I know that this may come as a shock to you but yes, I participate in online dating. Really, I just have a online dating account. My extent of online dating is to have random guys tell me that I'm pretty. Shallow? Yes. Do I care? No! Sometimes a girl needs a pick me up. And since the last time a guy told me I was pretty in real life I was in highschool, this seemed like a good option. I really have no desire to date any of the guy on the dating website because A) because I've seen too many E! shows that begin with online dating and end with someone dead and B) there is NO ONE worth dating on these sites. That is was brings us to this post. In my 8 months of having a online dating account, I have noticed that the men that cyberly approach me can be categorized in 9 categories. What do I do with this knowledge, share it with you of course! 

The 9 Guys You Meet Online Dating:

1. The "Hey girl" guys.That's all they write in any message to you- "hey girl." Of course, there are variations to this message that can range from "hi" to "hey" to my personal favorite "heyy gurl". Like, what are you a fierce drag queen? And what's with the two Ys on the hey? Do you think that the the presence of the extra y is going to get you a date with me?  Like I'm sitting at home on my computer going "mhmm he doubled the y, I got to get me some of that!" Um, that would be a nope. You want to know how to get any RESPECTABLE girl- learn how to spell. It's not that hard, most computer have this little thing called auto correct so use it and don't abuse it- the English language that is. 

2. The visual lovers. These are they guys they only go as far as your profile picture before sending a message. They never read anything about you, such as your interest or likes or that you don't drink, but invite you out for one anyway. You wonder, even if it's for a minute, if they are illiterate due to their lack of interest in my interest. I understand that physical appearance DOES factor into dating and that anyone that says otherwise it lying to themselves and others, but it's only a part of dating.Dating is like a book- the cover might draw you in but the writing is what keeps you there! Well it should...unless it's a picture book. So, David, what do we think about these guys?  

 3. The body shot guys. Nothing say romance like a gym selfie of you delts. It might be a little unfair but I automatically put all of these guys into a category labelled "Don't Go There Ever Ever Ever." I mean, maybe I would date you if I wanted to spend a whole date talking about the pros and cons of whey protein after lifting and whether or not your pecs are defined enough or if I wanted to watch you flex in front of every reflective surface you come in contact with. Yep, that's the way to get a girl.Now, disclaimer, these are not the guys that go to the gym. I like going to the gym as well as guys that go to the gym. These are the guys are usually so self absorbed because they have a hot body and aware that they are "hot" which eventually drives all women that come in contact with them away from them...far away. (Which is probably why they have ended up on a online dating website) So I raise my Bojangles cup to you body guy shot. I hope that the hours of developing your body and ignoring your drowning personality will gain you a girl some day. 

4. The Hugh Hefners. Any and all dating websites you sign up on will always ask you your age. Wanna know why? Because people usually date other people around there age. And yet, for some reason, some guy old enough to be your dad will message you. I mean, old guys need love too but so do old women. Have you not seen the commercials for It's Our Time (.com)? There is a dating website for you and your contemporaries where y'all can talk about the moon landing and the Flower Power movement. So, please go stalk them instead of messaging me 6 times. That way, when you are on you date talking about when the Beatles toured America, you can talk to someone who was also alive during that time. 

This could be you!

5. The Super Creeps.The super creeps are a mysterious breed of online daters- like the Trojan horses of men. They seem like harmless, genuine guys but mark my words- these are the guys that make a skin suit of your flesh. You may thing that I'm joking but I'm not. I have only come in contact with this type of guy a few times, with one being most prevalent. This guy told me wrote a page and a half about how I was an angel who fell from heaven to grace the mere mortals with my heavenly face- pretty much everything short of confessing his undying love to me. At first it seemed sweet but after sharing it was my girlfriends it was clear that this guy wasn't romantic- he was a psycho. Seriously, if I had gone on a date with him, I probably would have been found in a ditch missing my lips and hair. Side note- I did see him at school once and though there were witnesses around, I hid my face. I like my lips and hair too much. 

6. The Basement Dwellers. These guys may or may not live in their mother's basement and may or may not have a form of employment. But one this is for sure- they understand any geeky reference you could whip out. They spend most of their time reading Battlestar Galatica fanfiction and Dungeons and Dragons forums and can name all of the Houses of Westeros. Are these bad attributes? No necessarily. In fact, I personally love geeky guys- see Henry Cavill and World of Warcraft. But these guys are typically the kind that rather live their life on the web and not in the presence where we live.That's why online dating probably appeals to them- they can do it online. They just need to surface from their Fortress' of Geeky Solitude once in a while to meet the sun. Please.Oh and eat and apple or something. 

 

7. The Deceivers.The unfortunate truth about the internet is that everyone can be who they want- and it's twice so for online dating. The first thing you see about anyone on a dating website is their picture. So, you obviously want you profile pic to look good. Unfortunately, some guys (and girls) have taken that to a whole new level. They post these unbelievable attractive pictures of them self that makes you click on them, only to reveal the truth-that they look NOTHING like that. Imagine seeing a trailer with Channing Tatum and then going to the movie and Channing Tatum is not in it, but Adam Sandler is. You see my disappointment. I know that looks aren't everything but don't post a photoshopped, filtered picture of you in high school as you profile pic. Not cool. Then there are the ultimate deceivers who must think that every girl on said dating website is an idiot and post a picture of a male celebrity as his profile pic. I came in contact once with a guy who have Chris Hemsworth picture as his profile pic- with Just Jared watermark and all. Being the girl that I am, I called him out. #TrueStory

Profile Pic vs. Reality

8. The Genuine Guys. Yes, they do exist in online dating but are like the proverbial needle in a haystack. To get to these guys you have to sort through men upon men, like a sale bin in Victoria's Secret. These guys have well thought out profiles which include certain unseen dating profile luxuries such as punctuation and capitalization. When they contact you, they focus more on your personality and likes and ask you real questions. These guys do not start by asking for you number or for you to go hangout because they want to get to know you and a person before meeting up in real life. They want to get to know you as you are. Good job guys. 

Dylan O'Brien- because I can

9. The Pervs.These guys are the underbellies of online dating society. They scurry around like cyber rats looking for their next victim to scar. The online dating life is usually very short because they are report so often to the website that they are kicked off. Sometimes these guys will just annoy you and ask things like "Heyy gurl, you wanna hook up later" but sometimes they take this one step further and send an explicit picture of themselves that makes you want to hurl and afraid to close you eyes. Avoid these guys like a plague and be wary opening any messages- a little tip from me to you.

Poor bunny- some things can not be unseen

As you can see, there are all sorts of guys on online dating sites. Some want to bench press you, some want to strip you of your skin and then there are some who want to flash you. Just be careful and safe and it you can find someone worth dating, hold onto them like a dress at a Barney's sample sale. 

XX -but not in a creepy, psycho way

Catherine 

Today is May the fourth, otherwise known as Star Wars Day! In case you don’t already know, I am a HUGE Star Wars fan! Like Jabba that Hutt huge. (For all of you non-Star Warsy peeps, that’s the huge slug thing most often seen accompanied by Carrie Fisher in a metal bikini) So, due to the celebratory nature of the day, I feel compelled to write a Star Wars theme post and since I am me, it can only be centered around one thing:

                The Hotties of Star Wars.

Yes, this franchise contains some very physically and characteristically appealing characters. So, here is my countdown of the hottest characters of Star Wars (Episodes 1-6 only, of course)

5. Young Obi-Wan Kenobi: Ewan McGregor. The singing poet from Moulin Rouge is number five on the sexy list. For all of you who don’t know, Ewan plays young Obi-Wan Kenobi in the later made Episodes 1-3. And boy does he. The young Jedi knight trains Anakin Skywalker like he trains our hearts. And, though sometime Obi can be Obibearing (haha get it? Like overbearing but with Obi) we all know it was in hopes of keeping Anakin on the side of the light. Of course, it could probably be argued that this nature is what drove Anakin to the dark side,  but that is neither here nor there in account to his looks. In any case, the gorgeous Ewan made many a girl swoon and hope for private Jedi lessons with this master. Or only misfortune? That he wasn't the singing Jedi master. 

4. Lando Calrissian: Billy Dee Williams. He made be a bit of a scum bag, but we still love him. Lando Calrissian is the Baron Administrator (think like governor/mayor) of Cloud City and first introduced in Empire Strikes Back. His charming nature and powder blue suit charmed many a moviegoer back in the 80s. In fact, four years ago when I attend Star Wars Weekend at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, my own mother yelled “Looking good Billy Dee” to him as he rode passed us in a parade. I nearly died of embarrassment but I can’t deny, in the words of Kingsley Shacklebolt, Billy Dee’s “got style”.  Lando is one of those characters that we all love, then hate, then love again (like Captain Jack Sparrow) but at the end of the rebellion, we know he’s fighting for the light. So Lando, if you are ever in need, I’m sure I can find a few girls who will live with you among the clouds.

Dashing in a cape. Looking good Billy Dee.

3. Anakin Skywalker- Hayden Christenson. Many Star Wars fans have mixed feelings about George Lucas’ choice for the young future sith lord. But there’s one this that you can’t deny- he’s hot. From those gorgeous blue eyes to that seductive smirk, we all knew that we wanted to be his Padmè. Don’t deny it, you know you wanted it too. Even with the unattractive mullet haircut and padawan braid, flocks of teenage girls flocked to the theater to watch the little cutie. Of course, Anakin did turn out to have a bit of an anger problem, but many of us in love with him just wrote it off that he was passionate and fell more in love. Unfortunately, at the end of his time in the Star Wars universe, he was leg less, arm less, hair less and hope less and his women followers mourned for our fallen hottie. But never fear, he (in his entirety) makes his final appearance in the recently update Return of the Jedi where his smiles with alongside Obi and Yoda as one of the light.  Anakin says that a Jedi is encouraged to love and with a face like his, I’m encouraged to love too.

He warned you not to underestimate his power, and don’t underestimate his hotness either.

That SMILE! 

2. Luke Skywalker- Mark Hamill. He’s a Jedi, just like his father before him and a hottie also. The pivot character in the whole Star Wars franchise is, of course, on this list. Those charming good looks, feathered out blonde hair and moisture framer charm charms the ladies from here to Hoth. No wonder his sister kissed him. Luke Skywalker was my first ever character crush. I had it so bad for him that I scratched out Leia’s face on the back of our Empire Strikes Back VHS (yes, I said VHS) with a pen because I was insanely jealous that she got to kiss him and not me. Unfortunately, between the filming of A New Hope and Empire Strike Back, he was in a car accident that affected his innocent, boyish looks and made him actually look darker. But, despite the accident, he was still quite a babe in the final two installments of the original triology- especially when he was being trained by Yoda- hellloooo Dagoba.

And the number one Star Wars hottie is…..

1. Han Solo- Harrison Ford. Have you seen Harrison Ford? Have you seen him in Star Wars? Thought I was originally not attracted to him that much in my young years, with age came my mature appreciate in men and can I just say, he is a FOX! That smirk, those eyes, that chocolate brown hair, those smooth moves and, last but not least, the outfit with the vest and blaster holster- he’s hotter that Alderaan when it gets blown up. (Too soon?) Yes, he’s a cocky scoundrel, but you want him to be your cocky scoundrel. For real. He’s the only guy who could ever reply to a declaration of love with “I know” and totally get away with it. Most guys would probably get slapped, he makes you swoon. He’s the quintessential bad guy turn good guy that all girls want. AND he’s played by the sexy Harrison Ford who also portrays the history loving hottie, Indiana Jones. We might all happen to like nice me, buts it’s Han that we all want.

Now I can’t write a post on the hotties of Star Wars without mentioning the beautiful women of the legendary franchise.

First up, there’s Natalie Portman who plays Padmè Amidala. Though she was often seen with odd makeup and hair, there is no denying that she was a true beauty. Don’t believe me, just watch the wedding seen from Attack of the Clones. I just hope I look that beautiful on my wedding day.

The true woman winner has to be Carrie Fisher as the awesomely amazing Princess Leia. Her white dress and side buns might be iconic, but that is not all that the princess has to offer. She also rocks some amazing braided hairstyles and empire fighting outfits that put many to shame. Strong, stubborn and in love with a scoundrel, she’s one of my favorite princesses (second only to Princess Aurora). She’s not afraid of fighting for a cause and can rock a metal bikini like no other- Princess Leia, I tip my metaphorical hat off to you.

Princess with a blaster gun- that's the type of Princess I want to be!

Now there are some cuties of Star Wars that have to be mentioned as well.

C3PO- the proper droid who could have been a butler in a pass life. He’s always worried, but no matter, we love him anyway.

Chewbacca- Chewy!!! Where would we be without Chewy? Dead…we would be dead.

R2D2- the little droid who could. Even his beeping form of communication is ADORABLE. And he saves their butts more times than you realize.

Yoda- The little green alien who’s older, wiser and more deadly with a lightsaber that any other character but who you kinda want to hug, just once.

The Ewoks- If you don’t love the Ewoks, you are wrong.

So, that wraps up the Hotties of Star Wars tour. Happy Star Wars Day and May the Fourth be with you…always. 

"So Catherine,  you've graduate college- What are you going to do next?" 

I have been asked this question countless times since my matriculation last Saturday. I am now a college graduate with a B.S. in Biology. Yeah, it only took a 7 years but I will unveil the tragic time of transferring later. For now, I'll stick with the present. I have a college degree but nothing to do. You see, I didn't get into grad school. I failed. Not very used to that. But I'm trying to keep a positive outlook on everything like, "It's really really hard to get into the program I applied to" and my biggest cheering chatter:

"I now have a whole year to do whatever I want!"

Okay, granted I can't do whatever I want. Unfortunately I won't be backpacking around Europe or swimming with dolphins or following Coldplay around the U.S. for the next year (as much as I might want to). I will have to get a job and try to pay off my tremendous loans over the next year. But I am looking at the year as a year of opportunity, because I'm going to be positive...yeah.

So, for my first post back in a LONNNGGGG time (seriously, school was trying to kill me), I have decided to compose a list of all of the things that I want to accomplish over the next 12 months. 

1. I want to go to A LOT of baseball games. I've already been to 2 spring training games, but, now that the new season has begun, I feel compelled to make an often mecca to Atlanta to watch my favorite boys of baseball play. My younger brother will be living off and of with us this summer and he is a HUGE Braves fan, so I don't think it will be hard to coax him to a game one Friday or Saturday. Go Braves!

2. I want to become a proficient seamstress. About two years ago, I got this passionate idea to learn how to sew. After my grandmother's death, I inherited her ancient sewing machine. I was assured that it was the prime machine back in the day, but it had many flaws when it got to me- mainly the whole it didn't sew correctly one. But that still didn't stop my eagerness to learn. I tried to sew by hand, and ended up making a few little makeup bags- but I never managed to make any clothes. Last summer, I treated myself to a new sewing machine and tried to unsuccessfully make a skirt and went back to making makeup bags. But now I'm determined to figure out how to make something, like a simple skirt with a bow, because then I could make all of the cute skirts I wanted and I would be happy. Thank goodness for Pinterest and all it's pinning awesomeness and tutorials, hopefully one will lead me the sewing wonder. 

3. I'm going to organize my life. I consider my stuff to be in a state of organized chaos. I know where pretty much everything is and, when my room is clean, everything technically has a place, but the last few stressful months have slowly turned my organized room into a mess. And on top of that, I now have all of this school work that I can't really throw away (because it might be useful in grad school- welcome to Biology) but I don't necessarily want to look at it every day- or until need be. So I'm going to organize and basically redo my room so that it's mine. 

4. I'm going to read more. I have been putting off reading books so long that my "To Read" list in like a mile long! Book after book after book being put off for school. Reading is one of my greatest passions in life. If y'all could see the stacks of books under my bed you would understand- and I don't even have my whole collection. I have so many have read books that are begging for their pages to be flipped and words to be read and I can't wait to dive into their worlds! Especially you "The Hobbit"...I will conquer you. 

5. I think I'm finally going to learn how to play my guitar. I got a guitar for Christmas when I was 15 but never managed to learn how to play it because I have tiny little baby hands. I still have said guitar, though it definitely needs to be re-stringed. Maybe this is the year that I will finally be able to do so, especially now with the great resource of YouTube. Or, if a sexy guitar player wants to come teach me, I'll give you my number. ;)

6. I'm going to write more. And I mean it. That means more blogs (like a few times a week so get ready) about nerdy stuff and makeup and crafts/DIY and stupid times that happen to me and maybe, just maybe, I'll write a hair post and tutorial. Holla. Yeah, that's right, I said "holla". I have also challenged myself to finish my book. Yeah, I'm writing a book- I've actually been working on it for nearly 5 years and am only 13 chapters in. This year should be the break I need to finally put in the effort it deserves to finally be finished. I don't know if anyone will every read my book, I hope at least my friends will, but I'm going to finish it. Who knows, I might put a preview on here. Or not. You'll just have to wait to see. 

I can't wait to see what this next year holds. It wasn't exactly what I wanted to happened, but I'm going to be positive and see it for all of the opportunities it can bring. And, of course, I will be bring you guys along for the ride. To paraphrase the great philosopher Shay Carl, "If live's worth living, it's worth recording". So I'm going to record my life and hope the next year is amazing. 

Peace, love and buttercups, 

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". 

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 ;)

24 things for my 24th

Well, here it is, my 24th birthday. Was I excited about turning one year older? Yes, very much so. I celebrate my birthday like a national holiday- no school, no work (if I can swing it), wonderful food and, of course, CAKE. Cake, the dessert that ties the world together. 
 So, in celebration of my 24th birthday, I am going to compose a list of 24 things I have learned in 24 years.

1.)If Mom says that it's hot, it's hot. How many of us have scars from touching a hot stove, iron, oven, etc.? Curiosity can be your best friend and worst nightmare leaving permanent scars and many tears in its wake. But Mothers,Moms, Momma, and Mommies really do know best so always listen to your mother, not matter how old you are, she only wants to best for you.
2.) Don't stick you paci in bird bath. Yes, I did this a the ripe old age of 1 and it was, luckily, caught on film perserve it for years to come. It was probably the grossest thing I have ever done and I probably have some strange strand of bird flu running through me like a ticking time bomb.
3.) Don't kiss two boys in one day. You will get caught by your kindergarten teacher and told on to your mother.
4.)Grape medicine does not taste anything like grape. Cherry medicine does not taste anythign like cherry. But, surprisingly, liquid amoxicillin taste like bubble gum.
5.) Enjoy your grandparents to the fullest while you have them. Unfortunatley, one of my Grandfather's was taken by a freak accident when I was 10 years old and he never got to see the woman I have become, though I hope that I would have made him proud. Two years ago, my grandmother was taken suddenly by sickness. Even on her death bed, though I didn't know if she could hear me or not, but because I never got to tell my PawPaw, I told her everything I never said- how much she meant to me, how much she shaped me into the woman I am and, most of all, how much I love and respected her. Now, I live so that I might one day see them again.
6.) Smile often, you worst day would be many other's best day.
7.) If you beg your parents long enough for a sister, you will evetually get one. Well, at least it worked on my parents. At the age of 16 (though I had been begging since the age of 6- my baby brother wasn't cutting it) my parent's offically adopted my little sister from China. I couldn't imagine my life not with out this little spark of joy and craziness.
8.) Make time for alone time with yourself. Now, don't get me wrong, I love talking to and being around people, but some of my favortie nights involved me going to Starbucks in my home town with my computer in tow and spending hours sipping on coffee and spending alone time. It's important to make time for yourself- it keeps you sane.
9.) Despite the fact that they are, most of the time, impractical and illogical, continue believing in fairy tales. Yes, I am well aware fairy tales are the product of the Grimm brother's vivid imaginations or John Hughes creative writing. But they do supply us with a healthy dose of hope that many of us, me especially, need. If this were a John Hughes movie, my greatest would have come true today. I would have arrived home to find the love of my life leaning casually against his car while a Thompson Twins ballad played in the background. Did that happen? Of course not. But that little inkling of hope that it might left a smile on my face. 
10.) Read. Reading is the gateway to the world. I started reading for fun at the age of 13 and I haven't stopped yet. 
11.) Set realistic goals...but not just realistic goals. What are my goals: To graduate undergrad-finally-, grad school, get married , have kids, and work as a PA. What are my unrealistic goal(s): to be a published writer. Yes, my grammar is horrible and my spelling atrocious- but I have always wanted to be publish ever since I started making up stories in my head at the age of 5,(Little fun fact- the stories always involved a horse named Rose) and maybe one day I will me.
12.) You reap what you sow- so don't give half of the effort. 
13.)Posting vague and sappy lyrics on your Facebook is stupid way to try to get some poor guys attention. I am guilty of doing this, many, many times in fact. Did it work? Of course not because then I would be married and expecting my first child by now. Will I do it again? Probably- but this time I'll do it on twitter.
14.) "If you want to know what a man's like, take a good look at how he treats his inferiors, not his equals." Oh Sirius, why did you have to fall through the veil. (Spoiler alert if you haven't read or seen the 5th Harry Potter book/movie) But Sirius is right. Kindness against other should not be determined by their status in life, whether it be financial, physical and mental. The Golden rule says to do to other what you want others to do to you. No, that does not mean that you have agree with their viewpoint or life style, but you must treat them with the respect they deserve as a fellow human being. Now, because you disagree with their lifestyle or view point, they may act harsh and mean towards you- just turn the other cheek. 
15.) Don't accidentally open your mouth while kissing your boyfriend unless you are mentally prepared for what follows.
16.) Be unique. If everyone was the same, the world would be boring. 
17.) Never be ashamed of you strangest likes. Years ago, I didn't want anyone to know that I like Harry Potter to an extent that was probably borderline psychotic and that I read (and wrote) fan-fiction. Now, who cares? I still love Harry Potter and have added many more loves to that list and some of theme are a lot nerdier and geekier that good ole HP. 
18.) Cherish the time you spend with you family. I used to hate sitting down with my family to eat dinner some nights, I could have been reading or watching sometime instead of having "family time". Now that we are older, it's a rare thing for us to all come together for a meal without it being a major holiday. That is why I have come to cherish our family vacations each year. It's more that just going to Disney- it's spending time with (most of) my family without any interruptions or distractions. 
19.) Really clean glass doors look nearly invisible. Therefore, always pay attention when walking into a strange house and check for a second door before you walk straight into it. Just saying.
20.) Play pranks. Now, I'm not encouraging vandalism or other misdemeanors, but go post it note a car or roll a house. Some of my best nights in high school involved me and my girlfriends driving over to our favorite guys' houses and plastic wrapping and post-it noting their cars. (Editor's Note: From my personal experience, I do not recommend doing this in freezing rain.) As long as the pranks are harmless and easy to clean up, some of the best ways to show people how much you love them is by girling out their car. 
21.) Always stand for the right, no matter how many are against you. Now, I know that you are probably thinking "Duh, Catherine, everyone knows that." But . have you ever had to do it? Have you ever lost a friendship because they wanted to do someone that you knew wasn't right? I have and it's hard to stand in the light while the darkness creeps around you. Stand strong and steadfast in your faith and remember, it's okay if you offend someone- that means that you have morals. 
22.) British guys are hot. I don't know if its that accent or just their adorable little faces, but they are just hot. 
23.) "Men, babies, it doesn't matter. We're soulmates." This famous quote from Sex and the City has meant a lot to me since I heard it for the first time a few years ago. My friends are my soulmates. I am luckily that I have 5 wonderful girlfriends that I can could on for anything- and I actually got to see them all today.  Distance may separate us, but I know that if I am having a bad day, they are just a phone call away with an encouraging word or joke to ease my troubled mind. One day, I may find my male soulmate and, fingers crossed, their will be babies. But, until them, I'm happy with the soulmates that I have. 
24.) Cheesy as it sounds, love conquers all. Tonight, I watched my favorite Disney movie of all time: Sleeping Beauty.  And when Prince Phillip leaned into kiss his sleeping princess, a tear welled up in my eye. No, this won't happen in real life- or coma wards would be full of people trying to wake up their love ones with a kiss. But, love can break the spell of hate and discord. Love has been here since the very beginning and will be here till the very end. Love is what we all strive for in our lives. Leonardo da Vinci said that a "life without love, is no life at all."  Yes, that is true, but I think I prefer what Paul wrote about love. 

"Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal. ² And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. ³ And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, but have not love, it profits me nothing---
 ⁸ Love never fails. But whether there are prophecies, they will fail; whether there are tongues, they will cease; whether there is knowledge, it will vanish away.." 1 Corinthians 13: 1-3, 8

I hope you have enjoyed my list of the 24 things I have learned by the age of 24. I hope it made you laugh and inspired you in some way- as long as it doesn't inspire you to do anything too crazy. 

I look forward to my new year and all it would bring. 

Love,
Catherine

Checklists: Good ideas or impossible standards?

Last night, I watch a movie. Of course, movie watching is not uncommon for me but what was out of the ordinary was that it was a made-for-TV movie. I usually don't like those. I mean, when was the last time Ryan Gosling was in a made-for-TV movie? The plots are usually predictable. the acting sub par and there is-usually- a lack in the hottie department. However, boredom and a desire to relax (and hopefully fall asleep) induced my viewing of Beauty and the Briefcase.
Beauty and the Briefcase stars Hiliary Duff probably better known as the Disney sweetheart star of Lizzie McGuire. I used to LOVE watching Lizzie McGuire. She was a spunky teen who self-narrated her life and got to kiss Aaron Carter- which was my life goal at 13. Hiliary Duff's character was Lane, a up and coming fashion writer wannabe who desperately wanted a byline in Cosmo. (the greatest magazine ever) Fate drops an opportunity in her lap and she meets with a Cosmo editor who, though initial rejecting all of her article pitches, agrees to let her write an undercover article of dating in the business world. For this article, Lane is supposed to find a guy in a suit who meets the criteria of her "magic man checklist".
Here's the list, it's out of order and msising a few,but you get the gist:
3. Spontaneous
2. Sexy Accent
7. Travels to exotic locations on a whim
4. Fashion Sense
8. Plays a sexy musical instrument
9. Witty statements on the tip of his tongue
6. Same taste in food
1. Puts passion above common sense
(Thanks to google.)

While I was watching this movie, I began to wonder...Do I have a list? Sure, there are things I like and disslike when it comes to dating and men, but could I sit down and write a checklist for my ideal guy? Would mine be as shallow? (Yes I think ^ one is a little shallow)
Well, I love a good challenge so here is my attempt at writing out my own checklist.

1.) Smart. I tend to be more attracted towards men in the math/science field. I think a smart mind it a sexy mind. My ideal type of man would be either a doctor or engineer. Doctor because what is sexier than saving lives and engineer because they can make things and they are ridculously useful to have around the house, especially if you have my track record with cars. (I'll save those little nuggets od happiness for another day...stupid cars.) Now, my preferences may all be linked to my love for the math and science field but I just really want someone that, at the end of the day when I as "How was your day today, honey?", I can understand and enjoy to listen to. Do they have to be a doctor or engineer? No and if I ever do get married they, most likely they won't but hey, a girl can dream.  
2.) They HAVE to know how to dress themselves. Now, if I showed pictures of my ex-boyfriends right here, you would wonder why this is one my list since I have never dated a guy with any type of fashion sense. In fact, they all three (yes, just three, by Samatha Jones standard I'm a loser) dressed EXACTLY the same: carpenter jeans (yuck), faded t-shirts that were either too big or, in one case, too small (though I didn't mind), ugly worn New Balance shoes that they wear practically every day (one wore the same part of adias EVERYWHERE and I mean everywhere, even to church.) If these guys ever dressed up- like, for church- it was usually a oversize/undersize polo pair with the same jeans or cargo pants and the same tennis shoes. This is going to sound so snobbish but I hated the way they all dressed. Would reading a label kill them? They would all have looked 100% better if their clothes had just fit. And dressing nice. What was up with their adversion to dress shirts and nice slacks?
(Editor's Note: Well, I've seen pictures of one recently and he has definitely made progresss since our time together-he looked HOT! and was wearing a suit.)
Now, I said that they had to know how to dress themselves which means: they now the right sizes to buy and they know which brands they look best in (like how I prefer Gap jeans over Aero because Gap covers my butt better) and they know what to wear for certain occasions, like dates, church, other important occasions where a t-shirt and jeans just won't cut it. And, no, I don't hate t-shirts and jeans. In my closet I have quite a collection of t-shirts, ranging from novelty to college team (Go Illini!) and I love wearing them. I just want to open my door for a first date and have a guy waiting there, looking like he put more effort into his apperance than merely grabbing the first clean tshirt he saw in his closet because I'm know that I have put in the effort.  (In my mind's eye, he's wearing nice jeans and one of those light blue checkered dress shirts with the sleeves rolled up-who doesn't like rolled up sleeves on a guy?- Also, he looks vaguely like Josh Duhamel.)
3.) Has a good sense of humor and is not a prude. I consider myself as having a pretty good sense of humor. I love to make people laugh and I love laughing. If he can't make me laugh, it's probably not going to happen. Let me rephrase that. If he can't make me laugh naturally- as in he's not trying to hard to be funny but he just in naturally. If someone it trying to consciencly be funny, odds are, they are not at all.
4.) He needs to be a geek. I am apart of quite a few geek fanbases and, though he doesn't have to be apart of any of mine, I at least want someone who understand the excitement or utter saddness (oh Dobby ) I feel when something happens in the book/movie/TV show/video game. This also means that he doens't think I'm mentally unstable when I want to dress up like Ginny Weasley, pygmy puff and all, for Halloween, or if I want to throw a crazy Star Wars party or go see the midnight release of some comic book movie.
5.) Someone who is musically inclined. I usually date musicians of some sort (2 out of 3). I don't know if this is just a happy coincedent or because my attraction for musicians is written into my DNA, it just happens.
6.) Someone who makes me feel loved and wanted all of the time. It sad that I feel the need to put this on my checklist but I have actually been in a relationship where, after a while, I didn't know if he like me or not. How crazy is that? I'm your girlfriend but I don't know if you still like me, even a little. Now, I don't need/want huge romantic gestures everyday, but a simple text of "thinking of you" or "can't wait to see you" isn't too much to ask? Is it?
7.)Someone who knows how to kiss. 'Nuff said.
8.) I want a guy who holds off on the 'I love you'. Most girls wait and wait to hear these three little magic words. Somehow though, in my own experience, I hear them within the first month. And then, when they leave, it hurts that much more. I don't know why these guys like throwing these words at me and, furthermore, why I say them back. I'm not sure I know what that type of love is yet and I'm almost 24. If really makes me worry about all of the teenagers that are getting married. Do they know some secret that has yet made itself known to me?  

So, that's my checklist. Shallow? Probably. Impossible? Most likely.

Now, I know that you are probably all wondering if Hiliary Duff found her perfect man. Well, spoiler alert, she did. And what was his rating on her 'magic man' checklist. A big, fat zero. Yes, despite all of her ideals, she fell for the guy that has none of them.
Maybe this is to be a moral to us. No matter how hard we look for the ideal one, who has all of the attributes we want and none of flaws we tend to avoid, we may fall in love with the most unlikely character. These checklists can only really be guidelines, they can never be rules because love doens't work that way-from what I have gathered and sometimes, not always but sometimes, we find someone who makes us want to throw the rules out the window.

Catherine