Author Archives: Katrina Longpre

What Are We Listening to this Summer? 

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New or old music will always persist as one of the most important things that keep our worlds spinning. Whether it’s listening in your room, buying that concert ticket, or listening to the radio you will always almost be surrounded by some kind of music everywhere you go. Since the summertime is upon us I have picked out some of my favourite albums and tracks that you could add to your summer nights, summer drives, or summer says playlist whichever they might be. 

Sunburn by Dominic Fike

Released in the summer of 2023 this album was truly perfection in my opinion. Dominic has some of the best discography of modern times. His blends of genres and musical abilities truly are showcased in this album. Songs like Ant Pile, How Much is Weed? , and Think Fast ft Weezer are some of my favourite tracks. Ultimately this album has many wonderful dimensions to it sonically and lyrically. This past August I had the opportunity to see him live and It was one of the best performances I have ever seen so far. He truly has so much admiration for his work and sings his songs in a simple yet alluring way. Is he one of my celebrity crushes of course he is but just like how I love Bruno Mars and his talent I am in love with Dominic’s talent truly. This Album cover to cover is a must listen to the album and perfectly emulates that hot summer day. 

Beatopia by Beabadoobee 

Released in 2022 I discovered this album in such a fun way and similar to another album that will be mentioned in a moment. But I’ll set the scene for you, it was about 4 am in Rome. My family and I just got settled in our Air bnb so I was quite jetlagged. I was scrolling on TikTok as you do at 4 am when you can’t sleep and I stumbled across a video of Beabadoobee lip-syncing to this awesome song. I click on the song and it’s titled “Talk”. I had my headphones so I took it upon myself to check this song out. When I tell you my life has not been the same since I found this song it completely changed my life. This song felt like the missing piece I have been searching for. I think I found my soulmate and it was this song. I then proceeded to play that song on repeat for the entire night and then I discovered the album that went along with it and low and behold “Beatopia” was added to my music repertoire. With songs like 10:36, See You Soon, Don’t Get the deal this album is incredibly close to the feeling of a coming-of-age movie made in the 2000s. Her sweet voice combined with the rock tones is just perfect and I will always recommend this album and her music for every season beyond summer. 

Renaissance by Beyonce

Now this album is another complete masterpiece, some of Beyonce’s best work in my opinion. I discovered this song in Rome as well. Similar to how I discovered Bea’s work I was scrolling through TikTok once again not at 4 am I’m sure it was during the day. I had known Bey had released a new album but I hadn’t been able to have a full listen to the album quite yet. So our adventures for the day were going around Rome on a tourist bus and I downloaded the album to listen to while the tour was going on. I had another out-of-body experience and I was fully immersed in that album. It was a side of Beyonce I had never expected to ever hear but how dare I deny her. Summer Renaissance and Virgo’s Groove blew me away immediately; they were my standouts of the album. And once again I had the opportunity to see her live in concert with my sister and all I can say is I have seen Beyonce in the flesh. We have breathed the same air. Tracks like Thique, Summer Renaissance, Virgos Groove, and Move can be found in my playlist and maybe yours as well. 

Call Me If You Get Lost: The Estate Sale by Tyler the Creator 

This Deluxe album is Summer Tyler the Creator’s way of creating a whole other environment or world with his albums is truly something else. This album is stacked with a ton of features of big names as well as produced by some of the best artists in the game currently. Some of the features include A$AP Rocky, Pharrell Williams, Brent Faiyaz, and DAISY WORLD along with many other artists this album could be comparable to a hot beach day on the Amalfi Coast tanning, eating and just vibing out. I would pair this album with a nice boat ride if you want a taste of hip-hop and r & b. This album takes the cake. Tracks I recommend would be Wharf Talk, Wusyaname, Sweet/I Thought You Wanted to Dance, and Dogtooth. These are just a couple of the amazing tracks that this album holds and definitely will be on repeat this summer. 

Rio by Duran Duran 

If you’re looking for something more classic, Rio by Duran Duran has that sound for you. Released in 1981 I found this album back in 2019 my dad had always recommended them but I had never taken the time to listen to it. However when I got the chance this album has stuck with me ever since. It’s a pure 80s pop-rock sound filled with horned quick-paced drums and synths. You can’t help but get up and dance to it. It is a mood lifter with tracks like Rio, Hungry Like a Wolf and Hold Back the Rain this album is perfectly curated to make you dance and jam out. 

Motion by Calvin Harris 

Because the internet has collectively decided it’s a 2014 summer and its celebrations of this album’s 10th Anniversary. Motion released in 2014 brought some of the best EDM hits of the century and still are played on repeat to this day. One of its most popular songs in the album is called “Summer”. How could you not have that on your playlist? I love to blast this song windows down when I’m driving in the summertime because once you can play this you know summer has begun. This album also has tracks like Outside ft. Ellie Goulding, and Blame ft John Newman all cultivate that same summer feeling. Overall this is a major dance album and is perfect for those party upbeat moments you’d wanna share with friends. 

I could go on with all of the other recommendations I have however this essay would be about the size of a Hunger Games book so I will save them for another time. Regardless these songs are truly the vibes I can sense this summer whether they have been already or not. Music doesn’t have an expiry date and that’s why I love music so incredibly deeply because of its long-lasting freedom within it. So whatever or whoever you’re going to listen to this summer when you’re curating your playlist have a listen to some of these and maybe who knows they could be songs you have been waiting for. 

Living for the Drama

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Reality television over the years has become a cultural phenomenon, it captivates audiences all over the world through its diverse range of shows. From talent competitions to fashion and lifestyle programs, reality TV delivers a unique type of entertainment that combines unscripted content with drama and heightened excitement. Today I will be breaking down some of my favourite scandals and reality TV moments that have appealed to these types of programs all worth the watch. 

Vanderpump Rules Drama: Scandoval of 2023 

I had not watched an episode of Vanderpump Rules a day in my life and maybe neither have you. However, because my generation is actively on the internet “Scandoval” absolutely took over my entire social media and not by my own will. I still have not watched an episode of this show today yet I know the lore of this major scandal and so will you because I had to. The drama which unfolded in 2023 centres on Tom Sandoval’s affair with his co-star Raquel (Rachel) Leviss, which ultimately ended his nine-year relationship with co-star Ariana Madix. 

The affair began in August 2022 and was initially characterized by both Sandoval and Leviss as a one-night stand. Furthermore, it later became clear that their relationship had continued and grown during a wedding in Mexico, which Sandoval attended with Leviss all while still in a relationship with Madix. This information then became public during the show’s tenth season, leading to a huge confrontation that went viral. 

A significant moment in the scandal which I saw everywhere was when Madix discovered the affair and confronted Sandoval, this was an emotional climax that was featured in the season finale. Ariana Madix’s heartbreak was built by the betrayal not only from her long-time dog of a partner but also from a close friend, which highlighted the personal and emotional toll that betrayals can take. Sandoval’s continuous dismissal of his actions further painted him as insensitive and self-centered and grew huge sympathy from audiences towards Madix.

The scandal was given the “Scandoval” and it also made the internet shine a bigger light on the cast but more towards Ariana Madix. Friends and co-stars took sides with many supporting Madix and expressed disdain for Sandoval and Leviss’s actions. And being a watcher of this was incredibly entertaining. 

Ultimately, this scandal continues with the show’s last season going on and drama is still unfolding. What I live for most about this is how successful Ariana Madix has become after this. She’s thriving in a wonderful relationship, she has been and succeeded on Dancing With the Stars as the runner-up, starred in Broadway’s Chicago as the lead, and is currently in lineups for hosting Love Island USA. Don’t you just love it when the girls win cause I know I do. Overall, this was one of the craziest plotlines in reality shows I have ever seen, and the phenomenon that surrounded it I had never seen anything like it. The amount of attention it stirred up was insane and it showed off the power of reality TV. 

Kardashians: Dolce Vita Lifestyle (Kim vs Kourtney) 

This drama had my sister and I howling because of how I guess you could say “first world problems” this drama was, but my gosh it was so extremely entertaining it was to watch unfold. But here’s the breakdown. Regarding Kourtney’s wedding to Blink 182’s drummer Travis Barker, the fashion used and a major contributor to the wedding was Dolce and Gabbana (D&G) this was the focal point of the tension that was highlighted in the show. The conflict began when Kourtney accused Kim of exploiting her wedding for a business venture shortly after the wedding. 

Kourtney’s extravagant Italian wedding to Travis in May of 2022, in Portofino, Italy was ultimately coordinated with D&G, featuring custom bridal outfits and vintage themes. The wedding itself was immensely significant for the brand because it showcased archival designs. However, just four months later Kim collaborated with D&G for a special fashion collection leading Kourtney to create this narrative that her sister had not only overshadowed her wedding but also capitalized on its theme and style she had cured up for her special day. Even though people have been doing these styles of weddings for forever now. 

Moreover, Kourtney expressed that she felt betrayed and hurt by Kim’s doings, interpreting them as a sign of greed and selfishness. She believed that Kim prioritized the business opportunity of their relationship and failed to consider how it would impact her. This drama escalated when their mother, Kris Jenner, encouraged the rest of the family to promote Kim’s collection which further alienated Kourtney and twisted the knife in the situation. 

However, through Kim’s eyes, she defended her decision by pointing out the double standards, noting that Kourtney did not object to the other family members’ ventures with D&G. Kim also brought up the fact that both sisters had shared similar wedding elements in the past including location and even the wedding performer the great Andrea Bocelli which just made Kourtney’s accusations seem irrelevant. Despite Kim’s attempts to justify her decisions she ultimately acknowledges the pain and trouble she had caused and apologizes with wishes to mend their relationship. Because who wants to fight with their sister forever? 

This drama reached its peak during the show’s third season and trickled into the fourth as they revisited the past events and comments that were made before the new season aired. However, they squashed the beef and moved on swimmingly as they always do. And the new season is coming out quite soon with Kim and Khloe looking like they have been budding heads. 

The world of reality TV’s enduring fixation truly lies in its ability to blend real-life drama with the spectacle of unscripted entertainment. The gravitation towards these shows often comes from their capacity to produce authentic human emotion and conflict in the most entertaining way possible. This analysis of these two scandals from “Vanderpump Rules” and “The Kardashians” highlights its genre’s appeal. 

The “Scandoval affair illustrated how deeply personal betrayals can capture an audience. Tom Sandoval cheating with Raquel Leviss and its ultimate ending provided an exciting storyline that pulled in viewers who may have never even seen the show. I mean I wonder how the people who regularly watched it felt. The emotional weight of Ariana Madix’s response to the scandal paired with the public’s immediate support for her, underlines the show’s ability to produce strong viewer empathy and engagement. The scandal also demonstrated the strength of reality TV to transform a personal conflict into a public showcase which then extended the drama beyond its capacity. 

Similar to the fight between Kim and Kourtney over D&G collaboration highlighted the dynamics between family and siblings through business ventures. Kourtney’s feeling of betrayal by Kim, whom she accused of putting money over memories, revealed the complexities of combining personal and professional lives towards the public eye. This drama not only provided intriguing television but also started conversations about loyalty, commercialization, and sisterhood. 

In essence, reality TV and its appeal lies in its ability to present relatable yet dramatized versions of real-life situations. The genre lives and thrives on the authenticity of its “characters” emotions and the unpredictable nature of their doings that offer viewers an enticing blend of reality and entertainment. Through all of that this is why the genre remains to thrive a continues to be a force in pop culture. 

The Wonder’s of Period Pieces

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Period Pieces are some of the most coveted films and TV shows that have spanned for years as being some of the greatest movies. In this article, I will be listing some of my favourite period pieces from movies to TV shows that I have watched over the years that I feel are worth checking out. Mind you I love a good romance period piece you could not. 

The Pride and Prejudice (2005) 

Starting strong with this first one “Pride and Prejudice” the 2005 film adaptation of Jane Austen’s most coveted novel directed by Joe Wright offers a refreshing and aesthetically captivating take on the book. Starring the period piece queen Keira Knightley as our Elizabeth Bennett and Matthew Macfayden as Mr.Darcy would you believe that is the same guy from the hit TV show “Succession”? Matthew’s Mr.Darcy is a brooding and reserved character which adds a major addition to their romance. Because it contrasts with Elizabeth’s wit and independence which produces undeniable chemistry. Through this we see pieces of Mr.Darcy start to unravel because of Elizabeth’s influence that aids in his character transformation reflected in the novel. 

The way the movie is filmed is one of its most intriguing aspects of it. Cinematographer Roman Osin utilizes natural light and sweeping landscapes to set up the English Countryside environment that surrounds the story of both beauty and isolation. Their use of long takes and smooth camera movement emphasizes the film’s romantic and introspective tone. My favourite scene is the morning encounter that Elizabeth and Darcy share the way the sunrise perfectly emulates the love dreamlike quality that just exudes the characters’ emotions for one another. 

The score for this movie is also a huge factor as it would be for any other film highlights and captures the scenes in such a way that will make you not want to miss a moment. Dario Marianelli is the musical genius behind it and the music compliments the movie’s visual experience. This is through the piano compositions that take on both the period setting and the character’s inner thoughts. The music grows in key moments like ballroom scenes and the quiet inner moments of the protagonists. 

In summary, Joe Wright’s take on “Pride and Prejudice” is a wonderfully filmed and emotionally strong take on the novel. It successfully brings Jane Austen’s legendary story to life through the balance and respect of the original story but still has that sense of a modern take in the best way possible. Through the actor’s performances, this is one of those movies that is perfectly cast and the chemistry between Knightley and Macfayden is such a thrill to see and will most definitely have you swooning. 

A Knight’s Tale (2001) 

“A Knight’s Tale” directed by Brian Helgland is a fun and unconventional take on a medieval adventure. Starring 90/2000s heartthrob Heath Ledger as William Thatcher, a peasant who finds himself rising to knighthood. What I love most about this movie is that it mixes historical elements with contemporary music and themes that create a unique yet entertaining cinematic experience. Don’t you hate it when you’re watching a period film and they have made it unbearably modern? This film does it flawlessly and is not cringeworthy in the slightest. 

The film’s main narrative follows William’s journey from his poor life to becoming a favoured and celebrated knight driven by his eagerness to “change his stars” by capturing William’s perseverance, charm, and vulnerability. His chemistry with his fellow castmates including Paul Bettany Geoffrey Chaucher and Rufus Sewell as his enemy Count Adhemar adds depth and dynamics to the story. 

One of the most captivating moments of the movie is the way it incorporates modern rock music like Queen’s “We Will Rock You” and David Bowie’s “Golden Years” during the jousting tournaments and ballroom scenes. This choice of infusing the film’s energy and music made me fall in love with the film so effortlessly all while being entranced by the romance, action, and humour the movie possesses. 

This film also shines in its visuals. Richard Greatrex the Cinematographer captures the vibrancy of the medieval atmosphere from busy marketplaces to the intense jousting scenes. The choreography of the jousting and action scenes is also captivating because of its blend of authenticity and aggression. 

“A Knight’s Tale” wonderfully balanced humour and action gives a refreshing take on this period piece. Followed by its vulnerable and inspirational themes throughout the film, it explores the idea of self-determination and the pursuit of dreams against all odds and society rankings making it heartfelt and incredibly captivating. 

In conclusion, ever since my dad made me watch this movie I have come back to it every time I am a sucker for period pieces and this one holds a high spot in the ranks. Heath Ledger’s talents combined with the film’s innovative mix of old and new, ensures the film’s long-standing appeal. 

The Buccaneers (2023) 

I fell absolutely in love with this show immediately. It can be found on Apple TV and it is one of the most refreshing period dramas I have ever seen. Set in the 1870s based on Edith Wharton’s unfinished novels. The show follows a group of wealthy American women who travel to London to secure husbands and titles; however, they find themselves facing cultural clashes between their progressive attitudes and the rigid English aristocracy. 

The show surrounds the St.Georges family, more specifically the two sisters Nan and Jinny who navigate the constricting lives of London’s high society. Kristin Froseth is as radiant as Nan, when I saw her familiar face pop up on the screen I was delighted her beauty is as comparable to a sweet fairy I would say. She captures Nan’s outspoken nature and defiance against the expectations of society and provides a modern yet reliable take on its period atmosphere.

If you’re into aesthetics as I am, this show is right for you. Visually “The Buccaneers” is truly beautiful.  The production design led by Amy Maguire, and costumes by Giovanni Lipari and Kate Carin all create the immersive experience. As well as the Scottish locations used to set the scenes were incredibly delightful to see. The series’ attention to detail makes up for the show’s authenticity. The entire crew brought that 1870s vibe to life. 

Once again, the show takes on a unique way with the music composition; they also incorporate modern music similar to the show “Bridgerton” and “A Knight’s Tale”.  My favourite artists like Taylor Swift and her music make an appearance throughout the show. This incorporation is incredibly appealing especially to a wider audience all while maintaining a historical backdrop. The blend of old and new balances the elements of love, ambition, and societal pressures. 

Fair warning there is a love triangle within this show though it can be incredibly vexing it makes the show all worth it. Overall “The Buccaneers” is one of my top recommendations especially in the most recent shows that have come up. They have been renewed for a second season and I am so excited at what is yet to come. 

Each of these pieces all have their unique embellishments that make them incredibly captivating and I will constantly recommend them probably to the day I die. It is incredibly wonderful how even after centuries and centuries passing by we still create period pieces. I wonder how the 1800’s would react now. But again these are only a few period pieces that I would recommend. I probably have about 10 more to touch on but for now, I’d recommend giving these three a shot. 

The Brilliance of Beyoncé

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Cowboy Carter Album Review 

Beyonce’s latest album “Cowboy Carter” is a true testament to her versatility and ability to reinvent herself while paying tribute to her roots. Released with much excitement and anticipation this album showcased a unique blend of different genres, storylines, and musical excellence that only Queen Bey can deliver. I’ve been a massive fan of her music and artistry ever since my life truly began when I received my first Beyonce CD and have been following her ever since. Last year I was able to see her live in concert for her Renaissance Tour which is arguably my favourite Beyonce Album today so my eagerness to hear this album was through the roof. In this review, I will be exploring the depth, musicality, and some of my standout tracks from the album. 

Depth and Concepts

“Cowboy Carter” is a concept album that takes listeners on a journey through the South while blending themes of resilience, liberation, and self-discovery all with a modern twist and a taste of sultriness that Beyonce will always cultivate. The album narrative follows the alter ego Beyonce has curated that is navigating the rugged landscapes, both physically and metaphorically. The juxtaposition of traditional Western motifs with contemporary conflicts creates a rich outline that’s both incredibly nostalgic and modern. 

Musicality and Production

Musically and sonically, “Cowboy Carter” is truly untouchable. Beyonce had some of the best country stars appear on this album including the living legend Dolly Parton and the voice of Willie Nelson. With nodes of RnB, country, and hip hop this album carries an array of musical techniques that truly captivate listeners because there’s a bit of everything for everyone. I am truly glad she did not do a normal kind of strictly country album where you generally would compare or reference “country music” to be. She truly reps her Southern roots within the album with every ounce of pride and authenticity because this is the best Beyonce album I have ever heard if that makes sense. 

The Backstory of the Album

This album was 5 years in the making after Beyonce had an experience at the 2019 CMA’s that had motivated her to create it. Beyonce Wrote “ It was born out of an experience that I had years ago where I did not feel welcomed… but because of that experience, I did a deeper dive into the history of Country music and studied our rich musical archive.” also mentioned how the criticism she faced when she first entered this genre had pushed her to break from the limitations and this album considered Act II of the Renaissance which began in 2022 with the released of her previous album “act i: Renaissance” has continued showcase the musical mastermind that is Beyonce. With many features, a phenomenal production team and collaborations this album is a test of time and deserves their flowers and recognition. 

Track 1 AMERICAN REQUIEM  

This is the album opener and what a powerful opener it is. The way my body left itself for a moment was out of this world. Musically, this song perfectly emanates the entire setup and storyline for the album. It references the CMA performance controversy that she faced and the rejection that came along with it. “Used to say I spoke too country / And the rejection came said I wasn’t country ‘nough” This line was so powerful because the country community was bothered by her presence in the genre although she is Texas raised and consistently represents her southern roots in her music since her debut still it wasn’t enough. However, with American Requiem it truly shuts up the haters in the most perfect way; she exemplifies her vocal range and instrumentally it sounds like a hero or a cowboy coming back through town on her horse after defeating her enemies. It is so cinematic which makes the song so thrilling

Track 8 BODYGUARD

This sultry song has a beautiful ease and groovy tone to it that just makes you want to get up and sway. I would say it’s the song of the summer personally. It was the first song I naturally gravitated towards because of its easy tempo tone and Beyonce’s vocals are so smooth, especially at the beginning of the song. It’s a true love song and towards the end of the song the guitar picks up and gives a beautiful ending to this wonderful beat. I would say this song would be most enjoyed on a hot summer day driving along the coast. That’s what this song just exemplifies. Some sources suspect that Taylor Swift’s vocals appear in the song. Some say it’s true, some say it’s not but I am delusional so I’m going to believe it. Overall Bodyguard is such a cute yet sexy song that shows Beyonce’s sweet side which makes me love it so much. 

Track 16 II MOST WANTED 

This song features the talented vocals of Miley Cyrus and their voices blend so well together I almost cried. I’m not even going to lie. Although it’s a love song the way I see this song is about you and your best friend. I relate to it so much to my female friendships along with my sister. With the line “I’ll be your shotgun rider till the day I die” I don’t think a line has ever summed up how you would feel about those people you know have stuck beside you and will stand by you forever. Musically again this song is just truly beautiful with its slow country sound and reminds me of a hot summer day. 

Track 23 RIVERDANCE 

Riverdance has that square/line dancing feel to it with its quick pace and the vocal stacks in this song make this sexy song quite admirable. Although it has quite the lyrics because it’s Beyonce it makes it all worthwhile. You could blast this song in the car on repeat because of how funnily captivating it is. With its repetitiveness that builds as the song goes along, it makes up for such a simple yet enticing song. Famous singer Raye who is a well-rounded and brilliant figure in the music industry currently co-wrote this song. That actually might be one of the reasons why I love this song so much because she is also one of my favourite artists. Regardless, this song and its upbeat tempo will again get up and dancing, maybe even doing a little river dance. 

Track 24 TYRANT

Tyrant features the vocals of Dolly Parton; she adds a sweet sound to this heavy-based song. I felt while listening to it that this song is so Beyonce-like of course she would have this sort of song on the album. How could one deny it? This is my suspicion but I noticed a nod to her song from her self-titled album a track called “Haunted” During one of the breakdowns in the song there’s a line that goes “How did you get used to the haunting The willing the missing the wanting” to me it sounded very similar to parts from that previous song which I live for. And the way the is lyrically sandwiched it truly something with the lines of “Hangman, answer me now you owe me a debt, you stole him from me, I hated you one I envy you now” It is produced so well and perfectly you will not be able to resist the luring of this song. 

In summary “Cowboy Carter” just exudes the brilliance and rich culture that Beyonce holds. She consistently represents her roots in the most talented and perfect way possible. And this album is worth listen, cover to cover. 

Becoming A Weekend Warrior!

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This year my classmates and I got the amazing opportunity to check out the inner workings of how Rogers Arena runs its broadcast and media for the different sports and events that host. And with that opportunity the Vancouver Warriors, our local Lacrosse team gave us a shot at being a part of their social media and watching the game. Mind you I had never watched a game of lacrosse in my life. Up until that point, I only followed F1, hockey, football, and basketball mainly but lacrosse not so much. I guess I never had an appeal to it. In high school, I knew a lot of people who played it but again it was never occupancy in my mind. Up until this year. If you had told me a year ago around February that I would be in the broadcast section of Rogers Arena working for a professional sports team I genuinely would’ve laughed in your face and gone back to studying for my biology exam. But there I was a year later with my fellow BCIT classmates jumping at the opportunity to volunteer to do a piece on the Vancouver Warriors Lacrosse Team. 

February 10, 2024

Getting into a new sport always seems very daunting at first especially when you didn’t grow up playing them. I’ve always been a sports fan but I mainly swam all my life I wasn’t too intrigued in watching competitive swimming on the regular unless it was the Olympics. But Lacrosse was surprisingly easy to become infatuated with. It has a close vibe to Hockey as the rules are quite similar so that helped me understand it a little more, the aggression and excitement also grew my appeal to it as we were watching that first game. After the first game, we had the opportunity to speak to a couple of the players and the Coach (Curt Malawsky) to grab some sound bites and key points for articles we were making for the Evolution Website and Socials. And that was nerve-racking for sure the amount of imposter syndrome that was racing all over my mind and body was insane. But I did try my best to stay in the moment and just truly live it because at the start my classmates and I were under the impression that this was the only game we would be able to attend. Little did we know what journey was ahead of us as the season went on. 

March 1, 2024 

Our Instructor had sent out the invitations to another home game with the Warriors and I took the chance as soon as I heard the news. Never did I think I would be excited to see a Lacrosse game but this was also a great networking opportunity as well. This time I was extra happy getting ready to go and don’t be fooled as a girl getting ready is one of the funnest parts of going out no matter where your destination might be. From picking out the outfit, choosing what kind of makeup look I was going for, and what hairstyle made the experience all more worthwhile. For this game, I had chosen a pink ribbon in my hair because what says Lacrosse is like a pink ribbon. This night was special because it was the First Nations Night as the Vancouver Warriors gave recognition to the unceded territories of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh First Nations. It was a beautiful cultural celebration filled with traditional First Nations song and dance and a bonus The Vancouver Warriors beat the defending Champs the Buffalo Bandits! I was so invested in the game I almost forgot to create questions for the players for the post-game conference. Regardless it was such a memorable night and the second game was a lot more enjoyable and I was getting a better sense of the game. 

March 15, 2024

The third game came along and again I jumped at the opportunity, however this time I decided to take pictures for the St. Patrick’s Day celebration. With that, I was finally understanding how the game works and was an avid watcher as well. And becoming familiar with the staff as well was super nice. They all recognized us and greeted my classmate and me. It was super comforting. I also had gotten to know the girl who worked for the Warriors social media and she was so excited to see us as well. The environment was less intimidating for sure. Lacrosse is such a funny sport but so entertaining like hockey the aggression level as I mentioned earlier was quiet, however, it’s the way this game could keep you on your toes consistently. It did help that the Warriors played phenomenally and had some extra Saint Paddy’s luck in the game. Along with the game itself, I always forget how electric a Vancouver crowd can be. Although Rogers wasn’t at capacity as a Canucks game would be which is obvious of course Kat there’s a different popularity status. The crowd was soaring and roaring with noise and cheers to support this team. That win was well deserved and it set up a fun post-game conference for sure. 

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April 13, 2024 

This was the last home again my classmates and I would be attending. The Warriors faced off against the New York Riptides in a very exciting game. Coming into the media section felt like we had been there all season saying our hellos to people and having great conversations with the staff. It was a lot more relaxed and bittersweet since it was our last game to volunteer for. So my classmates and I tried to enjoy every bit of it. I was once again doing some photography for the team so I could enjoy watching the game instead of analyzing it. But I enjoyed editing the photos and adding some nice touches to them. They all turned out pretty amazing. Moreover, this game as I remember was quite intense. Both teams were playing hard. New York’s defense was quite tight, especially in the first half. But with the Warrior’s aggressive offense, they beat the Riptides 16-10, and after overcoming a rough start to the season and becoming the bottom team the last leg of the regular season came in favor of the Warriors and they were very close to clinching a playoff spot. They didn’t but their performance build back up from the bottom was quite admirable. After the game, we shared our gratitude towards the Warriors staff and media team for the opportunities we were given and left with an extra pep in our step. It was a great ending to the season for us and the memories we made were truly unforgettable. 

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All in all, getting into a new sport is such a thrilling thing and Lacrosse surprised me. And again I never thought I would be able to say now that I am a lacrosse fan. The opportunity that the Vancouver Warriors Media gave us was such an experience and I am forever grateful for it I do have hopes to be able to do it all again in my second year. It would be even better now that I have an understanding of how the game works and I would love to pursue a career in sports media and expand my knowledge of the inner workings of how media is run for professional sports teams.

Beautiful Spots and Sights to See

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I’ve lived in Vancouver pretty much my entire life. I’ve travelled around the world but some places in Vancouver could simply never be replaced. We have some of the most beautiful spots to sightsee and some awesome food places that are truly unique to Vancouver life. Here are some of my favourite spots to go to and check out especially as summer comes along. 

Deep Cove: 

Deep Cove is based in North Vancouver which is home to a beautiful beach. It’s quiet and serene with lots around the area to check out and try. First off if you love to kayak, paddle board, or even just take a dip the Deep Cove beach is the spot for you. This beach is quite rocky but very enclosed with a great view of the Valleys and it is the perfect spot for family, friends, and furry friends. Also, if you’ve been planning to start hiking or just simply want to reconnect with nature the hike to Quarry Rock is there as well. My friends and I love doing this trial. It’s not too difficult to do and the ambiance and energy are unmatched. The view from the top of the rock is top-notch and worth the hike up. What’s great about Deep Cove is the little town around it that holds a lot of great food places as well. If you wanna get a cold treat, Deep Cove Ice Cream is a great place to grab some scoops of your favourite flavours. I always steer towards the bubble gum or cotton candy flavours my go-to order since I was a kid. Or if you’re looking for something savoury and sweet Honey Donuts & Goodies is a great lunch spot to grab some of their famous donuts or even some brunch it gets quite busy so if you want to check it out I recommend early afternoon during the weekdays but these might change during the summer break. If you’re craving a hardy meal Dip Co. Sandwich makes some of the best sandwiches and is even home of the big cheese! Overall Deep Cove is a great place to check out and should be a pit stop to check out in Vancouver. 

Deer Lake Park: 

Deer Lake is Located in the city of Burnaby and is a prominent figure in Burnaby and a spot for everyone. If you’re looking for a nice walk without hiking Deer Lake Park has a great trail that surrounds the entire lake and is a great source of exercise on a beautiful sunny day. They hold lots of community events The Burnaby Blooms are being held from 11-2 pm these next two Saturdays May 18th and May 25th. They have many vendors and wonderful flower arrangements and gardens to look at and snap some pictures of this is located at the Festival Gardens just found along the Deer Lake Pathway or right next to Shadbolt Theatre. I grew up coming to this spot especially with my friends because it’s free and affordable if you would like to do any activities. My best friend and I love going on pedal boats together every summer. It only costs us up to 10-20$ to rent out for an hour and it’s a fun way to soak in the sun and adventure around the lake. And you will be followed by dozens of geese around the park and lake. But one thing I do not recommend is eating popcorn while pedal boating. Trust me you will have a flock of geese trailing behind you or even one trying to say hi on the boats with you. This place is truly one of my favourite places even to just hang out and a definite recommendation for locations to check out this summer. 

Greta Bar and Shark Club: 

If you’re looking for some nighttime fun, Greta Bar located along Cordova St is a great place to wind down. I’ve got some fun stories at this bar and so can you! I’ve gotten Santa to buy my friends and me a round of shots, that’s what I would consider holiday cheer. Greta has great music, a fun atmosphere, and fun arcade games to play if you’re not on the dance floor. You can purchase a game card and you can play all kinds of games like Mario Kart, Pac-Man, and Basketball, or even just take some cute photo booth pictures with your friends. And if you’re celebrating a birthday you can reserve a table on their website and try the big fishbowl drink they’ve got. Craving some food? Greta has a food truck-style lineup where you can order tasty garlic parmesan fries for you and your friends to share. Those fries hit when you’re about 2-3 tequila shots in and a much-needed remedy after dancing. Are you a sports fan? The Shark Club is a great spot to check out if you want to go watch your favourite team play more specifically the Canucks especially now in the playoffs. The Shark Club Bar & Grill is located on West Georgia St just by Rogers Arena and BC Place Stadium and if you’re coming from a game you’ll make it just in time for happy hour. My go-to order is the pink lemonade. I’m not sure what’s in it but it is really good and well priced. I usually go for chicken tenders and fries and there is seating so it’s nice to just chill out and have a seat, drink some cold ones, have a cold chicken tendie, and have a great conversation with your friends or fellow sports fan. These two bars will always be my go-to spots in downtown Vancouver to grab drinks with my friends and another spot you can add to your travel list.

Granville Island Public Market: 

Granville Island is a great way to spend the day in Vancouver with lots of fun treats, activities, and shops to check out. I love to stop at the Crystal Ark. It holds an energy that is just truly calm and peaceful. The food spots there are a must-try. They’ve got pizza places, yummy donuts, and fresh produce markets all located in the Granville Island Public Market. It also holds many cute shops as well, especially for souvenirs. And don’t ever think you’re too old to check out the Kids Market. It has so many fun shops and art that make up the whimsical atmosphere that the kid’s market holds. Granville Island has such a comforting environment and is quite nostalgic as well. Every time my friends and I visit it has such a cinematic feel to it the same sense as a romance movie or a coming-of-age film. Especially in the spring/summertime, it is such a great place for every age because there’s truly something for everyone! 

Overall, these spots are just a few of the best places located in Vancouver but these are just some places I love to always go back to and always miss when travelling. There are a handful of more places that I could list off but you’d be reading this as if it was a 200-page novel. It is truly a wonder to be living in Vancouver because, within every 4 seasons, there is always an activity to do.

Formula 1 the Phenomenon

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Formula One aka F1 for short is widely known as the pinnacle of motorsport, it combines cutting edge technology, elite athleticism, and strategic skills. This global phenomenon captivates millions of fans around the globe with its fast speed drama and engineering legends. But what does Formula One have that makes it so unique and complex? Today we are diving into the inner workings of the sport, extracting its history, the designs of cars, race structure, and the crew that makes it all worthwhile. 

A Brief look into the History of F1: 

Formula One traces back to the early 20th century, however the modern F1 World Championship started in 1950. The series was created by the Federation Internationale de L’Automobile (FIA), its goal was to bring together the best drivers and its fastest cars. Over the decades, F1 has evolved immensely, moving with the times and the advances of technology and changes in regulation have helped shape the sport into what it is today. 

The Formula 1 Car: 

The Make-up of a Formula One car is truly complex in every way. If you’re just getting into the sport you don’t need to be a car geek to understand it. However if you’re interested in the inner workings here’s a breakdown of the elements that build the race cars we see today.

Chassis: 

The Chassis is the car’s structural backbone, it is usually made from carbon fibre to secure a strong yet lightweight frame. This provides the necessary rigidity and safety for the drivers. 

Aerodynamics

Aerodynamics is a huge factor in F1. If you notice the wings along the cars other than them being a nice fashionable touch to the car, their role is major. These intricate wings and bodywork help maximize downforce, this helps the car grip the track during those high-speed turns. And there is this little (but big thing) called DRS which you may hear being enabled during the race. DRS stands for Drag Reduction System. The chasing driver would enable this to open up back flaps to increase the speed of their car to help overtake the car in front of them. 

Power Unit: 

The Power Unit (PU) in today’s cars is a hybrid working system that combines V6 turbocharged engines with a Energy Recovery System (ERS). The ERS traps energy when braking and from exhaust heat, this converts it into electrical energy and boosts the cars performance. 

Tires 

Also seen as Tyres are produced and supplied by Pirelli you will see this name at every race and almost every type of F1 branding. They are designed to provide the most optimal performance in all kinds of weather conditions. Teams have a choice of different kinds of compounds (soft,medium,hard) that reflect each track condition whether it’s hot, cold, or wet and this all is a part of their race strategy. 

Brakes

Because of the advanced braking system the cars obtain this allows them to decelerate from the intense high speeds. The utilisation of the lightweight and heat resistant carbon fibre brake discs and pads the performance of brake efficiency is key for a car’s lap time. 

A Look at Race Weekend:

A F1 Race weekend has two practice sessions; this is when the drivers can get more comfortable with the track and teams can see if they need to make any adjustments to their cars. Saturday morning usually holds the last Free Practice session. 

Qualifying

Qualifying is on Saturday in the afternoon and this occurs to see how the grid line up will be for the race on Sunday. They have three knockout rounds (Q1,Q2, and Q3). 

Q1: All 20 drivers compete, those with slowest times in the bottom 5 are eliminated. 

Q2: 15 drivers remain to compete and again the bottom 5 are eliminated. 

Q3: With 10 drivers left they race for the fastest times in which they battle for pole position which is located at the very front of the grid.  

Race Day

Sunday is our main event. This is the day the race is held. And for the west coast sometimes these race times can be very early. The earliest I woke up to watch a race was the Singapore Grand Prix of 2023 where Carlos Sainz’s Ferrari beat the Red Bull Racing winning streak. Moreover, all 20 drivers line up on the grid based on their qualifying results and ultimate positions. These races start with a standing start. So if you’re familiar with Nascar they have a moving start whereas a standing start would be comparable to a Track Running Race where the runners wait till the gun pops off for them to start racing. Instead of a gun popping off, there are lights that drivers have a close eye on. Their reaction time is very key to the beginning performances. The races are about 305 km, roughly about 90 mins. Drivers only score points if they finish in the top 10, 25 points for 1st all the way to just 1 point for 10th place. 

Team’s Efforts and Strategy 

As much as F1 is about the skills of the drivers, teamwork and strategic game plan is just as important as it would be in any other sport. The teams consist of hundreds of personnel like engineers, strategists, and a pit crew; they all must work in unison to deliver the best performance. 

Race Strategy

Each team must develop a game plan or race strategies that have to consider tire wear, fuel load and the trickiest weather conditions. When you see the drivers being asked to pit, which is basically having the drivers come back to each respective team’s garage to fix a part of the car and have a tire change, that decision is made during the race in real time. 

Radios/Communication

There is constant back and forth communication between the drivers and their pit wall through a radio. Drivers will report any incidents regarding another racer or their car and whether or not they need to make or manage the car to deliver the best results. 

Drivers

Formula One Drivers are some of the most elite athletes in the world. They go through major physical and mental training to handle the G-Force that occurs during the races and must maintain focus over the long races during any condition. They also must have an understanding of their respective cars to give and provide feedback for peak performance. 

Teams

F1 teams are prestigious organizations that are often backed by major car manufacturers or corporate sponsors. Teams like Red Bull, Mercedes, Ferrari, and Mclaren had invested majorly in research and development of the cars. Which then they continue to constantly push the boundaries of what can be possible in the world of motorsport. 

Rules and Regulations

The FIA enforces an array of rules and regulations to ensure safety, fairness and a competitive balance. These rules hit everything all the way from the cars dimensions and materials to race conducts and points scoring. Regulations continue to progress as technology emerges and helps maintain the sports integrity. 

Safety

Safety is the crown in F1. Innovations like Halo (a protective ring that surrounds the drivers cockpit), advanced crash structures, and consistent test runs that improve the drivers safety. 

Formula One is an alluring blend of technology, strategy and human abilities. It also does help the drivers to be quite easy on the eyes for the girls. This sport has been such an interest I would have never have thought I would get into. If you’re just starting out I would recommend to watch the Drive to Survive Series on Netflix they explain how the sport works in a more visual sense and dramatic too. And as the sport continues to evolve, it will always remain a continuous testament to human limits and strive for success for the teams and drivers alike.

Vancouver’s Very Own

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As many stories you hear of icons and legends that have come from all over the world Vancouver holds a handful of celebrities that are more than just local legends. They span from Artist, Actors, and Athletes just to name a few. And maybe even your favourite celebrity grew up in a city near you. 

Ryan Reynolds 

Most famously known as a comedian, writer , actor and active sports team owner Ryan Reynolds career has spanned for over 20 years and is still thriving today. Reynolds Born on October 23 1976 Vancouver BC has been active since he was just 13 years making his debut on a teen soap opera on Nickelodeon called Hillside. He even graduated from Kitsilano Secondary school in 1994. Reynolds continued to have small roles in movies and became leads in some iconic Romantic Comedies like Definitely Maybe, The Proposal, and some action movies like X-Men Origins: Wolverine Green Lantern where he met his now future wife and fellow actress Blake Lively and his famously devilish Canadian Anti Hero Deadpool. This was a blockbuster hit which then went on to co-write and produce its famous sequel Deadpool 2. Coming up in July the third movie of the Franchise will be releasing and will be following the adventures of Deadpool and Wolverine where Ryan has brought back Hugh Jackman to reprise his role once more. Other than his acting chops Ryan gives a lot of credit recognizing Vancouver and is always adding details in his work that reflects Vancouver. He is active in contributing to the Vancouver Food Bank and Blake Lively and Him both have contributed since 2020 about 2 million dollars towards Food Banks Canada, the at-risk youth charity Covenant House in Toronto and Vancouver,  and St. Francis Xavier University in Nova Scotia. The details within his work are seen within his famous Deadpool Movies where most of it was shot here in Vancouver. Locations like Science World,Chinatown, The Cobalt Hotel, and Arch alley are some of the filming locations used within various sequences of the movie. He also co owns and invests in a couple of sports teams including, Wrexham FC, Alpine Racing Team , and Ottawa Senators. Safe to say he’s quite the businessman and one of Vancouver’s best to come out of the city. Overall, Ryan Reynolds’ career still thrives today with his show Wrexham FC still running and many upcoming projects set to arrive this year. 

Taylor Russell 

Taylor Russell has been active since 2012 she’s an actor and style icon as most recently Harry Styles current girlfriend which makes him 10 times cooler than he already is. Taylor has starred in some of my favourite movies and maybe yours as well. The two that first come to mind are Waves (2019) and Bones and All (2022). She was born in Deep Cove North Vancouver which is such a place to grow up in with its beautiful coastal lookouts and popular spot for the summer. I was actually quite surprised to find out that she was from Vancouver but I was very pleased to hear so because other than her outstanding work as an actress she is a very popular style icon with her looks constantly turning heads in each event she walks into. Her aura is so admirable and the way she carries herself is so soft and graceful. Here’s one of my favourite looks that she just recently stunned at this year’s Met Gala in Loewe.

And another one of my favourite looks of hers was at the London Film Festival in 2022 while promoting the Bones and All film wearing Schiaparelli.

When I first discovered her back in 2019 with the Waves film I couldn’t help but fall in love with her talent. That film is definitely in my top list. She portrays a teenage girl trying to figure out life after the events of her older brother going to prison and the struggles and grief that come along with it all trying to continue on with her life as a young girl. It is truly so nice to know that someone so talented could come from a place just a half an hour away from my house or maybe just down the street from you! And as a massive fan girl when her and Harry Styles were seen in deep cove earlier this year I have to admit there was a part of me that went, what if I just took a day off to go to deep cove? Overall Taylor is still acting and stunting looks to this day and I cannot wait to see her career keep progressing over the years. 

Seth Rogen 

Longtime actor , comedian , writer and producer Seth Rogen is another icon from VanCity. Seth born on April 15th 1982 has been active since 1999 starring in Judd Apatow’s Freaks and Geeks a short lived TV series starring some big names like James Franco and Linda Cardellini. Seth attended Point Grey Secondary School and just like Ryan Reynolds still reflects Vancouver within his work. In the Netflix Series Breakfast Lunch and Dinner Seth Rogen and chef David Chung take on a handful of food spots around the city but before that Seth and David checked out some highlight spots around Vancouver to work up an appetite. They first stopped at Queen Elizabeth Park to spark one up and really get that full Vancouver experience in the best way possible. They tried out some donuts from Lee’s Donuts in the Granville Island Public Market, Sun Sui Wah Seafood and Apna Bhaia. You can check this all out on Netflix. It is the first episode of the series. And have you ever heard a familiar voice on the skytrain a couple years ago? Seth used to be a guest speaker on the Translink Skytrains; they were quite a surprise to hear especially with his silly yet legendary laugh is one you couldn’t miss. In Summary, Seth Rogen will always be a name you won’t forget and because of his constant references of Vancouver he’ll always be a local legend around here. And hey you might catch him at some Canucks games once in a while. 

Vancouver has many more famous names that continue to shine in their careers whether it’s through fashion, artistry , acting or athleticism. But it’s always nice and sort of comforting that some of your possible favourite celebs could have just grown up right next door to you. I’m still holding out hope that Taylor Russell and Harry Styles take another Deep Cove trip. Maybe that will be the only time my friends will possibly catch a glimpse of Harry since he hasn’t done a show here in forever. Otherwise, if you’re passionate about acting or singing, maybe you could be our next local legend. You never know what your cards hold for the future.

Top 3’s of Taylor’s

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Taylor Swift’s career has been active since 2003 to the present day. Over 20 years of a career she has released 11 studio albums and 4 re-released albums 5 eps and 4 live albums. And to this day she is still rocking and selling out stadiums across the globe. Safe to say whether you’re a swiftie or not she’s been in the game and it’s rare you wouldn’t know her name or music. Taylor has been an important piece in my life and many others as well. My sister introduced me to her when she came out with her first self-titled album back in 2006 and we have been religiously listening to her music ever since. Begging dad to buy the new CD for years up until streaming services broke out and we would have little listening parties on the old computer or in the car. Safe to say we are long-time swifties. This props up the question: if you had to pick 3 albums from Taylor’s Discography, which albums would it be and would you have a story behind them? 

I would say my top three would be 1989, Red (Taylor’s Version), and Folklore. Now it used to be Speak Now as my third however as I have gotten older I feel more of a connection with Folklore. It’s a funny thing, what time can do to a person and how much change can be brought forth with it. So let’s break down the stories behind the reasoning of my top three and maybe you could relate to them as well. 

 Red (Taylor’s Version) 

Red (Taylor’s Version) was released November 12 2021 this was her first re-recorded album and in my personal opinion, it has been her best re-record, especially the Vault Songs that were added to it. To all my non-swifties “From the Vault Songs” refers to the songs that were written for the Red Album but didn’t make the release back in 2012 when it was originally released. And it contained one of the most heart-wrenching songs in the All Too Well 10-minute version. I could go into major detail with this song but I will just break down how that day went for my sister and me and maybe you could have a similar experience to ours as well. We scheduled the release date of the Short Film that was connected to the song that Taylor had directed and we got snacks, and tissues and told our dad that we needed the living room and TV for like 20 minutes just for this music video premiere. He understood the importance. I am pretty sure we started crying about 2 minutes into the song. We were overwhelmed with emotion because there was a part of us that felt like “Wow how could someone treat another in such a way for them to cook up a 10-minute song about their relationship fallout” Only Taylor could, really that’s the only explanation for that one. Regardless, that entire album top to bottom is such a masterpiece and the vault songs complement them so unbelievably well. 

Folklore

Folklore was released on July 24, 2020. My sister and I propped up my speaker and computer and turned on the little disco light in my room and played the album from top to bottom. First impressions we didn’t vibe with it too much. Now if you’re a Swiftie and can relate it was a shock. The style of music surprised us because it was such a shift from the Lover album truly and sonically it was sulky and ethereal in a way. I guess the people that we were then just couldn’t relate to it quite yet. Because every Taylor Swift fan knows you have a song by her for any situation no matter what. I guess as time went on especially after Covid and life started to pick up once again that’s when me and my sisters’ situation related more and more to that album. Heartbreaks, relationship fallouts, self-sabotaging, and all the fun stuff started to unfold and I found a sense of comfort in this album. Track 8 “August” was already our top song from 2020 but it hit more in 2022. I went through a friendship fallout with someone that didn’t appreciate me enough but at the same time, I wanted them to be someone they just couldn’t be for me. With the lyrics “wanting was enough, for me it was enough” those words became a sacred meaning that would stick with me all summer after high school. You don’t realize how much a song can hurt and heal you all at the same time. I say this because, at the beginning of that summer, those words were a painful memory of what my mindset was like during that friendship, wanting to be around that person was enough for me, just being near their energy was good enough, but why couldn’t they feel the same for me or maybe the did I just wasn’t aware. That song would drive me crazy because of how painfully true it was at the time. But as that summer winded down I grew and reflected on that situation as one does and that song doesn’t even come close to hurting me now because I can look back at all the good that came out of it and I wouldn’t be the person I am today without going through that event. Folklore is as sad and true as that album is. Despite the tears I cried listening to it, I realize how helpful and necessary that album became for me. The sense of clarity I found within it was such a spectacle. And that’s why it lies at number two on my list. 

1989 

Now it’s time for my top album to shine. 1989 was released on October 27th, 2014 this album was the game changer for me and changed the course of my life forever. 1989 sonically and lyrically was truly so wild for my sister and me. It was a sound that Taylor hadn’t fully enveloped towards which was pop. This was huge going from country to pop. We got a taste of it in the previous album Red which was released two years prior but not fully committed to that sound. Tracks like “Out of the Woods”, “I Wish You Would”, and “Wildest Dreams” really made me fall in love with the album and still have each song on repeat 10 years later. I appreciate it now more than ever and it’s still my top album today. This album, like many of Taylor’s albums, brought my sister and me together truly because I was at an age where I could fully be aware of the events that were going on. So we watched all of the music video premieres, we got our dad to buy it on CD and he ended up buying the Deluxe one with the extra songs and the Polaroids with them. I wish I still had those Polaroids if you still have them. I’m jealous. 

Overall, each of these albums holds a special place in my heart as do her others do as well. Each one I can connect to a different era of life. So I wonder once again if you could pick your top 3 albums of Taylor’s which one would it be?

Try to Resist a Movie like This!

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Do you have those movies that you always simply go back to? Movies that bring you a sense of comfort and home that can never be replaced or ever get sick of? My older sister and I always have these movies on rotation to come back to. We’ve got A Cinderella Story (2004), Mamma Mia 1, and Princess Diaries 2. Each of these movies holds a special place in my memories. They all played a big part in who I am today and no matter where I am or who I am these movies will always be stagnant in the best way possible. 

A Cinderella Story (2004) 

Made in 2004 this movie takes a twist on the fairy tale of Cinderella based in The California Valley Sam Montgomery Our Cinderella is a teenager who is forced to live with her stepmom and step sisters who are very much full of themselves and constantly cast out and take advantage of Sam’s kindness. Now this movie was made at the peak of those coming-of-age movies because that star-studded cast truly reflects the era it was made in. Our two leads in the movie were none other than Lizzie Mcguire herself Hillary Duff and heartthrob Chad Michael Murray best of all our stepmother is played by the iconic Jennifer Coolidge she has been in many movies and TV shows like Legally Blonde, 2 Broke Girls, and more recently White Lotus. The plot of the movie is Sam trying to break from the grips of her step sisters all while balancing her romance with Quarterback Austin Ames (Chad Michael Murray) but they are not aware of each other’s true identity because they have been emailing back and forth through emails but they know they go to the same high school just in different social circles.

They agree to meet at a school Halloween dance Sam must be back at the diner where she works before midnight or else her stepmother will catch her. This moment will forever be burned into my memory from the moment I saw it all those years ago. You know when you watch a fairytale movie where the girl appears in her gown and looks breathtaking and everyone at the ball stops and stares in admiration. When Sam appears in her beautiful gown and that cheesy pop song plays as she ascends down the stairs I always aspire to have those moments in life no matter how old I become it’s always nice to feel like a princess at times.

And of course, after a dramatic love confession and kiss in the rain the movie closes out with a happy ending. The guy gets the girl she stands up against her stepmom and sisters and Sam and Austin leave together for College. I’ll always come back to this movie no matter what. Sometimes you can just sense when it’s time to put on a movie and if you’ve never seen it I highly suggest checking it out. 

Princess Diaries 2 (2004) 

Starring Anne Hathaway, Julie Andrews, and Chris Pine this movie is yet again another star-studded cast and movie filled with nostalgia, romance, and excitement. Now you may be familiar with the first movie where we found out that Mia Thermopolis (Anne Hathaway) was a princess and her grandmother is the Queen of Genovia (Julie Andrews) but the second movie personally is truly my favourite. Sometimes the sequels are better. This movie could be right up your alley especially if you’re a book reader because this story contains everyone’s favourite brewing enemies-to-lovers arc between Nicholas (Chris Pine) and Mia. This movie secured my big first crush on Chris Pine other than Chad Michael Murray but he’s a blonde Chris is a Brunette so two different cases.

Moreover, This movie reflects a lot on the importance of girlhood and female friendships. This is reflected in the wonderful friendship between Mia and Lily, her longtime best friend who comes to visit her before Mia’s arranged marriage to an eligible English bachelor. The movie goes on the budding chemistry between Mia and Nicholas and they can’t help but fall for each other as Mia is on the journey to becoming the next Queen of Genovia. This movie is always a safe space for me to come back to. I guess you could say I love a happy ending but the music, the message, and the glamour of it all draw me in every single time. How could you resist a movie like this? 

Mamma Mia (2008) 

Mamma Mia is arguably the greatest movie/musical of all time. There is no denying this movie has that absolute magic and ooze of nostalgia that you may need to cheer up your day. The cast is pact with every name you could think of for example Meryl Streep the one and only. And the soundtrack is ABBA I just know in times of trouble you blast a bit of ABBA and all your worries wither away. The aesthetics, scenery, music, and acting are untouchable with this one. I’m pretty sure I know the entire script by heart from beginning to end regardless of whether you like the different renditions of the songs, some are good, some are bad they are still so iconic even if it’s Pierce Brosnan singing SOS. Although that one is pretty bad. Aside from that, the plot of this movie is just so captivating. 

Donna Sheridan (Meryl Streep) and her daughter Sophie (Amanda Seyfried) are gearing up the hotel for Sophie’s wedding. This all takes place on a little Island in Greece called Kalokairi Donna wandered off too all those years ago and has built a life for her and her daughter. But Sophie does a remarkable thing in searching for her real dad; she sends out three wedding invitations: Bill (Stellan Skarsgard), Sam (Pierce Brosnan), and Harry (Colin Firth) all in the hope they will attend her wedding. This stirs up some trouble on Donna’s little island as she is faced with her past flames and is in constant confusion as to why they are here. As the story progresses with the help of Donna’s long-time friends Tanya (Christine Baranski) and Rosie (Julie Walters) Donna tries to navigate life now that she’s faced with her past. In various songs and numbers that reflect each scenario placed summed up in an ABBA song, this movie holds the specialist place and my heart. 

Now you may be wondering why these three movies make them so special they all sound the same. However, what you might miss is the little details that can reflect in your life that have a major impact on people. For me, the Cinderella story represents hard work paying off, making sure you don’t let anyone diminish your dreams, and shooting for the stars. Also, don’t be afraid to ask or accept help. You never know if you could be your fairy godmother.  Through Princess Diaries 2, Mia’s character as well as The Queens Character taught me how to be poise and not to be afraid to make mistakes and take risks. Sometimes what you think you need in life could be the exact opposite and embrace the unexpected. Lastly, Mamma Mia gives me a craving for adventure and new opportunities.