two. I read Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel for book club last night. It's called "science fiction" but it sure didn't fit into that genre as far as I am concerned. It is adult post-apocalyptic fiction. The story follows some interconnected people in the years before and after the "Georgian Flu" kills 99% of humanity.
It was hard to get into but then once you kind of figure out the rhythm it was okay. My big beef with the book was that it ended just when I was finally interested and invested in the characters. I am not sure if it's being set up for a sequel or not. I honestly don't know what the book was about. It wasn't escapism because the book is stressful. If you read this book and don't automatically want to start stock piling water I don't know what that says about you. But there wasn't any great lesson or knowledge to glean from it either, so... a solid three star book for me.
three. It's a big weekend for Husband and I! We are going to see Hamilton in Chicago. I am so so thankful that the Cub's parade is today so it doesn't interfere. I cannot wait! I was a late convert to the show because I do try to be contrary when things are popular. Also the timbre of Lin-Manuel Miranda's voice kind of bothers me. (I am the same way with Nathan Lane. Can't even handle it.)
Ultimately though, the Chicago cast is exciting and doesn't include Lin. (And he is currently in London so no chance he does the pop in for a show thing he has talked about doing. And even if he did, that'd be so cool!) It is our anniversary date! It seems unreal since I bought the tickets in June. Work!
four. The other best part about our time in Chicago is Portillo's.
Oh Lord, I love Portillo's. A whole day date that includes time with Husband, Hamilton and Hot Dogs? (And maybe some chocolate cake because seriously folks that cake is good.) Best. Day. Ever.
five. In other Hamilton news, the Hamilton Mixtape is available for preorder today and I am dying over it. Kelly Clarkson's Quiet Uptown only makes me love the show more. And Kelly. Who I met once. She was very sweet.
I don't know what it may take to get you to come aboard the Hamilton bandwagon but if you're hesitant... this mixtape is a great babystep. Or try the Hamilton's America the PBS Great Performances Documentary.
six. C's teacher recommended a Magna-Doodle for him to work on writing and drawing. We already had a mini one but it has seen better days. We got our new one on Wednesday and he has been a drawing machine for two days. It's fun to watch. Can you guess what this is:
It's a walrus. If you didn't guess based on the art, you're probably saying "of course" because you most likely know that my guy has a thing for the walrus.
seven. I took this today in my backyard on the way to the garage.
I was just struck by the simple beauty of the blue sky and the tips of the tree just beginning to change. I just took a second to breathe and be. Then of course, chase after my toddler and go pick my guy up from school. But sometimes a moment is enough.
Have a wonderful weekend! Linking Up with Kelly
I can't see Lin-Manuel Miranda as anything but the salesman who tried to get Big Bird to move on Sesame Street or "Silent E Is a Ninja" from Electric Company. When I see him on TV, I keep waiting for the Muppets to pop up.
ReplyDeleteMagna Doodles are awesome! We're on our 6th or 7th - the kids love drawing on them, and my husband uses them when it's time to teach the next one to read. (Starts with At - Cat - Rat type things. It's really helpful.)
Enjoy the show!