Three Tantrums and and a Red Pen

I wanted to update on how I'm feeling after this post. To be clear, as I said in it, it was not a cry for help. I simply blogged how I was that day as part of my #nofilter series. And I'm okay, honest guv!

It was just a last straw day where lots of things I've been juggling, weren't juggle-able that day. I was tired and fed up and so I cried on the train home from work. Not massively and only for a few minutes. 

For me to have been a bit tearful when things got on top of me, is a huge achievement after years battling with depression and anxiety. I cried on the train instead of going home and persuading myself not to self harm (or just going ahead and doing it). 

I couldn't deal as well as normal with stuff because I had 10 hours sleep in 52 at one point this week due to toddler ill-health. And I had to go to work. And parent my (sick) toddler. And I'm not alone in this type of parenting experience. 

I think it's really important to be able to be honest about how shitty parenting is at times. As much as I utterly adore Baby45 more than anything else (especially sleep) I'm not going to paint a rose tinted version of parenthood because it's not always like that and it can put a lot of pressure on parents to ALWAYS BE SMILEY AND HAPPY.

It's hard work because to me it's a really important job. Everything you do has an affect on them. So if you're trying to do the best job you can and go to bed most nights fretting about how you fucked up today in some tiny capacity and hope to do better tomorrow, it's hard to love every minute. 

I'm sorry but I didn't love the tantrum today because I wouldn't let Baby45 have my (hard earned) piece of cake or because I thought he should wear trousers (it's 5 degrees out) or because I wouldn't let him push the buggy by himself next to a very busy road. 

I wasn't depriving him of these things on a whim (well, maybe the cake...) but because I have his best interests at heart (keeping warm, not being hit by a car...) But I still try to keep calm and attempt to help him deal with his emotions - and control mine inside as I'm the adult not the kid.

So you know, parenting can be tough. It sucks at times. That doesn't mean you love your child any less. It doesn't mean you don't want constantly to be better. It just means you're human. So if you too have had a tough day or week or month or you're just generally struggling a bit...take heart from the fact that most of the rest of us often are too. 

Thank you and good night,

Stupidgirl has left the building

PS. Despite all the drama, kids always do something to make it all utterly worth it. Here's a gem from this morning Chez 45...After an ominous silence OH walked into our study to find Baby45 wielding a red marker pen, scribbling away "I writing an email daddy". Passes over scribbled on business card "there go, sent!"

New Year's Resolutions....and other unoriginal blog titles

Um, so Happy 2012 folks! :) I can't believe it's 2012 already. It doesn't even sound like a real year - and neither did 2009, 2010 or 2011 either really!

Anyway it's here and also, I've now been blogging (on and off) for a whole year. So yay - happy blog birthday to the blog and you lovely readers - I couldn't have done it without you all. I know i've been an erratic blogger but I am so touched that you all have stuck around to read my rambling and pictures of me looking hot + sweaty climbing. I hope that 2012 will be even better.

Last year I didn't make any resolutions other than to have more fun. Which I did! So this year, I thought I'd have a go at making some specific resolutions. Aside from the usual eat less/do more + spend less/save more these are...

1) Learn how to do little cat flicks with my liquid eyeliner
2) Learn how to apply liquid eyeliner one handed on the bus/train (as I can now do this with pencil) this means more time in bed.
3) Climb/blog/visit the gym 2 x a week each
4) Take a belly dancing class (and possibly a course)
5) Cook a new recipe every week (and blog the results if possible)
6) Finish my nanowrimo book goddamit.
7) Meet some of the readers of this blog (that I haven't already) - comment below if you want to do this!
8) Take a burlesque class
9) Keep a record of all my climbs so I can stop faffing around, pretending that I'm not a climber and instead start climbing 6a and lead climbing regularly. And not just climbing slabs would be good tooo (I don't mean slabs of chocolate, I mean the shape of a climbing wall/rock face!!)
10) Get my eyebrows threaded every month instead letting my mono brow take over my face. Oh and paint my nails every week.

Are you making any resolutions for 2012? If so, do share!!

Thank you and goodnight

Stupidgirl has left the building

Top 10 Songs of 2011

If last year was the year of me discovering apparently cool bands and only listening to indie stuff and being a bit alternative (Arcade Fire, Muse, Foos) then this year....hasn't.

2011 has been the year of POP (and some other stuff)! From Gaga to Rihanna to Florence and Crystal Castles - and a few other treats - here are my favourite songs that I've listened to non stop in 2011. (Btw they didn't necc. come out this year, but I got into the song this year).

Top 10 Favourite Songs of 2011

1. Radical Face - Welcome Home Son
- a song that reminds me of climbing in France, the link is a climbing video with this song as the soundtrack!

2. Crystal Castles ft. Robert Smith - Not In Love
- a new discovery, I just can't stop playing this

3. Lady Gaga ft Beyonce - Telephone
- awesome. that is all. brilliant, brilliant lyrics.

4. M83 - Midnight City
- this song was always played at the start of Made In Chelsea, and I had to look it up. A lot of their other tracks are awesome too, specially Graveyard Girl and Couleurs.

5. MGMT - Electric Feel
- I know, it's an oldie but a goodie and I only heard it this year. It's on my next-book-soundtrack...

A Headfull of Dust Bunnies - Top 10 Comforting Things

Firstly, sorry to Evelyn Waugh. Terrible paraphrasing with today's blog post title.

Anyway, I am feeling very sleepy today. Not sure why really. I've had a busy week and yesterday went to a baby shower and then to stay with a friend and then straight to another friend's house. On the plus side I've not cooked for myself this weekend. On the achievement side I have taken the Northern Line from Finchley Central to Balham (that's 21 stops folks). On the minus side, I am now very, very sleepy. So I am attempting to write a blog post mainly governed by what I would like to do for the rest of the day. In fact I think this is a general list for stuff that's good on sundays or any day when you're mildly sick/tired/hungover/it's raining/you feel sad.

Top 10 Comforting Things


1) A Hot Drink
I guess a british first choice would be tea. But really this covers anything from hot soup to hot chocolate to coffee with a big splosh of Baileys or whisky or other simillar alcohol. THe only thing that you can't have is espresso. That's not relaxing or comforting.

2) A Hot Bath
Just as it says. Preferably with bubbles and a glass of wine. And fluffy towels warming on the radiator. The best combination for this is when you've had a long hard day at work and it's dark + cold (and possibly raining/sleeting/snowing/foggy) outside. Instructions for this should be - walk in door, fling bags + keys aside, start bath running + add bubbles, pour wine, drink wine, strip off, pour more wine, grab book + pjs + bathrobe, put pjs/bathrobe/towel on radiator, step in bath, drink wine, read book. For *at least* 30 minutes. Top up wine and hot bath water as necessary. Be sure to drink the wine + bath in the other water - not the other way around.

3) Clean Sheets
You know, when you put clean sheets on the bed. And you fluff up the pillows and duvet. And you get in and it's crisp and lovely. Blissssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssss....zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

4) A Good Book
This can be entirely up to you but if I'm feeling sleepy/tired/sick I like to settle down with a really fat chick lit or YA novel. Or a nice easy crime thriller. Something I can really get into and relax with - so I don't have to work too hard figuring out the plot or looking up big words :) My perfect authors for this include Adele Parks, Marian Keyes, Elizabeth Berg and Richard Montenari.

Looking Lived In - Top 10 Things That Make Me Smile

I hope you're all having an *awesome* sunday - or whatever day of the week it is when you're reading this! We've had a quiet one here, I have done TONS of cooking in some attempt to ensure we eat something other than cereal, takeaway or chips. I have made a ginormous chicken + chorizo casserole and a `proper` bolognaise sauce that has been cooking for around 5 hours now mmmmmmm.

Today's top 10 was inspired by the utterly inspirational Bangs and A Bun blog and this post. I've been a bit wordier than her, but I've not written 50 things, just 10 :) Hope you enjoy! Oh and be sure to follow B&AB - she rocks.

Top 10 Things That Make Me Smile

1) Dogs
Just generally but most specifically when they chase rabbits in their sleep, wag their tails when they lie down, their sheer enjoyment for the most mundane of activities (an ear scratch, a cuddle, a random smell) but mostly for their general silliness - like these cute airedales!

2) General animal silliness
Animals can be pretty funny generally. Especially when they are small and excitable, such as in this video or this one of Cookie The Baby Penguin (the last 10 seconds are the cutest thing I have seen in my life, I defy you not to laugh let alone smile!)

3) Guys With Flowers

When you see guys walking along with huge bunches of flowers - especially on Mother's Day - it's really cute! 

4) Random Acts of Kindness
When people give up seats on public transport, give someone change for the bus, help someone across the road, carry heavy luggage and are just unexpectedly nice to a complete stranger, this makes me smile. Like the nice man at South Ken tube who carried my suitcase up the stairs for me :)

Video Killed The Radio Star - Top 10 Music Videos

I've not done a proper top 10 in aaaaaaaaaaages, not since this one I think. So today I thought I'd come back with a, er, bang - My Top 10 Music Videos! It's been, unsurprisingly, tough to narrow down the list as I do love a good music video. Where would we be without MTV and all the other music channels it spawned? Although it's not on the list, I have to give credit to Dire Straits here - Money For Nothing was the first music video shown on MTV, way back in August 1987 (crikey that's 24 years ago.....)

The list is a real mix of stuff - some pop, some metal, some dance, some rock. I've literally picked the first videos that spring to mind but at the end of the post is also a list of the best suggestions that came up on Twitter/Facebook when I asked for your favourite vids.

My Top 10 Music Videos - in no particular order...

1) November Rain - Guns 'n' Roses
Awesome video - great wedding dress, great guitar solo, and just generally a very unintentionally funny video. It's clearly a great song too, which makes all the difference.

2) Smack My Bitch Up - The Prodigy
Er, if you're of a sensitive nature, look away now. This video has won several polls for the most offensive video ever, was banned for years and just generally caused stacks of controversy as did the song/song title itself! Personally I think it's a great song + video and I don't think it's misogynistic at all, rather I like the way it subverts certain stereotypes. I often wonder if the video would have been so shocking if it had had a different protagonist. However if you'd rather not watch the video (I wouldn't if you're not sure!), scroll down to the very bottom of this post - and I've put a little precis in for you.

It makes into this list for being a great video because of the production and direction and the fabulous imagery - you feel like you're part of it! It's also interesting to note that the video was directed by Jonas Akerlund - who has done several Lady Gaga videos including Telephone and Paparazzi.

3) Like A Prayer - Madonna
Interestingly, another controversial video when it came out - but it's a wonderful video. I like the way Madonna goes to great lengths to tell a story - even though the lyrics of the song are utterly bizarre (is it about sex or religion - or both?)  Madonna, witnessing a murder, flees to a church for sanctuary and then has a bizarre dream about having sex with a saint (possibly Jesus?) Anyway the Vatican banned this video - rather understandably - given the extensive Catholic/religious imagery. It's incredibly famous song and video - I've seen Madonna perform it live and it was AMAZING.

Don't Look Back in Anger - Top 10 Things I'd Tell My 21 year old self...

As promised on the poll on the facebook page (are you a fan yet?), here is my list of top things I'd tell my 21 year old self. In fact, I think it's good to remind my 30 year old self of these things too!

1. Everyone else is faking being so confident. Really, they're shitting themselves also, and in fact, if we were all honest about this, life would be so much easier!

2. Don't be so hard on yourself - most of the time, you're just doing the best you can with what you have. There is no rule book to life, as much as you might feel like everyone else has one and you don't. Write your own rules instead - it's cliched but true - only you know how you like to live your life.

3. One day you'll look back and realise that actually, you really weren't fat! Really - that tiny roll you were worried about - NON EXISTENT.  So be gad you wore those furry hotpants/leather mini skirt - you won't have a chance to again without looking like an ageing hooker.

If You Eat Standing Up There Are No Calories - Top 10 Things at a Buffet

After a poll on the facebook page, several tweets and posts, you - the people - have voted. And that was for me to list my top 10 favourite things at a buffet tonight! This was as opposed to the alternative option of my Top 10 Rock Gods. Which I will blog at some point - possibly next week - after being inspired by a show on VIVA entitled `Journey's American Classics`. Which is also why I didn't leave the house until 6pm yesterday.

Anyway I know you're waiting impatiently to see what made the shortlist for my ultimate buffet nosh. I assume that the word buffet is er, universally known, but if not a definition is `Noun: A meal consisting of several dishes from which guests serve themselves.`

In the UK they are associated with most parties, weddings, funerals - anywhere in which people are gathering and will eat but without the faff of a full sit down meal. The reason to dedicate a whole top 10 to a buffet is mainly because they are an opportunity to consume as much deep-fried fattening food as possible! So here's the list - be warned folks, it may not be fat free but it certainly ain't fun free :P

1) Prawn Ring
Got to be done - this is literally a dish comprised of a ring of peeled, cooked king prawns prawns, in the centre of which there is usually marie-rose sauce or mayo to deep your peeled prawn in. I do love a good prawn. Especially a kingsize one

2) Mini Onion Bhajis
Sliced onions with garam masala in batter and deep fried. Dear god they are amazing and if I am at a buffet with these it's fair to say no one else will get a look in.

3) Mini Sausage Rolls
I love a good sausage roll anyway - always a good hangover cure - but there's something about the mini ones that make them utterly addictive. If you're looking for the crack form of a buffet it's this. Seriously, try not eating more than 2 at a time. It's not possible.

4) Mini Sausages on Sticks (preferably honey glazed)
Just.So.Yummy. I can't explain why - the meaty taste, the sweet tang of honey. The bite-size ness - implying that they really can't possibly have many calories at all. Plus when you've had a couple of glasses of wine they just really hit the spot goddammit mmmmmm

Barefaced Cheek - My Top 10 Noughties Pop Tartlets

So, I have a worry that tonight's blog post might alienate those of my readers who have decent taste in what might be termed `proper` music. Because tonight's blog post is dedicated to those ladies who make me shamelessly want to dance round my handbag, alcopop in hand....

In case you missed it (if so, how very dare you) I turned 30 a couple of days ago *and* I got a new job and hence, I've been listening to a lot of pop music. Mostly, when I'm feeling generally ambivalent about life I listen to a regular diet of indie/rock/metal/emo-y stuff. However when I am feeling mega cheery, not only do the 80's tracks get a regular play on my ipod, but all the good-time girl pop music gets downloaded on my Spotify! So this post is a list of my favourite noughties pop tartlets - and my current favourite of their tracks.

1) Lady Gaga
I was a late convert to Lady No-Pants as she is known in this house. But she clearly stunned me with her love gun, her crazy outfits and most importantly, the sheer ear-worminess of her songs. Poker Face, Bad Romance, Just Dance, Paparazzi, even Born This Way (which I hated when I first heard it, just on principle). But something about her sheer guts, energy and determination to stand out and be creative with her image has taken me hostage. She's like the pop version of Bjork sometimes - the songs, lyrics, costumes wouldn't work on anyone else - but on her they are magic. I don't know where she's going with it all but I'm glad to be along for the ride - and you can be sure I'm not bluffin with my muffin....
Anyway my current favourite song is the genius duet with Beyonce - Telephone. It rocks. Simples.

2) Shakira
I can't really explain why I like Ms Lovely Hips so much I just do....maybe it's because she can out-shimmy Beyonce in Beautiful Liar, maybe it's because her `breasts are small and humble`, maybe it's because she's half Lebanese half Colombian. Her voice has an amazing wail-y quality and I just can't get enough. My favourite song of hers is Suerte (the original Spanish language version of Whenever, Wherever) but currently, I am LOVING She-Wolf. Let me out so I can breathe. Thanks!

3) Kylie Minogue
I think Ms Minogue did it all for us when she released Can't Get You Out of My Head. Possibly the best name for a pop song - ever. And then we got the loveliness that is Kylie in her gold hotpants in Spinning Around and the album Fever. But my current fave is All The Lovers - which reminds me of a friend's wedding last summer. Anyway, all awesome pop songs from and awesome woman. With a tiny bottom.

4) Britney Spears
I don't really know what to say about Britney - she's just not possible to sum up in a few sentences. She's not the best singer, or the best dancer, or the best looking, or clearly the sanest person on earth. And some of her more recent songs have been a bit hit + miss. But goddammit she's got something about her. Ever since Baby One More Time (which I know yes, is 90's) she's just kicked ass. I particularly like Toxic, Piece of Me, Womanizer and Everytime. But her current single Til The World Ends and the even more awesome femme fatale remix with Ke$ha and Nicki Minaj rocks!

If Money Was No Object - Top 10 Things I Want for My Birthday

As I've heavily hinted, it's my 30th birthday next month. Rather frustratingly, very few people have asked me what I want (hint hint) - how uncaring of you, don't your lives revolve around my birthday?

Anyway, to make shopping easier for all of you, I thought I'd pull together a list of things I'd reeeeeeally like for my birthday. However please be aware that some of these presents aren't really grounded in reality or even the contents of anyone's wallet.....

1) The Musical One - so yes, I would like if everyone who follows me, who is also on Spotify (and if you're not, why not, even my mum is) could send me a song that they think I would like. Then I would have a ginormous new playlist of songs! (kudos to @petercrosby for always sending me new tracks via spotify)

2) The Sparkley One - I would really like a diamond solitaire pendant necklace. Ideally - let's be honest here - it'd be a 1 carat diamond. However, in the name of women's lib and not needing anyone to buy me diamonds, I did promise myself, years ago, that if I ever got a book published, I'd buy myself a diamond pendant. Even if it was just a tiny diamond. Whatever. You get the point.

3) The DW/Blogger One - I'd love to have a massive blogging/DW (my online forum) meet up. With cake. And gin. And @luckyvoice would love to host it I'm sure. There's loads of bloggers out there I'd love to meet - you know who you are (hint - check my blog roll). It'd be sooooooooooo much fun!

4) The Dressing Up One - I'd like to do a rock the frock shoot with @aliamck and the photographer would absolutely have to be ElizaClaire. I have a kind of trashy-street theme for it - lots of neon, graffiti, urban-ness to clash with our uber glam frocks. And then put all the piccies in a book! Yes please.

5) The Writing One - this one is semi-serious. I'd like to go on a nice, writing retreat for the weekend, ideally in a nice spa hotel also....in the middle of the countryside. With yummy food and wine and lovely people. And if I could specify the teachers also........(btw if anyone really does have any recommends for writing retreats, let me know)

6) The Furry One - A direwolf. Y'know, like in A Game of Thrones. An all white one. Thanks! Or failing that, an airedale puppy. Or a husky. Or any dog really, come to think of it. But one that especially like cuddles and biscuits and walks and being overly loved. woof.

7) The Arm Candy One - a nice (and probably designer) handbag. Yes please. But currently I am undecided as to what I want. I definitely DO NOT want a quilted chanel fing. Eurgh - primarni rip offs are 10 a penny. Nope, I would like one from either Vivienne Westwood, Coach, Coccinelle or Furla. Or all four would be fab, thanks! It doesn't have to cost the same as a small country either.

8) The Dream-Interview-for-the-Blog-One - to interview Margaret Atwood. Not sure I could elaborate any further on this one. I love her books, but she is notoriously fan-shy i believe when it comes to people telling her she's amazing. So I can't see that she'd be overly keen on me sending her an email telling her that I think she's the best thing since sliced bread. Well, the literary version anyway. Who thinks I should tweet her and ask her anyway? Anyone want to start a twitter campaign for me?

9) The Vain One -  A years worth of pedicures. Trashy and frivolous yes. But also entirely neccessary when you look at the state of my tootsies. Climbing shoes are not kind to your feet. I would like to have a fortnightly foot massage + pedicure. In fact, five ten, la sportiva, boreal, maybe you should consider giving away free foot massages with your shoes. Just saying.

10) The Interior Design One - for all the little bits left in our flat to get done. Like the doors painted. And the Bathroom ceiling painted. And blinds in every room would also be good. And some photos on the walls. Oh and a cleaner. Thanks!

So that's it - what's on your birthday list this year? Any other July birthday readers out there? Hope you thought that list was sufficiently interesting. Although I'm highly unlikely to get any of them haha!

I'm making a concerted effort to blog more next week - and I've started to get excited about some new posts, hope you'll like them.

Thank you and good night

Stupidgirl has left the building

Pieces of Me - Top 10 things that define my style

Following on from WoTW this week, I wanted to do a top 10 linked to it. It's a little self indulgent but I just thought it would be fun - and kind of easy to do - as the (eeeep) lurgy seems to have reappeared this morning (coughing, sneezing, shivering - wtf!!). In case you're new to the blog, firstly HELLO! and WELCOME! and have some cake but secondly, here are a couple of links to the kind of drivel I write when I'm sick..... I hope this doesn't put you off reading this blog :)

Also, for regular readers and newbies, I know I've not been around much in the last week but look out for tomorrow's post which will be a little catch up (like this one) of what I've been up to. And, to ensure that I actually put some stuff on the blog this week, I have challenged myself to writing FIVE (yes FIVE) blog posts, in advance today (sunday) so that they will be ready for you during the week. I have been very remiss in not posting stuff or replying to comments - for which I hugely apologise and offer you all yet more virtual cake.

So anyway, here is the list - which is comprised of the top 10 things in my wardrobe, or that I own, that I feel are the essence of me/my look:

Top 10 Things That Define My Style


1) Angel Wing Earrings - I bought these about 5 years ago from Claires Accessories for a party. They're about an inch long and made of plastic in a off white with a mother of pearl sheen. And er, they're shaped like angel wings - one for each ear. I love them, I've never seen anyone else with them and I always (even now they're a bit battered) get compliments on them.

2) My Cowboy Boots - Also from around 3-4 years ago, these were from Faith and cost about £50. They go with  EVERYTHING I OWN. I've worn them to parties, the pub, work, client meetings (informal ones), drinks, dinner, the library, shopping....everywhere. I love them. They have about a 2.5  cuban heel and full detailing and they're awesome. They are however falling apart now....so I am sharing my allegiance with a pair of flat, knee high, black riding boots with 2 silver buckles that also go with everything.

3) Chanel No.5 - I've worn this perfume for 15 years now. It's sometimes seen as a bit of an old lady perfume - especially when you're 16, but I love it. The smell is totally addictive - and smells completely different on everyone. It always makes me feel utterly glamorous - and I love wearing something that I know Marilyn Monroe wore also. I bought my first bottle in Henry Bendel in New York when I was 15 or so.

30 Day Book Challenge Part : Days 14-30

After friday's post on the 30 Day Book Challenge, I thought I'd be very lazy tonight and do the the follow up post. I know you were all expecting my top 10 favourite words but that'll probably come tomorrow or next sunday - apologies for the delay. I've no idea why I'm so tired today - I had an unheard of 12 hours sleep and everything.

I had a chilled weekend - for the fashionistas out there, yesterday I picked up a couple of bargains at RagTradePopUp, and tried on a £1000 dress from Helmut Lang (priced at considerably less in the sale) but decided not to buy it. I went to the sale with @AliaMcK who also picked up some beautiful bits - so I'll definitely be blogging about it (with pictures) later this month. We then had a nice dinner at a friend house. Today has involved sleeping, eating, chores and surfing t'interweb and deciding on the plans for my 30th bday later this year

So, here it is, part two of my list - hope you enjoy it - and plan to do your own!

Day 14: Book whose main character you want to marry - Mark Darcy, Bridget Jones. Cringingly embarrassing but he had me at "I like you very much. Just the way you are". It might help that Colin Firth is divine in the film....

Day 15: First “chapter book” you can remember reading as a child Any of the Famous Five books by Enid Blyton I think.
Day 16: Longest book you’ve read er, probably Voyager by Diana Gabaldon at an incredible 1059 pages.
Day 17: Shortest book you’ve read As an adult? I guess Bonjour Tristesse is pretty short. It's a fabulous book too
Day 18: Book you’re most embarrassed to say you like Probably Bridget Jones' Diary. No one else seems to like it anymore but I love Bridge and her support knickers.
Day 19: Book that turned you on - The Bride Stripped Bare, Anonymous and anything by Anais Nin.

To reveal why is far too personal - after all, my mother reads this blog!!!

Day 20: Book you’ve read the most number of times I know this is going to sound very odd but I've read American Psycho *at least* 10 times. I just get a deeper understanding each time. I feel that the book says something very fundamental about our society but I can't quite put my fingers on what...
Day 21: Favorite picture book from childhood Where The Wild Things Are (ps check out my blog post on my fave kids books here)

Two have Fun in Dorset - A Top List *and* a Photo Essay

So this post has been a little bit delayed due to the sad news I had on Friday, and then yesterday just being crazy-ass busy (mainly playing with a puppy + going to a house party I hasten to add). Anyway as you know, after the Easter weekend husbando and I went down to Dorset for a week of rock climbing, hiking (him) and sleeping and eating (me). We managed to combine both without having a huge amount of rows which I consider a huge achievement given that I believe that the definition of compromise means "when neither of you are happy".  


Here beginneth the list....


1) LOCATION
For those of you who don't know where Dorset is, it's in South West England. Go past London, Surrey and Hampshire. If you get to Devon you've gone too far. You could just look it up on Google maps. We went to a little island called Portland. It's not technically an island as it's connected to the mainland (Weymouth) by a famous spit of land called Chesil beach which is part of the Jurassic coast *and* a world heritage site. You can see some nerdy interesting info about it here. Anyway Portland is basically a gigantic bit of limestone that rises out of the sea and hence is quite good for rock climbing. Here are some photos of the view....

2) ACCOMODATION
There are, surprisingly, for such a titchy place, lots of places to stay on Portland. However at the recommendation of husbando's friend we stayed a very incredibly wonderfully lovely B+B called Queen Anne House. I cannot recommend it highly enough. 
The house is GORGEOUS. The garden is GORGEOUS. The rooms are GORGEOUS. The food is DELISH (full cooked english every morning with perfect poached eggs). The baths are huge and lovely (I'm tall, this is important). Oh and it's very romantic too. And they have cats which are not allowed in the rooms but you can play with in the garden, they are very talkative and purr-y and cuddly. 
Finally Margaret, who owns the place is absolutely the hostess with the mostess. Nothing was too much trouble plus she was uber-cool and stylish. We will be going back for sure. I watched the Royal Wedding with Margaret too :) And here is a picture of the place...

(copyright © 2010, Designed by: Daniel Longhurst Design queen anne house)

The Big Fat Royal Wedding - My Top 10 Highlights

Right, so in the name of posting everyday in May - which I totally failed at by not posting yesterday - here's a belated top 10 list for you.....on the royal wedding (I was asked by several people to post my opinions on it - for those cynics out there!!)

I did manage to watch the build up to the wedding and then headed off rock climbing once the happy couple had said their vows! Here's my favourite moments and thoughts from their big day...

1) The bride looked lovely. Really, truly stunning. I predicted that she'd go for something Grace Kelly-esque when I was chatting to my friend last week and though she'd go for long lace sleeves. So I am feeling rather smug about my taste in wedding dress trends. The shots of her in the car, with her father, with the veil over her face are beautiful and touching.

2) I suspect that Prince Harry cracked onto Pippa Middleton something chronic. Well you would wouldn't you - she also looked mighty fine in her slinky little bridesmaid's gown - although ivory wouldn't be my first choice for bridesmaids (in fact my wedding dress was simillar to Pippa's dress - v slinky - I may post a picture on my wedding anniversary in July). In fact, my bridesmaids wore black.
Anyway, yes, Pippa looked great and was fab at controlling the little flower girls - and also managing to cope with both Prince Philip and Prince Harry standing behind her on the balcony at B'ham Palace - good for her!

3) How cute did Wills + Kate look, driving out of B'ham Palace in that little car with the `Just Wed` license plate and balloons etc! Very sweet indeed, and some great pics for their wedding album, thought it was a lovely touch.

4) Onto the guests - firstly, Frocky Horror awards to Princessess Beatrice and Eugenie. Just what.were.they.thinking? Ick-a-rama! I thought their faces were being eaten by their hats. Also Tara Palmer Tompkinson - that big blue thingy on your head was unfortunately like a giant arrow to your nose. I think a big hat would have shielded you better. Chelsy Davy - too tight and too short, sorry love.

5) Top of the Frocks go to.....Sam Cam, looking lovely in Burberry (shame she flouted the hat/fascinator requirement), Carole Middleton in Catherine Walker (a possible tribute to Diana?), Posh Spice covering up *that* bump - even if she'd quite clearly had a row with Becks!! And also, surprisingly, Joss Stone - who knew she could scrub up so well - and high street too (Hobbs)

6) Kate trying not to let the emotion show when she was saying her vows - I definitely spotted a couple of chin wobbles there, good for her. Yah boo sucks to all the haters, this royal marriage certainly seems to be a love match for once. I was terrified saying my vows - and didn't have to do it in front of, what seems like, the entire world!

7) The runaway horse and the cartwheeling verger - loving these 2 random comedy moments. Glad the horse + rider are okay, that could have been total pandemonium there. The cartwheeling verger is classic - the relief when the wedding was over is clearly apparent!

8) Boris Johnson - firstly, loving his Moss Bros shout-out for his hired tails. Like he couldn't afford to buy some/didn't have some already. And then making it worse by re-gifting the happy couple a tandem bike. Also on this point, David Cameron wittering on about the photo of wales he'd bought them when really we all know that wives pick + purchase wedding presents!

9) The `mystery` around Tony Blair + Gordon Brown not being invited to the wedding but Thatcher + Major were because they're Knights of the Realm or something (lost concentration at this point)

10) Finally, and this was my favourite bit - the way the toffs all gawped when Elton John + David Furnish showed up! Love it - wonder if any of them asked for autographs :P

So there's your top 10 list for this week - love to know your thoughts on the Royal Shindig

Thank you and good night

Stupidgirl has left the building

Save the last dance for me - a top 10 list, a photo and a general catch up!

So, wow how awesome has the weather been this weekend?! I hope that if you've been in a easter-celebrating country that you've been scoffing chocolate for every meal - and even if you're in a non-easter-celebrating-country that you've had lots of chocolate.

I've been with my in-laws celebrating my oldest sister-in-law's wedding (I have THREE sil's - who read this blog, I must be *nice* :P) and it's been a wonderful weekend :) I outdid my housemaid skills with the following:

- I made 3 different beds
- I emptied the dishwasher 3 times
- I did 2 loads of washing up

Which is more than I've done in my own house in the last month.....

The wedding itself was fab - and I was honoured to do this reading - which I was bricking myself about doing but didn't fluff any lines woopee. Or cry - also woopee! I also had a lot of fun playing with the flower girls - similar mental age y'see. Lots of bubble blowing and confetti throwing and general hilarity :) More importantly the bride looked wonderful and I wish the couple many years of happiness

Just for your delectation, here is a picture of me pretending to be a bridesmaid....

(Photo courtesy of http://www.s-north.co.uk/ )

Oooh, also, before I forget, the most awesome band `Under the Driftwood Tree` played the wedding - they did some really cool covers of The Specials, Prodigy, Dizzee Rascal, Jessie J, The Killers etc but more importantly their own stuff rocks. They're kind of folky, alternative, indy, rock stuff. If you like Stereophonics, Arcade Fire, Jack Johnson, the Killers, etc you'll probably like them....

They've been featured on the BBC, interviewed by Fearne Cotton *and* I think they've just been signed - so definitely ones to watch. You can follow them on Twitter, `like` them on Facebook and also checkout their MySpace page. I definitely plan to catch them next time they gig in London!

So, you've had your photo and your catch up - and here is today's list - Top 10 First Dance Songs. Bit weddingy yes, but it seemed appropriate :) As ever, it's not a definitive list, I make no apologies for my taste in music, it's just what I like!

1) Moon River - Frank Sinatra: so, er, we had this as our first dance. I've blogged about it before, here. I think it's a really smoothy classic. It's a song from pretty much the day we got together

2) Let It Be Me - Ray LaMontagne: I never heard this song until I went to a friend's wedding last summer and totally melted watching them mouth the words at each other.

3) Iris - GooGoo Dolls: Just a lovely, fab song. And quite a popular `alternative` first dance song too :)

4) All I Want Is You - U2: I know, lots of you hate U2. I don't. Live with it.

5) At Last - Etta James: The Obama's had this at their inauguration ball which lowered my love for this a little, but it's just got such a lovely, romantic, vintage-y feel. Etta's voice is amazing too :)

6) These Arms of Mine - Otis Redding: Yes, this is in Dirty Dancing, yes I love the film and this song is  so full of yearning. It's lovely and slushy. Boooooo to you cynical non-romantic types!

7) First Time Ever I Saw Your Face - Stereophonics (cover): Nearly had this as my first dance. Kelly Jones has *the* most amazing voice, possibly better than the original. If you've not heard this, it's like listening to an aural version of velvet + whisky +gravel mixed together.

8) Never Tear Us Apart - INXS: Well, firstly the video is very gothy romantic, but Michael Hutchence is/was a total love god. Me + husbando both love this song

9) Feeling Good - Muse (cover): This song makes me so unbelievably happy, Muse, surprisingly, do a great line in love songs but this cover version is, IMO one of their best songs. Matt Bellamy's voice is supreme in this.

10) Moondance - Van Morrison: I know this one is a little cheesey but I've always liked it - it's a bit of a classic and, I think, a great summer wedding track. Definitely one to dance barefoot to on the grass.

So that's it for today. I'll be back later in the week with a book review, a `Didn't You Get The Memo` guide to publishing for authors` and various other bits + pieces. Have a good one :)

Thank you and good night

Stupidgirl has left the building

The higher the note, the louder we shout - My Top 10 Karaoke Tracks

I think you might have all guessed this post was coming, especially after this and this and er....this. I've not always been obsessed with karaoke, it's more that I'm now officially allowed to sing in public - something I've refrained from doing since the following episode:

Autumn 2001 - I'm at university, in my room. My then best friend (and now husband) walks in...
Him "Are you okay?"
Me: "Yeah, fine, why do you ask?"
Him: "Well I thought I heard you screaming in pain?"
Me: "Er......no, I was ah, singing along to my Bryan Adams CD"
End of scene, both parties extremely embarrassed, I vow never to sing aloud, in public, again....

Until someone introduced me to the concept of karaoke booths...(I blame @originalrobyn and @leopardprintlou for this). Hence lots of going to karaoke and getting very excited about it. It has since come to my knowledge that there's a fair few of you out there who have *never* done karaoke. I find this quite alarming, it's like not doing fancy dress as an adult. The whole point of karaoke is not to sing well....but to have fun making an absolute tit of yourself with the added benefit of pretending to be a famous person.

So here is my list, I hope that it inspires some of you to go out and have - as Lucky Voice puts it - "most liberating, heart-racing, life-affirming ...experience on earth"....

Top 10 Karaoke Songs

1) Livin' on a Prayer - Bon Jovi....you know you want to, you know all the lyrics and you don't need the tight jeans or the hair to have an awesome time air-guitaring to this one. All together now "oooooh livin on a prayerrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr"

2) Bad Romance - Lady Gaga...The lyrics of this song completely confound me, as does the random spot of french somewhere towards the end. Plus there's more ra-ra-ra-ing than Boney M could have ever dreamed of. Therefore it is HYSTERICAL singing along to this and pretending to the bacon-wearing lady monster.....luckily for you guys, there are no videos of me doing this.

3) Killing In The Name Of - Rage Against the Machine...I'm not sure fun is the right word here so much as abso-fuckin-lutely rocking awesome doing this one. The lyrics aren't hard and I have to say, yelling FUCK as loudly as possible into a microphone is very enjoyable. Pretending to be Zach de la Rocha - surprisingly good way of spending a saturday night.

4) Like A Virgin - Madonna...had to get a bit of ol' madge on this list, and it was a close call with Like a Prayer, but this one wins hands down for all the inventive dancing you can do whilst singing along to again, the totally bonkers lyrics (Lady Gaga clearly learned hers somewhere). The only thing missing is a lion and a wedding dress - they don't seem to be provided in the props boxes!

5) Son of a Preacher Man - Dusty Springfield...this is worth doing if you've got someone who can actually sing in your group. But even if you haven't it's fun pretending to be eyeliner-ed up to the max and belting this little number out.

6) I Would Do Anything For Love - Meatloaf...a surprising little entry this one but so much fun to sing as a duet. Nothing beats staring passionately into your best girlfriend's eyes, begging them to "hose me down with holy water/if I get too hot". I have a fabulous video of two good friends singing this one - but I've been banned from posting it on here. Needless to say it's definitely a go-er.

7) Alone - Heart....er,all I can say is that if you watched the video in yesterday's blog post, your ears might have bled...but it's fucking funny! And clearly an awesome karaoke track. 

8) It's Oh So Quiet - Bjork...what.a.frickin.giggle, is all I can say. Totally love doing this one - it's such a happy song and you get to act out the whole Bjork video. Plus the last time I did this one, the karaoke lyrics didn't say `shush` they said `sush` which after a couple of drinks seemed hysterically funny...maybe you had to be there!

9) The Bad Touch - Bloodhound Gang...unfortunately due to the hysterically dirty nature of the lyrics of this song, I can't sing it without collapsing into giggles every time. It's well worth it though - and you can get reeeeeeeal creative with the dancing to this one - er, `interpreting` the lyrics shall we say.

10) Sweet Child o'Mine - Guns N Roses....yeah ya knew it was coming. It *is* my favourite song after all - and it is the ultimate in air guitarring karaoke numbers. Oh yeahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh *makes devil horns*

So that's it - am aware that my tastes are quite....specific! So let me know yours - comment below, lets get some karaoke tune lists going. And maybe one time, I'll have Lucky Voice/blog party for anyone who can make it!

Thank you and good night,

Stupidgirl has left the building

A Bumper List Post - 30 Day Song Challenge

Okay so this is a list (30 songs) and a WoTW (music) and a general ramble post all rolled into one. Which is to apologise for the serious lack of blogging over the last few days - bloody real life got in the way. And that little thing called work - gah! 

Anyway I hope you lovely folks out there - and in fact all over the world - are well. Special hello to the lovely people who follow this blog in Israel, Japan, UAE, South Korea + India. Am honoured that you like my ramblings!

So here it is, my 30 day song challenge post. In case you don't have a bloody clue what I'm on about, I think you'll find it's pretty self explanatory. Each day last month I had to pick a specific song that reminded me of something. If you're finding this explanation as clear as mud, just read on.....

WARNING - this is a long post....

Thirty Day Song Challenge:

Day 01 - My Favorite Song: U2 - Where The Streets Have No Name. Just so beautiful. I love it so very much.If you watch the vid, the song starts around 2:30 in.

Day 02 - My Least Favorite Song: All Saints cover of Under the Bridge. Just. So.Wrong.

Day 03 - A Song That Makes Me Happy: Guns'n'Roses - Sweet Child of Mine. As I have blogged before, this song is fucking awesome. It just is. And I think Axl's fit. Sorry about that!

Day 04 - A Song That Makes You Sad: Corinne Bailey Rae – Just Like A Star. This song makes me tear up a lot. It reminds me of when my grandmother died after being ill with cancer. It's such a beautiful song and the lyrics are very poignant.

Day 05 - A Song That Reminds Me of Someone: Bonnie Tyler - Total Eclipse of the Heart. This reminds me of several someones but speshly the Wine Wharf ladies, you know who you are!

Day 06 - A Song That Reminds You of Somewhere: Richard Marx - Right Here Waiting. When I was little we drove down the west coast of the US from San Fran to San Diego and this song was CONSTANTLY on the radio. Reminds me of sunshine and blue sea :)

Day 07 - A Song That Reminds Me of A Certain Event: Planet Perfecto - Bullet In The Gun. Not a certain event per se, but the first year of university certainly. I felt like a bullet out of a gun. And slightly out of control.

Day 08 - A Song That I Know All The Words To: Madonna - Like A Virgin. Oh and I LOVE her outfit in this video. NOT the wedding dress, the electric blue leggings bit. I modelled my hen night outfit on this!!!

Day 09 - A Song That I Can Dance To: Jessie J - Do It Like A Dude/ La Gaga - Bad Romance. Bit current I know, but wanted to mix it up a little. These are sure to get me straight on the dance floor. Even if that dancefloor is my kitchen....Oh and I'm not entirely sure what a mandem is....

Day 10 - A Song That Makes Me Fall Asleep: REM - Nightswimming. A very lovely, very calming, very melancholy song. But it's lovely. And husbando likes it too :)

Losing Yourself - Top 10 Chill Out Tracks

I wasn't sure what to do my top 10 on this week, I was almost too chilled to think about it - but then I realised `doh`, I should do my top 10 chill out tracks - as that's what I've been listening to this afternoon whilst I cleaned and tidied and chucked out trash. I started out listening to Counting Crows, but headed over to my chill out music shortly after. So grab a chilled glass of something - or a cup of tea - and curl up with this lot!

Top 10 Chill Out Tracks


1) Fast Car - Tracy Chapman This is such a beautiful song and I get such a yearning to listen to it, speshly when the summer nights are warm and long. I like to sit somewhere that I can watch the sunset, with a glass of wine in one hand and put this on. I imagine what I might do if I drove off somewhere and started my life from scratch. When I was a teenager I used to crawl out on to the roof of my house in the summer and listen to this and watch the sky.

2) All Is Full of Love - Bjork I know, I've blogged about this before but Bjork's ethereal voice just has a real pavlovian response in me. I'd never heard this song until about 2003, and I listened to it when I was reading Alice Sebold's The Lovely Bones. When I hear this song, I remember sitting on my bed, on sunny afternoons, whiling awhile the hours reading and relaxing.

3) Hallelujah - Jeff Buckley I have to confess, until the X-Factor, I'd never ever heard this song before, but once I heard Buckley's version I was completely hooked. I don't really want to say much about this song - the melody and lyrics say it all for me.

4) More Than This - Roxy Music My dad gave me a copy of the best of Roxy Music when I was sitting my GCSEs (for the non UK peeps, that's around age 15-16) and I was really in the middle of a tough time at school. I completely fell under Ferry's spell - and also Brian Eno's incredible talents (interesting that he also worked with U2, one of my favourite bands) More than this just kind of helped  me get through stuff, even though I think the essential message of the song is a little depressing!

5) Sweet Child of Mine - Taken By Trees Possibly, the best cover version of any song that I've ever heard. The G'nR version is probably my favourite song, but this one just electrifies every nerve in my body - it's so beautiful and melancholic. I first heard it on a John Lewis ad (big UK dept. store) about 3 months after I got married. My only regret about my wedding is that I didn't hear this song before and get to walk down the aisle to it. So perfect. Hope you love it too!

6) Teardrop - Massive Attack One of the ultimate chill out songs IMO. I've listened to this all over the place - in my flat, in pubs and clubs and restaurants, overlooking hundreds of sunsets - it never fails to raise the hairs on the back of my neck. What I love about it is the contrast between the smooth melody and singing and the crackly popping noises in the back of it (am sure there's a proper techy muso word for that but I don't know what it is!) This song is the equivalent of of wrapping your body in suede. Awesome video too!

7) Where Do I Begin - Chemical Brothers I heard this when I watched Vanilla Sky and hated the movie (too creepy!) but loved this song. It's a sunday morning in bed with the papers and a cup of tea song. It makes me think of being so hungover and staying someplace other than home and that horrid fuzzy feeling of having to deal with public transport and fresh air and sunshine when really you just want to be in your own bed, hiding under the duvet. On another note, this song does also remind me of being very depressed, but its nice to now be able to listen to it and it not upset me as it's a beautiful track!

8) Numb - U2 I think that the U2 Zooropa album is very underrated, mostly known for being the tour where they lost a lot of money. Anyway the songs on this album are really trippy and kinda psychadelicy-ish (I know, that's not a word!). It's got the beautiful Stay (Far Away, So Close) which makes me cry but the rest of the album is nerve-tinglingly different. My favourite is this one, possibly because The Edge sings/mumbles most of the lyrics whilst Bono comes on to wail the chorus. I think The Edge has the sexiest voice and this song just ticks all the right boxes for me. It reminds me of scorching hot summer days, when you can't sleep or breathe or do anything for heat - you've always got sweat trickling down your back and this song is a bit of ice in all that heat.

9) As The Rush Comes (radio edit) - Motorcycle I know, it's dance music. But I used to be a HUGE trance fan. When I was also a goth. Weird that. Anyway.... yes I love trance and this song IMO is very trance-y. It makes me feel like I'm moving when I'm standing still. It's such a `travelling` song and I love listening to this when I'm running.  It's great for when you're er, chilling out before you're going out. Hope you love it like I do.

10) Glory Box - Portishead I guess, really i should have had this on my alternative love songs list but to me, it's up there with Teardrop in the chill-out songs rankings. I know it's a bit louder but it makes me feel electric when I hear it. Again the mix of tuneful and crackly really make it for me but then the guitar wails kick in and it's just a perfect song.

So that's it - that's my list - and it was a hard one to do. I had some awesome suggestions but the best one by far was Ghosts by Siobhan Donaghy which was suggested by @LucyVMorgan of the fabulous Literary Friction blog (check it out!) Let me know what you think of the list and suggest some other stuff for me!!

I'll be back on Wednesday with WoTW plus friday's interview and some other bits inbetween so have a good one all.

Thank you and good night,

Stupidgirl has left the building

Stand and Deliver - Top 10 Eighties Tunes

Today's list practically had me tearing my hair out in frustration. At one point I had 30+ songs on this list and have somehow managed to slice it down to 10 songs. I've listened to 80's songs all afternoon whilst eating a packet of mini donuts. It really is a tough job blogging - I've had to have a glass of restorative vino, I'm sure you understand this is a tough job and was entirely neccessary. I am not, in anyway advocating blogging when you're tipsy. No way, not at all.....

So, back to *the* list - my top 10 favourite 80's tunes. Now, to clarify, this is a not a `serious` list. I went for synthesizers, big hair, cheese - basically stuff that reminds me of being a kid and puts a big smile on my face. After *the* list there is a short round up of the also-rans, just so know what was considered. Please don't judge me too harshly after this (well after this, you should know where to set your expectations - I'm just ah, `managing` them for you :P)

Top 10 Eighties Tunes


1) We Built This City - Starship Um, i love it, pure and simple. It's got big hair, `crunchy` guitar wail-y bits and the classic line `Knee deep in the hoopla`. Not sure what hoopla is, but I'm guessing we've all been knee deep in it at some point. This is, bizarrely, one of my favourite songs to do the washing up to.....

2) Nothing's Gonna stop us - Starship Er, yes, more Starship. But it is from Mannequin - a genius premise for a film if ever I heard one. This song makes me smile so much as it reminds me of dancing my socks off with some amazing friends from uni. Katie, Cheryl, Jo-Jo Flasher, Claire-Bear, this one's for you my lovelies!

3) Like a Prayer - Madonna  Couldn't have an 80's list without a bit of the pointy-bra'd one, La Gaga has nothing on her IMO and Like a Prayer is just so great! Amazing video with Madonna looking her most, well, authentic actually. I think she looks so beautiful. I could go into a big discussion about the political statement this video made but I won't. I'll just say that this is the first time I heard a gospel choir sing on a pop record - and it is AWESOME. I always sing along to this and it's a fab karaoke tune.

4) Total Eclipse of the Heart - Bonnie Tyler  I've sung along to this song more times than I care to think of but the best one was singing along, in a pub, at a book launch with a lesbian football team. Anyway wtf is the video all about and how freakin scary is it (and not just Bonnie's giant hair). Those weird-ass choir boys with the scary eyes spook me everytime. However, there is a `literal version` of the video about and it is HYSTERICALLY FUNNY. Check it out here. I guarantee you will be CRYING with laughter. Oh yes.

5) Sweet Child of Mine - Guns N Roses This is pretty much my favourite song. It always makes me smile. Aside from my vows + first dance, one of the highlights of my wedding was dancing to this with *all* my girlfriends, so awesome. Also, I have a crush on Axl Rose. Sorry. I know that's appalling. Not on the way he looks now obvs, but back then. In his tight, white cycling shorts......er.....

6) Rush Hour - Jane Wiedlin Erm, for a long time I thought this really was a song about being stuck in traffic. But with lines like `Feel it getting hot in here/Feel me getting close to you dear/Slow motion moving you, moving me`, I realised she might be talking about er, something else entirely. Anyway sex or cars, it's all the same to men and this is a great track!

7) I Just Can't Get Enough - Depeche Mode I'm still in shock that this song is by Depeche Mode - I only found this out about 6 months ago. I mean how can the people who made Enjoy the Silence have made this, I mean it's far too happy and cheery and er, boppy with it's lovely electronic sound. Anyway, I love this, it reminds me of being very small indeed as it ahem, came out the year I was born...

8) If I could turn back time - Cher I know, it's a bit norty mentioning this one, seeing as I have blogged about this before too. But it's sooooooooooooooo great. I'm singing along to it in my sitting room. I expect you all to as well. Particularly my sister and mum if they catch this post. And also a certain New Yorker with a pajima. I hope I didn't hurt her feelings. Sorry poor taste to mention a personal joke but, this song reminds me of New York in such a big way. For those who don't know, my family moved there for awhile when I was a kid and we have close friends over there. One of whom *loves* this song!

9) Working  9 to 5 - Dolly Parton We've all had jobs that SUCKED ASS haven't we. Well this is the anthem for those jobs and Dolly Parton gets it spot on with the lyrics in this one oh yes: "They just use your mind/And never give you credit ...for service and devotion/you would think that I/would deserve a fair promotion". Oh it's just so awesome. And Dolly just rocks. Personally I also love her country version of I will always love you too. It's cute.

10) Bette Davis Eyes - Kim Carnes Another music video with misty curtain and blondes with big hair. But this track too reminds me of being a little kid, mainly because we always used to tell my sister she had Bette Davis eyes. So yes, this song makes me smile A LOT.

So that's it - that's the list. There were so many choices for this though, more Madonna, Adam Ant, Wacko Jacko, Duran Duran, Frankie Says Relax and I didn't even touch the serious music even though I love U2's Joshua Tree album. But this was just *my* favourites so please, comment below, tell me where I went wrong and tell me *your* favourites!

Thank you and good night

Stupidgirl has left the building

PS Thanks to all the tweeties that joined the virtual twitter party to share donuts, cocktails and their favourite 80's tunes!

The Perfect Fit - My Top 10 Fave Movie Soundtracks

I was recently dragged to the IMAX to see Tron: Legacy. I'm not a big fan of what I call `spaceship boy films` so I wasn't really looking forward to it all that much - I've fallen asleep watching every recent Star Wars movie! Anyway, I'd heard the soundtrack was pretty hot so i just hoped that at least I might like that. Well fuck me sideways - the soundtrack absolutely BLEW me away. I couldn't stop raving about it to everyone I saw. The music perfectly fitted the futuristic style of the film and I absolutely loved it. In fact I can't stop playing it on my Spotify library. So I thought hey, why not do a top 10 movie soundtrack list.

Just to clarify, I've tried not to choose movies where the soundtrack is associated with just one particular song but instead chosen films where the entire soundtrack, IMO, perfectly matches the entire mood and tone of the movie. In fact of the soundtracks listed below I own seven of them - on either CD/iTunes/spotify. If I don't own them, its because I already have the majority of the tracks on other collections.

Now, as you might know, I don't have the greatest taste in music (check here, here and here for previous form!) so please don't be offended if your favourites aren't on here, but hopefully it'll inspire you to check out some new tunes. Therefore in no particular order, here's my list :P

Top 10 Favourite Movie Soundtracks

1) Tron (Daft Punk)  - as I've raved about above really. I can't say much more but apart from picking out a few of my *fave* tracks with links so you can check them out  Tron Legacy (end titles) /End of Line/Derezzed/Flynn Lives, this OST gives me a total ear-gasm!

2) The Social Network (Trent Reznor + Atticus Ross) This recently won an Oscar, so I'm not alone in thinking the music is genius, but then I'd expect nothing less when the god that is Trent Reznor is involved. I'd say my fave tracks are Hand Covers Bruise /A Familiar Taste - both creepy and beautiful at the same time sososososo good! The movie itself is surprisingly watchable, with some excellent performances, notably from Jesse Eisenberg playing Mark Zuckerberg.

3) Gladiator (Hans Zimmer/Lisa Gerrard) Given I'm a Classics BA Hons grad, it's not a *total* surprise that I love this film and plus, one of my now sadly deceased professors advised on the film itself. I could waffle on about the Gladiator module I studied at uni but instead I'll just say that this is a beautifully relaxing soundtrack (if you like LOTR/Moby) you'll like this. My fave tracks are Elysium/Now We Are Free