? 

Of course I will, Theo. 

So, happy Sunday everyone. Enjoy living life and looking at hot guys!

Love you bunches and see you on Tuesday!

XX Catherine 

My love affair with Harry Potter:

I honestly can't remember them moment I heard about Harry Potter. If I had to guess, it was probably because of the big hype that was surrounding it in the south where I live. There was a group rallying for it to be taken out of school libraries and other places like that since it promoted witch craft and was, therefore, an abomination. My dad,a Christian preacher, even preached a lesson about it around this same time. In my pre-teen year old state- when I had the attention span of a fruit fly- I highly misinterpreted his message. I thought he was saying that we shouldn't read books like that. So, color me confused when he brought home the first movie- on VHS- on day that summer. 

"So, we can watch this?" the eleven year old me asked, probably examining the rectangular box on a boy on a broom stick and some very, hairy man.

"Yes, did you not listen to my lesson at all?" I was caught.

"I thought you said these were bad."

I sure he probably rolled his eyes at me at this point- that sounds like him.

"No, you can."

That night, my family had a movie night and I was introduced to the magical world of Harry Potter. I think, back in those days, we had the movie for a week. And I watched it every single day. I was in love, I was obsessed. (Though probably not as bad as the A Knight's Tale VHS rental of 2002- but that's a different story) I remember even staying behind one night while my entire family went to my little brother's baseball game so that I could sit in my bed and watch it again, with a bowl of white rice. I was sad to see it turned in, but happy to know that the next one was coming out that fall! 

However, though I loved the movie and was excited about the next one- I didn't want to read the books. They were too long and I, in my infinite 13 year old snobbdom, didn't want to look like a nerd reading nerdy books...because that's nerdish. Also, I didn't like reading in my spare time. There were backstreet boys CDs to listen to and Lizzis McGuire episodes to watch. 

So I threw Harry and it world into the back of my mind until November. November 22, 2002- if I remember the day correctly. No matter what date it was, I remember that it was a Sunday and my friend L asked me if I wanted to go see the new Harry Potter movie with her after church. Though I'm sure I played it off really cool, inwardly I was ecstatic! After church, we headed to the nearest movie theater, which was 20 miles away and they were sold out. I was disappointed! Luckily, her parents, who just happen to be some of my parents best friends at the time, were quick on their feet and bought tickets for that night's showing. We headed back home, went to church then jumped in the car immediately afterwards to head back to the movies. 

I remember sitting in the theater with my friend L besides, munching on popcorn and drinking probably Dr. Pepper out of my large, Harry Potter promotional plastic cup and watching one of the greatest movies of my life. I don't think I had ever been drawn so much. I watched a boy, young boy, a boy that was my age, endure so much including risking his own well being in a slithering sanctuary of evil for his best friends little sister. Then, on top of that, he gets stabbed with a basilisk fang while trying to slay the terrible beast.(For those of you who don't know, basilisk venom is very poisonous and will kill you within minutes) As I watch the young, too young, hero die, I began to cry. It didn't matter to me that somewhere, in the back on my brain, I knew that there were going to be 7 books and, therefore, they couldn't kill off their main character. All I knew in that moment was that a boy my age was dying, he was so brave, but he was dying. I don't think I could ever fully describe what I felt at the moment, maybe enough words haven't been invented, but the heartbreaking scene was my entrance into the world I have come to know and love. 

The next day, I checked out the first book from the school library. 

Do you remember those accelerated reading test you could take at the school library to get points...well, not to brag, but I got the most points that year in my grade. Within a month, I blew through all of the available Harry Potter books (there were only 4 at the time) and left hungry for more. The next book wasn't coming out until my birthday (holla) so I started picking up other books that seemed interesting. You see, Harry Potter started my reading obsession. If it wasn't for that little book series, I wouldn't have the 30ish books I have stashed under my bed, night stand and closet or the boxes of books I have at my old house in storage plus the Word files I have on my computer filled with my favorite fanfiction. (Oh fanfiction, how I love you.) 

And it wasn't enough for my to just read. I wanted to write. Ever since I was young, I would make my storied in my head- all involving a white horse name Rose- but I would never write them down. My freshman year of high school, one of my friends introduced me to fan fiction and, by my junior year- I had began writing one. Now, as of this date- I have started three and only finished one. Bad, I know, but I've moved on to bigger and better things- a book of my own, completely original (except for the ancient legends that surround the premise and plot) Any free moment I have from making thousands of flash cards and writing chemical equations, I'm writing it. In fact, as this very moment it is open on my desk top waiting for me to finish the 12th chapter. 

I say all of that to say this- Harry Potter changed my life in more ways than one. I read now because of it. I write now because of it. I have a Quaffle in my closet because of it. I can't believe now that I used to think it was nerdy and just for nerds. I am now PROUDLY one of those nerdy nerds because it has made me be the person I was, but too afraid to show. (I've always been a little nerd, I just tried to fight against it to be cool)

Now, here comes the hard part. I could sit here all day and tell you how Harry Potter has changed my life, but it doesn't scratch the surface of the real impact it has had on me. I have said it so many times before, and this won't be the last, but I have a very strong emotional connection with Harry Potter. I will never forget July 16th, 2007- the day the last book came out. Of course, I was there at midnight, dressed to the nines at Ginny Weasley. (my favorite character. She had to put up with 6 brothers and was the girl you shouldnt' mess with- my hero) You could literally feel the excitement pulsing through library. Everyone, from Snape to Umbridge to Cho to Harry flying Buckbeak was there, all chatting away happily about the ten year ere of magic ending that night with the final chapters. And I was the saddest one in the crowd. I wanted the book more than anything, but I didn't want the magic to end. The previous five years of my life had been full of magic and wonder. The characters were my friends, I loved them all. And their fates were going to be determined in a cover bound book. What if Ginny or Hermione or Ron or, dare I not think it, Harry died? How would I pull myself up from that emotional turmoil. 

Yes, I know that they are "just characters" and "aren't real", but there's something about have an emotional investment in a book, that they are real to you. My family thinks I'm insane, I'm sure. I remember the night I read that Dumbledore had died (also known as the day the book came out, I read it in a day). I walked into my parents room sobbing. My mom, being the loving and caring mother that she is, inquired as to why I was blubbering like a baby.

"He's dead, Dumbledore is dead." I wailed. 

"He's not real, they are just books." So much for caring. 

Yes, he's not real and they are just books, but it was so much more than that. I loved him and I knew that his death was going to have serious impact on Harry's fate in the next one, especially since Dumbledore was the one who really knew what all was going on.

Dumbledore wasn't the only death that brought me to tears. I won't ever mention Dobby's death here. The music score from part 1 alone can reduce me to tears.   

But back to the night of the last book release. I was sick in my stomach, waiting for the clock to strike midnight and to be handed my copy of their fate. I had to wait in a line that wrapped around the whole library and I was at the front with all of the others who had reserved copies- thanks to my mom for surprising me and reserving me a special edition copy. The whole time, I didn't speak. Instead I clutched my other purchases for the evening and tried to mental prepare myself for what I was about to receive. Luckily my best friends, K and Lee were there to try to cheer me up. K who was the only one in the reserved line with me, kept her arm around me the whole time and kept offering tiny words of encouragement. If any moment solidified K and my relationship as bestest of all best friends- it was that moment. She knew how I was feeling. As I got closer and closer to the end, the tears began to well up in my eyes. My "childhood" was coming to an end. I was 18, starting college in the fall, and my favorite books series was ending- how poetic. 

By fate or luck, the guy who checked me out was dressed as Harry. As he handed me my book, my very special book, the tears began to drip down my face. I was trying to hold them back through the whole check out process, but my eyes were like dams about to break. And they did, as soon as transactions ended. 

K was right behind me and, through great efficiency on Barnes and Noble's part, so were the other member of my party. I was a sobbing mess by the parking lot. K put her around around me and talked to me, all which is caught on film. (Thanks Laura) We were able to snap one quick picture of us all smiling, holding our books up high, before we all scattered to our respective homes. 

The pages of that book at spotted with the tears I cried while reading it. I still have an attachment to it. Only two people have touched it since I bought it, my older brother who took when I got home to read the ending and me.I have only read it a few times since then, and only as part of my pre-movie book reading agenda. For some reason, I can bring myself to read it more that necessary.   

There were only three movies left when the final book came out, but they seemed to go by so fast. Each movie earned its own party thrown at my house (with the wonderful cooperation of my parents). The last was by far the best. Just think Gatsby Harry Potter themed party. Okay, maybe not that glamorous, but you get my drift. I spent a ridiculous amount of time making decorations- including my favorite, a furry Monster Book of Monsters- and even more than I want to admit on food. But I was my last sha-bang! 

I cried the whole movie- even at parts that weren't sad. But, as the ere grew to a close with the sweet notes of John William's "Hedwig's Theme" playing, the tears were happy. It ended like it was always supposed to- with magic. 

It's been months since I've watched any of the movies and years since I've read the books, I can't really bring myself to do it. It's odd. They are something that I love so much, that I am incredibly passionate about, but entering into that world again need emotional preparation on my part. So, I keep them safe for now in hopes of one day sharing their magic with my sister and my own children. 

In the end, it's really simple. I love Harry Potter. I have read 4195 pages of love, friendship and sacrifice. I have made friends with Harry, Ron and Hermione. I have mourn the deaths of Cedric, Sirius, Dumbledore, Hedwig, Mad-Eye, Dobby, Fred, Remus, Tonks and Harry himself. And at the end of it all, all I can say it "All was well". 

Fangirling: I think I'm Doing it Wrong

In case you haven't noticed yet, I am a semi-professional fangirl. I'm only semi-professional because I am also a college student and teachers feel like my time is better spent reading boring textbooks than cyberstalking my favorite celebrities to find their favorite flavor of ice cream. Go figure. 
Now, the basic timeline of a fan girl is as follows:
First, the discovery- The fangirl (me) discovers a new television show/ movie/ book series/ actor and looks them up using whatever search engine she (me) deems useful.
Second,  the first exposure- After the discovery, the fangirl either watches a few episodes, movies, YouTube videos (containing the new actor) in fair moderation, slowly edging into the complex world of the fandom. It's like getting into a cold swimming pool, you slowly get in and get used to the crazy, I mean water.  
Thrid, the obsession- Through a climatic turn of events, every waking moment is suddenly spend reading or watching about the new obsession. This is the driving force that challenges you to walk all three seasons in two days. If you run out of things to watch, that's okay- there is always YouTube and fan made videos to fuel your desire. But you don't stop there. You constantly try to insert your new obsession into day to day conversations. Sometimes it works. Other times, they stare at you like you have a second head. But you don't care, you are blissfully in love with such and such and can't see their looks of confusion and concern. 
Fourth, the lifestyle- Your fangirling obsession becomes part of you life. Your parents may learn the name of your new actor obsession since you keep talking about the obsessively like you actually know them. (I'll admit that both my mother and little sister know that when I say Ben I mean Ben Barnes) This stage gets quite confusing when you become obsessed with a show like Doctor Who and you have to deal with the 9th, 10th and 11th Doctor who are the same character but each contain a different personality and are played by a different actor who you each love differently. You obsession is intergrated into the world of your other obsessions, each having their own place in your mixed up world of fangirling. 
Fifth, the come down- After an extent time in the lifestyle phase, you slowly start backing off your obsession- spending less time watching videos or reading Wikipedia entries and Fanfiction. You never stop loving your new obsession, but life does get in the way and you sometimes can't devote the time you want to your new love. 
Sixth and finally, the relapse- Every so often, you will fall back into the obsessive fan girl stages of two and three, like you are rediscovering them for the first time all over again. This usually occurs before season premieres and movie/book releases or news about your actor. Relapses are completely normal.

Now, why am I telling you the different phases of fangirling? Well, it's because I have a new fangirl obsession that is completely unorthodox....baseball. Yes, I, Catherine, Queen of the Fangirls, love baseball. 

Who doesn't like baseball pants?

In all fairness, I didn't just discover baseball. In fact, I have like it for many years, I grew up a Braves fan, but I never had the desire to curl up on a couch and watch a game. Instead, my baseball viewing was limited to my little brothers varsity games-he graduated high school 4 years ago- and a few live Braves games. That's it. But, that all changed a few weeks ago. *Cue dramatic lightening*
I was a usually sunny afternoon in July. I was upstairs studying when suddenly a thirst of immeasurable proportions engulfed my throat. Unable to stand it, I vacated my solitude of study in search for a glass of cool, refreshing water to ease my suffering. As I passed through the living room....I saw him. He was standing on first base, adjusting his batting gloves, trying to catch his breath. He had just hit his first major league hit, but you would have never known it- his face gave away nothing of happiness or pride, just undeniable handsomeness.
He was the cutest baseball player I had ever seen, despite the fact that I couldn't see his hair. My initial quest slipped my mind, my thoughts were only filled with the cute baseball player on first. I stood there, mouth open, trying to catch his name. I caught an inkling of one, the gist of his first and last, but my ears hear it wrong with my mind focused on him. 
Determined to play it cool, I got my glass of water but lingered a little longer than usual on my journey back through the living room hoping to catch another glance of the baseball boy who took my breath away. My glance was met with disappointment, disappointment and a commercial- probably the one for the pocket hose. 
I all freventness, I google his supposed name. But I was met with an unanswered inquiry and and a heavy heart. I turned back to my books, never forgetting the cute boy on first. 
Two days later, I did something I had never done before- I turned on the Braves game. I grabbed the remote and pushed the channel up button to a place I had never ventured before, passed the style and and E! network to the thousand and one sports channels my cable provider thinks we should have. I went back to the activity at hand, making dinner, but I kept listening for the beautiful boys name. I caught a few plays between chopping and shucking, enough to surprise my little brother and father with a play by play when they got home. After dinner, I even sat down to watch the rest of the game and , finally, I caught his name. It was like music to my ears and I couldn't wait to sneak away upstairs to google his name in true fangirl fashion. When I did finally sneak away, nothing sweeter than typing his name into a google search bar, though I probably spelled it wrong, and hitting send. There is was, the baseball player who had plagued my mind layed out to me in cyber form. I knew his stats, his college and his batting average all accompanied with a picture in a simply click. I also found his ice-breaking music video that left me and my brother laughing. Ah, I was enamored. 
The next day, my family left for vacation and I started DVRing baseball games to fast forward later for glimpses of the baseball player. Night after night, I taped baseball games and read complicated stats online- first of him but soon other players. I learned their names, numbers and positions, picking out my favorites not based on looks but on talent. 
A few days later I had to join my family on vacation, but my fangirling had to be fed somehow. So I finally began using my Sportscenter app, giving my Dad and brother game play by plays in the middle of Walt Disney World and draining my battery in the process. My littler brother, who found this all humorously endearing, didn't mind answering my questions with a knowing smirk, no doubt happy to be sharing one of his loves with his passionate sister. He taught me what a balk was at dinner and discussed the Nationals with me in line. For a mindless vacation, I learned a lot. 
When the baseball player got optioned tot he minors, I downloaded the minor league app to follow him. Now, two apps occupied my time in lines and deplete my battery. And I decided that I had to go to a game, quickly employing my best friend and partner in fangirl crime to accompany me. 
When I got home and he got called back up, the taping began again but, this time, I watched the whole game. Game after game I watched, not just to see the baseball player, but to watch the group of talented, athletic men play a sport that I had rediscovered my appreciation of. Even tonight I interrupted this post to spend three hours curled up in the couch watching the Braves beat the Mets. This passed weekend, I attended my first major league game since high school and had an amazing time despite the fact that my baseball player wasn't there. I was on a fan girl high, pure excitement to see the team I had come to love play and win! 
I was, I am a fan and, most importantly, I'm a fangirl. I only wish I had discovered this love earlier in the season so that I could have may more games, but I will take advantage of the time in the season and post season that I have left and make more trips to Atlanta, where the players play. Maybe I'll even run into my baseball player and hopefully I won't fangirl all over him because that's not attractive, no siree. But who cares either way, I'm going to another game! 

Though, I really do want to see him- he's so CUTE!

Well, there's my latest fangirl obsession. It's strange, but I don't care- I love it. And, hey, it's probably healthier than most obsessions...it encourages me to go outside, sorta. 

I hope you enjoyed this and found it as fun and entertaining as I had writing it. If you have any suggestions for future post, leave them below! 

*Catherine Note* The baseball player's name was specifically left out in case said baseball player ever finds this then maybe he won't think I'm crazy...okay, maybe a little crazy but in a cute, adorable Zooey Deschanel way.

All my love and play ball-
Catherine XX

*Another unrelated note* For those who read and even enjoyed my Ben Barnes post a few weeks ago, have I got a treat for you. I have discovered another song sung by the gorgeous Ben that might seriously have you in tears from its beauty. Seriously, this is the most beautiful song ever- beautiful enough to make stone cherubims come to life and cry because they will never be this beautiful. It just won't happen. Nope.

Seriously, the only way this could be better is if he was singing it to you in person.

When in doubt....Ben Barnes.

Second blog post this week, I feel like maybe I should get a medal or cookie or something like that. Tonight's blog post is going to be different from all the previous ones, or at least I think so- it's not going to be on dating or weight loss or girl power but, about a boy.

Who is this boy that, I feel, deserves a whole blog post on unto himself. Well, ladies and gentlemen, it's a little man named Ben Barnes. 

Ah, Ben Barnes, just the name itself gets me excited. Now, if you have been with my blog from the first post, then you remember this glorious name. If you have never heard of Ben Barnes then, a) I feel sorry for you and b) Don't worry, Auntie Catherine is about to enlighten you. Yay for you!!

Now, as this is America, I can not force you to love Ben Barnes as I do, but I will share as to why I love him and maybe you will love him too. If you don't, it's okay because that will just leave more for me.

Okay, first things first, here in a picture of the man in question. Benjamin Thomas Barnes- first off,  great name- first entered my life in the fall of 2007. Me and two of my best friends when to see the movie Starlight in which Ben is the main object of the first 5-10 minutes. Being the big nerds that we are, Katie and I recognized his face as being the star of the next Chronicles of Narnia film "Prince Caspian" so we spent the first 10 minutes frantically whispering back and forth like proper fan girls and probably earning some harsh looks. It's safe to say that our obsession of this British man gem began that night when we realized how good looking he was. I mean, look at that face up there ^.

For the sake of this blog, I have composed a list, along with the help of my little sister, of the attributes of one Benjamin Barnes and why we love him. 

The Shining Attribute of Benjamin Barnes

as complied by Catherine and Molly:

1.) The face. For years, ancient sculptors and painters have tried to capture the angelic face of man in classic works like David and The Thinker. Look no further, Michelangelo, that angelic face is the face of Ben Barnes. From the sparkling brown eyes to the regal nose to the most perfect smile- he has it all. The fact that two cells combined in such a perfect way so that their combine DNA could produce the creature above baffles my mind. For good measure, here is another picture- and get use to them, it won't be the last. 

Who could resist this face?

2.) He's versatile. In my 24 years I have walked on this earth, I have never seen a man able to pull off more facial and head hair looks than this man. Short hair and no facial hair- hot. Short hair and facial hair- hot. Long hair and not facial hair- hot. Long hair and facial hair- hot. This is not true of all men. Guys who look good with short hair usually look homeless with long hair and guys who look good with long hair usually look like a prepubesant 7th grader with short hair. It's a basic fact of life. (Facts of Life- great show) Ben Barnes has basically surpassed all of these social norms by always looking amazing not matter which way the hair is growing on his head. Now, for examples.

   Do you see what I mean? Versatile!

*Catherine's Note* : Despite his Achilles/ Herculean appearance at all facets of hair, he can not pull off just a moustache without looking a little creepy. This, however, is true of ALL men under the rip age of 45- but he looks a lot less like a pervert than them. 

*Another note* There are no images on Google of Ben with a moustache like in the movie The Words so you will either just have to take my word or watch the movie for yourself. 

*Another another note* I only looked at the first page because I'm lazy and it's late.

3.) I don't think that he ages, I really mean that. Tuesday was this gorgeous boys birthday and how old do you think he turned. 27? False, he turned a beautiful 32. I can see your face now, you probably look like Macaulay Culkin in Home Alone in the bathroom scene with disbelief. (That's oddly specific but, hey, it works) Yes, he turned 32 which raises a few questions. A few years ago, Benny Boo did a little movie called Dorian Gray where he played the title character. Now, in the unlikely event that you no nothing about the synopsis of Dorian Gray, I will give you the Catherine's Notes version. Dorian Gray is a beautiful, vain man who basically sells his soul for eternal youth. As he becomes more corrupt and evil in this world, his beautiful portrait decays and corrodes, truly depicting his inner man. Spoiler alert, he eventually destroys his picture which kills him and restores his portrait to it original, unblemished state. 

I beginning to think that this story is true and that Ben Barnes sold his soul for eternal youth  because I don't look that good and I'm only 24. Either that, or he found the fountain of youth.

4.) He's British. I don't know what it is, but a British accent on a man immediately increases his attractiveness by 26.3%- yes, I did the math. Now, this also applies to Australian's but there are far less known Australian men than British men so, the British accent wins by default. I wish I knew why this magical spell of the British accent has so much lure over us. Is it because we think they are automatically gentlemen because they talk like James Bond? I don't know. Is it because they, according to social convention, sound smarter? Again, I don't know. The world may never understand the British accent but, until then, we American women will have to fight the urge to not grab every British boy we meet and kiss his cheeky cheeks. 

5.) He's not only an actor, but he's a good actor. That's probably why you haven't heard of him before today, he actually has talent and we can't have that in our major motion pictures- no sirree. He spent to first few years of his career performing on West End. West End! For those Anglo-illiterate out there, West End is London's version of Broadway. Now, you've got to have talent to work on West End because you don't have multiple takes to get it right. I don't understand why his movie career hasn't boomed off the charts yet. He's brilliant in whatever he's in and with a face like his, he should be packing the theater with women folk. So, Hollywood, get on that. And check out the trailer for his upcoming movie Seventh Son. 

6.) He can sing. And I don't mean you average, Disney channel "actor" turned "singer" sing. I mean, HE. CAN. SING. Like an angel that fell from heaven and has decided to share his magical song with the world. He grew up doing musical theater and in 2004 perform with a boy band on a popular European show representing Britain. Unfortunately, they didn't win with their song "Leading Me On", which I will link to below, but that hasn't stopped him. As of today, he has sung for two different soundtracks: Easy Virtue, which features 30's style Big Band/ jazz, and Killing Bono, which is basically 80's pop/rock. 

Leading Me On- Hyrise. Warning: This video contain cliche boy band dancing and early 2000's clothes. Viewer discretion is advised.

7.) He's Ben Barnes. Part of a professional fan girls job is the research her featured celebrity to the point of stalking. From all that I've seen and read, he seems like a great guy. Sometimes, you project these ideas of how you think the guy really is and then they come up quite short, shattering you paper mache heart shaped hopes and dreams in their wake. But I don't think he's like that. From what I have gathered from my fan girl research, he seems like he would be the type of guy that would joke around and be silly with you then end the night cuddling on the couch watching the Princess Bride or Star Wars. I don't know about you, but that sounds like fan girl heaven to me. 

So, here you have it, these are the reason why I love good ole

 Benny Boo. If you love him now too, great! If not...well, we don't need you anyway. 

I can't make any promises, but I'm going to try to blog again Saturday and I hope to see some of you there. 

Love to all- except the none Ben Barnes lovers, we don't need thei

negativity here-
Catherine

*Another Catherine Note*: The title comes from a little phrase/motto between myself and my best friend Katie. It means nothing really and I can't remember how or when it came to be, but when in doubt, Ben Barnes. 

*And Another*: This post is purely for entertainment and giggles. I am not a paid Ben Barnes' spokeswomen or PR representative though I think he should hire me because I feel like I did a FANTASTIC job.

*Last one, I promise*: Ben, if you are reading this, I promise I an not insane, just and admirer so, call me ;)