new years eve 5k

last 5k of 2010...

24:49.

goin' out on top

Marci's Favorite Things 2010 - OTHER SHIZ

So we've covered Movies, TV, Music and Books... I guess that's all really under the umbrella of "Entertainment." I know you must be thinking to yourselves... "What else besides entertainment was Marci keen on this year?" For Oprah, it was Z shaped brownie pans. But I'm not Oprah...here's what else made me happy this year:

nike+ sportband - greatest thing I could have asked my grandma to give me for my birthday last year. It's basically a watch that I wear while I run, and it lets me know my speed, my total time, my distance, calories burned and the actual time. Then I can hook that shiz up to nike+ online and they will show me all my runs so I can compare and challenge myself. I use it just about every day. Super convenient and great to track my progress.

real simple magazine - I think the main target demographic for this magazine is like 40-60 year old women, but I guess that just means I'm an "old soul." It has great design, some really good tips on organizing stuff around the house, and my favorite part - easy and delicious recipes! It's helping me prep to do a good job of being somebody's wife some day (fingers crossed).

white thermal shirt - I got a white thermal shirt at the Gap that I love. I know it sounds weird, but sometimes the simplest items make me so happy to wear. I throw it on with some JEANS, BOOTS and my orange hat and I look like I'm ready to go a-huntin'.

sperry boots - I got my first pair of these boots last December, and was given another as a present in early 2010. Thank goodness, because I wore the CRAP outta the first pair, and recently have begun wearing in pair #2. I love wearing them with...just about everything. Best boots ever.

crossfit- This is not a fitness program for the lazy... although I guess I'm pretty lazy most of the time. Except when I'm working out. Every day they post a new "workout of the day" on their site, and every day this work out gets my heart beating real good. Also very interesting philosophy about fitness and staying in good shape. Check out their website if you're looking to push yourself.

guacamole - I don't know how much there is to say about this except that it is delicious. I wish I had some right now.

baileys on the rocks - I guess this has been a more recent addition to the list, but nothing much beats a delicious glass of baileys on the rocks when you're hanging out at Malone's on a Monday night. And Tuesday....and Wednesday...you get the point...(side note: when you drink a bar out of a specific drink, does it mean you have a problem?)

orange cashmere hat - I decided to treat myself at J Crew a couple months ago with a cashmere winter hat. I decided to further treat myself by choosing the most ridiculous color. I now have an orange cashmere hat. and I love it and will continue wearing it no matter how many people make fun of me for it. I know deep down they jus' jealous.

fantasy sports - Football, Baseball, Basketball, Beat the Streak, Pigskin Pick Em...I could go on and on. I just love me some fantasy sports. First off, it helps me quench my hunger for gambling without throwing away $100 at the casino on Christmas night (whoops). Secondly, it gives me something to do at work after I get home from a long, hard day's work. Lastly, throwing around fantasy sports stats is a stellar way to pick up a guy at a bar. Or watching your fantasy athletes on TV is a stellar way to pass the time when no one at a bar is talking to you...

the b.s. report- I read Bill Simmons "Book of Basketball" this year without knowing much about him. Now I'm always on the lookout for his next article on espn.com, and I also frequently look out for editions of the BS Report that pique my interest. I love Bill's writing style, but the thing I like best about the Sportsguy are his BS Reports with the Czar of Reality television. I never thought I would not only find people as well versed in reality TV as myself, but also ones that watch ALL THE SAME SHOWS as me. Even Bad Girls Club ("This is insanity..."). If you like sports and pop culture, and you're ever bored at work on a weekend or in the evening time, definitely check it out.

OK, I think that's about all I have time for now. 2010 was a year with some good shiz in it, as you can see. Hopefully 2011 will be ever better. But as long as I can still have guacamole and bailey's on the rocks (though not at the same time), there will be a smile on my face. Or maybe just a smirk. Either way, it will look like I'm mildly amused.

misguided ghosts. paramore.

Marci's Favorite Things 2010 - BOOKS!

Taking public transportation to work is the pits. I have to stand the entire way, and usually am surrounded by strangers that are way too close to my personal space for my liking. But if I have a good book along for the ride, the trip seems to go surprisingly fast! And sometimes is even enjoyable. Imagine that! Here are some of my favorite page tuners that I read in 2010:

The Help - I can't quite remember if I read this one in 2009 or 2010, but either way it deserves a read by all. It's a story that focuses mainly on three women in the early 1960s - Skeeter, a 22 year old woman who was brought up in a fairly wealthy Southern family, a black maid who has made a life of raising other people's children, and a feisty short black woman who can cook up a meal or a controversy with ease. These three women begin to work in tandem on something that will change them--and their town--forever. It's a page turner, and inspirational to boot.

Never Let Me Go - This haunting novel follows Kathy, a "carer," as she recounts memories of her childhood, and specifically the complicated relationships between her and her two best friends, Ruth and Tommy. While it seems that they are just being brought up in a boarding school, there is more to their story than it seems and once you discover what secrets lie in their world, it will both frighten you and sadden you.

Game Change - Politics is often wacky, and apparently also very much like a mix between high school and a soap opera (like The OC!). This non-fiction work follows the 2008 presidential election and all it's players, digging into their personal stories, triumphs, secrets and more... Get all the dirt on Hillary, Bill, Obama, Palin, and McCain too. It's pretty interesting to hear about what goes on behind the scenes...

Freedom - It was an Oprah pick so it's only fitting that it's part of my favorite things of 2010. I'm actually reading it now, about 100 pages out from finishing, so I can't tell you if the ending is satisfying. But the story is woven beautifully, highlighting how life can take us places we never expected, how people can know what they really want but not act on it; plus the overall theme of trying to be a "good person" will have you questioning parts of your own life.

One Day - This novel checks in on two people on the same day, for 20 years of their lives. We see their relationship develop and twist and turn, until finally ending in a way you'd never expect. Quick-moving and ultimately heart wrenching, it's a good read that makes you feel something.

Mockingjay - The last book of The Hunger Games series was released this year and needless to say, I loved it! For more about my love for this series, click here.

The Girl Who Kicked The Hornet's Nest - The last book of yet another trilogy, Hornet's Nest brings us to the conclusion of Lisbeth Salander's story, complete with a great trial scene and the usual Kale Blomkvist journalistic detective work. Though Lisbeth is not as active in this book as she was in stories past, the book itself moves along nicely and brings the story to a great end.

That's about it! If you're looking for something to read, check these titles out. Or go to the library and pick one out yo'self. I'm not your personal book shopper.

run 1 mile
row 2k
run 1 mile
27:47

holidays are tough.

merry christmas

Merry Christmas to all! Hope the day is filled with family, fun and love.

wod:
100 burpees for time.
7:54. had to stop for a few seconds at 17 because Reese was very curious about what was going on.

christmas eve wod!

Tabata "Bottom to Bottom" Squat
Run 1 mile

15 reps min/ 7:55

LEG BURNER!

cool down: walked reeeeeese.

wods

yesterday:
5 rounds for time of:
250 M rows
12 OH squats (#20)
9:22

today:
warm up - 1 mile run
75 power snatch (#30)
5:58

tomorrow:
shufflin' up to buffaloooo

Marci’s Favorite Things 2010 - MUSIC

This is a tough one for me, I’m not really into music enough to offer a comprehensive glimpse into this year’s best albums, and I don’t get the chance to listen to the radio that often, so I’m sure I’ve missed some of Hot 99’s hits. But I guess all I can share with you is what I know, so here’s some songs I liked a lot in 2010:

Telephone - Beyonce & GaGa
Gotta rep my girl here, and I guess you gotta give GaGs some credit for a crazy year as well.

Weary Kind - Ryan Bingham
Technically I guess this was 2009, part of the Crazy Heart soundtrack. But it’s beautiful and I’m still feeling it so it counts in my book.

Fuck You - Cee Lo Green
Even without the cussin’ it’d still be catchy.

I and Love and You - The Avett Brothers
Also not sure if this was 2010, but I saw them in concert this year, so… it counts! Love all their stuff.

The Katy Perry Trifecta - Teenage Dream, California Gurls, Firework
Her songs are fun to sing. Her reward? One raunchy British man. For life!

Love the way you Lie - Em ft. RiRi
Great comeback by Em. Even though this song was overplayed, you can’t ignore that it’s a great track.

Little Lion Man - Mumford and Sons
Actually check out their whole album - Sigh No More. Awesome, I love writing to it.

Rude Boy - Rihanna
Sexy. ‘nuff said.

Runaway - Kanye West
How can you hate Kanye when he’s putting out albums like “My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy”?

Who Knows, Who Cares - Local Natives
I love this shiz.

Hoover guest pick:
Raise Your Glass - Pink
Probably because of the really great line “So if you’re too school for cool…” (see what Pink did there?)

And as always, these are just a sampling. There were many other AMAZING songs this year (Bieber fever) that we did not list here. Hope you enjoy!

get excited

new, EXTENDED jersey shore trailer hollllerrrr

Jersey Shore - MTV Shows

in honor of santa....

beardfolio on the behance network. check it.

Marci's Favorite Things - 2010 - TELEVISION

Today we're talking TV. I think I watch a pretty decent amount of television, mostly because I am so cool that I would rather come home after a day of work by myself and watch television than go out and party. Does this make me a loser? Maybe. But it's in my genes! My dad's favorite hobby is "laying on the couch watching the T-V" (TV spoken in some weird accent he does). So I guess I was predisposed to take a liking to my couch as well. So here's the best of what I saw whilst sitting on my couch this past year:

TRUE BLOOD - I hadn't seen this show at all until this year, so it might give it a slight advantage that I was able to watch Seasons 1, 2, and 3 all in succession. And boy was it glorious. Once I got over the initial shock of crazy porno-like sex scenes, there was nothing that could tear my attention away from this show. Season 3, which was actually the season of 2010, was just as crazy as the first two, and the introduction of werewolves gave us another SMOKIN' hot dude on the show. Hey, I'll take it.
Best part of the show (besides Eric/Sookie love scenes): The way Bill says "SOOKIE."

MODERN FAMILY - I was a bit hesitant when I first heard about this show and it's premise. But boy did it prove me wrong. Hilarious writing, great physical comedy, and an amazing ensemble make for television that I look forward to watching every week - and that makes me laugh out loud, too. If you haven't seen it, get into it. If you have a family (especially a tight-knit one), you're sure to get some laughs.
Best part of the show: Cam. Or Phil. Or Manny. Or Luke.... do I have to pick just one?

MAD MEN - I've written about this show on my blog before. It's just amazing, and this season did not disappoint. The ending threw me for a big loop, but overall this season was great, expanding on characters, giving us some very unexpected plot points (Joan preggers, Don married), and also giving us one of the best episodes I think ever in this series -- The Suitcase. This episode had to be a universal crowd pleaser, showing Don and Peggy as intimately as we've ever seen them - AMAZING.
Weirdest part of the show: Besides the impromptu engagement? Glenn. That kid freaks me out.


FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS - Now in it's final season on DirecTV (to come to NBC later on), this show is one of the most well done pieces of television I think I've ever seen. Taking the entire series as a whole, every story line, every character, and every football game has been relatable, strong and emotional (I'm omitting the "Landry Kills a Guy" storyline. Everyone has a bad idea now and then). Anchored by one of the most admirable and real-to-life married couples in anything I've ever seen (Coach & Mrs. Taylor), this show has given us some real great entertainment (and provided me with many sobfests). I'll probably be crying the most when it's all over, though.
Best part of the show: Two words - Tim Riggins. (I'll amend this for if you're a guy... Two words - Lyla Garrity)


JERSEY SHORE - This show changed the face of reality tv forever. Was it for the best? I'll let you decide. I just know I can't turn away. They'll be back for more on Jan 6...
Funniest Brawl Ever: Snooks vs. Angelina



Honorable Mentions: Glee, The Office, 30 Rock, Top Chef All Stars

Shows I hear are really great but haven't gotten around to catching up to yet: Boardwalk Empire, Dexter, Parks & Rec, Community

funny looking animal of the week!

wod

"nutts"

For time:
10 push-ups
80 pound Deadlift, 15 reps
25 Box jumps
50 Pull-ups
100 Wallball shots, 10 pounds
200 Double-unders
Run 400 meters (treadmill 2.5 incline)

24:45

Marci’s Favorite Things - 2010 - MOVIES

Oprah and I are alike in many ways — we both are worldwide superstars, have our own television shows and give away hundreds of thousands of dollars of amazing gifts to studio audiences once a year. So in the spirit of being just like Oprah, I’ve decided to share all of my favorite things with you fine folks. So here goes!

MOVIES
I have not kept up with movies as much as I would have liked to this year, but I think I saw a fair amount. I will however, be trying to get a lot of movie watching in during the week between Christmas and New Year’s — including Blue Valentine, True Grit, Never Let Me Go, and The King’s Speech (to name a few…)

But out of the films I have seen so far, here’s what I think you should all take the time to see:

The Kids are Alright - This movie was amazing. They portrayed the concept of family and marriage so well; the fact that the story centers around a lesbian couple doesn’t even register as the main theme of the movie. We get to see some very well-developed characters dealing with interesting scenarios, and there were a few scenes of this movie that I felt as if I personally connected to the emotions the characters were feeling (the college drop-off scene, or when Nic puts the pieces of the puzzle together during the big dinner scene). Beautifully acted, written and directed. Check it out.

Inception - We heard the hype before it came out, and it’s safe to say that Inception lived up to everything it was supposed to be. Gripping, imaginative and thrilling, first we learn the rules of the dream world, and then we watch on the edge of our seats as our protagonists are immersed in it. And if that isn’t enough, the mystery behind Leo’s character adds to what is already a cerebral rollercoaster. Props to Nolan and co. for making a film that respects the American public enough to give them something that challenges their minds.

Toy Story 3 - Witty, clever, and nostalgic. The geniuses at Pixar just know how to do it. We get to see the characters we’ve grown to know and love as they try to deal with Andy’s departure from college, and a relocation to a day care with an evil stuffed animal-tator. This one brings laughs, and a few tears as well as we are reminded why the first two movies were such a cultural phenomenon.

Get Him to the Greek - This one surprised me, as I didn’t expect it to be very good, especially since Aldus Snow got on my nerves a bit in Forgetting Sarah Marshall. But in this movie, his character really worked for me, and despite a few weird plot twists and turns, I still really enjoyed film. It was entertaining and funny, if a bit vulgar. Extra props to P Diddy for stealing a lot of scenes in this one.

The Town -Ben Affleck’s more than just a pretty face — guy can direct, too. This movie about a bank heist that leads to a love story gives us a gritty view of Boston, and the characters that can’t seem to shake the cycle of violence they were raised into. Even though Blake Lively’s portrayal of a drug-addicted ex-lover seemed a bit off to me (the accent was a bit much, no?), the rest of the cast makes up for it. Makes for an exciting, tense few hours.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1 - If you’ve been keeping up with this series, it’s only logical that you want to see the latest installment. As we near the end of the story, it’s so interesting to see how grown up the main characters have become, and how creative of a world JK Rowling created in writing the HP books. Though this isn’t the most action packed film yet, it sure sets us up for a crazy ending to the series.

Honorable Mention: The Social Network, Despicable Me, Love and Other Drugs

Again, this is just a short list, and I’m sure I’m missing some great films… it’s tough to keep up with all the newest releases.

Stay tuned for the next installment where my Favorite TV Shows of the year will be REVEALED (collective gasp from audience).

"Things work out best for those who make the best of how things work out."
- John Wooden

wod

run 1600 M
rest 3 minutes
run 1200 M
rest 2 minutes
run 800 M
rest 1 minute
run 400 M

7:41, 5:57, 4:07, 2:01

total: 25:46

heard it babysitting...

val: do you know...can you spell i cup?

me: i dunno, why don't you spell it?

val: I-C-U-P. (crazy laughter). get it? i see you pee! (crazy laughter)

me: did you just learn that one?

val: no, i learned it like a thousand days ago. like last week.

if i were a carpenter - tim hardin

more amazing photos here.

j crew's holiday mix up!

The other night I received a jacket I had ordered from j crew. it was both the WRONG SIZE and the WRONG COLOR. But, in a Chrismukah miracle-sorta way, the color turned out to be the one I really wanted, but wasn't available when I ordered, and the size ended up fitting me!

Also the expected ship date wasn't supposedly until January 16, so it was an extra special bonus that it arrived in time for use during some of the coldest winter months. What a warm surprise!

So I guess I'd like to take this time to thank either j crew for messing up my order, or santa for making dreams come true.


me in my new jacket...just kidding. thats a model. almost fooled you though.

THE HUNGER GAMES

About a month ago, I decided to start reading the young adult series "The Hunger Games." I had heard a lot of hype about the book, but was a bit hesitant to get into another young adult series... I mean, I already read all the Harry Potts and Twilights, how much of a teenage literature loving weirdo can I be?

The answer is.... a huge one. This was an amazing series of books -- they had me right from the start. Actually, they had me before I even started reading. When I read the back of the book and discovered what the novels were about I was fascinated to learn more.

The Hunger Games is set in the future, where all of North America is split up into "districts" and ruled over by a Big-Brother-esque government. Each year, the government chooses two children from each district at random, and these kids have to FIGHT TO THE DEATH. And if that's not enough, the entire death fight is filmed live and shown on national television.

Needless to say, the amount of violence in the novels is a lot more than you'd expect from a young adult novel. But that's not what pulls you in -- it's the story, the world that Suzanne Collins has created, and most of all, the relationships between the main characters. At the heart of the series lies a deeply confusing love triangle that has to be pushed aside or played upon frequently due to the whole trying to stay alive aspect of the Hunger Games. But a host of other rich characters also flank our hero, Katniss Everdeen, in her quest to survive the Games.

The entire book is such a different, interesting world that it really pulls you in (much the same way that the Wizarding World JK Rowling brilliantly brought us does). I felt as if I was on the edge of my seat throughout the entire novel. And when I finished, I had to go out and buy the next book THAT NIGHT... it really pulls you in.

So if by chance you have a holiday break of some sort (from school, from work, from whatever!), I very much recommend taking a step away from Oprah's book club's recent intellectual picks, and instead going back a few years to the days when you were pimply and wore braces. Because even though that time in your life may have been awkward, you had some kick ass books to read. Plus, reading all three of these books won't take you nearly as long as getting though a long book meant for grown ups.

It's the perfect holiday treat!

funny looking animals of the week!

the "hugz" edition

wod

"Whitten"

Five rounds for time of:
22 kettlebell swings (20#)
22 box jump
Run 400M
22 burpees
22 wall ball shots (10#)

43:28. wow... tough one. seeing spots after that one...

orange sky - alexi murdoch

sunday 5k!

25:23

who would have thought it'd be the best one yet two days after the filthy 50 and several hours after a bloody mary and mac n. cheese at white star?

i didnt feel too fast while i was running it. but ill take it.

wod

filthy fifty...

50 box jumps
50 jumping pull ups
50 kb swings (20#)
50 lunge steps
50 knees to chest
50 push press (20#)
50 back extensions
50 wall ball shots (12#)
50 burpees
50 double unders

28:15 yeesh

boy dancing at inappropriate time

this would have been little Rusty ...

something special

Well, this is my 500th post on this blog, and I wanted it to be about something special. But instead of something, I think I'm going to write about someone. A couple of very special people, actually.

Yesterday, a great friend of mine's boyfriend passed away after battling Leukemia. When I heard the news, it really shook me to the core. These are some of the sweetest, nicest people I have ever met in my life. I could not even imagine what the past few years have been like for them.

Through it all, every treatment and hospital stay, every piece of news, both bad and good, this amazing couple kept us updated on their struggles, and kept us inspired by their fight and their faith.

To watch the person you love battling a force that you have no control over must be heart-wrenching. But my friend carried herself with strength, remained devoted and caring through everything that came their way, and did it all with the most positive attitude I've ever seen.

This couple is truly an inspiration to us all, and if the memorials on their Facebook group's wall are any indication, they have touched the lives of countless people, many who never even knew them personally.

It's amazing the way the world works, and how seriously awful things can happen to the best people. But as I know my friend would agree, there is a plan for us all. And I'm glad that these two wonderful people were able to spend as much time together as they could.

If everyone had even the smallest fraction of the hope and spirit that these two have inside them, the world would be a much, much better place.

I'm sure the love shared between them could change the world. I know it's changed me.

RIP. My thoughts and prayers are with you both.


let it be - Carol Woods & Timothy T. Mitchum

wod

three rounds of:
run 400 M
15 pull ups
50 squats
15 pull ups

16:15

legendary - lou barlow

Qatar Stadiums

Everyone was wondering how tiny Qatar, chilling right in the midst of the Middle East, beat out big bad America for the 2022 World Cup. Then everyone realized money doesn't grow on trees. It grows in Qatar. Plus they are promising stadiums like these:




If I wasn't going to be 36 at the time of this World Cup (SHEESH), I would try to go check it out. But hopefully by that time I'll be chasing my children around during most of the games and sedating them during the USA games so I can get my watch on.

morning wod

run 1 mile
row 2k
run 1 mile

7:37, 9:30, 8:51

total with transitions: 28:15

din

asparagus and crab cakes from the farmers market with shrimp and scallops in them.

yummy

wod

21-18-15-12-9 rep rounds of:

Power snatch (30# -- first timer)
Wallball shots, 12# ball
Knees to chest

14 min

funny looking animals of the week!

my cousin's boyfriend posted this on her facebook page. too good to pass up!



thanks Tom!

weekend rewinddd

This weekend was jam packed with super-sized fun. Things started off at a weird BYOB Indian Restaurant on Friday night, where
Becca and I enjoyed a bottle of Lucas Winery's Semi-Dry Riesling while feeling like the Christmas tree light-filled walls were going to cave in on us at any moment. Then it was onto the main event of the evening- Joe Purdy at City Winery!


special thanks to my flip phone for such an amazing quality photo.

Amazing show. He played his newest album, This American, in its entirety. Then took a little break and came back on to play some old favorites...until 2 am! Well played, Joe Purdy. Check out his latest album at joepurdy.com (you can download it FOR FREE).

Then Saturday it was off to Atlantic City to celebrate the life and times of one Samantha Margulies. AC is a pretty funny place, and the afternoon and night were filled with many antics. I may or may not have been down $250 in craps only to stage a miraculous comeback this morning with a table full of older gentlemen who called me "Lady Luck." Becca may or may not have spent the morning frantically searching the hotel for me when I was really just asleep on the floor between the two beds in our room. Kim and Sam may or may not have been at the pool party until 7am. Beverly's may or may not have been 1 million times better than the Reflections Cafe. We may or may not have been followed around by a 12-year old looking gentlemen who was in "Pharmaceuticals" (aka community college). We may or may not have had a few Four Lokos, and we may or may not have been ID'ed about 75 million times throughout the course of the night. Oh, and Hoover was there too.

This picture might sum up our night:


....so I'd say it was a great success.

That about wraps it up. Can't wait for another week of work... I wish I was a professional craps player.

jolene - ray lamontagne

image via trunkbunker.com

good night of sports

Home tonight for the first time this week, and it's a good time for it -- Lebron-bron is currently making his return to Cleveland. And boy do they hate him. So many booooos.

And when that goes commercial, there's a pretty good football game on the NFL network, which we get now thanks to FIOS! Thanks, FIOS. Eagles/Texans. Arian Nation against the Dog Killah. We'll see who comes out on top.

Good thing I can just lay around and watch this stuff...finding it hard to lift my arms after today's wod.

five rounds for time of:
row 500m
5 thrusters (50#)
15:40

first time i've used such a heavy bar. yeesh

SPIDERMAN: TURN OFF THE DARK

Last night I went to experience the biggest, most expensive show on Broadway EVER — Spiderman: TURN OFF THE DARK. Even after watching the play, I still don’t really understand what the title is supposed to mean. And unfortunately for the blockbuster Broadway production that will cost $1 million a WEEK just to keep afloat, the title wasn’t the only thing I found disappointing…

Granted, it was only the second preview performance of the show, which features many “high-flying” stunts, and so we were warned by one of the producers before the show began that they might have to stop the show for a little while if a stunt went wrong. Luckily for us, only ONE stunt in the first act went awry, leaving one of the nine stunt doubles for Spidey swaying through the air, trying helplessly to make it back to his launching platform until the stunt director’s voice came over the speakers and said they were going to stop it there. Then we waited about 5 minutes for them to reset. This allowed me ample time to send a text message to my brother with an update of the proceedings, so I guess it worked out well. Besides this one stop, there weren’t too many blatant technical glitches.

But technical glitches weren’t the only thing I found disappointing with the production…here’s my report card of the highs and lows of SPIDERMAN:

STORY -- D
The thing that needs the most work in this production is the plot. Who would have thought? I guess you can’t just take crazy special effects and $10 million sets and automatically have a winner. You actually need a clear, coherent story that people care about. Otherwise it’s just a guy in a funny suit flying around a theater.

I had several main problems with the storyline. First of all, the entire story is “told” through a group of four teenage kids. I’m not sure if this is necessary, since their presence mostly seems to get in the way of the story. But even if it is necessary for development of plot, the kids should not be interacting with the characters in the story (which they begin to do in the 2nd Act).

My other main qualm with the plot was a secondary backstory about “Arachne,” the original “Spiderwoman.” This is introduced right in the beginning of the show, and kind of comes out of nowhere. Then as the play progresses, Arachne scenes pop up here and there and they all seem out of place and kind of drag. If they lost the whole Arachne storyline, or at least didn’t devote so many random scenes to it, we might have more time to care about characters like Peter Parker’s Uncle Ben. If I directed this play, my goal would be to have the entire house sobbing at this pivotal plot point. As it stands now, Uncle Ben’s death is a mere formality that needs to be covered, whereas it could be a real emotional plot point where we see why Spiderman is motivated to do what he does.

And that seems to be the main problem with the story in general. They are trying to do too many things, tell too many stories, that a lot of opportunities to make a richer story get pushed aside, and the audience is often left confused as to what is happening and why.

Hoover Side Note:
Hoov did not appreciate various attempts at humor in the script. Many cheesy jokes were attempted throughout the course of the show, and most of them fell pretty flat. We demand funnier cheesy jokes!

MUSIC -- C+
All the music in this show was written by Bono. Probably to give it a “hard rock” edge, but in reality a lot of the songs just didn’t work that well on the stage. All of the music in the “Arachne” scenes was kind of trippy and honestly a bit weird.

The other music was… kind of forgettable. Nothing really stood out to me as a big show stopping number, and nothing got stuck in my head except one big guitar riff that was played a lot. So while the music wasn’t really bad, it wasn’t something that stood out to me as a strength of the production.

ACTING -- B-
The acting in this was alright, no one really stood out as AMAZING, but I guess it’s hard to act too much when there’s so much other stuff going on around you. The sets and special effects seem to take a front seat to most of the acting in this one.

There were, however, a few places where the actors looked bad, but I might blame the script. When Uncle Ben died, his last line was kind of weird… “I was just trying to help” didn’t really pack much of an emotional PUNCH. Also when the mad scientist’s wifey bit the dust, he holds her and lets out a scream of grief that sounded entirely too much like Tarzan for my liking.

But other than a few weird occasions, the acting was sufficient and kept moving the confusing plot along at a quick pace.

VISUAL EFFECTS -- A+
If you are going to see this play, this should be the reason why. The sets, costumes and choreography in this show are amazing. It’s hard to explain just how this innovative sets work so well, mostly because they seem to use so many tactics that have not been done before.

From HUGE sectional video screens, to moving sets that change to indicate a change of scenery as characters walk onstage, to moving pieces that help replicate falling from a skyscraper, every piece of the set worked perfectly to wow the crowd.

The costumes were equally amazing, with a wide array of amazing comic book villains represented with tricked out suits. Even a trio of bumbling bank robbers were given a bit of comical character by large headed costumes.

Even with technical difficulties and a plot that needs some work, the visuals in this play are very pleasing.

STUNTS -- B+
I am keeping this category separate from Visual Effects. In theory, the stunts in this show should be absolutely breathtaking and innovative. But since we just saw the second preview of the show, there were some snafus here and there that seemed distracting.

The “flying” is quite cool, and there is a scene where an entire fight between Spidey and a certain green hued foe takes place in the air above the audience. Being in the balcony, it was kind of cool to have a lot of action take place in the air, closer to me. But I think if I was in the orchestra I would have been terrified of one of them falling onto me.

There is also one point where a giant spiderwoman launches from the balcony and flies to the stage. While this was kind of cool, it was a bit distracting for everyone in the balcony as they set up for her to be launched, in the middle of another scene.

And I don’t mean to be a curmudgeon, but let’s face it, I am. After awhile, although cool, the flying just got a bit…old. Like, oh…there he goes again. And this is probably just my opinion; I think there could have been a few less flying moments.

There was some other really cool stunt work that did not involve flying though, and that was all executed wonderfully.

So to wrap it up…
SPIDERMAN: TURN OFF THE DARK is a play that definitely needs a bit more work, but it has promise in the form of amazing visuals and some memorable stunts.

All in all…
Go for the spectacle if you wish, but unless they tweak the story, I highly suggest turning off your high expectations.

old yeller

i got these glasses for free when i bought my friend a present at a little boutique. so of course ive been wearing them at work. its funny to see people's reactions.

funny looking animal of the week!

morning wod

run 1600M
rest 3 minutes
run 1200M
rest 2 minutes
run 800M
rest 1 minute
run 400M

7:57
6:14
4:02
2:00

total: 26:13

sweeeet

another heartbreaker

The Buffalo Bills lost another heartbreaker yesterday, in the worst possible way. My boy Stevie Johnson drops a pass in the endzone in OT for the win...

I'm not even mad at him. I'm sad for him. Check out the beginning of this article:

"Tears still were welled in Steve Johnson's bloodshot eyes when he stepped down from the podium, walked out of the postgame interview room and exited Ralph Wilson Stadium up the tunnel ramp.

Based on how he was dressed, he should have headed back to the locker room. But Johnson clearly was in another world as he dejectedly trudged toward the parking lot in a sleeveless shirt, basketball shorts, his red Buffalo Bills leggings and untied sneakers."

I mean, is that not the perfect analogy for the entire Buffalo Bills organization and fan base over the last 20 years?

Tough loss and a tough drop, Stevie. But I'm sticking by you. Partly because you shaved "Why So Serious" into your head. But mostly because you're a hard worker and a player who doesn't give up no matter what team you're up against or how "bad" your team is supposed to be. I'm predicting a huge game out of you on Sunday.

And a Superbowl next year!

I'VEEEEE GOT A FEEEELING!

this mornings workout

"jackie"

row 1000M
50 thrusters (20#)
30 pull ups

row-4:15. Total- around 10 min... had to walk downstairs to get to different equipment.

brightest - copeland

photo via seabirdblog.com

dad's magazine

hehehehehe

wod

today's workout:
Helen, subbing OH squats for pull ups since someone was on the pull up machine.

400M run
21 kb swings (20#)
12 OH squats (15#)
3 rounds, around 11 min.

then the pull up machine opened up so i did 3 sets of 12 for good measure.

then my mom picked me up from the gym. not having a car makes me feel like a little kid!

so thankful.

today is the day of turkey. and the turkey trot. and potatoes. and cranberry sauce. and football. and stuffing. and stuffing ourselves...

oh yeah, and thanks. so it only seems fit to take a few minutes and let you all know what I'm thankful for this year.

First and foremost, I'm thankful for the movie "A League of Their Own," which is actually on the tv in the other room as I type. Betty Spaghetti just found out her husband died. Tears are welling up in my eyes. Greatest movie of all time? Quite possibly.

But let's get down to business, with the help of a few photos.

I'm thankful to have parents like this:


a brother with which I can have facebook convos like this:


a family that knows how to party like this:


friends like this:


and this:


and this:


and this:


and so thankful that i got to do some really cool things this year, like this:


and this:



and this:


and this:


...i could go on and on. hope everyone has a great thanksgiving.

stevie johnson!

whoever wrote Steve Johnson's yahoo fantasy update really had a fun time with it this week:

Wed, Nov 24
Johnson has been fined $5,000 for the league for sporting a "Why So Serious" display underneath his jersey after scoring a touchdown against the Bengals, BuffaloBills.com reports.
Recommendation: Even the Bengals receivers appreciated the Joker response toward Cincinnati's Batman and Robin duo, so we suppose it's all in good fun, even though coach Chan Gailey wasn't busting a gut. Perhaps Johnson owners should wear a "Why So Fortunate" T-Shirt underneath their uniform of choice at next year's draft day, as he's gone from a bottom-of-the list/undrafted guy to a top-20 fantasy receiver. The Bills will probably be throwing his way regularly again this week should Pittsburgh get out to a lead or have its usual success in stuffing the opponent's run game. If you're an owner, when it gets to your turn at the table Thursday, remember to give a word of thanks to Johnson's low-cost, eye-popping production this year.
(Rotowire.com)

i will be giving thanks for him today at the turkey table... !

via ffffound.

wod

As many rounds as possible in 12 minutes of:
run 400M.
5 deadlifts (20#)

5 rounds +.03 miles.
used a treadmill...

funny looking animal of the week!

Thanksgiving Edition

morning yearning - ben harper

mad men - behind the scenes

real cool set of photos from Rolling Stone from behind the scenes with Mad Men.

reeeese

got a new camera. reese photoshoot ensued.

an image of home

no fly drank.

whats that jet blue? you don't serve drinks on short flights, so no free dranks? and you lost my luggage?

in the words of snooki - wah.

fly drank.

What's that Jet Blue? We get a free cocktail on the plane if we flash our JetBlue Amex card in the flight attendant's face? Rusty and I will take you up on this tonight.

teach me how to dougie.

after watching, I still don't know how to dougie. but the song gets in my head every time I see the standings of my fantasy basketball league - teachmehow2dougie currently in 4th place.

wild is the wind - cat power ft. nina simone

funny looking animal(?) of the week!

todays work out

"blake" scaled down:

100 foot walking lunge with 10# held overhead
30 box jumps
20 wall ball shots (8#)
10 push ups

4 rounds. 19 minutes.

top dogs.

although I really love dogs a lot it doesn't make sense for me to get one right now. i need to find someone like a boyfriend/husband that can take care of said dog while i irresponsibly lay around and watch television. or at least someone to take care of it during the wintertime when it's cold out. or when it's a puppy and not housebroken. or when i want to sleep in and the dog's sick. or when i get an autographed derek jeter ball and the dog gets a hold of it and eats it (sorry bec...)

anyways, can't hurt to dream. here are my top dog candidates if i was getting a puppy RIGHT NOW:

5. ENGLISH BULLDOG

So adorable. But there are a few drawbacks to these wrinkly critters that make me second guess the choice. Problem 1 - sometimes when they get too fat, we go from cute to...eh...slob-like. And speaking of slob, I think these guys drool a lot too. But I guess at the point the pup gets fat or slobbery, i'd already be loving it for the long haul. So there's that.

4. RESCUE PUPPY
There are lots of rescue shelters with dogs that need homes. And a lot of the pups I've seen on these sites have a little pit bull in them, which can scare some people. But they are still adorable. And I'm sure if I showered them in a cocoon of love they would become just as sensitive and emotionally unstable as I am. Which means instead of biting children and entering dog fights, my pit bull mix will be laying on me while we watch reruns of Friday Night Lights and both cry hysterically. Always good to have a good crying partner who won't judge. To see how adorable these puppies are, check out the doggies available for adoption right now at Animal Haven in NYC.

3. BOSTON TERRIER
These guys went from not being on my radar to BAM being pretty high up on this here list. And I give a lot of credit for LE PETIT PUPPY for this quick turn around. LE PETIT PUPPY is a dog store with a pretty explanatory name. If you speak the slightest bit of French you can figure it out. Anyways, whilst visiting said small puppy shoppe, I saw the smallest Boston Terrier puppy that melted my heart. Honestly, I had to really think of something terrible to get my heart to freeze over again before I left that store. These little guys are cute as hellz.

2. FRENCH BULLDOG
Come on!!!! Look at their ears!!! ...I don't even think I have to say anything else. Except Tim Lincecum has one that he bought after winning the Cy Young award and named Cy. Pretty bad ass. I guess the only problem here is I'd have to wait to win some sort of notable award before naming my big eared bundle of joy.

1. LAB - aka best dog in the world.
Okay, I'm the first to admit that everyone who has a childhood dog is biased for the rest of eternity to liking that breed best of all. Unless said childhood dog turned out to be a monster that bit your friends or ruined your clothing or something else unthinkable. But my childhood dog never did that to me! She was THE BEST. Labs have every quality that I want for myself as a person -- they're smart, funny, fast, loyal as hell, happy, and really good at hunting. Sure, their hips might not work so well when they get up there in age, and maybe they'll grow weird lumpy non-cancerous tumors as well when they get old enough to have a grey beard around their happy muzzles. But dammit, labs are everything dogs should be and more. If anything, I want my children (insert prayer that someday I have children) to grow up knowing the joy of having a great childhood dog. I also want them to get to watch Saved By The Bell. I hope it's still in syndication when they come along. But back to labs... just read or watch Marley and Me and I'm sure you'll agree. They may be a handful, the love they give you in return is well worth it.