Stoked for Love

Reality matchmaking shows are not my thing. I tried The Bachelor but I just couldn't get into it. I believe a handful of contestants on dating shows actually want love, but more often than not, they're just wanting fame. 

Lately previews for Ready For Love have been all over TV and the first thing that caught my attention was that the featured lead singer of one of my all time favorite bands Plain White T's, Tim Lopez,  (sang lead on Rhythm Of Love) will be searching for the one on this new NBC dating show.

The second part that caught my attention is how real it seems to be. In one preview producer Eva Longoria (Desperate Housewives) talks about why this show is different. The reason it's different is that they hired the top three matchmakers in the country versus hiring casting agents like other shows. I think that's amazing because they're not casting "parts", like who's going to be the "drama queen" or "America's sweetheart". 

Basically, I'm super stoked for Ready For Love, it looks romantic, sweet, and most importantly, REAL. Although, since my brother was on Catfish: The TV Show and I saw a lot of stuff behind the scenes, I also realize that reality television is never what it seems. For a deeper look into this upcoming series, watch the video below.

Boo Hoo. Valentine's Day is a Fake Holiday!

This may seem a little late, being that it is March 2nd. However, I actually posted this on my facebook a day or so before Valentine's Day; and have decided to share it on my blog as well.

A part of me always secretly wishes (well, not so secretly now) that someone will send me flowers or get me a card or do something romantic for me, but I know it's not all about those things. One day I will get those things and be loved unconditionally and all that romantic crap. Until then, I don't mind spreading love to others, because everyone deserves it.

Here's my take on the romantic holiday.

Valentine's Day Haters say:“This is just a day created by Hallmark and businesses alike to get a ton of money.”

I say: There are more ways to show someone you care without buying the traditional chocolate, Hallmark card, teddy bear, jewelry, etc. Make your loved one breakfast in bed. MAKE a card or present; like the always classic “coupon book”. Go on a picnic. Spend the day watching sappy love movies. Be thoughtful. If you dislike the fact that businesses make a ton of money on a day that’s “not even a holiday” or a “stupid holiday” or blah, blah, blah, then do something creative and different and still protest traditional Valentine’s Day things.

Valentine’s Day Haters say: “You should tell/show people you love them every day, not just one day of the year.”

I say: Yes YOU SHOULD! But do you? Probably not. Really, you should tell people you love them every day, and show them in special ways whenever you get the chance. But Valentine’s Day is a day where you can tell someone all the reasons you love them and make them feel even more special. Take time out of your busy schedule and surprise someone. Have fun. Be extra romantic; all without being considered corny. It’s Valentine’s Day. Everyone’s corny!

Valentine’s Day Haters Say: “Well, what about the people that don’t have a significant other?”

I say: I haven’t had a boyfriend ON Valentine’s Day EVER. Like, ever, ever, ever. But I still adore Valentine’s Day. It’s such a sweet holiday. To celebrate, I do things to show my friends and family how much I care. Sometimes I’ll decorate my moms’ kitchen with hearts and pink and red table clothes and so on and so on. I get her and my step-dad little presents and candy. Sometimes I give them random gifts that have nothing to do with love or Valentine’s Day at all; something that shows my thoughtfulness. I even make homemade treats when I can. I make little gift bags for friends, co-workers, and other family members. It’s fun, I love seeing people happy. Everyone deserves to be shown love; even if it’s just from a friend, co-worker, or sibling. You’re never fully alone, even if you’re not dating someone. And you don’t always have to receive something to feel loved. Don’t spend the day being upset you don’t have a “Valentine”, instead spend the day showing love to those you care about, because the people you love – friends and family – they love you too, and that’s reason enough to celebrate Valentine’s Day.

Valentine’s Day Haters Say: “I don’t have money to spend anyways on such a ridiculous holiday”.

I say: This year I literally have $3 in my wallet. I’ll probably make decorations by hand; and I have some old Valentine’s cards that I never got around to using. I’ll give them to my Mom and Step-Dad, but what I write inside and the words I say are more important than the fact that I have disposable cards for different holidays. Money isn't everything. I mean, not all the time. I know on most days, having a ton of money would really help my broke-ass out. But on a day that’s meant to express love, you don’t necessarily need money. And those who really care about you will know that you put an effort and they’ll understand that you didn't have the money to do anything extravagant. Even a nice little text or an e-card to someone who isn't nearby, can be really sweet. I like to find something with humor that fits me and the person I’m sending it to. So they know that I actually thought about what I sent them. Or the fact that someone sends me a text on any holiday, even Valentine’s Day, is sweet because I know that I crossed there mind.

Maybe I’m just a hopeless romantic or maybe too sentimental, but Valentine’s Day shouldn't be “hated” . . . yet so many people express their dislike for the day with such passion! It actually saddens me somewhat to hear people complain. If, no matter what, you just cannot stand Valentine’s Day, then at least let others enjoy it in peace. Why be so angry and upset and argumentative when others are just trying to love?

Don’t hate. Appreciate!

Love,

Elle Marie

Charlie All Night Book Review

Charlie All Night by Jennifer Crusie is a really great read. (The title of this book is actually the title of the radio segment that Allie produces and Charlie stars). Romance novels like this aren't usually what I go for, but I did enjoy it very much. The characters are realistic, fun, and very solid. The story line is cute and the mystery in the story actually kept me guessing. Though it's kind of naughty, it's not erotica or something. It's sexy but not wild. They don't use gross words that make me cringe, so that was a plus.

This is the kind of book I like to read in-between the science-fiction, mystery, action, thriller, and tragedy type books I read. It's like the kind of book you read to relax you mind, where you don't have to think too much, but yet you get a good read and a romantic story.

If you're into books that are about falling in love in the least expected place, then you must read Charlie All Night. There are some funny, touching, and sweet moments. You'll root for Charlie, Allie, and their friends, and you'll want to punch Allie's ex, Mark, because he's such a douche. The ending is as happy as any fairytale book ending and it will satisfy any hopelessly romantic hearts.