Fun With Photos: Sunset Edition
A GAL NAMED RANIA
So last week I started this new little game, and it was quite successful. Successful being defined as having more than one person play. So A BIG THANK YOU to my four friends who participated :) Haha. The answers are now up so check it out if you didn't get a chance to do so last week! And now for this week's theme: SUNSETS because who doesn't love the radiant setting of our planet's favorite star?!?!

OBJECTIVE: Match each of the 3 photos with either of these 3 places: Kauai, Trinidad, or Costa Rica. Post your answers as a comment below, and in one week from now, I will provide the answers. Simple, but very fun if you are easily amused. And if you don't wish to play, feel free to enjoy my fabulous photography :)


A. 
B. 
C. 
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Melrose Place, Can You Please Evict Violet Cause I'm Ready To Move In?! Wait, I Heard You Just Did!
A GAL NAMED RANIA

This past Tuesday commenced the CW's airing of the seventh straight episode of its 2009 version of MELROSE PLACE. Unlike the original 90210, I never followed this particular 90's smash drama. My only knowledge of the series was that it took place in an LA apartment and that Heather Locklear starred in it. So when news of the Melrose Place revival started spreading, I wasn't that intrigued. However, when the teasers finally hit the small screen, I was sold enough to give it a try. *Kudos to the editors, marketing people, producers, etc. on that one* 

Now remember, I had no preconceived notions for the new Melrose Place since I had no idea what it was about or an affinity for the original. By the end of the pilot though, I must admit that I was pleasantly surprised :) That is until Violet (Ashlee Simpson-Wentz) showed up at the very last minute and ruined everything with one poorly acted scream, if that's even possible! 

I wanted to give Ashlee a break since I am a fan of her music! Yes, that's right! I was in love with her debut album, Autobiography as were many girls at the time. I also found her short lived reality show to be quite entertaining. Even her stint on 7th Heaven a few years prior wasn't all that bad. It was official, I liked Ashlee Simpson a whole lot more than her annoying older sister, Jessica. But then, the SNL thing happened, she started dating Pete Wentz, got preggers, and had a shotgun wedding! Tsk tsk, Ashlee, I thought you were more responsible than that! But it's okay. Things happen, we learn to accept them, and move on! Everything was looking up for Ashlee. A new husband, a new healthy baby boy, and a brand new chapter in her young life! 

But then she was cast on Melrose Place! I, being a fan of Ashlee Simpson, was excited, but as previously mentioned, that excitement went down the drain with one simple SCREAM! Trust me people; it was that bad! And with each passing episode her acting has just gotten worse and worse. From the random empty stares, atrocious delivery of lines, and inability to appeal to anyone (real and fake: audience and fictional apartment mates) watching her in any scene in just absolutely painful. Sorry, Ashlee, but it's the honest truth. You can't act :( I don't know if it's a temporary thing or permanent, but for now, it is just bad! 

Maybe it's not entirely your fault though. The character of Violet is pretty stupid, over the top, and seems a bit unnecessary to the plot of the television show. Does that mean the writers are to blame? It is quite possible, but then again every other story line on the show has been quite captivating, and all the other actor's performances have been great if not superb! Let's discuss:

> Actress, Katie Cassidy, does a fabulous job of portraying the uber confident, sexy, and determined junior publicist, ELLA. Despite her being the "bitch" of the show, one cannot help but love her and see that she really is a good person deep down inside! 

> Canadian native, Shaun Sipos, also does a phenomenal job playing DAVID, the "rich" kid who seems to have a perfect life but actually, steals art and jewelry to make the big bucks in order to cover up his failing relationship with his doctor father and maintain his trust-fund image. And yet again, you cannot help but love him despite his secret life of thievery.  

> Stephanie Jacobsen is another great actress who makes LAUREN's task of going to med school and working at a hospital look so easy. That is until you find out she's behind on her tuition and has to resort to soliciting herself to make ends meet. And once again, the audience still loves her even though she's doing the dirty with who knows who!

> Actor, Michael Rady, known for his roles as Kostas in The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants films and Max in ABC Family's Greek pulls out another stellar performance with the character of JONAH. He plays the sweet, quirky aspiring filmmaker so well that every girl can't help but swoon when he enters a scene. 

> Cloverfield's breakout star, Jessica Lucas, also does a fantastic job with her character, RILEY. She is the perfect fit for the down-to-earth first grade school teacher who's engaged to Jonah. And although she may possibly have a "thing" for neighbor, Auggie, you love her just the same!

> Speaking of AUGGIE, Colin Egglesfield, does a really good job of portraying the recovering alcoholic, sous chef who loves to jog and help out others! And yet again, although he is more than likely responsible for the murder of Sydney (crazy landlady/Melrose Place alum) in the pilot episode, the audience still hearts him. 

> And last but not least there's VIOLET played by the oh so lovely Ashlee Simpson-Wentz. Her character claims to be the stepdaughter of once breathing Sydney and manages to run from the cops, get arrested, steal clothes, dress slutty to get hired, break into more than one apartment, get a poor bartender fired, seduce and then blackmail David's father, plot against people, and make a bunch more irrational and completely insane decisions all within a matter of weeks! The character is absolutely horrible, but I do wonder if another actress was playing the part if I and many others would actually not mind her. 

But anyway, it seems like the network has magically seeped into my brain and heard my complaints because as of yesterday a statement was released saying that Ashlee Simpson-Wentz will no longer be starring on Melrose Place. The producers claim it was planned and already in the script, but I highly doubt that. I just think they realized that the audience doesn't understand her character and that her acting wasn't necessarily helping the situation. Unfortunately, the press release also stated that Colin Egglesfield was also being let go. That I do not understand, and am extremely sad about. Auggie is a great character and should be kept on the series. For more information regarding this news click the links below :)

http://www.eonline.com/uberblog/watch_with_kristin/b150239_melrose_place_ashlee_simpson-wentz.html?utm_source=eonline&utm_medium=rssfeeds&utm_campaign=rss_topstories

http://www.eonline.com/uberblog/watch_with_kristin/b150330_colin_egglesfield_explains_his_shocking.html?utm_source=eonline&utm_medium=rssfeeds&utm_campaign=imdb_topstories

Without Violet/Ashlee Simpson-Wentz, MELROSE PLACE IS SURPRISINGLY A DECENT SHOW! I recommend it to all you 20-somethings out there. Despite the sometimes unlikely drama, a good portion of the show is quite relatable when it comes to trying to build your career and dealing with relationships. Plus, it doesn't hurt that the entire cast is exceedingly sexy! Overall, it keeps you very entertained on a Tuesday night :)

Oh and just to reiterate, Ashlee Simpson-Wentz, I do not hate you but will miss making fun of Violet and her psychotic ways. Life wise, it is very sad you got fired, and I'm sorry! Show wise though, I'm over it. Now where can I sign the lease cause I'm ready to move in?!?!
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Fun With Photos: Leaf Edition
A GAL NAMED RANIA
For some strange reason my last three major trips have all been to tropical destinations: Kauai, Trinidad, & Costa Rica. While traveling through these humid but heavenly locales I naturally took a ton of pictures. So I thought it would be fun to start a little game where YOU (my very much appreciated reader) tries to figure out what country each picture below was taken in! 

Objective: Match each of the 3 photos with either of these 3 places: Kauai, Trinidad, or Costa Rica. Post your answers as a comment below, and in one week from now, I will provide the answers. Simple, but very fun if you are easily amused. And if you don't wish to play, feel free to enjoy my fabulous photography :) 

A. 
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Backstreet Boys Making a Comeback? We shall see.
A GAL NAMED RANIA

So last week I had the random pleasure of watching the Backstreet Boys (YES, YOU READ RIGHT) the Backstreet Boys perform their new not so catchy single, "Straight Through My Heart" on The Tonight Show with Conan O'Brien. Here are my thoughts:

NICK --> You annoy me, and I still don't like you or your voice. However, the jacket you wore during this performance was very nice as was your overall ensemble!

AJ --> Although you are still balding, I still heart you and your sexy voice. Keep up the sobriety!

BRIAN --> I thought you had "swine flu." How were you able to perform live so soon after being diagnosed? Plus, why are you always having health issues? Please take care of yourself, and stay well. 

HOWIE --> I never cared for you when I was a little girl, but you are incredibly sexy and my new favorite!

KEVIN --> What the hell happened to you? To be honest, I actually forgot your name and had to go look it up. Maybe that's why you left the group because no one ever knew who you were, or maybe, you are just really smart! I'm going to go with your intelligence on this one.

Oh and just for the record, I LOVE *NSYNC! They will always be the superior group and best boy band ever! If any musical group needs to reunite it would be them. Nuff said. Bye. Bye. Bye. 

*And you know you loved my corny closing remark* 

**WTF is a BACKSTREET BOY by the way? I never got it. (One Second). According to Wikipedia they named themselves after an "Orlando flea market". Interesting. Either Wikipedia is incorrect, or the Backstreet Boys just really enjoy antiques and other secondhand wares. Regardless, Backstreet's Back for the meantime!
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Learn To SPELL!!!!!!!!!
A GAL NAMED RANIA

Like most others, I too have my fair share of pet peeves some of which include: tags that stick out of people's shirts and individuals who litter! One of my biggest pet peeves though would have to be people with bad grammar and who CANNOT SPELL! 

Sure everyone makes mistakes now and then, myself included, but if you are PLACING A CRAIGSLIST AD FOR THE WORLD TO SEE under the WRITING SECTION, it is incredibly annoying and just plain ridiculous to see the word WRITE MISSPELLED AS WRIGHT. 

First of all, it is already spelled correctly in the header so how could you spell it wrong in your ad? Secondly, have you heard of proofreading and/or spell check? Thirdly, how do you expect people to take you seriously as an employer looking for an excellent "wrighter" if you yourself cannot spell? Fourthly, why are there so many of you crazies out there who cannot spell the word WRITE the right way! W-R-I-T-E! There is NO G-H, PEOPLE! It's a little sad and truly CONFUSING! Then again, maybe that's why you're looking for a writer, but I highly doubt that!

Point being: GET A DICTIONARY, AND LEARN TO SPELL! 
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The Happiest Hour of My Day
A GAL NAMED RANIA

If you know me at all, there is no denying my obsession with Happy Hour! And by "Happy Hour," I mean: A GOOD HAPPY HOUR! And by obsession, I really do mean OBSESSION! I am so obsessed with Happy Hour that I had a sudden urge this past summer to start my own website dedicated to it! I did plenty of research, came up with a few possible names, and even a pretty nifty layout. However, my creative spurt came to an end when my "i think i'll start a greeting card business" idea took root! (The crazy thoughts of an unemployed 23 year old. I know)!  

Some friends find this particular infatuation of mine to be a little crazy cause, "who wants to start drinking when the sun's still out?" Other friends of mine completely respect my passion and have become just as much a fan due to my influence. Regardless of your opinion though, Happy Hour has something great to offer everyone and therefore, should be enjoyed by all! 

TOP TEN REASONS WHY I LOVE HAPPY HOUR AND YOU SHOULD TO:
1. Cheap Beer! *A Great Happy Hour will only charge between $1 and $3 for a variety of brewskies.
2. Cheap Liquor! *A great Happy Hour will only charge between $1 and $5 for sake, wells, martinis, margaritas, etc.
3. Discounted Appetizers and Entrees! *A great Happy Hour will provide $2 or $3 bites and/or half price deals for quality food.
4. You can eat and drink to your heart's content while staying on a budget. An inexpensive bill is never a disappointment! *A great Happy Hour should fill your belly for $20 or less per person. 
5. Most of your favorite eateries probably have a Happy Hour! Just ask! *A great Happy Hour will not only be at the bar but throughout the entire restaurant. 
6. There is always something to do between the hours of 3pm and 7pm and sometimes late night hours! *A great Happy Hour lasts at least three hours.
7. All types of restaurants offering a variety of cuisines from around the world, celebrate the occasion! Happy Hour does not discriminate!
8. Happy Hour can serve as a late lunch, afternoon snack, or even an early dinner!
9. After a stressful day at work, Happy Hour serves as an excellent source of relaxation and sustenance that can be enjoyed with friends, family, and/or non annoying coworkers!
10. Happy Hour provides HAPPINESS hence the name! And who in their right mind doesn't want sixty minutes or more of midday pleasure? I have never met anyone who left Happy Hour feeling sad. It just isn't possible. Actually, I take that back, because I, myself, always feel a little down when Happy Hour comes to an end! Other than that though, it's just great :) 

**So big YAY FOR CHEAP EATS and the HAPPIEST OF HOURS**



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Dear Costa Rica...
A GAL NAMED RANIA

So I just recently returned from a twenty-four day backpacking trip in Costa Rica, and I have to say that it was absolutely amazing! I participated in a plethora of adventure activities some of which included white water rafting in class IV rapids, scuba diving with rays, and ziplining through a lush cloud forest hundreds of feet above the ground!! Besides the super exciting/semi-dangerous recreational pastimes, I also ate tons of food, drank plenty of local beer, lounged around various pools, swam at breathtaking beaches, chased down monkeys, iguanas, and sloths, survived hostel living, and met so many awesome people from all over the world. It was truly a once in a lifetime experience that I will never forget. HOWEVER, there were definitely a few things that did concern me while there. Now, before I tell you what those things are, please understand that I am no stranger to/and very accepting of different cultures, countries, and practices. I am pretty adaptable to new situations and what I like to think, a very easy going traveler. So the following is in no way meant to be disrespectful. It's just a list of things I wondered about while I was trekking through the gorgeous Central American country. Plus, who doesn't enjoy a little rant every now and then. So here goes: 

Dear Costa Rican Hostels:
1. Why do you refuse to take credit cards? Do you not understand how difficult it is for tourists to carry around so much cash since your currency does not come in large enough bills?
2. Why do you make making online reservations so difficult and then give away a reserved room to a walk-in guest after already confirming a room to people who take the time to plan in advance? It boggles my mind. 
3. Why do you not provide hand soap in your bathrooms yet have AC? I am not complaining because the AC was great to have in the extreme humidity, but c'mon? AC, clean sheets, toilet paper, and hot water yet nothing to sanitize our hands with. Having guests use their bath soap is a tad inconvenient. So, soap please!
4. Could you please post instructions near your computer stations as to how to type the "@" sign and a few other essential keys? That way it won't take hours to figure out how to email our family and friends that we are alive and well. People also won't go crazy when they cannot access their Facebook accounts. Who new an @ sign could cause such a frenzy among web-obsessed, young backpackers? I'm sure you did, Costa Rica. 

Dear Costa Rican Eateries:
1. How does your lemonade have less taste than a glass of water with lemon? Hmm.
2. Why does your iced tea taste exactly like lemonade? I'm gonna say it's more like an Arnold Palmer yet with the ratio being 96% my version of lemonade and 4% tea or some other brown liquid.
3. Why is a "beef taco" my version of a beef taquito yet a "chicken taco" my version of chicken fajitas?
4. Why do you place silverware in small plastic bags/pouches? I am very curious about that one cause it seems a bit pointless and an unnecessary use of plastic. Just trying to protect your ecological wonders from non-biodegradable waste. 
5. Would you please tell tourists what animal they are about to consume when purchasing the oh so delicious yet oh so mysterious "meat on a stick"? It would be much appreciated, various street vendors. Iguana, bull, chicken, alien...? Who knows?

Dear Costa Rican Government:
1. Would you please use some of the money you acquire from vast amounts of tourism to fix some of your more rugged roads? It would be a very wise investment because travel would be much safer and quicker. Plus, less tourists would get car/bus/taxi/shuttle/van sick which in turn means a smaller chance of vomit in your vehicles. (And no, I did not barf while in an automobile in Costa Rica, but I am sure plenty people have)
2. Do you really think it smart to have a multi-car train (at least 20 cars long) run through the narrow and busy streets of downtown San Jose in the middle of rush hour? Seems kinda dangerous. Plus, it's crazy loud! How do you not get noise complaints from your citizens? 
3. Would you please tell your airport employees who work in the duty free shops that YES, they do sell Costa Rican rum in the Guatemala City airport! I still don't understand why they would tell me, "probably not" even though they themselves sold Guatemalan rum in their Costa Rican store!!! 

Thank you for taking the time to read over my queries. I hope that one day they will all be answered. 

Sincerely, Rania

PS: Despite the dumb list above, I thoroughly enjoyed my time spent in your country. It is such a beautiful place, and the citizens are the most friendly, extremely helpful, and amazingly fun people. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! 

So there you have it. My letter to Costa Rica. Too bad I don't have a legitimate email address to send that off to or the funds to send it through the actual US Postal Service. 98 cents = way over my budget :)

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Laughing at My Television = Always a Good Thing
A GAL NAMED RANIA
The one perk of summer coming to an end is the emergence of brand new television programming in the form of both season and series premieres. Frankly, I love TV, and most shows seem to entertain me regardless if they are Emmy worthy or what some may refer to as garbage. However, I do have to say that I have been pleasantly surprised by a few brand spanking new shows in this year's fall line up and view them as possible Emmy contenders in the future. Watch out 30 Rock! Sorry; I love you, Tina Fey! But these two shows are out for blood (ie: a shiny gold statue) and/or just excellent ratings. 

1. ABC's MODERN FAMILY: This show is absolutely freaken hilarious. It scares me a little because I am a dedicated fan of The Office, rank it as my current favorite on-air sitcom, and would feel bad if it were to be replaced. We shall see. But as I was saying: "this show is absolutely freaken hilarious," and I already love it! Two thumbs up! Actually, it's so good I'm gonna say: two cocktails up! Double fisting it for a great new comedy. Let's face it. Who wouldn't wanna watch: A) an incredibly aged Ed O'neill married to a sexy "Columbian" woman and acting like a father to his new wife's chubby yet intelligent eleven year old son... B) two gay daddies raising their Vietnamese baby girl... C) and three crazy kids and their equally crazy parents??!!!?? Nobody. I know. Basically, Modern Family is full of hysterical family drama, super witty laugh-out-loud dialogue, superb acting, surprisingly relatable topics, riotous scenarios, and a little bit of heart topped off with a lotta bit of fresh humor. So I suggest watching it. Now! 

2. NBC's COMMUNITY: Another very funny show. If you are a fan of Joel McHale, like myself, that's already one reason why you might enjoy this show. This sitcom is a far cry from The Soup but equally hilarious with a little less reality and a lot more story. Community college has never seemed so bizarre, and the cooky characters who make up the students, faculty, and staff of this fine institution definitely make for one humorous program. If you ever went to college and want to reminisce about your past shenanigans or never went to college and want a taste of what you may have missed out on, Community is definitely a must see. Granted some scenarios depicted on the show are not that common but still definitely possible on the occasional coed campus. Regardless, it's excellent and worth thirty minutes of your time. 

***Oh and this new animated show called POPZILLA on MTV is also pretty damn hilarious. From the amount of celebrities they manage to mock within twenty or so minutes to the freaky faces and horrible voice-overs, this show is perfect for a good quick laugh! It also manages to catch you up on celebrity news. Take that Perez Hilton! Sorry. If you couldn't tell, I'm not a fan. Yay for E News and the Daily Ten though and now Popzilla! Super silly but very funny! 

And now that I have expressed my thoughts on stuff that "rots my brain"... I am off to watch more TV. Go figure :)
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