We are now in an age where making music does not only mean that you have to be good, you also have to entertain. Today, female artists have to go that extra mile just to be heard as someone important. They have to dress up, be well liked, and have talent. You have to admit you can name more popular female artists lately than male artists. I am here to bring you a list of a few artists who have seemed to stick with us for some reason.
Katy Perry: You probably remember her first song I Kissed a Girl (2008) and thought, wow...who is she?! Even I admit that I was hesitant at first, then came Hot n Cold and everyone loved her. I don't know if you remember or not but Katy Perry was famous months before Lady GaGa stepped into the scene. Katy Perry's wacky ideas came first. At 25 Katy Perry has proved she has a spot in our hearts and that she can sing like no other. Katy Perry is the first on this list as female singer icons. Her three most played hits have been: I Kissed a Girl, Hot n Cold, and California Gurls.
Taylor Swift: Taylor Swift started out slowly at 16 but now at 20 is loved by girls of all ages. Why? Everyone can relate with her because her songs are real. They're the universal language for all girls. The best part about her? She is clean cut, she doesn't have to drink or party or dress like she's a stripper. It's the kind of music you can play for a little girl and it'd be okay. Taylor Swift is an all american girl. Her three most played hits are: Love Story, You Belong With Me, and Mine.
Beyonce: There is just something about her that makes her popular. She doesn't have to go all out and release a ton of singles to be relevant. As a single artist she has been around since 2003 and she's still making hits. Not to mention she's had an acting career on the side too. At 29, she is still going strong. Her three most played hits are: Crazy in Love, Irreplaceable, and Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It).
Lady GaGa: If you haven't heard of her yet, then you're crazy. Lady GaGa managed to stay on top of the music industry for two years now. Having many popular songs and crazy outfits. Lady GaGa is incomparable, there is no one like her. Even when I don't like her, I manage to like her music. She's just an interesting person. Her three most played hits are: Just Dance, Poker Face, and Bad Romance.
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So anyone else you think deserved a spot on this list?
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Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Monday, September 27, 2010
Movies 115: The Town
Last week this movie made number at the box office. There is definitely a good reason why. This movie has what it takes for an Oscar buzz. You've got a gritty story (Chuck Hogan's Prince of Thieves) about the streets of Boston, directed by one of it's natives, Ben Affleck who also stars in the film.
Here we have a story of that vicious cycle passed from father to son who are both bank robbers. But then you have to wonder how they got that way. You soon find out that Affleck who stars as misunderstood Doug MacRay tried to leave this town before through hockey, but didn't quite cut it. Naturally, he's a man with good intentions at one time. Maybe. But he's part of the pack that he was born into. Bank robbers. His brother of sorts, Jeremy Renner is possibly a little trigger happy. He gives a fascinating performance, Boston accent and all, in the movie. Also Gossip Girl's Blake Lively manages a stunning performance as the gritty girl who is possibly more like Doug's real mother, that he never knew. Its a history repeating it's self. Also, there is the unsinkable Rebecca Hall (Claire). The bank manager Doug falls for. She's everything a woman should be. She gardens. She volunteers with kids at the local youth center. She is everything Doug wants for his future. But it doesn't work that way when you've got old timer, Fergie (Pete Postlewaite) calling the shots. If thats not enough wonderful Mad Man's Jon Hamm is FBI agent Adam Frawley, who shakes things up with his investigation.
The movie has some raw and bloody moments. The film is packed with a heat and a language of the Boston streets. Honestly, Affleck shows off the town through rugged car chases and gun battles. These are brilliant bad guys for the most part. Almost, perhaps. Its a unique story with a lot of heart. Hopefully, it will be taken note for the Oscars. Some really talented people in this film.
10/10
Friday, September 24, 2010
Art 114: Drawing Manga
Anime has become super popular to both view and draw, although keeping proportions is difficult for anyone. Even the professionals outline their drawings before inking linearts. SO. For those of you who have always wanted to try drawing manga, learning proportions is a good way to get started.
I learned this particular tutorial from an artist named Mark Crilley who has a variety of how-to's on his YouTube channel. This is merely the breakdown of one of his videos. Keep in mind that this doesn't teach exactly how to draw each facial feature line by line, merely where exactly they should be placed on the face. Click on the links within the tutorial for a more in-depth explanation of how to draw certain features in different circumstances, via Mark Crilley videos.
1. Draw a circle.
2. From top to bottom, segment the circle into thirds with horizontal lines. The lower horizontal line will represent where the eyebrows should be located. The upper line won't represent anything and can be erased.
3. Draw a vertical line from the top to the bottom of the circle.
4. Extend the vertical line 1/3 of the diameter of the circle and mark with a small horizontal line. This will represent where the line of the lower lip should be located.
5. Segment the extended vertical line below the circle into thirds (1/9 of diameter). The two marks you make here will be where the nostrils, and then the mouth, are located. The actual bottom of the circle does not represent anything.
6. Extend the vertical line another 1/9 of the diameter of the circle. This line will be represent the bottom of the chin.
7. Sketch in the jaw to connect the sides of the circle to the chin line you just made. Note that the jaw line isn't completely curved. There are two fairly straight lines, one coming down from the temple and one bending off towards the chin. More pointy chins = really anime, less pointy chins = more realistic.
8. Draw lines for the neck. Thickness varies between artists, so it's a matter of preference. I like to say that the line for the neck should be half way between the temple and the chin.
9. Draw the eyes typically within the confines of the eyebrow line and the bottom of the circle. For more realistic eye proportions, the space between eyes is typically equal to one eye width.
10. When you draw the hair, you need to first determine where the part shall be: centered or to the right or left? The rest of the hair will fall according to that part. Also, the hair does not lie flat on the skull--give it a little volume and start drawing a space above the top of the skull (the top of the circle). Anime hair is also very geometric a lot of the time, with tons of sharp angles, even in my example above. Keep in mind to add a few as you arch the hair downward.
That's it for facial proportions! You can find loads more helpful tutorials on Mark Crilley's channel, like body proportions for both males and females, faces in profile or 3/4 view, inking, expressions and line-by-line breakdowns. Have fun!
I learned this particular tutorial from an artist named Mark Crilley who has a variety of how-to's on his YouTube channel. This is merely the breakdown of one of his videos. Keep in mind that this doesn't teach exactly how to draw each facial feature line by line, merely where exactly they should be placed on the face. Click on the links within the tutorial for a more in-depth explanation of how to draw certain features in different circumstances, via Mark Crilley videos.
1. Draw a circle.
2. From top to bottom, segment the circle into thirds with horizontal lines. The lower horizontal line will represent where the eyebrows should be located. The upper line won't represent anything and can be erased.
3. Draw a vertical line from the top to the bottom of the circle.
4. Extend the vertical line 1/3 of the diameter of the circle and mark with a small horizontal line. This will represent where the line of the lower lip should be located.
5. Segment the extended vertical line below the circle into thirds (1/9 of diameter). The two marks you make here will be where the nostrils, and then the mouth, are located. The actual bottom of the circle does not represent anything.
6. Extend the vertical line another 1/9 of the diameter of the circle. This line will be represent the bottom of the chin.
7. Sketch in the jaw to connect the sides of the circle to the chin line you just made. Note that the jaw line isn't completely curved. There are two fairly straight lines, one coming down from the temple and one bending off towards the chin. More pointy chins = really anime, less pointy chins = more realistic.
8. Draw lines for the neck. Thickness varies between artists, so it's a matter of preference. I like to say that the line for the neck should be half way between the temple and the chin.
9. Draw the eyes typically within the confines of the eyebrow line and the bottom of the circle. For more realistic eye proportions, the space between eyes is typically equal to one eye width.
10. When you draw the hair, you need to first determine where the part shall be: centered or to the right or left? The rest of the hair will fall according to that part. Also, the hair does not lie flat on the skull--give it a little volume and start drawing a space above the top of the skull (the top of the circle). Anime hair is also very geometric a lot of the time, with tons of sharp angles, even in my example above. Keep in mind to add a few as you arch the hair downward.
That's it for facial proportions! You can find loads more helpful tutorials on Mark Crilley's channel, like body proportions for both males and females, faces in profile or 3/4 view, inking, expressions and line-by-line breakdowns. Have fun!
Monday, September 20, 2010
TV 114 : Boardwalk Empire
He tells the women what they want to hear |
The new TV season starts this week. Why not start with a bang? Last night was the premiere of HBO's new series Boardwalk Empire - brought to you by the critically acclaimed Martin Scorsese who is the executive producer and director of the show. Naturally, he is definitely in his element bringing to life a part of history that some like to visit from time to time. Prohibition.
The show is set in 1920. Its the very beginning of Prohibition in Atlantic City. The star of this series is Steve Buscemi as Nucky Thompson, the treasure of Atlantic City. Of course, he definitely has his own way of running things. With Nucky, you see the good, the bad and the ugly of city. How its corrupt with his brother running the police force which just might be hoodlums in uniforms.
His go-getter, Jimmy Darmody is played by Michael Pitt. This might be his year to redeem himself as the actor to watch for. Pitt is definitely in his prime for this part. If Scorsese made Leonardo DiCaprio shine in his movies, it looks like he groomed Pitt for this magnetic role. Of course, Pitt's definitely got the look, the voice to expose the rich history of a slice of Americana in those days. His character has a bum leg from WWI. He's a family man with a little kid and would love to some day own the American dream. I've never seen anyone who can smoke cigarettes and chew gum at the same time quite like Pitt can.
And who could ask for more to head the FBI than Michael Shannon. His glare means business. He's perfect for this part. Scorsese wanted to show people like Al Capone(Stephen Graham) just starting out as a gangster. He also shows the average housewife of that day and age too with Kelly MacDonald's Margret. Also Paz de la Huerta can be seen as Lucy, the party animal that Nucky keeps close to his side.
Its been said the show really did want to have the series in Atlantic City, but since that boardwalk no longer exist they took a piece of Brooklyn and built their own boardwalk from the ground up usine old post cards and pictures from the historical Atlantic City as blue prints. The costuming and design is superb, giving a wonderful feel of the era. Atlantic City at that time also liked to think of its self as a health resort, only it really wasn't. In the first show, we see where they take the alcohol from Canada and add their own mix to it to bootleg from a funeral home.
Lets just say, the premiere definitely showed who ran Atlantic City. Buscemi's Nucky definitely has a way of chatting up the competition and finding the justice where he knows best. Definitely a show for those who love their crime stories the old fashioned way with bullets, punches and bloody endings.
HBO Boardwalk Empire
Movies 114 : Easy A
Not another teen movie, you are thinking. Well, this one isn't exactly the cookie-cutter standard. Yet, you might get the slight feel of John Tucker Must Die since Penn Badgley has about the same role. And he plays these roles well, as your better than average guy, Woodchuck Todd the mascot who was once the Blue Devil mascot at the school. Unfortunately, because of Amanda Bynes (ooober-religious Marianne) and her praying posse change things at school for the better.
Amanda Bynes says this will be her last movie on Twitter. She's retiring. |
OK, sorry if I'm getting ahead here.
Premise : After a little white lie about losing her virginity gets out, a clean cut high school girl sees her life paralleling Hester Prynne's in "The Scarlet Letter," which she is currently studying in school - until she decides to use the rumor mill to advance her social and financial standing. Written by Sony Pictures.
And Emma Stone is the perfect Olive, who's a little sarcastic. Smart. Stays at home a lot. And Alyson Michalka practically steals the scene every-time as her overbearing friend Rhiannon who definitely generated the rumor of Olive losing her virginity in the first place.
Thomas Hayden Church plays the interesting Mr. Griffith, Olive's English teacher. And darn if they would be studying the Scarlet Letter. Well, Olive documents her own Scarlet Letter story as it unfolds. Olive explains all in her vlog. And there are so many twists and turns as she soon finds out, faking it might not be the best thing to do, after-all when she figures out how damaging a lie can be, even if she has sexed up her wardrobe and plastered a RED A on her outfits.
Malcolm MacDowell plays a rather intriguing and scary principal. Patricia Clarkson as Olive's Mom is sometimes a little too cute for comfort. Yet, I'm sure many of us feel that way about our Mom.
Although, its not a laugh a minute comedy. It does have its moments. It will make you think about your own school and the rumor mill. It is one film that isn't unraveling at the seams with sex, sex, sex. Yet, all may not be as it seems, either. I did like the flashback of movies from the 80's. But I wouldn't say its the new 16 Candles either.
8/10
Friday, September 17, 2010
Books 113: Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close
I'm currently in the middle of reading Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close by Jonathan Safran Foer, which fellow blogger Mayte highly recommended. And although I'm not yet finished with the book, I already completely agree. Thank goodness I managed to grab the last copy at Barnes & Noble, because I was hooked after the first paragraph.
It's pretty fitting that I started reading this on Saturday, the anniversary of September 11th, because the story centers around an extraordinary nine-year-old boy named Oskar Schell whose father died during the attacks on the World Trade Center in 2001. A year after his father's death, Oskar finds a mysterious key in an envelope with the word "Black" written on it in his father's closet. Oskar supposes that this could be a clue to a riddle that his father left him, and makes it his mission to discover the lock that the key will open. And so his search begins. Oskar is determined to visit every person in New York City with the last name Black and find out if they know anything. This is as far as I've read up to at this point, and I can't wait to continue reading.
It's pretty fitting that I started reading this on Saturday, the anniversary of September 11th, because the story centers around an extraordinary nine-year-old boy named Oskar Schell whose father died during the attacks on the World Trade Center in 2001. A year after his father's death, Oskar finds a mysterious key in an envelope with the word "Black" written on it in his father's closet. Oskar supposes that this could be a clue to a riddle that his father left him, and makes it his mission to discover the lock that the key will open. And so his search begins. Oskar is determined to visit every person in New York City with the last name Black and find out if they know anything. This is as far as I've read up to at this point, and I can't wait to continue reading.
“We laughed and laughed, together and separately, out loud and silently, we were determined to ignore whatever needed to be ignored, to build a new world from nothing if nothing in our world could be salvaged, it was one of the best days of my life, a day during which I lived my life and didn’t think about my life at all.”
Monday, September 13, 2010
Movies 113: The Runaways
I had wanted to see this film when it first came out. Unfortunately, because of the slightly controversial matter and it being on the indie side of film there was possibly one place that ran it for a weekend. So I was happy to see its on DVD now. I've always been a Joan Jett fan. Her music is the heart and soul of rock n' roll. I had never heard about Cherie Currie. And really, this is Cherie Currie's film.
The story starts out in 1975 in the wild child territory of California. The film exposes the gritty side of Hollywood. A time when Rock n' Roll was a man's world. And you have Joan Larson (Kristen Stewart) and Cherie (Dakota Fanning) definitely inspired by men in rock'n roll.
Cherie is fascinated by David Bowie. She wants to wear outfits like his. His hair. The make up. She wants to be a superstar. Of course, it runs in the family. Her mother is Tatum O'Neal who's favorite line is "Places everyone!" After their mom throws their drunk dad out, she remarries some guy and heads off to Indonesia. Who knew that later, The Runaways would make it so big overseas in places like Japan.
But in this biopic it takes someone spectacular to create a rock band. Kim Fowley (Michael Shannon) is their creator. Who knows what drugs he was on when he thought it might be a cool idea to have a girl rock band. Needless to say, Shannon plays him up extraordinary in this film from lippy to slightly cross-dressing. But as he builds these girls up to take on the rock n roll lifestyle, he tries to break them, as well. That's what sells, conflict.
Really, though Cherie and Joan get along well. Maybe too well. Drugs. Sex. Friendship. Lovers. Its a whirl wind to know if it were the genuine thing or just something to do in the lust and luster of drugs while becoming a rock-star. But as luck would have it, Cherie makes a few photo shoots without re-guards of the band's feelings. So there is a bit of jealousy and what not going on. Of course, these are just teenagers on this tour to fame. We do feel the pain she is going through. She has her act down. And Fanning truly played the part of a rocker. Honestly, I really don't see the real Joan Jett in Stewart until the end of the film.
We could say Currie was almost famous. She's now a chainsaw artist and counsels trouble teenagers. If you love your rock world pumped with punks from the 70's, well, this is one you want for your personal library.
The story starts out in 1975 in the wild child territory of California. The film exposes the gritty side of Hollywood. A time when Rock n' Roll was a man's world. And you have Joan Larson (Kristen Stewart) and Cherie (Dakota Fanning) definitely inspired by men in rock'n roll.
Cherie is fascinated by David Bowie. She wants to wear outfits like his. His hair. The make up. She wants to be a superstar. Of course, it runs in the family. Her mother is Tatum O'Neal who's favorite line is "Places everyone!" After their mom throws their drunk dad out, she remarries some guy and heads off to Indonesia. Who knew that later, The Runaways would make it so big overseas in places like Japan.
But in this biopic it takes someone spectacular to create a rock band. Kim Fowley (Michael Shannon) is their creator. Who knows what drugs he was on when he thought it might be a cool idea to have a girl rock band. Needless to say, Shannon plays him up extraordinary in this film from lippy to slightly cross-dressing. But as he builds these girls up to take on the rock n roll lifestyle, he tries to break them, as well. That's what sells, conflict.
Fowley at work. Rock Band Bootcamp. |
Joan Jett and Kristen |
We could say Currie was almost famous. She's now a chainsaw artist and counsels trouble teenagers. If you love your rock world pumped with punks from the 70's, well, this is one you want for your personal library.
TV 113: SKINS
Once again SKINS from BBC's Channel 4 has been ripped away of their old cast and back to fresh faces. Just the way they like it.
SKINS is a show about teens dealing with the worst of it in their last years of education before they go off to the University, better known as Sixth Form. The show is ground breaking with stories dealing with sexual orientation, mental illness, drugs and of course, alcohol. All in the life of Bristol, England.
Its definitely been the springboard for such young actors as Nicolas Hoult (A Single Man) and Dev Patel (Slumdog Millionare). A place where they can show case their talents like Mitch Hewer who was a newbie to show biz until he became the adorable "Maxie" on Skins.
The show was created by a father and son television writing team, Bryan Elsley and Jamie Brittain. The show is notable for its casting of amateur actors and young writers. The cast are entirely replaced every two series, when the characters leave sixth form.
Dakota Blue Richards |
As of yet, we really don't know that much about the characters. There is only one out of the casting call that has been in film that we know of. Dakota Blue Richards, who was in The Golden Compass a few years ago.
She says she's been asking for years to get a part on Skins. "I've always loved the series and wanted to be in it. Finally this year I'm old enough to play a part!" She thinks it's crazy to be part of this Skins phenomenon. "We are eight friends on screen as well off screen so we have the same dynamic that you'll see in the series." Dakota says about her cast-mates.
Five of the eight teenagers were discovered at open call auditions in England, where 7,000 aspiring TV stars tried out. All feel its a great opportunity, and still can't believe their luck to be on this teen show. Sean Teale says he got the gig the day before his birthday. He's from London and is ecstatic to be a part of the new Skins cast. All have been a fan of the show and have really enjoyed filming this new season.
It'll be interesting to see what the writers conjure up with these new actors. Usually, they do depend on them to inspire the story. Last season, Cook played by Jack O'Connell was rather the rowdy anti-hero. So who knows where the show may go in the new season. I know I'll be watching. Some how.
Alex Arnold |
Freya Mavor |
Laya Lewis |
Will Merrick |
Jessica Sula |
Sean Teale |
Sebastian De Souza |
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Poetry 112: Song of Myself
A Walt Whitman poem was already previously shared, but the other day in English class we read "Song of Myself." I couldn't get it out of my head after that, so I knew that I had to showcase it on here. Like the previous poem,"Pioneers! O Pioneers", this one is also quite long, so I'll just share the first part of it.
Song Of Myself
By Walt Whitman
Song Of Myself
By Walt Whitman
" I celebrate myself, and sing myself,
And what I assume you shall assume,
For every atom belonging to me as good belongs to you.
I loafe and invite my soul,
I lean and loafe at my ease observing a spear of summer grass.
My tongue, every atom of my blood, form'd from this soil, this air,
Born here of parents born here from parents the same, and their
parents the same,
I, now thirty-seven years old in perfect health begin,
Hoping to cease not till death.
Creeds and schools in abeyance,
Retiring back a while sufficed at what they are, but never forgotten,
I harbor for good or bad, I permit to speak at every hazard,
Nature without check with original energy. "
And what I assume you shall assume,
For every atom belonging to me as good belongs to you.
I loafe and invite my soul,
I lean and loafe at my ease observing a spear of summer grass.
My tongue, every atom of my blood, form'd from this soil, this air,
Born here of parents born here from parents the same, and their
parents the same,
I, now thirty-seven years old in perfect health begin,
Hoping to cease not till death.
Creeds and schools in abeyance,
Retiring back a while sufficed at what they are, but never forgotten,
I harbor for good or bad, I permit to speak at every hazard,
Nature without check with original energy. "
If you want, you can read the rest of the entire poem by clicking here. I suppose over these past two Walt Whitman related posts we can conclude that he certainly enjoys writing extremely long poetry, but also that his poetry is spectacular as well. (Plus, as seen below, he has an awesome beard. Just look at it!)
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Art 112: Short Film
Art doesn't have to be stationary...
Watch Death to the Tinman in Entertainment | View More Free Videos Online at Veoh.com
Watch Death to the Tinman in Entertainment | View More Free Videos Online at Veoh.com
Friday, September 10, 2010
Books 112 : White Cat
We've all grown up with Holly Black 's Spiderwick Chronicles. And she's made many of us happy with her fairy tales like Valiant : a modern tale of Faerie. She's back with a new series. The Curse Workers Series.
Curse workers -- they can change luck, emotions, dreams and even more just by touching your skin. And since curse work is illegal, they work as con artists or part of mob families.
In Book 1, White Cat, we are introduced to Cassel Sharpe. He's pretty average. Maybe. Except, his mother is in jail and he's been kicked out of boarding school, and he lives in a house full of con artists. If that's not enough, there is this misery he can't quite overcome. He knows he's done something wrong in his past. He knows he killed his best friend Lila. Its just he can't quite remember it or even know why it happened. And then there is that problem of sleepwalking on roofs. Oh, and that mysterious white cat around the house.
Strange things start to happen when he comes back home and has to live with his grandfather and brothers. Little by little, Cassel begins to realize that the cat is Lila -- someone with the rarest kind of power has transformed her into a cat, and to change her back he'll have to find out who it is. But as he tries to figure out who transformed Lila and why, he discovers the secrets that have been painstakingly removed from his own head -- and the elaborate, deadly scheme that he's being forced into.
And I haven't gotten to the part of all the strange things the curse workers can do when they touch you. Lets say it makes me squeamish to think about.
Black's prose is beautifully put to the test, exposing the dark side of the urban world from which Cassel comes from. She can surely draw you in to her stories, and she makes her characters so memorable. And if you listen to this book on audio, you are in for a treat. Its read by Jesse Eisenberg.
More at her site, Holly Black.
The Curse workers.
Curse workers -- they can change luck, emotions, dreams and even more just by touching your skin. And since curse work is illegal, they work as con artists or part of mob families.
In Book 1, White Cat, we are introduced to Cassel Sharpe. He's pretty average. Maybe. Except, his mother is in jail and he's been kicked out of boarding school, and he lives in a house full of con artists. If that's not enough, there is this misery he can't quite overcome. He knows he's done something wrong in his past. He knows he killed his best friend Lila. Its just he can't quite remember it or even know why it happened. And then there is that problem of sleepwalking on roofs. Oh, and that mysterious white cat around the house.
Strange things start to happen when he comes back home and has to live with his grandfather and brothers. Little by little, Cassel begins to realize that the cat is Lila -- someone with the rarest kind of power has transformed her into a cat, and to change her back he'll have to find out who it is. But as he tries to figure out who transformed Lila and why, he discovers the secrets that have been painstakingly removed from his own head -- and the elaborate, deadly scheme that he's being forced into.
And I haven't gotten to the part of all the strange things the curse workers can do when they touch you. Lets say it makes me squeamish to think about.
Black's prose is beautifully put to the test, exposing the dark side of the urban world from which Cassel comes from. She can surely draw you in to her stories, and she makes her characters so memorable. And if you listen to this book on audio, you are in for a treat. Its read by Jesse Eisenberg.
More at her site, Holly Black.
The Curse workers.
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Food 112: Banana Bread
Cook Time: 1 hr 10 min (prep time 2 hr).
Makes: One Loaf
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature
- 2 large eggs
- 3 ripe bananas
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
Directions
Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Butter a 9 x 5 x 3 inch loaf pan.
Cream the sugar and butter in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
In a small bowl, mash the bananas with a fork. Mix in the milk and cinnamon. In another bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt.
Add the banana mixture to the creamed mixture and stir until combined. Add dry ingredients, mixing just until flour disappears.
Pour batter into prepared pan and bake 1 hour to 1 hour 10 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Set aside to cool on a rack for 15 minutes. Remove bread from pan, invert onto rack and cool completely before slicing.
Spread slices with honey or serve with ice cream.
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So try this out and enjoy! If you like it and want any other cool recipes just comment. The possibilities are endless. Want a recipe for something else? Do tell and thanks for reading!
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Fashion 112: 10 Things Every Girl Should Have
There are many things that girls think they need but the reality of it is they don't. But there are some things you girls do need.
- Concealer - this is a very important tool for girls who have acne. It will cover up your acne and make your face look flawless . (it also is a life saver when you have a surprise problem zit) I suggest Neutrogena oil-free concealer. This makes sure that you can cover up without your skin regretting it later.
2. Cute boots- Boots are a fashion must have. There are so many different kinds to choose from. From moccasin boots to cowboy, all kinds are good accessories to your wardrobe. You can do the Taylor swift, a cute vibrant dress with cowboy,the Miley Cyrus- edgy rocker boots with tights or jeans,or the Zoe Zax- moccasin boots with shorts and a cute vintage tee. No matter what style you are, boots with always be in style.
3. Vintage tees- From band tees to v-necks , this fashion need is hot. It shows how chill your personality is, just at one glance. BONUS: there is no need to get designer stuff because this fashion is very affordable. Also incredibly comfy, so you can look hot with out trying
4. Jeans- Now this is a big must have! Jeans are one of the most important part of your wardrobe. Flare jeans with heels give you hidden height which is a major bonus. Skinny jeans show off your legs in a way no other jean can. The sculpt your legs, just make sure that they are the right length because bunchy ankles make you look short and stumpy. Faded and ripped jeans give you a more edgy relaxed look that is also very chill. Boyfriend jeans are a new style that follows a old tradition. The cuffed bottoms make for awesome long legs that every girl wants.
5. Converse- these shoes are the best. Durable, cute, and amazing! they are perfect for our busy life styles. You can wear them with any outfit and still be the all-star of the room . They come in every color imaginable and in low or high tops. Wearing a cute flirty dress with converse gives you the sweet and sporty look.
6. Skirts- skirts have many important features that you have to consider when your putting an outfit together or buying a new skirt.
- Make sure your skirt fits the way you want it to by trying it on!
- look at how to skirt accentuates your curves. Some patterns don't do your body type justice
- make sure they length isn't TOO short.(especially when they are high waisted skirts)
7. Shorts- these bottoms are a good thing to have for sudden heat waves and summer. Just make sure that they aren't so short your butt is hanging out. That is not attractive. You want to have some high waist shorts to wear over a cute tank or v-neck with a cute belt and some heeled boots. This makes for an uber cute outfit that shows off your leg's length.
8. Head Bands- This little accessory may seem like its not important but IT IS. It could change the level of an outfit from looking good to DANG I'm hot!. There is also a very large variety. A flower head band gives you more of a sweet look , and a head band that is literally around your forehead gives you more of a nature, hippy look. Sparkly head bands make you stand out when going out!.
9. Friendship Bracelets- What I love about friendship bracelets is what they do for you. They make your friendship with your friends stronger and they are uber cute!. They go with everything and you don't have to worry about taking them off when you sleep, shower or change outfits. Thee hand made must haves are also really fun to do when you need you pass time.
10. Metallic Nail Polish- Painted Nails make you look more polished and together. It comes in EVERY COLOR! So It can go with every style . Metallic nails are very cool looking and easy to do. Just paint your nails and add a shine coat on top. Now, when you raise your hand in class, it will be show stopping!
These are the must have things that you need in your closet to show off your personal style, Remember to make everything your own and make it hot.
Monday, September 6, 2010
Movies 112: Machete
Danny Trejo is Machete |
Finally after being the bad guy and sidekick in so many films, Danny Trejo takes the lead in Robert Rodriquez's new film Machete. If you love grindhouse tradition movies this is the movie to see. Its got all the blood and guts from the very first frame. Rodriquez's spins us a tale that's a spinoff from his Planet Terror movie. When I saw the fake trailer for this film at the time, I so hoped they made a movie.
But I will tell you, its definitely got its naked ladies. Yet, most are exposed in a rather real yet graphic novel-like nature. Still some might find that offensive. And for sex scenes...well, nothing too horribly graphic. Of course, it wasn't much of a stretch for Lynsey Lohan in this film. After all, she was the drugged up daughter of the villain.
The story: (according to IMBD) The highly skilled Federale Machete is hired by some unsavory types(Jeff Fahey) to assassinate a senator. But just as he's about to take the shot, he notices someone aiming at him and realizes he's been set up. He barely survives the sniper's bullet, and is soon out for revenge on his former employers, with the reluctant assistance of his old friend Cheech Marin, who has become a priest and taken a vow of nonviolence. If you hire him to take out the bad guys, make sure the bad guys aren't you!
Oh, its twisted. But naturally, Jessica Alba's Sartana figures it out as a special border agent. Really, the movie carries a controversial issue that steams plenty of those here in the states over immigration laws. In the story there is the wicked Senator MacLaughlin played by Robert Dinero, but he might not be that wicked. You've got one bad guy after another in the film. Don Johnson's evil rancher who has his own posse picking off illegal aliens right and left coming across the border. Then there is the even more evil Drug King played by Steve Seagal in Mexico.
There are the good guys. Michelle Rodriguez is more fit than ever as part of the network of SHE helping the migrants in need. And she is one mega-fit heroine of the story. And Cheech Marin in the priest ready to help out "Machete" any way he can.
Michelle to the left and Daryl to the right taking a break during filming. |
I can't help but mention one of Rodriguez's favorites, Daryl Sabara from Spy Kids. He's all grown up. Lean, mean and even a bit of a Kyle Gallner sneer to help him pop those Hispanic roots of his. Rodriguez usually has a few regulars in his movies like Electra and Elise Avellan who are relatives of Rodriquez.
Allevan girls already did a Maxim shoot |
The movie is definitely for those who want a popcorn movie. Those who love action pack thrillers with macho lines are in store for something that delievers. This is is definitely no chick flick, but your boyfriend might really have some fun at this one and you might too.
Rated R
8/10