Monday, February 28, 2011

3 R's

So, I am going to start a little trend on my blog, where every month or so (possibly more or less) I recommend three things to my readers. These things can be anything and everything, but I will always explain why I recommend them so you are not left in the dark. Ready for February's 3 R's?

First, I beg of you, please read this book.
It is amazing. I flew through it, despite all the other tasks and things calling my name, and loved every page of it. I will try not to say too much, but in short, it is a wonderful love story. It's about a girl, Cassia (which, by the way, it's pronounced cash-uh), who lives in a futuristic society where the Society determines everything about your life, including your job and who you are married, or matched, to. At her Matched Ceremony, she is matched with her best friend Xander, but later, another boy's face appears on her computer screen in place of Xander's, and that boy is Ky, another boy from her neighborhood. And it is after that event that Cassia begins to understand the joy of making your own choices and the oppressive ways of the Society. The writing is spectacular; it's almost like reading a song. I am so glad I picked it up one day and decided to start reading it. Now all I have to do is wait til November for the sequel... Sigh.

Second, I recommend the movie I Am Number Four.
I saw it last week with Brad and his parents and I was totally pulled into it. It is everything I love about fantasy and sci-fi and romance all mashed into one thing. This one is about nine Lorien children from a different planet who are sent to Earth after their planet is destroyed by a violent alien race (the Mogadorians). These children were meant to someday protect their people and all are gifted with 'legacies' or powers that they must learn to control. The Mogadorians have tracked them to Earth and have begun killing them in order. They have already killed three and the main character, John, is number four. I can't say any more other than I really enjoyed it. And OK, it was described (by Brad and his parents) as 'lame' (that was Brad) and 'teenager' (his more polite father). But if that is so, then I am a 'lame teenager', cause I loved it. Now I just can't wait to read the book!

Third, I suggest one of my favorite comfort foods if you are feeling a little bit down or just in need of something that tastes happy. And that thing is peanut butter toast.
I don't think that needs much more of an explanation. Yum.

Actually, I just realized I have a fourth thing for this month. And that is a song. "Are You Gonna Kiss Me or Not?" by Thompson Square. Brad and I both love this song, which I realized when I heard him singing it today. Basically, it's a great song. I am putting it on my playlist.

So there ya go, my first 3 R's (or 4, whatever). I hope you like them!

Tuesday, February 15, 2011

XoXo

I love Valentine's Day. I know, it's cliche and it's overdone and it's a consumer-driven-holiday. Whatever! I still love it, because how can you not love a day about love? And yes, you should be showing your love to you family and friends everyday, not just Valentine's Day, but still, it's nice to know that you are loved and to have a day to openly show that.
Not to mention the flowers and chocolates. I don't get those everyday, so when I do, it's meaningful. This Valentine's Day, Brad himself came to my work and gave me a gorgeous bouquet and some divine chocolates. He is wonderfully thoughtful, so much I cannot explain. Let these pictures do the talking.
So, how was your Valentine's Day?