Between Two Sounds: Arvo Pärt's Journey To His Musical Language by Joonas Sildre, Translated by Adam Cullen

(Thank you to Plough Publishing for providing me with a copy of this book!)

about book: (from Goodreads)

Between Two Sounds follows the life of world-famous composer Arvo Pärt from his birth in Estonia in 1935 through 1980, when the Soviets forced him to emigrate because of the nonconformist and religious nature of his music.

Based on years of research and close collaboration with Arvo Pärt himself, Joonas Sildre paints an atmospheric portrait of a restless artist who does not shy away from confronting state control or his own internal contradictions. 

Arvo Pärt stormed Soviet-occupied Estonia's music scene in the 1960s as a brash young man pushing the limits of avant-garde modernism. Then he fell silent, no longer able to express what he felt through the musical language he had inherited. When he reemerged a decade later, he had found, in that silence between sounds, a new musical language inspired by ancient sacred music, the basis of his distinctive tintinnabuli technique. This graphic novel will appeal not just to fans of Arvo Pärt’s music but to anyone who has known the struggle to remain true to oneself whatever the cost.

my thoughts:

My knowledge about composers and Estonia are both nil, which is rather disappointing considering this wonderful book I had the privilege of reading. I was given an early copy of Between Two Sounds: Arvo Pärt's Journey To His Musical Language by Joonas Sildre and translated by Adam Cullen.  Then again, my ignorance turned out to be for the best, because I was able to learn so much about a talented composer and his life's story, which made for an exciting reading adventure. 

So, why did I fall in love with this book? Well, first off, I loved the title of the book - it immediately intrigued me. Secondly, the books' cover - oh, my! I loved it! It had me wanting to grab a copy of the book straightaway. And, third, it was a graphic novel - I love graphic novels! How could I resist reading this book, right? Plus, it was about a new-to-me topic, the composer, Arvo Pärt. I love learning new things and learning about a composer sounded like fun. It really did, especially given that it would be in graphic novel form - anything with illustrations will make learning a thrill. Suffice it to say, I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book - it was eye-opening and fascinating. Learning about Arvo Pärt's journey is amazing - you can't help but get carried away in his story and the history - plus, the visuals add a layer of depth. Oh, and his music - what he composed was just brilliant! I found myself looking it up and listening to it as I read his story. Talk about an excellent soundtrack!

All in all, Between Two Sounds is a definite must- read! I enjoyed every second I spent with this book and would definitely recommend it to everyone - make sure to check it out!

Thank you to Plough Publishing for providing me with a copy of this book!

My Friday Five...

1. Reading a new book that doesn't come out until next year and it's a fun one:

2. I'm rewatching Who's the Boss? on Hulu. I wanted something fun after all the toxicity of Housewives, so I went nostalgic. I remember watching this show as a kid and loving it. I never watched the whole series, so this should be fun. 

3.  Hurricane season is crazy this year. Then again every year it gets worse. I feel like I'm constantly checking out the weather apps lately. Ugh.

4. I'm watching In The Arena Serena Williams and it is terrific. I am loving learning all about her tennis life - wow! She is amazing! Talk about a true role model. 

5. I'm listening to The Lumineers, The Cranberries, Tina Turner, Toad the Wet Sprocket, and Madonna - my liked songs on Spotify. A great mix. 

Wishing you all a lovely weekend! Happy reading!

My Friday Five...

1. Mental health. I'm feeling a bit better, which is great. I just need to keep doing all the things that help me, so that I can keep feeling better and better. Wish me luck!

2. TV/Movies. I finally watched the last Spider-Man movie, No Way Home. I thought it was fun, but sad. I'd be interested to see what happens next to Spider-Man. I also watched an older movie that I had seen ages ago, but forgotten about - Only the Lonely. It starred John Candy as a cop living with his mom (Maureen O'Hara). He falls in love with Ally Sheedy. Anyhow, his mom is not happy and breakups ensue. It was fun watching an oldie, but goodie. Now I want to watch more John Candy films and St. Elmo's Fire. Oh, and I was thinking of watching Return To Me - the one with David Duchovny and Minnie Driver - she has his wife's heart. I'm feeling like old favorites are what I need to see right now. They're like comfort food for my brain. What about you? Any movies like that for you? 

3. Music. Taylor Swift. Yes, I listened to TTPD and bought the album. I am a Taylor fan. I haven't listened to the new songs that closely, but truthfully they all sound the same to me. Then again, I thought that her  albums, Folklore and Evermore all sounded the same, too. I feel like she was going for Stevie Knicks vibes with those two albums. And with this new one, it has Tori Amos and Fiona Apple vibes. I love those artists, so I'm digging it. I just need to listen to it again and again. What do you think? Are you a Taylor fan? 

4. Journal. I bought a new one. And, I love it. I started using it straightaway. It's a light grey/blue color with a suede feel. The pages are lined, which I do not like ( I prefer blank ), but I am enjoying it for some reason. I think because it reminds of a dark blue velvet journal I had in college that I loved. That one had lined pages, too. Except, back then I didn't care about lined or unlined pages. LOL!

5. Book. I'm reading the new Mark Edwards book, The Darkest Water. I just started, so we'll see how it goes. I usually like his books, because they are quick and easy reads. I think of them like palate cleansers. I tend to pick those types of books up after reading something substantial. 

And now, I'm off to cross off some to-dos from my list. Wishing you a great weekend! Happy reading!

My Friday Five...

1. Books. I'm reading the new Elizabeth Strout book, Tell Me Everything. It will be released August 13th. And, it is terrific! I am loving it! I'm really enjoying having Bob, Lucy, and Olive in the same story - what a treat! Strout is a master storyteller and I am in just in awe of her work. I'm already looking forward to rereading her books. Make sure to check out Tell Me Everything. 

2.  Tracker. The TV show. My mom got me hooked on it, so now I watch it every week. I was annoyed, because I watch it on Hulu the day after it airs and this past Monday it was not available. Somehow, when they uploaded it, they ended up uploading 60 Minutes instead. Suffice it to say, I was able to watch it the other day and it was such a good episode.  I can't wait for the next one and I heard that the show got approved for a second season. And, thanks to my friend Lark, Lark Writes...on books and life, who also happens to be a fan of Tracker, I found out about the books. How did I not know this? Yep, Jeffrey Deaver has written The Colter Shaw series that Tracker is based on and I MUST now add these books to my TBR list. 

3.  No Spend/No Buy.  I was trying to curb my spending, because needs must. However, I wound up ordering a few bits and bobs recently. And, the guilt is real. Ack! Especially, since it was stationery supplies, which I already have too many of.  Yikes! I don't feel guilty about pre-ordering books, because books are always a Must-Buy. Oh well. I need to just not buy anything now. Wish me luck!

4. TBR book. Banana Yoshimoto has a new book that will be released in November! Woo hoo! I can't wait! It's called, Mittens and Pity: Stories. Yep, it's a collection of six short stories and I just know they are going to be ace. I love her writing, so I am really looking forward to this book. Mittens and Pity will definitely fall under the Must-Buy list. 

5. Music.  James released a new album titled, Yummy. I've been listening to my copy on repeat. I love this band. I heard their music freshman year of college and became a huge fan. I was lucky enough to see them perform in London when I was in grad school. I've been listening to them for nearly thirty years now. They are one of my favorites. 

And now, I'm off to start my weekend. Hope you have a terrific one! Happy reading!

My Friday Five...

 1.  ARCs.  I'm so grateful to receive early copies of books - it is seriously the BEST! Especially when the books are ones you have been pining for:

2. TV shows. I'm still watching The Magicians and LOVING it. Such a great show. I wish it hadn't ended. I'm also watching Summer House on Bravo and it is ridiculous fun, which is what I need. I might rewatch The Sopranos - I do love that show. Hmm...we'll see. 

3. Dreams. Mine have been so vivid lately. Or they have been nightmares. Either way, ugh. 

4. Pre-orders. I have placed a few for a number of books that will be released later in the year and I can't wait! 

5. Music. Tracy Chapman. I've loved her music since high school and she's always on my music mixes that I play in the background. Her voice is beautiful and her songs are, too. Just, lovely. 

And now, I'm off to sort through a pile of magazines. I seem to buy them and forget about them. That's a bad habit I need to break. Hope you are having a fantastic Friday! Happy reading!

My Friday Five...

1.  Books. The Moth Presents: A Point Of Beauty is my current read and I am LOVING it. I love this series - true stories selected based on the theme of the book, or of The Moth event. I always find myself in awe of the honesty and openness of the storytellers. As for their stories, I am always left pondering the fact that we all have our own stories to tell and they are always so varied and different, and yet, we can still connect because of them. These stories remind us that we can always find a way to relate to one another and that is amazing. 

2.  TV shows. I've been rewatching Seinfeld and LOVING it. I find myself laughing so hard and it is the best. I also watched One Day on Netflix. I read the book ages ago and remember throwing it when I got to the end. So, I wasn't eager to watch the show. I liked parts of it, but still got upset at the end. So, it wasn't a favorite. I was rewatching Grey's Anatomy, but I stopped again. I just can't seem to get past season 15. Oh well. 

3. Journaling. I've been watching journaling videos on YouTube and feel more inspired to write. And to keep it simple - which is how I used to journal.  Paper and pen is all I need. I just need to remind myself of that. Instead I find myself reaching for stickers, stamps, etc. and then wind up barely writing. Ugh. 

4. Albums. I just ordered two Sarah McLachlan ones and I'm excited. I used to listen to her music all the time and I have CDs of her music. So, I didn't really need to order the vinyl version, and yet, I did. Yikes! I couldn't help it. And, now I'm stoked to listen to them again. 

5. Music. I've been listening to Madonna. True Blue. Love that album! And, of course, Like A Prayer, which is the BEST. 

Hope you have a terrific weekend. Happy reading!

My Friday Five...

1.  Books. I'm currently reading two books and I'm not sure that I'm enjoying either one of them all that much. So, I'm debating starting an old familiar read to get my reading back on track. The only thing is that I'm not sure which book to reread...hmm...

2.  The 100 Days Project. It's a month in and I'm still going strong - hurrah! 

3. TV shows. I started rewatching The Walking Dead because of The Ones Who Live, but I have stopped rewatching and I'm not sure I'm in the mood for the new show. So, I've been rewatching Grey's Anatomy. When I used to watch the show way back in the day, I stopped watching after Derek died. I think it's on season 20 now, so I'm going to try and catch up to the new season. We'll see. 

4.  Music. I've been listening to a Phil Collins mix on Amazon music and really enjoying it. 

5. Decluttering. The struggle is real. Ha ha. Seriously, I am making progress. I just wish I were making a lot of progress. I think once I get into a groove I will. Wish me luck!

Hope you have a great weekend! Happy reading!

My Friday Five

1. Books. I'm currently reading something a bit more lighthearted...

I love his No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency series (which has a new book coming out in October - woo hoo!). So, I thought it would be fun to give his latest book a read. It's about a matchmaking company in Edinburgh - should be a treat to read. 

2.  TV shows. I watched the last reunion episode for The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills and it was a bust. Nothing major was revealed. The only surprise was that Sutton and Garcelle left early - this was due to Sutton almost fainting (how scary!) and needing to get checked out at the hospital. I feel like they need to revamp the show - new cast members are needed and some of the current cast should be put on pause. 

3. Decluttering. It's not going well. I need to just force myself to do it. Why is it so hard? If I'm not using it or haven't used it in years, why am I convinced I need to keep it? Ugh!

4. Music. Listening to Mazzy Star, The Cranberries, and Smashing Pumpkins lately. I'm feeling nostalgic and music from my college years is hitting the spot. 

5. Anxiety and depression. They're back and settled in. I'm hating it. I'm working hard to fight them. Wish me luck.

And now, I'm off to read for a bit. Hope you have a wonderful weekend. Happy reading!

My Friday Five...

1. Blogging. I am excited to be blogging again. However, I have noticed that I am feeling stressed out over it. I think it's due to the fact that I have so many ideas on posts and I'm feeling motivated, but my anxiety holds me back. Plus, a part of me is still trying to figure out how to get this blog back to the way it was - books with a smattering of personal tidbits. Sounds easy enough, but when anxiety hits, well, it's not easy. So, I think I'm going to just post when the mood strikes and take it from there. Hopefully, by posting more often, I'll get my blogging mojo back. 

2. Books. Freida McFadden. I am addicted! Her books! Oh, my! They are fun, thrilling, and always keep me guessing - all of which I love! I've just finished The Coworker, The Housemaid, and The Housemaid's Secret. I can't wait to get my hands on more of her work! Have you read any McFadden? What do you think of her books? Are there any you recommend? Let me know. 

3. TV shows. I'm still watching The Real Housewives on Bravo. I just finished Salt Lake City and watched Beverly Hills and Miami last night. Those women are beyond ridiculous - esophagus drama! What the what? I think Bravo has dropped the ball - Monica! And, Andy is just not a good moderator for the reunions - he's so biased, it makes for such a boring show. I really need to stop watching these shows. I tried rewatching Northern Exposure, but I just couldn't get into it. To be honest, I'm wondering why I ever watched it in the first place all those years ago. I tried rewatching Six Feet Under, but I barely finished the first season this time round. However, I did LOVE Derry Girls. OMG! That show is hilarious, smart, and sweet. And, the acting is top notch. Such a fun show! What about you? Any good shows you've been watching and can recommend? 

4. Decluttering. Yes, my decluttering journey continues. It feels never-ending. Yikes! I really need to give it a serious go this time round, because my office is feeling overwhelmed with all the piles of books, notebooks, stationery, etc. Ugh! Wish me luck!

5. Music. Sarah Jarosz. Her new album, Polaroid Lovers is out today and I'm stoked. I love her voice and her music, so I can't wait play the album on repeat all weekend. 

And now, I'm off to read through some magazines I picked up at the grocery store the other day. I'm in the mood for some light reading. Hope you all have a wonderful weekend! Happy reading!

Three Things...

 1.  Books. So many books. My TBR is falling over, because all I seem to do is add to the pile. Yikes! I need to read them, not just collect them. So, I am trying to force myself to pick up a book or five from the piles of books that make up my TBR list - and I'm being honest when I tell you that it is not easy. I've noticed ever since COVID came into the world that my reading plummeted. I'm serious. Instead of reading book after book during quarantine, I read nothing. And now, a few years later, I am still finding it hard to pick up a book and read. Instead, if I'm lucky, I read old favorites and maybe an occasional new-to-me book. However, my old habit of reading a book a day has vanished. And yet, my penchant for buying books has not stopped. So, like I mentioned earlier, I am going to make myself read all the books piled up around me. Wish me luck!

These are some of the books I have piled up:

Not a bad selection, eh? I'm thinking of going for the King book. I do love me some King, especially with Fall nearby. 

2.  2023 Planners. OMG! Everywhere I turn people are obsessed with figuring out what they are going to use next year. Hobonichi, Nolty, Midori, OURS, Stalogy for bullet journaling...and the list goes on. I'm going to be honest and admit that I couldn't help but get caught up in all the excitement. So, I did place and order (or two) for some Hobonichi planners. I also bought a Moleskine Weekly planner with a Missoni cover, that I am now regretting, because I discovered the Leuchtturm 1917 Weekly planner which is way better. However, I'm also considering a pocket-size Nolty weekly planner. Oh, and did I mention I was even thinking of getting some inserts for my rings planner. Ack! What is happening to me? When did I get so caught up in all this planner frenzy? And, why do I need so many planners? 

3.  Music/TV.  REM, The Beatles, and music from the 90s playlists on Pandora has been on repeat lately. I am craving familiar tunes and these are the ones hitting the spot. As for TV, well, I am still watching Real Housewives - when will I ever learn that these ridiculous shows are just too ridiculous? I'm on season four of The Real Housewives of Melbourne. I'm also watching Southern Charm - this cast is the worst. I really do need to stop watching this show. I LOVED Only Murders in the Building season two - such a fun show! I'm looking forward to their next season to find out whodunit. I keep adding shows to watch on my Netflix and Hulu accounts, but then I never watch them. So, I started to re-watch The X-Files and have really been enjoying it. I did buy Northern Exposure on DVD, so I might start watching that - I really loved that show, but never finished it. What about you? What have you been listening to or watching on your screen? Any recommendations for me? 

I have Shiny Happy People playing, so I thought I'd include the video for it. Gotta love REM. 

Alright, I just wanted to have a quick catch up of sorts. Hope you are all doing well. Take care and happy reading!!

My Friday Five

1.  These Precious Days by Ann Patchett. I am LOVING this book of essays. Of course, I always seem to LOVE Patchett's writing, so I'm not really surprised by how much I am enjoying dipping in and out of this lovely tome. 

2.  TV shows. Hallmark was on 24/7 during the holiday seasons and now I am trying to figure out what to watch next.  I've started re-watching The Office and I am watching the new seasons of Real Housewives - Miami and OC. However, I am itching to get obsessed with a new-to-me TV show. Hmm...what to watch.

3. Music.  Yesterday I listened to The Lumineers all day long and today I have The Beatles on. I seem to be craving my favorite bands and wanting to listen to them constantly.  By the way I watched the new documentary on The Beatles called, The Beatles: Get Back. It was so good! I just loved watching them create music and work together. Of course there was drama, which I was captivated by. It was such a fun documentary to watch.  I loved their rooftop concert - excellent! 

4. Planners. What to use? So many choices. I tend to use several, which is the problem. I use one for my book blog, one for finances, one for general appointments, and one for gratitude. I was even thinking of starting one this year for social media and another for creative projects. However, I feel like that seems excessive. LOL! I think my addiction to planners stems from my addiction to journals and all things stationery. Hmm...

5.  Cookies. I am a cookie monster. Or at least it feels that way. I blame the holiday season for this addiction. I am currently noshing on Chesapeake cookies from Pepperidge Farms and these wafer cookies from some store brand I found at Aldi. They are all soooo delicious!

And now, I'm off to read some more Patchett. Hope you are having a great first week of the new year. Happy reading!!

My Friday Five...

1.  Books.  My TBR pile has grown exponentially. I can't seem to stop buying books. I am addicted and I am thoroughly enjoying it. I just love discovering new-to-me authors, or collecting new editions of my favorite reads. The only problem is where to put them all. Talk about bookish worries. By the by, here are some of my new reads:

2. TV.  It's all about the Housewives lately. I need silly and ridiculous TV to distract me from the ugliness happening all around. So, Beverly Hills and New York City to the rescue. 

3. Planners.  I have fallen down the planner rabbit hole on IG and Youtube. Paper and Cloth, Filofax, Hobonichi, Midori, and The Happy Planner. So many choices...ack! I love the variety, but I'm having a hard time choosing what will work for me next year. #distractions

4.  Music.  Stevie Wonder's greatest hits are on repeat lately. I am just in that kind of mood, where only old school music will soothe my frazzled mind. 

5.  Anxiety. Yep, my anxiety is back and in full force. Depression is nearby and pays the occasional visit. I'm working hard to not let either one dominate my life. It's not easy, but I am having more 'good' days lately. 'Good' meaning no panic attacks, or anxiety-riddled thoughts on repeat in my brain.  There's just so much to worry about and stress out over lately, that life just seems harder than usual. I'm sure we all feel that way. How can we not, right? I try to dig deep and remind myself that I can do hard things - of course, I have to remind myself over and over, but whatever works, right?

And now, I'm off to watch more planner videos and figure out how I want to change the setup in my office. Hope you all have a great weekend! Happy reading!!

Paris in July!

 

It's time again for all things French. Yep, Paris in July is back (thanks to Tamara from Thyme for Tea for hosting and creating this terrific challenge) and I am thrilled to be participating in this challenge. All month long I will be reading books and watching films set in France (or written/created by French authors/directors/actors), listening to French music, and indulging in some French foods. Talk about bliss! 

I'm thinking of Jean Rhys. I recently bought a few new editions of some of her books and was leaning toward re-reading Good Morning, Midnight. What do you think? 

Not sure what else I'll read, but I'm looking forward to figuring it out. Also, I decided to make my journal Paris themed this month. So, I'm really looking forward to decorating it and writing about this challenge. 

Let me know if you're participating, too. Or, if you have any book recs you'd like to share. 

Happy reading!!

All We Are Saying: The Last Major Interview with John Lennon and Yoko Ono by David Sheff

(Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book!)

about book:

The last major interview with John Lennon and Yoko Ono, conducted by New York Times bestselling author David Sheff, featuring a new introduction that reflects on the fortieth anniversary of Lennon's death

Originally published by Playboy Press in 1981 just after John Lennon's assassination, All We Are Saying is a rich and vivid interview with Lennon and Yoko Ono, wide-ranging in its coverage of art, creativity, the music business, their extraordinary childhoods, privacy, the true story of how the Beatles broke up, how Lennon and Paul McCartney collaborated on the greatest Beatles songs, parenthood, money, feminism, religion, and insecurity. Of course, at the heart of the conversation is the deep, rare romantic and spiritual bond between Lennon and Ono. 

Sympathetic and insightful questions from New York Times bestselling author David Sheff set the tone for Lennon's responses, and Sheff’s presence sets the scene, as he walks through the kitchen door of the musicians’ Dakota apartment and accompanies the famous couple to the studio, where they were recording what would turn out to be Lennon’s final albums. Sheff's new introduction looks at his forty-year-old interview afresh, and examines how what he learned from Lennon has resonated with him as a man and a parent. This is a knockout interview and a crucial piece of Beatles history: playful, intense, and inspiring.

my thoughts:

As a Beatles fan, I was thrilled to read All We Were Saying by David Sheff. It contains the last major interview with John Lennon and Yoko Ono. Talk about exciting and thrilling! Lennon has always been my favorite Beatle, so I was very interested in reading this piece to learn more about this creative, smart  musical icon.  

Playboy published this interview in 1981, following Lennon's death outside his home at The Dakota.  The interviewer, David Sheff, was twenty-four years old at the time. His questions were savvy, engaging, and thoughtful.  They provided the perfect way for Lennon and Ono to open up about their life and covered a range of topics, such as the Beatles, parenthood, religion, and money.  From the start, you can see the deep connection between Lennon and his wife, which I feel provides a good background for the interview. You get a sense of love, family, and authenticity from their words, actions, and interests.  It's fascinating and revealing all at once. I have to admit my favorite part is when Lennon gives his thoughts on Beatles' songs. All in all, a great interview to read.  And, I enjoyed Sheff's new introduction to the interview. It's forty years later and suffice it to say, time and life experiences have definitely changed Sheff's perspective on this interview.  

All We Were Saying is a terrific book for any Beatles fan - they will LOVE this interview! And, if they've already read it, then they will enjoy re-reading it. Or, like me, they will love discovering it for the first time and getting to know this fascinating couple even better.  Such a great book! I absolutely LOVED it!

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book!

Paris In July - Tenth Year Anniversary!!

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!!

My Friday Five...

1.  Cold weather hit South Florida this week and I was in bliss. I just loved it. It was such a nice change from the usual humidity and heat. Of course, it meant that we had iguana warnings on the news. Yep, we had to watch out for falling iguanas. Apparently the cold weather stuns them and they become immobile. They showed footage of iguanas littering the streets and sidewalks. How crazy!

2.  Books.  I've finally gotten over my reading funk and have been devouring books like crazy. Woo hoo! Here are a few I've recently read:

3.  TV Shows. Housewives. Yep, I'm still watching Housewives and right now I'm hooked on Jersey. Its beyond ridiculous this year, but I am enjoying watching. This last episode the women heard the awful way Joe speaks to Teresa, which had them all feeling badly for her. Jennifer called Jackie stingy, because she didn't throw her kids a lavish birthday party. Yeah, apparently, Jackie is really rich and now Jennifer is impressed by her (sort of).  Things got heated at lunch and Melissa looked like she was going to thrown down with Jennifer. Crazy!! I keep bookmarking shows on Netflix and not watching them. I do plan on seeing the Taylor Swift movie coming out next week, Miss Americana.

4.  My next read is:

5.  Music.  Vampire Weekend. I am obsessed with listening to Ezra Koenig sing Harmony Hall at Live From Here with Chris Thile. Love, love, love.

Hope you all are staying warm and ready to enjoy a relaxing weekend. Happy reading!!

Three Things...

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!!

My Friday Five...

1.   I am finally free from helping my sister plan her wedding. Yep, the Big Day was this past weekend and it was fabulous.  She looked beautiful and happy and all of the things you want for someone you love. And the reception was so much fun. Loved it!! All of that planning, along with her Bridezilla behavior paid off in the end. Hurrah!!

2.  Books. I am compiling a list of books I want for Christmas. Yep, its that time again. I'm thinking some of the following would be lovely to receive. What do you think? Any recommendations for me?

Now, normally I would have already purchased these four books and read them by now. Except, lately my reading has been rather staid.  I've found myself rereading the Maisie Dobbs series and not really wanting to read much else. So, I'm hoping that compiling a bookish Christmas wish list will help inspire me to pick up a new book - my fingers are crossed.

3.  TV shows. I've been watching Housewives, TWD, and AHS 1984. First off, AHS 1984 was so much fun to watch. The 80s fashion, music, and horror movie inspirations threaded throughout was the BEST; plus, all of the familiar actors we love to watch in the AHS world were just awesome in their roles.  Definitely one of the best seasons Ryan Murphy has created. Can't wait for the next one. As for TWD, what is going on? One episode I'm loving the new group dynamics and the next episode I'm rolling my eyes with boredom. This show is just too much of a mixed bag for me lately. I'm not sure if I'll continue watching it next season. Such a disappointment.  Now, when it comes to the Housewives - OMG!! I am loving all of the shows. Right now they are showing OC, NJ, Atlanta, and Dallas. Talk about awesome!!

4.   Christmas TV movies.  Hallmark and Lifetime are showing Christmas movies all day long and it is AMAZING!! I am loving watching old favorites and the new one that come out each weekend. Its such a fun way to enjoy the holiday season. Plus, the movies are always fun - a bit of drama, romance, and Christmas (the perfect recipe!).  And, I just saw that OWN will be showing a few Christmas movies, too. Seems like every network wants to jump on the Christmas TV movie bandwagon. If I'm honest, I'm pretty partial to the Hallmark ones - they are the best ones (Nine Lives of Christmas, A Princess for Christmas, The Christmas Card, A Very Merry Mix-up and Once Upon a Christmas Miracle).

5. Music.  I've been watching Live From Here on Youtube and saw Sarah Jarosz sing a Dixie Chicks song to celebrate their birthdays.  I loved it. I'm a fan of the Dixie Chicks, so I was happy to hear their music on Live From Here. Of course, it inspired me to grab my Dixie Chicks CDs and listen to them as I wrote and edited this week. Such great music!

And, now I'm off to continue reading Maisie Dobbs. Hope you have a great weekend! Happy reading!!

Three Things...

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. 

Happy Monday and Happy reading!!

Three Things...

1.  Books. I'm currently reading the following:

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!