Entertainment – Swimming With The Rain

Crash My Party by Luke Bryan

March 24, 2023

Every time this song comes on, I remember back to 2013 when it first came out. I told a male friend of mine how I thought it was kind of romantic. As the man that he is, he told me that it was a “bootie call” song. To this day, I still disagree with him.

Some will say it is stereotypical country and they refuse to listen…

Some diehard country fans will refer to it as “Bro-Country” and they’re not fans of the new stuff…

woman in purple sweater using a smartphone

Then there are those like me that find meanings in songs and drift away in to our own thoughts thinking about it.

“It don’t matter what plans I got, I can break ’em
Yeah, I can turn this thing around at the next red light
And I don’t mind telling all the guys “I can’t meet ’em”
Hell, we can all go raise some hell on any other night”

What girl doesn’t want a guy looking at her, basically saying, YOU ARE MY PRIORITY! He is telling her that no matter what, he will drop every thing and go to her. Here’s the important part – he will not make her feel guilty about it.

“If it’s 2 in the morning and you’re feeling lonely and wondering what I’m doing….

Go ahead and call me, call me, call me you don’t have to worry ’bout it baby
You can wake me up in the dead of the night, wreck my plans, baby that’s alright”

As a woman that has been through relationships and never truly made to feel like a priority, this is what I would want to hear from a man. He is allowing her to be her. He knows that she has an independent soul, and he gives her the space that she needs, but makes sure that she knows, he is always there for her.

The next time you hear the song, listen to it with that thought in mind…

If you’ve never heard it, google the song and watch the video. Not only is the very handsome Luke Bryan in the song, but so is his wife. If it was about “bootie calls”, would he really have her in there? I think not.

Men, make sure your woman knows that she is your priority.

That you will give up plans with your friends to be with her…

That she can call you at 2am to talk…

And women… If your man doesn’t agree with this, leave him and make your self a priority.

Pirates Privacy Act – Girl Code

August 23, 2020

In February 2020, six of us girls decided to take a cruise for Galentine’s Day and what better way to ensure that we were all on the same “page” than to create a privacy pact, similar to girl code on a bachelorette party. But, this was a cruise so we needed a fun name, plus we love themes! So, during brunch prior to boarding, we read each code out loud, then signed our names.

This agreement dated February 13th, 2020 pertains to the Carnival Fantasy Cruise. Whereas, all attendees as named, for their mutual benefit and pursuant to an ongoing friendship, which has been or may be established, can safely assume that they are able to be their happy drunk selves on this trip and are free to drink, giggle, flirt, dance, sleep in, and any other activity in similarity that may arise, without being judged.

For a period of the rest of our lives, all named above, shall hold this agreement in trust and confidence, and not disclose to others any crazy stories that will make even one of these ladies look like any less of the strong independent women that they are. If it would cause another personal embarrassment (even if you think it should not), you are held to this agreement to not disclose said matter.

The undertakings and obligations of all attendees also agree to honor the following ~

The use of Spanx or any other undergarment to manually fit our body in to a piece of wardrobe WILL not be judged or even acknowledged. As far as we are all concerned, every single one of us come by the smooth lines naturally.

The use of Poo Pourri or whatever your room has designated, will be used EACH AND EVERY SINGLE TIME. However, as a kindness to your roommates, especially for Room M199 with four people, it is highly suggested that you go elsewhere so as not to block off the use of the bathroom for an obscene amount of time.

Do NOT record anyone out on the dance floor. If they are “called up” to a stage or any platform to perform, vide os acceptable ONLY to send directly to them upon wifi availability.

There is a strong possibility that while being in close quarters, body parts may be seen. We are all women, we’ve all seen a vajayjay, rumpshaker, and boobies before. If you need to change, change away! HOWEVER, please make every attempt to not sit on your bed, “Indian style” (criss cross apple sauce) naked as a jaybird.

If someone is stupid drunk, NO photography.

If you are the one that is stupid drunk and feel the need to puke, DO NOT expect anyone to be there for you and hold your hair back.

If Mr. Right or Mr. Right Now, happens to be on this boat and you decide to go and make a love connection, please send someone a message as to the room number (in case we need to look for your dead body).

If some stranger wants to get a bit too close and you are uncomfortable, please make it obvious that you are not happy with the attention, and we will remedy this.

Should there be a group of other women and drunk happy you thinks we should all be best friends, you are the designated friend and will be the oe to break it to them that we won’t all be making friendship bracelets and brushing each other’s hair.

You are not to take offense to anything Megan or Sheila says before coffee. In fact, please do not provoke them.

No judgement on something someone does while sleeping – teeth grinding, snoring, talking. If they begin to make sexual noises, permission to throw a pillow at them. However, it will not be mentioned the next day.

No posting on Social Media of anything even possibly embarrassing. If you think it is in bad taste, it probably is.

STAY OFF YOUR PHONE!!! this is an “Electronics Free” trip. If you have international and plan to check in when we get to Mexico, please go stare at your phone elsewhere. If you feel the need to play some downloaded game on your phone, go elsewhere.

Be respectful of people! If you are cranky, go somewhere else until you are happy. Do not bring others down.

Absolutely, NO peer pressure. If someone doesn’t want to get on stage and sing an Adele song off key in front of 100 people, do not try to force them. However, if they do have the guts to get up there, cheer them on and be proud!

If you are calling it a night earlier than the rest of the group, make sure to send a message on the cruise app or tell TWO PEOPLE before you leave, so we don’t think you are taking a swim with the sharks.

As we are trying to keeps this an “Electronic Free” trip, the messaging system in the app will not be monitored like texting. If a message is sent saying, “Where are you?” because you are wandering around looking for something to do, and there is not answer, do not be upset for someone being in vacation mode and napping by the pool.

Some people take more pictures than others. PLEASE try to remember to take candid photos of those people, also, so they don’t miss out on seeing memories.

We are all adults. Find the humor in all of the above but most of all, remember that what happens on the ship, (SAY IT OUT LOUD), stays on the ship.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the attendees have execute this Agreement as of the date first above written.

Megan, Kiki, Sheila, Bambi, Donna, and Shakira

The Last Train to Key West, by Chanel Cleeton

August 16, 2020

July’s book club choice was Chanel Cleeton’s third book in her series based on the Perez family, and since we had previously read Next Year in Havana and When We Left Cuba, we were very excited about the follow up. Following is the description by Amazon…

In 1935 three women are forever changed when one of the most powerful hurricanes in history barrels toward the Florida Keys.

For the tourists traveling on Henry Flagler’s legendary Overseas Railroad, Labor Day weekend is an opportunity to forget the economic depression gripping the nation. But one person’s paradise can be another’s prison, and Key West-native Helen Berner yearns to escape.

After the Cuban Revolution of 1933 leaves Mirta Perez’s family in a precarious position, she agrees to an arranged marriage with a notorious American. Following her wedding in Havana, Mirta arrives in the Keys on her honeymoon. While she can’t deny the growing attraction to her new husband, his illicit business interests may threaten not only her relationship, but her life.

Elizabeth Preston’s trip to Key West is a chance to save her once-wealthy family from their troubles after the Wall Street crash. Her quest takes her to the camps occupied by veterans of the Great War and pairs her with an unlikely ally on a treacherous hunt of his own.

Over the course of the holiday weekend, the women’s paths cross unexpectedly, and the danger swirling around them is matched only by the terrifying force of the deadly storm threatening the Keys.

I am just going to say it… I was not as thrilled with this book as I was with the others. It was a very easy read, but it felt like either some plot moments dragged on, while others could have been enhanced. We felt that the book was written in a rush and we were not able to develop a strong bond with any of the three main characters. Although their stories did entwine at the end, it would have been better if it was written as three books so we could feel the depth of each character, instead of having it given to us in such rapid fire. However, like I said, it was an easy read and it did lead each of us in our book club to research more about that era and to learn about the camps set up in Key West for the WWI Veterans.

Do not read any further if you have not read the book.

Book Club Questions ~

Helen ~ from Key West, married to Tom since 16, they had been childhood sweet hearts.

John ~ Veteran living in the WWI camp, frequent patron at restaurant that Helen works for

Mirta ~ from Havana, married Anthony because he paid her father in a poker game.

Elizabeth ~ from NYC, went to Key West to find her brother, a WWI Vet.

Tom ~ husband of Helen, fisherman, abusive.

Anthony ~ involved in mafia, owns casinos, husband of Mirta.

Sam ~ works for FBI, went down to Key West per the request of Frank to follow Elizabeth.

What did you think of The Last Train to Key West compared to the other books in the Perez family series?
What did you know about this book’s subject (hurricane, WWI camp) before you read the book? Did you learn anything new?
Was there a narrative better than the others?
Helen and John have both experienced trauma due to violence. How does it shape them and are there any similarities? What doy ou think of their relationship and how they build it?
Mirta and Anthony’s marriage changes throughout the novel. What shifts do you see in their relationship? What roles do they take on, and how do they evolve in those roles?
Do you think that Elizabeth flirts out of habit or because this is what helps her get what she wants? Were you surprised at finding out who Sam really was?
Mirta and Elizabeth both come from wealthy families that have fallen on hard times. What similarities and differences do they have and how do those influence the choices they make throughout the novel?
During the Depression, marriage rates dropped significantly. At the same time, marriage plays an important role in the characters lives. How do the heroines view on marriage change throughout the novel? Do the women find power in their relationships?
What parallels do you see between the effects the hurricane has on the characters and that of fighting the Great War?
Were you surprised to hear about the Veterans lives after they came home from the war and some of the challenges they faced?
What did you like best about the book?
What did you like least about the book?
Which characters in the book did you like best?
which characters did you like least?
If you were making a movie of this book, who would you cast?
Which character in the book would you most like to meet?
If you could hear this same story from another person’s point of view, who would you choose?
What questions do you still have?

Commentary ~

Helen and John seemed to have had the most organic feel to the “couples” developed within the story. Their personalities really drew us in, however it could have been because they were the first narrative in the book. They did find power in their own selves, being able to lean on each other. Mirta and Anthony’s love story didn’t ring true, probably because it was pushed too fast and you were just supposed to buy in to this sudden development. Had it been a longer book or time to develop their stories, it would have been plausible. Yet, Mirta found strength and learned to become more assertive, finally telling Anthony, “You can’t lie to me.” While we appreciated Elizabeth and her seeking of independence, we didn’t feel the overwhelming love that her and Sam all of a sudden announce. But, she did join the FBI, which says a lot for a woman of that era recognizing her own value.

I wasn’t overly thrilled with the comparison of a War and a hurricane. I live in a military community, and although I have been through a hurricane, I have heard the stories of war. But, in comparing for the book, with both, you think you can prepare and you try. You do all of this training and purchase supplies, yet you have no control over either situation. I have been through a Cat 3 hurricane and although I had “flashbacks” for about a year, I will not compare a hurricane to wartime as every day of war would be like going through a hurricane every single day, repeated trauma and constantly on edge.

Some in our book club felt that there wasn’t enough scenery to describe the locations; I did not have a problem with it. I live in Florida and my mind knew just enough to create my visions. That being said, I have never been a fan of overly descriptive locations, just give me the basics.

Aunt Ruby, now that is a character that should be developed for her own book. We were given just a glimpse of her, but we felt that she has a back story that is worth exploring

The Last Train to Key West ended like a bow put on a present… “Here, everything is tied up all nicely and everyone will live happily ever after”, it felt too orchestrated, but we did like finding the thread to what finally connected them all.

Finally, we still have questions ~ Why exactly was Elizabeth searching for her brother? I mean, we understand wanting to find your brother that took off after the war. But, there were very non-specific comments that we were never given a good reasoning. How was he supposed to save her from her marriage or what was she hoping would happen?

Like I said, it is an easy read and I do hope that Chanel Cleeton develops the characters in this book, because each one would be a great story in itself, but it just felt too rushed.

28 Hotel Rooms

July 26, 2020

One thing I love about Hulu is it’s movie suggestions. I swear, it knows me. Thanks to technology, it probably does. Anyways, listed under ‘Movies for you’, I kept seeing the title to this movie. It sounds familiar and I think that somewhere, I must have seen that someone posted about it or maybe I read something, because I knew the premise was a couple meets in different hotels rooms. But, being that I wasn’t wanting to watch porn, I would skip past it. Yet, Hulu knows me so surely it wouldn’t be suggesting porn, right?

Each time I go to Hulu, I see the movie listed and since I have exhausted the majority of movies, I looked up the premise on Wikipedia… “A novelist and a corporate accountant conduct an affair over a period of several years, meeting only when they are each traveling for work in a city far from their homes. The film takes a minimalist approach: it consists entirely of scenes between the two of them in hotel rooms.” So, could still be porn… Let’s find the trailer…

That’s it, I’m watching! They had me when he was painting her toes and when she was emotional saying that she feels ugly… I’m a sap when movies feel genuinely real.

I immediately recognized Danny Castellano, I mean Chris Messina, from The Mindy Project. He played Mindy Kaling’s love interest and I LOVED him! I hadn’t heard of Marin Ireland, but based upon her Wikipedia page, she has done quite a bit, which is probably why she looks familiar. Plus, she is from Central California and I’m a sucker for anyone from there (Camarillo to be exact).

28 Hotel Rooms is a movie I could probably analyze with such a wide array of elements. My ideal situation would be the conversation that would happen after another person watches, because I think it is one of those movies that opinions can vary, even your own, based upon how you feel at the time or what your mindset is. But, on to my own personal review…

The camera gives off the feeling that it is another character that they are not aware of. The chemistry between these two characters is undeniable and their conversations feel real, as if they are unscripted. He caresses her back while they lay in bed talking, sensing the intimacy as he taps her lower back in response to a question, as if to say, “Alright”.

As in all new loves, he plays the 21 questions with her asking about siblings, parents, republican or democrat, chocolate or vanilla ice cream… But, you start to notice, she does not reciprocate. Yet, she is the one that when a future is discussed, you can sense that she is toying with that idea in her head, only to snap back to reality and change the topic. She does this enough times that you realize that she does struggle with what she is doing, whether it is by quietly crying in the bathroom while he is sleeping, or seeing how hot she can get the bath water, as if in punishment.

These two separate their worlds and only briefly allow their real one in, as they catch up on months apart. They give off brief descriptions, like a highlight reel. But yet, you are able to perceive that these two have long conversations about life and discuss things that maybe they do not with their respective partners. With each other, they are free to be whom they want ~ fun, exciting, erotic… It is presented as being tipsy and dancing naked on a balcony, sneaking up to the rooftop of a hotel to watch fireworks, running the hallways laughing… Something that their real lives would not allow as they pay their mortgage, move from the city, try to get ahead in their careers…

As romantic and whimsical as they make it seem, they also fight. They fight with the intensity that you may not allow yourself to with your real life partner for fear of the judgement or possible alienation. These two know that at any moment, they can get up and walk away, without any damage to a marriage.

Yet, they are drawn to each other, unable to stay away. Why is that? Is it true love or could it just be that the brief interludes give them a sense of excitement to an otherwise boring life?

28 Hotel Rooms is a movie that is worth watching again and again. You will create your own back stories for them, as you are only able to see brief snippets of their encounters. In your mind, you will sense the passage of time and gain an understanding of their intimacy with each other. When the end credits begin, you will want more of their story.

Shrimp, Sausage, Potato & Kale Soup ingredients

July 25, 2020

1 Red Pepper
1 Green Pepper
1 Medium White Onion
4 Small Garlic Cloves
Package (5 Links) Butterball Sweet Italian Sausage
3 Medium White Potatoes
2 Celery Stalks
2 Cups PACKED Kale
2 Cups Low Sodium Chicken Broth
2 Cups Almond Breeze Low Sugar Vanilla Milk
1 teaspoon Basil
1 teaspoon Rosemary
1 teaspoon Thyme
1 teaspoon Black Pepper
1 teaspoon Sea Salt
1 teaspoon Tajin (Chili Pepper Blend)
2 12oz bags Frozen Large Shrimp

Finely chop peppers, onion, garlic, celery and saute. Break apart sausage and mix in while on low to medium heat, covered. Add diced potatoes, cover. Add liquids (broth & milk), cover. Add in chopped kale, cover. Add in seasonings. Simmer. Add in thawed shrimp.

Blueberry Cream Cheese Won Ton

July 25, 2020

Oh my goodness, I think I just created the greatest thing ever!

I am not big on using 15 million ingredients when it comes to making things. Or at least ingredients that I will not have on hand or be willing to use again. While at the grocery store this morning, I saw this HUGE basket of fresh blueberries for under five dollars and was super excited because I’ll just eat those by the handful. Moving on to the section with the pre-made guacamole, I saw won ton wrappers, which I have never used. But, ideas started to pop in to my head and at only 50 calories for three of them, I could make something bite sized, right? Wait! I have blueberries in my cart and some whipped strawberry cream cheese at home… This could be interesting.

You do not have to even be good at cooking to figure this out, trust me. And with these photos, it makes it even easier! First, turn the oven to 350. By the time it is done preheating, you’ll be ready to put these amazing things in.

Mix 4 tablespoons of whipped cream cheese with 2 ounces of blueberries. I used strawberry cream cheese because that is what I had.

Put a “dollop” of mixture in to the center of the won ton and bring the corners up, however you want to.

There is just enough mixture for 6 of these heavenly tasting things.

The hard part… Wait 14 minutes. I timed it and just before the 14 minute mark is when they started bubbling up, getting ready to spill over.

You will then have the easiest masterpiece you have ever created! I was on the phone with a friend when I took my first bite and I believe the words I used were, “Oh, my dear God, these are amazing!”

The best thing is, 253 calories for all six, because, yes, I ate all of them!

Enjoy!

the Biggest little Farm

July 18, 2020

It’s official. I am ready for the farm life!

Most people do not realize that the Central Coast of California, is one of the largest agriculture producers. Surrounded by agriculture, dairy farms, FFA, livestock, rodeo, trucks, vineyards, this is not the California that is portrayed through the eyes of Hollywood. The Rodeo Drive of Central California is lined with Barrel Racers, Bronc Riders, and local farmers, not Lamborghini’s, high-end call girls, and the Kardashian’s.

I remember seeing the trailer for this movie and thinking that it looked fascinating. Not just because the cinematography looked so brilliant and clear, but because it was based on a farm from my home state of California, and I am all about seeing my home on the big screen. Maybe it wasn’t shown on the all of the big screens around the country… But, that’s okay because I found it on my small screen of 42 inches.

John Chester ~
This all started with a promise that we would leave the big city and build a life in perfect harmony with nature.

I know, based on the description, it sounds like one of those movies that will bore you with all of their conservation talk with messages of “going green”, “live off the earth”, “save our planet”, and other new age lingo. To me, this was not the case at all! In fact, if this movie had been around when my children were younger, it would have played continuously, I am sure!

While the film is touted as a ‘documentary’, it feels anything but. It feels like you are watching a very personal movie starring John and Molly Chester, along with their dog Todd, and beloved pig Emma. You meet caretakers Rafael and Flavo, along with the Chester’s mentor, Alan York.

What you see are two people that want to live a simpler life on a bio-diverse farm. Although the movie is uplifting, it also proves that the reality of farming is not always pretty. Yet, the movie gives you hope, and teaches you lessons along the way about the circle of life. For instance, at one point, John was having increased frustration with setbacks at the farm. He noticed that Todd (his dog) would often sit and watch how everything was going on. This observation encouraged John to do the same thing, and he realized how the animals and agriculture worked together as one, and made some adjustments. Watching this movie is proof that things don’t change overnight, and you need to persevere, try a different technique, and just keep going!

Filmed with state of the art cameras, you will see the farm grow from eight years of dry hard dirt, to an abundance of diverse plants, farm animals, and fruit trees. Kids will love watching the closeups of snakes slithering, gophers popping out of holes, bees buzzing, lambs hopping through the fields, piglets playing in the mud, and everything else nature has to offer. Okay, yes… I loved these things, too. But, the breathtaking views… Stunning!

Having now watched this movie, it reinforced my craving of simplicity, green pastures and tractors in the field. But, I also realize that had I not experienced a way of life away from it, I may not have realized how precious it is.

Apricot Lane Farms located in Moorpark, California. They offer tours and even have merchandise of Emma! Follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

“no copyright infringement is intended”

The Dream Daughter, by Diane Chamberlain

July 10, 2020

On Mother’s Day this year, I “forced” my boys to wander the bookstore with me. I say forced because it is not their favorite thing to do because they know it’s going to take awhile. One of them always ends up looking at the stack of books I am holding and says, “Do you really need all of those books or do you just want them?”, to which my reply is always, “Both!” But, they are used to it growing up with a mom that loves to read.

So, there I was with my stack of books trying to figure out which one to read while on vacation. I posted the photo on Instagram and basically explained my dilemma. Yes, I tagged each author’s name, assuming that I would hear from the followers of each person. It is a rather nice selection and I am a fan of each author, which makes it even harder to decide which one I should start with.

Imagine my surprise when I did receive a reply. But, not from a follower, but from one of the actual author’s! Yes, you read that. The actual author of ‘The Dream Daughter’, Diane Chamberlain. Wow! To say that I was thrilled and shocked at the same time may not be a big enough description.

Having no clue what this book was about, I packed it for my vacation. Here’s the thing, I have read enough books and by particular authors that I don’t necessarily even read the description any longer. Sure, I open it just prior to reading to get a feel for it, but I know who I like and what I like.

When Carly Sears, a young woman widowed by the Vietnam war, receives the news that her unborn baby girl has a heart defect, she is devastated. It is 1970, and she is told that nothing can be done to help her child. But her brother-in-law, a physicist with a mysterious past, tells her that perhaps there is a way to save her baby. What he suggests is something that will shatter every preconceived notion that Carly has. Something that will require a kind of strength and courage she never knew existed. Something that will mean an unimaginable leap of faith on Carly’s part.“
via Amazon

I have not read this good of a book in a very long time. Had I been left alone, I would have had it knocked out in a day. But, when you are visiting friends, the whole point is to spend time with them, soooo…. I found time to read while sitting next to the pool or on the outskirts of a group of people. Make sure that your household chores are done because you won’t want to get anything done and your kids might starve. Without giving the plot away, I have to admit that I was addicted to this book and ready to see just what would happen next. It makes you think about life and what you would do in that situation ~ Do you do as you are expected or do you take that chance?

Thank you to Diane Chamberlain for suggesting I read her book first. The Dream Daughter was excellent and I simply fell in love with these characters!

Flying during Covid-19

July 9, 2020

I just got back from a much needed relaxing trip to Indiana to see friends. I had several ask while I was there and then upon my return what it was like to fly with all of this going on, so here you go!

First of all, I booked this trip back in April when it was super cheap. And when I say super cheap, I mean $100 dollars off the normal price I pay to fly there and even then, it’s not an expensive ticket. The original flight I booked was changed a few different times by the airlines, but the cost still stayed the same. I learned that this had to do with airlines combining / purchasing flights. So, while my original plan was to be in Indianapolis by 11:30am, it ended up being 4:23pm. If you book a flight during this time, just pay attention to your emails and alerts so you can ensure that you have the right times. Also, I HIGHLY suggest that you have the app for your airline downloaded because it is such a time saver.

Do you have a mask? If not, you better find one because although it is not required IN the airport, it IS required on the plane. To be honest, you might as well just put it on before walking in to the airport, it stops the looks from people. Yes, I know you may hate it, but just suck it up.

Getting through security is easy because the weight is not as long. One of the guys checking id’s did ask me to lower my mask briefly so he could make sure it was me, but he was very friendly about it. Although all of my flights were pretty much full, there are less planes going out so there are not as many people in the airport.

Once you board the plane, they make sure that you are aware that it is required to be on at all times. They do advise that there are some that heave health issues that may prevent it and to please be courteous to them. Technically with my asthma, I probably could have gotten away with not having it on, but it wasn’t worth the fight. My inhaler was tucked in to my bra and if I needed it, that’s when I would let them know what it was doing to me.

I was lucky enough to have a layover in Charlotte (I love that airport which is why I say I was lucky) and I headed straight over to Starbucks. Well, since I can’t eat or drink with a mask on, I had it around my neck. That seemed to be the universal sign for, “Yes, I have a mask” just in case anyone looked at you weird. But, I’ll be honest, probably 75% of people had theirs on and no one looked at me crazy when I didn’t have mine around my face. Then again, I probably looked like a woman in desperate need of caffeine.

What you will notice is that about half of the restaurants are closed and maybe a quarter of the stores. It seemed to be the sit down places or the specialty stores. I was able to find a restaurant back in the corner of Terminal B, and I found out that they had just opened the day before. That being said, if you are hungry or thirsty, you better grab something at the airport because they do not serve food or drinks on the plane these days. This is to help the flight attendants have less contact with people and that is fine with me so I could nap without interruption.

Disembarking the plane, I swear that it went smoother than during normal times! They allow only a few rows at a time and everyone just did as they were told. No one was acting impatient or trying to barge ahead of you, they patiently waited their turn.

So, all in all, it was a pleasant flight experience. My flying partner made the comment about how it stressed him out but here is my thought process… Remember after 9/11 and security was tightened up? I was ok with that if it prevented somebody from killing me. Personally, I can’t control this situation so it’s not going to stress me out. It is what it is right now and you just have to relax and go with the flow. The only downside to it was… When you smile at someone, they can’t see it, so I made sure to say “Thank you” a whole lot more!

Drinking Buddies – 2013, starring Olivia Wilde, Jake Johnson,…

June 28, 2020

I decided to have a “me” day and get some things done around the house, then spend my evening watching a good movie. I must have started five different ones but nothing was “hitting” me. Scrolled through Hulu and what do I see, “Drinking Buddies”. Well, I love Jake Johnson! I found him because of “New Girl” and honestly, he was my favorite character on the show as Nick. Ok, I probably developed a bit of a “movie star crush” because he is the type that I would go for – brown hair, brown eyes, manly, funny, and loveable.

Back to the movie review…. I have always enjoyed watching movies that portray a group dynamic and how they relate to different people. This movie did not disappoint! First, watch the preview so you can get a feeling for who is who. You will see that Kate (Olivia Wilde) and Luke (Jake Johnson) are best friends that work at the same brewery and have dreams of opening their own bar together. Jill (Anna Kendrick) is Luke’s girlfriend and Chris (Ron Livingston) is Kate’s boyfriend.

Ok, so in the preview, you are wondering if Luke and Kate are hooking up or if there is going to be a group thing or what… I am personally giving this movie 5 out of 5 stars because I loved it so much! My brief review is below before I get in to the notes I took (I’m weird like that).

The interesting thing about this movie is that it was completely improvised. The actors did not have any scripts but were given an outline of basically what direction to take the characters. To me, not only does this prove how incredible these actors truly are, but it makes the movie so much more believable. You can feel the reactions on their faces, experiencing the joy they are going through or confusion as they are trying to figure out what to say. The camera just seems to weave in and out of conversation, around people, goes closer to get particular expressions, but also pans back to give you a sense of the room. You truly feel that you are there with these characters as they talk and laugh and even the background noise feels authentic, not forced or added in. Since this movie was filmed at a brewery in Chicago, they were drinking actual beer and spent a lot of time drunk, which added to the realness of their conversations.

Go ahead and admit it… We’ve all been there ~ We have had a work crush. If you have a significant other, don’t ask them, because it is in their best interest (and yours), so they are going to deny it. At one time or another, we have had that one person that makes going to work just a bit more fun, you might even dress a bit nicer because of them. It’s not like you are ever going to do anything about it, you just look forward to seeing them. Or, maybe they aren’t really a work crush but someone that would be referred to as your “work husband / wife / spouse”. They are the ones that you can complain to about work and they understand what you are talking about. You two have an easy rapport and you can joke, fight, make up, remember their favorite candy bar… You know the one. It’s the one at work that makes you feel like you are special. And why is that? Because you don’t have home responsibilities together, which we all know can put some stress on a relationship. Anyways, that’s Luke and Kate. They are each other’s work spouses and they get along great! If you don’t have one of these at work, it will make you wish that you had one. The problem with this is, they took their friendship outside of work and that is where problems can start.

MOVIE QUOTES

Kate: You made your own bed, alright? Luke: Yeah, and you fucking slept in it. Kate: Well, you didn’t stop me.

Kate: it’s good, it has just enough room for me and my imaginary cat.

Kate: That’s the problem with heartbreak, to you it’s like an atomic bomb and to the world it’s just really cliche, because in the end we all have the same experience.

Chris: Sometimes things that are really hard can be really rewarding because they’re hard, you know

Luke: Hey, here’s the truth: I am done giving you shit, and I am sorry. I have no place. You are a grown woman, and if you want to have sex with a disgusting, bad brewer with a terrible attitude…

Luke: By the way, I’m not doing anymore double dates either. This was fun.

Chris: I don’t think that this is working. I think eight months is enough time to know whether this is going to work.

Kate: Tonight, no one is going home to their significant other because I no longer have one.

MY NOTES & OPINIONS

When Kate and Luke are at the bar with the other co-workers having a great time, you can see the change on Kate’s face when Jill comes in that she no longer has them all to herself, and that Luke is happy to see Jill.

Kate heads over to Chris’s after drinking with her work boys and reaches in to his plate with her fingers to grab a bite. You can tell that he does not care for that type of behavior, but she doesn’t seem to notice, even when he gives her the plate of food to eat.

Chris goes to bed early and Kate is laying in bed listening to Luke and Jill playing 21, the game Luke taught Kate earlier in the day. I think there is a bit of jealousy there as she can hear them laughing and just genuinely having a good time, as a couple.

Their first morning at the cabin, Chris suggests going for a hike and only Jill wants to go. As they are walking, you kind of come in mid conversation but assume they are talking about their significant others and it feels like Chris is surprised that someone like Kate would want him.

Jill is sitting on the blanket with Chris, and he appreciates her upscale ways. She tells him how she feels her heart racing and that she is nervous. He ends up kissing her which makes me realize that there was an unspoken energy going on between the two of them and their conversation while walking must have been very intimate. During this time, it is showing scenes of Luke and Kate playing cards, opening beers, just laughing and having such a great time.

After Jill passes out on the couch, Luke and Kate go and build a bonfire on the beach and Kate suggests going for a swim and she starts stripping down. Luke says no and I’m watching him hoping that he’s going to be a good man, because let’s be honest, Olivia Wilde would be a hard one to turn down. But, he does. He stays by the fire drinking his beer. I had a lot of respect for him in that moment.

Kate and Chris have broken up which makes Luke a bit nervous. She was safe to flirt and have fun with as long as she had a boyfriend, but now that she is single, I think he realizes that she is no longer “safe”, and it shows in his attitude at the bar when he says he’ll drive her home, almost as if he’s turned in to the big brother.

Jill seems to take a pause in her thoughts when Luke tells her that Kate and Chris have broken up. And you have to wonder what exactly is going through her mind… Is she thinking that Chris is more her type ~ educated, not wanting to stay out at bars late, deep thinker… Or is she worried that Kate and Luke will get together since their chemistry is pretty obvious?

Kate and Luke’s relationship really changes when he finds out that she went home with another guy. I’m sure there is a bit of jealousy. Kind of, “If I can’t have her, I don’t want anyone else to.”

Kate goes by Chris’s apartment after drinking, and he reiterates that they are broken up and not meant for each other. It seems to me that she doesn’t like to be alone and is used to her charm working on men.

Jill goes to Costa Rica with her friends (I think she was going away with Chris) and so Kate and Luke spend the evening together drinking and laughing. I was not thrilled with the massages or sleeping on the couch together. I think that showed a lack of respect on Luke’s part, but I think in his immaturity, he thought that they were just friends, so it wasn’t a big deal.

Kate tells Luke that she is moving and needs to move the next day, so he offers to help. When they get to her house, he is shocked to find that it is such a mess and that she has had birthday decorations and cups laying around for quite awhile, which she seems unfazed by. He falls asleep after getting the majority of work done and Kate stands there watching him. Instead of going to the couch, she snuggles in behind and puts her arm around him. I think she is so desperate for closeness, that even that will work for her. I really felt for her in that moment.

The next day, Luke is acting like his normal self, in full on friend / brotherly mode and goes to get the Uhaul and Kate seems to be very attracted to this, which I totally get. As a single woman, it is sometimes nice when a man takes charge and helps you with these things, especially when you don’t have to ask. She is probably also seeing it as how they are doing “couple” things and that this is how it could really be. But, when he cuts his hand on a nail, she is kind of blowing it off and saying how they need to move the couch. Luke snaps at her and Kate’s body language shows that there is a change in them. No longer is she able to charm him and be very blase, he is in real pain and is shown trying to take care of himself. She doesn’t try to help him rinse it or know where anything is, just seems very uncaring and more concerned for herself. Kate says she will calls someone that can help and it ends up being the guy that she slept with, and of course she is just charming and saying all the things she would have to Luke. When the moving is done, Luke reminds her that they were going to clean up so they could go and have a nice meal to celebrate. That no longer sounds like fun and she wants to go drinking with the guys. She starts yelling at him and I think she is doing that to protect herself and come off as not caring about Luke at all.

Luke heads home to find out that Jill came home early from her trip. When she sees his hand, she automatically goes in to caretaker mode and that shows how those two are so different. I think that somewhere in Luke’s mind, he was thinking that Kate might be fun because she likes to party. But, after seeing Kate’s chaotic home life, he sees in Jill what he really wants ~ a help mate, someone that keeps him grounded and takes care of him. Jill is honest and tells Luke about the kiss and admits that it was a mistake. In that instant, I think that Luke realizes what he could have lost, and pulls her in for a kiss and a long hugg.

The last scene is Kate and Luke during lunchtime at work. Whereas they always had lunch together, it shows Kate eating alone. Luke comes in, still sits down next to her, but they don’t speak and it’s an uncomfortable silence. But, she slides fries over to him and when he starts eating them, she smiles.

The great thing about the ending is that while it left me wanting more, it lets the viewer imagine what the continuing story would be. I would like to think that Kate and Luke do remain friends, but there is a bit of a distance between them now, knowing how close they were to cross the line. Because once you cross it, you can never go back to being normal.

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