Written By: Donna Cullen

The Twilight books and movies have been a hit with all age groups and both male and female genders. Their romantic tales have intrigued many, but the teenage generation, especially. There are several lessons about romantic relationships that are presented through the series, whether or not those lessons are true to live or not, I’ll let you be the judge.

1. Long distance relationships never work. Edward was so sure that their love could handle the separation. It may often seem like that, when a couple first becomes separated by distance, but over time, the lack of shared experience will take its toll. Long distance relationships are very hard to maintain for long periods of time.
2. Love at first sight is real. Edward never really notices any other girl at his school after first seeing Bella. That was all it took, that ‘first sight’ of the one he was meant to be with.
3. Love has no prejudice. When you’re really in love, you can see past all of the outward differences between two people, even when those differences are of a human and a vampire.
4. Jealousy is a killer. The green-eyed monster, as jealousy has been referred to, showed itself in these stories between Jacob and Edward. Jacob’s jealousy aroused more than a little animosity towards his rival.
5. Love is more than skin deep. Belle and Edward were not simply attracted to each other because of their physical looks. Edward enjoyed everything about Belle. He liked talking with her, because she was intelligent and had a strong personality. He admired her as much as he loved her. The same was true of Belle’s appreciation for Edward.
6. When you really love someone, you can’t live without them. When Edward thought that Bella was dead he was going to expose himself. Bella felt the same way when Edward leaves in New Moon. Belle wanted to become a vampire, so that she would be able to be with Edward forever.
7. Your best friend can’t be of the opposite sex. Belle thought that she and Jacob could just be best friends and not get romantically involved. Since Belle was already in love with Edward, it was true for her, but not for Jacob. The more he was with Belle, the more in love with her, he became.
8. Love doesn’t care about other people’s opinion. Edward and Bella had to face the judgement of the other students and their friends. Their love for each other was able to sustain them through those experiences. They were able to see beyond the surface things that others saw.
9. Love is self-sacrificing. Edward was willing to sacrifice his own desires for the well-being of Belle. He was willing to put her desires before his own. Her happiness and well-being were of more importance to him than his own.
10. Love can totally change your perspective. Bella was so sure that moving to Forks was going to make her miserable, but after she meets Edward, she feels like she never wants to leave. Your feelings are powerful things, and being with someone you love can make all the difference in the world towards your perspective on your other circumstances.

Some of the ‘lessons’ learned through the series should be taken to heart. But others, well, they make for good romance stories but are seldom what you truly experience in real life. It usually takes a few decades of living to learn the difference, so if you want to know which ones are for real and which ones are not, ask someone whose been living life for a bit longer than you have.

Source

Kellan Lutz – Poseidon

Q: Can you tell us about the casting process and why you wanted to be cast?
Lutz: I read the script of this a while ago and I loved it, fell in love with it. At first auditioned for Ares, which I loved… they liked what I did, but they viewed Ares as taller, skinnier and more youthful, so I was really bummed because they didn’t really release all the characters for this movie and then I was like, ‘Okay, how about young Zeus?’ But then they had rumored that Alex Skarsgård and his father were going to do young Zeus and older Zeus, so I was just really bummed. I wanted to play someone in this movie. I love mythology, grew up loving it. I’m a middle kid, big family, that’s the thing you did in the farm country. [Laughs] I lived in Iowa, I loved mythology. I don’t know, we’re like that. But I also love Poseidon and I’m a Pieces, March 15th is my birthday, I love to swim, I competed in swimming, I swim in my backyard as much as I can when I’m back home and again, I never saw the role of Poseidon in here. So then they called back saying that I couldn’t do young Zeus and then they offered me Poseidon and I’m like, “What? Where’s Poseidon? Yeah! For sure!”

Q: Do you see this movie as a step up for you or a challenge to get out of “The Twilight Saga”?
Lutz: I’m very blessed with “The Saga” because I am a character that, yeah, people ask why I don’t have as many lines as everyone else. Well, I can’t change the books so my character’s more of a presence. Even in “Eclipse,” I have more action and fighting scenes than I do dialogue. I can’t help that. I’m very fortunate and blessed that it still pushes my career up to the level where I’m not the face of the books, so I’m still, like floating, so the next thing I do, like the other independent movies I do and I’m very choosy with like “The Killing Game” is my own type of underground “Gladiator”/Jason Bourne type of movie. That’s what I want to do so being a part of these huge commercial movies like “Twilight” opens up doors so I can be the star of other movies and really show my acting chops, show and pick what I want to do as an actor kind of molded my career.

Q: With the very first “Twilight,” you knew sequel potential existed. Sometimes these big movies come out and they’re a success and then everyone scrambles to figure out how to make the sequel. Is there a sense of that on this set?
Lutz: This movie is different than any movie you guys will ever see because it’s not based on a book, it’s based on a really original idea, concept, mixing mythology, creating a story out of its own. It doesn’t have to follow any guidelines. That’s the beauty of it. What you’ll see in the beginning of this movie and what it transforms into as far as the story of Theseus and then what it ends on, kind of reflects back to the beginning and takes you on another journey of who might this new hero be. And then as you see with the epic battle with us Gods at the end, you guys are all here as we’re shooting – again, these are big movies and you always look to capitalize on sequels, third movies.

From day one when Tarsem showed us what he saw of each set, he built little models and I loved those 3D puzzles growing up… what he made with these models, I felt like a little boy again. I wanted to go play with my toys. And seeing these blown up, in here like we’re shooting with the Titan’s tomb, it’s so surreal again because it’s exactly how I saw it times ten and he can just create anything. And with the end of this movie it’s going to make you be like, ‘Wow, I just want to see where this next story goes.’

Source

Well ladies, I hope you are enjoying the fourth and having a blast. Chrissy is unable to post a fanfic today, but have no fear for those of you wanting a fic to read because I am giving you two options! Since I am a huge Rosalie and Emmett fan, I am going to recommend a fic called “To Walk a Mile in My Shoes” by mischief-maker1. For the Edward and Bella fans who need their fix, I recommend “Sway” by Hibbleton78.

To Walk a Mile in My Shoes Summary: When an underappreciated Rosalie winds up switching bodies with her goofy husband Emmett, hilarity ensues. Can they figure out how to make things right? Or are they stuck? And WHAT was in those brownies?

This fic is hilarious and for any woman who wishes their significant other could understand what they go through on a daily basis. Rosalie and Emmett have been married for years. Rosalie is a very devoted mother who simply wants her husband to understand what she has to deal with each day. Emmett is a loving father and husband who just doesn’t get it, but also wants his wife to understand what his day is like at the office. The two switch places and it is absolutely hilarious. It will have you laughing and wanting more. You get Rosalie and Emmett’s POVs and both are so realistic and compelling. It truly will make you understand what a mother/wife and a father/husband feel. It is a completed fic rated M for lemons and language and all human with canon pairings including Edward, Bella, Alice, and Jasper. It is just one of those fics that you end with a huge smile on your face, so I recommend kicking back and enjoying this one whenever you need to smile.

Sway: Single mom Bella finally has life under control again when a new PD starts working at the same radio station and teaches her that she doesn’t have to be alone to take care of her responsibilities.

This fic has a little bit of everything. It is a great mix of romance, conflict, drama, humor, and just a touch of angst that will leave you wanting to pull your hair out, but trust me it ends on a sweet and fluffy note. Anyone who knows me knows I do not do over the top angst so fear not. It will leave you with a smile on your face and wanting more. Luckily, like any fic I will ever recommend, it is complete. As a special bonus it has special outtakes and future takes. This is a great Bella and Edward all human fic that also includes Jasper, Alice, Rosalie, and Emmett.

Be sure to check out these two amazing fics. You won’t regret it!

“To Walk a Mile in My Shoes” by mischief-maker1.

“Sway” by Hibbleton78.

It is time for the 2011 Teen Choice Awards and it is no surprise that Eclipse and the cast have been nominated for several awards. What I found great is that Robert Pattinson is also nominated for non-Twilight related awards for Water for Elephants. If you are between the ages of 13-19 years old, then be sure to vote! The show will air live Sunday, August 7^th, at 8/7 central on FOX.

Sci-Fi/Fantasy Movie: Twilight Saga: Eclipse

Sci-Fi/Fantasy Actor: Robert Pattinson or Taylor Lautner

Sci-Fi/Fantasy Actress: Kristen Stewart

Villian: Bryce Dallas Howard

Male Scene Stealer: Kellan Lutz

Female Scene Stealer: Ashley Greene

Best Drama Movie: Water for Elephants

Dramatic Actor: Robert Pattinson (Water For Elephants)

Male Hottie: Robert Pattinson or Taylor Lautner

Best Liplock: Robert Pattinson/Kristen Stewart or Taylor Lautner/Kristen Stewart

Amazing by She Viking

*shhhh, a secret – I made the banner*

Birthday one-shot for my beta, Melanie. Twenty-something, plus sized Bella is sexy and confident. Enter Edward, her high school crush, who she only ever loved from afar. A second chance for something amazing. Rated M for the usual reasons.

Twilight – Rated: M – Romance Words: 13,464 – Reviews: 421 – Bella & Edward – Complete

What can I say about She Viking? I read one of her in-progress stories, My Viking and I am so in love with it, Vikingward owns my heart (and other parts of my body too, but shhh, pretend I didn’t say that)! He’ll get his own recommendation when the story’s complete

So, when I saw she posted a one-shot, I had to drop everything and read it! Then I saw it was about a plus-sized Bella and I couldn’t wait to dive into the story! Being a plus-sized girl myself, I need to tell you all – “Amazing” was one of the greatest feel-good stories I’ve read in the fandom At first, I thought “What, Bella is different? She isn’t skinny and canon?” and then it was such a breath of fresh air! I know that Twi fiction is based on the books, so it’s prefferable if the characters are how we know them. But then again, the majority of stories these days couldn’t be further from the books we know (do you feel like most stories only have the names in common with the books? tell us in the comments!)

Here she is then – this curvy, beautiful Bella. Back in high school, her figure made her ashamed of herself and she never even thought of speaking to handsome, popular Edward. Fate makes them meet years later and guess what – Bella is confident, sassy and she’s embraced her body (though not without struggle). Edward, on the other hand, doesn’t seem as content with his life as he did when they were younger. Why is that? What is missing in his perfect life? Bella finds out and gives him what he needs – in all senses of the word! Just a warning about the lemons – they are HOT! Sizzling! One of the reasons for that was seeing Bella so in tune with her body and Edward appreciating what I’d call a real woman!

In my opinion, it’s quite difficult for women to accept themselves truly, regarless of their size and shape. There are so many expectations for us, so much pressure. This is why I loved “Amazing” so much – plus-sized or not, this a woman who can stand up for herself, she knows who she is, what she wants and the word “rejection” isn’t in her vocabulary! After reading She Viking’s story, I felt wonderful – a little more empowered, a little hot (told you – sizzling!), a little more confident. But I’m sure that any reader would enjoy it, because it’s about more than size – it’s about truly feeling amazing as who you are!

Enjoy and until next Monday! x

PS. I’m sorry if this came too late on Moday/early on Tuesday. I’ll be on time next week!

PPS. Can I just say how good it felt to be eating ice cream while writing this rec… Mmmmm

Indie rock band 100 Monkeys have been doubling-over fans the past few years with their unique funky sensibility and incessant comic creativity — the band writes and performs a new song on the spot at every show based on an audience member’s idea. They’re versatile and talented musicians with a common quick-witted sense of humor, and they’re clearly in a world of their own. Next week, the band will release a new album, Liquid Zoo. As they gear up for release festivities, members Jerad Anderson (J-Rad), Jackson Rathbone (J-Action), Ben Graupner (Ben G), Ben Johnson (Ben J), and M. Lawrence Abrams (Uncle Larry) were kind enough to answer a few questions for us:

How does Liquid Zoo differ from your previous albums?
J-Rad: There is a tad of extra special sauce—awesome sauce if you will—sprinkled into the music.
J-Action: It’s rebellious, new, exciting, and the best thing about us. It’s going to outlive us, and we’re extremely proud to introduce it to the world.
Ben J: We consider Liquid Zoo to be a leap forward for us as a band. We tracked the rhythm parts live as a band. Instead of spending time on overdubs, we were able to focus on getting the vocals we wanted and putting finishing touches on every track.

Comedy is an important part of your music — who are some of your favorite comedians?
Uncle Larry: Groucho Marx.
J-Rad: The old stuff; Richard Pryor.
J-Action: My dad is an extremely witty guy who can keep a room alive. He’s a big influence, as well as all the comedians my dad doesn’t like because of their use of profanity — George Carlin, Richard Pryor, Eddie Murphy, etc.
Ben J: I guess when I was growing up in the ’90s — Bill Murray always got me good. These days I love watching Will Ferrell.
Ben G: I guess Henry Fonda would be the fondest.

I’ve heard that acting and improv are a big part of your personal lives as well as your live show. Besides Twilight, what are you currently involved in on the side?
J-Action: Beer, BBQ, cheap whiskey, a new record label, good whiskey, new singles and old b-sides, expensive whiskey that other people pay for…and an upcoming world tour.
J-Rad: We are starting a record label, we produce our own movies, and we continually write new music.

What’s one of your favorite recent musical-improv moments?
Ben G: Playing the “Cocaine Blues” in an upscale hotel lobby with the Kissing Club. That put a grin on my face.
J-Rad: I liked when an idea was written on a pillow that literally hit me in the face on stage. It was called “Pillow Talk.”
Uncle Larry: Our recent improv song called “Jello.”
J-Action: “No Bueno” was the improv song in Mission, Texas at Smokin’ Aces, and that was a recent favorite because it stretched my improv lyrical ability to sing in both English and my limited Spanish… plus the groove felt good!

Best air guitar song of all time?
J-Rad: “Eruption” (Van Halen)
Uncle Larry: “Iron Man” (Black Sabbath)
Ben G: Jumpin’ Jack Flash (The Rolling Stones)
Ben J: “More Than A Feeling” (Boston)
J-Action: “Layla” (Eric Clapton)

Say you’re given the power to remove one album from the world’s collective memory…
J-Rad: Barney’s Favorites, Vol. 2 Featuring Songs from Imagination Island (purple dinosaur Barney).
J-Action: It’s a tie between Yoko Ono‘s Yes, I’m a Witch and Paul McCartney & Wings‘ Red Rose Speedway. Two things collectively broke up The Beatles: John and Paul’s ego. Should we just blame ego or was it Yoko? Either way, Wings sucked just as much as Yoko.
Ben G: My mom’s photo album of embarrassing childhood photographs. Seriously though, we should get rid of generic Christmas music. Shopping centers are tough enough as it is.
Ben J: Cher‘s Believe. It was the beginning of Auto-Tuned vocals, something I’ve never been able to get down with.
Uncle Larry: Any album that advocates hate.

What’s next for 100 Monkeys?
J-Rad: Mayhem.
Uncle Larry: Revealing new music to the new world…
J-Action: Another interview about what’s next for 100 Monkeys. Don’t worry though, you can find out on 100monkeysmusic.com. Plugged the website! Does that mean I get a bonus? Or is it spelled “bonas” like the Jonas Brothers?
Ben J: Liquid Zoo is coming! Look out for new tour dates on our site.

Source

Animate Me by Abstract Way (banner by the lovely Rose Arcadia)

Oh, how much we love him. His tenderness, care, devotion, passion… His intelligence, looks, eyes, voice, hair… His stubborness, protectiveness, his music talent, his sense of humour… He has given us so much to dream about and to look forward to. Most importantly, he has showed us that every woman deserves to be treated like Bella and loved just as much.

Happy birthday, Edward!

That’s right, the Twilight Fan Panel is back. This year we have a diverse group of Twilight fan fiction authors. They are ready to share their unique experience and opinions on reading and writing fan fiction in the Twilight fandom. We invite you to join us at the 2011 San Diego Comic Convention for what we hope is a lively, enthusiastic and fun discussion.

Those on the Panel: ArcadianMaggie (I Wept Not), MJinAspen (Reality Minus Expectations), Rochelle Allison (Stary Eyed Inside), Magnolia822 (A Quiet Fire), Belladonna1472 (The Cullen Campaign),  Einfach Mich (Confessions of a Difficult Woman), And ScarlettLetters (Wild Swan)

You can go here to learn more about everyone and ask questions for the group to answer at the panel!

Source

1. I prefer Coffee Bean over Starbucks — annoying because there are way more Starbucks.

2. I have two middle names.

3. I am addicted to my iPhone. Damn you, Steve Jobs. And when does the next one come out?

4. I was fifth runner-up on the third season of American Idol. (Not really, but do you really remember who was?)

5. I was a father at 22.

6. I love ’70s movies.

7. My father once waited on my favorite actor, Paul Newman. He made a photocopy of his credit card signature for me so he wouldn’t have to ask for his autograph.

8. My favorite hobby growing up was TV. Especially The Smurfs.

9. My oldest sister had the coolest Smurf collection. I stole it and gave it to my daughter. Only because I wanted it.

10. I don’t watch football, which is very unmanly to admit. Er, I mean, go Giants!

11. I missed Oprah’s final episode. Yes, just got my manhood back!

12. If aliens exist, I hope they clean up our Earth, bring a cure for cancer and also not eat us.

13. My poker face has been known to kill small pets.

14. I studied pre-law my first year of college.

15. I trained myself to fall asleep on planes pre-takeoff.

16. I have two motorcycles that I don’t ride enough.

17. I don’t remember my dreams.

18. I did a past-life reading once. I asked if I’d been Elvis Presley. They said no. I stopped the reading. They were obviously a fake.

19. Beach or snow? I’d pick beach.

20. My mom and dad were born in Italy and have the cutest accents.

21. Before I studied acting at NYU, I had the thickest New York accent. “Carlisle” with a Queens accent would have never worked.

22. I’m a dual citizen of Italy and the United States.

23. I rarely watch TV, but I’m always on my laptop.

24. My first job was a paperboy.

25. I shot the sheriff. But I didn’t shoot the deputy.

Source

According to Rotten Tomatoes Love Wedding Marriage is standing at 0% (with only 18 reviews at this time). As many of us know critics can have a totally different opinion than the movie goers, especially when it comes to Twilight fans. Twilight received a rating of 49%, New Moon 27% and Eclipse 50% (223 reviews). I think it is safe to say that most Twilight fans have felt that the quality of the movies in the saga have only gotten better with each release, so why did New Moon get only 27%? Critics are just that their critical!

Bottom line if you are like me and love simple romantic movies and want to watch Kellan Lutz for 2 hours (nothing can be bad about that!) then make sure to give Love Wedding Marriage some love on July 1st.