1. Yoko Ogawa. I love her books. I love her writing. So, I was thrilled to find out that she has a new book coming out in August (13th) - hurrah! I was beyond excited when NetGalley provided me with an early copy thanks to Pantheon Books. So, I have been slowly reading it and enjoying every word.
2. The 100 Day Project. I am still keeping up with it, which makes me so happy. I can't believe that I haven't given up already - I normally would have by now. I guess that I'm really digging writing blog posts again, which is helping me stay on track. Cool beans.
3. Bravo TV. I've been watching the Housewives reunions for Miami and Beverly Hills. And, I've been watching the new season of Summer House. I also just watched the trailer for the upcoming season of The Real Housewives of New Jersey. I'm enjoying the drama on all the shows, but I'm also not enjoying it. Does that make sense? It's just too much yelling at times, which can be a bit much. And, their 'drama' can be so superficial it's annoying to even watch. Yet, I watch. LOL!
4. More TV. I've also been rewatching Seinfeld - one of my favorites! And I started watching The Strain. It's an old show about vampires (or something like that). I remember watching some of the first season and then I stopped. So, we'll see if I finally finish the first season and then the rest of it. If not, I need to find something fun to watch. I was thinking of rewatching The West Wing - considering it's an election year, it might be a good idea.
5. New Murakami. Woo hoo! Yep, his new book comes out later this year - November 26th. I will be pre-ordering this one and spending Thanksgiving weekend reading it. I can't wait!!
2020 marks the ten year anniversary of one of my FAVORITE challenges - Paris In July. How exciting! A month of all things French - food, movies, music, and books! I'm planning on posting at least once a week for this challenge - possibly more. I am going to listen to Tiersen, re-watch some favorite movies, and read a few great books. I have two novels on my list that sound sooo good:
What do you think? Do you have any recommendations? Let me know. And, if you're interested in joining in on the fun, check out this link to get all the details over at Tamara's blog, Thyme for Tea - she's the hostest with the mostest.
Oh, and I've also made some pretty cool junk journals to journal in this month - French themed ones, of course. I can't wait to start penning some ideas, thoughts, and bookish notes in them.
Hope you all are well. Take care and stay safe!! Happy reading!!
1. Journals/Planners. I love to journal and I do like a good planner. Writing down all the feels in my journal has always been one of my favorite things to do. Except, I recently found myself falling down the rabbit hole of YouTube videos about journaling and planning. Yikes! Those videos showed all the things that I thought I needed- journal covers, paper ephemera, stickers, washi tape, watercolors, etc. So, I made a few purchases here and there. And, I tried to join in on the fun by decorating my planners and journals. Except, the more I joined in on the fun, the less I wanted to actually journal. Ack! I had lost my journaling mojo. The horror! Well, it felt that way to me. Especially, as I've always been one to write in a journal - whether it be about what was going in my life or a poem I was working on. I would always find something to write. And, I loved that feeling of wanting to write in my journal. So, I've decided to go back to the basics. A journal and a pen. That's it. I will use the journal covers I bought - how could I not, right? They are pretty cool. And, I might add a sticker or a piece of washi once in a blue moon, but I'm not going to pressure myself to "pretty" everything up. That's just not me. I'd rather have a pretty journal/notebook and fill it with writing instead of paper ephemera and stickers. Of course, this now means that I want to cull my stationery supplies. I've been watching YouTube videos about stationery minimalism and definitely want to give that a try - its basically, keeping the items you truly love and using those (using what you have, instead of buying more). Wish me luck!
2. Books. My reading has been rather decent lately. I was mowing through the Maisie Dobbs series (again), but decided to stop and pick up a book or two from my TBR pile on my nightstand. So, I'm currently reading:
What about you? Which books are you getting lost in? Or do you have an recommendations for me?
3. TV/Music. TV is consisting of Hallmark Christmas movies (and a few Lifetime ones), along with some of my favorite holiday films - Christmas with the Kranks, Love Actually, and National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation. And, I'm still watching Housewives - OC, NJ, and Dallas. Last night was OC and it was a doozy. The women are in Key West and they are getting drunk, screaming at each other, and eating cake. All in all, its definitely a fun season to watch.
Music is Christmas music and it is so much fun to sing along to. Joy to the World and Hark the Herald Angels Sing - LOVE!! Also, did you hear about the Alanis Morissette tour? OMG! Garbage and Liz Phair, too! Talk about an awesome tour!! I feel like I'd be listening to my high school/college soundtrack live - how can I resist?
And now, I'm off to read some more of Cleo Wade's book, Heart Talk. Hope you are having a groovy week. Happy reading!!
I recently read the following and enjoyed every single second I spent with both:
Oh, how I love a Laurain story. Always whimsical with a hint of romance - the perfect combination. And yet, I had to admit that for one second I truly did wonder if I would enjoy this book. Why? Well, it had an element of sci-fi that I just did not expect and that threw me for a loop. Now, I do enjoy sci-fi stories, but I don't read Laurain for that genre. So, suffice it to say I was surprised when there was mention of a UFO and then time travel. Of course, the more I read, the more I fell in love with Paris, Julien, Magalie (Abby), Bob (the best!), and Hubert - and life in 1954 where Dali swans about and Audrey Hepburn is the first to drink an Abby. Laurain conjures up a feeling with his words that just encapsulates the thrill, the shock, the deliciousness and the beauty of life. How could I not fall in love with his book? And the UFO and time travel made for a fun twist that allowed these characters to grow and experience the magic that is life. After all, as Hubert learns in the end, the treasure of life is life itself. I have to admit that just writing about this book makes me smile. So, yes I definitely recommend you read it and all of Laurain's other stories as well. You will fall in madly in love with them all.
Tense. That is how I felt reading this book. And let me say it was so worth it. Stephen King seems to get better with age when it comes to his writing. The Institute was fantastic! I absolutely LOVED it! Its the story of a kid genius named Luke Ellis. He's twelve and he's ready for MIT and Emerson (dual enrollment). Except, he's also slightly TK (telekinetic). So, that's kind of a problem. Turns out there is a secret group called The Institute that uses children with TK (and TP, telepathy). Luke's on their list. Yep, late one night his parents are murdered and he's taken captive. He wakes up in a room that resembles his, but he knows its not. He finds other kids who tell him the place they are all being held prisoner in. A compound that houses doctors who will experiment on him. A place that claims they will use him and then send him home. A place he knows will hurt him. What's the kid to do? Escape. But how? And will he survive? Talk about a suspenseful story - oh, my! I gobbled it straightaway. I just couldn't put it down. How could I? I had to find out what would happen to Luke and his new friends. And that is all I will write about this book. Its just too good to miss. You have to get your hands on a copy ASAP!
And now, I'm off to figure out what to read next. I have some books piled by my bedside, but I'm just not sure what I'm in the mood for. Let me know if you have any recommendations. Happy reading!!
1. Live From Here. OMG!! I can't believe I have been missing out on this show! I found it by accident last night. I follow Claire Coffee on IG - she played Adalind on Grimm (it was one of my fave TV shows). Anyhow, she's married to Chris Thile (Nickel Creek, The Punch Brothers) and he hosts this public radio show called Live From Here. Originally called A Prairie Home Companion, it went under a name change to distance itself from author, Garrison Keillor, who was the original host. Suffice it to say, I found this show because of a clip she posted on her IG account. It was Ezra Koenig of Vampire Weekend singing and let me just...OMG! I fell in love with his song and the show. And, now I am a HUGE fan. Plus, I loved Thile from Goat Rodeo Sessions - the group is made of up Yo-Yo Ma, Stuart Duncan, Edgar Meyer and Chris Thile. I saw that they are working on something new - hopefully another album, because I loved their first one so much. Anyhow, my point is that I am now going to be listening to Live From Here and I'm recommending you give it a listen, too. Or if you already LOVE it, let me know. Tell me what I missed out on - I'm trying to watch/listen to old shows of it now.
2. Vintage 1954 by Antoine Laurain.
I am finally reading this book. I remember being excited when I got my hands on a copy when it first came out, but then my mood wasn't exactly in reading mode, so I put it aside. This morning, I picked it up and let me just say...I am in love. Yes, Laurain has once again written a book that has me smitten with his storytelling prowess. I am already fond of the characters and eager to find out where this story will take them. So far, I have read about a possible UFO sighting; the disappearance of a man and his dog; an American couple's dream of traveling to Paris; a Parisian who is actually from Paris and is tied to the building he lives in; a woman who people call "Abby" because she looks just like "Abby" from the American TV show, NCIS; and a young man who really believes that his grandfather did see a UFO. A motley crew of characters who meet up one night and imbibe a bottle of wine from 1954. And, that is all I have read thus far. I am excited to find out what becomes of them. I just know that I am in for a treat - Laurain never disappoints with this tales of life and love that are chock full of whimsical magic.
3. Books. I have been reading some suspense/thriller/mystery type of books lately. Some have been good and some have been a letdown. Regardless, I am enjoying getting back in the groove of reading on the daily - something that I've been missing dearly. Here are two that I really enjoyed:
A family is torn apart when their three year-old daughter is taken from the backyard during her birthday celebration. They are playing hide and seek. Everyone is having such fun. Except, the party ends when it becomes clear that the birthday girl has gone missing. The police are called in, searches ensue, and accusations are made. Life is never the same. Fast forward 14 years and Elise is pregnant, married, and content in her life. She's out shopping when she spots a familiar face...Grace. Her little sister that was taken from her family at three years old. Convinced that the young woman she spots is her sister, Elise sets off a chain of events that will change her life and that of her family's forever more.
Such a good book! I gobbled it up in one sitting. I did figure out what had happened to Grace, but it was still satisfying to read about. An engaging and emotional story that does tug at your heart strings, but also gets you riled up to find out what really happened 14 years ago at that birthday party.
Elliot meets a woman named Gemma. Suddenly they are in love and getting married three months later. He is living in pure bliss. He has a woman he loves, a beautiful house to live in, and a job he is excited to go to each day. Life is but a dream. And, then it quickly turns into a living nightmare when Gemma's family turns up to stay for a few weeks. As the days go by and Elliot finds his new wife turning into an alcoholic, he begins to realize that his new "family" doesn't plan on leaving his home...ever. They are measuring the walls, ordering furniture, and pretty much settling in for the long haul. Oh, and their friendly demeanor has turned sour. Elliot is now living in a home he doesn't consider to be his anymore. He's angry, confused, and stuck. Life gets even more complicated when people start to die. Convinced that his new in-laws are behind these deaths, Elliot realizes that he may just have to take matters into his own hands if he truly wants to be rid of these "Knotweeds".
I'm a huge fan of Mark Edwards' books - they are always fun to read. I love the way he weaves suspense and mystery together - they always make for such thrilling reads. Such a good one!
And now, I'm off to read some more, Vintage 1954. I'm hoping to get my copy of Stephen King's latest, The Institution, this week. I pre-ordered it, but it hasn't been shipped yet, so I'm not sure when it will get here. The book comes out tomorrow, so I am disappointed that I won't be diving right in. However, I do have my Antoine Laurain to finish, so I'm okay for now. Anyhow, let me know if there are any books you think I should be adding to my TBR list. I'm always looking for new-to-me reads.
1. Hurricane Dorian. What a nightmare! Looking at the footage of the Bahamas reminds me of when we got hit by Hurricane Andrew, because that is how it looked down here in South FL. Honestly, I hate even thinking about that time. Hurricane season is the absolute worst.
2. Books. I needed my books this past week. What with Hurricane Dorian looming large at the time, I couldn't help but reach for something to get lost in. Unfortunately, I chose the wrong book to read.
A woman gets a note on her car telling her that her husband is cheating on her. The note rattles her and she becomes suspicious of her husband. They go on a date to clear the air and find their way back to each other. Upon returning home from a disastrous date - suffice it to say, one date is not going to fix your broken marriage - they find the babysitter gone and their little girl sound asleep upstairs. Confused and upset that the babysitter would leave their daughter home alone, they start searching the house for her and even drive into town. However, she is not where to be found. And that is when the nightmare begins.
Okay, so the book sounded really good. I even liked it at first, but then it started to go nowhere real fast. So, while I did wind up finishing it, I wasn't the least surprised with what happened to the babysitter or the big reveal at the end. Definitely a "miss" for me.
Although, if I'm honest, I'm just glad I finally finished a whole book all the way through. Lately, my reading has been rather nil, so I was just happy to finally be reading. Of course, I wish it has been under happier circumstances - stress-reading because of a looming hurricane is not fun.
3. Planners. Yes, I'm still thinking of what to use for 2020. Seems everyone is excited about figuring out their planning situations that I couldn't help but get caught up in all the excitement. So, I ordered a Traveler's Company weekly planner for my financial stuff - I love that setup and it seems to work for me. I also ordered a Hobonichi cover that I really loved for my A5 notebooks, along with the Steiff edition of the A6 Hobonichi planner - I think I'll be using that for my gratitude journal next year. I really like writing down 5 things each day that I'm grateful for and this planner works perfectly for that. I'm going to use my Murakami diary for book blogging/reading/writing. And I am considering using one of my old planners with the rings for my general planner - appointments/birthdays/trips, etc. It seems like a lot of planners, but it works for me. I like to keep everything separate. Oh, and I will use a blank notebook for jotting down to-do lists. What about you? Do you use planners? What do you recommend?
1. Okay, so I've been seeing posts about the concept of low spending. As someone who is addicted to purchasing books, journal covers, and notebooks...hmm...well, I thought I should consider the idea. But, truthfully, is it even possible? Isn't "low spend" just another phrase for "budget". I mean, right? Or, am I not getting it? One person I saw still spent several hundred dollars and admitted to spending more than he had planned. It seems to me that as soon as you say "low spend" or "no spend" that you are going to spend. Its like a bad diet. I will not eat cookies and then I binge on cookies because I felt sad about something. I know one is emotional, but isn't the other one, too? Anyhow, I digress. My point is that "low spend" seems to be people still spending money. So, I think I will pass on this idea of "low spend".
2. Planners. What to choose? 2020 is not here yet, but everyone seems to be freaking out over what planners to use next year. And, I'm one of them. Ack! Especially, since Hobonichi released their lineup of new covers - oh, my! I want so many! I'm just not so sure I want to use a Hobonichi planner next year. I already own several undated ring planners that I should be using...except I sort of fell out of love with that style. I've been using Midori and Traveler's Company this year. And a weeks from Hobonichi. I wanted to try a variety to see what would stick. I've come to the realization that I like having different planners for different things. I have the Traveler's Company for bills/budget, the Midori for appointments, birthdays, etc. And, I have the Hobonichi weeks for book blogging and a Hobonichi cousin for my gratitude journal. Oh, and I have a huge FLOW calendar on my wall. Yikes! I would like to consolidate some of the planners - the book blogging and general one. But, then again, I like what I like. And, I like the different planners for different things. Hmm...what about you? What you do you use? Do you even use a planner? Or are you like my sister and you just keep everything scheduled on your phone? What do you recommend?
3. Books. I just finished reading:
I have to say that I really enjoyed them both. the Badass book is basically a bunch of self-empowerment ideas/statements that you already know, but that its good to be reminded of. Like, you have what you need to become the person you want to be. Or, the reactions you have to situations are your feelings about that situation, but its not the truth about the situation. And, other people's negative energy/thoughts are theirs not yours. So, I jotted these things down and found myself feeling energized. As for the Artistic Voice book, I read that one in the hopes of getting inspired to write more. I'm not an artist with paint or photography, but I write. That's my creative outlet. And I do enjoy art, so I figured this would be an interesting read. And, it was. I liked reading about the different artists and how they discovered their artistic voice. I like the advice of creating as much work as you can and even its not any good, you keep on creating. Throw it out and just create more. Its the fact that you keep showing up and creating that is everything. That is what gets you to find your artistic voice. Or at least, its one of the things. Its all a process in the end, right?
And now, I want something in the fiction genre to read. Not sure what though. I am still waiting for my copy of the new Yoko Ogawa - hurry up! I chose book depository and forgot that even though its free shipping it does take forever to get the books. Ack! So, what to read...hmm...any suggestions for me? I was thinking of Little Women, because I just saw the trailer for the new film version of it. However, I tend to read that one during winter time. Well, let me know if you have any recommendations.
I'm off to read my new copy of O and Vogue - Taylor Swift is on the cover of Vogue and O has Oprah and Gayle. Should be fun. Hope you have a great day!! Happy reading!!
As you can see, I'm a self-empowerment kick. I just started both book earlier this week and I am really enjoying them. Of course, now I want to read a piece of fiction that I can sink my teeth into. So, I am patiently waiting for my copy of The Memory Police by Yoko Ogawa. My fingers are crossed it will arrive today. What about you? What books are you reading? Any suggestions for me.
2. TV shows. Southern Charm. Oh, what a train wreck of a show. The people are beyond ridiculous with their pettiness. I can't help but wonder just how far they will go to get some screen time. Plus, I wonder how foolish they feel when they are acting up for television. Then again, I'm sure they get paid a pretty penny for their "bad" behavior. Luckily, the new Aurora Teagarden movie was a treat to watch. I swear those movies get better and better. There is a new one this Sunday and I can't wait to watch. My fingers are crossed they keep making these movies. I just love watching Ro try to figure out these murder mysteries - she's always three steps ahead the police. LOL! Plus, she's always referring to some true crime book she read for reference when picking up clues. Its a fun show.
3. Music. Since the new Taylor Swift album comes out next week, I'm listening to her music on repeat. I'm a fan, so its always fun to see what she will come up with next. I loved her new song ME! and I've always enjoyed listening to Delicate.
Hope you all have a wonderful weekend. I plan on reading, and then reading some more. Cheers!
2. TV shows. I am watching the new season of Southern Charm and still watching The Real Housewives of NYC. Reality TV is my vice and I love it. Then again, there are times when I watch a show and wonder why I still watch it - the people can be so vile or OTT that I question what it is I even like about them that makes me watch every week. Yikes! Okay, so on Southern Charm, I am digging Chelsea's new house - its so cute! Craig is still making pillows, and Shep is still mocking him on the daily. Austen cheated on his GF and she cheated on him again and again, so now they are broken up. Cameran is still judging everyone all the time. Kathryn is driving a Rolls and living in a $6600 a month house in a posh area and everyone can't stop talking about it. So far, its still the same Southern Charm. Over on NYC Housewives, everyone is fed up with Lu thinking she is the cabaret queen, Bethenny is still judging everyone and acting like a know-it-all, and Sonya is falling down drunk. I feel like every season they all get worse - bigger heads with bigger attitudes. And yet, I can't help but watch. Ack!
3. Wedding planning. My little sister is getting married later this year and so we are in the midst of wedding planning. Conversations are about colors, food, music, and invitations. The dress has been chosen and so we are looking at bridesmaids dresses now. My take away from this experience so far is that the idea of a "bridezilla" is very real - ugh! LOL!
4. Book recs. A dear friend of mine recently emailed me and sent along a few bookish recs. We were in grad school together and she always gave books as gifts. So, I was excited to see what books she was advising me to add to my TBR pile - especially, since I knew they would be new-to-me authors. Here goes:
and
I love the covers and the sound of each one, so I'm looking forward to diving into these lovelies as soon as I get my hands on a copy of each. Have you read these? How were they? Let me know.
5. Travis is on the brain again. I keep singing Driftwood lately. I have no idea why.
And now, I'm off to finish reading The Swallows. Hope you are having a lovely Friday. Happy reading!!
1. Declutter. I recently read a mindfulness magazine and it had an article about decluttering. It just talked about things I already knew - we buy, buy, buy and wind up with too much stuff. And all of that stuff sits around staring at us and stresses us out. Ugh. So, I am going to try and truly declutter my office. There are so many books, journals, papers, pens, washi tape, stickers, etc. and it is just becoming too much to handle. Or at least it looks that way to me. So, I am going to dive in and start getting rid of things. I don't care how much I spent on anything or if I've been hoarding it for years, I am just going to finally go through it all. I want my office to be conducive to creating/working and right now it is way too cluttered for anything - my mind feels cluttered just looking at it. Yikes! Wish me luck.
2. Books I read. I actually only read one book in its entirety this week. And the other book, I've only just begun.
I saw an IG post about Miriam Toews' latest work, Women Talking (which I LOVED!!), and it made me realize how many of her books I have yet to read. So, I picked up my copy of A Complicated Kindness and dove right in. The story focuses on Nomi, a Mennonite teen living in Canada. Its just her and her dad, Ray. Her mom left and so did her sister. Nomi shares with us about her life - the day-to-day struggles with going to school, loving her boyfriend, missing her mom and sister, trying to understand her dad, and dealing with her unhappiness. We get to learn about Nomi's family before it fell apart and afterward. Its sad, depressing, hilarious, compelling, and unputdownable. I just LOVED getting to know Nomi and her dad, Ray. Of course, if I'm truthful, I LOVE anything that Toews writes. So, yeah, I'm rather biased. I can't help it though. She just has the ability to create such excellent stories that I can't help but fall in love with. Her writing is authentic, realistic, thought-provoking, and engaging - it showcases her talent for storytelling. I just love it.
Every book I've read by Yoshimoto I have loved. So, I knew that I would enjoy Lizard. I've only read two stories so far, and already I am hooked. That is just Yoshimoto for you. Her writing is intriguing, creative, and haunting. I like that she is able to write so little and yet construct such engrossing stories. She provides snapshots of moments, relationships, feelings - and it is seriously unputdownable. In Newlywed, a young man rides the train past his stop in order to avoid going home to his wife. He is tired of the familiarity of it all (home and wife) and soon finds himself traveling farther away alongside a beguiling individual. The other story I read was titled, Lizard. It tells the tale of a man and his girlfriend, Lizard. He is a doctor and she is an acupuncturist. He is madly in love with her. She remains aloof and rather quiet, which leaves him feeling a bit uneasy at times. One day, Lizard finally shares with him a story from her childhood - something horrible that made her who and how she is. He in turn shares his own story. The two are able to find solace and understanding as a result. I found that both stories represented Yoshimoto's quirky and offbeat storytelling manner. Her writing is sparse, her characters strange, and her stories are fantastic. She is definitely a must-read author.
3. Books I want. For some reason I completely forgot that Ann Patchett has a new book coming out this Fall. I was reminded about it the other day, so now I'm craving her writing. And of course I'm eagerly anticipating getting my hands on a copy of her latest work.
4. TV. Cable is no more. Yes, I was still paying for cable, but alas, I have given it up. It was just costing way too much and I found that I was only really watching so many shows, that it just didn't make sense to keep it. I do have Netflix and Hulu, but truthfully, I barely watch anything on either. I have tons of shows and movies bookmarked, but have yet to actually watch them. Maybe its just my mood right now. I'd rather read than watch TV. Hmm...I remember a nurse I met when I was interning at the local hospital in high school. He didn't own a TV. He said TV corrupted people. So, he read and listened to music instead. I had a huge crush on him and thought that was so cool at the time. Of course, I watched TV like crazy back then. Its funny thinking about him now. I do have to give him props for introducing me to Natalie Merchant's music though - she is one of my all-time favorites and I've seen her in concert several times and always enjoy listening to her music. Anyhow, I digress. The point is that I am cutting back on TV and wondering if I will actually wind up reading more now.
5. Music. The Lumineers. I am all about this band right now. Of course, The National has a new CD coming out in a few weeks time I think, which means I will be all about that band soon enough. What can I say, I love me some indie/folk rock.
And now, I'm off to read some more Yoshimoto. Hope you have a wonderful weekend. Happy reading!!
1. Book journal. I've started keeping a book journal this year. I jot down the names of all the books I read in it. So far, I've actually been keeping track. I'm hoping to finally found out how many books I actually read in a year. The total so far is at 52 - in April alone I read 21 books. I guess I do read a lot. LOL!
2. Books. So, what are these books I've been reading? Here are a few:
Just finished this lovely! What a treat to read. I absolutely LOVED it!! Clare is a high school English teacher who is obsessed with a Gothic author. She is raising her daughter Georgie in the country side, while her ex lives in London. They have a dog named Herbert that they are madly in love with. Life is pretty mundane, but in a good way. And then, Clare's bff gets murdered. Oh, and the note left by her body was a quote from Clare's favorite story by her favorite Gothic author. Yep, Clare is soon enmeshed in the murder investigation - why? Well, seems like she may be a suspect...or a future victim. Yikes! You see, Clare keeps a journal and someone has been reading it and leaving her messages in it. Say what?! Yep, creepy and stalkery, eh? Anyhow, let me just say that this is a truly fun story to get caught up in. Its told via multiple perspectives which was really fun to read - I cracked up so much reading all of their opinions of one another. And the mystery was really good - I enjoyed trying to figure out whodunit. Definitely check this one out.
Annika and Jonathan dated in college. Things did not end well. Except, we don't find out what happened until later in the story. You see, its been ten years since they broke up and they are both living in Chicago. They run into each other and that is how they find out how close they have been all these years. The two meet up and soon their relationship is falling back on old habits. Their love never waned, but the problems they had still loom large. We find out how their relationship unfolded all those years ago and it is truly an emotional story. Your heart melts, breaks, and bursts with this story. I absolutely LOVED getting to know Annika and Jonathan. Their story sheds light on so many important topics, which makes it such a must-read. I would definitely recommend The Girl He Used To Know.
Connell and Marianne have a connection and keep their relationship secret from everyone. They are in high school and Connell is popular, while Marianne is not. So, she sleeps with him and keeps his secrets. And no one is the wiser. Except, they all are. His mom works for Marianne's family and knows something is going on between the two. She's horrified when she finds out how Connell has been treating Marianne. Connell later finds out that all of his friends knew about him and Marianne, too. Eventually, Marianne and Connell "break up" - he doesn't seem to get how he's hurt her. They head off to college and wind up at the same one. Except, now Marianne is the popular one and Connell is not. Their relationship resumes and yet once again they break up. And that is how their relationship goes for years - get together and break up. They are so right for one another, but don't really understand how to make it work. Its such a heartbreaking and wonderful love story to fall in deep with. I truly LOVED reading about Marianne and Connell. Such a great story!
The neighborhood is a dream place to live - lovely homes, thoughtful neighbors, and Sundays filled with kids playing on the street. Talk about domestic bliss. And then, a couple moves in and they are not keen on so much domestic bliss. In fact, they are all about LOUD music, cars parked everywhere, DIYing to the point that their house is an eye-sore. The neighborhood has lost its magic. And no one is happy. Hmm...in fact, it gets so bad that two people wind up dead. One of those people happens to be one of the new neighbors. Yep, looks like the neighborhood may be willing to do ANYTHING to keep their "domestic bliss". All I can say about this one is that it was such a fun and suspenseful read. I truly enjoyed it.
OMG! This was a fun and ridiculous story to get lost it - I loved it! A mom is on her way to the doctor when she gets a call informing her that she is now part of "the chain". Say what? Turns out, her daughter was taken so she must now do the following in order to get her daughter back: kidnap a kid and pay $$ into a bitcoin account. After she completes these tasks then her daughter will be released - of course, that is dependent on the parents of the kid she kidnapped becoming a part of "the chain" and completing their tasks. How crazy is that?! I LOVED it!! I found myself on the edge of my seat at times and also laughing out loud, too. Because, of course "the chain" must be broken, right? How can anyone truly survive such a horror and continue to live their life knowing that at any moment "the chain" could want something else from you. Yikes! Anyhow, the story is actually a good read - it has mystery, drama, suspense, and makes for a fun experience. Check it out.
3. Taylor Swift. New music by Tay makes me happy. Loving her new song, Me:
This
is the story of a group of high schoolers who plan a prank that goes
horribly wrong. 20 years later they return home to attend the funeral of
someone in their group. Over the years, the prank has haunted them so
much so that they are eeking out lives instead of living them. And now,
back together, they all must confront the truth of what actually
happened in those woods all those years ago.
A fun story to get caught up in. The suspense is limited
since you pretty much know what's going to happen from the start, but
its still an enjoyable read. The writing is solid, the drama is Over
The Top (which I love), and the characters are so unlikable (which I
loved). In the end, it was a good read - something for a rainy day.
Jules has lost her job, boyfriend and apartment. She is sleeping on her
bff's couch. She is not happy. Especially, since she keeps applying
for jobs and not getting hired. Until, she stumbles upon an ad in the
paper for a different sort of job - an apartment sitter. Jules goes on
the interview convinced it can't be real - a job apartment sitting at
the infamous luxury apartment building, The Bartholomew. A job that will
pay twelve thousand dollars for three months of work!! Say what?! Talk
about perfect timing. Jules is beyond thrilled - she will be living in
the building of her dreams (the one she read about growing up) and she
will be earning a huge chunk of cash at the same time - what more could
she ask for? There are some weird rules that come with the job, but she
doesn't mind - its the Bartholomew!! Plus, she really needs the money.
So, she moves in. And that is when the story picks up the pace - turns
out the Bartholomew has a dark and creepy past/reputation. Yep, people
have died there - and I don't just mean one or two. Turns out The
Bartholomew is still living up to its reputation and Jules might have
just made a HUGE mistake moving in. That is all I write about this
story, because it is so much fun to read. You just have to check it out
for yourself. It is a bit ridiculous, but there is just something about
it that makes you keep reading. I found that I really enjoyed the story.
Definitely check it out!
Loved this one! Found myself relating to so many things and definitely thinking about so many others. Such a great mix of personal stories and feminist ideologies. I absolutely appreciated the way this book highlights the fact that white feminists need to open their minds/ears to what women of color need/want with regards to feminism - being included/heard and so much more. She also writes about the #MeToo movement and her Time's Up organization. Tamblyn also includes a story that sheds light on the lack of focus on women's healthcare - something that I never really thought about until now. And it is so crazy obvious how imbalanced it is, that I can't believe I never noticed before. Talk about food for thought - this book is chock full of important hot topics. Plus, Tamblyn's writing is terrific - its smart, honest, and direct. She has found her voice and she is using it. I really loved this reading this book and enjoyed the time I spent with it. I would happily recommend it to everyone.
And there you have it, a few of my most recent reads. Now, I'm trying to figure out what to read next. I'm thinking this:
What do you think? What book are you reading next? Hope its a great one! Happy reading!!
1. Books...I have gotten my reading mojo back - woo hoo! So, I was able to read these lovelies this week:
And I've also dipped into my copy of:
2. TV shows. Housewives! Okay, so on Beverly Hills it is still about the dog. OMG! I am getting tired of hearing about this dog drama. Who cares?! The dog is okay, so what does it matter if Dorit couldn't handle taking care of it. Why dwell on it?! And yet, I continue to watch. LOL! As for NYC, well, Dorinda just wants to move forward with Lu, but Lu is not having it. She wants apologies galore and Dorinda is not having it. Oh, and Barbara keeps butting in, because she has nothing better to do. The whole thing is lame and they should all just get over it. Of course, that's not going to happen, because next week shows D&L&B all arguing about the same thing. Ugh! What is with these shows lately - they all obsess over the same story line week after week. I will say that Ramona's comment about Dennis (Bethenny's deceased bf) not being that smart since he was a drug addict was a bit jarring. She is always putting her foot in her mouth, but I didn't think she would go that far. You just know that is going to come up in the reunion. Aside from Housewives, I'm all over TWD - it is so good! Maybe they should have gotten rid of Rick a long time ago, because I am telling you that the show has improved so much without him. This past week had me thinking Children of the Corn and it was awesome. Can't wait for the next ep!
3. Book lust...I want this book so much! I requested it on Edelweiss and can't wait for NetGally gets it so I can request it on there, too. I love Ruth Ware's books - they always suck me in and are so much fun to read. So, I am eagerly awaiting my copy of:
4. Gym...yep, I'm back at the gym. I stopped going for awhile, but I've decided to start going again. It helps keep my brain focused and it just feels good. So, fingers and toes crossed I stick with it.
5. Music...I've been listening to Toad the Wet Sprocket. Such a great band! Made me think of when I saw them in concert in college. They were at a festival and it was their last show. It was raining and they played such an amazing set - an unforgettable memory. And now, I hear they are back on tour. So, perhaps a revisit wouldn't be such a bad idea, eh? I bet they still give a great live show.
1. Lifetime. Apparently, Lifetime is playing Christmas movies in a bid to compete with Hallmark. Or at least that's how it seems to me. Now, I'm usually a Hallmark fan when it comes to holiday movies, but this year I find myself tuning in to Lifetime. I can't help it. Their movies are fun, sweet, and chock full of holiday cheer. Yes, just like the Hallmark ones. The only difference is that I've seen all the Hallmark ones and none of the Lifetime ones, so new is definitely a draw for me.
2. Books. I've been reading a real hodgepodge of books lately - nonfiction, suspense-thrillers, faith-centric ones, and chick lit. I'm sort of all over the place ever since I finished the Murakami - Killing Commendatore.
3. TV. Aside from holiday movies on Lifetime, I've watched The Little Couple. I just love watching them settle into their new home in FL. I've also seen Real Housewives of the OC - its reunion time! Let me just say that these women know how to go low and it is ugly. Yikes! Accusing someone of being a coke addict and a bad mother - WTF?! Yeah, definitely not a good look for Vicki - and sadly, not surprising at all. I gave up on A Million Little Things - just got tired of watching Berger in flashbacks. Plus, how can everyone get along so well considering all of the lies and betrayals that were revealed. Seriously!? Oh, I finally got my sister to watch Stranger Things and she loved it. How could she not, right? I'm stoked for the next season, which takes place at the mall - how 80s is that?!
4. The Handmaid's Tale part deux. Yep, Atwood is writing the sequel and it comes out next year. Its called The Testaments. How exciting is that?!! I can't wait to read it!!
5. Music. Too much Christmas music got me craving Smashing Pumpkins, Tori Amos, Better Than Ezra, and Barenaked Ladies.
And now, I'm off to read the new issue of Vogue. Happy Holidays and Happy reading!!
1. Yearbooks. Is it me or does anyone ever wonder what to do about old high school yearbooks. I've been in a decluttering mode - I'm all about trying minimalism lately and old yearbooks seem like they don't belong in that mindset. Plus, I don't really see myself going through them when I'm 70 or something. Is that just me? My sister says I should keep them. I was thinking of recycling them. What do you all do with nostalgia-like objects? Let me know - thank you!!
2. Books. I just finished reading these:
3. The Walking Dead. WTF! That show is seriously going downhill. The "Rick Grimes" ep consisted of him having fever dreams, clutching his side in pain, and a crowd of walkers following after him. It was to say the least a complete bore. Such a letdown. I really expected more of a sendoff for the main character of the series. Except, it wasn't a sendoff, because apparently they are going to make a Rick Grimes movie on AMC. Say what? Yep, he didn't die. Jadis saved him and he was last seen with her on a helicopter - alive. So, what happened? Could the writers not think of anything else to do for Rick's character? And why didn't they include Carl or Glenn in Rick's fever dreams - Carl was his life and he didn't even see him? Really? Instead he saw Sascha? Made no sense. Oh, and at the end, they flashed forward six years and now Judith (who never spoke or did anything) is a mini-Carl (hat and gun). Yeah, I think I'm done with the show. So disappointed.
4. Book. I am excited about reading this new one:
5. Christmas music is all I am continuing to listen to and I am LOVING it. And I just really love this Mariah Carey song:
And now, I'm off to continue decorating my office for Christmas. Happy reading!!
1. November is here, which means that Christmas is nigh. Woo hoo! I've already started decorating and am loving how cheerful it all looks. I have Christmas music in my car, on my computer, and on the radio in the living room. I'm planning which Christmas cookies to bake this year. I am starting my Christmas list of who/what to buy. And, I am already watching Christmas movies - Hallmark FTW!!
I have been listening to this song on repeat:
2. Books. I am reading up a storm. I finished the new Murakami - OMG! What a book! It was classic Murakami and I loved every minute I spent with it. Seriously, it was excellent. As for the other books I've been devouring, they have been nonfiction and a lot of suspense-thrillers. I'm planning on reading this book this weekend:
3. Blogging. I am planning on posting every day this month. That is a challenge to myself. I want to write more and this is the perfect place to do just that. Plus, I've read so many books lately, I need to post about them. So, wish me luck.
And now, I'm off to watch a Christmas movie on Hallmark. Happy reading!!
1. Flu. Ugh. I have the flu and it won't leave me alone just yet. I've been ill for two weeks now and it is driving me bonkers. The only positive thing to come from being sick is that I am reading - a lot.
2. Books. Yep, I've been reading, reading, reading. Here are some of the books I've read:
3. Journals. I've always written in a journal, but lately I seem to be obsessed with buying journals instead of actually writing in them. So, I'm trying to make myself journal every day. I use washi tape and stickers to decorate the pages, thinking it will inspire me to write more. So far, it seems to help.
4. TV shows. Yep, I am still watching the Housewives. Its OC right now and I am just loving their trip to Jamaica. You can clearly see how divided these women are and you just know that fireworks are going to explode come next Monday. As for TWD (The Walking Dead) - what happened?! The premiere was disappointing - nothing major really happened, Rick is boring, and everyone seems unhappy. Ugh, not a good sign for the season to come. I am watching AHS: Apocalypse and it is MAJOR! I am loving it!! Witches v. Warlocks - how could I not love a season like this, right? Better Call Saul - what a fantastic season!! The show is a slow-burn, but it is gold. I am just loving watching Jimmy become Saul - its sad and exciting all at once. Oh, and I am watching The Little Couple - they are back on TLC. The family is moving to FL, so that is what this new season will focus on. So far, I've seen them look at huge houses to buy, while their kids run around screaming. And, the other show I am now hooked on is A Million Little Things - the one with Berger (from SATC) where he commits suicide and we see how his family/friends cope. Yeah, its definitely emotional, but its really good. I started watching because the actor from Grimm is on it. Anyhow, those are the shows I've been gobbling up each week. By the by, I read that there is going to be a Grimm spin-off, which I am very excited about - woo hoo!!
5. Music. Sufjan Stevens is on the brain this week. Love his music!
Hope you all have a great weekend!! Happy reading!!
