Gossip Girl Midseason Premiere: The ‘End’ of The Affair Disappoints

*Spoiler Alert!*

Gossip Girl ended with lots of loose ends in December. A very pregnant Blair finally acknowledged her love for Chuck and the two on-again off-again lovebirds shared a passionate kiss, cue the fatal car accident. Blair and Chuck are both rushed to the hospital. Serena wants to take Gossip Girl down. Nate becomes editor-in-chief of The Spectator (with no experience or credentials might I add). Dan is still a lonely boy, except with a boring storyline. Charlie/Ivy runs away. Forward to the January midseason premiere. So many exciting things were left untied, what will happen next Gossip Girl?  Well within the first minute, we uneventfully find out that Chuck is A-okay, Louis and Blair are back on, and Blair has lost the baby. How convenient.

At first I was hoping that it was one of Blair’s crazy dreams. How could they tell viewers the baby died so nonchalantly? Some say because it is Gossip Girl viewers shouldn’t expect much from the baby storyline, but I’d like to disagree. Gossip Girl used to take risks, and maybe having a baby would have been too out of the ordinary for the “perfect” Upper East-siders, but the writers should at least illustrate a realistic portrait of a mother and father losing an unborn child. The only scene that Blair shows a moment of true sadness regarding the miscarriage is when the nurse tells her she lost it in one of the much-too-short hospital flashbacks. The supposed father, Prince Louis is not at all concerned with the baby and does not even acknowledge its loss. Instead, he is too worried trying to find out if Blair is having an affair. Typical.

What is equally as depressing is the way viewers find out about the miscarriage. It is completely out of character for the OMFG show; I would expect an ornate party or at least a little more emotion.  Instead we have Chuck saying something along the lines of “I wanted to be there for you after the baby.” The script throughout the entire episode felt extremely detached and confusing. After Chuck questions why Blair hasn’t been responding to his texts and phone calls, Blair says the car crash was not an accident, but the universe’s way of saying the two should not be together. GG could have taken the loose ends and tied a knot in a more creative way (hence kept the baby, show how Chuck and Blair raise it together and the problems that arise), but instead they decided to go back to square one and prolong the inevitable, Chair.

At first, Chair is led to be over because of an affair with none other than Brooklyn’s Finest, Dan Humphrey. Lonely Boy hasn’t been so lonely lately as Chuck discovers when sending a spy to follow the two suspected lovers. First, we see Blair hiding out at Dan’s apartment, then they are spotted together at Vera Wang’s boutique where Blair is getting fitted for her custom bridal gown, and later on sneaking into discreet buildings. Blair tells Dan he has to keep the secret between the two of them and God. Yikes! Could it be that the baby was Dan’s? Could it be that they did not actually lose the baby, and she just didn’t want the baby to be a part of the chaos between Louis and Chuck (which would explain the lack of emotions from Blair towards her miscarriage)?  A crazy plot like that is so Gossip Girl right? Wrong.

 

Cue the most unbelievable, totally out of character, reason for Blair sneaking around: church. Indeed, our once evil Queen B who made her minions tend to her every need–and punished them demonically if they didn’t–is now converting to Catholicism and going to the Priest for help. Help in dealing with the loss of her child, right? Wrong again. Instead, she is going to church secretly for guidance on a deal with God she makes. We see in a flashback that after Blair finds out Chuck’s chances look bad, she turns to a character who is rarely used in the Upper-East Side: God. Blair promises to keep her vow to marry Louis and never be with Chuck again if God lets Chuck live. Now, I’m all for cheesy, but did the director really have the church doors open with a glowing nurse and a beam of light to notify Blair that Chuck was okay? Come on. Blair then visits Chuck and says “Just because we can’t be together, doesn’t mean I don’t love you.” Hello, the nurse was already on her way to tell you that Chuck was okay before you made your promise to God (who do you really even care about?).  I forgot this is Gossip Girl, the show where logic is always written out. Obviously, the writers were running out of ways to keep Chair apart. They got the viewers hopes up (mine especially) for a Chair happily ever after, and once again crushed it. Not because Blair really loved Louis, not because she had a baby by another man, not because she was secretly madly in love with Dan, and not because she just didn’t love Chuck, but because of some promise she made to God. Serena tries convincing Blair her reasoning is crazy–that it was modern medicine that cured Chuck and that God wouldn’t punish her for being with the one she loves, but Blair feels that Chuck will die and she will be responsible for it because it would be God’s way of punishing her for breaking her deal. So that’s that with Chair. Will they be together? Who really knows anymore. All I know is the writers need to get back on their game!

In other news: Lily misses her “niece” Charlie/Ivy so much that she hires a private detective to find her and when Rufus and Lily find another girl by the same name at Julliard, they take it as mere coincidence and think nothing of it. Louis, Chuck, and Nate accuse Dan of having an affair with Blair and Serena comes to the rescue (to make sure they don’t find out about the racy church-going truth) and instead says he is having an affair with her, and Blair was just helping them cover it up. The ex’s share a midnight kiss and a longing stare (really, who cares about Derena anymore–wasn’t that so 3 seasons ago?). Besides being Blair’s BFF and still crushing on Dan, Serena is also the new addressee of all things gossip. The take down of Gossip Girl has led everyone to send there blasts and photos to S, The Spectator’s hottest new blogger. Serena thinks she can use them for good, but what good comes from gossip? Fellow Spectator worker Nate comes across some interesting information that shows Chuck and Blair’s car accident was no accident after all, and the limo was actually intended for him. Interestingly enough, the only person that may know who wishes death upon the Manhattan’s finest bachelor is Gossip Girl. I think it has to do with Trip, as I can recall a shady conversation taking place in Episode 10. Guess we’ll see what’s going on with our favorite Upper East Siders in next week’s episode ”The Father and the Bride”–complete with Blair’s bachelorette party and a run in with the cops. How I’ve missed those (cue anything to do with Jenny)!

Sana Ashraf is a fashion writer and fashion show intern and is a junior at the University of Michigan. Sana loves reading fashion magazines, shopping sprees, city lights, color coordinated closets, and all four seasons.

Project Runway All Stars Episode 2 Recap

Hello, classy co-eds! For those of you who missed last night’s glamorous episode of Project Runway All Stars, here is a rundown of what happened!

The twelve remaining designers were challenged to create a gorgeous evening gown for a night at the opera. While some designers were excited to create a show-stopping gown, others were not as enthused. All of the designers agreed Austin Scarlett was the one to beat because of his incredible talent when it comes to evening wear.

While the designers were given $350 to purchase fabrics for the gowns, they were only given one day to put it together. Because of this time constraint, many designers were forced to alter their original designs so they could finish in time.

In the end, all of the designers finished their gowns and sent their beautiful models down the runway! The judging panel, including guest judges Mark Badgley and James Mischka of Badgley Mischka, were left stunned by a few of the dresses and were not so impressed with others.

Austin Scarlett a.k.a. “King of Couture” lived up to his nickname and won the challenge with this gown:

Michael Costello came in a close second with this black showstopper:

Anthony Williams came in third with this white gown:

The judges were not impressed with this gown made by Kara Janx:

Although the judges praised April for using something besides black, they were not fans of this red number, which put her in the bottom two.

The judges felt this dress, made by Sweet P, was more appropriate for a high school prom than a night at the opera. Sweet P was eliminated for this look.

So, co-eds, what did you think? Did you agree with the judges’ decisions, or would you have made different choices? Let CL know in the comments below! Also, be sure to check out the CL re-cap of One Tree Hill. Finally, if there are any shows that you would like us to re-cap each week, let us know!

 

Rachel Osman is a sophomore journalism major at Indiana University. She loves all things television and looks forward to recapping Project Runway All Stars each week for the awesome CL readers!

CL Top Ten: What and What Not to Pack for Study Abroad

We understand that you want to look and feel your best abroad – all the better to impress those cute foreign guys ! However, that does not mean that you need to take your entire closet and more with you. Below are five things you should definitely pull and pack because you love or really need them, and five items that you can say adios to for a few months, buy abroad, or carry on your person at all times.

To pack…

Your go-to jewelry pieces. Do not bring your entire jewelry box with you, just a few simple pieces that you wear on a regular basis . Narrow down your selection to a top three or four. Too much jewelry will weigh down your luggage, and there’s also always the chance that pieces could get lost.

Basic make-up. Simple mascara, foundation, lip gloss, eye shadow and liner will do. Don’t go crazy and bring every make-up product you own.

Necessities for your well-being. Make a list and double check that you have the items you use every day, such as contact solution (which you need to put into a container that complies with flight regulations), contacts (bring extra in case you lose them or they tear!), your glasses case, retainers, etc.

Work-out clothing. If you don’t bring work-out clothing, you won’t work out.

Simple clothing. Pack items that complement one another, sticking to a basic color palette. Doing this means you will need to pack fewer items because everything matches (freeing up space for clothes you buy abroad!) and losing one item won’t throw your whole look off. For extra tips, check out these matching pieces!

 

…or not to pack…

Books. Buy them abroad if you can. Books add weight to your suitcase. Definitely buy notebooks once you’re there.

Laundry detergent. Again, buy it there. It weighs too much, and it will be too much trouble putting it into bottles that are consistent with flight regulations.

Your passport. Don’t pack this – you’ll need it to get around the airport and the country, so keep it on your person at all times.

An umbrella. It’s incredibly useful abroad, just buy it there.

All of your shoes. …Just don’t do it.

Debra Schreiber is a returning CL intern from summer 2011. Now a senior, she did a spring break away trip to Spain her sophomore year, packed unnecessary things, and one of her favorite T-shirts disappeared.

CL Asks Classy Co-eds – What are Your Favorite Kid Movies?

Looking for a fun night with friends, family, or sorority sisters? Try a classic kiddie movie night, with these suggestions from co-eds like you.

 

“Peter Pan.” Not the cartoon. 2003 version with Jeremy Sumpter – Anissa Gilbert, Duquesne University, junior ISM and marketing major.

“The Princess Bride” and “My Neighbor Totoro.” – Gabrielle Tomasko, Duquesne University, integrated marketing communications and digital media arts major.

“A Little Princess.”  – Kelsey Daugherty, Duquesne University, senior, nursing.

“Aladdin.” – Michelle Lawrence, Duquesne University, senior, nursing.

“Sleepover.” – Sarah Williams, Duquesne University, sophomore psychology major.

“The Little Mermaid.” – Leanne Gallaway, The Art Institute of Pittsburgh, senior photography major.

“The Nightmare Before Christmas.” – Brooke Mendoff, Duquesne University, sophomore public relations/advertising and broadcast journalism major.

“Lion King.” – Alycia Washington, Duquesne University graduate, public relations and advertising degree.

“Despicable Me.” – Liz DeCarlo, Duquesne University, sophomore physics and modern languages major.

“Homeward Bound.” – Lauren Pitzer, Duquesne University, sophomore psychology major.

“Beauty and the Beast.” – Ellen Dimmick, Duquesne University, sophomore history major.

“Christmas Eve on Sesame Street.” – Elena LaQuatra, Point Park University, sophomore TV broadcast major.

“The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe.” – Amy Kerlin, Duquesne University, sophomore political science and communications major.

 

Debra Schreiber is a returning CL intern from summer 2011. Her favorite kid movies include “How to Train Your Dragon,” “Ratatouille” and “The Pebble and the Penguin.”

 

CL’s Top Ten Tips to Writing Thank You Notes

Now that all of the wrapping and tissue paper have been cleared away, it’s time to reflect on who got you all of those wonderful presents. It can be hard to get started on your thank-you notes when you’re all full of ham and cookies, so CL presents these top ten thank-you writing tips.

Keep track of who sent what. There’s nothing worse than thanking someone for a gift that they didn’t send. Make a list, and check it twice.

Keep boxes and envelopes. This is the best way to make sure that you have everyone’s updated address. If you’re not sure, ask your parents for their address books. Make sure to record the updated addresses in an address book of your own.

Use stationary. Thank-you notes should look simple and clean. Please don’t use notebook paper.

Write the thank-you notes out. No computer print or paper, either, unless your handwriting is really that bad.

Make each card personal. Directly thank the person the gift is from right off the bat. Mention the specific present(s) in the note and why you like them/how useful they are.

Invite friends and family to see you. If you’re having a New Year’s party, invite them.

Don’t do all of the notes in one sitting. Your hand will cramp up. But make sure to write them sooner rather than later.

Double-check your list again. You wouldn’t want to miss anyone!

Don’t lick the envelopes shut. Envelopes just don’t taste good! Try sealing them with festive stickers instead.

Send the notes ASAP. They should reach your friends and family members before the new year.

Debra Schreiber is a returning CL intern from summer 2011. She is a senior at Duquesne University, studying Journalism and Spanish. When she’s not studying, you can usually find her at the gym, reading or catching up on her favorite shows.

CL’s Top Ten Last Minute Gifts

It’s the night before the night before Christmas, and all through the house – not enough presents for everyone! What do to? Take a deep breath, calm down and check out College Lifestyles’ top ten last minute gifts.

 

Photo albums.  Hold more pictures than a picture frame and easier to customize by color, presentation and pattern. Add pictures of you and your friend inside!

Christmas ornaments. A great, personal gift – you can find one for anyone!  Hallmark caries a great selection.

Books. Bookstores are more likely to have shorter lines then department ones, and since you know what your friends love, finding a book about what they love will be easy!

Gift cards. Get a gift card to a restaurant you both love, along with a note inviting them out for lunch or dinner.

Jewelry. A birthstone necklace is both quick and personal, and anything with pearls is classy!

Spa packages. Throw together some nail polish, nail clippers, a nail file, moisturizer, and hand and foot cream. Larger Giant Eagles should carry all of the above.

Christmas stockings. Add stocking stuffers like oranges, pomegranates, chocolate coins, perfumes, nail polishes, hot cocoa mixes, and ta-da!

Gifts for their pet (if they have one). Try a cute toy, a basket of treats, or a new collar.

Wristlets. A new wristlet is snazzy and you can add an accessory to it, like a monogram key chain.

Seasonal gifts. Try slippers, Christmas socks,  or a hat, gloves and scarf set.

CL quick tips:

Stock up on gifts like this all year, and then next year, you won’t have to worry!

Don’t buy last-minute gifts online – they will most likely not arrive on time!

Debra Schreiber is a returning CL intern from summer 2011. She is a senior at Duquesne University, studying Journalism and Spanish. When she’s not studying, you can usually find her at the gym, reading or catching up on her favorite shows.

CL’s Guide to a Family Holiday Event

As a co-ed, you’re probably just wrapping up your finals and looking forward to going home, so what better way to show your family how much you’ve missed them than by planning a family event? And with the winter season already here and the holidays just around the corner, there are plently of family-friendly events opening up. Check out the ones CL found!

By the setting:

Indoors

Have a family tree-decorating party! Fun contests can include who can decorate the best ornament.

Cookie baking. Great for you and your siblings – try making gingerbread cookies that look like one another!

Gingerbread house building. Another great contest for the whole family!

Outdoors

Ice skating is a big sport this time of year, so check your local listings for some rinks.

Sled ridding. Easy and free – just find a hill near you!

Decorating. If there’s no snow where you live, don’t sweat it! You can still add some flair to your house with lights and fake snow!

By the city:

Pittsburgh

The Carnegie Science Center is showing The Polar Express in IMAX now through January 1. This Christmas movie is great for family movie night: you can relive your childhood and pass on part of it to younger family members.

Fifth Avenue Place is hosting a free arts and crafts program every Saturday until December 17. Another great family event, especially if you have younger siblings.

Friday, December 23, the Trans-Siberian Orchestra is coming to town, with their amazing musical story “A Christmas Eve and Other Stories.” It’s a lively show and terrific for all ages.

Need more information or want more ideas? Check out the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership.

New York

The winter and holiday pastime comes to The Rockefeller Center: ice skating! Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, the center is a beautiful place to skate, especially with the tree!

New York also has amazing window displays, and the ones at Saks Fifth Avenue, Lord & Taylor and Bloomingdale’s are family friendly. Looking is always free!

“The Nutcracker,” performed by the New York City Ballet, shows now through December 31 at Lincoln Center. Great for kids and adults alike, this magical fairytale will definitely put you and your family in the holiday mood.

Need some more ideas or info? Click here.

Lansing

The Wonderland of Lights at the Potter Park Zoo is a great idea for everyone in the family. The display runs now through December 23.

A Jazzy Little Christmas at the Wharton Center spins a traditional Christmas concert into funky family time. The show takes place December 17 and is put on by MSU Professors of Jazz. Special guest is Michael Dease.

“This Wonderful Life” returns to Williamson Theatre through December 23. Come and see this theatre production of It’s a Wonderful Life, a classic story for all ages.

Take a look at the Greater Lancing Michigan Convention and Visitors Bureau for more information and events.

Los Angeles

The Music Center Holiday Sing-Along is free and a great caroling time for the whole family. This musical event is on December 16 at 6:30.

“Las Posadas.” Another free event, this re-telling of the Mary and Joseph story runs from December 12 through December 24. It takes place on Olvera Street at El Pueblo, and is an event for English and Spanish speaking families.

Breakfast and Pictures with Santa at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. Get a picture of the entire family – with Santa! There are also activities for children and some drinks for the adults.

Need more? DowntownLA.com.

Debra Schreiber is a returning CL intern from summer 2011. She is a senior at Duquesne University, studying Journalism and Spanish. When she’s not studying, you can usually find her at the gym, reading or catching up on her favorite shows.

CL’s Holiday Party Playlist

If you’re planning a holiday party this year, this is a one-stop page for all of your listening needs. Whether it’s for you and your family’s annual holiday decorating party, your sorority’s ugly Christmas sweater mixer, or you and your friends’ holiday festivities, CL will have you prepared with these festive tunes.

 “The Twelve Days of Christmas” by The Chipmunks, Ross Bagdasarian and David Seville. Always a holiday must! Do you know all of the words?

“Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer” by Elmo and Patsy Shropshirem – Just play it when grandma’s not around!

“Christmas Cannon” by the Trans-Siberian Orchestra. This beautiful piece is a twist on Pachelbel’s Cannon.

“The Dreidel Song.” Learn to spin the dreidel and incorporate the song! Chocolate coins are always a good gamble.

“Christmas Shoes” by Bobby Carlisle. A Christmas classic, and a real tear jerker.

“You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch.” Whether it is from the movie soundtrack or the television show “Glee,” what would Christmas be without the Grinch?

“Feliz Navidad” by Jose Feliciano. ¡A todas mis amigas!

“Where are You Christmas?” by Faith Hill. Beautifully sung, another Grinch soundtrack favorite.

“Peace on Earth/The Little Drummer Boy” by Bing Crosby and David Bowie. Break out the pots and pans – it’s drummin’ time!

 “Christmas Time is Here” by Vince Guaraldi. From Charlie Brown!

“O Christmas Tree” by Aretha Franklin. Also known as “O Tannenbaum,” in German.

“Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” by Gene Autry. Don’t even pretend that you don’t know all of the lyrics!

“Greensleeves” by Vince Gauraldi Trio. Jazzy spin on this holiday classic.

“Blue Christmas” by Elvis Presley. The King himself, folks.

“Jingle Bells” by Frank Sinatra. This old-time crooner’s song will have everyone singing along.

 

Debra Schreiber is a returning CL intern from summer 2011. She is a senior at Duquesne University, studying Journalism and Spanish. When she’s not studying, you can usually find her at the gym, reading or catching up on her favorite shows.

CL Secret Santa

Does your Secret Santa gift get a ho ho ho, or an oh no? Not sure? Then let College Lifestyles help YOU pick out the perfect Secret Santa gift this year, whether the gift exchange is between family, friends or sorority sisters!

 

The best Secret Santa gifts are personal.  Really thinking about the other person is the key here. Since you’re only buying for one, you can completely focus on them. This means that unless the person you’re buying for really loves Bath and Body Works’ lotion or Yankee Candle’s incense, try to steer away from something that says “I don’t know you that well but I had to buy something fo you so here’s a box.” Instead…

For family members:

What are your parent’s hobbies? What does your cousin really need? If your dad loves golf, look into a new golf glove or a new driver. If your mom is really stressed out about work, send her to the spa to get a massage or facial. If your cousin needs a new watch, shop the department stores or look online for one in a color he likes.

And, with family, a Secret Santa gift doesn’t always have to be a present that you wrap up in a box and put a bow on top of. Sometimes, especially if you’ve been away at school for a while, the best gift you can give is some of your time. So sign your sister and yourself up at a volunteer center you’re both passionate about, or go and shoot some hoops with your brother – that’s what personal coupons are for!

For sorority sisters:

What does my sorority sister love? Is there anything she collects? Each of us has something we absolutely love and want. Figure out what it is – just don’t ask outright! If she’s a sister you’re not incredibly close with, ask her roomate or another sister for some ideas.

 Is she about to graduate? Then how about a gift that shows how much you care for her and how much you will miss her, like a photo album filled with picture of the two of you and of her with the sorority.

Has she been thinking about purchasing some new letters? Then get some for her. Consider what her favorite colors are, use those, and then pick out a pattern  she likes.

For friends:

Are they going on a study abroad trip next semester? Then buy a notebook and a camera for them to use to record all of their adventures.

Are they just starting college? Then put together a small care package of things that they will want and need.

After you’ve finished thinking, put your ideas into a list and then…

Consider you budget. Is there a minumum or a maximum, or a flexible price zone? Make sure that everyone in the group agrees on it, and then look at your list. Is there something on there that fits the price? If there isn’t, don’t be concernd about going over or under a few bucks.

And remember, gifts cards are not the worst thing on the planet. If there is a store you know they love, go for it.

If you still are not sure about your gift, include a gift receipt. Then, if they really don’t like it, they can return for something they’ll really enjoy.

Also, don’t forget to include a card with the present you are giving, and remember to write a thank you to your Secret Santa!

Debra Schreiber is a returning CL intern from summer 2011. She is a senior at Duquesne University, studying Journalism and Spanish. When she’s not studying, you can usually find her at the gym, reading or catching up on her favorite shows.

CL’s Christmas Break Booklist

Looking for a non-school related book to read over Christmas break? Then try one of these recommendations (old favorites and new series) from your fellow classy co-eds.

The Help by Kathryn Stockett– Recommended by Kelsey Daugherty, Duquesne University, Senior, Nursing Student and Aubrey Cathcart, Duquesne University, Senior, Early Childhood and Elementary Education Major.

The Hunger Games Trilogy by Suzanne Collins – Recommended by Amy Kerlin, Duquesne University, Sophomore, Political Science and Communications Double Major and Aubrey Cathcart, Duquesne University, Senior, Early Childhood and Elementary Education Major.

The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo by Steig Larsson –Recommended by Natalie Ricci, Miami University of Ohio, Junior, History Major.

Pride and Prejudice and Zombies by Jane Austen and Seth Grahame-Smith – Recommended by Gabrielle Tomasko, Duquesne University, Senior, Marketing Communications and Digital Media Arts Double Major.

The Historian by Elizabeth Kostova and Are You There Vodka? It’s Me, Chelsea by Chelsea Handler – Recommended by Aubrey Cathcart, Duquesne University, Senior, Early Childhood and Elementary Education Major.

Nineteen Minutes by Jodi Picoult – Recommended by Kelsey Daugherty, Duquesne University, Senior, Nursing Student.

And what reads does this CL intern recommend?

A Song of Ice and Fire Series by George R. R. Martin.

 

The Sookie Stackhouse Novels by Charlaine Harris.

The Last Song by Nicholas Sparks.

My Sister’s Keeper and Handle with Care by Jodi Picoult.

Have other recommendations? Then let us know by commenting below!

Debra Schreiber is a returning CL intern from summer 2011. She is a senior at Duquesne University, studying Journalism and Spanish. When she’s not studying, you can usually find her at the gym, reading or catching up on her favorite shows.

 

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