2009 (aka: LJ is a douche)
This has been the year of my life with the most changes, for sure.
This time last year marked my twelfth year in Australia. Next June will mark my first year back in America.
Obviously the move was the biggest thing I've probably ever done in my life so far. I actually never thought it would be possible for me to go home, it all just seemed like a daydream. I remember countless times, sitting on my mom's bed and talking to her and telling her to get her courage up and have us go home. I remember the night she did it, nearly two years ago. I was in the bath and she came in and told me that she told Dad that she was going home and that I was coming, too.
And now, here I am! I can't believe it actually happened. It took forever to settle stuff and for the house to sell, and it's still not totally settled, but the thing that matters the most is that I'm home and that I never have to leave if I don't want to.
I got to know my brother a bit better this past year, which is a good thing, even if it doesn't seem like it most of the time. I also met Kate, who is awesome and whom I adore with all my heart.
So.
Things I learned in 2009:
Not to hate
To be a good student
To be patient
To not take things so seriously
What I want to do with my life
Things I experienced in 2009:
Disappointment
Excitement
Annoyance
Happiness
Gratitude
Things I regretted about 2009:
Nothing
This was also probably the best year for fandom, like, ever. I have LJ to thank for that, actually. I doubt I'd even know half of my new TV show obsessions even existed, as sad as that is. Anyway.
I made an entirely-too-huge recount on fandom. Like, it's awful. So. Behind the cut there's a bunch of (resized) pictures, text, and a few downloads. ;)
Movies
I made that silly '100 movies by 2010' goal, and of course half of my scrapbook post - the post with the list - got deleted. So I have no idea how many movies I got up to. I think around 85? Anyroad. None of the movies (or TV shows) are specifically new for 2009, they're just new to me. :P
I fell for the more dramatic, meaningful films this year.
Brokeback Mountain
This became my favorite movie of all time this year. It's heartbreaking and so incredibly beautiful. Every time I watch it is like the first time.
Into The Wild
They couldn't have picked a better actor to play McCandless than Emile Hirsch. This movie makes you feel like the world is limitless, but it's grounding at the same time.
Joy Luck Club
I live for movies with real stories in them, and this has eight. The cinematography in this is beautiful and I love each and every character.
Once
I have a lot of mixed feelings for Once but mainly I just adore it. Such a unique film, really, and the music is beautiful.
Milk
Such a great biopic. The characterization in this is probably the best I've ever seen. It was an epic film, but also really real, if that makes sense.
The Lord of the Rings Trilogy
I never thought I'd see the day where I became a giant LOTR nerd, but there you go. LOVED these, especially when you watch them consecutively. The images are really impressive and the cast is fabulous.
Cold Mountain
Probably one of the most violent films I've ever seen, but it's so long and a great watch. Probably one of Nicole Kidman's best films and the music is just gorgeous, really.
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
It took me a while to get into this movie, but once I did I fell in love. Brad Pitt is quite underrated when it comes to his acting skill (he's so much more than just a pretty face!) and really, the whole cast was phenomenal. Such a neat, unique storyline!
Of course, there were some awesome lighthearted films, too. ;D
I Love You, Man
It's no secret that I love the hell out of Paul Rudd, and this movie is basically one giant hootenanny of adorableness. Sydney and Peter's bromance is so freaking sweet. It's the perfect mix of humor, crudeness, cuteness and just the right amount of srs bsns.
You've Got Mail
This is one of the best 'chick flicks' I've ever seen. It's glorious. Bookstores, cute girls and guys, New York City, nice people, lols and Tom Hanks. I didn't want it to end!
TV Shows
I've never been a TV person. I mainly just half-assed paid attention to the ones my mom watched: Grey's Anatomy, Gilmore Girls, House, things like that. This year I got into some shows for myself.
American Idol
This show acidentally'd my life from the moment it began. I watched last season but didn't care about it anymore once it was over... total opposite here. It's been about half a year since the finale and I'm still obsessed with the contestants.
Merlin
My new obsession! It's so freaking slashy but on top of that it's pretty much the only TV show that I watch where I can't predict the end of an episode. It keeps me guessing and it's just a great show overall, and the fandom is awesomesauce.
Glee
Who didn't watch Glee this year? I was skeptical, but I bought the pilot on my birthday and watched it and was hooked instantly. I'm not a fan of the music but the plot is awesome and the characters are golden, especially Sue and Finn.
iCarly
The episodes just keep getting better and better! DanWarp is on a roll! It's without a doubt the best kids network show on the air and I know that if it were to still be around when I'm in my 30's, I'd be just as excited for it as I am now.
Queer as Folk
I had my doubts and didn't really get the hype.... until about five minutes into the pilot when Brian Kinney came on screen. My exact words? "Oh, I see." This show is really just a total blast to watch.
Flight of the Conchords
I'm really sad these guys aren't getting renewed for another season, because they've kind of become like family to me over the years. The way they play the ~dramatic relationship~ between Australians and New Zealanders is golden, and I love how Bret and Jemaine get so butthurt about each other. They're one of the best duos ever, for sure.
Late Night with Jimmy Fallon
I pretty much grew up on Tonight Shows: especially Leno, but also Letterman and O'Brien. When Fallon came along, it was like the Tonight Show biz went crazy because finally there was a show that was fresh and original, something just for me. Jimmy is absolutely adorable, his comedy is awesome, his interviews are the best of them all and The Roots? Insane. I hope the show sticks around forever, because I love it to death.
Music
Kris Allen
Kris is amazing. He's adorable and modest and totally hilarious and his music is just fantastic. I really don't think I've flailed over one person in my life as much as I have over Kris in the past few months.
Adam Lambert
So everyone knows he's the fiercest mofo since Elvis or something, with his insane voice and stunning looks and style. But he's also incredibly sweet and humble. He's beautiful in every way.
Lady GaGa
She's probably my favorite person of 2009. She inspires me so much. Her fashion sense is batshit crazy, her makeup is flawless, her mouth is unfiltered, her music is brilliant, and yet I can relate to her as a person. I love her.
Led Zeppelin
It's no secret that they pretty much rocked my world this year. I dunno, man, they're just so good! I'm slow on the bandwagon, sure, and I don't have all their albums yet, but they're definitely one of my favorite bands now.
Ben Kweller
Probably my favorite discovery of the year. I got his album Changing Horses this year and it was love at first play. I feel like I've listened to him him for years. His upbeat songs are so much fun to sing along to, but his slower songs are some of the best there are.
Johnny Flynn
He's incredibly talented. For a twenty year-old Londoner to write and compose and sing some of the best folk there's been in a good long time, he's pretty darn special. His music is beautiful and I recommend his album to everyone.
Fleet Foxes
They absolutely mastered the harmonies, seriously. Their album makes me want to walk through a forest and fall in love and write pretty stories. I can't even begin to say how gorgeous their music is.
Jack Penate
He is so freaking awesome I can't stand it. He's adorable as heck and so weird, too. His album 'Everything Is New' has been on repeat since I got it. He's a fabulous songwriter and his melodies are so original and fabulous. UNF.
Brett Dennen
Brett reminds me of San Francisco and New York City and my home town. He makes me want to dance and greet everyone I meet with a peace sign. And whilst I'm jamming out to his endearingly high voice and cool style, he's out to change the world, one awesome song at a time.
Donovan
I love the whole peace movement, I love Joan Baez and Pete Seeger and definitely Peter, Paul and Mary. Donovan is just one of many musicians from that time, but he's my favorite. After all, there has to be something pretty special about a guy in the 60's singing a song about running off with another boy. ;)
Tegan and Sara
My last.fm tells me that they're my second most played artist of all time after The Beatles. There's something about them that's just so great. 'The Con' is probably one of my most played albums. Their new album 'Sainthood' is my favorite album of 2009.
Josh Pyke
No matter how much I listen to him, no matter how few (35!) songs I have of his, he will always be my favorite. Always. His melodies, lyrics and arrangements are perfect. He's perfect. I love him.
Ships
The best part about fandom? The ships, of course! It just wouldn't be the same without all the flailing and tinhatting and well-mannered arguments. ;P
Kris Allen/Adam Lambert
So... things we know about Nora. She rants a lot about her brother and her mom, she likes citrus fruits and, for the better part of 2009 Kradam has been her life. Yeah. They're beautiful. Their unconditional support for each other is inspiring. My year has been filled with ear kisses, clothes sharing and so many heart eyes it might just be criminal.
Merlin/Arthur > Merlin
I love them so much. I love how Merlin is so devoted to Arthur and never gives up on him. I love how Arthur pretends that he doesn't adore the hell out of Merlin when he so totally does, and how he'll risk his own life to save Merlin's. They're each other's destiny. ... BRB sobbing in a corner.
Will/Emma > Glee
Glee is tricky for me in terms of shipping. It's all a bit overwhelming. But the one I've been sure of from the start is Will/Emma. I love how Emma knows she's obviously in love with Will but she still sticks by him even when she gets threatened. And when Will finally got his act together? Omggg! :DD
Sam/Freddie > iCarly
I'm not as srs bsns Seddie shipper as I was before, and have developed a soft spot for Cam and Creddie, but Seddie is where it's at, man. They're it. Freddie will do pretty much anything for Sam and nobody gets to pick on Freddie but Sam. They work together and they always will.
Brian/Justin > Queer as Folk
They're probably one of the best couples in fictional history, in my opinion. I'm kind of annoyed with the QAF producers for dulling down on them after season one, because they're just brilliant. Even though he's never said it, Brian loves Justin more than he's probably ever loved anyone. And Justin doesn't need to hear it, he knows it already. Their relationship is just wonderful.
Bradley James/Colin Morgan
I'm new to the fandom but omg. They are freaking adorable. They sing John Farnham songs and go on roadtrips and play footsie together. And don't get me started on the heart eyes, dude. I love them sfm. Now, where'd I put my tinhat?...
Kristen Stewart/Robert Pattinson
I am not a Twilight fan by any means, but I love these two. Even though they're two of the most on-the-radar people in the biz, they're really down to earth (their opinions on Twilight are fucking awesome, seriously). And together? Omggg. Two endearingly awkward and ditzy kids that seem just a little bit more grounded when they're together. Stewinson OTP.
Kurt/Finn > Glee
I ship them as friends only, but, c'mon. Think about it. Kurt would be Finn's go-to friend for fashion advice and girl troubles, and Finn, being the awesome jock he is, would be the guy who'd scare the crap out of any guy who broke Kurt's heart. If this happened I'd just about die and go to heaven. Please, Glee writers?
Merlin/Gwen > Merlin
Again, just as friends. But they are so adorable. Just look at them! <33 Their trust in each other is endless. I wish I had a BFF like that!
Songs of 2009
Click on the title to download! :)
Adam Lambert - A Change Is Gonna Come (Live)
Ben Kweller - Ballad Of Wendy Baker
Brett Dennen - World Keeps Turning
Dead Weather - Hang You From The Heavens
Franz Ferdinand - No You Girls
Jack Penate - Be The One
Kris Allen - Alright With Me
Lady GaGa - Bad Romance
Mika - By The Time
Paolo Nutini - High Hopes
Steve Earle - Brand New Companion
The Swell Season - Low Rising
Tegan and Sara - On Directing
Communities
ontd_ai
ohnotheydidnt
merlinxarthur
beepxbeepxbeep
kradam_kiss
mossip
fandomsecrets
twoish (;P)
What else happened this year that I didn't mention? Too freaking much. Appearances and interviews by my favorite celebs, way too many deaths (RIP Brittany Murphy and Natasha Richardson!) other non-2009 songs I became obsessed with... Yeah, there was a lot. So this really just barely touches on things I loved this year.
Plans for 2010. I plan on making changes next year, of course. I'm going to study more, try to get a job, discover many more artists and fandoms, get my license and a car, make more friends, do more things for myself.
Mainly I'm just going to enjoy life no matter what and continue my "dude, it ain't that deep!" mindset. 2010? Bring it on!
I think that's finally it. Whew.
Thank you guys for a year full of amazing support and friendship. I really do adore the heck out of you all and appreciate every conversation I've ever had with you. I love you guys and I hope you all had a good year, and that your 2010 will be even better. <333
~umbreons
This time last year marked my twelfth year in Australia. Next June will mark my first year back in America.
Obviously the move was the biggest thing I've probably ever done in my life so far. I actually never thought it would be possible for me to go home, it all just seemed like a daydream. I remember countless times, sitting on my mom's bed and talking to her and telling her to get her courage up and have us go home. I remember the night she did it, nearly two years ago. I was in the bath and she came in and told me that she told Dad that she was going home and that I was coming, too.
And now, here I am! I can't believe it actually happened. It took forever to settle stuff and for the house to sell, and it's still not totally settled, but the thing that matters the most is that I'm home and that I never have to leave if I don't want to.
I got to know my brother a bit better this past year, which is a good thing, even if it doesn't seem like it most of the time. I also met Kate, who is awesome and whom I adore with all my heart.
So.
Things I learned in 2009:
Not to hate
To be a good student
To be patient
To not take things so seriously
What I want to do with my life
Things I experienced in 2009:
Disappointment
Excitement
Annoyance
Happiness
Gratitude
Things I regretted about 2009:
Nothing
This was also probably the best year for fandom, like, ever. I have LJ to thank for that, actually. I doubt I'd even know half of my new TV show obsessions even existed, as sad as that is. Anyway.
I made an entirely-too-huge recount on fandom. Like, it's awful. So. Behind the cut there's a bunch of (resized) pictures, text, and a few downloads. ;)
Movies
I made that silly '100 movies by 2010' goal, and of course half of my scrapbook post - the post with the list - got deleted. So I have no idea how many movies I got up to. I think around 85? Anyroad. None of the movies (or TV shows) are specifically new for 2009, they're just new to me. :P
I fell for the more dramatic, meaningful films this year.
Brokeback Mountain
This became my favorite movie of all time this year. It's heartbreaking and so incredibly beautiful. Every time I watch it is like the first time.
Into The Wild
They couldn't have picked a better actor to play McCandless than Emile Hirsch. This movie makes you feel like the world is limitless, but it's grounding at the same time.
Joy Luck Club
I live for movies with real stories in them, and this has eight. The cinematography in this is beautiful and I love each and every character.
Once
I have a lot of mixed feelings for Once but mainly I just adore it. Such a unique film, really, and the music is beautiful.
Milk
Such a great biopic. The characterization in this is probably the best I've ever seen. It was an epic film, but also really real, if that makes sense.
The Lord of the Rings Trilogy
I never thought I'd see the day where I became a giant LOTR nerd, but there you go. LOVED these, especially when you watch them consecutively. The images are really impressive and the cast is fabulous.
Cold Mountain
Probably one of the most violent films I've ever seen, but it's so long and a great watch. Probably one of Nicole Kidman's best films and the music is just gorgeous, really.
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
It took me a while to get into this movie, but once I did I fell in love. Brad Pitt is quite underrated when it comes to his acting skill (he's so much more than just a pretty face!) and really, the whole cast was phenomenal. Such a neat, unique storyline!
Of course, there were some awesome lighthearted films, too. ;D
I Love You, Man
It's no secret that I love the hell out of Paul Rudd, and this movie is basically one giant hootenanny of adorableness. Sydney and Peter's bromance is so freaking sweet. It's the perfect mix of humor, crudeness, cuteness and just the right amount of srs bsns.
You've Got Mail
This is one of the best 'chick flicks' I've ever seen. It's glorious. Bookstores, cute girls and guys, New York City, nice people, lols and Tom Hanks. I didn't want it to end!
TV Shows
I've never been a TV person. I mainly just half-assed paid attention to the ones my mom watched: Grey's Anatomy, Gilmore Girls, House, things like that. This year I got into some shows for myself.
American Idol
This show acidentally'd my life from the moment it began. I watched last season but didn't care about it anymore once it was over... total opposite here. It's been about half a year since the finale and I'm still obsessed with the contestants.
Merlin
My new obsession! It's so freaking slashy but on top of that it's pretty much the only TV show that I watch where I can't predict the end of an episode. It keeps me guessing and it's just a great show overall, and the fandom is awesomesauce.
Glee
Who didn't watch Glee this year? I was skeptical, but I bought the pilot on my birthday and watched it and was hooked instantly. I'm not a fan of the music but the plot is awesome and the characters are golden, especially Sue and Finn.
iCarly
The episodes just keep getting better and better! DanWarp is on a roll! It's without a doubt the best kids network show on the air and I know that if it were to still be around when I'm in my 30's, I'd be just as excited for it as I am now.
Queer as Folk
I had my doubts and didn't really get the hype.... until about five minutes into the pilot when Brian Kinney came on screen. My exact words? "Oh, I see." This show is really just a total blast to watch.
Flight of the Conchords
I'm really sad these guys aren't getting renewed for another season, because they've kind of become like family to me over the years. The way they play the ~dramatic relationship~ between Australians and New Zealanders is golden, and I love how Bret and Jemaine get so butthurt about each other. They're one of the best duos ever, for sure.
Late Night with Jimmy Fallon
I pretty much grew up on Tonight Shows: especially Leno, but also Letterman and O'Brien. When Fallon came along, it was like the Tonight Show biz went crazy because finally there was a show that was fresh and original, something just for me. Jimmy is absolutely adorable, his comedy is awesome, his interviews are the best of them all and The Roots? Insane. I hope the show sticks around forever, because I love it to death.
Music
Kris Allen
Kris is amazing. He's adorable and modest and totally hilarious and his music is just fantastic. I really don't think I've flailed over one person in my life as much as I have over Kris in the past few months.
Adam Lambert
So everyone knows he's the fiercest mofo since Elvis or something, with his insane voice and stunning looks and style. But he's also incredibly sweet and humble. He's beautiful in every way.
Lady GaGa
She's probably my favorite person of 2009. She inspires me so much. Her fashion sense is batshit crazy, her makeup is flawless, her mouth is unfiltered, her music is brilliant, and yet I can relate to her as a person. I love her.
Led Zeppelin
It's no secret that they pretty much rocked my world this year. I dunno, man, they're just so good! I'm slow on the bandwagon, sure, and I don't have all their albums yet, but they're definitely one of my favorite bands now.
Ben Kweller
Probably my favorite discovery of the year. I got his album Changing Horses this year and it was love at first play. I feel like I've listened to him him for years. His upbeat songs are so much fun to sing along to, but his slower songs are some of the best there are.
Johnny Flynn
He's incredibly talented. For a twenty year-old Londoner to write and compose and sing some of the best folk there's been in a good long time, he's pretty darn special. His music is beautiful and I recommend his album to everyone.
Fleet Foxes
They absolutely mastered the harmonies, seriously. Their album makes me want to walk through a forest and fall in love and write pretty stories. I can't even begin to say how gorgeous their music is.
Jack Penate
He is so freaking awesome I can't stand it. He's adorable as heck and so weird, too. His album 'Everything Is New' has been on repeat since I got it. He's a fabulous songwriter and his melodies are so original and fabulous. UNF.
Brett Dennen
Brett reminds me of San Francisco and New York City and my home town. He makes me want to dance and greet everyone I meet with a peace sign. And whilst I'm jamming out to his endearingly high voice and cool style, he's out to change the world, one awesome song at a time.
Donovan
I love the whole peace movement, I love Joan Baez and Pete Seeger and definitely Peter, Paul and Mary. Donovan is just one of many musicians from that time, but he's my favorite. After all, there has to be something pretty special about a guy in the 60's singing a song about running off with another boy. ;)
Tegan and Sara
My last.fm tells me that they're my second most played artist of all time after The Beatles. There's something about them that's just so great. 'The Con' is probably one of my most played albums. Their new album 'Sainthood' is my favorite album of 2009.
Josh Pyke
No matter how much I listen to him, no matter how few (35!) songs I have of his, he will always be my favorite. Always. His melodies, lyrics and arrangements are perfect. He's perfect. I love him.
Ships
The best part about fandom? The ships, of course! It just wouldn't be the same without all the flailing and tinhatting and well-mannered arguments. ;P
Kris Allen/Adam Lambert
So... things we know about Nora. She rants a lot about her brother and her mom, she likes citrus fruits and, for the better part of 2009 Kradam has been her life. Yeah. They're beautiful. Their unconditional support for each other is inspiring. My year has been filled with ear kisses, clothes sharing and so many heart eyes it might just be criminal.
Merlin/Arthur > Merlin
I love them so much. I love how Merlin is so devoted to Arthur and never gives up on him. I love how Arthur pretends that he doesn't adore the hell out of Merlin when he so totally does, and how he'll risk his own life to save Merlin's. They're each other's destiny. ... BRB sobbing in a corner.
Will/Emma > Glee
Glee is tricky for me in terms of shipping. It's all a bit overwhelming. But the one I've been sure of from the start is Will/Emma. I love how Emma knows she's obviously in love with Will but she still sticks by him even when she gets threatened. And when Will finally got his act together? Omggg! :DD
Sam/Freddie > iCarly
I'm not as srs bsns Seddie shipper as I was before, and have developed a soft spot for Cam and Creddie, but Seddie is where it's at, man. They're it. Freddie will do pretty much anything for Sam and nobody gets to pick on Freddie but Sam. They work together and they always will.
Brian/Justin > Queer as Folk
They're probably one of the best couples in fictional history, in my opinion. I'm kind of annoyed with the QAF producers for dulling down on them after season one, because they're just brilliant. Even though he's never said it, Brian loves Justin more than he's probably ever loved anyone. And Justin doesn't need to hear it, he knows it already. Their relationship is just wonderful.
Bradley James/Colin Morgan
I'm new to the fandom but omg. They are freaking adorable. They sing John Farnham songs and go on roadtrips and play footsie together. And don't get me started on the heart eyes, dude. I love them sfm. Now, where'd I put my tinhat?...
Kristen Stewart/Robert Pattinson
I am not a Twilight fan by any means, but I love these two. Even though they're two of the most on-the-radar people in the biz, they're really down to earth (their opinions on Twilight are fucking awesome, seriously). And together? Omggg. Two endearingly awkward and ditzy kids that seem just a little bit more grounded when they're together. Stewinson OTP.
Kurt/Finn > Glee
I ship them as friends only, but, c'mon. Think about it. Kurt would be Finn's go-to friend for fashion advice and girl troubles, and Finn, being the awesome jock he is, would be the guy who'd scare the crap out of any guy who broke Kurt's heart. If this happened I'd just about die and go to heaven. Please, Glee writers?
Merlin/Gwen > Merlin
Again, just as friends. But they are so adorable. Just look at them! <33 Their trust in each other is endless. I wish I had a BFF like that!
Songs of 2009
Click on the title to download! :)
Adam Lambert - A Change Is Gonna Come (Live)
Ben Kweller - Ballad Of Wendy Baker
Brett Dennen - World Keeps Turning
Dead Weather - Hang You From The Heavens
Franz Ferdinand - No You Girls
Jack Penate - Be The One
Kris Allen - Alright With Me
Lady GaGa - Bad Romance
Mika - By The Time
Paolo Nutini - High Hopes
Steve Earle - Brand New Companion
The Swell Season - Low Rising
Tegan and Sara - On Directing
Communities
ontd_ai
ohnotheydidnt
merlinxarthur
beepxbeepxbeep
kradam_kiss
mossip
fandomsecrets
twoish (;P)
What else happened this year that I didn't mention? Too freaking much. Appearances and interviews by my favorite celebs, way too many deaths (RIP Brittany Murphy and Natasha Richardson!) other non-2009 songs I became obsessed with... Yeah, there was a lot. So this really just barely touches on things I loved this year.
Plans for 2010. I plan on making changes next year, of course. I'm going to study more, try to get a job, discover many more artists and fandoms, get my license and a car, make more friends, do more things for myself.
Mainly I'm just going to enjoy life no matter what and continue my "dude, it ain't that deep!" mindset. 2010? Bring it on!
I think that's finally it. Whew.
Thank you guys for a year full of amazing support and friendship. I really do adore the heck out of you all and appreciate every conversation I've ever had with you. I love you guys and I hope you all had a good year, and that your 2010 will be even better. <333
~umbreons