Thinking Out Loud

I briefly mentioned Ed Sheeran's 'Thinking Out Loud' in my last post, but thought that it was worth mentioning it again for this week's song. It is my favourite song on his recent album 'X', with my next favourite being 'Photographs.' Both lyrics are so beautiful and I have to admit, that the first time I heard 'Thinking Out Loud', I did get a bit teary.

I honestly don't even know how I can put his lyrics to justice, so I'm just going to put his lyrics for the first half of the song on here:

When your legs don't work like they used to before

And I can't sweep you off of your feet

Will your mouth still remember the taste of my love?

Will your eyes still smile from your cheeks?

And darling I will be loving you 'til we're 70

And baby my heart could still fall as hard at 23

And I'm thinking about how people fall in love in mysterious ways

Maybe just the touch of a hand

Well me, I'll fall in love with you every single day

And I just wanna tell you I am

So honey now

Take me into your loving arms

Kiss me under the light of a thousand stars

Place your head on my beating heart

I'm thinking out loud

That maybe we found love right where we are...

That is the most beautiful thinking aloud ever! Especially if you compare what my thinking aloud is, which usually consists of verbal diarrhoea talking about absolute nonsense, or accidentally sounding really rude because the tone just naturally comes out really sarcastic.  

Ed Sheeran's lyrics to his love songs are just perfect, like his songs 'Autumn Leaves', 'Kiss Me' and 'Wake me up'... one of the youtubers that I watch once actually described Ed Sheeran's music as "comfort food music"; meaning that it just makes you feel good inside when you listen to it. It's so true and his second album is certainly a reliable comforter just like his first. Mind you, I think my favourite album of the two, is still '+', but that may be because I'm more familiar with it. Either way, Ed Sheeran writes quality songs. 

Christmas Time

There is no doubt about it: Christmas is my absolute favourite time of year. Everything about it is so magical! For the past few days it's been all about family and food, which are two fantastic f words.

I thought today I'll just share some of the traditions that my family does during this period. I don't know about other families, but mine celebrates Christmas Eve just as much as Christmas Day, so it really is a marathon of Christmas bliss. On Christmas Eve we visit my mums side of the family, spending the day visiting various aunts, uncles and cousins and just eating, talking and playing with the younger kids. Dinner is at my nonna's house, where we have a massive bowl of pasta before visiting some more family and eating more food. I think I gained 5 kilos just from that one day because the amount of food that is provided is excessive and because "it's Christmas, I'm allowed to be a glutton" that means we eat even past the point where you feel full.

Vicar of Dibley Christmas pretty much sums up how much food I eat

Also on Christmas Eve at my aunt's house, one of my cousins dresses up as Santa for the little kids and hand out all their Christmas presents. This year, my two year old cousin (who has now begun talking really well) when he saw Santa ran to his mum and said: "he's not taking me" which I thought was the funniest thing. I can't really bring how cute he is to justice, you just need to take my word for it that this kid is truly the cutest kid ever!

Christmas Day is spent on my dad's side of the family and every second year the traditional Christmas lunch is held at our house. This year was our turn, which is what I prefer because that means we end up with all the left overs which we get to eat on Boxing Day and I think we have enough food to last us the entire weekend. We start the day with mum, dad and I exchanging gifts under the Christmas tree and then it is all about the food: entree brought by my uncle, main of roast turkey and vegetables and then dessert is Christmas pudding with custard and brandy butter then Christmas cake and then ending the meal with a cup of Christmas Tea (which tastes similar to chai tea with all the mixed spices- it's officially my favourite tea) and short bread and mince pies.

Christmas night is usually spent watching a dvd if I got one for Christmas, and this year I got the dvd 'Sunshine on Leith' which I saw in the middle of the year and absolutely loved it, so I was extremely excited last night to finally watch it again. And then we watched the 'Royal Variety Show' that was showing on tv, which is hilarious with really entertaining comedians, singers and dancers. This year, the host (who I can't really remember the name of, sorry) was so funny and was one of the highlights, as well as the performance of 'Thinking out loud' by Ed Sheeran.

But Christmas doesn't end yet, because today was what I have officially labeled as "Christmas recovery day," where I don't leave the house because Boxing Day sales freaks me out a bit, and I just graze on the left overs while just relaxing because eating food non-stop for two days straight is exhausting work. And then in the evening is the Doctor Who Christmas Special, which I thought was really good this year. My parents thought it was okay but a bit confusing, and it certainly was a bit 'Inception-esque' but I thought the story was really well thought out and it was entertaining and a great way to end my favourite time of year.

Sorry about that overload about my past few days, I just love reliving Christmas memories. But despite my self-absorbed post today, I do hope you all had a very Merry Christmas as well! xxx

As Time Goes By

Over the past few days, I have been getting heaps and heaps and heaps and heaps of songs. I would like to think of it as my Christmas present to myself. Discovering new music is always one of the things that cheers me up and makes me feel excited, because, let's be honest, when discovering new combinations of exquisite notes and lyrics, a whole new perception of the world is opened up to you... or is that just me? I just am so excited about these new songs to my collection and can't actually put it into words because I'm just too enthusiastic about these new discoveries (sorry if I'm not making any sense).

The first song that I purchased in this music binge was the timeless classic 'As Time Goes By' sung by Frank Sinatra. Frank Sinatra has such a wonderful voice and it brings about a sense of nostalgia for the past which is somewhat glamorised, but I guess for someone who is in love with history, I really do like imagining the glittering time of jazz. But another reason why I decided to use this song for this week, is because the title itself sums up December really well. December in my opinion feels like the shortest month of the year, because there is all this build up to Christmas and before you know it, Christmas is here and then all of a sudden it's the New Year... the month just flies past. I still can't believe that Christmas is only a few days away: it's crazy! Where did the year go? Time really does go by...

I was introduced to the song by the 1990's BBC television series 'As Time Goes By', which stars Judy Dench and Geoffrey Palmer. My family has the box set and we watch it every few years because it is so sweet, about a man and a woman who fall in love again after forty years of living their own separate lives. It's not that well known amongst my generation, but I do love it despite the targeted audience is for more towards my grandma's age.

 

But back to the song itself: It is such a romantic song and should be considered as one of the most beautiful love songs ever. And I hope that you enjoy it.

Summer adventure #3- St Kilda

Last weekend my friend and I spent the day at St Kilda. It was the spare of the moment decision because we knew it was going to be an amazing weather and we wanted to do something that would make the most of it. It may not have been a complete 'adventure' of unknown territory, however neither of us had visited there in many years, so I'm just going to count it as part of the 'Summer adventures' anyway.

Because it was Sunday, the famous Esplanade had it's market along the street which was perfect for Christmas present shopping. There were jewellery stores (where my friend bought a really lovely necklace), clothes stores, as well as plenty of knick-knack stores. I really liked the local artist stores, where we saw their paintings, but my absolute favourite stores were the ones that were food stores and they had tastings, because let's be honest here: free food is one of the best things ever! We got to try olive oils and vinegars, nougat, chocolate drinks, teas, honey coated nuts, etc.

And of course, after exploring the various of stores, we walked along the beach. Because we didn't plan the day out, we didn't have our bathers, but that didn't stop me from running towards the ocean and walk in the water. The beach is one of my favourite places to be, because it is one of those places where you can act like a three year old and no one cares. We hung out on the pier for a while and just took in the scenery, while eating ice-cream (blood orange and lemon sorbet) and we completely lost track of time... I had a lovely day and I know that we have to go back again soon because I am ashamed to say that I have never gone to Luna Park before. We walked outside it and took a photo by the mouth gateway, but I have never ever gone on any of the rides, so I guess it is on my 'to do' list: I want to go to Luna Park and have fairy floss there.

Luna Park 

Happy

Last night there was meant to be a meteor shower at 11pm, so I went outside and stared up at the sky... I saw three meteors so it was more of a meteor drizzle, but I wasn't disappointed because I was transfixed gazing at the stars. It was really beautiful and I can't believe that I don't notice the night sky that often, like properly notice it. And I felt really happy and I was lucky enough to have the perfect song stuck in my head at the time, and that song is the new release of Marina and the Diamonds' "Happy".

It is so delicate and beautiful- such a sweet and touching song that is hopeful and reassuring. It has a different feel to all of her previous songs, which are quite dark, but this one seems to be more of an epiphany song, realising that she believes that she is "finding what [she] is looking for within [her]self" and "finding a way to be happy"... It is just such a wonderful song that she released a few days ago and is going to be included in her 'Froot' album which is going to be coming out in early April next year (can't wait!)

For me, this song is now going to be associated with that memory of looking at the meteor drizzle and having that feeling of contentment, which is a wonderful state to be in. So I hope that when listening to this song, you too can experience a happy moment as well. 

Re-decorating for Summer

Every now and then I have a strong urge to re-decorate things. For example, once I woke up and spontaneously felt like moving the bookshelf that was in the lounge, into my bedroom where it was much needed, because my already existing book shelf (that is quite small), was overflowing. So I dedicated an entire day moving around the furniture in my room to try and fit this new addition into my room. Nothing could stop me!

And the same goes for re-decorating my blog- I don't know how to navigate this very well, because technology hates me- but I love changing it every now and then. I'm going to miss my winter blog setting, with the night sky filled with stars, but as it is heading into summer and the days are getting lighter and lighter and warmer, I think it is only appropriate to give it a new 'coat of paint.'

The 'Winter look' 

I also would like to take this opportunity to put the side-quotes into the spotlight. I chose these quotes to feature on my blog because I am like a magpie when it comes to quotes. I love them, and I like collecting them, like a magpie likes collecting shiny things. My bedroom walls have quotes stuck up on them, so pretty much everywhere you look, there is writing and inspiration. These quotes, I find ring out true and are motivational too, which are always good to look at when times get a little tough:

"Close your eyes and let the music set you free" Phantom of the Opera

"Every person is a new door to a different world" Anonymous

"Devote today to something so daring even you can't believe you're doing it" Opera Winfrey

"Be who you are and say what you feel because who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind" Dr Seuss

"Life is not measured by the breaths we take but by the moments that take our breath away" Maya Angelou

"Not all those who wonder are lost" J. R. R. Tolkien

"If you have good thoughts they will shine out of your face like sunbeams and you will always look lovely" Roald Dahl

"Never be afraid to fall apart because it is an opportunity to rebuild yourself the way you wish you had been all along" Rae Smith

"The best thing to hold onto in life is each other" Audrey Hepburn

"Dream your dreams with your eyes closed, but live you dreams with your eyes open" Anonymous

"And for that one moment while the music plays, you know who you are and everything you wish to be" Kellie Elmore

"Music is the universal language of the soul" Anonymous

"Think of all the beauty still left around you and be happy" Anne Frank

"You were born an original, don't die a copy" John Mason

"You're mad. Bonkers. Off your head... but I'll tell you a secret... all of the best people are." Lewis Carroll

Pride

I'm really fussy when it comes to movies and because of this I don't go to the cinema that often, but this year I've seen a pretty great collection of films, the latest of which was definitely my second favourite (after 'Sunshine on Leith'). 'Pride' was an excellent movie that made me laugh, cry and is just a feel-good film; I left the cinema feeling that little bit better because the story (which is actually based on a true story) is so incredible.

Set in 1984 Britain, when the miners' strikes were occurring, a group of homosexuals begin raising money to help the miners and their families, creating the LGSM (Lesbian and Gays' Support the Miners), which forms an unlikely alliance between these two groups of people. It is such a beautiful story and quite heartbreaking how the LGSM are treated because of their lifestyle choices and it is because of this that the 'National Union of Mineworkers' didn't want to accept their support, but the group decide to choose a Welsh miner's village, Onllwyn, where their donations were going to directly. Despite prejudice and homophobia from a number of the villagers, this alliance grew to a sturdy friendship and was a success making a massive difference for the people of Onllwyn.

LGSM

'Pride' was not only a feel-good film, but was also honest about the treatment of gays during those times and with the growing fear of AIDS, there is certainly important issues that are brought into focus.  Using the words from Geoffrey Macnab, that the script holds "broad comedy with subtle observation" which I agree with. The script is evidently written with such care and sensitivity, which makes the film so striking and really makes the audience feel. It is an all-star cast of such talented actors (coincidentally one of them, George MacKay- who played one of the very few fictional characters in the film- was in 'Sunshine on Leith') including Bill Nighy and Imelda Staunton, all of them portraying their characters, most of whom are based on the real people, who are really heroic and I'm really glad that their actions have been brought to the screen so they will be remembered.

I really recommend watching this fabulous movie, as the story is truly heart-warming. 

Cilla

A few weeks ago the three part series 'Cilla' was televised about Cilla Black. Cilla Black is a singer from Liverpool, as well as an entertainer, her most famous song would be 'You're my world' from 1964, which reached number one. It is a cover of the Italian song which wasn't very popular when it was first recorded in 1963, however British record producer George Martin saw potential in this ballad, turning to Black for a recording. 'Black' I discovered when watching the tv series, became Cilla's stage name when there was a typo in the paper; her real name is White, however when she saw this mistake she thought it as a great name to adopt.

The show 'Cilla' is about her life in the 1960's as an amateur singer at clubs in Liverpool, where she would sing alongside bands like The Beatles in their early career and where she meets Bobby Willis who becomes her 'road manager.' Her rise to fame is featured in the second and third part, when Brian Epstein (who was also the manager for The Beatles) shows interest in her talent and begins her career in music which promptly takes off, as well as focusses on her relationship with Bobby. The show ends with the tragic death of Epstein, but provides a brief summary about Cilla's life after this period that the show is about. I found the series really interesting and an enjoyable watch, especially as I had heard of Cilla Black before, but didn't really know that much about her. If you have the chance, I would recommend watching it if you are interested in music/ musicians from the 60's. The 

November readings

Six months later

An incredibly intriguing read, 'Six months later' by Natalie Richards, is a mystery thriller about a high school girl who falls asleep one study hall and wakes up to find that six months has past and she has no recollection of what happened during that time. But she wakes up and finds that her life has changed quite dramatically: once she was a mediocre student, but now she is one of the top in her year level; her best friend is no longer talking to her and her crush is now suddenly her boyfriend, despite her now having unexplained feelings for the 'bad-boy' of her school. There is something sinister that is happening, and it is up to Chloe to find out what. While reading, I was really intrigued by the concept, and even though some of the ideas are a bit far fetched, doesn't mean that I enjoyed any less. Also, at the moment I am writing a story about a girl who has amnesia, so it was interesting to see how someone else conveyed a deficit of memory.

8/10

Misfit

Since she was eight years old, Jael knew that she was half human, half demon. And because of that, her and her ex-priest father have moved around countless times in order to protect her from demons who want to kill her (because half-demons are considered a threat to the order of hell). 'Misfit' by Jon Skovron was a good read- not a must read, but it there was nothing wrong with it- I especially enjoyed the flashbacks that Jael sees of her parents when they met and how we, alongside Jael discover more about her background and why she is so important. The way the book ended, it seemed like it could potentially lead on to a sequel, but it also works well as a stand alone novel, which I believe it is.

6.5/10



Transcendence

'Transcendence' is the first book in the series by C. J. Omololu, and the idea is really interesting: using the theory about reincarnation and adding on to the idea that only a few people can remember their past lives. These people are called Akhet, who use their knowledge and skills collected from their past to help make the world better, however, their are also the rogue and evil Akhet's too. Cole is a teenager from San Francisco who begins to see visions of different lives, which leads her to meeting the gorgeous Griffon, who is another Akhet and offers to help her come to terms with what she is. Meanwhile, someone is out to get Cole, in revenge of something that happened in another time.

7/10

Intuition

This is the second instalment of C. J. Omololu's series about the Akhet's Cole and Griffon, but now a new love interest is introduced. I thought the first book was much better, because it just seemed that there was a lot of build up in 'Intuition' to the climax but then the resolution was just so brief and wasn't as developed as it could have been. So I think I was a bit disappointed with this sequel and just think the story should have stopped after the first book. However, I think the storyline in this book was really good, it just needed to have a bit more 'oomph' (I couldn't think of a word for it).

6/10



Coincidentally, I've just realised that those four books are all about memory (to some degree)- don't you love it when things just connect like that and you don't even realise? Anyway...

Jumping off swings

This is a short novel by Jo Knowles, the story told over the point of view of four different characters and how they react to the consequence of a one night stand. Ellie finds herself pregnant, her best friend Corinne is trying to be supportive, while Josh is ashamed of how he acted that night he hooked up with Ellie and Caleb is caught in the middle of being a good friend. Because the book is short and the narrative jumps, some of the characters didn't develop completely, however I still would recommend this book as a quick read, because it covers such important concepts that are relevant to real people's lives which are often hushed about. You also get favourite characters within the short time you read this, mine being the story of Corinne and Caleb; Corinne being the one with the most personality.

7/10

DUFF

Duff is the horrible abbreviation of 'Designated Ugly Fat Friend' and by just judging this book by it's title and cover, a reader can already tell that it is a teenage novel about someone discovering who they are and where they belong with their friends and family. Which is what Kody Keplinger's book is about, and I have to say that I thoroughly enjoyed reading it immensely. Bianca Piper one day gets referred to as the 'Duff' out of her friends by the "womanising playboy" of the school, Wesley, which sets her into a whirlwind of anger and hatred that she already felt towards him. However, with the pressure of family drama, she ends up using Wesley as a means of escape. The relationship between the two is complicated, which adds to the complicated life that Bianca is already leading, and you can't put the book down because the writing style of first person is engaging. Bianca has a fiery personality which makes it easy to like her, however sometimes you just want to yell at her and tell her what she should be doing, which just makes it an even more engaging. The book teaches you that the idea of a 'Duff' is obsolete as people should not judge each other because underneath it all, we are all just confused in the world. I would read this book again because I enjoyed it so much and I really want to read some more of Keplinger books.
(Also I found out that it is being made into a movie)

9/10

Summer adventure #2- Sale

Sometimes even a night away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life makes the world of difference. This weekend, my friend and I left home on the Saturday morning and drove to Sale- a country town in Gippsland- and spent the night with her family before leaving again on the Sunday afternoon. I haven't gone to Sale before and I absolutely loved it, as I really needed a break from the city life, especially enjoying walking around the lakes and then going to the park when it was darker and playing on the playground (because even though we are nineteen, it doesn't mean we should stop enjoying the flying foxes).

It was nice catching up with my friends and having a mini holiday, especially with the weather being perfect on the Saturday. On the Sunday, I pretty much just ate the entire day: breakfast was a poached egg, bacon and hash brown inside an English muffin; lunch was a barbecue and then a mango smoothie; and when I got home, I was welcomed by my parents with a roast turkey (we were having a rehearsal of Christmas lunch I guess).

While we were still in Sale, my friend and I visited the local art gallery, where there was an exhibition of Bill Henson's (who is a photographic artist) called 'Dark Desire' which was really interesting to look at and read about. The photographs' alternated between images of landscape and of people, each emphasising the shadows and the contrasts between the darkness and light and with this juxtaposition, such intensity is created for the viewer. I thoroughly enjoyed this exhibition, with the composition demonstrating the complexities of what darkness and light actually is in a natural state as well as a psychological and emotional state.

Bill Henson's 'Untitled CL SH686 N26' 2008/09

Amongst the walks, the park, visiting a farm, the art gallery and eating heaps, I think my favourite part of the weekend was the chance to spend time with my friend. It really proves that it doesn't matter where you go on adventures,  it is the company that is the most important thing and what makes the adventure the most fun. I'm looking forward to the next adventure. 

Waste

This weekend, my friend and I went away and on the car trip home yesterday, one of the things we listened to was the album 'Torches' by Foster the People, which we both agreed saying that it is a flawless album with every single song being fantastic. One of the enjoyments of this album is that if we weren't in a car and driving, we would have no trouble dancing around to all the songs, but because of being in the car, it is also an album that you can just listen to and sing along to... well, when I say sing along to, I really need to clarify what that means in regards to Foster the People. They are a brilliant band, however it is really hard to understand a lot of the words that are being sung, so when singing, it is more like mumbling along with enthusiasm, shouting out the odd word that we do know and then joining in whole heartedly when the chorus comes on. Because Foster the People are an indie pop (with indietronica) band, there is also plenty of opportunity to impersonate the different sounds that are woven into the songs.  

'Pumped up kicks' is definitely their most famous song on the album, but today I'm going to share their song 'Waste' which I absolutely love and is a fantastic song for a Summer road trip. It was 35 degrees and sunny, and being with one of my closest friends and having no cares in the world in that moment, this was the perfect song for the day. 

My Mad Fat Diary

Rae

A few days ago I was recommended to watch 'My Mad Fat Diary' and I have just begun watching series two because it is such a good tv show. It is a British series, which means they have really amazing accents and is about a girl called Rae who has just come out of psychiatric hospital after a year because she purposely hurt herself. She is overweight, and because of this and many other factors in her life, she dislikes who she is, but now she is out again and finds herself becoming a part of a friendship group. 

Within 'the gang', there is Chloe, her oldest friend and also the one who you sometimes dislike because she is one of those girls who just wants herself to look good, however she also cares about Rae deep down. Then there is Archie, who Rae at first has a crush on. Also there is Izzy and Chop who are so cute together and lastly there's Finn, who I have to say was my favourite character right from the beginning. He seems moody and resentful towards Rae at the beginning, but he actually is the sweetest person. I'm not going to say too much about any of them because I just recommend watching it. 

The Gang

So many people say that if you like 'Skins', you will love 'My mad fat diary', and to some extent I think this is true. It covers similar issues of depression, self-loathing, insecurity, homophobia and just trying to find a place of belonging, however 'My mad fat diary' is a drama-comedy, which makes it lighter for the viewer to watch such honest thoughts of a sixteen year old girl who has experienced such life-altering events. The narration by Rae personally reminds me of the narration in 'Angus, thongs and perfect snogging' with the voice overs that are Rae's internal thoughts and what she has written in her diary. I like this style of storytelling, as well as the additional sketches that are drawn over the film sometimes; it makes it more fun to watch.

I haven't written a post in a while, but now you know why- no wonder so many people have recommended this show. 

(And a side note: it was only until halfway through the last episode of series one that I realised the therapist, Dr Kester is played by the guy who was Professor Quirrell)

Music this Monday

I have to admit, today I didn't do anything much. Even though it is Summer, there were heavy showers and thunder, which meant I stayed inside in my pyjamas all day and spent the day singing around the house. This is what I always do when I have the house to myself, and because I was singing a whole concert worth of songs to absolutely no one, I can't even think of one particular song to talk about for this Monday. Sorry about that. So instead of talking about a specific song, I am going to confess to the songs that I love to sing. Basically, I love singing and listening to dark/sad songs, which really suited the miserable weather of today, in particular Marina and the Diamonds and Lana Del Rey (who are both officially my favourite singers) and luckily some of their songs suit my voice, which is an extra bonus.

Some of my favourite songs of Marina and the Diamonds would be: 'Lies', 'Starring Role', 'Teen Idle' and 'Buy the stars', but to be honest, I just love all of her songs. While some of my favourite songs of Lana Del Rey would be: 'Dark Paradise', 'Born to die', 'Ride' and 'Radio', but it is so hard to narrow them down because I just love them all (except 'Lolita'- I just never warmed up to that one). So I had lots of fun singing all these songs (and more) around the house, and I have to say that I did that for quite a lot of hours.

Marina and the Diamonds

When my mum got home though, I had to stop my singing and instead had to start listening to music with headphones, because mum doesn't really like all my music. So when preparing dinner, I was listening to Lily Allen, and dancing around the kitchen (it is possible to dance and cook at the same time) loving the song 'Smile', 'Close your eyes', 'Silver Spoon' and like last week 'Our time' has been playing on repeat a few times today. But once again, I just love all of her songs. I'm just not fussy with music I've realised, liking most genres, however there are the few exceptions of some artists that I just can't stand. But as a whole, I like most stuff, but today was a day to feature the darker pieces (as well as re-watching Vampire Diaries in between the singing marathons).

Summer adventure #1- Williamstown

This summer is going to be epic, I've decided: filled with reading, writing, music, friends and adventures (with work peppered throughout). And yesterday was the first of these myriad of Summer adventures, where one of my oldest and most dearest friend and I reunited after not having seen each other for over a year. And that is far too long a time, but because we were living in different cities/towns it has been pretty difficult to catch up. When we were younger, the two of us were inseparable- her house was my second home, as I would go over every day after school and visa versa- until ten years ago, when her family moved away. But we have always kept in touch and have remained close, but now after a decade, she has returned! And we are as close as ever and I couldn't be happier!

So yesterday we drove down to Williamstown, where neither of us have ever gone before. It was 31 degrees, but thankfully there was a cool breeze from the water, and despite getting sunburnt (I now have a nose like Rudolf- getting into the Christmas spirit) it was one of the best days.

The car trip itself was so much fun, with a few wrong turns along the way, thanks to the 'faithful' GPS (aka James) who wanted us to go to a 'no entry- flammable liquid' area, we surprisingly found our way to our destination. And it was a really triumphant moment in both of our lives I have to admit.

Williamstown is a really lovely suburb on the waterfront, which apparently has an interesting history, however we wouldn't know that much about it, other than they currently have a really nice ice-cream shop. So, armed with ice-cream (white chocolate with berries and white chocolate with hazelnut for me and white chocolate with berries and cookies and cream for her) we walked along the pier and along the water side before going to the park and talking under a tree for hours while looking across the water towards the city. And that is where we both agreed with Pudge from 'Looking for Alaska' that we are going to seek a "great perhaps."

View from Williamstown (it was slightly overcast, but amazing day nonetheless) 

Looking for Alaska

As requested, I read John Green's novel 'Looking for Alaska', which I thoroughly enjoyed, as it raised so many interesting ideas and different perceptions people have in the world. This is a book that not only is a great read, but is also I great book to discuss with friends, so instead of me just talking about the synopsis of the story, I will also mention some of the concepts that were introduced within the text, because they are really fascinating and open to interpretation (hence why I think it is a fantastic book to study- I would have loved to study this book in high school).

But before any of that, I will have to provide a brief summary of the story: it is divided up into two sections, the time 'before' and the time 'after'. While reading the 'before' section, the text itself is broken by a countdown, eg. we begin "one hundred and thirty-six days before". We don't know what this event  that the protagonist, Miles (aka Pudge) is counting down, however this device allows the reader to remain intrigued and eager to discover what is going to happen, that must be so significant to this character that the entire novel is written around this one big thing. And when you think about it, countdowns are so natural in everyday life. How many times have you looked forward to something or dreaded something and started writing a countdown in your diary or calendar? I know I certainly have. Our lives are made up of significant moments that can change us dramatically, which I briefly mentioned in a previous post about the spoken word poet, Sarah Kay. I'm not going to give away what this book's significant moment is, because that's the point of the novel, so I am only going to talk about the 'before' section.

Pudge is a teenager who has a fascination with people's last words, for example Francois Rabelais' last words "I go to seek a Great Perhaps" which drives Pudge into moving to a boarding school- towards a 'great perhaps'- where he meets new friends, the Colonel, Takumi and the eccentric and intriguing Alaska. Everyone I think is in search of 'the Great Perhaps' with everything we do. Well, I am at any rate; I don't know where my life is going to take me, but I know that I want to take chances and take risks to make something happen. It's sort of like something Vincent Van Gogh said "I would rather die of passion than of boredom." Okay, maybe not the dying part, but the idea that I would rather take risks and fail if I have the possibility of  achieving something wonderful rather than just sitting around and allowing my life be consumed with mediocre boredom. So, the idea of 'The Great Perhaps' raised by John Green is wonderful at summing up motivation. It was really enjoyable reading about this group of teenagers because they just seem realistic with the way they talk and act; it seems so normal and familiar, as you realise the great complexities that each person holds.

There are so many things to explore that are prompted by the book, which really shows how much of a book nerd I am, because I'm so excited about the numerous discussions that can be risen over even the smallest of comments in this book. I'm 'word-greedy', as I like to put it, because I just want to read more and more and more as if each word was some kind of decadent food and I'm starving and craving for more, to the point of addiction. I've actually underlined so many phrases in this book, because I really find them so insightful and I think it can relate to everyone to some extent.
Another important last words mentioned in 'Looking for Alaska' is Simon Bolivar's "How will I ever get out of this labyrinth!" which the character, Alaska, is obsessed with. And it really is a mind-boggling question, which cannot be answered. So instead of writing a thesis length of my own interpretation (which I have to admit, I think I'm going to do that just for fun in my spare time), I'm just going to leave you with the question so you can come up with your own thoughts.

And apparently this is being made into a film, so I really hope that they do it justice.

9/10 

Our Time

It has almost been a week since my last exam for the year, which means I survived my first year at uni! Yay! And to all of you who have completed your first year or second year, or even your entire course or if you completed high school these past few weeks, a big congratulations for all of us, because it is finally holidays and it is "Our Time".

As soon as the exam ended, a couple of my friends and I bought a tub of the very much loved 'Ben and Jerry's' ice-cream (chocolate fudge brownie flavour- delicious) and spent the remainder of the afternoon in our favourite place on campus and just ate this food from heaven while freedom began to sink in. No more worries about studies, essays, assignments, folios, exams and whatever else that homework entails. Yes, I've spent the majority of the week working, but I don't have the extra stress that often comes alongside uni. And on reflection, this year has been one of the best years of my life: making new and amazing friends, as well as catching up with my wonderful friends from school too; actually studying things that I am interested in; being on a lovely campus and realising that uni is so much better than high school (I can't even emphasis how much better it is). Certainly there were many ups and downs along the way, like the self-inflicted last minute essay writing among many other things, but as a whole, I can look back and say that I loved this year so much. I'm beginning to make it sound like a speech that should be said at the end of the actual year, but I've never had a good sense of time (New Years Eve is only a month and half away anyway, so... close enough).

"Our Time" by Lily Allen is from her latest album which came out May this year, and I think it perfectly sums up how many of us feel now that it's holidays. It's probably my favourite song on the album 'Sheezus', which I love to sway and dance along to and "lose sense of space and time..."

Doctor Who series 8

On Sunday it was the final of Doctor Who series 8. This series was the first with Peter Capaldi as the Doctor, and I thought he was excellent. We have returned to the darker personality, similar to that of Christopher Eccleston (who personally is my favourite doctor); at the very beginning of the series he even asks whether he is a "good man."

This series is very much about this new doctor discovering himself as well as understanding the people and worlds around him. When talking to my friends who watch the show, all of them have been impressed with how Peter Capaldi has taken on the role after Matt Smith. However, I feel like I'm one of the only ones who really liked Clara as the assistant. My favourite assistant of all time would definitely be Donna, because the chemistry she had with David Tennant was "brilliant" and she has so much charisma and attitude, showing that humans are just as good and as important as everything else in the universe. However, I would actually say that Clara is my second favourite, because I think that she has matured and developed greatly as a character; when she was with Matt Smith doctor, there was an 'older brother and younger sister' relationship that was going on, with her being amazed with everything that time and space had to offer. In this new series with Peter Capaldi, they behave as absolute best friends, being loyal to each other and being each other's strength. Clara is so human and I don't understand why so many people have found it hard to warm up to her. (As a side note, I also really like Clara's wardrobe)

The episodes themselves this series, as a whole, have really strong ideas however the endings to many seem to have become simplistic. By this, I mean that many of the endings just seemed rushed and I felt that the reason for many of the events that happened in a particular episode, weren't explained completely. And I thought it was the only downfall for this series, however, many of the stories were really interesting and enjoyable, for example "Listen", "Mummy on the Orient Express" and "Flatline", the concepts were really intriguing. But I thought the strongest of the series were the two final episodes, which I was happy about. 

Guilty all the same

My go-to music is Linkin Park. Whenever I can't get to sleep at night, I listen to Linkin Park. When I just need to switch off the world around me and have a timeout with reality, I listen to Linkin Park. If I need to get motivated and on top of studying and revision, I listen to Linkin Park. In the lead up to my exam (which is tomorrow- aarrghh) I have lost count how many times I've listened to all of my Linkin Park albums; they've been playing in a loop, especially their relatively new album 'The Hunting Party' which came out June this year. I only recently got it, and absolutely love every single note, with my favourite songs being 'Until it's gone', 'Final Masquerade' (actually, that might be my favourite), 'A line in the sand' and the today's chosen song "Guilty all the same".

The opening is really intense and is perfect for getting into the determined mindset for studying. Sticky notes are everywhere. Mind maps are scattered across the floor (I had to vacate from my room to the living room where there was more floor space for my notes). Highlighters are running out of ink and so are all the pens. Text book margins are now filled with cramped handwritten notes. It's getting really frantic as I realise once again that I should've started studying a few weeks ago and the only thing that is preventing me from just giving in to exhaustion is the fast drumbeat, crash of symbols, electric guitar and the angry vocals.

Tell us all again

What you think we should be 

What the answers are (I really need to learn answers to the possible exam questions)

What it is we can't see

This week's readings

Allegiant

I finished the Divergent Trilogy and I think that on reflection, my favourite of the three books by Veronica Roth was the first one. However I did enjoy the last book, 'Allegiant'; the concept is much larger than that of 'Divergent' (where the focus is on the initiation at Dauntless, but I think that is why I liked it) and 'Insurgent' (where the focus has extended to the entire city of Chicago).

The conflict just grows and more plot twists are being introduced into the story, and while I was reading  'Allegiant', and was more than halfway through, I was beginning to doubt whether everything could be resolved in the remaining pages. Surely there would have to be another novel-length to be able to find solutions to all this build up? But it turned out that the denouement didn't take up much time at all and that the crescendo was the main point of the story. The ending was sort of predictable but unpredictable at the same time. By this I mean that when reading the third book, you can speculate what could happen to some of the plots, but you would not have guessed any of those things when reading the first book. It's really hard to explain without giving the entire series plot away, and that is why I decided to just write a very brief review about it, because obviously if you are interested in reading this dystopian trilogy, you would rather not have the ending spoilt.

7/10


The book of broken hearts

After finishing 'Allegiant' I thought I'd return back to my usual reading genre of young adult fiction set in the every day world and about every day people, and 'Sarah Ockler's novel 'The book of broken hearts' jumped out at me while scanning the library bookshelves. I was expecting a light read, and in a way it really was, written in the first person of the main character, Jude. The language itself made you feel like you were reading through Jude's thought process, which not many people like, however, I really enjoy that sort of writing style. This style was very similar to how Richelle Mead wrote her 'Vampire Academy' series, which I find makes it easier for the reader to become the protagonist, stepping into their minds. But despite the writing style, the book involves such heavy issues, which made the book an emotional read which involved me to have a few minutes break after some sections before continuing reading (I finished the book in a day because for me it was a quality read). The reason for this was because the story is so realistic, to the point that some of the themes hit really close to home.

Jude is the youngest sister of four, whom each have had their heart's broken by one of the Vargas brothers. When she was twelve, she joined in with her sisters in swearing an oath to never get involved with a Vargas, which has never been a problem for Jude until the summer before she goes off to college. During this break, she and her father plan to fix his old motorbike, which leads them in employing the young mechanic, Emilio, who also happens to be a Vargas. It is this summer that she begins to realise that maybe not all Vargas's are evil heartbreakers, as she instantly falls for Emilio.

The reason why there is a sense of urgency to finish the motorbike is because Jude's father has Alzheimer's, and this is what also made this read heavy and why I became more emotionally involved in the story than I usually do when reading books. I always get absorbed when reading the book and am often transported into the world of the book, however, this time it was more personal. I, among many others have/ had someone in their lives who are diagnosed with this horrible disease, and it is seriously one of the worst things imaginable. Sarah Ockler was able to capture the disease (which Jude referred to as 'El Demonio') so realistic, with Jude's father's episodes, which makes your heart break as it is quite confronting especially if you have actually experienced similar scenarios in real life.

It was such a truthful, yet wonderful read and am hoping to read more of her books. I highly recommend this.

8/10

Amnesia

I just stumbled across this song by chance when I was exploring youtube the other day and for the rest of that evening I listened to "Amnesia" -sung by the Australian band 5 Seconds of Summer- on repeat, for the very simple reason that it is an incredible song.

I can't even describe properly how I just instantly feel in love with this song. I bought it straight away with my last few dollars of iTunes money, which I had been saving for a really amazing song, so I guess I found the amazing song that I had been waiting for. Released in July this year, the opening with the soft acoustic guitar is so sweet sounding; the melodic first verse is reflective which makes you think back to your own experiences and emotions. And then when it develops into the chorus, you feel the passionate emotions that is being played each strum of the guitar, and the voices of the band members are so beautiful too. You can hear the pain and the regret and the wish for having amnesia, "and forget about the stupid little things, like the way it felt to fall asleep next to you, and the memories I never can escape..."

It is a heartbreaking song, and I think I'm addicted to it, because I have lost count how many times I have listened to it in the past few days. I've been listening to that and the new Linkin Park album, 'Hunting Party' (which is also absolutely incredible!) all the while when I should really start studying for my exam that is approaching in a weeks time. But this is the type of song that it is worth stopping what you are doing and to just listen with your full attention.

Halloween... and doing nothing

Today is Halloween and I would love to say that I'm trick or treating and having fun dressing up and actually being sociable. And to some extent, I am: I've eaten quite a few chocolates, I've been absolutely exhausted this past week which has turned me into a zombie and it counts being sociable when I'm writing a blog while I'm sitting by myself... right?

Okay, it's Halloween and I'm doing nothing to acknowledge the fact, which is pretty upsetting because Halloween seems like one of the most genius ideas ever. I know that the origin of this particular celebration has nothing to do with what it has been turned into in the present day, but I'm all for embracing Halloween for what it is and keep on wishing that I could be a part of it. When I was in junior school I did go trick or treating with friends which was one of the highlighting events of the year because ever since I can remember, I have loved the idea of the supernatural. When I was little I really wanted to be a witch, in fact, when people used to ask me what I wanted to be when I grew up- and lots of girls my age would say something like a hairdresser- I used to say I wanted to be a "viking-witch-healer" because I am weird. Why would I want to cut peoples' hair if I could have powers by carving on stones for gigantic warrior guys? 

Okay, I was a very weird five year old

I'm definitely going off topic (as I said, I'm utterly exhausted and my attention span, which is short at best, is even worse than normal), but the point I'm trying to get across is: I've always loved the idea of witches, vampires (OHMYGOSH! I love vampires- I think I have to write a separate post about that- not Twilight), spirits and so on. And because I'm such a nerd when it comes to the 'fantastical' and romantic gothic genre, I really wanted to write a post about something to do with that category, but I have so many ideas that I couldn't even think of just one and ended up unable to write anything at all. Sorry about that. But instead, I found this really interesting Ted Talk about the legend of vampires around the world- it is a cartoon and really short, but it is actually quite informative:

And maybe next year I might actually do something for Halloween. I guess that can be my next years resolution. But in the meantime, Happy Halloween to all of you who celebrate it! 

Things people should not do on public transport

I, amongst many other people, catch some form of public transport every day. I catch the bus to and from uni, and I catch the train to work. And it has come to my attention that there are two types of people who catch the train/ bus/ tram: those who respect the other passages, and those who absolutely do not. The latter group of people are the ones who really annoy me, and I'm not saying I'm perfect (I'm far from), but when it comes to etiquette on public transport, I think I am pretty good, which is why I thought I should state some things that people should not do on public transport:

just... no

1. Do not block the doors- there are people who, even if it isn't a crowded bus/ train- stand right in front of the doors. I understand if it is really crowded and there isn't any other place for them to stand, but seriously, people need to use those doors

2. Do not take off or change your shoes- the other day I was sitting down on the train and this lady sits down next to me, takes off her shoes (runners) which unleashed this horrible sweaty foot odour which forced me into breathing as little as possible, and then she changed her shoes, in the meantime putting her older shoes beside her and me on the seat. I just think this is disgusting



3. Do not play music out loud- there is such a thing as headphones, and I think on public transport, when listening to music, people really should use them. The other day, I was on the train and this guy was playing his music loudly through his phone (without headphones) and it was the most disgusting music I have ever heard in all of my life. I am not a music snob, but when I say disgusting, I mean that it was basically a stream of swear words in aggressive rap, which not only is inappropriate (especially as there were young children on the carriage too), but also, it was incredibly sexist and disrespectful to women. And this guy played this same song over and over again. And there was nothing I could do, because he was either
a) so angry at that moment, which lead him into listening to such an aggressive song- so he wasn't in the best of moods or
b) he always listens to that song and is always aggressive too

4. Don't make out- one of the most awkward scenarios on public transport is when it is a crowded train or bus and the two people sitting next to you start making out as if they are all alone and as if I wasn't pressed up beside them. I think it is great that those people are in a happy relationship, but I don't remember being part of this relationship, so please don't kiss when I am unfortunately pushed up against you, because everyone is all cramped in this now very small space. It is a hell uncomfortable. This is also something that people shouldn't do when waiting in a line either, because sometimes people behind are impatient and think that to speed up the process of whatever they are lining up for, they push the people in front of them, making a person to stumble into a couple.

This actually sums it up perfectly

So those are a few things that I think should not be done on public transport. I'm sure there are many more, but I think those are my major pet peeves in that area.

Que sera sera

Firstly, I just want to make a very important announcement: my hair looked absolutely incredible today. You know sometimes you just wake up and have those really good hair days? Well, today my hair was like a pantene commercial... and there was no one around to see it. So that's why I'm literally telling the world, because I don't think my hair is going to look this good again.  Anyway...

This time last year I was completing my last year of high school with the end of year exams only a couple of days away. That is also when you reach a point of complete indifference about it all, because the thought of having to open another text book just makes you want to go to bed and just sleep or read something that is more leisurely instead, and your ultimate dream is just to suddenly find yourself transported to a few weeks time when you have finished with school completely.

Don't get me wrong, I did like school, but twelve years is an awful long time to be subjected to that very structured and quite limiting environment. Well, for me I thought so and I welcomed change as much as I welcome a lovely warm cup of tea on a really cold day. The point of saying this (even though it isn't coming out exactly motivational) is that if you are in this 'exam-frenzy' situation, it is okay to feel fed up with it, because I think that 99.99% of students feel the exact same and at the end of the day, you will most likely do a lot better than you thought you initially had.

For anyone who is doing exams at the moment, my personal advice (other than: it is okay to eat Tim Tams to put that lovely smile back on your beautiful face) is that "Que sera sera (Whatever will be, will be)". Sung by Doris Day in Hitchcock's film 'The man who knew too much' in 1956, this particular line has become my life's mantra. Whenever things get out of hand and I have no control over a certain situation (like stressing over the outcome of an exam) I take a step back and take a deep breath and think "que sera sera" and feel better. Obviously in life we should always work to the best of our ability and not cut ourselves short, but it is always important to remember that if something doesn't go according to plan, the world isn't going to end and quite possibly, a better option will come around.

"Que sera, sera

Whatever will be, will be

The future's not ours to see

Que sera, sera"

Good luck to anyone who has exams/ essays/ assignments coming up

If I stay

Having recently been released in cinemas, I decided to read the book 'If I stay' by Gayle Forman, which I enjoyed reading. Despite the serious themes within this short novel, it is an easy accessible read. Written through the point of view of seventeen year old Mia in the aftermath of a traumatic car accident that leaves her family dead and her in a coma,  she is conveying what is happening through an out of body experience.

Mia had been living a good and happy life, with her love and talent for the cello leading her to an opportunity at a prestigious music college, having loving parents and family and a wonderful boyfriend... until one icy day that changes everything. She now has a decision to make: whether to stay or go; to wake up from her coma or join her parents in whatever comes next. The story switches backwards and forwards between the present and flashbacks of the past, which allows for the reader to learn about Mia's sense of belonging in her world. I enjoyed this technique, as the past events seem to link well with the reflections that Mia is making when she is at the hospital, also as it provided for more character development.

The present tense of the novel is only set in the space of twenty-four hours- the text itself isn't divided into chapters, but rather into the passing of time spent in her coma at the hospital. During these moments in the hospital, the reader witnesses alongside Mia, the different people in her life, most of them willing her to stay. Some of these moments are incredibly touching, for example, a particular scene was when her grandfather speaks to her saying it is alright if she chooses to let go. I got teary at that, because it is written with so much understanding and compassion, that you really admire Forman's writing style. I was also incredibly moved towards the very end of the book, when her boyfriend Adam returns. I'm not going to say too much, because I don't want to spoil the story for anyone who is planning to read it.

I wish I have seen the movie to compare the two, but I haven't. But it will be interesting to see how the directer turned the book structure into something cinematic.

7/10

I shall be going to the ball

I am so proud of myself right now, because for one of the first times, I have completed an entire essay a week before it is due and did not leave it until the night before. I know this isn't very impressive as there are so many people who actually are productive, but this is a big deal for me and because of this, I was in an amazing mood the entire day.

How did I manage to go out of my 'procrastinator-like' character? you may ask.
Well, for the simple reason that I have been an absolute hermit for the past... I don't know, but an awful long time. I've declined to going out so many times these last few weeks because I've had so much homework to do. But I'm now so sick of saying no to invites, and the other day I was invited to another party for this coming weekend. At that point in time I had two essays, a folio and assignment and an exam looming (if this was a fairytale, these are the equivalent to the ugly step sisters in Cinderella). But the two essays are due next week and on the same day and I hadn't started on either.

So I was like: "RIGHT! I am going to start and finish one of these essays tonight, and if I don't, I'm not going to go to the party (ball)."

As soon as I got home I started work on it, had an hour break for dinner and then for the rest of the evening I got down to business, and literally when the clock struck midnight... I finished the essay. So I shall be going to the ball!

So for anyone who is in the same situation as me, with an overload of essays, projects, exams, etc:
The best way to get stuff done is to set a goal, and have a reward at the end of it. Because right now, I'm feeling like this pumpkin... (I know that is a strange comparison, but just bear with me on this)

I wish I was a punk rocker

I've had so many problems with technology  and on numerous occasions it has been agreed by many of my friends and family that I have been born in the wrong time. I should have been born a few decades earlier, back to a time where blackberry and apple were still just fruit and hard copies of books and documents existed. I had another "one in a thousand" issue with something online a few days ago regarding my enrolment at uni, which is just typical, and this led to me feeling a tiny bit sorry for myself, as I was thinking "why!?!"

(I'm not overdramatic at all... um)

 And like I always tend to do, I started looking for the perfect song to express how I felt, and came across a song that I loved when it first came out and have now officially adopted as my personal anthem. Ant that song is Sandi Thom's "I wish I was a punk rocker" because: oh. my. gosh. it is so true! So enjoy, because I think it is one of the best pop songs from that decade and maybe it will bring you back to eight years ago and you can reminisce a bit about the past, just like I am right now.

The go-to book for quotes

Undoubtably, the "go-to" book for quotes is the universally loved book 'Winnie the Pooh' by A.A. Milne. Before you think I am crazy for choosing a child's book, I would like to point out that this isn't just any kid's book... it's 'Winnie the Pooh' and I think that just says it all. Yes it is a book that you probably had when you were two, but when you are two, that is when you learn some of the most important lessons in your life, and some of those lessons, like friendship, love and courage and being true to yourself can be found in most children's books. 'Winnie the Pooh' is one of the most loveable characters to have ever been written, and I don't say that lightly- he is kind, caring, clumsy and you know that whenever you need cheering up, his words are really words of such wisdom and love.

In the Hundred Acre Wood, Pooh and his friends have taught us how to love each other and now that we are older, sometimes it feels like the world needs to love a bit more. The friendship between each of the characters are so beautiful, so I want to bring 'Winnie the Pooh' and A.A. Milne's amazingness into the spotlight. So if you feel down and need some cheering up, here are some quotes that can bring a smile to your face again and make you feel better about yourself. If you are feeling lost and confused, you are not alone, because Pooh is there to put everything into perspective again and make you realise that everything is okay. And if you have an absolutely incredible friend and you can't find the right words to say how much you love them and appreciate them, here are some quotes that perfectly sum up what friendship is all about:

“If you live to be a hundred, I want to live to be a hundred minus one day so I never have to live without you.” 

“I think we dream so we don’t have to be apart for so long. If we’re in each other’s dreams, we can be together all the time.” 

“What day is it?"
"It's today," squeaked Piglet. 

"My favourite day," said Pooh.” 

“Some people care too much. I think it's called love.”

“Sometimes,' said Pooh, 'the smallest things take up the most room in your heart.” 

“If ever there is tomorrow when we're not together... there is something you must always remember. You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think. But the most important thing is, even if we're apart... I'll always be with you.” 

“How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.”

“It is more fun to talk with someone who doesn't use long, difficult words but rather short, easy words like "What about lunch?”

“My spelling is Wobbly. It's good spelling but it Wobbles, and the letters get in the wrong places.” 

“If the person you are talking to doesn't appear to be listening, be patient. It may simply be that he has a small piece of fluff in his ear.” 

“How do you spell 'love'?" - Piglet
"You don't spell it. You feel it." - Pooh”

“Rivers know this: there is no hurry. We shall get there some day.” 

“A little Consideration, a little Thought for Others, makes all the difference.”