2015 Appreciation Post

     My absolute, final appreciation post! For something that was suppose to be a one time post, I think I've done pretty well with an unexpected blog series. I've enjoyed doing a monthly appreciation post and allowing readers into my world of what I love. Whether it's actors, royalty, cities and countries or just what interests me in general.

Blogging

     2015 has been a good year, not a great year, but a good one all the same. However, for my website, 2015 has been explosive. As I said in my vlog pilot, I had only done 60 posts in 2014 and I had wanted to do more this year. I broke my blogging record in May with not only 21 posts in one month, but a total of 66 posts in 5 months! By the end of this month I would have made over 135 posts total; that's 75 more posts that last year!!!

     This year, I participated in two blog parties, both hosted by Bella Delallo, The Lord of The Rings Blog Party in February and A Very Musical Blog Party in October.

•      Created my first tags, 5 Female Characters and 5 Male Characters.
•      Wrote my first blog series, Assemble and Unite
•      Had a continuing monthly vlog series
•      Continued with my movie reviews, but worked primarily on expending the history category. 
•      As well as participated in numerous other tags over the months

      

World News

     I've tried to keep up with the world news that interests me, primarily the birth of Princess Charlotte Cambridge who has become quite the darling, as would be expected of any new royal baby : ) I am so happy for the whole family! Also, the 63 year reign of Queen Elizabeth II who has now surpassed her great-great grandmother Victoria and seems to have no plans of stopping!

     The Pope made an historic three day visit to America this summer, stopping in New York, Philadelphia and Washington D.C. While I was unable to keep up with his visit, I had the opportunity to read about his life, his theology and his religious standings since visiting the U.S. and I have to say that I hold a great deal of admiration for him. While I may not agree 100% with his religious views (not as a Catholic, but as a leader of Christianity), I have come to the belief that many of his words and comments have been taken grossly out of context and radicals (such as the LGBT and women's rights) have only been using his more modern ideals and twisting them around only serve their continuing selfish purpose. 

      The Planned Parenthood scandal has had me in a flurry of anger toward the disgusting and inhumane use of unborn babies, but also relief in knowing that doors have been thrown open. Now the world has had a real look at what Planned Parenthood really is and slowly the whole organization is beginning to crumble. 

     Another scandal(s) that rocked 2015 are the two Duggar scandals both involving, Jim Bob and Michelle's oldest son, Josh. The first scandal was the revealing of his molestation of five young women, four of them being his sisters, when he was 15. While many people came down on the Duggar's with vengeance and ill-will, many stood by Josh and the family, including Fox News. The second was the hacking of the Ashley Madison website that arranged secret affairs. Josh's name was found on the site and once again, the Duggars were thrown into the den of lions. However, little to no mercy has been shown to Josh or his parents, but there has been a great deal of support for Anna.

Movies and Television

     I was so happy that I was able to see so many good movies this year! Including the top 3 summer blockbusters, Cinderella, Avengers: Age of Ultron and Jurassic World. I also saw The Minion's Movie and Inside Out, both I loved! It was a great movie summer and I haven't had one of those in a very long time.

      Of course, how can I not mention British drama!!! This year has been an explosive year for BD, with the continuation of Downton Abbey - Season 5, which was absolutely wonderful and even had me in tears on several occasions and also, season 4 of Call The Midwife, that while I thoroughly enjoyed, I had some problems with certain unneeded content. When the season finales of both shows came and went, BBC and ITV premiered their new series, Poldark (a mix of 18th century Robin Hood with no small amount of Downton Abbey drama thrown in) and The Crimson Field (Call The Midwife meets the 4077). 

     It was also a summer of mobster history as I spent 8 weeks completely immersed in AMC's The Making of The Mob: New York. Not only was the mini-series absolutely addictive in its period drama filming, but so were the historians and authors that made the history of the Mafia in all its infamous glory all the more real and exciting. 

     And finally, my mom got my family and I addicted into a new British crime series, Broadchurch starring David Tennant as a broody, but brilliant detective determined to right the wrongs of his past, when he investigates a murder in a small seaside village. The show is nothing but mindblowing and every character of the show holds secrets that eventually ties each one of them into the investigation. A great watch!

Personal

     As far as my personal life, which I would like to keep personal, I can proudly say that I have finally finished school and am satisfied for graduation!!! I'm going to take another semester until official graduation in April, and my classes are  all history, English and religion, a well deserved fun semester!!!

     In October my older sister invited me to Great Wolf Lodge for a few days as a birthday trip. If you've never heard of Great Wolf Lodge, it's an indoor water park and hotel for families, but it extends beyond the water park with interactive role play games such as MagiQuest and Shadowquest. My niece and I spent two days playing MagiQuest and WOW! I thought it would be a kid's game, but it was actually quite difficult, but it was sooo much fun! If you're into magic, roleplay, scavenger hunts or all of the above, Magiquest is your game. 

     And the presidential election is coming up and as crazy as it sounds, I actually look forward to them. As of right now, I'm not sure who I'm voting for, seeing as it's rare for the Republican party to actually have a long list of reasonable candidates, but I'm totally enjoying the drama for now : )

So long 2015!

It's been a crazy, but wonderful year!

History Appreciation Post

Top: Moses, Deborah, St. Francis of Assisi
Middle: Joan of Arc, Queen Elizabeth I, George Washington
Bottom: Suffragettes, Robert Kennedy, Queen Elizabeth II

     I love history! My favorite time period would be the Edwardian Era that span from 1901 to 1920 (give or take a few years), but I love any kind of history in general. Of course, what makes history interesting to me is the people. People create history, they record it, they live by it. I have many favorite historical figures probably too many to name, but I managed to narrow down my absolute top historical people that I admire.

1.) Moses - Truly one of the greatest prophets and leaders of the Bible! Everything about him from birth to death is an incredible account of a life destined for God's greatness. My top Biblical hero.

2.) Deborah - One of the most controversial Bible figures as well as the most obedient and bravest of all of God's judges. Deborah was chosen by God to lead his people when men continued to fail. She was a judge, prophetess, wife and warrior whose life deserves more praise and less condemning. 

3.) St. Francis of Assisi - The composer of my favorite hymn ("All Creatures of Our God and King") and definitely a man who had no problem defying convention and control. St. Francis spoke of God's world with reverence and unending joy. Although I'm not Catholic, I have always greatly admired St. Francis for his true devotion to his faith, his God and his love of all life.

4.) St. Joan of Arc -  Like Deborah, Joan believed to be chosen by God to lead when men failed. Although her life is vague at most in history, there is no denying that she changed the world and that God divine grace was with her the whole way through. Over 900 years later, St Joan of Arc continues to inspire.

5.) Queen Elizabeth I - Kings and queens come and they go in and out of history, Queen Elizabeth I was a queen whose life was much more than a history lesson. She is one of the most courageous and brilliant monarchs to ever wear Edward the Confessors crown and sit in his chair. Queen Elizabeth I brought England out of darkness and into the light and continued to spread that light clear into the New World.

6.) George Washington - What kind of Virginian would I be if I didn't mention George Washington?? A general, a gentleman, devoted father, loving husband and an ardent patriot who believed in the rights of mankind as well as the decency of human living. I still believe him to be the greatest of out Founding Fathers.

7.) The Suffragettes - I don't think women today could possibly understand the true sacrifice that these wives, mothers and daughters made to create an equal place alongside men. Sacrifice, courage and honor are only a few words that could be considered understatements to the lives of these women who never backed down, gave up or surrendered.

8.) Senator Robert "Bobby" Kennedy - As a longtime Kennedy fan, I have always found the late Robert Kennedy to be a paragon of what a true American should be. Robert Kennedy was fearless and unafraid when it came to dealing with adversaries and enemies, but also possessed great generosity and truth in his own personal life and beliefs. He was a great man who still remained a good man.

9.) Queen Elizabeth II - By the time Queen Elizabeth II came to the throne in 1953, the monarchy were simply celebrities whose lives sold newspapers. However, Queen Elizabeth's is hardly fodder for tabloids, but rather a life the has been spent in duty to her God, her country and her family. An extraordinary woman who has lived a life of pure and consistent dignity and grace.

Stark Family Appreciation Post

     Originally this was going to be for my Game of Thrones S2-5 overview, but I decided to have the Starks as my October appreciation post topic : ) That being said...I have finally caught up with Game of Thrones (if you follow me on Pinterest and//or Tumblr, then you would already be aware of this fact) and I am so glad I continued on with the series now! There are many characters on the show that I love and admire and most of them just so happen to make up the whole Stark//Snow family.

     The Starks are just a great family who have done nothing to deserve the horrific treatment  they are faced to endure on the show. Every member of the Stark family suffers due to this war (some more than othes) and each member (with the exception of the youngest) play a vital role in the story. The Stark family is what ties in a good amount of the story. They're all spread out all over the country and almost every person on the show has come into contact with one Stark family member at least once. 

~ ~ ~

Eddard "Ned" & Catelyn Stark

Ned and Catelyn ~ Lord and Lady of Winterfell.

     Ned and Cat are introduced in the story as a very much in love couple with five rambunctious children (aging between 20 to 6), a lively manor house and an extraordinary northern realm to rule. Also, they have a foster son, Theon Greyjoy (who was actually kidnapped) and Ned's bastard child, Jon Snow, who is the bane of Catelyn's existence and she does not hide how she feels about her husband's illegitimate son. Jon Snow set aside, Cat and Ned are a very a happy couple who have provided a good life for the people who depend on them and have raised their children in the highest and most moral codes of living (and may have spoiled them a little bit). Not bad for an arranged marriage that neither one wanted in the beginning. So, life for the Starks in Winterfell is an absolute fairy tale. Until the king comes and the fairy tale dies, a very slow and painful death. 

     I loved Ned and Cat!! They were both wonderful parents who loved their children dearly and wanted to give them the best life possible. Like all parents, they're flawed and imperfect and must come to terms with their imperfections. 

~ ~ ~

Robb Stark & Jon Snow

Top: Robb and Talisa
Bottom: Jon Snow and Ygritte

     Two men who followed their hearts that led them to their untimely graves (Spoilers. Not sorry). Robb Stark is the oldest son of Ned and Catelyn, the pride and joy of Winterfell and the crowned King of the North. After his father is murdered and his little sisters held hostage, Robb sets off to avenge his father, bring his sisters back home and hope that he can bring peace as the new ruler of Winterfell, but not necessarily as the king on the Iron Throne. Robb does not desire power or position, he simply wants his family back and he'll do whatever it takes to bring them all home. Even if it means consenting to an arranged marriage for an ally treaty.

      Then in the midst of battles and blood, Robb meets a beautiful young doctor, Lady Talisa Maegyr, who brings a small amount of happiness to his dreary and gray days on the battlefield. Overtime Robb and Talisa fall in love and secretly marry which mares Robbs identity as an honorable man and noble king. As wonderful as Talisa was, Robb knew full well the damage that would be done if he broke his promise and he, his wife and their unborn baby all paid that price of that damage in their own blood. 

     Jon Snow, the unwanted bastard son of Ned Stark, is a dark and complex character who is gifted with incredible courage, intelligence, kindness and humanity. Jon longs to be excepted, but is also honor bound to do what is right, just as his father raised him. Jon becomes a Nights Watchman, an order of men who are bound by honor and duty to guard the 700+ wall the separates the civilized North from the Wildlings, a (supposedly) wild and vicious tribal people that are made up of many groups of peoples. 

      Eventually, Jon finds himself at the the mercy of these people, understanding who they are, how they live and unexpectedly falls in love with one beautiful, red-haired, Wildling, Ygritte. Jon is  actually happy and feels accepted among these people he was raised to fear and trained to kill, but he himself, understands what it's liked to be known only by what you are not who you are. However, Jon (like his father and half-brother) must come to the crossroads of choosing personal happiness or public honor and either way he will suffer for his decision.

~ ~ ~

Sansa & Arya Stark

Top: Sansa Stark and the Lannisters who she hated
Bottom: Arya Stark and Gendry, her friend, protector, and possibly more

      There was a lot of drama that could have been avoided if Sansa Stark didn't have her head in the clouds and her mind set on romantic illusions. Although, that's not Sansa's fault; that's just how she was raised, to become a lady, marry well (preferably to a prince or king) and have children. She is totally 100% a product of her environment. Sansa is introduced as a lovestruck 13 year old who is set on marrying the young crown prince and live a happily ever after; what she got instead was hell on earth with one of the most dysfunctional families in Westeros. 

     Sansa becomes a pawn in the dangerous world of politics, thrones and divided loyalties. The boy she thought would be her prince charming becomes her nightmare who terrorizes her to no end with his cruelty and abuse. Things only go from bad to worse with Sansa as the show progresses, but with each fall she picks herself back up, wipes off the blood and continues walking forward. Happiness of a long lost dream and Sansa slowly begins to lose herself in a never-ending cycle of lies and manipulation, but the unexpected always happens and Sansa still finds herself alive another day.

     And then there's the other sister...Arya. To say the Arya is a free spirit is seriously understating the truth. A full-fledged tomboy who would rather fight battles than sew dresses, Arya gets her chance to fight, but this is the real deal and there is no family for her to run to. She is completely on her own with only her small amount of swordplay training, her quick thinking and her genuinely charming nature to get her through. Sassy, but sensible, Arya is easy to remember and hard to forget, but she is a Stark and she will survive, she will live and she will get justice for the ones that were taken away from her.

      The closest thing Arya could possibly get to a romantic relationship (she's only 11 in S1) is found in her friendship with Gendry Waters a quiet 18-19 year old blacksmith from King's Landing who rescues her from a group of bullies. Afterwards, Arya and Gendry are pretty much inseparable as they are herded and sold off to the men who wish to control Westeros. Gendry becomes Arya's protector and her friend and both have an easygoing relationship that's a breath of fresh air for the show. When Arya and Gendry come to possibility of separating, Arya desperately wants him to stay with her, whether out of friendship or even love, but he is made to leave and once again, Arya is alone. 

~ ~ ~

Bran & Rickon Stark

Top: Bran Stark with his older brothers in happier times
Bottom: Rickon Stark on the run with his brother and guardians

      I've noticed a theme with the Stark family, the younger you are, the worse you're going to suffer. Robb and Jon lived pretty comfortably and didn't have many worries. Sansa was with the the abusive Lannisters, but she had a few allies to help her, Arya is almost entirely on her own and must rely on her wits. Then the two youngest boys, Bran and Rickon are betrayed by Theon Greyjoy and have to run away with only two servants to help them. While one may think that Arya has the worse of it, Bran and Rickon's happy lives ended the moment the king stepped foot in Winterfell. Bran is crippled after he witnesses a horrifying scene involving the Lannisters and afterwards, Rickon lost his mother who spent day and night at Bran's bedside. Then one by one, each family member leaves, not knowing if they will ever see one another again.

      Bran is pretty much the younger version of Robb. He has the same honest and kind nature, with a wisdom beyond his years. He cares deeply for other people and has potential to become a good leader only his story gets stranger as the show progresses and he wasn't even in S5. So we're kind of at a standstill with Bran. Rickon doesn't get much screentime, but what he does have is worthwhile. He's a sweet and sensitive 6 year old that deserves all the hugs a person can give him!!! Rickon left at the end of S4 and like Bran has not been seen since. 

~ ~ ~

      I know this was more characters profiles, but it's the characters and who they are that makes me so appreciative of this very well written family. I found Ned and Cat to be exceptional representations of loving but flawed parents who want their children to have the best lives possible. Robb and Jon are both good men who set out to build and not destroy, they were led by love and not power. Sansa and Arya remind me so much of my two younger sisters! It's so crazy watching the show and thinking, "What Sansa is doing, Molly would totally do!" or Arya will send off one of her pithy remarks and I'll think, "That sounds a lot like Emmy!" All that aside, I love both of the girls and their stories are my favorites on the show. And the youngest boys...I just want to hug and kiss them and give them cookies and tell them that everything is going to be all right!! Of course, this being Game of Thrones, everything is never all right.

      All I can say is that more families like the Starks should be written for both book and screen. While the Starks may not be the Weasleys' (another awesome big family!), the same truths of loyalty, honor and courage ring true in every single member of the family both living and dying.

NOTE: 

I just wanted to mention that I am shipping these two so hard!

 Like FedEx and UPS meet Amazon Prime shipping (and I haven't even read the books yet!).

  

British Drama Appreciation Post

     I love a lot of genres, but I believe that British television should be genre of its own. I really had no interest in British television until I saw Downton Abbey, but then again, Downton Abbey was almost the beginning of a British drama renaissance, at least for me it was. What I love the most about British television is really the diversity, history, sci-fi, murder mystery (a lot of that) and fantasy. Everytime I find a good British drama show, I immediately say, "That is my favorite!" Then about 3 months down the line, I find one that ends up taking its place.

      Although, I really can't nail down exactly what it is I like about British drama, I would have to say that it all comes down to the writing. If you have exceptional writers who know how to weave a good story into history, sci-fi, murder mystery and fantasy, then you may already have a successful hit on your hands. The eight shows pictured in the graphic are my all time favorites with hopefully more to come!

~ ~ ~

1.) Downton Abbey

     Of all shows represented, Downton Abbey still reigns supreme with its incredible writing of historical events, personable characters, beautiful music and a balanced blend of comedy and drama. You live in this household for almost 15 years and the characters almost become like family to you.  Downton Abbey has had a wonderful six year run and I think it will be a while until another show will be able to compete for top British drama.  

2.) Call The Midwife

  

   . We live in a time where motherhood is severely looked down upon and unplanned pregnancies are considered the ultimate evil, but Call The Midwife celebrates the joys of motherhood and children. It also brings to light the realities and hard expectations of women, when they lived in a time where they were solely dependent on men. Heartwarming as well as heartbreaking, Call The Midwife is more than a medical drama, it's a historic representation of basic human life. 

3.) Poldark (2015)

      The remake of the 1975 BBC series and based on novels by Winston Graham, Poldark took summer 2015 by storm with its brilliant casting of Aidan Turner as the broody, but kindhearted veteran soldier Ross Poldark. Similar to a 18th century Robin Hood, Ross Poldark and his small community of Cornwall on the coast of England go through trials and triumphs of trying to survive in a failing economy. In the midst of their strife though, there are moments of happiness that makes this drama all the more endearing. 

4.) Merlin

      I started watching this show after it had ended, but I can understand why it had such a successful 5 season run. Growing up with Arthurian legends, I was immediately interested and it wasn't long before I became ingrained with Albion and all its residents including awkward (but brilliant) wizard apprentice Merlin (Emrys), honorable king in training, Prince Arthur, noble future queen, Guinevere and mysterious secret sorceress, Lady Morgana. In spite of its terrible ending, Merlin is the ultimate feel good television series. 

5.) Upstairs, Downstairs (2010)

     Like Poldark, Upstairs, Downstairs is based on the original series from 1971. Sadly, the show was overshadowed by the immense popularity of Downton Abbey, but it doesn't negate the fact that is was  very well done. The show is done as a continuation of the original broadcast series while maintaining its own independent and original story. It only ran two season and despite mixed reviews, I greatly enjoyed Upstairs, Downstairs as it represents the English high life of the late 1930s and on the eve of WWII.

6.) Robin Hood

      Robin Hood can be hit or miss depending on who is telling the story, but BBC's 2006 success got it absolutely right. The original legend, with a delightful modern day mix in its costuming and attitudes, brought the adventure, the romance and comedy into one great story of a man and his friends who refused to back down from tyranny. Utterly bipolar at times and even thought-provoking, Robin Hood, despite its short television run, will make you laugh and cry, but also give you a hero that the world desperately needs today. 

7.) The Crimson Field

      I was excited to see another Edwardian drama about WWI come to television, but The Crimson Field is hardly Downton Abbey. Showing the grisly realities of the warfront and the physical and mental damage that comes from service, the  characters take a while to grown into. As the story continues real heroes begin to emerge in both soldiers and civilians, and the shades of grey areas that are revealed in one of the world's most horrific wars.

8.) Sherlock

      Although I've always enjoyed the Sherlock Holmes stories as told through many interpretations on television, I was never a big Holmes fan, but my family was and were quite skeptical about this up-dated version. They (like everyone else) were completely won over by Benedict Cumberbatch's portrayal of the legendary detective and Martin Freeman's spot on performance as Dr. John Watson. Turning the turn of the century sleuth into a 20th century scientist and detective was a risky move, but it was a risk worth taking in the creation of the new modern Sherlock Holmes. 

~ ~ ~

      While it's only been five years since I've discovered this British drama craze, I have to say that I feel no shame at all. Before, I found most British television to be boring and really have no life at all, but BBC and ITV have stepped up their game every single year and the stories just keep getting better and better, and not just their shows, but their movies and mini-series as well. From Downton Abbey, which has now had its finale season, to Sherlock and who knows when the next season is going to be, thank you for making my Sunday nights so memorable, exciting and just all out fun! 

Jonathan & Martha Kent Appreciation Post

      Writing real and honest parents for a television show nowadays is almost impossible. More often than not, parents play little to no role in the lives of their onscreen children and when they do, they are annoying, passive and completely unbelievable. In the case of Smallville, the writers got Jonathan and Martha Kent absolutely right. They struck a perfect balance of strict but doting parents who gave young Clark Kent a childhood and growing up experience that was nothing short of idyllic. 

     In the Superman mythos, Jonathan and Martha only play a small role in as Clark's adopted parents, but Smallville completely fleshed out both characters by giving them both deep and emotional backgrounds that play into the storyarch of Clark Kent's growing up. When I first started watching Smallville, Jonathan and Martha were immediate favorites. I loved how they were written as just ordinary people who were also very good people and how their simple moral lives heavily influenced, not only their son, but everyone they came in contact with. Throughout the show people are always remarking the hardworking and honest Kents, they're respected in their community and even the Luthors have a great deal of respect for them.  

Jonathan and Martha

     I think I enjoyed the Kents so much is because Jonathan and Martha reminded me of my parents and the Kents household wasn't too different from my own household. The Kents struggle financially and because of that, Clark isn't always able have what he wants. While Martha and Jonathan aren't able to give their son material wealth, they are able to provide him with a great deal of love and nurturing, as well as discipline and wisdom. 

     Jonathan Kent is just a great character and is probably the best television dad I've seen (and I haven't seen a lot). It's abundantly clear that he loves his family and will do whatever it takes to protect his wife and son. However, the show didn't make Jonathan perfect; he has a beastly temper and can be judgmental with people he doesn't trust. There were times even I felt that Jonathan could lighten up on his son and on other people, but that was the reality of Jonathan. He does what he thinks is right, not based on the opinions of others. The most human aspect of Jonathan Kent is truly found in his deep moral nature and how he passes these moral characteristics on to his son. 

     Martha Kent was amazing from beginning to end! After Jonathan died in S5, they could have just wrapped up Martha's story by having her stay at home as a widow, but instead they created a whole new story for Mrs Kent. Martha becomes senator of Kansas and then went off to the U.S. Senate which then left Clark free to leave Smallville and move to Metropolis. By the end of the show, the Martha at Clark's wedding is very different from the Martha that was getting her son ready for his first day of high school. Yet, she is still Clark's mother whether a homemaking farmer's wife or the head of the Senate.

  

      A story that portrays parents in a positive, but honest light is a story that is probably worth looking into. Smallville made Jonathan and Martha Kent two characters worthy of respect and not for any great deeds done, but rather as two decent people who loved deeply and never compromised in whatever situation they were in. Jonathan and Martha raised their son to be a good man, an honorable man who would one day change the world.

Royalty Appreciation Post

      I've been fascinated by royalty since I saw the animated film Anastasia when I was seven years old. I was completely intrigued by the Romanov family, but most especially the four sisters and I spent a good deal of reading and researching them. Then in 2004, I saw the wedding pictures of Crown Prince Frederik and Crown Princess Mary of Denmark and my love for royalty suddenly expanded from the fascination of Russia's last imperial family. Since then, I've been an avid royalist for over 10 years and I believe that royal families play an integral part of world communication in in their respective countries.

     While royals are essentially powerless in the political spectrum, they can hold a great deal of influence in society. Royals have used their fame as a positive influence to bring awareness to social and world issues. They are oftentimes ambassadors for their country's humanitarian efforts and have made a great deal of success in bettering society. Although, they tend to bare the brunt of slander, gossip, invasion of privacy and neverending scrutiny of their day to day decisions, royals have contributed much of their lives into stamping down the stereotypes and creating for themselves their own identities. 

     Why is the world fascinated by royalty? Well, for centuries royals have always held a great deal of fascination and wonder for the common people around them. Wealth, fame, power, position and duty have all been common factors for royals all around the world as well as their family histories (both famous and infamous) that have been documented for years. While royals have been politically powerless, they have gained both affection and loathing from the majority of ordinary people who speculate and calculate their lives. 

     Royals are their own kind of celebrity. Only where most celebrities have to climb a social ladder, royals have no choice but to be born famous. Sometimes they are famous even before the announcement of their arrival and so they better live up to every expectation that people have for them or at least that was the attitude that was held for many years. Weddings and births are always new worthy and regardless of what anti-royalists say, there is no denying the excitement when a new member is added in the royal line of succession.

      For years, the film industry has been both a blessing and a curse for royals around the world. While most of the time filmmakers get the story wrong, there are those rare few that give respect and dignity to their chosen subject. While some may have historical inaccuracies such as love stories (The Young Victoria) and costumes (Elizabeth: The Golden Age), what I really appreciate is how royals have been represented as ordinary people born in extraordinary situations and their fears, dreams, doubts, successes and failures that make them human and real. 

     So yes, I love royals. I have my favorite royals couples as do most people. I keep a watch out for royal births and am always excited for a royal wedding. Good marriages are always refreshing and admirable and watching children grow up and take on their parents roles (maybe taking a few coming-of-age left turns from time to time) makes you realize they may not be as different as they are so often perceived to be.

Stefan Salvatore Appreciation Post

     Oh, my love for The Vampire Diaries and its menagerie of well-written and complex characters! I don’t think any character is as deeply complex as immortal seventeen year old Stefan Salvatore of Mystic Falls, Virginia. Admittedly, I started watching the show because of Damon and I was wary of Stefan, because he appeared to have a broody, woe-is-me, Edward Cullen complex (I say that with the complete knowledge of the Twilight book and movie series; so I’m not just parroting off of what anti-Twilighters say). Stefan surprised me though as I watched S1 of TVD and overtime, I began to see incredible comparisons between him and Edward’s brother, Jasper Hale (a great, great character!).

     When we meet him, he’s a quiet but engaging guy who is trying to start over in his life. From the time Stefan transitioned from human to vampire, he has had a blood lust that is stronger than most vampires. In the show, the vampire blood lust is oftentimes portrayed as an addiction, like a human would have for alcohol or medications.

     There are those that can get off of those addictions and never get back on, and then there are those that have a lifelong struggle with staying off. Stefan would be the latter. He needs blood to survive, but his past as a ‘ripper’ (a notorious vampire type that kills for blood and fun) never seems to let him go. Also, vampires have the ability to switch off their humanity, so when Stefan gets into Ripper mode, sans the humanity, very little can stand in his way.

Loyal and courageous Stefan Salvatore

     That was what I loved so much about Stefan. He wasn't just trying to be a ‘good vampire’ he was trying to redeem himself from the life he lived before and to make a new name for himself. For those who say that Stefan pretended to be good, clearly have not grasped the concept that Stefan’s blood lust is comparative to drug/medication addiction. You know it’s wrong to indulge, you know it’s going to destroy you, but still, you can’t stay away.

     Stefan doesn't see himself as a monster, but he is aware of the monster he can become (i.e. the Ripper) if he doesn't remain in constant control. Once Stefan earns someone’s trust, there is no one else you could call a better ally then him. He is always loyal and tries to stay on the moral righteous path. His humanity is very important to him and is his point of reference in his life.

Brothers, competitors, friends and legends.

     His relationship with his older brother, Damon, can be straining from time to time, especially when Stefan knows that Damon is purposely putting on the performance of being the bad brother. Yet, Stefan loves him dearly and will stand by his side when he needs him to. Also, Stefan knows that Damon really does love him or else, why would he always be on the constant lookout for him? So, they've been fighting over the same girls for over 200 years, that’s normal.

     The Salvatore brother relationship is really my favorite relationship on the show. One minute they’re fighting each other and the next they’re fighting together; just like two regular brothers. It’s obvious they care about one another, even though they would take stakes through their hearts before they let anyone know.

Elena Gilbert. The girl he loved and lost.

     Of all of Stefan’s gifts, his ability to love deeply is his greatest. His love for Elena fuels him to suppress his blood lust and heighten his humanity. Although, he may have questioned Elena’s judgments at time, he still respected her decisions (unlike Damon who comes off sexist and misogynist). He always thinks of what’s best for her, even when it means losing her to his brother. 

     Stefan always gives people the benefit of the doubt and will work hard to gain their respect and their trust. He also has a wonderful ability to teach, train and guide new vampires. Using his own life experiences as lessons for others is how Stefan is able to atone for the wrongs of his pasts; to let people know that he has been down many dark roads and survived.

    His incredible generous nature is also what sets him apart from the rest of the supernatural world, especially Damon. Stefan’s accepts people as they are, not as he wants them to be. If he believes they can be better, he’ll let them know, but in the end it’s their choice. He is very protective of Elena’s friends and assists them whenever they need his help, and also becomes a nurturing older brother figure to Elena’s younger brother, Jeremy. Even Elena’s ex-boyfriend befriends him and overtime, comes to greatly respect him.

     Really, by the time Stefan goes back into Ripper mode in S3 (due to a deal he made with Klaus to save his brother’s life), Elena, Damon, Alaric, Caroline, Bonnie, Jeremy, Matt and Tyler all rally together to save him. Because they know that Stefan is worth saving and they all remember that at one point in their lives since knowing him, Stefan had been there when they needed him.

The first time the brothers became a united front.

    So, Stefan Salvatore is a multifaceted character of sides in various shades of black and white. He is ultimately good, while suppressing his inner born tendencies of blood obsession that can turn him into ultimate evil. He has no desire for power, but really for normalcy, acceptance and love. He doesn’t bemoan his life as a vampire, he embraces who and what he is, while continuing to develop a greater sense of humanity that he believes will not only benefit him, but also others around him.

I Love You, Stefan Salvatore!!

Anne Hathaway Appreciation Post

Anne Hathaway in some of my favorite movies.

     While watching Becoming Jane (movie review coming soon!), I came upon the realization of how many Anne Hathaway movies I've seen and love! I counted at least 10 and I own about 7 of them. She really is a remarkable actress, from her breakout performance as gawky to gorgeous Princess Mia Thermopolis in The Princess Diaries (at only 19) to her Academy Award winning performance as Fantine in Les Miserables. Her versatility is really what defines her as an actress that can jump from comedy (Bride Wars) to drama (The Other Side of Heaven) and character personalities such as sweet Jane Austen (Becoming Jane) and sultry Selina Kyle//Catwoman (The Dark Knight Rises).

Here are my top 5 favorite Anne Hathaway roles:

1.) The Princess Diaries//The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement 

as Princess Amelia 'Mia' Thermopolis Rinaldi 

The Princess Diaries (2001)

     Like with most people, the first movie I saw her is was the Princess Diaries. I mean, those movies are absolute Disney gold for the millennial generation. The world fell in love with the gawky high school student Mia Thermopolis whose only expectation in life was to be invisible, but that expectation very quickly changes when she discovers she's the future queen to the European country of Genovia. I loved seeing Mia's transformation, but that it didn't change who she was as a kind and sweet person. 

The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement (2004)

     In Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement, it's five years later, Mia is about to ascend to her family's throne, but finds out that to do so she must marry. So begins a romantic comedy of Shakespearean and Austen proportions of Mia's constant battle for her throne, her country and above all, her heart. I remember getting this movie for Christmas and my family all sat around in my sister's living room and watched it that day. Great memories!

2.) Becoming Jane

as Jane Austen

Becoming Jane (2007)

     This movie!!! It really needs to be on my my top 10 favorite movies list! I watched it for the first time in ages this week and was so struck by how engaging this film is. Anne portrays the legendary author Jane Austen whose quiet life as a poor Reverend's daughter in Hampshire, England is turned upside-down with the arrival of roguish and penniless lawyer, Tom LeFroy (James McAvoy) and their tragic love story that became the inspiration of her novels. I laughed and cried (like crazy) and Anne and James' onscreen romance was so captivating and thrilling (that library scene alone was so filled with sexual tension it was practically jumping out of the television screen).

3.) Les Miserables

as Fantine

Les Miserables (2012)

     Like a great many Les Miz fans, I was skeptical when I had heard that Anne Hathaway was cast as Fantine, but I would give her the benefit of the doubt. I was glad I did too, because her performance was extraordinary! She really brought to the role, the actual misery and despair that Fantine was in and the small spark of hope that she had in seeing her little girl again. I only cried two times in the film and both times included Fantine! I was so excited when she won best supporting actress at the 2012 Academy Awards, it was definitely an award well deserved. 

4.) The Devil Wears Prada 

as Andrea 'Andy' Sachs 

The Devil Wears Prada (2006)

     Similar to the style (no pun intended) of The Princess Diaries, The Devil Wears Prada is about a raggedy nobody who gets an extreme makeover and finds an unexpected place in the world of fashion and glamour. Anne had a balanced mix of comedy and drama that made this a great watch and her acting against Meryl Streep was fantastic. You could really feel the loathing admiration that Andy had for her overbearing boss and how Andy herself was an up-and-coming model of the fashion editor. A great story that gives the inside look of the materialistic world that can either make or break you as a person.

5.) Bride Wars 

as Emma Allan

Bride Wars (2009)

     Another role where Anne plays a shy, but smart, working girl who has a surprising amount of sass and bluster when given the opportunity. When two best friends Emma Allan and Liv Lemer (Kate Hudson) find out that their dream weddings were accidentally scheduled on the same day, it's all out WWIII of the ultimate bridezillas one-uping one another with pranks and disasters. Both Anne and Kate are hysterical in a film the exaggerates the drama of weddings and brings to light the true importance of marriage, companionship and friendship.  

~ ~ ~

Anne Hathaway

     Whether comedy or drama, period or modern, Anne Hathaway's compelling personalities and acting talent in her wide array of films have just gotten better and better over the years. I'm still always going to remember her as Princess Mia, though! And a princess who eats pizza and dreams of her foot popping when she gets that first real kiss, isn't a bad role to be remembered as.