Jennette's Blog

Greek Food & Family

December 27, 2019

We are in Florida getting ready to leave on our cruise tomorrow. Tonight we went and had a nice dinner in Ybor City at one of our favorite mediterranean restaurants. It's so rare for my entire immediate family to be all together so I wanted to share this great picture I got tonight at dinner.

Movie Review: Spies in Disguise

December 27, 2019

Mom, Dad, Buffy, Emily, Aiden & I went to see Spies in Disguise today.

It was great. Will Smith stars as the Best Spy in the World who is accidentally turned into a pigeon by a nerdy tech officer. They have to work together to save the world. Will Smith has some funny one liners that had me laughing until I cried. You really can't go wrong with this one. It is super enjoyable.

For more information on Spies in Disguise, click the movie poster below.

Christmas Caroling

December 22, 2019

Tonight we walked around my parents neighborhood singing Christmas Carols to their neighbors. It was so much fun and I hope that we make this a new tradition.

I was really glad that my dad was feeling well enough to go with us even though mom had to drive him as he can't walk far distances. He's healing up nicely.

TV Show Recommendation: Virgin River

December 22, 2019

New show is available on Netflix. The story is about a doctor who moves to a small town after a tragedy to basically run away from her life in the big city.

It's got a very interesting cast of characters and there is a lot of chemistry between the two leads.

Email me and let me know if you are watching and what you think!

Movie Review: Cats

December 20, 2019

Mom, Dad, Emily & I went to see Cats today.

I love the story and the music from Cats so I had high expectations for this movie and was really looking forward to seeing it.

Unfortunately, it really didn't do the show justice. It was very slow in the beginning, but did get a little better. Jennifer Hudson's version of Memory was spectacular and was the highlight of the movie for me --- but it still didn't change my opinion of the overall movie. They cast too many well known people in the movie in my opinion which made it hard to suspend your disbelief into thinking that they were cats.

It was funny, however, when I realized that "Les Twins" were in the movie because it made me laugh. Larry and Laurent Bourgeois toured with Beyoncé back in the day ---- so then I really couldn't suspend my disbelief.

For more information on Cats, click the movie poster below.

Movie Review: Frozen 2

December 10, 2019

Mom and I went to see Frozen 2 today with Sheri, Jennifer and their kids.

It was enjoyable as a sequel. I thought they tried to hard with the music, but the plot was good. I think the music to the first Frozen movie was lightning in a bottle and while the 2nd movie was great --- the music wasn't as good as the first.

For more information on Frozen 2, click the movie poster below.

Dad's in the Hospital

December 6, 2019

So I got a call last night around 7pm from my mom that she was in the process of taking my dad to the ER because he had fallen and hurt himself. I quickly grabbed a few things and headed to Bastrop to meet them at the ER. I got there just in time to see the X-Ray which confirmed a broken hip. He would need to be transported to Austin for a partial hip replacement. While he waited for the ambulance to take him, mom and I quickly went home to drop off her car and we got back to the ER just in time to follow him to the Hospital in Austin.

He had surgery first thing this morning and is already on the mend. He will be here for a couple of days before being moved to a rehab facility so that they can work with him. He'll be back to new in no time I'm sure.

The pic below is after he woke up from surgery and was finally able to eat something which made him happy.

Movie Review: 21 Bridges

December 3, 2019

Dad and I went to see 21 Bridges today.

It's the story of an NYPD Detective who is thrust into a manhut for a pair of cop killers after uncovering a conspiracy. For the first time in history, Manhattan is locked down with no entry or exit including all 21 bridges.

I enjoyed the movie, especially Chadwick Boseman, but it was predictable. Still enjoyable though.

For more information on 21 Bridges, click the movie poster below.

Book Recommendation: Destiny's Child: The Untold Story

December 1, 2019

So about 4 months ago, my former boss, Mathew Knowles, reached out to me to ask me to participate in a book he was writing. He asked me to write down some memories and stories that I have from my time with them. I wrote down a bunch of stories and everything I wrote down is included in the book in my own words. I even have a quote on the back cover of the book. Super exciting.

For more about this book, click the images above.

2 Broken Feet

November 23, 2019

Well it was confirmed that I have not just one but 2 broken feet due to stress fractures. So I'll be in a wheel chair for a few weeks while they heal.

The good news is that I'm already putting my feet up and relaxing at my best friend's house in Amarillo and I will be recouperating here for the week before returning to Austin.

Recipe: Sour Cream Apple Pie

November 20, 2019

Our family always makes a Sour Cream Apple Pie for dessert for Thanksgiving. It's been a staple in our house for as long as I can remember.  1 pie makes about 6-8 slices depending on how you cut the pie.  You'll want big slices!       

What You'll NEED:


• 1 pie shell (unbaked)
• 1 cup of Sour Cream
• 3/4 cup of Sugar
• 1 tsp Vanilla
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 tablespoons of Flour
• 3-4 cups of green apples (6-8 apples depending on size)
• 1 egg

For the Topping:


• 1/2 cup of brown sugar
• 1/3 cup of flour
• 1/3 cup of butter (cold)

Pre-heat oven to 400° .

1. Peel, core and cut up apples into thin slices. You will want enough apples to pile high in the pie pan as they will cook down.
2. In a small bowl, Beat together the sour cream, sugar, vanilla, flour, salt & egg until smooth. Then stir in apples until they are coated in mixture.
3. Pour into unbaked pie shell. Be sure to protect the edges of the pie shell with aluminum foil to keep them from burning.
4. Bake 25 mins in the 400° pre-heated oven.
5. While the pie is in the oven, make the topping. Blend the brown sugar, flour and butter into a crumble with a dough blender. I usually make extra topping with about 1.5 ingredients as everyone loves the brown sugar topping.
6. After 25 minutes in oven, remove from oven and sprinkle with the topping. Remove aluminum foil from the edges and Bake for 20 minutes longer.
7. Enjoy!

If you want a real treat, eat a slice while it's still warm with vanilla ice cream!!!

Must store the pie in the refrigerator and it will be good for several days.

Who is your biggest hero?

November 14, 2019

My mom is my biggest hero. She is always there for me when I need her for anything big or small. She's never let me down and I know she loves me unconditionally. She is also my hero because she is the most amazing woman I've ever known.

Movie Review: Harriet

November 12, 2019

As soon as I heard they were making a movie about Harriet Tubman, I knew I would want to see it. I've always admired what I knew about her and her relationship to the underground railroad and freeing slaves. Mom and I had a chance to see the movie today and it did not disappoint.

It was such an amazing story. Hard to watch at times because of the way people were being treated, but such a powerful story. I'd like to think that if I was living during this time frame that I would have been a member of the underground railroad and helping people rather than a slave owner's wife.

A small side note about the film. The slave owner's wife looked really familiar to me throughout the whole movie but I couldn't place where I had seen her. Until I saw that her name was Jennifer Nettles at the end of the movie....she is the lead singer of Sugarland (one of my former clients). I knew she looked familiar!

For more information on Harriet, click the movie poster below.

Live Concert: Tyrone Wells in Austin, TX

November 9, 2019

Tonight Mom & I went to go see Tyrone Wells Live at the Cactus Cafe in Austin. It was a very small intimate venue and for the first time in 10 years it was a seated show (which I was grateful for since I have a broken foot.) Usually his shows are GA standing which I will say provide more energy in the room (as people are dancing). He always puts on an amazing show and tonight was no different. This is like my 10th time seeing him perform live and I always enjoy it! His music is just so uplifting and powerful. I will say that tonight's show seemed more mellow than usual. He played some fast stuff but mostly slower and more mellow songs like Lift Me Up (off his new album), Rise Again, Metal and Wood, More, Every Night, and Sea Breeze.

I should also give a shout out to Dan Rodriguez who was one of two opening acts that we saw and he was amazing. His song 25 years was great.

For more about the music of Tyrone Wells, click on the photo above.

Movie Review: The Joker

November 9, 2019

I know I'm late with this movie since it came out over a month ago, but it took me awhile to find the time to see it. The boys had a visit today with their biological mother so I went to see it while they visited.

It wasn't at all what I expected as I guess I was expecting just another super hero movie this time with the Joker. But this was an origin story of how the Joker became the Joker. I found the story to be sad. In the movie he says a line something to the effect of "you don't see me --- you would just step on me and keep walking." Obviously this doesn't give him the right to go crazy and become the Joker --- but I just felt sad for the way people treated him before he was The Joker. If we could only have more kindness in the world - it would be a better place.

For more information on The Joker, click the movie poster below.

Movie Review: The Current War

November 5, 2019

Mom, Dad and I finally got to see the Current War today. It felt like a history lesson but in a good way. It was fascinating to see people portraying Thomas Edison, George Westinghouse and Nikola Tesla. I thought Thomas Edison invented the light bulb but he actually did not but he did so much more (like inventing movie projectors and thus the start of the motion picture era). I really enjoyed it. I thought the cast was amazing and did a great job.

The only part that I didn't understand was how at the end of the movie it said that Nikola Tesla died penniless and alone. I don't understand that based on what was portrayed in the movie at the end (which while it's historical and factual --- I won't spoil it in case you don't know). It really was entertaining and interesting all at the same time.

For more information on The Current War, click the movie poster below.

22 Days Left

October 30, 2019

This morning I learned that I have 22 days left to love on my sweet boys. On November 21, 2019, they will be dropped off at the Mexican Embassay here in Austin to be flown to Mexico to move in with their grandmother. This is going to be really hard to do. 2 days ago, for the first time, the youngest told me that he loved me. I say I love you to them on a daily basis but they've never said it back --- until Monday of this week. He said it in the cutest way possible and knowing that this was coming --- it took everything I had to not burst into tears.

I did get some good news though. According to CPS, their grandmother is willing to keep in touch with me. I'm cautiously hopeful that I can stay in their lives in some capacity. She holds all the power -- so if she changes her mind, there will be no recourse for me --- but I will take what I can get to stay in their lives.

Inks Lake State Park - Burnet, TX

October 27, 2019

This weekend I was able to join my parents for a short camping trip at Inks Lake State Park. Our campsite (#83) was on the water with a beautiful view. We enjoyed a nice hike of the Devil's Backbone Trail and some beautiful sunsets.

No cell service or internet all weekend, so I was able to truly disconnect and enjoy laying in a hammock, reading a book and playing Canasta with my parents and their friends.

Cairn

October 27, 2019

Today my parents and I went hiking at Longhorn Cavern State Park (just up the road from Inks Lake State Park). We came across this Cairn on our Wildflower hike.

For more information about Longhorn Cavern State Park, click on the photo above.

Burnet, TX Sunset

October 26, 2019

Mom and I came up to a scenic lookout for the sunset tonight. Absolutely gorgeous!

TV Show Recommendation: Modern Love

October 22, 2019

New show is available on Amazon. Every episode is a new cast of characters --- they all just have one thing in common --- Love Stories. Not necessarily romantic love --- friendship, family, etc. Really good. Amazing cast.

I've watched the first 4 episodes so far and they have all been really good.

Email me and let me know if you are watching and what you think!

Eve of Mediation

October 17, 2019

Mediation hearing for my boys is happening tomorrow. Not sure how I feel about it. Whichever way it goes, I feel like they are going to be the ones that suffer no matter what happens. I feel like both choices are bad and there is no good outcome to be had --- just more of a lesser of two evils situation. There is no way for me to shield and protect them in this very broken foster care system. It breaks my heart to think about the pain that they will endure when they leave and I know what's coming. They don't. They can't stop talking about the Fall Festival that Grammy and Pappou are taking them to this weekend at my school. They have no idea what is about to happen to them. They can't prepare. I can do nothing to help them in this. It's just a very helpless place to be.

People tell me all the time, "I don't know how you do it - I could never give the kids up." Do they think I like torturing myself? These kids deserve love and deserve to have a stable family if only for a little while. That's what I signed up for. But it doesn't make it easy as I do have a heart and it will break my heart into a million pieces when they leave. But at least I know that I had the chance to love them and that makes me feel pretty damn lucky.

Movie Review: Judy

October 15, 2019

Mom and I finally went to see the movie Judy today. I enjoyed it. I didn't know much about the life of Judy Garland. They chose to focus on the later part of her life and do flashbacks to help you understand her childhood (like when she was filming of the Wizard of Oz). I really liked the way they did it. Sometimes with bio-pics, I have a hard time letting go of the actor or actress playing the character....but I forgot it was Renee Zellweger pretty early on in the movie. It was sad to me that she lived such a dramatic life and yet was so unhappy. All she wanted to do was be with and provide for her children. I could definitely relate.

I loved the music and thought Renee Zellweger did an excellent job with the songs.

There was a quote at the end of the movie that is worth sharing.

"A heart is not judged by how much you love; but by how much you are Loved by others." ~Wizard of Oz

For more information on Judy, click the movie poster below.

At what point are we good enough? When are we self-improved enough to accept ourselves?

October 14, 2019

I think we will never be good enough. The moment you reach your goal --- you end up setting new ones. I think we learn to be happy with who we are but I don't think I will ever say "I'm good enough."

Top 10 TV Shows for me in October

October 13, 2019

1. Chicago Trilogy
**I'm still sad about losing Otis but glad Brett is back!


2. Grey's Anatomy


3. 9-1-1
**The episode with the Tsunami was pretty amazing! Talk about a nail-biter! If you missed it, watch on Hulu!


4. Law & Order: SVU


5. Blue Bloods


6. Madam Secretary
**I love Elizabeth as President! I'll be sad when this show ends this year!


7. A Million Little Things


8. SWAT
**I love that Hondo is fostering the teenager. I think he's a great role model!


9. Seal Team


10. Poldark
**I love this show so much!

I'm also still binging episodes of The West Wing on Netflix and still enjoying it immensely!

Recipe: Dad's Favorite Oatmeal Scotchie Cookies

October 7, 2019

Dad usually asks for a double batch - so the recipe below is already doubled. Feel free to half it for a single batch.

What You'll NEED:


• 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp cinnamon (feel free to add a little extra)
• 2 cups butter (4 sticks) softened/melted
• 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 cups of packed brown sugar
• 2 tsp vanilla (feel free to add a little extra)
• 4 large eggs
• 6 cups quick or old-fashioned oats
• 2 11-oz pkgs of butterscotch morsels (any brand - but I usually use Toll House)
• sheets of parchment paper
• sheets of wax paper or a cooling rack

Pre-heat oven to 375°.

1. In a small bowl, combine flour, baking soda, salt and cinnamon.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine melted/softened butter with the sugar, brown sugar, eggs and vanilla.
3. Beat in flour mixture slowly into the large mixing bowl.
4. Stir in oats and morsels. You can still use the beater for the oats if you have a powerful mixer but NOT the morsels. Hand stir the morsels in.
5. Drop small spoonfuls onto parchment paper on cookie sheets. Works best if you smush down the spoonful once on cookie sheet so it's flatter in the middle.
6. Bake for 7-8 minutes for chewy cookies or 9-10 for crispy cookies. I find that it makes about 10 trays of a dozen cookies each. The later batches tend to cook faster as the oven is really hot for the later batches -- so watch the time.
7. Cool on baking pan for a minute or two before removing to cooling rack or wax paper.

If you want a real treat, eat one while it's still warm!!!

Serve and Enjoy!

It finally happened!

September 29, 2019

When I lost custody of my first foster son back in December of 2016, I was granted only 4 visits with him a year (once every 3 months). As time has gone on, I realize all that I'm missing out on not just the little things like singing songs at bedtime or cuddling while watching TV, but big milestones like first day of school or soccer games. I remember thinking that I just hoped that his GG and I could get to a point in our relationship where she would invite me to a soccer game when he was old enough to play.

Well, it happened sooner than I thought it would. Yesterday was my quarterly visit with him and GG invited us to come watch him play soccer in the morning before our visit. Mom, Dad and I went and watched him play and it was magical. He got distracted with us being there --- but as I walked around the field, I kept seeing him point me out to different players and his coaches. He kept telling them, "Jenny is here." My heart was beaming with pride. I love him so much. Our visits are never long enough. I start missing him the moment we take him back to GG. I have hope now though that the relationship between his biological family and mine will only get stronger with time and that we will hopefully get to a place where it can just be full of love between all of us. That's what I want more than anything.

Recipe: The Infamous Banana Pudding

September 28, 2019

I always make this for Little One and since his visit is tomorrow I thought I would share....

What You'll NEED:


• 1 8 oz package of cream cheese
• 1 14 oz can of sweetened condensed milk
• 1 5 oz instant vanilla pudding mix
• 3 cups of COLD milk
• 1 teaspoon (or a little more) Vanilla Extract
• 2 containers of whipped topping (cool whip)
• 1 package of golden oreos
• 4 bananas

Set out cream cheese so it is soft and easy to mix (an hour or so usually works). If you don't have time to let it sit out - DONT microwave. Just beat it cold - it won't get as smooth and you will have lumps but it will still taste good.

In large bowl, beat cream cheese until fluffy. Beat in condensed milk, pudding mix, cold milk and vanilla until smooth.

Fold in 1/2 of 1 container of whipped topping (cool whip).

Line bottom of pan with golden oreos. Arrange sliced bananas evenly over oreos.

Spread pudding and chill OVERNIGHT for best result.

Before serving, add whipped topping to the top (or allow people to add a dollop once served).

Enjoy!

TV Premiere Week

September 23, 2019

I look forward to this week all summer. Being able to come home at night and have all new episodes of my favorite shows waiting for me on TiVo. It's also when the conclusions to all of those summer cliffhangers get resolved. I hate cliff hangers in TV shows for so many reasons but this is the week that the TV shows redeem themselves.

Top 5 shows I'm most looking forward to watching this week:

1. Chicago Trilogy (Med, Fire & P.D.)
2. 9-1-1
3. Grey's Anatomy
4. Blue Bloods
5. Law & Order: SVU
6. Madam Secretary, SWAT & Seal Team - Premiere NEXT Week!

New Shows I'm considering watching that look interesting:

1. All Rise
2. Stumptown
3. Perfect Harmony

Top 5 TV Shows for me in September

September 16, 2019

1. Suits
2. Grace and Frankie
3. Yellowstone
4. Mayans MC
5. Good Trouble

I'm looking forward to TV premiere week in just 1 week and then I will have more TV shows than I will know what to do with. I'm also currently binging episodes of The West Wing on Netflix and enjoying it immensely! I never watched it back in the 90s when it was on but it is still very relevant in today's world and it is so good. I love the fast pace. Thanks for the recommendation Betsy! Already in the middle of Season 2 now!

Movie Review: Hustlers

September 15, 2019

Ricky & Peter were here visiting from the UK this week and we went to see the movie Hustlers.

I liked the movie and the fact that it showed the "family" aspect to friendship that I love so much. I have friends that are family to me too. However, the overall story left something to be desired. It was ok, but not great. With the cast it had, it could have been a lot better.

For more information on Hustlers, click the movie poster below.

What in life, is beautiful to you? Where do you find Inspiration?

September 14, 2019

There are quite a few things that I find beautiful about life. I think anyone you ask is going to have a different answer and that's what makes us all special.

Children are beautiful to me. Their spirits and smiles and laughter all bring me great joy during the day. They inspire me to be a better mother and a better human being to my boys and to everyone around me.

Nature is beautiful to me. Waterfalls in particular I find to be extremely beautiful whether its a small trickle from an icicle that's melting or niagra falls, it brings me great joy to watch them.

Human kindness is beautiful. When someone does something nice for someone without expecting anything in return --- that's truly special. If we all did something like that every day the world would be a much better place.

Movie Review: Dora and the Lost City of Gold

September 10, 2019

Cheesy kids movie but I'm sure fans of the show Dora the Explorer would enjoy it. What I found interesting was that all of the people in the theater when I went to see the movie were adults without kids (approximately 10 of us).

I went to go see this movie because I heard someone say it was this generations Goonies --- and it didn't even come close. Enjoyable movie but doesn't come close to touching the greatness of the Goonies.

For more information on Dora and the Lost City of Gold, click the movie poster below.

Live Concert: Keb Mo in Austin, TX

September 7, 2019

Tonight Mom, Dad & I went to go see Keb Mo Live at the Paramount Theatre in Downtown Austin. He put on an amazing show. Just him on a fairly simple set on stage. He didn't need anything fancy as his music is what we were all there for. It was a good crowd.

He played some of my favorites including Life is Beautiful, Suitcase, She just wants to Dance and Rita. I was disappointed that he didn't play Tell Everybody I know but he was playing stuff off his new album which I hadn't heard but it was all good. This is my Home was excellent!

For more about the music of Keb Mo, click the photo above.

Movie Review: Peanut Butter Falcon

September 3, 2019

Mom, Dad and I went to see the Peanut Butter Falcon this week.

This was a great movie. It had a great story to it. It warmed my heart from beginning to end. Shia LaBeouf did an amazing job as did Dakota Johnson but the star of the movie was Zack Gottsagen. The role was written specifically for him after writer-directors Tyler Nilson and Mike Schwartz were floored by his talent at a camp for actors with disabilities. He just stole every scene. I would HIGHLY recommend seeing this movie.

For more information on Peanut Butter Falcon, click the movie poster below.

Movie Review: Angel has Fallen

August 27, 2019

Tuesday movie this week was Angel has Fallen (sequel to London has Fallen and Olympus has Fallen)

Typical action movie and it didn't disappoint from the original 2 movies. Gerard Butler's character Mike Banning was the same flawed and yet trustworthy character from the first two films.

For more information on Angel has Fallen, click the movie poster below.

Unlikely Friendship

August 25, 2019

Chloe is staying with us this week while Mom and Dad are in Colorado. While Mia likes to pretend that she hates the dog, I captured this spontaneous moment of her doing rollovers in front of an unphased Chloe. She was trying to get Chloe's attention and enjoying every minute of it.

Recipe: Fish Parmesan

August 19, 2019

What You'll NEED:


• 1/3 cup of light mayo
• 3/4 cup of parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp of Chipotle Tobasco sauce
• 2 TBSP Green Onions
• 4 TBSP Lemon Juice
• 6 - 6oz portion of white fish (Tilapia works best)

Pre-heat oven to 425°.

Mix all ingredients except fish together in a bowl. Makes a paste.

In a baking pan, spread out the fish. Spread mixture over each piece of fish evenly.

Bake for 10 minutes in 425° pre-heated oven. Turn Oven to Broil. Broil for 2-3 minutes or until cheese mixture is a golden brown.

Serve and Enjoy!

Movie Review: Blinded by the Light

August 17, 2019

To celebrate Mom's birthday today, we went to lunch and a movie.

Movie was a true story of a fan of Bruce Springsteen and how he learns to understand and accept his life through the music of Bruce Springsteen. It was a great story and of course the music was excellent.

For more information on Blinded by the Light, click the movie poster below.

Top 5 TV Shows for me in August

August 15, 2019

1. Suits
2. Grace and Frankie
3. Yellowstone
4. Good Trouble
5. Pearson

When did your life change for the better? Can you pin point it?

August 14, 2019

July 27, 2001 - It's the day I got the phone call and learned about a job opportunity at Music World Entertainment that I could apply for to become the Fan Club Manager for Destiny's Child.

August 12, 2015 - It's the night I got the phone call to accept Little One into my life and I became a mom in a single instant.

Movie Review: Fast and Furious Presents Hobbs and Shaw

August 10, 2019

Mom babysat tonight so that Dad and I could continue our tradition of seeing the Fast and Furious movies together. We both love the movies and love spending time together to go see them. It's our daddy/daughter tradition. I love seeing action movies with him but in particular these Fast and Furious movies.

I knew going into it that it would be different since it's not a sequel to the Fast and Furious franchise but rather a spin off. While I enjoyed it and it was a good solid action movie that didn't disappoint on the adrenaline rush, I didn't love it as much as I love the original franchise. It didn't have the same "friends are family" vibe that I love so much.

For more information on Hobbs & Shaw, click the movie poster below.

Movie Review: The Art of Racing in the Rain

August 9, 2019

I wanted to see this movie for a couple of reasons. I usually love films that involve animals and then my favorite childhood actor (Kevin Costner) playing the voice of Enzo (the dog) --- I just couldn't pass it up.

I enjoyed the movie immensely even though it wasn't what I was expecting. It was funny, sad, and everything in between.

For more information on The Art of Racing in the Rain, click the movie poster below.

Movie Review: Spider-Man: Far From Home

July 31, 2019

Alamo Drafthouse was offering free movies for teachers on Wednesdays so I took advantage of the special and went to see Spider-Man Far From Home.

Typical action movie and it didn't disappoint from all of the other spider-man movies. A little bit of romance, a lot of action and heroics, etc.

For more information on Spider-Man Far From Home, click the movie poster below.

Movie Review: Lion King (2019)

July 23, 2019

I planned on seeing this right when it came out to support Beyoncé (and my love of Disney movies), however, it came out right in the middle of our family reunion in North Carolina --- so I had to wait until I got home to Texas. So when I arrived home today, it was at the top of my priority list.

I thought they did an excellent job on the remake and most of the small changes I liked. While I think Beyoncé's song was amazing, it just didn't seem to fit with the movie since all the other songs were from the original. It was a little jarring, but she did a great job on the song and in her portrayal of Nala.

For more information on the new Lion King, click the movie poster below.

Family Reunion

July 22, 2019

I'm really lucky to call myself part of the Gianakos Clan. I just finished spending an amazing weekend with my Greek Family in Hendersonville, NC. It's where my great-grandfather came to the US and settled with his wife. He opened a candy store there and while the candy store isn't there anymore, the building still stands and a historical plaque talking about my great-grandfather is on the outside of the building.

I got to spend a lot of time with my cousins which was nice. Laura Beth's family and Mom, Dad and I went hiking to see some waterfalls on the first day we were in town. It was a good hike and we got some amazing pictures. I got to meet my cousin Shannon Zoe for the first time. She lives in NYC and is on a side of the family that rarely participates in family things. It was really nice getting to know her and spending quality time. I always love spending time with my cousins.

I find myself sad this morning as we drive to Nashville where I will be flying home. I never get enough time with my family.

Hendersonville, NC

July 20, 2019

Today we spent the day in Hendersonville, NC enjoying a historical tour. This town is where my great grandfather lived and he owned a candy kitchen (general store) right near the train station. The building still stands today, but the store doesn't. However, there is a historical plaque on the side of the building that mentions George Gianakos and his candy kitchen. Really cool to be a part of the family history. We also visited his grave and the graves of other family members buried in Hendersonville.

Here's the whole family outside of the building that used to be the Candy Kitchen back in the early 1900s.

We had a great day enjoying being with family.

Asheville, NC

July 18, 2019

Last night we arrived in Asheville, NC to start our family reunion tonight. This afternoon, my parents and I spent the afternoon hiking with my cousin Laura and her family at Triple Falls and Hooker Falls. Easy hikes to get to the waterfalls and they were absolutely beautiful.

Triple Falls was absolutely breathtaking. The hike to get there wasn't bad and you could climb right out to the falls. It was pretty spectacular.

For more about Hooker Falls, click the top 2 photos. For more about Triple Falls, click the bottom photo.

What's your personal heaven?

July 15, 2019

Well there are two ways to answer this question.

You could answer it with what you want your heaven to be in the afterlife (assuming you believe in Heaven - which I personally do.) If we are talking about that kind of heaven --- i would want to be surrounded by my friends and family and animals some of whom are already there waiting for me. I'd want it to be like a scene from What Dreams May Come --- vivid colors, beautiful nature scenes, etc. As long as my family is there --- it would be the perfect heaven.

If we are talking about a Heaven on Earth, then I would say anytime my family and I get together. There is something so amazing about spending time with my family. It could be sharing a simple meal together, watching TV or taking a lavish vacation together.....any and all of it. Just being together is what makes me the happiest.

The Dreaded TV Summer Drought

July 14, 2019

While I enjoy being off in the summer and having lots of things to do including my family reunion next week, I miss my TV shows as well. There is very little on TV right now and I'm finding myself not turning it on for days at a time.

Anyone have any binge-worthy shows on Netflix, Hulu or Amazon Prime that I should be catching up on this month?

Email me and let me know!

The Outer Banks, NC

July 13, 2019

Mom and Dad and I have spent the last few days in the Outer Banks! This is definitely a place I want to come back to and spend more time. So many things to do and we didn't even really spend any time ON the beach (which was beautiful). We spent time exploring lighthouses, visiting a botanical gardens, visiting Jennette's pier, seeing a historical play, and taking a tour to see the wild horses.

I finally got to see someone spell my name correctly! Jennette was actually the LAST name of the person who owned/built the pier. But finally a correct spelling of my name!!!

We took an excursion to have a guide show us the horses in their wild habitat. You cannot get within 50 feet of them as it isn't allowed. They are left alone to wander (including into people's back yards! It was really amazing to see them.

For more about wild horses in the Outer Banks, click the photo above.

Movie Review: Toy Story 4

July 11, 2019

We are in North Carolina in the Outer Banks visiting my mom's college roomie. We all decided to go to the movies tonight. Mom, Boo & I went to see Toy Story 4 while Dad and her husband went to see an action movie.

I enjoyed it more than I thought I would. I mean I love the Toy Story movies but there is only so much you can have them do (or so I thought). I thought the script was very well done and equally as funny as the previous movies. It was very fun and entertaining. My favorite scene was when the RV was being driven by the toys --- I nearly peed my pants laughing. I would definitely recommend it.

For more information on Toy Story 4, click the movie poster below.

Movie Review: Yesterday

July 3, 2019

While I love the Beatles music, I was unsure if I would like this movie and I was so wrong. I loved it. It was enjoyable and had a great story line. It really made you lose yourself in the music and the concept of a world without the Beatles music.

For more information on Yesterday, click the movie poster below.

Book Recommendation: Golden Boy by Abigail Tarttelin

July 1, 2019

It's hard to explain what this book is about and why I love it so much. It's a unique story. It deals with an intersex teenager, Max, and his family.

For more about this book, click the image above.

Movie Review: The Secret Life of Pets 2

June 25, 2019

My nephew Aiden was visiting Texas and wanted to see this movie so we went to see it as a family.

It felt like a sequel. Jokes were funny but in some ways it felt like a redo of the first movie. I did like the scene with the Old Lady in the Car with all the pets --- that was funny.

For more information on The Secret Life of Pets 2, click the movie poster below.

Movie Review: Aladdin (2019)

June 21, 2019

I absolutely loved the original. It is one of my favorite Robin Williams movies. His portrayal of the genie was just hilarious.

The new one was certainly enjoyable and Will Smith was great ---- but couldn't compare to Robin Williams version. Still, overall, a great remake.

For more information on the new Aladdin, click the movie poster below.

How do you manage stress?

June 15, 2019

I eat. I'm a stress eater and when I'm stressed I tend to eat for comfort. It's not the healthiest way to manage it but it's what I do.

Live Show: Hamilton in Austin, TX

June 12, 2019

Tonight, Mom and I finally got to see the Broadway show Hamilton live on stage at Bass Concert Hall in Austin, TX!

I'm glad that Mom had me listen to the soundtrack and read the words before we saw the show as I understood it a lot better. Since they are rapping the words to most of the songs, it's hard to catch all of the meaning. It was an excellent show and I'm really glad I got to see it but I wouldn't go see it again.

For more about the show Hamilton, click on the photo above.

Movie Review: Booksmart

May 28, 2019

I have a lot of respect for Olivia Wilde and I knew she directed this film so I wanted to see it. The concept was great and the film was funny. However, I felt it to be too silly at times and was a type of comedy that I just don't find funny (others love it).

For more information on Booksmart, click the movie poster below.

Movie Review: The Sun is Also a Star

May 21, 2019

I enjoyed it. Not a lot of dialogue. I found that the movie in a way was a love letter to the city of NYC as well as a love story. Reminded me of one of my favorite movies Before Sunrise except this movie had less dialogue.

For more information on The Sun is also a Star, click the movie poster below.

What do you believe stands between you and complete happiness?

May 15, 2019

While I don't think money equals happiness, it would certainly allow me to spend more time doing what it is that I love and spending more time with family --- and less time worrying about money and how to survive.

Movie Review: Poms

May 14, 2019

I enjoyed it. It was silly and fun. Nothing too deep but I was expecting fluff and it delivered.

For more information on Poms, click the movie poster below.

Movie Review: Pokemon: Detective Pikachu

May 10, 2019

Elizabeth and I have been talking about seeing this movie for months! So excited to finally make it happen tonight.

Since I play Pokemon Go and I'm familiar with all the different pokemon characters, I found the movie to be enjoyable as I liked seeing the more realistic versions of the pokemon. But the overall story was good too. I thought they did a great job with a movie that could have come across as just too cheesy and over the top.

For more information on Pokemon: Detective Pikachu, click the movie poster below.

Movie Review: Long Shot

May 7, 2019

I thought this movie was very funny without even trying to be. Seth Rogen is just that funny and partnered with Charlize Theron it was great. I enjoyed their chemistry.

For more information on the Long Shot, click the movie poster below.

Movie Review: Avengers: Endgame

April 30, 2019

Even though I've only recently become a fan of the Marvel films --- this one makes me want to go back and see all 22 films in order. It was a great movie with a super amazing cast. I think that's the most celebrities I've ever seen in one film.

For more information on Avengers: Endgame, click the movie poster below.

Movie Review: Best of Enemies

April 9, 2019

Very powerful and TRUE story. Based on the "An Unlikely Friendship Documentary" which tells the true story of C.P. Ellis and Ann Atwater. Movie was very well done and I enjoyed it a lot.

For more information on the Best of Enemies, click the movie poster below.

A New Mandala

April 7, 2019

This morning I woke up super early to go to Austin's Cap 10K race. Unfortunately, before I even left my house, it was cancelled due to a really bad storm. I lost power at my house. Without power, I decided to do something I hadn't done in awhile. I decided to pull out my Mandala book and color a mandala (by candlelight as I had no power).

I find coloring to be so relaxing. I wish I had more time to focus on it.

Movie Review: Dumbo (2019)

April 2, 2019

It is a very enjoyable remake. I loved the original cartoon version but looking back on it as an adult it has a lot of racial undertones that the new remake doesn't have. I enjoyed the new one a lot more because of that. Dumbo's eyes just tugged on your heart strings in every scene. I know it was digitally created but it looked so real. Very well done.

For more information on the new Dumbo movie, click the movie poster below.

Movie Review: The Mustang

March 26, 2019

Roman and Marques both had a lot of anger that had to be worked through to trust one another. I thought they portrayed that very well. If you like animal stories, you will like this film.

For more information on The Mustang, click the movie poster below.

Movie Review: Five Feet Apart

March 19, 2019

I enjoyed it. It taught me a lot about cystic fybrosis and how painful it must be to love someone so much and know that one touch can kill them. It's definitely a tear jerker.

For more information on the Five Feet Apart, click the movie poster below.

What's something you think every person should experience in their lifetime?

March 15, 2019

Love. Whether that's being head over heels in love with your soulmate or loving a child or having a best friend that you love more than life itself. LOVE is something everyone deserves to experience.

Movie Review: Captain Marvel

March 12, 2019

I was excited to see this movie because my cousin, Eleni, worked on it as the Digital Asset Manager. It did not disappoint. Very entertaining.

I loved the positive women attitude of the whole movie. Women can do anything!

For more information on Captain Marvel, click the movie poster below.

Movie Review: Run the Race

March 5, 2019

This movie had a little bit of everything: sports, romance, family, drama, comedy, etc. I enjoyed it. It did have a "christian" undertone to it as a spiritual movie at times but overall was very enjoyable.

For more information on Run the Race, click the movie poster below.

Movie Review: Isn't it Romantic?

February 19, 2019

It's way too cheesy and very predictable like most romantic comedies but if you like romantic comedies you'll enjoy it. Suspension of disbelief is required.

For more information on Isn't It Romantic?, click the movie poster below.

What's the wisest thing you've ever heard someone say?

February 15, 2019

Gratitude is riches. Complaint is poverty. ~Advice passed down from my great-grandmother to my mother to me.

Movie Review: What Men Want

February 12, 2019

A twist to a remake of the movie What Women Want. The original movie had Mel Gibson hearing women's thoughts....this version has Taraji P Henson hearing men's thoughts.

Even though at times it was a little over the top, I definitely had some laughs and enjoyed it.

For more information on What Men Want, click the movie poster below.

Movie Review: Miss Bala

February 5, 2019

I wanted to like this movie. I was excited to see it as I like Gina Rodriguez. I could predict every plot twist and overall it was just too predictable. Plus by the end, they left some stuff unanswered. Enjoyable as an action movie but definitely wait until DVD. Not worth seeing in theaters. I also expected there to be some romance to it but alas, none.

For more information on Miss Bala, click the movie poster below.

Movie Review: Serenity

January 29, 2019

When I saw the preview for this movie it looked like your typical suspense thriller. Watching the movie, I even felt that way. However, the last 10 minutes of the movie made it so much more. Totally worth the watch.

For more information on Serenity, click the movie poster below.

Movie Review: A Dog's Way Home

January 22, 2019

I enjoyed this movie. It felt like a remake of Homeward Bound (even though the two are unrelated.) The movie is mostly about the dog's journey and very little with human actors.

For more information on A Dog's Way Home, click the movie poster below.

Movie Review: Mary Poppins Returns

January 21, 2019

Tonight I took my friend's kids to see Mary Poppins Returns. This was my second time seeing the movie but I enjoyed it even more the second time. I was able to hum/sing along to the music this time as I bought the soundtrack 2 weeks ago. My favorite songs are Trip a Little Light Fantastic and Turning Turtle.

For more information on Mary Poppins Returns, click the movie poster below.

Movie Review: If Beale Street Could Talk

January 19, 2019

I enjoyed it for the story which was heartbreaking as it was/is reality in the current climate of America. I wanted to love it more for that reason alone but I felt it was too slow paced and choppy at times. Regina King and the rest of the cast were excellent. I just felt it was slow. Still worth watching.

For more information on If Beale Street Could Talk, click the movie poster below.

What's one mistake that you will never do again?

January 17, 2019

Let down a friend.

Movie Review: The Upside

January 15, 2019

This is a remake of another movie called the Intouchables. The original is in French with English Subtitles. I loved the original so much that I didn't think it could get any better. But Bryan Cranston and Kevin Hart were perfect. The chemistry between them was great and the movie was just as funny as the original.

For more information on The Upside, click the movie poster below.

Is it easier to hate or to love?

January 12, 2019

Hate. Although if you can muster the strength to love, it is totally worth it.

Movie Review: Second Act

January 8, 2019

I found myself relating to this movie more than I thought I would. In the movie, one of the characters had given up a child for adoption on December 23. It's the same day that I had to let go of little one for him to go and live with his GG. It's what Christmas is tough each year as I have vivid memories of that day. The character in the movie struggles with Christmas as well.

Overall I thought the movie was great. Anyone would enjoys a lighthearted romantic comedy would enjoy this movie.

For more information on Second Act, click the movie poster below.

If your home was on fire and you only had time to grab 3 things, what would they be?

January 5, 2019

1. My cats
2. My Yearly Photobooks
3. My Computer

Movie Review: On the Basis of Sex

January 3, 2019

Movie is fantastic. The fact that it is a true story makes it even better. I learned a lot about gender equality and it makes me thankful for the era that I was raised in where women are equal in most ways (although still not all.) Ruth Bader Ginsburg is an amazing woman with an amazing story to tell.

For more information on On the Basis of Sex, click the movie poster below.

Movie Review: Ben is Back

January 3, 2019

Movie was excellent. Julia Roberts portrayal of his mom was outstanding. It really makes you think about what families of addicts go through and when is enough really enough. How does a mother choose to let go?

For more information on Ben is Back, click the movie poster below.

Movie Review: Vice

January 1, 2019

This movie was very educational for me. I didn't realize how much power Dick Cheney had and what we have to thank him for (ISIS, etc.) Christian Bale did an excellent job playing this role. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys historical films as it looks back at history.

For more information on Vice, click the movie poster below.

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