Sunday, 17 May 2009

Eurovision Song Contest


If your like me, it always seems as though I stay in on the night of the Eurovision Song Contest. Every year, I end up infuriated by the whole idea of it, but nonetheless, I avidly watch.

However, this year I was particularily outraged as I saw Andrew Lloyd Webber on the screen explaining to England that 'the only reason he became part of the Eurovision Song Contest is because it has stopped being about politics, and has finally started taking the music into consideration.' Whilst I maintain that everyone is entitled to their opinion, directly after Andrew Lloyd Webbers speech, came more tactical voting as Turkey voted for Cyprus.

Last year, there were questions as to wether England should continue to enter the Eurovision song contest, as we came joint bottom with Andy Abrahams attempt. Perhaps I am biased in suggesting that Jade Ewen and Andrew Lloyd Webber were most definitely the most talented of the singers, and did our country proud, but this seemed to be the general consensus among everyone I have spoken to regarding this.

Jade Ewen however, was more humble about the whole experience and explained to The Sun “I’m disappointed not to have won but I was delighted with my own performance and to have Andrew Lloyd Webber on-stage with me and supporting me so much throughout the campaign.” I can only say well done to Jade who secured our highest Eurovision score in many years with her rendition of song 'It's My Time'.

Norway stole the show as Alexander Rybak preformed a song he has written himself called 'Fairytale'. Norway won last night for the 3rd time after winning in 1985 and 1995 also. Norway were clear winners from the off in terms of voting, and gained an amazing 387 points. This is the most points in Eurovision history to have ever been gained. Rybak was said to be 'extremely pleased and happy' last night.

The after party of the contest commenced in Moscow last night, where there was an array of beautiful dresses and immaculate suites displayed. Jade Ewen wore a stunning white dress made especially for the occassion by British designer Amanda Wakely. Andrew Lloyd Webber said; 'I would like to sinecerely thank everyone who voted for the UK's entry'.

Below is the Winner Norway's 'Fairytale'.




Thursday, 7 May 2009

The Hills

Being a girl, obsessed with MTV and every program that is featured on it, even if I care very little about the ideas that are shown in it, it is no surprise to anyone that I love 'The Hills'.

'The Hills' for those who have never seen it before is a 'real-life' documentary, that has set up scenes to make it more interesting for the viewers. It is set in Los Angeles and follows the lives of 20-23 year old people and all of the problems they have to face in their everyday life. When I first heard this was the overall idea of the program, I must admit, I had very little interest in it. Why would I want to watch a group of people living the life I want in the sun with endless amounts of money. However, after watching just one episode I was hooked. 

The new series has just been released to watch on MTV in Britain, I managed to get a look at the whole of the series, and it does not disappoint. Series Four left us with Lauren and Heidi speaking for the first time since their argument, and Spencer and Heidi coming close to breaking point, naturally I wanted to find out more. 

This series is no disappointment, and in my opinion the best of all of the series so far. If you have never seen this before, and you are like-minded to me in the way that you love to watch a lot of drama, then I would suggest that this would be a definite good buy for you. Series 1-4 are now available from all stores. Alternatively, Laguna Beach, which shows Lauren Conrad of The Hills in her earlier years, is also available to buy now. 

How safe is internet dating?

Many internet dating websites are advertised on national television, in an attempt to make single men and women talk and interact over a safe and convenient website. Chat rooms have now replaced going out and meeting a potential blind date.

When telling your friends you are using the internet to find a perfect match, a few raised eyebrows and sarcastic comments may be received due to the stigma's and stereotypes that go with online dating. But, due to technology increasing in diversity every day, the internet is now seen as a recognized way to meet people that you may not come across in everyday life. 

However, when answering the very complex question of 'How safe is internet dating' the answer is simple, it is as safe as you want it to be. You are in complete control of how fast or slow the conversations, meetings and possible relationships go. 

The people found on this website are generally very nice individuals, possibly nicer than you would find in a bar or a club after having one too many to drink. Luckily, with internet dating, you can go at your own pace, and do not have to feel pressurized into going back to their house or doing anything that you do not feel entirely comfortable with. If you do not feel happy with the conversation or the person you are talking with, simple methods are available to remove this person from contacting you again. 

But does it end there? There are many ways of blocking sites from children and young adults to use, but that doesn't always stop them from getting on these sites. You should be aware that not everyones interest is genuine, and by taking a safe approach, it can benefit you in the long run. 

There are many ways to keep safe on the internet these are all highlighted online at www.safeinternetdating.com. Do not feel obliged to do anything you do not feel comfortable with, and always be aware of the dangers, by doing this you will feel better and safer about the whole experience.