A is for April & M is for May

My past couple of months have been absolutely crazy, stressful and exciting all at the same time. Since I last checked in, I've turned 23 and I've been living in an apartment in LA with my sweet friend Elizabeth. Like WHAT. It's kind of crazytown but we are doing kind of amazing so far. The whole "we're adults and have bills to pay" thing is going to make a great chapter in our future memoir/Lifetime movie, let me tell you. This weekend we also began "Nashville" because it's summer time and we needed a show. Watching ABC dramas with cute boys and Connie Britton is kind of a dream and the best roomie bonding time ever. (I only added that because we are most definitely watching some episodes right now and I'm mentally planning a trip to Nashville. For sure.)

April 2013  

1. Boyf & I running around parking structures. Naturally. 2. The same day E, Boyf & I went to LA to look at Mario Testino's photos in a museum. 3. I went to the Easter service alone & it was grand. 4. Megan & I bought these weird confetti eggs at Target & threw them all over the street. 5. I took the boyf to a hockey game for Valentine's Day. 6. There is a macaroon store right by work & if you know me, you know how happy that makes my heart & my stomach.

7. Mom & I attended the baby shower/going away party for my God Sister. It's a mix of happy & sad. 8. The girls at work took me to Benihana, where I drank out of a Buddha. It was mandatory. 9. For my birthday I went bowling with some of my favorite humans. 10. For my actual birthday, Riley, Elizabeth & I spent the whole day at Disneyland. 11. More from my birthday bowling extravaganza. 12. E & I had a "WE HAVE AN APARTMENT" celebratory dinner at some random Mexican restaurant. So exciting, I can't deal. 

May 2013

1. I miss living with Courtney. I came home to a belated birthday Funfetti cake. 2. Target may or may not have a hooded Batman towel & we definitely bought it. 3. & 4. I'm officially at the age where my friends are all getting married. It's so weird. 5. Watching the MET Gala at work because it's my job. 6. LA has some real pretty moments. 

7. Court & I spent a Mother's Day breakfast with the aunts & Grandma by taking pictures, as always. 8. We spent Mother's Day at the MV Lake & I didn't have a bathing suit, which just meant snow cones. Ya dig? 9. B Coops getting all ready for our big move. 10. MY NEW ADDRESS. 11. On our first night, E & I went searching for the perfect pizza place because we have priorities. 12. We also went to the Farmer's Market & got fresh flowers for our living room.

13. This is my new view, every morning I can't even believe it. 14. Mandatory Rite Aid ice cream runs with the roomie. 15. My Grandma died this past Monday & Tuesday was the 13th anniversary of my Daddy's death (Memorial Day is the worst), so E took me to brunch at Toast Bakery. It was super cute & delicious. 16. It took me a couple weeks to realize that our last names are on the directory by our mail boxes. Say what?! 17. On Wednesday, I went to 1642, which ended up being THE greatest bar. It was completely hidden & jazz night. I loved it. 18. Riley also brought us peonies. What a great house guest. 

So far, April, May and the 2 days of June so far, have been pretty life changing and great. Here's to more wonderful memories in this new place with all my great friends & family. And more blog posts, because I have priorities. Obviously.

B is for Birthday List

You guys, the time has come. MY BIRTHDAY IS 20 DAYS AWAY. In 20 days, I will no longer connect (On a soul sister level) with Taylor Swift's song, "22." This is something I am most sad about. I have loved being 22 though, a lot of great and absolutely wonderful things have happened in my 22nd year of life. I graduated, I got a real job, I have perfect friends and an almost perfect boyfriend. (That was a joke. I love you, Matt.) So, let's get shopping, friends!

I blame my friend Riley for my obsession with Kate Spade wallets. She has an amazing one. I would like the Cobble Hill Lacey wallet in black, please. (Available on katespade.com)

This gold Ampersand ring from CatbirdNYC is THE BEST. I love it. I love it so much. Size 6.5, please. (Available on Catbird NYC)

I've been dying over this cursive gold name ring from Silver Promo. I want it in gold, in a size 6.5, please. And I mean, obviously saying "Erin." I figured that was a given, but you never know. (Available on Silver Promo)

Henri Bendel's Vanilla Bean fragrance is one of my favorite fragrances. I ADORE it. I would like the Vanilla Bean Signature Reed, please. (Available in stores and online at Henri Bendel)

It upsets me that my dream gold pig is on yet ANOTHER gift list of mine. Like, yeah, I know that I could buy it myself, but principle. You know? I need this Gold Pig Bookend from CB2. I'm looking for an apartment right now and this is very necessary. (Available in stores and online at CB2)

I adore this Silk Maxidress in Laceprint from Madewell. I think I need it? Yep. Yes, I do. In a Medium, please. (Available in stores and online at Madewell)

I have this Shoulder Bag from H&M in black and I think it's mandatory that I have it in white too. It's the most perfect bag. And I believe in having more than one of a favorite item. Yeah? (Available in stores and online at H&M)

I know, I know. I'm asking for TENNIS SHOES PEOPLE. But these Keds + Kate Spade tennis shoes are the cutest ever. I wear a size 8 1/2. (Available on Keds.com)

I'm not sure why I don't have this Macaron stationary from Paper Source already. If you get them for me, I'll write you a pretty little thank you note with one of them. (Available in stores and online at Paper Source)

I'm aware that this is LITERALLY the most boring gift to ask for, but since I'm doing the whole "renting my first apartment" thing, I am having a love affair with Ikea, so this would be a huge help.

A is for A Year in Review 2012

Somehow we are already 6 days into 2013, which is just beyond me. But that's given me a lot of time to reflect on just how great my 2012 was. Because let's face it, it was pretty stinkin' great.

1. In January, the family and I drove to Vegas for the weekend to see Celine Dion. It was probably one of my favorite memories from 2012, mostly because it was the first thing we could cross off my Mom's bucket list and that's cute. 2. Megan and I saw a lot of movies together, but seeing "Titanic 3D" in theatres was the best. 3. 4th of July with my dearest Elizabeth, Riley and lots of sparklers. 4. Courtney and I stalked Joe Jonas at The Grove. Story of my gosh darn life, right?/5. I heart San Francisco and I heart my sister. 6. Remember when Tali and I stumbled upon the "Rock of Ages" LA premiere and then got tickets to see the movie with the cast of the movie? Because I do and it was awesome. 7. I hung out with Megan a lot apparently. 8. Oh, just a screening and Q&A with the cast of "Pitch Perfect." Elizabeth Banks is more perfect in real life. She's also really tiny./9. Dinner for my Mom and Aunt's birthday. My family is so cute, it hurts. 10. I finally went to the Getty Villa with Megan, Courtney, my aunt and uncle. It was stunning. I highly recommend running around there when you get a chance. 11. Mumford & Sons with the boyfriend was also kind of perfect. 12. My psycho cousins on Thanksgiving./13. Sarah, Riley and Elizabeth came out to my senior portfolio night, which made me feel so loved. 14. Oh, just running around Central Park with Tali. It was the most spur-of-the-moment trips I've ever taken and I loved every single second of it. 15. Lauren and I went to a Jonas Brothers concert in November and we're not even sorry about it. 16. I GRADUATED COLLEGE. It still hasn't set in. I can't talk about it without getting overwhelmed.

Bring it, 2013.

C is for Christmas List 2012

THE TIME IS HERE, MY FRIENDS. My annual Christmas list has arrived. I'm not going to lie to you, I'm even more excited about Christmas this year (for a lot of reasons) but for some reason compiling this list has been extra difficult this time around. I don't know why, it makes my Christmas-loving heart kind of sad. But have no fear, I recommend you put some Frank Sinatra Christmas music on and get shopping. Not too much though, because I'm sure I'll think of more stuff later.

A different version of Madewell's adorable flats have been on my birthday and Christmas list for the past few years, I just haven't received them yet. Hint hint. I would love the Sidewalk Skimmer in Calf Hair in a size 8, please. They are available online or in-stores. 

Okay, I know that asking for this $100+ sweater is a little steep, but LOOK AT THE CUTE SHEEP. I am lusting after Madwell's Counting Sheep Sweater in a size Medium, please. Available online or in-stores. 

2012 has been a huge year for me, what with graduating from college and whatnot, so I think it's only fitting that another diamond ring be added to my gorgeous collection. Granted, multiple people have been asking if I'm married (I'm not, you would know. Believe me. Wow, can you imagine the wedding wish list I'll post?...) but whatever. At least my pretty rings grab their attention. I wear a size 6.5. Just in case you were wondering. Disclaimer: The Tiffany & Co. ring shown here is just an example. I don't think you need to spend $10,100 on me. I mean, unless you love me that much.

No joke. Every single time I walk into Henri Bendel, I pick up the Peony candle, smell it about 5 times, contemplate finally purchasing it and then leave without it. It's an endless game. I hate it. So, to sum that up, I really want this Peony candle please. Available online or in-stores.

I have a sick obsession with J.Crew iPhone 4 cases. I love them. I have had my eye on this cheetah print one for the longest time. When you pick this up for me (Thanks in advance, you're a doll.) you should pick one up for yourself too. They're THAT great. Available online or in-stores.

This gift, in particular, is nearest and dearest to my heart. I know y'all know about my absolute ridiculous obsession with "Titanic." The movie AND the actual historical event. I'm obsessed. I blame it partially on my love of 1997 Leonardo DiCaprio and partially on my weird obsession with horrific disasters in history. Anyway, I know what you're thinking "Erin Michelle Brady, you are crazy. You already own "Titanic" on DVD." And you're right. I do own it on DVD. I do not, however, own the Blu-Ray 3D, Blu-Ray 2D, Digital Copy AND 2 1/2+ hours of never-before-seen footage though. Deal-breaker. I must have this, please. It's available at Target, online and in-stores. Believe me. I've checked a billion times.

 

Real talk. "Moonrise Kingdom" was one of my favorite movies of 2012. Oh, you didn't see it? Here, let's make a deal. You buy it for me for Christmas and then we can watch it together? Perfect. I look forward to this. It's available at Target, online or in-stores. But, if and when given the choice to go to Target, always choose in-store. I mean, it's Target. Also, it's important that I get the Blu-Ray and DVD combo. Just FYI.

I am being 100% serious when I tell you that I have been coveting these Gold Pig Bookends from CB2 for WAY too long. I need this little piggy in my life to survive. Or to be chic. But that's like, life or death pretty much, right? I mean, since no one will buy me a real micropig, I've told you about Madeline before, this will have to do. It's available online and in-store. And just remember, you'll be making my dreams come true. Yeah, I'mma guilt trip you into getting this for me.

Don't be surprised by all the cheetah print going on this year. I am in LOVE with this Leopard Print and Color Block Coat from Zara. Yeah, it's a little pricey, but you guys, look at it. I'm in love, I'm in love! I'd like it in a size Medium or Large. It's also available online and in-stores.

Okay, but this Spangled Sea Walrus ornament from Anthropologie is ACTUALLY to die for. Oh my gosh, look how cute he is! This little guy is available online and in-stores.

T is for The 10 Best Fictional Boyfriends

Let me start off by saying that I have a huge crush on Thought Catalog, aka. One of the best, funniest and wittiest blogs out there right now. It makes me laugh obnoxiously outloud to myself almost everytime. Yesterday, I read a post entitled "The 10 Best Fictional Boyfriends" and it inspired me. I have literally been thinking about my top 10 fictional boyfriends for almost 24 hours and I thought to myself "I can do this. I'm going to make my own." So alas, here is my version of the 10 best fictional boyfriends.

 

1. Marshall Eriksen, How I Met Your Mother

Marshall Eriksen, whom is perfectly portrayed by yet another man I would like to make mine, Jason Segel, is hands down THE best fictional boyfriend there is. He's loyal, caring, hilarious, manly but sensitive and he legitimately loves his wife (And their new baby! Spoiler alert.). Oh, their love story is one for the books. Or I mean, one for a TV show. They are, to steal a "Friends" quote, each other's lobsters. They're meant for each other. Another great thing about him, is that he has made me fall even more in love with him each season. Usually characters, no matter how perfect, lose their zest (or whatever) at one point in their TV show life, but not Marshall. No sir. He's perfect and I would be his girlfriend in a nanosecond.

2. Chandler Bing, Friends

If you must know one thing about me, it's that I ADORE Chandler Bing more than life itself. Okay, alright, that's a little dramatic (I'm sipping on a venti iced white mocha right now, it's getting to my head.) but Chandler Bing is actually my favorite character in the history of television. He is the perfect boyfriend/husband/friend. I can't even put into words how much I love him, I mean, he's Chandler Bing! Plus, who can resist a sweater vest? Could that BE any more attractive?

3. Jack Dawson, Titanic

Does this even surprise you one bit? I know every word to "Titanic." Every damn word. Now, before you judge me, I have an argument for why he would be the best boyfriend. He is so worldly, first off. I mean, he has traveled so much for a man with so little. He's smart, he's really smart, I mean, he saved Rose's life! And although their love affair lasted a mere few hours, it was magical. Like, I would let Jack draw me naked. I would let Jack take me up to the edge of the boat and sing in my ear. I would let him "love me" in a rich person's car. I would let him take me to a real party. I would let Jack Dawson do anything to me, and in return, I would attempt to save him. Not that I think Rose didn't try to save his life, but I would try harder. And, as if I need another reason, it's 1997 Leonardo DiCaprio and that is my favorite version of him. Ever.

4. Kevin, 27 Dresses

First off, I think "27 Dresses" is a highly underrated romantic comedy. It's so good. I love the chemistry between Jane (Katherine Heigl) and Kevin (James Marsden) and I yearn to have that. I look for a love like that. They didn't like each other in the beginning, but they eventually fall in love with each other because of life circumstances and such. It's a great love story because it's so realistic, I see myself in the both of the characters. Plus, the fact that he can make me love him with moppy hair and running shoes kind of proves the whole "love is blind" thing. Or whatever.

5. Noah Calhoun, The Notebook

RYAN. GOSLING. Need I say more? No, I don't need to, but I will. Noah Calhoun is my favorite Nicholas Sparks character. Ever. I've become really cynical over the years and sometimes I don't like the really romantic gushy love stories, but this one is SO good, you guys. He builds her a dream house (With a wrap around balcony!), he writes love letters (A year's worth of them, mind you.), he rows boats (And looks really attractive whilst doing so. Hello back muscles!), he's a good kisser (I'm assuming after watching the movie so many times...) and he never stops loving Allie. It's so romantic. And he says really cute things, "So it's not gonna be easy. It's going to be really hard, we're gonna have to work at this everyday, but I want to do that because I want you. I want all of you, forever, everyday. You and me... Everyday." I MEAN. With lines like that, who wouldn't want to date him? (Oh, and yeah, this one was necessary of a GIF because like, this nose scrunch is actually the cutest.)

6. Peeta Mellark, The Hunger Games

Peeta Mellark, let me count the ways I love thee. I'm in love with the movie Peeta Mellark AND the literary Peeta Mellark. That's rare. I fell in like with him in the movie so much that I even read the book. Now, that is falling in real like, my friends. If you just watched the movie, without reading the books, you may think "But his love is so corny!" but like Kate Winslet's character in "The Holiday" said, "I like corny. I'm looking for corny in my life." Same here, Kate Winslet. Even though Peeta is corny, he's genuine about his love for Katniss Everdeen. Even if it did take being forced to kill her on live TV in front of the whole world to admit it, he still admitted it and that was brave. Yes, he's weak, but I find it endearing. Also, with corny quotes like this "'...My nightmares are usually about losing you,' he says. 'I'm okay once I realize you're here.'" it makes him even cuter. I mean, SO corny, but so cute. And, I'm not going to give anything away, but their love story is real and heartbreaking, but so rewarding. I want it. Minus the whole Hunger Games situation because I have had multiple conversations about what would happen if I was in the competition and my chances don't look too great, if we're just being honest.

7. Ron Weasley, Harry Potter

So, what I'm gathering from my fictional boyfriend list is that I look for someone who is funny, witty and genuine. I've used those words way too much throughout this list. But c'est la vie. At least I'm certain about what I want. Now, who wouldn't want to date The Boy Who Lived's best friend? I know I would. He kind of reminds me of Peeta Mellark in a sense because while he's not the strongest character, he is my favorite and I couldn't imagine the series without him. He's also similar because I love the movie Ron and the literary Ron. Yes, he's poor, but he makes up for it in his character. Just like Jack Dawson. Wow, I'm learning so much about my love life right now...

8. Jake Perry, Sweet Home Alabama

I can't take credit completely for choosing this boyfriend, I have to give the credit to my friend Elin. But I agree and she chose a good fictional boyfriend. I think my favorite part about Jake (Other than the cute Josh Lucas playing him.) is this quote right here...

Melanie: "What do you want to be married to me for, anyhow?"

Jake: "So I can kiss you anytime I want."

This quote gets me every freaking time. I love it. I told you I live for corny. Also, I like the fact that Jake waited for Melanie (Reese Witherspoon) forever. I'm all for long lost love, evidently. Long lost love, soulmates and corny. Ugh, who am I today?

9. Matt Flamhaff, 13 Going on 30

Matt Flamhaff (Mark Ruffalo, moment to swoon, please.), is perhaps one of my favorite romantic comedy characters. He loves Jenna (Jennifer Garner) SO much. And I mean, he gives her a magical doll house, eats Razzles with her and he knows the entire "Thriller" dance. If that's not love, I truly don't know what is. You should know that my dream is to do a choreographed dance with a huge group of people.

10. Jim Halpert, The Office

Granted, "The Office" has gone down the pooper as of late, but Jim Halpert is one of the best male characters out there. I can't take complete credit for this one either, but my sister made a very good point. He's witty, attractive, caring, romantic and funny. He makes me want to work in a boring office. Now THAT is saying something. Oh, and I have a crush on John Krasinski, so there's also that.

(Via Google Images)

B is for Birthday

IT'S ALMOST MY 22ND BIRTHDAY. I may or may not be having a mid-mid-life crisis. It's a thing. Also, I'm bad at math so I'm not sure what that would be. Whatever. I'm still quite excited. Meep! (This is also my subtle way of reminding you that you have 7 days to shop for my birthday presents.)

B is for Birthday List

It's that time of year, when I ask for presents... It's suggested that you read that to the tune of The Carpenters' "The Christmas Waltz." It's my birthday month, which means it is time for my annual birthday list. Oh, my birthday. I love my birthday. I love birthdays in general. I honestly will never understand people who disregard their birthday. It is a magical day. Last year was not my favorite, although I appreciate all the efforts made, but this year will be amazing. I will be 22 (I know I should just start writing my will now) so I am going to be extra sophisticated. Now, here is a list of things to help me live a more sophisticated life. (Note: All the clothing requested would be great in a Large. I like my clothing roomy. Or something.)I know people don't like getting giftcards, BUT I would like one to either Madewell, J. Crew, Starbucks and/or Target. I mean, if you feel like getting all of them, I won't fight you."To Catch a Thief" on DVD from Target. I really love this movie, I don't think it gets enough credit. Or maybe it does and I just don't hear people talking about it. LONG LIVE OLD MOVIES."Rear Window" on Blu Ray/DVD from Target. I don't know if it comes in Blu Ray yet, but it should because this is a great movie. Also, I love Grace Kelly."The Help" Blu Ray/DVD (the combination) from Target.I would like this Combined T-Shirt with Zip from Zara in this lavender color.I love this T-Shirt with Lace Detail from Zara. Gosh, their names are so boring.Let's ignore the name of this cute Printed Hipster Dress from Zara. The name is stupid, the dress is not.This Cap Sleeve Dress with Asymmetric Hem from Zara is also kind of to die for.I love this Oasis Lace Back T-Shirt in Coral Orange. I heart this Band of Gypsies Woven T-Shirt in Parrot Print.You know how much I love me the French. I love this ASOS Bonjour sweater. I have been lusting after these Kate Spade Signature Spade Crystal Stud Earrings for awhile now. I would also gladly take the plain ones too.I am kind of obsessed with The Holepunch Sidewalk Skimmers from Madewell. I would love them in Burnt Sienna in a 8 1/2.I know this is a longshot, but I have been eying a Longchamp bag forever. I would love this black Le Pliage tote, please. You can buy it for me here. They also carry them at Bloomingdale's. I mean, whatever. I'm just trying to make your life easier.