That Voice!

Dear friend,
It has been a very "Frankie" week for me.  I'm not complaining at all.

I don't have a celebrity crush on Frank Sinatra, mind you.  This isn't a case of "protesting too much," I just want to clear that up. A few years ago my Dad was under the impression that I had a crush on Cary Grant, when I didn't.  This is the same sort of thing; I love them, but I don't love them. (I do have a silly, little crush on a member of the Rat Pack, but it isn't Frank, and I'm not telling you who it is, so don't ask)

Anyway, as I said, it's been a very Frankie sort of week for me.  Turner Classic Movies aired a movie called the Kissing Bandit, which I just had to watch, since Frank was in it.  I have a fondness for Frank's early movies, ones where he played a lovable dork who was so nervous around women that he had no idea what to do.  He was such a little, skinny, silly looking dude that the roles fit him very well.  In my opinion, the only thing this movie had going for it was Frank. It was silly, beyond the point of being able to be taken seriously. The costumes were ridiculous, so much so that I burst into laughter at the sight of some of them.  Frank didn't sing nearly enough, either.  Still, I enjoyed watching it. 

A few other Frank movies were on but I, unfortunately, didn't catch all the way through.  I did, as I mentioned at the end of my birthday post, watched Ocean's 11.  I got it out of curiosity about the Rat Pack.  I enjoyed the movie, enough to look past it's ridiculousness.  (And like I said, I now have a crush on someone in the Rat Pack. Just for fun, use the process of elimination, it's not Dean or Sammy, either.)

The day after my birthday, I used some of my abundant supply of itunes money to buy a few "Essential" albums by Frank and Dean Martin.  I love them both. I don't know why it had taken me so long to get actual CDs from either of these two amazing singers, instead of picking up a song by them here or there.

My brother and my sister-in-law sent me a few musicals on DVD as birthday presents.  They sent me Singing in the Rain and Guys and Dolls.  The smile on my face as I opened the package was considerable. I love both of these movies but had never gotten around to buying either one.  As I write, I'm gleefully watching Guys and Dolls, enjoying the fact that Nathan Detroit, and so many others, aren't using contractions. Or should I say, are not using contractions.

I used to love those cartoons making fun of his screaming and swooning fans.  They were really my first indication that Sinatra existed.  Perhaps they were a strong influence on me, since I consider myself something of a Frank Sinatra fangirl.  I was amused to learn that some of those screaming fans were actresses hired and paid to make him seem more popular.

I don't think I could ever get tired of hearing that man sing. It's been an enjoyable week.

Birthday? Today? Really?

Dear Friend,
Twenty (something) years ago today I was born.  That, apparently, is a reason to celebrate. As usual, the uncontrollable act of growing a year older has left me thinking over my past, present and future.  Perhaps someday I will pass the twenty-sixth day of the year without becoming so pensive, though this year isn't the year that it will occur.

I actually celebrated on Monday, since the weather forecast for today was not compatible with a grand day out.  My mum and I went shopping, to many of my favorite stores, and ate lunch at my favorite restaurant, Noodles and Company.  It was a pleasant day, with a lot of laughs and resulted in my acquiring a new pair of boots.

As for today, it has been a lazy day, a rainy day, a calm and pleasant day.  Thanks to Netflix I was able to try a new television series, The Murdoch Mysteries.  It was fun to watch, fulfilling many of the little categories that indicate an interesting show for me; Canadian, period setting and solving mysteries.

It seems to be my parents have established a tradition for my birthday, buying me Breyer model horses.  This year I received the models made for the World Equestrian games and the 60th Anniversary of Breyer.  They're both very pretty, very dramatic sculptures that I think will compliment my extensive collection nicely.

Well, last year I wrote about feeling like I was on the edge of a big change.  Considering I'm writing this entry in almost exactly the same circumstances as I was when I wrote that one, it would seem I was wrong.  There are two ways to react to this, with frustration or with hope.  I will choose the latter.  Though I no longer feel that a big change is waiting just around the corner, I do know that God has a plan for me, and as long as I'm living my life for Him, I know I'm living for something.

I'm off to watch the original Ocean's 11, which I've never seen before.

Another birthday, I look forward to many more.

Downton Abbey pt. 2

Dear Friend,
So, how about that episode of Downton? I (and there is a spoiler in this sentence, just to warn you) didn't know whether to gasp in shock or laugh hysterically when that guy died.  He wasn't a nice man, but ... wow!

This episode wasn't as interesting, unfortunately, but I'm still curious to see where this series goes. I'm glad to see that the cousin (I'm horrible with names, I'm sorry) was able to see that his valet was much happier doing his job instead of being made to feel useless and superfluous.  I can't figure out if the middle daughter likes this guy or if she just always wants what is meant for her older sister.

This episode had a lot of graphic, bloody things going on. I hate blood, so I spent a few scenes with my hands over my eyes and squealing until the shot changed.

More next week, I suppose.

Just Watched Downton Abbey pt. 1

Dear Friend,
I did enjoy the first part of Downton Abbey. There was only one thing about it that I didn't really enjoy. I spent at least half an hour looking at a character saying, "You're gay, right? You're totally gay," and then found out that I was right. It took my out of the plot, and both parties involved were each wholly unlikable. As far as everything else went, I was interested in what was going on, and had the proper reaction to each of the characters. I often have trouble following plots with an abundance of characters, and I am slightly unclear on a few things, but overall I believe I know what's going on.
I'm slightly annoyed by the storyline that a certain character is unused to the lifestyle of a very rich person who has servants running around their house and feels that they are "better" than the rich person because they are self-reliant. I do appreciate that they showed the heir, the character who holds this view, offending his valet. He seemed to realize in that moment that even though he felt the man's job was silly, and he said so, it wasn't silly to the valet; it was all he knew in life, and very important to him. I'm interested to see how he adjusts to this life he'll most likely be saddled with.
The eldest daughter I'm not sure how I feel about. I can't tell if we're supposed to sympathize with her or think that she's a useless piece of vain baggage. Well, it's part one, so I'm sure the rest of the series will shed more light on her character.

There were many clever and quotable lines, though in classic "me" fashion, I've forgotten most of them already.

Possibly a new PBS Masterpiece series to love!

Dear Friend,
Tonight on PBS they will begin airing the miniseries (?) Downton Abbey.

Online the buzz for this series has been pretty widespread. I've been curious about it for awhile, but I'll admit to not knowing much about it. I hope I enjoy it.

In other news, I've started a new blog, with a different purpose. If you're curious, you can find it here, but I shall warn you, as of now it's completely empty. There is an explanation of what it is, but no content yet.

Happy New Year

Just to get the blog started on the right foot for 2011!

Happy New Year, my friend! May it be blessed, happy and awesome!

Here's to more regular posts this year! Love you!

A final post for 2010, Silly and Heartfelt all at the same time!

Dear Friend,
A year ago today I decided to put some of my Itunes gift money to good use. I looked around and listened to various clips from assorted artists and releases that had caught my attention in the preceding months before settling on to Ocean Eyes by Owl City. I'd heard his single Fireflies (just like every other person on earth) and had enjoyed to sound of it. I figured it was gift money, so I may as well take a chance with it.

I didn't listen much that night, being rather busy with New Year's Eve traditions, but what I did hear I liked. Little did I know it would send me into one of my "obsessive" phases that I am inclined to suffer through from time to time.

Though, suffer is a horrible choice for the way to describe how I go through these phases. I enjoy every second of immersing myself into a pleasant activity. Otherwise, I wouldn't bother, now would I?

As I mentioned in my previous post about the soundtrack of my year, Adam Young took over my listening habits. I love his music. However, it isn't just that. I love him.

I often have what I call Celebrity Crushes, they're fun and meaningless and often get me to watch movies or shows or listen to music I wouldn't have known about if I hadn't taken a strong interest in whoever the latest "heart throb" is. These little episodes rarely last longer than a month, sometimes less, really strong crushes occasionally last two or three months, and when they're over I still look fondly at the person and enjoy their work. I just don't obsess like I had before.

I've been "in love" with Adam Young for a year now.

I don't know what exactly it is that I adore so much about him. I do know that I find him witty, funny, sweet and inspiring, though. I've been happily listening to his music and reading his twitter and his blog. He quotes some of my favorite movies, including You've Got Mail. He reads wonderful books, even getting me to finally read the original Bambi novel. He's a Christian, and did the best cover of In Christ Alone I've ever heard. I almost can't find anything wrong with him.

But, isn't that a little strange? He's human, just like the rest of us, so he must have some faults. Well, I mean, besides the fact that he's obviously into Blond girls and a vegetarian, but those aren't exactly faults, are they, they're just his opinion and choice.

I've come across people who are so obsessed with celebrities that they believe they're honestly in love with them, and frankly those people scare me. I am not that scary, stalker girl who can't talk about anything or anyone else.(Though, the fact that he's been mentioned in almost every blog entry I've made these past six months might contradict that statement, huh?) The one who sends letters and presents and is upset when she doesn't get any replies or thanks. I also am not the girl who loses sight of reality in the fantasy of some unobtainable "god." I'm just sitting back, enjoying his music and lyrics and thoughts that he chooses to share with his audience.

I've chosen one of his songs to be a sort inspiration for this upcoming year.
Sky Sailing's Steady as She Goes



The tide can bring in anything,
So Steady as she goes!

Happy New Year, and God bless you, my friend!

My 2010 Soundtrack

Dear friend,
I got a lot of new music this year. Some of it really left a strong impression on me, so much so that it almost seems linked to all of the experiences I had this year. That has inspired me to compile a sort of soundtrack from the year.

For whatever songs I can, I'll embed a video from Youtube, so if you're reading this on facebook, and you don't see a video, go to my blogspot blog, there should be a link to click. If you don't you'll miss half the experience.


1. Fireflies by Owl City


2010 was practically the year of Adam Young for me. He somehow swooped in and took over my ipod, not just as Owl City, but also with his albums under the names Port Blue and Sky Sailing. I even bought some Swimming With Dolphins because of his involvement. This was the song that started it all, of course.

2. Terrified by Katherine McPhee feat. Zachary Levi


I got a complete and total celebrity crush on Zachary Levi this year, which is the only reason this song warrants exposure on this list... It's sweet though.

3. Galileo as sung by Josh Groban


I adore this song, I've played it to death, but I still adore it. It's silly and sweet and makes me smile each and every time I hear it.

4. End of May by Michael Buble


This song got me to like Michael Buble again after I had practically given up on him. I've got one hell of a melancholy streak in me, and this song speaks to it beautifully. It's another song I've played to death.

5. I'm Yours/ Somewhere Over the Rainbow by Straight No Chaser


I like this version better than Jason Mraz's which I would have thought was impossible. I love these guys, they are my favorite a cappela group (as though I have a lot of those groups to choose from...) They're amazing.

6. All My Heart by Stellar Kart


Theirs was the only Christian album I bought this year (*blush*) and this song just struck a chord with me. I'm not sure what other songs I've played this often on the album. (Honestly, last year's Barlow Girl CD Love and War is still heavy in my rotations, it was too awesome to overcome this year, I guess)

7. Rhythm of Love by the Plain White T's


Another song I've played to death. It makes me think of summer. Oddly enough, while I was writing my novel this November this song sort of became the main character's theme song. I can't explain that in any type of way, because it makes no sense. But it doesn't have to, it just works.

8. Bienvenue Dans Ma Vie by Nikki Yanofsky


Found Nikki on Itunes this year. I like her voice, and I love this song. Played to death, just like all the others on this list.

9. The Only Exception by Paramore


I'm not usually into Paramore. It seems like the sort of music I'd love, but somehow it just doesn't hit me. Until this song. I love it. Say it with me now: Played to death. LOL

10. Rainbow Veins by Owl City


I told you Adam Young took over my life this year. I adore this song, I think it's my favorite of his under Owl City.

11. Brielle by Sky Sailing


Adam Young again. This song will forever be the song that gave me the idea for my book that I wrote this year. If you listen, don't expect to know what my book is like, they couldn't be less alike. (I wrote a murder mystery, I can't explain how that came about) It's a beautiful song, and I love it.

12. Silhouettes by Swimming with Dolphins


Pretty, pretty song. I've got a story in my head because if this song. Maybe I'll write it someday.

13. Never Knew I Needed by Ne-Yo


The song from Princess and the Frog. I don't care very much for Ne-Yo, but I do like the song.

14. Voce Existe Em Mim by Josh Groban


It took me awhile to like this song, but once I did I loved it. I think it's because of all the drums. It's awesome.

15. Peppermint Winter by Owl City


Adam Young does Christmas! I so adore this song. I wish he'd make a proper Christmas album. The lyrics of this song are perfection!

I think that's enough. Hopefully all of those videos work and all this gathering and typing wasn't a complete waste of time! LOL

A new year is coming, you know what that means?

Dear Friend,
2010 was not a year of blogging. I don't really know what happened, I just didn't feel like writing out what was going through my head most days. I've had ideas, but no motivation. I'm hoping to change that. I've got a few ideas for blog entries, even a few series, that I have to do a little research on. (Research, on a blog? Aren't blog entries supposed to be spontaneous? What?)

Just to let you know, the first series I want to write is about people who inspire me. I made a list of ten people who make me want to get up off my butt and do something, even if it isn't what that person does. Hopefully either next week or after the beginning of the year I'll get started on that.

I'm planning on editing my NaNo novel after the new year starts. I think that will be enough of a break from the story to let me look objectively at the story and change what needs to be changed. I'm not satisfied with the story as it stands, so I know that editing needs to be done.

Eliot comic strips are also in the planning stages. I'm out of practice drawing him, so I've been sketching him lately, before I try to combine the art with the plot lines.

Christmas baking is swiftly approaching. For once I have no plans to try any new recipes. I'm hoping for a quiet Christmas, since Thanksgiving was extremely busy.


What is it about the end of the year that makes me so ambitious?

Now that's terrifying

Dear Friend,
I don't celebrate Halloween. Beyond spiritual reasons, I personally find a holiday in which children disguise themselves and then proceed to beg for candy by threatening to harm someone if they are not rewarded to be absolutely disgusting.
However, that doesn't mean that I don't find October 31 scary in its own right. It's scary because the very next day is the beginning of National Novel Writing Month! Each year, October 31 is the last day that I have to wonder if I'm really crazy enough to write a novel in a month. If you've never done it before, you don't know how both exciting and terrifying it is.

I have decided this year that the task of writing a 50,000 word story isn't enough for the month of November. I also have chosen to add an art project to the mix. Every day of November I will attempt to draw the one thing in this world I hate drawing: People. I will attempt various degrees of realism (mostly leaning to the cartoony spectrum) but they will all be people.

Also, I'm not planning on telling anyone that I'm doing it. When I say "anyone" I mean my parents. The idea this year is to write and draw in addition to my normal life. I don't want to use these projects as an excuse to slack off on my work and chores. (This will be extra interesting since we're having Thanksgiving company this year!)

November is a month of adventure! What are you going to do in it?