Tonight, I decided to blow off my speedwork run and go see The Twilight Saga: Eclipse instead.  Hey, I’m only vampire human. 

Here’s various posts documenting my obsession with the series.  I’ve read every book at least four times and seen the other two movies at least twice (yes, I know, Twilight is kind of dorky and over-the-top).  So it’s embarrassing to admit that I hadn’t seen Eclipse yet!  And I call myself a TwiHard!  ;)  But with the book release and the move, I’ve just felt too busy to sit in a theatre for two hours.  It was SO worth it – I loved the movie.  Sooo much better than the others (which I’m willing to admit are kind of meh).

 

Pre-dinner snack was a mish-mash of cereal with rice milk:

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And dinner was a little Asian-fusion.

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Grilled tofu, naan, broccoli, and pre-made Trader Joe’s rice.

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Last time I made the grilled tofu, I promised I’d do a step by step guide to grilling tofu.  This simple technique only take 10 minutes from start to finish.  Can’t beat that!

 

  • Turn on George Foreman.
  • Open packet of extra firm tofu; remove block.
  • Wrap block in several layers of paper towels and lightly smush it with your fingertips.  It’s not necessarily to drain the tofu as thoroughly when you’re pressing it in the George Foreman.
  • Slice block into 7 pieces or so.
  • Rub tofu slices in some sort of marinade, like salad dressing.  Let stand for a few minutes.
  • Put on grill and cook until grill marks begin to appear.

 

I cooked mine dry (no dressing) and it was alright, but I really like the texture + taste of tofu.  Dressing makes it taste a lot better!

 

And… I’m off to bed. I’ve actually had really bad headaches lately (probably stress-induced) so I think a no-exercise day and a good night sleep is exactly what I need.

 

Are you obsessed with any book series?  Lord of the Rings, Shopaholic, Twilight, Harry Potter?  Or do you favor decidingly more mature books?  🙂

{ 117 comments }

 

  • Cyndi @ Weightless Life July 27, 2010, 8:59 pm

    I totally admit that I am obsessed with Harry Potter. To the point that I have the American and the UK versions of the books. Plus, I own all of the movies. I’m only slightly embarrassed writing this. But, I have to own my nerdy-ness.

  • Kiersten July 27, 2010, 9:00 pm

    I am obsessed with books in general. I am particularly obsessed with the Twilight series and Harry Potter series. I LOVED Eclipse! I thought it was the best Twilight movie so far.

  • Babycakes July 27, 2010, 9:01 pm

    TOTALLY obsessed with the Twilight series and I too LOVED Eclipse!!! Glad you finally got to see it 🙂

  • Gavi @ GaviGetsGoing! July 27, 2010, 9:05 pm

    I never really got into any series reading. I liked Harry Potter just fine, but it didn’t captivate me. I AM looking for some good reading, though (your book is at the top of my list!) so I will check back later to see what other folks enjoy!

  • megan July 27, 2010, 9:06 pm

    Eclipse was definitely the best acted/shot of the 3 but my least favorite in the series.

    Oh, and ps: YOUR book made it to the Borders in Boca! I scooped it up before work this morning. The imagery in the beginning was breathtaking. I loved it.

    • Caitlin July 27, 2010, 9:07 pm

      thank you thank you thank you!

  • 'Dee July 27, 2010, 9:06 pm

    I am a complete and total book nerd, period. I don’t read books, I consume them!

    I was determined to not like the Twilight series but … fell into the trap and have happily lived as a Twi-hard ever since!

  • tanyasDaily ProductViews July 27, 2010, 9:13 pm

    the cereal looks good

  • Julia July 27, 2010, 9:15 pm

    I’m a total Twi-hard. When New Moon came out, I went to see the movie four times because I didn’t have the heart to tell friends that I went to see it without them the first time around! I love the movies but tend to think the books are better – as books generally are 🙂

  • Holly @ couchpotatoathlete July 27, 2010, 9:21 pm

    I loved the Twilight books — yes I have a Team Jacob shirt and everything! I also have an Edward barbie doll. Yes, I really do.

    Right now I am reading the Sookie Stackhouse books (True Blood) and I can’t put them down. Sometimes I like to read really easy books (like Twilight, Sookie, etc) because I get through them so quickly and it really gets my imagination going.

  • Estela @ Weekly Bite July 27, 2010, 9:22 pm

    I think I’m the only one on the planet who hasn’t read any of the Twilight books, or seen any of the movies. Same goes with Harry Potter… never read or seen it.

    • Dynamics July 27, 2010, 10:13 pm

      Whoo…..me either. And I really have no desire.

    • jessica July 28, 2010, 3:03 pm

      Same here.. you’re not alone!

  • Sara Stainbrook July 27, 2010, 9:23 pm

    Is it sad that I’m obsessed with all of the above book series?? I’ve always loved Harry Potter and I really like LOTR.

    Like Dee I resisted Twilight, believing it was only for teens… but in Korea english books are hard to come by and those were my only option…needless to say I read all four of them in a 24 hour period… re read them… and have re-read them 2 times after 🙂 The movies are alright, but the books are soooooo much better. There are just too many details left out in the movies 🙂

  • Katie @ Healthy Heddleston July 27, 2010, 9:23 pm

    Eclipse was definitely better than the other too… I loved the books and I do love all the movies!

    I loved all the Shopaholic books too and have promised my husband I would read Harry Potter since that’s the series he loves.

  • Gabriela @ Une Vie Saine July 27, 2010, 9:25 pm

    I’m a HUGE Harry Potter fan! I’ve been enjoying the Twilight movies though, especially New Moon. How can you not, with Taylor Lautner’s abs?!

  • Ashley A July 27, 2010, 9:25 pm

    I love the Twilight saga! Totally obsessed (and a little embarrassed)! 🙂 I saw Eclipse on opening night and am still trying to get my husband to go see it again…loved it!

  • Erin July 27, 2010, 9:26 pm

    I’m a big reader and LOVE Harry Potter but just can’t get into Twilight. 🙁 If you like the kind of fantasy for adults genre, check out Jasper Fforde. He writes great fiction that takes literary characters (like the Pride and Prejudice cast) and has them interact with ‘real’ people. His first book, The Eyre Affair, is my fave!

  • Amy July 27, 2010, 9:26 pm

    I’ve read the Twilight books and liked them but haven’t been crazy over the movies. Harry Potter, on the other hand, is a favorite of mine. I love the books and think the movies are so good! I rarely buy movies and books but I have all the Harry Potter books and movies. 🙂 Okay, and the Twilight ones too…

  • Kelly July 27, 2010, 9:28 pm

    Oh I’m definitely a Twilight freak also. I just started reading Eclipse again for probably the 3rd time. I saw the movie a few weeks ago and it was my favorite one so far!

  • HTP Dad July 27, 2010, 9:29 pm

    Twilight fangurl!

  • Sarena (The Non Dairy Queen) July 27, 2010, 9:30 pm

    I am a fan of Nicholas Sparks’ books. I have not gotten into the other stuff much. Dontcha just love the George Foreman Grill? Now that I am in to!

  • Heather July 27, 2010, 9:30 pm

    love twilight! at first I thought it was “trendy” to read them so I avoided it for awhile but finally caved!

  • Natalie July 27, 2010, 9:30 pm

    i seriously loved this movie as well! i think it stuck to the book more closely than the first 2 did. I’m excited for the next one!

  • Evan Thomas July 27, 2010, 9:31 pm

    I’m not much of a reader. I love watching things, though. This Summer I’ve watched Doctor Who seasons 1,2,3, and 5. And I’m working on season 4 and all 3 seasons of Torchwood(a spin-off). it’s only a mild addiction 🙂

  • Lori July 27, 2010, 9:32 pm

    I love all the books you mentioned. I was OBSESSED with Harry Potter for the longest time. If you like series, you might want to read the Girl with the Dragon Tattoo books. They are great, but in no way young adult books.

  • Katie July 27, 2010, 9:34 pm

    I liked the Twilight books…I saw the first two movies and ugh apparently spider monkey is the new pet name?? Oh well they were good for laughs! Haven’t seen Eclipse yet, but I’ve heard decent things so I’ll give it a try. HOWEVER! I am a crazed Chronicles of Narnia fan! I’ve read the books like once a year since I was a kid and the movies give me goosebumps and ear to ear smiles! Harry Potter is also amazing, you know you’re a geek when you teach 2nd grade and the kids start to read the books and you have excited conversations with them when they get to new parts!

  • Maria (realfitmama) July 27, 2010, 9:34 pm

    Not gonna lie – I have ZERO interest in the twilight books, but they’re just not my thing. Linsey (my 9 year old) has read EVERY Harry Potter book, seen all the movies and is now working on twilight. It’s something she has in common and can share with my mother.

    I, on the other hand, have read every Shopaholic book written along with a gazillion other books. I’m kind of obsessed with books in general.

    Been thinking about starting a Jane Austen book club because Pride and Prejudice is one of my all time favorite books!!

  • Kristin July 27, 2010, 9:37 pm

    I was completely addicted to HP and Twilight series when they were being newly published. Like with HP I pre-ordered and waited anxiously for the mail to come. (And I am an adult…) Haven’t really gotten into the movies though. I think that no movie can do justice to the books! There are other (adult) books that I have loved with a passion, but I think it takes a series to inspire obsession.

  • Maren @ Simply Maren July 27, 2010, 9:40 pm

    I’m completely in love with Harry Potter and Twilight. I’m reading the whole Harry Potter series again before the release of the movie in November! But I also love Twilight, and I completely agree that this one was the best movie of the three! Though the second book is by far my favorite. I know, I’m strange.

  • Paige @Running Around Normal July 27, 2010, 9:40 pm

    OMG I can’t believe you just saw Eclipse tonight! haha You have been supah busy though.
    I read the HP and Twilight books a long time ago. I agree that the movies are just meh though. But I loooove the books! 🙂

  • Jaime Runs July 27, 2010, 9:41 pm

    I’m kind of obsessed with Russian literature, and my husband makes fun of me for it.

  • Jill July 27, 2010, 9:43 pm

    I am totally consumed with the twilight series. I read the books and watched the movies so many times. I also have the soundtracks that i listen to when I run.I love them all!!!!

  • Kendall July 27, 2010, 9:47 pm

    I’m working my way through Harry Potter right now…so it’ll probably be a good five years before I start on Twilight..

    Loved the grilled tofu idea!

  • jen July 27, 2010, 9:49 pm

    i have plans to start reading the twilight series soon-we are the middle of a move but once we get settled it’s my plan!

    also, you may have already thought of this, but your bad headaches could be your body adjusting to going off the pill. i noticed when i went off that i had headaches/nausea for a while and then the same symptoms again when i got back on it after having our daughter. just a thought 🙂

    • caitlin July 28, 2010, 10:13 am

      I thought that could be it but I’ve had them for about a month 🙁

  • Chelsey July 27, 2010, 9:50 pm

    I loooove Twilight! I was a little wary of the books, but after I started, I was hooked!! It sounds like you had a great day with the hubby.

  • Lissi @ livelearnrun July 27, 2010, 9:50 pm

    Definitely a massive Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings fan here. I read the Twilight series and enjoyed it the first time, but I’m not sure how I would like them if I reread them. I can list many others, as I’m generally obsessed with books and reading in general!

  • Mandy A July 27, 2010, 9:53 pm

    Um, total Twilight freak here!

    I used to roll my eyes at the girls who were going crazy over it… my two younger sisters, too! When one of my sisters came up to visit me, I surprised her and took her to see New Moon right after it came out in theaters… which of course, peaked my curiosity. My husband bought me the first two books of the series for Christmas… and the rest is history! LOL

    Um… I’ve seen the other two movies a billion times now… lol and seen Eclipse twice! I think I’m worse than my sisters with my obsession at this point 🙂

    And my husband is totally a closet Twilight lover 🙂 He’s read the books and loves the movies, too.. haha

  • Lisa (bakebikeblog) July 27, 2010, 9:53 pm

    I read the first Twilight book and realised that it was not for me! So I havent read any more and / or seen any of the movies…
    I loved Lord of the Rings though!

  • ashleigh July 27, 2010, 9:53 pm

    Sometimes it’s very necessary to blow off a workout and spend 2 hours with vampires and wolves!

    I love the shopaholic books!!

  • Amanda July 27, 2010, 9:57 pm

    I am a self proclaimed nerd and proud to be so. I’ve read the lord of the rings trilogy 6 times, the Harry Potter series so many times that I’ve lost count (my fourth book actually feel apart I read it so many times) and twilight twice. I love good fantasy books!

  • Niki (Running in Pink) July 27, 2010, 9:57 pm

    I totally consider the Harry Potter series mature books! Admittedly, the first few are geared towards younger readers (though still well-written), but the later books in the series take on a much more mature tone. I am obsessed.

  • Jen July 27, 2010, 9:58 pm

    I have so many ‘guilty pleasure’ books, but right now I’m only admitting to Twilight. 😉

  • Lisa (I'm an Okie) July 27, 2010, 10:01 pm

    I love the sookie stackhouse novels (books that True Blood is based off of)

  • eri July 27, 2010, 10:02 pm

    i’ll admit it, i’m a twihard that just saw eclipse the other week too! (i’m sad they cut out so much of alice’s scenes!)

    i also loved the shopaholic books…haven’t read harry potter, but i love the movies!

  • elaine! July 27, 2010, 10:05 pm

    Mature books are overrated! (Says the English literature major, lol.) As far as YA fiction, I recently got into the Vampire Academy series by Richelle Mead. You’d probably like it!

    I’m always surprised when I hear of men-folk who see the Twilight movies willingly. My man actually likes sappy chick flicks, but I always have to watch the new Twilight releases when he’s out of town so he won’t tease me about it!

  • Ellen@FirednFabulous July 27, 2010, 10:10 pm

    Your dinner looks so yummy! (And holy cow, so does that bowl of cereal!) I totally need to get a George Foreman. It makes everything look so easy. And nooo I haven’t seen Eclipse yet. I’ve been waiting on purpose because I want the hype to die down. (If that’s possible.) I don’t think I can wait much longer though. Ohh but I did see Inception—it’s so good! I think I need to see it again to fully understand everything, ha!

  • Deva (Voracious Vorilee) July 27, 2010, 10:15 pm

    I love the Sookie Stackhouse novels and Harry Potter, and really enjoy Twilight, too. I’ve been rereading the Harry Potter series in anticipation of the new movie this fall.

  • maria @ Chasing the Now July 27, 2010, 10:23 pm

    Have you been drinking enough water? I get bad headaches when I am dehydrated.

  • Carly (Swim, Run, Om) July 27, 2010, 10:24 pm

    Harry Potter, fo sho. Old school? Little House and The Babysitters’ Club. And Nancy Drew.

  • Caitlyn July 27, 2010, 10:28 pm

    Also a Harry Potter fan!! When the books first came out (I was probably in middle school) I was bummed because I couldn’t do magic like Hermoine!! I sulked around for a day or so, then got over it!

  • Krista @ Can't Survive on Yarn Alone July 27, 2010, 10:33 pm

    I’ll admit to not being a Twilight fan as well but I’ll read them so that I can honestly say I read them but wasn’t too into them.

    Series wise the most “little kid” ones was Series of Unfortunate Events. It has adult aspects in the books that I have caught here and there. (Much better than the movie as well.)

    Others: Sookie Stackhouse series & Harper Connely series(any of the ones by Charlaine Harris really,) Harry Potter, and the most recent being House of Night. My friend called House of Night like Harry Potter/Hogwarts but w vampires and a finishing school. I highly recc it – easy read and addictive. I just started book 3.

  • Tina July 27, 2010, 10:33 pm

    I am hugely in love with Twilight. There is just something about Edward and that passion. Mmmm….

  • Stacey@http://stacey-healthylife.blogspot.com/ July 27, 2010, 10:41 pm

    Grilled tofu looks pretty good. I think I will give it a try.

  • Jenny July 27, 2010, 10:41 pm

    I totally a shopaholic addict- I have read every book and can’t wait (hope) for another book to come out!! I’d love another movie to come out, a better movie…

    Have fun!!
    Jenny
    http://www.jennyfromdarock.com

  • Lauren July 27, 2010, 10:45 pm

    It is SO important to have your fair share of “junk food reading” in your life! My favorite junk food read is definitely the Twilight Saga and my fiance is all about the Harry Pottaaahs. 🙂
    Not embarrassing in the slightest….if people tell you they never veg out, they’re lying! 😉

  • Nicole July 27, 2010, 10:57 pm

    Maybe you’re dehydrated….that has been giving me headaches.

  • Marie July 27, 2010, 10:57 pm

    I am a HUGE huge huge Harry Potter nerd. I’m also slightly obsessed with Twilight, and have read the books at least three times and seen the first two movies more than I care to admit 😉 I really liked Eclipse! I thought it was the best one, also. I’m actually also a huge LOTR nerd. I’m re-reading The Hobbit, now, actually… oh geez. Haha 🙂

  • Corinne July 27, 2010, 11:01 pm

    i still haven’t seen the movie either! i’m not overly obsessed in the fact that i wish my bf was edward haha (some of my friends sure do!) but the series sure is entertaining! thanks for the step by step process with tofu, it doesn’t seem so intimidating when you lay it out like that!!

  • Corinne July 27, 2010, 11:02 pm

    oh, and FEEL BETTER Caitlin!

  • Samantha July 27, 2010, 11:19 pm

    Twilight?? Ladies – you need to introduce yourselves to the Black Dagger Brotherhood by J. R. Ward.

  • Candice July 27, 2010, 11:40 pm

    I absolutely loved the Twilight series! Couldn’t put them down. I haven’t really been able to get into the movies, though.

    I hope you feel better in the morning!!

  • Amber K @ sparkpeople July 28, 2010, 12:01 am

    I am definitely not a fan of any of the ones you mentioned (I just never could understand the appeal). But I’m worse…

    ABC Family has drawn me in with the show Pretty Little Liars. I barely move during each episode I’m so into it. I even found out that it was a book series first…in the youth section. So yup, I’ve been getting each one from the library and devouring them.

    Ah…that felt good to get off the old chest there. lol

  • A July 28, 2010, 12:07 am

    I had really bad headaches on and off for a week or so afer stopping the pill. I think its the body detoxing. Just take it easy and they go away pretty quickly. I feel 100% better without all that gunk in my body!

    Hope you hade fun at the movie!

  • Christie July 28, 2010, 12:14 am

    I was wondering why you hadn’t mentioned Eclipse yet since I know you <3 Twilight. I was pretty late on the bandwagon but I was totally won over by the books. The movies are okay and I agree that Eclipse was probably my favorite.

    I never have read Harry Potter though…

  • Penny July 28, 2010, 12:52 am

    I have a “Edward” tag on my blog for all the posts I talk about Twilight.
    I’m 27. Married. And a mother of two.
    Twilight affects us all…..
    🙂
    I won’t mention how many times I’ve read the books.

  • Penny July 28, 2010, 12:54 am

    I’m a Potterhead too. But Edward draws a bit more love from my heart than Harry. 🙂

  • Wei-Wei July 28, 2010, 1:48 am

    I won’t express my honest opinion about Twilight. You might hate me 😉

    Wei-Wei

  • Heather July 28, 2010, 2:04 am

    Totally agree that Eclipse was the best movie so far! I love the Twilight Saga, but I’m more of a Harry Potter nerd. The Shop-A-Holic books are cute too, but they stress me out sometimes…I just want to shake that girl and yell at her for being so irresponsible with her $!

    • caitlin July 28, 2010, 9:44 am

      Hahahaha!!!

  • Jolene (www.everydayfoodie.ca) July 28, 2010, 2:55 am

    I like mature books too … but I LOVE the Twilight books!! It is funny, I liked the 3rd movie the least – only because I feel like so much happened in the book that they had to condense in the movie. The movie should have been an hour longer, or made into 2 movies, in my opinion. It was well made though, and the actors did a great job.

  • Freya @ Brit Chick Runs July 28, 2010, 3:10 am

    I’m ashamed to say I’m not really obsessed with any series! I’ve never even read a Harry Potter 😛 I’m more one to get obsessed with a tv series – Desperate Housewives, Friends, Buffy, ER….but I do love reading too 🙂

  • Orla July 28, 2010, 3:47 am

    I avoided Twilight like the plague when they were released first as I generally do not like fantasy books at all. However, that all changed when I watched the first movie with my cousin and I then ordered all the books. We were snowed into our house just after new year and I read them all in 3 days.
    Managed to get my hands on media preview tickets for the latest movie, then went to the open previews and am planning on going back this weekend too.
    Love the escapism. And totally agree that the latest movie is better than the other two. I just wish that someone would give Bella an electric shock once or twice!

  • Rachel @ Suburban Yogini July 28, 2010, 5:01 am

    I am obsessed and have been since I was 17 with the Wraeththu books by Storm Constantine. I’m almost embarrassed to say….

    Google them. I’m such a dork….

  • Kendel @ Eating Abroad July 28, 2010, 5:20 am

    Haven’t gotten into Twilight. Generally, I prefer memoirs of people with really exciting and unusual lives which probably describes my obsession with Eat, Pray, Love. Now if only I could find that movie in original language, I’d be a happy camper!

  • Liz @ Blog is the New Black July 28, 2010, 6:15 am

    I don’t really follow a “series” but I love all the books by the same authors- Jodi Picoult, Jennifer Weiner, Emily Giffin, Elin Hilderbrand…

  • Sue July 28, 2010, 7:18 am

    I really like the Twilight series even though at times it’s a bit corny. I also love the Harry Potter series too. Eclipse was great, I think it was my favorite in the entire series. By the way, tofu is only good when it’s all crispy on the outside! I’ll try grilling it like that the next time I make tofu!

  • whitney July 28, 2010, 7:51 am

    I think you made the right decision.
    I’m not really obsessed with a series but I am obsessed with Jodi Picoult as an author.

    Her books are amazing and I believe everyone should read them.

  • Faith @ LovelyAsCharged July 28, 2010, 7:52 am

    I’ll be the first to admit by bookshelf is half classics like Fitzgerald and Sylvia Plath and the other half is crap like Shopaholic and Candace Bergman 😉 Hey, an English major has to read indiscriminately, right?

  • Diana @ frontyardfoodie July 28, 2010, 7:53 am

    Haha, I HATED Twilight and after reading it I didn’t want to see the movies or read the other books….so I haven’t.

    However, I am reading a series that isn’t complete yet but I believe the series is called Southmarch. It’s delightful.

  • Kelly July 28, 2010, 8:09 am

    hehe I LOVE Twilight too! I’ve seen Eclipse twice in the theater! Once by myself lol. The last movie I think I’ve seen more than once in the theater was Jurassic Park! I agree, the books are way way better than the movies…. but I think Eclipse was the closest to the books than the other two 🙂

  • Tracey @ I'm Not Superhuman July 28, 2010, 8:14 am

    I’ll be honest, Eclipse was torture to sit through. I realized that I’m just not into Twilight. (I haven’t read the books though.) Now Harry Potter, that’s one I’m addicted to.

  • Tonyne @ The Unlikely Success Story July 28, 2010, 8:14 am

    Totally obsessed with Twilight and LOVED Eclipse. 🙂 Glad you finally saw it! I also love the The Mortal Instruments Series by Cassandra Clark.

  • Miranda @ MirandasJeans July 28, 2010, 8:26 am

    I loved the Twilight books when i read them 2 years ago before all the hype. I’m not a book to movie fan, so I try to avoid watching the movies. I read the first 2 Shopaholic books, but then just got really at Becky. I suggest for a easy girly read read Sophie Kinsella’s Remember Me. For series of books I also really like Gerogory Maguire’s Wicked books.

  • megan July 28, 2010, 8:32 am

    Loved Harry potter! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve read them. If you listen to them on cd they’re amazing too…Jim Dales (the reader) is incredible. I listen to them on my mp3 player sometimes when I run, makes the run go by quicker. Twilight was ok, shopaholic was ok, but nothing compares to harry potter.

  • Sarah (Running to Slow Things Down) July 28, 2010, 8:41 am

    I haven’t read any of the books! Lately I’ve been picking random books of the shelves and finding new authors that way. But Twilight is such a major hit, that I’m tempted to try reading them. 😀

  • Coco July 28, 2010, 8:43 am

    have to admit that i am not a big twilight fan, BUT i am in LOVE with the harry potter series! i own all the books & have seen all the movies. what can i say, wizardry makes me go head over heels!

  • Chelsea @ One Healthy Munchkin July 28, 2010, 8:50 am

    Back in high school, I was obsessed with Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings! My obsession has died down since then, but I still love both series!

  • Liza July 28, 2010, 8:52 am

    I never read the Twilight series, but I love the movies haha I was actually going to go see Eclipse last night too, but then we decided to see The Kids Are All Right which was very good too!

  • Samantha @ Health, Happiness & Skinny Jeans July 28, 2010, 9:06 am

    I liked the Twilight books but not the movies. I haven’t seen Eclipse and I probably won’t to be honest.

  • sarah k. @ the pajama chef July 28, 2010, 9:06 am

    i love HP! and shopaholic! i heard the author has released some new books under another name? i’d love to read those too!

  • Jessica July 28, 2010, 9:17 am

    I used to be insanely obsessed with the Lord of the Rings trilogy back in high school (just before the movies had come out). I was a fan of the books earlier than that, but once I heard they were to be made into films, I re-read the series from The Hobbit all the way to Return of the King (and also read The Silmarillion for the first time). But, once the movies were all done with (and I saw each of them more than twice in theaters!) my obsession came to an end.

    I also became a huge fan of The Chronicles of Narnia series early in college. My boyfriend recommended to me that I read one of the books. Because they’re basically children’s books and are very very short (some are barely 100 pages!) I breezed through the entire 7-book series very quickly. They made a couple of movies out of them, which were good, but the books were SO much better!

  • Allison July 28, 2010, 9:25 am

    I love Twilight, and I just recently started watching True Blood!

  • Tracy July 28, 2010, 9:27 am

    I’m not a Twilight fan at all (ha – yet! Who knows, I may cave), but I completely respect that people go crazy for it. Taylor Lautner is in town now filming another movie, and he is being crazily stalked by tweens, teens, young adults and their mothers! He attended a showing of Eclipse at a local theater, and it was apparently mayhem!

    I guess those young men will forever be linked to vampirism, but I still think of Pattinson as Cedric Diggory (from the Harry Potter movies). Which, yes, I love me some HP 🙂

    I love several other literary series which have not been made into movies. Though Janet Evanovich’s Stephanie Plum series (currently on book 16) is filming a movie now for “One for the money” (the first book on the series) and I look forward to seeing it. This is also being filmed in the Burgh 🙂

  • Sarah @ See Sarah Eat July 28, 2010, 9:52 am

    I’ve never read the Twilight books but I did think that Eclipse was the best movie so far. The dialogue between Edward and Jacob was hilarious!

    I did read all the Harry Potter books but that was such a big commitment that I haven’t read a book series since then. I’ve been sticking to a novel here or there and then tons of non-fiction books on topics I’m currently interested in.

  • Stina @ Girl Can July 28, 2010, 9:56 am

    I’m a Twilight fan for sure, but my real passion is for Harry Potter. I’m currently re-reading the series (again, for about the 4th time) in preparation for the release of Deathly Hallows Part 1 in November.

    I’m also obsessed with the Sookie Stackhouse/ True Blood series. They’re kind of like Twilight for adults (read: more sex).

    I was obsessed with the Twilight books when I first read them, but as time had passed I’ve become a bit…disenchanted with the series. I think it was a combination of the tantrum Stephanie Meyer threw when Midnight Sun leaked and the fact that I really haven’t been impressed by the movies.

  • Amy July 28, 2010, 10:14 am

    I’m sorry to be a killjoy, but I’m shocked that so many smart, strong women love Twilight. It’s a terrible message to be sending to women and girls, and definitely doesn’t further the Operation Beautiful movement. The misogynistic messages are obvious without even getting into a deep or critical analysis of all of the many horrible things about the story (or discussing the painfuly bad writing). Bella chooses the cold (literally and figuratively), distant Edward who could kill her at any second and who disappears without telling her, doesn’t listen to her wishes, and stalks her essentially by sneaking into her room unannounced and staring at her while she sleeps. Edward is both physically and pyschologically abusive to her. And she doesn’t choose the warm (literally and figuratively), kind, friendly, doting, and reliable Jacob who all of her friends and family like. Bella is completely undone when Edward leaves and is hardly able to take care of herself. Her way of staying connected to him is by risking her life through a series of totally dangerous activities. What the hell is that about! I don’t understand why we’re romanticizing the idea that a woman can’t live without a guy – no matter who that guy is, but especially if that guy has to kill her in order for them to be together.

    I love your blog, and Operation Beautiful is pure genius. You’re definitely an awesome example and role model to women and girls. I just hope that women will buy your book instead of Twilight.

    • caitlin July 28, 2010, 10:18 am

      Hahah I completely agree with your real-world analysis of the book; The Hus and I were discussing that on the way home… But it’s just a guilty pleasure. 🙂 Like crappy romance novels.

  • ActiveEggplant July 28, 2010, 10:16 am

    I couldn’t get enough of the Harry Potter books! I’ve reread all of them except the last (only because I seem to have lost that one…). I don’t like the movies nearly as much as the books.
    As for Twilight – I saw the FIRST movie for the first time over the 4th of July holiday! (I know – where have I been?!) I loved it! I still need to see Eclipse…but I need to convince my hubby he wants to go with me to see it first…

  • Monica July 28, 2010, 10:29 am

    Haha, embrace your Twilight love! I was in the same boat – I denied the book series for so long, finally caved and read them, and fell in love! I have read them through a couple of times and love them!

    The movies are ok, but I secretly really like them just because I love seeing the storyline come to life – but the acting is hard to watch.

    I can’t wait to see the fourth book on the big screen – IN TWO PARTS!

  • Sarah July 28, 2010, 11:12 am

    What a great idea to cook tofu with a Foreman. Thanks for the tip!

  • Megan (Braise The Roof) July 28, 2010, 11:56 am

    I was into the Harry Potter books and have seen all of the movies that have been released, but I wouldn’t say I’m obsessed :). I have a book club that tends to read more lofty works of literature (such as here: http://braisetheroof.com/2010/07/28/its-gonna-be-a-long-day/) but I still love me a good beach read!

  • Janna July 28, 2010, 12:22 pm

    I’m going to see Eclipse tonight. I totally enjoy the movies. I’m not obsessed with it or anything, but I will totally admit, they are enjoyable!

    I was a HUGE Harry Potter fan (and kind of still am). I also am a big fan of a bunch of chick-lit series like Something Borrowed/Something Blue and the Shopaholics.

    Im not ashamed, I love chick-lit and Harry Potter. So there! 😀

  • Katie July 28, 2010, 12:31 pm

    Fellow Twilight fan here – I thought Eclipse was the best one yet!

  • Cynthia (It All Changes) July 28, 2010, 12:31 pm

    I never thought about the fact that my George would continue to press it. You have just saved me so much time. I will be making tofu tonight with that idea!

  • Olivia @ Blissful Runner July 28, 2010, 12:43 pm

    My husband actually suggested we see Eclipse last weekend. I thought it was so cute! I’ve read all the books multiple times too. Love Twilight. 🙂

  • Amanda July 28, 2010, 1:06 pm

    I’ve read all the Twilight books, fun really. Eclipse was my favorite book out of the series. I’m not too crazy about the movies though. It’s nice to sit back and enjoy something non-serious and suspend reality for a while. Though I have to admit I really loved the Harry Potter series. I’ve reread a few of them, it’s just fun to read and escape for a while. Plus they are an easy read!

  • Catherine July 28, 2010, 2:10 pm

    I have to admit I am totally sucked into the Twilight saga. I attempted to avoid it for a while, but eventually succumbed and, even though it’s totally cheesy and not breaking any ground literary wise or changing the cinematic landscape, I enjoy the books and films. I also love Harry Potter 🙂 I will be so sad when the final movie comes out!

  • Holly @ Self-love and Running July 28, 2010, 4:05 pm

    I love to read. I’ll read almost anything but I’ve not yet read the Twilight series.

    My favorite series are:
    The Dark Tower series by Steven King
    The Fire & Ice series by George R.R. Martin

    I also really liked the Harry Potter books.

    • 'Dee July 28, 2010, 9:59 pm

      Oh, the Dark Tower series is AWESOME. I am such a Stephen King groupie, though. He could write a nutrition label and I would read it and swoon. You know, kind of like “Insomia” 🙂 LOL.

  • Amanda @ Cakes and Ale July 28, 2010, 7:15 pm

    I like a mix, but definitely love all mythological / fantastical tales (YES to LOTR, Harry Potter, Twilight, etc.)
    Currently, I’m digging the Steig Larsson “Millennium” trilogy (aka Girl with the Dragon Tattoo) – love wrapping my head around the plots!

  • Leila July 28, 2010, 10:48 pm

    I heart the Twilight series, and I agree that the Eclipse movie is much better than the other two! (I think Eclipse is the best book of the series as well) However, my biggest book obsession is the Hunger Games series. A.MAZ.ING. There are 2 out and the third/final comes out August 24th. (Hunger Games, Catching Fire and Mockingjay). I’ve read the first one twice (once aloud to my class, and they were literally inching their chairs towards me begging me not to stop reading), and am about to re-read the second one before the third comes out. I also have the first Harry Potter on deck.

  • Kelly (the Running Phoodie) July 29, 2010, 9:12 am

    I loved Harry Potter but couldn’t even get halfway through the first Twilight book- I thought it was AWFUL! Blasphemous, I know. Right now I am really enjoying Stieg Larsson’s Millennium trilogy 🙂

  • Aja October 6, 2010, 11:53 pm

    I am completely and totally obsessed with Harry Potter, and I vowed I would never read Twilight because people were saying it was the next Harry Potter. After seeing the preview for the 1st movie I had to read them….I have been a twihard ever since. I’ve read all the books multiple times, as with the harrypotter series.

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