He Said, She Said: Guide to Relationships

GOOGLE did what?!?

2007-04-15T16:00:00.000-06:00

He Said She Said, SHE SAID:

The Internet beast known as Google just gobbled up DoubleClick for a tiny sum of $3.1 billion. Chump change for the folks at Google.

My sources inside Googleplex Headquarters tell me this is part of a much larger foray into the online display advertising space. The deal came together pretty quickly, partly as a response to news that Microsoft was in talks to acquire DoubleClick. After a week of intense bidding, the boys at Google won out.

It certainly doesn't hurt that Google and Doubleclick both have office space in the same New York City building. This deal very likely began when a Googler sniffed out a Microsoft suit in the elevator blabbing about their acquisition strategy for DoubleClick. A quick call back to the Google home base in Moutain View, CA and a bidding war with Microsoft had begun.

Sometimes it really does happen just like in the movies. True story.

Bye bye Superman? Breaking News on SMALLVILLE

2007-04-14T09:23:00.000-06:00

He Said She Said, HE SAID:

So what's this I hear about them killing off a major character on SMALLVILLE? It's true according to the witch of gossip over at E! Online.

Sources inside The CW reveal that one of 4 main castmembers - Tom Welling, Michael Rosenbaum, Allison Mack or Kristin Kreuk - will be killed off in a secret plot twist by season's end. Who do you think it will be? I don't even watch this show and my money is on Chloe. No way they kill off Superman or Lex Luthor.

For those keeping score at home, YES I guess this makes me a TV dork. My secret it out.

another wasted night of LOST

2007-04-05T09:10:00.000-06:00

I'm sorry - I've been a huge LOST fan ever since the first episode but even I'm beginning to lose my patience with this show. There needs to be more forward motion in terms of plot development. The flashback device is losing its luster. Seriously, what did last night's Kate flashback really reveal? That her Mom turned her in because she committed murder?!? No kiddin' sherlock. Kate, my advice would've been to phone ahead. You could've saved us the (unnecessary) drama and exposition.

Producers, please, I'm begging you. DO SOMETHING. ANYTHING. And do it quick. Because your beloved TV show aint the ratings darling it used to be. And in case you need some story suggestions, how 'bout explaining that igloo/Arctic scene from last season's cliffhanger and telling me where Rose has disappeared to. SERIOUSLY. I want some answers and I'm getting tired of waiting. And it's not the wait that's killing me. It's how tedious the entire LOST ride has gotten.

You've been warned.

It was a bad year for Russell Crowe - and it shows

2007-03-24T10:38:00.000-06:00

So last night there I was standing in Blockbuster trying to pick out a movie for the weekend when Girlfriend called with a special request. She wanted to see the Russell Crowe flick, A Good Year.

Reading the back of the DVD box, I remembered why I was in no hurry to see it in theaters. Because it looked like a BAD MOVIE. Nevertheless, we rented it and watch the movie last night. Now that I have a good night's rest behind me, I can say with even greater confidence that A Good Year was a bad movie. Not just bad, but "THIS MOVIE SUCKED" kind of bad. Rent it yourself good readers and tell me yourself. On second thought, save yourself 2 hours and take my word for it.

All this movie really wanted to be was the guy's version of Under the Tuscan Sun. Had the film succeeded, I'm not even sure if that would be a good thing. Wasn't one flirty romantic comedy about Italy enough? Besides, Russell Crowe is nowhere near as hot as Diane Lane.

Russell Crowe is not very sympathetic in this movie and treats most other characters as discarded bottles of wine. Until of course he finds happiness in the vineyards of Italy. As my sister used to say when we were kids, GAG ME WITH A SPOON. Seriously, Russell, what were you thinking? Aside from the big paycheck I mean.

So dear readers, if you find yourself desperate for a movie and the only thing left to rent in Blockbuster or on Netflix is The Muppets Take Manhatten, do yourself a favor and rent the one with the dancing muppets. It's never a contest when Miss Piggy is on screen. I'm sorry Russell, but it's true for this 'Not Very Good Year.'

Even in the best of moods, I only give this movie a C-. Save your money.

And on last night's episode of '24'...

2007-03-20T13:29:00.000-06:00

The Jack Bauer Power Hour rages on Fox.

But I have just one tiny gripe. Mainly, what the hell happened to ex President Logan? Last week's episode of 24 ended with Logan flatlining and the former First Lady in handcuffs. But there wasn't even one mention of them in last night's episode. HELLO?!?! Is the evil-but-now-reborn Logan dead? And was Martha able to sneak in a quick kiss with former Secret Service superhero Aaron Pierce before getting hauled off to prison?

C'mon writers, you can't just leave us hanging. It was another great hour of television last night, but you have some loose ends to clear up. Plug those plot holes and tell us what's going on!

Roll out the red carpet...

2007-02-23T09:25:00.000-06:00

He Said, She Said...HE SAID:
It's time for the annual Hollywood American Idol - and I don't mean that little TV show on Fox. Nope, we're talking about the 79th Annual Academy Awards.

The red carpet rolls out in Hollywood Sunday night. So stop wasting time and fill out your Oscar ballots. Here's what you'll find on the He Said She Said ballot:

Best Picture: Letters from Iwo Jima
Best Actress: Kate Winslett for her role in Little Children
Best Actor: Leonard DiCaprio for his role in Blood Diamond

GIRLFRIEND and I are still arguing over our other choices, so we'll wait to post until we've reached consensus. What will be on YOUR Oscar ballots?

Speaking Baby Talk

2007-02-22T08:14:00.000-06:00

HE SAID:
I was introduced to a whole new language this past week while visiting with my sister and new baby nephew. A few of my favorite new catchphrases include:

Boob Juice = breast milk
Liquid Gold = more breast milk (aka Boob Juice)
Oogie Aga = still trying to decipher this one
Poop = just as I remember it

Saying Uncle

2007-02-19T15:43:00.000-06:00

HE SAID:
I'm still getting use to this whole Uncle thing. My sister gave birth to a baby boy a few months ago and it has taken me 3-4 months just to get used to the idea. It would help if my sister lived closer but she is several states away and I've only met my nephew a couple times. That all changed this weekend.

This weekend was my first real chance to hang out with the little fella, all 15 pounds of him. I still have to fight off my parents and visiting relatives whenever I hold the baby, but I was able to sneak away a few times to get some Uncle/Nephew alone time. Of course that didn't last long because you can only disappear with a baby for so long before someone notices. Nevertheless, it was a great time. I can't wait to spoil the little bugger.

I'm hesitant to say my nephew is the cutest baby ever because I always get so annoyed whenever anyone says it... but it's true. My new baby nephew IS the cutest baby you've never met. So you might as well get used to the idea.

The Shining - recut and remastered

2007-02-18T12:13:00.000-06:00

Remember that Stanley Kubrick thriller The Shining starring everyone's favorite Jack? The one that scared the living crap out of you? Those who don't like scary movies are smart enough to steer clear of this movie.

If only the movie studio had marketed it as a romantic comedy. Then perhaps they could have captured the wallets and dollars of unsuspecting moviegoers. Take a look at the re-cut trailer below for a look at what could have been.

The Shining - starring Jack Nicholson

Video: The Shining Trailer Recut

Justin Timberlake on SNL tonight

2007-02-17T11:54:00.000-06:00

SHE SAID:
For those of you who missed it the first time on Saturday Night Live, NBC is airing the Justin Timberlake episode again tonight. Included will be the instant video gem and viral sensation Dick in a Box. See it here now.

Dick in a Box (uncensored) - video clip

Freeeeeeeezin'

2007-02-15T10:13:00.000-06:00

SHE SAID:
so this is my 4th winter in Chicago and I am beginning to think I was insane for moving here from cali! something about -30 wind chill is ridiculous... the countdown for springtime begins... only 3 more months :) they say you can't complain about both seasons in chicago, so i am looking forward to the hot humid summer in july! BRING IT ON!

snowy Chicago and tired puggles

2007-02-14T15:24:00.000-06:00

HE SAID:
The snow just won’t stop falling. Gotta love Chicago winters.

It seems like it has snowed almost a foot in the last 2 days, but I’m sure it’s less. The dogs sure enjoy romping around in it though. Lucky for us the snow hit just hours after we returned from a short vacation in sunny California.

We put the dogs up in a kennel. We like to call it “Doggie Camp” because they spend the entire time running around and playing with other dogs. At night, the dogs sleep slumber party style on top of each other. And then it’s right back to running around and playing in the morning.

Usually when we pick up the dogs, they literally pass out in our arms while we’re still in the car driving home. All that time playing (and with little sleep) makes for a tired puppy.

This was only the 2nd time our youngest puggle has ever stayed at the kennel and she wasn’t quite sure how to react when we arrived to take them home. Por puggle cried all the way home in the car.

I wonder if she was disappointed that we hadn’t gone away for good. Either that or she really had to pee.

The latest viral sensation - SLOTHS!

2007-02-13T14:19:00.000-06:00

HE SAID:
Who woulda thunk it? Saturday Night Live can be funny again. For those of you who missed it, here is the latest viral sensation from The Not Ready for Primetime Players in NYC.

Courtesy of SNL, I give you "Sloths!"

He Said, She Said Guide to Relationships

OMG... Seriously

2007-02-04T21:45:00.000-06:00

SHE SAID: So I have been counting down the days, the hours to the big game between the Bears & the Colts. 21 years since the bears have made it to the big game... SURELY it is their time to win. But, nooooooo...

Instead Grossman decides to serve as the MVP... for the COLTS!!! Seriously, can you please learn how to throw the ball???!?!?

We just got home from a superbowl party and I am so glad I don't have to hear the louda** colts fan beside me talking anymore shi*. FYI - I already know Grossman sucks, I don't need you to fill me in on that secret. This was truly the Bears game... despite the spread they should have won. 92 yard touchdown on the initial kick0ff of the game?!?! that is history! but unfortunately so was the rest...

He Said She Said Guide... to Super Bowl XLI

2007-02-03T11:46:00.000-06:00

Super Bowl weekend has finally arrived. Got big plans for Sunday? We want to hear about your favorite Super Bowl moments leading up to and during the game.

If you find yourself at a party, remember the He Said, She Said rules of game etiquette.

How YOU Can Liven up the Party as a Guest:
* Find out what team the host is rooting for and wear the opposing team's jersey
* Bring no beer, chips or food - but be sure to take any leftovers home with you
* Ask everyone to "shhhh" when the NFL Refs are introduced
* Encourage voting to determine best and worst looking cheerleader
* Turn off the TV during commercials

Get your Wi-Fi on in Chicago

2007-02-01T14:12:00.000-06:00

SHE SAID:
Gone are the days of “borrowing” your neighbor’s wireless connection. A new website has made it easy to find free Wi-Fi in Chicago.

For a complete list of Chicago stores and restaurants offering free Wi-Fi internet access, check out the Wi-Fi-FreeSpot Directory. It is constantly updated and are very thorough. We use it religiously to find internet hot spots around town. Check it out.

Living in a Wi-Fi society

2007-01-31T14:44:00.000-06:00

He Said, She Said...HE SAID:

We live in a democratic society, so I say free Wi-Fi internet access for everyone. If Microsoft is willing to pay for free Wi-Fi in Portland, Oregon then why not Chicago? Even Google is getting into the act and paying for Wi-Fi in San Francisco. Read about Microsoft’s heroics here and Google’s efforts here.

Screw the spread

2007-01-28T10:57:00.000-06:00

SHE SAID:
Screw the odds. I don't care if the Colts are favored by 7, we all know the Bears will win Super Bowl XLI.

I'm worried Rex Grossman won't be able to hold his own against the Indy defense. He came through in the last quarter of the NFC Championship against the Saints, but the sunshine in Miami might throw his game off. But what really pisses me off is that I'm going to be in Miami... the day AFTER the Super Bowl.

I grew up in Kentucky and my true passion is the Louisville Cardinals. But Louisville doesn't have an NFL team and I've loved the Chicago Bears since I was a little girl. My BOYFRIEND gives me crap and says I'm a bandwagon fan, but I owned my Dick Butkus jersey before I even moved to Chicago. Honestly, I think he's just bitter because the St. Louis RAMS didn't even make the playoffs.

BEAR down!

Oscar nominations are out

2007-01-23T09:04:00.000-06:00

SHE SAID:
After months of hype, the Oscar nominations are out. Find out if your favorite movie or actor was nominated here. Catch the 79th Academy Awards live February 25, 2007 on ABC.

Monday's have become television heaven

2007-01-22T18:19:00.000-06:00

HE SAID:
I flipped through my TiVo last night and was struck by how Monday’s have now become the new “Must See TV” – at least in my household. Thankfully, GIRLFRIEND and I have similar tastes and so we don’t argue (much) over the remote control. The Monday TV lineup in the He Said She Said household includes:

i'll be up til 3am watching all my shows
1) 24
2) How I Met Your Mother
3) Heroes
4) Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip
5) Daily Show
6) Prison Break
7) What About Brian
8) Battlestar Galactica (didn't get a chance to watch it last night)

Why must the network suits schedule so many great TV shows on the same night? We’ll be up until the wee hours of the morning watching it all.

BEAR Down for Super Bowl XLI

2007-01-22T09:55:00.000-06:00

HE SAID:
The Chicago Bears were victorious over the New Orleans Saints in today's NFC Championship Game. Final score: Good Guys 39, Saints 14.

And so the march to the Super Bowl begins. Their opponent in the Super Bowl will be the Indianapolis Colts. Frankly, I'm relieved the Bears will be facing the Colts instead of the New England Patriots.

Had the Patriots won, everyone would be talking about their previous Super Bowl match up in 1985 when the Chicago Bears defeated the Pats 46-10 in Super Bowl XX. I could care less. Get over it New England. You lost in '85 and you lost last night.

So I'm a little bitter about the Patriots. Is it that obvious? To put it simply, there isn't a team I despise more than the New England Patriots. I'm originally from St. Louis and I still haven't gotten over the St. Louis RAMS loss to the Patriots in Super Bowl XXXVI. The Rams lost that game on a New England field goal as time expired.

I was so devastated I called in sick to work for a week. Five years later and it still stings.

Time to BEAR down Chicago. The only team left standing is the Colts.

HE SAID SHE SAID Super Bowl XXLI prediction:
Chicago Bears 24, Indianapolis Colts 21

Who do YOU think will win?

Chicago Bears moment of truth

2007-01-20T16:05:00.000-06:00

HE SAID:
With less than 24 hours to go before kickoff, there are a number of questions on the minds of Chicago Bears fans.

1) Do the Bears have enough left in the tank to beat the New Orleans Saints in the NFC Championship game?

2) Which Rex Grossman will show up for the game? The Rex from the first 4 weeks of the season, or Scary Rex from the last half of the season?

3) How much will it snow?

Here's the official HE SAID, SHE SAID prediction: Bears 24, Saints 17

Who do YOU think is going to win?

Netflix vs. Blockbuster

2007-01-16T13:03:00.000-06:00

HE SAID:
Today Netflix announced they would be offering movie downloads for free online. Read about it here. That’s a nice little differentiator from the beast named Blockbuster. Nevertheless, I must admit I prefer Blockbuster. And this is coming from one of the earliest Netflix adopters and fanatics.

Over time Blockbuster has developed an identical program and today offers a superior product. They have found a way to leverage empty Blockbuster stores sandwiched between McDonald’s restaurants lining American street corners. Drop the DVD off at a store and walk out with a new movie. By the time you get home, Blockbuster has shipped the next movie in your queue. My math may be a bit fuzzy, but that adds up to double the DVDs in my book. Hands down the best advantage Blockbuster has over Netflix.

Having wasted far too many of my young years in the advertising industry, it seems all I ever remember are the terrible ads. I can’t help but cheer whenever a great one enters the mix. And that’s exactly what Blockbuster has. A fantastic TV advertising campaign centered around a great message.

Ride the wave and rent some DVDs. The rest of the world is catching on.

Daaaaa Bears!

2007-01-15T12:30:00.000-06:00

SHE SAID: OMG what an awesome game yesterday; I can't believe I was actually at a bears playoff game. We left in the early AM to maximize the time spent outside in the cold weather and tailgate in the south lot. SO much fun! Burgers, brats and bears... what more could you want?? Inside the stadium I was ecstatic as the bears ran in a 68 yard touchdown. However the rest of the game made me a bit nervous. Too many turnovers, sloppy throws and way too many SeaHawks touchdowns! In the end they won, but they need to get their real game face on for the Saints game next weekend. The Bears have a real shot at the superbowl.... I can't wait until the next game!

BEAR DOWN!!

Da Bears fans

2007-01-14T19:14:00.000-06:00

HE SAID:
Always classy those Chicago Bears fans.

GIRLFRIEND and I spent the day at Soldier Field watching the Bears defeat the Seattle Seahawks to advance to the NFC Championship game. Two most memorable moments while I froze my little toochas off in the cold.

1) Rex Grossman finally completing a big pass to set up the winning field goal in OT.

2) Mr. RANDOM DRUNK GUY pissing in the sink right next to me as I was washing my hands in the bathroom.

I guess you can change the stadium, but not the Bears fan. Gotta love Chicago. Go Bears!