Bug off Collection | Bloom Greenhouse & Garden Centre

This collection of plants was put in a shallow terra cotta bowl to ward off bugs. All plants that mosquitos and other pesky bugs don’t like. I liked the idea, and although I may buy these plants individually next year, I thought it made sense to give the collection a go.

White Leather Kids | Softmoc

Keds are my go-to shoes. Over spring, I picked up this pair for work days while in the house and using my standing desk.

Glossier You | Gift from the best friend

Sweetly given upon her arrival back to my province. On my first application, I was sent back to a time when the store JACOB used to be in Nova Scotia and how they would sell and give their fragrance. It was my favourite until the chain folded/moved out of every province. I remember being disappointed over it. This scent reminds me so much of that fragrance, and I love it.

Cannon 16 mm Lens | Birthday gift

The kit lens that came with my Cannon ER0S went with a 24 - 105 kit lens which, although significant, is a lot to tote around. This new lens captures a master-wide shot and gives a sense of intimacy. It provides a perspective that the other one can’t.

Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë | Chapters

Although I had a copy given to me years ago, it had baggage with the history of it. I decided this beautiful edition would be its replacement. I love the brush strokes and how it almost seems wet in appearance—art in its purest and raw form.

Anchor Paper Clip | Gift

A sweet gift from a friend away.

34 notations, lessons, observations and gold found.

*In no particular order.

1. Pursue the deep, the wonder and the voiceless…there is always gold in what has not yet been given light.

2. Anyone that leaves you behind has lost the plot. Their time in your story has passed and if they resurface, only you can say if they belong in the new pages of your story or not.

3. Resist the temptation to repeat old patterns / ways of connecting. You do it different.

4. No one wants to leave you. They simply haven’t healed themselves enough to stay.

5. You have the strongest ties to the ones that will be there for the worst of it all. Give those ties a tug when needed. They’ll be there.

6. Your bit of earth is rich and vibrant. Watch it grow and cultivate it during the quiet seasons. Quiet doesn’t mean fallow.

7. Everything that is inside you that tells you are unintelligent is a lie. Your intelligence moves mountains not only outwardly but on the insides of others. Don’t hide your processing and thoughts. It’s your calling to share.

8. Celebrate every win. Don’t shy away from being proud.

9. Listen to your gut. It has never steered you wrong.

10. If you thought ‘family’ was a word to pitch your tent to, think again. Learn. Connect and learn again.

11. Lean not on others, but stand upright on the two feet you were given.

12. Take up space and hold space in every room you walk into.

13. Reject every 'othering’ narrative that seeks to control a room.

14. Embrace the woman and mothering ways that only you uniquely inhabit.

15. Work on what you are aware of, stay learning and work some more.

16. Be the friend you need and want… but draw the line at being used and sucked dry.

17. Process every wound and give it air. Work to find it’s best healing and do not deny its presence and process.

18. Expect more from yourself. You are already capable of more than you realize.

19. If you were told to let someone else do it in your childhood / young adult years, give it a go alone. See if you are capable. (you probably are.)

20. Drive. Stay independant. Never let fear drive the car.

21. Dress to please you and how you want to present yourself. Not for anyone else.

22. When faced with misogyny / sexual misconduct, do not accept the blame. Call out the toxic patriarchy and let your words speak for themselves.

23. Stay courageous, vulnerable and open….and share when you feel safe.

24. Rather than letting them define you, define yourself.

25. Travel when it suits you. If it doesn’t, don’t. If it does, do.

26. You always know when it’s time for a change. Your restless heart beat will let you know.

27. Others won’t be ready for your changes, but you will be. Let that be enough.

28. Protect your independence and ability to stand on your own two feet. Question anyone who wants to make you dependant.

29. Question anyone who puts you on a pedestal.

30. “Just between us” is a death sentence.

31. Move your body. You will always feel better after.

32. Anyone you have loved has gotten a glimpse of heaven through your love…don’t discredit your heart and what you have given.

33. Stay witty. You are a firecracker and they love that about you. (& it keeps you alive for yourself)

34. Stay you. Stay Amy freaking Grace.

The Further Tale of Peter Rabbit | Emma Thompson

Emma Thompson is not just an actor, she is also a beautiful story teller. I love her wit, her groundless and especially this special addition to a beloved character. If you come across this sweet children’s book, please give it a read.

The Penderwicks on Graham Street | Jeanne Birdsall

Another children’s book in the form of a group of sisters who are despairing their fathers potential courtships years after their mothers death. Each character gives a sweet image of girlhood, sisterhood and all that makes childhood entertaining, despairing and utterly dramatic.

A Court of Mist and Fury | Sarah J. Maas

The second in A Court of Thorns and Roses series. Being an avid studier in storytelling and all that makes a series work, this second novel didn’t disappoint. I could see the reveals that were coming and yet even still they were expertly places and beautifully executed. It’s no wonder it will be turned into a television series adaptation. And if anyone is wondering, the heroine remains as riveting as ever.

Films / TV Series of Note

CODA - Because he needed to see it, and the second re watch was just as moving. Makes me miss the friendships and connections made through my first career as an American Sign Language Interpreter…. I don’t think I’ve ever seen my partner cry as hard during a film as he did in this one.
Game Night - Anytime I thought the twists were done, there was another. Impressive.
Succession S04 - For the incredible Shakespearian style storytelling paired next to modern day ridiculous behaviour that… unfortunately is more relatable than we’d like to admit.
The Marvellous Mrs.Maisel S05 - Drawing out each and EVERY episode.

Flatlay of three books: The Further Tale of Peter Rabbit, The Penderwicks on Graham Street, A Court of Mist and Fury

Releasing Expectations & Rejecting Scarcity - byamygrace

expectation | ˌekˌspekˈtāSH(ə)n | noun a strong belief that something will happen or be the case in the future: reality had not lived up to expectations | there is the expectation that some individuals will do better in the program than others | he drilled his men in expectation of a Prussian advance. • a belief that someone will or should achieve something: students had high expectations for their future. • (expectations) archaic one's prospects of inheritance.

scarcity | ˈskersədē | noun (plural scarcities) the state of being scarce or in short supply; shortage: a time of scarcity | the growing scarcity of resources.Last Year I made an active decision to step back from my own perception of ‘expectations’.

A year ago

I began letting go of the expectations and uncovering the root of scarcity as a belief system. Be it perceived expectations by myself or real expectations from outside myself; I had been carrying a weight I identified would not allow me to grow further.

I have been actively letting go of:

• Being the sole organizer and leader for family and friendships.

• The belief system in the traditional path into media and creative writing is the only true path.

• Our small family and personal life choices will match those we interact with.

• The belief in exactly who would/will be in my corner when the chips were down, and real life was crashing in.

• Our ability to enjoy ourselves is limited.

• Certainty.

Since actively working daily on letting go of expectations from myself and society/others, I have realized that so much of my pain is self-induced and has also been permitted by me.

I am actively embracing:

• Engaging in in-depth and connective family and friendships that go deep.

• Sinking into a documentary journalism career that I love, am excellent at and continue to thrive and grow in.

• Celebrating our unique choices and options as a small family to engage with each other and the world around us.

• Enjoying deepening the small collective of friends, family and colleagues who continue to show up for me/us.

• Identifying the trauma and roots of scarcity within my family and society.

• Looking ahead to the future with curiosity and wonder rather than with fear and scarcity.

Releasing expectations and rejecting scarcity is not a practice I will be automatically able to step away from. This is a practice I will have to remain mindful of and continue the self-reflective work to find the roots of fear and continue pulling them out one at a time.

Onwards,

IMAGE DESCRIPTION: Tulips sprouting from garden earth. Text: Spring 2023 - byamygrace

When Spring arrived on March 20th, I was ill-prepared.

I felt the heaviness of the project I was working on (a project that highlighted the severe plight of paramedics in my Province) and the lack of connection to my faith, which usually feels closer during the Lent season. I felt the pressing in of my life and business partners' trip in early April coming all too fast.

I decorated for Easter with lacklustre. I found agony in how other families gathered and celebrated bunnies, eggs and cute family photos in a way I have been unable to make happen again since childhood.

Yet as the sun begins its descent each evening, I have felt a promise of a world opening up. A new birth to a new version of the life we have been living.

And isn't that the promise of Easter in the first place?

New life, a rebirth.

The broken, the perceived dead could be risen out of the ground and made into something we couldn't have imagined.

This Spring, I am actively sourcing a new way, a new life, and the renewed soil ready for me; for us.

Enough of this life I thought would be.
Enough of this old narrative and the old way of doing things.
It is time to embrace the miracles. The right now moments are rich with potential and joy.

This Spring, I will leave behind

• Surface small talk to get me by

• Hesitating in scarcity mentality in my work

• Staying street bound in family movement

• Sinking into the weight of death.

This Spring, I will be

• Welcoming deep, intelligent connections and conversations

• Investing back into the work, I am driven to create

• Embracing collective family movement

• Celebrating life.

Virgin River | Robyn Carr

I picked this up on a whim, hoping it was as comforting a read as it appeared. It is precisely that. City Nurse Practitioner / Midwife looking for a new life in a small country town. It’s a story of the ages and delivers with every page.

Fall On Your Knees | Ann Marie MacDonald

I remember feeling jealous of the other High School English classes having this as required reading. My specific class did not. I am finally getting to it, and it did not disappoint. It’s heavy. It’s tragic. It’s complex. It’s deep. It’s real. I sincerely appreciate the work and craft behind this book.
I grew up in a white-washed culture and perspective. No one is to blame for that. It just was. Fall On Your Knees was a deep dive into multiple cultures, women coping with their circumstances and the nuance of immigrant families that have existed for decades in Canada.

Good Girls Lie | J.T.Ellison

A fun, mysterious rapid read ‘who done it’ with enough twists and turns to keep one intrigued and flipping the pages. Great for those who love a good ‘elite private school’ mystery.

TV / FILMS OF NOTE:

Why Women Kill S01 - For the mystery, the surprise and the fun.
Coco - A great cultural look at Mexican culture, family and identity.
Downton Abbey A New Era - The best Downton Film thus far. Fun and profoundly moving in its own right.

IMAGE DESCRIPTION: Photo of Amy Grace with Cream Wool Hat and Mittens wearing a black winter coat. Snow Covered trees in the background. Text overtop the image: Winter 2023 Capsule Wardrobe - byamygrace

Wool Hat & Mittens | Love & Lore / Chapters

I don’t remember the last time I owned a winter hat I truly loved. Possibly High School? I appreciate the thickness and warmth of these mittens and matching hat along with the style. Understated, yet on trend.

Pull Over Half Zip Hoodie | Lulu Lemon

Spoiled by my cousin, this sweater arrived for me over Christmas. She absolutely hit the mark with this one. I adore wearing it during my winter yoga or cardio sessions.

Black Long Sleeve Body Suit | Aritzia

Interestingly enough, I did not realize when I ordered this body suit online that it would come with shoulder pads. Somehow I missed this very CLEAR description or perhaps got redirected to a different one. Either way, shoulder pads are very much ‘NOT’ my thing. After trying it on and realizing how much I liked the fit etc., I thought I could take the shoulder pads out.
I did and saved myself a trip into the city to replace it with a different one.

When I think about the pivotal, the thrilling and the most sacred moments in my life,

I think about the ‘hers.’

the words they spoke.
the solidarity they passed.

The tears they shared

The honesty they mined.
The courage they found.

& most importantly,

I think about how they made me whole.

Women I have been influenced and inspired by

(Their voices are embedded into my childhood in unique and pivotal ways)

• Lisa Ling

• Oprah Winfrey

• Sarah Polley

• Maya Angelou

• Julie Andrews

Women who challenge me to think differently

(They bring light to the ideas and broad scopes we need to have to grow and continue our life)

• Bari Weiss

• Brene Brown

• Dr.Shefali Tsabary

• Luvvii Ajayi Jones

• Jayme Poisson

Women doing things that catch my eyes

(They quite literally caught my eye from day 1)

• Jonna Jinton

• Amie Mcnee

• Brigitte Truong

• Janna Wilton Art

• Tricia Black

IMAGE DESCRIPTION: a child reads a book in a chair beside a stack of books. TEXT: February Reads 2023 byamygrace overtop image.

An Offer From a Gentleman | Julia Quinn

Although I know Book #4 will be the focus of the next instalment of Shonda Rhimes Adaptation of the Bridgerton Series, I will not be trying to rush the series. I picked up book #3 for the month and enjoyed its Cinderella influence. This book focuses on Benedict Bridgerton, and it’s a fun dessert of a read. No complaints. Simply sweet.

Hungry Hearts | Jennifer Rudolph Walsh

A collection of essays from Jennifer and multiple writers on courage, desire and belonging. This passage from Jennifer has stuck with me since closing the book.

“We need both sides of storytelling-listening to others’ stories and telling our own - to embrace one another in our full humanity. In bearing witness, we allow ourselves to be witnessed. This is the life-changing power of storytelling - to connect those of us who will never meet or have just met, as well as to deeper our connections to the people we love the most. Listen with an open heart and without judgement to what others have to share, and take courage from these pages as you go out and tell the world your truth.”

The Pull of the Stars | Emma Donoghue

Following a nurse in a maternity ward in 1918 during the height of a pandemic, aka “The Great Flu,” we get a peek into what it was like to be serving the many women who were coming in sick and pregnant. Many are without their husbands and support and are about to die. This read took me longer to get through than I would like, but topically it feels important enough to finish all the way around.

Beautiful Little Fools | Jillian Cantor

Jillian takes the classic The Great Gatsby and gives us the spin we all need. Form the eyes of the women. Daisy, Jordon and Catherine, Myrtle’s sister, all take the leading roles in this perspective shift. From Jordon on the golf course, Daisy on her mission to find a husband, and Catherine finding her own way in New York City, we get a whirlwind tale that, if I am being honest, I prefer significantly to the original.

IMAGE DESCRIPTION: Four books in a row: Hungry Hearts by Jennifer Rudolph Walsh, The Pull of the Stars by Emma Donoghue, Beautiful Little Fools by Jillian Cantor, An Offer From a Gentleman by Julia Quinn

IMAGE DESCRIPTION: An assortment of items laying on a table: Book titled ‘Fall on Your Knees’, Valentine Cards, a notebook with 2023 and Resonance written on the front pages, a ceramic decorative house, a tube of hand cream called made by ‘Fresh’, and a blue sweater.

& all of a sudden we are wrapping up the winter weeks…

Fall On Your Knees | Ann-Marie MacDonald

Canadian Author and playwright Ann-Marie writes beautifully, and I only wish I had read this years ago. The two-part plays are showing in my city, and it would be lovely to see them if possible.

Happy Valentines - Scratch Cards | Inklings

These valentines bought for our daughter to give to her classmates from a local store, Kept, were our way to support local rather than a box store.

Personal Bullet Journal | Bullet Journal Ryder Carrol

Every new year I create a new day planner based on the ‘bullet journal’ method created by Ryder Carrol. I am especially pleased with how this year’s creation turned out, as I am getting more and more specific in what works for me and what doesn’t.

Fresh Milk Hand Cream | Fresh

On those cold winter days at my desk, having a small tube of this cream has been a lovely pick me up when my hands feel extra dry.

Blue Fitness Hoodie | Lulu Lemon

Spoiled by my cousin for Christmas. She made sure I was toasty and trendy for 2023. I ADORE this hoodie.

Ceramic House | Chapters

A wee gift from my daughter for Christmas. I love the simplicity of this aesthetic along with the ability to switch on the house lights. Simple and understated. It gives a happy glow on winter evenings.

IMAGE DESCRIPTION: Reading chair with a blanket next to a window of snowy trees outside, book shelf with plants on top and a side table with books, a candle and a glass of tea.

Women Talking | Miriam Towes

Although I watched Sarah Polleys adaptation of this novel in the Autumn of 2022 during a film festival, I wanted to read the source text. I found Miriams words of note before the novel begins both arresting and poignent. Specifically:

“Women Talking is both a reaction through fiction these true-life events, and an act of female imagination.”

Women Talking is a way of giving all women agency and voice in their unique perspectives and journeys. Although many women do not feel safe enough to share their true thoughts in this type of heightened trauma, what if they could ‘talk’?

Our Missing Hearts | Celeste Ng

From the same author of “Little Fires Everywhere” it’s no surprise this book tackles race and class. In a new spin she gives us a post ‘crisis’ era (not unlike the COVID 19 pandemic) . Without giving too much away, Our Missing Hearts touches on what the world would look like if we let ‘fear of the other’ be the ruling force of our choices.
Captivating.

Don’t Overthink It | Anne Bogel

The best part of this book was the prompts at the end of each chapter. Being someone who consumes a lot of Gretchen Rubin and other 'writers’ who encourage intentional living, this book didn’t necessarily teach me anything new, but it did remind me of my values and to take the time to revisit them with fresh eyes.

FILMS / TV SERIES OF NOTE

Black Swan - For the art of a classic tale made modern. I love how Black Swan leaves you spinning on point as much as those on screen. Darren Aronofsky knows how to pull a viewer in during these edgy and thoughtful tales.
Phantom of the Opera - For the incredible artistry in both music, vocals, dance, sets, costume…all of it.
Severance S01 - For it’s compelling commentary on separating work and personal life and it’s genuine intrigue regarding the world these individuals inhabit.

IMAGE DESCRIPTION : three books in a row: Women Talking by Miriam Towes , Our Missing Hearts by Celeste Ng, Don’t Overthink It by Anne Bogel

As the snowflakes fall… a playlist on Spotify to listen to.

*standouts & why they are included:

I Love You Lord | Steffany Gretzinger

I like to sneak hymns or prayer-like songs at the beginning and end of my seasonal playlists. A quiet liturgy of my own making. This song came out in ‘97 and encapsulated a lot of my growing-up years in an evangelical upbringing. I am still learning my adult faith, and what it means to me; these are the simple words I bring myself back to. A quiet place I find peace.

Made You Look | Meghan Trainor

Meghan delivers another song to bop around when one needs a little confidence boost. I love how she embraces her whole self as is and has stood confidently in that message within the art she makes.

I’m Still Here | Sia

We all come from nuanced and complex backgrounds. Trauma comes in all different shapes and sizes.
”Oh, the past, tormented me. But the battle was lost ‘cause I’m still here.” Encapsulates a tangible human experience.

The Best | Scala & Kolacny Brothers

‘The Best’ has become an anthem in our house: the original and all the covers. I have a soft spot for choirs & Scala & Kolacny Brothers choir has been featured in many tv shows/films, including The Social Network.

res·o·nance| ˈrezənəns | noun
1 the quality in a sound of being deep, full, and reverberating: the resonance of his voice. • the ability to evoke or suggest images, memories, and emotions: the concepts lose their emotional resonance.
2 Physics the reinforcement or prolongation of sound by reflection from a surface or by the synchronous vibration of a neighboring object.
3 the condition in which an electric circuit or device produces the largest possible response to an applied oscillating signal, especially when its inductive and its capacitative reactances are balanced.

I have been holding back.

All it takes is one quick scroll on Youtube, Instagram or Twitter to realize the number of voices on any one thing is endless. The number of vlogs, podcasts, blogs, essays, articles, series, tik-toks, memes, commentaries, and message boards on any topic is overwhelming at best.

I have found it alarming, overwhelming and, quite frankly, scared to be a voice that isn't adding anything but more noise to the cacophony.

To become part of the machine that doesn't make room for grace, compassion and courage.

Yet, now it's time to think differently. To think with a longer-lasting perspective.

Resonance.

To develop and evoke quality, depth and fullness in creation that echoes through life and work.
To practice the art of resonance is:
To fully express the fullness of thought and meaning behind a concept.
To seek collaborative hands to be the champions and refining behind the work.
To take in more than one angle of perspective on any one thing and be refined by all that surrounds a topic.

Onwards,

Amy Grace

res·o·nance| ˈrezənəns | noun
1 the quality in a sound of being deep, full, and reverberating: the resonance of his voice. • the ability to evoke or suggest images, memories, and emotions: the concepts lose their emotional resonance.

space | spās | noun
1 a continuous area or expanse which is free, available, or unoccupied
2 the dimensions of height, depth, and width within which all things exist and move
3 an interval of time (often used to suggest that the time is short considering what has happened or been achieved in it)
4 the portion of a text or document available or needed to write about a subject
5 the freedom and scope to live, think, and develop in a way that suits one

This year has sharpened me in ways I was not sure I was ready for or wanted.

For as brave and bold as some may believe me to be, I, too, can cave to the depths of doubt and weakness.

I realized this year that to claim space meant I needed to rise up and hold that space with the confidence I have. To not just fake or pretend but to truly and wholly own.

I was raised in parts but not in whole, on the value of humbleness and meekness within one's womanhood.

Yet something was nagging on me.

Something that brought me to tears when it kept raising it’s ugly head.

It happened simply and quietly when expressing myself around a dinner table.

It went something like this:

"I can give them something unique. I am a skilled storyteller and carry something others don't have. My previous training and way of seeing things make me excellent at what I do."

"You should watch how you say that. That sounds prideful, and it isn't Godly." was the reply.

"It's not prideful at all. If any of the men in this family sat here and said the same thing, I know for a fact they would be praised for their skills and intelligence. The same is true here. I know my skills, weaknesses, and where I need and want to grow. Both can be true." I responded.

It was a simple and symbolic yet crushing moment of realization.

The work was endless.

The struggle might be forever.

I spent months after this exchange navigating my self-doubt and wondering if anything would come of anything.

Yet during that time, I was learning what I was worth and what I was willing to do to make the effort I could make known.

I found that effort and work within a project of holding space for others.

This is my passion, and I have learned this more than any other this year.

I am meant to hold space for myself to do the heavy and essential work of holding space for others.

It won't stop here.

This word.

This theme.

It's a lifetime commitment.

Just because a new year comes and with it a new word,

Space will remain a word that I will hold and continue to strive for.

I pray as 2022 turns 2023 that, our pauses of reflections of the days behind us remind us of the sacred and beautiful art of being wholly and fully capable in our places.

None of it is a mistake.

Every single moment is here for the teaching.

The making and the breathing.

Thank you, 2022, for being the year that reminded me of the true intent behind the work.

Onwards,

In My Dreams I Hold a Knife | Ashley Winstead

A who-done it tale of students who survived a tragedy and relive the events a decade later. I appreciated the way this novel kept me guessing.

It Ends With Us | Colleen Hoover

Hitting on trauma and how we continue our pain, Colleen gives her characters and readers a chance to reflect and learn while also being entertained.

A Light in the Window | Jan Karon

Jan Karon is like coming home to something warm and comforting. The Mitford series is everything one would hope from a snow globe-like town. Nosey characters, interpersonal relationships and a tiny bit of romance.

Where the Crawdads Sing | Delia Owens

Exquisitely written and sweetly delivered. This mysterious, romantic drama gives sweeping descriptions of nature, the inner heart of a girl and woman and all those who affect her.

The House of Fortune | Jessie Burton

A sequel to The Miniaturist. I enjoyed the first three-quarters of this read and found the last quarter lacking substance. All that being said, it’s enjoyable in its entirety, as the whole concept of a mysterious person who makes miniatures for people to be utterly fascinating.

The Maid | Nita Prose

A tremendous rapid-read mystery if you want one. The main character, whose eyes and voice narrate the book, gives light to the personality of some neuro-divergence and is entertaining to hear from.

A Court of Thorns and Roses | Sarah J. Maas

I have not been taken in by fantasy in so long. Sarah’s A Court of Thorns and Roses gave me a ‘can’t put it down’ experience I haven’t had in a while. I loved how I could buy into these fantasy characters and am invested enough to want to read the second book in the series.

TV Shows / FILMS OF NOTE

The Sound of Music | For it’s unending charm and timeless presentation.
The Vow S02 | To take in the personal reflections and interviews of the last few years of NXIVM members during the various trials of those who led the cult.
WandaVision | After much delay I finally took in this short series. I loved the way each episode spans a decade and gives that in every aspect of production. Although it’s ending is bitter sweet, it gives hope in whatever could come next.
The Giver | Rewatched to take in this unique take on what it would be like to ‘white wash’ our differences.

Episode XII - a study on reflecting and creating.

Creative Field Notes is a series that studies the way creativity weaves itself throughout and communicates with all aspects of the natural rhythms of life.

Skims Body Suit

Curious about the hype, I invested in this simple soft and form fitting body suit for wearing underneath outfits or for around the house. The fit is more comfortable than I had expected coming from a shape wear company. It was pleasing to realize that Kim K does designs her various body suits to match the exact needs and desires of a vast array of customers. This suit wears and washes well. I will definitely investing in another body suit when the need / desire arises.

Tentree Pants Green

I have been eyeing this specific pair of Tentree pants for the better part of five years. I began noticing they were not showing up in my local searches and were running low on the stores main website. I snagged a pair before the autumn ended. They are soft, comfortable and relaxed. Perfect for Autumn weekend nature walks.

Abercrombie Plunge Neck Midi Dress

Although I have not returned to public partner Blues dancing since early 2020’s pandemic beginnings, I still hold space for solo blues dance moments at home and relish the return on the public dance floor.
This dress, I bought with that desire in mind, knowing that hopefully within the next 365 days, there will be a moment where close breathing in a dance partners space might not seem so overwhelming to me.
For now, this item is reserved for date nights.

The Land of Stories - The Enchantress Returns | Chris Colfer

Personally, as an adult, I enjoyed the first book the most, but I see how this series will have staying power for the age group it was made for and I am excited to see how my daughter reacts to this series when she’s old enough to read them.

Rules For A Knight - Ethan Hawke

Deep and heavy values and life morals packaged beautifully concise in a small and easy to carry novel. I will never let this book out of my sight. Being a sucker for allegories and anything remotely symbolic, Rules for a Knight gives tangible life insight under the guise of a character’s letter for his children. Highly recommend.

Searching for Sunday | Rachel Held Evens

Being raised in an Evangelical Mega Church I have struggled into my adult years to find a version of my faith that matched what my spirit knows to be true about my real living faith. I believe God is real. I believe God is both he / her. I believe Jesus died as a living sacrifice to break the turmoil of humanity… and I also believe we continue to make a mess of things. We, meaning the world and we, meaning the church. In this beautiful book Rachel gives us her struggle and her aches regarding the North American church culture and why it’s hard to grapple with the faith we know we have and the religious construct we were pushed into.
If I felt anything after reading this book, it was solidarity with another woman’s heart beating next to mine.

I hope she knew before she died that she was helping to heal a generation of women with her words.

Stop Walking on Eggshells | Paul T. Mason

A personal read to understand the breadth of humanity better. We would all be so much more tender, aware and capable of holding space and boundaries if we understood each other better.

TV SERIES / FILMS of NOTE

The Handmaids Tale S05 - Because it continues to remind us why it’s important to put the needs and values of women in the centre.
The Mountain Between Us - an unexpected quietly powerful film on humanity in survival mode.
Inventing Anna - A fictional / partly almost all true series on Anna Delvey aka Anna Sorokin. A fascinating series on the personality of Anna, the reporter that wrote on her and the world that made Anna’s fraud possible.

Episode X - a study on the beauty and journey of imperfection.

Creative Field Notes is a series that studies the way creativity weaves itself throughout and communicates with all aspects of the natural rhythms of life.

MUSIC: Think of Me - Phantom of the Opera.

Sheet music played by Amy Grace was sight read and played for the first time in three years.

Maybe In Another Life | Taylor Jenkins Reid

I have a special place in my heart for any story/novel that shows or details more than one possible timeline based on a person’s choices. If we believe we missed out, we are discounting the life we are living, and to say that a choice we didn’t make would have been the wrong or better choice, is also saying we assume what things would have been. Taylor allows us, readers, to see two timelines and decide for ourselves if one is better than the other.

Echo in the Bone | Diana Gabaldon

I began reading this book slowly, only to turn a corner and rapidly finish it during the multiple evenings of no electricity post-hurricane here in Nova Scotia. This book picks up the pace late midpoint to drive you toward the eighth book in the series. Not much one can say about it without spoiling the whole series, but know that Diana continues to weave the stories of Jamie and Claire in the best of ways, fictionally and realistically.

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo | Taylor Jenkins Reid

I had this book on hold from the library for months. Having it finally arrive as a ‘rapid read’ meant I needed to push it to the top of my list. Taylor doesn’t disappoint. Through a fictional character such as Evelyn, she gives us a tale of a woman’s life who is not cut and dry. And isn’t that all of us? Minimizing someone’s life based on their accomplishments, their partners, or how they looked is to take away the bigger story. A story that is worth knowing.

TV/FILMS of NOTE

The Handmaid’s Tale S05 - The saga continues. This a reminder that a mother will always have the most substantial reason to remain courageous and fight for her children.
Despicable Me! - Sharing this viewing with our daughter made me for a fun family film night. Steve Carell is a brilliant voice-over in this animated movie.
Inventing Anna - Anna Sorokin / Delvey filled the headlines during her trial. Although I didn’t pay much attention, this series shows what it means to be a performing artist and a person who buys into their own ‘facade.’