This was Feb 2009
I have decided that there is a little person inside my ipod because there are some pretty ironic things here!
Here's How It Works:
1. Open Your Library (Itunes, Winamp, Media Player, Ipod, Etc.)
2. Put It On Shuffle
3. Press Play
4. For Every Question, Type The Song That's Playing
5. When You Go To A New Question, Press The Next Button
6. Don't Lie About The Songs (They Can Be Funny If You Just Leave Them)
1. What's My Mood Like Right Now?
Fly Me To The Moon—Bobby Darin
2. How's Tomorrow Going To Be For Me?
Go On Say It-Blind Pilot
3. What Kind Of Person Am I?
My Stupid Mouth-John Mayer
4. Am I Loved?
Love Remains The Same—Gavin Rossdale
5. How Can I Achieve My Highest Potential?
Time—The Greencards
6. What Should I Do With My Life?
I Wonder-Chris Isaak
7. Is Everything Really Going To Be Alright In The End?
The Lucky One-Alison Krauss & Union Station
8. What Is My Best Quality?
This Time Of Year-Better Than Ezra
9. How Does My Social Life Look?
Please Send Me Someone To Love-Fiona Apple
10. What's The Meaning Of Life?
When You Know-Shawn Colvin
11. What Do People Think Of Me?
Haunt You Everyday-Weezer
12. Would I Make A Good Lover?
Your Body Is A Wonderland—John Mayer
13. How Crazy Am I?
Leaving On A Jet Plane-Chantal Kreviazuk
14. Will I Have A Good Life In General?
Sisters Are Doing It For Themselves—Annie Lennox & Aretha Franklin
15. Can (Insert Name Here) Ever Really Love Me?
Running Up That Hill—Kate Bush
16. Can Me And (Insert Name Here) Ever Be More Than Friends?
Dream A Little Dream Of Me-beautiful south or enzo enzo (cover from "French Kiss")
17. What's Going To Happen To Me This Week?
Lowdown-Boz Skaggs
18. Where Will I Be A Year From Now?
All These Things I’ve Done—The Killers
19. What Is My Fondest Wish?
The Day Before I Went Away—Texas
20. What Is The Love Of My Life Doing At This Very Moment?
The Hurting Time—Annie Lennox
21. How Did My Parents Meet?
Something Good This Way Comes—Jakob Dylan
22. How Will I Die?
Wishing Heart—Lisa Loeb
23. What Song Will Be Played At My Funeral?
Good—Better Than Ezra
24. What Will Happen After I Die?
Knowing Me, Knowing You—ABBA
25. What Will I Dream About Tonight?
When I’m 64—The Beatles
26. What Should I Be Working On Right Now?
Son Of A Preacher Man—Natalie Merchant
27. What's My Roommate Up To Currently?
Coney Island—Van Morrison
28. What Did I Do Last Weekend?
Baby Love—The Supremes
29. Describe Me?
I’ll Fly Away—Alison Krauss
30. What Does My Music Player Think Of Me?
The Lion Sleeps Tonight—The Tokens
Saturday, March 23, 2013
Thursday, March 07, 2013
Thinking About the Music
I have been thinking about getting some concert tickets for a friend. It's not a band I'm super familiar with but have enjoyed watching on You Tube and online.
There are a few of those lately. I was thinking about Band of Horses. They are playing locally. There are a bunch that I want to see live: Mumford & Sons, Of Monsters and Men, Fun. After all these years, I am dying to see Morrissey. I can't even figure out how that will happen since all his shows are sold out! Maroon 5 too. I have tickets to the Avett Brothers with Old Crow Medicine Show. That'll be fun. And I want to see a friend in Nashville so I'm dying to go to the Ryman.
So I started to think back about a few of the best shows I've seen. And there are many...hard to rank. TBC...
There are a few of those lately. I was thinking about Band of Horses. They are playing locally. There are a bunch that I want to see live: Mumford & Sons, Of Monsters and Men, Fun. After all these years, I am dying to see Morrissey. I can't even figure out how that will happen since all his shows are sold out! Maroon 5 too. I have tickets to the Avett Brothers with Old Crow Medicine Show. That'll be fun. And I want to see a friend in Nashville so I'm dying to go to the Ryman.
So I started to think back about a few of the best shows I've seen. And there are many...hard to rank. TBC...
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Feelin Good
Got a lot done today. Tedious but useful. I played no music today but if I did I would have played...
In a Big Country by BC and The Pogues. Also Dropkick Murphys. I have a whole bagpipe or like bagpipe sound going on right now. There is a guitar I read about that I plan to find out more about. Terrible Grammar but it's late.
What else? Long Way to the top if you want to Rock & Roll. JCM's I Need a Lover. Beastie Boys...She's Crafty. Jump Around-House of Pain. Belly. Liz Phair. Lenny Kravitz and lots more.
There's always tomorrow.
In a Big Country by BC and The Pogues. Also Dropkick Murphys. I have a whole bagpipe or like bagpipe sound going on right now. There is a guitar I read about that I plan to find out more about. Terrible Grammar but it's late.
What else? Long Way to the top if you want to Rock & Roll. JCM's I Need a Lover. Beastie Boys...She's Crafty. Jump Around-House of Pain. Belly. Liz Phair. Lenny Kravitz and lots more.
There's always tomorrow.
Monday, January 21, 2013
Taking a Minute
So I have started trying to get back into the practice of writing. It is both hard and easy at the same time. When I feel stressed or sad, it is hard to write. I need creativity to fuel creativity but it also may be that the hardest thing about writing is the honesty. If I want to just write, I can do that--you lose yourself in a world that is more of an expanded reality. That is sort of the beauty of writing. It is the reason that I have been writing since the second grade. The challenging part for a person like me is that it can be a slippery slope. The idea of creative writing is to be able to move seamlessly back and forth but that in itself can be challenging. So as I continuously think about what I really want to write, I will write about things that are sort of around me.
I saw Silver Linings Playbook yesterday. It was amazing, really well done. It's not the best movie I have ever seen but it had some honest, poignant moments. I was impressed by the acting-- less about Jennifer Lawrence being Vanity Fair's most desirable woman and Bradley Cooper being People's sexiest man alive. I appreciated that. Sure they were good looking but they were also knee deep in it and the performances felt real. I also appreciated that a mainstream film chose to present family issues and mental illness as not a debilitating mess but something to work through and work on. I liked that they showed a variety of family relationships like the OCD father, the sensitive mother and the "friend" couple with some power-struggle issues. Plus I love football (lots and lots of Philly Eagles in this movie.)
One of the other things that I really liked about the film is that there were some moments that Tiffany (Jennifer Lawrence) just spoke her mind. I really appreciated that. I wish that there were more moments where we all could be so truthful. I don't feel that as a woman that my honestly or candor may be appreciated. It is the challenge of the modern day. It doesn't always help personal relationships. The dance about what to say and what not to say, and when. At least in the movies you know that whatever they say (and do) will be wrapped up somewhat in about two hours. It reminded me of another movie I love so much...The Family Stone. There is a point where Sarah Jessica Parker--the girlfriend--yells back at the mom and sister..."what makes you all so great. you're not so great" and Diane Keaton says "I know, but we're all we have." I think that is what I love best about my family. No matter what, they are there. We might complain about each other sometimes and God knows that you need to be prepared to everyone all up in your business. But "we're all we got" (even though we've added a few over the years) and I know that I am lucky in many ways. Knowing how many surrogate siblings we have had over the years (youngest or only children or child of a divorced family) there is something to be said about a big family, lots of love and support, laughter and stories.
So some of my recommends today are these. Go see Silver Linings Playbook. Also rewatch or rent Little Miss Sunshine. The Family Stone, Because I Said So and National Lampoon's Vacation. Start on season one of Downton Abbey, which you can download or get from the library and also Brothers & Sisters. Barefoot in the Park, Sixteen Candles, Sense & Sensibility, With Six You Get Eggroll and the original of Yours, Mine and Ours.
That should be enough to make you laugh, cry and think a little more.
I saw Silver Linings Playbook yesterday. It was amazing, really well done. It's not the best movie I have ever seen but it had some honest, poignant moments. I was impressed by the acting-- less about Jennifer Lawrence being Vanity Fair's most desirable woman and Bradley Cooper being People's sexiest man alive. I appreciated that. Sure they were good looking but they were also knee deep in it and the performances felt real. I also appreciated that a mainstream film chose to present family issues and mental illness as not a debilitating mess but something to work through and work on. I liked that they showed a variety of family relationships like the OCD father, the sensitive mother and the "friend" couple with some power-struggle issues. Plus I love football (lots and lots of Philly Eagles in this movie.)
One of the other things that I really liked about the film is that there were some moments that Tiffany (Jennifer Lawrence) just spoke her mind. I really appreciated that. I wish that there were more moments where we all could be so truthful. I don't feel that as a woman that my honestly or candor may be appreciated. It is the challenge of the modern day. It doesn't always help personal relationships. The dance about what to say and what not to say, and when. At least in the movies you know that whatever they say (and do) will be wrapped up somewhat in about two hours. It reminded me of another movie I love so much...The Family Stone. There is a point where Sarah Jessica Parker--the girlfriend--yells back at the mom and sister..."what makes you all so great. you're not so great" and Diane Keaton says "I know, but we're all we have." I think that is what I love best about my family. No matter what, they are there. We might complain about each other sometimes and God knows that you need to be prepared to everyone all up in your business. But "we're all we got" (even though we've added a few over the years) and I know that I am lucky in many ways. Knowing how many surrogate siblings we have had over the years (youngest or only children or child of a divorced family) there is something to be said about a big family, lots of love and support, laughter and stories.
So some of my recommends today are these. Go see Silver Linings Playbook. Also rewatch or rent Little Miss Sunshine. The Family Stone, Because I Said So and National Lampoon's Vacation. Start on season one of Downton Abbey, which you can download or get from the library and also Brothers & Sisters. Barefoot in the Park, Sixteen Candles, Sense & Sensibility, With Six You Get Eggroll and the original of Yours, Mine and Ours.
That should be enough to make you laugh, cry and think a little more.
Wednesday, January 16, 2013
Oscar is more than a cat...
It's getting to be that time again...Oscar time! I am writing this on the day of my sister-in-law, Jess's birthday and she was fortunate to be a seat filler at the Oscars in 1996 when living in California. So here's a little tribute.
I have always loved movies and for a number of years, had a great Oscar party complete with friends, costumes/dressing up and even prizes. Hey--an Oscar party is a good reason to bust out those old bridesmaids dresses. Even with the number of times where I've hunkered down with AMC and friends or family members to watch one of those Katherine Hepburn or Hitchcock marathons, it just never gets old. Love a rainy day, PJs and a movie marathon.
If you go to the Oscars website, there is a lot of great information including a photo archive. They have a library (the Margaret Herrick Library) and you know how important film archiving has become. Check out the site at: http://www.oscars.org/awards/index.html.
Now I have disagreed with some of the Academy's choices in the past. I feel that the best movie of the year should be something that should be timeless and everyone should see and enjoy. That is how I felt about "Hugo" last year. It was a gorgeous film, such wonderful cinematography plus an excellent story. Unfortunately, the Academy did not take my advice but that happens quite a bit so I'm used to it.
I think some of the movies that really didn't deserve the top spot include The Artist, No Country for Old Men, Crash, Lord of the Rings, Chicago (which I HATED...not going to lie), Gladiator and the one I really really dislike that keeps coming back to haunt me...Titanic.
However, I found that Slumdog Millionaire, although depressing, was quite a good film. Million Dollar Baby was not necessarily the best film but it was good. Braveheart might seriously be the best film of the last 20 years. It is not just because I lived in Scotland and that my aunt's family is the Wallace family, but it was a masterful piece of storytelling. So visual...and there are kilts.
As I get older, I understand "film" better. When I saw The Last Emperor with a friend in a movie theater in Detroit, I think I may have fell asleep. But seriously, I was also 16 and it was the 80s. I think that Ferris Bueller and 16 Candles were also pretty much award winners in my book. Oh and St. Elmo's Fire. I went to Catholic school and I didn't remember any St. Elmo but it was the brat pack so that was as close to God as I was going to get!
In terms of contemporary movies, I thought that Out of Africa was absolutely poetic. I just wanted to go and live in Isak Dinesen (pen name)'s world. I fell in love with Dances with Wolves and the unraveling of the story. That felt timeless.
Now the 80s were a time to cry. Terms of Endearment...really? Not a dry eye in the house. Ordinary People--one of my all time favorite young adult books--was one of the saddest and most haunting of films. I am sure to people today, it probably feels like that teen angst wasn't much but I can tell you that at the time...heartbreaking. Kramer vs. Kramer. What can I say? My brother and I had watched it several times on HBO. I didn't know a lot of families who were struggling with the broken family situation, the push and pull of divorce so it seemed all so tragic to me.
Lovely films? Storytelling crafted well? Snappy reparte and outstanding music? Amadeus, The Godfathers, Annie Hall and The Sting. A run of outstanding musicals...the soundtracks I listen to over and over in my car AND used to wait to have them come on TV (and eventually cable or VHS): The Sound of Music, My Fair Lady and West Side Story. The visual beauty of Gigi's Paris and the south's Gone with the Wind, along with the majesty of the score, vivid costumes and tragedy of the times make them some of my all time favorite films. Plus Leslie Caron never ages. I realize that she is French but seriously, never ages.
So before the Oscars 2012 come come calling at the end of February, you may want to take a look at the movies below. There are some fantastic ones and an excellent way to spend some time. As for this year's race, I am on my way to seeing as many as I can. I think that many from the beginning of the year are often forgotten by the time the announcements come out, but there are still good ones to see. Argo might be my favorite. I remember that time...I remember the helpless feeling, the nation's struggle and when I learned about what really happened, I felt like there is so much history to really learn, or relearn. Zero Dark Thirty was better than I had thought and again, much to learn, even though it wasn't that long ago. Lincoln was outstanding...what a champion for his time. Not sure it's the best film of the year, although I wouldn't be disappointed if it wins, but Daniel Day-Lewis's performance is absolutely magical, perfect, amazing. Next up for me is Beasts of the Southern Wild and Silver Linings Playbook, which is finally coming here. I didn't like the book Life of Pi and hoping I can actually sit through the film. Same with Les Miserables. I've seen the stage musical and not a fan of the film, but feel I need to see it. Unlike most people, I actually like Anne Hathaway. Also I like Naomi Watts so that film may also be on the list.
Cheers to you this Oscar season. Enjoy!
I have always loved movies and for a number of years, had a great Oscar party complete with friends, costumes/dressing up and even prizes. Hey--an Oscar party is a good reason to bust out those old bridesmaids dresses. Even with the number of times where I've hunkered down with AMC and friends or family members to watch one of those Katherine Hepburn or Hitchcock marathons, it just never gets old. Love a rainy day, PJs and a movie marathon.
Now I have disagreed with some of the Academy's choices in the past. I feel that the best movie of the year should be something that should be timeless and everyone should see and enjoy. That is how I felt about "Hugo" last year. It was a gorgeous film, such wonderful cinematography plus an excellent story. Unfortunately, the Academy did not take my advice but that happens quite a bit so I'm used to it.
I think some of the movies that really didn't deserve the top spot include The Artist, No Country for Old Men, Crash, Lord of the Rings, Chicago (which I HATED...not going to lie), Gladiator and the one I really really dislike that keeps coming back to haunt me...Titanic.
However, I found that Slumdog Millionaire, although depressing, was quite a good film. Million Dollar Baby was not necessarily the best film but it was good. Braveheart might seriously be the best film of the last 20 years. It is not just because I lived in Scotland and that my aunt's family is the Wallace family, but it was a masterful piece of storytelling. So visual...and there are kilts.
As I get older, I understand "film" better. When I saw The Last Emperor with a friend in a movie theater in Detroit, I think I may have fell asleep. But seriously, I was also 16 and it was the 80s. I think that Ferris Bueller and 16 Candles were also pretty much award winners in my book. Oh and St. Elmo's Fire. I went to Catholic school and I didn't remember any St. Elmo but it was the brat pack so that was as close to God as I was going to get!
In terms of contemporary movies, I thought that Out of Africa was absolutely poetic. I just wanted to go and live in Isak Dinesen (pen name)'s world. I fell in love with Dances with Wolves and the unraveling of the story. That felt timeless.
Now the 80s were a time to cry. Terms of Endearment...really? Not a dry eye in the house. Ordinary People--one of my all time favorite young adult books--was one of the saddest and most haunting of films. I am sure to people today, it probably feels like that teen angst wasn't much but I can tell you that at the time...heartbreaking. Kramer vs. Kramer. What can I say? My brother and I had watched it several times on HBO. I didn't know a lot of families who were struggling with the broken family situation, the push and pull of divorce so it seemed all so tragic to me.
Lovely films? Storytelling crafted well? Snappy reparte and outstanding music? Amadeus, The Godfathers, Annie Hall and The Sting. A run of outstanding musicals...the soundtracks I listen to over and over in my car AND used to wait to have them come on TV (and eventually cable or VHS): The Sound of Music, My Fair Lady and West Side Story. The visual beauty of Gigi's Paris and the south's Gone with the Wind, along with the majesty of the score, vivid costumes and tragedy of the times make them some of my all time favorite films. Plus Leslie Caron never ages. I realize that she is French but seriously, never ages.
So before the Oscars 2012 come come calling at the end of February, you may want to take a look at the movies below. There are some fantastic ones and an excellent way to spend some time. As for this year's race, I am on my way to seeing as many as I can. I think that many from the beginning of the year are often forgotten by the time the announcements come out, but there are still good ones to see. Argo might be my favorite. I remember that time...I remember the helpless feeling, the nation's struggle and when I learned about what really happened, I felt like there is so much history to really learn, or relearn. Zero Dark Thirty was better than I had thought and again, much to learn, even though it wasn't that long ago. Lincoln was outstanding...what a champion for his time. Not sure it's the best film of the year, although I wouldn't be disappointed if it wins, but Daniel Day-Lewis's performance is absolutely magical, perfect, amazing. Next up for me is Beasts of the Southern Wild and Silver Linings Playbook, which is finally coming here. I didn't like the book Life of Pi and hoping I can actually sit through the film. Same with Les Miserables. I've seen the stage musical and not a fan of the film, but feel I need to see it. Unlike most people, I actually like Anne Hathaway. Also I like Naomi Watts so that film may also be on the list.
Cheers to you this Oscar season. Enjoy!
2011 - "The Artist"
2010 - "The King's Speech"
2009 - "The Hurt Locker"
2008 - "Slumdog Millionaire"
2007 - "No Country for Old Men"
2006 - "The Departed"
2005 - "Crash"
2004 - "Million Dollar Baby"
2003 - "The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King"
2002 - "Chicago"
2001 - "A Beautiful Mind"
2000 - "Gladiator"
1999 - "American Beauty"
1998 - "Shakespeare in Love"
1997 - "Titanic"
1996 - "The English Patient"
1995 - "Braveheart"
1994 - "Forrest Gump"
1993 - "Schindler’s List"
1992 - "Unforgiven"
1991 - "The Silence of the Lambs"
1990 - "Dances With Wolves"
1989 - "Driving Miss Daisy"
1988 - "Rain Man"
1987 - "The Last Emperor"
1986 - "Platoon"
1985 - "Out of Africa"
1984 - "Amadeus"
1983 - "Terms of Endearment"
1982 - "Gandhi"
1981 - "Chariots of Fire"
1980 - "Ordinary People"
1979 - "Kramer vs. Kramer"
1978 - "The Deer Hunter"
1977 - "Annie Hall"
1976 - "Rocky"
1975 - "One Flew over the Cuckoo's Nest"
1974 - "The Godfather Part II"
1973 - "The Sting"
1972 - "The Godfather"
1971 - "The French Connection"
1970 - "Patton"
1969 - "Midnight Cowboy"
1968 - "Oliver!"
1967 - "In the Heat of the Night"
1966 - "A Man for All Seasons"
1965 - "The Sound of Music"
1964 - "My Fair Lady"
1963 - "Tom Jones"
1962 - "Lawrence of Arabia"
1961 - "West Side Story"
1960 - "The Apartment"
1959 - "Ben-Hur"
1958 - "Gigi"
1957 - "The Bridge on the River Kwai"
1956 - "Around the World in 80 Days"
1955 - "Marty"
1954 - "On the Waterfront"
1953 - "From Here to Eternity"
1952 - "The Greatest Show on Earth"
1951 - "An American in Paris"
1950 - "All About Eve"
1949 - "All the Kings Men"
1948 - "Hamlet"
1947 - "Gentleman's Agreement"
1946 - "The Best Years of Our Lives"
1945 - "The Lost Weekend"
1944 - "Going My Way"
1943 - "Casablanca"
1942 - "Mrs. Miniver"
1941 - "How Green Was My Valley"
1940 - "Rebecca"
1939 - "Gone with the Wind"
1938 - "You Can't Take It with You"
1937 - "The Life of Emile Zola"
1936 - "The Great Ziegfeld"
1935 - "Mutiny on the Bounty"
1934 - "It Happened One Night"
1932/1933 - "Cavalcade"
1931/1932 - "Grand Hotel"
1930/1931 - "Cimarron"
1929/1930 - "All Quiet on the Western Front"
1928/1929 - "The Broadway Melody"
1927/1928 - "Wings"
Tuesday, January 15, 2013
Holiday! Part One
Even though the one radio station I get on my shower radio plays some really random songs, and my title might indicate that I heard Madonna this morning and not INXS, Extreme, or Guns 'n Roses, I actually am thinking back to some of the things that I did not write over these past weeks. Normally I am knee deep in the festivus spirit but found that my work stress sort of make me jump the shark this past holiday season.
So here are a few of the things that I do every Christmas or before Christmas just as soon the clock ticks December first.
Movies. These are an absolute must. For the past several years, there was a series on Lifetime (Fa la la la la Lifetime) which plays every sad, sappy, torn apart family holiday melodrama, rom com and kids movie you can remember. There are a few that I really love, and yes, you can actually purchase them on Amazon if you try. "Recipe for a Perfect Christmas" tells the story of the up and coming food writer whose mother returns to town at the same time that she meets a chef also looking for his break. Hallmark does a couple great ones..."A Season for Miracles" and "Silver Bells." I must admit that while I totally love the Hallmark-ABC Family-Lifetime-other cable movie run at the holiday, there are several family classics that I will watch and then watch again when I get up to Michigan and join the rest of the family. "Love Actually" tops the list. Seriously, which of the story lines is the best because the whole movie is just great. Plus the soundtrack is excellent. Old flashback--yes all of these children are now adults--is "All I Want For Christmas" where the two kids of a recently divorced couple try to get their parents back together so everyone can have a happy holiday. I had to actually search this out on VHS and then hunt down DVDs on ebay. Lauren Bacall plays a New York Theatre legend and can still wow the crowd. The next one is a family girls vs. guys battle. The girls all love "The Ref"--laugh out loud funny. I could quote lines forever. Denis Leary is genius and let's not forget Kevin Spacey and Judy Davis. For some unknown reason, my two brother-in-laws do not appreciate the humor. But I swear, it is a Christmas classic. Old classics? "Holiday Inn" and "White Christmas" Serious singalong movies. New classics? "Home Alone", "The Santa Clause", and "Elf"! Will Ferrell is a genius. "Miracle on 34th Street" both old and remake, "Christmas Vacation" may be one of the top 3 and to round it out, "Emmet Otter's Jug Band Christmas." Jim Henson's lovable puppets tell a holiday story that never grows old.
Music. I don't even know where to start. The best Christmas album is the very first "A Very Special Christmas" and my favorite song is Sting's "Gabriel's Message." It sounds like raindrops moving through a golden curtain. Lovely and haunting. The whole album is amazing...Stevie Nicks, U2 and even Run DMC which makes me want to have "Christmas in Hollis." I am not sure that I can name all the fantastic Christmas albums. I seriously grew up with albums...Julie Andrews's Christmas album that was pink with a fake red bow and it was played on the record player. First it was Amy Grant and those with lots of range. These days it seems that everyone releases a holiday album. Kristen Chenoweth put out one last year (lovely), Michael Buble (festive) and have you heard the albums from Straight, No Chaser? Fun-upbeat-love! Every retail outlet from Pottery Barn to Pier One to Starbucks has Christmas albums now and the compilations are absolutely charming. Don't forget the movie soundtracks...as I mentioned above "Love Actually" has a great one with a great rendition of "All I Want for Christmas." The "Elf" soundtrack is also a lot of fun. Favorite single songs? "Blue Christmas," "Silver Bells," "Merry Christmas Baby," "Santa Baby," "Sleigh Ride," "Marshmellow World" and the best...The Drifters "White Christmas." Those are more classics than contemporary so for 25 year of more modern songs, do check out the rest of the set of "A Very Special Christmas" collection released a special 25th anniversary album this year too so check out the past 20+ years of some amazing music.
To Be Continued...
So here are a few of the things that I do every Christmas or before Christmas just as soon the clock ticks December first.
Movies. These are an absolute must. For the past several years, there was a series on Lifetime (Fa la la la la Lifetime) which plays every sad, sappy, torn apart family holiday melodrama, rom com and kids movie you can remember. There are a few that I really love, and yes, you can actually purchase them on Amazon if you try. "Recipe for a Perfect Christmas" tells the story of the up and coming food writer whose mother returns to town at the same time that she meets a chef also looking for his break. Hallmark does a couple great ones..."A Season for Miracles" and "Silver Bells." I must admit that while I totally love the Hallmark-ABC Family-Lifetime-other cable movie run at the holiday, there are several family classics that I will watch and then watch again when I get up to Michigan and join the rest of the family. "Love Actually" tops the list. Seriously, which of the story lines is the best because the whole movie is just great. Plus the soundtrack is excellent. Old flashback--yes all of these children are now adults--is "All I Want For Christmas" where the two kids of a recently divorced couple try to get their parents back together so everyone can have a happy holiday. I had to actually search this out on VHS and then hunt down DVDs on ebay. Lauren Bacall plays a New York Theatre legend and can still wow the crowd. The next one is a family girls vs. guys battle. The girls all love "The Ref"--laugh out loud funny. I could quote lines forever. Denis Leary is genius and let's not forget Kevin Spacey and Judy Davis. For some unknown reason, my two brother-in-laws do not appreciate the humor. But I swear, it is a Christmas classic. Old classics? "Holiday Inn" and "White Christmas" Serious singalong movies. New classics? "Home Alone", "The Santa Clause", and "Elf"! Will Ferrell is a genius. "Miracle on 34th Street" both old and remake, "Christmas Vacation" may be one of the top 3 and to round it out, "Emmet Otter's Jug Band Christmas." Jim Henson's lovable puppets tell a holiday story that never grows old.
Music. I don't even know where to start. The best Christmas album is the very first "A Very Special Christmas" and my favorite song is Sting's "Gabriel's Message." It sounds like raindrops moving through a golden curtain. Lovely and haunting. The whole album is amazing...Stevie Nicks, U2 and even Run DMC which makes me want to have "Christmas in Hollis." I am not sure that I can name all the fantastic Christmas albums. I seriously grew up with albums...Julie Andrews's Christmas album that was pink with a fake red bow and it was played on the record player. First it was Amy Grant and those with lots of range. These days it seems that everyone releases a holiday album. Kristen Chenoweth put out one last year (lovely), Michael Buble (festive) and have you heard the albums from Straight, No Chaser? Fun-upbeat-love! Every retail outlet from Pottery Barn to Pier One to Starbucks has Christmas albums now and the compilations are absolutely charming. Don't forget the movie soundtracks...as I mentioned above "Love Actually" has a great one with a great rendition of "All I Want for Christmas." The "Elf" soundtrack is also a lot of fun. Favorite single songs? "Blue Christmas," "Silver Bells," "Merry Christmas Baby," "Santa Baby," "Sleigh Ride," "Marshmellow World" and the best...The Drifters "White Christmas." Those are more classics than contemporary so for 25 year of more modern songs, do check out the rest of the set of "A Very Special Christmas" collection released a special 25th anniversary album this year too so check out the past 20+ years of some amazing music.
To Be Continued...
Monday, January 07, 2013
College Football Season Reflections
As the college football season comes to an end, this Michigan fan has a few thoughts. As you know, Michigan started the season playing a SEC team and ended playing a SEC team so I've learned a few things. There is seriously no training like playing a SEC team. If you play them near the beginning, you might even learn something that will help you down the road. Yes they really are that big...and talented. They are also relentless no matter how far ahead they are. I also learned that I really don't like the Alabama Million Dollar Band - it is just downright irritating when you are losing. I have also never seen so many "pretty" outfits in differing shades of red and in the case of Bama, more elephant clothing worn by adults than by toddlers across the nation. I live in a SEC town where a Gamecock crows throughout downtown three times a day. I can't even explain that. But I think Clowney proved that I don't really have to. While I am sure there were many ND fans making fun of the spanking that Alabama gave Michigan over Labor Day, it's pretty hard to be on that losing side. Honestly, I didn't think ND would come close -I just didn't see their season as being tough enough to prepare them but I'll often root for an underdog and I really wanted to see a good game. The championship game like most of the other bigger bowl games were fairly well disappointing this year. Mostly I'm a little sad because I love football Saturdays. So here's to next year, when we will once again don our favorite school's colors, root for some good games, better refereeing, no injuries, and fun with friends and family. Until then, the hockey lockout is over, Michigan's basketball team looking great (so is BU Hockey), here comes March madness and baseball's opening day.
Monday, December 03, 2012
Stressed Out Recommends
So have I said before that when I am stressed out, I'm not feeling super creative. I plan to have lots of holiday recommends coming later but until then I am going to throw a few things out right now. They all relate in some odd way to stress.
First, I just want to throw this out there. I am sorry friends on Facebook but I really don't want to hear what you are thankful for all month long. I know you probably think differently but some of it feels disingenuous. If you need to be thankful, instead of posting on the internet every day, my recommendation is that you either call someone or perhaps write them a letter or note. I am sure they would be really thankful for that personal contact.
There is something to be said for loud and pounding music when you are feeling stressed out. I used to want silence or classical music and certainly there is a time for that as well. But I have had more days where I just want something with a loud, pounding bass. Green Day's "Know Your Enemy" is a good choice, also Ministry does a cover of "Thunderstruck" that is pretty great. I've recently refound the song "Oh My God" by Jay Z. They have been using it for a movie promo in January and I just loved how they edited it. There are a few other songs that can be turned up loud..."Starships" by Nicki Minaj, "Waka Waka" by Shakira, "Eye of the Tiger" by Survivor, "Seether" by Veruca Salt & don't forget the Offspring.
Laundry can helps with stress. I'm a big fan of those scented Downy fabric softeners. They are downright lovely smelling and can help to make your laundry feel good, even if you aren't necessarily feeling so great.
I also find that action movies are helpful. Old episodes of "Alias" since there is always guaranteed to be some kind of fight/heist/travel are pretty great along with anything other knock 'em out, drag 'em out fight style movies. I find that when others are fighting or running, how I am feeling seems inconsequential.
Baking! Seems today that you don't have to do the slow process of rising and pounding the dough. But just in case you feel like taking it out on some yeast, flour and water. Here it is! Try some new recipes. Maybe some biscuits or cinnamon rolls or honey rosemary bread. I always recommend Mark Bittman but you can always find some new recipes especially in magazines around the holidays.
Finally, a massage. I belonged to Massage Envy until that was one of the things I had to cut out of my budget. Most companies like that offer a reduced rate for the first one and less than standard massage prices if you have a membership. I have the same person that I have gone to for some time but if I ever have a new person, I usually ask for someone who specializes in medical massage. I want to know how to avoid pulled muscles in the future but since I have a low pain threshold, I also want to be sure that I will relax and not be worried about a heavy handed massage. Stress causes me to pull all kinds of strange muscles so a massage is just what the doctor ordered.
So go out and find something positive to do with that stress!
First, I just want to throw this out there. I am sorry friends on Facebook but I really don't want to hear what you are thankful for all month long. I know you probably think differently but some of it feels disingenuous. If you need to be thankful, instead of posting on the internet every day, my recommendation is that you either call someone or perhaps write them a letter or note. I am sure they would be really thankful for that personal contact.
There is something to be said for loud and pounding music when you are feeling stressed out. I used to want silence or classical music and certainly there is a time for that as well. But I have had more days where I just want something with a loud, pounding bass. Green Day's "Know Your Enemy" is a good choice, also Ministry does a cover of "Thunderstruck" that is pretty great. I've recently refound the song "Oh My God" by Jay Z. They have been using it for a movie promo in January and I just loved how they edited it. There are a few other songs that can be turned up loud..."Starships" by Nicki Minaj, "Waka Waka" by Shakira, "Eye of the Tiger" by Survivor, "Seether" by Veruca Salt & don't forget the Offspring.
Laundry can helps with stress. I'm a big fan of those scented Downy fabric softeners. They are downright lovely smelling and can help to make your laundry feel good, even if you aren't necessarily feeling so great.
I also find that action movies are helpful. Old episodes of "Alias" since there is always guaranteed to be some kind of fight/heist/travel are pretty great along with anything other knock 'em out, drag 'em out fight style movies. I find that when others are fighting or running, how I am feeling seems inconsequential.
Baking! Seems today that you don't have to do the slow process of rising and pounding the dough. But just in case you feel like taking it out on some yeast, flour and water. Here it is! Try some new recipes. Maybe some biscuits or cinnamon rolls or honey rosemary bread. I always recommend Mark Bittman but you can always find some new recipes especially in magazines around the holidays.
Finally, a massage. I belonged to Massage Envy until that was one of the things I had to cut out of my budget. Most companies like that offer a reduced rate for the first one and less than standard massage prices if you have a membership. I have the same person that I have gone to for some time but if I ever have a new person, I usually ask for someone who specializes in medical massage. I want to know how to avoid pulled muscles in the future but since I have a low pain threshold, I also want to be sure that I will relax and not be worried about a heavy handed massage. Stress causes me to pull all kinds of strange muscles so a massage is just what the doctor ordered.
So go out and find something positive to do with that stress!
Saturday, November 17, 2012
Backtracking Recommends
I'm taking a little step back to think through some musical memories from the 80s-early 90s. This will really be part one because I have many mini phases during those years. But here are a few songs I'd recommend you listen to.
I went to Catholic school so dances had pretty much been outlawed...until I was in 8th grade. Of course the girls and the guys couldn't decide on the same theme so we had to blend them. The theme turned out to be 1984-Thriller (Van Halen-Michael Jackson.) There were a few too many single gloved hands, fake leather jackets and acid washed denim. But the music was really good. MJ has been gone a few years now and it's sad that we didn't have more. Take a listen to PYT, Can't Stop Until You Get Enough, and Smooth Criminal. My favorite VH songs are "Right Now" and "Jump."
I entered into my imported British music phase soon thereafter and fell in love with Scritti Politti. I think I watched the video for "Perfect Way" over and over. Something to be said for those beloved pop songs. When in Rome's "The Promise" along with songs like "Blister in the Sun," "How Soon is Now," "Obsession," "Keep Feeling Fascination," "Just Can't Get Enough" and "Rock Lobster."
These songs were not really played on the radio unless you had access to an "alternative" or new wave station. Now it seems like everything is accessible which is both good and too easy. Sometimes you have to really work to find great stuff. I am sure that my friends who went dancing with me in those days probably have big CD or digital music collections like me. Great stuff there.
Today I listened to a lot of The Cure. Lots of remixes and live versions are now available which I love. I did have some albums--12" imports-- but no real way to listen to them. At least now you can access nearly all digitally which is great when I need to have a little fix...like "Close to Me," "In Between Days," and "Let's Go to Bed."
And Bands...so many great bands! B-52s, New Order (God I love the song "Temptation"), The Smiths, REM, Talking Heads, PIL, INXS and so many more. Food for thought...
I went to Catholic school so dances had pretty much been outlawed...until I was in 8th grade. Of course the girls and the guys couldn't decide on the same theme so we had to blend them. The theme turned out to be 1984-Thriller (Van Halen-Michael Jackson.) There were a few too many single gloved hands, fake leather jackets and acid washed denim. But the music was really good. MJ has been gone a few years now and it's sad that we didn't have more. Take a listen to PYT, Can't Stop Until You Get Enough, and Smooth Criminal. My favorite VH songs are "Right Now" and "Jump."
I entered into my imported British music phase soon thereafter and fell in love with Scritti Politti. I think I watched the video for "Perfect Way" over and over. Something to be said for those beloved pop songs. When in Rome's "The Promise" along with songs like "Blister in the Sun," "How Soon is Now," "Obsession," "Keep Feeling Fascination," "Just Can't Get Enough" and "Rock Lobster."
These songs were not really played on the radio unless you had access to an "alternative" or new wave station. Now it seems like everything is accessible which is both good and too easy. Sometimes you have to really work to find great stuff. I am sure that my friends who went dancing with me in those days probably have big CD or digital music collections like me. Great stuff there.
Today I listened to a lot of The Cure. Lots of remixes and live versions are now available which I love. I did have some albums--12" imports-- but no real way to listen to them. At least now you can access nearly all digitally which is great when I need to have a little fix...like "Close to Me," "In Between Days," and "Let's Go to Bed."
And Bands...so many great bands! B-52s, New Order (God I love the song "Temptation"), The Smiths, REM, Talking Heads, PIL, INXS and so many more. Food for thought...
Monday, October 08, 2012
Today's Recommends
Whenever I have a lot going on at work or I have been traveling, I find myself unable to post to my blog. It is when I am reading and being creative that I have the most the say. This Fall has been no exception. From back to back trips to a kind of work schedule that makes me want to sleep until noon on the weekends, it's been hard to find any creativity.
That being said, there are a few bright stars.
I am sure you know that my "sexy-ugly" guy Jack White has a new album. He does a cover of "I'm Shakin'" by the Blasters which I have loved since my dear friend Al from Old St. Pat's made me a mixed tape based on my enneagram results. Not only has music played a huge role in my life but it was a BIG part of my Chicago life. I saw the last Grateful Dead show ever, which I had to stand in line several days before to get my bracelet, which I had to wear to work for like 3 days. #partyfoul I saw Sarah McLachlan with my sister, DMB so many times I can't remember, Pearl Jam at Alpine with Emily Potter and others, Phish and the crazy camping night (my only camping experience so I'm done now) and a thousand other shows with friends like Ellen (EDBJ) and my brother Kevin, and sisters. Not the least of which were the World's Largest Block Party. Yes I worked for a church and helped to book rock bands. Cool.
Grand Rapids celebrated Pulaski Days this past weekend. I can't remember how many I have been to and probably just as many I've been away. In younger days, it was canned beer, polka dancing and kielbasa. I think the beer got a little better, everything else stayed the same. My mom posted pics on her FB this week of her and my Aunt Pat in their Polish costumes. Beautiful colored outfits with ribbons and headpieces. My cousin Julie was Pulaski Queen and I am proud that we break Opatki each Christmas with the Krzeminski side. My grandmother Helen passed this year and she was a lovely, spunky Polish lady that gave us a little extra step ball-change in our step.
Football! It was a banner week for the home team and one of my Alma Mater's the University of South Carolina. 85k+ people at Williams-Brice Stadium to watch USC take on Georgia...and we not just won this SEC battle, we trounced them. Can you say Sandstorm? Michigan also won, thank God because it has been a rough year in the Big Ten, especially after I went to Dallas to watch the Cowboy Classic when we played Alabama. My friends are amazing, the experience was memorable but the game...well heartbreaking. Still #goblue.
I am knee deep in the second Hunger Games book. I'm trying to draw it out so I don't whip through them. The movie for the "Perks of Being a Wallflower" came out recently. I got to see a preview this summer in CA at ALA. Amazing! Go see it but PLEASE read the book. Especially because it's
BANNED BOOKS WEEK!
The Holy Grail for Librarians! Start with Perks, look at Annie on my Mind, everything by JK Rowling, Chris Crutcher and Judy Blume, And Tango Makes Three (picture book), Catcher in The Rye, The Great Gatsby, The Color Purple, Bridge to Terebithia and really anything from this site: http://www.ala.org/advocacy/banned/bannedbooksweek.
That's all for now. Will check in later, post wedding Polka!
That being said, there are a few bright stars.
I am sure you know that my "sexy-ugly" guy Jack White has a new album. He does a cover of "I'm Shakin'" by the Blasters which I have loved since my dear friend Al from Old St. Pat's made me a mixed tape based on my enneagram results. Not only has music played a huge role in my life but it was a BIG part of my Chicago life. I saw the last Grateful Dead show ever, which I had to stand in line several days before to get my bracelet, which I had to wear to work for like 3 days. #partyfoul I saw Sarah McLachlan with my sister, DMB so many times I can't remember, Pearl Jam at Alpine with Emily Potter and others, Phish and the crazy camping night (my only camping experience so I'm done now) and a thousand other shows with friends like Ellen (EDBJ) and my brother Kevin, and sisters. Not the least of which were the World's Largest Block Party. Yes I worked for a church and helped to book rock bands. Cool.
Grand Rapids celebrated Pulaski Days this past weekend. I can't remember how many I have been to and probably just as many I've been away. In younger days, it was canned beer, polka dancing and kielbasa. I think the beer got a little better, everything else stayed the same. My mom posted pics on her FB this week of her and my Aunt Pat in their Polish costumes. Beautiful colored outfits with ribbons and headpieces. My cousin Julie was Pulaski Queen and I am proud that we break Opatki each Christmas with the Krzeminski side. My grandmother Helen passed this year and she was a lovely, spunky Polish lady that gave us a little extra step ball-change in our step.
Football! It was a banner week for the home team and one of my Alma Mater's the University of South Carolina. 85k+ people at Williams-Brice Stadium to watch USC take on Georgia...and we not just won this SEC battle, we trounced them. Can you say Sandstorm? Michigan also won, thank God because it has been a rough year in the Big Ten, especially after I went to Dallas to watch the Cowboy Classic when we played Alabama. My friends are amazing, the experience was memorable but the game...well heartbreaking. Still #goblue.
I am knee deep in the second Hunger Games book. I'm trying to draw it out so I don't whip through them. The movie for the "Perks of Being a Wallflower" came out recently. I got to see a preview this summer in CA at ALA. Amazing! Go see it but PLEASE read the book. Especially because it's
BANNED BOOKS WEEK!
The Holy Grail for Librarians! Start with Perks, look at Annie on my Mind, everything by JK Rowling, Chris Crutcher and Judy Blume, And Tango Makes Three (picture book), Catcher in The Rye, The Great Gatsby, The Color Purple, Bridge to Terebithia and really anything from this site: http://www.ala.org/advocacy/banned/bannedbooksweek.
That's all for now. Will check in later, post wedding Polka!
Tuesday, August 14, 2012
Summer Vaca Recommends
Having just spent a week on the beach of Lake Michigan, I know I have a lot of recommends to share but most of them have gone out the window, or maybe off the hammock.
I did enjoy a few things, guilty pleasures if you will.
Real Simple magazine. Always a very useful read. There are tips, recipes, health related stories and a variety of things to use right away and file for future projects. My favorite items are the recipes, usually with some kind of theme like summer foods or new vegetable preparations, and the HBA products they test and rate, like sunscreen.
I'm so in love with author Gabrielle Zevin. Her second book in the series hasn't been published but I got an ARC at ALA. It's called "Because It is My Blood." This is the continuation of "All These Things I've Done" and I am happy to learn more about Anya Ballenchine, the strong lead character, daughter of the deceased mob boss and heir to a black market chocolate empire.
The Olympics were on so I watched a lot of that, except track and field because I'm not a fan of those sports, but two of my fav shows (the only kind of reality shows I would watch--cooking and sewing) are back! Top Chef Masters and Project Runway, Season 10. Although I'm not connecting with too many contestants this go round, they are always fun to watch. I am happy to see Tim Gunn back -- and he has a new book out -- and some of my fav chefs including Luc, the Chef in the Hat. I am hoping I can get a reservation at his restaurant when I'm back in Seattle at the end of the month. On the television drama side, I'm sad to see Brenda Lee Johnson and "The Closer" end their run, Rizzoli & Isles is also coming to a close this season but I'm looking forward to welcoming "Grimm" back!
My dad had a few nice bottles of Zinfandel, 7 Deadly Zins. It is a great addition to a meal of beef or pork and nicely priced. Always a good gift to bring to a party.
The Karaoke Kab! What can I say? At my sister's bachelorette party, we had a little further to go to find the dance club and my cousin Molly made the night. Turns out that there is a miniva/cab that you can ride for $3pp and it will take you where you need to go as you sing your heart out following the words on the screen. Why yes...we did do a fantastic rendition of "Don't Stop Believing" and "Baby Got Back" among a few other favorites. It was such great fun even if we aren't, unlike Molly professed, taking it to Broadway.
The ride followed by cheesy dance songs, yes please! I am feeling good about the fact that I was all up on the dance music. Nicki Minaj, Pitbull, Flo Rida and some new boy bands...Fun, One Direction and The Wanted. All in good fun.
Now it's back to the ranch. Hope you had a great summer vacation too!
Thursday, August 02, 2012
My Recommends: Today's Places
I've been thinking about what I want to write about lately. There has been a lot going on and every so often, usually in inconvenient places like the shower, I come up with something brilliant to post.
And then I forget.
Oh well.
So today I'll focus on some foreign places that I have visited which I would recommend. I love to travel and I have had such good fortune to be able to go to as many places as I have. I was able to study abroad, travel as a teenager on a People to People trip, go back as a young professional, enjoy New Year celebrations in Lisbon, Vienna, and London, and spend time getting to know the people, often by renting a car and driving the countryside.
SCOTLAND
The Olympics are going on so naturally, I often think about the UK. Most importantly, I remember back to living in Edinburgh, Scotland. I just loved it. I went with an American program that put me in classes and dorms with students from around the world. I really appreciated that. With Arthur's Seat as my backyard, interesting classes, the history of Edinburgh all around me and some Scottish friends (and their families) to teach me about this majestic country. I have traveled from north to south, east to west and would be so grateful to return. Some of the recommended places to see besides Edinburgh are St. Andrew's, Aberdeen, Inverness, Arbroath, Glasgow, the Borders, and Isle of Skye.
IRELAND
Ireland, it's the one place on earth
That heaven has kissed
With melody, mirth,
And meadow and mist.
I love Ireland and all it's places. I have been all around the country many times and to the islands. Each time I have traveled there are more parts that enchant me, even more beautiful home places, rainbows, mountains, the sea and the people. Be sure to spend time up in Westport, Kilkenny, Killarney, Cork and the Ring of Kerry.
CANADA
Oh Canada, my home and native land...
I love Canada. Not just because I grew up in Michigan which often feels a kinship with the border nation. We accept their change without looking twice. We used to not even have to show ID to cross the border. I think the most extraordinary thing about Canada is how different all the places are. I had the good fortune of taking a Canadian Studies class and it was fascinating. Many people do not realize how interesting and unique this country is. I have been to Montreal and Quebec many times. True joy. I'd recommend a trip to Vancouver and Victoria Island--gorgeous especially in August and September. Nova Scotia and Newfoundland are extremely interesting and the mountains of Banff are perfect for more than just winter sports.
Other recommended places...
Salzburg, Austria--I am a huge "Sound of Music" fan (both play and movie). My brother and I danced around the gazebo in the snow. Also enjoyed New Year's Eve and Sylvesterabend, the eve of St. Sylvester. There are food stands all over the street where people can spend the day and evening eating and drinking a glog like punch.
Caernarfon Castle in Gwynedd, Wales is a beautiful place. Lots of castles and places to visit in Wales. I think a lot of people hit the bigger cities and miss some of the smaller or out of the way places. I was fortunate to be able to drive all around the country with my good friend Aki.
County Antrim, Northern Ireland. Best known for the gorgeous Giant's Causeway. Also worth seeing is the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge linking the mainland to the island of Carickarede. Breathtaking, and a little scary too.
We went to Belize in one of the stops. I am sure there was so much more to see so I would recommend another trip back. The people were wonderful and the water so blue.
Barcelona. There was something so great about the blending of historical and contemporary in this beautiful city. The food is outstanding and the Picasso Museum is a not to be missed site!
Venice. My favorite city in Italy. I could have spent so much time but was unable. The Hill Towns are also gorgeous and worth visiting each and every one, especially Assisi.
Portugal. I really loved the people of Portugal, especially Lisbon. A beautiful city to walk and the craftsmanship in the pottery is wonderful.
There are never any shortage of places I want to go...
Japan
Australia
New Zealand
Puerto Rico
Paris (been to southern France but not Paris!)
Seychelles
Argentina
Iceland
Copenhagen
Sweden
Maybe one day...
Finally, a recommend for my aunt's cousin, Duncan. http://www.duncanjdsmith.com. He is a travel writer and photographer, explorer and storyteller. Having grown up in England, he now spends most of his time in Vienna. Take a look at his website and you might want to track down some of his books. They are wonderful.
And then I forget.
Oh well.
So today I'll focus on some foreign places that I have visited which I would recommend. I love to travel and I have had such good fortune to be able to go to as many places as I have. I was able to study abroad, travel as a teenager on a People to People trip, go back as a young professional, enjoy New Year celebrations in Lisbon, Vienna, and London, and spend time getting to know the people, often by renting a car and driving the countryside.
The Olympics are going on so naturally, I often think about the UK. Most importantly, I remember back to living in Edinburgh, Scotland. I just loved it. I went with an American program that put me in classes and dorms with students from around the world. I really appreciated that. With Arthur's Seat as my backyard, interesting classes, the history of Edinburgh all around me and some Scottish friends (and their families) to teach me about this majestic country. I have traveled from north to south, east to west and would be so grateful to return. Some of the recommended places to see besides Edinburgh are St. Andrew's, Aberdeen, Inverness, Arbroath, Glasgow, the Borders, and Isle of Skye.
IRELAND
Ireland, it's the one place on earth
That heaven has kissed
With melody, mirth,
And meadow and mist.
I love Ireland and all it's places. I have been all around the country many times and to the islands. Each time I have traveled there are more parts that enchant me, even more beautiful home places, rainbows, mountains, the sea and the people. Be sure to spend time up in Westport, Kilkenny, Killarney, Cork and the Ring of Kerry.
CANADA
Oh Canada, my home and native land...
I love Canada. Not just because I grew up in Michigan which often feels a kinship with the border nation. We accept their change without looking twice. We used to not even have to show ID to cross the border. I think the most extraordinary thing about Canada is how different all the places are. I had the good fortune of taking a Canadian Studies class and it was fascinating. Many people do not realize how interesting and unique this country is. I have been to Montreal and Quebec many times. True joy. I'd recommend a trip to Vancouver and Victoria Island--gorgeous especially in August and September. Nova Scotia and Newfoundland are extremely interesting and the mountains of Banff are perfect for more than just winter sports.
Other recommended places...
Salzburg, Austria--I am a huge "Sound of Music" fan (both play and movie). My brother and I danced around the gazebo in the snow. Also enjoyed New Year's Eve and Sylvesterabend, the eve of St. Sylvester. There are food stands all over the street where people can spend the day and evening eating and drinking a glog like punch.
Caernarfon Castle in Gwynedd, Wales is a beautiful place. Lots of castles and places to visit in Wales. I think a lot of people hit the bigger cities and miss some of the smaller or out of the way places. I was fortunate to be able to drive all around the country with my good friend Aki.
County Antrim, Northern Ireland. Best known for the gorgeous Giant's Causeway. Also worth seeing is the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge linking the mainland to the island of Carickarede. Breathtaking, and a little scary too.
We went to Belize in one of the stops. I am sure there was so much more to see so I would recommend another trip back. The people were wonderful and the water so blue.
Barcelona. There was something so great about the blending of historical and contemporary in this beautiful city. The food is outstanding and the Picasso Museum is a not to be missed site!
Venice. My favorite city in Italy. I could have spent so much time but was unable. The Hill Towns are also gorgeous and worth visiting each and every one, especially Assisi.
Portugal. I really loved the people of Portugal, especially Lisbon. A beautiful city to walk and the craftsmanship in the pottery is wonderful.
There are never any shortage of places I want to go...
Japan
Australia
New Zealand
Puerto Rico
Paris (been to southern France but not Paris!)
Seychelles
Argentina
Iceland
Copenhagen
Sweden
Maybe one day...
Finally, a recommend for my aunt's cousin, Duncan. http://www.duncanjdsmith.com. He is a travel writer and photographer, explorer and storyteller. Having grown up in England, he now spends most of his time in Vienna. Take a look at his website and you might want to track down some of his books. They are wonderful.
Sunday, July 15, 2012
Belated Summer Recommends
When I travel, sometimes I forget that I even have a blog. Between meetings, sleeping, plane rides and other things, it takes me a while to get back into the swing of things. Then I realize how long it has been.
So...welcome Summer. It has been crazy hot, steamy, humid and peppered with wicked thunderstorms. It's the kind of weather where you either want to stay inside with a tall drink and lots of air conditioning or be laying on the beach with the breeze blowing and the water just steps away. Both require books.
I want to put a few items on a recommended reading list.
First, check out Elin Hilderbrand's books. I liked "Barefoot" but there are a number of summer and island life books including one just released. She also wrote a nice article about how to survive summer! Take a look at this... http://www.hachettebookgroup.com/ElinHilderbrandArticle.aspx.
Mark Childress also has a new book..."Georgia Bottoms." Check out his page http://www.crazyinalabama.com including an essay for Kindle called Looking for Harper Lee.
Joshilyn Jackson has many books that I have enjoyed and one new one, "A Grown Up Kind of Pretty," which I am planning to read. I loved her first one, "Gods In Alabama" and chose it as a selection for my book club, back when NPR picked it as their fav summer read (that was several years ago now.) I sent an email before our book club meeting and she was kind enough to write back. She also has a blog and the name is great but even that isn't the best part! Read her blog Faster Than Kudzu at http://www.joshilynjackson.com/ftk.
A writer that I have had on my list for a while is J. Courtney Sullivan. I'm wanting to read "Maine" although I am interested in "Commencement" as well. Check out this New York Times piece: http://www.nytimes.com/2011/06/12/books/review/book-review-maine-by-j-courtney-sullivan.html?pagewanted=all.
How excited am I that Claire Cook ("Must Love Dogs") has a new book! It's called "Wallflower in Bloom." She has a couple beach novels to keep with the theme--"Life's A Beach" and "Summer Blowout" -- which I have enjoyed. She has an informative web page and a blog too http://clairecook.com/author/blog/blog.html.
Richard Russo writes about Maine. I loved his Pulitzer prize winning book "Empire Falls" but only got about halfway through the next one. He has a great list to choose from and wrote a nice article about small towns: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=14806290. Find his other books here: http://www.randomhouse.com/knopf/authors/russo.
Finally, NPR always writes a summer list. Here is a nice list with a few other recommendations from Indie bookstore owners: http://www.npr.org/2012/05/25/152681721/15-summer-reads-handpicked-by-indie-booksellers. There is one on the list called "Glaciers" that I think would be great (http://www.npr.org/books/titles/153598556/glaciers). Isabel is a collector of vintage items looking through items in a library basement and thinking about the melting glaciers in Alaska, where she grew up.
Enjoy!
So...welcome Summer. It has been crazy hot, steamy, humid and peppered with wicked thunderstorms. It's the kind of weather where you either want to stay inside with a tall drink and lots of air conditioning or be laying on the beach with the breeze blowing and the water just steps away. Both require books.
I want to put a few items on a recommended reading list.
First, check out Elin Hilderbrand's books. I liked "Barefoot" but there are a number of summer and island life books including one just released. She also wrote a nice article about how to survive summer! Take a look at this... http://www.hachettebookgroup.com/ElinHilderbrandArticle.aspx.
Mark Childress also has a new book..."Georgia Bottoms." Check out his page http://www.crazyinalabama.com including an essay for Kindle called Looking for Harper Lee.
Joshilyn Jackson has many books that I have enjoyed and one new one, "A Grown Up Kind of Pretty," which I am planning to read. I loved her first one, "Gods In Alabama" and chose it as a selection for my book club, back when NPR picked it as their fav summer read (that was several years ago now.) I sent an email before our book club meeting and she was kind enough to write back. She also has a blog and the name is great but even that isn't the best part! Read her blog Faster Than Kudzu at http://www.joshilynjackson.com/ftk.
A writer that I have had on my list for a while is J. Courtney Sullivan. I'm wanting to read "Maine" although I am interested in "Commencement" as well. Check out this New York Times piece: http://www.nytimes.com/2011/06/12/books/review/book-review-maine-by-j-courtney-sullivan.html?pagewanted=all.
How excited am I that Claire Cook ("Must Love Dogs") has a new book! It's called "Wallflower in Bloom." She has a couple beach novels to keep with the theme--"Life's A Beach" and "Summer Blowout" -- which I have enjoyed. She has an informative web page and a blog too http://clairecook.com/author/blog/blog.html.
Richard Russo writes about Maine. I loved his Pulitzer prize winning book "Empire Falls" but only got about halfway through the next one. He has a great list to choose from and wrote a nice article about small towns: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=14806290. Find his other books here: http://www.randomhouse.com/knopf/authors/russo.
Finally, NPR always writes a summer list. Here is a nice list with a few other recommendations from Indie bookstore owners: http://www.npr.org/2012/05/25/152681721/15-summer-reads-handpicked-by-indie-booksellers. There is one on the list called "Glaciers" that I think would be great (http://www.npr.org/books/titles/153598556/glaciers). Isabel is a collector of vintage items looking through items in a library basement and thinking about the melting glaciers in Alaska, where she grew up.
Enjoy!
Sunday, June 10, 2012
My Recommends: The Whale Rider
I know I have written about this before but as we will see a new launch of films featuring strong female characters, I resurrected a favorite movie and book. It is such a compelling tale of the history of an indigenous people and the loss of identity through the generations. When the next Chief cannot live up to his birthright, his daughter becomes the unlikely hero. It doesn't matter whether it is male or female, what matters is the heart and faith that can lead a new generation. I love this book, told in the words of her uncle, who as the second, was also not good enough. But the slow moving beauty orchestrated in the film, from the jewel toned lands of New Zealand to the haunting chants of the Maori people truly inspire all to give of themselves. The book and the film are not loud, not assertive and not flashy. They are sweet, triumphant and graceful, a timeless story worthy of our time and a lesson for us all.
Tuesday, June 05, 2012
Today's Recommends: Music & Memories
Today I'm remembering music...and family & friends.
At NPR Music is Remembering Mom & Dad's Record Collection. Very cool. http://www.npr.org/2012/06/05/154152434/remembering-mom-and-dads-record-collection?ps=cprs
What other music has real memories for me?
I have been to so many concerts because I really love live music. My first concert (alone) was Huey Lewis and the News. I had to take my brother and it was at Lamar Park. I was in the 8th grade and he was...not. Embarrassing, well for me. Years later we were partners at so many other concerts. I'm a lucky girl. I was able to really take it up a notch from 1982. I've seen a lot of bands more than once I'm lucky to say. A few that I really have enjoyed include the Dave Matthews Band, U2, Rolling Stones, Jimmy Buffett, Mighty Blue Kings, Erasure, Depeche Mode, New Order, Chicago, Sarah McLachlan, Yes, John Mellancamp and Bruce Springsteen.
What do I like to listen to now...well if I am stressed, always the Brandenburg Concertos. Alison Krauss, Dido and anything Irish. I have some cheesy dance music for working out, "Eye of the Tiger" when I need to press through the day, something new and fun from Edward Sharpe and Magnetic Zeroes called "Home" (thanks Ellen & Kate), Ingrid Michaelson, Feist, Cake, Adele and the Talking Heads.
The most notorious concert? The LAST Grateful Dead show. I stood in line to get a bracelet so I could wear it for like 4 days to work and I couldn't get Saturday tickets at Soldier Field so I got Sunday tickets. Kevin, Jim, Ellen and I went. I really wanted to just feed everyone's dogs. Instead we had a few cocktails and enjoyed the show. Here's the set: http://www.dead.net/show/july-9-1995. And as we learned later, the last concert they would perform with JG at the helm.
Missy and I stood in line for tickets to Eric Clapton, the first time in Saratoga Springs, NY. Years later we saw his Blues Tour in LA. We totally graduated--lawn to seats. Woo hoo.
I also got to do a small private showing for charity in Chicago with the Barenaked Ladies. Tony Amonte was also there. It was double awesome. Only about 50 of us and it was a real treat.
I saw Sting with some friends outside of Boston and again with the Police during a reunion tour in Boston with my friend David. I love them. Would see them again and again. I love Sting's version of "Gabriel's Message" and the Spanish language album he did which included "Fragilidad."
I have a whole list of songs on Spotify that I call "over and over" which are a few that I love to listen to, literally, over and over.
Well, long before it was usurped by political parties, the Lyons Clan's fav song is "Don't Stop Believing" by Journey. Only the strong survive in a bar in Hell's Kitchen late into the night trying to bribe the DJ to play it while we sing to the monkey.
Ok mom's side. We'll start with Grandma Krzeminski. Who other than the Polish Prince? Bobby Vinton: http://youtu.be/5E6sS21Xirs singing Moja Droga. Always a favorite at weddings and Pulaski Days (first weekend in October, Grand Rapids, MI.)
Mom always reminds me of Doris Day...all the music, movies and plain upbeat attitude. Que Sera! This isn't from the actual movie but a nice montage nonetheless. http://youtu.be/xZbKHDPPrrc.
Dad? Besides the fact that he LOVES the Pointer Sisters, and yes, the whole family went to the concert. Twice. He told me once that when he wants to drive fast, he listens to Genesis. Oh Phil lovers here's a live one for you: http://youtu.be/cK3N2DC3Fds
And two for the price of one, dedicated to the man who taught us all about Motown, http://youtu.be/xHstlUiEaos. A true musical education-- Four Tops, Temptations and so many more.
OK--dedicated to my brother. Easy Lover by Phil Collins and Philip Bailey. What else? http://youtu.be/E1WYimAC7wo. Give Kev a few beers and watch him dance. Of course we're right there with him.
Kendra? The millions of songs and what would I choose? Canadians of course! www.youtube.com/watch?v=5zYpqQW8CwI. Watch BNL live!
Her sweet husband? Oh Brent introduced us to a whole other genre. After a half time show, this became Denny's fav too. Ha ha! Just one of his many dudes, Pitbull. http://youtu.be/EPo5wWmKEaI
I've already covered Kevin so let's move on to Jess. I love this song and happy to dance to it at all major events even though technically it's a Kirchen family song: http://youtu.be/BWP-AsG5DRk
Young Carson? What else? Little Einsteins. http://youtu.be/-utKYYXVT7I Start the countdown! Joey became legendary at Kendra & Brent's wedding for his "Moosh Moosh" it or as we know it as "Move It" from Madagascar. Abby seems to have a lot of favorites. I'm really looking forward to us finding a girl dance song at Aunt Allie's wedding.
Jack, the soon to be newest member of the family, is on his way to Bonnaroo. It may not be his favorite place because he likes a lot of music but I have recently learned it has a channel of its own. http://www.youtube.com/bonnaroo365
Allie and I have gone to so many concerts together. Paul Simon, Dave Matthews, BNL, OSP's Block Party events and so many more. However we share a strong LOVE of 80s music. I taught her well. Here is a little Depeche Mode flashback: http://youtu.be/_6FBfAQ-NDE
For my friends...
Ellen introduced me to Jackopierce and I have loved them ever since. Find their cover of "Please Come To Boston" on itunes.
Heidi and I went to Europe in 1987 in the thick of the British Imports. I'd have to say "Midnight" by Yaz or anything by U2 off the "Between These Crowded Streets" CD (then album!)
Julie? She introduced me to Alison Krauss and she has been a true favorite ever since. Such talent from her and her band. "When You Say Nothing At All" is awesome but also is her version of "Oh Atlanta."
The original Florida girl, Jo, is a long time Jimmy Buffett fan. My Dad loves "Cheeseburger in Paradise" but I thought we might always dance to "Little Miss Magic." A couple other favorites include "Love & Luck" and "Come Monday."
Heather and I only agreed on two musical groups back in college and one of them is James Taylor. We saw him outside Boston at a venue I'm sure has been renamed several times since the early 90s. He is still a joy every time I see him. Too many songs to know what might be my favorite. But if you see him live, hope he sings "Fire and Rain" and also any of his blues songs. He is a talented musician.
Crazy Sue? Who else but Big Head Todd. I was really happy when he played the Block Party. I hope she kept the autograph I got her. I love "Resignation Superman" live.
The Old St. Pat's Block Party years. So many great bands over the years. The year after the hoopla with the Counting Crows, we brought the Tragically Hip. Although my favorite song is still "Let's Stay Engaged" many people know "Ahead by a Century" best: http://youtu.be/QE2joQsWXJg.
Finally, what is the BEST song in the world? What do you think? One Word: Bo. http://youtu.be/PlS3twJWYSc
At NPR Music is Remembering Mom & Dad's Record Collection. Very cool. http://www.npr.org/2012/06/05/154152434/remembering-mom-and-dads-record-collection?ps=cprs
What other music has real memories for me?
I have been to so many concerts because I really love live music. My first concert (alone) was Huey Lewis and the News. I had to take my brother and it was at Lamar Park. I was in the 8th grade and he was...not. Embarrassing, well for me. Years later we were partners at so many other concerts. I'm a lucky girl. I was able to really take it up a notch from 1982. I've seen a lot of bands more than once I'm lucky to say. A few that I really have enjoyed include the Dave Matthews Band, U2, Rolling Stones, Jimmy Buffett, Mighty Blue Kings, Erasure, Depeche Mode, New Order, Chicago, Sarah McLachlan, Yes, John Mellancamp and Bruce Springsteen.
What do I like to listen to now...well if I am stressed, always the Brandenburg Concertos. Alison Krauss, Dido and anything Irish. I have some cheesy dance music for working out, "Eye of the Tiger" when I need to press through the day, something new and fun from Edward Sharpe and Magnetic Zeroes called "Home" (thanks Ellen & Kate), Ingrid Michaelson, Feist, Cake, Adele and the Talking Heads.
The most notorious concert? The LAST Grateful Dead show. I stood in line to get a bracelet so I could wear it for like 4 days to work and I couldn't get Saturday tickets at Soldier Field so I got Sunday tickets. Kevin, Jim, Ellen and I went. I really wanted to just feed everyone's dogs. Instead we had a few cocktails and enjoyed the show. Here's the set: http://www.dead.net/show/july-9-1995. And as we learned later, the last concert they would perform with JG at the helm.
Missy and I stood in line for tickets to Eric Clapton, the first time in Saratoga Springs, NY. Years later we saw his Blues Tour in LA. We totally graduated--lawn to seats. Woo hoo.
I also got to do a small private showing for charity in Chicago with the Barenaked Ladies. Tony Amonte was also there. It was double awesome. Only about 50 of us and it was a real treat.
I saw Sting with some friends outside of Boston and again with the Police during a reunion tour in Boston with my friend David. I love them. Would see them again and again. I love Sting's version of "Gabriel's Message" and the Spanish language album he did which included "Fragilidad."
I have a whole list of songs on Spotify that I call "over and over" which are a few that I love to listen to, literally, over and over.
Well, long before it was usurped by political parties, the Lyons Clan's fav song is "Don't Stop Believing" by Journey. Only the strong survive in a bar in Hell's Kitchen late into the night trying to bribe the DJ to play it while we sing to the monkey.
Ok mom's side. We'll start with Grandma Krzeminski. Who other than the Polish Prince? Bobby Vinton: http://youtu.be/5E6sS21Xirs singing Moja Droga. Always a favorite at weddings and Pulaski Days (first weekend in October, Grand Rapids, MI.)
Mom always reminds me of Doris Day...all the music, movies and plain upbeat attitude. Que Sera! This isn't from the actual movie but a nice montage nonetheless. http://youtu.be/xZbKHDPPrrc.
Dad? Besides the fact that he LOVES the Pointer Sisters, and yes, the whole family went to the concert. Twice. He told me once that when he wants to drive fast, he listens to Genesis. Oh Phil lovers here's a live one for you: http://youtu.be/cK3N2DC3Fds
And two for the price of one, dedicated to the man who taught us all about Motown, http://youtu.be/xHstlUiEaos. A true musical education-- Four Tops, Temptations and so many more.
OK--dedicated to my brother. Easy Lover by Phil Collins and Philip Bailey. What else? http://youtu.be/E1WYimAC7wo. Give Kev a few beers and watch him dance. Of course we're right there with him.
Kendra? The millions of songs and what would I choose? Canadians of course! www.youtube.com/watch?v=5zYpqQW8CwI. Watch BNL live!
Her sweet husband? Oh Brent introduced us to a whole other genre. After a half time show, this became Denny's fav too. Ha ha! Just one of his many dudes, Pitbull. http://youtu.be/EPo5wWmKEaI
I've already covered Kevin so let's move on to Jess. I love this song and happy to dance to it at all major events even though technically it's a Kirchen family song: http://youtu.be/BWP-AsG5DRk
Young Carson? What else? Little Einsteins. http://youtu.be/-utKYYXVT7I Start the countdown! Joey became legendary at Kendra & Brent's wedding for his "Moosh Moosh" it or as we know it as "Move It" from Madagascar. Abby seems to have a lot of favorites. I'm really looking forward to us finding a girl dance song at Aunt Allie's wedding.
Jack, the soon to be newest member of the family, is on his way to Bonnaroo. It may not be his favorite place because he likes a lot of music but I have recently learned it has a channel of its own. http://www.youtube.com/bonnaroo365
Allie and I have gone to so many concerts together. Paul Simon, Dave Matthews, BNL, OSP's Block Party events and so many more. However we share a strong LOVE of 80s music. I taught her well. Here is a little Depeche Mode flashback: http://youtu.be/_6FBfAQ-NDE
For my friends...
Ellen introduced me to Jackopierce and I have loved them ever since. Find their cover of "Please Come To Boston" on itunes.
Heidi and I went to Europe in 1987 in the thick of the British Imports. I'd have to say "Midnight" by Yaz or anything by U2 off the "Between These Crowded Streets" CD (then album!)
Julie? She introduced me to Alison Krauss and she has been a true favorite ever since. Such talent from her and her band. "When You Say Nothing At All" is awesome but also is her version of "Oh Atlanta."
The original Florida girl, Jo, is a long time Jimmy Buffett fan. My Dad loves "Cheeseburger in Paradise" but I thought we might always dance to "Little Miss Magic." A couple other favorites include "Love & Luck" and "Come Monday."
Heather and I only agreed on two musical groups back in college and one of them is James Taylor. We saw him outside Boston at a venue I'm sure has been renamed several times since the early 90s. He is still a joy every time I see him. Too many songs to know what might be my favorite. But if you see him live, hope he sings "Fire and Rain" and also any of his blues songs. He is a talented musician.
Crazy Sue? Who else but Big Head Todd. I was really happy when he played the Block Party. I hope she kept the autograph I got her. I love "Resignation Superman" live.
The Old St. Pat's Block Party years. So many great bands over the years. The year after the hoopla with the Counting Crows, we brought the Tragically Hip. Although my favorite song is still "Let's Stay Engaged" many people know "Ahead by a Century" best: http://youtu.be/QE2joQsWXJg.
Finally, what is the BEST song in the world? What do you think? One Word: Bo. http://youtu.be/PlS3twJWYSc
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