Number #13
I know people say it all the time, but it seems like Christmas was just yesterday and yet forever ago. I honestly can’t believe January is almost over. It has been one cold month, and Nigel and I have spent most of it inside, keeping warm. You’ll be able to tell that from all the television we’ve watched. But, the days are getting longer which is always a good sign, right? If you’re new to the blog, this is my monthly recap with a few opinions thrown in. Those opinions are the “for what it’s worth” part of this! I’m also throwing a link party so please link up your favorite posts. Don’t have a blog? Don’t worry! You might find a new blog or two!
What I’ve been reading…
Both of the books by E Lockhart were riveting! I read We Were Liars first which was the first book written. I don’t think it matters which you read first, though. It’s rare for me to read a book that quickly anymore. Luckily, the sequel which is really a prequel was available for me to read. Don’t you hate it when you’re reading a series, and there’s a time lapse between? I forget characters and plot lines so easily. But, let me tell you, these two books are definitely worth reading! And, of course, I read more of the Armand Gamache series by Louise Penny. I’m reading these completely out of order. It doesn’t necessarily give anything away, but it can be a little confusing when a character’s plot line is going a certain way. I really don’t care as they are such good books though I definitely wouldn’t want to live in Three Pines! Someone is always getting murdered there.
What I’ve been watching…
I know this is a lot of watching, right? But, my excuse is the weather. It was too cold to do much of anything but sit inside and read, crochet, or watch tv! I’m sharing these in no particular order. We watched “Last Tango in Halifax” during the days. I love Derek Jacobi, and he was a treat on this show. I honestly didn’t care for his character’s wife, though. What a terribly self-centered person she was. We watched the entire series. We also watched the current season of “The Gilded Age.” It was OK. The fashion is gorgeous, and it’s a fun peek into a different kind of life. But, I think Christine Baranski is completely wasted on this show. I think her gift is the dry sarcastic wit. None of that in this show.
A little more…
The black and white photo is from “Bombshell: The Hedy Lamarr Story.” I’m not sure why the title isn’t showing. We watched this because Nigel is intrigued by all things electrical and mechanical. And, he doesn’t mind seeing a beautiful woman. Ultimately, this documentary left me feeling sad. Lamarr’s story is fascinating. She invented frequency hopping which was instrumental in the development of weaponry. She is known as the “Mother of Wi-Fi!” Lamarr also underwent several procedures in plastic surgery, some of which she designed herself. I think she fell victim to the same thing as Michael Jackson…not knowing when to stop. In her later years, she became a recluse. “Natalia Speaks” is the second season of the Natalia Grace series. This is such a weird, weird show. What makes it even weirder is it happened in Westfield and Lafayette, both of which are less than an hour from us. And, our sons both worked for Michael Barnett. It ended with me still not knowing exactly what to believe.
Still more…
We just watch strange television, my friends! We also watched “Nine Perfect Strangers” which is a limited run series. I usually love Nicole Kidman, but her character was really out there. And, I kept trying to figure out what was so weird about her face…I know, I know…some of it is due to cosmetic procedures. In the end, I think I liked the show, but it was different. Then, there is “A Murder at the End of the World.” It took me a bit to realize the main character played Diana on “The Crown.” I think it’s a bit of a modern take on “2001: A Space Odyssey.” We just started “The Brothers Sun.” I love Michelle Yeoh, but I’m not sure what I think of this show. One thing I do know is I’d rather there was a lot less martial arts and a whole lot more delving into characters and plot. I also don’t really care how they keep switching from English to Mandarin (with subtitles) at the drop of a hat. I don’t mind subtitles, but there is no pattern here to when they do it. Sometimes, the characters switch in the middle of a conversation. I know many will say that’s to convey that Eileen has one foot in Taiwan and the other in Los Angeles. I get that. It’s still wonderful to see a beautiful actor of a certain age anchoring a show aimed at a younger audience.
The best for last…
OK, I had never heard of Timothée Chalamet before this past holiday season. Then, all of a sudden, he was all over my tv screen for Bleu de Chanel. I was mesmerized by the commercial and his eyes…oh, my stars…that young man’s eyes! I feel a bit of a creeper for saying that, but he is so very handsome. I also didn’t realize he had been cast as Willie Wonka in the new movie, “Wonka.” Nigel knows I have a very soft spot for the book, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, as well as loving the Gene Wilder version. He readily agreed, therefore, to go see the movie. If you want to read a more in depth review (by me), you can read it here. Go see this movie, my friends! Grab some M & Ms and put them in your popcorn. You’ll thank me for that one later.
What I’ve been working on…
I actually finished two scraphgans and gave them away. One of them was a C2C which was supposed to turn out as a square. It was still a quadrilateral but more a trapezoid than anything. I foisted gave that to my oldest to do with what he wanted. The other I gave to my hairstylist. The more colorful of the two I’m showing (I forgot to snap photos of the others before giving them away) will be a raffle item at the mini retreat I’m doing. I’m not sure what will happen to the second one. The house is back to “normal” which is OK for a while. I don’t know that I would have put that tablecloth on the table, but Nigel said he liked how bright it was. Lowe’s had these bamboo plants on clearance. Bamboo is one plant I don’t murder in the short term! I’m not sure if they’ll stay there or not. The last photo just makes me happy. My gaze always falls on it when I’m doing my yoga poses. I don’t murder those plants, either (I just dust them). I’m not sure if this is more what I’ve been doing than what I’ve been working on. I recently joined the curators of the Style Imitating Art challenge, and I’m looking forward (a bit hesitantly) to my first selection.
What I’ve been buying…
Well, I started tracking my spending. I haven’t been doing a very good job at keeping up to date, though. I’m still trying to decide if I’m going to include groceries and dining out or not. But, I have spent very little money this year on clothing! Gudrun Sjödén had a huge sale so I’ve bought several things. I’ve only kept two dresses and two scarves. Right now, there are some real bargains, but many are final sale. And, that is all I’ve bought. They total less than $150.
Where I’m going…
I’m not going to jinx this, but I’m making some plans for a wonderful trip. Unfortunately, it won’t be with Nigel. I truly fear his days of traveling “across the pond” are over. He just doesn’t want the risk. I, on the other hand, want so badly to see Paris, Rome, and so many other places. Is that selfish? I’m hoping this “Journey” will happen late this summer.
What I’ve been wearing…
Wrap it up, Marsha!
It’s been a month, hasn’t it? You have to almost feel sorry for January. I mean, coming after all those holidays in November and December can’t be easy! At this stage of the game, I’m not wishing any months away. Each and every moment is to be savored as often as I can remember to do that. I set some goals for not just January but for the entire year. So far, I’m hitting them! So, can we talk? How was your month? Did it race past you, or did it take its sweet time? What movies, shows, or series did you watch and would recommend? Are you on a spending freeze/diet? Please leave me a comment or two, and we can talk. I do respond as quickly as possible.
Thank you!
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Where you can find me:
Linking up with Nancy’s Fashion Style, Fine-Whatever, Is This Mutton, Shelbee on the Edge, Chez Mireile, The Grey Brunette, and Away from the Blue as well as Deb’s World and A Fresh Cup of Coffee. I also link up with This Blonde’s Shopping Bag, Doused in Pink, I do deClaire, Mummabstylish, and Style Splash. Please check out these wonderful ladies and their blogs! I also am a co-host for Ageless Style on the third Thursday of the month and Songful Style on the last Monday of the month. I co-host Traffic Jam Weekend every Thursday with Melynda, Lisa, and Sue. I also host Final Fridays on the last Friday of the month as well as 10 on the 10th on the 10th of the month! I do hope you’ll check out all of these blogs and link parties!
Featured favorites from last month…
And, now, it’s your turn!
Please link up your favorite posts, DIY, baking, gardening, fashion…you name it…as long as it’s family friendly! Link up with me, visit a couple of others, and leave a comment or two! No worries if you don’t have a blog, just look around! You may find a new blog just waiting for you!
I used to love winter but not anymore as I don’t know about the States but here in the UK it’s the season of damp cold weather with many bugs and viruses with the main one being a ‘100 day cough’ which I had/have! But hey the days are getting longer and the daffodils and other bulbs are beginning to show through the soil so things are getting better.
We have watched a lot of television too, and two series you will be able to get in the States are the latest True Detective with Jodie Foster, also saw the film Nyad which has Jodie Foster again, both are great. And then I’m just about to start watching Masters of theAir, and wow, I think, that will be very good,
Thanks for the book recommendations and like you I am hardly spending any money on clothes. Anyway, I feel, bye, bye January, you won’t be missed!
Well, we used to have a cold, snowy winter. Actually, I shouldn’t say much about where we live now as we’ve only been here for seven or eight winters. Up north (about 2.5 hours) where we used to live, they are still getting heavy snows. That is more because of lake effects. The days are definitely getting longer. Some of my bulbs were poking through before Christmas. I haven’t checked them lately. If our warm weather continues, I’m sure they’ll be popping up. Then, they’ll be frosted when the weather cools again.
I did see both of those shows, but we haven’t watched them yet. We are currently watching The Brothers Sun. The verdict is still out on that one, though.
I hope, if you read any of these books, you’ll let me know what you think.
Thanks, Penny!
I need to watch Last tango in Halifax! Two fabulous actrices. And we haven’t been out too, it’s bloody cold. I really hope spring starts very early this year. But February is also a very cold month here. Well let’s first enjoy the weekend right?
Oh, yes, give Last Tango a try. It’s a bit of a slow go at first, but I enjoyed it. February is usually the coldest around here, too. But, who knows anymore!
Thanks, Nancy, for coming by!
January has FLOWN BY! I’ve been enjoying the unseasonably warm weather in St Paul lately, which is expected to continue next week as well. I just started watching the Netflix show The Lincoln Lawyer and am liking it a lot.
Oh, The Lincoln Lawyer is sooooo good! I am hoping there’s another season or three of it! We have had so much rain this past week…imagine if it were snow! But, it feels even more cold with all the damp. I think I’d rather it was a bit colder and snow than warmer and rain.
Thanks, Sally, for stopping by!
I enjoy the Liar’s series too and have watched the latest Gilded Age season. I love seeing the fashions but didn’t enjoy the storylines nearly as much this season (though I did read a historical fiction book about the bridge and the wife that took over when her husband got ill and I enjoyed seeing that tied in).
Thanks, Joanne! It’s interesting you felt the same way as I did about The Gilded Age. It just seemed a little forced. I will have to look for that book…there can’t be that many!
I can’t wait until we can sit and watch tv for hours, LOL. But we do sit almost every evening for a half hour just to decompress because as you know packing is exhausting.
XOXO
Jodie
Hahaha!!! Actually, for the last two moves, I had several weeks to do it. The last time, I had from March to August, but unpacking was even worse as I tried to cram 4000 sf into less than 2000!
Thanks, Jodie!
Hi Marsha we are sweltering here in Australia and it will be 37C today. Thanks so much for the feature of my post for my WOTY. January has certainly flown by but you’ve done quite a bit. Perhaps you would like to join us 3rd Friday of each month for our What’s On Your Bookshelf? You would be more than welcome. Take care and Spring is on the way!
Oh, my goodness, Sue! That is hot! I just wilt in weather like that. I am surprised at how fast every month goes by, it seems! My mom warned me of that. I will try to link up with you, but I don’t write a bookshelf post.
Thanks, Sue!
Hi Marsha, just popping back to say thanks for sharing at What’s Been On Your Calendar?. Have a lovely week. x
Thanks for the link up, Sue!
I agree with you on Natalia Speaks: Weird!
Thanks! It is so completely off the wall! I am sure that last episode was setting it up for a season three. I do wonder if this would be the season the wife/mom finally talks.
It is absolutely not selfish to plan your trip! If Nigel has the desire, direct flights and staying in one place might make it easier on him? If he really is fine to stay home, find a girlfriend, a granddaughter, anyone and just do it. You won’t regret it! And, that is why I tracked my spending. Did I want odds and ends that I end up donating or a trip? Also, I have wrapped my head around the fact that a week to 8 days can be enough. Sometimes people think it must be longer but longer means more nights’ lodging, etc. My friend did a really nice trip with Paris and London and they did the train between the two cities. That’s all they really did and it was a great trip!
Thanks, Amy! I really do wish his health was better because we are such good traveling pals! I do have a friend with whom I’m planning to travel. We retired years ago, and I just thought our retirement years would be a little different, you know! Tracking my spending has been such a curb on actually spending. I just don’t want to put anything in that spreadsheet!
Hi, Marsha – Thank you for linking up with us at #WBOYC. I am impressed with all that you have been reading, watching, writing, making and doing in January. I agree that Timothee Chalamet is a great actor. He is in tons of current films. I have watched him in Dune and Little Women. I highly recommend both. He also seems to have a fun off-screen personality showcased briefly here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yVOBAgV6gXA.
Wishing you a wonderful February ahead.
Thank you, Donna, for hosting the #WBOYC! I haven’t seen either of those films so I’ll have to look for them. It’s funny Saoirse Ronan even mentioned his eyes in the clip you shared! I hope your February is wonderful as well!
Hi, Marsha – I’m glad that you liked the clip,. I thought that it gave a great snapshot of the actor. <3
I don’t think traveling alone is selfish if you are both ok with it! I was engaged to my hubby when I studied abroad for a semester in college. You’ve been busy lately! I want to see that Natalia Grace doc. It looks interesting!
Thanks, Laura! I am seriously considering a solo trip to London later this year as well as another trip with a friend. Oh, that Natalia Grace doc is bizarre! If you watch it, you’ll have to let me know what you think!
Wow I truly hope your big trip come off for you Marsha! So exciting! I didn’t like the book Nine Perfect strangers but watched the show and thought it was OK but I agree with your comment about Nicole’s visage. You’ve ha d big month of reading and watching and not shopping, well done :). Thanks for joining us for #WBOYC
Thanks, Debbie! I’m quite hopeful that it will. It’s the planning that makes me a little nervous. I always thought about reading that book but never got around to it. I’m not sure if I will or not after seeing the series. It’s a little anti-climactic, isn’t it? Thanks for the link up!
I’ve read a few of the Three Pines books and thoroughly enjoyed them. You’re right, you can read them in any order but sometimes the plot line is helped if you’ve read the book that came before! I have had to start giving away some of my crocheted blankets too, as the pile we have is only getting bigger as I finish another one. That’s one good thing about January, people are happy to rehome a blanket or two!
Thanks, Deb! I have noticed that. Right now, I’m reading one where I already know the outcome due to a different book. But, I still enjoy the writing and the characters. I haven’t had too much trouble getting rid of the afghans. It’s the creating that I enjoy so much.
Hello Marsha. A cold month like January is made for reading, watching television, and recuperating from the busy holiday season, So good for you. Here’s to a fabulous February! #WBOYC
Thank you, Christie! January is definitely made for those activities! I’m so glad you came by!
I love hearing about what is going on in your life. Need to check out these shows that you watched and loving those scrapghans. So beautiful!
https://www.kathrineeldridge.com
Oh, thank you, Kathrine. That means a lot to me. I’m finishing up one in the next week or so. I tell myself I’m using up yarn, but, in actuality, I’m just putting off finishing all those wool sweaters I’ve got almost done!
It’s not selfish. You’d prefer to go together but he doesn’t want to go. It’s pragmatic. It’s not dragging someone along and spending money that’s wasted on them. Is he selfish for wanting to stay put? A long and happy marriage requires a small amount of independance too. I think, anyway. And seriously, who doesn’t want to go to Paris. It’s so FABULOUS!
Thank you, Lydia. It will be strange not traveling with him, but it’s the way it will be in the future, I guess. Thanks for the advice.
My January seemed so very long, and yet I also don’t feel like I did very much. I think there were a great many days that were the SAME, and so many weekdays spent working all day that it all blended together. I’ve heard good reviews on the Wonka movie and I think I’d like to see it but I doubt we’ll make it to the theater to do that. I hope your travel plans come together well and it all works out! I get feeling strange traveling alone, but if you’re both comfortable with that arrangement, be glad you have the freedom and flexibility to do it!
Thanks, Kym! That is a good way to describe my January, too. I have to jot things down in my calendar to remind myself what I did. I would rather do a monthly round up like this one than the daily one because I’m just not that disciplined, and I’m pretty boring day to day! Oh, I hope you can see Wonka. It’s really a beautiful movie. If my travel plans come around, I’ll be going with a friend. It would be strange going without Mike as we’ve traveled this world together for over 50 years.