Last of 2012 Movie Reviews

Animation: 

Here is my last reviews of the movies I watched in 2012. Hope you enjoy it.

As a rule, I would prefer any other movie to an animation. It always seems a bit silly, childish and badly produced. But there will always be cases where I am either: a) forced to watch b) get bribed into watching and c) (very unlikely) willingly watch, an animation.

Hotel Transylvania: 

Willingly chose to watch.

The story of a hotel started by Count Dracula is fun, sweet and entertaining. I did not expect to enjoy it, and was pleasantly surprised. There is enough adult humour in to make it bearable for parents to sit through, whilst keeping the fun factor for the kiddies. The only drawback was the cinema full of children – not my cup of tea. 

Rating: a well-deserved 8/10

Despicable Me: 

Got bribed into watching.

Despicable me is a story about three little orphan girls stealing the heart of an "evil" man. It was sweet, funny and very cute. One of the few animation films I would watch again. Really well done. 

Rating: 8/10

Madagascar 3: 

Got forced into watching.

I will not watch this again under threat of torture. Poorly done and a good example why certain movies shouldn't have sequels. Strictly for children. 

Rating: 3/10

Any animation suggestions?
N

LEAVE!

I AM ON LEAVE FROM TODAY!

I am so excited. It is probably obvious since I am writing this in pink, eh?

I just hope the world doesn't end today :p

It would suck if I didn't get to enjoy some of my LEAVE.

Sorry, but 2012 has been terrible. I am so happy 2013 is nearly here. I am ready for a good year.

As for my leave, I will be visiting my one friend in Nelspruit for a bit after Christmas. It is going to be so much fun! Will definitely post some pictures when I get back.

I may be a little scarce on my blog, but am planning some scheduled posts.

Have a good Christmas.

Natasha

The Hobbit - An Unexpected Adventure

I went to watch The Hobbit this weekend. I have been so excited for so long, and I have to say, it was worth the hype. Although a bit long, and at some times stretched, it is a masterpiece and deserves praise for the quality of film.

The Hobbit follows the story of what happens to Bilbo Baggins (a Hobbit) when Gandalf leads 13 dwarves to him one night. He is employed by Thorin Oakenshield, the leader of the dwarves, and goes on journey with them to reclaim Erebor from the dragon Smaug. Many Lord of the Rings characters returns to this prequel. Galadiel, Saruman, Elrond, and Gollum appear in their respective roles, and I think I can justly say, that Andy Serkis deserves accolades for his unbelievable portrayal of the creature Gollum.

The movie doesn't always follow the story in the book, but I was impressed nontheless. It is a fantastic film, made to be enjoyed by many. It managed to flare up my Tolkien obsession again, and I am now reading the Hobbit, to be followed by the Lord of the Rings. 

 Martin Freeman as Bilbo Baggins.

 Cate Blanchett as Galadriel

 Ian McKellen as Gandalf

 Andy Serkis as Gollum

 The Dwarves

Thorin Oakenshield - Richard Armitage

Go watch it!

Romantic movies and comedies of 2012:

Here is my third instalment of Movies of 2012

Five year engagement:

Tom Solomon proposes to girlfriend Violet Barnes after one year of dating. Then things start happening, and they begin to question whether their relationship is meant to be. Emily Blunt and Jason Segel make a strangely compelling acting pair, and except Jason’s urge to be nude in every movie he starts in, they make a great team. This is definitely my favourite romantic comedy of 2012. I was shocked that it wasn’t huge box office hit. Rating: 7.5/10

The Lucky one:

Based on the book written by Nicholas Sparks, it focuses on the life of a Leo, a young soldier (played by Zac Efron) who is attempting to deal with the memories he has of the death and destruction he has witnessed in the war. He sets out to find the woman he believes saved his life. He meets Beth (played by Taylor Schilling), who has issues of her own, least her abusive ex-husband. The events in the movie are clear and well portrayed, and it never drags or moves to fast. The chemistry between the two main characters is undeniable, and really worth a watch.

Rating: 8/10

The Vow

Channing Tatum and Rachel McAdams star as Leo and Paige, a young married couple who survives a horrific car accident. Paige loses her memory, and Leo sets out to rebuild their relationship. A true story about love and strength, the only flaw is that it seems a bit stretched at some points. But since it is based on a real life story, it is easy to forget these facts and focus on the loveliness in the movie.

I really enjoyed this movie.

Rating: 7/10

Magic Mike:

This was sadly not what it could have been. It is based on the life of Channing Tatum’s stripper days, but is alternatively rushed or too slow at certain points. This is an all-star cast, but most of the actors spoke one or two lines each. I have seen other projects from Channing Tatum, Alex Pettyfer and Matthew McConaughey that deserves much more attention than this movie. The female characters is portrayed as selfish and shallow, and I didn’t appreciate either actresses (Cody Horn and Olivia Munn)’s portrayals.

Rating: 5/10

Lovely long weekend

Long weekends are the best ever. The 16^th of December was celebrated in pre-democracy South-Africa as commemoration of the Battle of Bloedrivier (Slag van Bloedrivier), when the Afrikaners defeated the Zulu’s on 16 December 1838* Today we celebrate the 16^th as the day of Reconciliation between black and white people in South-Africa.

On Friday night we went and watched the Hobbit. I will post on it later on, but it was a good movie. Saturday I did the most of my Christmas shopping (Finally!) and Sunday it was my sister’s engagement party (outstanding success) and on Monday I cleaned out my room and closet, did my nails, and had some relaxing time.

The best thing about long weekends is that you can do most of the things you never have time for. All in all, it was a great weekend.

PS: It is my last week of work, and then I am on leave until the 14^th of January 2013!! I am just so excited!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Blood_River

ENGAGEMENT!

no, not me.

My sister and her boyfriend (now fiancée) got engaged on 12/12/12. How awesome!

I am so happy for them. they will rock this shit.

As official MOH, I am organising the engagement party. Which is Sunday.

Wish me luck!

N

Vampires, Sci-Fi, fairy tales and everything in between

Morning!

Here is my second enstallment of Movies of 2012:

Breaking Dawn part two: 

The memory of this movie is still fresh, and I can honestly say that it is the best of the franchise. It proved a lot of things, but mostly that actors can develop from mediocre to good, screenplay can be well executed, and a movie can keep to the book and still be a blockbuster. It was the best end I could have imagined for a saga I believed would bore. It stayed true to its original cast, and chose characters shockingly accurate for new roles. This movie does not deserve an Academy Award, but it does deserve recognition for evolving into a worthy tale. 

Rating: 8.5/10 

The Hunger Games 

It shames me to admit that until I saw the trailer of the Hunger Games, I had never heard of the series or of Susan Collins. I love reading, so the fact that this type of magic went by unnoticed, will leave me appalled for some time. The post-apocalyptic film followed the book to perfection. Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson and Liam Hemsworth play Katniss Everdeen, Peeta Mellark and Gayle Hawthorne to perfection. I am waiting anxiously for the rest of the series. 

Rating: 8.5/10 

Snow White and the Huntsman: 

When I saw this film was being released, I was excited and sceptical at the same time. Seeing Kristen Stewart in another role as Bella was like imagining Nina Dobrev playing someone other than Elena Gilbert… frightening and confusing. Kristen impressed me with her portrayal of Snow (the different facial expressions mostly) and convinced me of a future for her after Twilight. Chris Hemsworth played the Huntsman, surprising me with the excellence with which he played a more romantic part. He is the poplar standard for playing the ruggedly handsome. Charlize Theron (our home pride) gave the best performance in the film as the wicked queen. I am so proud that she is South-African. 

Rating: 7/10. 

Barnabas Collins: Dark Shadows 

For an actor of Johnny Depp’s calibre, I was rather disappointed with the quality of this movie. He still brought his magic touch to the screen, but not to an extent which I found mesmerising. Barnabas Collins seemed to share too many qualities with his Willy Wonka in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. 

Rating: 5.5/10 

Men in Black 3: 

I saw this movie in the cinema THREE times (long story). It barely deserves to be seen in the cinema. I can’t honestly say anything about this movie; because I saw it so many times I am quite sick of it. But Will Smith, Tommy Lee Jones and Josh Brolin deserve proper accolades when acting is mentioned, since they are wonderful actors. 

Rating: a biased 6.5/10

Any other suggestions?

N

12/12/12

If you have managed to take your sparkling eyes of the fact that it is DECEMBER, you will notice that today is a pretty special day. Today is 12/12/12 – the only time we will ever see a date like that again. Wow!

Here is a list of random things that make me happy. We could all use a little happy in our lives.

Modern family: by far the best show I have watched lately. 

Nail polish: Nothing feels better than looking down at your pretty nails.

Buying stuff: It doesn't need to be expensive, just getting something small has a major cheering up factor.

Taking a walk at the end of the day. I don’t even care about the exercise – it is a great way to clear your head.

Music

I have started drawing again. Talk about free therapy!

I am in a phase where I am planning everything. It makes me extremely happy, so I am not over analysis it too much.

My clean room. it is so fun to get home each day and walk into a clean room. I am trying really hard to maintain it!

What makes you happy?

Movies 2012 Part 1

The fact that 2012 is drawing to a close is unbelievable in itself. the year has had its ups and downs, and one definite up is the quality of the movies that were produced. I am will be posting a few articles around this topic, since one would be insufficient.

Today's genre is any type of Action Hero movie, or that falls under the genre of Action or Drama. I do not usually watch Action, but saw some good films this year. I have been getting into comic books being produced into films in the past few years, but it has really exploded this year (lucky me). It is surely due to the fact that the hype around vampires are slowly dying, and the market is needing new money makers.

Side note: Most of the movies on here were released in 2012, but I am also mentioning movies I watched on DVD for the first time.

Avengers:

My favourite movie of all time – this is a most honourable award, since I love watching movies. I was mind blown by the graphics, characters, events and execution. It rather deserved breaking nearly all movies records in history, and cemented my love for super heroes permanently.

Rating: 9.5/10

The Dark Knight Rises:

While finding the movie a tiny bit too long, I enjoyed seeing Christian Bale as Batman. This was the first movie of the franchise I watched, and afterwards saw the others as well. Tom Hardy was unrecognisable as Bane, and I think he has truly developed into a fantastic actor. The tragedy involving this film at Colorado, US, nearly overshadowed the hype of the film, but Christian Bale rose to the occasion and proved that he really was a superhero by visiting the victims in hospital. You have earned my eternal respect, Mr Bale.

Rating: 8/10

Safe house

Denzel Washington and Ryan Reynolds brought their acting to South-Africa for this movie, and I was duly impressed with the landmarks I recognised in the background. I am of the opinion that this is a strong storyline and was excellently executed. I am all for the rumours I hear about a second instalment.

Rating: 7/10

Thor and Captain America

Both films weren’t released in 2012, but deserve mentioning because they led up to the Avengers. I am not sure if I enjoyed Thor for the correct reasons (Chris Hemsworth and those shoulders) but it seemed like a pretty good movie. I wasn’t overly impressed with Captain America, but enjoyed it to a certain extent.

Thor: 7/10

Captain America: 6.5/10

Iron Man (one and two)

Robert Downey Jnr. is superb in everything he does, and he continues with his stellar reputation in these two instalments. I am sick with excitement for Iron Man 3 next year.

Both: 8.5/10

What are your thoughts on this?

N

The reason I couldn't sleep last night

Strawberry cheesecake from Mugg & Bean.

Was worth it.

N

happy december

I just can't believe that 2012 is in its last month.
Here is my list of things I love about December:

Summer time

December is full summer season here in South-Africa. We get to have Christmas under a sunny sky, and while I would love a white Christmas, I will always think of summer and warmth in December.

December was made just to have fun. Everyone winds down, reconnects and parties like crazy. I love being with everyone that I care about, and just having the best time ever.

Planning for the New Year:

Getting everything in order and thinking about what goals you want to achieve is part of the fun for me.

Reflecting on what has passed:

I think about everything I experienced this year, and no matter how sad I have been, I wouldn’t change a thing. Everything happened for a reason, and now I am a better person for it.

I get to spend time with all my family members. Nothing can ever beat this. I regularly want to throw someone with something in my household, but I love them so much. Spending time with them, respecting our age old traditions of sleeping downstairs Christmas night, eating delicious food and opening presents is definitely something I will pass on to my children.

Atmosphere:

Everyone is just so damn happy and festive. The shopping malls are lined with trees, lights and decorations. That feeling no one can describe perfectly. Everything is frantic leading up to Christmas, and then it stops, hushes and becomes so magical on Christmas day.

Food

This is the season where you can eat anything you like, without feeling guilty. I refuse to believe that Christmas food will make you gain weight. It is a lie, so don’t believe it!

Presents

I love presents. Giving, Receiving, shopping for them, wrapping them, and making cards, looking at them under the tree, opening them. I LOVE IT.

Finally, I love the fact that it is resting time. I get to sleep late, do anything I want, loaf, and suntan and drink cocktails. December is the best month there is, to my mind.

My Thoughts on Fifty Shades of Grey

I know an incredible amount of people who loved these books, so I will try to be as gentle as possible with my description. Now, if that sentence didn't alert you to my very obvious stance on it, let me make it clear: the books were terrible.

I wouldn't under any circumstances claim that I am a literary expert, but having read a lot of books, I think I have some sort of understanding what it takes to make a good novel. Firstly, it is incredibly important to use the correct language. There were so many repetitive sentences and phrases, that I would get nauseous after a few sentences.  Some opinions indicate that it was written in this way to indicate Anastasia’s youth, but frankly, I am more or less the same age as her, and I find those comments rather insulting. I will never think phrases like “Holy Fuck” and “Oh my”, more than once in a train of thought, no matter how attractive someone is.

Also, it would seem that Fifty Shades of Grey is amassing a fan base to rival Justin Bieber and One Direction. I have never understood these extreme types of fanaticism, but I do get that teenagers love to have idols. But these books were written for an age group much older, and it seems unacceptable that people are freaking out like this. No social network is safe from countless women who gushes about reading “Fifty Shades”. It is really okay to be interested in a book, but to focus your entire existence on it is more than a bit sad.

The books started out as fan tributes to Twilight. While not the most wonderful books, Twilight uses much better English, is appropriate to its age, and found a niche market to conquer (and turned Vampires into a billion dollar empire) Sorry, Fifty, but BDSM is not a niche market.

Lastly, it annoys me that the books create ridiculous expectations with women. I already know people who furiously believe that they will marry sport stars/celebrities, and here comes these books, claiming that a seemingly stupid girl, with no personality or ambition, can catch the world’s most successful bachelor? Get real, ladies. There isn't a man on this planet that is rich, handsome, obsessively jealous and protective, that will drop his roughish ways just to be with you. Rather find someone who is imperfect but has enough stability to make things work, ‘kay?

I hope you noticed that I didn't mention any of the crazy sex happening in these books. It doesn't bother me all that much, only that it is the main theme rather than the side dish. I would much rather have preferred if they had made a strong female character, a normal man and a relationship that wasn't toxic from the start.

But obviously I am in the minority with that opinion, since the trilogy was part of the best sellers of the past year…

Wonderful leave

I have been neglecting my blog this week, but I am now back! I imagined writing early this morning when I got to work, but alas, the workload chained me to my desk and away from any internet related activities. It is nearly 15:00 now, and taking a quick break to update.

Where have I been, you ask?

Well, I took leave for two days. Just for a bit of rest and to find strength to finish the year. It was so much fun. I can’t wait for the end of December – for so many reasons! I will be on leave again and visiting my best friend with my other best friend!

This weekend was rather hectic. We went to Doors Friday night for the Movember party. It was startling to see Jack Parow perform in a heavy metal club. I was rather entertained after the shock, and have to say that he certainly knows how to entertain.

Saturday I had a movie night with friends. We watched PS. I Love You and Snow White and the Huntsman. I love watching both movies over and over again.

Sunday I had the urge to clean my room – which I did very successfully. It was so wonderful to realise that I could go to bet late since I didn't need to go to work for a few days. I loafed, ate a lot of bad stuff, and did absolutely nothing. And I am not even feeling guilty about it.

This weekend was so rainy in Johannesburg. I love the sound of the rain on the roof and it helped me sleep much better. At this point I am ready to finish the year with a bang!

How was your weekend?

Friday Fots

You may wonder what a Fot is. It is a thought, spoken in an Afrikaans accent. 

So, my fot for today is: People should realise what confidentiality means. Friends are the people you are supposed to trust with your life and share secrets with without fearing it being leaked into our judgemental world.

I was incredibly shocked when I learned that people leaked confidential information about someone I know .

So here is my question to you, readers: what do you consider before sharing your secrets, and do you share secrets when you are not supposed to?

N

Thankful Thursday

Since it is so easy to forget the good and only focus on the bad, this is a post for the things I am thankful for:

Unemployment is one of the biggest worries across the globe, so having a reliable source of income is a great blessing.

Family

Even though they are sometimes over bearing and inquisitive, they complete me and I wouldn’t be able to live without them.

True Friends

For sticking with me through all the ups and downs in life, supporting, teasing and encouraging me. You are one of life’s greatest gifts.

Being healthy

I am thankful for being able to see and hear beautiful things, and for not having any lasting physical or mental diseases.

Freedom of religion

I am blessed because I live in a country that allows you to believe what you want, without fearing for your life.

My animals.

Nothing beats coming home to your dogs and/or cats, and having them excited to see you.

Being able to notice the small things in life, like a thoughtful gift, kind gestures, funny moments and beautiful sunsets.

Listening to music and feeling completely understood when a song describes your life to perfection.

Being thankful that I am able to read and write. Being literate is the greatest power anyone can have.

Appreciating the pretty things we take for granted. Nature, clothes, gadgets...

What are you thankful for?

 N

Appropriate picture for the day

This is how I feel today

N

Reality...

I have a confession:

I really love reality shows.

I am watching the X factor USA season 1 now. The SABC (public broadcaster in SA) often airs older versions of international reality shows (that is why I am watching season 1).

Thoughts when I am watching:

·         I swear some of the contestants have no one that loves them. I would never allow someone I care about to make their name bananas in front of millions.

·         For what is Paula Abdul famous? I have never seen or heard of her, yet she gets so much international coverage.

·         Simon Cowell is incredibly attractive for an older gentleman. I like his narkiness too.

·         L.A. Reid scares me a little. He seems like a very rich, successful and talented gangster. Probably the most successful music producer of our time.

·         Talent has nothing to do with age.

Why I love the show so much:

It provides an opportunity for talented people to get noticed who wouldn't have the chance normally.

The contestants are really hilarious.

Natasha

Breaking Dawn Part two

I foolishly said that I feared being bored in the cinema while watching the last of this series.

Foolishly.

I sat there chewing fingernails. It was spectacular. The other four movies in the franchise were average at best, but they managed to turn this into a great adventure.

When Bella is turned into a vampire by Edward, the Volturi mistakenly believe that their hybrid child, Renesmee, is an immortal child (who were wiped out because of their inability to learn control). Aro's (played by Michael Sheen) greed is displayed spectacularly. Michael Sheen was the perfect choice for the character.

I appreciated that they followed the book for at least 95% of the time - it is very frustrating when directors/screenwriters/whoever changes the storyline. There is one amazing scene, that wasn't in the book, that will leave you gob-smacked for a while. I won't say too much, for those who still need to watch it. I nearly chewed off my hand at that particular part, just by the way.

If you are not a twilight fan, and want to experience some of it just to be informed, this is definitely the movie to watch. It joined my favourite movies of 2012 list, and let me tell you, that is a fantastic honour since there was so many greats this year.

I would definitely

Marry a man that did this for me:

Natasha

Friday

Happy Friday, people!

I am hysterically happy that it is the end of the week.

Work is very rough at the moment. 

But I am getting my reward.

Watching Breaking Dawn tonight.

To be honest, I have mostly outgrown it, but I am fond of it nonetheless.

I will watch this last instalment with happiness, but don't expect any tears when it is done!

I have started watching the third season of Pretty Little Liars.

Had no idea I would end up so addicted to the show. Go try it out if you need something new to watch!

Another good thing is that I have started writing again.

Not like the blog (that too), but something of a story.

I have been having something of a writers block these past few years. Maybe if I am lucky, I will be able to finish the book. regardless if it ever gets published, I will be proud of myself. It is a great way of releasing my tension.

Have a good day, peeps.

N 

November

I can't believe that November is almost over. I am so thankful that December is approaching. I just want this year over and done with. Sorry, but 2012 has been crap.

I thought I was the only one who felt like this. Silly me. It seems everywhere I look someone is suffering from emotional or physical exhaustion. People are tired and cranky, and they are ready to explode at the slightest provocation. When I get home at night, I am coherent for about an hour and then the exhaustion nearly kills me.

Why? I simply think that this year has run its course and people are simply over it. I do not think the world will end (alas, we are not that lucky) but it would seem that things are different. A frightening fact that I have always believed is that the earth will survive and repair itself from all the human damage, while the humans might not be so lucky.

I am not sure WHAT is wrong with humanity. Why is there so little tolerance towards other religions and cultures and sexuality? We are not to judge, we are not perfect. Yet my Facebook status updates was bombarded with irritated posts regarding Dewali. I understand the frustration regarding the crackers, my pets were afraid too, but just respect other people's religion too, please.

Also more than a little shocked with what is happening with the demolition of "illegal" houses in Lenasia, south of Johannesburg. These are not shacks, government. these are ACTUAL houses. For them to have been built, the builders would need permits - from the GOVERNMENT. Hope my point is made there.

Anyhow, apologies for the ranting. 

here is to a good December and 2013!

N

A writer worth mentioning

I have always been a fan of romantic literature. But as of late, I became increasingly annoyed with the unrealistic storyline  and female characters obsessed with finding a mate, while the writer still trying to portray her as strong and independent.

I decided to try something new. I have been reading different genres or simply different writers than I usually would. While still loving anything Nora Roberts wrote, I knew I was starting to outgrow the books I normally loved.

I regarded Marian Keyes as just another romance novelist (even though I had heard great reviews about her) Therefore, I reluctantly chose to read one of her books during a night of great boredom. I chose to read Rachel’s Holiday. What a surprise. Meet Rachel, a drug addict who refuses to acknowledge her addiction, even though she was hospitalised after an overdose. You follow her journey through recovery. It is comical, painful and beautiful. Rachel is as real to you as someone you would know personally (the mark of a truly good book). She is relatable and flawed, desperately insecure and carries baggage. Every woman that reads about her will find something that they can relate to.

What I love about Marian’s books is that they have elements of romance in, but the ladies struggle with other problems too.

I also read The Other Side of the Story. It is complex and very beautiful.

This weekend I chose to read This Charming Man. I read 700 pages of the 800 pages in two days (a new record even for me). I have never been more eager to get to see how it ends. She addresses woman abuse, power hungry men and insecure females. Without giving away too much, you will be so touched and appalled and completely addicted. There is only one character I hate more than Paddy de Courcy is Dolores Umbridge (from Harry Potter).

Definitely give one of her books a try!

Natasha   

Leave of abscense

It feels like it has been ages since I wrote on here (I think I wrote sometime Monday). Life has been rather hectic lately. It seems like I will have to really work very hard to get to December and my leave (I can't wait to take some time off)

I am not writing much on here because of my current workload, and when I finally get home at night, I just pass out on the bed and sleep. But I miss it terribly! ;( I promised myself when I started a blog, I would stay dedicated to it and not lose track. So I WILL continue to keep posting, even though it is just every few days.

Keep well!

N

a little droopy

Ah. It is nearly the end of the year. 

You start feeling droopy, dead, asleep and moody.

Some tips to feel better:

Become an alcoholic.

Thoroughly discussed at work, we firmly believe that companies should pay employees's rehabilitation costs, should this ever happen.

Eating:

Console yourself with a mountain of food and feel (temporarily) better. Then go to step three.

Exercise like crazy:

Go on, go get those endorphins. Run away from your problems, punch your frenemies through the punching bag, lift some weights to get that chip off your shoulder.

Read a bad book:

You would be so disgusted at the bad grammar and language, that you would forget all your problems. Go try Fifty Shades of Grey.

Have wild parties:

You will be so busy deleting Facebook photos, you will barely have time to remember what you were moaning about.

Scroll through your social networking sites

and become so grateful that you don't post all your emotional baggage on Facebook.

And last, but not least:

Write an enormous amount of shit and post it on your blog ;)

N

Proudly South-African

I found this email in my archives today... this is pretty funny and very accurate!

Here is a few (okay, a lot) of slang words used in South-Africa.

Ag ('A*g') 

A multi-purpose word, pronounced like the ach in German. "Ag, no man" (sign of irritation). Can precede any sentence for various effects, such as the more neutral, "Ag, I don't know." Used by some people as a stand-alone expletive. 

Ahoy 

(Greeting) "Ahoy!" Alot of younger surfers use this old mariner's greeting. Not sure why. Also aweh, howzit, yooit, hoesit, yo. It is also to get someones attention. 

Aikona (Aikõna) 

(No way, absolutely not). From indigenous Nguni language meaning “No”. Sometimes pronounced “Haikõna” 

Aita! ('Ay-tah') (Greeting) "Aita brah!"

 Originated in the townships among the youth, and still used. It's common among politically correct (PC) people. Rabid racists in the past have miraculously become PC people. 

Aweh ('Ah-wear') 

 (Greeting) "Aweh my bru" (Hello my friend) Also howzit, yooit, hoesit, yo. 

Babalaas ('Bub-ba-lars')

 The hangover from hell, fondly called a "Barbie". The Babalas is no mythical beast. But look at yourself in the mirror and you'll wonder as you examine that furry tongue slithering in a mumbling, parched mouth, puffy eyelids scraping bloodshot eyeballs. Comes from the Zulu word ibhabhalazi. 

Bakkie (Like “lucky”) 

(Pickup truck in US, "Ute" in Australia) Many people own bakkies in South Africa, particularly in the rural areas. "That bokkie and her ballie parked off on the back of the bakkie." (That pretty girl and her father sat on the back of the pickup truck) 

Biltong 

 Afrikaans – from original “bul tong” – bull’s tongue. Known as beef jerky in the US. This is specially prepared dried raw meat, made from beef, venison or Ostrich. 

Biscuit 

(Cookie, twit) Only in South Africa, where a word can mean a small crunchy cake or an insult aimed at a twit or a fool. In America, a biscuit is a scone with no sugar. In South Africa, a biscuit is actually a cookie. Some favourites are Marie, Romany Creams and Eet Sum Mor. "John, you biscuit!" 

Blaps (Blups) 

(Afrikaans – “Mistake”) "Oops, I made a blaps." 

Bobotie 

Malay dish, but has become “traditionally Afrikaans”. Made with spicy mince, raisins, spices and yellow rice.It is baked in the oven with a couple of eggs broken on top. Delicious. Try it some time. 

Boer Afrikaans – “farmer”. Used to refer to any (conservative) Afrikaans speaking person. 

Boerewors (vorse) 

Farmstyle sausage or "wors". (Literally, "Farmers Sausage"). It is a spicy sausage made from hundreds of secret recipes all over the Platteland and beyond. It is consumed in vast quantities on braais all over the country. Boerewors is even sold in places like Australia, Canada and New Zealand to homesick expats who have done the "chicken run", ie, emigrated for fear of compromised lifestyle. 

(The) Boerewors Curtain 

Any Afrikaans speaking district, usually rural. See “Boerewors”. (Usually not the most flattering reference, although all South Africans love to eat Boerewors! Benoni & Pretoria. 

Braai (as in “High”) 

(Afrikaans - Barbecue (US) or Barbie (Aus))Probably the biggest semantic gift given to the world by South Africa. You make a braai with wood in a metal drum or between bricks. You cook your boerewors, steak, lamb chops and sosaties on it. With your meal you eat mielie pap, salads, rolls and other stuff. You drink a beer & be "gesellig". 

Broekskeur

Afrikaans for when money are tight. "Dit gaan maar Broekskeur" 

Bunny Chow 

Indian or Malay curry inside a hollowed out loaf of white bread. Surfers from Durban grew up on this food. You get served the curry in the bread, with a square chunk taken from the inside, which you can use to dunk in the curry. Best when the bread is fresh. Bunny chow can also refer to "slap" (soft) chips in bread. 

Cape Doctor 

 The southeaster howls across the Cape Peninsula in summer, often forming a wispy, creamy white cloud that rolls over Table Mountain in the shape of a "table cloth". The name is self explanatory. Because it blows for up to a week or more at a time, often at gale-force strength, the wind blows all the pollution away. The air is beautifully clear and crisp in the wake of a southeaster. 

Chips 

1. Warning. "Look out!" or "keep a look out" warning 

2. French Fries (also referred to as “slap chips” (with “slap” as in “pup” – Afrikaans for “soft”, “not stiff”. 

3. Potato Crisps 

Tjommie (“chômmy”) 

(Originally Afrikaans - Mate, friend, bru) Slightly old fashioned Afrikaans word that originates from the quaint Victorian word "Chum". Not to be confused with chumming, when you throw gore into the water to attract sharks. "tjommies" are great friends. 

Dik (as in “dirk”) 

(Afrikaans – Thick, beefy, big, full) A person can be dik or you can get dik after a big meal. "That rugby player is lank dik" (That rugby player is especially big) You can also feel "dik" after a tasty meal

Dinges ('Ding-us') 

(Afrikaans - Thingamabob, wotzit, whatchamacallit) In any town in South Africa, you might overhear the mechanic say to his colleague, "Johannes, pass me the dinges to fix the pipe".

Dof ('Dorf') (Afrikaans – “not bright”, “dull”) 

Stupid. Dunce. Someone who is dof, is not necessarily that way all the time. It is often used to describe a temporary loss of brain cells. 

Dorp ('Dorrrp') 

(Afrikaans - small town) Don’t be confused when someone says, "Let’s go for a dop in that dorp." 

Dwaal ('Dwarl') 

(Afrikaans - Dreamlike state, confused) This word describes that vacuous, blank state a person gets into sometimes. 

Eina (Ay-nah) 

(Afrikaans - Ouch) Widely used. You can shout "Eina!" when you see someone get hurt or when you get hurt yourself

Eish ('Aysh') 

(Zulu expression) Surprise, bewilderment, shock. "Eish. Voetsek! leave me alone " "Eish! you gave me a fright" 

Gesellig

Afrikaans for being sociable with friends 

Gesuip ('G*esayp') 

(Afrikaans - Drunk). Humans “drink”, animals “suip” – to be gesuip is to be drunk to the point of aversion. 

Goose 

(Girlfriend, women) The Goose is also a reference to SA Pro Golfer Reief Goosen 

Hey

Used for emphasis. "So you're a surfer, hey?" or on its own as a way of saying "excuse me?" or "pardon?"

Hose (Laugh)

"He was hosing himself when he fell in the pool." 

How's your mind? (Are you mad?!) 

This question, often in exasperation or irritation, refers to the mental stability of the subject, who has probably done something stupid, idiotic or irritating. 

Howzit 

The famous South African greeting. Short for "How is it?" Try and refrain from saying, "It's fine, thanks". This will only lead to a funny look. A suitable reply is: "No, fine", which actually means "Yes, I am fine". The word "no" is often taken to mean "yes". A real Afrikaner might reply to a "Howzit", with this bewildering response: "Ja, well, no fine". This is merely a more emphatic but long-winded version of "No, fine". Also ahoy, aweh, yooit, hoesit, yo.

Isit? (Izzit?) 

This conversational word is used widely and in response to just about anything. Derived perhaps from the English way of saying "Is it really?" or the Afrikaans for "Is dit so" Can be used as a questioning "really?".

Jislaaik(Afrikaans exclamation) 

Gee whizz! 

Just now(In a little bit) 

Universally used in South Africa, it means that the action will get done "eventually", but it might mean "never". If someone says he will do it "just now", be warned. It might be in 10 minutes, 10 hours or never. "I'll clean my room just now, Ma." If someone says "now now", you're making progress. It won't be done immediately, or instantly, but probably less than 10 minutes, barring distractions that relegate it back to "just now". 

Natasha

Venting

I need to vent a bit today.

I would like to officially state that if you did not come out of my uterus, I am not your mother.

People seem to think that I am able to do everything for them. This is a probably since I am a fairly capable person, but sadly, I am also human and can only do a certain amount of things while I am awake.

There. It is now out in the open and I hope it makes me feel better real soon. Likely, only some wine and chocolate will make me feel more human.

Happy Friday, peeps.

Sweet

As previously mentioned, Vampire Diaries is probably my favourite series to watch.

This is from one of the best scenes in season three. I hope you enjoy it.

Natasha

Witness the fitness

I gym at Virgin Active Glenvista - an excellent gym. Modern and clean, with everything you need. The staff is fantastic, helpful and friendly (rarities in South-Africa). 

We have some very interesting characters:

The I'm sexy and I know it type:

Omies in shorts with huge pense: They strut around in tight lycra clothing (I was once subjected to a yellow lycra one piece) with the confidence of a Ryk Neethling lookalike. They simply amaze me because they belong to a dying breed of human who doesn't care what other people think.

The check-out-my-guns type.

These laaities gym spesifically in help my sterk lyk hempies to show off their arms. They are usually spotted in the weight section, lifting and checking themselves out in the mirrors. They also belong in the strutting section, since they love to walk around and look awesome.

Lance Armstrong wannabees:

Cycling each day in their tight shorts (for which I thank them)

The delusional type;

I honestly admire anyone that has the courage to exercises in a public place, no matter your size. Getting there is already such an accomplishment. The small faction that annoys me most is the ladies who are at least 80 kilo's overweight, and has the audacity to judge other people on their weight. (I overheard a 150kg lady saying another girl is fat - bit rich, eh?) 

The I'm-changing-my-life-type

Making everyone else look bad, at gym everyday, losing weight like it is easy. I admire you so much.

Secret nudist campers:

Thanks for walking around the bathroom without a stitch clothing on - I really wanted to see everything about you. Inject severe sarcasm.

The gym is a social experience.

For all the ladies who spends 50 minutes in conversation and 10 minutes on the treadmill and calls it a day. Excruciating workout? 

The gym is there to find a date:

The ladies with more make-up on than a Revlon spokesperson, and shorts so short it can be found in the underwear section. If guys really falls for that, they really are stupid.

The normal folks (to which I hope I can claim myself)

Going to gym, and really exercising (and sweating to prove it). That is what gym is for, ladies and gentlemen.

Bit of translation if you don't understand Afrikaans:

Omies: Originally oom - uncle. We call everyone older oom and tannie (uncle and aunt) here.

Pense: plural of stomach.

Help my sterk lyk hempies: Tongue in the cheek reference to tank tops when guys wear them to show off their muscles.

Laaities: young men

Have a good day!

N

Possibly my favourite movie of all time

Drop everything and go watch the Avengers. It is fantastic. Superb. No, really, go buy it now and watch it. It is so worth your time and money.

Truthfully, I watched it the second time this weekend. I love it more every time I do. Directed by Joss Whedon, it is the best movie of 2012, and maybe my favourite movie ever. That is a big thing to say.

I thoroughly enjoyed the storyline (originally by Marvel comics), the cast (the ridiculously handsome cast) and the execution of events. Not once does the movie seem too long (and it is over 2 hours of watching time)

Do yourself a favour. Watch it.

PS: I can’t wait for Iron Man 3 and Avengers 2.

PPS: this is where you all finally found out my nerd streak.

Natasha

Favourite Television shows

I am back!

Here are some of my favourite television shows of all time:

Big Bang Theory

Gossip Girl

Pretty Little Liars

Vampire diaries (as previously noted)

What's your favourite?

Natasha

Quick catch up

I'm so sorry I have been absent the past few days! 

I have been studying my but off for my exam tomorrow - I am writing maths and really needed to focus. Earlier tonight I had a bit of a freaking out session, but I am feeling more confident now. This is the most studying I have done for any test since I came out of highschool. I don't even want a good grade - I just want to pass. Keep those fingers crossed!

Now that you know why I was missing, I would like to tell you about something that I witnessed on Tuesday.

Johannesburg is a beautiful city, but alas, it is a city. While driving home from gym, I saw the most spectacular sight. We have had a lot of rain these past couple of days, and the sky was cast over and really cloudy. But it was just so breathtaking! There were so many colors - pink, purple, blue, grey, orange, red. Breathtaking. I couldn't get a picture, sadly (moving car and I only had the Blackberry on me). It just reminded me how perfect this world was made, despite the efforts of the human race to destroy it.

In other news, I have been sticking to my diet like a professional! I haven't even climbed on the scale yet - but I really hope to see results soon.

Keep those fingers crossed for me!

Natasha

Things of late that I have noticed.

I can browse the internet the entire day.

I will never be able to switch over to E-books completely. Nothing beats holding a book in your hands.

Reading will always be one of my greatest pleasures.

Being single is sometimes inconvenient, but not too bad.

I tend to be serious, with a humorous side thrown in.

I still am finding out who I am.

You really do become like the 5 people you spend the most time with.

I prefer writing in a bullet point style rather than in a paragraph.

Dreams only become reality when you actively seek to achieve them.

Little kittens are probably the cutest things on earth.

I want to own a French bulldog one day.

Song of the moment - Florence and the Machines: Never Let Me Go.

Having to accept things you thought you had already accepted.

Few true friends are better than many fake friends.

You don’t have to know everything. People that think they do are pretty damn annoying.

Rain on the roof is a good sedative.

Always either save the address or follow a good blog when you find it. There are so many blogs out there it is impossible to finding the same one twice by accident.

Growing your hair is a difficult thing to do.

Honesty, integrity and faith are the most beautiful characteristics a man can have.

I will marry a man that shares my obsession with Harry Potter.(or at least accepts it)