The unequivocal buzzword in America during the past year has been “change.” The entire country — including, of course, D.C. — is undoubtedly headed into a new era filled with both challenges and precedents. But “change” has long been a recurring theme in the lives of D.C. residents, extending beyond the typical political and economic transformations that denizens of D.C. have seen in the past few decades.

Ever since Confessions of a Shopaholic became an international hit several years ago, Sophie Kinsella has reigned supreme in the world of lighthearted and breezy “chick lit” fiction. The British author recently tacked on another saccharine and bubble-gum-pink read to her repertoire with Twenties Girl, a quasi-deja-vu return to the famous Shopaholic label that leaves you smiling and cheery.

Though the title of her new album might imply otherwise, Colbie Caillat already had her major
Breakthrough as a pop singer. Back in 2007 she tore apart the music charts with syrupy, bubble-gum hits like "Bubbly," "Realize" and "Magic" - simplistic, guitar-laden tunes perfect for the hopelessly romantic teenage girl.

Like the rest of the world, Ecuadorians love Michael Jackson; they are in fact borderline obsessive about the late artist. During my summer months in the tiny South American country, I witnessed the utter mayhem that ensued when he died not only on the television but within my own host family and throughout the nightlife district, where “Billy Jean,” “Thriller” and “Beat It” were guaranteed choices on the DJ lists every weekend.