Category: Life

Hooray for Hollywood!

On By Elizabeth Rosalyn TheIn 2013, Life, Photography, Travel1 Comment

I had a sensational and memorable time during my trip to Los Angeles, California at the end of July!

Within a week, I was able to visit the sights I’ve wanted to see and accomplish the activities I’ve wanted to do in the City of Angels. I hiked up to the Hollywood sign, scoped out the stars along the Walk of Fame on Hollywood Boulevard (and even saw Walk of Fame ceremony for the late Peter Falk (Columbo)… and DICK VAN DYKE happened to be a special guest!), checked out the handprints at the TCL Chinese Theatre and saw The Bling Ring in cinema, watched two shows (American Idol Season 12 Tour at Nokia Theatre and Chicago at Hollywood Bowl), went to museums (Grammy Museum for music, Paley Center for television, and Hollywood Museum for film), did tours of Dolby Theatre (where the Oscars are held) and Paramount Studios (home of Lucille Ball, Community, Glee, and more television shows and movies!), chilled at the pier and beach in Santa Monica, shopped at Hollywood & Highland, the Grove, the Farmer’s Market, and Santa Monica (and window-shopped at Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills), and spent a day at the happiest place on earth, Disneyland!

I took over 1000+ photos, which I’ve uploaded to my Flickr album (the American Idol tour pictures can be found on my other Flickr album)

Years ago, I left my heart in New York City, but now, Los Angeles has certainly stolen a piece of my heart as well. I’m already looking forward to the next time I travel to LA! 🙂

Remembering Cory Monteith

On By Elizabeth Rosalyn TheIn 2013, Entertainment, Inspiration, Life, Life Lessons, News2 Comments

Cory Monteith

I am heartbroken over the death of Cory Monteith. My thoughts, prayers, and love go out to his family, his friends, his fans, and everyone who is affected by this tremendous loss.

Like most, I was introduced to Cory through Glee and instantly connected to his character of Finn Hudson, a young man who was trying to find his voice and embrace who he is, flaws and all. I was incredibly impressed by his talents as an actor, and he became one of the most beloved members of the cast for his funny, friendly, kind, and humble nature.

Besides acting, he made his mark through music (the photo above is from a Pinkberry event I attended where he played the drums with his band, Bonnie Dune), through his philanthropy work (he was an advocate for organizations such as Project Limelight, Virgin Unite, and GLAAD, and was the recipient of the 2012 Do Something Award for his efforts to motivate youth to take action on social causes), and even through cheering on his hockey team, the Vancouver Canucks (he was always so happy and proud to be a Canadian – and it made me feel the same way).

It is so devastating when young people pass away so suddenly (he was only 31), but I believe he has left behind a strong legacy during his time with us. In a society that mercilessly ostracizes those who struggle with very REAL issues like addiction and depression, he is someone who had the courage to seek help, and thus, he inspires others to do the same. He went through many challenges along his journey, but he always fought through with hard work, optimism, and bravery. To me and many others, he will be remembered for his authenticity, compassion, and perseverance.

Thank you for all that you’ve done to make a difference in our world, Cory Monteith. May you rest peacefully.

Life Lessons Learned From… Billie Holiday

On By Elizabeth Rosalyn TheIn Life, Life Lessons2 Comments

“If I’m going to sing like someone else, then I don’t need to sing at all.” – Billie Holiday

The timeless and instantly-recognizable Billie Holiday’s insights go beyond singing; it’s applicable to putting your own stamp on whatever it is that you do.

Continue reading “Life Lessons Learned From… Billie Holiday” →

Cheers To You… Mad Women

On By Elizabeth Rosalyn TheIn Cheers To You, Entertainment, TelevisionLeave a comment

The show may be called Mad Men, but the most compelling characters on this show are the Mad Women. As men like Don Draper continue to fall behind and find themselves increasingly out of touch with the modern day, it’s the working girls and society ladies who are on the rise, taking charge of their domains (be it in their careers, their families, and/or their relationships) and ultimately, of their lives as women of the 1960s.

To Peggy, Joan, Megan, Betty, Sally, Trudy, and Dawn – I raise a sparkling glass to you!

Continue reading on The Hudsucker…

SFU Convocation 2013

On By Elizabeth Rosalyn TheIn 2013, Dear Diary6 Comments

On June 14th, I graduated from Simon Fraser University!

The day of my convocation was quite crazy. It rained (typical Vancouver!) and I fainted (causing me to miss walking in the bagpipes-led procession, but I was compensated with a prime seat in the front row), but I finally crossed that stage after six years of school!

It was a true honour to be inducted into the SFU Alumni with the talented individuals from the Faculty of Communication, Art & Technology. Congratulations to all of the new grads from the Class of 2013!

Now, can someone please tell me…
What Do You Do With A B.A. in (Communication and) English?

(More photos on Flickr.)