Over 120 Minutes Of Leo: All Day, Every Day

Ever since a young Leonardo Dicaprio graced our television screens as Luke on Growing Pains, I have felt obligated to come clean. I never quite understood his “Teen Bop” heartthrob status from the very beginning. Sure, he had boyish good looks, but even back then, I dreamed of ‘a man’s man’.

Although his breakout Titanic role as Jack Dawson never truly made me swoon, I have always loved and respected his performances; This Boy’s Life, Basketball Diaries, Romeo & Juliet…  his list of street cred goes on and on in Hollywood.

I always knew this guy was an entirely different caliber of an actor. One we had never seen in our generation.

As Leonardo Dicaprio’s Oscar nominations began to pour in, it finally happened to me… His masculinity caught up with him and I was a hooked fish.

For me, Leo didn’t officially turn my head untill his charismatic character, Frank Abagnale, then my head spun out of control when I saw his facial hair in The Departed, and listened to his accent in Blood Diamond.

However, there are two major gripes that I need to address which really burn my toast about Leonardo DiCaprio:

1) When it comes to picking a mate, can you browse through another catalog?

And…

2) Can someone send this guy a 90 minute script for once?

When I think about Leo’s personal life the scene from Goodfellas with Joe Pesci’s mother immediately comes to mind.

“Why don’t you get yourself a nice girl? Settle down.” ( and preferably the way Clooney did it…I’m so over the Victoria Secret models, I repeat, get a new catalog )

Anyway, I am going on a tangent.

The real inspiration behind this list is because as much as I adore and appreciate any cinematic adventure starring Leo, sometimes I simply do not have the time to commit to his films, especially more than once. So here we go,

Leonardo Dicaprio Movie List Over 120 Minutes Broken Down

Revolutionary Road: 121 minutes

Shutter Island: 138 minutes

Catch Me If You Can: 141 minute

 Blood Diamond: 143 minutes

The Great Gatsby: 143 minutes

Inception: 148 minutes

The Departed: 151 minutes

DJango Unchained: 165 minutes

Gangs of New York: 167 minutes

The Aviator: 170 minutes

The Wolf of Wall Street: 180 minutes

Titanic: 194 minutes

There is no denying his brilliance and dedication to every role above. I just wish I could make the same sacrifices for my man.

*Theaters were forced provide big, comfy reclining seats, just because movie go-ers were getting back pain from Leonardo Dicaprio films. Fact.

The Many Faces of Meryl: A Look Back On Her Greatest Roles

One movie after another, Meryl Streep has transformed herself effortlessly into some of the most iconic characters in cinematic history. Approaching her whopping 20th Oscar nomination for her latest role, Meryl always delivers a game-changing performance as she continually raises the Hollywood bar for a new group of talented up & comers. From musical adaptations to rom-com’s and dramas, Streep seems to be an unstoppable force whether drawing box-office success or award-winning glory.

Although her numbers and acting ability have yet to be surpassed, she doesn’t see herself through the eyes of the public. Many actors and actresses either retire early once they have achieved the golden statues/honors, or they choose to participate in the movies requiring little or no skills, merely for a paycheck or for their own merriment. Not this Iron Lady.

Just because she has countless great films accredited to her name, her accolades certainly haven’t stopped her from diving into more and more thankless, demanding personas of pop-culture. She is the on-screen chameleon defining artistry in the biz.

Here are some of our all-time favorite Meryl’s…

The Knockout

The Survivor/Explorer

The perfect blend between a toxic avenger, and a characterization which is both tough and vulnerable in equal measure.

Mama Meryl

The wildly touching, yet distinct versions of middle-aged mothers figuring out life.

The Ice Queen

Even men have no shame in their affection for this guilty-pleasure as Meryl exudes both frost and charm at the same time.

The ‘Is That Really Meryl’?

We have to do a double-take as this famous face physical alters her appearance to confront and embody the tricky material of these motion pictures.

Dealing With Summertime Fomo

SUMMERTIME SADNESS

August. Ugh!

We all know the entire month invokes the same Sunday night feelings of anxiety closing out the summer. As most of us are left wondering where the heck summer went post-fourth, many of us feel like we didn’t get to do a lot of the things we had hoped to. Outdoor excursions, trendy rooftops, scenic patio bars, Happy Hours, beach days, water sports, hiking, vacations, or just days and nights, enjoying the heat and fresh air, what fun activities did you actually do to pass the time?

What brings us to FOMO…

FOMO is a person’s insidious psychological condition where they suffer from ‘fear of missing out’. Since FOMO plagues a growing portion of the mass population, especially millennials (thanks to social media), there has to be a few ways to deal with it. I mean, doesn’t it always seem like everyone on Instagram is having way more fun than us? Realistically, not everyone you know is eating the best foods, traveling to the most exotic places, and celebrating life with loud music and sparklers. Our experiences may seem to be on steroids, but that doesn’t mean they are all resulting in exceeded levels of personal gratification. None of it is real. And you are not alone.

Just as summer is about to vanish before our very eyes, here are five tips to help you beat the blues:

Slow Your Roll

Individuals tend to move at a much quicker stride than necessary or even beneficial to our own being. It is important for people to slow down at times. Take initiative to retrain your daily habits including practicing eating rituals, having engaging conversations, working more efficiently, or even love-making at a slower pace. Supporting friends and family to function in a relaxed manner will result in happier routines and an appreciation of time and moments.

Use Better Judgement

Make healthier decisions when assessing and justifying what is truly essential or required vs. what is simply just desirable. It is time to choose what to eliminate. If certain aspects which frequently monopolize your day, seem trivial in the long-run, they probably are. If they are not contributing to the quality of your life in a positive or profound, meaningful way, say GOODBYE. Although this may take a lot of effort, time and practice, once mastered, your experiences will feel more rewarding and you will be able to shake the feelings of insecurity that everyone is living their best life except you!

Live It, Don’t Just Upload IT

Meaning, actually enjoy the organic moments which make memories. Don’t just snap photos and forget to relish in your current state. People consistently admire, and sometimes even envy, when they see what everyone else doing on the Gram, and when their day comes, they can’t wait to share it instead of taking it all in. Individuals often forget that it is not a competition of who is having the most fun on every given day, and “the grass is greener on the other side” syndrome holds more weight today than ever before because of these platforms. The bottom line is, everyone has opportunities to attract happiness to their own lives, but sometimes FOMO leaves us failing to recognize it, leaving us unfulfilled and our soul undernourished over petty, symbolic BS.

Accept What Life May Not Have Provided To You Yet

Needs are more limited than we think. It is our dreams, passions, and desires which are boundless. Instead of seeking out on a quest for impulses which we lust after, be thankful in the areas where all of the essentials are being met. Decide your highest priorities, then focus. Let go of whatever ideas that are in your head, and holding you back from contentment. Pursue pleasure in the mundane, and be present with a non-judgmental awareness of your current state of being.

One on One

Just because everyone else around us acts like they are multitasking, and crushing their grind, doesn’t mean that we all have to or that it is right for everyone.

Clinical psychologist Dr. Bart Rossi insights, “Studies which have been conducted by experts on ‘Multi-tasking’ have revealed it to be an over-rated concept for many reasons. People are often much better at engagement when aiming at one task at a time and are not interfered with by other thoughts, or possible disruptions, rather than simultaneous errands. Peak performance is not only preferred, but it is also a key element in business and everyday life. By prioritizing what needs to be completed and working alone to accomplish them, proves effective and timely.”

Still feeling the FOMO??? Hopefully, this article helps you to feel empowered. Say it with us…

Punch Drunk Love: Fruity Frosé’s Summer Takeover

Yes Way, Frosé!

What better way to survive an unbearable heat wave than a new cocktail spreading throughout the nation?

It’s frosty, it’s sweet, and it’s made purely with your taste buds in mind; The Frosé!

The hottest drink of the summer aims for a thickened, slushie-like and frozen consistency, guaranteed to spark up a love affair. But is this just a summer fling with or lusting over, or is there long-term commitment?  With some type of variation on the original recipe, concocted by the popular social scene of NYC, every restaurant along the eastern shoreline is trying to promote their own unique version of the movement and contemporary following.

Since the east-coasters took matters into their own blenders with the genius innovation of what is basically just a wine infused slurpee, we decided to pick our favorite!

Vic Rallo, Host of PBS’s Eat!Drink!Italy!, restaurateur, and New Jersey resident, highlights his homemade Frosé  as a fan-favorite and most recommended menu item for individuals seeking a bold & boozy adult beverage to sip on this summer. Vic accredits the drink as to what keeps his patrons coming back for more as the freshly mixed cocktail embodies the feelings of a summer romance.

He goes through countless cases of rosé each and every week in order to fulfill the high-demand of the trendiest drink in town!

Rallo believes that using a quality wine is the foundation for a good Frosé.

In the hand-crafted Frosé recipe below Vic uses Masciarelli Cerasuolo d’Abruzzo Villa Gemma, a Rosé with notes of fruit and flowers. Pair this with your favorite brunch-dish and you got yourself a Sunday Funday or a thirsty any day!

 The Frosé

• 1 bottle of Masciarelli Cerasuolo d’Abruzzo Rosé or your favorite brand of ‘Rosé’
• 2 cups of sliced fresh strawberries (and a few whole strawberries reserved for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon simple syrup
• 2 tablespoons grenadine

Pour rosé into an ice cube tray and freeze. Once frozen, add sliced strawberries, rosé cubes, grenadine and simple syrup, blend until smooth. Pour into glasses, and garnish with whole strawberries.

Travel Uptown With Amore: NYC’s Fine Dining at Nello

If there is one thing NYC has no shortage of it’s fine cuisine and dining adventures to choose from. From the street meat, to the staple chain restaurants on every corner, how does one truly separate the authentic cultural dishes made with fresh ingredients which makes NYC the melting pot for foodies?

First off, if there are any native New Yorkers still residing in the heart of Manhattan or still in existence even, I am not about to reveal breaking news, or a big secret. However, for the wealthy elite of the city who flock to the Upper East Side in search of more than just quality food but a lost experience in the art of fine dining, this one is for you.

Nello is one of the city’s longest standing establishments. Popular with the European crowd,Nello in NYC is simply not your standard fine Italian cuisine. It provides a luxurious boutique atmosphere, reminiscent of a genuine old country backdrop. Nello is not the place for a quick bite, or even to curb a craving for an Italian-American favorite like Chicken Parm. Nello is the restaurant which truly understands how the other side dines out- with an extended appreciation for celebrating life- using quality dishes made with amore! Nello’s vibe is inviting to say the least.

From the specialty welcome spritz, the decadent mouthwatering pleasures, to the sweet, creamy desserts on the menu, from start to finish, expect a full night of belly laughs and happy tummies. The perfect blend of both casual and elegant.

The staff was friendly, yet assertive- a very helpful trait for those individuals who have trouble deciding on their apps or their entrees. We left it up to our waiter, and he did not disappoint! Our evening turned into a family-style free for all in which we were presented with an assortment of antipastos, breads, cheeses, meats & seafood, all tasting as if imported from the docks of a local Italian villa. The staff presented themselves as well-mannered, yet open, and dressed to the nines, but down to earth. Serving up course after course, and delivering in their promise of a fine dining experience, our table left satisfied with our meals and our overall expectation was superseded.

Yes, this is definitely a high-ticket Italian fare served up to an exceptional demographic of people on a quest for capturing an Old New York which has seemly disappeared over the years. I recommend Nello for NY’s restaurant goers who are not looking for just pasta and tomato sauce, but those looking to travel- be transported to how dining in NYC used to be and how European-style dining is forever untouchable.

When the opportunity presents itself to select a superior night in Manhattan, make reservations at Nello. Who knows? You may even be seated next to your favorite celebrity. Their wall of stars includes icons, legends, pop-stars, divas, Hollywood A-listers, and social influencers. I hate to name drop but photographs of Beyonce, Robert Deniro, Sting, Kate Hudson, Lady Gaga, and countless others grace the wall while eating lunch or dinner at New York’s finest.

Nello Restaurant, located on the Upper East Side and just a few blocks away from the world’s most exquisite department stores and high-end lifestyle boutiques, as well as Central Park East, is a fresh of breath air as it pays homage to the long-lost New York way of dining!

Now Mangiare!

Alicia Keys No Makeup Movement at The VMAS

Why Was It So Important That Alicia Keys and Alessia Cara Didn’t Wear Makeup To MTV’s Major Award Show?

Historically speaking, there is nothing more powerful than making a pop culture statement while attending MTV’s VMA red carpet, right? Whether showing up in a meat dress, using a foam finger as an erotic prop, or swapping spit with an iconic songstress, using the youthful platform to bring attention and awareness to certain social issues or as a way of highlighting an individual’s right for artistic expression, has always been a bigger part of the show.

Without a single stitch of makeup upon their faces, both Alicia Keys and Alessa Cara gave #slay a whole new meaning when it comes to au natural beauty with mass appeal. Or did they?

While many viewers and media trolls savagely attacked the soulful R&B vocalist and musician, as they were extremely under-impressed with her choice to go bare-face, Alicia Keys is yet another celebrity to prove the age old adage, damned if you do, damned if you don’t. The scrutiny may have been intense, but she stands by her purpose.

Her highly publicized personal essay in Lenny Letter earlier this summer received tremendous amounts of criticism. Yet among all of the negativity, many women felt not only empowered by her honesty and confidence, but also made the choice to stand by her declaration of true and authentic beauty. The feature chronicled her own insecurities which had developed over the years, as well as her personal experience handling the harsh and heavy focus on her physical appearance. Even after the 15-time Grammy winner was catapulted into the limelight for her unsurpassed talent, she could never escape the ongoing and immense pressures forced upon women to achieve the nearly impossible standards behind the ideal aesthetic, caused by unrealistic filters.

“Every time I left the house, I would be worried if I didn’t put on makeup,” she wrote. “What if someone wanted a picture?? What if they POSTED it??? These were the insecure, superficial, but honest thoughts I was thinking. And all of it, one way or another, was based too much on what other people thought of me.”- Keys

Since her published words made headlines, Alicia has kept her commitment to not wearing any makeup in public. And guess what? The gorgeous creature radiated with glamour regardless of a lack of lip-plumper. Hours of hair and makeup just for a few moments in front of the camera? Nah, she’s good!

Her embraced undertaking of a makeup free movement has given her a new found freedom with countless women shouting “YASSSSSSSS” to her pledge. She feels she has a responsibility to young women to help them to understand that their worth goes beyond an hour-glass silhouette and sculpted contour.

Joining in her efforts, Cara vowed to remove all of her warpaint while performing her hit song “Scars to Your Beautiful.” She insights, “We all look at ourselves in the mirror and think, I hate this, I wish that were different—from something minor like, ‘I have a pimple today,’ to something major like, ‘I don’t want to live anymore because I don’t think I’m good enough,’” Cara told Glamour in their upcoming September issue. “In ‘Scars,’ I wanted to tell people, ‘There isn’t one way to look beautiful—you are beautiful, and it’s the world that needs to change.’ ”

I know what you are all thinking… It’s easy to go makeup-free without feeling self-conscious when you look like them!

But in all seriousness, God forbid a woman doesn’t wear concealer or have extended lashes on that make her look like a doe-eyed Bambi. She must be judged now! She does not deserve respect! The public even uses words like “brave” to describe the shocking sentiment. How sad and scary is that?

2016 is the year the Twilight Zone had warned us about, women are all striving to look exactly the same. The only definition of beauty that I leave you with is, “In a world full of Dash dolls, be an Alicia Keys.”

Dating Etiquette From Around The World

There are very unique and specific customs around the world when it comes the concept of dating. Some countries hold the sanctity of marriage in a very high standard of value, while other regions experience a rapid volume of divorce rates, and that's normal. Some common dating practices include group outings, while others celebrate the ideals of an arranged relationship. Many communities accept all realms of sexual preferences, gender roles and dating habits, while others simply remain stuck in a time capsule. In some parts of the world people are expected to get married at what is to be considered an extremely young age and have it all figured out, other areas it's all about the bachelor and bachelorette lifestyles- monogamy is a fairy tale. It really all depends on the social

culture of one's current citizens. But one thing is for certain, much like words which can take on a variety of meanings depending on where you are from, courtship is not the same in every language.

Despite the process of how two lovers come together, generally speaking, everyone wants the same thing- his & her towels and grow old together companionship. Regardless of how you get there, the universal commonalities hold true: the goal is family, partnership, and economic success, but there are countless paths that can lead to achieving that target objective.

Whether the opportunities to meet individuals seem rare at times in the digital age of love, everyone is on a quest find their #bae, no matter how conservative or liberal a group's beliefs may seem. And since modern day technology allows Apps like Tinder and Bumble to track your coordinates, you now have the freedom to get to swiping based on your location as you travel through life. For this reason as you jump from a city to a new time zone, it is important to understand the proper dating etiquette and romance rituals around the globe while on your search.

Join us on our journey towards finding love in any and every hopeless place for the hopeless romantic.