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Friday, January 28, 2011
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Book Club
Since Christmas I've read the following:
Born Standing Up, by Steve Martin
True Grit, by Charles Portis
The Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother, by Amy Chua
The Lover's Dictionary, by David Levithan
Flights of Love, by Bernhard Schlink
Water for Elephants, by Sarah Gruen
I'm now deciding between either An Object of Beauty, also by Steve Martin or The Year of Magical Thinking by Joan Didion. Thoughts?
As for the books I've read, I actually have enjoyed them all (and I think that's what has successfully kept me on this little reading kick...)
Born Standing Up was great. It was light... An easy and enjoyable read.
True Grit? Fabulous. Just like the movie, but indeed, i liked it better than the movie. The characternof Mattie Ross comes off even better in print and the dialogue is fantastic.
The Battle Hymn? Chua definitely has issues, but she does try to tell her story with humor. It was a fascinating look into just what can happen when drive and perfectionism can take over a life (and one's children's lives...)
The Lover's Dictionary was inventive and perfect for those with ADD, as the entire story is told through dictionary entries.
Flights of Love? I had wanted to read this after watching the Liam Neeson, Laura Linney, Antonio Banderas film, "The Other Man" (recommended by the Mom). The movie was based on one of the short stories from this book. I enjoy Schlink's writing and i like reading about his German settings.
Water for Elephants? Good story, interesting characters-- looking forward toseeing Christoph Waltz' take on the schizophrenic August when the film version opens later this year. I will say, though, the part I liked the most, was the epilogue wherein Gruen tells of her inspiration and research fornthe book. It was great insight into the writer's craft. Turns out while, writing what you know is still always true, you can supplement "what you know" through research. ;)
What books have you been reading?
Born Standing Up, by Steve Martin
True Grit, by Charles Portis
The Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother, by Amy Chua
The Lover's Dictionary, by David Levithan
Flights of Love, by Bernhard Schlink
Water for Elephants, by Sarah Gruen
I'm now deciding between either An Object of Beauty, also by Steve Martin or The Year of Magical Thinking by Joan Didion. Thoughts?
As for the books I've read, I actually have enjoyed them all (and I think that's what has successfully kept me on this little reading kick...)
Born Standing Up was great. It was light... An easy and enjoyable read.
True Grit? Fabulous. Just like the movie, but indeed, i liked it better than the movie. The characternof Mattie Ross comes off even better in print and the dialogue is fantastic.
The Battle Hymn? Chua definitely has issues, but she does try to tell her story with humor. It was a fascinating look into just what can happen when drive and perfectionism can take over a life (and one's children's lives...)
The Lover's Dictionary was inventive and perfect for those with ADD, as the entire story is told through dictionary entries.
Flights of Love? I had wanted to read this after watching the Liam Neeson, Laura Linney, Antonio Banderas film, "The Other Man" (recommended by the Mom). The movie was based on one of the short stories from this book. I enjoy Schlink's writing and i like reading about his German settings.
Water for Elephants? Good story, interesting characters-- looking forward toseeing Christoph Waltz' take on the schizophrenic August when the film version opens later this year. I will say, though, the part I liked the most, was the epilogue wherein Gruen tells of her inspiration and research fornthe book. It was great insight into the writer's craft. Turns out while, writing what you know is still always true, you can supplement "what you know" through research. ;)
What books have you been reading?
Dance Me to the End of Love
The other day I was at, of all places, the Cheesecake Factory, and I heard Madeline Peyroux's version of Leonard Cohen's Dance Me to the End of Love. I'd always thought it was a haunting and beautiful song. I had first heard it years ago and I had actually bought the otherwise pretty dreadful soundtrack to the (also pretty dreadful) film "Strange Days" just because of Kate Gibson's version used in the movie.
So, when I heard the song at the restaurant I knew I had to go home, unearth my old cd and add it to my iPod. So I did and I also downloaded the MP version as well. I had never known that the song was inspired by the Holocaust. Have to say, that kind of makes it even more of a downer!
So, when I heard the song at the restaurant I knew I had to go home, unearth my old cd and add it to my iPod. So I did and I also downloaded the MP version as well. I had never known that the song was inspired by the Holocaust. Have to say, that kind of makes it even more of a downer!
Monday, January 24, 2011
Multitasking
Early this morning (around 2:30am) when my daughter cried for me to come into her room, I doubt she anticipated that when joining her I would bring my iPad and enlist her in finalizing my order for invitations for a friend's baby shower.
Yup, little Miss wanted some snuggly company as she is lately not enjoying sleeping by herself, so I figured nothing will more than likely put a child to sleep than having them act as an invitation proofreader.
Yup, little Miss wanted some snuggly company as she is lately not enjoying sleeping by herself, so I figured nothing will more than likely put a child to sleep than having them act as an invitation proofreader.
Friday, January 21, 2011
Ceelo and Gwyneth
I enjoyed Gwyneth's stint on Glee. Her "Forget You" version of Ceelo's "F___ You" is catchy in that typical Glee way. I like it.
But I like the original even more.
One more musical side note. I hadn't heard La Roux's Bulletproof until she performed on Dick Clark's Rockin' New Year's Eve with Ryan Seacrest (that's a fricking mouthful). You may recall, I don't listen to the radio, save WNYC.
Anyway, when I first heard the song I was convinced it was some sort of redo of an '80's song. Wasn't crazy about it. Then, today I heard it at H&M and had to download it. Yes, when it comes to being a music consumer I'm as imprintable as a baby duck.
But I like the original even more.
One more musical side note. I hadn't heard La Roux's Bulletproof until she performed on Dick Clark's Rockin' New Year's Eve with Ryan Seacrest (that's a fricking mouthful). You may recall, I don't listen to the radio, save WNYC.
Anyway, when I first heard the song I was convinced it was some sort of redo of an '80's song. Wasn't crazy about it. Then, today I heard it at H&M and had to download it. Yes, when it comes to being a music consumer I'm as imprintable as a baby duck.
Thursday, January 20, 2011
From the You've Got To Be Kidding Files
So I post to my Facebook status a reference to a song. Yes, I'm one of "those" people. I do this often. Either a lyric, or a song. I spend a lot of time listening to my iPod in the car and it just seems fitting.
I post a reference to a Pearl Jam song, one of those typical angsty '90s songs that was popular in high school. It had been on in the car and fit my mood, so why not. (It is, after all, my favorite Pearl Jam song), notwithstanding the bit at the end that gets repetitive and kind of grating, but whatever.
A friend from High School sees this and posts that the song always reminds him of pining away for someone in high school.
I respond by agreeing, wholeheartedly. It's just that kind of song.
We go back and forth and he, bravely, reveals who his high school crush was-- a lovely girl, who I never knew he liked, even though, during high school we were pretty good friends. He asks me to do the same, citing the passage of time.
I say, sorry, but no cigar. After all these years nobody needs an ego boost, especially since I'm not pining, I just happened to hear the song, though it does remind me of pining. You see, for me, the song wasn't just a soundtrack for longing, but was actually playing, in the car on a so-called "date" with a particular person.
Who I am friends with on Facebook, who I wish to remain nameless.
Until that guy posts a comment.
Schmuck.
So I respond also, saying nothing specific, but implicating two friends.
One of which I have now reached out to, asking, (okay, begging) to throw out the name of another High School crush guy.
And suddenly, at age 35, I'm not only reminded of high school, but find myself back in it.
Thanks, Mark Zuckerberg. Thanks so much. ;)
I post a reference to a Pearl Jam song, one of those typical angsty '90s songs that was popular in high school. It had been on in the car and fit my mood, so why not. (It is, after all, my favorite Pearl Jam song), notwithstanding the bit at the end that gets repetitive and kind of grating, but whatever.
A friend from High School sees this and posts that the song always reminds him of pining away for someone in high school.
I respond by agreeing, wholeheartedly. It's just that kind of song.
We go back and forth and he, bravely, reveals who his high school crush was-- a lovely girl, who I never knew he liked, even though, during high school we were pretty good friends. He asks me to do the same, citing the passage of time.
I say, sorry, but no cigar. After all these years nobody needs an ego boost, especially since I'm not pining, I just happened to hear the song, though it does remind me of pining. You see, for me, the song wasn't just a soundtrack for longing, but was actually playing, in the car on a so-called "date" with a particular person.
Who I am friends with on Facebook, who I wish to remain nameless.
Until that guy posts a comment.
Schmuck.
So I respond also, saying nothing specific, but implicating two friends.
One of which I have now reached out to, asking, (okay, begging) to throw out the name of another High School crush guy.
And suddenly, at age 35, I'm not only reminded of high school, but find myself back in it.
Thanks, Mark Zuckerberg. Thanks so much. ;)
Sunday, January 16, 2011
$5.00 Deals
So I know this won't be a big deal for most of you, but I have been pretty excited lately by the $5.00 deals I've recently found...
Take for instance, my venture to the East Village with Thisbe where I managed to dig up a Marc Jacobs 100% silk dress for $5.00 at Cadillac's Castle. We're not talking Marc by Marc Jacobs, this is actual Marc Jacobs... It was turned inside out and kind of balled up in the middle of one of the cardboard boxes filled with crap that was all "$5.00". It's lavender silk, fully lined and has pockets! It has an empire waist and an a-line skirt and matches my lavender suede Manolo Blahniks perfectly! I had it dry cleaned and it looks fab, I just have to take it to my tailor and have it shortened a bit because for now it is kind of that awkward length where it's hitting mid-calf... But that's what you get when you're five feet tall.
Next: TSE cashmere skirt for $5.00 at the Second Chance Thrift store in Peapack. It's burgundy, super soft and just damn comfy.
But the kicker has to be the vintage Yves Saint Laurent Rive Gauche wool pants I found for $1.00, also in Peapack. You just can't beat vintage couture for $1.00!
Take for instance, my venture to the East Village with Thisbe where I managed to dig up a Marc Jacobs 100% silk dress for $5.00 at Cadillac's Castle. We're not talking Marc by Marc Jacobs, this is actual Marc Jacobs... It was turned inside out and kind of balled up in the middle of one of the cardboard boxes filled with crap that was all "$5.00". It's lavender silk, fully lined and has pockets! It has an empire waist and an a-line skirt and matches my lavender suede Manolo Blahniks perfectly! I had it dry cleaned and it looks fab, I just have to take it to my tailor and have it shortened a bit because for now it is kind of that awkward length where it's hitting mid-calf... But that's what you get when you're five feet tall.
Next: TSE cashmere skirt for $5.00 at the Second Chance Thrift store in Peapack. It's burgundy, super soft and just damn comfy.
But the kicker has to be the vintage Yves Saint Laurent Rive Gauche wool pants I found for $1.00, also in Peapack. You just can't beat vintage couture for $1.00!
Monday, January 10, 2011
Wowzer
I'm falling behind. So, long time, no posts. Thanks for sticking with me, my fearless readers.
What's been going on?
Well, for starters, I've seen a lot of movies. Let's do the run down:
Tangled (since it's animated, I don't know if this really should count.... But I will say, I was pleasantly surprised. It was classic Disney. And, since I love Zachary Levi, it was fun that he did voice work for it).
Tron (let's not even discuss) Way too much Jeff Bridges. I know a lot of people think of Jeff Bridges as "The Dude" from The Big Lebowski, but I will always think of Jeff as Starman. I will say, however, that I really felt bad after the fact when I gave my review of the movie to Mallory, the fabric girl at Jo-Ann, who seemed genuinely disappointed that I didn't have anything positive to say about it. Sorry to disappoint, Mallory-- I hope you went ahead and saw it and made your own decision!
The Tourist (did I see ANY movies that didn't start with the letter "T"?) Okay, this one I really liked. It was fluff and it wasn't necessarily as good as Anthony Zimmer, but it had great scenery, a good story and everyone in it was entertaining. Now matter what you may think of Angelina Jolie, the woman is beautiful and incredibly classy. I would kill for her wardrobe in that movie. Johnny Depp, unfortunately, looked a bit more disheveled than normal, but we'll cut him slack since he is, Johnny Depp. Even Paul Bettany was good. Rent it. Its pure escapist fun.
The King's Speech: So clearly telling the story of a King who stutters is not nearly as important as let's say, Schindler's List or Nelson Mandela's life story or something, but it was a well done film. Once again showing solidarity amongst the English film community, utilizing 75% of all working British actors (aka, they shot this during breaks in filming Harry Potter 17), it was a typical well shot period piece. I can totally see Colin Firth potentially bringing home the Oscar for this one.
Black Swan: For the men out there: Lesbian scene or not, save your money. This was B film schlock without any real suspense. I'm a fan of Natalie Portman (especially since the Husband, Sausen and 410e9th and I once brunched at Sarabeth's at the same time as Ms. P) but this was not great.
Gulliver's Travels: Really? The best part was the chicken fingers and French fries that I was able to get from the snack bar.
Video:
A-Team: It was goofy, fun and entertaining. Rent it.
Easy A: Love Patricia Clarkson and Stanley Tucci as Emma Stone's parents and the had a few funny lines, but it wasn't earth shattering. I preferred She's Out of My League for a flick in a similar vein.
The Town: I really enjoyed this. Affleck was surprisingly good. Jeremy Renner was great. Nice to see Jon Hamm in a movie and out of Don Draper's 60's garb and Rebecca Hall was good too.
The American: Clooney: I know you want to employ large portions of the Italian film industry while simultaneously interviewing new prospective girlfriends, but please, do so with a decent script. Sadly, showing your naked butt is not sufficient replacement for a plot. Nice try, though.
Wall Street 2: Wow. Not my favorite Oliver Stone movie. Some of the fade in and scene splits were hokey. Poor Michael Douglas-- not looking great. Shia LeBoeuf.....? Carey Mulligan....? I will say, it was more entertaining than The American and the cameo by Charlie Sheen brought into perspective just how crazy he is. Josh Brolin: do we have any thoughts? I liked him in W. I'm interested to see how he does in True Grit. Hmpf.
So, that's about it for now.
What have you been up to?
What's been going on?
Well, for starters, I've seen a lot of movies. Let's do the run down:
Tangled (since it's animated, I don't know if this really should count.... But I will say, I was pleasantly surprised. It was classic Disney. And, since I love Zachary Levi, it was fun that he did voice work for it).
Tron (let's not even discuss) Way too much Jeff Bridges. I know a lot of people think of Jeff Bridges as "The Dude" from The Big Lebowski, but I will always think of Jeff as Starman. I will say, however, that I really felt bad after the fact when I gave my review of the movie to Mallory, the fabric girl at Jo-Ann, who seemed genuinely disappointed that I didn't have anything positive to say about it. Sorry to disappoint, Mallory-- I hope you went ahead and saw it and made your own decision!
The Tourist (did I see ANY movies that didn't start with the letter "T"?) Okay, this one I really liked. It was fluff and it wasn't necessarily as good as Anthony Zimmer, but it had great scenery, a good story and everyone in it was entertaining. Now matter what you may think of Angelina Jolie, the woman is beautiful and incredibly classy. I would kill for her wardrobe in that movie. Johnny Depp, unfortunately, looked a bit more disheveled than normal, but we'll cut him slack since he is, Johnny Depp. Even Paul Bettany was good. Rent it. Its pure escapist fun.
The King's Speech: So clearly telling the story of a King who stutters is not nearly as important as let's say, Schindler's List or Nelson Mandela's life story or something, but it was a well done film. Once again showing solidarity amongst the English film community, utilizing 75% of all working British actors (aka, they shot this during breaks in filming Harry Potter 17), it was a typical well shot period piece. I can totally see Colin Firth potentially bringing home the Oscar for this one.
Black Swan: For the men out there: Lesbian scene or not, save your money. This was B film schlock without any real suspense. I'm a fan of Natalie Portman (especially since the Husband, Sausen and 410e9th and I once brunched at Sarabeth's at the same time as Ms. P) but this was not great.
Gulliver's Travels: Really? The best part was the chicken fingers and French fries that I was able to get from the snack bar.
Video:
A-Team: It was goofy, fun and entertaining. Rent it.
Easy A: Love Patricia Clarkson and Stanley Tucci as Emma Stone's parents and the had a few funny lines, but it wasn't earth shattering. I preferred She's Out of My League for a flick in a similar vein.
The Town: I really enjoyed this. Affleck was surprisingly good. Jeremy Renner was great. Nice to see Jon Hamm in a movie and out of Don Draper's 60's garb and Rebecca Hall was good too.
The American: Clooney: I know you want to employ large portions of the Italian film industry while simultaneously interviewing new prospective girlfriends, but please, do so with a decent script. Sadly, showing your naked butt is not sufficient replacement for a plot. Nice try, though.
Wall Street 2: Wow. Not my favorite Oliver Stone movie. Some of the fade in and scene splits were hokey. Poor Michael Douglas-- not looking great. Shia LeBoeuf.....? Carey Mulligan....? I will say, it was more entertaining than The American and the cameo by Charlie Sheen brought into perspective just how crazy he is. Josh Brolin: do we have any thoughts? I liked him in W. I'm interested to see how he does in True Grit. Hmpf.
So, that's about it for now.
What have you been up to?
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