indoor fireworks

guilty pleasures.

2010-09-15T11:31:00.001-07:00

Yes, I've neglected my blog big time. I feel guilty. So, I figured this would be an appropriate topic: the guiltiest of my guilty pleasures. I know I can be a music snob sometimes, but even music snobs have their weaknesses.

5-Celine Dion

What girl of the 90's didn't love Celine? She had me from the time she and Peabo sang Beauty and the Beast. When my cinema taste matured a little, she accompanied my FAVORITE movie with my FAVORITE guy and first huge crush. You know I'm talking about Leo and Titanic. It's all coming back to me, Celine...

4-Beyonce

I have no explanation. I've loved her since Destiny's Child.

3-Pop Punk from my high school years

Man, did I love New Found Glory. Allister, Fenix TX, The Get Up Kids...I could go on for days. It was before everything went "screamo" and stupid, and they always made me happy. They still do.

2-Backstreet Boys

The BSB were my first concert in Rupp Arena! I was 13 and in love with Kevin Richardson. Everybody knows NSYNC couldn't compare to the BSB...cause they had it goin' on. I may or may not have gone to my second BSB concert three weeks ago and loved every minute of it.

1-Hall and Oates

I think this is in my genetics. Other than Oates' killer mustache, why would I be so inexplicably drawn to two blantantly dorky 80's poppers? My Mom loves H&O, and I'm told that part of the inspiration behind my name was their song, "Sara Smile." Wonderful. They inspired what was definitely my favorite scene from 500 Days of Summer...I feel like doing the same thing when I'm rocking this on my way to class.

Who are your guiltiest pleasures?

this is haunting my dreams...

2010-08-18T06:48:00.000-07:00

Seriously...I can't get the "monster" image out of my head since Yeasayer released this video. At the same time...I can't stop watching...

this girl's back in town!

2010-08-16T14:45:00.000-07:00

Yeah, I was a lazy poster this summer. However, school starts in a week and you know what that means--plenty of procrastination posts. But for now, life is still too good to spend on the computer. Geoff is working his dream job and we're both pretty darn happy. =)

Until next week: new favorite band.

i write like...her?

2010-07-25T14:49:00.000-07:00

A few days ago, my mother told me about "I Write Like." If you haven't already heard, it's a website that automatically analyzes your writing samples and tells you what famous writer your writing style is most similar to. When she told me that the guy on the news entered Lady Gaga lyrics and it spit out Shakespeare, I was immediately skeptical. (I really, really hate Lady Gaga. Sorry.)

Nonetheless, my interest was piqued. Since pretty much everything I write outside of this blog is very analytical, I decided to make up a little something. Kathleen was sitting with me, so this is what flowed out in a matter of about thirty seconds:

Sarah and K sat silently on the queen size bed, wearing their beautiful outfits that still smelled of the Fayette Mall. They pondered the meaning of their existence. Why am I here? And who are these people? Alas, they sighed. They are all here to serve us.

We then giggled for a good ten minutes over the absurdity of our blurb. Anyway, "I Write Like" popped out with the result of Margaret Atwood. Handmaid's Tale? Ohh yes, I was pleased. Maybe I'm with Lady Googoo though. It probably flattered me a bit, and I'm not really sure how the program draws it's conclusions. Who do you "write like", and were you flattered or offended?

-S.

off to the west coast.

2010-07-05T15:22:00.000-07:00

I'm flying across the entire United States in a few hours to be in my lovely Layla's wedding. I can't wait to hit the Portland record shops. Not only can I seek out vinyl, but I can also make fun of the hipsters who are sure to be there, although most of them know nothing more about music than what they read in a zine.

I'll have a long post when I return on my adventures and my dear friend's wedding.

Tschüss!

back from hiatus and an anniversary!

2010-06-26T19:55:00.000-07:00

That's right, I have returned. I bet you all thought I had been kidnapped. You bribed your 14-year old brother to write a screenplay about the event. It has since been picked up by the Lifetime network and will air immediately after A Dog Took My Face And Gave Me A Better Face To Change The World: The Celeste Cunningham Story. (C'mon 30 Rock fans. Tell me you remember that.)

Anywho, this month marks a very important anniversary for yours truly. A year ago, I had a harsh break-up. We'd been attached for years. But after having three procedures to remove abnormal cells, it was time to say goodbye to my old friend, the tanning bed. I haven't been in a tanning bed at all since then, and my skin is so very happy. For those of you that still get in the cancer box, here are a few facts to consider:

Women who visited a tanning parlor at least once a month were 55% more likely to later develop melanoma than women who didn't artificially suntan. Those who used sun lamps to tan while in their 20s had the greatest later risk, about 150% higher than similarly aged women who shunned tanning beds.
Tanning beds and other sources of ultraviolet radiation are definite causes of cancer, alongside tobacco, the hepatitis B virus and chimney sweeping, among others.
The probability of malignant melanoma of the eye cannot be precluded. Wearing eye glasses or keeping the eyes closed will not be sufficient to keep this from happening.

Uggh. If that isn't enough to steer you away, I'll let you have a look at my scars. They aren't anything ghastly, but that's only because my dermatologist found the cells early. If you're a sunless tanner, I'd really encourage you to see a dermatologist. (I have a wonderful one--leave me a comment if you'd like to contact her). I now use airbrush tanning to keep a dark tone. (My tan technician is amazing also--again, let me know if you need a recommendation!) I want all of you beautiful blogger girls to stay healthy!

One last thing...my heart could probably burst from happiness for my basketball boys. Leeego Cats.

on shoulder pads and restroom eulogies.

2010-05-31T20:48:00.000-07:00

Subject One-Shoulderpads.

It was a rainy Memorial Day in Carolina. Rather than completely waste my day off, I decided to be productive and...go shopping. While at the mall, I found what I thought was a very Sarah dress. Black cocktail length with white piping and a square neck. It fit like a glove, but there was one problem--shoulderpads. I read in Elle or something that they were back, and that they're only on the pieces that need them. Well...why is it that nothing has needed them for the past 20 years? On my little frame, they make me look like a linebacker. Should I suck it up and wear them for the sake of the cute dress, or am I right in thinking that people would mistake me as a cast member for a Designing Women remake?

Subject Two-Restroom Eulogies.

People that write on the walls of public restrooms are undoubtedly among humanity's kindest. Not only do they selflessly refer rank strangers to those who offer "good times", but, in the same primary penmanship, they also scribble heartfelt "rest in peace" messages to their fallen comrades. Now let me assure you, when I move on to that pie in the sky, I will surely appreciate your wishes that my soul's everlastin' siesta will be tranquil. However, it really is not necessary to transcribe your wish to a bathroom wall in a Mexican restaurant or Bob's BP. At least make it a TGI Friday's. Come on, keep it classy.

Author's Apology: Apparently "shoulder pad" is two words. Duly noted.

summer reading!

2010-05-26T19:43:00.000-07:00

I want to know--what's on your summer reading list? Now that write-on is over, I can officially read whatever I want. Way too excited. I went to the library yesterday and picked up the following (two are actually movies, but movies are a major thing to me!):

-A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius by Dave Eggers
-Transparent Things by Vladimir Nabokov
-Goya's Ghosts
-The Lives of Others

That covers one all-time favorite author and one new one. I've somehow only seen about the first half an hour of The Lives of Others, so I'm excited to finish it. Give me suggestions, friends! I especially like existentialism, prose, and Russian authors.

it's on, workforce.

2010-05-24T18:01:00.000-07:00

My first day went quite swimmingly, if I do say so myself. I learned that I'm assigned to high profile/violent crimes...woohoo! I get the crazies! That's about as much as I can say per my confidentiality agreement, but it should be an interesting summer.

I've actually stayed on a bit of a schedule today, and that's odd. I'm not really one that likes to structure things, but it's worked so far. I went to work, to the gym, worked on law journal piece, played piano, and now I'm ready for more law journal!

This seems appropriate today...have a good week!

Go Local! Vol. 2

2010-05-19T16:10:00.000-07:00

I'm actually keeping up with a series...go me! Today was my annual eye check-up. I knew I wouldn't be able to see to drive after my eyes were dilated, so Geoff offered to drive me. After hearing that my sight is still better than 20/20, I am further convinced that LASIK is a miracle and Dr. Abell must canonized as the patron saint of eyesight. Or something like that.

Anyway, after the check-up, we decided to check out the Parkette Drive-In. It reopened under new management last year, and I'd been wanting to check it out for a long time. According to their website, the drive-in originally opened in 1951. As far as I can see, it still operates on pretty much the same principles. Small dining room area, but mostly catering to in-car service. Geoff was über boring with his selection and ordered a hot dog and fries. Luckily, the hot dog was unique (at least to me) in being served on a sesame seed bun. I've never seen that with a dog before. Geoff reports that it was delicious, so I guess being boring worked out for him. I had to go all out and try the Poor Boy, which is apparently one of their signature meals. Two hamburger patties, three pieces of bread, onion, lettuce, pickles, tomato, and "Parkette Sauce." NOTE: I had never eaten a double hamburger before in my life. I ate the whole thing. It wasn't anything out of this world, but it was just simple and tasty.

Yes, the sign still looks exactly like that.

Overall, I just love the idea of a truly local and historic drive-in. Oh, and our waitress was the most friendly I've had in a LONG time. If anyone else has been, I'd love to hear about what you had!

this week's music: the pogues!

2010-05-18T13:58:00.001-07:00

Actually, The Pogues always get pretty good airtime on my iTunes and record player. But right now, I just can't get enough. I've been missing both London and Ireland badly. Since I don't have the money to reach either, I figure Shane and the Pogues are the next best thing. Last night, I got the 5 CD box set of rarities, b-sides, etc, called "Just Look Them in the Eyes and say 'Pogue Mahone'!" It's definitely worth checking out if you're a Pogues fan. There's also an interview with Shane in the current Q magazine, where he was voted one of the Top 100 Frontmen of All Time. He's a real piece of work. I sat there in Barnes and Noble and giggled out loud at the things he said. In an unfortunate update from that interview, he has already lost his new teeth. Some things will never change.

I realize that this is a very, very rambly post, and I apologize. Here is one of my favorites by The Pogues--enjoy!

Oh Ireland, I'll be back.

London...best times of my life!

mountain medicine.

2010-05-15T21:52:00.000-07:00

In celebration of Kathleen and myself completing our first year of law school and Tommy and Mark finishing law school forever, the four of us took a getaway to the Smoky Mountains. K's uncle graciously let us stay at his AMAZING cabin, Mountain Medicine. We all had queen size beds and huge full bathrooms all to ourselves! We had a hot tub on the deck, and it was THE go-to destination as soon as we got back every evening! It was the perfect way to end the year, and I hope we can make it an annual tradition.

Unfortunately, I'm now back to the real world of writing on to law journal. I'll be taking a break tomorrow night to go to the Midlake concert at Southgate House! I haven't seen them since 2007 and I'm preeeeetty excited. Anyone else have concert plans this summer?

I'll leave you with some pictures from our trip. Have a happy Sunday!

Best friends.

Putt-putt champion.

Rouse loves Nora Roberts.

Sometimes you gotta hang ten on a crazy ride.

We love Tommy. Sometimes.

all the stuff you've missed.

2010-05-10T17:15:00.000-07:00

A few things I didn't have time to post about, January through May.

Kathleen and I did the John Wall dance.

We sang some karaoke.

Stu sang some karaoke a few weeks later and met "Karen".

I taught Potions.

A Bloody Mary cured a losing ticket at Keeneland.

DeMarcus Cousins and I were married at a small, intimate ceremony at Kennedy Bookstore.

Yeah, that's pretty much how it all happened!

-S.

i'm a 2L, or, HALLELUJAH!

2010-05-08T20:47:00.001-07:00

The woman in that picture is a pretty accurate representation of me after my CivPro final today. I am now 33.333% finished with law school! I'm worn to a frazzle right now. Providing that I actually wake up before 8 pm tomorrow, Momma and I are going to Cincinnati to do some shopping. Wish us luck as we enter the evil empire.

Did I mention 1L year is over? Praise the Lawd!

Love,
S.

no time for a post...

2010-05-07T11:36:00.000-07:00

but I thought I'd try a blog hop!

Off to UK Law Commencement, where I can mourn ALL of my friends leaving!

heads up for CATS fans...

2010-05-05T12:09:00.000-07:00

Ramon just tweeted that he, Mark, Patrick, and Perry will be having a signing tonight from 6-8 at Paul Mitchell. I normally wouldn't post about a signing, but this one has a special cause. All of the proceeds will go to help pay medical bills for Mark's mom, who is battling cancer.

This is a great group of guys! Come and say hello...and say your last goodbye to Patrick before he becomes an NBA star.

Update: The guys raised $7,500! This is a huge victory, but don't stop praying for Terri Krebs!

new tunes for the week.

2010-05-04T23:30:00.000-07:00

Studying has always cause me to make playlists. I have "finals" playlists dating back to my first semester of junior year, and it's always fun to go back and have a listen. I usually pick mellow, folky tunes for those types of playlists. This year, I mixed those with peppy songs, because Lord knows I need cheering up while studying this stuff. Here are some of my favorites from my Spring '10 list, with links to their YouTube videos.

1. Local Natives-Airplanes. Geoff has been telling me to download Gorilla Manor for months, and I just got around to it. Thank goodness. Fans of Band of Horses will want to check these guys out.

2. Specials-Monkey Man. This song never fails to put a smile on my face. When I have kids, we'll definitely jam to this one together.

3. Blitzen Trapper-Heaven and Earth. I thought I'd downloaded the wrong song at first. I was prepared for a harmonica or acoustic guitar...and they give me piano. It's different for Blitzen Trapper, but it definitely works. I hope that when the official video for this arrives, it will be as awesome as the one for Black River Killer.

4. The Zombies-You Really Got a Hold on Me/Bring it on Home to Me. One of my favorite bands takes two of my favorites songs and puts them together? Oh yeah. I've known this medley for a long time, but now I can't get enough of it. What is your favorite version of either of these songs?

5. The Whitsundays-Silent in the Wind. Simple and sweet, like this time of year should be. There's no YouTube video for now, so I linked you to a free download! Even better!

Hope you enjoy some of the songs! If you do, support the artists by buying their album or going to their show! Ohh speaking of which...I am going to see Midlake next weekend! YAY! Anyway, I'm off to study class actions for the next three days. Happy Finals Week!

Love,

new youtube favorite!

2010-05-02T01:27:00.000-07:00

Oh. My. Gosh. This just made me smile SO much. Some guy with a freakishly good Herzog impression has uploaded YouTube videos of "Werner" reading childrens' books. The way he changes the themes are dead-on Herzog as well...man versus nature, isolation, etc. It's just too good and I'm probably way too excited about it.

sweet dreams, vol. 3.

2010-05-01T18:50:00.001-07:00

Oh Dreamland. You never cease to amuse me.

It's been rainy and blah all day, so I couldn't help but lay down for a little snooze. During said snooze, I dreamed that I had somehow come into possession of a video of John Wall that was, shall we say, risqué. Someone then proceeded to upload the video onto the internet under my name! Hahaha, I started flipping out, because I was afraid it would ruin John's name and career. I spent the rest of the dream trying to delete it from the internet and crying. I woke up and had a good laugh.

Now Johnny boy, you see the lengths I go to for you even in dreams? You can hire another attorney for now, but hopefully you will dump him in two years and give me a job. I'll be the attorney Rick Pitino wishes he had. Think about it.

for your musical consideration.

2010-04-28T21:15:00.000-07:00

I'm loving the songs I've heard from The National's upcoming album, High Violet. It took me a while to warm up to Matt Berninger's voice, but the songs are just too nice not to. (If you're a newcomer to the band, I recommend All the Wine.) I'm really taken by the new track Afraid of Everyone. It's feel is a little more similar to their side project, Clogs. This makes sense, seeing as how Clogs just released an album a month or two ago. The sound also puts me in mind of The Twilight Sad...big time.

A few members of the band are from just across the river in Cincinnati, so hopefully I'll get a chance to check out one of their shows in the next few months. Here is a utterly random picture of me with The National's Bryce in the background:

Haaha! Geoff and I were waiting around after the MusicNow Festival while Matt photographed Grizzly Bear. Grizzly Bear's sound guy, "Juice", was having his own little photography project, taking Polaroids (with a SoCo ad?) of the band members. Before I knew it, I was in on the picture-taking. I think the surprise is obvious from my facial expression. Bryce, who helped to organize the festival, can be seen creepin' over my shoulder. Lovely! (Click here for the session's best picture...Sufjan and Daniel are 2Bless2BeStressed, son.) He and The National's album is due out on May 10th.

Love,

Go Local! Vol. 1

2010-04-28T12:09:00.000-07:00

I have been in Lexington for 5 years now, and couldn't ask for a better hometown. It's large enough to foster great businesses and ideas, but small enough to feel that you aren't lost in a crowd. Many of my favorite places to go (like Stella's, mentioned yesterday) are the local businesses that were established and continue to thrive here in Lexington. I thought it would be fun to write a series highlighting my local favorites so that you can enjoy them too.

Cricket Press
From cricket-press.com:
"Cricket press is a tiny little operation geared towards designing and hand printing silk-screened posters for music events, art shows, propaganda, and basically anything you'd want to make a poster for. We especially love doing gig posters for punk, indie-rock, jazz, and improvised music events. Reason being, this is just the music we love, and the people we love to work with."

Cricket Press makes a stroll through downtown Lexington seem like a stroll through an art gallery. I have seen music posters around the world--London, Berlin, Paris, New York--and these are on par with any and better than most. They are completely unique, and often incorporate a bit of whimsy. If you're lucky enough to score an original print, it's a great piece of art to frame, as well as a great way to remember one of your favorite shows. They also make cards and stationery that are cute, cute, cute! Find their products at the Morris Book Shop or visit their Etsy page.

More of their work:

Love,

working woman.

2010-04-27T16:01:00.000-07:00

I've been looking for the perfect dress for my first day of work in the legal field. You have to start out on the looking good, right? I knew I found the dress on Nordstrom's website, but their smallest size was an eight. I called to see if they had it in Cincinnati, thinking that maybe I could put it on hold and pick it up next weekend. But no, they of course put me on hold for fifteen minutes. I gave up. I feel sorry for people that have to live in Ohio.

Then, I called the store I should have contacted in the first place. The Nordstrom in Atlanta (Phipps Plaza) is really a class act. My mom got her dress for Chris' wedding there, and they treated her like a queen! The alterations were perfect, and the delivery was right on time. Anyway, not only were they about 1000x nicer, they found my dress in a size two and are shipping it for free! I really recommend dealing with them. If you're ordering anyway, have it shipped from their store.

Here it is! Classy with a 60s-esque feel. Love. It.

Love,

just the thing to calm me down.

2010-04-27T12:38:00.000-07:00

If you haven't been to Stella's Kentucky Deli yet, you're missing out! They use local, organic ingredients and the results are amazing! I just came back from eating there with Evan, and it was the perfect meal. I had a hot brown, and Evan had the fried green tomato BLT (which I've also had before and is delicious). We couldn't decide on just one dessert, so we got both the derby pie and the chocolate bourbon brownies. I could eat about a pound of both, but derby pie is one of my all-time favorite desserts. (Missy's has a mean recipe too, but they call theirs Mayday Pie.) We washed it all down with some delicious Ale-8-One. I promise, if you love Alfalfa or Lynn's Paradise Cafe you will love Stella's!

apparently, that hiatus was a hoax.

2010-04-26T17:05:00.000-07:00

Today, I sat in the same spot in the library from 10 am until 6 pm, and I still don't feel as prepared as I want to be. I just had to have a little break. I tend to get this nervous adrenaline during finals. I could probably run ten miles without stopping right now. Okay, maybe not that much...I hung up my cross country shoes a long time ago. I just need to focus my energies somewhere else for a few minutes.

Thus, I'm going to ramble about Donovan. He's all I've listened to for the past few days. I started listening to him during high school, whenever I found out that he was with the Beatles in Rishikesh. It was pretty light stuff, Colours, Sunshine Superman, and the like. A few years later, a certain green-eyed boy I used to know introduced me to A Gift from a Flower to a Garden. Wow. I love both British psychedelia and folk, and this is the perfect balance of the two. It kind of makes me want to fall in love with some minstrel boy...if such a thing still existed. Donovan is one of the most underrated songwriters of the 20th century. Listen to Celeste and prepare to be made melllloooow.

Update: Contracts exam is over. All that needs to be said is that I never thought I would be so happy that I know that an elephant's gestation period is 22 months.

this man's face=worthy of breaking blogging hiatus.

2010-04-23T22:17:00.000-07:00

I am currently watching Pirate Radio while studying the Uniform Commercial Code. The former makes the latter much more bearable...and Tom Sturridge certainly helps. I think if I got to fashion my own man, this would be pretty much what he looked like. That sounds really creepy. Yes, apparently I'm a creepy, sleep-deprived Anglophile, so I'll stop here.

freedom, freedom, give it to me!

2010-04-22T16:47:00.000-07:00

Jimi Hendrix says it best in this blog's title. In two weeks, my first year of law school will be over and freedom will be mine! (This also means that I am going on a two-week blogging hiatus, but I digress.) While this has certainly not been one of my most enjoyable years for many reasons, I know it was one of the most important. I don't believe in worrying, but I have to admit that the worries about my summer job prospects were coming. Thankfully, my work and persistence paid off. This week I landed an internship that is beyond what I could even dream of. Since my employer is a public figure, I don't think that it is appropriate to give you all of the details about them in a blog. I will tell you, however, that I was more impressed by this person than anyone I have come into contact with in my job search. While others who had far less on their plate took weeks (or months, in one very inconsiderate firm's case) to speak with me on an individual basis, this person got back to me within two days. I feel ashamed now for worrying about those other firms. God was just holding out to give me something so much better!

Alright, now that I forced you to wallow in my no-longer-unemployed glee, I'll get back to the point. I'll have about two weeks in between school and beginning my internship. Unfortunately, some of this time must be allocated to writing on to the Kentucky Law Journal. But this won't stop me from filling every possible moment with something terrifyingly awesome. Kathleen and I have already secured a Tennessee cabin for a few days. Knowing us, I'd say it's safe to predict that the trip will include shopping, singing karaoke, and making friends with the most random characters imaginable.

But what can I do with the rest of my break? Maybe I should start hosting a fishing show where I catch all of the large-mouth bass in Fishtrap Dam and shout "WOOOOWEEE!" every time I catch one. (It would probably be more similar to this...although I wouldn't be caught dead in a UT hat.) Maybe I should learn to play The Doobie Brothers' "Takin' It to the Streets" on the bagpipes. Or I could take on the Kenny Walker challenge of racing a quarterhorse at the Red Mile Racetrack. The possibilities really are endless. =)

Love,
S.

what a world...

2010-04-16T16:09:00.001-07:00

Who even knew that they had volcanoes in Iceland? I'm not usually one for gloom and doom, but this happening genuinely freaks me out. I couldn't help but have the images of this video in my head as soon as I heard about the clouds and falling ashes. Are Sigur Rós some kind of Icelandic prophets? Seeing the Icelandic people in their masks also reminded me of The Road. That book has scarred me for life...in a good way.

a day for daddy.

2010-04-06T12:11:00.000-07:00

Today, April 6th, would have been my precious Daddy's birthday. You would think I would be more down on the anniversary of his death, February 7th, but it's always the birthday that gets me. I always start to think about what we'd be doing to celebrate. It's a gorgeous day, so I can only imagine that he'd take the vintage Camaro out for a spin, Zeppelin cranked up all the way. Although I wish I could be enjoying this day with him, I know that every day is this gorgeous where he is. Today I just want to remember his life, but also how he taught me not to fear death. I watched my father die. I don't mean that I only saw his body slowly succumbing to the cancer, but that I literally watched his last breaths. The moment was private, and I have never really shared it with anyone. However, I will tell you that a look of absolute peace came over his face near the end. He smiled. Daddy wasn't afraid...he was happy. I guess that was the only fitting exit for the man who had a permanent smile on his face. When I realize I'm moving on to see my Daddy again, I reckon I'll die smiling too.

This is one of my favorite songs by The Kinks, and describes my feelings on this day perfectly.

Happy Easter!

2010-04-02T17:35:00.000-07:00

"And he departed from our sight that we might return to our heart, and there find Him. For He departed, and behold, He is here."

-St. Augustine

Hope everyone has a wonderful and safe Easter weekend! Enjoy this gorgeous Kentucky weather, and most importantly, remember the man who was crucified for YOU.

Romans 6:8-11
Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. For we know that since Christ was raised from the dead, he cannot die again; death no longer has mastery over him. The death he died, he died to sin once for all; but the life he lives, he lives to God. In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus.

kentucky rain.

2010-03-28T12:00:00.000-07:00

The weather in Kentucky today pretty much fits the mood of the state. The Big Blue Nation is...well...blue. After last night's game, I cried myself into a throbbing headache. I didn't cry so much for what we lost as for who we lost. That game probably marked the last time we will see John Wall, Patrick Patterson, DeMarcus Cousins, and maybe Eric Bledose in a blue and white uniform. Why does this matter so much to me?

I have watched and loved Kentucky basketball my entire life. I carried a stuffed wildcat everywhere when I was two. When I was four, I busted my head open and needed stitches. When the nurse asked what color stitches I wanted, I calmly replied, "UK blue." I sat in my Daddy's lap and watched every game Jamal Mashburn ever played. In 5th grade (the year of the 1998 National Championship), I won a school prize for having the best UK spirit. I cried as a 15-year old meeting Tayshaun Prince. In short, I'm trying to tell you that I have followed and adored dozens of teams. Until now, I would have said my favorite team was the "Comeback Cats" of 1998. But this year changed everything. For all the love I've had for every team, this one was just different. I have never felt so involved, so connected to a group of players. Their unbelievable talent, their personalities, and their heart made them unlike any other team in this nation. The Big Blue Nation embraced them because they allowed us to. It was all but unbearable for me to wait from game to game and see these guys leave it all on the floor every time.

Would I have liked to seen the 8th National Championship banner hanging in Rupp Arena? As another Sarah would say, "You betcha." But I wouldn't trade the season we had for anything in the world. These guys brought life back into Kentucky basketball, and championship or not, no one can tell me that their school has a more talented team or a more loyal fanbase. I hope the players recognized how much we love them when they came home to a couple hundred Cats fans waiting for them at the airport, myself included. John, Eric, and DeMarcus walked out with their arms around one another, and came over to greet the fans. My headache completely subsided for a few minutes, and all I could do was smile.

I love this team, I love the Wildcats, and I love Kentucky. No apologies and no regrets.

a fantastic and fashionable way to promote literacy!

2010-03-26T09:58:00.000-07:00

Out of Print Clothing is awesome. It operates with a mission similar to that of Tom's shoes, which I also adore. Out of Print produces fashion tees with the covers of the world's great novels on them. A few of the selections include On the Road, The Catcher in the Rye, and A Streetcar Named Desire. Not only do the tees have a great vintage vibe, but for each one you buy, Out of Print will donate a book to a needy community in Africa. I LOVE this idea, and think I simply must have the Lolita tee. Side note: I don't care how controversial that book is. It is the most beautiful thing I have EVER read. Side side note: Speaking of books, is anyone reading anything interesting right now? I just finished up The Road by Cormac McCarthy (masterpiece), and am thinking of picking back up with Locus Solus by Raymond Roussel next. I also just ordered The Assignment: or, on the Observing of the Observer of the Observers.

In other news, my CATS are in the Elite Eight! Joy abounds!

Love,

you will thank me for this one later.

2010-03-25T14:28:00.000-07:00

Alright, I am about to share one of my little secrets. Lulu has the absolute prettiest, most unique, and most affordable dresses I've ever seen! Most of them run $30-40, and are the same that you will find on places like ModCloth. They also carry other adorable clothing, jewelry, and accessories, and have an expansive true vintage collection. If you, like me, find yourself drooling over a ridiculously priced Anthropologie piece, do yourself and your wallet a favor and hit Lulu's. I'm about to put in a new order as we speak!

Love,

how bout those wildcats?

2010-03-21T12:10:00.001-07:00

No time for a real post...the NCAA tournament is on television AND I'm trying to finish my appellate brief! But I couldn't miss the opportunity to mention my CATS being Sweet Sixteen bound! 4 days 4 hours, 5 minutes and 18 seconds until we play again!

ON, ON, U OF K!

almost 23...and disney still gets me.

2010-03-05T15:46:00.000-08:00

Evan learned long ago that it is futile to try and get out of taking me to a movie I've been wanting to see. Phantom of the Opera was my first success. Anyway, I was quite pleasantly surprised when he was actually as excited to see The Princess and the Frog as I was. These kids that are growing up on Pixar just don't get it. I adore pretty much all of the Pixar movies (especially Toy Story, Wall-E, and UP), but they're just not the same as that hand-drawn classics.

We both loved The Princess and the Frog. If you pay close attention, you'll see little appearances from some of your other favorite Disney characters--King Triton being the most noticeable. What brings me to talking about the movie today is the fact that at age 23, sometimes it takes a good old Disney song to get me going. As if I wasn't already stressed enough with school, I lost my wallet this morning. I went to transfer my funds, get a new license, etc. It was exhausting. After all of that, someone found it and turned it in. Although I'd gone through a lot of hassle already, God was so good in letting a (rare) person with a good heart find my wallet. I know that He gives me little victories every day, and before I know it, I will be sitting down to take the bar and achieve my dream. Enter: Almost There from Princess and the Frog soundtrack. Enjoy and have a happy weekend!

spring breakin'!

2010-03-02T15:30:00.000-08:00

It's official: twenty classes separate me from Spring Break. That seems like a million right now, but it's really oh-so-close. I was never really the wild and out, Panama City SB type of girl. Even if I was, I'd be too old for that hullaballoo now. I'll be spending the week with my lovely mommy in my second home, Aiken, South Carolina. I'm so excited that my best friend Kathleen is coming too! We've planned some excursions that I thought I'd share, should your break also take you to the Carolinas!

The Biltmore Estate. Asheville, North Carolina

This will be my fourth visit to the Biltmore. I just LOVE it. Asheville is one of my very favorite cities, and I love stopping there on my drives from Lexington to Aiken. When I found out that tickets to the Biltmore are currently on sale for $35, I knew I had to go again. Why couldn't I have been a Vanderbilt??

Charleston, South Carolina OR Savannah, Georgia

This is a toss-up. Charleston is another of my favorite places. I love the history, the architecture, the market, and of course the FOOD! A.W. Shucks is my favorite raw bar, and has some of the best seafood I've ever tasted. (First place goes to Captain George's in Virginia Beach.) It's the food that's really at the heart of the debate here. I've been to Savannah/Tybee Island a few times, but never to Paula Deen's restaurant, The Lady and Sons. It's a beautiful city too, so we'll see how this one works out!

The Aiken Spring Steeplechase. Aiken, SC

If I'm going to be hanging around Aiken, I need to give into the equestrian life. Like Lexington, Aiken's economy places a huge emphasis on the equine industry. The Steeplechase is rumoured to be quite the event, and I can't wait to see it for myself.

Love,

on heavy rotation, week of 2-21.

2010-02-25T21:31:00.001-08:00

Each week, I'll try to put up a new playlist of the songs I currently can't get enough of. I'm afraid this first issue may seem a bit sad...but I can explain.

Track one. The Dead Flag Blues by Godspeed You, Black Emperor!

Warning: This song may startle you when it begins, and the speech will probably seem overwhelming. I had the same reaction upon first hearing it, and it probably took me a few months before I could push myself all the way through the monologue. Although I've known the song for years now, it took seeing The Road for me to truly appreciate it. I can't say that any other movie has ever affected my emotions the way that one did. When I got home from the theater, I just sat silently for hours, thinking of how foolish our senses of stability truly are. But I digress. If you have seen The Road, you will understand the emotions this piece can invoke. At the very least, I recommend listening to the last six minutes or so of the song. It is perfect.

Tracks two and three. Les Marionettes and Be Faithful, Go by Zebigniew Preisner.

I recently made a post about how thrilled I was with my discovery of Preisner. This discovery is also owed to the cinema. Since I was a little girl, The Secret Garden has been one of my favorite books and films. Preisner's score for the film is hauntingly beautiful, and from my limited experience, his work with Kieslowski produced equally magnificent pieces. Les Marionettes is from La Double vie de Veronique, which I am dying to see.

Track four. ONE by Yeasayer.

Here's a peppy one for you. I miss the old Yeasayer sound, but I guess you can't help but love the new album. True story: I almost knocked my shower rod down while dancing to this song a few nights ago.

Track five. Signs by Bloc Party.

Kele and the boys hit all of the right notes (on the glockenspiel.) If the imagery of these lyrics combined with the somber melody doesn't give you chills, I don't think you are human.

Track six. New World by DeVotchKa.

DeVotchKa is an amazing band. You've probably heard their signature song How It Ends, whether you know it or not. Treat yourself to another.

Track seven. Sisters of Mercy by Leonard Cohen.

My relationship with Leonard is very love/hate. This song exemplifies what I love most about him. Soft acoustics, poignant lyrics, and, most of all, a mellow, soothing voice. I absolutely cannot handle his later albums with all of the heavy beats and synth. Songs like this are the reason he can get away with atrocities like Jazz Police.

Unavailable Tracks: I wasn't able to find copies of Heaven by Jimmy Scott or Sad Water by Nick Cave. However, I HIGHLY recommend that you track down the recording of Nick Cave's "Secret Life of the Love Song" lecture. He delves into the concept of duende, and in essence explains my love for these sad songs more eloquently than I could ever dream of. A link to his lecture is found here--however, the recording gives you gorgeous acoustic versions of Sad Water, People Ain't No Good, Love Letter, and a few others.

things i'd rather do than law, vol. 2

2010-02-25T15:59:00.000-08:00

Sarah Hunt loves ice cream, but Sarah Hunt especially loves gelato. When Auntie Jill and I went to Italy last summer, we made sure that we sampled a new gelato every day...sometimes several times a day. So, it's needless to say I was pretty excited when I saw BBC World News' piece on Gelato University today. BBC's clip isn't available to embed, but check this out:

How awesome is that! Is it too late to transfer? In all seriousness though, I think a chic little gelato shop would go over very well in Lexington. Now accepting business partners.

Enjoying raspberry gelato in Rome

sweet dreams, vol. 2.

2010-02-16T16:07:00.000-08:00

Short and simple: I dreamed about a grasshopper that played a fiddle for me. Fine fiddler that little guy was, too.

And look, other people apparently think about fiddlin' insects!

happy anna howard shaw day.

2010-02-14T12:03:00.000-08:00

Here's a totally non-Valentine related treat for you. My current favorite Stones song, Play with Fire, from Out of Our Heads.

Oh, and Happy 25th Birthday to The Smiths' classic album Meat is Murder! I'm only just forgiving Morrissey for not showing up for his Asheville show last year, but albums like this make it hard to stay upset. Enjoy it's definitive cut...and try not to want to watch a John Hughes movie afterwards.

my way of chasing the winter blues...

2010-02-11T22:08:00.000-08:00

...is buying pretty clothes for the summer. I just ordered this lovely little dress from ModCloth, and I can't wait to wear it!

sweet dreams.

2010-02-10T21:54:00.000-08:00

Fact: I have the weirdest dreams ever. Kathleen has been telling me all year that I need to keep a dream journal. I guess this is as good a place to start one as any. Maybe you'll get some entertainment from my psychosis. I'll start with last nights dreams, and maybe add some from my dream archives on the off-chance that I don't have one.

February 10, 2010

My dream started with Kathleen and myself at Newtown. We intimidated a few leasing agents with legal jargon, then went outside. There was some red-headed kid there. He looked to be about 14 or 15, and kept flirting with us. He kissed me on the lips, and when I pushed him off, he just went straight to K and kissed her all over her face. I don't really know how we finally got control over the little adolescent perv...but we ended up following him back to his home. He lived in some kind of totalitarian society that was run by a mysterious man in a top hat. He was symbolized everywhere in a drawing kind of like this. I never found out exactly what the rules of the society were, but Top Hat Man told everyone that if they didn't follow them, they would fall into fiery lava beneath the earth. Not hell, literally lava. I wasn't too keen on the whole thing from the get-go, but those Top Hat people really put me over the top when they gave me a cup of this weird tea. It was murky, and tasted bitter. I asked what it was made from, and they told me it was melted Beatles records. Aw hell no! They did not just make tea from Beatles vinyl! This was the last straw. I went into a rage, and somehow I suddenly had the strength to pull the power poles out of the ground. Whenever I did, the ground split and you could see way down into the earth. I was yelling for everyone to look inside and see that Top Hat Man was lying, because there was no lava. It just looked like an ink drawing of lines that never stopped moving...think the cover of Joy Division's Unknown Pleasures. People started to look, and that's the last I can remember.

Any Freudians or Jungians want to tackle this baby? Let me hear it!

Update

A little Wiki history of Unknown Pleasures' cover art gives a little insight. "It presents successive pulses from the first pulsar discovered, PSR B1919+21—often referred to in the context of this album by its older name, CP 1919."

Pulsars are "highly magnetized, rotating neutron stars that emit a beam of electromagnetic radiation."

zbigniew preisner.

2010-02-05T16:47:00.000-08:00

I have no idea how to pronounce this man's name. I don't really care. This is the most beautiful music I've discovered in years.

things i'd rather do than law, volume one.

2010-02-05T11:58:00.000-08:00

When sitting through class makes you feel like there's a power drill making it's way through your anterior lobe, the part of your mind left intact begins to wander to more pleasant places. One of the places I'd rather be? With my hands in a big pile of dirt.

I want to dig down in the earth and make things grow! I wish I just had days and days to plant a garden. I wouldn't really want any plan or structure. I wouldn't even want a path through it. Just flowers upon flowers. I want daffodils and roses and irises and campanula and poppies! It's so much less selfish than learning to manipulate the damn law.

Daddy and I grew these flowers when I was little.

rest in peace, mr. salinger.

2010-01-28T13:21:00.000-08:00

It's really no great coincidence that I brought up Holden Caulfield in last night's post, before I had heard of J.D. Salinger's passing. If you scan through the entirety of my blog, I'm sure you can find more than one reference to Salinger's characters, especially those in the Glass family. I can honestly say that I relate my experiences to his writings on a daily basis. Maybe that is childish. Maybe I should be looking to some more divine reference to life--surely Seymour would tell me this. While I do consider things in a spiritual manner, I need real, human reinforcement. More often than not, the characters in Salinger's stories display more humanity than the people with whom I interact on a daily basis.

I remember the first time I read The Catcher in the Rye. I was fifteen, and had recently concluded that everyone was a phony. (Not that I think I was wrong. Wart Hog by The Ramones validated my decision.) Imagine my surprise to find a kindred spirit in some foul-mouthed little New York prep school punk. I sat in my red armchair and read the entire book that night. Though I immediately proclaimed that it was my new favorite, it would be another five years before I read another Salinger work.

College was the biggest breath of fresh air I have ever received. It made Holden seem like more of an old friend, one that I didn't completely relate to anymore. I had more time to think about myself, instead of worrying about how much other people sickened me. Enter Franny and Zooey. I fell in love with the idea of the Glass family. At first glance, it would seem that I don't have a thing in common with them. Well-off children of parents with a mixed heritage, each of whom appeared on "It's a Wise Child" and were considered worrisome if they couldn't read by age three. The Glass children were "somebody." People think I'm supposed to be a "somebody." Sure, I have done well in school. I have ambition, and I would like to make a difference. But whether I will "make something of myself" the way all the folks back home believe that I should is another story. Franny's breakdown never seemed so bizarre to me. She said, "I'm sick of not having the courage to be an absolute nobody." Well, me too, Franny. Me too.

I finished up Nine Stories, Raise High the Roof Beam..., Seymour, and any other unpublished stories I could dig up by the end of the year. For the sake of brevity and your sanity, I won't begin to talk about how I feel about Seymour Glass. In ...Bananafish, Sybil said "See-more Glass." Suffice it to say that I don't think this was just Salinger being fanciful.

Buddy said that Seymour was a person much too large to fit on ordinary typewriter paper. The same goes out to you, Mr. Salinger. Thank you.

reinject realness and referentiality everywhere.

2010-01-27T20:55:00.000-08:00

I've been even more cynical than usual lately. Law school has reminded me why I liked Holden Caulfield so much in the first place. But it's not only that. It's the entire world. I'm having a hard time perceiving much of anything as real. Yes, I can acknowledge the concrete existence of things. It just seems that societal entities, emotions, and many people are so displaced by the idea of their social function that their actual being is diluted. We're an entire planet of people who go through the motions instead of truly living.

Tonight, I re-read Simulacra and Simulations by Jean Baudrillard, remembering that the essay centered around our modern construction of what is "real." He wrote that a world based on simulation models would lead to "hyperreality", and I'll be damned if that's not what our "reality" is. Essentially, Baudrillard believes that in hyperreality, signs are more flexible than an absolute meaning. Thus, in the hyperreal world, it is futile to simply copy or imitate the signs. Instead, Baudrillard contends that signs of the real are substituted for the real itself. This, in turn, circumvents the “real” processes that once accompanied these signs. Thus, it is not necessary for the real to be produced again. He describes this role as “…the vital function of the model in a system of death.”

Unfortunately, I cannot say that I agree with Baudrillard's proposal of socialism as a solution to hyperreality. He believes that socialism will come as a response to the death of the social. But let's be realistic--so long as the populace is pacified by signs of power, should they not be blind to the fact that it, along with their social world, has disappeared? At this point, society is nowhere near reaching the realization that the social itself, the real, has died. Baudrillard's second and much simpler remedy is the one I have taken to heart. "Reinject realness and referentiality everywhere."

a thought to begin your week.

2010-01-24T19:21:00.000-08:00

The rain falls upon the just
And also on the unjust fellas
But mostly it falls upon the just
Cause the unjust have the just's umbrellas.
— Cormac McCarthy (The Stonemason)

Have a great week, and remember to keep the people of Haiti in your prayers.

Elvis Perkins in Dearland, 11-18-2009

2010-01-01T19:14:00.000-08:00

A Primer on my Passion for Perkins (<- holy alliteration) I had waited on this show since early 2007, the first time I heard "While You Were Sleeping." The tune is beautiful in its simplicity, but it was the song's lyrics that really caught me. There are a trove of lyrics that I could tell you are lovely, or witty, or poetic, but these are the only ones that I could claim feel as if they came straight from my heart. The lines that particularly grab me:

"So I waited for the riddled sky
to be solved again by sunrise
And I've made a death suit for life
For my father's ill widowed wife
Did you have that strangest dream before you woke
Cause in your gown you had the butterfly stroke
Did it escape you like some half told joke?
When you reached for your plume of smoke..."

Elvis sings this (and many other songs) with such a distinct sadness, one that I feel only those who have suffered a profound loss could completely understand. Ten years after I had such a loss, it still takes a daily effort for me to untangle my emotions and move forward. As cheesy as it may sound, this song reminds me to do that.

Elvis at Zanzabar

This was my first time to Zanzabar, Louisville. As I understand it, the place was recently renovated. Kudos to the designers--it looks amazing. Zanzabar is a great venue. We arrived early and met Erin for dinner. Elvis and the guys had the same idea. We saw them having a pre-show snack across from the bar. Our food (especially the homemade chips) was great, and they have a decent selection of brews as well.

The Woes and A.A. Bondy supported Elvis that night. Let me tell you--The Woes are one of the must underrated bands on the indie scene. They were AMAZING. Have a listen, and you will thank me later. I can't really tell you much about A.A. Bondy's show, except that it was so relaxing I felt like I was at home in bed. I'll leave the decision on whether that was good or bad up to you.

After the crowd cleared from A.A.'s show, I walked up to the stage area. After a few more people shifted, I was more than happy to take a place front-and-center. When Elvis and the guys took the stage, I was literally about two feet away from him. Elvis surprised me by kicking off the set with "While You Were Sleeping". I tried not to get weepy. I mean, isn't that bad concert etiquette to burst into tears right in front of the songwriter? I choked back my (happy) tears and enjoyed the theatrics of the song. Dearland came into the song one-by-one, like they did in the Letterman performance a few years back. Beautiful. The show went on with more of my favorites, like Shampoo, and featured all of the new songs from the Doomsday EP. Elvis closed the show with the title track from the EP. All of Dearland, as well as a few members of the Woes, joined Elvis on the song, but played amongst the audience. It was truly a unique experience. Kele ran into the audience when I saw Bloc Party, but I had definitely never had members of the band playing directly into my ears. Perfect.

After the show, I was lucky enough to meet Brigham Brough (bass,vocals, saxophone for Dearland) and Elvis. They couldn't have been nicer. Brigham actually approached us to talk after the show, which I figure is pretty much unheard of. He asked me how I first heard them, and I really had to think about it. I finally remembered that my first listen was Elvis' Daytrotter session back in 07. After trying to make them understand the geography of Kentucky, making my argument for them to play in Lexington, and having my vinyl copy of "Ash Wednesday" signed, we hit I-64. Truly an unforgettable show.

Some pictures I snapped. CANNOT believe I didn't bring my DSLR.

ring out the old, ring in the new...

2010-01-01T19:06:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year and God bless George Harrison!

i wish it was christmas today!

2009-12-22T22:34:00.000-08:00

sure do...

SNL Christmas Song | Movies & TV | SPIKE.com

don't forget all the horses and toys, never could fix the poor little rich boys.

2009-12-21T10:47:00.000-08:00

I've had some busy days with Momma flying in, and didn't get to post my Christmas songs! That means you get THREE today!

Spotlight on Christmas by Rufus Wainwright (sorry Prof. Graham...)

Fairytale of New York by The Pogues (who wants to sing this with me at karaoke?? I'd even like to do Shane's part!)

Father Christmas by the Kinks. Listen to the words.

On a side note, last night marked the 2000th win for Kentucky Basketball...the ONLY D-1 team to reach this number. The best part is that I was there to see it! Go Cats!

just had to repost...

2009-12-19T18:21:00.000-08:00

Oh the weather outside is frightful, but the CATS are so delightful...and all the Louisville fans should know: 11-0, 11-0, 11-0!

Can't wait to become the first NCAA basketball team with 2,000 wins! GO CATS!

everything is white tonight.

2009-12-19T15:51:00.000-08:00

When will I get back to my mountain home? God only knows. Apparently, the heaviest snow of the last ten years blanketed them last night. Needless to say, I'm glad to still be in Lexington and with power. But there's a little part of me that misses being in Pike County, snowed in, powerless, and cooking breakfast food over Papaw's gas stove. Never a more perfect day for this song.

Christmas Song of the Day:
Christmastime in the Mountains by Palace Songs (link is to download)

finals are over...HALLELUJAH!!!

2009-12-18T16:59:00.000-08:00

I really can't describe the relief i felt today when my Torts final was over. You know when you really really need to sneeze, and it makes your nose hurt, then you finally sneeze? Kinda like that times 1000.

After the exam, I went home, catnapped for about an hour, then headed to the spa with K. We had a GREAT day at Ziyan, and even got the couples' room for our massages! Ha! The wonders of one day of relaxation are amazing.

Christmas song of the day:
Another favorite of mine. Just Like Christmas by Low

Love,

Christmas song of the day!

2009-12-17T10:10:00.000-08:00

My very favorite (excluding hymns): What Christmas Means to Me by Stevie Wonder.

home for the holidays.

2009-12-16T11:37:00.000-08:00

Hope you like the holiday makeover I gave Indoor Fireworks! Don't we all need one?

For you unfortunate souls who are still studying for finals (like me), take a break and listen to a Christmas song. I'm loving this new little gem from Gentleman Auction House. Listen now!

Love,

i'm van occupanther. or, NEW MIDLAKE!!!

2009-12-14T10:39:00.000-08:00

I've been waiting on this for years! Two new songs have been leaked, and The Courage of Others will be available February 2nd. Definitely my most-anticipated album of 2010, followed by Yeasayer's Odd Blood.

You can download the new songs from this blog.

Tschüss!

my two favorite teams: the wildcats, and whoever beats louisville.

2009-12-14T01:39:00.000-08:00

The title of this blog is adapted from a quote by the wonderful "Mr. Wildcat", Bill Keightley.

Just a quick post to let you know that if you're not watching the Cats, you're missing out. The games against UNC and UConn are among the best I've seen in years, and I CANNOT wait to meet up with Ricky P. on January 2nd.

ON, ON, U OF K!

an obligatory post to confirm that i am alive.

2009-12-07T19:33:00.000-08:00

The term "alive" is relative, really...

Final exams are upon us, and it brings out the best paranoid, schizoid traits in everyone! Law school is a bona fide circus, I tell ya. We could go on the road as a side show to help pay off our student loans. Hell, I'd pay a dollar to throw some tomatoes at a few gunners.

Along with a few friends, my music continues to provide me with a semblance of sanity. My recommendation for the day: a zombie love song! Over break, I'll give a full rundown of Elvis' concert from a few weeks ago. This is a nice version of the song.

Love to wherever you are.

-S.

don't let us get sick.

2009-10-09T20:34:00.000-07:00

Friends, I have had a hard week. I got some bad news on some personal issues that I am really worried about. It's a lot of stress, on top of the pre-existing school-induced stress. On top of that, I think I am coming down with the flu. These are not good conditions for studying for Monday's Legal Research final. So, if you're the praying type, please send one up for me! I'm at my breaking point!

And Kathleen, I promise to post the rest of The Beatles countdown at some point.

Love,

another item for my bucket list...

2009-09-28T16:29:00.001-07:00

learn this dance.

her majesty's a pretty nice girl.

2009-09-27T14:51:00.000-07:00

Turns out Paul used more eloquent words to write about the Queen's coronation when he was ten years old. An essay he wrote about the event won a local contest, and the original document has just been uncovered in a Liverpool library.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/entertainment/8277039.stm

Her majesty's a pretty nice girl, someday I'm gonna make her mine.

the list continues...39-30.

2009-09-21T17:13:00.000-07:00

39.

I'm Looking Through You. "You don't look different, but you have changed." I think anyone who has been in any remote semblance of a relationship can relate to this song. There's something about the acoustic guitar that opens this song. It's such a contrast to the way it feels when you, too, realize that love has a nasty habit of disappearing overnight. The Muppets give the song a fun treatment here.

38. Happiness Is A Warm Gun. It's rumored that this song is based on an acid trip. That doesn't seem like such a far-flung theory. I just love the imagery that the lyrics conjures up. "The man in the crowd with the multi-colored mirrors on his hobnail boots." Plus, who else could make cooing "Bang Bang, Shoot Shoot" so angelic?

37. Yer Blues. This song was a little tongue-in-cheek, but who would really know? John's vocals are just oozin' the bluesins, and everyone else is sounding spot-on as well. Bobby D. gets a shout-out in this one too--"Feel so suicidal, just like Dylan's Mr. Jones."

36. I've Got a Feeling. One of my most recent favorites. I think this song encapsulates the "Let It Be" album better than any other. Although the recording of the album saw a lot of tension between the boys, we're able to hear how John and Paul could still play off of one another's strengths. The main "I've Got a Feeling" theme countered with John's "Everybody Had a Good Year" is perfect.

35. Don't Let Me Down. You can feel this song down in your soul. It is a completely genuine, raw plea for love. "It's a love that lasts forever, it's a love that has no past."

34. Lovely Rita. John thought this song was boring. I certainly do not. Both Paul and John truly had gifts for imagery. I can just see Rita standing there, looking a little like a military man, as the piano gallops through the narrative.

33. Hey Bulldog. Another one that might slip past you if you don't pay attention. Also piano driven, this little gem is on Yellow Submarine.

32. Across the Universe. A slew of other artists thought they could nail this song as well as the Fab Four, but they thought wrong. This was another song that was inspired during their visit of the Maharishi in India, even though it ended up on Let it Be rather than the White Album. "'Across the Universe' borrowed the expression of greeting that TM disciples exchanged when they encountered one another on one of the paths: Jai Guru Dev, or 'long live Guru Dev,' in tribute to the Maharishi's personal swami."-Bob Spitz

31. Revolution 1. I'll leave it to you whether this is the slow or fast version. Either way, brilliant lyrics for the milieu. Once, in Honors, we were talking about some Communist leader, God only knows who. Anyway, with a completely straight face, a classmate chimed in with "Well, I mean, if you go carrying pictures of Chairman Mao, you ain't gonna make it with anyone anyhow." I burst out in hysterics. Nobody else got the joke.

30. You've Got to Hide Your Love Away. My personal favorite from Help!. John bears it all in this heart-wrencher. Also a quite delightful scene from the film...I still want a little bed down in floor like this.

Tune in for more anon. Oh, and since you're here...I heard that a devastatingly handsome guy just started this blog. =)

using yellow submarine to make some green.

2009-09-07T16:46:00.000-07:00

Or: The blue meanies are coming again, this time in 3-D. Robert Zemeckis and Disney are planning a remake of Yellow Submarine. Really? I know the old argument of "It'll introduce a new generation to The Beatles!" will come up, but surely even that has its limits. The film is due to finish production in time for the summer Olympics in 2012.

50 greatest beatles songs?? i think not.

2009-09-06T10:07:00.000-07:00

Yes, I talk about the Beatles a lot. Sue me.

I logged onto Stereogum this morning to see that Entertainment Weekly had compiled a list of the 50 greatest (and five worst) Beatles songs. I see their marketing scheme, publishing this to coincide with the release of Beatles Rock Band and the remastered re-issues of the albums. But if you're going to do something, at least do a good job of it! The list should have been made by Beatles fans, not some entertainment mag dilettante. Refer to the Stereogum link to see EW's list. In the next few days, I'll work on my revised countdown. Here's 50-40!

50. Revolution 9. This one deserves inclusion simply on the merit of how groundbreaking it was. The Beatles had traveled to the opposite end of the musical spectrum from their roots in pop-rock and skiffle. Revolution 9 represented the shift to the avant-garde (heavily promoted by Yoko) and delving deeper into the experimental methods that first appeared with their backmasking on Tomorrow Never Knows. This may not be a song you want to (or would be able to) sing along with in the car, but you can't deny it's originality. I mean, where else in the Beatles' catalog do you hear George Martin called a "cheeky bitch"?

49. With a Little Help From My Friends. This song showcases the best of Ringo (or Billy Shears.) John and Paul wrote this song specifically for Ringo to sing, which shows how acutely aware each was of the others' presence and abilities. The call-and-answer kind of dialogue is perfect for the song, but cover versions (like Joe Cocker's) show the real versatility of the lyrics. (In case you somehow went through adolescence without watching The Wonder Years, here is the Cocker version.)

48. Only A Northern Song. George's first song on my list. It's melodic without being run-of-the-mill pop. Oh, and glockenspiel? Check. It's sequence in Yellow Submarine is pretty awesome as well.

47. She Loves You. Sie liebt dich, ja ja ja! Yes, this song (along with one more that will appear later in the list) was so popular that The Beatles recorded it in German. Bob Spitz describes this one best in The Beatles: "No matter how their music evolved, no matter how they experimented with complex musical textures and electronics, it is hard to think of the Beatles today without visualizing them as four grinning mop-tops positioned in that classic stage pose--the guitars riding high on their chests, drumsticks rhythmically pummeling the cymbals--singing, 'And you know you should be glad: oooooooo,' with a decisive shake of their beautiful hair. Nothing identifies them more vividly."

46. The Fool on the Hill. Paul is really quite good at conjuring up images of lonely people. The tune gives this a quite different feel from his other "lonely" song. To me, it sounds like a bit of an old-tyme side show melody. He is the "fool" to onlookers, but to him, the rest of the world is a bit of a freak show. Just my thoughts.

45. You Never Give Me Your Money. I have to give this song credit as being one of the most important in the Abbey Road suite. Great lyrics, great reprise to its melody later in the musical collage.

44. I Want You (She's So Heavy). An A-side from Abbey Road. This song is simply epic. David Gates writes: "The hypnotically repeated guitar figure in 'I Want You (She's So Heavy)' is suddenly, arbitrarily cut off, jolting us into embarrassed awareness that we've let a mere recording carry us away."

43. Got to Get You Into My Life. I am not even going to try and explain anything technical about this song. Just listen to this song and try to be in a bad mood. I rest my case.

42. Julia. Hauntingly beautiful. "Half of what I say is meaningless, but I say it just to reach you, Julia." This was written in part for his deceased mother, as well as for Yoko ("Oceanchild.")

41. What You're Doing. A nice, chorus-less ditty from Beatles VI. Listen to the guitar melody that begins immediately after the introductory drumming, then listen to Turn! Turn! Turn! by The Byrds. Eh?

40. Baby, You're a Rich Man. I think this is a real overlooked gem from Magical Mystery Tour. The feed back sounds fantastic without being contrived. AND Mick Jagger sings a bit of the backup!

Well, there you go. I'll post the next ten when I get a chance. Tschüss!

under pressure...!

2009-08-27T10:25:00.000-07:00

Well, the great death (aka law school) has finally begun. I actually don't really want to dwell on the subject. Believe me, I have been thinking about it enough this week. I do work well under pressure, so I suppose it all works out. I would, however, like to report that my first two experiences with being called on in class were successes! My hands were shaking like crazy when Lawson called on me today. Pleadings! Thank God I took extensive notes. Oh, and I am absolutely DYING for some fellow 1L's with discerning musical tastes to reveal themselves. I'M BEGGING YOU.

In better news from this week, I got very nice seats for The Decemberists' show at the Singletary Center! I was very pleasantly surprised. I figured I'd waited too long to get ones that close. Had to shell out a few extra bucks, but oh well. I'm really excited for all the prospects of shows that are in and around Lexington this fall. I just hate that I will more than likely have to miss quite a few good ones. These United States at Buster's, Blitzen Trapper at Southgate House,, and GirlTalk at UK TONIGHT...fantastic.

Here's a new playlist I made to study by. You should check out some of these songs. I'm turned off by most covers, but these are well-done (especially when they make really bad songs good!) Leave me comments with other good ones! I like to call it "Cover Charge." Pun intended.

1. Devendra Banhart-"Forget About Him" (Kath Bloom)
2. Antony and the Johnsons-"Knockin' on Heaven's Door" (Bob Dylan)
3. Gary Jules-"Mad World" (Tears for Fears)
4. Andrew Bird-"Oh Sister" (Bob Dylan)
5. Kid Lightning-"Straight Outta Compton" (N.W.A.)
6. Elliott Smith-"Thirteen" (Big Star)
7. The Swell Season-"Into the Mystic" (Van Morrison)
8. The Wombats-"Bleeding Love" (Leona Lewis)
9. Hot Club de Paris-"You Can Call Me Al" (Paul Simon)
10. The Arcade Fire-"Five Years" (David Bowie)
11. Sean Lennon-"Would I Be The One" (T. Rex)
12. Okkervil River-"I Came Here to Say I'm Going Away" (Serge Gainsbourg)
13. The Flaming Lips-"Borderline" (Madonna)
14. WHY?-"Close to Me" (The Cure)
15. Calexico-"Alone Again Or" (Love)
16. Daniel Rossen of Grizzly Bear-"Too Little Too Late" (Jojo)
17. The Futureheads-"Hounds of Love" (Kate Bush) *Ra Ra Riot does a great cover of this as well...
18. Glen Hansard-"Cry Me A River" (Justin Timberlake)
19. DeVotchKa-"Venus in Furs" (The Velvet Underground)
20. Blitzen Trapper-"Crazy on You" (Heart)
21. Otis Redding-"Day Tripper" (The Beatles)
22. Rachel Yamagata-"River" (Joni Mitchell)
23. Klaxons-"No Diggity" (Blackstreet)
24. Franz Ferdinand-"All of my Friends" (LCD Soundsystem)
25. Colin Meloy and Laura Gibson-"Bring it on Home to Me" (Sam Cooke. I also recommend the covers by The Animals and The Zombies.)
26. The Wrens-"Nightswimming" (R.E.M.)
27. Cold War Kids-"Indoor Fireworks" (Elvis Costello) *had to throw this in of course...

one week is 10,080 minutes, and one minute is a long time...

2009-08-23T18:02:00.000-07:00

I think I've gone from being Seymour Glass to Gregor Samsa. Metamorphosis, indeed.

one sweet dream.

2009-08-18T12:46:00.000-07:00

My apologies for the absence. The aforementioned storm also took my internet out, and the problem wasn't resolved until a few days ago. That's okay I suppose. I wouldn't have had time to write a proper post anyway.

Since the deluge, I have been to two fantastic shows. Last week was Old Crow Medicine Show's Big Surprise tour stop at Waterfront Park. Obviously, it featured Old Crow, alongside guests like the Felice Brothers, Justin Townes Earle, and Gillian Welch. It was a pretty brilliant idea for the tour. Each act would come out and play four or five of their own songs. Then, EVERY other artist would join them on stage to play a final two or three. It was a great feel for the show. Having 12-13 people on stage made it seem kind of like Parliament Funkadelic suddenly turned into a nu-grass band. Now there's something I would pay to see.

Now, onto more monumental matters of the Sarah Hunt concert-going canon. Saturday was THE concert. The zenith. The paradigm by which I will judge all others. Of course, this was the concert of one of my heroes--James Paul McCartney. We caught him at the Green Concert for Piedmont Conservancy in Atlanta. I don't think I'm even going to attempt transcribing my emotions into words. I don't mean to sound like a 14-year-old who has just seen her first Jonas Brothers show and is 79% sure that Joe winked at her. This is a totally different experience for me. My dad raised me on The Beatles. They were his band, and everyone knew it. When the anthology series debuted, KET aired the chapters one by one on Saturday nights. I can remember curling up in the old recliner with him (even though I was probably eleven or twelve by then) and watching the shows. He had seen just about every classic rock act imaginable--I lost track of all the Led Zeppelin stories. However, he was always crushed that he was never able to see The Beatles. They stopped touring by the time he was about 17. So, when I saw Paul, I just couldn't help but wish that he could be there to experience it with me. It was the epitome of a bittersweet moment. Paul came on stage to "Drive My Car", and I stood in the field blinded with tears but wearing a smile on my face that probably hadn't been seen since I was a child at Christmas.

The concert itself was incomparable. I know I probably sound like a broken record, but it's true. Even if I didn't hold Paul in the high regard that I do, I would have been blown away by the show. He performed for nearly three hours, with the only breaks coming between his two encores. Although I would have enjoyed hearing a little "Monkberry Moon Delight", the show really left nothing to be desired. The majority of his songs were Beatles standards, with a sprinkling of Wings tunes and two new ones from the "Fireman" album. The downpour that hit Piedmont Park couldn't dampen my mood either. Actually, I thought it was the perfect coincidence that it began as Paul sang "Blackbird." Most of the crowd started throwing blankets over themselves, or pulling out the ponchos that are for some reason still accepted by the 30+ crowd. Evan and I just looked at one another and smiled, then put our hands in the air and our face to the sky. I didn't have a dry thread when all was said and done, but I wouldn't have it any other way. His final encore was ace. It began with the "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Heart's Club Band" reprise, which went immediately into "The End."

I won't ramble about that any longer. I'll just finish up for today by saying that I often have the same suspicions about people as Seymour Glass. I think they must be plotting to make me happy.

when the rain comes, they run and hide their heads.

2009-08-05T14:04:00.000-07:00

Looks like ye olde blog is getting off to a slow start, courtesy of the crazy storm system that blew through yesterday. Don't get me wrong, I love a good storm. This storm, however, had me convinced that Voldemort and a few death eaters were about to fly into my apartment at any time. Turns out that there were only electricity eaters--the death eaters' distant cousins from Pittsburgh. Anyway, said electricity eaters took it upon themselves to give me a power outage. Although it only lasted about two minutes, the surge was enough to fry my new laptop charger that I have owned for exactly one week. Fantastic! Apple has a new energy efficient model en route to me. I only hope that I correctly identified the symptom. If my port is blown, we have troubles.

My little charger incident was nothing compared to what many people faced with flooding yesterday. The fact was impossible to miss, with Louisville's high waters as the headline news on most of the national outlets. I am truly sorry to see the devastation in Jefferson County. However, I couldn't help but become a but agitated by the fact that the same disastrous flooding that occurred in eastern Kentucky three months ago received little to no recognition outside the region. I do not know how the two floods compare, insofar as the monetary damages done. I will simply say that I find it very hard to believe that yesterday's flooding was any worse. Pike County is quickly running out of the funds received from FEMA. In fact, I am not sure that they are not already depleted. There are still several areas that are left in ruins. A piece of the road near my grandfather's home on Chloe Creek that was washed away in May remains untouched. Residents of the area have put up homemade caution signs to warn motorists. Just last week, my grandfather was hard at work repairing a part of his house that was damaged from the immense amount of water that ran off the mountain. I'm sure that other residents could tell similar stories. Improper reclamation, anyone? But I digress.

Let me reiterate, I am not attempting to diminish the fact that Louisville was terribly flooded. Yes, this was an event that merited media attention. It is the way that this media attention is dispersed, however, that upsets me so much. Apparently, eastern Kentuckians only warrant attention when it is a convenient career move for a white-collar journalist.

Rant finished. Good day all!

the origin of species.

2009-08-03T15:03:00.000-07:00

I might as well go ahead and explain the title of the blog. It is the title of a song from Elvis Costello's King of America album. It's not that I particularly identify with the lyrics. I just love those two words together. They fall short of being an oxymoron, but they still cast a little ironic shadow. In-door fi-re-works. Just as simply as that. In my eyes, Elvis Costello (aka Declan MacManus, international art thief...any 30 Rock fans?) is a living legend.

phase one, in which doris gets her oats.

2009-08-03T14:25:00.000-07:00

I suppose you are all wondering what on earth possessed me to begin writing a blog, especially when I am about to embark on a triad of years that will presumably be saturated in the written word. Well, there is your answer in itself. If my life is reduced to writing briefs and reading cases--and I am fairly certain it will be--I would be yet one step closer to being your friendly neighborhood bedlamite.

This blog has no real direction. It's just words to the tune of my life.