And so another year ends .........

 We are days away from the end of the year and I just want to say that this year has gone by way too fast. Honestly, I feel like we should be in September still. Why do I feel like that? Did my mind get stuck in Autumn mode or something? I love Winter, don't get me wrong, but I feel cheated for some reason.

Maybe I feel this way because it means I am just a little bit closer to turning another year older. I don't exactly dread it, I just would rather not be bothered. I think I mentioned that before. 

Anyway,  my New Year's plans include a quilt, a book(?), and hopefully a cup of Earl Grey tea. Boring, right? Well, it suits me so I have no complaints! I will be nice and toast come midnight.

If anyone has similar plans, feel free to leave a message below.

Pulpitist is the pits.......

 Thanks to Winter making itself felt, my teeth have been a bit painful. I find myself either wanting to rip my teeth out with my bare hands or ripping people a new one because they tick me off. Yeah, I'm the type of person who doesn't like to be around people when I'm in pain. But when you are part of a large Family, being by yourself is a very rare thing.

Upside is I have a super cozy scarf and I adore it. Hopefully, I can get off the self imposed ban on hot foods and drink. I really want a hot cup of tea. I also want off the "Pulpitist Diet". That's when you want to eat but you're scared of the pain, so you hard pass the food. Of course, that only lasts up until your body demands food before an all out mutiny occurs. By then hot stuff is cool and cold things aren't as cold. Life in the lukewarm lane ............

If anyone else understands my pain, feel free to leave a message below.

When the topic eludes you........

Ever had that moment when you finally get to talk to the person you've waited forever to speak with ............. aaaaaand you're mind goes blank. You can't remember anything you planned on talking about, all the topics that come to mind make you seem like a regressed three year old and you laugh at really weird moments. That is how I'm feeling right now about posting. Minus the creepy hyena laugh.

Today, not a single topic came to mind. Seriously, I couldn't come up with anything. I just sat here for a while with a blank fish stare on my face. Not a cute look on me. Eventually, I decided to write about not knowing what to say. Seemed fitting somehow.

If you've ever been through topic disappearance in person, you have my sympathy and feel free to talk about it below.

P.S. Isn't it awful when it's you crush? It feels like your dying inside cause they think you're a weirdo.

I'm so sleepy......

 Yeah, the bane of every reader's existence is there is not enough hours in a day to for reading and sleeping. I read last night until my eyes started to cross then pass out, only to dream of what I had been reading. Then I got up at a ridiculously early hour (for me) and now I feel super drowsy.

I wish they made a sleep supplement for readers that doesn't cause chaos on the human body. Maybe one day, it will exist. Til then, I'll just have to deal with it.

If this is your plight as well, feel free to leave a message below. 

I'm so stiff!

 Yesterday, LB2 and I went walking for some necessities. By the time we returned, my body was so sore I fell asleep after I ate and drank something. It was like my body flipped a switch and went "Automatic Recovery Mode: Initiated".

When I finally woke up, it was dark and I couldn't move my hips. I felt like my old Polly Pocket. A month after getting her, both her legs fell off from the hips. I felt like that future was imminent. My mom thankfully didn't laugh at me this time. 

Today, I am just a little sore. But at least, I don't feel like I'm about to break. I guess a night of moving as little as possible will fix you right up. Now I just need to stand long enough to do the dishes and cook. No biggie!

If anyone has had this happen to them, feel free to leave a message below!

200th Post and Eric Nam 🎉🎉🎉

 Today's post is my 200th! It's a little mind boggling that I've been doing this for so long. Some days, it feels like I just started posting. It has been a fun journey and I can't wait to see what will come next.

In other news, I recently stumbled upon this incredible artist, Eric Nam. This man's voice is like silk for your ears. Since I found his music on Monday, he's all I've been listening to. To think, I found out about him because his name was mentioned in the comments section of a Manhua I was reading. Best discovery ever! Of course, I introduced my mom to his music. But she somehow came to believe that I got crush. There is nothing I can say that will shake that belief. Some of my favorites of his will be below.

I hope you all enjoyed this sample of Mr. Nam's music. Feel free to leave a message below about how you liked it. Now if you don't mind, I'm going to jam to Eric for a while.

November Weather and Marvel's Wastelanders

 It's chilly and sunny today. My mom said that the news called for snow but I guess that's not happening. Yesterday was overcast with a light mizzle LB2 decided it was depressing and said so. I thought it was perfect cuddle up with a book and hot cocoa weather. We have different opinions it seems. 

Some of my favorite days are overcast. There is little glare coming inside and it gives off the atmosphere of calm. At least, it does in my book. I can read, sew, or knit in peace. While sewing or knitting, I'll listen to an audio book or podcasts. Right now, I'm listening to Marvel's Wastelanders: Doom.

I'm not ashamed to admit I am a Marvel fan. I think the story lines are deep, the action scenes intense, and the graphics on point. This extends not just to the MCU but also to their Wastelanders podcast. It's like an expanded version of a What If episode minus the Watcher. Everyone is in the same universe where the heroes have all but disappeared after D-Day. The day all the villains won and the heroes lost. It's dark and deep and funny all at the same time.

Find out what happened to Star-Lord, Hawkeye, Black Widow, Wolverine, and Doom. It just might surprise you. You will meet a host of old characters as well as some new faces. I think the best part about Wastelanders is that the episodes are interconnected. It's the Podverse, after all.

Give it the series a listen if you are up for an adventure you never thought of having. And feel free to leave a comment below with your thoughts.

Can I go to sleep now?

 Today, I have charge of a majority of the Sibs. Now, normally this is not an issue. But I had trouble sleeping last night and now all I want out of life is a nap.

Trying to make sure no-one gets hurt and/or breaks anything is a trial when you're struggling to stay awake. For the first time in months, I wanted coffee. I didn't make any though. That stuff hits my gut like battery acid and I mean the type of battery they stick in semi trucks. No button batteries here.

I'm gonna go now as my eyes keep crossing. Feel free to comment below if you've ever been here.

Lyssa Kay Adams' newest book is out!

 Since the very first Bromance Book Club novel, I have been a fan of the series.  I have been known to stay up all night to finish her books. Now, A Very Merry Bromance is out. Let's enjoy it, y'all. Official Blurb below.

'Tis the season for a Bromance Book Club matchmaking mission! This time, they’re pulling out the mistletoe for everyone’s favorite country music star, Colton, and his second chance at love.

Country music’s golden boy Colton Wheeler felt the most perfect harmony when he was with Gretchen Winthrop. But for her, it was a love him and leave him situation. A year later, Colton is struggling to push his music forward in a new direction. If it weren’t about to be the most magical time of year and the support of the Bromance Book Club, he’d be wallowing in self-pity.
It’s hard for immigration attorney Gretchen not to feel a little Scrooge-ish about the excess of Christmas when her clients are scrambling to afford their rent. So when her estranged, wealthy family reaches out with an offer that will allow her to better serve the community, she’s unable to say no. She just needs to convince Colton to be the new face of her family’s whiskey brand. No big deal…
Colton agrees to consider Gretchen’s offer in exchange for three dates before Christmas. With the help of the Bromance Book Club, Colton throws himself into the task of proving to her there’s a spark between them. But Gretchen and Colton will both need to overcome the ghosts of Christmas past to build a future together.

If you're a fan of this series, feel free to leave a message below. Now, if you don't mind, I got books to read.....

Oops..... My bad!

 I totally blanked last week and forgot to post. I'm so sorry, Internet. There will be two posts this week to make up for the oversight. 

Lb2 has a b-day later this week and he is cringing each time we remind him of it. So fun! After his birthday, we will have a little bit of time til mine. Now I don't dread it ,per se, I just kind of want to ignore it. Is that weird? I feel awesome when everyone forgets to call or send gifts. Like I unlocked a brand new achievement, Forgotten Relative! Also, I don't have to make awkward conversations. You know, "How does it feel to be [insert age]?", " Um, same as the year before, sooooo....... ". That one was very uncomfortable.

I feel so obligated to make things feel smooth that I get super anxious when we drift into Awkwardville. Now, my family will find that funny. As far as they know I live in Awkwardville, population:me. There is a difference between intentional awkwardness, the side of town I live and love in, and accidental awkwardness, the place where we wish for holes to swallow us whole.  That is where I dread drifting into. It's super hard to leave.

If you too live in Awkwardville, feel free to leave a message below.

Light Novels ....... may have gone a might crazy there

 As you may have guessed from the title of this post, I discovered light novels! Yay! I may have gone on a light novels download spree as I got the LNs of my favorite manga and anime. 

I'm telling myself that it's not a lot but if we're being honest, I have over thirty Light Novels now. It's not my fault that they tend to be series. I am going to have so much fun.

If anyone else has jumped down this rabbit hole, feel free to leave a message below.

11/09/22 P.S. I now have over 40 light novel series.😁

Mr. Bad Series review, kind of.....

 It is something of a half review since I'm only halfway through the 24 episodes. I have become absurdly fond of Asian Dramas, especially their romantic comedies. I can't really explain it. It's like my Russian and Turkish melodrama phase of yesteryear. I like good writing and I will read subtitles if the acting is on point.

That said, Mr.Bad does indeed have good writing and acting. It is a realistic fantasy about an aspiring author who accidentally wishes for an unforgettable love, inadvertently bringing her villain to life. He is more than a little put out about time traveling 500 years into the future. Since he wants to return to his own life, he decides to help her get a boyfriend so that her wish will come true. He didn't plan on falling for her himself. Nor did she.

There is a side story about how our heroine's boss is in love with his business partner but is so socially inept that he struggles with confessing his feelings. It's mildly painful to watch. I mean it's enjoyable but still painful. 

Overall, Mr.Bad is a wonderful Chinese Romantic Comedy series that I probably will rewatch at some point. If there is any one out there who shares my opinion, feel free to leave a message below.

P.S. I finished it. The end was so beautiful that I cried a little. I'm going to rewatch the last two episodes so that I can relive those moments. 

Hi Fall!

 Autumn weather has finally arrived! I am so excited to pull my sweaters and scarves. I love this time of year. The sights, the smells, the crisp air. LB2 hates November but tolerates October. I'm down with either one.

I adore cooking with seasonal fruit and vegetables and Autumn is one of the fun seasons to work with. I enjoy making soups, stews, and pot pies. Baking bread on a cool crisp day is always a highlight. The kitchen is a nicer place to be in when you're not sweating like you've entered a furnace. 

If you all agree, feel free to leave a message below.

When did I become that girl?

 Earlier this week, I found myself sitting on my bed, eating ice cream with my mom while watching a k-drama. How did I become that stereotype of a single 20 something year old woman who lives at home? Also, Blue Bell is totally to blame. Their "Bride's Cake" Ice cream is too delicious to not eat.

My mom didn't understand why I was mortified. When I was younger, I dreamed of having tons of friends who would share my interests and we'd hang out in bookstores and cafés, talking about life. Instead, I lost contact with my one non-family friend and LB2 is my present BFF. I'm pretty sure he'd trade me in if he could.

I don't mean to sound like I'm having a pity party. I'm not. I am happy with my life and if I could change any of my life choices, I wouldn't. I'm just feeling a little weird about how different my life is from the one teen me imagined.

If any of you get what I'm saying, feel free to leave a message below.

Italian Cream Cake is soooooo Good!

 On Sunday, LB2 made three Italian Cream cakes. If you've never had one, fix that quickly. You will probably not regret it. If you are on a diet, sorry. It was divine, sublime, perfection, and all the good adjectives out there. Pics below.

Yummy, right? LB2 got the recipe from Pinterest. Toasted Coconut and Pecans cover the rich Cream cheese frosting. The moist cake beneath is studded with tender pecans and coconut as well. It is a treat that is not to be be missed. 

If I made.you all drool, my job is done for today. As always, feel free to leave a message below.

Rampaging hair conquered by ....... Crochet hook?

 As I have mentioned before, I am biracial. Part of the wonderful gene pool that makes me, well me, has given me hair that pretty much lives its own life. All through my preteen and teen years, I want that Pantene hair. You know what I mean. Shiny, bouncy lush hair swinging in time to Natasha Bedingfield's Unwritten. My hair said hard pass.

We coexist now in semi peaceful harmony. It tangles like mad but has thankfully stopped catching on everything and everyone. Only thing is, my hair has declared a state of war against bobby pins and Claw clips. It defies logic, really it does. My hair will find a way out the bobby pins and just drop 'em on the ground. As for Claw clips, my hair consistently breaks the teeth. I have yet to find teeth thick enough not to break. Goody made one once that my hair seemed to love but the springs snapped after a few years. I have yet to find those again.

One day as I was cleaning, I came across an old crochet hook that had slipped out my work bag. Being busy, I popped it into my hair and forgot it was there for a few hours. When I remembered, I tried putting my hair into a bun and anchoring it with the hook. It worked! My hair can't break it and crochet hooks are designed to not let projects slide off. I frequently use crochet hooks in my hair now.

If you have had the same issue or just think I'm being silly, feel free to leave a message below. FYI: I'm serious. Crochet hooks rock!

I may be slightly hooked on Manga

 I, yet again, have no idea how it happened. One minute I was watching the anime series, The Yakuza's Guide to Babysitting and, before I know it, I've read all the published manga. Then, I did the same with Spy x Family (which is an awesome series that you should totally see).

I just made an account with a site that lets you read manga for free. I think I might be here a while. I got a lot of reading ahead of me. I saved a bunch of series that I wanted to read.

If anyone out there feels me, don't hesitate to leave a message below.

Blackpink's "Pink Venom"!

 I honestly don't know when I became a K-pop fan. I think it may have started with Blackpink and Lady Gaga's "Sour Candy" or BTS's "Dynamite". Either way, I'm a fan and my sibs are quietly supportive. They may be scared I will try to make them like it by forced immersion. I learned my lesson with Hamilton.

Any way, Blackpink has released their new comeback called " Pink Venom". It's a funky, beautifully fierce nod to the artists and music that shaped them. You can't help but bop to it and imagine yourself as a take-no-prisoners Runway model who will always slay. Or maybe that was just my daydream?

As always, feel free to leave a message below. I'm going to go break my replay button.

So sore!!!

 Yesterday, I walked about half a mike to our local pharmacy to by teething tablets. My wisdom teeth were making me feel like gnawing on people. While there I picked up some things that we needed at home and carried them back. Now, my body is sore and I feel like sleep is always an option. Plus, my gum are itching me again.

Why do they call them wisdom teeth anyway? All they do is bring pain and act as a food trap. I need to take some teething tablets. That spoon handle is looking mighty fine.

As always, feel free to leave a message below.

So, Am I the weird one?

 Earlier today I was reading something and it made me think. The author was talking about how hard the COVID-19 lockdown was on him and his wife.  It suddenly dawned on me that as far as interacting with strangers outside my home, lockdown didn't bother me. 

On a normal day, I mainly interact with my family, neighbors, and their pets. Going to the store was the biggest highlight of my week. One could say that my pre-COVID life was just prep for the actual COVID lockdown. The only things that truly made it real were the shortages, the constant wipe downs of packages, and the death tolls. That is the parts that will never leave me. The staying inside and only interacting with my household? That didn't even register. 

So, am I weird because of that? I don't know. Yeah, life in 2020 was (as my beloved cousin Elle says) cancelled but we survived it. Life continues. Why are we still making a big deal about it?

As always, feel free to leave a message below.

Warriyo and Spencer Sutherland

 I am currently into scripted fictional podcasts. They feel like the radio dramas of old while being very modern. Case in point, Vote for Love by Romcom Pod. It was super interesting. Plus, it introduced me to the incredible music of Spencer Sutherland. His voice........will make you melt a little bit. Don't believe me? Check out the video below.

Melted yet? On the other side of the music spectrum, we have Warriyo. If you want to hardcore jam while gaming or washing dishes, play this dude's music. Sample below.

I hope y'all get addicted to this music like me. It gets kinda lonely here otherwise. As always, feel free to leave a message below.

The Heat is on! Can we turn it off now?

 It is so hot outside! Lb2 and Lb4 went on a walk with me and we were soaked when we got back. I am staying inside for the rest of the day.

In other news, I am feeling better but Ls1 is going to get hurt if she keeps whining about how she gets no sleep and no one cares and her head hurts and NO ONE CARES! I walked in is scorching heat to get cough medicine that should help and I DON'T CARE? She makes me tired. Still love her though.

As always, feel free to leave a message below.

Allergies suck!

 Half of the Sibs have come down with a nasty allergy attack. I am trying to fend one of myself. I am currently so tired that my eyes keep crossing.

I read Tricia Levenseller's The Shadows Between Us yesterday. The first chapter is a little sluggish but by chapter two, the momentum has been established and you find yourself captured. I now need to read Tricia's now completed Bladesmith Duologly. 

As always, feel free to leave a message below.

Audiobook Binge!

 I went on another audio book  downloading spree. I got two Lily Chu novels, three Suzannah Nix novels and I lost count how many other novels I got in audio form. I got so much knitting piled up that I'm excited to have something to keep my brain occupied while my hands work.

I have two scarves on looms and what seems like a ton of hats to make. I hope to get them done before snowfall. Hopefully, the sibs haven't tangled my yarn beyond all hope. 

As always, feel free to leave a message below.

Hidden Citizens

 A few weeks ago, I stumbled upon Hidden Citizens by accident on YouTube. Their remix(?) of Ciara's rendition of "Paint it Black" was just mind blowingly powerful. Lb2 and I felt like it was the theme music to a tragic backstory for a villainess. The next day I just had to listen to all their music. Long story short, I got all their music plus Paint It Black.

This is how they describe themselves,

'A shadowed authority specializing in impacful music, Hidden Citizens is an underground group of creators that crafts top-tier ontent from outside the public eye. Their music will take you on a journey. With reflective low points and extreme high points, they paint an unforgettable picture.'

And

'If the end of everything has a soundtrack, Hidden Citizens will bring it to life.'

That's what they say on their site. They sound like the best ever soundtrack of a dystopian blockbuster. Their music inspires one to embrace all that is epic and to not just live life, but to live the legend. I can't even pick a favorite song. All I can say is check them out today.

As always, feel free to leave a message below.

Hair day and Anime!

 Today I flat ironed both my hair and that of LS2. She has gotten so big on me. We stand almost eye to eye. Today was the first time LS2 ever got her hair done that way so she stood while I worked. I have a feeling that next time  I will need her to sit so I can do it. 

I meant to flat iron my hair in May but life sidelined that idea til July. Now I just want to let it be known, I'm not that into doing hair. I tend to put my hair in a braid and leave it. I don't want to fuss with my hair all the time.

In other news, I had a mild anime spree. If you want a love story with a few sobs attached, try Violet Evergarden. Comedy,drama and a little suspense, try Summer Wars. If you want a ton of romance and suspense (with a dash of Freaky Friday), try Your Name. If you want to just want to sit and sob, try Hal. I absolutely loved them all!

As always, feel free to leave a message below.

We are trying to make butter!

 Today, LB2 is trying to make butter since we used the last of it. He's running some heavy cream with a little salt in the blender. I hope it works. I want to make something buttery.

Saw The Man from Toronto on Monday. Kevin Hart and Woody Harrelson are a trip and a half. Their comedic chemistry was on point.  A wonderful comedy of errors turned buddies film. 

As always, feel free to leave a comment below. I'll let you know how that butter came out. Let me just get some bread......

P.S. The butter was super delicious! Could've used a little more salt but unsalted is fine.

Two series are Done!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 I have mentioned before that I hate reading incomplete series. Cliffhangers and I do not agree. So last week I was overjoyed that Melanie Cellier finished her series, The Mage's Influence. I have been waiting for months for it to be done. I read books 1 & 2 and hope to start book 3 soon.  

I might be slow getting to it because Tara Grayce finished her series, Elven Alliance. I started this series awhile ago thinking it completed. It wasn't. I discovered that I really suck at being patient. Because of that wonderful realization, I have yet to read the last three books. I was doing my mind a favor by avoiding an insomnia trigger. So, now that it's done I might have to read them right now. I mean, the last novel was released yesterday. I need to read now!

I hope you all check these series out. They are so awesome! As always, feel free to leave a message below.

Is it me or is it blazing in here?

 Hi, Everyone! I hope you all are staying cool in this nasty heat wave. My toes are currently freezing so I have no complaints. We are keeping the air on because we got little ones and others with health issues.

I haven't really done much today aside from helping the sibs online and work on Operation: Shrink Ray. For those who are curious as to what that is.... I just got smaller copies of movies. That's it. Sorry to disappoint. 

In other news, I am sort of on the fence about Lightyear. I keep swinging from "I don't want to see it" to "I can't wait for it to come out". I just don't know. I probably will see it but the sibs may have pushed me into it. I did enjoy Encanto and Turning Red, though.

If you have any thoughts, feel free to let me know below.

Uncharted: A super brief review

 I watched Uncharted earlier this week for the first time. I'll be honest and say that the casting is what intrigued me. Tom Holland, Mark Wahlberg and Antonio Banderas in a movie? Yes, I was going to see it. I even got my dad and the Sibs to watch it.

I liked the film. I thought it a little fast paced but still easy to follow. My dad thought it a little Indiana Jones-ish but since he's a fan of that franchise, no complaints. Due to it's open ended ending, the sibs demanded a sequel that doesn't exist as of yet.

I thought it was cool they took this video game and made such an appealing movie out of it. I had never heard of this one. I do hope a sequel is in the works, if only to get the sibs to leave me alone.

As always, feel free to leave a message below.

Mulberry Picking

We have a Red Mulberry tree in our backyard and it has ripened. Today was the third day of berry picking. I did some picking alone this time. The Sibs helped with the earlier work.

For those of you who don't know what a Mulberry is, I will try to explain. Red Mulberries look similar to Blackberries. They are sweet with their own very light flavor. They grow on trees as opposed to bushes or canes. Our tree has so far required little to no care aside from pruning. In fact we didn't even plant it. Score one for bird poop. 

When picking, you do have to be on watch for bird poop on leaves and falling from above. LB1 hates that tree because he keeps getting poop in his hair as he works in the garden. I don't mind. So far, we have frozen about six cups worth of berries for later. Below are some pictures.

If you have any questions or comments, feel free to leave them below.

Chip and Dale Rescue Rangers: A Very Brief Review

 If you are a 90's baby like me, you may remember the TV show. When I saw the trailer for this movie, I was hit with a wave of nostalgia. And watching it was like taking a trip down memory lane. There are many cameos from so many different cartoons, not just Disney.

In a way, it felt like Who Framed Roger Rabbit? meets the modern buddy cop genre. I loved how Disney

 pokes fun of themselves and others all at once. Seeing a middle aged Peter Pan was a bit put there, though.

Time was not gentle on him.

All in all, I loved.the film and plan on forcing, I mean, persuading LB2 to watch it😉 He should remember

these shows too. 

If you've seen it and have thoughts about it, feel free to leave a message below.

Congrats to Kalush Orchestra and ....... A little soap never hurt, right?

 Eurovision 2022 has come and gone, leaving our winner Kalush Orchestra and their song "Stefania". As you all know, they were my second choice after Andrea. I am overjoyed that they won. Their song is just.........WOW! Check it out below:

See what I mean! I am not surprised they won. In other news, I ingested soap by accident. LB 7 gave me a fork with soap still on it. We were both upset to see it. I can't get mad at him since I didn't notice it myself until after my first bite. I'm trying to flush my system now and my throat feels weird. Don't know how much is real and how much is paranoia.

As always, feel free to leave a message below.

Bonus Bonus Post: Eurovision 2022 is Coming!

 

Disclaimer: I wrote this post weeks ago but failed to post it on time. So, Oops. My Bad.

As last year, I want to say that I know that there are things happening which may make this post irritate some people. I’m not trying to make light of the very serious war happening right now. I am simply trying to bring a little joy and laughter to those who find themselves in need of it. If you feel like that is not you, please find a place where you can be comfortable. If you feel like you could use something that brings a smile to your face, please continue reading.

I hope everyone is ready for another fun year. We have some returning artists, such as

Zdob si Zdub and Mahmood. We also have a ton of new faces. Let’s jump in and meet this year’s contestants.

1. Albania – Ronela Hajati – Sekret – Ronela’s voice is so strong and beautiful, it makes this song something of a statement. Plus, I love the hair twirling even though it gives me a headache when I do it.

2. Armenia – Rosa Linn – Snap – Very folky with such a catchy chorus. I find myself singing along. Her Live Performance is going to be so fun.

3. Australia – Sheldon Riley – Not the Same – Smooth voice reminiscent of Sam Smith.

4. Austria – LUM!X feat. Pia Maria – Halo – My new workout song for 2022. My mom might break the repeat button on this one.

5. Azerbaijan – Nadir Rustamli – Fade to Black – Beautiful and Cinematic. Behold me, sobbing into my chocolates.

6. Belgium – Jeremie Makiese – Miss you – When I first heard this song, I was like “Is this your ‘Bond’ song audition?” Now, after playing it a few times, I realize that he just borrowed a little Bond Swag. Very Addicting.

7. Bulgaria – Intelligent Music Project – Intention- So, some seasoned rocker dads formed a group and entered Eurovision? Go Live Your Dream!

8. Croatia – Mia Dimsic – Guilty Pleasure - Mia’s voice is so smooth. I wish I had a Forever or a Guilty Pleasure.

9. Cyprus – Andromach – Ela – Fun beat and catchy lyrics means that this is slipping into my “Summer 2022 Mix” playlist.

10. Czech Republic – We are Domi – Lights Off - I dare you not to dance to this! One of my new jams.

11. Denmark - REDDI - The Show - I just love these Lady Rockers! They are so inspiring!

12. Estonia - Stefan - Hope - This would definitely be at home in one of the westerns of old.

13. Finland - The Rasmus - Jezebel - Crazy Catchy. I find myself singing this at random moments, like while grocery shopping.

14. France - Alvan & Ahaz - Fulenn - A strangely beautiful blend of EDM and ancient sounds.

15. Georgia - Circus Mircus - Lock Me In - Funky and fun, I’m finding it hard to describe.

16. Germany - Malik Harris - Rockstars - I feel like he’s telling the world how I feel. I do hope he goes far, like Runner up, but he’s not my #1.

17. Greece - Amanda Tenfjord - Die Together - She’s going to slay her live performance. I just know it. Her vocals are powerful, the lyrics moving, amd the music is so epic.

18. Iceland - Sigga - Meo Haekkandi Sol - THE HARMONY! Oh my Goodness, they meld so well.

19. Ireland - Brooke - That’s Rich - One of my new favorites. I love her vibe.

20. Israel - Michael Ben David - I.M. - I feel like this would be at home on a runway during Fashion Week.

21. Italy - Mahmood & Blanco - Brividi - The way their voices blend together makes me want to sob. So pretty! Where is my chocolate so I can cry into it?

22. Latvia - Citi Zeni - Eat Your Salad - What,Why? How do I get this irritatingly catchy song out my head?

23. Lithuania - Monika Liu - Sentimentai - I can see this playing at an uber-hip cabaret.

24. Malta - Emma Muscat - I am what I am - Beautiful and Catchy. I’m still sad that she changed her song but this will do, I guess.

25. Moldova - Zdob si Zdub & Fratil Advanhov - Trenuletul - This song feels like the craziest fun folk song that plays in the background of a movie filled with hijinks.

26. Montenegro - Vladana - Breathe Beautifully Epic. I get chills every time I hear this song.

27. The Netherlands - S10 - De Diepte - This os going on my “Summer 2022“ playlist. I just adore how smooth her voice is.

28. North Macedonia - Andrea - Circles - My #1 Pick! I broke the repeat button, fixed it, then broke it again playing this song. Her voice is so strong and beautiful, the lyrics so poignant. I want to cover this song so much. I can never listen to it once.

29. Norway - Subwoolfer - Give that Wolf a Banana - They sound good and the song is weirdly fun and catchy.

30. Poland - Ochman - River - Epic. I wonder how his Semi-finals performance will look.

31. Portugal – Maro – Saudade, Saudade – Another one with incredible harmonies! I wish I knew Portuguese.

32. Romania – WRS -Llamame – Love the Latin vibe, I jush wished he looked more comfortable. It makes for awkward watching.

33. San Marino – Achille Lauro – Stripper -Why do I feel dirty after listening to this song?

34. Serbia - Konstrakta – In Corpore Sano – Her sound is good but she isn’t my #1.

35. Slovenia – LPS - Disko – So Retro.I have no idea which playlist this is going into, I just know it’s going in one.

36. Spain – Chanel – SloMo – I’m getting modern Latin Pop vibes from this song. I wish my Latina card hadn’t been revoked. I just might have understood the Spanish parts. Sigh.

37. Sweden – Cornelia Jakobs – Hold Me Closer – I didn’t like this song the first time I heard it. But after I listened to it some more, it sort of grew on me.

38. Switzerland – Marius Bear – Boys Do Cry – I want to play this for my brothers when they’re trying to be tough. It’s okay to cry.

39. Ukraine – Kalush Orchestra – Stefania – If Andrea doesn’t win, I want it to be them. This song is just too good. It’s going on my 2022 playlist.

40. United Kingdom – Sam Ryder -Space Man – Quirky but he give me chills. His voice is so …..Wow.

    And that’s it folks. I hope you enjoyed this list. Be sure To check out the Finals on May 14^th. As always feel free to leave a message below.

Bonus Post: Congrats AleXa on your big Win!!!!!!!!!

 As you all know, I've been so eager for the American Song Contest. Well, AleXa won with her incredible song "Wonderland". Check it out below.

Shout out to all the other amazing contestants! You were all so wonderful it's a miracle anyone managed to win.If you all didn't see it, check ASC out on NBC online or Peacock.

Belle (2021)

 I just saw Belle on Sunday night. I have no words to describe how much I now love this movie. I want it to get every award there is. The animation was so gorgeous. I'm not a anime fan but this is trying very hard to change it. I think Disney has been put in they're place. Oh, and the music! I danced and I sobbed. Warning: This film may cause uncontrollable sobbing.

Belle is about 17 year old Suzu. Since her mother's death, she has become shy and standoffish. She no longer embraces music as that is a tie she had with her mother. Suzu's best friend (who never takes no for an answer), sends her the link to a VR game called U. There Suzu finds the courage to sing with the anonymity her Avatar, Belle, provides. While on U, she encounters a mysterious player known as The Beast.

I can't tell you what happens next because I have a tendency to over share and will probably tell you what happens in the end. But what I will say is that it's unexpected and so very good. Below are some pictures of the movie, a mashup of the music and the Trailer.

If that doesn't make you want to watch the movie, I don't know what will. If you've seen it and loved it, feel totally free to comment below. I'm trying to avoid another Hamilton incident. How was I to know that I was surrounded by undeserving music snobs? I'm not going to share this with the sibs as they tend to be a wee bit snobbish. I want to talk to people who appreciate the artistry of this film. Also, feel free to comment if you didn't see it. I won't judge.

Titles at the very beginning, Folks!

 So my SD card hiccuped and sent a ton of videos into my LOST.DIR folder.No biggie, I said. I'd rename them and put them back where they belong. Well, that didn't happen easily. 

Why do they put the main title five,six minutes into the film? I had a 100+ to do and I felt like either screaming or ripping my hair out, it was that stressful.I miss the good old days of film when the title was shown 5 seconds into the movie. I now enter phase two of Project: Reclamation. I must now fill all empty gaps with replacements. Yay me!

As always, feel free to leave a message below.

Shopping Day!

 Today is grocery shopping day. I never realized how excited I get to leave the house for up to an hour to get food. Everyone tells me I need to get out more but I really only want to leave the house if there is food involved. What does that say about me?

I started getting ready to leave last night by picking out my outfit and prepping other stuff. I got a very detailed list and I'm planning to stick to it as closely as possible. I should probably eat something before I go so I don't lose my mind in there.

As always, feel free to leave a message below. 

The Kinder Poison by Natalie Mae

 This week I read the two books in the series and absolutely adored them. Zahru is just a girl, with (what she deems) boring powers,trying to have a night of fun with her friend when her plans go horribly wrong and she is thrust into a world full of danger and intrigue. Ms.Mae did a great job making a villain we come to love and hate all at once. 

Zahru and Kasta's relationship is a rollercoaster with frequent dips toward toxic. In fact, I think they hang there for a bit. But, even though you know they're enemies, you still find yourself rooting for them. The only problem I have with this series is the cliffhanger we are left with at the end of the last book. There be a book three because Zarru and Kasta left a mark.

As always, feel free to leave a message below.

Hot Water!

 A few weeks ago, our hot water heater died. If you've ever had that happen to you, then you know how much it sucks. It is painful washing dishes in cold water and I refused to wash my hair until it was fixed. Thankfully, our landlord gave the okay to replace the whole thing so guess who will have hot water tonight? Me! I am so happy I could hug the plumber (I won't, that would be to awkward).

As always, feel free to leave a message below.

The Aurora Cycle

 Real Quick, If you love Sci-fi, Y'all will love this series. Amie Kaufman and Jay Kristoff have written a series that I would love to see on any type of screen. There is danger, romance, comedy, and adventure with a cast of characters you will fall in love with. Plus, the covers are awesome. Just look below.

My computer put them up backwards. Anyway, aren't these covers incredible! I hope you all get around to reading this awesome series. As always, feel free to leave a message below.

Stormy Weather

 As I write this, I'm looking out my window at the approaching storm. When I was little I never paid much attention to  the weather. Now, I am constantly aware of it. Life will do that to you. I'm hoping that it won't rain so hard that our basement floods. We are going to have work done on our water heater that has gone out. We'd have to reschedule the plummer. 

As long as the tornado sirens stay silent though, I guess everything will be cool. Welcome to Spring, Folks!

You know the drill. Feel free to leave a message below.

The American Song Contest is coming!!!!!!!

 As many of you may know, I am a huge Eurovision Fan. I have followed it every year for a while now. So hearing at the end of 2019 that they were going to test the waters here in America with a song contest was HUGE. And now, in the year 2022 on March 25th, they will air it on NBC. 

I am so excited about I think I squealed for an hour after finding out. The two hosts are Kelly Clarkson and Snoop Dog. The contestants have been announced and the songs are waiting to be revealed. There are 56 contestants from all 50 States and 6 Territories.

I hope this news is as exciting to you as it was to me. As always, feel free to leave a message below.

I'm in love with "Circles"!

 North Macedonia's Eurovision Representative Andrea's song Circles is so beautiful and powerful. I have it stuck on repeat. I want to sing it at the top of my lungs, dance around my home, and blast it in my backyard while hanging up laundry (this will happen once it is warmer and there is little chance I will freeze my toes off).

I want it to win. I am invested now. This is my top pick, my #1. Listen to the song below and tell me that you hate it. Tell yourself that lie. 

 Feel free to tell me how much you love this song below.

Death on the Nile is .......... WOW!

 Really all I can say about it. My Mom and LB2 were as shell shocked as I was at the end. All I can tell you is that the end will take by surprise. The cast was simply stunning, the scenery and CGI were gorgeous and the dialogue was delectable. If you loved Murder on the Orient Express, you will absolutely adore Death on the Nile. I think Agatha Christi would've approved of it. 

In other news, our Kitchen sink faucet broke, leaving us waiting for the replacement to come in. That's Life for you. There are an abundance of cranky people right now because of it.Meanwhile, I just want to binge on K.M. Shea's new series, Pack of Dawn and Destiny. I hate reading incomplete series because they leave me on edge for days, sometimes weeks. Because of that delightful character trait, I waited for months for Ms. Shea's new series to be complete. Now that it is, I can hardly wait to jump in.

As always feel free to leave a message below.

Why are Vintage Glasses so expensive?

 Today I spent several hours looking for a pair of Vintage Safilo Elasta 1067 frames. My Dad broke his (he left them in the bed and laid on them). I saw a set of frames for $86.00! Now, I personally don't need glasses but that was a bit of sticker shock. 

I found sunglasses that seem to be it. I will not even begin to make sense of it. My Dad is excited. I'm trying not to grimace at the price tag.

As always, feel free to leave a message below.

Marry Me is Out!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 Yes, I am that excited. The moment I finish this post, I am going to watch the film with my mother. We have been waiting for this film for over a year. Each time it was postponed, you could've heard our groans from a mile away. 

We have been listening to every little bit of the sound tract that has been trickling out. I am almost beyond words, that's how ecstatic I am. Totally check Jennifer Lopez and Maluma out to hear their work. They sound incredible together.

This post is early because I will be busy with my family this coming week. I will try to resume normal posting the week after next (does that make sense?). As always, feel free to leave a message below. 

When you wait impatiently.... Play an Audio Book!

 My mom has the SD Card I like to call the Series Card. She's had it for days and I don't know when I will get it back. So to pass the time, I'm enjoying all my new audiobooks. I started Bad Luck Bridesmaid by Alison Rose Greenberg. I have so far found it charming. 

LB2 raided my new audiobooks to find his own perfect read or listen. I don't know what to call it. Jody Hedlund's Come Back to Me was one of the adiobooks he swiped. It was absolutely perfect. I totally recommend it to lovers of Outlander for its time travel aspect. LB2 and I were on pin and needles as we listened.

One of the reasons I love Audiobooks so much is the portability they give me. Sometimes my hands are too busy to hold a book but my mind will be so doggone bored. Listening to an audiobook is like a multitasker's best dream. I will tackle all the house work and listen to two characters fall in love if people will simply stop talking to me. I don't want to know what our neighbors are up to, I want Richard Armitage to continue reading to me. Side note: He really does have the nicest voice. Also LB2 hates him.

As always, feel free to leave a message below.

At last Check....

 I had 22,943 ebooks, some of which are compilations with up to five novels in one. You all are the fourth ones to know. And yes, I have not read them all.  That doesn't mean I don't try to.

Right now, I can't to do any of that. My Kindle Fire 7 doesn't read pdfs. So, I am back to reading off a computer. That means, I can only watch or listen to things on my Fire. I won't complain too much. The Kindle was a gift from my uncle so if it wasn't for him, I'd be up an excrement creek with no paddle, facing killer rapids and a waterfall. Not my kinda place.

Right now, I'm going on an audiobook spree. If I can't read it, I will listen to it. And audiobooks count every bit as much as reading the book itself. 

As always, feel free to leave a message below.

P.S. So, my Kindle updated itself so that I now have access to all my PDFs. I'm sorry Fire that I doubted you and gave you the finger. That was not nice of me.

When tech lets you down..........

 Today, my tablet refuses to turn on. I have been using it to play music and listen to audiobooks since my mp3 player died. It is beyond frustrating. I just want all my tech to work fine. I don't want to deal with hiccups like this.

I am think that as soon as I get the funds, I will be getting a new tablet as well. I don't want to but I don't think I have a choice anymore. Now, to get the money.......

If you understand what I'm feeling, feel free to leave a message below

Life without a MP3 Player

 So, the battery on my mp3 player blew up. I can't complain. It gave me two beautiful years of music and Radio. It was an AGPTek, I forget the model. I went with them again because they seemed durable to me. They are very good though my family has had mixed results with them. I look forward to getting a new one the moment I recruit the money. Til then, I am in music limbo.

I put all my music on a sd card and play it off of my tablet bet it's just not the same. I miss the ability to listen to music and read at the same time. I miss washing dishes to my favorite jams. I miss lip-singing in the dark to the radio. I miss listening to an audiobook while doing laundry. I miss my mp3 player.

As always, feel free to leave a message below.  

When you want to do something, but can't......

 So, I was one episode away from finishing a season of a show I got, when my mom took my card and I have yet to get it back. She's found herself hooked on the show Our Kind of People. I don't think I will get my card back anytime soon. 

I guess I will have to wait for it. Ha, Hamilton reference! I adored that musical. I saw a casting call for when they went on tour and my family kept urging me to audition because I know all the lyrics. I said no because I am so clumsy and uncoordinated that I would fall flat on my face opening night. That's my type of luck.

Feel free to leave a message below.

Bridgerton: The Netflix Series

 It was surprisingly good.I didn't want to watch it at first because we all know that film renditions of books rarely turn out well. But, Bridgerton did.

The music is just incredible, the casting was inspired, the sets were stunning, and the dialogue was  entrancing. LB2 binged on it as well and loved it just as much as I did. We have similar tastes.

I binged on it last night, and let me tell you that I can't wait for Season 2,3, and 4. If you feel the same, feel free to leave a message below.