Wednesday, October 31, 2012

Spoiler Alert: The Devil's Rejects



In observance of the calendar date, here's a clip from one of my favorite horror movies, The Devil's Rejects. If you haven't seen the movie or you're not a fan of the genre, you might not want to click play. The entire film has a really strong soundtrack but the use of this song is extraordinary. It's one of the most memorable endings of any movie I've seen in recent years.


















The Spooktacular Halloween Tag



Here are some festive Halloween questions I found on YouTube. Happy Haunting!

1. Do you still Trick or Treat?
No and despite living in a fairly large neighborhood, in a nice house, on a main street, we don't even get any trick-or-treaters. Not one! That's city living for ya. Where the hood at? This year, my sister has to work on the designated trick-or-treating night, so I finally get to pass out some candy! She gets a bunch of kids at her place. My dog, Ireland, will help me pass out the treats. She's going to be either a ladybug or a witch like her Mother. I'm not dressing up ;)

2. Do you like going to haunted attractions?
Yes but when I was very little, I was terrified of haunted houses. I actually was so hysterical from one that I had to go out an emergency exit with my Mom. It was dramatic. I couldn't even get through E.T. despite always making my parents rent it from the video store (remember those places?). In high school, some guy with a chainsaw would not stop chasing me at some random haunted house. I actually ran through one of the wooden walls to get away from him- ripped a really cute pair of jeans in the process. But I love all that stuff as an adult. The Mortuary in New Orleans was my favorite traditional haunted house I've been through. It had a massive Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory room. The West Virginia State Penitentiary was the most haunted place I've ever gone to (had a really cool experience there). Rich's Fright Farm in PA also has a fantastic vibe (my cousin and I saw actual UFOs in the sky on the night we went several years back).

3. Favorite Halloween candy?
Tootsie Fruit Rolls in Cherry. If you ever go to a candy bin in October and notice all the red ones are taken, I may have been there.

4. Favorite Halloween movie?
Hocus Pocus (1993).


5. Favorite scary movie?
The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974), Scream (1996) or The Devil's Rejects (2005). I'm sure I'm forgetting something.

6. Favorite costume you ever wore as a child?
I was a mermaid inspired by Ariel (from The Little Mermaid) in Kindergarten. I won the coveted prize of "Most Beautiful Costume" as voted upon by the super cool eighth graders. I would post the picture but I can't find it. My favorite costume as an adult was freshman year of college. I went as the comic book character, Poison Ivy. It was pretty scandalous.

7. First costume you can remember wearing?
I've mentioned it once or twice before but it is perhaps my earliest memory ever. Halloween 1989. I was a pair of dice with my older sister. My Dad made the costumes. It was cute but I felt like I was being smothered and confined. I'm lucky the situation didn't leave me with a debilitating case of claustrophobia as an adult. I was a bumblebee for my first Halloween in 1986. I was only 9 months old but when I look at the picture, I feel like I remember it.

8. Favorite fall food and beverage?
Food- Apples. Beverage- Sam Adams Oktoberfest or just about any other seasonal brew! I love trying 'em all :)

9. Do you have a festive background on your phone?
I usually snap a picture of the fall foliage and set it as my background. Where I live, there are plenty of trees, hills and beautiful colors. It's other worldly during this time of year.

10. What are you going to dress up as this year?
I went out with friends last weekend. We didn't dress up. I did get to see the Long Island Medium which was fascinating.  When I pass out candy this weekend (it was moved back because of the storm), I'll probably put on a witch's hat or Devil horns. I'll throw some simple accessories together from my stash of previous costumes.

















Now Playing: "White Dress" by Kanye West

Tuesday, October 30, 2012

Video Killed the Radio Star: "Paradise" by Wild Nothing




This is a gorgeous video. I inadvertently had the pleasure of seeing Wild Nothing when they opened for Beach House. I was very impressed and would love to see them again.

Side Note: It never ceases to amaze me that some people don't even glance out the window when they're on a plane. It secretly upsets me when someone closes the shield when they're not even sleeping. I always try to steal a window seat. I've spent the entirety of flights staring out the window and daydreaming. It's so peaceful and beautiful up there.







Monday, October 29, 2012

Pinterest Monthly: October 2012


Zara Contrast Sleeve Army Jacket
I'm really loving this style. I want something similar.



Quote
I've actually never read Harry Potter or seen more than the first movie or so (and that was a long time ago). I know it's not only for children but I think I just missed the mark when it was first released. I think if/when I have kids, I'll really get into the stories. It seems like it would really be to my liking. I can appreciate this quote.



Tory Burch Robinson Middy Satchel
One of the girls I watch on YouTube recently purchased this bag. I had never seen it before and I instantly was drawn to the pattern. Her particular bag appears to have the best placement of color as every bag is slightly different. I actually don't really like any of the others I've seen. Her's seems to be exceptional. I believe the design is already sold out anyway.




Street Style.
Loving this snapshot. The cozy coat, sweater, dark slacks and damp environment makes me smile. I love the fall... only happy when it rains ;) It's nice to see someone else who wears their sunglasses even when it's not that bright outside. 



Big Ben.
Again with the damp, spooky atmosphere. I can't wait to see Pittsburgh's Big Ben play in London next year! This shot is beautiful.



Comeback Sauce.
I had fried pickles for the first time this month. I have no clue what took me so long! With that delicious menu item came this southern style sauce. Click here for the recipe.



Halloween Kitten
This picture is so sweet. I imagine this cat living on a beautiful farm in New England where the fall foliage is stunning.



Romy and Michele Costumes!
LOVING this! If I was a blonde, I would have put this together years ago. Romy and Michele's High School Reunion is a favorite movie.




Hillside Home
This house in my neighborhood was recently remodeled. Something about it. Has a gorgeous view of Pittsburgh.



Bonfire
This.


Tame Impala's Lonerism
The best album of the month. 
Favorite Tracks:  Apocalypse Dreams, Elephant, Feels Like We Only Go Backwards, Endors Toi, Why Won't They Talk to Me?




MAC Holiday 2012 Collection
I have way too much makeup. I don't need anything more but around the holidays, MAC releases a special collection. Some years it's amazing and sometimes it falls short of expectations. I'm really liking some of the pieces for 2012.




OPI Zom-Body To Love
This blacklight nail polish is one of the most unique in my collection. I also love the way it looks in natural lighting. It appears to have a jelly consistency. Every time I look at the bottle in my stash or glance at my nails when I'm wearing it, I can't help but sing this in my head.



The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath
I keep coming across the title of this book. I finally put it on my "to-read" list. 




















Now Playing: "Sail" by AWOLNATION

Quoteworthy



This beautiful quote was displayed in the window of an adorable store in Franklin, Tennessee. I took the picture while I was visiting my friend, Maggie, who now lives in the Volunteer State.

I'm getting really excited to reread The Great Gatsby and watch the new film adaptation. F. Scott Fitzgerald and Leonardo DiCaprio have always been two of my absolute favorites!


Home Sweet Home! Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
















Now Playing: "I Don't Think About You Anymore, But I Don't Think About You Anyless" by Hungry Ghosts
*This might win the award for longest song title I've ever typed.

Sunday, October 28, 2012

White Hinterland




I'm not exactly a tattoo person. I currently don't have any. There have been numerous times  in my life when I thought that I would never get one. I'm eternally proud of myself for not being one of those girls who ended up with a tribal tramp stamp. I've often said that I didn't truly have anything meaningful enough that I would always appreciate.

I think tattoos on other people are interesting but I don't often see artwork that I find aesthetically beautiful. However, I think white ink tattoos are unusually pretty. They've been growing in popularity, so finding a qualified artist isn't as difficult as it once was. Don't get me wrong, the last thing I want to do is get something trendy permanently placed on my body. But it's been a few years and I'm still intrigued.

I don't think I know anyone with a white ink tattoo. Because they are so subtle, it's hard to know for sure. That's what I like about it. If I'm getting a tattoo, I want it to be for myself or for someone extremely close to me. I don't need everyone in the world to know about it. I also don't want to drastically alter my body.

I've researched white ink quite a bit and read that it works best on fair skin. I'm lighter than the glow of the pale moonlight so that works in my favor. I like that the white ink makes the tattoo look like a raised scar. It almost appears like a natural part of the body.

When I leave the United States next year for the first time (it will only have taken 27 years!) and visit the country where part of my family originally came from, Ireland, I may get a tattoo. I'm going to research everything extensively (the journalist in me) and really think about this decision over the next several months. But if it still resonates with me by September 2013, I may join the ink club.

What am I going to get you may be wondering? I have a small symbol in mind that I would draw for the artist. It's not something I created but it is universally known- the Trinity Knot (also known as the Triquetra). I would most likely place it just below my left wrist as I am left-handed and that is the side closest to the heart.
















Now Playing: "Jigsaw Falling Into Place" by Radiohead
*Love this!

Friday, October 26, 2012

The Times New Tarot: Seven of Cups


As I was studying the Rider Waite Tarot deck the other day, I thought to myself that I rarely pull the Seven of Cups. This was surprising to me because as with most INFJ personality types, I have the tendency to live in my own head. Sure enough, the Seven of Cups was the card that I selected this evening.

  • Temptation
  • Choosing among many options
  • Overindulging
  • Having your head in the clouds
  • Focusing on fantasies
  • Dreaming
  • Illusions
  • Wishful thinking
  • Addiction
  • Possibilities
  • Hidden agendas












Now Playing: "Bad Religion" by Frank Ocean

Thursday, October 25, 2012

Climate Change




As seen through the evidence above, the weather where I live is weird. It can be sunny and summer-like on Thursday but the forecast will have a bipolar episode and decide to be winter-like a day or two later. It's as if Heat Miser and Snow Miser are in a battle for control over western Pennsylvania. I've seen it go from bikini weather to snow boot season in a matter of hours. It's just not normal. Don't get me wrong, I love experiencing each of the seasons but when it shifts so drastically, so quickly, it can get confusing. It's not just once or twice a year either. Just when you feel like you've gotten used to the unseasonably warm or cold weather, it will bounce back unexpectedly. A little stability, Mother Nature?
















Now Playing: "Wild" by Beach House

Wonderwall





























Now Playing: "Meg White" by Ray LaMontagne
*This song is great but it always makes my friend and I laugh.

Wednesday, October 24, 2012

Nerd Alert: Get Amen



For all you social media geeks, here's a new site/app to check out, getamen.com.

When I first read the site name, I thought it said "get a man." It turns out, "get amen" is actually more interesting. No, it's not a religious thing. Get Amen, which is based in Berlin, says that it's a site devoted to "battling it out over the best and worst in life." If Facebook fan pages and Twitter statuses were to have a baby, Get Amen might be the love child. As someone with a diverse level of interests and a penchant for self-expression, I'm really enjoying it. Rather than try to explain what's up, why not just check it out for yourself?

Follow Me on Get Amen: www.getamen.com/krista 
















Now Playing:  "Moondance" by And Her Name Is Violet

Tuesday, October 23, 2012

1313 Mockingbird Lane




I just realized The Munsters are on Netflix! It's one of my all-time favorite television shows! I recently did a haunted trivia night and got the question "Who lived at 1313 Mockingbird Lane?" Too easy! The characters would make a great family or group of friends' costume for Halloween! Love them all :)

















Now Playing: "Lullaby" by The Cure

He's Out of My Little League



Even a 12-year-old, Ryan Gosling makes me swoon. Is that legal to say? The man has always had charisma.

When I was growing up, I lived for The Mickey Mouse Club and early-era Disney Channel. Watching Ryan then, does the same thing it does for me now. It breaks my heart. It's not fair to know there are so few guys out there like this. They're all taken. All of them. Always.



And, yes. I'd move to Canada and open up that Cathedral music venue with Ryan. I share his vision.

























Now Playing: "I Can Change" by LCD Soundsystem

Q&A


Have you ever been nice to someone who treated you like crap?
Kill 'em with kindness. Don't get me wrong, I'll stand up for myself if I'm provoked but I don't have the energy for simple minds.
Have you ever trusted a guy when you shouldn’t have?
No. I'm very intuitive and read people very well.
Who was the last person to comfort you as you cried?
Hmmm. Probably my Mom? I don't remember.
Who in your life has hurt you the most?
No one stands out.
Is your life falling apart or coming together?
Coming together.
How many people have you kissed over all in 2012?
This is too embarrassing to answer.
Did you waste too much time on one person?
In my mind.
Have you been broken?
Yes.
Has a friend cried on your shoulder?
Yes.
What’s wrong?
Nothing that won't eventually work itself out.
Kiss on the first date?
Yes. But only if I really like the guy.
Butterflies, you get ‘em?
It's been awhile but such a good feeling :)
Last time you wanted to be away from somewhere really bad?
Hmmm. A couple weeks ago. I couldn't wait to get to a certain destination.
Are you caught in a bad romance?
lol. Soooo bad.
What would you do if your best friend told you they were moving?
One already did :( Just a plane ride away. An excuse to travel. Sad not to experience as much of each other's lives but life has that way of challenging you. Fortunately, with technology, it's not so bad. The people you're meant to stay close with will be there in one way or another.
I bet you’re wild right?
I have my streaks every now and again but over the past few years, I've been pretty chill. I'm a good girl. People usually don't believe that. The hair is false advertising.
You and your best friend, you’re opposites aren’t you?
I have a few best friends. For one of them, physically we are different but our sense of humor and interests align quite nicely.
Meet anyone special in 2012?
Sorta kinda not really. 2013/2014 will probably be better. I'm not really focused on love but of course I'm always open to it.
I’d like to hear you sing, you’re probably good eh?
No! I can't sing at all. I get told I have a nice speaking voice though.
What could possibly make your day better?
It's after midnight- maybe a good movie on Netflix but I can't find anything that jumps out.
Plans for today?
Relaxing. Still feeling a bit sick but the weather is beautiful- my favorite time of the year. Trying to get to the park tomorrow.
Are you gonna make the most out of 2013?
Absolutely! 
How was your day overall?
Uneventful. Family time.
Have you kissed someone more than 20 times in ‘12?
Unfortunately, no.
Who was the last person you spoke to on the phone for over 50 minutes?
I'm not a phone person, so when I do talk on the phone, it's usually for a long time. I Skype with my sister for hours on end.
How many people of the opposite sex do you fully trust?
Lots. Guys are the best. So easy to get along with. So much fun. No fuss.
How often do you hold back what you want to say?
Rarely. I only bite my tongue if the situation is inappropriate or if someone's feelings are heavily at stake.
Ever cried while you were on the phone with someone?
Yes.
When someone says “we need to talk”, what runs through your head?
It depends on the situation. Few things surprise me.
Are you good at giving directions?
No! But I do have a good sense of direction. I can be somewhere for a few minutes, come back a decade later and know my way around. It's instinctual. But I can't tell you the name of the street a few blocks away from my house that I grew up in. I know landmarks.
What does your mom call you?
Almost always Krista but every once in awhile Kristalena, Kris, Krissy, Wild Irish Rose, Angel Girl
Are you afraid of roller coasters?
No! I LOVE them!
Where do you sing the most, in the car, the shower or everywhere?
Car.
Where was the last place you fell asleep other than your bed?
My sister's bed last night (shhh)... It's so much more comfortable than the guest room. I stayed at her house. She was at work.
Are you nice to everyone?
Yes.
Do you currently have any hickeys?
No but that sounds nice. I'm not even kidding.
Is your hair straight or curly?
Straight/Wavy.
Is it easy to annoy you?
Yes and no. It all depends.
Why did you last cry? When?
A couple weeks ago when one of my best friends told me she was having her first baby. She had been trying all year. Tears of joy.
What are you going to do after this?
Finish my beer. Shower. Watch a movie. 
What are you listening to right now?
"Better Man" by Pearl Jam
Have you ever felt replaced?
Yes.
Who did you have a meaningful conversation with last?
My Dad about the last presidential debate.
Is your hair longer than your shoulders?
Yes.
If you had a chance to make $200, only, by stripping for truckers on a corner, would you?
lol. Throw a few extra zeros at the end of that figure and we'll talk.
 When was the last time you felt like throwing up?
September. 
Everybody has somebody that makes them happy, do you?
Sure.
Anyone from your past ever come to mind often?
Yes.
Have you ever lost anybody close to you?
Other than my childhood dog, not extremely close but close enough that it still hurts.
Is there anyone you trust even though you should not?
No.
Ever given your all to someone who walked away?
Yes.
Have you ever liked someone who treated you like crap?
No. I don't go for jerks or as we call them in Pittsburgh, jagoffs. 
Do you find members of the opposite sex confusing?
Not at all. Men are the easiest people in the world to understand.
Last time you laughed so hard you cried?
When I was in Nashville earlier this month. It involved one of my guy friends, a late night video recording and a belt-turned-collar/whip.
Have you ever hated someone, but ended up being friends with them?
No. I've never really "hated" anyone.
Is it easier to forgive or forget?
Forgive. I forgive extremely easily but have a solid memory.
When was the last time someone called you baby?
Um. I live in the hood.
When was the last time you were really confused?
August.
Do you walk out of the house without makeup?
I LOVE makeup but more often than not I don't wear any. I only wear makeup if I have fun/important plans. If I'm running simple errands, I don't care. I probably should. I just don't depend on acceptance from people. I'm usually off in my own world. The last thing I care about is if some random stranger thinks I look pretty or put together. I've been told I look about the same with/without makeup anyway. 
Do you sneak out?
I did when I was young. I'd leave my house in the middle of the night to meet up with boys I liked or my friends. So bad. But I've always been a night owl. I like its energy. I'm a moonchild.
How are you feeling?
Slightly sick but cozy.
Have you seen anyone you knew and purposely avoided them?
lol. Yes! Reminds me of this...












Are you feeling guilty about anything right now?
Slightly
Do you know how to use a lighter?
No! I can if I realllllly try but it takes effort. I recently told a couple people this. When I was little, one of my friend's parents told us that a lighter blew up in one of their friend's faces. In hindsight, I'm sure that story was made up in an effort to get us to stay away from lighters. Guess what? It worked. At 26, I have to use the stick lighter for my candles. 
Do you know how to drive?
Yes.
Do you have a brother? Whats his name?
No.
Do you think you’ll be one of those people that will get a divorce in the future?
Definitely not divorced. I'm way too forgiving and easygoing. I question if I'll ever get married though. I hope so.

















Now Playing: "Lemon" by U2
*Midnight is where the day begins...

Monday, October 22, 2012

Quoteworthy: Gloria Steinem


"Equal pay is the biggest economic stimulus this country could possibly have. If women were paid equally for comparable work, there would be $200 billion dollars more in the economy."
-Gloria Steinem, October 2012











Now Playing: "Lola" by The Kinks

Luxe Living: Office Space + Closet Case






















I've been gathering inspiration for a possible office/walk in closet for my spare bedroom. I don't need anything extravagant but I would appreciate something quick and easy that will make me happier, more organized and productive. As of right now, the spare bedroom houses my elliptical machine and some old furniture. I have the tendency to get distracted when I should be writing. If I had a designated work space, I think it would really help me. I'd like to finish my manuscript before my birthday in February and start a screenplay.

For my own mental sanity, the walk in closet also needs to happen. I get attached to certain pieces of clothing, shoes or accessories and completely neglect everything else I own. Having all of my belongings on display from the computer where I work to coats that haven't been worn in years will clear my mind. A clean home environment helps keep everything in balance. I'd like to use the things I have to the best of my ability.

I'd like to simplify everything in my life. I think that might be my new year's resolution that needs to happen before 2013 even arrives. I'm sure that I have the genes that lend itself to hoarding. I have a hard time getting rid of clothes. In my mind, it will come back in style or holds some sort of sentimental value. This emotional attachment to objects needs to stop. Hoarding: Buried Alive is not happening for this girl. I will not be on TLC unless Honey Boo Boo needs to be babysat; I'd totally go for that gig (especially if Glitzy were visiting).















Now Playing: "Road To Nowhere" by Talking Heads

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Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
I'm living life in beautiful Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. I hold a journalism degree from West Virginia University. I have worked in television news, fashion marketing, PR, and cosmetic sales. My love for writing and sharing with the world my various passions is strong. One of my many ambitions is to be published and continue creating in the fields of digital and print media, literature and film. In my free time, I enjoy listening to music, going to concerts, reading, following Pittsburgh sports and traveling as often as possible. Some of my favorite things include beauty, style, architecture, books, tarot and astrology, thrifting and my shih-tzu, Ireland. I’m engaged to the love of my lifetimes and we look forward to starting our next chapter together. If you have any questions or comments, I would love to hear from you!