It was a hard decision: Take a nap or go to a movie. I had wanted to do both, but time was not on my side this Sunday afternoon. I had to make a choice. If I chose a nap, I could sleep in peace and quiet, alone in my bed for a few hours. If I chose a movie, I would head to the local theater and watch “Eat, Pray, Love.”
Nap? Movie?
Nap?
Movie?
Gotta see the movie.
I missed seeing “Sex and the City 2” in the theater and am still waiting for it to come out on DVD. I didn’t want to miss “Eat, Pray, Love” and didn’t want to hear too much about it before I got a chance to see it. So, this afternoon, I set out to see the movie while it was hot in the theater.
Having read the book, I knew it was about one woman’s journey to reclaim herself and figure out what she wanted. I knew it would give me a shot of inspiration that I needed.
I decide to go all-in for my book-turned-movie date. While Elizabeth Gilbert, the main character, is in Italy she eats, and eats, and eats. So, it was with that same spirit that I stood tall when ordering Raisinets, popcorn – with butter, and an ice cold Coke Zero. Dining without shame is the “eat,” in “Eat, Pray, Love,” after all.
Just as Gilbert navigated her journey alone, it was fitting for me to see this movie alone. I like going to the movies by myself, so this wasn’t new, but it felt perfect as I sat waiting for the movie to start. I enjoyed every ounce of that buttery popcorn and all of the chocolate covered raisins — not having to share them with anyone. I marveled at the scenery of the three locations: Italy, India and Bali. (Bali is going to get pounded with tourism after this movie.)
So, was the movie as good as the book? Is it worth skipping a much deserved nap? Certainly, is what I say. Any time you can be by yourself and feel like you’ve journeyed through three countries with beautiful scenery while being inspired to be a better person, is worth it.
Tomorrow, however, (like in the movie) I’m taking myself on a date to buy new jeans.
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ABOUT ALICIA: Alicia is the founder of Balancing Motherhood.com. Last year, she managed to stay sane while completing an MBA, working full-time, blogging, and still baking amazing birthday cakes — all while raising a young family at home.
Sue Thomas says
I saw the movie this weekend too. I had the popcorn and diet coke but skipped the raisnets. I agree the movie was beautifully shot and was pretty true to the book. A little slow in parts but all in all I liked it.
So did we come out better people becuase we vicarioulsy journeyed?
PS I just found out they’re opening a Chicos outlet near me….HURRAY! (I’m skipping new jeans in lieu of Chicos)
Jean Lewis says
I loved this movie. It is certainly inspiring,and, I think it will be life-changing to some women.
I enjoy solo movie-going from time to time. Seems so decadent. Loved that you got to go. I thought the scenery was out of this world. Those guys were none to shabby either.
Now I’m going back to the book!
Lynley says
I enjoy going to the movies by myself as well….such a specail, QUIET treat!
I, too, loved the movie and eat some much loved Junior Mints as I watched.
Alicia at BalancingMotherhood.com says
@Sue, of course we’re better people now ;0
@Jean I’m interested to reread some parts of the book now that I’ve seen the movie.
@Lynley it’s such a simple pleasure, going to a movie alone. Glad there are others that enjoy this treat too!